bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of the β1-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonist Metoprolol on High Glucose Treated Human Microvascular Retinal Endothelial Cells
Authors: Giurdanella Giovanni , Longo Anna , Distefano Alfio , Olivieri Melania , Cristaldi Martina , Cosentino Alessia , Agafonova Aleksandra , Caporarello Nunzia , Lupo Gabriella , Anfuso Carmelina Daniela
Published: December 2021

Hyperglycemia-induced impairment of the blood-retinal barrier represents the main pathological event in diabetic retinopathy that is elicited by a reduced cellular response to an accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased inflammation. The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether the selective β1-adrenoreceptor (β1-AR) antagonist metoprolol could modulate the inflammatory response to hyperglycemic conditions. For this purpose, human retinal endothelial cells (HREC) were treated with normal (5 mM) or high glucose (25 mM, HG) in the presence of metoprolol (10 μM), epinephrine (1 μM), or both compounds. Metoprolol prevented both the HG-induced reduction of cell viability (MTT assays) and the modulation of the angiogenic potential of HREC (tube formation assays) reducing the TNF-α, IL-1β, and VEGF mRNA levels (qRT-PCR). Moreover, metoprolol prevented the increase in phospho-ERK1/2, phospho-cPLA2, COX2, and protein levels (Western blot) as well as counteracting the translocation of ERK1/2 and cPLA2 (high-content screening). Metoprolol reduced ROS accumulation in HG-stimulated HREC by activating the anti-oxidative cellular response mediated by the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. In conclusion, metoprolol exerted a dual effect on HG-stimulated HREC, decreasing the activation of the pro-inflammatory ERK1/2/cPLA2/COX2 axis, and counteracting ROS accumulation by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
Bicarbonate Transport in Cystic Fibrosis and Pancreatitis
Authors: Angyal Dora , Bijvelds Marcel J. C. , Bruno Marco J. , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , de Jonge Hugo R.
Published: December 2021

CFTR, the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene-encoded epithelial anion channel, has a prominent role in driving chloride, bicarbonate and fluid secretion in the ductal cells of the exocrine pancreas. Whereas severe mutations in CFTR cause fibrosis of the pancreas in utero, CFTR mutants with residual function, or CFTR variants with a normal chloride but defective bicarbonate permeability (CFTRBD), are associated with an enhanced risk of pancreatitis. Recent studies indicate that CFTR function is not only compromised in genetic but also in selected patients with an acquired form of pancreatitis induced by alcohol, bile salts or smoking. In this review, we summarize recent insights into the mechanism and regulation of CFTR-mediated and modulated bicarbonate secretion in the pancreatic duct, including the role of the osmotic stress/chloride sensor WNK1 and the scaffolding protein IRBIT, and current knowledge about the role of CFTR in genetic and acquired forms of pancreatitis. Furthermore, we discuss the perspectives for CFTR modulator therapy in the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and pancreatitis and introduce pancreatic organoids as a promising model system to study CFTR function in the human pancreas, its role in the pathology of pancreatitis and its sensitivity to CFTR modulators on a personalized basis.
The RNA-Binding Protein Musashi1 Regulates a Network of Cell Cycle Genes in Group 4 Medulloblastoma
Authors: Baroni Mirella , Guardia Gabriela D. A. , Lei Xiufen , Kosti Adam , Qiao Mei , Landry Tesha , Mau Karl , Galante Pedro A. F. , Penalva Luiz O. F.
Published: December 2021

Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. Treatment with surgery, irradiation, and chemotherapy has improved survival in recent years, but patients are frequently left with devastating neurocognitive and other sequelae. Patients in molecular subgroups 3 and 4 still experience a high mortality rate. To identify new pathways contributing to medulloblastoma development and create new routes for therapy, we have been studying oncogenic RNA-binding proteins. We defined Musashi1 (Msi1) as one of the main drivers of medulloblastoma development. The high expression of Msi1 is prevalent in Group 4 and correlates with poor prognosis while its knockdown disrupted cancer-relevant phenotypes. Genomic analyses (RNA-seq and RIP-seq) indicated that cell cycle and division are the main biological categories regulated by Msi1 in Group 4 medulloblastoma. The most prominent Msi1 targets include CDK2, CDK6, CCND1, CDKN2A, and CCNA1. The inhibition of Msi1 with luteolin affected the growth of CHLA-01 and CHLA-01R Group 4 medulloblastoma cells and a synergistic effect was observed when luteolin and the mitosis inhibitor, vincristine, were combined. These findings indicate that a combined therapeutic strategy (Msi1 + cell cycle/division inhibitors) could work as an alternative to treat Group 4 medulloblastoma.
miR-511 Deficiency Protects Mice from Experimental Colitis by Reducing TLR3 and TLR4 Responses via WD Repeat and FYVE-Domain-Containing Protein 1
Authors: Rahman Shafaque , Vandewalle Jolien , van Hamersveld Patricia H. P. , Verseijden Caroline , Welting Olaf , Jongejan Aldo , Casanova Pierina , Meijer Sybren L. , Libert Claude , Hakvoort Theodorus B. M. , de Jonge Wouter J. , Heinsbroek Sigrid E. M.
Published: December 2021

Antimicrobial responses play an important role in maintaining intestinal heath. Recently we reported that miR-511 may regulate TLR4 responses leading to enhanced intestinal inflammation. However, the exact mechanism remained unclear. In this study we investigated the effect of miR-511 deficiency on anti-microbial responses and DSS-induced intestinal inflammation. miR-511-deficient mice were protected from DSS-induced colitis as shown by significantly lower disease activity index, weight loss and histology scores in the miR-511-deficient group. Furthermore, reduced inflammatory cytokine responses were observed in colons of miR-511 deficient mice. In vitro studies with bone marrow-derived M2 macrophages showed reduced TLR3 and TLR4 responses in miR-511-deficient macrophages compared to WT macrophages. Subsequent RNA sequencing revealed Wdfy1 as the potential miR-511 target. WDFY1 deficiency is related to impaired TLR3/TLR4 immune responses and the expression was downregulated in miR-511-deficient macrophages and colons. Together, this study shows that miR-511 is involved in the regulation of intestinal inflammation through downstream regulation of TLR3 and TLR4 responses via Wdfy1.
Clinical Features, Histopathology and Differential Diagnosis of Sarcoidosis
Authors: Tana Claudio , Donatiello Iginio , Caputo Alessandro , Tana Marco , Naccarelli Teresa , Mantini Cesare , Ricci Fabrizio , Ticinesi Andrea , Meschi Tiziana , Cipollone Francesco , Giamberardino Maria Adele
Published: December 2021

Sarcoidosis is a chameleon disease of unknown etiology, characterized by the growth of non-necrotizing and non-caseating granulomas and manifesting with clinical pictures that vary on the basis of the organs that are mainly affected. Lungs and intrathoracic lymph nodes are the sites that are most often involved, but virtually no organ is spared from this disease. Histopathology is distinctive but not pathognomonic, since the findings can be found also in other granulomatous disorders. The knowledge of these findings is important because it could be helpful to differentiate sarcoidosis from the other granulomatous-related diseases. This review aims at illustrating the main clinical and histopathological findings that could help clinicians in their routine clinical practice.
Metallic Conduction and Carrier Localization in Two-Dimensional BEDO-TTF Charge-Transfer Solid Crystals
Authors: Ito Hiroshi , Matsuno Motoki , Katagiri Seiu , Yoshina Shinji K. , Takenobu Taishi , Ishikawa Manabu , Otsuka Akihiro , Yamochi Hideki , Yoshida Yukihiro , Saito Gunzi , Shen Yongbing , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: December 2021

Charge-transfer salts based on bis(ethylenedioxy)tetrathiafulvalene (BEDO-TTF or BO for short) provide a stable two-dimensional (2D) metallic state, while the electrical resistance often shows an upturn at low temperatures below ~10 K. Such 2D weak carrier localization was first recognized for BO salts in the Langmuir–Blodgett films fabricated with fatty acids; however, it has not been characterized in charge-transfer solid crystals. In this paper, we discuss the carrier localization of two crystalline BO charge-transfer salts with or without magnetic ions at low temperatures through the analysis of the weak negative magnetoresistance. The phase coherence lengths deduced with temperature dependence are largely dominated by the electron–electron scattering mechanism. These results indicate that the resistivity upturn at low temperatures is caused by the 2D weak localization. Disorders causing elastic scattering within the metallic domains, such as those of terminal ethylene groups, should be suppressed to prevent the localization.
Liquid Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) Sensor-Based Au-Ag Colloidal Nanoparticles for Easy and Rapid Detection of Deltamethrin Pesticide in Brewed Tea
Authors: Hidayah Affi , Triyono Djoko , Herbani Yuliati , Saleh Rosari
Published: December 2021

Deltamethrin pesticides can cause inflammation, nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity as well as affect the activity of antioxidant enzymes in tissues. As a result of this concern, there is a rising focus on the development of fast and reliable pesticide residue testing to minimise potential risks to humans. The goal of this study is to use Au-Ag colloid nanoparticles as liquid surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to improve the Raman signal in the detection of deltamethrin pesticide in a brewed tea. The liquid SERS system is fascinating to study due to its ease of use and its unlikeliness to cause several phenomena, such as photo-bleaching, combustion, sublimation and even photo-catalysis, which can interfere with the Raman signal, as shown in the SERS substrate. Our liquid SERS system is simpler than previous liquid SERS systems that have been reported. We performed the detection of pesticide analyte directly on brewed tea, without diluting it with ethanol or centrifuging it. Femtosecond laser-induced photo-reduction was employed to synthesise the liquid SERS of Au, Au-Ag, and Ag colloidal nanoparticles. The SERS was utilised to detect deltamethrin pesticide in brewed tea. The result showed that liquid SERS-based Ag NPs significantly enhance the Raman signal of pesticides compared with liquid SERS-based Au NPs and Au-Ag Nanoalloys. The maximum residue limits (MRLs) in tea in Indonesia are set at 10 ppm. Therefore, this method was also utilised to detect and improve, to 0.01 ppm, the deltamethrin pesticide Limit of Detection (LOD).
Graphene Synthesis: Method, Exfoliation Mechanism and Large-Scale Production
Authors: Liu Naixu , Tang Qingguo , Huang Bin , Wang Yaping
Published: December 2021

Graphene is a unique attractive material owing to its characteristic structure and excellent properties. To improve the preparation efficiency of graphene, reduce defects and costs, and meet the growing market demand, it is crucial to explore the improved and innovative production methods and process for graphene. This review summarizes recent advanced graphene synthesis methods including “bottom-up” and “top-down” processes, and their influence on the structure, cost, and preparation efficiency of graphene, as well as its peeling mechanism. The viability and practicality of preparing graphene using polymers peeling flake graphite or graphite filling polymer was discussed. Based on the comparative study, it is potential to mass produce graphene with large size and high quality using the viscoelasticity of polymers and their affinity to the graphite surface.
Cyclic Tension Induced Pattern Formation on [001] Single-Crystal Aluminum Foil
Authors: Pavel Kuznetsov , Yury Khon
Published: December 2021

Cyclic tension of (100)[001]-oriented single-crystal aluminum foils with the frequency 5 Hz forms a tweed pattern. Its period is several microns and increases by a factor of 1.5 in the temperature range 233–363 K. A model is proposed for structural relaxation of the medium on spatial and time meso- and macroscales under cyclic loading. Conditions under which a steady pattern forms are found based on the analysis of kinetic equations. The number of bands in the steady pattern is found to be related to the strain rate. The process activation energy is determined.
Study of DC Magnetron Sputtered Nb Films
Authors: Gao He , Wang Shijian , Xu Da , Wang Xueshen , Zhong Qing , Zhong Yuan , Li Jinjin , Cao Wenhui
Published: December 2021

As Nb films are widely used as superconducting electrodes of Josephson junctions, it is important to investigate the properties of Nb films in order to fabricate high-quality Josephson junctions. In this work, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the relationships among the properties of DC magnetron sputtered Nb films with a constant power fabricated at the National Institute of Metrology (China). The film properties, including superconductivity, stress, lattice constant, and surface roughness, were investigated. It was found that in the case of constant power and Ar pressure, the stress and other parameters of the Nb films can maintain a relatively stable state during the continuous consumption of the target material.
Flux Growth and Properties of Volatile Bromine-Containing UV Nonlinear Optical Crystal K3B6O10Br
Authors: Hu Huaiyu , Zhou Chen , Jiao Jiahao , Guo Siru , Chen Yanna , Zhang Min
Published: December 2021

A UV Nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal is one of the key devices in all-solid-state laser technology, and borate halides show outstanding potential due to their abundant structural diversity and short UV cut-off edges. In this article, the sizable UV NLO crystal of K3B6O10Br (KBOB) has been grown with lead-containing and lead-free fluxes systems using the high-temperature top-seeded solution growth (TSSG) method. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and transmittance spectra illustrate the influence of Pb2+ ions on the transmittance properties and laser-induced damage threshold (LDT). The thermal property, namely, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, and thermal diffusivity curves, were characterized. Moreover, a small variation of thermal refractive indexes was analyzed to illustrate the advantage of KBOB in the application for temperature-fluctuated specific regions.
Can We Avoid Tacit Trade-Offs between Flexibility and Efficiency in Systematic Conservation Planning? The Mediterranean Sea as a Case Study
Authors: Drira Sabrine , Ben Rais Lasram Frida , Hattab Tarek , Shin Yunne-Jai , Ben Rejeb Jenhani Amel , Guilhaumon François
Published: December 2021

Species distribution models (SDMs) provide robust inferences about species-specific site suitability and are increasingly used in systematic conservation planning (SCP). SDMs are subjected to intrinsic uncertainties, and conservation studies have generally overlooked these. The integration of SDM uncertainties in conservation solutions requires the development of a suitable optimization algorithm. Exact optimization algorithms grant efficiency to conservation solutions, but most of their implementations generate a single binary and indivisible solution. Therefore, without variation in their parameterization, they provide low flexibility in the implementation of conservation solutions by stakeholders. Contrarily, heuristic algorithms provide such flexibility, by generating large amounts of sub-optimal solutions. As a consequence, efficiency and flexibility are implicitly linked in conservation applications: mathematically efficient solutions provide less flexibility, and the flexible solutions provided by heuristics are sub-optimal. To avoid this trade-off between flexibility and efficiency in SCP, we propose a reserve-selection framework, based on exact optimization combined with a post-selection of SDM outputs. This reserve-selection framework provides flexibility and addresses the efficiency and representativeness of conservation solutions. To exemplify the approach, we analyzed an experimental design, crossing pre- and post-selection of SDM outputs versus heuristics and exact mathematical optimizations. We used the Mediterranean Sea as a biogeographical template for our analyses, integrating the outputs of eight SDM techniques for 438 fish species.
Habitat Suitability, Population Structure and Conservation Status of Pinanga arinasae (Arecaceae), an Endemic Palm in Bali Island, Indonesia
Authors: Yudaputra Angga , Witono Joko Ridho , Astuti Inggit Puji , Munawaroh Esti , Yuzammi  , Fijridiyanto Izu Andry , Zulkarnaen Rizmoon Nurul , Robiansyah Iyan , Raharjo Puguh Dwi , Cropper Wendell P.
Published: December 2021

The conservation of species should be based on knowledge of habitat requirements, population structure and conservation status. This knowledge is quite important to design conservation areas for species and to promote long-term persistence. In this study, we investigated habitat suitability, population size structure and conservation status of Pinanga arinasae in Bali. Plots with palms and adjacent areas with no palms were sampled to characterize key habitat variables. Habitat suitability was modeled using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Random Forest (RF) methods. The population size structure was characterized by counting and measuring the height and reproductive status of the individuals found in plots. Furthermore, we assessed the extinction risk of the species using the IUCN Red List Criteria. The ANN variables that best explained occurrence were litter depth, elevation, canopy openness and slope. The RF variables that best explained the data were elevation, litter depth, slope, and aspect. Both ANN and RF are robust models that can be used to predict the occurrence of P. arinasae. The population size structure included many seedlings, but juvenile and mature individuals were found in relatively small numbers. Based on the findings, we proposed Endangered B1+B2ab(i,ii,iii,v); D as the conservation status of P. arinasae.
Past, Current and Future of Fish Diversity in the Alakol Lakes (Central Asia: Kazakhstan)
Authors: Mamilov Nadir , Sharakhmetov Sayat , Amirbekova Fariza , Bekkozhayeva Dinara , Sapargaliyeva Nazym , Kegenova Gulnar , Tanybayeva Ainur , Abilkasimov Kanatbek
Published: December 2021

The aboriginal ichthyofauna of the Balkhash basin consists mainly of endemic fish species. By the end of the last century, indigenous fish species were driven out of Lake Balkhash and the Alakol Lakes remain the largest refuges of aboriginal fish fauna. Knowledge of regularities of the modern distribution of the indigenous fishes is crucial for biodiversity conservation as well as restoring aquatic ecosystems. The modern diversity of fish species was investigated there in this study. Significant changes for the indigenous and some alien fish distributions were revealed in contrast with earlier known data. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was used to study the relationships between habitat characteristics and species abundance. Water mineralization and maximal observed water temperatures were estimated as the main environmental variables in fish distribution at the local scale. Habitat change leads to fish fauna homogenization as a result of rare species extinction and alien penetration. Growing human population and poor water management make the future of the indigenous fishes unpredictable.
Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) as an Easily Accessible Parameter for Monitoring Tacrolimus Overdose after Heart Transplantation—Experimental Study
Authors: Urbanowicz Tomasz , Olasińska-Wiśniewska Anna , Michalak Michał , Rodzki Michał , Witkowska Anna , Straburzyńska-Migaj Ewa , Perek Bartłomiej , Jemielity Marek
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: The combination of candidate selection, immunosuppressive therapy adjustment, and scrutinous monitoring is a cornerstone for optimizing long-term survival after a heart transplant. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a simple marker of inflammatory reactions activation and may play a clinical role as a predictive marker in oncological and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study was to find simple hematologic indices available from whole blood count to help in immunosuppressive therapy monitoring. (2) Methods: Thirty patients (23 men and 7 women) with a mean age of 43 +/− 13 years who had undergone orthotopic heart transplantation were enrolled into the study. The blood samples for whole blood count and Tacrolimus level were collected during outpatient visits in heart transplant recipients every two months for 18 months after first year post transplantation. (3) Results: There was a significant correlation between Tacrolimus overdose (>15 ng/mL) and NLR (Spearman’s rho 0.99, p < 0.001) and mean platelet volume (Spearman’s rho 0.989, p < 0.001). The ROC analysis for NLR above 3.62 showed predictive properties for Tacrolimus overdose (over 15 ng/mL) (AUC =0.633, p = 0.008) with a sensitivity of 50% and specificity of 83.73%. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest that NLR above 3.62 may be regarded as a simple indicator of tacrolimus overdose.
Quantification of Total HIV DNA as a Marker to Measure Viral Reservoir: Methods and Potential Implications for Clinical Practice
Authors: Belmonti Simone , Di Giambenedetto Simona , Lombardi Francesca
Published: December 2021

The focus of this review is to examine the importance of quantifying total HIV DNA to target the HIV reservoir and the clinical implications and challenges involved in its future application in clinical practice. Despite intrinsic limitations, the quantification of total HIV DNA is currently the most widely used marker for exploring the HIV reservoir. As it allows estimating all forms of HIV DNA in the infected cells, total HIV DNA load is the biomarker of the HIV reservoir that provides most of the insights into HIV pathogenesis. The clinical role of total HIV-DNA in both untreated and treated patients is extensively supported by important lines of evidence. Thus, predictive models that include total HIV DNA load together with other variables could constitute a prognostic tool for use in clinical practice. To date, however, this marker has been primarily used in experimental evaluations. The main challenge is technical. Although the implementation of droplet digital PCR could improve analytical performance over real-time PCR, the lack of standardization has made cross-comparisons of the data difficult. An effort by investigators to compare protocols is needed. Furthermore, the main effort now should be to involve the biomedical industry in the development of certified assays for in vitro diagnostics use.
Uncovering and Correcting Shortcut Learning in Machine Learning Models for Skin Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Nauta Meike , Walsh Ricky , Dubowski Adam , Seifert Christin
Published: December 2021

Machine learning models have been successfully applied for analysis of skin images. However, due to the black box nature of such deep learning models, it is difficult to understand their underlying reasoning. This prevents a human from validating whether the model is right for the right reasons. Spurious correlations and other biases in data can cause a model to base its predictions on such artefacts rather than on the true relevant information. These learned shortcuts can in turn cause incorrect performance estimates and can result in unexpected outcomes when the model is applied in clinical practice. This study presents a method to detect and quantify this shortcut learning in trained classifiers for skin cancer diagnosis, since it is known that dermoscopy images can contain artefacts. Specifically, we train a standard VGG16-based skin cancer classifier on the public ISIC dataset, for which colour calibration charts (elliptical, coloured patches) occur only in benign images and not in malignant ones. Our methodology artificially inserts those patches and uses inpainting to automatically remove patches from images to assess the changes in predictions. We find that our standard classifier partly bases its predictions of benign images on the presence of such a coloured patch. More importantly, by artificially inserting coloured patches into malignant images, we show that shortcut learning results in a significant increase in misdiagnoses, making the classifier unreliable when used in clinical practice. With our results, we, therefore, want to increase awareness of the risks of using black box machine learning models trained on potentially biased datasets. Finally, we present a model-agnostic method to neutralise shortcut learning by removing the bias in the training dataset by exchanging coloured patches with benign skin tissue using image inpainting and re-training the classifier on this de-biased dataset.
Economic Freedom: The Top, the Bottom, and the Reality. I. 1997–2007
Authors: Ausloos Marcel , Bronlet Philippe
Published: December 2021

We recall the historically admitted prerequisites of Economic Freedom (EF). We have examined 908 data points for the Economic Freedom of the World (EFW) index and 1884 points for the Index of Economic Freedom (IEF); the studied periods are 2000–2006 and 1997–2007, respectively, thereby following the Berlin wall collapse, and including 11 September 2001. After discussing EFW index and IEF, in order to compare the indices, one needs to study their overlap in time and space. That leaves 138 countries to be examined over a period extending from 2000 to 2006, thus 2 sets of 862 data points. The data analysis pertains to the rank-size law technique. It is examined whether the distributions obey an exponential or a power law. A correlation with the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), an admittedly major determinant of EF, follows, distinguishing regional aspects, i.e., defining 6 continents. Semi-log plots show that the EFW-rank relationship is exponential for countries of high rank (≥20); overall the log–log plots point to a behaviour close to a power law. In contrast, for the IEF, the overall ranking has an exponential behaviour; but the log–log plots point to the existence of a transitional point between two different power laws, i.e., near rank 10. Moreover, log–log plots of the EFW index relationship to country GDP are characterised by a power law, with a rather stable exponent (γ≃0.674) as a function of time. In contrast, log–log plots of the IEF relationship with the country’s gross domestic product point to a downward evolutive power law as a function of time. Markedly the two studied indices provide different aspects of EF.
Improved Nonlinear Extended State Observer-Based Sliding-Mode Rotary Control for the Rotation System of a Hydraulic Roofbolter
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Guo Yinan , Song Xianfang
Published: December 2021

This paper develops a sliding-mode control with an improved nonlinear extended state observer (SMC-INESO) for the rotation system of a hydraulic roofbolter with dead-zones, uncertain gain, and disturbances, with the purpose of improving tracking performance. Firstly, the rotation system is modeled to compensate for dead-zone nonlinearity. Then, we present an improved nonlinear extended state observer to estimate disturbances of the rotation system in real time. Moreover, a proportional-integral-differential sliding-mode surface is introduced and an improved sliding-mode reaching law is designed. Based on this, a sliding-mode control law is developed. In order to eliminate the influence of estimation error and uncertain gain, we design two adaptation laws based on the sliding-mode surface and the estimated states. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed SMC-INESO is verified through comparative simulation studies.
Circular Economy for Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash (MSWIBA) Management in Mortars with CSA and CEM I, MSWIBA Glassy Phase, and DTG
Authors: Poranek Nikolina , Łaźniewska-Piekarczyk Beata , Czajkowski Adrian , Pikoń Krzysztof
Published: December 2021

The increase in frequency and intensity of natural disasters is related to the changing global average temperature. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the extraction of natural resources is one of the solutions proposed by the European Green Deal and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approved by the United Nations. The article presents research on municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA), which is the basis for its circulation in the idea of the circular economy. The MSWIBA study presents differential thermogravimetry (DTG), glassy phase, and mortars using CSA and CEM I. The management of MSWIBA contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the extraction of natural resources.
Parameter Estimation of Photovoltaic Cell/Modules Using Bonobo Optimizer
Authors: Al-Shamma’a Abdullrahman A. , Omotoso Hammed O. , Alturki Fahd A. , Farh Hassan. M. H. , Alkuhayli Abdulaziz , Alsharabi Khalil , Noman Abdullah M.
Published: December 2021

In this paper, a new application of Bonobo (BO) metaheuristic optimizer is presented for PV parameter extraction. Its processes depict a reproductive approach and the social conduct of Bonobos. The BO algorithm is employed to extract the parameters of both the single diode and double diode model. The good performance of the BO is experimentally investigated on three commercial PV modules (STM6-40 and STP6-120/36) and an R.T.C. France silicon solar cell under various operating circumstances. The algorithm is easy to implement with less computational time. BO is extensively compared to other state of the art algorithms, manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO), artificial bee colony (ABO), particle swarm optimization (PSO), flower pollination algorithm (FPA), and supply-demand-based optimization (SDO) algorithms. Throughout the 50 runs, the BO algorithm has the best performance in terms of minimal simulation time for the R.T.C. France silicon, STM6-40/36 and STP6-120/36 modules. The fitness results obtained through root mean square (RMSE), standard deviation (SD), and consistency of solution demonstrate the robustness of BO.
Socio-Economic Determinants for Biochar Deployment in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Rogers Peter Msumali , Fridahl Mathias , Yanda Pius , Hansson Anders , Pauline Noah , Haikola Simon
Published: December 2021

Biochar may contribute to both agricultural productivity and atmospheric carbon dioxide removal. However, despite the many potential upsides of adding biochar to amend carbon-depleted soils in sub-Saharan Africa, deployment is largely lacking. This paper explores the socio-economic factors that can explain tendencies to avoid action. Based on a survey of 172 farming households, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions in the Mbeya and Songwe regions of Tanzania, which were targeted for a biochar aid program in 2014, several socio-economic drivers behind the continued use of biochar deployment were identified in this follow-up study. A key deployment driver was the increased crop yields, perceived to be the result of adding biochar to soils, increasing yields from 1 metric ton per hectare to 3 metric tons per hectare. Food security and family income were cited as the main reasons to engage in biochar production and use. Climate change mitigation and increased resilience were other key reasons that motivated adoption. In terms of socio-economic factors, farmers with low education and income, the majority being males aged 40–60 years, contributed to low adoption rates in the study area. Respondents often cited the alternative usage of biochar feedstocks, lack of government involvement or extension services, traditions, and farming customs as the main constraints limiting biochar deployment.
Design Data and Finite Element Analysis of 3D Printed Poly(ε-Caprolactone)-Based Lattice Scaffolds: Influence of Type of Unit Cell, Porosity, and Nozzle Diameter on the Mechanical Behavior
Authors: Sala Riccardo , Regondi Stefano , Pugliese Raffaele
Published: December 2021

Material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM) is an advanced manufacturing method that produces parts via layer-wise addition of material. The potential of MEAM to prototype lattice structures is remarkable, but restrictions imposed by manufacturing processes lead to practical limits on the form and dimension of structures that can be produced. For this reason, such structures are mainly manufactured by selective laser melting. Here, the capabilities of fused filament fabrication (FFF) to produce custom-made lattice structures are explored by combining the 3D printing process, including computer-aided design (CAD), with the finite element method (FEM). First, we generated four types of 3D CAD scaffold models with different geometries (reticular, triangular, hexagonal, and wavy microstructures) and tunable unit cell sizes (1–5 mm), and then, we printed them using two nozzle diameters (i.e., 0.4 and 0.8 mm) in order to assess the printability limitation. The mechanical behavior of the above-mentioned lattice scaffolds was studied using FEM, combining compressive modulus (linear and nonlinear) and shear modulus. Using this approach, it was possible to print functional 3D polymer lattice structures with some discrepancies between nozzle diameters, which allowed us to elucidate critical parameters of printing in order to obtain printed that lattices (1) fully comply with FFF guidelines, (2) are capable of bearing different compressive loads, (3) possess tunable porosity, and (3) overcome surface quality and accuracy issues. In addition, these findings allowed us to develop 3D printed wrist brace orthosis made up of lattice structures, minimally invasive (4 mm of thick), lightweight (<20 g), and breathable (porosity >80%), to be used for the rehabilitation of patients with neuromuscular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and beyond. Altogether, our findings addressed multiple challenges associated with the development of polymeric lattice scaffolds with FFF, offering a new tool for designing specific devices with tunable mechanical behavior and porosity.
On the Road to Sustainable Water Supply: Reducing Public Health Risks and Preserving Surface Water Resources in the Milluni Micro-Basin, Bolivia
Authors: Alvizuri Tintaya Paola Andrea , Villena Martínez Esteban Manuel , Micó Vicent Bárbara , Lora Garcia Jaime , Torregrosa-López Juan Ignacio , Lo-Iacono-Ferreira Vanesa G.
Published: December 2021

Bolivia is among the countries with the highest availability of freshwater globally. However, many of its natural sources are impacted by anthropogenic activities, such as mining. Water is intimately linked to public health and is essential to achieving sustainable development. It is necessary to preserve water resources by designing and validating monitoring programs that help control the quality of the sources that supply important population centers. The study area in this research is the upper part of the Milluni micro-basin, whose lagoon system supplies water for two large cities. Milluni is close to illegal and abandoned mining areas, making the region highly vulnerable to heavy metal contamination. This study aimed to optimize the resources available for monitoring Milluni. The frequency of monitoring was statistically determined, and the correlation between parameters measured in situ (pH and conductivity) and metal ion concentrations to determine low-cost indicators to monitor the presence of heavy metals. A multivariate analysis of friction of the results of the pilot year of the monitoring program designed for Milluni, considering the characteristics and economic limitations, is presented. An approximation of the quality of the surface water resources of Milluni is presented as a result of the monitoring operations.
Distinct Climate Effects on Dahurian Larch Growth at an Asian Temperate-Boreal Forest Ecotone and Nearby Boreal Sites
Authors: Du Enzai , Tang Yang
Published: December 2021

Climate change is exerting profound impacts on the structure and function of global boreal forest. Compared with their northern counterparts, trees growing at the southern boreal forest and the temperate-boreal forest ecotone likely show distinct responses to climate change. Based on annual basal areal increment (BAI) of Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii Rupr.) plantations with similar ages, tree densities and soil nutrient conditions, we investigated the tree growth responses to inter-annual climate variations at an Asian temperate-boreal forest ecotone and nearby boreal sites in northeast China. Annual BAI changed nonlinearly with cambial age in the form of a lognormal curve. The maximum annual BAI showed no significant difference between the two bioregions, while annual BAI peaked at an elder age at the boreal-temperate forest ecotone. After eliminating the age associated trend, conditional regression analyses indicate that residual BAI at the boreal sites increased significantly with higher growing-season mean nighttime minimum temperature and non-growing-season precipitation, but decreased significantly with higher growing-season mean daytime maximum temperature during the past three decades (1985–2015). In contrast, residual BAI at the boreal-temperate forest ecotone only showed a positive and weak response to inter-annual variations of growing-season precipitation. These findings suggest distinct effects of inter-annual climate variation on the growth of boreal trees at the temperate-boreal forest ecotone in comparison to the southern boreal regions, and highlight future efforts to elucidate the key factors that regulate the growth ofthe southernmost boreal trees.
Solid-State Hydrolysis (SSH) Improves the Nutritional Value of Plant Ingredients in the Diet of Mugil cephalus
Authors: Martínez-Antequera Francisca P. , Barranco-Ávila Isabel , Martos-Sitcha Juan A. , Moyano Francisco J.
Published: December 2021

The possibility of improving the nutritional quality of plant byproducts (brewers’ spent grain and rice bran) through an enzyme treatment was tested in a formulated feed for grey mullet (Mugil cephalus). The enzyme treatment was carried out by Solid-State Hydrolysis (SSH) using a commercial preparation including carbohydrases and phytase. A feed prepared without the treatment and a commercial feed for carp were used as controls. In a preliminary short-term trial carried out at laboratory facilities, fish receiving the enzyme-treated feed showed significant improvement in both FCR and SGR when compared to those obtained with the untreated diet, although both experimental diets presented worse values than those obtained with the commercial feed. Different metabolic indicators including higher values of muscle glycogen and plasmatic triglycerides supported the positive effect of the enzyme treatment on the nutritional condition of the fish over those fed on the diet containing non-treated ingredients. Results of growth and feed efficiency that were obtained in a second long-term trial developed for 148 days under real production conditions evidenced the equivalence among the experimental and commercial diets and confirmed that enzyme pretreatment of plant ingredients by SSH may be a useful procedure to improve the nutritive value of high fiber plant byproducts when included in practical diets for this species and others with similar nutritional features.
An Adaptive Model of Demand Adjustment in Weighted Majority Games
Authors: Montero Maria , Possajennikov Alex
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a simple adaptive model of demand adjustment in cooperative games and analyzes this model in weighted majority games. In the model, a randomly chosen player sets her demand to the highest possible value subject to the demands of other coalition members being satisfied. This basic process converges to the aspiration set. By introducing some perturbations into the process, we show that the set of separating aspirations, i.e., demand vectors in which no player is indispensable in order for other players to achieve their demands, is the one most resistant to mutations. We then apply the process to weighted majority games. We show that in symmetric majority games and in apex games, the unique separating aspiration is the unique stochastically stable one.
Silica-Bacterial Cellulose Composite Aerogel Fibers with Excellent Mechanical Properties from Sodium Silicate Precursor
Authors: Song Qiqi , Miao Changqing , Sai Huazheng , Gu Jie , Wang Meijuan , Jiang Pengjie , Wang Yutong , Fu Rui , Wang Yaxiong
Published: December 2021

Forming fibers for fabric insulation is difficult using aerogels, which have excellent thermal insulation performance but poor mechanical properties. A previous study proposed a novel method that could effectively improve the mechanical properties of aerogels and make them into fibers for use in fabric insulation. In this study, composite aerogel fibers (CAFs) with excellent mechanical properties and thermal insulation performance were prepared using a streamlined method. The wet bacterial cellulose (BC) matrix without freeze-drying directly was immersed in an inorganic precursor (silicate) solution, followed by initiating in situ sol-gel reaction under the action of acidic catalyst after secondary shaping. Finally, after surface modification and ambient drying of the wet composite gel, CAFs were obtained. The CAFs prepared by the simplified method still had favorable mechanical properties (tensile strength of 4.5 MPa) and excellent thermal insulation properties under extreme conditions (220 °C and −60 °C). In particular, compared with previous work, the presented CAFs preparation process is simpler and more environmentally friendly. In addition, the experimental costs were reduced. Furthermore, the obtained CAFs had high specific surface area (671.3 m²/g), excellent hydrophobicity, and low density (≤0.154 g/cm3). This streamlined method was proposed to prepare aerogel fibers with excellent performance to meet the requirements of wearable applications.
Consequences of Hybridization in Mammals: A Systematic Review
Authors: Adavoudi Roya , Pilot Małgorzata
Published: December 2021

Hybridization, defined as breeding between two distinct taxonomic units, can have an important effect on the evolutionary patterns in cross-breeding taxa. Although interspecific hybridization has frequently been considered as a maladaptive process, which threatens species genetic integrity and survival via genetic swamping and outbreeding depression, in some cases hybridization can introduce novel adaptive variation and increase fitness. Most studies to date focused on documenting hybridization events and analyzing their causes, while relatively little is known about the consequences of hybridization and its impact on the parental species. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review of studies on hybridization in mammals published in 2010–2021, and identified 115 relevant studies. Of 13 categories of hybridization consequences described in these studies, the most common negative consequence (21% of studies) was genetic swamping and the most common positive consequence (8%) was the gain of novel adaptive variation. The total frequency of negative consequences (49%) was higher than positive (13%) and neutral (38%) consequences. These frequencies are biased by the detection possibilities of microsatellite loci, the most common genetic markers used in the papers assessed. As negative outcomes are typically easier to demonstrate than positive ones (e.g., extinction vs hybrid speciation), they may be over-represented in publications. Transition towards genomic studies involving both neutral and adaptive variation will provide a better insight into the real impacts of hybridization.
Improved High-Quality Genome Assembly and Annotation of Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Cultivar MD2 Revealed Extensive Haplotype Diversity and Diversified FRS/FRF Gene Family
Authors: Yow Ashley G. , Bostan Hamed , Castanera Raúl , Ruggieri Valentino , Mengist Molla F. , Curaba Julien , Young Roberto , Gillitt Nicholas , Iorizzo Massimo
Published: December 2021

Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.) is the second most important tropical fruit crop globally, and ‘MD2’ is the most important cultivated variety. A high-quality genome is important for molecular-based breeding, but available pineapple genomes still have some quality limitations. Here, PacBio and Hi-C data were used to develop a new high-quality MD2 assembly and gene prediction. Compared to the previous MD2 assembly, major improvements included a 26.6-fold increase in contig N50 length, phased chromosomes, and >6000 new genes. The new MD2 assembly also included 161.6 Mb additional sequences and >3000 extra genes compared to the F153 genome. Over 48% of the predicted genes harbored potential deleterious mutations, indicating that the high level of heterozygosity in this species contributes to maintaining functional alleles. The genome was used to characterize the FAR1-RELATED SEQUENCE (FRS) genes that were expanded in pineapple and rice. Transposed and dispersed duplications contributed to expanding the numbers of these genes in the pineapple lineage. Several AcFRS genes were differentially expressed among tissue-types and stages of flower development, suggesting that their expansion contributed to evolving specialized functions in reproductive tissues. The new MD2 assembly will serve as a new reference for genetic and genomic studies in pineapple.
Evaluating TNF-α and Interleukin-2 (IL-2) Levels in African American Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Alapati Teja , Sagal Kyra M. , Gudiseva Harini V. , Pistilli Maxwell , Pyfer Mark , Chavali Venkata Ramana Murthy , O’Brien Joan M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose: To establish if SNPs in TNF-α and IL-2 genes are associated with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) in African Americans (AA). We also determined whether plasma TNF-α and IL-2 levels could serve as biomarkers for POAG in African Americans using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Methods: A single SNP association analysis was performed to investigate the association between potential gene variants in TNF-α and IL-2 genes and POAG in the AA population. Plasma samples from 190 African Americans (72 from normal subjects and 118 POAG cases) were obtained for TNF- α studies and 367 samples (135 from normal subjects and 232 from POAG cases) were obtained for IL-2 studies. TNF-α levels and IL-2 levels were measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and analyzed to see if they reached significance in cases with POAG and endophenotypes when compared to normal subjects. Results: The SNP, rs1800630, in TNF-α gene was found to be marginally associated with POAG. SNPs in IL-2 gene were not associated with POAG in the case-control analysis. No significant difference was found between TNF-α levels and IL-2 levels in normal and POAG case subjects in our study. IL-2 levels were inversely correlated with high IOP in POAG cases. Conclusions: Although we found a marginal SNP association of TNF-α, assessing the expression levels of TNF-α and IL-2 may serve as promising biomarkers for African American POAG. Further investigation is needed to determine if POAG can be subdivided into more specified cohorts of the disease, which may affect plasma cytokine levels differently.