bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bee Bread Ameliorates Vascular Inflammation and Impaired Vasorelaxation in Obesity-Induced Vascular Damage Rat Model: The Role of eNOS/NO/cGMP-Signaling Pathway
Authors: Othman Zaidatul Akmal , Zakaria Zaida , Suleiman Joseph Bagi , Nna Victor Udo , Che Romli Aminah , Wan Ghazali Wan Syaheedah , Mohamed Mahaneem
Published: April 2021

Obesity and hyperlipidemia are major risk factors for developing vascular diseases. Bee bread (BB) has been reported to exhibit some biological actions, including anti-obesity and anti-hyperlipidemic. This study aims to investigate whether bee bread can ameliorate vascular inflammation and impaired vasorelaxation activity through eNOS/NO/cGMP pathway in obese rats. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10/group), namely: control (normal group), obese rats (OB group), obese rats treated with bee bread (0.5 g/kg/day, OB/BB group) and obese rats treated with orlistat (10 mg/kg/day, OB/OR group). The latter three groups were given a high-fat diet (HFD) for 6 weeks to induced obesity before being administered with their respective treatments for another 6 weeks. After 12 weeks of the total experimental period, rats in the OB group demonstrated significantly higher Lee obesity index, lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein), aortic proinflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α, nuclear factor-κβ), aortic structural damage and impairment in vasorelaxation response to acetylcholine (ACh). Bee bread significantly ameliorated the obesity-induced vascular damage manifested by improvements in the lipid profile, aortic inflammatory markers, and the impaired vasorelaxation activity by significantly enhancing nitric oxide release, promoting endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) immunoexpression. These findings suggest that the administration of bee bread ameliorates the impaired vasorelaxation response to ACh by improving eNOS/NO/cGMP-signaling pathway in obese rats, suggesting its vascular therapeutic role.
Systematic Assessment of Chemokine Signaling at Chemokine Receptors CCR4, CCR7 and CCR10
Authors: Lim Herman D. , Lane J. Robert , Canals Meritxell , Stone Martin J.
Published: April 2021

Chemokines interact with chemokine receptors in a promiscuous network, such that each receptor can be activated by multiple chemokines. Moreover, different chemokines have been reported to preferentially activate different signalling pathways via the same receptor, a phenomenon known as biased agonism. The human CC chemokine receptors (CCRs) CCR4, CCR7 and CCR10 play important roles in T cell trafficking and have been reported to display biased agonism. To systematically characterize these effects, we analysed G protein- and β-arrestin-mediated signal transduction resulting from stimulation of these receptors by each of their cognate chemokine ligands within the same cellular background. Although the chemokines did not elicit ligand-biased agonism, the three receptors exhibited different arrays of signaling outcomes. Stimulation of CCR4 by either CC chemokine ligand 17 (CCL17) or CCL22 induced β-arrestin recruitment but not G protein-mediated signaling, suggesting that CCR4 has the potential to act as a scavenger receptor. At CCR7, both CCL19 and CCL21 stimulated G protein signaling and β-arrestin recruitment, with CCL19 consistently displaying higher potency. At CCR10, CCL27 and CCL28(4-108) stimulated both G protein signaling and β-arrestin recruitment, whereas CCL28(1-108) was inactive, suggesting that CCL28(4-108) is the biologically relevant form of this chemokine. These comparisons emphasize the intrinsic abilities of different receptors to couple with different downstream signaling pathways. Comparison of these results with previous studies indicates that differential agonism at these receptors may be highly dependent on the cellular context.
Enhanced Myc Expression in Silkworm Silk Gland Promotes DNA Replication and Silk Production
Authors: Qian Wenliang , Yang Yan , Li Zheng , Wu Yuting , He Xuechuan , Li Hao , Cheng Daojun
Published: April 2021

Silkworm is an economically important insect that synthetizes silk proteins for silk production in silk gland, and silk gland cells undergo endoreplication during larval period. Transcription factor Myc is essential for cell growth and proliferation. Although silkworm Myc gene has been identified previously, its biological functions in silkworm silk gland are still largely unknown. In this study, we examined whether enhanced Myc expression in silk gland could facilitate cell growth and silk production. Based on a transgenic approach, Myc was driven by the promoter of the fibroin heavy chain (FibH) gene to be successfully overexpressed in posterior silk gland. Enhanced Myc expression in the PSG elevated FibH expression by about 20% compared to the control, and also increased the weight and shell rate of the cocoon shell. Further investigation confirmed that Myc overexpression increased nucleus size and DNA content of the PSG cells by promoting the transcription of the genes involved in DNA replication. Therefore, we conclude that enhanced Myc expression promotes DNA replication and silk protein expression in endoreplicating silk gland cells, which subsequently raises silk yield.
ERIC and WGS Typing of Paenibacillus larvae in Slovenia: Investigation of ERIC I Outbreaks
Authors: Žugelj Alenka , Papić Bojan , Zdovc Irena , Zajc Urška , Golob Majda , Avberšek Jana , Kušar Darja
Published: April 2021

Paenibacillus larvae is the causative agent of American foulbrood (AFB), a fatal disease of honeybee brood. Here, we obtained 506 P. larvae isolates originating from honey or brood samples and from different geographic regions of Slovenia in the period 2017–2019. In the first part of the study, we conducted ERIC-PCR typing to assess the frequency of ERIC types in Slovenia. Capillary electrophoresis was used for the analysis of ERIC patterns, revealing good separation efficiency and enabling easy lane-to-lane comparisons. ERIC II was the predominant type (70.2%), followed by ERIC I (29.8%); two slightly altered ERIC I banding patterns were observed but were not considered relevant for the discrimination of ERIC types. No evident spatiotemporal clustering of ERIC types was observed. To assess the clonality of the outbreak-related P. larvae ERIC I isolates, 59 isolates of this type underwent whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Whole-genome multilocus sequence typing (wgMLST) revealed seven ERIC I-ST2 outbreak clusters (≤35 allele differences) with the median intra-outbreak diversity ranging from 7 to 27 allele differences. In all seven clusters, the transmission of P. larvae outbreak clone within a 3-km radius (AFB zone) was observed, which could be explained by the activity of honeybees. In three clusters, the transmission of the outbreak clone between geographically distant apiaries was revealed, which could be explained by the activities of beekeepers such as migratory beekeeping and trading of bee colonies. The present findings reinforce the importance of beekeeping activities in the transmission of P. larvae. WGS should be used as a reference typing method for the detection of P. larvae transmission clusters.
Factors Related to Weight Loss Maintenance in the Medium–Long Term after Bariatric Surgery: A Review
Authors: Cornejo-Pareja Isabel , Molina-Vega María , Gómez-Pérez Ana María , Damas-Fuentes Miguel , Tinahones Francisco J.
Published: April 2021

Despite bariatric surgery being the most effective treatment for obesity, some individuals do not respond adequately, especially in the long term. Identifying the predictors of correct weight maintenance in the medium (from 1 to 3 years after surgery) and long term (from 3 years and above) is of vital importance to reduce failure after bariatric surgery; therefore, we summarize the evidence about certain factors, among which we highlight surgical technique, psychological factors, physical activity, adherence to diet, gastrointestinal hormones or neurological factors related to appetite control. We conducted a search in PubMed focused on the last five years (2015–2021). Main findings are as follows: despite Roux-en-Y gastric bypass being more effective in the long term, sleeve gastrectomy shows a more beneficial effectiveness–complications balance; pre-surgical psychological and behavioral evaluation along with post-surgical treatment improve long-term surgical outcomes; physical activity programs after bariatric surgery, in addition to continuous and comprehensive care interventions regarding diet habits, improve weight loss maintenance, but it is necessary to improve adherence; the impact of bariatric surgery on the gut–brain axis seems to influence weight maintenance. In conclusion, although interesting findings exist, the evidence is contradictory in some places, and long-term clinical trials are necessary to draw more robust conclusions.
Biological Markers in Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Łoś Kacper , Waszkiewicz Napoleon
Published: April 2021

Anxiety disorders are one of the most commonly reported disorders in psychiatry, causing a high medical and socio-economic burden. Recently, there has been a soaring interest in the biological basis of anxiety disorders, which is reflected in an increasing number of articles related to the topic. Due to the ambiguity of the diagnosis and a large number of underdiagnosed patients, researchers are looking for laboratory tests that could facilitate the diagnosis of anxiety disorders in clinical practice and would allow for the earliest possible implementation of appropriate treatment. Such potential biomarkers may also be useable in monitoring the efficacy of pharmacological therapy for anxiety disorders. Therefore this article reviews the literature of potential biomarkers such as components of saliva, peripheral blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and neuroimaging studies. There are promising publications in the literature that can be useful. The most valuable and promising markers of saliva are cortisol, lysozyme, and α-amylase (sAA). In the blood, in turn, we can distinguish serotonin, brain-derived serum neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cortisol, and microRNA. Structural changes in the amygdala and hippocampus are promising neuroimaging markers, while in CSF, potential markers include oxytocin and 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). Unfortunately, research in the field of biomarkers is hampered by insufficient knowledge about the etiopathogenesis of anxiety disorders, the significant heterogeneity of anxiety disorders, frequent comorbidities, and low specificity of biomarkers. The development of appropriate biomarker panels and their assessment using new approaches may have the prospective to overcome the above-mentioned obstacles.
Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices in Hemodialysis and Chronic Kidney Disease Patients—An Experience-Based Narrative Review
Authors: Nowak Krzysztof , Kusztal Mariusz
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are a standard therapy utilized for different cardiac conditions. They are implanted in a growing number of patients, including those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure and malignant arrhythmia, remain the leading cause of mortality among CKD patients, especially in ESKD. CIED implantation procedures are considered minor surgery, typically with transvenous leads inserted via upper central veins, followed by an impulse generator introduced subcutaneously. A decision regarding optimal hemodialysis (HD) modality and the choice of permanent vascular access (VA) could be particularly challenging in CIED recipients. The potential consequences of arteriovenous access on the CIED side are related to (1) venous hypertension from lead-related central vein stenosis and (2) the risk of systemic infection. Therefore, when creating permanent vascular access, the clinical scenario may be complicated by the CIED presence on one side and the lack of suitable vessels for arteriovenous fistula on the contralateral arm. These factors suggest the need for an individualized approach according to different clinical situations: (1) CIED in a CKD patient; (2) CIED in a patient on hemodialysis CIED; and (3) VA in a patient with CIED. This complex clinical conundrum creates the necessity for close cooperation between cardiologists and nephrologists.
Emergency Department as the Entry Point to Inpatient Care: A Nationwide, Population-Based Study in South Korea, 2016–2018
Authors: Kim June-sung , Seo Dong Woo , Kim Youn-Jung , Hong Seok In , Kang Hyunggoo , Kim Su Jin , Han Kap Su , Lee Sung Woo , Moon Sungwoo , Kim Won Young
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: The emergency department provides lifesaving treatment and has become an entry point to hospital admission. The purpose of our study was to describe the characteristics and outcomes of patients who were admitted through the emergency department to the intensive care unit or general ward. (2) Methods: We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive analysis using the National Emergency Department Information System, analyzing patient data including disease category, diagnosis, and mortality from 1 January 2016, to 31 December 2018. (3) Results: During the study period, about 13.6% were admitted through the emergency department. Of these, the overall in-hospital mortality was 4.6%. The frequent disease class for the intensive care unit admissions was the cardiovascular system, and the classes for the general ward admissions were as follows: injury and toxicology, digestive system, and respiratory system. Cardiovascular system-related emergencies were the predominant cause of death among patients admitted to the intensive care unit; however, oncologic complications were the leading cause of death in the general ward. (4) Conclusions: Emergency departments are incrementally utilized as the entry point for hospital admission. Health care providers need to understand emergency department admission epidemiology and prepare for managing patients with certain common diagnoses.
Short-Term Changes in Quality of Life in Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer during In-Hospital Exercise Training and Chemotherapy Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rutkowska Anna , Rutkowski Sebastian , Wrzeciono Adam , Czech Oliver , Szczegielniak Jan , Jastrzębski Dariusz
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of exercise training on the quality of life (QoL) of patients diagnosed with stage IIIB and stage IV non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared to a passive control group (CG). The exercise-trained group (ETG) consisted of 18 patients, and the CG consisted of 8 patients. The training program in the ETG consisted of two 2-week running cycles interspersed with consecutive rounds of chemotherapy with cytostatic drugs. A comparison of the changes in the Short Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36), St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung (FACT-L) was the primary outcome. Analysis of the results of the SGRQ and the SF-36 questionnaire did not reveal any statistically significant differences in the assessment of QoL between the examined groups. The analysis of FACT-L questionnaires showed statistically significant changes, indicating deterioration of QoL in domains describing physical well-being in the CG. Therefore, the analysis of the results of the QoL assessment did not show any significant improvements in the group of patients undergoing comprehensive exercise training, although deterioration of QoL was noted in the CG.
Is Smiling the Key? Machine Learning Analytics Detect Subtle Patterns in Micro-Expressions of Infants with ASD
Authors: Alvari Gianpaolo , Furlanello Cesare , Venuti Paola
Published: April 2021

Time is a key factor to consider in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Detecting the condition as early as possible is crucial in terms of treatment success. Despite advances in the literature, it is still difficult to identify early markers able to effectively forecast the manifestation of symptoms. Artificial intelligence (AI) provides effective alternatives for behavior screening. To this end, we investigated facial expressions in 18 autistic and 15 typical infants during their first ecological interactions, between 6 and 12 months of age. We employed Openface, an AI-based software designed to systematically analyze facial micro-movements in images in order to extract the subtle dynamics of Social Smiles in unconstrained Home Videos. Reduced frequency and activation intensity of Social Smiles was computed for children with autism. Machine Learning models enabled us to map facial behavior consistently, exposing early differences hardly detectable by non-expert naked eye. This outcome contributes to enhancing the potential of AI as a supportive tool for the clinical framework.
Analysis of Chronic Tinnitus in Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Presbycusis
Authors: Kang Hee , Kang Dae , Kim Sung , Oh Tong , Kim Sang , Yeo Seung
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The most frequent causes of tinnitus associated with hearing loss are noise-induced hearing loss and presbycusis. The mechanism of tinnitus is not yet clear, although several hypotheses have been suggested. Therefore, we aimed to analyze characteristics of chronic tinnitus between noise-induced hearing loss and presbycusis. Materials and Methods: This paper is a retrospective chart review and outpatient clinic-based study of 248 patients with chronic tinnitus from 2015 to 2020 with noise-induced or presbycusis. Pure tone audiometry (PTA), auditory brainstem response (ABR), distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE), transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE), and tinnitograms were conducted. Results: PTA showed that hearing thresholds at all frequencies were higher in patients with noise-induced hearing loss than the presbycusis group. ABR tests showed that patients with presbycusis had longer wave I and III latencies (p < 0.05 each) than patients with noise-induced hearing loss. TEOAE tests showed lower values in patients with noise-induced hearing loss than presbycusis at 1.5, 2, 3, and 4 kHz (p < 0.05 each). DPOAE tests showed that response rates in both ears at 1.5, 2, and 3 kHz were significantly higher in patients with presbycusis than noise-induced hearing loss (p < 0.05 each). Discussion: This study showed that hearing thresholds were higher, the loudness of tinnitus was smaller, and the degree of damage to outer hair cells was lower in patients with presbycusis than with noise-induced hearing loss. Moreover, wave I and III latencies were more prolonged in patients with presbycusis despite their having lower hearing thresholds. These phenomena may reflect the effects of aging or degeneration of the central nervous system with age. Further studies are needed to evaluate the etiologies of tinnitus.
Composite Material of PDMS with Interchangeable Transmittance: Study of Optical, Mechanical Properties and Wettability
Authors: Sales Flaminio , Souza Andrews , Ariati Ronaldo , Noronha Verônica , Giovanetti Elder , Lima Rui , Ribeiro João
Published: April 2021

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a polymer that has attracted the attention of researchers due to its unique properties such as transparency, biocompatibility, high flexibility, and physical and chemical stability. In addition, PDMS modification and combination with other materials can expand its range of applications. For instance, the ability to perform superhydrophobic coating allows for the manufacture of lenses. However, many of these processes are complex and expensive. One of the most promising modifications, which consists of the development of an interchangeable coating, capable of changing its optical characteristics according to some stimuli, has been underexplored. Thus, we report an experimental study of the mechanical and optical properties and wettability of pure PDMS and of two PDMS composites with the addition of 1% paraffin or beeswax using a gravity casting process. The composites’ tensile strength and hardness were lower when compared with pure PDMS. However, the contact angle was increased, reaching the highest values when using the paraffin additive. Additionally, these composites have shown interesting results for the spectrophotometry tests, i.e., the material changed its optical characteristics when heated, going from opaque at room temperature to transparent, with transmittance around 75%, at 70 °C. As a result, these materials have great potential for use in smart devices, such as sensors, due to its ability to change its transparency at high temperatures.
Innovation Concept Model and Prototype Validation of Robotic Fish with a Spatial Oscillating Rigid Caudal Fin
Authors: Wang Shuyan , Han Yu , Mao Shiteng
Published: April 2021

Inspired by carangiform fish with a high-aspect ratio of the caudal fin’s up-down swing, but also by dolphins with a similar caudal fin’s left-right swing, a robotic fish with a spatial oscillating rigid caudal fin is implemented to optimize propulsion and maneuverability, whose orientation could be transformed to any position of a taper domain. First, three steering-engines were adopted to make the conceptual prototype, and an experimental apparatus for measuring thrust, lift forces, lateral forces and torque was developed. Then, three comparison experiments, respectively corresponding to the three modes of cruise, diving and maneuvering in random space, were conducted to imitate bionic fish’s hydrodynamics. The comparison results of the experiments proved that propelling and maneuvering in any direction could be realized through changing the orientation of the spatial oscillating rigid caudal fin.
Mega-Ship-Generated Tsunami: A Field Observation in Tampa Bay, Florida
Authors: Wang Ping , Cheng Jun
Published: April 2021

The displacement of a large amount of water in a moderate-sized estuary by a fast-moving mega-ship can generate tsunami-like waves. Such waves, generated by cruise ships, were observed in Tampa Bay, Florida, USA. Two distinct, long tsunami-like waves were measured, which were associated with the passage of a large cruise ship. The first wave had a period of 5.4 min and a height of 0.40 m near the shoreline. The second wave had a period of 2.5 min and was 0.23 m high. The peak velocity of the onshore flow during the second wave reached 0.65 m/s. The shorter, second wave propagated considerably faster than the first wave in the breaking zone. The measured wave celerity was less than 50% of the calculated values, using the shallow water approximation of the dispersion equation, suggesting that nonlinear effects play an important role. A fundamental similarity among the generation of tsunamis, as induced by mega-ships, landslides or earthquakes, is a process that causes a vertical velocity at the sea surface, where a freely propagating wave is produced. This mega-ship-generated tsunami provides a prototype field laboratory for systematically studying tsunami dynamics, particularly the strong turbulent flows associated with the breaking of a tsunami wave in the nearshore, and tsunami–land interactions. It also provides a realistic demonstration for public education, which is essential for the preparation and management of this unpreventable hazard.
Simulation Modelling for Automated Guided Vehicle Introduction to the Loading Process of Ro-Ro Ships
Authors: Park Sanghyung , Hwang Jeho , Yang Hangjin , Kim Sihyun
Published: April 2021

This paper aims to introduce the adaptation of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in the car-loading process of Ro-Ro ships compared with the current loading process. This study analyzed the applicable scenarios for the AGVs’ adaptation in a Ro-Ro port, employing Arena simulation to compare the productivity of the loading processes. The results revealed that the adaptation of the AGVs in the car-loading process of the Ro-Ro ships improves productivity and solves several problems of the current loading process. With 21 or more AGVs, the entire processing time is similar to or less than the current loading process, whereas, after 40 AGVs, it stayed the same. Furthermore, as the number of AGVs increases, the transfer time decreases, but the queue becomes longer. Identifying the effect of the AGV adaptation, this study provides valuable insights for developing the various traffic situations in Ro-Ro port operations.
Taxonomy and Phylogeny of the Wood-Inhabiting Fungal Genus Hyphoderma with Descriptions of Three New Species from East Asia
Authors: Guan Qian-Xin , Zhao Chang-Lin
Published: April 2021

Three new wood-inhabiting fungi, Hyphoderma crystallinum, H. membranaceum, and H. microporoides spp. nov., are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Hyphoderma crystallinum is characterized by the resupinate basidiomata with smooth hymenial surface scattering scattered nubby crystals, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and numerous encrusted cystidia present. Hyphoderma membranaceum is characterized by the resupinate basidiomata with tuberculate hymenial surface, presence of the moniliform cystidia, and ellipsoid to cylindrical basidiospores. Hyphoderma microporoides is characterized by the resupinate, cottony basidiomata distributing the scattered pinholes visible using hand lens on the hymenial surface, presence of halocystidia, and cylindrical to allantoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS+nLSU rRNA gene regions of the studied samples were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. These phylogenetic analyses showed that three new species clustered into Hyphoderma, in which H. crystallinum was sister to H. variolosum, H. membranaceum was retrieved as a sister species of H. sinense, and H. microporoides was closely grouped with H. nemorale. In addition to new species, map to show global distribution of Hyphoderma species treated in the phylogenetic tree and an identification key to Chinese Hyphoderma are provided.
Characterizing the Assemblage of Wood-Decay Fungi in the Forests of Northwest Arkansas
Authors: Alshammari Nawaf , Ameen Fuad , AlKahtani Muneera D. F. , Stephenson Steven
Published: April 2021

The study reported herein represents an effort to characterize the wood-decay fungi associated with three study areas representative of the forest ecosystems found in northwest Arkansas. In addition to specimens collected in the field, small pieces of coarse woody debris (usually dead branches) were collected from the three study areas, returned to the laboratory, and placed in plastic incubation chambers to which water was added. Fruiting bodies of fungi appearing in these chambers over a period of several months were collected and processed in the same manner as specimens associated with decaying wood in the field. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) ribosomal DNA region was sequenced, and these sequences were blasted against the NCBI database. A total of 320 different fungal taxa were recorded, the majority of which could be identified to species. Two hundred thirteen taxa were recorded as field collections, and 68 taxa were recorded from the incubation chambers. Thirty-nine sequences could be recorded only as unidentified taxa. Collectively, the specimens of fungi collected in the forests of northwest Arkansas belong to 64 and 128 families and genera, respectively.
Performance of LDBio Aspergillus WB and ICT Antibody Detection in Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Rozaliyani Anna , Setianingrum Findra , Azahra Sresta , Abdullah Asriyani , Fatril Ayu Eka , Rosianawati Harmi , Burhan Erlina , Handayani Diah , Arifin Arief Riadi , Zaini Jamal , Tugiran Mulyati , Adawiyah Robiatul , Syam Ridhawati , Wibowo Heri , Wahyuningsih Retno , Kosmidis Chris , Denning David W
Published: April 2021

The detection of Aspergillus antibody has a key role in the diagnosis of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Western blot (WB) and immunochromatography (ICT) lateral flow detection of Aspergillus antibody can be used as confirmatory and screening assays but their comparative performance in TB patients is not known. This study investigated the performance of these assays among 88 post-tuberculosis patients with suspected CPA. Sensitivity, specificity, receiver operating curve (ROC), area under-curve (AUC) and the agreement between two assays were evaluated. Both WB and ICT showed good sensitivity (80% and 85%, respectively) for detection of Aspergillus antibodies. Substantial agreement (0.716) between these assays was also obtained. The highest AUC result (0.804) was achieved with the combination of WB and ICT. The global intensity of WB correlated with the severity of symptoms in CPA group (p = 0.001). The combination of WB and ICT may increase specificity in CPA diagnosis.
Machine Learning in Prediction of IgA Nephropathy Outcome: A Comparative Approach
Authors: Konieczny Andrzej , Stojanowski Jakub , Krajewska Magdalena , Kusztal Mariusz
Published: April 2021

We are overwhelmed by a deluge of data and, although its interpretation is challenging, fortunately, information technology comes to the rescue. One of the tools is artificial intelligence, allowing the identification of relationships between variables and their arbitrary classification. We focused on the assessment of both the remission of proteinuria and the deterioration of kidney function in patients with IgA nephropathy, comparing several methods of machine learning. It is of utmost importance to respond to subtle changes in kidney function, which will lead to a deceleration of the disease. This goal has been achieved by analyzing regression techniques, predicting the difference in serum creatinine concentration. We obtained the performance of the tested models which classified patients with high accuracy (Random Forest Classifier showed an accuracy of 0.8–1.0, Multi-Layer Perceptron an Area Under Curve of 0.8842–0.9035 and an accuracy of 0.7527–1.0) and regressors with a low estimation error (Decision Tree Regressor showed MAE 0.2059, RMSE 0.2645). We have demonstrated the impact of both model selection and input features on performance. Application of machine learning methods requires careful selection of models and assessed parameters. The computing power of modern computers allows searching for the models most effective in terms of accuracy.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Managing Multimorbidity and Cancer
Authors: Cesario Alfredo , D’Oria Marika , Calvani Riccardo , Picca Anna , Pietragalla Antonella , Lorusso Domenica , Daniele Gennaro , Lohmeyer Franziska Michaela , Boldrini Luca , Valentini Vincenzo , Bernabei Roberto , Auffray Charles , Scambia Giovanni
Published: April 2021

Traditional healthcare paradigms rely on the disease-centered approach aiming at reducing human nature by discovering specific drivers and biomarkers that cause the advent and progression of diseases. This reductive approach is not always suitable to understand and manage complex conditions, such as multimorbidity and cancer. Multimorbidity requires considering heterogeneous data to tailor preventing and targeting interventions. Personalized Medicine represents an innovative approach to address the care needs of multimorbid patients considering relevant patient characteristics, such as lifestyle and individual preferences, in opposition to the more traditional “one-size-fits-all” strategy focused on interventions designed at the population level. Integration of omic (e.g., genomics) and non-strictly medical (e.g., lifestyle, the exposome) data is necessary to understand patients’ complexity. Artificial Intelligence can help integrate and manage heterogeneous data through advanced machine learning and bioinformatics algorithms to define the best treatment for each patient with multimorbidity and cancer. The experience of an Italian research hospital, leader in the field of oncology, may help to understand the multifaceted issue of managing multimorbidity and cancer in the framework of Personalized Medicine.
Pollination Potential in Portugal: Leveraging an Ecosystem Service for Sustainable Agricultural Productivity
Authors: Wentling Caroline , Campos Felipe S. , David João , Cabral Pedro
Published: April 2021

As urbanization and agriculture increase worldwide, habitats and food sources for wild pollinators are often fragmented or destroyed. As wild pollinators contribute both resilience and variety to agricultural fields, it is desirable to implement land management practices that preserve their well-being and ability to contribute to food production systems. This study evaluates continental Portugal for its change in suitability to host bee’s pollinator species (Apis mellifera) from 1990 to 2018. It uses the InVEST crop pollination modeling tool and CORINE Land Cover, as well as parameterization to produce pollinator abundance and supply maps. These are generalized to municipality boundaries to provide actionable insights to farmers and policymakers and strengthen land management practices. It finds that the potential for pollination services is growing, with averages of both pollinator abundance and supply indices improving by 8.76% across the continental territory in 28 years. The study results are validated using another pollination index derived from a study that is based on expert opinion and field sampling in a sub-region of Portugal. This method of aggregation of model results and comparison of the percent difference by administrative boundary has the potential to better inform both policymakers and farmers about the pollination potential on a local level, as well as inspire interventions for future productivity.
Novel Uses of Al2O3/Mos2 Hybrid Nanofluid in MQCL Hard Milling of Hardox 500 Steel
Authors: Duc Tran Minh , Long Tran The , Tuan Ngo Minh
Published: April 2021

In recent years, the application of environmentally friendly cutting fluids in the metal cutting industry has been a growing concern in all over the world. In this study, the minimum quantity cooling lubrication (MQCL) technique, which uses very small amount of cutting oil, is motivated to apply to the hard milling process of Hardox 500 steel. Further, rice bran oil, a natural biodegradable oil, is used as the base fluid of Al2O3/MoS2 hybrid nanofluid. ANOVA analysis is used to study the influences of nanoparticle concentration, cutting speed, and feed rate on surface roughness. The obtained results indicate that good surface quality is achieved and the cutting speed is significantly increased to 140 m/min (about 2.55–2.80 times higher than the recommended values) due to the better cooling and lubricating effects from MQCL system and Al2O3/MoS2 hybrid nanofluid. Moreover, the microstructure of the machined surface proves the formation of MoS2 tribo film by using Al2O3/MoS2 hybrid nanofluid, indicating that the effectiveness of each type of nanoparticle in hybrid nanofluid has been promoted. Furthermore, the important technical guides for machining Hardox 500 steel are provided.
Markov Chain K-Means Cluster Models and Their Use for Companies’ Credit Quality and Default Probability Estimation
Authors: Gavira-Durón Nora , Gutierrez-Vargas Octavio , Cruz-Aké Salvador
Published: April 2021

This research aims to determine the existence of inflection points when companies’ credit risk goes from being minimal (Hedge) to being high (Ponzi). We propose an analysis methodology that determines the probability of hedge credits to migrate to speculative and then to Ponzi, through simulations with homogeneous Markov chains and the k-means clustering method to determine thresholds and migration among clusters. To prove this, we used quarterly financial data from a sample of 35 public enterprises over the period between 1 July 2006 and 28 March 2020 (companies listed on the USA, Mexico, Brazil, and Chile stock markets). For simplicity, we make the assumption of no revolving credits for the companies and that they face their next payment only with their operating cash flow. We found that Ponzi companies (1) have a 0.79 probability average of default, while speculative ones had (0) 0.28, and hedge companies (−1) 0.009, which are the inflections point we were looking for. Our work’s main limitation lies in not considering the entities’ behavior when granting credits in altered states (credit relaxation due to credit supply excess).
A New Ensemble Method for Detecting Anomalies in Gene Expression Matrices
Authors: Selicato Laura , Esposito Flavia , Gargano Grazia , Vegliante Maria Carmela , Opinto Giuseppina , Zaccaria Gian Maria , Ciavarella Sabino , Guarini Attilio , Del Buono Nicoletta
Published: April 2021

One of the main problems in the analysis of real data is often related to the presence of anomalies. Namely, anomalous cases can both spoil the resulting analysis and contain valuable information at the same time. In both cases, the ability to detect these occurrences is very important. In the biomedical field, a correct identification of outliers could allow the development of new biological hypotheses that are not considered when looking at experimental biological data. In this work, we address the problem of detecting outliers in gene expression data, focusing on microarray analysis. We propose an ensemble approach for detecting anomalies in gene expression matrices based on the use of Hierarchical Clustering and Robust Principal Component Analysis, which allows us to derive a novel pseudo-mathematical classification of anomalies.
Robust Solutions for Uncertain Continuous-Time Linear Programming Problems with Time-Dependent Matrices
Authors: Wu Hsien-Chung
Published: April 2021

The uncertainty for the continuous-time linear programming problem with time-dependent matrices is considered in this paper. In this case, the robust counterpart of the continuous-time linear programming problem is introduced. In order to solve the robust counterpart, it will be transformed into the conventional form of the continuous-time linear programming problem with time-dependent matrices. The discretization problem is formulated for the sake of numerically calculating the ϵ-optimal solutions, and a computational procedure is also designed to achieve this purpose.
A Compromised Decision-Making Approach to Third-Party Logistics Selection in Sustainable Supply Chain Using Fuzzy AHP and Fuzzy VIKOR Methods
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Nguyen Ngoc-Ai-Thy , Dang Thanh-Tuan , Lu Chen-Ming
Published: April 2021

With the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the e-commerce trend is driving faster, significantly impacting supply chains around the world. Thus, the importance of logistics and supply chain functions has been amplified in almost every business that ships physical goods. In Vietnam, the logistics service sector has seen rapid expansion. Since more and more businesses are seeking third-party logistics (3PL) providers to outsource the logistics functions, this article aims to offer decision-makers an integrated and consistent model for evaluating and selecting the most efficient 3PLs. To this end, the authors exploit a hybrid multi-criteria method which is fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and fuzzy vlsekriterijumska optimizacija i kompromisno resenje (FVIKOR) while examining the most influential and conflicting criteria regarding economic, service level, environmental, social, and risk aspects. Fuzzy information in the natural decision-making process is considered, linguistic variables are used to mitigate the uncertain levels in the criteria weights. First, FAHP (the weighting method) is adopted to evaluate and calculate each criterion’s relative significant fuzzy weight. FVIKOR (the compromised ranking method) is then used to rank the alternatives. The combination of FAHP and FVIKOR methods provides more accurate ranking results. As a result, reliability and delivery time, voice of customer, logistics cost, network management, and quality of service are the most impactful factors to the logistics outsourcing problem. Eventually, the optimized 3PLs were determined that fully meet the criteria of sustainable development. The developed integrated model offers the complete and robust 3PLs evaluation and selection process and can also be a powerful decision support tool for other industries.
Generalized and Extended Versions of Ankeny–Rivlin and Improved, Generalized, and Extended Versions of Rivlin Type Inequalities for the sth Derivative of a Polynomial
Authors: Krishnadas Kshetrimayum , Ngamchui Reingachan , Chanam Barchand
Published: April 2021

Let p(z) be a polynomial of degree n having no zeros in |z|<1. In this paper, we generalize and extend a well-known result proven by Ankeny and Rivlin for the sth derivative of the polynomial. Furthermore, another well-known result proven by Rivlin is also improved, generalized and extended for the sth derivative of p(z). Our results also give a number of interesting consequences as special cases.
A Projected Forward-Backward Algorithm for Constrained Minimization with Applications to Image Inpainting
Authors: Suantai Suthep , Kankam Kunrada , Cholamjiak Prasit
Published: April 2021

In this research, we study the convex minimization problem in the form of the sum of two proper, lower-semicontinuous, and convex functions. We introduce a new projected forward-backward algorithm using linesearch and inertial techniques. We then establish a weak convergence theorem under mild conditions. It is known that image processing such as inpainting problems can be modeled as the constrained minimization problem of the sum of convex functions. In this connection, we aim to apply the suggested method for solving image inpainting. We also give some comparisons to other methods in the literature. It is shown that the proposed algorithm outperforms others in terms of iterations. Finally, we give an analysis on parameters that are assumed in our hypothesis.
Direct Collocation with Reproducing Kernel Approximation for Two-Phase Coupling System in a Porous Enclosure
Authors: Yang Judy P. , Liao Yi-Shan
Published: April 2021

The direct strong-form collocation method with reproducing kernel approximation is introduced to efficiently and effectively solve the natural convection problem within a parallelogrammic enclosure. As the convection behavior in the fluid-saturated porous media involves phase coupling, the resulting system is highly nonlinear in nature. To this end, the local approximation is adopted in conjunction with Newton–Raphson method. Nevertheless, to unveil the performance of the method in the nonlinear analysis, only single thermal natural convection is of major concern herein. A unit square is designated as the model problem to investigate the parameters in the system related to the convergence; several benchmark problems are used to verify the accuracy of the approximation, in which the stability of the method is demonstrated by considering various initial conditions, disturbance of discretization, inclination, aspect ratio, and reproducing kernel support size. It is shown that a larger support size can be flexible in approximating highly irregular discretized problems. The derivation of explicit operators with two-phase variables in solving the nonlinear system using the direct collocation is carried out in detail.
Numerical Solution of Bending of the Beam with Given Friction
Authors: Bobková Michaela , Pospíšil Lukáš
Published: April 2021

We are interested in a contact problem for a thin fixed beam with an internal point obstacle with possible rotation and shift depending on a given swivel and sliding friction. This problem belongs to the most basic practical problems in, for instance, the contact mechanics in the sustainable building construction design. The analysis and the practical solution plays a crucial role in the process and cannot be ignored. In this paper, we consider the classical Euler–Bernoulli beam model, which we formulate, analyze, and numerically solve. The objective function of the corresponding optimization problem for finding the coefficients in the finite element basis combines a quadratic function and an additional non-differentiable part with absolute values representing the influence of considered friction. We present two basic algorithms for the solution: the regularized primal solution, where the non-differentiable part is approximated, and the dual formulation. We discuss the disadvantages of the methods on the solution of the academic benchmarks.
Factorization à la Dirac Applied to Some Equations of Classical Physics
Authors: Fellah Zine El Abiddine , Ogam Erick , Fellah Mohamed , Depollier Claude
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we present an application of Dirac’s factorization method to three types of the partial differential equations, i.e., the wave equation, the scattering equation, and the telegrapher’s equation. This method gives results that contribute to a better understanding of physical phenomena by generalizing the Euler and constituent equations. Its application to the wave equation shows that it is indeed a factorization method, since it gives d’Alembert’s solutions in a more general framework. In the case of the diffusion equation, a fractional differential equation has been established that has already been highlighted by other authors in particular cases, but by indirect methods. Dirac’s method brings several new results in the case of the telegraphers’ equation corresponding to the propagation of an acoustic wave in a dissipative fluid. On the one hand, its formalism facilitates the temporal interpretation of phenomena, in particular the density and compressibility of the fluid become temporal operators, which can be “seen” as susceptibilities of the fluid. On the other hand, a consequence of this temporal modeling is the highlighting in Euler’s equation of a term similar to the one that was introduced by Boussinesq and Basset in the equation of the motion of a solid sphere in a unsteady fluid.
The Fuzzy Methodology’s Digitalization of the Biological Assets Evaluation in Agricultural Enterprises in Accordance with the IFRS
Authors: Khushvakhtzoda (Barfiev) Kobiljon , Nazarov Dmitry
Published: April 2021

The study of the assessment and reflection of biological assets in the economic processes of agricultural enterprises can be represented as a chain of phenomena in which scientists and practitioners try to study and understand the nature and essence of biological assets in various aspects. This article discusses the principles of accounting for biological assets in the agricultural enterprises’ economic life of the Republic of Tajikistan and identifies the reasons and mechanisms for their reflection based on the principles of the International Financial Reporting System (IFRS) in refraction to the specifics and national features of accounting. The author gives his own interpretation of these approaches and constructs the architecture of the information module for accounting for biological assets and the results of biotransformation, based on the web services architecture (WSA) within the framework of the development trend of these and new accounting models in connection with the transition of the world economy to a digital format. The article provides specific authors’ approaches to implementing this architecture in PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) and also implements one of the approaches to assessing the value of biological assets, based on the theory of fuzzy sets, taking into account the risk of investment inefficiency.