bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Invasive Trichosporonosis in Neonates and Pediatric Patients with Malignancies or Hematologic Disorders
Authors: Kourti Maria , Roilides Emmanuel
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Trichosporon species have emerged as important opportunistic fungal pathogens, with Trichosporon asahii being the leading and most frequent cause of invasive disease. (2) Methods: We performed a global review focused on invasive trichosporonosis in neonates and pediatric patients with malignancies or hematologic disorders. We reviewed case reports and case series of trichosporonosis due to T. asahii published since 1994, the year of the revised taxonomic classification. (3) Results: Twenty-four cases of invasive trichosporonosis were identified in neonates with the presence of central venous catheter and use of broad-spectrum antibiotics recognized as the main predisposing factors. Thirty-two cases were identified in children with malignancies or hematologic disorders, predominantly with severe neutropenia. Trichosporon asahii was isolated from blood in 24/32 (75%) pediatric cases. Cutaneous involvement was frequently observed in invasive trichosporonosis. Micafungin was the most commonly used prophylactic agent (9/22; 41%). Ten patients receiving prophylactic echinocandins were identified with breakthrough infections. A favorable outcome was reported in 12/16 (75%) pediatric patients receiving targeted monotherapy with voriconazole or combined with liposomal amphotericin B. Overall mortality in neonates and children with malignancy was 67% and 60%, respectively. (4) Conclusions: Voriconazole is advocated for the treatment of invasive trichosporonosis given the intrinsic resistance to echinocandins and poor susceptibility to polyenes.
Carbocysteine Modifies Circulating miR-21, IL-8, sRAGE, and fAGEs Levels in Mild Acute Exacerbated COPD Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ferraro Maria , Di Vincenzo Serena , Sangiorgi Claudia , Leto Barone Stefania , Gangemi Sebastiano , Lanata Luigi , Pace Elisabetta
Published: February 2022

Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) periodically experience acute exacerbation (AECOPD). Carbocysteine represents a valid add on therapy in COPD by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The in vivo effects of carbocysteine on inflammatory markers are not yet fully understood. The aims of this study were to assess: (i) miR-21, IL-8, soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (sRAGE), and fluorescent Advanced Glycation End Products (fAGEs) in control subjects (n = 9), stable (n = 9), and AECOPD patients (n = 24); and (ii) whether carbocysteine modifies these markers and the functional parameters in mild AECOPD patients. Mild AECOPD patients received or not carbocysteine along with background inhalation therapy for 20 days. At the onset and at the end of the observation period, the following parameters were evaluated: FEV1, FEF25–75%, CAT questionnaire; miR-21 by Real Time PCR; IL-8 and sRAGE by ELISA; and fAGEs by spectro-fluorescence method. COPD patients showed higher levels of miR-21, IL-8, fAGEs and lower levels of sRAGE compared to that of controls. miR-21 inversely correlated with FEV1. IL-8 and fAGEs were significantly different in stable and exacerbated COPD patients. Carbocysteine improved symptoms, FEV1 and FEF25–75%, increased sRAGE, and reduced miR-21, IL-8, and fAGEs in mild AECOPD patients. The present study provides compelling evidence that carbocysteine may help to manage mild AECOPD by downregulating some parameters of systemic inflammation.
The Landscape of Nanovectors for Modulation in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Volovat Simona-Ruxandra , Ursulescu Corina Lupascu , Moisii Liliana Gheorghe , Volovat Constantin , Boboc Diana , Scripcariu Dragos , Amurariti Florin , Stefanescu Cipriana , Stolniceanu Cati Raluca , Agop Maricel , Lungulescu Cristian , Volovat Cristian Constantin
Published: February 2022

Immunotherapy represents a promising strategy for the treatment of cancer, which functions via the reprogramming and activation of antitumor immunity. However, adverse events resulting from immunotherapy that are related to the low specificity of tumor cell-targeting represent a limitation of immunotherapy’s efficacy. The potential of nanotechnologies is represented by the possibilities of immunotherapeutical agents being carried by nanoparticles with various material types, shapes, sizes, coated ligands, associated loading methods, hydrophilicities, elasticities, and biocompatibilities. In this review, the principal types of nanovectors (nanopharmaceutics and bioinspired nanoparticles) are summarized along with the shortcomings in nanoparticle delivery and the main factors that modulate efficacy (the EPR effect, protein coronas, and microbiota). The mechanisms by which nanovectors can target cancer cells, the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), and the peripheral immune system are also presented. A possible mathematical model for the cellular communication mechanisms related to exosomes as nanocarriers is proposed.
Variable Repetition Rate Picosecond Master Oscillator for Photoelectron Gun
Authors: Gorbunkov Mikhail V. , Maslova Yulia Y. , Shabalin Yurii V. , Tunkin Vladimir G.
Published: February 2022

In this work, aiming at the master oscillator of the photoelectron gun with a variable repetition rate of electron bunches, a picosecond solid-state laser subject to delayed optoelectronic feedback and RF loss modulation is studied. Loss modulation is performed using an electro-optical modulator with zero bias at the second accelerator frequency subharmonic. Optoelectronic negative feedback uses an intracavity electro-optical modulator and a fast high-voltage photodiode mounted as close as possible to the modulator crystal. An analytical formula is obtained for the pulse duration, and estimates are given for Nd and Yb based media and L, S, C and X-band used in modern linear accelerators. Numerical simulation proves that the control is suitable for pulse-repetitive operation. The proposed approach solves the problem of laser pulse shortening and locking the master oscillator, and therefore, electron bunches in photoelectron guns, to the high-stable RF generator controlling accelerator functioning.
An Efficient Modular Gateway Recombinase-Based Gene Stacking System for Generating Multi-Trait Transgenic Plants
Authors: Qin Guannan , Wu Suting , Zhang Liying , Li Yanyao , Liu Chunmei , Yu Jianghui , Deng Lihua , Xiao Guoying , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: February 2022

Transgenic technology can transfer favorable traits regardless of reproductive isolation and is an important method in plant synthetic biology and genetic improvement. Complex metabolic pathway modification and pyramiding breeding strategies often require the introduction of multiple genes at once, but the current vector assembly systems for constructing multigene expression cassettes are not completely satisfactory. In this study, a new in vitro gene stacking system, GuanNan Stacking (GNS), was developed. Through the introduction of Type IIS restriction enzyme-mediated Golden Gate cloning, GNS allows the modular, standardized assembly of target gene expression cassettes. Because of the introduction of Gateway recombination, GNS facilitates the cloning of superlarge transgene expression cassettes, allows multiple expression cassettes to be efficiently assembled in a binary vector simultaneously, and is compatible with the Cre enzyme-mediated marker deletion mechanism. The linked dual positive-negative marker selection strategy ensures the efficient acquisition of target recombinant plasmids without prokaryotic selection markers in the T-DNA region. The host-independent negative selection marker combined with the TAC backbone ensures the cloning and transfer of large T-DNAs (>100 kb). Using the GNS system, we constructed a binary vector containing five foreign gene expression cassettes and obtained transgenic rice carrying the target traits, proving that the method developed in this research is a powerful tool for plant metabolic engineering and compound trait transgenic breeding.
The Negative Effects of High Rates of Biochar on Violas Can Be Counteracted with Fertilizer
Authors: Regmi Abishkar , Singh Sukhbir , Moustaid-Moussa Naima , Coldren Cade , Simpson Catherine
Published: February 2022

Increasing costs and environmental issues regarding excessive use of peat moss is impacting the horticultural industry. Biochar is a valuable substrate additive that has the potential to reduce the use of peatmoss in greenhouse production. However, its varying effects on ornamentals requires that individual species and cultivars of crops must be evaluated to determine the threshold for benefits. Viola cornuta is a high value ornamental crop; however, information on how different rates of biochar rates affect productivity and physiology of Viola cultivars in container production is not known. To determine if biochar rates could increase the productivity of Viola, we mixed a peat-based substrate with 10, 25, and 50% (w:w) hardwood biochar in two studies on four cultivars. Without fertilizers, 10 and 25% biochar improved plant biomass, growth, root length, and flowering, but 50% biochar was found to have negative effects on plant growth and flowering. Cultivars varied in their response to biochar rates. When fertilizer was applied in the second experiment, biochar rates did not impact growth parameters or flowering. These results suggest that up to 25% biochar can be used in Viola production without detrimental impacts. However, 50% biochar can be used with the addition of fertilizer without negatively affecting plant growth. Biochar can have a short-term impact on the growth characteristics of Viola plants in container production, but fertilization and growing period of Viola may influence these effects. These results indicate that biochar could be the suitable replacement for peat moss, with up to 50% biochar rate in Viola production reducing the environmental and economic burden for peat moss.
Phytochemical Profiling of Allium subhirsutum L. Aqueous Extract with Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm, and Anti-Quorum Sensing Properties: In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Snoussi Mejdi , Noumi Emira , Hajlaoui Hafed , Bouslama Lamjed , Hamdi Assia , Saeed Mohd , Alreshidi Mousa , Adnan Mohd , Al-Rashidi Ayshah , Aouadi Kaïss , Ghannay Siwar , Ceylan Ozgur , De Feo Vincenzo , Kadri Adel
Published: February 2022

The present study was the first to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anti-quorum sensing potential of Allium subhirsutum L. (hairy garlic) aqueous extract through in vitro and in silico studies. The phytochemical profile revealed the presence of saponins, terpenes, flavonols/flavonones, flavonoids, and fatty acids, particularly with flavonoids (231 ± 0.022 mg QE/g extract), tannins (159 ± 0.006 mg TAE/g extract), and phenols (4 ± 0.004 mg GAE/g extract). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis identified 15 bioactive compounds, such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (37.04%), methyl methanethiolsulfonate (21.33%), furfural (7.64%), beta-D-glucopyranose, 1,6-anhydro- (6.17%), 1,6-anhydro-beta-D-glucofuranose (3.6%), trisulfide, di-2-propenyl (2.70%), and diallyl disulfide (1.93%). The extract was found to be non-toxic with 50% cytotoxic concentration higher than 30,000 µg/mL. The investigation of the antioxidant activity via DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and FRAP (IC50 = 1 μg/mL), ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid); IC50 = 0.698 ± 0.107 μg/mL), and β-carotene (IC50 = 0.811 ± 0.036 mg/mL) was assessed. Nevertheless, good antimicrobial potential against a diverse panel of microorganisms with bacteriostatic and fungistatic effect was observed. Quorum sensing inhibition effects were also assessed, and the data showed the ability of the extract to inhibit the production of violacein by the mutant C. violaceum strain in concentration-dependent manner. Similarly, the biofilm formation by all tested strains was inhibited at low concentrations. In silico pharmacokinetic and toxicological prediction indicated that, out of the sixteen identified compounds, fourteen showed promising drug ability and could be used as lead compounds for further development and drug design. Hence, these findings support the popular use of hairy garlic as a source of bioactive compounds with potential application for human health.
Genome-Wide Analysis and Characterization of the Proline-Rich Extensin-like Receptor Kinases (PERKs) Gene Family Reveals Their Role in Different Developmental Stages and Stress Conditions in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Kesawat Mahipal Singh , Kherawat Bhagwat Singh , Singh Anupama , Dey Prajjal , Routray Snehasish , Mohapatra Chinmayee , Saha Debanjana , Ram Chet , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Kumar Ajay , Gupta Ravi , Chung Sang-Min , Kumar Manu
Published: February 2022

Proline-rich extensin-like receptor kinases (PERKs) are a class of receptor kinases implicated in multiple cellular processes in plants. However, there is a lack of information on the PERK gene family in wheat. Therefore, we identified 37 PERK genes in wheat to understand their role in various developmental processes and stress conditions. Phylogenetic analysis of PERK genes from Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, Glycine max, and T. aestivum grouped them into eight well-defined classes. Furthermore, synteny analysis revealed 275 orthologous gene pairs in B. distachyon, Ae. tauschii, T. dicoccoides, O. sativa and A. thaliana. Ka/Ks values showed that most TaPERK genes, except TaPERK1, TaPERK2, TaPERK17, and TaPERK26, underwent strong purifying selection during evolutionary processes. Several cis-acting regulatory elements, essential for plant growth and development and the response to light, phytohormones, and diverse biotic and abiotic stresses, were predicted in the promoter regions of TaPERK genes. In addition, the expression profile of the TaPERK gene family revealed differential expression of TaPERK genes in various tissues and developmental stages. Furthermore, TaPERK gene expression was induced by various biotic and abiotic stresses. The RT-qPCR analysis also revealed similar results with slight variation. Therefore, this study’s outcome provides valuable information for elucidating the precise functions of TaPERK in developmental processes and diverse stress conditions in wheat.
Improvement of Selected Morphological, Physiological, and Biochemical Parameters of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Grown under Different Salinity Levels Using Potassium Silicate and Aloe saponaria Extract
Authors: Abou-Sreea Alaa Idris Badawy , Roby Mohamed H. H. , Mahdy Hayam A. A. , Abdou Nasr M. , El-Tahan Amira M. , El-Saadony Mohamed T. , El-Tarabily Khaled A. , El-Saadony Fathy M. A.
Published: February 2022

Two successive field trials were carried out at the experimental farm of the Agriculture Department of Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt, to investigate the sole or dual interaction effect of applying a foliar spray of Aloe saponaria extract (Ae) or potassium silicate (KSi) on reducing the stressful salinity impacts on the development, yield, and features of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) plants. Both Ae or KSi were used at three rates: 0% (0 cm3 L−1), 0.5% (5 cm3 L−1), and 1% (10 cm3 L−1) and 0, 30, and 60 g L−1, respectively. Three rates of salinity, measured by the electrical conductivity of a saturated soil extract (ECe), were also used: normal soil (ECe < 4 dS/m) (S1); moderately-saline soil (ECe: 4–8 dS/m) (S2); and highly-saline soil (ECe: 8–16 dS/m) (S3). The lowest level of salinity yielded the highest levels of all traits except for pH, chloride, and sodium. Ae at 0.5% increased the values of total soluble sugars, total free amino acids, potassium, anthocyanin, a single-photon avalanche diode, stem diameter, fruit number, and fresh weight, whereas 1% of Ae resulted in the highest plant height, chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), performance index, relative water content, membrane stability index, proline, total soluble sugars, and acidity. KSi either at 30 or 60 g L−1 greatly increased these abovementioned attributes. Fruit number and fruit fresh weight per plant also increased significantly with the combination of Ae at 1% and KSi at 30 g L−1 under normal soil conditions.
The First Genetic Linkage Map of Winged Bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.] and QTL Mapping for Flower-, Pod-, and Seed-Related Traits
Authors: Chankaew Sompong , Sriwichai Sasiprapa , Rakvong Teppratan , Monkham Tidarat , Sanitchon Jirawat , Tangphatsornruang Sithichoke , Kongkachana Wasitthee , Sonthirod Chutima , Pootakham Wirulda , Amkul Kitiya , Kaewwongwal Anochar , Laosatit Kularb , Somta Prakit
Published: February 2022

Winged bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC.] (2n = 2× = 18) is a tropical legume crop with multipurpose usages. Recently, the winged bean has regained attention from scientists as a food protein source. Currently, there is no breeding program for winged bean cultivars. All winged bean cultivars are landraces or selections from landraces. Molecular markers and genetic linkage maps are pre-requisites for molecular plant breeding. The aim of this study was to develop a high-density linkage map and identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for pod and seed-related traits of the winged bean. An F2 population of 86 plants was developed from a cross between winged bean accessions W054 and TPT9 showing contrasting pod length, and pod, flower and seed colors. A genetic linkage map of 1384 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated from restriction site-associated DNA sequencing was constructed. The map resolved nine haploid chromosomes of the winged bean and spanned the cumulative length of 4552.8 cM with the number of SNPs per linkage ranging from 36 to 218 with an average of 153.78. QTL analysis in the F2 population revealed 31 QTLs controlling pod length, pod color, pod anthocyanin content, flower color, and seed color. The number of QTLs per trait varied between 1 (seed length) to 7 (banner color). Interestingly, the major QTLs for pod color, anthocyanin content, and calyx color, and for seed color and flower wing color were located at the same position. The high-density linkage map QTLs reported in this study will be useful for molecular breeding of winged beans.
Meta-Analysis of Common and Differential Transcriptomic Responses to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Biniaz Yaser , Tahmasebi Aminallah , Afsharifar Alireza , Tahmasebi Ahmad , Poczai Péter
Published: February 2022

Environmental stresses adversely affect crop growth and yield, resulting in major losses to plants. These stresses occur simultaneously in nature, and we therefore conducted a meta-analysis in this study to identify differential and shared genes, pathways, and transcriptomic mechanisms involved in Arabidopsis response to biotic and abiotic stresses. The results showed a total of 436/21 significant up-/downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to biotic stresses, while 476 and 71 significant DEGs were respectively up- and downregulated in response to abiotic stresses in Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition, 21 DEGs (2.09%) were commonly regulated in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Except for WRKY45 and ATXTH22, which were respectively up-/down- and down-/upregulated in response to biotic and abiotic stresses, other common DEGs were upregulated in response to all biotic and abiotic treatments. Moreover, the transcription factors (TFs) bHLH, MYB, and WRKY were the common TFs in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. In addition, ath-miR414 and ath-miR5658 were identified to be commonly expressed in response to both biotic and abiotic stresses. The identified common genes and pathways during biotic and abiotic stresses may provide potential candidate targets for the development of stress resistance breeding programs and for the genetic manipulation of crop plants.
Hybrid Seed Set in Relation with Male Floral Traits, Estimation of Heterosis and Combining Abilities for Yield and Its Components in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: El Hanafi Samira , Cherkaoui Souad , Kehel Zakaria , Sanchez-Garcia Miguel , Sarazin Jean-Benoit , Baenziger Stephen , Tadesse Wuletaw
Published: February 2022

Breeding hybrids with maximum heterosis requires efficient cross-pollination and an improved male sterility system. Renewed efforts have been made to dissect the phenotypic variation and genetic basis of hybrid floral traits, although the potential of tailoring the appropriate flower design on seed setting is less known. To this end, elite wheat genotypes were crossed using a chemical hybridizing agent at different doses. A total of 23 hybrids were developed from a partial diallel design; and planted in an alpha lattice design with their parents at two locations in Morocco, for two years, to evaluate for yield components, heterosis and combining abilities. The 13.5 L ha−1 dose induced a maximum level of sterility (95%) and seed set showed large phenotypic variation and high heritability. In parallel, seed set showed tight correlation with pollen mass (0.97), visual anther extrusion (0.94) and pollen shedding (0.91) (p < 0.001), allowing direct selection of the associated traits. Using the combined data, mid-parent heterosis ranges were −7.64–14.55% for biomass (BM), −8.34–12.51% for thousand kernel weight (TKW) and −5.29–26.65% for grain yield (YLD); while best-parent heterosis showed ranges of −11.18–7.20%, −11.35–11.26% and −8.27–24.04% for BM, TKW and YLD, respectively. The magnitude of general combining ability (GCA) variance was greater than the specific combining ability (SCA) variance suggesting a greater additive gene action for BM, TKW and YLD. The favorable GCA estimates showed a simple method to predict additive effects contributing to high heterosis and thus could be an effective approach for the selection of promising parents in early generations.
Block Copolymers with Crystallizable Blocks: Synthesis, Self-Assembly and Applications
Authors: Schmalz Holger , Abetz Volker
Published: February 2022

Block copolymers with crystallizable blocks are a highly interesting class of materials owing to their unique self-assembly behaviour both in bulk and solution. This Special Issue brings together new developments in the synthesis and self-assembly of semicrystalline block copolymers and also addresses potential applications of these exciting materials.
Adult Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells on 3D Silk Fibroin Nonwovens Release Exosomes Enriched in Angiogenic and Growth-Promoting Factors
Authors: Hu Peng , Chiarini Anna , Wu Jun , Wei Zairong , Armato Ubaldo , Dal Prà Ilaria
Published: February 2022

Background. Our earlier works showed the quick vascularization of mouse skin grafted Bombyx mori 3D silk fibroin nonwoven scaffolds (3D-SFnws) and the release of exosomes enriched in angiogenic/growth factors (AGFs) from in vitro 3D-SFnws-stuck human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Here, we explored whether coronary artery adult human smooth muscle cells (AHSMCs) also release AGFs-enriched exosomes when cultured on 3D-SFnws in vitro. Methods. Media with exosome-depleted FBS served for AHSMCs and human endothelial cells (HECs) cultures on 3D-SFnws or polystyrene. Biochemical methods and double-antibody arrays assessed cell growth, metabolism, and intracellular TGF-β and NF-κB signalling pathways activation. AGFs conveyed by CD9+/CD81+ exosomes released from AHSMCs were double-antibody array analysed and their angiogenic power evaluated on HECs in vitro. Results. AHSMCs grew and consumed D-glucose more intensely and showed a stronger phosphorylation/activation of TAK-1, SMAD-1/-2/-4/-5, ATF-2, c-JUN, ATM, CREB, and an IκBα phosphorylation/inactivation on SFnws vs. polystyrene, consistent overall with a proliferative/secretory phenotype. SFnws-stuck AHSMCs also released exosomes richer in IL-1α/-2/-4/-6/-8; bFGF; GM-CSF; and GRO-α/-β/-γ, which strongly stimulated HECs’ growth, migration, and tubes/nodes assembly in vitro. Conclusions. Altogether, the intensified AGFs exosomal release from 3D-SFnws-attached AHSMCs and HDFs could advance grafts’ colonization, vascularization, and take in vivo—noteworthy assets for prospective clinical applications.
Prospect of DFT Utilization in Polymer-Graphene Composites for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Application: A Review
Authors: Orasugh Jonathan Tersur , Ray Suprakash Sinha
Published: February 2022

The improvement in current materials science has prompted a developing need to capture the peculiarities that determine the properties of materials and how they are processed on an atomistic level. Quantum mechanics laws control the interface among atoms and electrons; thus, exact and proficient techniques for fixing the major quantum-mechanical conditions for complex many-particle, many-electron frameworks should be created. Density functional theory (DFT) marks an unequivocal advance in these endeavours. DFT has had a rapid influence on quintessential and industrial research during the last decade. The DFT system describes periodic structural systems of 2D or 3D electronics with the utilization of Bloch’s theorem in the direction of Kohn–Sham wavefunctions for the significant facilitation of these schemes. This article introduces and discusses the infinite systems modelling approach required for graphene-based polymer composites or their hybrids. Aiming to understand electronic structure computations as per physics, the impressions of band structures and atomic structure envisioned along with orbital predicted density states are beneficial. Convergence facets coupled with the basic functions number and the k-points number are necessary to explain for every physicochemical characteristic in these materials. Proper utilization of DFT in graphene-based polymer composites for materials in EMI SE presents the potential of taking this niche to unprecedented heights within the next decades. The application of this system in graphene-based composites by researchers, along with their performance, is reviewed.
Liquid Metal Patterned Stretchable and Soft Capacitive Sensor with Enhanced Dielectric Property Enabled by Graphite Nanofiber Fillers
Authors: Bhuyan Priyanuj , Cho Dongkyun , Choe Minjae , Lee Sangmin , Park Sungjune
Published: February 2022

In this work, we introduce liquid metal patterned stretchable and soft capacitive sensor with enhanced dielectric properties enabled by graphite nanofiber (GNF) fillers dispersed in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate. We oxidized gallium-based liquid metal that exhibited excellent wetting behavior on the surface of the composites to enable patterning of the electrodes by a facile stencil printing. The fluidic behavior of the liquid metal electrode and modulated dielectric properties of the composite (k = 6.41 ± 0.092@6 wt % at 1 kHz) was utilized to fabricate stretchable and soft capacitive sensor with ability to distinguish various hand motions.
Thermally Degradable Poly(n-butyl acrylate) Model Networks Prepared by PhotoATRP and Radical Trap-Assisted Atom Transfer Radical Coupling
Authors: Martinez Michael R. , Zhuang Ziye , Treichel Megan , Cuthbert Julia , Sun Mingkang , Pietrasik Joanna , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: February 2022

Model poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) networks were prepared by photoinduced atom transfer radical polymerization (photoATRP), followed by curing of polymer stars via atom transfer radical coupling (ATRC) with a nitrosobenzene radical trap. The resulting nitroxyl radical installed thermally labile alkoxyamine functional groups at the junctions of the network. The alkoxyamine crosslinks of the network were degraded back to star-like products upon exposure to temperatures above 135 °C. Characterization of the degraded products via gel permeation chromatography (GPC) confirmed the inversion of polymer topology after thermal treatment.
Diffusion- and Chemometric-Based Separation of Complex Electrochemical Signals That Originated from Multiple Redox-Active Molecules
Authors: Biton Hayun Stav , Shukla Rajendra P. , Ben-Yoav Hadar
Published: February 2022

In situ analysis of multiple biomarkers in the body provides better diagnosis and enables personalized health management. Since many of these biomarkers are redox-active, electrochemical sensors have shown promising analytical capabilities to measure multiple redox-active molecules. However, the analytical performance of electrochemical sensors rapidly decreases in the presence of multicomponent biofluids due to their limited ability to separate overlapping electrochemical signals generated by multiple molecules. Here we report a novel approach to use charged chitosan-modified electrodes to alter the diffusion of ascorbic acid, clozapine, L-homocysteine, and uric acid—test molecules with various molecular charges and molecular weights. Moreover, we present a complementary approach to use chemometrics to decipher the complex set of overlapping signals generated from a mixture of differentially charged redox molecules. The partial least square regression model predicted three out of four redox-active molecules with root mean square error, Pearson correlation coefficient, and R-squared values of 125 µM, 0.947, and 0.894; 51.8 µM, 0.877, and 0.753; 55.7 µM, 0.903, and 0.809, respectively. By further enhancing our understanding of the diffusion of redox-active molecules in chitosan, the in-situ separation of multiple molecules can be enabled, which will be used to establish guidelines for the effective separation of biomarkers.
Investigating the Effects of Different Sizes of Silicone Rubber Vacuum Extractors during the Course of Delivery on the Fetal Head: A Finite Element Analysis Study
Authors: Huang Chuang-Yen , Su Kuo-Min , Pan Hsueh-Hsing , Chang Fung-Wei , Lai Yu-Ju , Chang Hung-Chih , Chen Yu-Chi , Lin Chi-Kang , Su Kuo-Chih
Published: February 2022

During certain clinical situations, some parturients require instruments for operative vaginal delivery, and various designs of vacuum extractors may affect the fetal head. To investigate the biomechanical effects of divergent sizes of silicone rubber vacuum extractors, we employed finite element analysis in this study. First, we constructed computer models for different vacuum extractor sizes (diameters: 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, and 70 mm), flat surface, hemispherical ball, and fetal head shape. A hemispherical ball was the main design for the vacuum extractor model, and the material used for the vacuum extractor was silicone rubber. Next, the settings of 1 mm vacuum extractor displacement and vacuum cap pressure of 60 cmHg were applied. The main observation markers of this study were the respective von Mises stresses on the vacuum extractor and skull by the reaction force on the fixed end. The concluded results revealed that vacuum extractors with larger diameters lead to greater reaction force, stress, and strain on fetal heads. Therefore, this study’s biomechanical analytic consequences suggest that clinicians avoid selecting larger vacuum extractors during operative instrumental delivery so that fetal heads will experience less external force, deformation, and resultant complications. It could also provide a practical reference for obstetricians for instrumental vaginal delivery with the vacuum extractor made of silicone rubber.
A Molecular Investigation of the Solvent Influence on Inter- and Intra-Molecular Hydrogen Bond Interaction of Linamarin
Authors: Paul Lucas , Deogratias Geradius , Shadrack Daniel M. , Mudogo Celestin N. , Mtei Kelvin M. , Machunda Revocatus L. , Paluch Andrew S. , Ntie-Kang Fidele
Published: February 2022

Linamarin has been reported to have anticancer activities; however, its extraction and isolation using different solvents yield a low amount. Therefore, understanding the physical properties, such as solvents’ solubility, membrane permeability and lipophilicity and how they are associated with different solvents, is a paramount topic for discussion, especially for its potential as a drug. Linamarin has a sugar moiety with many polar groups responsible for its physical properties. Following current trends, a molecular dynamics simulation is performed to investigate its physical properties and how different solvents, such as water, methanol (MeOH), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and dichloromethane (DCM), affect such properties. In this work, we have investigated the influence of intermolecular and intramolecular hydrogen bonding and the influence of polar and non-polar solvents on the physical properties of linamarin. Furthermore, solvation free-energy and electronic structure analysis are performed. The structural analysis results show that the polar groups of linamarin have strong interactions with all solvents except the etheric oxygen groups. A detailed analysis shows intermolecular hydrogen bonding between polar solvents (water, MeOH and DMSO) and the hydroxyl oxygens of linamarin. Water exhibits the strongest interaction with linamarin’s functional groups among the investigated solvents. The findings show that within the first solvation shell, the number of water molecules is greatest, while MeOH has the fewest. Centrally to the structural analysis, solvation free energy confirms DMSO to be the best solvent since it prefers to interact with linamarin over itself, while water prefers to interact with itself. While the solute–solvent interactions are strongest between linamarin and water, the solvent–solvent interactions are strongest in water. As a result, the solvation free-energy calculations reveal that linamarin solvation is most favourable in DMSO.
Effects of Nitrogen Conservation Measures on the Nitrogen Uptake by Cotton Plants and Nitrogen Residual in Soil Profile in Extremely Arid Areas of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhi Jinhu , Qiu Taoyu , Bai Xinlu , Xia Mengjie , Chen Zhujun , Zhou Jianbin
Published: February 2022

This study researched the effects of using various nitrogen (N) conservation measures on the residual characteristics of nitrate and ammonium N in soil and the associated N uptake by cotton plants. A field experiment with six treatments was conducted, as follows, no N application (DT1), conventional N application (DT2), 60% conventional N application combined with DCD (DT3), 60% conventional N application combined with NBPT (DT4), 60% conventional N application combined with cotton straw returning (DT5), and 60% conventional N application combined with DCD, NBPT, and cotton straw returning (DT6). The results showed that the cotton straws in the DT5 treatment were beneficial for the vegetative growth of cotton seedlings. However, it was observed that the later performance of the plants in this sample was poor in terms of height, biomass, and yield of cotton. The plant height in the DT6 sample increased by 15 cm compared with those in DT1, and the soil and plant analyzer development (SPAD) values of the fourth leaf from the top of the DT6 plants were higher than those in the DT1 and DT4 samples. The DT6 plants (60% Urea + DCD + NBPT + cotton straw) increased N use efficiency by up to 47%, and no significant decrease in biomass and cotton yield was observed compared to the DT2 sample. The residual content of nitrate N in the tillage layer increased gradually over time between two rounds of drip irrigation treatment applications. Compared with the DT2 treatment, the other treatments resulted in lower residual nitrate N contents. In summary, the application of N fertilizers at a reduced rate combined with N conservation measures may increase N use efficiency and decrease the risk of non-point source N fertilizer pollution, while maintaining the cotton yield.
Temperature Effects of MD on Municipal Wastewater Treatment in an Integrated Forward Osmosis and Membrane Distillation Process
Authors: Almoalimi Khaled , Liu Yong-Qiang , Booth Alexander , Heo Seongbong
Published: February 2022

An integrated forward osmosis (FO)-membrane distillation (MD) process is promising for the treatment and resource recovery from municipal wastewater. As higher temperature is applied in MD, it could affect the performance of both FO and MD units. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the type of draw solution (DS) and feed solution (FS) such as ammonium solution or municipal wastewater containing ammonium at higher temperatures on membrane treatment performance. It is found that higher FS and DS temperatures resulted in a higher water flux and a higher RSF with either NaCl or glucose as DS due to the increased diffusivity and reduced viscosity of DS. However, the water flux increased by 23–35% at elevated temperatures with glucose as DS, higher than that with NaCl as DS (8–19%), while the reverse solute flux (RSF) increase rate with NaCl as DS was two times higher than that with glucose as DS. In addition, the use of NaCl as DS at higher temperatures such as 50 and FS at 42 °C resulted in increased forward ammonium permeation from the FS to the DS, whereas ammonium was completely rejected with glucose as DS at all operating temperatures. Reducing pH or lowering the temperature of DS could improve ammonium rejection and minimize ammonia escape to the recovered water, but extra cost or reduced MD performance could be led to. Therefore, the results suggest that in an integrated FO-MD process with DS at higher temperatures such as 50 °C, glucose is better than NaCl as DS. Furthermore, a simplified heat balance estimation suggests that internal heat recovery in the FO-MD system is very necessary for treating municipal wastewater treatment. This study sheds light on the selection of DS in an integrated FO-MD process with elevated temperature of both FS and DS for the treatment of wastewater containing ammonium. In addition, this study highlights the necessity of internal heat recovery in the integrated FO-MD system.
A New Fractal Permeability Model Considering Tortuosity of Rock Fractures
Authors: Xu Xiaoli , Xu Liqi , Yue Changqi , Liu Guannan
Published: February 2022

During methane extraction, the permeability of a coal seam is the vital factor affecting recovery. Although the permeability of a coal seam and its relationship with porosity have been studied in a few works, the calculation process of coal seam permeability is usually too simplistic or neglects the influence of microscopic fracture structures. Statistical research shows that the permeability of coal seams with the same porosity and different fracture structures is quite different. For the purpose of quantitatively investigating the contribution of fractures and pore structure in coal seams, a fractal permeability model considering the microstructure of coal seam fracture is established in this paper. The correctness of the model is verified by comparing with the previous research results. Then, the influence of the microscopic fracture structure on the equivalent permeability is analyzed. The simulation results show that the permeability of fractured coal is directly proportional to the fractal dimension of the fracture, the maximum fracture length and the azimuth. It is inversely proportional to the tortuous fractal dimension and the dip angle of the fracture surface. This conclusion provides the foundation for revealing the microstructure mechanisms of macroscopic seepage characteristics of coal seams, and implementing effective strategies to enhance gas recovery rates under different geological structures.
Disruption of Life Insurance Profitability in the Aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Carannante Maria , D’Amato Valeria , Fersini Paola , Forte Salvatore , Melisi Giuseppe
Published: February 2022

Life insurance profitability depends on reliable mortality risk projections and pricing. While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions around the world, this is a temporary mortality shock likely to dissipate. In this paper, we investigate the long-run impact of COVID-19 on life insurance profitability. Due to the long-run dynamics of the mortality characterised by a decreasing effect of the COVID-19 mortality acceleration, we suggest proactive mortality risk management by implementing prompt premium adjustments, in order to increase the resilience of the business.
Six-Bar Linkage Models of a Recumbent Tricycle Mechanism to Increase Power Throughput in FES Cycling
Authors: Lanese Nicholas A. , Myszka David H. , Bazler Anthony L. , Murray Andrew P.
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the kinematic and static analysis of two mechanisms to improve power throughput for persons with tetra- or paraplegia pedaling a performance tricycle via FES. FES, or functional electrical stimulation, activates muscles by passing small electrical currents through the muscle creating a contraction. The use of FES can build muscle in patients, relieve soreness, and promote cardiovascular health. Compared to an able-bodied rider, a cyclist stimulated via FES produces an order of magnitude less power creating some notable pedaling difficulties especially pertaining to inactive zones. An inactive zone occurs when the leg position is unable to produce enough power to propel the tricycle via muscle stimulation. An inactive zone is typically present when one leg is fully bent and the other leg is fully extended. Altering the motion of a cyclist’s legs relative to the crank position can potentially reduce inactive zones and increase power throughput. Some recently marketed bicycles showcase pedal mechanisms utilizing alternate leg motions. This work considers performance tricycle designs based on the Stephenson III and Watt II six-bar mechanisms where the legs define two of the system’s links. The architecture based on the Stephenson III is referred to throughout as the CDT due to the legs’ push acting to coupler-drive the four-bar component of the system. The architecture based on the Watt II is referred to throughout as the CRT due to the legs’ push acting to drive the rocker link of the four-bar component of the system. The unmodified or traditional recumbent tricycle (TRT) provides a benchmarks by which the designs proposed herein may be evaluated. Using knee and hip torques and angular velocities consistent with a previous study, this numerical study using a quasi-static power model of the CRT suggests a roughly 50% increase and the CDT suggests roughly a doubling in average crank power, respectively, for a typical FES cyclist.
Statewide USGS 3DEP Lidar Topographic Differencing Applied to Indiana, USA
Authors: Scott Chelsea Phipps , Beckley Matthew , Phan Minh , Zawacki Emily , Crosby Christopher , Nandigam Viswanath , Arrowsmith Ramon
Published: February 2022

Differencing multi-temporal topographic data (radar, lidar, or photogrammetrically derived point clouds or digital elevation models—DEMs) measures landscape change, with broad applications for scientific research, hazard management, industry, and urban planning. The United States Geological Survey’s 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) is an ambitious effort to collect light detection and ranging (lidar) topography over the United States’ lower 48 and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (IfSAR) in Alaska by 2023. The datasets collected through this program present an important opportunity to characterize topography and topographic change at regional and national scales. We present Indiana statewide topographic differencing results produced from the 2011–2013 and 2016–2020 lidar collections. We discuss the insights, challenges, and lessons learned from conducting large-scale differencing. Challenges include: (1) designing and implementing an automated differencing workflow over 94,000 km2 of high-resolution topography data, (2) ensuring sufficient computing resources, and (3) managing the analysis and visualization of the multiple terabytes of data. We highlight observations including infrastructure development, vegetation growth, and landscape change driven by agricultural practices, fluvial processes, and natural resource extraction. With 3DEP and the U.S. Interagency Elevation Inventory data, at least 37% of the Contiguous 48 U.S. states are already covered by repeat, openly available, high-resolution topography datasets, making topographic differencing possible.
Deep Learning-Based Change Detection in Remote Sensing Images: A Review
Authors: Shafique Ayesha , Cao Guo , Khan Zia , Asad Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad
Published: February 2022

Images gathered from different satellites are vastly available these days due to the fast development of remote sensing (RS) technology. These images significantly enhance the data sources of change detection (CD). CD is a technique of recognizing the dissimilarities in the images acquired at distinct intervals and are used for numerous applications, such as urban area development, disaster management, land cover object identification, etc. In recent years, deep learning (DL) techniques have been used tremendously in change detection processes, where it has achieved great success because of their practical applications. Some researchers have even claimed that DL approaches outperform traditional approaches and enhance change detection accuracy. Therefore, this review focuses on deep learning techniques, such as supervised, unsupervised, and semi-supervised for different change detection datasets, such as SAR, multispectral, hyperspectral, VHR, and heterogeneous images, and their advantages and disadvantages will be highlighted. In the end, some significant challenges are discussed to understand the context of improvements in change detection datasets and deep learning models. Overall, this review will be beneficial for the future development of CD methods.
Multi-Species Individual Tree Segmentation and Identification Based on Improved Mask R-CNN and UAV Imagery in Mixed Forests
Authors: Zhang Chong , Zhou Jiawei , Wang Huiwen , Tan Tianyi , Cui Mengchen , Huang Zilu , Wang Pei , Zhang Li
Published: February 2022

High-resolution UAV imagery paired with a convolutional neural network approach offers significant advantages in accurately measuring forestry ecosystems. Despite numerous studies existing for individual tree crown delineation, species classification, and quantity detection, the comprehensive situation in performing the above tasks simultaneously has rarely been explored, especially in mixed forests. In this study, we propose a new method for individual tree segmentation and identification based on the improved Mask R-CNN. For the optimized network, the fusion type in the feature pyramid network is modified from down-top to top-down to shorten the feature acquisition path among the different levels. Meanwhile, a boundary-weighted loss module is introduced to the cross-entropy loss function Lmask to refine the target loss. All geometric parameters (contour, the center of gravity and area) associated with canopies ultimately are extracted from the mask by a boundary segmentation algorithm. The results showed that F1-score and mAP for coniferous species were higher than 90%, and that of broadleaf species were located between 75–85.44%. The producer’s accuracy of coniferous forests was distributed between 0.8–0.95 and that of broadleaf ranged in 0.87–0.93; user’s accuracy of coniferous was distributed between 0.81–0.84 and that of broadleaf ranged in 0.71–0.76. The total number of trees predicted was 50,041 for the entire study area, with an overall error of 5.11%. The method under study is compared with other networks including U-net and YOLOv3. Results in this study show that the improved Mask R-CNN has more advantages in broadleaf canopy segmentation and number detection.