bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MFPointNet: A Point Cloud-Based Neural Network Using Selective Downsampling Layer for Machining Feature Recognition
Authors: Lei Ruoshan , Wu Hongjin , Peng Yibing
Published: December 2022

Machining feature recognition is a research hotspot in recent years. A point cloud is a geometry data representation format of three-dimensional (3D) models. The use of point cloud-based convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for machining feature recognition has received increasing research attention. However, these point cloud-based networks usually have large complexity size and training time. In this paper, a selective downsampling-based point neural network for machining feature recognition is proposed. Firstly, a machining feature dataset called MFDataset is constructed and contains 33 feature types. Secondly, a selective downsampling algorithm of the input points is presented, which drops out unimportant points while keeping the important ones. In single-machining feature recognition, MFPointNet is proposed by utilizing the selective downsampling of the input points. In multi-machining feature recognition, the segmentation part of the MFPointNet is adopted with the selective downsampling algorithm to segment and recognize multiple features. Compared with other point cloud-based networks, experimental results show that MFPointNet reduces the computational complexity without losing the recognition accuracy basically. MFPointNet is more robust to model complexity when more machining feature points are input to the network. Moreover, several intersecting feature models validate the segmentation performance of MFPointNet.
Magnetic Domain Structure of Lu2.1Bi0.9Fe5O12 Epitaxial Films Studied by Magnetic Force Microscopy and Optical Second Harmonic Generation
Authors: Temiryazeva Marina , Mamonov Evgeny , Maydykovskiy Anton , Temiryazev Alexei , Murzina Tatiana
Published: December 2022

Magnetic structure of functional magnetic dielectrics is traditionally of high interest. Here, we use the magnetic force microscopy (MFM) and nonlinear-optical probe of second harmonic generation for studies of surface domain structure of monocrystalline Lu2.1Bi0.9Fe5O12 garnet films. The transformation of the magnetic domains under the application of the dc magnetic field is revealed by the MFM for both the top-view and the cleavage of the iron-garnet layer. Complementary magnetic force and second harmonic generation microscopy show that the considered film reveals the magnetization inclined with respect to the film’s normal, with its orientation being inhomogeneous within the film’s thickness. The second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy confirms the zigzag structure of the surface-closing domain with the magnetization containing in-plane and out-of-plane magnetization components. We believe that these features of magnetic behavior of garnet films are important for the design of garnet-based magnetic devices.
About the Resolvent Kernel of Neutral Linear Fractional System with Distributed Delays
Authors: Kiskinov Hristo , Milev Mariyan , Zahariev Andrey
Published: December 2022

The present work considers the initial problem (IP) for a linear neutral system with derivatives in Caputo’s sense of incommensurate order, distributed delay and various kinds of initial functions. For the considered IP, the studied problem of existence and uniqueness of a resolvent kernel under some natural assumptions of boundedness type. In the case when, in the system, the term which describes the outer forces is a locally Lebesgue integrable function and the initial function is continuous, it is proved that the studied IP has a unique solution, which has an integral representation via the corresponding resolvent kernel. Applying the obtained results, we establish that, from the existence and uniqueness of a resolvent kernel, the existence and uniqueness of a fundamental matrix of the homogeneous system and vice versa follows. An explicit formula describing the relationship between the resolvent kernel and the fundamental matrix is proved as well.
Anti-Disturbance Fault-Tolerant Constrained Consensus for Time-Delay Faulty Multi-Agent Systems with Semi-Markov Switching Topology
Authors: Chen Yangjie , Zhang Fan , Li Jianning
Published: December 2022

In this article, an approach to achieve the anti-disturbance fault-tolerant constrained consensus is proposed for time-delay faulty multi-agent systems under semi-Markov switching topology. Firstly, an observer based on the coupled disturbance and fault information is designed to estimate the disturbance and failure at the same time. Next, because of the conservatism of the traditional H∞ control method, a new performance index is constructed to replace the zero initial condition by making use of initial conditions. Then, the time-varying transfer rate is expressed as a convex combination by using the boundedness of transfer rate, so as to solve the numerical solution problem of time-varying transfer rate. On this basis, according to the performance requirements, an anti-disturbance fault-tolerant constrained consensus strategy is proposed. Finally, simulation results are given to verify the feasibility of the approach.
A Fault Diagnosis Scheme for Gearbox Based on Improved Entropy and Optimized Regularized Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Zhang Wei , Lu Hong , Zhang Yongquan , Li Zhangjie , Wang Yongjing , Zhou Jun , Mei Jiangnuo , Wei Yuzhan
Published: December 2022

The performance of a gearbox is sensitive to failures, especially in the long-term high speed and heavy load field. However, the multi-fault diagnosis in gearboxes is a challenging problem because of the complex and non-stationary measured signal. To obtain fault information more fully and improve the accuracy of gearbox fault diagnosis, this paper proposes a feature extraction method, hierarchical refined composite multiscale fluctuation dispersion entropy (HRCMFDE) to extract the fault features of rolling bearing and the gear vibration signals at different layers and scales. On this basis, a novel fault diagnosis scheme for the gearbox based on HRCMFDE, ReliefF and grey wolf optimizer regularized extreme learning machine is proposed. Firstly, HRCMFDE is employed to extract the original features, the multi-frequency time information can be evaluated simultaneously, and the fault feature information can be extracted more fully. After that, ReliefF is used to screen the sensitive features from the high-dimensional fault features. Finally, the sensitive features are inputted into the optimized regularized extreme learning machine to identify the fault states of the gearbox. Through three different types of gearbox experiments, the experimental results confirm that the proposed method has better diagnostic performance and generalization, which can effectively and accurately identify the different fault categories of the gearbox and outperforms other contrastive methods.
On the Élö–Runyan–Poisson–Pearson Method to Forecast Football Matches
Authors: López-Barrientos José Daniel , Zayat-Niño Damián Alejandro , Hernández-Prado Eric Xavier , Estudillo-Bravo Yolanda
Published: December 2022

This is a work about football. In it, we depart from two well-known approaches to forecast the outcome of a football match (or even a full tournament) and take advantage of their strengths to develop a new method of prediction. We illustrate the Élö–Runyan rating system and the Poisson technique in the English Premier League and we analyze their accuracies with respect to the actual results. We obtained an accuracy of 84.37% for the former, and 79.99% for the latter in this first exercise. Then, we present a criticism of these methods and use it to complement the aforementioned procedures, and hence, introduce the so-called Élö–Runyan–Poisson–Pearson method, which consists of adopting the distribution that best fits the historical distribution of goals to simulate the score of each match. Finally, we obtain a Monte Carlo-based forecast of the result. We test our mechanism to backcast the World Cup of Russia 2018, obtaining an accuracy of 87.09%; and forecast the results of the World Cup of Qatar 2022.
The Gao-Type Constant of Absolute Normalized Norms on ℝ2
Authors: Zuo Zhanfei , Huang Yimin , Huang Huaping , Wang Jing
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we present an extraordinary method to calculate the Gao-type constant of absolute normalized norms on R2. By using our method, we not only provide the values of the Gao-type constant in new specific spaces, but also improve well-known results from the existing literature.
Impact Analysis of the External Shocks on the Prices of Malaysian Crude Palm Oil: Evidence from a Structural Vector Autoregressive Model
Authors: Sabri Mohd Syafiq , Khalid Norlin , Azam Abdul Hafizh Mohd , Sarmidi Tamat
Published: December 2022

Palm oil prices, similar to other edible oils and commodity prices, are highly sensitive to external shocks which have become particularly prominent in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. The non-stationary nature of the palm oil price complicates the modelling and forecasting of its behaviour. This study investigates the impact of the external and internal shocks on Malaysian palm oil (MPO) prices using the SVAR methodology. The SVAR model utilised in this study is unique in that it employs the news-based indices called the Infectious Disease Volatility Tracker (IDVT) and the Economic Policy Uncertainty Index (EPUI) as parts of the time series. News-based indices can potentially uncover essential proxies for economic and policy conditions, as well as portend the investment decision-making and in turn the commodity prices. The rationale behind this choice is to capture the impact from perception and news-based indices on the Malaysian palm oil prices. The empirical result from impulse–response function (IRF) shows that the shock in IDVT has a significant positive impact on Malaysian palm oil prices suggesting the MPO is exposed to the external factor. In addition, amongst the external variables tested, IDVT shows the longest lasting and highest positive impact on Malaysian palm oil prices. These results are in accordance with forecast error variance decomposition which indicates that IDVT shock can explain a huge portion of MPO prices especially over a longer period. The model specified in this study is also sufficiently stable and robust. This study contributes to the literature the significance of news-based indices and their capability in influencing public perception on the current macroeconomic condition, hence influencing the decision-making process of economic agents.
Validation of Parallel Distributed Adaptive Signal Processing (PDASP) Framework through Processing-Inefficient Low-Cost Platforms
Authors: Raza Hasan , Ahmad Ishtiaq , Khan Noor M. , Abbasi Waseem , Anwar Muhammad Shahid , Ahmad Sadique , El-Affendi Mohammed A.
Published: December 2022

The computational complexity of the multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) based least square algorithm is very high and it cannot be run on processing-inefficient low-cost platforms. To overcome complexity-related problems, a parallel distributed adaptive signal processing (PDASP) architecture is proposed, which is a distributed framework used to efficiently run the adaptive filtering algorithms having high computational cost. In this paper, a communication load-balancing procedure is introduced to validate the PDASP architecture using low-cost wireless sensor nodes. The PDASP architecture with the implementation of a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) based Recursive Least Square (RLS) algorithm is deployed on the processing-inefficient low-cost wireless sensor nodes to validate the performance of the PDASP architecture in terms of computational cost, processing time, and memory utilization. Furthermore, the processing time and memory utilization provided by the PDASP architecture are compared with sequentially operated RLS-based MIMO channel estimator on 2×2, 3×3, and 4×4 MIMO communication systems. The measurement results show that the sequentially operated MIMO RLS algorithm based on 3×3 and 4×4 MIMO communication systems is unable to work on a single unit; however, these MIMO systems can efficiently be run on the PDASP architecture with reduced memory utilization and processing time.
Numerical and Stability Investigations of the Waste Plastic Management Model in the Ocean System
Authors: Izadi Mohammad , Parsamanesh Mahmood , Adel Waleed
Published: December 2022

This study investigates the solution of an ocean waste plastic management system model. The model is represented by a nonlinear system which is divided into three compartments: the waste plastic materials W(τ), marine debris M(τ), and the process of recycling R(τ). These compartments form a simulated model that is solved using two collocation techniques based on a shifted version of the Morgan-Voyce (MV) functions, while the first matrix collocation procedure is directly applied to the given model, in the second approach we fuse the technique of quasilinearization together with the shifted MV (SMV) collocation strategy. Moreover, we give the basic reproduction number and discuss the existence of equilibria and the local stability of equilibria are investigated. The basic definitions of the SMV polynomials are introduced and detailed convergence analysis of the related power series expansion in both weighted L2 and L∞ norms are presented. Diverse numerical simulations are performed to prove the accurateness and effectiveness of the presented approaches and the results ate illustrated through tables and figures.
Clinical Characteristics of TZAP (ZBTB48) in Hepatocellular Carcinomas from Tissue, Cell Line, and TCGA
Authors: Jung Soo-Jung , Kil So-Hyun , Lee Hye Won , Park Tae In , Lee Yun-Han , Kim Jongwan , Lee Jae-Ho
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: ZBTB48 is a telomere-related protein that has been renamed telomeric zinc finger-associated protein (TZAP). It favorably binds to elongated telomeres to regulate their appropriate length. However, TZAP expression has not been investigated in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). Materials and Methods: The clinical significance of TZAP expression in 72 HCC was investigated. Additionally, its findings were supported by open big data and cancer cell lines. Results: TZAP expression level was not associated with the clinical parameters of HCC. TZAP expression induced a poorer survival result (overall survival, p = 0.020; disease-free survival, p = 0.012). TCGA data showed TZAP expression was more frequently found in HCCs with hepatitis C infection (p = 0.023). However, TCGA data revealed that TZAP expression did not predict HCC prognosis. In a cell line study, TZAP inhibition via siRNA suppressed PLC/PRF/5 cell growth; however, cell viability was increased in HepG2 cells. Conclusions: We presented the clinical and prognostic values of TZAP expression in HCC tissues and cancer cell lines. Additionally, the TCGA results also revealed a significant role for TZAP expression. TZAP expression may involve HCC progression and its prognosis.
Impact of Albumin Binding Function on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Furosemide
Authors: Klinkmann Gerd , Klammt Sebastian , Jäschke Malte , Henschel Jörg , Gloger Martin , Reuter Daniel A. , Mitzner Steffen
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Albumin binding of the loop diuretic furosemide forms the basis for its transport to the kidney and subsequent tubular secretion, which is a prerequisite for its therapeutic effects. Accordingly, high albumin concentrations should result in higher efficacy of furosemide. However, study results on the combination of furosemide in conjunction with albumin, and on the efficacy of furosemide in hypoalbuminemia, did not confirm this hypothesis. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of furosemide not only in relation to albumin concentration, but also taking albumin function into account. Materials and Methods: In a prospective and non-interventional clinical observational trial, blood and urine samples from 50 intensive care patients receiving continuous intravenous furosemide therapy were evaluated. Albumin binding capacity (ABiC) determination allowed conclusions to be drawn about the binding site-specific loading state of albumin, by quantifying the unbound fraction of the fluorescent marker dansylsarcosine. In addition, assessment of the total concentration of furosemide in plasma and urine, as well as the concentration of free furosemide fraction in plasma, was performed by HPLC–MS. The efficacy of furosemide was evaluated by the ratio of urine excretion to fluid intake. Results: In patients with an ABiC ≥ 60% free furosemide fraction was significantly lower compared to patients with a lower ABiC (p < 0.001), urinary furosemide concentration was higher (p = 0.136), and a significantly higher proportion of infused furosemide was excreted renally (p = 0.010). ABiC was positively correlated (r = 0.908, p = 0.017) with increase in the urine excretion to fluid input ratio after initiation of furosemide therapy. Conclusions: ABiC could serve as a marker for individual response to furosemide and could be used to generate patient-specific therapeutic regimens. In view of the relatively low number of patients in this study, the relationship between furosemide efficacy and albumin function should be investigated in larger studies in the future.
Exome Sequencing Revealed a Novel Splice Site Variant in the CRB2 Gene Underlying Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Simaab Anam , Krishin Jai , Alaradi Sultan Rashid , Haider Nighat , Shah Muqadar , Ullah Asmat , Abdullah Abdullah , Ahmad Wasim , Hansen Torben , Basit Sulman
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a kidney disease where the patient has a classic triad of signs and symptoms including hypercholesterolemia, hypoalbuminemia, proteinuria (>3.5 g/24 h), and peripheral edema. In case of NS, the damaged nephrons (structural and functional unit of the kidney) filter unwanted blood contents to make urine. Thus, the urine contains unwanted proteins (proteinuria) and blood cells (hematuria), while the bloodstream lacks enough protein albumin (hypoalbuminemia). Nephrotic syndrome is divided into two types, primary NS, and secondary NS. Primary NS, also known as primary glomerulonephrosis, is the result of a glomerular disease that is limited to the kidney, while secondary NS is a condition that affects the kidney and other parts of the body. The main causes of primary NS are minimal change disease, membranous glomerulonephritis, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. In the present study we recruited a family segregating primary NS with the aim to identify the underlying genetic etiology. Such type of study is important in children because it allows counseling of other family members who may be at risk of developing NS, predicts risk of recurrent disease phenotypes after kidney transplant, and predicts response to immunosuppressive therapy. Materials and Methods: All affected individuals were clinically evaluated. Clinical examination, results of laboratory tests, and biopsy investigations led us to the diagnosis. The next-generation sequencing technique (whole-exome sequencing) followed by Sanger sequencing identified a novel homozygous splice site variant (NM_173689.7: c.941-3C>T) in the CRB2 gene. The variant was present in a homozygous state in the affected individuals, while in a heterozygous state in phenotypically normal parents. Results: The study expanded the spectrum of the mutations in the gene CRB2 responsible for causing NS. Conclusions: In addition, the study will also help in genetic counseling, carrier testing, and prenatal and/or postnatal early diagnosis of the disease in the affected family.
Use of a Lateral Sinus Bony Window as an Intraoral Donor Site for Guided Bone Regeneration in Wide Post-Extraction Defects
Authors: Park Won-Bae , Kang Philip , Park Wonhee , Han Ji-Young
Published: December 2022

Maxillary sinus augmentation (MSA) and guided bone regeneration (GBR) have shown successful clinical, radiological, and histological outcomes for implant-related bone reconstruction and have been used to augment bony defects of various shapes and sizes. This study demonstrated that the lateral sinus bony window obtained during MSA can be used as an autogenous block bone graft for the augmentation of wide post-extraction defects. During the uncovering procedure performed 6 months after surgery, the grafted lateral bony window was well integrated with the adjacent native bone, and complete bone filling was observed in all bony defects around the implants. All of the implants survived. Within the limitations of this study, autogenous block bone obtained from lateral window sites can be used as novel donors for the resolution of wide bony defects around implants.
Comparison of Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes According to the Presence or Absence of a Posterior Draw Force during Graft Fixation in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Cho Jin-Ho , Lee Hyun Il , Heo Jae Won , Lee Sung-Sahn
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: A reduction forced toward the posterior side during graft fixation may help to lessen anterior tibial translation after ACL reconstruction. The purpose was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of graft fixation when a posterior draw was used and when it was not used during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. Materials and Methods: Of 110 patients who had undergone primary arthroscopic ACL reconstruction between January 2017 and August 2020, in all, 76 patients had been operated on without a posterior draw (non-draw group), and 34 patients had received surgery with a posterior draw (draw group). The results of the Lachman test and the pivot-shift test, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) indexes, the Lysholm scores, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores, and side-to-side difference (STSD) on stress radiography were compared between the two groups. Results: The postoperative WOMAC indexes, Lysholm scores, and IKDC subjective scores were similar across both groups. Postoperative STSD (2.4 ± 2.2 for the non-draw group vs. 2.0 ± 2.2 for the draw group; p = 0.319) and change in STSD (3.5 ± 3.5 for preoperative STSD vs. 4.3 ± 4.4 for postoperative STSD; p = 0.295) were not superior in the draw group. Conclusions: The take-home message is that graft fixation with a posterior draw during ACL reconstruction did not result in significantly better postoperative stability. The postoperative clinical outcomes were similar between both groups.
BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccination and Its Effect on Blood Pressure
Authors: Tan Toh Leong , Salleh Sharifah Azura , Che Man Zuraidah , Tan Michelle Hwee Peng , Kader Rashid , Jarmin Razman
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: The objective of this study is to examine the effect of the BNT162b2 vaccine on systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and pulse pressure (PP) before and 15 min after two doses that were given 21 days apart. Materials and Methods: This active surveillance study of vaccine safety was conducted on 15 and 16 March (for the first dose) and 5 and 6 April (for the second dose) 2021 in an academic hospital. For both doses, SBP, DBP, MAP, and PP levels were measured before and 15 min after both doses were given to healthcare workers over the age of 18. The results of the study were based on measurements of the mean blood pressure (BP), the mean changes in BP, and the BP trends. Results: In total, 287 individuals received the vaccine. After the first dose, 25% (n = 72) of individuals had a decrease in DBP of at least 10 mmHg (mean DBP decrease: 15 mmHg, 95% CI: 14–17 mmHg), and after the second dose it was 12.5% (mean DBP decrease: 13 mmHg, 95% CI: 12–15 mmHg). After the first dose, 28.6% (n = 82) had a PP that was wider than 40 mmHg. After the first dose, 5.2% and 4.9% of the individuals experienced an increase or decrease in SBP, respectively, of more than 20 mmHg. After the second dose, the SBP of 11% (n = 32) decreased by at least 20 mmHg. Conclusions: Improved understanding of vaccine effects on BP may help address vaccine hesitancy in healthcare workers.
Whole-Body Vibration or Aerobic Exercise in Patients with Bronchiectasis? A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Atalay Orçin Telli , Yılmaz Ayşenur , Bahtiyar Betül Cengiz , Altınışık Göksel
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: The whole-body vibration (WBV) technique is an exercise training method. It has been reported to improve muscle strength, exercise capacity, and the quality of life. However, there is no study on the use of the WBV technique in bronchiectasis. The aim of the present study is to compare the effect of aerobic exercise with whole-body vibration on exercise capacity, respiratory function, dyspnea, and quality of life (QoL) in bronchiectasis patients. Materials and Methods: Clinically stable bronchiectasis patients aged 18–74 years participated in this study. A pulmonary function test, 6 minute walk test (6MWT), five times sit-to-stand test (FTSST), Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Scale, an, St. Georges Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were used in the evaluation. In total, 41 patients (WBV group: 20, aerobic group: 21) completed the study. The patients were treated for eight weeks. Results: When the two groups were compared after the treatment, there was a significant difference between the mMRC scores in favor of the WBV group (p < 0.05). When the results of the WBV group were examined before and after treatment, a significant difference was found between the 5SST and 6MWT (p < 0.05). When the aerobic group was compared before and after the treatment, it was observed that there was a significant difference in FVC, FVC%, 5SST, 6MWT, and SGRQ total score, and activity and impact scores, which are the sub-parameters (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Eight weeks of WBV exercise can lead to significant improvements in patients with bronchiectasis, exercise capacity, and dyspnea. Larger studies are needed to define the optimal intensity and duration of WBV, as well as to investigate its possible long-term effects.
Salvage of Hindfoot Charcot with Osteomyelitis and Ulceration: A Case Report
Authors: Hasan Khalid , Metikala Sreenivasulu , Vallem Madana Mohana R.
Published: December 2022

Diabetic Charcot arthropathy of the ankle, due to the presence of multiplanar deformities, and associated medical comorbidities, poses a challenge for treating physicians. The situation becomes more complicated when accompanied by ulceration and osteomyelitis, leaving limited salvage options. We present a case of advanced Charcot ankle arthropathy with osteomyelitis and ulcerated hindfoot. It was managed by talectomy and antibiotic-impregnated cement beads, followed by hindfoot arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail six weeks later. This two-stage reconstruction approach resulted in an ulcer-free, stable, plantigrade foot at one-year postoperative follow-up.
Prognostic Value of Choline and Other Metabolites Measured Using 1H-Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Gliomas: A Meta-Analysis and Systemic Review
Authors: Shi Yixin , Liu Delin , Kong Ziren , Liu Qianshu , Xing Hao , Wang Yuekun , Wang Yu , Ma Wenbin
Published: December 2022

Glioma is the most prevalent primary central nervous system malignant tumor, with high heterogeneity observed among different grades; therefore, non-invasive prediction of prognosis could improve the clinical management of patients with glioma. 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) can estimate metabolite levels non-invasively. Multiple studies have investigated its prognostic value in gliomas; however, no consensus has been reached. PubMed and Embase databases were searched up to 20 October 2022 to identify studies investigating the prognostic value of metabolites using 1H-MRS in patients with glioma. Heterogeneity across studies was evaluated using the Q and I2 tests, and a fixed- or random-effects model was used to estimate the combined overall hazard ratio (HR). Funnel plots and Begg tests were used to assess publication bias. Higher choline levels were associated with shorter overall survival (HR = 2.69, 95% CI, 1.92–2.99; p < 0.001) and progression-free survival (HR = 2.20, 95% CI, 1.16–4.17; p = 0.02) in all patients; however, in pediatric gliomas, it showed no significant correlation with overall survival (HR = 1.60, 95% CI, 0.97–2.64; p = 0.06). The estimated choline level by 1H-MRS could be used to non-invasively predict the prognosis of patients with adult gliomas, and more studies are needed to evaluate the prognostic value of other metabolites.
Impact of Adaptively Thinned GOES-16 Cloud Water Path in an Ensemble Data Assimilation System
Authors: Mallick Swapan
Published: December 2022

Assimilation of cloud properties in the convective scale ensemble data assimilation system is one of the prime topics of research in recent years. Satellites can retrieve cloud properties that are important sources of information of the cloud and atmospheric state. The Advance Baseline Imager (ABI) aboard the GOES-16 geostationary satellite brings an opportunity for retrieving high spatiotemporal resolution cloud properties, including cloud water path over continental United States. This study investigates the potential impacts of assimilating adaptively thinned GOES-16 cloud water path (CWP) observations that are assimilated by the ensemble-based Warn-on-Forecast System and the impact on subsequent weather forecasts. In this study, for CWP assimilation, multiple algorithms have been developed and tested using the adaptive-based thinning method. Three severe weather events are considered that occurred on 19 July 2019, 7 May and 21 June 2020. The superobbing procedure used for CWP data smoothed from 5 to 15 km or more depending on thinning algorithm. The overall performance of adaptively thinned CWP assimilation in the Warn-on-Forecast system is assessed using an object-based verification method. On average, more than 60% of the data was reduced and therefore not used in the assimilation system. Results suggest that assimilating less than 40% of CWP superobbing data into the Warn-on-Forecast system is of similar forecast quality to those obtained from assimilating all available CWP observations. The results of this study can be used on the benefits of cloud assimilation to improve numerical simulation.
The Design and Fabrication of a MEMS Electronic Calibration Chip
Authors: Wu Qiannan , Chen Yu , Cao Qianlong , Zhao Jingchao , Wang Shanshan , Wang Junqiang , Li Mengwei
Published: December 2022

During the test of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices, calibration of test cables, loads and test instruments is an indispensable step. Calibration kits with high accuracy, great operability and small loss can reduce the systematic errors in the test process to the greatest extent and improve the measurement accuracy. Aiming at the issues of the conventional discrete calibration piece unit, which presents cumbersome calibration steps and large system loss, an integrated electronic calibration chip based on frequency microelectromechanical system (RF MEMS) switches is designed and fabricated. The short-open-load-through (SOLT) calibration states can be completed on a single chip, step by step, by adjusting the on–off state of the RF MEMS switches. The simulation results show that the operating frequency of the electronic calibration piece covers the range of DC~26.5 GHz, the insertion loss in through (thru) state is less than 0.2 dB, the return loss is less than 1.0 dB in short-circuit and open-circuit states, the return loss under load-circuit state is less than 20 dB and its size is only 2.748 mm × 2.2 mm × 0.5 mm. This novel calibration chip design has certain esteem for advancing calibration exactness and effectiveness.
Micro-Sized pH Sensors Based on Scanning Electrochemical Probe Microscopy
Authors: Al-Jeda Muhanad , Mena-Morcillo Emmanuel , Chen Aicheng
Published: December 2022

Monitoring pH changes at the micro/nano scale is essential to gain a fundamental understanding of surface processes. Detection of local pH changes at the electrode/electrolyte interface can be achieved through the use of micro-/nano-sized pH sensors. When combined with scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), these sensors can provide measurements with high spatial resolution. This article reviews the state-of-the-art design and fabrication of micro-/nano-sized pH sensors, as well as their applications based on SECM. Considerations for selecting sensing probes for use in biological studies, corrosion science, in energy applications, and for environmental research are examined. Different types of pH sensitive probes are summarized and compared. Finally, future trends and emerging applications of micro-/nano-sized pH sensors are discussed.
Precise Control of Glioma Cell Apoptosis Induced by Micro-Plasma-Activated Water (μ-PAW)
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Du Xiaoxia , Shi Qihao , Xiao Wenxiang , Li Hua
Published: December 2022

To verify the existence of plasma with the potential to kill tumor cells, this paper designed a novel helium (He) micro-plasma jet array device and detected the concentration of typical long-lived reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) with oxidative activity generated by it. The paper described a new He micro-plasma jet array device consisting of nine flexible quartz capillaries with an inner diameter of 75 μm arranged in a 3 × 3 array. Sterilized ultrapure water (up water) was first treated with the He micro-plasma jet array device to activate it to form enriched RONS micro-plasma-activated water (μ-PAW), and then μ-PAW was added to the cell culture medium (with cells) to observe the proliferation of human glioma cells. The concentration of long-lived RONS, such as nitrate (NO3−), was detected according to Beer–Lambert’s law in combination with UV spectrophotometry as well as a color development method. The MTT Cell Proliferation and Cytotoxicity Assay Kit combined with the Hoechst Staining Kit were used to assess the proliferation status of the cells. The results showed that the range of RONS concentration variation could be controlled in the order of micromoles (µmol), while plasma-induced tumor cell death is apoptosis that does not affect the surrounding environment.
Optimizing Biodegradable Starch-Based Composite Films Formulation for Wound-Dressing Applications
Authors: Delavari Mohammad Mohsen , Ocampo Ixchel , Stiharu Ion
Published: December 2022

This paper utilizes response surface methodology (RSM) design-based analyses to optimize starch-based wound dressings that were characterized based on weight loss (WL%), swelling index (SI%), and mechanical strength (TS). The wound-dressing materials were prepared by employing a modified casting method, using various concentrations of starch (0.5–2 w/w%), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (0.5–2 weight%), citric acid (1.5–4 weight%), and glycerol (1.5–4 weight%) to yield wound-dressing films with appropriate combinations of in vitro degradation, swelling index, and tensile strength. As a result of the response surface method-based analysis, the swelling index, in vitro degradation, and tensile strength were linearly related to variations in the formulation of organic components. Based on our experimental investigations, the optimized film (formulation: 1 weight% PVA, 2 weight% starch, 1.5 weight% citric acid, and 1.5 weight% glycerol) exhibited an outstanding swelling index (343.52%), suitable in vitro degradation (53.22%), and excellent tensile strength (8.82 MPa). The response surface plots for the dependent variables, swelling index (SI%), weight loss (WL%), and mechanical strength (TS), showed that in all dual relations, the PVA-starch combination significantly affected all dependent variables; however, the PVA-citric acid interaction showed the most excellent effect on the swelling index. As a result, every component of the resulting film had a lesser amount of all ingredients to achieve better properties at a lower material cost. Starch-based/PVA films have been identified in this paper as optimal and more affordable wound-dressing films.
Euterpe oleracea Mart (Açaizeiro) from the Brazilian Amazon: A Novel Font of Fungi for Lipase Production
Authors: Sena Iracirema S. , Ferreira Adriana M. , Marinho Victor H. , e Holanda Fabrício H. , Borges Swanny F. , de Souza Agerdanio A. , de Carvalho R. Koga Rosemary , Lima Adilson L. , Florentino Alexandro C. , Ferreira Irlon M.
Published: December 2022

Lipases (EC 3.1.1.3) are hydrolases that catalyze triglycerides hydrolysis in free fatty acids and glycerol. Among the microorganisms that produce lipolytic enzymes, the entophytic fungi stand out. We evaluated 32 fungi of different genera, Pestalotiopsis, Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Penicillium, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, Chaetomium, Mucor, Botryodiplodia, Xylaria, Curvularia, Neocosmospora and Verticillium, isolated from Euterpe oleracea Mart. (Açaizeiro) from the Brazilian Amazon for lipase activity. The presence of lipase was evidenced by the deposition of calcium crystals. The endophytic Pestalotiopsis sp. (31) and Aspergillus sp. (24) with Pz 0.237 (++++) and 0.5 (++++), respectively, were the ones that showed the highest lipolytic activity in a solid medium. Lipase activity was rated in liquid medium, in a different range of temperatures (°C), pH and time (days). The values obtained in the production of lipase by the endophytic fungi were 94% for Pestalotiopsis sp. (31) and 93.87% for Aspergillus sp. (24). Therefore, it is emphasized that the endophytic fungus isolated the E. oleracea palm may be a potential candidate to produce enzymes of global commercial interest.
Influence of Biomacromolecules on Calcium Phosphate Formation on TiO2 Nanomaterials
Authors: Erceg Ina , Dutour Sikirić Maja
Published: December 2022

Calcium phosphates (CaP) composites with biomacromolecules and/or nanomaterials have recently emerged as a potential solution to improve the poor mechanical properties and biological response of CaP. Among the methods available for preparation of such composites, precipitation at low temperatures attracts special interest as it allows preservation of the activity of biomacromolecules. However, precipitation of CaP in the presence of two additives is a complex process that needs to be studied in detail to rationalize composite preparation. This study aimed to investigate co-precipitation of CaP on different TiO2 nanomaterials (TiNMs), including nanoparticles (TiNPs), nanoplates (TiNPls), nanotubes (TiNTs), and nanowires (TiNWs), in the presence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and chitosan (Chi). The obtained results have shown that both BSA and Chi inhibited transformation of amorphous to crystalline CaP, even in the presence of TiNMs at concentrations that promoted transformation. Chi proved to be a stronger inhibitor due to its more flexible structure. The presence of BSA and Chi did not influence the composition of the CaP formed as calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (CaDHA) was formed in all the systems. However, both macromolecules influenced the morphology of the formed CaDHA in different ways depending on the type of TiNM used. BSA and Chi adsorbed on all the TiNMs, as confirmed by zeta potential measurements, but this adsorption reduced the amount of CaP formed on TiNMs only in the case of TiNWs. The obtained results contribute to the understanding of the influence of BSA and Chi on CaP precipitation in the presence of nanomaterials and thus to the rational design of CaP-based multi-composite materials.
Mechanical Behavior Analysis of Fully Grouted Bolts under Axial Cyclic Load
Authors: Liu Xiujun , Ma Zhanguo
Published: December 2022

Fully grouted bolts are widely used in engineering. In order to deeply understand the load-transfer mechanism of a fully grouted bolt, it is necessary to analyze and study its mechanical behavior under axial cyclic load. First of all, based on the idea of discretization and the force balance analysis of each mass spring element, this study proposes a method for analyzing the force of the bolt—the spring element method. Second, the load-transfer model of the fully grouted bolt is established by using the spring element method, assuming that the bolt and the sidewall rock and soil are connected by tangential linear springs. The analytical solutions for the displacement, axial force, and shear-stress distribution of the bolt before and after the damage of the sidewall spring are given. It is found that the analysis results of the analytical model proposed in this paper have a great relationship with λ, which is the square root of the ratio of sidewall spring stiffness k′u to bolt stiffness ku. Further analysis found that this model is more suitable for the two working conditions of λ ≈ 0 and λ ≈ 1, and the relationship between sidewall spring stiffness k′u and pull-out stiffness K of the bolt was established under these two working conditions. Finally, the rationality and accuracy of the analytical model proposed in this study are verified by an analysis of two typical test cases under the two working conditions of λ ≈ 0 and λ ≈ 1.
An Improved Synthetic Method for Sensitive Iodine Containing Tricyclic Flavonoids
Authors: Birsa Mihail Lucian , Sarbu Laura G.
Published: December 2022

The synthesis of new iodine containing synthetic tricyclic flavonoids is reported. Due to the sensitivity of the precursors to the heat and acidic conditions required for the ring closure of the 1,3-dithiolium core, a new cyclization method has been developed. It consists in the treatment of the corresponding iodine-substituted 3-dithiocarbamic flavonoids with a 1:1 (v/v) mixture of glacial acetic acid–concentrated sulfuric acid at 40 °C. The synthesis of the iodine-substituted 3-dithiocarbamic flavonoids has also been tuned in terms of reaction conditions.
Partial Characterization of Lectins Purified from the Surco and Vara (Furrow and Rod) Varieties of Black Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Valadez-Vega Carmen , Lugo-Magaña Olivia , Betanzos-Cabrera Gabriel , Villagómez-Ibarra José Roberto
Published: December 2022

As they manifest specifically and reversibly, lectins are proteins or glycoproteins with the characteristic of agglutinating erythrocytes. Given that grain legume lectins can represent 10% of protein content and can have various biological functions, they are extensively studied. The objective of this work was to purify and partially characterize the lectins of Phaseolus vulgaris black, var surco and vara (LBBS and LBBV). Both lectin types were purified by affinity chromatography on stroma matrix, which agglutinated human erythrocytes type A, B, and O, as well as rabbit, hamster, pig, and chicken erythrocytes. Native-PAGE was employed for molecular mass determination, yielding 109.36 and 112.68 kDa for BBS and BBV, respectively. Further analyses revealed that these lectins are tetrameric glycoproteins that require Ca+2, Mn+2 and Mg+2 ions for exhibiting their hemagglutinating function, which can be inhibited by fetuin. Moreover, optimal pH was established for both lectins (10.5 for LBBS and 7−9 for LBBV), while their activity was temperature-dependent and ceased above 70 °C. Finally, the observed differences in the biochemical characteristics and bioactive functions were ascribed to the different physiological characteristics of each seed, as well as the protein itself.
Energetic [1,2,5]oxadiazolo [2,3-a]pyrimidin-8-ium Perchlorates: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Strizhenko Kirill V. , Smirnova Anastasia D. , Filatov Sergei A. , Sinditskii Valery P. , Stash Adam I. , Suponitsky Kyrill Yu. , Monogarov Konstantin A. , Kiselev Vitaly G. , Sheremetev Aleksei B.
Published: December 2022

A convenient method to access the above perchlorates has been developed, based on the cyclocondensation of 3-aminofurazans with 1,3-diketones in the presence of HClO4. All compounds were fully characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystal structure determinations. Initial safety testing (impact and friction sensitivity) and thermal stability measurements (DSC/DTA) were also carried out. Energetic performance was calculated by using the PILEM code based on calculated enthalpies of formation and experimental densities at r.t. These salts exhibit excellent burn rates and combustion behavior and are promising ingredients for energetic materials.
Emerging Potential of the Phosphodiesterase (PDE) Inhibitor Ibudilast for Neurodegenerative Diseases: An Update on Preclinical and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Angelopoulou Efthalia , Pyrgelis Efstratios-Stylianos , Piperi Christina
Published: December 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases constitute a broad range of central nervous system disorders, characterized by neuronal degeneration. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyolotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) are some of the most frequent neurodegenerative diseases. Despite their diversity, these diseases share some common pathophysiological mechanisms: the abnormal aggregation of disease-related misfolded proteins, autophagosome–lysosome pathway dysregulation, impaired ubiquitin–proteasome system, oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive neuroinflammation. There is still no effective drug that could halt the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, and the current treatments are mainly symptomatic. In this regard, the development of novel multi-target pharmaceutical approaches presents an attractive therapeutic strategy. Ibudilast, an anti-inflammatory drug firstly developed as an asthma treatment, is a cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs) inhibitor, which mainly acts by increasing the amount of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), while downregulating the pro-inflammatory factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4). The preclinical evidence shows that ibudilast may act neuroprotectively in neurodegenerative diseases, by suppressing neuroinflammation, inhibiting apoptosis, regulating the mitochondrial function and by affecting the ubiquitin–proteasome and autophagosome–lysosome pathways, as well as by attenuating oxidative stress. The clinical trials in ALS and progressive MS also show some promising results. Herein, we aim to provide an update on the emerging preclinical and clinical evidence on the therapeutic potential of ibudilast in these disorders, discuss the potential challenges and suggest the future directions.
N1-Benzyl Tryptamine Pan-SHIP1/2 Inhibitors: Synthesis and Preliminary Biological Evaluation as Anti-Tumor Agents
Authors: Fernandes Sandra , Meyer Shea T. , Shah Jigisha P. , Adhikari Arijit A. , Kerr William G. , Chisholm John D.
Published: December 2022

Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate 5-phosphatase (SHIP) with small molecule inhibitors leads to apoptosis in tumor cells. Inhibitors that target both SHIP1 and SHIP2 (pan-SHIP1/2 inhibitors) may have benefits in these areas since paralog compensation is not possible when both SHIP paralogs are being inhibited. A series of tryptamine-based pan-SHIP1/2 inhibitors have been synthesized and evaluated for their ability to inhibit the SHIP paralogs. The most active compounds were also evaluated for their effects on cancer cell lines.