bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet Lysate for Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Culture in the Canine and Equine Species: Analogous but Not the Same
Authors: Hagen Alina , Holland Heidrun , Brandt Vivian-Pascal , Doll Carla U. , Häußler Thomas C. , Melzer Michaela , Moellerberndt Julia , Lehmann Hendrik , Burk Janina
Published: January 2022

Platelet lysate (PL) is an attractive platelet-based therapeutic tool and has shown promise as xeno-free replacement for fetal bovine serum (FBS) in human and equine mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) culture. Here, we established a scalable buffy-coat-based protocol for canine PL (cPL) production (n = 12). The cPL was tested in canine adipose MSC (n = 5) culture compared to FBS. For further comparison, equine adipose MSC (n = 5) were cultured with analogous equine PL (ePL) or FBS. During canine blood processing, platelet and transforming growth factor-β1 concentrations increased (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001), while white blood cell concentrations decreased (p < 0.05). However, while equine MSC showed good results when cultured with 10% ePL, canine MSC cultured with 2.5% or 10% cPL changed their morphology and showed decreased metabolic activity (p < 0.05). Apoptosis and necrosis in canine MSC were increased with 2.5% cPL (p < 0.05). Surprisingly, passage 5 canine MSC showed less genetic aberrations after culture with 10% cPL than with FBS. Our data reveal that using analogous canine and equine biologicals does not entail the same results. The buffy-coat-based cPL was not adequate for canine MSC culture, but may still be useful for therapeutic applications.
Analysis Polyadenylation Signal Usage in Sus scrofa
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Song Jingwen , Zhang Min , Deng Zhongyuan
Published: January 2022

RNA polyadenylation is an important step in the messenger RNA (mRNA) maturation process, and the first step is recognizing the polyadenylation signal (PAS). The PAS type and distribution is a key determinant of post-transcriptional mRNA modification and gene expression. However, little is known about PAS usage and alternative polyadenylation (APA) regulation in livestock species. Recently, sequencing technology has enabled the generation of a large amount of sequencing data revealing variation in poly(A) signals and APA regulation in Sus scrofa. We identified 62,491 polyadenylation signals in Sus scrofa using expressed sequence tag (EST) sequences combined with RNA-seq analysis. The composition and usage frequency of polyadenylation signal in Sus scrofa is similar with that of human and mouse. The most highly conserved polyadenylation signals are AAUAAA and AUUAAA, used for over 63.35% of genes. In addition, we also analyzed the U/GU-rich downstream sequence (DSE) element, located downstream of the cleavage site. Our results indicate that APA regulation was widely occurred in Sus scrofa, as in other organisms. Our result was useful for the accurate annotation of RNA 3′ ends in Sus scrofa and the analysis of polyadenylation signal usage in Sus scrofa would give the new insights into the mechanisms of transcriptional regulation.
The Effect of Rider:Horse Bodyweight Ratio on the Superficial Body Temperature of Horse’s Thoracolumbar Region Evaluated by Advanced Thermal Image Processing
Authors: Domino Małgorzata , Borowska Marta , Trojakowska Anna , Kozłowska Natalia , Zdrojkowski Łukasz , Jasiński Tomasz , Smyth Graham , Maśko Małgorzata
Published: January 2022

Appropriate matching of rider–horse sizes is becoming an increasingly important issue of riding horses’ care, as the human population becomes heavier. Recently, infrared thermography (IRT) was considered to be effective in differing the effect of 10.6% and 21.3% of the rider:horse bodyweight ratio, but not 10.1% and 15.3%. As IRT images contain many pixels reflecting the complexity of the body’s surface, the pixel relations were assessed by image texture analysis using histogram statistics (HS), gray-level run-length matrix (GLRLM), and gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) approaches. The study aimed to determine differences in texture features of thermal images under the impact of 10–12%, >12 ≤15%, >15 <18% rider:horse bodyweight ratios, respectively. Twelve horses were ridden by each of six riders assigned to light (L), moderate (M), and heavy (H) groups. Thermal images were taken pre- and post-standard exercise and underwent conventional and texture analysis. Texture analysis required image decomposition into red, green, and blue components. Among 372 returned features, 95 HS features, 48 GLRLM features, and 96 GLCH features differed dependent on exercise; whereas 29 HS features, 16 GLRLM features, and 30 GLCH features differed dependent on bodyweight ratio. Contrary to conventional thermal features, the texture heterogeneity measures, InvDefMom, SumEntrp, Entropy, DifVarnc, and DifEntrp, expressed consistent measurable differences when the red component was considered.
Validation of Vancomycin Area under the Concentration—Time Curve Estimation by the Bayesian Approach Using One-Point Samples for Predicting Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections
Authors: Ueda Takashi , Takesue Yoshio , Nakajima Kazuhiko , Ichiki Kaoru , Ishikawa Kaori , Yamada Kumiko , Tsuchida Toshie , Otani Naruhito , Takahashi Yoshiko , Ishihara Mika , Takubo Shingo , Ikeuchi Hiroki , Uchino Motoi , Kimura Toshimi , Matsumoto Kazuaki , Oda Kazutaka , Kimura Takeshi
Published: January 2022

Area under the concentration–time curve (AUC)-guided vancomycin treatment is associated with decreased nephrotoxicity. It is preferable to obtain two samples to estimate the AUC. This study examined the usefulness of AUC estimation via trough concentration (Cmin)-only sampling of 260 adults infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) who received vancomycin. The exact Cmin sampling time was used for Bayesian estimation. A significantly higher early treatment response was observed in patients with a day 2 AUC ≥ 400 µg·h/mL than those with <400 µg·h/mL, and a significantly higher early nephrotoxicity rate was observed in patients with a day 2 AUC ≥ 600 µg·h/mL than those with <600 µg·h/mL. These AUC cutoff values constituted independent factors for each outcome. In sub-analysis, the discrimination ability for early clinical outcomes using these AUC cutoffs was confirmed only in patients with q12 vancomycin administration. A significant difference in early treatment response using the 400 µg·h/mL cutoff was obtained only in patients with low-risk infections. The usefulness of the vancomycin AUC target to decrease nephrotoxicity while assuring clinical efficacy was even confirmed with a single Cmin measurement. However, assessment with two samples might be required in patients with q24 administration or high/moderate-risk MRSA infections.
A Novel Method to Assess Antimicrobial Susceptibility in Commensal Oropharyngeal Neisseria—A Pilot Study
Authors: Laumen Jolein Gyonne Elise , Abdellati Saïd , Van Dijck Christophe , Martiny Delphine , De Baetselier Irith , Manoharan-Basil Sheeba Santhini , Van den Bossche Dorien , Kenyon Chris
Published: January 2022

Commensal Neisseria provide a reservoir of resistance genes that can be transferred to the pathogens Neisseria gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis in the human oropharynx. Surveillance programs are thus needed to monitor resistance in oropharyngeal commensal Neisseria, but currently the isolation and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of these commensals is laborious, complex and expensive. In addition, the posterior oropharyngeal/tonsillar swab, which is commonly used to sample oropharyngeal Neisseria, is poorly tolerated by many individuals. We evaluated an alternative non-invasive method to isolate oropharyngeal commensal Neisseria and to detect decreased susceptibility to azithromycin using selective media (LBVT.SNR) with and without azithromycin (2 µg/mL). In this pilot study, we compared paired posterior oropharyngeal/tonsillar swabs and oral rinse-and-gargle samples from 10 participants and demonstrated that a similar Neisseria species diversity and number of colonies were isolated from both sample types. Moreover, the proportion of Neisseria colonies that had a decreased susceptibility to azithromycin was similar in the rinse samples compared to the swabs. This pilot study has produced encouraging data that a simple protocol of oral rinse-and-gargle and culture on plates selective for commensal Neisseria with and without a target antimicrobial can be used as a surveillance tool to monitor antimicrobial susceptibility in commensal oropharyngeal Neisseria. Larger studies are required to validate these findings.
Colistin Resistance Mechanisms in Human Salmonella enterica Strains Isolated by the National Surveillance Enter-Net Italia (2016–2018)
Authors: Fortini Daniela , Owczarek Slawomir , Dionisi Anna Maria , Lucarelli Claudia , Arena Sergio , Carattoli Alessandra ,   Enter-Net Italia Colistin Resistance Study Group, Villa Laura , García-Fernández Aurora
Published: January 2022

Background: A collection of human-epidemiologically unrelated S. enterica strains collected over a 3-year period (2016 to 2018) in Italy by the national surveillance Enter-Net Italia was analysed. Methods: Antimicrobial susceptibility tests, including the determination of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for colistin, were performed. Colistin resistant strains were analysed by PCR to detect mobile colistin resistance (mcr) genes. In mcr-negative S. enterica serovar Enteritidis strains, chromosomal mutations potentially involved in colistin resistance were identified by a genomic approach. Results: The prevalence of colistin-resistant S. enterica strains was 7.7%, the majority (87.5%) were S. Enteritidis. mcr genes were identified only in one strain, a S. Typhimurium monophasic variant, positive for both mcr-1.1 and mcr-5.1 genes in an IncHI2 ST4 plasmid. Several chromosomal mutations were identified in the colistin-resistant mcr-negative S. Enteritidis strains in proteins involved in lipopolysaccharide and outer membrane synthesis and modification (RfbN, LolB, ZraR) and in a component of a multidrug efflux pump (MdsC). These mutated proteins were defined as possible candidates for colistin resistance in mcr-negative S. Enteritidis of our collection. Conclusions: The colistin national surveillance in Salmonella spp. in humans, implemented with genomic-based surveillance, permitted to monitor colistin resistance, determining the prevalence of mcr determinants and the study of new candidate mechanisms for colistin resistance.
Bioelectrical Impedance Vector and Creatine Phosphokinase Changes Induced by a High-Intensity Training Session in Rink Hockey Players
Authors: Cebrián-Ponce Álex , Garnacho-Castaño Manuel V. , Castellano-Fàbrega Mercè , Castizo-Olier Jorge , Carrasco-Marginet Marta , Serra-Paya Noemí , Irurtia Alfredo
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to analyze anthropometric and whole-body/muscle-localized bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) adaptations and their relation to creatine kinase (CK) as a biomarker of muscle damage in a group of seven male players in the maximum category of professional rink hockey. There were three checkpoint assessments in relation to a high-intensity training session: pre-session (PRE), post-session (POST), and 24 h-post-session (POST24H). The resistance, reactance, and impedance module were adjusted by height (R/h, Xc/h, and Z/h, respectively). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the data at baseline and follow-up, while Spearman correlation was used to explore the relationship between CK and the rest of the parameters. The results registered a decrease in body mass at POST (p = 0.03) and a reestablishment at POST24H (p = 0.02). Whole-body BIVA registered a significant increase in R/h between PRE–to–POST (p = 0.02) and returned to baseline values at POST24H (p = 0.02), which was expected since this parameter is related to hydration processes. Muscle-localized BIVA in the rectus femoris muscle showed an increase in both Xc/h and phase angle in POST (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03, respectively) and a decrease in Xc/h at POST24H (p = 0.02). CK correlated with R/h in the rectus femoris at all the checkpoints (PRE–to–POST: r = 0.75, p = 0.05; PRE–to–POST24H: r = 0.81, p = 0.03; POST–to–POST24H: r = 0.82, p = 0.02). Our results indicate that BIVA is a sensitive methodology to assess general and muscle-localized hydration induced by a high-intensity training session in rink hockey players. A correlation between BIVA and CK was also reported.
Deducing of Optical and Electronic Domains Based Distortions in Radio over Fiber Network
Authors: Yu Haoyu , Ali Farman , Tu Shanshan , Karamti Hanen , Armghan Ammar , Muhammad Fazal , Alenezi Fayadh , Hameed Khurram , Ahmad Nauman
Published: January 2022

Managing the users multimedia and long-range based demands, the radio over fiber (RoF) mechanism has been introduced recently. RoF mingles the optical and radio communication frameworks to increase mobility and offer high capacity communication networks (CNs). In this paper, a full-duplex RoF-based CN is investigated for the next-generation passive optical network (PON), utilizing wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology. The desolations on account of optical and electronic domains (OEDs) are addressed, using dispersion compensation fiber (DCF) and optical and electrical filters, including modulation scheme. The analytical and simulation models are analyzed in terms of phase error (PE), radio frequency (RF), fiber length and input and received powers. The performance of the proposed model is successfully evaluated for 50 km range, −40 to −18 dBm received power, −20 to 0 dBm input power, where below 10−6 bit error rate (BER) is recorded. Thus, this signifies that the presented model exhibits smooth execution against OEDs impairments.
Adaptive Neural Network Control of Zero-Speed Vessel Fin Stabilizer Based on Command Filter
Authors: Sun Ziteng , Chen Chao , Zhu Guibing
Published: January 2022

This paper proposes a zero-speed vessel fin stabilizer adaptive neural network control strategy based on a command filter for the problem of large-angle rolling motion caused by adverse sea conditions when a vessel is at low speed down to zero. In order to avoid the adverse effects of the high-frequency part of the marine environment on the vessel rolling control system, a command filter is introduced in the design of the controller and a command filter backstepping control method is designed. An auxiliary dynamic system (ADS) is constructed to correct the feedback error caused by input saturation. Considering that the system has unknown internal parameters and unmodeled dynamics, and is affected by unknown disturbances from the outside, the neural network technology and nonlinear disturbance observer are fused in the proposed design, which not only combines the advantages of the two but also overcomes the limitations of the single technique itself. Through Lyapunov theoretical analysis, the stability of the control system is proved. Finally, the simulation results also verify the effectiveness of the control method.
Efficient Decomposition of Unitary Matrices in Quantum Circuit Compilers
Authors: Krol Anna M. , Sarkar Aritra , Ashraf Imran , Al-Ars Zaid , Bertels Koen
Published: January 2022

Unitary decomposition is a widely used method to map quantum algorithms to an arbitrary set of quantum gates. Efficient implementation of this decomposition allows for the translation of bigger unitary gates into elementary quantum operations, which is key to executing these algorithms on existing quantum computers. The decomposition can be used as an aggressive optimization method for the whole circuit, as well as to test part of an algorithm on a quantum accelerator. For the selection and implementation of the decomposition algorithm, perfect qubits are assumed. We base our decomposition technique on Quantum Shannon Decomposition, which generates O(344n) controlled-not gates for an n-qubit input gate. In addition, we implement optimizations to take advantage of the potential underlying structure in the input or intermediate matrices, as well as to minimize the execution time of the decomposition. Comparing our implementation to Qubiter and the UniversalQCompiler (UQC), we show that our implementation generates circuits that are much shorter than those of Qubiter and not much longer than the UQC. At the same time, it is also up to 10 times as fast as Qubiter and about 500 times as fast as the UQC.
When the Utility of Micro-Computed Tomography Collides with Insect Sample Preparation: An Entomologist User Guide to Solve Post-Processing Issues and Achieve Optimal 3D Models
Authors: Mensa Francesco Simone , Muzzi Maurizio , Spani Federica , Tromba Giuliana , Dullin Christian , Di Giulio Andrea
Published: January 2022

Many techniques are used today to study insect morphology, including light and electron microscopy. Most of them require to specifically prepare the sample, precluding its use for further investigation. In contrast, micro-CT allows a sample to be studied in a non-destructive and rapid process, even without specific treatments that might hinder the use of rare and hard-to-find species in nature. We used synchrotron radiation (SR) micro-CT and conventional micro-CT to prepare 3D reconstructions of Diptera, Coleoptera, and Hymenoptera species that had been processed with 4 common preparation procedures: critical-point drying, sputter-coating, resin embedding, and air-drying. Our results showed that it is possible to further utilize insect samples prepared with the aforementioned preparation techniques for the creation of 3D models. Specimens dried at the critical point showed the best results, allowing us to faithfully reconstruct both their external surface and their internal structures, while sputter-coated insects were the most troublesome for the 3D reconstruction procedure. Air-dried specimens were suitable for external morphological analyses, while anatomical investigation of soft internal organs was not possible due to their shrinking and collapsing. The sample included in resin allowed us to reconstruct and appreciate the external cuticle and the internal parts. In this work, we demonstrate that insect samples destined to different analyses can be used for new micro-CT studies, further deepening the possibility of state-of-the-art morphological analyses.
Urban Traffic Congestion State Recognition Supporting Algorithm Research on Vehicle Wireless Positioning in Vehicle–Road Cooperative Environment
Authors: Gao Chang , Wang Jiangfeng , Lu Xi , Chen Xumei
Published: January 2022

Vehicle–road cooperative technology applies wireless communication and a new generation of internet technology to urban traffic management, providing an effective way to solve urban traffic congestion and improve traffic efficiency. This article researches the vehicle wireless positioning fusion algorithm, suitable for the actual vehicle–road collaborative environment, which is an important step of urban traffic congestion state recognition. First, based on the error correction of existing wireless positioning algorithms, a weighting indicator considering distance and positioning compound errors is designed, and a vehicle wireless positioning fusion algorithm based on error weighting to eliminate line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) error is proposed. Secondly, the wireless positioning fusion algorithm is verified based on accuracy evaluation indicators such as root mean square error (RMSE), Cramer Rao lower bound (CRLB), geometric differentiation of precision (GDOP), and cumulative distribution probability (CDP), and the sensitivity of the distance propagation model parameters to the positioning error is analyzed. The verification results show that the local vehicle wireless positioning fusion algorithm proposed in this article could be useful to locate vehicles in an actual vehicle–road collaborative environment. The positioning accuracy could reach 46.31 m with 67% probability, while the positioning accuracy could reach 122.53 m with 95% probability. The average positioning accuracy could reach 39.97 m. Compared with the two types of wireless positioning methods based on ranging and non-ranging methods, the positioning accuracy is improved by 7.74% and 17.69%. The algorithm can either use the roadside base stations to carry out the individual vehicle positioning or cooperate with GPS positioning and trilateral positioning to make up for the positioning blind spots caused by the lack of signal, interference, or base station overload in the urban complex road environment and, furthermore, improves the robustness of vehicle positioning. The results could assist in all-day real-time traffic congestion state recognition and other actual scenarios.
A DFTB-Based Molecular Dynamics Investigation of an Explicitly Solvated Anatase Nanoparticle
Authors: O’Carroll Dáire , English Niall
Published: January 2022

We performed a self-consistent charge density functional tight-binding molecular dynamics (SCC DFTB-MD) simulation of an explicitly solvated anatase nanoparticle. From the 2 ps trajectory, we were able to calculate both dynamic and static properties, such as the energies of interaction and the formation of water layers at the surface, and compare them to the observed behaviour reported elsewhere. The high degree of agreement between our simulation and other sources, and the additional information gained from employing this methodology, highlights the oft-overlooked viability of DFTB-based methods for electronic structure calculations of large systems.
Scanning Strategy Investigation for Direct Powder Bed Selective Laser Processing of Silicon Carbide Ceramic
Authors: Abdelmoula Mohamed , Zarazaga Alejandro Montón , Küçüktürk Gökhan , Maury Francis , Grossin David , Ferrato Marc
Published: January 2022

Direct-Powder Bed Selective Laser Processing (D-PBSLP) is considered a promising technique for the Additive Manufacturing (AM) of Silicon Carbide (SiC). For the successful D-PBSLP of SiC, it is necessary to understand the effects of process parameters. The process parameters are the laser power, scanning speed, hatching distance, and scanning strategies. This study investigates the effect of scanning strategies on the D-PBSLP of SiC and ensures that other process parameters are appropriately selected to achieve this. A numerical model was developed to obtain the proper process parameters for the investigation of scanning strategies in this work. Different scanning strategies available in the commercial Phoenix 3D printer manufactured by 3D Systems, such as concentric in–out, linear, inclined zigzag, and hexagonal, have been investigated. It was concluded that the zigzag strategy is the best scanning strategy, as it was seen that SiC samples could be printed at a high relative density of above 80% without a characteristic pattern on the layer’s top surface. SiC samples were successfully printed using different laser powers and scanning speeds obtained from the numerical model and zigzag strategy. Additionally, complex geometry in the form of triple periodic minimum surface (gyroid) was also successfully printed.
Food Products with High Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities and Their Sensory Appreciation
Authors: Tița Mihaela Adriana , Constantinescu Maria Adelina , Tița Ovidiu , Mathe Endre , Tamošaitienė Loreta , Bradauskienė Vijolė
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: The demand for healthy and nutritious food is growing worldwide. Fermented dairy products are highly valued by consumers for their health benefits. Kefir is a fermented dairy product that brings many benefits to the consumer due to its antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, antihypertensive and antimicrobial properties. Extracts from various plants in the form of volatile oils have a beneficial efct on consumer health. Following the research, their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were demonstrated. (2) Methods: In the present study, the main purpose was to obtain a fermented dairy product with a high nutritional value; therefore, kefir, enriched with three types of volatile oils, namely, volatile mint oil, volatile fennel oil and volatile lavender oil, was made. The kefir samples obtained were sensory and texturally analyzed. The beneficial effect on health must also be studied in terms of the acceptability of these products by consumers from a sensory point of view. A non-numerical method based on several multi-personal approval criteria was used to interpret the results obtained in the sensory analysis. In the textural analysis, the consistency, cohesiveness and firmness of the kefir samples were analyzed. (3) Results: The samples enriched with volatile oils obtained superior results compared to the control sample in both conducted examinations. Kefir samples with volatile oils retained their sensory and textural characteristics for a longer time during storage. (4) Conclusions: The volatile oils added to kefir positively influenced the sensory and textural characteristics of the finished product.
Adaptive Robust Position Control of Electro-Hydraulic Servo Systems with Large Uncertainties and Disturbances
Authors: Nguyen Manh Hung , Dao Hoang Vu , Ahn Kyoung Kwan
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a novel adaptive robust control (ARC) scheme is proposed for electro-hydraulic servo systems (EHSSs) with uncertainties and disturbances. All dynamic functions in system dynamics are effectively approximated by multi-layer radial basis function neural network (RBF NN)-based approximators with online adaptive mechanisms. Moreover, neural network-based disturbance observers (NN-DOBs) are established to actively estimate and efficiently compensate for the effects of not only the matched/mismatched but also the imperfections of RBF NN-based approximators on the control system. Based on that, the nonlinear robust control law which integrates RBF NNs and NN-DOBs is synthesized via the sliding mode control (SMC) approach to guarantee the high-accuracy position tracking performance of the overall control system. Furthermore, the problem of the combination between DOBs and RBF NNs is first introduced in this paper to treat both disturbances and uncertainties in the EHSS. The stability of the recommended control mechanism is proven by using Lyapunov theory. Finally, numerical simulations with several distinct frequency levels of reference trajectory are conducted to convincingly demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
An Intelligent Control Strategy for a Highly Reliable Microgrid in Island Mode
Authors: Wang Youyun , Li Yan , Yang Zhuo , Cheng Xin
Published: January 2022

An intelligent control strategy based on a membership cloud model in a high reliable off-grid microgrid with a reconfigurable inverter is proposed in this paper. The operating principle of the off-grid microgrid with the reconfigurable inverter is provided, which contains four operating modes. An open-circuit fault diagnosis for the inverter is presented first. The polarities of the midpoint voltages defined in the paper are used to recognize the faulty power switch. The reconfigurable inverter allows the power switches of different bridges to be reconfigured, when there are power switches faulty, to let the inverter operate in faulty state. The working principle of the reconfigurable inverter is given. The membership cloud model with two output channels is built to obtain the virtual impedance to suppress the circulating currents between inverters when the reconfigurable inverter is in faulty state. A pulse resetting method is presented. The general intelligent control strategy for the reconfigurable inverter is formed as the droop-virtual impedance-voltage-current-pulses resetting control. The validity of the intelligent control strategy of the system is verified by simulation.
Mechanical Activation of Smectite-Based Nanocomposites for Creation of Smart Fertilizers
Authors: Rudmin Maxim , Banerjee Santanu , Makarov Boris , Ibraeva Kanipa , Konstantinov Alexander
Published: January 2022

This research presents the mechanical creation of smart fertilizers from a mixture of smectite and urea in a 3:2 ratio by using the planetary milling technique. The smectite–urea composites show intercalation between urea and mineral, which increases steadily with increasing activation time. A shift of X-Ray Diffraction basal reflections, intensities of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) peaks, and weight losses in thermogravimetric analysis (TG) document the systematic crystallo-chemical changes of the composites related to nitrogen interaction with activation. Observations of the nanocomposites by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) corroborate the inference. Nitrogen intercalates with smectite in the interlayer space and remains absorbed either within micro-aggregates or on the surface of activated smectites. Soil leaching tests reveal a slower rate of nitrogen than that of traditional urea fertilizers. Different forms of nitrogen within the composites cause their differential release rates to the soil. The formulated nanocomposite fertilizer enhances the quality and quantity of oat yield.
A Grade Identification Method of Critical Node in Urban Road Network Based on Multi-Attribute Evaluation Correction
Authors: Liu Chaofeng , Yin He , Sun Yixin , Wang Ling , Guo Xiaodong
Published: January 2022

Accurately identifying the key nodes of the road network and focusing on its management and control is an important means to improve the robustness and invulnerability of the road network. In this paper, a classification and identification method of key nodes in urban road networks based on multi-attribute evaluation and modification was proposed. Firstly, the emergency function guarantee grade of road network nodes was divided by comprehensively considering the importance of road network nodes, the consequences of failure, and the degree of difficulty of recovery. The evaluation indexes were selected according to the local attributes, global attributes, and functional attributes of the road network topology. The spatial distribution patterns of the evaluation indexes of the nodes were analyzed. The dynamic classification method was used to cluster the attributes of the road network nodes, and the TOPSIS method was used to comprehensively evaluate the importance ranking of the road network nodes. Attribute clustering of road network nodes by dynamic classification method (DT) and the TOPSIS method was used to comprehensively evaluate the ranking of the importance of road network nodes. Then, combined with the modification of the comprehensive evaluation and ranking of the importance of the road network nodes, the emergency function support classification results of the road network nodes were obtained. Finally, the method was applied to the road network within the second Ring Road of Beijing. It was compared with the clustering method of self-organizing competitive neural networks. The results show that this method can identify the key nodes of the road network more accurately. The first-grade key nodes are all located at the more important intersections on expressways and trunk roads. The spatial distribution pattern shows a “center-edge” pattern, and the important traffic corridors of the road network show a “five vertical and five horizontal” pattern.
Clustering Application for Condition-Based Maintenance in Time-Varying Processes: A Review Using Latent Dirichlet Allocation
Authors: Quatrini Elena , Colabianchi Silvia , Costantino Francesco , Tronci Massimo
Published: January 2022

In the field of industrial process monitoring, scholars and practitioners are increasing interest in time-varying processes, where different phases are implemented within an unknown time frame. The measurement of process parameters could inform about the health state of the production assets, or products, but only if the measured parameters are coupled with the specific phase identification. A combination of values could be common for one phase and uncommon for another phase; thus, the same combination of values shows a high or low probability depending on the specific phase. The automatic identification of the production phase usually relies on clustering techniques. This is largely due to the difficulty of finding training fault data for supervised models. With these two considerations in mind, this contribution proposes the Latent Dirichlet Allocation as a natural language-processing technique for reviewing the topic of clustering applied in time-varying contexts, in the maintenance field. Thus, the paper presents this innovative methodology to analyze this specific research fields, presenting the step-by-step application and its results, with an overview of the theme.
Iron Inhibits the Translation and Activity of the Renal Epithelial Sodium Channel
Authors: Alli Abdel A. , Yu Ling , Wlazlo Ewa , Kasem Sadat , Gholam Mohammed F. , Desai Dhruv , Lugo Carlos I. , Vaulont Sophie , Scindia Yogesh M.
Published: January 2022

Hypertension is associated with an increased renal expression and activity of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) and iron deficiency. Distal tubules absorb iron, causing perturbations that may influence local responses. In this observational study, we investigated the relationship between iron content and ENaC expression and activity using two cell lines and hepcidin knockout mice (a murine model of iron overload). We found that iron did not transcriptionally regulate ENaC in hepcidin knockout mice or in vitro in collecting duct cells. However, the renal tubules of hepcidin knockout mice have a lower expression of ENaC protein. ENaC activity in cultured Xenopus 2F3 cells and mpkCCD cells was inhibited by iron, which could be reversed by iron chelation. Thus, our novel findings implicate iron as a regulator of ENaC protein and its activity.
Characterization of miRNAs in Embryonic, Larval, and Adult Lumpfish Provides a Reference miRNAome for Cyclopterus lumpus
Authors: Chakraborty Setu , Woldemariam Nardos T. , Visnovska Tina , Rise Matthew L. , Boyce Danny , Santander Javier , Andreassen Rune
Published: January 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small RNA molecules involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of protein expression by binding to the mRNA of target genes. They are key regulators in teleost development, maintenance of tissue-specific functions, and immune responses. Lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) is becoming an emergent aquaculture species as it has been utilized as a cleaner fish to biocontrol sea lice (e.g., Lepeophtheirus salmonis) infestation in the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) aquaculture. The lumpfish miRNAs repertoire is unknown. This study identified and characterized miRNA encoding genes in lumpfish from three developmental stages (adult, embryos, and larvae). A total of 16 samples from six different adult lumpfish organs (spleen, liver, head kidney, brain, muscle, and gill), embryos, and larvae were individually small RNA sequenced. Altogether, 391 conserved miRNA precursor sequences (discovered in the majority of teleost fish species reported in miRbase), eight novel miRNA precursor sequences (so far only discovered in lumpfish), and 443 unique mature miRNAs were identified. Transcriptomics analysis suggested organ-specific and age-specific expression of miRNAs (e.g., miR-122-1-5p specific of the liver). Most of the miRNAs found in lumpfish are conserved in teleost and higher vertebrates, suggesting an essential and common role across teleost and higher vertebrates. This study is the first miRNA characterization of lumpfish that provides the reference miRNAome for future functional studies.
The Role of COA6 in the Mitochondrial Copper Delivery Pathway to Cytochrome c Oxidase
Authors: Swaminathan Abhinav B. , Gohil Vishal M.
Published: January 2022

Copper is essential for the stability and activity of cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), the terminal enzyme of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Copper is bound to COX1 and COX2, two core subunits of CcO, forming the CuB and CuA sites, respectively. Biogenesis of these two copper sites of CcO occurs separately and requires a number of evolutionarily conserved proteins that form the mitochondrial copper delivery pathway. Pathogenic mutations in some of the proteins of the copper delivery pathway, such as SCO1, SCO2, and COA6, have been shown to cause fatal infantile human disorders, highlighting the biomedical significance of understanding copper delivery mechanisms to CcO. While two decades of studies have provided a clearer picture regarding the biochemical roles of SCO1 and SCO2 proteins, some discrepancy exists regarding the function of COA6, the new member of this pathway. Initial genetic and biochemical studies have linked COA6 with copper delivery to COX2 and follow-up structural and functional studies have shown that it is specifically required for the biogenesis of the CuA site by acting as a disulfide reductase of SCO and COX2 proteins. Its role as a copper metallochaperone has also been proposed. Here, we critically review the recent literature regarding the molecular function of COA6 in CuA biogenesis.
Optical Hydrogel Detector for pH Measurements
Authors: Alqurashi Yousef , Elsherif Mohamed , Hendi Asail , Essa Khamis , Butt Haider
Published: January 2022

Measuring pH has become a major key for determining health conditions, and food safety. The traditional pH assessment approaches are costly and offer low sensitivity. Here, a novel pH sensor based on a pH-responsive hydrogel has been developed. A Fresnel lens pattern was replicated on the surface of the pH-responsive hydrogel using the replica mould method. The pH sensors were tested in a pH range of 4–7. Introducing various pH solutions to the pH sensor led to volumetric shifts as the hydrogel swelled with pH. Consequently, the dimensions of the replicated Fresnel lens changed, modifying the focal length and the focus efficiency of the optical sensor. As a result, the measured optical power at a fixed distance from the sensor changed with pH. The optical sensor showed the best performance in the acidic region when pH changed from 4.5 to 5.5, in which the recorded power increased by 13%. The sensor exhibited high sensitivity to pH changes with a short respond time in a reversible manner. The developed pH optical sensor may have applications in medical point-of-care diagnostics and wearable continuous pH detection devices.
People’s Experience of Shared Decision Making in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy: A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis
Authors: Grenfell Jessica , Soundy Andrew
Published: January 2022

(1) Shared decision making (SDM) has been advocated as a way of improving prudency in healthcare and has been linked to self-efficacy and empowerment of service users. The evaluation of its use in musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy has been vague, but articles suggest that trust and communication are integral. (2) ENTREQ guidelines informed this systematic review and thematic synthesis. PRISMA recommendations steered a systematic literature search of AHMED, CINAHL, MEDLNE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases from inception to September 2021. COREQ was used for quality appraisal of articles alongside critical discussions. Analysis and synthesis included five stages: outlining study characteristics, coding of data, development of descriptive themes, development of analytical themes and integration and refinement. The review aim was to explore people’s experiences of SDM in MSK physiotherapy and to inform our understanding of the conditions needed for successful SDM. (3) Out of 1508 studies, 9 articles were included. Four main themes (trust, communication, decision preferences and decision ability) demonstrated that the majority of people want to participate in decision-making. As described in the capacity and capability model, three core conditions were needed to facilitate someone’s’ ability to participate. (4) People want to be involved in SDM in MSK physiotherapy. For successful SDM, physiotherapists should look to develop mutual trust, utilise two-way communication and share power.
COVID-19 Pandemic in a Vulnerable Population: Prevalence and Correlates of Anxiety
Authors: Shalaby Reham , Eboreime Ejemai , Nkire Nnamdi , Agyapong Belinda , Pazderka Hannah , Obuobi-Donkor Gloria , Adu Medard Kofi , Mao Wanying , Owusu Ernest , Oluwasina Folajinmi , Agyapong Vincent I. O.
Published: January 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has produced negative mental health outcomes. These effects were more prominent in vulnerable communities that experienced prior similar disasters. The study aimed to examine the likelihood and correlates of anxiety symptoms among Fort McMurray (FMM) residents, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey questionnaire was applied between 24 April and 2 June 2021, at FMM, to gather sociodemographic, COVID-19, and clinical information, including generalized anxiety disorder (using GAD-7 scale). Results: Overall, 186 individuals completed the survey (response rate 74.7%). Most of the respondents were females (159, 85.5%); above 40 years (98, 52.7%); employed (175, 94.1%); and in relationship (132, 71%). The prevalence of moderate-to-severe anxiety was (42.5%, 71) on GAD-7 self-reported scale. Subscribers who reported that they would like to receive mental health support; have received no family support since COVID-19 declaration; and have lost their job during the pandemic were all more likely to report moderate-to-severe anxiety (OR = 3.39; 95% CI: 1.29–8.88), (OR = 4.85; 95% CI: 1.56–15.03), and (OR = 4.40; 95% CI: 1.01–19.24), respectively. Conclusions: Anxiety levels were high among FMM residents, compared to levels before COVID-19. Clinical and social factors significantly predicted likely anxiety in the Fort McMurray population, during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is imperative that resources are mobilized to support vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Designing Post COVID-19 Buildings: Approaches for Achieving Healthy Buildings
Authors: Navaratnam Satheeskumar , Nguyen Kate , Selvaranjan Kajanan , Zhang Guomin , Mendis Priyan , Aye Lu
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the accessibility, social gathering, lifestyle, and working environment to be changed to reduce the infection. Coronavirus spreads between people in several different ways. Small liquid particles (aerosols, respiratory droplets) from an infected person are transmitted through air and surfaces that are in contact with humans. Reducing transmission through modified heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and building design are potential solutions. A comprehensive review of the engineering control preventive measures to mitigate COVID-19 spread, healthy building design, and material was carried out. The current state-of-the-art engineering control preventive measures presented include ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), bipolar ionization, vertical gardening, and indoor plants. They have potential to improve the indoor air quality. In addition, this article presents building design with materials (e.g., copper alloys, anti-microbial paintings) and smart technologies (e.g., automation, voice control, and artificial intelligence-based facial recognition) to mitigate the infections of communicable diseases.
Analyzing the Time-Varying Thermal Perception of Students in Classrooms and Its Influencing Factors from a Case Study in Xi’an, China
Authors: Sun Yongkai , Luo Xi , Ming Hui
Published: January 2022

Owing to movement in the spatial environment and changes in activity levels, students’ thermal perception is time varying in classrooms throughout different periods of the day. However, previous studies have rarely considered the time-varying thermal perception in different periods of the day, which may cause discomfort for students and lead to energy wastage. Therefore, a study was conducted to investigate the time-varying thermal perception of students and its influencing factors in different classes of the day. In addition, the differences in students’ adaptive behaviors in different periods were also explored. A total of 578 university students were surveyed using questionnaire surveys during the heating season in Xi’an, China. The following results can be obtained: (1) The thermal sensation vote and thermal preference vote values in the afternoon were significantly higher than those in the morning. At the start of the first class in the morning/afternoon, the thermal sensation of the students had the highest sensitivity to outdoor temperature changes. (2) The students’ thermal perception was greatly affected by the preclass activity state at the start of the first class in the morning/afternoon. However, in other periods, the above phenomenon was not obvious. (3) In the afternoon, the frequency of clothing adjustment was greater than that in the morning, and this behavior would significantly affect the students’ thermal sensation. (4) Compared with the current classroom heating strategy, the heating strategy of dynamically adjusting the indoor set temperature according to the time-varying characteristics of the students can theoretically achieve energy savings of 25.6%.
Affordances, Architecture and the Action Possibilities of Learning Environments: A Critical Review of the Literature and Future Directions
Authors: Young Fiona , Cleveland Benjamin
Published: January 2022

This paper critically reviews the body of literature on affordances relating to the design and inhabitation of school buildings. Focusing on the influence of learning spaces on pedagogical practices, we argue that links between affordances, architecture and the action possibilities of school-based environments have largely been overlooked and that such links hold great promise for better aligning space and pedagogy—especially amidst changing expectations of what effective teaching and learning ‘looks like’. Emerging innovative learning environments (ILEs) are designed to enable a wider pedagogical repertoire than traditional classrooms. In order to transcend stereotypical understandings about how the physical environment in schools may afford teaching and learning activities, it is becoming increasingly recognised that both design and practice reconceptualisation is required for affordances of new learning environments to be effectively actualised in support of contemporary education. With a focus on the environmental perceptions of architects, educators and learners, we believe affordance theory offers a useful framework for thinking about the design and use of learning spaces. We argue that Gibson’s affordance theory should be more commonly applied to help situate conversations between designers and users about how physical learning environments are conceived, perceived and actioned for effective teaching and learning.