bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Custom Made Monoflange Acetabular Components for the Treatment of Paprosky Type III Defects
Authors: von Hertzberg-Boelch Sebastian Philipp , Wagenbrenner Mike , Arnholdt Jörg , Frenzel Stephan , Holzapfel Boris Michael , Rudert Maximilian
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Patient-specific, flanged acetabular components are used for the treatment of Paprosky type III defects during revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). This monocentric retrospective cohort study analyzes the outcome of patients treated with custom made monoflanged acetabular components (CMACs) with intra- and extramedullary iliac fixation. Methods: 14 patients were included who underwent revision THA with CMACs for the treatment of Paprosky type III defects. Mechanism of THA failure was infection in 4 and aseptic loosening in 10 patients. Seven patients underwent no previous revision, the other seven patients underwent three or more previous revisions. Results: At a mean follow-up of 35.4 months (14–94), the revision rate of the implant was 28.3%. Additionally, one perioperative dislocation and one superficial wound infection occurred. At one year postoperatively, we found a significant improvement of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score (p = 0.015). Postoperative radiographic analysis revealed good hip joint reconstruction with a mean leg length discrepancy of 3 mm (−8–20), a mean lateralization of the horizontal hip center of rotation of 8 mm (−8–35), and a mean proximalization of the vertical hip center of rotation of 6 mm (13–26). Radiolucency lines were present in 30%. Conclusion: CMACs can be considered an option for the treatment of acetabular bone loss in revision THA. Iliac intra- and extramedullary fixation allows soft tissue-adjusted hip joint reconstruction and improves hip function. However, failure rates are high, with periprosthetic infection being the main threat to successful outcome.
IL13Rα2 Is Involved in the Progress of Renal Cell Carcinoma through the JAK2/FOXO3 Pathway
Authors: Kang Mi-Ae , Lee Jongsung , Lee Chang Min , Park Ho Sung , Jang Kyu Yun , Park See-Hyoung
Published: April 2021

Previously, we reported a close relationship between type II IL4Rα and IL13Rα1 complex and poor outcomes in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). In this study, we investigated the clinicopathologically significant oncogenic role of IL13Rα2, a kind of the independent receptor for IL13, in 229 RCC patients. The high expression of IL13Rα2 was closely related to relapse-free survival in specific cancers in univariate and multivariate analysis. Then, the oncogenic role of IL13Rα2 was evaluated by performing in vitro assays for cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in A498, ACHN, Caki1, and Caki2, four kinds of RCC cells after transfection of siRNA against IL13Rα2. Cell proliferation was suppressed, and apoptosis was induced in A498, ACHN, Caki1, and Caki2 cells by knockdown of IL13Rα2. Interestingly, the knockdown of IL13Rα2 decreased the phosphorylation of JAK2 and increased the expression of FOXO3. Furthermore, the knockdown of IL13Rα2 reduced the protein interaction among IL13Rα2, phosphorylated JAK2, and FOXO3. Since phosphorylation of JAK2 was regulated by IL13Rα2, we tried to screen a novel JAK2 inhibitor from the FDA-approved drug library and selected telmisartan, a clinically used medicine against hypertension, as one of the strongest candidates. Telmisartan treatment decreased the cell proliferation rate and increased apoptosis in A498, ACHN, Caki1, and Caki2 cells. Mechanistically, telmisartan treatment decreased the phosphorylation of JAK2 and increased the expression of FOXO3. Taken together, these results suggest that IL13Rα2 regulates the progression of RCC via the JAK2/FOXO3-signaling path pathway, which might be targeted as the novel therapeutic option for RCC patients.
Animal Evidence for Synergistic Induction of Hepatic Injury by Dietary Fat and Alcohol Consumption and Its Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Geug , Wang Jing-Hua , Kim Hyo-Seon , Lee Jin-Seok , Im Hwi-Jin , Lee Sung-Bae , Lee Dong-soo , Hur Gang-Min , Son Chang-Gue
Published: April 2021

In contrast to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) as an innovative definition can coexist with significant alcohol consumption. Massive clinical observations have indicated that high-fat/-calorie diet induced metabolic dysfunction along with alcohol intake deteriorates steatotic liver injury. To explore the potential mechanisms of fatty diet together with alcohol-induced steatohepatitis, we adopted a rat model by comparing a half-dose combination of fat diet (20%) and alcohol (10%) with their corresponding double dose of 40% fat diet and 20% alcohol for 8 weeks. The notable alterations in histopathology, acceleration in the oxidation parameters (ROS, NO and lipid peroxidation) and serum transaminase levels were shown in the concomitant group. Concomitant use of a high-fat diet and alcohol provoked hepatic endoplasmic reticulum stress, but did not activate mitochondria-mediated apoptosis parameters compared to F. In contrast, the notable activation of caspase-12 and nuclear translocation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) homologous protein (CHOP) were observed only in the combined treatment group. The concomitant dietary fat intake and alcohol consumption lead to liver injury initially and later to steatohepatitis by the overdose of fat or alcohol, and in which the CHOP and caspase-12 might be involved in synergistic acceleration of steatohepatitis through a mitochondria-independent manner.
Exploring the Link of Real Options Theory with Dynamic Capabilities Framework in Open Innovation-Type Merger and Acquisition Deals
Authors: Čirjevskis Andrejs
Published: April 2021

Although it is well established that acquisition-based dynamic capabilities have important consequences for merger and acquisition (M&A) processes, direct evidence on how real option applications can measure a dynamic capability-based synergy in open innovation-type M&A deals has been scarce. This study draws from seminal research on real options theory to explore some of these benefits and limits to value a synergy in one recent highly strategic acquisition. To strengthen the identification of causal effects, the paper develops the proposition that justifies the role of dynamic capabilities as antecedents of the success of open innovation-type M&A deals in the ICT industry and demonstrates real options’ application to measure M&A synergies. To test the internal and external validity of the proposition, the explorative case study on Samsung’s acquisition of Harman International Industries was analyzed and interpreted. This study contributes important empirical evidence to bear on the literature on open innovation theory, dynamic capabilities framework, and real options theory.
Game Theory-Based Analysis of Local Governments’ Behavioral Dissimilation in the Third-Party Soil Pollution Control under Chinese-Style Fiscal Decentralization
Authors: Zhou Caihua
Published: April 2021

The participation of a third party of the environmental service enterprise theoretically increases the level and efficiency of soil pollution control in China. However, Chinese-style fiscal decentralization may have a negative impact on the behaviors of participants, especially the local government. First, this paper conducts a positioning analysis on participants of the third-party soil pollution control in China and discusses the behavioral dissimilation of the local government under fiscal decentralization. Second, taking the government’s third-party soil pollution control as a case, a two-party game model of the central government and the local government is established around the principal-agent relationship, and a tripartite game model of the central government, the local government, and the third-party enterprise is designed around the collusion between the local government and the third-party enterprise. The results show that Chinese-style fiscal decentralization may lead to the behavioral dissimilation of local governments, that is, they may choose not to implement or passively implement the third-party control, and choose to conspire with third-party enterprises. Improving the benefits from implementing the third-party control of local governments and third-party enterprises, enhancing the central government’s supervision probability and capacity, and strengthening the central government’s punishment for behavioral dissimilation are conducive to the implementation of the third-party soil pollution control. Finally, this study puts forward policy suggestions on dividing the administrative powers between the central and local government in third-party control, building appraisal systems for the local government’s environmental protection performance, constructing environmental regulation mechanisms involving the government, market and society, and formulating the incentive and restraint policies for the participants in the third-party soil pollution control.
Prostate Cancer Diagnostic Algorithm as a “Road Map” from the First Stratification of the Patient to the Final Treatment Decision
Authors: Sedláčková Hana , Dolejšová Olga , Hora Milan , Ferda Jiří , Hes Ondřej , Topolčan Ondřej , Fuchsová Radka , Kučera Radek
Published: April 2021

The diagnostics of prostate cancer are currently based on three pillars: prostate biomarker panel, imaging techniques, and histological verification. This paper presents a diagnostic algorithm that can serve as a “road map”: from initial patient stratification to the final decision regarding treatment. The algorithm is based on a review of the current literature combined with our own experience. Diagnostic algorithms are a feature of an advanced healthcare system in which all steps are consciously coordinated and optimized to ensure the proper individualization of the treatment process. The prostate cancer diagnostic algorithm was created using the prostate specific antigen and in particular the Prostate Health Index in the first line of patient stratification. It then continued on the diagnostic pathway via imaging techniques, biopsy, or active surveillance, and then on to the treatment decision itself. In conclusion, the prostate cancer diagnostic algorithm presented here is a functional tool for initial patient stratification, comprehensive staging, and aggressiveness assessment. Above all, emphasis is placed on the use of the Prostate Health Index (PHI) in the first stratification of the patients as a predictor of aggressiveness and clinical stage of prostrate cancer (PCa). The inclusion of PHI in the algorithm significantly increases the accuracy and speed of the diagnostic procedure and allows to choose the optimal pathway just from the beginning. The use of advanced diagnostic techniques allows us to move towards to a more advanced level of cancer care. This diagnostics algorithm has become a standard of care in our hospital. The algorithm is continuously validated and modified based on our results.
Ultraviolet Radiation and Chronic Inflammation—Molecules and Mechanisms Involved in Skin Carcinogenesis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Ciążyńska Magdalena , Olejniczak-Staruch Irmina , Sobolewska-Sztychny Dorota , Narbutt Joanna , Skibińska Małgorzata , Lesiak Aleksandra
Published: April 2021

The process of skin carcinogenesis is still not fully understood. Both experimental and epidemiological evidence indicate that chronic inflammation is one of the hallmarks of microenvironmental-agent-mediated skin cancers and contributes to its development. Maintaining an inflammatory microenvironment is a condition leading to tumor formation. Multiple studies focus on the molecular pathways activating tumorigenesis by inflammation and indicate several biomarkers and factors that can improve diagnostic and prognostic processes in oncology and dermatology. Reactive oxygen species produced by ultraviolet radiation, oxidizers, or metabolic processes can damage cells and initiate pro-inflammatory cascades. Considering the potential role of inflammation in cancer development and metastasis, the identification of early mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis is crucial for clinical practice and scientific research. Moreover, it could lead to the progress of advanced skin cancer therapies. We focus on a comprehensive analysis of available evidence and on understanding how chronic inflammation and ultraviolet radiation can result in skin carcinogenesis. We present the inflammatory environment as complex molecular networks triggering tumorigenesis and constituting therapeutic targets.
Mac-2 Binding Protein Glycosylation Isomer for Screening High-Risk Esophageal Varices in Liver Cirrhotic Patient
Authors: Nababan Saut Horas H. , Kalista Kemal Fariz , Jasirwan Chyntia O.M. , Kurniawan Juferdy , Lesmana Cosmas Rinaldi A. , Sulaiman Andri S. , Hasan Irsan , Gani Rino A.
Published: April 2021

Background: Esophageal varices occur at middle to advanced stages of cirrhosis and are associated with increased mortality due to their potential for rupture and bleeding. The aim of this study is to examine the accuracy of a surrogate marker, Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi), for screening high-risk esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients. Methods: Ninety-four cirrhotic patients who underwent endoscopy screening at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia were included. Patients with a history of ligation, portal vein thrombosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma were excluded. All enrolled patients underwent ultrasonography, transient elastography, and laboratory tests. The HISCL-5000 Sysmex analyzer was used to measure M2BPGi levels. Results: Of these 94 patients, 27 had high-risk esophageal varices and 67 had non-high-risk esophageal varices. M2BPGi levels were higher in patients with high-risk esophageal varices compared with those with non-high-risk esophageal varices (cutoff index (COI) of 11.4 vs. 3.7, p < 0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of M2BPGi with a cutoff value of 5 COI was 92.6%, 70.1%, 55.6%, and 95.9%, respectively. Conclusions: M2BPGi could be used as a non-invasive surrogate marker for ruling out high-risk esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients. This method is cheap and non-invasive and could be used as a screening tool in resource-limited settings.
Utilizing Rare-Earth-Elements Luminescence and Vibrational-Spectroscopies to Follow High Pressure Densification of Soda–Lime Glass
Authors: Werr Ferdinand , Yusim Weniamin , Bergler Michael , Shcheka Svyatoslav , Lenhart Armin , de Ligny Dominique
Published: April 2021

A new series of soda–lime glass naturally doped with Nd and doped with 0.2 wt% of Eu2O3 was densified in a multi-anvil press up to 21 GPa. The densities of the millimetric samples were precisely measured using a floatation method in a heavy liquid made with sodium polytungstate. The obtained densification curve is significantly different from the calibration previously reported, reaching a maximum densification saturation of 3.55 ± 0.14%. This difference could be due to better hydrostatic conditions realized in this new study. The densified samples were characterized using Raman and Brillouin spectroscopy, as well as the emission of both Eu3+ and Nd3+. The evolution of the spectra was evaluated using integration methods to reduce error bars. The relative precision of the calibration curves is discussed. The evolution of Nd3+ transition was found to be the most sensitive calibration. Linear dependence with the density was found for all observables, with exception for Brillouin spectroscopy showing a divergent behavior. The Brillouin shift shows an unreported minimum for a densification ~0.4%.
A Numerical Study on the Effect of Variable Wear Coefficient on Fretting Wear Characteristics
Authors: Wang Shengjie , Wahab Magd Abdel
Published: April 2021

Fretting wear is a common phenomenon that happens between contact parts when there is an oscillatory relative movement. To investigate wear characteristics history in the fretting process, the finite element method (FEM) is commonly applied to simulate the fretting by considering the wear in the model. In most literature publications, the wear coefficient is considered as a constant, which is not a real case based on the experimental results. To consider the variation of wear coefficient, a double-linear model is applied in this paper, and the tribologically transformed structure (TTS) phase is considered in the study of the wear coefficient variation model. By using these models for variable wear coefficient for both flat and cylinder, the difference of wear characteristics, plastic strain, and stress between variable wear coefficient model (VWCM) and constant wear coefficient model (CWCM) are analyzed. The results show that the variable wear coefficient has no significant effect on the wear characteristic at the end of the process in the gross sliding regime. However, in the partial slip regime, the effect of variable wear coefficient on wear characteristics is significant. Due to the difference in contact geometry in the fretting process between VWCM and CWCM, the tangential and shear stress and equivalent plastic strain also show differences during the fretting process.
The Influence of the Physical-Mechanical Parameters of Rock on the Extent of the Initial Failure Zone under the Action of an Undercut Anchor
Authors: Jonak Józef , Karpiński Robert , Wójcik Andrzej , Siegmund Michał
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the results of a numerical FEM (Finite Element Method) simulation of the formation of a rock failure zone in its initial stage of development. The influence of rock parameters, such as the Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio and friction factor of the rock in the contact zone with the working surface of the undercut anchor head, were taken into account. The obtained results of FEM simulations were compared with the results of field tests conducted in Polish mining plants extracting rock raw materials.
Physicochemical and Biological Properties of Mg-Doped Calcium Silicate Endodontic Cement
Authors: Yoo Kyung-Hyeon , Kim Yong-Il , Yoon Seog-Young
Published: April 2021

Calcium silicate-based cement has been widely used for endodontic repair. However, it has a long setting time and needs to shorten setting time. This study investigated the effects of magnesium (Mg) ion on the setting reaction, mechanical properties, and biological properties of calcium silicate cement (CSC). Sol-gel route was used to synthesize Mg ion-doped calcium silicate cement. Synthesized cement was formulated with the addition of different contents of Mg ion, according to 0, 1, 3, 5 mol% of Mg ion-doped calcium silicate. The synthesized cements were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We also evaluated the physicochemical and biological properties of cement, such as the setting time, compressive strength, micro-hardness, simulated body fluid (SBF) immersion, cytotoxicity, and cell differentiation tests. As a result, the Mg ion improves the hydration properties of calcium silicate cement, and the setting time is reduced by increasing the amounts of Mg ion. However, the mechanical properties deteriorated with increasing Mg ion, and 1 and 3 mol% Mg-doped calcium silicate had appropriate mechanical properties. Also, the results of biological properties such as cytotoxicity, ALP activity, and ARS staining improved with Mg ion. Consequently, the optimal condition is 3 mol% of Mg ion-doped calcium silicate (3%Mg-CSC).
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Silver Nanoparticles Phytosynthesized Using Raphanus sativus L. Waste Extracts
Authors: Ungureanu Camelia , Fierascu Irina , Fierascu Radu Claudiu , Costea Teodora , Avramescu Sorin Marius , Călinescu Mirela Florina , Somoghi Raluca , Pirvu Cristian
Published: April 2021

The aim of the current paper is the development of phytosynthesized silver nanoparticles mediated by Raphanus sativus L. extracts obtained through two extraction methods (temperature and microwave) and to test their potential application for controlling apple crops pathogens. The phytosynthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. All the materials were evaluated in terms of antioxidant and in vitro antimicrobial activity (against bacteria, molds, and yeast: Escherichia coli ATCC 8738, Staphylococcus aureus ATTC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 14028, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, Venturia inaequalis, Podosphaera leucotricha, Fusarium oxysporum ATCC 48112, Penicillium hirsutum ATCC 52323, and Aspergillus niger ATCC 15475). Considering the results obtained in the in vitro assays, formulations based on nanoparticles phytosynthesized using Raphanus sativus L. waste extracts (RS1N) were evaluated as potential antifungal agents for horticultural crops protection, against Venturia inaequalis and Podosphaera leucotricha through in vivo assays. For the DPPH assay, the inhibition (%) varied between 37.06% (for RS1N at 0.8 mg/mL concentration) and 83.72% (for RS1N at 7.2 mg/mL concentration) compared to 19.97% (for RS2N at 0.8 mg/mL) and only 28.91% (for RS2N at 7.2 mg/mL). Similar results were obtained for RS3N (85.42% inhibition at 7.2 mg/mL) compared with RS4N (21.76% inhibition at 7.2 mg/mL). Regarding the ABTS assay, the highest scavenger activity values were recorded for samples RS1N (91.43% at 1.6 mg/mL) and RS3N (96.62% at 1.6 mg/mL).
Preparation and Characterization of Hydroxyapatite Coating on AZ31 Magnesium Alloy Induced by Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Dopamine
Authors: Yang Yanxia , Wu Yuanzhi , Wei Yu , Zeng Tian , Cao Baocheng , Liang Jun
Published: April 2021

Magnesium and its alloys have become potential implant materials in the future because of light weight, mechanical properties similar to natural bone, good biocompatibility, and degradability in physiological environment. However, due to the rapid corrosion and degradation of magnesium alloys in vivo, especially in the environment containing chloride ions, the application of magnesium alloys as implant materials has been limited. Therefore, improving the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy and ensuring good biocompatibility is the main focus of the current research. In this study, hydroxyapatite coating was prepared on magnesium alloy surface using carboxymethyl cellulose-dopamine hydrogel as inducer to improve corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Surface characterization techniques (scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy- and X-ray diffraction) confirmed the formation of hydroxyapatite on the surface of AZ31 alloy. Corrosion resistance tests have proved the protective effect of Carboxymethyl cellulose-Dopamine/hydroxyapatite (CMC-DA/HA) coating on the surface of AZ31 alloy. According to MC3T3-E1 cell viability and Live/Dead staining, the coating also showed good biocompatibility. The results will provide new ideas for the biological application of magnesium alloys.
Self-Healing and Highly Stretchable Hydrogel for Interfacial Compatible Flexible Paper-Based Micro-Supercapacitor
Authors: Wang Yutian , Shi Yunhui , Gu Yifan , Xue Pan , Xu Xinhua
Published: April 2021

Most reported wearable electronic devices lack self-healing chemistry and flexible function to maintain stable energy output while irreversible damages and complex deformations. In this work, we report a dual-dynamic network electrolyte synthesized by micellar elastomers introduced into strong hydrogel matrix. The gel electrolyte is fabricated by physically cross-linking the borax-polyvinyl alcohol (B-PVA) network as tough matrix and poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO)-poly (propylene oxide) (PPO)-poly (ethylene oxide) (Pluronic) to frame elastic network, followed by immersion in potassium chloride solution. Under the action of dynamic borate ester bond and multi-network hydrogen bond, the as-prepared electrolyte exhibits high stretchability (1535%) and good self-healing efficiency. Based on the electrolyte, we assemble the interfacial compatible micro-supercapacitor (MSC) by multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) interdigital electrode printed on cellulosic paper by direct ink writing (DIW) technique. Thanks to the large specific area and compressive deformation resistance of cellulosic paper, the MSC with tightly interfacial contact achieves high volumetric capacitance of 801.9 mF cm−3 at the current density of 20 μA cm−2. In the absence of stimulation of the external environment, the self-healing MSC demonstrates an ideal capacity retention (90.43%) after five physical damaged/healing cycles. Our research provides a clean and effective strategy to construct wearable MSC.
Software Benchmark—Classification Tree Algorithms for Cell Atlases Annotation Using Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing Data
Authors: Alaqeeli Omar , Xing Li , Zhang Xuekui
Published: April 2021

Classification tree is a widely used machine learning method. It has multiple implementations as R packages; rpart, ctree, evtree, tree and C5.0. The details of these implementations are not the same, and hence their performances differ from one application to another. We are interested in their performance in the classification of cells using the single-cell RNA-Sequencing data. In this paper, we conducted a benchmark study using 22 Single-Cell RNA-sequencing data sets. Using cross-validation, we compare packages’ prediction performances based on their Precision, Recall, F1-score, Area Under the Curve (AUC). We also compared the Complexity and Run-time of these R packages. Our study shows that rpart and evtree have the best Precision; evtree is the best in Recall, F1-score and AUC; C5.0 prefers more complex trees; tree is consistently much faster than others, although its complexity is often higher than others.
Geminiviral Triggers and Suppressors of Plant Antiviral Immunity
Authors: Teixeira Ruan M. , Ferreira Marco Aurélio , Raimundo Gabriel A. S. , Fontes Elizabeth P. B.
Published: April 2021

Geminiviruses are circular single-stranded DNA plant viruses encapsidated into geminate virion particles, which infect many crops and vegetables and, hence, represent significant agricultural constraints worldwide. To maintain their broad-range host spectrum and establish productive infection, the geminiviruses must circumvent a potent plant antiviral immune system, which consists of a multilayered perception system represented by RNA interference sensors and effectors, pattern recognition receptors (PRR), and resistance (R) proteins. This recognition system leads to the activation of conserved defense responses that protect plants against different co-existing viral and nonviral pathogens in nature. Furthermore, a specific antiviral cell surface receptor signaling is activated at the onset of geminivirus infection to suppress global translation. This review highlighted these layers of virus perception and host defenses and the mechanisms developed by geminiviruses to overcome the plant antiviral immunity mechanisms.
Do We Really Need Another Oncology Journal?
Authors: Saad Fred
Published: April 2021

As the inaugural editor in chief of the journal Onco I am very proud to take on the challenge of bringing to life a new journal dedicated to promoting the new developments and management of this challenging disease [...]
Impact of Subclinical Haemoproteus columbae Infection on Farmed Domestic Pigeons from Central Java (Yogyakarta), Indonesia, with Special Reference to Changes in the Hemogram
Authors: Rosyadi Imron , Salasia Siti Isrina Oktavia , Argamjav Bayanzul , Sato Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

Pigeon haemoproteosis caused by Haemoproteus columbae (Apicomplexa: Haemosporida: Haemoproteidae) is globally prevalent in rock doves (Columba livia), although little is known regarding this disease in pigeons and doves in Indonesia. Blood samples of 35 farmed domestic pigeons (C. livia f. domestica) from four localities in Yogyakarta Special Region, Central Java, Indonesia, were collected from March to June, 2016, subjected to a hemogram, and analyzed for the presence of hemoprotozoan infections. Microscopic examination of blood smears revealed a prevalence of 62.5–100% of H. columbae at the four localities (n = 8–10 for each locality), and geometric means of 3.0–5.6% of erythrocytes were parasitized by young and mature gametocytes, suggesting that all infected pigeons were in the chronic phase of infection with repeated recurrences and/or reinfections. Nucleotide sequencing of mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (cytb) for haemosporidian species demonstrated the distribution of four major cytb lineages of H. columbae (mainly HAECOL1, accompanied by COLIV03, COQUI05, and CXNEA02 according to the MalAvi database). Hemogram analysis, involving the estimation of packed cell volume, erythrocyte counts, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and plasma protein and fibrinogen levels of 20 parasitized pigeons and five non-infected pigeons demonstrated significant macrocytic hypochromic anemia with hypoproteinemia and hyperfibrinogenemia in the infected pigeons. This study shows the profound impact of long-lasting subclinical pigeon haemoproteosis caused by H. columbae on the health of farmed domestic pigeons.
Potential of Mean Force between Bare or Grafted Silica/Polystyrene Surfaces from Self-Consistent Field Theory
Authors: Sgouros Aristotelis P. , Revelas Constantinos J. , Lakkas Apostolos T. , Theodorou Doros N.
Published: April 2021

We investigate single and opposing silica plates, either bare of grafted, in contact with vacuum or melt phases, using self-consistent field theory. Solid–polymer and solid–solid nonbonded interactions are described by means of a Hamaker potential, in conjunction with a ramp potential. The cohesive nonbonded interactions are described by the Sanchez-Lacombe or the Helfand free energy densities. We first build our thermodynamic reference by examining single surfaces, either bare or grafted, under various wetting conditions in terms of the corresponding contact angles, the macroscopic wetting functions (i.e., the work of cohesion, adhesion, spreading and immersion), the interfacial free energies and brush thickness. Subsequently, we derive the potential of mean force (PMF) of two approaching bare plates with melt between them, each time varying the wetting conditions. We then determine the PMF between two grafted silica plates separated by a molten polystyrene film. Allowing the grafting density and the molecular weight of grafted chains to vary between the two plates, we test how asymmetries existing in a real system could affect steric stabilization induced by the grafted chains. Additionally, we derive the PMF between two grafted surfaces in vacuum and determine how the equilibrium distance between the two grafted plates is influenced by their grafting density and the molecular weight of grafted chains. Finally, we provide design rules for the steric stabilization of opposing grafted surfaces (or fine nanoparticles) by taking account of the grafting density, the chain length of the grafted and matrix chains, and the asymmetry among the opposing surfaces.
Achievements and Trends in Biocatalytic Synthesis of Specialty Polymers from Biomass-Derived Monomers Using Lipases
Authors: Todea Anamaria , Dreavă Diana Maria , Benea Ioana Cristina , Bîtcan Ioan , Peter Francisc , Boeriu Carmen G.
Published: April 2021

New technologies for the conversion of biomass into high-value chemicals, including polymers and plastics, is a must and a challenge. The development of green processes in the last decade involved a continuous increase of the interest towards the synthesis of polymers using in vitro biocatalysis. Among the remarkable diversity of new bio-based polymeric products meeting the criteria of sustainability, biocompatibility, and eco-friendliness, a wide range of polyesters with shorter chain length were obtained and characterized, targeting biomedical and cosmetic applications. In this review, selected examples of such specialty polymers are presented, highlighting the recent developments concerning the use of lipases, mostly in immobilized form, for the green synthesis of ε-caprolactone co-polymers, polyesters with itaconate or furan units, estolides, and polyesteramides. The significant process parameters influencing the average molecular weights and other characteristics are discussed, revealing the advantages and limitations of biocatalytic processes for the synthesis of these bio-based polymers.
Snake-Based Model for Automatic Roof Boundary Extraction in the Object Space Integrating a High-Resolution Aerial Images Stereo Pair and 3D Roof Models
Authors: Ywata Michelle S. Y. , Dal Poz Aluir P. , Shimabukuro Milton H. , de Oliveira Henrique C.
Published: April 2021

The accelerated urban development over the last decades has made it necessary to update spatial information rapidly and constantly. Therefore, cities’ three-dimensional models have been widely used as a study base for various urban problems. However, although many efforts have been made to develop new building extraction methods, reliable and automatic extraction is still a major challenge for the remote sensing and computer vision communities, mainly due to the complexity and variability of urban scenes. This paper presents a method to extract building roof boundaries in the object space by integrating a high-resolution aerial images stereo pair, three-dimensional roof models reconstructed from light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data, and contextual information of the scenes involved. The proposed method focuses on overcoming three types of common problems that can disturb the automatic roof extraction in the urban environment: perspective occlusions caused by high buildings, occlusions caused by vegetation covering the roof, and shadows that are adjacent to the roofs, which can be misinterpreted as roof edges. For this, an improved Snake-based mathematical model is developed considering the radiometric and geometric properties of roofs to represent the roof boundary in the image space. A new approach for calculating the corner response and a shadow compensation factor was added to the model. The created model is then adapted to represent the boundaries in the object space considering a stereo pair of aerial images. Finally, the optimal polyline, representing a selected roof boundary, is obtained by optimizing the proposed Snake-based model using a dynamic programming (DP) approach considering the contextual information of the scene. The results showed that the proposed method works properly in boundary extraction of roofs with occlusion and shadows areas, presenting completeness and correctness average values above 90%, RMSE average values below 0.5 m for E and N components, and below 1 m for H component.
A Hydraulic Pump Fault Diagnosis Method Based on the Modified Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and Wavelet Kernel Extreme Learning Machine Methods
Authors: Li Zhenbao , Jiang Wanlu , Zhang Sheng , Sun Yu , Zhang Shuqing
Published: April 2021

To address the problem that the faults in axial piston pumps are complex and difficult to effectively diagnose, an integrated hydraulic pump fault diagnosis method based on the modified ensemble empirical mode decomposition (MEEMD), autoregressive (AR) spectrum energy, and wavelet kernel extreme learning machine (WKELM) methods is presented in this paper. First, the non-linear and non-stationary hydraulic pump vibration signals are decomposed into several intrinsic mode function (IMF) components by the MEEMD method. Next, AR spectrum analysis is performed for each IMF component, in order to extract the AR spectrum energy of each component as fault characteristics. Then, a hydraulic pump fault diagnosis model based on WKELM is built, in order to extract the features and diagnose faults of hydraulic pump vibration signals, for which the recognition accuracy reached 100%. Finally, the fault diagnosis effect of the hydraulic pump fault diagnosis method proposed in this paper is compared with BP neural network, support vector machine (SVM), and extreme learning machine (ELM) methods. The hydraulic pump fault diagnosis method presented in this paper can diagnose faults of single slipper wear, single slipper loosing and center spring wear type with 100% accuracy, and the fault diagnosis time is only 0.002 s. The results demonstrate that the integrated hydraulic pump fault diagnosis method based on MEEMD, AR spectrum, and WKELM methods has higher fault recognition accuracy and faster speed than existing alternatives.
Template-Based Recognition of Human Locomotion in IMU Sensor Data Using Dynamic Time Warping
Authors: Sczuka Kim S. , Schneider Marc , Bourke Alan K. , Mellone Sabato , Kerse Ngaire , Helbostad Jorunn L. , Becker Clemens , Klenk Jochen
Published: April 2021

Increased levels of light, moderate and vigorous physical activity (PA) are positively associated with health benefits. Therefore, sensor-based human activity recognition can identify different types and levels of PA. In this paper, we propose a two-layer locomotion recognition method using dynamic time warping applied to inertial sensor data. Based on a video-validated dataset (ADAPT), which included inertial sensor data recorded at the lower back (L5 position) during an unsupervised task-based free-living protocol, the recognition algorithm was developed, validated and tested. As a first step, we focused on the identification of locomotion activities walking, ascending and descending stairs. These activities are difficult to differentiate due to a high similarity. The results showed that walking could be recognized with a sensitivity of 88% and a specificity of 89%. Specificity for stair climbing was higher compared to walking, but sensitivity was noticeably decreased. In most cases of misclassification, stair climbing was falsely detected as walking, with only 0.2–5% not assigned to any of the chosen types of locomotion. Our results demonstrate a promising approach to recognize and differentiate human locomotion within a variety of daily activities.
Low-Velocity Impact Localization on a Honeycomb Sandwich Panel Using a Balanced Projective Dictionary Pair Learning Classifier
Authors: Zheng Zhaoyu , Lu Jiyun , Liang Dakai
Published: April 2021

Carbon-fiber aluminum honeycomb sandwich panels are vulnerable to low-velocity impacts, which can cause structural damage and failures that reduce the bearing performance and reliability of the structure. Therefore, a method for locating such impacts through a sensor network is very important for structural health monitoring. Unlike composite laminates, the stress wave generated by an impact is damped rapidly in a sandwich panel, meaning that the signal qualities measured by different sensors vary greatly, thereby making it difficult to locate the impact. This paper presents a method for locating impacts on carbon-fiber aluminum honeycomb sandwich panels utilizing fiber Bragg grating sensors. This method is based on a projective dictionary pair learning algorithm and uses structural sparse representation for impact localization. The measurement area is divided into several sub-areas, and a corresponding dictionary is trained separately for each sub-area. For each dictionary, the sensors are grouped into main sensors within the sub-area and auxiliary sensors outside the sub-area. A balancing weight factor is added to optimize the proportion of the two types of sensor in the recognition model, and the algorithm for determining the balancing weight factor is designed to suppress the negative effects on the positioning of the sensors with poor signal quality. The experimental results show that on a 300 mm × 300 mm × 15 mm sandwich panel, the impact positioning accuracy of this method is 96.7% and the average positioning error is 0.85 mm, which are both sufficient for structural health monitoring.
Trajectory Optimisation for Cooperative Target Tracking with Passive Mobile Sensors
Authors: Wang Xuezhi , Ristic Branko , Himed Braham , Moran Bill
Published: April 2021

The paper considers the problem of tracking a moving target using a pair of cooperative bearing-only mobile sensors. Sensor trajectory optimisation plays the central role in this problem, with the objective to minimize the estimation error of the target state. Two approximate closed-form statistical reward functions, referred to as the Expected Rényi information divergence (RID) and the Determinant of the Fisher Information Matrix (FIM), are analysed and discussed in the paper. Being available analytically, the two reward functions are fast to compute and therefore potentially useful for longer horizon sensor trajectory planning. The paper demonstrates, both numerically and from the information geometric viewpoint, that the Determinant of the FIM is a superior reward function. The problem with the Expected RID is that the approximation involved in its derivation significantly reduces the correlation between the target state estimates at two sensors, and consequently results in poorer performance.
Optimal Sampling Regimes for Estimating Population Dynamics
Authors: Atanga Rebecca E. , Boone Edward L. , Ghanam Ryad A. , Stewart-Koster Ben
Published: April 2021

Ecologists are interested in modeling the population growth of species in various ecosystems. Specifically, logistic growth arises as a common model for population growth. Studying such growth can assist environmental managers in making better decisions when collecting data. Traditionally, ecological data is recorded on a regular time frequency and is very well-documented. However, sampling can be an expensive process due to available resources, money and time. Limiting sampling makes it challenging to properly track the growth of a population. Thus, this design study proposes an approach to sampling based on the dynamics associated with logistic growth. The proposed method is demonstrated via a simulation study across various theoretical scenarios to evaluate its performance in identifying optimal designs that best estimate the curves. Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling techniques are implemented to predict the probability of the model parameters using Bayesian inference. The intention of this study is to demonstrate a method that can minimize the amount of time ecologists spend in the field, while maximizing the information provided by the data.
Application of Machine Learning Techniques in Injection Molding Quality Prediction: Implications on Sustainable Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Jung Hail , Jeon Jinsu , Choi Dahui , Park Jung-Ywn
Published: April 2021

With sustainable growth highlighted as a key to success in Industry 4.0, manufacturing companies attempt to optimize production efficiency. In this study, we investigated whether machine learning has explanatory power for quality prediction problems in the injection molding industry. One concern in the injection molding industry is how to predict, and what affects, the quality of the molding products. While this is a large concern, prior studies have not yet examined such issues especially using machine learning techniques. The objective of this article, therefore, is to utilize several machine learning algorithms to test and compare their performances in quality prediction. Using several machine learning algorithms such as tree-based algorithms, regression-based algorithms, and autoencoder, we confirmed that machine learning models capture the complex relationship and that autoencoder outperforms comparing accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Feature importance tests also revealed that temperature and time are influential factors that affect the quality. These findings have strong implications for enhancing sustainability in the injection molding industry. Sustainable management in Industry 4.0 requires adapting artificial intelligence techniques. In this manner, this article may be helpful for businesses that are considering the significance of machine learning algorithms in their manufacturing processes.
Exploring Strategic Directions of Pandemic Crisis Management: A Text Analysis of World Economic Forum COVID-19 Reports
Authors: Nam Hyundong , Nam Taewoo
Published: April 2021

This study aims to understand the global environment of COVID-19 management and guide future policy directions after the pandemic crisis. To this end, we analyzed a series of the World Economic Forum’s COVID-19 response reports through text mining and network analysis. These reports, written by experts in diverse fields, discuss multidimensional changes in socioeconomic situations, various problems created by those changes, and strategies to respond to national crises. Based on 3897 refined words drawn from a morphological analysis of 26 reports (as of the end of 2020), this study analyzes the frequency of words, the relationships among words, the importance of specific documents, and the connection centrality through text mining. In addition, the network analysis helps develop strategies for a sustainable response to and the management of national crises through identifying clusters of words with similar structural equivalence.
Impact of Coal Mining on the Moisture Movement in a Vadose Zone in Open-Pit Mine Areas
Authors: Lian Huiqin , Yi Haiyang , Yang Yi , Wu Bin , Wang Rui
Published: April 2021

Long-term dewatering of groundwater is a necessary operation for mining safety in open-pit coal mines, as extensive dewatering might cause ecological problems due to dramatic changes in moisture movement in the soil, especially in ecologically fragile areas. In order to evaluate the impact of the coal mining operation on moisture movement in the vadose zone and vegetation, this paper presents a quantitative methodology and takes the Baorixile open-pit coal mine as a study example. A long-term in situ experiment (from 2004 to 2018), laboratory analysis, and numerical modelling were conducted to analyze the mechanisms and relationship among the dropping groundwater level, the vadose-zone moisture, and the ecological responses in the grassland area. The experiment data and modelling results suggest that groundwater level dropping during open-pit mining operation has limited influence on the vadose zone, exhibiting a variation of capillary water zone within a depth of 3 m while the vadose zone and soil water zone were at least 16 m deep. The critical evaporation depth of ground water is 8 m. The long-term influence radius of groundwater dewatering is about 2.72 km during the Baorixile mining operation, and the groundwater level change mainly influences the lower part of the intermediate vadose zone and the capillary water zone below 16 m, with little influence on the moisture contents in the soil water zone where the roots of shallow vegetation grow. The results from this study provide useful insight for sustainable development of coal mining in ecologically fragile areas.