bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOCS3 Regulates Dectin-2-Induced Inflammation in PBMCs of Diabetic Patients
Authors: Haider Mohammed J. A. , Albaqsumi Zahraa , Al-Mulla Fahd , Ahmad Rasheed , Al-Rashed Fatema
Published: August 2022

The C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) Dectin-1 and Dectin-2 are involved in several innate immune responses and are expressed mainly in dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages. Dectin-1 activation exacerbates obesity, inflammation, and insulin resistance/type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, the role of Dectin-2 is not clear in T2D. This study aims to evaluate the expression and function of Dectin-2 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from diabetic patients and non-diabetic controls. Flow-cytometry and qRT-PCR were performed to evaluate the expression of Dectin-2 in different leukocyte subpopulations isolated from T2D patients (n = 10) and matched non-diabetic controls (n = 11). The functional activity of Dectin-2 was identified in PBMCs. CRP, IL-1β, and TNF-α concentrations were determined by ELISA. siRNA transfection and Western blotting were performed to assess p-Syk and p-NF-kB expression. siRNA transfection was performed to knock down the gene of interest. Our results show that Dectin-2 expression was the highest in monocytes compared with other leukocyte subpopulations. The expression of Dectin-2 was significantly increased in the monocytes of T2D patients compared with non-diabetic controls. Dectin-2 expression positively correlated with markers of glucose homeostasis, including HOMA-IR and HbA1c. The expression of inflammatory markers was elevated in the PBMCs of T2D patients. Interestingly, SOCS3, a negative regulator of inflammation, was expressed significantly lowlier in the PBMCs of T2D patients. Moreover, SOCS3 expression was negatively correlated with Dectin-2 expression level. The further analysis of inflammatory signaling pathways showed a persistent activation of the Dectin-2-Syk-NFkB pathway that was instigated by the diminished expression of SOCS3. Dectin-2 activation failed to induce SOCS3 expression and suppress subsequent inflammatory responses in the PBMCs of diabetic patients. siRNA-mediated knockdown of SOCS3 in PBMCs displayed a similar inflammatory phenotype to diabetic PBMCs when exposed to Dectin-2 ligands. Altogether, our findings suggest that elevated Dectin-2 and its relationship with SOCS3 could be involved in the abnormal immune response observed in T2D patients.
Integrated Analysis of Transcriptome, microRNAs, and Chromatin Accessibility Revealed Potential Early B-Cell Factor1-Regulated Transcriptional Networks during the Early Development of Fetal Brown Adipose Tissues in Rabbits
Authors: Du Kun , Shi Yu , Bai Xue , Chen Li , Sun Wenqiang , Chen Shiyi , Wang Jie , Jia Xianbo , Lai Songjia
Published: August 2022

In domestic mammals, cold stress decreases the survival rate of newborns and increases the cost of management. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is the main thermogenic organ for cubs, and well-developed fetal BAT (FBAT) is beneficial for newborns to maintain core temperatures during the first several days of life. However, our knowledge of the epigenetic mechanisms during the early development of FBAT remains largely unknown. Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are economically important domestic animals. In this study, a histological analysis shows that the tissue content, thermogenic capacity, and lipid content of FBAT dramatically increases from gestational day 21 (G21) to gestational day 24 (G24) in rabbits. RNA-seq, microRNA-seq (miRNA-seq), and the assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high-throughput sequencing (ATAC-seq) show that many genes, miRNAs, and chromatin-accessible regions (referred to as peaks) were identified as significantly changed from G21 to G24, respectively. The upregulated genes from G21 to G24 were significantly enriched in the mitochondrial metabolism and thermogenesis-related signal pathways. The integrated analysis of transcriptome and chromatin accessibility reveals that the peaks in the promoters have a more regulatory effect than peaks in other genomic elements on the expression of their nearby genes in FBATs. The upregulated genes that are associated with increased chromatin accessibility in the promoter regions are involved in the energy metabolism-related signaling pathways. The genes that have a greater tendency to be regulated by miRNAs than the chromatin accessibility in gene promoters are involved in the apelin, insulin, and endocytosis signaling pathways. Furthermore, genome-wide transcription factor (TF) footprinting analysis identifies early B-cell factor1 (EBF1) as playing a key role during early FBAT development. The carbon metabolism, citrate cycle, and PPAR signaling pathways are significantly enriched by the predicted EBF1-regulated cascade TF-network. In conclusion, our work provides a framework for understanding epigenetics regulatory mechanisms underlying the early development of FBAT and identifies potential TF involved in the early development of FBAT in rabbits.
A Benzimidazolium-Based Organic Cage with Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: La Cognata Sonia , Armentano Donatella , Marchesi Nicoletta , Grisoli Pietro , Pascale Alessia , Kieffer Marion , Taglietti Angelo , Davis Anthony P. , Amendola Valeria
Published: August 2022

Considering the wide interest in (benz)imidazolium-based drugs, we here report our study on a benzimidazolium-based organic cage as potential antimicrobial and antifungal agent. Cytotoxicity studies on a human derived cell line, SH-SY5Y, showed that the cage is not cytotoxic at all at the investigated concentrations. Anion binding studies demonstrated that the cage can bind anions (chloride and nitrate, in particular) both in organic solvent and 20%v D2O/CD3CN mixture. The cage was also tested as anionophore, showing a weak but measurable transport of chloride and nitrate across LUVs vesicles. Nonetheless, the compounds have antimicrobial activity towards Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive bacteria). This is probably the first organic cage studied as anionophore and antimicrobial agent.
Virus-like Cage Hybrid: Covalent Organic Cages Attached to Metal Organic Cage
Authors: Lv Zhuoqian , Yu Chenjuan , Zhu Xinyuan , Wang Youfu
Published: August 2022

A well-defined virus-like cage hybrid (VCH) with 24 covalent organic cages (COCs) attached to one metal organic cage (MOC) is presented here. The quantitative assembly of VCH was completed through coordination between soluble anisotropic COC bearing one bipyridine moiety and Pd(II) ions. The obtained VCH exhibited discrete, uniform and stable structures with good solubility and was well characterized by NMR, FT-IR, TEM, AFM, DLS, TGA, and so on. This designable cage hybrid promotes a new strategy to expand the structural and functional complexities of porous molecular cages.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Annealing Effect on the Properties of Gas-Sensitive Copper Oxide Nanowires
Authors: Claros Martha , Gràcia Isabel , Figueras Eduard , Vallejos Stella
Published: August 2022

In this study, we report a straightforward and reproducible hydrothermal synthesis of copper oxide nanowires, their morphological and chemical characterization, and their application in gas sensing. Results show that the hydrothermal process is mainly influenced by the reaction time and the concentration of the reducing agent, demonstrating the synthesis of fine and long nanowires (diameter of 50–200 nm and length of 25 µm) after 10 h of reaction with 0.1 M of pyrrole. Two different annealing temperatures were tested (205 and 450 °C) and their effect on the morphology, chemical composition, and crystal size of the nanowires was analyzed by SEM, XPS, and XRD techniques, respectively. The analysis shows that the Cu2+ oxidation state is mainly obtained at the higher annealing temperature, and the nanowires’ shape suffers a transformation due to the formation of agglomerated crystallites. The gas sensing tests for acetone, ethanol, toluene, and carbon monoxide show preferential response and sensitivity to acetone and ethanol over the other analytes. The annealing temperature proves to have a higher influence on the stability of the nanowires than on their gas sensitivity and selectivity, showing better medium-term stability for the nanowires annealed at 450 °C.
Effectiveness of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Arresting Caries in Primary and Early Mixed Dentition: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hafiz Zain , Allam Rehab , Almazyad Bdoor , Bedaiwi Alya’a , Alotaibi Areej , Almubrad Alwateen
Published: August 2022

Dental caries is a painful condition that could lead to nutritional problems which affects the overall health of the child, as well it is expensive to treat. The effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in primary and early mixed dentition is systematically reviewed in this study. This systematic review utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta- Analysis statement (PRISMA, 2020). A literature search conducted using the common electronic databases (from 2010–2021). Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, ten randomized clinical trials (RCT) have met the inclusion criteria and were considered for the qualitative assessment. Critical appraisal of these studies was done. This systematic review found that using SDF is a successful and effective method in arresting dentin carious process in the primary teeth and first permanent molars in children. Additionally, when compared to the commonly used topical fluoride products and materials, SDF showed to have better cariostatic effect. However, these findings must be cautiously viewed since more research is required to support them.
Cleft Palate and Aortic Dilatation as Clues for Loeys–Dietz Syndrome
Authors: Zaza Pierluigi , Indrio Flavia , Fracchiolla Annalisa , Rinaldi Matteo , Meliota Giovanni , Salatto Alessia , Bonacaro Antonio , Maffei Gianfranco
Published: August 2022

Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS) is a rare autosomal-dominant disorder of the connective tissue with some typical vascular findings, skeletal manifestations, craniofacial features, and cutaneous findings with a wide phenotypic spectrum. Six different genes are involved in LDS and the diagnosis is based on the identification of a heterozygous pathogenic variant in TGFBR1, TGFBR2, SMAD3, TGFB2, TGFB3, or SMAD2 in children with suggestive findings. These genes distinguish LDS into six classes (LDS1–LDS6, respectively). Delay in diagnosis of Loeys–Dietz syndrome may be associated with an adverse prognosis due to a very high augmented risk of early complications such as aortic or vascular rupture. The present report describes a case of an early diagnosis of LDS in a neonate with cleft soft palate and aortic root dilatation.
The Effect of a Brief Physician-Delivered Neurobiologically Oriented, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Brief-CBT) Intervention on Chronic Pain Acceptance in Youth with Chronic Pain—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Simmonds Mark K. , Dick Bruce D. , Verrier Michelle J. , Reid Kathy L. , Jamieson-Lega Kathryn , Balisky Keith J. , Davey Alison E. , Freeman Katherine M.
Published: August 2022

At the Stollery Children’s Chronic Pain Clinic, new referrals are assessed by an interdisciplinary team. The final part of the intake assessment typically involves an explanation and compassionate validation of the etiology of chronic pain and an invitation to the youth to attend the group outpatient Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) program, called Pain 101, or to individual outpatient CBT. It was hypothesized that a brief physician-delivered CBT (brief-CBT) intervention at first point of contact improves subsequent pain acceptance. Using a randomized double blinded methodology, 26 participants received a standard intake assessment and 26 the standard assessment plus the brief-CBT intervention. Measures were taken at three points: pre and post-intake assessment and after Pain 101 or individual CBT (or day 30 post-assessment for those attending neither). The primary outcome measure was the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire—Adolescent version (CPAQ-A). Comparing pre and post-intake measures, there was a significant (p = 0.002) increase in the CPAQ-A scores—four-fold more in the brief-CBT intervention group (p = 0.045). Anxiety (RCADS-T Score) was significantly reduced post-intake and significantly more reduced in the intervention group compared to the control group (p = 0.024). CPAQ-A scores were significantly increased (p < 0.001) (N = 28) and anxiety (RCADs-T) was significantly reduced by the end of Pain 101 (p < 0.003) (N = 29) as was fear of pain as measured by the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (p = 0.021). A physician-delivered brief-CBT intervention significantly and meaningfully increased CPAQ-A scores and reduced anxiety in youth with chronic pain. Furthermore, CBT through Pain 101 is effective at increasing acceptance, as well as reducing anxiety and fear of movement.
Evaluating in the Real-World Educational Intervention to Improve Interference Control in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Escolano-Pérez Elena , Acero-Ferrero Marian
Published: August 2022

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) present deficiencies in interference control processes. The main aim of this pilot study was to analyze the efficacy of an educational intervention designed to optimize the interference control of eight ASD children, attending to their ASD severity level. A mixed-methods approach grounded in systematic observation and nomothetic/follow-up/multidimensional observational designs was used. An observation instrument was developed to code data, which were grouped according to the ASD severity level (Group 1, requires support; Group 2, requires substantial support) and were analyzed using a lag sequential analysis. The results show that, although both groups progressed during the intervention and could have continued to improve, each group evolved differently. Group 1 performed relatively well from the onset and increased and developed their interference control strategies throughout the intervention, while Group 2, despite also acquiring new interference control strategies, took more time to show improvements. One month after the intervention ended, both groups were unable to consolidate the strategies learned. A mixed-methods approach allowed for real interference control deficits in ASD children to be captured in a natural context. To conclude, it would be necessary to lengthen this intervention and adapt it to the needs of each group.
Cognitive Intervention Programs in Minors Belonging to Disadvantaged Contexts in Spain: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Navarro Carmen , Company-Córdoba Rosalba , Sianes Antonio , Ibáñez-Alfonso Joaquín A.
Published: August 2022

Research studies show a strong influence of socioeconomic status (SES) on human development, and how the exposure to risk contexts in the earliest stages translates into dangers in the cognitive development of children and adolescents. To alleviate these consequences and favour development, different cognitive training programs have contributed to this field by identifying the criteria of efficacy. This systematic review identifies and synthesizes the evidence of cognitive intervention studies implemented with psychosocial risk groups carried out in Spain. The search strategy was adapted to different databases. Only studies published in English or Spanish and developed in Spain that included interventions applied in populations aged 5 to 18 years with a low SES were included. The analysis of the literature showed nine interventions that indicated an improvement in those cognitive functions worked with low SES children. The cognitive domains that most worked were executive functions, followed by social cognition and language. After reviewing the available literature, a clear scarcity of interventions carried out in Spain was observed. Variables such as age, cognitive functions or personal vulnerability were identified as factors to be taken into account in future lines of research due to their influence on minors. These findings indicate the relevance of this review to help decision-making in relation to the actions to be carried out by the competent bodies in Spain.
Parental Support Is Associated with Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity among Chinese Adolescents through the Availability of Physical Activity Resources in the Home Environment and Autonomous Motivation
Authors: Zeng Jing , Qiu Nan , Leitzelar Brianna N. , Fu Jialin , Wang Yechuang , Liang Fang , Ding Kai , Moore Justin B. , Zou Yuliang , Li Rui
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to use a structural equation model (SEM) to determine the association between parental support and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among Chinese adolescents and whether the availability of physical activity (PA) resources in the home environment and autonomous motivation of adolescents mediated the association. Data were collected using questionnaires extracted from the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) study. A final analytical sample of 3738 adolescents was enrolled. A SEM was performed to evaluate the hypothesized associations. It was found that parental support was not only positively directly but also indirectly associated with MVPA in Chinese boys through the home environment (i.e., availability of PA resources) and the autonomous motivation of adolescents. It is worth noting that the above relationships also exist in Chinese girls, except for the regulatory role of autonomous motivation. These findings suggest that future interventions for increasing adolescents’ MVPA should focus on health education for parents to provide more PA resources in the home environment and adequately mobilize children’s autonomous motivation.
Higher NADH Dehydrogenase [Ubiquinone] Iron–Sulfur Protein 8 (NDUFS8) Serum Levels Correlate with Better Insulin Sensitivity in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Flotyńska Justyna , Klause Daria , Kulecki Michał , Cieluch Aleksandra , Chomicka-Pawlak Regina , Zozulińska-Ziółkiewicz Dorota , Uruska Aleksandra
Published: August 2022

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] iron–sulfur protein 8 (NDUFS8) serum concentration as a marker of Complex I, and the relationship with insulin resistance in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Design and methods: Participants were adults with T1DM, recruited over the course of 1 year (2018–2019). NDUFS8 protein serum concentration was measured using the ELISA test. Insulin resistance was evaluated with indirect marker estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR). The group was divided on the base of median value of eGDR (higher eGDR—better insulin sensitivity). Results: The study group consists of 12 women and 24 men. Medians of eGDR and NDUFS8 protein concentration are 7.6 (5.58–8.99) mg/kg/min and 2.25 (0.72–3.81) ng/mL, respectively. The group with higher insulin sensitivity has higher NDUFS8 protein serum concentration, lower waist to hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), and they are younger. A negative correlation is observed between NDUFS8 protein serum concentration and WHR (rs = −0.35, p = 0.03), whereas a positive correlation is observed between NDUFS8 protein serum concentration and eGDR (rs = 0.43, p = 0.008). Univariate logistic regression shows a significant association between insulin sensitivity and lower age, as well as a higher NDUFS8 serum level. A multivariate logistic regression model confirms the significance (AOR 2.38 (1.04–5.48). p = 0.042). Multivariate linear regression confirms a significant association between insulin sensitivity and better mitochondrial function (beta = 0.54, p = 0.003), independent of age, duration of diabetes, and smoking. Conclusions: Higher NDUFS8 protein serum concentration is associated with higher insulin sensitivity among adults with T1DM.
Cerebral Seizures in an Adolescent with Jervell and Lange-Nielsen Syndrome: It May Not Be Epilepsy
Authors: Levaux Joachim , Farhat Nesrine , Van Casteren Lieve , Bulk Saskia , Seghaye Marie-Christine
Published: August 2022

A 13-year-old girl with Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome associated congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) and central deafness was admitted for generalized seizures. LQTS had been diagnosed after birth and confirmed at genetic testing. β-blocker treatment was immediately started. Despite this, since the age of 12 months, recurrent cerebral seizures occurred leading to the diagnosis of epilepsy. Anti-convulsive therapy was initiated but without success. At the last admission, nadolol dosage seemed infratherapeutic. Considering malignant ventricular arrhythmias as the cause of seizures, the β-blocker dosage was adjusted to weight and levels of magnesium and potassium optimized. Furthermore, the patient received an implantable Medtronic Reveal LINQ Recorder®. Since then, the adolescent has been asymptomatic with no arrhythmia documented. LQTS is due to one or more mutations of genes coding for ion channels. It may induce malignant ventricular arrhythmias and is a major cause of sudden cardiac death in children. Generalized cerebral seizures are extra-cardiac manifestations caused by decreased cerebral perfusion during ventricular arrhythmia. They are commonly misinterpreted as manifestations of epilepsy. For any patient with known or unknown LQTS who presents seizures with resistance to anti-convulsive therapy, a cardiac electrophysiological investigation should be performed promptly to ensure etiological diagnosis and optimize treatment.
Deposition of Fluoresceine-Doped HAp Coatings via High-Velocity Suspension Flame Spraying
Authors: Blum Matthias , Derad Lukas , Killinger Andreas
Published: August 2022

In current medicine, joint revision surgery plays an important role in the treatment of degenerative joint diseases. Infections of the artificial joints are an iatrogenic, accompanying symptom after joint replacement procedures. A new approach is to functionalize the bioactive coatings of the implants by infiltrating them with anti-inflammatory drugs. This work aims at a one-step approach in manufacturing drug-doped, porous hydroxyapatite coatings by high-velocity suspension flame spraying (HVSFS). Thermal exposure of the temperature-sensitive drugs is critical. Therefore, a new process setup, combining one axial and one radial suspension line, is used for coating deposition. The lower dwell time of the suspension in the flame through radial injection helps in controlling the temperature exposition of the contained drug to the flame. Additionally, the influence of the powder morphology, used as a carrier for the drug in the suspension, is investigated by carrying out spray experiments with suspensions from three different granule types. To analyze the temperature exposition within the coating process, fluoresceine was used as a model drug, as the decomposition of the organic, fluorescing molecules can be easily controlled by fluorescence intensity measurements. It could be shown that the deposition of temperature-sensitive organic molecules is possible without degrading the molecular structure by a modified HVSFS process. This knowledge offers new possibilities in the cost-effective one-step manufacturing of functionalized, anti-inflammatory bioceramic coatings on orthopaedic implants.
Identification and Analysis of Corrosion Mechanisms for Ground Pipelines with Hanging Rings
Authors: Xi Yuntao , Li Yidi , Yao Yang , Gan Qingming , Wang Yixu , Wang Lei , Wen Lei , Li Shilei , Yang Daoyong , Ji Jiangtao , Lei Shubin
Published: August 2022

Recently, corrosion perforation has been frequently seen in surface pipelines in the oil and gas industry, resulting in operational and environmental challenges. Due to the complex characteristics and mechanisms of such corrosion, a new and pragmatic method has been designed to identify and evaluate the corrosion phenomenon via a hanging ring installed in a surface pipeline. In addition to respectively analyzing the ions of water samples with chemical titration, ion chromatography, and mass spectrometry, the micro-surface morphology of the corroded hanging rings was observed and evaluated by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and the surface composition of the corroded hanging rings was analyzed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The water ions of each selected position were found to mainly contain Ca2+, Ba2+, SO42−, and HCO3−, while the barium scale and calcium carbonate scale were formed in situ. In addition to the common corrosion induced by CO2, corrosion induced by both CO2 and H2S leads to extremely serious corrosion and scaling in surface pipelines. In addition, the injection dose of corrosion inhibitor was also evaluated.
Rice Husk as a Pore-Forming Agent: Impact of Particle Size on the Porosity and Diametral Tensile Strength of Porous Alumina Ceramics
Authors: Dele-Afolabi T. , Azmah Hanim M. , Jung D. , Ilyas R. , Calin R. , Nurul Izzah A.
Published: August 2022

This study describes the porosity and particle size effects of rice husk pore former on the diametral tensile strength of porous alumina (Al2O3) ceramics. Porous Al2O3 ceramics with high porosity and sufficient diametral tensile strength were successfully prepared by the pore-forming agent method using rice husk (RH) as the pore former according to the sample formulation Al2O3-xRHy (where ‘x’ denotes the particle size range in µm and ‘y’ denotes the percent weight content (wt%) of RH). The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) results revealed that silica was retained as rice husk ash in the developed porous Al2O3 after the decomposition of the starting rice husk pore former. Microstructures of the as-prepared porous Al2O3 ceramics having different RH additions exhibited hierarchical pore structures with increased particle size of the pore-forming agent. Porosity increased with larger particle size range of rice husk where the Al2O3-63RH5 demonstrated the least porosity (44.2 vol%), while the highest porosity (70.9 vol%) was demonstrated by the Al2O3-125–250RH20. The diametral tensile strength of the RH-shaped porous alumina ceramics declined from 16.97 to 0.65 MPa with increased particle size of the rice husk.
Comparison between Quinoa and Quillaja saponins in the Formation, Stability and Digestibility of Astaxanthin-Canola Oil Emulsions
Authors: Sotomayor-Gerding Daniela , Morales Eduardo , Rubilar Mónica
Published: August 2022

Saponins from Quillaja saponaria and Chenopodium quinoa were evaluated as natural emulsifiers in the formation of astaxanthin enriched canola oil emulsions. The aim of this study was to define the processing conditions for developing emulsions and to evaluate their physical stability against environmental conditions: pH (2–10), temperature (20–50 °C), ionic strength (0–500 mM NaCl), and storage (35 days at 25 °C), as well as their performance in an in vitro digestion model. The emulsions were characterized, evaluating their mean particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential. Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions were effectively produced using 1% oil phase and 1% emulsifier (saponins). Emulsions were stable over a wide range of pH values (4–10), but exhibited particle aggregation at lower pH, salt conditions, and high temperatures. The emulsion stability index (ESI) remained above 80% after 35 days of storage. The results of our study suggest that saponins can be an effective alternative to synthetic emulsifiers.
Lens Design Method Prediction of Local Optimization Algorithm by Using Deep Learning
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Mu , Han Pin , Lee Hsin-Hung , Yen Chih-Ta
Published: August 2022

A design rule prediction is proposed to assist a lens design in this paper. Deep learning was applied in order to predict a lens design rule that is based on a local optimization algorithm. Three separate lens design rules related to the aperture stop and FOV variation were made for the optimization in the two-lens element optical systems whose structural parameters were created randomly. These random lens structures were optimized by using three separate lens design rules that were developed by Zemax OpticStudio API to create a big optimization dataset. All of the optimization results were collected by means of a further deep learning process to determine which optimization rule would be the better choice for lens optimization when given the lens parameters. The model developed via deep learning shows that the prediction has a 78.89% accuracy in determining an appropriate optimization rule for an assistant lens design.
Demonstration of C-Plane InGaN-Based Blue Laser Diodes Grown on a Strain-Relaxed Template
Authors: Chang Hsun-Ming , Chan Philip , Lim Norleakvisoth , Rienzi Vincent , Gordon Michael J. , DenBaars Steven P. , Nakamura Shuji
Published: August 2022

Electrically driven c-plane InGaN-based blue edge emitting laser diodes on a strain-relaxed template (SRT) are successfully demonstrated. The relaxation degree of the InGaN buffer was 26.6%, and the root mean square (RMS) roughness of the surface morphology was 0.65 nm. The laser diodes (LDs) on the SRT laser at 459 nm had a threshold current density of 52 kA/cm2 under the room temperature pulsed operation. The internal loss of the LDs on the SRT was 30–35 cm−1. Regardless of the high threshold current density, this is the first demonstrated laser diode using the strain-relaxed method on c-plane GaN.
Structural Changes as a Tool for Affinity Recognition: Conformational Switch Biosensing
Authors: Scognamiglio Viviana , Antonacci Amina
Published: August 2022

Biosensors draw inspiration from natural chemosensing based on molecular switches between different bond-induced conformational states. Proteins and nucleic acids can be adapted into switch-based biosensors with a wide plethora of different configurations, taking advantage of the variety of transduction systems, from optical to electrochemical or electrochemiluminescence, as well as from nanomaterials for signal augmentation. This review reports the latest trends in conformational switch biosensors reported in the literature in the last 10 years, focusing on the main representative and recent examples of protein-based switching biosensors, DNA nanomachines, and structure-switched aptamers being applied for the detection of a wide range of target analytes with interest in biomedical and agro-environmental sectors.
Comparison of Brillouin Light Scattering and Density of States in a Supported Layer: Analytical and Experimental Study
Authors: El Abouti Ossama , Cuffe John , El Boudouti El Houssaine , Sotomayor Torres Clivia M. , Chavez-Angel Emigdio , Djafari-Rouhani Bahram , Alzina Francesc
Published: August 2022

We provide a detailed analytical calculation of the Brillouin light scattering (BLS) intensity of a layer on a substrate, taking into account both photoelastic and moving boundary (ripple effect) mechanisms, and give a comparison between BLS intensity and density of states (DOS) to determine the dispersion curves of longitudinal guided modes in the supported layer. In particular, in the case where the mismatch between the elastic parameters of the substrate and the adsorbed layer is high, such as in a PMMA layer on a Si substrate, we derive closed-form expressions of BLS and DOS and demonstrate a simple relationship between these two quantities. A very good agreement between experimental and theoretical BLS spectra was found and compared to theoretical DOS spectra. In particular, we show that while the peaks in the DOS present a uniform behavior, the BLS spectra follows a sine cardinal (sinc) function shape around a given frequency fixed by the chosen laser wavelength. The theoretical calculation is performed within the framework of the Green’s function approach.
Influence of Superlattice Structure on V-Defect Distribution, External Quantum Efficiency and Electroluminescence for Red InGaN Based µLEDs on Silicon
Authors: Ewing Jacob , Lynsky Cheyenne , Zhang Jiaao , Shapturenka Pavel , Wong Matthew , Smith Jordan , Iza Michael , Speck James S. , DenBaars Stephen P.
Published: August 2022

Achieving high quantum efficiency in long-wavelength LEDs has posed a significant challenge to the solid-state lighting and display industries. In this article, we use V-defect engineering as a technique to achieve higher efficiencies in red InGaN LEDs on (111) Si through lateral injection. We investigate the effects of superlattice structure on the V-defect distribution, the electroluminescence properties, and the external quantum efficiency. Increasing the relative thickness of In in the InGaN/GaN superlattice and the total superlattice thickness correlate with a reduction of active region defects and increased external quantum efficiencies. The highest measured on-chip EQE was 0.15% and based on Monte-Carlo ray tracing simulations for light extraction we project this would correspond to a flip-chip EQE of ~2.5%.
Sulfur Line Vacancies in MoS2 for Catalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Tang Meng , Yin Weinan , Liu Shijie , Yu Haoxuan , He Yuhao , Cai Yuntao , Wang Longlu
Published: August 2022

Defects in transition metal dichalcogenides play important roles in the field of the catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the use of defective MoS2 as HER catalysts remains controversial because the types of defects are various, including zero-dimensional point defects, one-dimensional linear defects, and two-dimensional plane defects. Recently, novel structures of linear defects have drawn more and more attention, and it is necessary to explore their unique properties. This review focuses on the formation mechanism, fabrication method, accurate atomic structure, and catalytic hydrogen evolution mechanism of sulfur line vacancies in MoS2 as electrocatalysts. The structure–activity relationship between line defects and catalytic performance is discussed in detail. This will provide a route for the design of excellent catalysts by engineering line defects.
New Simulation Tool for Architectural Design in the Realm of Solar Radiative Transfer
Authors: Cabeza-Lainez Joseph , Almodóvar-Melendo Jose-Manuel , Revenga-Dominguez Paula , Rodríguez-Cunill Inmaculada , Xu Yingying
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we devise a system for architectural simulations that considers the volumetric and three-dimensional properties or the energy sources involved in the energy exchanges within or around edifices and built or urban spaces. The advances are based in optics theory evolving from the assumptions presented in the book The Photic Field by P. H. Moon and D. E. Spencer, with added improvements suggested by D. DiLaura. Such procedure is deftly performed by means of solving complex integral equations, which were unavailable until recently and originate in the research developed by the authors. This experimental software is called DianaX. The advantages of this new system allow for a clearer visualization of the performance of buildings in terms of radiated energy. Reductions in the amounts of used energy can be achieved precisely by means of the design process of the software, which can be considered in some respects as a Design Tool. With this tool, the analysis of heritage building paradigms is feasible as it assesses the potential of new foreseen projects taking into account new artificial lighting devices that deviate from the conventional linear or point approach in the domain. The main finding demonstrated is the feasibility and appropriateness of this method to address the problems posed. As future prospects, we would like to increase the catalogue of designs that can benefit from the conscious use of our tool for scientific design.
The RALE Score Versus the CT Severity Score in Invasively Ventilated COVID-19 Patients—A Retrospective Study Comparing Their Prognostic Capacities
Authors: Valk Christel M. , Zimatore Claudio , Mazzinari Guido , Pierrakos Charalampos , Sivakorn Chaisith , Dechsanga Jutamas , Grasso Salvatore , Beenen Ludo , Bos Lieuwe D. J. , Paulus Frederique , Schultz Marcus J. , Pisani Luigi
Published: August 2022

Background: Quantitative radiological scores for the extent and severity of pulmonary infiltrates based on chest radiography (CXR) and computed tomography (CT) scan are increasingly used in critically ill invasively ventilated patients. This study aimed to determine and compare the prognostic capacity of the Radiographic Assessment of Lung Edema (RALE) score and the chest CT Severity Score (CTSS) in a cohort of invasively ventilated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19. Methods: Two-center retrospective observational study, including consecutive invasively ventilated COVID-19 patients. Trained scorers calculated the RALE score of first available CXR and the CTSS of the first available CT scan. The primary outcome was ICU mortality; secondary outcomes were duration of ventilation in survivors, length of stay in ICU, and hospital-, 28-, and 90-day mortality. Prognostic accuracy for ICU death was expressed using odds ratios and Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curves (AUROC). Results: A total of 82 patients were enrolled. The median RALE score (22 [15–37] vs. 26 [20–39]; p = 0.34) and the median CTSS (18 [16–21] vs. 21 [18–23]; p = 0.022) were both lower in ICU survivors compared to ICU non-survivors, although only the difference in CTSS reached statistical significance. While no association was observed between ICU mortality and RALE score (OR 1.35 [95%CI 0.64–2.84]; p = 0.417; AUC 0.50 [0.44–0.56], this was noticed with the CTSS (OR, 2.31 [1.22–4.38]; p = 0.010) although with poor prognostic capacity (AUC 0.64 [0.57–0.69]). The correlation between the RALE score and CTSS was weak (r2 = 0.075; p = 0.012). Conclusions: Despite poor prognostic capacity, only CTSS was associated with ICU mortality in our cohort of COVID-19 patients.
Echocardiographic Quantification of Superior Vena Cava (SVC) Flow in Neonates: Pilot Study of Modified Technique
Authors: Ficial Benjamim , Corsini Iuri , Bonafiglia Elena , Petoello Enrico , Flore Alice Iride , Nogara Silvia , Tsatsaris Nicola , Groves Alan M.
Published: August 2022

Ultrasound Superior Vena Cava (SVC) flow assessment is a common measure of systemic and cerebral perfusion, although accuracy is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether any improvements in accuracy could be achieved by measuring stroke distance from the instantaneous mean velocity, rather than from peak velocity, and by directly tracing area from images obtained with a high frequency linear probe. Paired phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PCMRI) and ultrasound assessments of SVC flow were performed in a pilot cohort of 7 infants. Median postnatal age, corrected gestation and weight at scan were 7 (2–74) days, 34.8 (31.7–37.2) weeks 1870 (970–2660) g. Median interval between PCMRI and ultrasound scans was 0.3 (0.2–0.5) h. The methodology trialed here showed a better agreement with PCMRI (mean bias −8 mL/kg/min, LOA −25–+8 mL/kg/min), compared to both the original method reported by Kluckow et al. (mean bias + 42 mL/kg/min, LOA −53–+137 mL/kg/min), and our own prior adaptation (mean bias + 23 mL/kg/min, LOA −25–+71 mL/kg/min). Ultrasound assessment of SVC flow volume using the modifications described led to enhanced accuracy and decreased variability compared to prior techniques in a small cohort of premature infants.
Using Classify-While-Scan (CWS) Technology to Enhance Unmanned Air Traffic Management (UTM)
Authors: Gong Jiangkun , Li Deren , Yan Jun , Hu Huiping , Kong Deyong
Published: August 2022

Drone detection radar systems have been verified for supporting unmanned air traffic management (UTM). Here, we propose the concept of classify while scan (CWS) technology to improve the detection performance of drone detection radar systems and then to enhance UTM application. The CWS recognizes the radar data of each radar cell in the radar beam using advanced automatic target recognition (ATR) algorithm and then integrates the recognized results into the tracking unit to obtain the real-time situational awareness results of the whole surveillance area. Real X-band radar data collected in a coastal environment demonstrate significant advancement in a powerful situational awareness scenario in which birds were chasing a ship to feed on fish. CWS technology turns a drone detection radar into a sense-and-alert planform that revolutionizes UTM systems by reducing the Detection Response Time (DRT) in the detection unit.
The Sound of Drystones: A Novel Hot-Spot of Ecoacoustics Research
Authors: Minioti Maria , Tsaligopoulos Aggelos , Matsinos Yiannis G. , Pavlogeorgatos Gerasimos
Published: August 2022

Drystone terraces offer a series of ecosystem services including both biological and cultural benefits. The aesthetic contribution towards the landscape and the increase in biodiversity levels, constitute drystone terraces and other similar constructions, as important biocultural assets. The low maintenance and the eventual abandonment of drystone terraces cause a series of drawbacks regarding the sustainability of agricultural environments. The main goal of this research was to assess the effect of drystone terrace maintenance level on biodiversity. For that reason, two closely distant agricultural areas of Lesbos Island (North Aegean, Greece) in which olive grove drystone terraces dominate were compared. The non-intrusive method of ecoacoustics was selected, and the levels of the acoustic complexity and acoustic diversity were statistically analyzed for areas that included highly maintained and poorly maintained olive grove drystone terraces. The results indicated an increase in acoustic biodiversity levels in the poorly maintained drystone terraces area. At this early stage, the results highlighted the fact that the increased resources in the poorly maintained drystone terraces, in terms of nesting and feeding opportunities, increased the biodiversity levels. Nevertheless, the spatiotemporal expansion of this research is undeniably important.
SDR-Enabled Multichannel Real-Time Measurement System for In Situ EMF Exposure Evaluation
Authors: Sârbu Annamaria , Migliore Marco Donald , Șorecău Emil , Șorecău Mirela , Miclăuș Simona , Bechet Paul
Published: August 2022

The spatial and temporal variability of the signals emitted by modern communication devices produced a paradigm shift in approaching the human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF). This inherent variability requires in situ, agile EMF measurement solutions capable of performing real-time isotropic measurements. The aim of this paper is to describe a new real-time, highly flexible multichannel EMF measurement system that consists of a sensor connected to state-of-the-art software-defined radio (SDR) equipment. In this paper an electric field sensor is proposed, but we also provide information on the extension of the probe to electric and magnetic fields. In the receiver section, the proposed solution is compared in terms of performances (sensitivity and accuracy), costs, and requirements, with standard solutions based on spectrum analyzers or a digital oscilloscope. Finally, the proposed solution was tested considering the signals emitted in various operating scenarios by a mobile device operating in the LTE-A and IEEE 802.11ax mobile communication standards. The results confirm the versatility and efficiency of the proposed solution for in situ EMF measurements of signals emitted by the new generation communication devices.
Correction: Zhang, L.; Kim, D. A Peer-to-Peer Smart Food Delivery Platform Based on Smart Contract. Electronics 2022, 11, 1806
Authors: Zhang Linchao , Kim Dohyeun
Published: August 2022

In the original publication [...]
Development of Electric Drive on the Basis of Five-Phase Synchronous Electric Motor
Authors: Kuric Ivan , Nikitin Yury , Sága Milan , Tlach Vladimír , Bannikov Alexander
Published: August 2022

This paper shows a model of a five-phase synchronous motor with permanent magnets and a simulation model of a control device. A simulation model in the SimInTech software product is built. The transient time is 0.03 s when a stepped input is applied. When the load moment of inertia increases by a factor of 10, the accuracy of speed response decreases. The maximum motor speed error is 40% at a time of 0.2 s. This is a consequence of changing the model of the control object. It is suggested to perform model identification and adapt PI controllers according to load parameters.
Camera Animation for Immersive Light Field Imaging
Authors: Guindy Mary , Barsi Attila , Kara Peter A. , Adhikarla Vamsi K. , Balogh Tibor , Simon Aniko
Published: August 2022

Among novel capture and visualization technologies, light field has made significant progress in the current decade, bringing closer its emergence in everyday use cases. Unlike many other forms of 3D displays and devices, light field visualization does not depend on any viewing equipment. Regarding its potential use cases, light field is applicable to both cinematic and interactive contents. Such contents often rely on camera animation, which is a frequent tool for the creation and presentation of 2D contents. However, while common 3D camera animation is often rather straightforward, light field visualization has certain constraints that must be considered before implementing any variation of such techniques. In this paper, we introduce our work on camera animation for light field visualization. Different types of conventional camera animation were applied to light field contents, which produced an interactive simulation. The simulation was visualized and assessed on a real light field display, the results of which are presented and discussed in this paper. Additionally, we tested different forms of realistic physical camera motion in our study, and based on our findings, we propose multiple metrics for the quality evaluation of light field visualization in the investigated context and for the assessment of plausibility.
Reset Noise Sampling Feedforward Technique (RNSF) for Low Noise MEMS Capacitive Accelerometer
Authors: Lai Xinquan , Wang Yuheng , Li Qinqin , Habib Kashif
Published: August 2022

The reset noise sampling feedforward (RNSF) technique is proposed in this paper to reduce the noise floor of the readout circuit for micro-electromechanically systems (MEMS) capacitive accelerometer. Because of the technology-imposed size restriction on the sensing element, the sensing capacitance and the capacitance variation are reduced to the femto-farad level. As a result, the reset noise from the parasitic capacitance, which is pico-farad level, becomes significant. In this work, the RNSF technique focuses on the suppression of the parasitic-capacitance-induced noise, thereby improving the noise performance of MEMS capacitive accelerometer. The simulation results show that the RNSF technique effectively suppresses the thermal noise from the parasitic capacitance. Compared with the traditional readout circuit, the noise floor of the readout circuit with the RNSF technique is reduced by 9 dBV. The presented circuit based on the RNSF technique is fabricated by a commercial 0.18-μm BCD process and tested with a femto-farad MEMS capacitive accelerometer. The physical measurement results show that, compared with the readout circuit without the RNSF technique, the RNSF technique reduces the noise floor of the readout circuit for MEMS capacitive accelerometer from −72 dBV to −80 dBV. Compared with other similar works, the proposed readout circuit achieves better FoM (FoM=(power×noise floor)/system bandwidth=490 μW·μg/Hz) among the switched-capacitor readout circuits.