bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Changes in Psychophysical Performance during the Afternoon Drop off in Work Capacity after the Exposure to Specific Color of Light
Authors: Wolska Agnieszka , Najmiec Andrzej , Sawicki Dariusz
Published: January 2022

The aim of the study was to define whether changes in psychophysical performance will occur after the exposure to light of a specific color during the early afternoon decrease in work capacity. The evaluation of psychophysical performance was carried out on a group of 50 subjects using the following tools: Grandjean Scale, Attention and Perceptiveness Test (TUS), and GONOGO test. The study was performed for exposure to reference light, white light enriched by blue light (WBL), and white light enriched by red light (WRL). The analysis of psychophysical performance results indicates the positive influence of a specific color of light on different factors of psychophysical performance. Exposure to WRL among participants from the 22–34 subgroup contributed to an increase in the number of correct tests and the speed of work as well as a decrease in the number of mistakes, less boredom, and higher performance. The exposure to WBL among participants from the 55+ subgroup decreased the number of mistakes and reduced the response time. The results are consistent with the outcomes of previous research carried out on an international level, confirming that blue and red light are effective at increasing psychophysical performance. It was demonstrated that the psychophysical performance increases also when blue or red light is a significant component in the spectrum of white light.
Bio-Crude Production from Protein-Extracted Grass Residue through Hydrothermal Liquefaction
Authors: Toor Saqib Sohail , Shah Ayaz Ali , Sharma Kamaldeep , Seehar Tahir Hussain , Pedersen Thomas Helmer , Rosendahl Lasse Aistrup
Published: January 2022

In the present study, the protein-extracted grass residue (press cake) was processed through hydrothermal liquefaction under sub and supercritical temperatures (300, 350 and 400 °C) with and without using a potassium carbonate catalyst. The results revealed that bio-crude yield was influenced by both temperature and the catalyst. The catalyst was found to be effective at 350 °C (350 Cat) for enhancing the bio-crude yield, whereas supercritical state in both catalytic and non-catalytic conditions improved the quality of bio-crude with reasonable HHVs (33 to 36 MJ/kg). The thermal behaviour of bio-crude was analysed and higher volatile contents (more than 50% under the range of 350 °C) were found at supercritical conditions. The overall TOC values in the residual aqueous phase varied from 22 to 38 g/L. Higher carbon loss was noticed in the aqueous phase in supercritical conditions. Furthermore, GCMS analysis showed ketones, acids and ester, aromatics and hydrocarbon with negligible nitrogen-containing compounds in bio-crude. In conclusion, the catalytic conversion of grass residue under subcritical conditions (350 Cat) is favourable in terms of high bio-crude yield, however, supercritical conditions promote the deoxygenation of oxygen-containing compounds in biomass and thus improve HHVs of bio-crude.
Improving Energy Efficiency by Utilizing Wetted Cellulose Pads in Passive Cooling Systems
Authors: Morady Ebrahim , Soltani Madjid , Moradi Kashkooli Farshad , Ziabasharhagh Masoud , Al-Haq Armughan , Nathwani Jatin
Published: January 2022

The effectiveness of using wetted cellulose pads on improving the performance of two conventional passive cooling systems has been evaluated. First, an experimental design was developed to determine the impact of using a wetted cellulose pad on the temperature and velocity of the airflow. A cellulose pad (7090 model) with a cross-sectional area of 0.5 × 0.5 m2 and three different thicknesses of 10, 15, and 30 cm were selected and tested. The results indicated that using wetted cellulose pads with thicknesses ranging from 10–30 cm decreased the outlet airflow temperature from 11.3 to 13.7 °C on average. For free airflow at velocity 3.5 m/s, the outlet airflow velocity from the wetted cellulose pad decreased to 0.9, 0.7 and 0.6 m/s, respectively, for cellulose pads with thicknesses of 10, 15, and 30 cm. By applying experimental results on a psychrometric chart, the humidity ratio of outlet airflow was obtained between 40–70%. The study established airflow velocity as the critical parameter in passive cooling systems. With the novel concept of combining wetted cellulose pads for passive cooling systems (i.e., wind catchers and induced ventilation), there is good potential to reduce the energy requirements for thermal comfort in buildings in regions with a hot and arid climate.
On the Assessment of e-Banking Websites Supporting Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Chmielarz Witold , Zborowski Marek
Published: January 2022

The main aim of this article was to test the authors’ proprietary method (i.e., the conversion method applied to evaluate e-banking services that support sustainable development goals in households, communities, and society). The authors’ conversion method can be applied with the aim of maintaining a balance between households, producers, and public administration services in line with the principles of sustainable development of the information society in Poland. To achieve this goal, the authors identified the differences between the results obtained using the conversion method and the results produced by other methods such as TOPSIS, Promethee II, and PROSA involving the same group of respondents. A hypothesis was made about the existence of significant differences in the results obtained as part of the studies. The research was carried out on a sample of nearly 830 ratings concerning the 27 most popular electronic banks in Poland. As part of the survey, the respondents assessed 18 characteristics (attributes) of the selected banks using a simplified Likert scale. The study was conducted during the pandemic in Poland in 2020. The authors compared the results achieved in the case of the TOPSIS, Promethee II, and PROSA methods and the ones obtained with the application of the conversion method. Then, the ratings of the e-banking websites were arranged in descending order, and the distances between the positions in the rankings obtained by the conversion method and other methods were calculated. In addition, the R2 correlation coefficients were calculated for all combinations of the results received using individual methods. The results showed the greatest differences both in the absolute distances between the positions obtained in the ranking and the lowest value of the R2 correlation coefficient in the case of the conversion method in relation to the other methods. The limitation of the present research resulted from the fact that the study sample included respondents who were all members of the academic environment. The students analyzed in the study were part of a group supporting globalization processes where e-business solutions are widely used. However, the purchases of goods and services both local and foreign made by this group were often limited in scope and value due to a lack of funds. The research results indicate a potential need for improvement of the conversion method.
A Review of Modelling of the FCC Unit—Part II: The Regenerator
Authors: Selalame Thabang W. , Patel Raj , Mujtaba Iqbal M. , John Yakubu M.
Published: January 2022

Heavy petroleum industries, including the Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) unit, are among some of the biggest contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The FCC unit’s regenerator is where these emissions originate mostly, meaning the operation of FCC regenerators has come under scrutiny in recent years due to the global mitigation efforts against climate change, affecting both current operations and the future of the FCC unit. As a result, it is more important than ever to develop models that are accurate and reliable at predicting emissions of various greenhouse gases to keep up with new reporting guidelines that will help optimise the unit for increased coke conversion and lower operating costs. Part 1 of this paper was dedicated to reviewing the riser section of the FCC unit. Part 2 reviews traditional modelling methodologies used in modelling and simulating the FCC regenerator. Hydrodynamics and kinetics of the regenerator are discussed in terms of experimental data and modelling. Modelling of constitutive parts that are important to the FCC unit, such as gas–solid cyclones and catalyst transport lines, are also considered. This review then identifies areas where the current generation of models of the regenerator can be improved for the future. Parts 1 and 2 are such that a comprehensive review of the literature on modelling the FCC unit is presented, showing the guidance and framework followed in building models for the unit.
Numerical Simulation of Magnesium Dust Dispersion and Explosion in 20 L Apparatus via an Euler–Lagrange Method
Authors: Fu Tao , Tsai Yun-Ting , Zhou Qiang
Published: January 2022

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to investigate the explosion characteristics of a Mg/air mixture in a 20 L apparatus via an Euler–Lagrange method. Various fluid properties, namely pressure field, velocity field, turbulence intensity, and the degree of particle dispersion, were obtained and analyzed. The simulation results suggested that the best delayed ignition time was 60 ms after dust dispersion, which was consistent with the optimum delayed ignition time adopted by experimental apparatus. These results indicate that the simulated Mg particles were evenly diffused in the 20 L apparatus under the effect of the turbulence. The simulations also reveal that the pressure development in the explosion system can be divided into the pressure rising stage, the maximum pressure stage, and pressure attenuation stage. The relative error of the maximum explosion pressure between the simulation and the experiments is approximately 1.04%. The explosion model provides reliable and useful information for investigating Mg explosions.
A Recent and Systematic Review on Water Extraction from the Atmosphere for Arid Zones
Authors: Wang Yinyin , Danook Suad Hassan , AL-bonsrulah Hussein A.Z. , Veeman Dhinakaran , Wang Fuzhang
Published: January 2022

Water is essential for food security, industrial output, ecological sustainability, and a country’s socioeconomic progress. Water scarcity and environmental concerns have increased globally in recent years as a result of the ever-increasing population, rapid industrialization and urbanization, and poor water resource management. Even though there are sufficient water resources, their uneven circulation leads to shortages and the requirement for portable fresh water. More than two billion people live in water-stressed areas. Hence, the present study covers all of the research based on water extraction from atmospheric air, including theoretical and practical (different experimental methods) research. A comparison between different results is made. The calculated efficiency of the systems used to extract water from atmospheric air by simulating the governing equations is discussed. The effects of different limitations, which affect and enhance the collectors’ efficiency, are studied. This research article will be very useful to society and will support further research on the extraction of water in arid zones.
New Possibilities for Constructing Heuristic Solutions to Problems of Electromagnetic Diffraction
Authors: Vesnik Michael V.
Published: January 2022

The paper formulates the foundations of a recently developed approach, named the method of fundamental components, intended for constructing heuristic solutions in problems of electromagnetic diffraction, for the first time. The difference between the new method and the known heuristic approaches lies in the application of an adjustment procedure that increases the accuracy. The possibility of the mentioned method for obtaining new results is illustrated with the help of the author’s previously published works. The advantages of the new method in constructing high-speed solvers and in the physical interpretation of numerical solutions are shown.
A Ponceau S Staining-Based Dot Blot Assay for Rapid Protein Quantification of Biological Samples
Authors: Helbing Dario Lucas , Böhm Leopold , Oraha Nova , Stabenow Leonie Karoline , Cui Yan
Published: January 2022

Despite the availability of a wide range of commercial kits, protein quantification is often unreliable, especially for tissue-derived samples, leading to uneven loading in subsequent experiments. Here we show that the widely used Bicinchoninic Acid (BCA) assay tends to underestimate protein concentrations of tissue samples. We present a Ponceau S staining-based dot-blot assay as an alternative for protein quantification. This method is simple, rapid, more reliable than the BCA assay, compatible with biological samples lysed in RIPA or 2x SDS gel-loading buffer, and also inexpensive.
Chitosan/Pluronic F127 Thermosensitive Hydrogel as an Injectable Dexamethasone Delivery Carrier
Authors: García-Couce Jomarien , Tomás Miriela , Fuentes Gastón , Que Ivo , Almirall Amisel , Cruz Luis J.
Published: January 2022

Intra-articular administration of anti-inflammatory drugs is a strategy that allows localized action on damaged articular cartilage and reduces the side effects associated with systemic drug administration. The objective of this work is to prepare injectable thermosensitive hydrogels for the long-term application of dexamethasone. The hydrogels were prepared by mixing chitosan (CS) and Pluronic-F127 (PF) physically. In addition, tripolyphosphate (TPP) was used as a crosslinking agent. Chitosan added to the mix increased the gel time compared to the pluronic gel alone. The incorporation of TPP into the material modified the morphology of the hydrogels formed. Subsequently, MTS and Live/Dead® experiments were performed to investigate the toxicity of hydrogels against human chondrocytes. The in vitro releases of dexamethasone (DMT) from CS-PF and CS-PF-TPP gels had an initial burst and took more time than that from the PF hydrogel. In vivo studies showed that hydrogels retained the fluorescent compound longer in the joint than when administered in PBS alone. These results suggest that the CS-PF and CS-PF-TPP hydrogels loaded with DMT could be a promising drug delivery platform for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Identification of Phosphorus Stress Related Proteins in the Seedlings of Dongxiang Wild Rice (Oryza Rufipogon Griff.) Using Label-Free Quantitative Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Deng Qianwen , Dai Liangfang , Chen Yaling , Wu Decai , Shen Yu , Xie Jiankun , Luo Xiangdong
Published: January 2022

Phosphorus (P) deficiency tolerance in rice is a complex character controlled by polygenes. Through proteomics analysis, we could find more low P tolerance related proteins in unique P-deficiency tolerance germplasm Dongxiang wild rice (Oryza Rufipogon, DXWR), which will provide the basis for the research of its regulation mechanism. In this study, a proteomic approach as well as joint analysis with transcriptome data were conducted to identify potential unique low P response genes in DXWR during seedlings. The results showed that 3589 significant differential accumulation proteins were identified between the low P and the normal P treated root samples of DXWR. The degree of change was more than 1.5 times, including 60 up-regulated and 15 downregulated proteins, 24 of which also detected expression changes of more than 1.5-fold in the transcriptome data. Through quantitative trait locus (QTLs) matching analysis, seven genes corresponding to the significantly different expression proteins identified in this study were found to be uncharacterized and distributed in the QTLs interval related to low P tolerance, two of which (LOC_Os12g09620 and LOC_Os03g40670) were detected at both transcriptome and proteome levels. Based on the comprehensive analysis, it was found that DXWR could increase the expression of purple acid phosphatases (PAPs), membrane location of P transporters (PTs), rhizosphere area, and alternative splicing, and it could decrease reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity to deal with low P stress. This study would provide some useful insights in cloning the P-deficiency tolerance genes from wild rice, as well as elucidating the molecular mechanism of low P resistance in DXWR.
Wildfires and Monsoons: Cryptic Drivers for Highly Variable Provenance Signals within a Carboniferous Fluvial System
Authors: Anders Bébhinn , Tyrrell Shane , Chew David , O’Sullivan Gary , Mark Chris , Graham John , Badenszki Eszter , Murray John
Published: January 2022

Sediment delivery and supply are explicitly controlled by variations in broad-scale processes such as climate, tectonics and eustasy. These in turn influence fluvial processes and hinterland evolution. A bespoke multi-proxy approach (integrating apatite and zircon U-Pb geochronology, trace elements in apatite, and Pb-in-K-feldspar provenance tools) coupled with outcrop investigation is used to constrain the temporal trends in sediment delivery to channel sandstones of the fluvio-estuarine mid-Viséan Mullaghmore Sandstone Formation, Ireland. Provenance data indicate unique detrital signatures for all sampled horizons, indicating the fluctuating nature of sediment supply to this medium-sized basin. Tectonism and/or abrupt relative sea-level fall likely caused fluvial rejuvenation, resulting in local basement sourcing of the initial fill. Older and more distal sources, such as the Nagssugtoqidian Belt of East Greenland, become more prominent in stratigraphically younger channel sandstones suggesting catchment expansion. Paleoproterozoic to Mesoproterozoic sources are most dominant, yet the detrital grain cargo varies in each channel sandstone. Proximal sources such as the Donegal Batholith and Dalradian Supergroup are variable and appear to switch on and off. These signal shifts are likely the result of channel migration and paleoclimatic fluctuation. A monsoonal climate and large-scale wildfire events (evidenced by fusain) likely contributed to modify plant cover, intensify erosion, and increase run-off and sediment delivery rates from specific areas of the hinterland.
A Novel Technique Using Advanced Oxidation Process (UV-C/H2O2) Combined with Micro-Nano Bubbles on Decontamination, Seed Viability, and Enhancing Phytonutrients of Roselle Microgreens
Authors: Phornvillay Surisa , Yodsarn Suwanan , Oonsrithong Jiraporn , Srilaong Varit , Pongprasert Nutthachai
Published: January 2022

Microbial contamination commonly occurs in microgreens due to contaminated seeds. This study investigated the decontamination effects of water wash (control), 5% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), UV-C (36 watts), advanced oxidation process (AOP; H2O2 + UV-C), and improved AOP by combination with microbubbles (MBs; H2O2 + MBs and H2O2 + UV-C + MBs) on microbial loads, seeds’ viability, and physio-biochemical properties of microgreens from corresponding roselle seeds. Results showed that H2O2 and AOP, with and without MBs, significantly reduced total aerobic bacteria, coliforms, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and molds and yeast log count in seeds as compared to the control. Improved AOP treatment of H2O2 + UV-C + MBs significantly augmented antimicrobial activity against total bacteria and E. coli (not detected,) as compared to control and other treatments due to the formation of the highest hydroxy radicals (5.25 × 10−13 M). Additionally, H2O2 and combined treatments promoted seed germination, improved microbiological quality, total phenolic, flavonoids, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•) activity of the grown microgreens. Ascorbic acid content was induced only in microgreens developed from H2O2-treated seeds. Single UV-C treatment was ineffective to inactivate the detected microorganism population in seeds. These findings demonstrated that improved AOP treatment (H2O2 + UV-C + MBs) could potentially be used as a new disinfection technology for seed treatment in microgreens production.
Pre-Existing Lymphopenia Increases the Risk of Hospitalization and Death after SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Garbo Riccardo , Valent Francesca , Gigli Gian Luigi , Valente Mariarosaria
Published: January 2022

There is limited information regarding the severity of COVID-19 in immunocompromized patients. We conducted a retrospective cohort study considering the period from 1 March 2020 to 31 December 2020 to determine whether previously existing lymphopenia increases the risk of hospitalization and death after SARS-CoV-2 infection in the general population. The laboratory and hospital discharge databases of the Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale were used, and 5415 subjects infected with SARS-CoV-2 and with at least one recent absolute lymphocyte count determination before SARS-CoV-2 positivity were included. In total, 817 (15.1%) patients had severe COVID-19. Patients developing severe COVID-19 were more frequently males (44.9% of the severe COVID-19 group vs. 41.5% in the non-severe COVID-19 group; p < 0.0001) and were older (73.2 ± 13.8 vs. 58.4 ± 20.3 years; p < 0.0001). Furthermore, 29.9% of the lymphopenic patients developed severe COVID-19 vs. 14.5% of the non-lymphopenic patients (p < 0.0001). In a logistic regression model, female sex remained a protective factor (OR = 0.514, 95%CI 0.438–0.602, p < 0.0001), while age and lymphopenia remained risk factors for severe COVID-19 (OR = 1.047, 95%CI 1.042–1.053, p < 0.0001 for each additional year of age; OR = 1.715, 95%CI 1.239–2.347, p = 0.0011 for lymphopenia). This provides further information to stratify the risk of COVID-19 severity, which may be an important element in the management of immunosuppressive therapies.
Changes in Cigarette Smoking and Vaping in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK: Findings from Baseline and 12-Month Follow up of HEBECO Study
Authors: Kale Dimitra , Perski Olga , Herbec Aleksandra , Beard Emma , Shahab Lion
Published: January 2022

This study investigated UK adults’ changes in cigarette smoking and vaping during the COVID-19 pandemic and factors associated with any changes. Data were from an online longitudinal study. A self-selected sample (n = 332) of 228 smokers and 155 vapers (51 participants were both smokers and vapers) completed 5 surveys between April 2020 and June 2021. Participants self-reported data on sociodemographics, COVID-19-related, and smoking/vaping characteristics. During the 12 months of observations, among smokers, 45% self-reported a quit attempt (27.5% due to COVID-19-related reasons) since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic and the quit rate was 17.5%. At 12 months, 35.1% of continuing smokers (n = 174) reported smoking less and 37.9% the same, while 27.0% reported an increase in the number of cigarettes smoked/day. Among vapers, 25.0% self-reported a quit attempt (16.1% due to COVID-19-related reasons) and the quit rate was 18.1%. At 12 months, 47.7% of continuing vapers (n = 109) reported no change in the frequency of vaping/hour, while a similar proportion reported vaping less (27.5%) and more (24.8%). Motivation to quit smoking and being younger were associated with making a smoking quit attempt and smoking cessation. Being a cigarette smoker was associated with vaping cessation. Among a self-selected sample, COVID-19 stimulated more interest in reducing or quitting cigarette smoking than vaping.
The Predictive Utility of Valuing the Future for Smoking Cessation: Findings from the ITC 4 Country Surveys
Authors: Borland Ron , Le Grande Michael , Heckman Bryan W. , Fong Geoffrey T. , Bickel Warren K. , Stein Jeff S. , East Katherine A. , Hall Peter A. , Cummings Kenneth Michael
Published: January 2022

Background: Delay discounting (DD) and time perspective (TP) are conceptually related constructs that are theorized as important determinants of the pursuit of future outcomes over present inclinations. This study explores their predictive relationships for smoking cessation. Methods: 5006 daily smokers at a baseline wave provided 6710 paired observations of quitting activity between two waves. Data are from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) smoking and vaping surveys with samples from the USA, Canada, England, and Australia, across three waves conducted in 2016, 2018 and 2020. Smokers were assessed for TP and DD, plus smoking-specific predictors at one wave of cessation outcomes defined as either making a quit attempt and/or success among those who tried to quit which was ascertained at the subsequent survey wave. Results: TP and DD were essentially uncorrelated. TP predicted making quit attempts, both on its own and controlling for other potential predictors but was negatively associated with quit success. By contrast, DD was not related to making quit attempts, but high DD predicted relapse. The presence of financial stress at baseline resulted in some moderation of effects. Conclusions: Understanding the mechanisms of action of TP and DD can advance our understanding of, and ability to enhance, goal-directed behavioural change. TP appears to contribute to future intention formation, but not necessarily practical thought of how to achieve goals. DD is more likely an index of capacity to effectively generate competing future possibilities in response to immediate gratification.
Spatiotemporal Evaluation of Water Quality and Hazardous Substances in Small Coastal Streams According to Watershed Characteristics
Authors: Lee Han-Saem , Lim Su-Jin , Lim Byung-Ran , Kim Hong-Seok , Lee Heung-Soo , Ahn Tae-Ung , Shin Hyun-Sang
Published: January 2022

In this study, spatial and temporal changes of eight water quality indicators and 30 types of hazardous substances including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), pesticides, and inorganic matters for the small coastal streams along the West Coast of South Korea were investigated. In coastal streams with clear seasonal changes in water quality, larger watershed areas led to greater contamination by particulate matter (i.e., suspended solids, r = 0.89), and smaller watershed areas led to greater contamination by organic matter (i.e., BOD, r = −0.78). The concentration of VOCs and pesticides was higher in agricultural areas, and those of SVOCs and metals were often higher in urban areas. According to the principal component analysis (PCA), during the wet season, the fluctuation in the water quality of coastal streams was higher in urban areas than in agricultural areas. Furthermore, coastal streams in residential areas exhibited higher levels of SVOCs, and those in industrial areas exhibited higher levels of metallic substances. Based on these results, the spatial and temporal trends of water quality and hazardous substances were obtained according to watershed characteristics, thereby clarifying the pollution characteristics of small-scale coastal streams and the major influencing factors.
The Effect of Sanitizing Treatments on Respirator Filtration Performance
Authors: Schütz Jürg A. , Pierlot Anthony P. , Alexander David L. J.
Published: January 2022

The potential for alcoholic vapors emitted by common sanitizing treatments to deteriorate the (electrostatic) filtration performance of disposable respirator masks has been investigated. Reports in the literature and some standard test methods provide a confusing and ambiguous picture concerning the relevance of this effect. Four different types of exposure were investigated in this study to clarify the effect of alcoholic vapor emissions on respirator masks. These included exposure to saturated vapors, use of hand sanitizers, cleaning of table surfaces and sanitization of masks by spraying them with alcohol-containing solutions. Methods employed were designed to be as real-world oriented as possible while remaining reproducible. Filtration performance and deterioration effects on exposure to the different treatments were determined on three different types of certified commercial respirator masks—a P2 and two KN95 masks. This study provides substantial evidence that disposable respirator masks with an accepted performance rating are seriously compromised from an exposure to saturated alcoholic vapors, can tolerate a one-off spray treatment with an alcoholic solution and retain their attested protection under the influence of alcoholic vapors from the use of hand sanitizer or spray sanitizer. Considering the range of vastly different outcomes obtained from the four treatments investigated, it seems prudent to assess in each case the specific effects of alcoholic solution treatments and vapors on respirator masks before use.
The COVID-19 Outbreak and Risk–Return Spillovers between Main and SME Stock Markets in the MENA Region
Authors: Al-Nassar Nassar S. , Makram Beljid
Published: January 2022

This study investigates return and asymmetric volatility spillovers and dynamic correlations between the main and small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) stock markets in Saudi Arabia and Egypt for the periods before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Return and volatility spillovers are modelled using a VAR-asymmetric BEKK–GARCH (1,1) model, while a VAR-asymmetric DCC–GARCH (1,1) model is employed to model the dynamic conditional correlations between these markets, which are then used to determine and explore portfolio design and hedging implications. The results show that while bidirectional return spillovers between the main and SME stock markets are limited to Saudi Arabia, shock and volatility spillovers have different characteristics and dynamics in both main–SME market pairs. In addition, the dynamic correlations between the main and SME markets are mostly positive and have notably increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in Saudi Arabia, suggesting that adding SME stocks to a main stock portfolio enhances its risk-adjusted return, especially during tranquil market phases. One practical implication of our results is that the development of SME stock markets can indirectly contribute to economic development via the main market channel and provide an avenue for portfolio diversification and risk management.
Surface Elevation Changes Estimation Underneath Mangrove Canopy Using SNERL Filtering Algorithm and DoD Technique on UAV-Derived DSM Data
Authors: Mohamad Norhafizi , Ahmad Anuar , Khanan Mohd Faisal Abdul , Din Ami Hassan Md
Published: January 2022

Estimating surface elevation changes in mangrove forests requires a technique to filter the mangrove canopy and quantify the changes underneath. Hence, this study estimates surface elevation changes underneath the mangrove canopy through vegetation filtering and Difference of DEM (DoD) techniques using two epochs of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) data carried out during 2016 and 2017. A novel filtering algorithm named Surface estimation from Nearest Elevation and Repetitive Lowering (SNERL) is used to estimate the elevation height underneath the mangrove canopy. Consequently, DoD technique is used to quantify the elevation change rates at the ground surface, which comprise erosion, accretion, and sedimentation. The significant findings showed that region of interest (ROI) 5 experienced the highest volumetric accretion (surface raising) at 0.566 cm3. The most increased erosion (surface lowering) was identified at ROI 8 at −2.469 cm3. In contrast, for vertical change average rates, ROI 6 experienced the highest vertical accretion (surface raising) at 1.281 m. In comparison, the most increased vertical erosion (surface lowering) was spotted at ROI 3 at −0.568 m. The change detection map and the rates of surface elevation changes at Kilim River enabled authorities to understand the situation thoroughly and indicate the future situation, including its interaction with sea-level rise impacts.
Potential Use of Drone Ultra-High-Definition Videos for Detailed 3D City Modeling
Authors: Alsadik Bashar , Khalaf Yousif Hussein
Published: January 2022

Ongoing developments in video resolution either using consumer-grade or professional cameras has opened opportunities for different applications such as in sports events broadcasting and digital cinematography. In the field of geoinformation science and photogrammetry, image-based 3D city modeling is expected to benefit from this technology development. Highly detailed 3D point clouds with low noise are expected to be produced when using ultra high definition UHD videos (e.g., 4K, 8K). Furthermore, a greater benefit is expected when the UHD videos are captured from the air by consumer-grade or professional drones. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have been published to quantify the expected outputs when using UHD cameras in terms of 3D modeling and point cloud density. In this paper, a quantification is shown about the expected point clouds and orthophotos qualities when using UHD videos from consumer-grade drones and a review of which applications they can be applied in. The results show that an improvement in 3D models of ≅65% relative accuracy and ≅90% in point density can be attained when using 8K video frames compared with HD video frames which will open a wide range of applications and business cases in the near future.
An ANNs-Based Method for Automated Labelling of Schematic Metro Maps
Authors: Lan Tian , Li Zhilin , Wang Jicheng , Gong Chengyin , Ti Peng
Published: January 2022

Schematic maps are popular for representing transport networks. In the last two decades, some researchers have been working toward automated generation of network layouts (i.e., the network geometry of schematic maps), while automated labelling of schematic maps is not well considered. The descriptive-statistics-based labelling method, which models the labelling space by defining various station-based line relations in advance, has been specially developed for schematic maps. However, if a certain station-based line relation is not predefined in the database, this method may not be able to infer suitable labelling positions under this relation. It is noted that artificial neural networks (ANNs) have the ability to infer unseen relations. In this study, we aim to develop an ANNs-based method for the labelling of schematic metro maps. Samples are first extracted from representative schematic metro maps, and then they are employed to train and test ANNs models. Five types of attributes (e.g., station-based line relations) are used as inputs, and two types of attributes (i.e., directions and positions of labels) are used as outputs. Experiments show that this ANNs-based method can generate effective and satisfactory labelling results in the testing cases. Such a method has potential to be extended for the labelling of other transport networks.
Infections, Reactions of Natural Killer T Cells and Natural Killer Cells, and Kidney Injury
Authors: Uchida Takahiro , Seki Shuhji , Oda Takashi
Published: January 2022

Natural killer T (NKT) cells and NK cells are representative innate immune cells that perform antitumor and antimicrobial functions. The involvement of these cells in various renal diseases, including acute kidney injury (AKI), has recently become evident. Murine NKT cells are activated and cause AKI in response to various stimuli, such as their specific ligand, cytokines, and bacterial components. Both renal vascular endothelial cell injury (via the perforin-mediated pathway) and tubular epithelial cell injury (via the tumor necrosis factor-alpha/Fas ligand pathway) are independently involved in the pathogenesis of AKI. NK cells complement the functions of NKT cells, thereby contributing to the development of infection-associated AKI. Human CD56+ T cells, which are a functional counterpart of murine NKT cells, as well as a subpopulation of CD56+ NK cells, strongly damage intrinsic renal cells in vitro upon their activation, possibly through mechanisms similar to those in mice. These cells are also thought to be involved in the acute exacerbation of pre-existing glomerulonephritis triggered by infection in humans, and their roles in sepsis-associated AKI are currently under investigation. In this review, we will provide an overview of the recent advances in the understanding of the association among infections, NKT and NK cells, and kidney injury, which is much more profound than previously considered. The important role of liver macrophages in the activation of NKT cells will also be introduced.
MTEP, a Selective mGluR5 Antagonist, Had a Neuroprotective Effect but Did Not Prevent the Development of Spontaneous Recurrent Seizures and Behavioral Comorbidities in the Rat Lithium–Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy
Authors: Dyomina Alexandra V. , Kovalenko Anna A. , Zakharova Maria V. , Postnikova Tatiana Yu. , Griflyuk Alexandra V. , Smolensky Ilya V. , Antonova Irina V. , Zaitsev Aleksey V.
Published: January 2022

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are expressed predominantly on neurons and glial cells and are involved in the modulation of a wide range of signal transduction cascades. Therefore, different subtypes of mGluRs are considered a promising target for the treatment of various brain diseases. Previous studies have demonstrated the seizure-induced upregulation of mGluR5; however, its functional significance is still unclear. In the present study, we aimed to clarify the effect of treatment with the selective mGluR5 antagonist 3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]-pyridine (MTEP) on epileptogenesis and behavioral impairments in rats using the lithium–pilocarpine model. We found that the administration of MTEP during the latent phase of the model did not improve survival, prevent the development of epilepsy, or attenuate its manifestations in rats. However, MTEP treatment completely prevented neuronal loss and partially attenuated astrogliosis in the hippocampus. An increase in excitatory amino acid transporter 2 expression, which has been detected in treated rats, may prevent excitotoxicity and be a potential mechanism of neuroprotection. We also found that MTEP administration did not prevent the behavioral comorbidities such as depressive-like behavior, motor hyperactivity, reduction of exploratory behavior, and cognitive impairments typical in the lithium–pilocarpine model. Thus, despite the distinct neuroprotective effect, the MTEP treatment was ineffective in preventing epilepsy.
TNF-α-Mediated RIPK1 Pathway Participates in the Development of Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain in Rats
Authors: Son Jo Young , Ju Jin Sook , Kim Yu Mi , Ahn Dong Kuk
Published: January 2022

Receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) participates in the regulation of cellular stress and inflammatory responses, but its function in neuropathic pain remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the role of RIPK1 in neuropathic pain following inferior alveolar nerve injury. We developed a model using malpositioned dental implants in male Sprague Dawley rats. This model resulted in significant mechanical allodynia and upregulated RIPK1 expression in the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (TSC). The intracisternal administration of Necrosatin-1 (Nec-1), an RIPK1 inhibitor, blocked the mechanical allodynia produced by inferior alveolar nerve injury The intracisternal administration of recombinant rat tumor necrosis factor-α (rrTNF-α) protein in naive rats produced mechanical allodynia and upregulated RIPK1 expression in the TSC. Moreover, an intracisternal pretreatment with Nec-1 inhibited the mechanical allodynia produced by rrTNF-α protein. Nerve injury caused elevated TNF-α concentration in the TSC and a TNF-α block had anti-allodynic effects, thereby attenuating RIPK1 expression in the TSC. Finally, double immunofluorescence analyses revealed the colocalization of TNF receptor and RIPK1 with astrocytes. Hence, we have identified that astroglial RIPK1, activated by the TNF-α pathway, is a central driver of neuropathic pain and that the TNF-α-mediated RIPK1 pathway is a potential therapeutic target for reducing neuropathic pain following nerve injury.
Graphene Enhances Actin Filament Assembly Kinetics and Modulates NIH-3T3 Fibroblast Cell Spreading
Authors: Park Jinho , Kravchuk Pavlo , Krishnaprasad Adithi , Roy Tania , Kang Ellen Hyeran
Published: January 2022

Actin plays critical roles in various cellular functions, including cell morphogenesis, differentiation, and movement. The assembly of actin monomers into double-helical filaments is regulated in surrounding microenvironments. Graphene is an attractive nanomaterial that has been used in various biomaterial applications, such as drug delivery cargo and scaffold for cells, due to its unique physical and chemical properties. Although several studies have shown the potential effects of graphene on actin at the cellular level, the direct influence of graphene on actin filament dynamics has not been studied. Here, we investigate the effects of graphene on actin assembly kinetics using spectroscopy and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy. We demonstrate that graphene enhances the rates of actin filament growth in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, cell morphology and spreading are modulated in mouse embryo fibroblast NIH-3T3 cultured on a graphene surface without significantly affecting cell viability. Taken together, these results suggest that graphene may have a direct impact on actin cytoskeleton remodeling.
MicroRNAs Are Involved in Regulating Plant Development and Stress Response through Fine-Tuning of TIR1/AFB-Dependent Auxin Signaling
Authors: Luo Pan , Di Dongwei , Wu Lei , Yang Jiangwei , Lu Yufang , Shi Weiming
Published: January 2022

Auxin, primarily indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), is a versatile signal molecule that regulates many aspects of plant growth, development, and stress response. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs), a type of short non-coding RNA, have emerged as master regulators of the auxin response pathways by affecting auxin homeostasis and perception in plants. The combination of these miRNAs and the autoregulation of the auxin signaling pathways, as well as the interaction with other hormones, creates a regulatory network that controls the level of auxin perception and signal transduction to maintain signaling homeostasis. In this review, we will detail the miRNAs involved in auxin signaling to illustrate its in planta complex regulation.
Activated Protein C Protects against Murine Contact Dermatitis by Suppressing Protease-Activated Receptor 2
Authors: Xue Meilang , Lin Haiyan , Zhao Ruilong , Fryer Callum , March Lyn , Jackson Christopher J.
Published: January 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with excessive inflammation and defective skin barrier function. Activated protein C (APC) is a natural anticoagulant with anti-inflammatory and barrier protective functions. However, the effect of APC on AD and its engagement with protease activated receptor (PAR)1 and PAR2 are unknown. Methods: Contact hypersensitivity (CHS), a model for human AD, was induced in PAR1 knockout (KO), PAR2KO and matched wild type (WT) mice using 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB). Recombinant human APC was administered into these mice as preventative or therapeutic treatment. The effect of APC and PAR1KO or PARKO on CHS was assessed via measurement of ear thickness, skin histologic changes, inflammatory cytokine levels, Th cell phenotypes and keratinocyte function. Results: Compared to WT, PAR2KO but not PAR1KO mice displayed less severe CHS when assessed by ear thickness; PAR1KO CHS skin had less mast cells, lower levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-17 and IL-22, and higher levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TGF-β1, whereas PAR2KO CHS skin only contained lower levels of IL-22 and IgE. Both PAR1KO and PAR2KO spleen cells had less Th1/Th17/Th22/Treg cells. In normal skin, PAR1 was present at the stratum granulosum and spinosum, whereas PAR2 at the upper layers of the epidermis. In CHS, however, the expression of PAR1 and PAR2 were increased and spread to the whole epidermis. In vitro, compared to WT cells, PAR1KO keratinocytes grew much slower, had a lower survival rate and higher para permeability, while PAR2KO cells grew faster, were resistant to apoptosis and para permeability. APC inhibited CHS as a therapeutic but not as a preventative treatment only in WT and PAR1KO mice. APC therapy reduced skin inflammation, suppressed epidermal PAR2 expression, promoted keratinocyte growth, survival, and barrier function in both WT and PAR1KO cells, but not in PAR2KO cells. Conclusions: APC therapy can mitigate CHS. Although APC acts through both PAR1 and PAR2 to regulate Th and mast cells, suppression of clinical disease in mice is achieved mainly via inhibition of PAR2 alone. Thus, APC may confer broad therapeutic benefits as a disease-modifying treatment for AD.
The Interplay of Conjugation and Metal Coordination in Tuning the Electron Transfer Abilities of NTA-Graphene Based Interfaces
Authors: Kaźmierczak Magdalena , Trzaskowski Bartosz , Osella Silvio
Published: January 2022

An artificial leaf is a concept that not only replicates the processes taking place during natural photosynthesis but also provides a source of clean, renewable energy. One important part of such a device are molecules that stabilize the connection between the bioactive side and the electrode, as well as tune the electron transfer between them. In particular, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) derivatives used to form a self-assembly monolayer chemisorbed on a graphene monolayer can be seen as a prototypical interface that can be tuned to optimize the electron transfer. In the following work, interfaces with modifications of the metal nature, backbone saturation, and surface coverage density are presented by means of theoretical calculations. Effects of the type of the metal and the surface coverage density on the electronic properties are found to be key to tuning the electron transfer, while only a minor influence of backbone saturation is present. For all of the studied interfaces, the charge transfer flow goes from graphene to the SAM. We suggest that, in light of the strength of electron transfer, Co2+ should be considered as the preferred metal center for efficient charge transfer.
Metformin-Incorporated Gelatin/Nano-Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds Promotes Bone Regeneration in Critical Size Rat Alveolar Bone Defect Model
Authors: Fang Chih-Hsiang , Sun Chung-Kai , Lin Yi-Wen , Hung Min-Chih , Lin Hung-Ying , Li Ching-Hung , Lin I-Ping , Chang Hung-Chen , Sun Jui-Sheng , Chang Jenny Zwei-Chieng
Published: January 2022

In this study, we fabricated gelatin/nano-hydroxyapatite/metformin scaffold (GHMS) and compared its effectiveness in bone regeneration with extraction-only, Sinbone, and Bio-Oss Collagen® groups in a critical size rat alveolar bone defect model. GHMS was synthesized by co-precipitating calcium hydroxide and orthophosphoric acid within gelatin solution, incorporating metformin, and cross-linked by microbial transglutaminase. The morphology, characterization, and biocompatibility of scaffold were examined. The in vitro effects of GHMS on osteogenic gene and protein expressions were evaluated. In vivo bone formation was assessed in a critical size rat alveolar bone defect model with micro-computed tomography and histological examination by comparing GHMS with extraction-only, Sinbone, and Bio-Oss Collagen®. The synthesized GHMS had a highly interconnected porous structure with a mean pore size of 81.85 ± 13.8 µm. GHMS exhibited good biocompatibility; promoted ALPL, RUNX2, SP7, BGLAP, SPARC and Col1a1 gene expressions; and upregulated the synthesis of osteogenic proteins, including osteonectin, osteocalcin, and collagen type I. In critical size rat alveolar bone defects, GHMS showed superior bone regeneration compared to extraction-only, Sinbone, and Bio-Oss Collagen® groups as manifested by greater alveolar ridge preservation, while more bone formation with a lower percentage of connective tissue and residual scaffold at the defect sites grafted with GHMS in histological staining. The GHMS presented in this study may be used as a potential bone substitute to regenerate alveolar bone. The good biocompatibility, relatively fast degradation, interconnected pores allowing vascularization, and higher bioactivity properties of the components of the GHMS (gelatin, nHA, and metformin) may contribute to direct osteogenesis.