bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Difference in Body Weight at Breeding Affects Reproductive Performance in Replacement Beef Heifers and Carries Consequences to Next Generation Heifers
Authors: Kasimanickam Ramanathan K. , Kasimanickam Vanmathy R. , McCann Madison L.
Published: September 2021

Nutrition imprinting carries consequences across generations. The effect of 55% vs. 65% of mature cow body weight (MBW; 545 kg) at breeding on the reproductive performance of heifers and their offspring was investigated. Angus-cross dam heifers were randomly fed to attain 55% (n = 1622) vs. 65% (n = 1578) of MBW, and offspring (F1) heifers born to dam heifers [55% (n = 1285) vs. 65% (n = 1324)] were fed to attain 65% of MBW. Bodyweight and reproductive indices were recorded throughout the study. In dam heifers, puberty (44% vs. 53%), breeding season pregnancy (86.4% vs. 90.6%) and 21-day calving rates (55.2% vs. 65.4%) did vary, but dystocia rate (8.7% vs. 9.0%) did not differ between 55% and 65% MBW groups. Puberty (49.2% vs. 58.2%), breeding season pregnancy (87.2% vs. 92.8%) and 21-day calving rates (53.8% vs. 64.1%) did differ (p < 0.05), but dystocia rate (8.4 vs. 9.2%) did not differ between F1 heifer groups. In conclusion, 55% of MBW at breeding negatively affected the reproductive performance of heifers and its offspring heifers. The recommendation is to feed heifers a balanced diet to reach 65% of MBW at breeding with consideration of production traits.
Free-Range Feeding Alters Fatty Acid Composition at the sn-2 Position of Triglycerides and Subcutaneous Fat Physicochemical Properties in Heavy Pigs
Authors: Segura José , Rey Ana Isabel , Olivares Álvaro , Cambero María Isabel , Escudero Rosa , Ávila María Dolores Romero de , Palomo Antonio , López-Bote Clemente
Published: September 2021

The nutritional value of fat consumption depends on both the fatty acid composition and the positional distribution of fatty acids within the triglyceride molecule. This research studies the effect of feeding with three different diets (4% lard-enriched; 11.5% high-oleic sunflower-enriched; and extensive feeding mainly with acorns) on the composition of fatty acids in the sn-2 position (and sn-1,3) of triglycerides and the textural properties of subcutaneous fat in heavy Iberian pigs (n = 210 castrated males). A moderate dietary enrichment with oleic acid in mixed diets did not alter the regulation of the sn-2 position of triglyceride (69.9% and 13.9% of palmitic and oleic acids, respectively), but the extremely high intake of oleic acid in pigs fed mainly on acorns changed the proportions of palmitic and oleic acids at the sn-2 position in the subcutaneous fat of pigs (55.0% and 27.2%, respectively). Hardness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness showed the least values in EXT pigs, and the greatest values in LARD-fed barrows. SUN cohesiveness and gumminess did not differ from those fed LARD. In addition, Iberian pigs raised in free-range conditions had a more favorable nutritional lipid profile for human health compared to pigs fed conventional diets.
The Dairy Cow Slurry Composition Used as Organic Fertilizer Is Influenced by the Level and Origin of the Dietary Protein
Authors: Vicente Fernando , Elouadaf Douâa , Sánchez-Vera Alejandra , Soldado Ana , De La Torre-Santos Senén , Martínez-Fernández Adela
Published: September 2021

Less than 30% of dairy cattle’s nitrogen ingested is retained in milk. Therefore, large amounts of nitrogen can be excreted in manure and urine with a potential environmental impact. In addition, some legume forages can be more susceptible to proteolysis during the silage process than grasses, and dairy cows fed these legume silages would excrete a larger quantity of nitrogen in slurry. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the amount of nitrogen excretion in dairy cows fed different protein levels and legume silages with a view to improve the slurry quality as a co-product that can be used as fertilizer. Two double 3 × 3 Latin square trials were carried out in order to study three different protein levels (high, medium, and low) and three different silages (grass, faba bean, and field pea). Dry matter intake, milk production, and composition were not affected by treatments. The excretion of ammonia-N in the urine was almost four times lower in the diet with the lowest protein level. The ammonia-N in the urine was twice as high with the pea silage than faba bean and grass silages. In conclusion, the diet containing 13% of protein meets the protein requirement for lactating cows producing 31 kg daily, with low nitrogen excretion in the urine, and the main pathway for the excretion of surplus nitrogen from legume silages is through urine and the metabolization of pea silage protein goes toward ammonia-N.
Pathological Features and Molecular Phenotype of MMTV Like-Positive Feline Mammary Carcinomas
Authors: Parisi Francesca , Muscatello Luisa Vera , Civita Prospero , Lessi Francesca , Menicagli Michele , Millanta Francesca , Brunetti Barbara , Benazzi Cinzia , Sarli Giuseppe , Freer Giulia , Pistello Mauro , Mazzanti Chiara Maria , Poli Alessandro
Published: September 2021

In the last few years MMTV-like nucleotide sequences were detected in some feline and canine mammary tumours. Due to the confirmed role of cats in the epidemiology of the MMTV-like virus, the aim of this study was to investigate the main pathological features of positive feline mammary carcinomas (FMCs). Twenty-four FMCs were collected at the University of Bologna, submitted to laser microdissection and analysed by nested fluorescence-PCR using primer sets specific for MMTV env sequence. For immunohistochemistry, an antibody against MMTV protein 14 (p14) was used. MMTV-like sequences were detected in three out of 24 FMCs (12.5%), one tubular carcinoma, one tubulopapillary carcinoma and one ductal carcinoma. All PCR-positive tumours were also positive for p14. Multiple nucleotide alignment has shown similarity to MMTV ranging from 98% to 100%. All the 102 examined FMCs were submitted to immunohistochemistry for molecular phenotyping. Of the nine MMTV-like positive FMCs, six were basal-like and three luminal-like. Our results demonstrate MMTV-like sequences and protein in FMCs of different geographic areas. Molecular phenotyping could contribute to understand the possible role of MMTV-like virus in FMC tumor biology.
Engineered mRNA and the Rise of Next-Generation Antibodies
Authors: Sanz Laura , Álvarez-Vallina Luis
Published: September 2021

Monoclonal antibodies are widely used as therapeutic agents in medicine. However, clinical-grade proteins require sophisticated technologies and are extremely expensive to produce, resulting in long lead times and high costs. The use of gene transfer methods for in vivo secretion of therapeutic antibodies could circumvent problems related to large-scale production and purification and offer additional benefits by achieving sustained concentrations of therapeutic antibodies, which is particularly relevant to short-lived antibody fragments and next-generation, Fc-free, multispecific antibodies. In recent years, the use of engineered mRNA-based gene delivery has significantly increased in different therapeutic areas because of the advantages it possesses over traditional gene delivery platforms. The application of synthetic mRNA will allow for the avoidance of manufacturing problems associated with recombinant proteins and could be instrumental in consolidating regulatory approvals for next-generation therapeutic antibodies.
Exact Methods and Heuristics for Order Acceptance Scheduling Problem under Time-of-Use Costs and Carbon Emissions
Authors: Bouzid Mariam , Masmoudi Oussama , Yalaoui Alice
Published: September 2021

This research focuses on an Order Acceptance Scheduling (OAS) problem on a single machine under time-of-use (TOU) tariffs and taxed carbon emissions periods with the objective to maximize total profit minus tardiness penalties and environmental costs. Due to the NP-hardness of the considered problem especially in presence of sequence-dependent setup-times, two fix-and-relax (FR) heuristics based on different time-indexed (TI) formulations are proposed. A metaheuristic based on the Dynamic Island Model (DIM) framework is also employed to tackle this optimization problem. These approached methods show promising results both in terms of solution quality and solving time compared to state-of-the-art exact solving approaches.
Research on the Mechanical Properties, Fluoride and Monomer Release of a New Experimental Flowable Giomer in Comparison to Three Commercial Flowable Giomers
Authors: Rusnac Mara Elena , Prodan Doina , Moldovan Marioara , Cuc Stanca , Filip Miuţa , Prejmerean Cristina , Dudea Diana
Published: September 2021

Giomers are hybrid dental materials with controlled fluoride release properties. The aim of this study was to characterise a new experimental flowable giomer (G) in comparison to three commercial flowable giomers: Beautifil flow Plus X F00 (B-F00), Beautifil flow F02 (B-F02) and Beautifil flow Plus X F03 (B-F03), Shofu, Kyoto, Japan. The studied properties are fluoride ion release, residual monomers release and mechanical properties. The data analysis was performed using the ANOVA test and Tukey test for post hoc comparisons between groups. During the first day of the fluoride releasing measurement, the following classification resulted: B-F02 ˃ B-F03 ˃ B-F00 ˃ G and at the end of the investigation period, at 60 days: B-F02 ˃ B-F03 ˃ G ˃ B-F00. The experimental giomer released a lower percentage of total residual monomers than the commercial giomers. The highest value for the mechanical properties was recorded for the commercial giomers. The experimental giomer registered the lowest values for mechanical properties but higher than the imposed standard limit. There were statistically significant differences between the analyzed materials, in terms of fluoride releasing, residual monomer releasing and mechanical properties.
Direct Perfusion Improves Redifferentiation of Human Chondrocytes in Fibrin Hydrogel with the Deposition of Cartilage Pericellular Matrix
Authors: Dufour Alexandre , Mallein-Gerin Frédéric , Perrier-Groult Emeline
Published: September 2021

Articular cartilage has limited potential for self-repair, and cell-based strategies combining scaffolds and chondrocytes are currently used to treat cartilage injuries. However, achieving a satisfying level of cell redifferentiation following expansion remains challenging. Hydrogels and perfusion bioreactors are known to exert beneficial cues on chondrocytes; however, the effect of a combined approach on the quality of cartilage matrix deposited by cells is not fully understood. Here, we combined soluble factors (BMP-2, Insulin, and Triiodothyronine, that is, BIT), fibrin hydrogel, direct perfusion and human articular chondrocytes (HACs) to engineer large cartilage tissues. Following cell expansion, cells were embedded in fibrin gels and cultivated under either static or perfusion conditions. The nature of the matrix synthesized was assessed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The stability of cartilage grafts and integration with native tissue were also investigated by subcutaneous implantation of human osteochondral cylinders in nude mice. Perfusion preconditioning improved matrix quality and spatial distribution. Specifically, perfusion preconditioning resulted in a matrix rich in type II collagen but not in type I collagen, indicating the reconstruction of hyaline cartilage. Remarkably, the production of type VI collagen, the main component of the pericellular matrix, was also increased, indicating that chondrocytes were connecting to the hyaline matrix they produced.
Immersive Virtual-Reality-Based Streaming Distance Education System for Solar Dynamics Observatory: A Case Study
Authors: Lee Joongjae , Surh Jaeheung , Choi Wooseong , You Bumjae
Published: September 2021

The combination of immersive virtual reality (VR) environments and distance education has led to a new educational paradigm. In this study, an immersive VR-based distance education system is proposed to enable multiple remote users to send, share, and experience images from the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) via streaming. In contrast to the conventional system in which only experts use SDO data, the proposed system provides a head-mounted-display-based visualization platform that can be easily used by experts and non-experts. Real-time SDO image streaming must be possible to realistically observe changes in the Sun and increase involvement. Thus, multichannel-based SDO image transmission was applied to increase the network bandwidth utilization. To improve the social presence of participants, realistic avatar models controlled by the motions synchronized with the user are provided. In addition, free communication is possible through verbal interactions. This allows multiple remote users to participate simultaneously without having to be physically present. A user study with 20 subjects showed that the participants could observe SDO images in a more immersive manner by using the proposed system. In addition, they experienced social presence because of the user avatar models and an enriched educational experience by conversing with and listening to experts.
Differences between Championships of Football 5-a-Side for Blind People
Authors: Gamonales José M. , Muñoz-Jiménez Jesús , León Kiko , Ibáñez Sergio J.
Published: September 2021

Research on Football 5-a-side for blind people is usually informative and does not often consider sports performance analysis. This study aimed to verify the existing differences between the 2014 World Championship of Fa5 and the 2016 Paralympic Games, analyzing the action for an effective game, the throws to the goal. For this purpose, a total of 52 matches were analyzed and the statistical analysis unit was all the throws made to the goal during the game (n = 2.227). A descriptive and differential analysis was made between the variables proposed in the study considering the type of competition. The results show the existence of differences between the championships, analyzed explicitly through the variables: Championship phases, Throwing moment, Match status, Starting zone, and Throwing result, as well as the variables Progression type, Throwing zone, Striking situation, Corporal zone, and Striking type. These results highlighted that teams played differently but also set game trends and styles for future competitions.
Feature Optimization for Gait Phase Estimation with a Genetic Algorithm and Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Choi Wonseok , Yang Wonseok , Na Jaeyoung , Lee Giuk , Nam Woochul
Published: September 2021

For gait phase estimation, time-series data of lower-limb motion can be segmented according to time windows. Time-domain features can then be calculated from the signal enclosed in a time window. A set of time-domain features is used for gait phase estimation. In this approach, the components of the feature set and the length of the time window are influential parameters for gait phase estimation. However, optimal parameter values, which determine a feature set and its values, can vary across subjects. Previously, these parameters were determined empirically, which led to a degraded estimation performance. To address this problem, this paper proposes a new feature extraction approach. Specifically, the components of the feature set are selected using a binary genetic algorithm, and the length of the time window is determined through Bayesian optimization. In this approach, the two optimization techniques are integrated to conduct a dual optimization task. The proposed method is validated using data from five walking and five running motions. For walking, the proposed approach reduced the gait phase estimation error from 1.284% to 0.910%, while for running, the error decreased from 1.997% to 1.484%.
Fast One-Step Synthesis of Anisotropic Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Scardaci Vittorio , Condorelli Marcello , Barcellona Matteo , Salemi Luca , Pulvirenti Mario , Fragalà Maria Elena , Compagnini Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

The shape control of metal nanoparticles, along with the size, is critical for most of their applications as they control their optical properties. Anisotropic metal nanoparticles show superior performance in a number of applications compared to spherical ones. Shape control is usually achieved by a two-step process, where the first involves the formation of spherical nanoparticles and the second is about the actual shape transformation. In this paper, we report on a fast and facile synthesis of silver nanoplates in a single step, involving laser ablation of a silver target in a liquid medium while this is exposed to light irradiation and hydrogen peroxide flow. We obtained anisotropic particles with a mixture of shapes, of 70–80 nm in size and 10–20 nm in thickness, which showed a plasmon sensitivity greater than 200 nm/RIU.
Potential Health Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Mazzoni Luca , Ariza Fernández Maria Teresa , Capocasa Franco
Published: September 2021

In recent decades, the consciousness of consumers regarding the importance of a balanced diet to prevent the occurrence of chronic diseases has significantly increased [...]
A Compact Wideband Active Two-Dipole HF Phased Array
Authors: Constantinides Antonios , Haralambous Haris
Published: September 2021

The design and construction of an upgraded HF quarter-wavelength two-dipole active array with 90° difference feed was implemented in the course of a research project to perform a directional (azimuthal) investigation of interference at HF. The lack of affordable compact antennas to meet the project requirements was the incentive to develop a compact unidirectional antenna, with the maximum possible front-to-back ratio at frequencies of 20–30 MHz, where the dimensions of traditional passive antennas are enormous. By installing a low-noise very-high-input impedance amplifier in each dipole of the array, the effect of the mutual coupling between the two dipoles was reduced, improving the front-to-back (F/B) ratio over a wide frequency range. Electronic steering, easy polarization adjustment, and fast and easy deployment were the key requirements for the construction of the antenna. Therefore, a light and compact design was of the utmost importance to meet the space limitations at the monitoring site, which did not allow the deployment of a traditional HF directional antenna that employs a very long boom and elements.
MEMS Vaporazing Liquid Microthruster: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Fontanarosa Donato , Francioso Luca , De Giorgi Maria Grazia , Vetrano Maria Rosaria
Published: September 2021

The interest in developing efficient nano and pico-satellites has grown in the last 20 years. Secondary propulsion systems capable of serving specific maneuvers are an essential part of these small satellites. In particular, Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Vaporizing Liquid Microthrusters (VLM), using water as a propellant, represent today a smart choice in terms of simplicity and cost. In this paper, we first propose a review of the international literature focused on MEMS VLM development, reviewing the different geometries and heating solutions proposed in the literature. Then, we focus on a critical aspect of these micro thrusters: the presence of unstable phenomena. In particular, the boiling instabilities and reverse channel flow substantially impact the MEMS VLMs’ performance and limit their applicability. Finally, we review the research focused on the passive and active control of the boiling instabilities, based on VLM geometry optimization and active heating strategies, respectively. Today, these ones represent the two principal research axes followed by the scientific community to mitigate the drawbacks linked to the use of MEMS VLMs.
An Idealized 3D Model of Interfacial Instability of Aeolian Bedform
Authors: Wang Peng , Zhang Jie , Huang Ning
Published: September 2021

An idealized morphodynamic model is constructed for formation of the aeolian sand ripples from small bottom perturbations of a two-dimensional sand bed. The main goal of the analysis is to evaluate the influence of the gravity flow (including “impact-induced gravity flow” in the reptation flux and “topography-induced gravity flow” in the creep flux) on the formation of the aeolian sand ripples and to clarify the relative contribution of various factors to the bed instability. A 3D linear stability analysis reveals that gravity flow appreciably affects the dynamics behaviors of aeolian sand ripples, which decreases the growth rate of sand ripples, tends to stabilize the sand bed, and leads to longer wavelength. We found that the competition between the destabilizing effect of reptation flow and the stabilizing effects of gravity flow leads to pattern selection. The along-crest diffusion of topography driven by impact and gravity is beneficial to the transverse stability of sand ripples, producing sand ripples with straighter and more continuous crests. For moderate values of D, the most unstable mode has zero value of the transverse wavenumber (ky = 0), thus corresponding to aeolian ripples with crests perpendicular to the wind. Moreover, when the impact angle is 9–16°, it has little effect on the characteristics of sand ripples for the initial stage of ripple development. For every increase of the impact angle by 1°, the initial wavelength only increases by about 1.5%. In conclusion, the influence of the gravity flow on the dynamics of sand ripples formation stage cannot be neglected.
Feasibility of Artificial Slope Hazards Identification in Regional Mountainous Highway Using SBAS-InSAR Technique: A Case Study in Lishui, Zhejiang
Authors: Hu Zhi , Xiao Danqiang , Zhan Wei , Yu Yang , Yu Yiqiang , Yan Xin , Pan Chunmei
Published: September 2021

Safety status of artificial slopes is significant for the operation and maintenance of highway to mitigate the risk; thus, slope hazard identification is necessary. In order to realize large-area and low-cost application for regional highway, taking the Longqing Highway (length of 55 km) as a case study, the SBAS-InSAR (Small Baseline Subset-Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) technique is adopted to detect the ground deformation and conduct hazard identification based on slope dip, aspect, geological data and historical hazard record. Field survey is carried out to verify the identified potential hazards. Results show that the detected potential hazards are distributed mainly in the areas consisting of granite residual and the Quaternary soil. Six potential hazards identified by the SBAS-InSAR-based method are roughly in accordance with the on-site verification. It is suggested that the SBAS-InSAR technique has the ability to obtain the slope deformation accurately and reveal the safe condition of the slopes. The SBAS-InSAR technique can be suitable for assistance in regional highway slope inspection.
Integrating Physics and Data Driven Cyber-Physical System for Condition Monitoring of Critical Transmission Components in Smart Production Line
Authors: Song Lin , Wang Liping , Wu Jun , Liang Jianhong , Liu Zhigui
Published: September 2021

In response to the lack of a unified cyber–physical system framework, which combined the Internet of Things, industrial big data, and deep learning algorithms for the condition monitoring of critical transmission components in a smart production line. In this study, based on the conceptualization of the layers, a novel five-layer cyber–physical systems framework for smart production lines is proposed. This architecture integrates physics and is data-driven. The smart connection layer collects and transmits data, the physical equation modeling layer converts low-value raw data into high-value feature information via signal processing, the machine learning modeling layer realizes condition prediction through a deep learning algorithm, and scientific decision-making and predictive maintenance are completed through a cognition layer and a configuration layer. Case studies on three critical transmission components—spindles, bearings, and gears—are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework and hybrid model for condition monitoring. The prediction results of the three datasets show that the system is successful in distinguishing condition, while the short time Fourier transform signal processing and deep residual network deep learning algorithm is superior to that of other models. The proposed framework and approach are scalable and generalizable and lay the foundation for the extension of the model.
Multi-Objective Optimization for High-Dimensional Maximal Frequent Itemset Mining
Authors: Zhang Yalong , Yu Wei , Ma Xuan , Ogura Hisakazu , Ye Dongfen
Published: September 2021

The solution space of a frequent itemset generally presents exponential explosive growth because of the high-dimensional attributes of big data. However, the premise of the big data association rule analysis is to mine the frequent itemset in high-dimensional transaction sets. Traditional and classical algorithms such as the Apriori and FP-Growth algorithms, as well as their derivative algorithms, are unacceptable in practical big data analysis in an explosive solution space because of their huge consumption of storage space and running time. A multi-objective optimization algorithm was proposed to mine the frequent itemset of high-dimensional data. First, all frequent 2-itemsets were generated by scanning transaction sets based on which new items were added in as the objects of population evolution. Algorithms aim to search for the maximal frequent itemset to gather more non-void subsets because non-void subsets of frequent itemsets are all properties of frequent itemsets. During the operation of algorithms, lethal gene fragments in individuals were recorded and eliminated so that individuals may resurge. Finally, the set of the Pareto optimal solution of the frequent itemset was gained. All non-void subsets of these solutions were frequent itemsets, and all supersets are non-frequent itemsets. Finally, the practicability and validity of the proposed algorithm in big data were proven by experiments.
Long-Term Prosthetic Aftercare of Two- vs. Four-Ball Attachment Implant-Supported Mandibular Overdentures
Authors: Rosner Ofir , Zenziper Eran , Heller Hadas , Nissan Joseph , Melamed Guy , Har-Ness Shahar , Glikman Ari , Matalon Shlomo
Published: September 2021

Little is reported about the prosthetic aftercare of implant-supported mandibular overdentures regarding the number of implants placed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prosthetic aftercare among edentulous patients restored with two vs. four mandibular implant-retained overdentures (MISOD). Forty-six consecutive edentulous patients treated by a new MISOD were retrospectively studied. Twenty-five patients had two-ball attachment MISOD (Group A), and 21 had four-ball attachment MISOD (Group B). The total amount of aftercare visits was recorded, as well as the type of treatments required (pressure sore spots relief, attachment liner replacement due to loss of retention, and metal ball attachment replacement due to wear). The mean follow-up duration was 93 ± 57 months (range 9–246 months). None of the implants was lost. There were significantly more visits for pressure sore spots relief in Group A vs. Group B (6.2 ± 2 in group A and 4.09 ± 1.54 in group B, p < 0.0001). Differences in the other two tested parameters (number of visits for liner replacement (2.3 ± 1.84 in group A and 2.4 ± 1.63 in group B) and attachment replacement (2.36 ± 1.85 in group A vs. 2.48 ± 1.63 in group B) yielded a non-significant outcome (p = 0.814 for liner replacement and p = 1.000 for attachment replacement). The use of four-ball attachments in MISOD was more beneficial than two-ball attachments with regards to the aftercare of pressure sore spots. The number of implants did not influence the mechanical wear.
Further Improvement on Two-Way Cooperative Collaborative Filtering Approaches for the Binary Market Basket Data
Authors: Hwang Wook-Yeon , Lee Jong-Seok
Published: September 2021

Two-way cooperative collaborative filtering (CF) has been known to be crucial for binary market basket data. We propose an improved two-way logistic regression approach, a Pearson correlation-based score, a random forests (RF) R-square-based score, an RF Pearson correlation-based score, and a CF scheme based on the RF R-square-based score. The main idea is to utilize as much predictive information as possible within the two-way prediction in order to cope with the cold-start problem. All of the proposed methods work better than the existing two-way cooperative CF approach in terms of the experimental results.
An Empirical Study of a Trustworthy Cloud Common Data Model Using Decentralized Identifiers
Authors: Kang Yunhee , Cho Jaehyuk , Park Young B.
Published: September 2021

The Conventional Cloud Common Data Model (CDM) uses a centralized method of user identification and credentials. This needs to be solved in a decentralized way because there are limitations in interoperability such as closed identity management and identity leakage. In this paper, we propose a DID (Decentralized Identifier)-based cloud CDM that allows researchers to securely store medical research information by authenticating their identity and to access the CDM reliably. The proposed service model is used to provide the credential of the researcher in the process of creating and accessing CDM data in the designed secure cloud. This model is designed on a DID-based user-centric identification system to support the research of enrolled researchers in a cloud CDM environment involving multiple hospitals and laboratories. The prototype of the designed model is an extension of the encrypted CDM delivery method using DID and provides an identification system by limiting the use cases of CDM data by researchers registered in cloud CDM. Prototypes built for agent-based proof of concept (PoC) are leveraged to enhance security for researcher use of ophthalmic CDM data. For this, the CDM ID schema and ID definition are described by issuing IDs of CDM providers and CDM agents, limiting the IDs of researchers who are CDM users. The proposed method is to provide a framework for integrated and efficient data access control policy management. It provides strong security and ensures both the integrity and availability of CDM data.
Non-Contact Experiment Investigation of the Interaction between the Soil and Underground Granary Subjected to Water Buoyancy
Authors: Xu Zhijun , Yu Hanhua
Published: September 2021

The buoyancy of underwater can cause the underground granary to overall float, or even overturn, and the interaction between the soil and underground granary is the key to its stability. This paper introduces a non-contact experiment system utilizing the digital image correlation (DIC) technology and particle image velocity (PIV) technology, and its measurement accuracy is analyzed. Then, this system is employed to study the granary displacement and the soil deformation around the granary subjected to the buoyancy of water. Results show that with the increase of the degree of compaction of the soil around the granary, the floating water level increases by 10.77% and the vertical displacement decreases by 17%. When the soils around the granary are loose sands, the soil deformation range shows an obvious inverted triangle. When the soils are medium dense sands, the soil deformation zone concentrates at the junction of the conical granary bottom and granary wall. When the soils are dense sands, the disturbed range of the soil obviously reduces, and the soil deformation concentrates on both sides of the granary wall and is distributed symmetrically. Finally, taking the medium dense sands around the granary as an example, the reasons for the unstable failure of the granary subjected to buoyancy are discussed, assisted by the soil pressure theory of retaining wall. With the granary increasingly inclining, the soil deviating from the inclined direction of the granary loses its support, which drives the soils to reach the active limit state. The soil in the inclined direction of the granary is squeezed, resulting in passive soil pressure on the granary wall. The soil deformation increases continuously to a passive limit equilibrium state, and the soil continuously develops a sliding surface, resulting in the unstable failure of the granary. This research is expected to provide the technical guidance for the design and popularization of underground granaries.
Performance Enhancement of Reconfigurable Metamaterial Reflector Antenna by Decreasing the Absorption of the Reflected Beam
Authors: Rahamim Efi , Rotshild David , Abramovich Amir
Published: September 2021

In this study, a new concept for a Ka-band 5G communication tunable reflector metasurface (MS) for beam steering at 28 GHz is proposed. Varactor diodes are used as the tunability component of each unit cell of this MS. Significant improvements in beam steering and bandwidth performance were achieved using this new concept referred to as the stripes configuration. Several different geometries of unit cells arranged in stripes were designed to achieve better performance in directionality, gain, sidelobe level (SLL), and bandwidth in the stripes configuration. Simulation results for a three-stripe MS with different unit cells in each stripe showed better performance in the phase dynamic range and reduced reflectance losses compared to a typical one-stripe MS. The simulation results showed a significant improvement of 3 dB, depending on the steering angle in reflectance gain, compared to a uniform MS (one stripe). Furthermore, a significant improvement of approximately 50% in the accuracy of the steering angle for different operating frequencies was demonstrated. Manufacturing considerations are discussed in this study.
Identification of Five Hub Genes as Key Prognostic Biomarkers in Liver Cancer via Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Thong Ba , Do Duy Ngoc , Nguyen-Thanh Tung , Tatipamula Vinay Bharadwaj , Nguyen Ha Thi
Published: September 2021

Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers and the top leading cause of cancer death globally. However, the molecular mechanisms of liver tumorigenesis and progression remain unclear. In the current study, we investigated the hub genes and the potential molecular pathways through which these genes contribute to liver cancer onset and development. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WCGNA) was performed on the main data attained from the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset was used to evaluate the association between prognosis and these hub genes. The expression of genes from the black module was found to be significantly related to liver cancer. Based on the results of protein–protein interaction, gene co-expression network, and survival analyses, DNA topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A), ribonucleotide reductase regulatory subunit M2 (RRM2), never in mitosis-related kinase 2 (NEK2), cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), and cyclin B1 (CCNB1) were identified as the hub genes. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses showed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in the immune-associated pathways. These hub genes were further screened and validated using statistical and functional analyses. Additionally, the TOP2A, RRM2, NEK2, CDK1, and CCNB1 proteins were overexpressed in tumor liver tissues as compared to normal liver tissues according to the Human Protein Atlas database and previous studies. Our results suggest the potential use of TOP2A, RRM2, NEK2, CDK1, and CCNB1 as prognostic biomarkers in liver cancer.
Antibacterial Activity of Ikarugamycin against Intracellular Staphylococcus aureus in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells In Vitro Infection Model
Authors: Saeed Shamsaldeen Ibrahim , Aklilu Erkihun , Mohammedsalih Khalid M. , Adekola Adewole A. , Mergani Ahmed Elmontaser , Mohamad Maizan , Kamaruzzaman Nor Fadhilah
Published: September 2021

Staphylococcus aureus is an ubiquitous and versatile pathogen associated with a wide range of diseases. In animals, this bacterium is one of the causative agents of bovine mastitis, responsible for huge economic losses in the dairy industry. Besides the development of antibiotic resistance, the intracellular survival of S. aureus within udder cells has rendered many antibiotics ineffective, leading to therapeutic failure. Our study therefore aims to investigate the in vitro bactericidal activity of ikarugamycin (IKA) against intracellular S. aureus using a bovine mammary epithelial cells (Mac-T cells) infection model and determine the cytotoxic effect. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was used to determine the antibacterial activity of IKA, and Mac-T cells were infected with S. aureus using gentamicin protection assay. IKA intracellular antibacterial activity assays were used to determine the bactericidal activity of IKA against intracellular S. aureus. The cytotoxicity of IKA against Mac-T cells was evaluated using the resazurin assay. We showed that, S. aureus is susceptible to IKA with a MIC value of 0.6 μg/mL. IKA at 4 × MIC and 8 × MIC have bactericidal activity by reducing 3 and 5 logs10 CFU/mL of S. aureus in the first six-hour of treatment respectively. In addition, IKA demonstrated intracellular killing activity by killing 90% of intracellular S. aureus at 5 μg/mL. This level is comparatively lower than 9.2 μg/mL determined as the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of IKA required to kill 50% of Mac-T cells, highlighting a lower concentration required for bactericidal effect compared to the cytotoxic effect. The study highlighted that importance of IKA as a potential antibiotic candidate to be explored for the in vivo efficacy in treating S. aureus mastitis.
First Metabolic Insights into Ex Vivo Cryptosporidium parvum-Infected Bovine Small Intestinal Explants Studied under Physioxic Conditions
Authors: Vélez Juan , Silva Liliana M. R. , Gärtner Ulrich , Daugschies Arwid , Mazurek Sybille , Hermosilla Carlos , Taubert Anja
Published: September 2021

The apicomplexan Cryptosporidium parvum causes thousands of human deaths yearly. Since bovines represent the most important reservoir of C. parvum, the analysis of infected bovine small intestinal (BSI) explants cultured under physioxia offers a realistic model to study C. parvum–host cell–microbiome interactions. Here, C. parvum-infected BSI explants and primary bovine small intestinal epithelial cells were analysed for parasite development and metabolic reactions. Metabolic conversion rates in supernatants of BSI explants were measured after infection, documenting an immediate parasite-driven metabolic interference. Given that oxygen concentrations affect cellular metabolism, measurements were performed at both 5% O2 (physiological intestinal conditions) and 21% O2 (commonly used, hyperoxic lab conditions). Overall, analyses of C. parvum-infected BSI explants revealed a downregulation of conversion rates of key metabolites—such as glucose, lactate, pyruvate, alanine, and aspartate—at 3 hpi, followed by a rapid increase in the same conversion rates at 6 hpi. Moreover, PCA revealed physioxia as a driving factor of metabolic responses in C. parvum-infected BSI explants. Overall, the ex vivo model described here may allow scientists to address pending questions as to how host cell–microbiome alliances influence intestinal epithelial integrity and support the development of protective intestinal immune reactions against C. parvum infections in a realistic scenario under physioxic conditions.
Characteristics of Neurokinin-3 Receptor and Its Binding Sites by Mutational Analysis
Authors: Atre Ishwar , Mizrahi Naama , Levavi-Sivan Berta
Published: September 2021

NKB (Neurokinin B) is already known to play a crucial role in fish reproduction, but little is known about the structure and function of NKB receptors. Based on an in silico model of the tilapia NKB receptor Tachykinin 3 receptor a (tiTac3Ra) found in the current study, we determined the key residues involved in binding to tilapia NKB and its functional homologue NKF (Neurokinin F). Despite studies in humans suggesting the crucial role of F2516.44 and M2897.43 in NKB binding, no direct peptide interaction was observed in tilapia homologs. In-silico, Ala mutations on residues F2516.44 and M2897.43 did not influence binding affinity, but significantly affected the stability of tiTac3Ra. Moreover, in vitro studies indicated them to be critical to tiNKB/tiNKF-induced receptor activity. The binding of NKB antagonists to tiTac3Ra both in-vitro and in vivo inhibits FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) release and sperm production in mature tilapia males. Non-peptide NKB antagonist SB-222200 had a strong inhibitory effect on the Tac3Ra activation. SB-222200 also decreased LH plasma levels; two hours post intraperitoneal injection, changed sperm volume and the ratios of the different stages along the spermatogenesis in tilapia testes.
Effect of Different Types of Face Masks on the Ventilatory and Cardiovascular Response to Maximal-Intensity Exercise
Authors: Rojo-Tirado Miguel A. , Benítez-Muñoz José A. , Alcocer-Ayuga María , Alfaro-Magallanes Víctor M. , Romero-Parra Nuria , Peinado Ana B. , Rael Beatriz , Castro Eliane A. , Benito Pedro J.
Published: September 2021

The development of new models of face masks makes it necessary to compare their impact on exercise. Therefore, the aim of this work was to compare the cardiopulmonary response to a maximal incremental test, perceived ventilation, exertion, and comfort using FFP2 or Emotion masks in young female athletes. Thirteen healthy sportswomen (22.08 ± 1.75 years) performed a spirometry, and a graded exercise test on a treadmill, with a JAEGER® Vyntus CPX gas analyzer using an ergospirometry mask (ErgoMask) or wearing the FFP2 or the Emotion mask below the ErgoMask, randomized on 3 consecutive days. Also, menstrual cycle status was monitored to avoid possible intrasubject alterations. The results showed lower values for the ErgoMask+FFP2, compared to ErgoMask or ErgoMask+Emotion, in forced vital capacity (3.8 ± 0.2, 4.5 ± 0.2 and 4.1 ± 0.1 l, respectively); forced expiratory volume in 1 s (3.3 ± 0.2, 3.7 ± 0.2 and 3.5 ± 0.1 l); ventilation (40.9 ± 1.5, 50.6 ± 1.5 and 46.9 ± 1.2 l/min); breathing frequency (32.7 ± 1.1, 37.4 ± 1.1 and 35.3 ± 1.4 bpm); VE/VO2 (30.5 ± 0.7, 34.6 ± 0.9 and 33.6 ± 0.7); VE/VCO2 (32.2 ± 0.6, 36.2 ± 0.9 and 34.4 ± 0.7) and time to exhaustion (492.4 ± 9.7, 521.7 ± 8.6 and 520.1 ± 9.5 s) and higher values in inspiratory time (0.99 ± 0.04, 0.82 ± 0.03 and 0.88 ± 0.03 s). In conclusion, in young healthy female athletes, the Emotion showed better preservation of cardiopulmonary responses than the FFP2.
Interplay between Epigenetics and Cellular Metabolism in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiaolin , Dong Zhen , Cui Hongjuan
Published: September 2021

Cellular metabolism alterations have been recognized as one of the most predominant hallmarks of colorectal cancers (CRCs). It is precisely regulated by many oncogenic signaling pathways in all kinds of regulatory levels, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational and post-translational levels. Among these regulatory factors, epigenetics play an essential role in the modulation of cellular metabolism. On the one hand, epigenetics can regulate cellular metabolism via directly controlling the transcription of genes encoding metabolic enzymes of transporters. On the other hand, epigenetics can regulate major transcriptional factors and signaling pathways that control the transcription of genes encoding metabolic enzymes or transporters, or affecting the translation, activation, stabilization, or translocation of metabolic enzymes or transporters. Interestingly, epigenetics can also be controlled by cellular metabolism. Metabolites not only directly influence epigenetic processes, but also affect the activity of epigenetic enzymes. Actually, both cellular metabolism pathways and epigenetic processes are controlled by enzymes. They are highly intertwined and are essential for oncogenesis and tumor development of CRCs. Therefore, they are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of CRCs. In recent years, both epigenetic and metabolism inhibitors are studied for clinical use to treat CRCs. In this review, we depict the interplay between epigenetics and cellular metabolism in CRCs and summarize the underlying molecular mechanisms and their potential applications for clinical therapy.
Probing GFP Chromophore Analogs as Anti-HIV Agents Targeting LTR-III G-Quadruplex
Authors: Ryazantsev Dmitriy Y. , Myshkin Mikhail Yu. , Alferova Vera A. , Tsvetkov Vladimir B. , Shustova Elena Y. , Kamzeeva Polina N. , Kovalets Polina V. , Zaitseva Elvira R. , Baleeva Nadezhda S. , Zatsepin Timofei S. , Shenkarev Zakhar O. , Baranov Mikhail S. , Kozlovskaya Liubov I. , Aralov Andrey V.
Published: September 2021

Green fluorescent protein (GFP) chromophore and its congeners draw significant attention mostly for bioimaging purposes. In this work we probed these compounds as antiviral agents. We have chosen LTR-III DNA G4, the major G-quadruplex (G4) present in the long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter region of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), as the target for primary screening and designing antiviral drug candidates. The stabilization of this G4 was previously shown to suppress viral gene expression and replication. FRET-based high-throughput screening (HTS) of 449 GFP chromophore-like compounds revealed a number of hits, sharing some general structural features. Structure-activity relationships (SAR) for the most effective stabilizers allowed us to establish structural fragments, important for G4 binding. Synthetic compounds, developed on the basis of SAR analysis, exhibited high LTR-III G4 stabilization level. NMR spectroscopy and molecular modeling revealed the possible formation of LTR-III G4-ligand complex with one of the lead selective derivative ZS260.1 positioned within the cavity, thus supporting the LTR-III G4 attractiveness for drug targeting. Selected compounds showed moderate activity against HIV-I (EC50 1.78–7.7 μM) in vitro, but the activity was accompanied by pronounced cytotoxicity.
A Proteomic View of Cellular and Molecular Effects of Cannabis
Authors: Abyadeh Morteza , Gupta Vivek , Paulo Joao A. , Gupta Veer , Chitranshi Nitin , Godinez Angela , Saks Danit , Hasan Mafruha , Amirkhani Ardeshir , McKay Matthew , Salekdeh Ghasem H. , Haynes Paul A. , Graham Stuart L. , Mirzaei Mehdi
Published: September 2021

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa), popularly known as marijuana, is the most commonly used psychoactive substance and is considered illicit in most countries worldwide. However, a growing body of research has provided evidence of the therapeutic properties of chemical components of cannabis known as cannabinoids against several diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia and glaucoma; these have prompted changes in medicinal cannabis legislation. The relaxation of legal restrictions and increased socio-cultural acceptance has led to its increase in both medicinal and recreational usage. Several biochemically active components of cannabis have a range of effects on the biological system. There is an urgent need for more research to better understand the molecular and biochemical effects of cannabis at a cellular level, to understand fully its implications as a pharmaceutical drug. Proteomics technology is an efficient tool to rigorously elucidate the mechanistic effects of cannabis on the human body in a cell and tissue-specific manner, drawing conclusions associated with its toxicity as well as therapeutic benefits, safety and efficacy profiles. This review provides a comprehensive overview of both in vitro and in vivo proteomic studies involving the cellular and molecular effects of cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds.