bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flavonoids from Selaginella doederleinii Hieron and Their Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities
Authors: Muema Felix Wambua , Liu Ye , Zhang Yongli , Chen Guilin , Guo Mingquan
Published: June 2022

Selaginella doederleinii Hieron. (S. doederleinii) is a traditional herb that is widely used in China to treat several ailments, but mainly cancer. Studies have been carried out to determine the phytochemicals ascribed to its pharmacological activity. However, both phytochemical and pharmacological profiles have not been fully explored as few compounds have been reported. This study evaluated the flavonoid content of the ethanol extract and its four fractions (petroleum ether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol) together with their antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP assays). Further, the antiproliferative activity was evaluated. Two new secondary metabolites (1 and 3) were isolated from S. doederleinii, which comprised of an apigenin skeleton with a phenyl attached at C-8 of ring A and an acetyl group. Additionally, other known metabolites 2 and 4–16 were isolated, whereby compounds 2, 4, 5, 8, 12, 15, and 16 were reported for the first time in this species. These compounds were evaluated for their antioxidative potentials by both DPPH and FRAP assays, and for their antiproliferative activities by the MTT assay on three human cancer cell lines: colon cancer (HT-29), cervical cancer (HeLa), and lung cancer (A549). Compound 7 exhibited the best activity on the three cancer cell lines (HT-29, HeLa, A549) by inhibiting the rate of growth of the cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 27.97, 35.47, and 20.71 µM, respectively. The structure–activity relationship of the pure compounds was highlighted in this study. Hence, the study enriched both the phytochemical and pharmacological profiles of S. doederleinii.
Oxidative Stress as a Main Contributor of Retinal Degenerative Diseases
Authors: Pinilla Isabel , Maneu Victoria
Published: June 2022

Retinal degenerative diseases, including inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) and acquired multifactorial diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR) or ganglion cell damage secondary to glaucoma or other pathologies, are the main causes of blindness in developed countries [...]
Impact of a Carboxymethyl Cellulose Coating Incorporated with an Ethanolic Propolis Extract on the Quality Criteria of Chicken Breast Meat
Authors: El Sheikha Aly Farag , Allam Ayman Younes , ElObeid Tahra , Basiouny Elham Abdelrahman , Abdelaal Ahmad Abdelkaway , Amarowicz Ryszard , Oz Emel , Proestos Charalampos , Karrar Emad , Oz Fatih
Published: June 2022

Recently, the demand for composite edible coatings has increased significantly as a new trend to confront the serious processing and storage problems that always arise regarding chicken meat. We aim to develop a carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) coating containing various concentrations (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4%) of an ethanolic propolis extract (EPE) to maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of chicken breast meat stored at 2 °C for 16 days. The influence of the CMC and EPE coating on the physicochemical and microbiological quality parameters of chicken breast meat, e.g., pH, color, metmyoglobin (MetMb), lipid oxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, TBARS), and microbiological and sensory analyses, was studied. Significantly lower weight loss and pH (p ≤ 0.05) were noted in the coated samples compared with the uncoated samples (control) over the storage period. MetMb content was significantly reduced (p ≤ 0.05) in the coated samples compared to the control. Additionally, the addition of EPE to CMC was more effective in inhibiting microbial growth, preventing lipid oxidation, and keeping the overall acceptability of coated chicken breast meat compared to the control. This work presents CMC and EPE as alternative preservatives to produce active packaging coatings.
Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Cytotoxic Activity of Phenolic Compound Family Extracted from Raspberries (Rubus idaeus): A General Review
Authors: Lopez-Corona Alejandra Vanessa , Valencia-Espinosa Illeen , González-Sánchez Fabio Antonio , Sánchez-López Angélica Lizeth , Garcia-Amezquita Luis Eduardo , Garcia-Varela Rebeca
Published: June 2022

Raspberries (Rubus idaeus) possess a wide phenolic family profile; this serves the role of self-protection for the plant. Interest in these compounds have significantly increased, since they have been classified as nutraceuticals due to the positive health effects provided to consumers. Extensive chemical, in vitro and in vivo studies have been performed to prove and validate these benefits and their possible applications as an aid when treating several chronic degenerative diseases, characterized by oxidative stress and an inflammatory response. While many diseases could be co-adjuvanted by the intake of these phenolic compounds, this review will mainly discuss their effects on cancer. Anthocyanins and ellagitannins are known to provide a major antioxidant capacity in raspberries. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge concerning the phenolic compound family of raspberries, and topics discussed include their characterization, biosynthesis, bioavailability, cytotoxicity, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
The Breast Cancer Protooncogenes HER2, BRCA1 and BRCA2 and Their Regulation by the iNOS/NOS2 Axis
Authors: Lin Katie , Baritaki Stavroula , Vivarelli Silvia , Falzone Luca , Scalisi Aurora , Libra Massimo , Bonavida Benjamin
Published: June 2022

The expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS; NOS2) and derived NO in various cancers was reported to exert pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects depending on the levels of expression and the tumor types. In humans, the breast cancer level of iNOS was reported to be overexpressed, to exhibit pro-tumorigenic activities, and to be of prognostic significance. Likewise, the expression of the oncogenes HER2, BRCA1, and BRCA2 has been associated with malignancy. The interrelationship between the expression of these protooncogenes and oncogenes and the expression of iNOS is not clear. We have hypothesized that there exist cross-talk signaling pathways between the breast cancer protooncogenes, the iNOS axis, and iNOS-mediated NO mutations of these protooncogenes into oncogenes. We review the molecular regulation of the expression of the protooncogenes in breast cancer and their interrelationships with iNOS expression and activities. In addition, we discuss the roles of iNOS, HER2, BRCA1/2, and NO metabolism in the pathophysiology of cancer stem cells. Bioinformatic analyses have been performed and have found suggested molecular alterations responsible for breast cancer aggressiveness. These include the association of BRCA1/2 mutations and HER2 amplifications with the dysregulation of the NOS pathway. We propose that future studies should be undertaken to investigate the regulatory mechanisms underlying the expression of iNOS and various breast cancer oncogenes, with the aim of identifying new therapeutic targets for the treatment of breast cancers that are refractory to current treatments.
Experimental Study of the Plastic Zone and Stress Asymmetric Distribution in Roadway Layered Surrounding Rocks
Authors: Chen Jiaren , Wu Hai , Zhang Xuan , Gao Xu , Ling Tao , Zhang Zizheng
Published: June 2022

A three-axis experimental simulation model was established for a roadway with layered surrounding rock by a 20 MPa true triaxial analog simulation equipment, and the corresponding layered surrounding rock numerical simulation model was established by discrete element software. The simulation results showed that the deformation of the roadway layered surrounding rock showed asynchronous deformation with time and asymmetric deformation in space. The measured results of the multipoint displacement meter inside the surrounding rock showed that the order of displacement of surrounding rock from the four corners of the roadway to the center of the roadway were upper right, lower left, upper left, and lower right. Under the influence of the surrounding rock bedding, the shape of the plastic zone of the roadway surrounding rock was irregular. In the area where the rock layer and the surface of the roadway were tangent and in the vertical area between the rock layer and the surface of the roadway, the plastic zone had a large development depth. In other regions, the development depth of the plastic zone was smaller. As a result, the stress values obtained at the monitoring points in the surrounding rock at the same distance from the roadway surface were different, and the stress increase value of the monitoring points in the plastic zone was not large (No. 929). With the expansion of the plastic zone, the monitoring point change from outside the plastic zone to inside the plastic zone, its stress first increased and then decreased (No. 2 and No. 872). The experimental results are of great significance for understanding and controlling the development law of the plastic zone of a layered inclined rock roadway and the deformation control of the roadway layered surrounding rock.
Automatic Thread Defect Examination System
Authors: Kim Jonghoek
Published: June 2022

This article addresses a Thread Hole (TH) examination system capable of automatically examining a TH. We introduce a contact-based examination system with simple hardware. Our examination system examines TH defects by observing the torque generated when tightening the Inspection Device (ID) through the TH. A buffer with springs is utilized to overcome instances where the TH is not accurately aligned with the axis of the ID. The examination system observes the TH size utilizing a camera, then automatically performs an examination utilizing the optimal torque threshold associated with the TH size; in this way, our examination system is able to examine a TH regardless of its size. In this paper, the performance of the proposed system utilizing the optimal torque threshold is verified through experiments.
Evaluating and Analyzing the Degradation of a Battery Energy Storage System Based on Frequency Regulation Strategies
Authors: Wu Chen-Han , Jhan Jia-Zhang , Ko Chih-Han , Kuo Cheng-Chien
Published: June 2022

The capacity aging of lithium-ion energy storage systems is inevitable under long-term use. It has been found in the literature that the aging performance is closely related to battery usage and the current aging state. It follows that different frequency regulation services, C-rates, and maintaining levels of SOC during operation will produce different battery aging rates. In the simulations, the researchers used real frequency data to generate SOC curves based on the Taiwan frequency regulation services under different C-rates and different battery SOC target levels. Then, the aging formula of lithium iron batteries (LiFePO4 battery, LFP battery) and the proposed improved rainflow counting algorithm were used. The capacity aging situation and economy under different usage scenarios were analyzed. The simulation results showed that using a high C-rate and a low SOC level had a higher net profit, and the income of dReg was more than that of sReg. The SOC of BESS has an important impact on the life cycle. Keeping the SOC at a lower level will help prolong the life cycle and increase the net income. In dReg0.5, maintaining the SOC at 30% would yield 8.5% more lifetimes than 50%, 20.6% more lifetimes than 70%.
Comparative Study on Planar Type-II Strained-Layer Superlattice Infrared Photodetectors Fabricated by Ion-Implantation
Authors: Dehzangi Arash
Published: June 2022

Recent progress in Type-II strained layer superlattice (SLS) material systems has offered viable alternatives towards achieving large format, small-pitch, and low-cost focal plane arrays for different military and commercial applications. For focal plane array fabrication, in order to address difficulties associated with mesa-isolation etching or the complex surface treatment/ passivation process, planar structures have been considered. In this work, a comparative study on the recent progress on the planar SLS photodetector using ion-implantation for device isolation is presented. The devices presented here are nBn and pBn heterostructure InAs/InAsSb SLS photodetectors, where Zn and Si were chosen as the ion implants, respectively. The electrical and optical performance of the planar devices were compared to each other and with associated mesa-etched fabricated devices, to give a deeper view of the device performance.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of the Damage Characteristics of Rocks under Ballistic Penetration
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Yao Wenjin , Wang Xiaoming , Zhu Wei , Lu Zhenyu , Zhu Xintao , Huang Hongxin
Published: June 2022

Rock penetration is an inevitable problem in the study of drilling and projectile penetration. The penetration resistance of red sandstone and limestone was investigated at projectile speeds ranging from 600–1200 m/s. The damage characteristics of these rocks were studied via experimental tests and numerical simulations. The damage condition of the target surface, internal damage state and crack distribution were obtained. It was concluded that the maximum error of the numerical simulation and experimental results was not more than 10%. The penetration resistance of limestone was approximately 23.8% stronger than that of red sandstone. However, the energy absorption effect of limestone was weaker than that of red sandstone, and large cracks can be more easily formed. The compaction area of red sandstone was softer, with obvious crack compaction in the crater area, and particle detachment can more easily occur. Red sandstone was more sensitive to the impact angle of the projectile. With oblique penetration, the projectile was more likely to deflect inside the red sandstone target.
Fluid Net Models: From Behavioral Properties to Structural Objects
Authors: Navarro-Gutiérrez Manuel , Ramírez-Treviño Antonio , Silva Manuel
Published: June 2022

Increasing the production in manufacturing systems is one of the main demands in modern systems. The naive approach that this goal can be achieved when more or faster resources are used is not always valid. In fact, the complex interactions among system’s elements may lead to paradoxical behaviors; for example, using faster machines could reduce the equilibrium throughput (number of part fabricated per unit time in steady state) of the system, or even worse, block all system activities, reducing it to zero. This work leverages the concepts about fluidization and analysis techniques used in Timed Continuous Petri nets (TCPN) presented in earlier works to study the behavior of the equilibrium throughput when more/faster machines are used. Herein, we illustrate how discontinuities induced bifurcations of the equilibrium throughput are due to the existence of paths that can increase/decrease the marking of certain subnets. In particular, if paths gaining/losing tokens are fired without a particular balance, then the equilibrium throughput exhibits discontinuities since the equilibrium marking loses hyperbolicity. Moreover, these discontinuities imply other undesired throughput behaviors; for example, the existence of non-monotonicities of the equilibrium throughput (when more/faster resources are used in the system, its equilibrium throughput is reduced). The discontinuities together with a homothecy property are used to explain non-monotonicities in the equilibrium throughput. A relevant aspect is that these undesired system behaviors appear when the net has structural objects named problematic configurations that are associated with certain subnets in which there are no P-semiflows. Although the number of these configurations increase exponentially in the size of the net, some reduction rules are introduced to remove configurations, while the problematic ones are kept (or can be recovered) in the reduced net. This saves computation time in the analysis and, more importantly, provides useful insights about the root of undesired behaviors. This work focus on systems that can be modeled with fluid (or continuous) mono T-semiflow Timed Continuous Petri nets. Even if under certain constraints, they are capable of capturing many characteristics of modern systems, such as interleaving of cooperation and competition.
The Effect of Various Cementing Agents on Occlusal Discrepancy Using an Intra-Oral Scanner: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Biadsee Ameer , Yassin Rana , Dolev Eran , Perlis Vladimir , Masarwa Shchada , Ormianer Zeev
Published: June 2022

A marginal fit of all-ceramic crowns is a prerequisite for the long-term clinical success of a dental restoration. Few in vivo studies have investigated the effect of the film thickness of various luting agents on vertical discrepancy. This in vivo study evaluated the influence of three luting cements on the occlusal vertical discrepancy of milled crowns using a complete digital workflow. Forty-three patients treated in a students’ clinic in Tel-Aviv University with 45 single posterior digitally prepared monolithic crowns were included in the study. The crowns were randomly divided into three groups using different resin luting agents: self-adhesive resin cement, resin-modified glass ionomer cement and adhesive resin cement. The crowns were intra-orally scanned before and after cementation. The two standard tessellation language (STL) files for each crown were superimposed using digital software, and between four and six measurements were made at the occlusal surface to demonstrate the occlusal and marginal discrepancies. One-way ANOVA (α = 0.05) was used. The vertical occlusal discrepancy ranged from 2 to 38 μm. The mean vertical discrepancy values were (µm): self-adhesive resin = 12.93 ± 4.74, resin-modified glass ionomer = 19.05 ± 4.60 and adhesive resin = 13.69 ± 5.17. There were significant differences between resin-modified and self-adhesive cement groups (p = 0.004), and between resin-modified and adhesive resin cement groups (p = 0.013). Distal marginal ridge measurements were significantly different between resin-modified glass ionomer cement and self-adhesive resin cement group (p < 0.001) and the adhesive resin cement group (p = 0.021). There were no significant differences between the discrepancy values at the two measurement points in the self-adhesive cement group (p = 0.377), nor the resin-modified glass ionomer group (p = 0.388), or the adhesive resin cement group (p = 0.905). The cementation procedure with various resin cements results in occlusal vertical discrepancies within standard clinical acceptability. Resin-modified glass ionomer cement produced more vertical discrepancy than adhesive and self-adhesive resin cements did.
Preparation of Aluminum Dross Non-Fired Bricks with High Nitrogen Concentration and Optimization of Process Parameters
Authors: Ni Hongjun , Wu Weiyang , Lu Chunyu , Wang Xingxing , Zhu Yu , Lv Shuaishuai
Published: June 2022

In order to solve the difficulties in the utilization of aluminum dross resources, non-fired bricks with aluminum dross with high nitrogen concentration as the main raw material were prepared. Three process parameters, including forming pressure, mixing-water amount, and aluminum dross particle size, were subjected to single-factor experiments. Based on the response surface method, a mathematical model was established between the process parameters and the non-fired bricks’ compressive properties, which were subjected to ANOVA. The process parameters were optimized and then verified experimentally. According to the results, the established regression model is able to accurately predict the compressive properties of non-fired bricks. The difference between the experimental value and the model’s predicted value was only 0.36%. The optimal process parameters for aluminum dross to prepare non-fired bricks are as follows: forming pressure is 18 MPa, mixing-water amount is 15% and particle size range is 80–130 mesh. The compressive strength of the prepared non-fired bricks is 24.66 MPa, which meets the requirement of MU20 non-fired bricks in Non-fired Rubbish Gangue Bricks.
Variability in the Solid Particle Density and Its Influence on the Corresponding Void Ratio and Dry Density: A Case Study Conducted on the MBT Reject Waste Stream from the MBT Plant in Marišćina, Croatia
Authors: Petrovic Igor , Kaniski Nikola , Hrncic Nikola , Bosilj Dino
Published: June 2022

In this study, a functional relationship between the solid particle density (ρs), void ratio e, and dry density (ρd) of mechanically and biologically treated (MBT) municipal solid waste (MSW) was examined. In total, 60 waste specimens were tested with an air pycnometer device and corresponding triplets (e, ρd,and ρs) of values were obtained. In addition, a long-term oedometer test with an allowed decomposition process was also conducted. Based on the obtained results, the variability in the solid particle density caused by heterogeneity and decomposition, as well as its influence on the corresponding void ratio and dry density values, were critically evaluated. The obtained results showed that the variability in the solid particle density caused by waste heterogeneity had a significant influence on the initial void ratio value. Furthermore, the obtained results also showed that the change in the solid particle density, caused by the degradation process, had a significant impact on the final void ratio and dry density values. In addition, an empirical relationship, ρd=fe, was proposed. The proposed function allows a landfill operator to establish the corresponding dry density at an arbitrary chosen void ratio, and vice versa, without having the exact knowledge of the corresponding solid particle density value.
Modern Multivariate Statistical Methods for Evaluating the Impact of WhatsApp on Academic Performance: Methodology and Case Study in India
Authors: Sharma Prayas , Singh Ashish Kumar , Leiva Víctor , Martin-Barreiro Carlos , Cabezas Xavier
Published: June 2022

Despite the increasing amount of research on social media, there are few studies on the use of WhatsApp to assess academic performance. Surprisingly, students use social media during lectures, causing a problem. According to the literature, students utilize WhatsApp throughout academic activities where it is prohibited. Researchers and policymakers must pay attention to this problem to understand its impact on academic achievement. In this paper, by using multivariate statistical methods, we investigate the impact of WhatsApp use on academic performance. We construct a questionnaire for this investigation and apply it to a case study based on a sample of 258 students of management from India. We determine the prevalence of WhatsApp employment among these students and note that many of them utilize the app for academic purposes. We found a positive association between time spent on WhatsApp and students’ grade point average (GPA) based on factor, principal component, correlation, and chi-square analyses. Answering questions on the app in class is related to the program’s ability to help students learn. More use of the app in class leads to a lower GPA. However, sometimes, using the app might help students learn and perform better. We identify that many students disseminate materials through the app for academic purposes, contributing to their academic performance. Furthermore, this app is utilized for communicating with their teachers. Computations were carried out with the R and SPSS software.
Three-Dimensional Evaluation of the Root Apex of Permanent Maxillary Premolars: A Multicentric Study
Authors: Iandolo Alfredo , Pisano Massimo , Scelza Giuseppe , Abdellatif Dina , Martina Stefano
Published: June 2022

Aim: Modern endodontics has advanced radically in the recent years, and recently, it has been focused on the concept of mini-invasive treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the sections of the root apices at 1 mm from the radiographic apex using a high-resolution CBCT. Materials and Methods: The current study was performed in three different dental centers. One hundred maxillary permanent premolars (50 first and 50 s premolars) were analyzed using measurement software of the CBCT radiographic pictures. The mesio-distal (M-D) and bucco–palatal (B-P) sections were measured at 1 mm from the radiographic apex of each root. The section of 0.3 mm or less, 1 mm from the anatomical apex of the upper premolars, was decided as the limit value. All values were statistically analyzed. Results: The mean value in the 304 sections analyzed was 1.03 (±0.37). Only 19 sections (6.3%) had measurements less than or equal to 0.3 mm. All these 19 sections were from first premolars (p = 0.002). Conclusions: Based on the data obtained, the authors recommend performing conservative shaping when endodontically treating first maxillary premolars, especially when a pre-operative CBCT to evaluate the actual apical dimensions cannot be acquired.
Anthropometric Indices as Predictive Screening Tools for Obesity in Adults; The Need to Define Sex-Specific Cut-Off Points for Anthropometric Indices
Authors: Górnicka Magdalena , Szewczyk Kacper , Białkowska Agnieszka , Jancichova Kristina , Habanova Marta , Górnicki Krzysztof , Hamulka Jadwiga
Published: June 2022

Due to the lack of full agreement as to the best indicators for obesity diagnosis and type, the aim of this study was to assess the comparative classification capabilities with the use of BIA results and selected anthropometric indices in individuals aged 20–60 years. This was a cross-sectional observational study among 368 Caucasian subjects aged 20–60 years. Body size and four skinfolds measurement were taken. To assess individual body composition, the bioelectrical impedance (BIA) method was applied. The results of fat mass (FM, kg) and fat-free mass (FFM, kg) were taken to calculate FM/FFM, fat mass index (FMI), and fat free mass index (FFMI). Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed to compare the predictive power of different anthropometric indices in differentiating the classification of obesity in adults. The results of this study demonstrated and confirmed the need to change the approach to commonly used indicators such as BMI (body mass index) or WHtR (waist-to-height ratio), which should lead to the establishment of new criteria for the diagnosis of obesity that will also be sex-specific, in the adult population. The measurement of body fat content should become a generally accepted indicator for effective diagnosis, as well as for screening, of obesity.
Semi-Analytical Planetary Landing Guidance with Constraint Equations Using Model Predictive Control
Authors: Miao Xinyuan , Cheng Lin , Song Yu , Li Junfeng , Gong Shengping
Published: June 2022

With the deepening of planetary exploration, rapid decision making and descent trajectory planning capabilities are needed to cope with uncertain environmental disturbances and possible faults during planetary landings. In this article, a novel decoupling method is adopted, and the analytical three-dimensional constraint equations are derived and solved, ensuring real-time guidance computation. The three-dimensional motion modes and thrust profiles are analyzed and determined based on Pontryagin’s minimum principle, and a supporting semi-analytical reachability judgment method is presented, which can also be used to determine controllability. The algorithm is embedded in the model predictive control (MPC) framework, and several techniques are adopted to enhance stability and robustness, including thrust averaging, thrust correction after ignition, thrust reservation, and open-loop terminal guidance. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can guarantee real-time trajectory generation and meanwhile maintain considerable optimality. In addition, the MPC simulation shows that the algorithm can maintain a good accuracy under external disturbances.
Preparation and Properties of Epoxy Composites with Multi-Scale BN Sheets
Authors: Wang Sijiao , Cao Kaiming , Wang Guanwei , Chen Mengmeng , Wang Hongxi
Published: June 2022

Epoxy resin is one of the most widely used thermosetting polymers and commonly applied in power electronics field. The intrinsic properties of epoxy can be improved by the introduction of inorganic filler, thus fabricating a composite material. In this paper, different scales of modified boron nitride (BN, 1 μm, 10 μm) were used to improve the thermal conductivity of epoxy resin. The surfaces BN were modification by a silane coupling agent to improve the compatibility between BN and epoxy resin. The effects of micro-and nano-BN sheets on the microstructure, breakdown strength, thermal and mechanical properties of epoxy resin composite were studied. The characterization of its morphology by scanning electron microscopy shows that nano-BN distribution is in the middle of micro-BN, forming a better bridging effect. The data of the breakdown strength and thermal conductivity indicated that when the content of micro-BN is 30 wt% and nano-BN is 20 wt%, the thermal conductivity of BN/epoxy composite was 1.52 W/m·K. In addition, the breakdown strength is 77.1 kV/mm. Thus, this type of BN-filled BN/EP composites with remarkable insulation and thermal conductivity properties would have potential for power engineering materials.
Smart Phone-Based Motion Capture and Analysis: Importance of Operating Envelope Definition and Application to Clinical Use
Authors: Vincent Ashley Chey , Furman Haley , Slepian Rebecca C. , Ammann Kaitlyn R. , Di Maria Carson , Chien Jung Hung , Siu Ka-Chun , Slepian Marvin J.
Published: June 2022

Human movement is vital for life, with active engagement affording function, limiting disease, and improving quality; with loss resulting in disability; and the treatment and training leading to restoration and enhancement. To foster these endeavors a need exists for a simple and reliable method for the quantitation of movement, favorable for widespread user availability. We developed a Mobile Motion Capture system (MO2CA) employing a smart-phone and colored markers (2, 5, 10 mm) and here define its operating envelope in terms of: (1) the functional distance of marker detection (range), (2) the inter-target resolution and discrimination, (3) the mobile target detection, and (4) the impact of ambient illumination intensity. MO2CA was able to detect and discriminate: (1) single targets over a range of 1 to 18 ft, (2) multiple targets from 1 ft to 11 ft, with inter-target discrimination improving with an increasing target size, (3) moving targets, with minimal errors from 2 ft to 8 ft, and (4) targets within 1 to 18 ft, with an illumination of 100–300 lux. We then evaluated the utility of motion capture in quantitating regional-finger abduction/adduction and whole body–lateral flex motion, demonstrating a quantitative discrimination between normal and abnormal motion. Overall, our results demonstrate that MO2CA has a wide operating envelope with utility for the detection of human movements large and small, encompassing the whole body, body region, and extremity and digit movements. The definition of the effective operating envelope and utility of smart phone-based motion capture as described herein will afford accuracy and appropriate use for future application studies and serve as a general approach for defining the operational bounds of future video capture technologies that arise for potential clinical use.
Preliminary Evaluation of the Use of Thermally-Dried Immobilized Kefir Cells in Low Alcohol Winemaking
Authors: Nikolaou Anastasios , Sgouros Georgios , Santarmaki Valentini , Mitropoulou Gregoria , Kourkoutas Yiannis
Published: June 2022

Low alcohol wines (≤10.5% vol) are novel products that have gradually been gaining the consumers’ and market’s interest over the last decade. Taking into account the technological properties of immobilized cell systems alongside with the commercial need for dry cultures, the aim of the present study was to assess the suitability of thermally-dried immobilized kefir cells on DCM, apples pieces, and grape skins in low alcohol wine production. Storage of thermally-dried kefir culture in various temperatures (−18, 5, and 20 °C) resulted in high viability rates for immobilized cells (up to 93% for yeasts/molds immobilized on grape skins and stored at −18 °C for 6 months). Fermentation activity was maintained after storage in all cases, while high operational stability was confirmed in repeated batch fermentations for a period of 6 months. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that the fermentation temperature rather than the state of kefir culture affected significantly volatiles detected by Head Space Solid-Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry analysis. Notably, all new products were of high quality and approved by the sensory panel.
Extraction of Aged Hydrocarbons from Contaminated Soil Using Plant-Oil-in-Water Emulsions Combined with Oil/Water Separation by Reusable Non-Wovens
Authors: Lackner Maximilian , Hribernig Thomas , Lutz Markus , Plank Markus , Putz Karl
Published: June 2022

A novel technique for the in situ removal of mineral hydrocarbons from aged brownfields is described. The approach uses emulsions of plant oil (5–10%, rapeseed) in water, which were found to extract 50–85% of mineral hydrocarbons in one leaching step from the non-saturated zone. The emulsion was allowed to travel though the ground and was pumped off from the groundwater level. Approximately 15–50% of the plant oil stayed in the soil. By flushing the area with water afterwards, that amount can be reduced to 10–30%, and in some cases to <5%. This process is only suitable for sand, not for clay. It can be a good preparation for subsequent enzymatic cleavage and microbiological degradation, as part of a multi-stage in situ treatment process. Additionally, plant oil that infiltrated into the saturated zone was used to flush mineral hydrocarbons, which could be pumped off from the groundwater level. It was further tested whether the separation of mineral oil/plant oil and water can be performed by oil-absorbing, reusable non-wovens. Residual concentrations of <2% of water in oil, and 0.3–0.7 mg/L of oil in water were found. In this work, lab trials led to field trials, where more than 500 m3 of water were sent over a pilot installation for oil/water separation using non-wovens. A slightly better separation performance than by oil separators was observed. This process has the potential to be combined with a regular oil separator to allow water purification to a level at which it can be reintroduced into the ground. The technique was tested on a brownfield in Lower Austria, a former refinery site abandoned approx. 80 years ago with a peak hydrocarbon contamination of 40,000 mg/kg of dry soil and free-floating mineral oil on the groundwater level. Since in situ techniques can be more environmentally benign and less costly than traditional remediation approaches, this novel approach holds an interesting potential, which could be proven at a technology readiness level (TRL) of 5.
Arsenic: A Review on a Great Health Issue Worldwide
Authors: Genchi Giuseppe , Lauria Graziantonio , Catalano Alessia , Carocci Alessia , Sinicropi Maria Stefania
Published: June 2022

Arsenic intoxication represents a worldwide health problem and occurs mainly through drinking water. Arsenic, a metalloid and naturally occurring element, is one of the most abundant elements in the earth’s crust, whose toxicity depends on the reduction state. The trivalent arsenicals are more toxic than the pentavalent arsenicals. In the trivalent state, inorganic and organic arsenic may react with thiol groups in proteins inhibiting their activity, whereas inorganic arsenic in the pentavalent state may replace phosphate ions in several reactions. Arsenic induces various epigenetic changes in mammalian cells, both in vivo and in vitro, often leading to the development of various types of cancers, including skin, lung, liver, urinary tract, prostate, and hematopoietic cancers. Potential mechanisms of arsenic toxicity in cancer include genotoxicity, altered DNA methylation and cell proliferation, co-carcinogenesis, tumor promotion, and oxidative stress. On the other hand, the FDA-certified drug arsenic trioxide provides solutions for various diseases, including several types of cancers. Detoxification from arsenic includes chelation therapy. Recently, investigations of the capability of some plants, such as Eucalyptus camadulensis L., Terminalia arjuna L. and Salix tetrasperma L., to remove arsenic from polluted soil and water have been studied. Moreover, nanophytoremediation is a green technology including the nanoscale materials used for absorption and degradation of organic and inorganic pollutants, such as arsenic compounds. This brief review represents an overview of arsenic uses, toxicity, epigenetics, and detoxification therapies.
Part Tailoring in Metal-Additive Manufacturing: A Step towards Functionally Graded Customized Stainless-Steel Components Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Elkaseer Ahmed , Charles Amal , Schneider Stella , Scholz Steffen G.
Published: June 2022

The aim of this project is to demonstrate a proof of concept by using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology in order to demonstrate its viability for the production of tailor-made components with regions of varying (higher and lower) hardness and surface roughness within a single part. In order to do this, first a test piece is designed and printed following a full factorial design of the experiment with eight runs with varying process parameters set within different regions of one part. The structure is printed several times with the laser-powder-bed-fusion-based metal-additive-manufacturing system “Sodick LPM 325” using AISI 420 in order to test and validate the change in the achievable mechanical property and surface roughness. The above-mentioned quality marks are characterized using a tactile profilometer, Rockwell test and part density, and the results are statistically analyzed using MATLAB. The results show that the linear energy density plays a significant role in controlling the surface roughness of the top surface of the components while the hardness on the top surface is unaffected. On the side surfaces, it is known that the layer thickness plays a significant role on the surface roughness as well as hardness. Looking at the results obtained, it is seen that the variation in the obtained side surface roughness is not significant to changes in the Linear Energy Density (LED) as the layer thickness was kept constant, with only slight reductions in hardness seen. The annealing process resulted in a significant reduction in hardness. This work has shown that through the careful tailoring of processing conditions, multi-functionality within one part can be integrated and has created promising avenues for further research into achieving fully functionally graded structures.
Determination of Point-to-Point 3D Routing Algorithm Using LiDAR Data for Noise Prediction
Authors: Bharadwaj Shruti , Dubey Rakesh , Zafar Md Iltaf , Faridi Rashid , Jena Debashish , Biswas Susham
Published: June 2022

Urban planning, noise propagation modelling, viewshed analysis, etc., require determination of routes or supply lines for propagation. A point-to-point routing algorithm is required to determine the best routes for the propagation of noise levels from source to destination. Various optimization algorithms are present in the literature to determine the shortest route, e.g., Dijkstra, Ant-Colony algorithms, etc. However, these algorithms primarily work over 2D maps and multiple routes. The shortest route determination in 3D from unlabeled data (e.g., precise LiDAR terrain point cloud) is very challenging. The prediction of noise data for a place necessitates extraction of all possible principal routes between every source of noise and its destination, e.g., direct route, the route over the top of the building (or obstruction), routes around the sides of the building, and the reflected routes. It is thus required to develop an algorithm that will determine all the possible routes for propagation, using LiDAR data. The algorithm uses the novel cutting plane technique customized to work with LiDAR data to extract all the principal routes between every pair of noise source and destination. Terrain parameters are determined from routes for modeling. The terrain parameters, and noise data when integrated with a sophisticated noise model give an accurate prediction of noise for a place. The novel point-to-point routing algorithm is developed using LiDAR data of the RGIPT campus. All the shortest routes were tested for their spatial accuracy and efficacy to predict the noise levels accurately. Various routes are found to be accurate within ±9 cm, while predicted noise levels are found to be accurate within ±6 dBA at an instantaneous scale. The novel accurate 3D routing algorithm can improve the other urban applications too.
Large-Scale Saharan Dust Episode in April 2019: Study of Desert Aerosol Loads over Sofia, Bulgaria, Using Remote Sensing, In Situ, and Modeling Resources
Authors: Peshev Zahari , Deleva Atanaska , Vulkova Liliya , Dreischuh Tanja
Published: June 2022

Emissions of immense amounts of desert dust into the atmosphere, spreading over vast geographical areas, are in direct feedback relation with ongoing global climate changes. An extreme large-scale Saharan dust episode occurred over Mediterranean and Europe in April 2019, driven by a dynamic blocking synoptic pattern (omega block) creating conditions for a powerful northeastward circulation of air masses rich in dust and moisture. Here, we study and characterize the effects of related dust intrusion over Sofia, Bulgaria, using lidar remote sensing combined with in situ measurements, satellite imagery, and modeling data. Optical and microphysical parameters of the desert aerosols were obtained and vertically profiled, namely, backscatter coefficients and backscatter-related Ångström exponents, as well as statistical distributions of the latter as qualitative analogs of the actual particle size distributions. Dynamical and topological features of the dust-dominated aerosol layers were determined. Height profiles of the aerosol/dust mass concentration were obtained by synergistic combining and calibrating lidar and in situ data. The comparison of the retrieved mass concentration profiles with the dust modeling ones shows a satisfactory compliance. The local meteorological conditions and the aerosol composition and structure of the troposphere above Sofia during the dust event were seriously affected by the desert air masses.
Áika: A Distributed Edge System for AI Inference
Authors: Alslie Joakim Aalstad , Ovesen Aril Bernhard , Nordmo Tor-Arne Schmidt , Johansen Håvard Dagenborg , Halvorsen Pål , Riegler Michael Alexander , Johansen Dag
Published: June 2022

Video monitoring and surveillance of commercial fisheries in world oceans has been proposed by the governing bodies of several nations as a response to crimes such as overfishing. Traditional video monitoring systems may not be suitable due to limitations in the offshore fishing environment, including low bandwidth, unstable satellite network connections and issues of preserving the privacy of crew members. In this paper, we present Áika, a robust system for executing distributed Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications on the edge. Áika provides engineers and researchers with several building blocks in the form of Agents, which enable the expression of computation pipelines and distributed applications with robustness and privacy guarantees. Agents are continuously monitored by dedicated monitoring nodes, and provide applications with a distributed checkpointing and replication scheme. Áika is designed for monitoring and surveillance in privacy-sensitive and unstable offshore environments, where flexible access policies at the storage level can provide privacy guarantees for data transfer and access.
Dynamic Foam Characteristics during Cultivation of Arthrospira platensis
Authors: Kubar Ameer Ali , Ali Amjad , Kumar Santosh , Huo Shuhao , Ullah Muhammad Wajid , Alabbosh Khulood Fahad Saud , Ikram Muhammad , Cheng Jun
Published: June 2022

This study is aimed at understanding the serious foaming problems during microalgal cultivation in industrial raceway ponds by studying the dynamic foam properties in Arthrospira platensis cultivation. A. platensis was cultivated in a 4 L bowl bioreactor for 4 days, during which the foam height above the algal solution increased from 0 to 30 mm with a bubble diameter of 1.8 mm, and biomass yield reached 1.5 g/L. The algal solution surface tension decreased from 55 to 45 mN/m, which favored the adsorption of microalgae on the bubble to generate more stable foams. This resulted in increased foam stability (FS) from 1 to 10 s, foam capacity (FC) from 0.3 to 1.2, foam expansion (FE) from 15 to 43, and foam maximum density (FMD) from 0.02 to 0.07. These results show a decrease in CO2 flow rate and operation temperature when using the Foamscan instrument, which minimized the foaming phenomenon in algal solutions to a significantly lower and acceptable level.
Alternative c-MYC mRNA Transcripts as an Additional Tool for c-Myc2 and c-MycS Production in BL60 Tumors
Authors: Ibrahim Dina , Prévaud Léa , Faumont Nathalie , Troutaud Danielle , Feuillard Jean , Diab-Assaf Mona , Oulmouden Ahmad
Published: June 2022

While studying c-Myc protein expression in several Burkitt lymphoma cell lines and in lymph nodes from a mouse model bearing a translocated c-MYC gene from the human BL line IARC-BL60, we surprisingly discovered a complex electrophoretic profile. Indeed, the BL60 cell line carrying the t(8;22) c-MYC translocation exhibits a simple pattern, with a single c-Myc2 isoform. Analysis of the c-MYC transcripts expressed by tumor lymph nodes in the mouse λc-MYC (Avy/a) showed for the first time five transcripts that are associated with t(8;22) c-MYC translocation. The five transcripts were correlated with the production of c-Myc2 and c-MycS, and loss of c-Myc1. The contribution of these transcripts to the oncogenic activation of the t(8;22) c-MYC is discussed.
Role of Seipin in Human Diseases and Experimental Animal Models
Authors: Li Yuying , Yang Xinmin , Peng Linrui , Xia Qing , Zhang Yuwei , Huang Wei , Liu Tingting , Jia Da
Published: June 2022

Seipin, a protein encoded by the Berardinelli-Seip congenital lipodystrophy type 2 (BSCL2) gene, is famous for its key role in the biogenesis of lipid droplets and type 2 congenital generalised lipodystrophy (CGL2). BSCL2 gene mutations result in genetic diseases including CGL2, progressive encephalopathy with or without lipodystrophy (also called Celia’s encephalopathy), and BSCL2-associated motor neuron diseases. Abnormal expression of seipin has also been found in hepatic steatosis, neurodegenerative diseases, glioblastoma stroke, cardiac hypertrophy, and other diseases. In the current study, we comprehensively summarise phenotypes, underlying mechanisms, and treatment of human diseases caused by BSCL2 gene mutations, paralleled by animal studies including systemic or specific Bscl2 gene knockout, or Bscl2 gene overexpression. In various animal models representing diseases that are not related to Bscl2 mutations, differential expression patterns and functional roles of seipin are also described. Furthermore, we highlight the potential therapeutic approaches by targeting seipin or its upstream and downstream signalling pathways. Taken together, restoring adipose tissue function and targeting seipin-related pathways are effective strategies for CGL2 treatment. Meanwhile, seipin-related pathways are also considered to have potential therapeutic value in diseases that are not caused by BSCL2 gene mutations.