bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Model for Energy Consumption of Main Cutting Force of High Energy Efficiency Milling Cutter under Vibration
Authors: Jiang Bin , Li Haoyang , Fan Lili , Zhao Peiyi
Published: January 2022

Understanding the influence of the main cutting force energy consumption of the milling cutter is the basis for prediction and control of energy and machining efficiency. The existing models of cutting force energy consumption lack variables related to milling vibration and cutter teeth errors. According to the instantaneous bias of the main profile of the milling cutter under vibration, the instantaneous cutting boundary of the cutter teeth was investigated. The energy consumption distribution of the instantaneous main cutting force of the cutter tooth was studied. The model for the energy consumption of the instantaneous main cutting force of the cutter tooth and the milling cutter were both developed. The formation of energy consumption of the dynamic main cutting force of a high energy efficiency milling cutter was researched. A method for identifying the time–frequency characteristics of the energy consumption of the main cutting force under vibration was proposed and verified by experiments.
A Study on the Design of Coastal Fairway Width Based on a Risk Assessment Model in Korean Waterways
Authors: Kang Won-Sik , Park Young-Soo
Published: January 2022

In this study, the appropriate fairway width was designed through the maritime traffic safety evaluation model. By applying the concept of L-converted traffic, it was found that the current maritime traffic volume is 5 to 20 ships per hour in the sea area near Gun-san Port. High-density sections were identified through density analysis based on maritime traffic volume, which ranged from 5 to 10 km, and sections with an area of 10 km or more were also analyzed. Considering the general traffic flow and density, it is necessary to set a route width of 10 km or more in the target sea area, as well as to design a minimum fairway width that ensures safety for all types of ocean use. In this study, four traffic flows were analyzed through machine learning and a comprehensive environmental stress model was created for the traffic flows. The amount of safety change according to the increase in traffic volume was compared and reviewed for a fairway width of 1 km to 10 km, which can be generally formed according to the characteristics of the sea area. In the assessment, we found that when the fairway width was 1–4 km and the L-converted traffic volume was 15 or more, the ES ≥ 750 value exceeded 10% of the total, thus creating a burden on the ship operators. In particular, it was found that the ES ≥ 750 value was 20% at most when the L-converted traffic volume was 20 or more. In a comprehensive analysis, the ES > 750 was found to be less than 10% when the fairway width was 6 km or more in the sea area with one crossing passage at 5 to 20 ships per hour, which was the experimental condition of this study, and the ship operator’s burden was determined to be insignificant. Based on these results, when designing routes between offshore wind farms that will be established in the future, we expect that it will be possible to design the minimum fairway width to ensure safety according to the traffic volume.
Adjustment of the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) for the Evaluation of Drought in the Arroyo Pechelín Basin, Colombia, under Zero Monthly Precipitation Conditions
Authors: Cerpa Reyes Luis José , Ávila Rangel Humberto , Herazo Luis Carlos Sandoval
Published: January 2022

The evaluation of the meteorological drought is fundamental for the management of the water resource. One of the most used indices to evaluate the drought is the standardized precipitation index (SPI) due to its practicality and evaluation in a variety of time scales, however, this uses precipitation as the only variable, depending on the deviations in the precipitation values. This is important when evaluating the SPI, because in some ecosystems close to the equatorial zone, there are very warm periods with low rainfall, in which a large proportion of the data collected by the meteorological stations corresponds to zero. In this research, the SPI was calculated in the Pechelín basin located in Colombia, in which there is zero precipitation in a large proportion of the data, registering zero precipitation in the month of January and February in 67% and 70% respectively. As a result, the SPI values increased to “wet” ranges, only when the amount of data with zero precipitation exceeded half of the total data; this means that the SPI determines wrong values when it is calculated with zero-precipitation data in large proportions. Based on this finding, this study aims to modify the index by typing the distribution (using a correction factor K), finally correcting the SPI values, this correction was called SPI-C. The results indicate that the SPI-C improved the identification of drought, obtaining corresponding values that better represent the high frequency of zero precipitation existing in the study area.
Characteristics of PM10 Levels Monitored in Bangkok and Its Vicinity Areas, Thailand
Authors: Kanjanasiranont Navaporn , Butburee Teera , Peerakiatkhajohn Piangjai
Published: January 2022

The ambient air concentrations of PM10 were observed in Bangkok and its vicinity areas including Nonthaburi and Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The selected study areas are located near heavy-traffic roads with a high concentration of traffic-related air pollution. The ambient air samples were collected in the winter season (October 2019 to February 2020). The highest average level of PM10 was found in Nonthaburi (66.63 µg/m3), followed by Bangkok (56.79 µg/m3) and Nakhon Pathom (40.18 µg/m3), respectively. The morphology of these particles is typically spherical and irregular shape particles. At the sampling site in Bangkok, these particles are primarily composed of C, O, and Si, and a certain amount of metals such as Fe, Cu, and Cr. Some trace amount of other elements such as Ca, Na, and S are present in minor concentration. The particles collected from Nakhon Pathom and Nonthaburi sampling sites contain the main abundant elements C, O, and Si, followed by Cu, Cr, S, Fe, Ca, and Na, respectively. These particles are an agglomeration of carbon particles resulting from the incomplete combustion of organic matter. Their origin may be associated with road dust, vehicle emission, and the erosion of building products. It can be noted that the levels and characteristics of PM10 are key factors in understanding the behavior of the particles in not only atmospheric visibility but also human health risks.
Effects of Carbon Emission Trading on Companies’ Market Value: Evidence from Listed Companies in China
Authors: Tang Maogang , Cheng Silu , Guo Wenqing , Ma Weibiao , Hu Fengxia
Published: January 2022

Emissions trading schemes (ETSs) are effective measures that facilitate economic growth and carbon mitigation, especially for developing countries such as China. These schemes can further affect the cash flow, production, and investment decisions of regulated companies. However, few empirical studies have explored how ETSs promote companies’ market value. We systematically evaluate the influence of the carbon emission trading (CET) policy on companies’ market value and explore the influential mechanism. We use the data of listed companies from the Chinese stock “A” markets and employ the difference-in-difference method to account for the unobserved cause of the CET policy regarding companies’ market value. Robust benchmark regression results reveal that the CET policy promotes companies’ market value significantly. The mechanism analysis reveals that the CET policy can improve the market value of listed companies by influencing the carbon price, innovative activities, and carbon disclosure. The results of the heterogeneity analysis show that the CET policy’s impact on companies’ market value is heterogeneous in terms of marketization degree, industry, firm ownership, and different regions. We suggest that the carbon pricing mechanism, degree of market perfection, carbon disclosure policy, and carbon finance should be optimized to improve the efficiency of ETSs.
Development and Characterization of a Time-Sequenced Cascade Impactor: Application to Transient PM2.5 Pollution Events in Urbanized and Industrialized Environments
Authors: Ngagine Soulemane Halif , Deboudt Karine , Flament Pascal , Choël Marie , Kulinski Pierre , Marteel Fabien
Published: January 2022

To set up a sampling and analysis strategy for particulate matter (PM) based on the time periods used in international standards is often inadequate for assessing the impact of day/night cycles or episodic emissions on urban air quality. To obtain a detailed physico–chemical characterization of urban PM when concentrations exceed the regulatory thresholds, a new rotary cascade impactor named the Time-Resolved Atmospheric Particle Sampler (TRAPS) was designed and tested for coarse and fine particle sampling. The TRAPS implementation, coupled with Optical Particle Counter measurements, provides time-resolved samples that can be analyzed by a wide range of single-particle analysis techniques. The TRAPS theoretical design was verified experimentally. Experimental cut-off diameters of 1.32 and 0.13 µm, respectively, for coarse and fine stages, were found in good agreement with theoretical values. Additionally, good trace separation, preventing inter-sample contamination, was evidenced by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The homogeneous distribution of particles of different types over a trace was also verified. As a case study, automated SEM-EDX analysis of 2500 particles, collected during two pollution peaks of a transient PM2.5 pollution event, revealed that individual particles’ chemical composition was influenced by local sources during the first pollution peak, and mainly transported during the second peak.
Nonlinear Eigenvalue Problems for the Dirichlet (p,2)-Laplacian
Authors: Bai Yunru , Gasiński Leszek , Papageorgiou Nikolaos S.
Published: January 2022

We consider a nonlinear eigenvalue problem driven by the Dirichlet (p,2)-Laplacian. The parametric reaction is a Carathéodory function which exhibits (p−1)-sublinear growth as x→+∞ and as x→0+. Using variational tools and truncation and comparison techniques, we prove a bifurcation-type theorem describing the “spectrum” as λ>0 varies. We also prove the existence of a smallest positive eigenfunction for every eigenvalue. Finally, we indicate how the result can be extended to (p,q)-equations (q≠2).
Platelet–Leucocyte Aggregates as Novel Biomarkers in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Pluta Kinga , Porębska Kinga , Urbanowicz Tomasz , Gąsecka Aleksandra , Olasińska-Wiśniewska Anna , Targoński Radosław , Krasińska Aleksandra , Filipiak Krzysztof , Jemielity Marek , Krasiński Zbigniew
Published: January 2022

Platelet–leucocyte aggregates (PLA) are a formation of leucocytes and platelets bound by specific receptors. They arise in the condition of sheer stress, thrombosis, immune reaction, vessel injury, and the activation of leukocytes or platelets. PLA participate in cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Increased levels of PLA were revealed in acute and chronic coronary syndromes, carotid stenosis cardiovascular risk factors. Due to accessible, available, replicable, quick, and low-cost quantifying using flow cytometry, PLA constitute an ideal biomarker for clinical practice. PLA are promising in early diagnosing and estimating prognosis in patients with acute or chronic coronary syndromes treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). PLA were also a reliable marker of platelet activity for monitoring antiplatelet therapy. PLA consist also targets potential therapies in CVD. All of the above potential clinical applications require further studies to validate methods of assay and proof clinical benefits.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Biology in 2021
Authors:   Biology Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Broccoli Myrosinase cDNA Expression in Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Curiqueo Carolina , Mahn Andrea , Castillo Antonio
Published: January 2022

Myrosinases (EC 3.2.1.147) are enzymes known for the generation of hydrolysis products that have a potential beneficial effect on human health. Their reaction mechanisms are widely studied, in order to improve and optimize secondary metabolite production processes. In this work, kinetic and biochemical properties of the broccoli myrosinase enzyme produced from its cDNA cloned in Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were investigated. The results revealed that the thermal stability of the enzyme produced in S. cerevisiae was slightly higher (30 to 60 °C) than that of myrosinase produced in E. coli (20 to 50 °C). The effect of pH on the enzymatic activity was similar in both enzymes, with pH 3 being the optimum value under the reaction conditions used. The kinetic behavior of both enzymes was adjusted to the Michaelis–Menten model. The catalytic efficiency was up to 4 times higher in myrosinase produced in S. cerevisiae, compared to myrosinase produced in E. coli. The glycosylations present in the enzyme would be related to the formation of a dimeric quaternary structure and would not play an essential role in enzymatic activity, since both enzymes were biologically active. These results will probably allow the development of strategies for the production of bioactive metabolites of medical interest.
Repurposing Based Identification of Novel Inhibitors against MmpS5-MmpL5 Efflux Pump of Mycobacterium smegmatis: A Combined In Silico and In Vitro Study
Authors: Shahbaaz Mohd , Maslov Dmitry A. , Vatlin Aleksey A. , Danilenko Valery N. , Grishina Maria , Christoffels Alan
Published: January 2022

In the current era of a pandemic, infections of COVID-19 and Tuberculosis (TB) enhance the detrimental effects of both diseases in suffering individuals. The resistance mechanisms evolving in Mycobacterium tuberculosis are limiting the efficiency of current therapeutic measures and pressurizing the stressed medical infrastructures. The bacterial efflux pumps enable the development of resistance against recently approved drugs such as bedaquiline and clofazimine. Consequently, the MmpS5-MmpL5 protein system was selected because of its role in efflux pumping of anti-TB drugs. The MmpS5-MmpL5 systems of Mycobacterium smegmatis were modelled and the virtual screening was performed using an ASINEX library of 5968 anti-bacterial compounds. The inhibitors with the highest binding affinities and QSAR based highest predicted inhibitory concentration were selected. The MmpS5-MmpL5 associated systems with BDE_26593610 and BDD_27860195 showed highest inhibitory parameters. These were subjected to 100 ns Molecular Dynamics simulations and provided the validation regarding the interaction studies. The in vitro studies demonstrated that the BDE_26593610 and BDD_27860195 can be considered as active inhibitors for M. smegmatis MmpS5-MmpL5. The outcomes of this study can be utilized in other experimentation aimed at drug design and discovery against the drug resistance strains of M. tuberculosis.
Development of a Rapid Gold Nanoparticle Immunochromatographic Strip Based on the Nanobody for Detecting 2,4-DichloRophenoxyacetic Acid
Authors: Zhou Hui , He Cong , Li Zhenfeng , Huo Jingqian , Xue Yu , Xu Xiaotong , Qi Meng , Chen Lai , Hammock Bruce D. , Zhang Jinlin
Published: January 2022

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is a systemic conductive herbicide widely used across the world. With the large-scale and continuous use of 2,4-D, its possible harm to the environment and non-target organisms has attracted increasing attention, and the construction of a stable rapid on-site detection method is particularly important. In order to achieve on-site rapid detection of 2,4-D, we developed a gold nanoparticle immunochromatographic strip method with the visual elimination value was 50 ng/mL, and a quantitative detection limit of 11 ng/mL based on a nanobody. By combing with the color snap, the immunochromatographic strip could quantitatively analyze the amounts of 2,4-D. Meanwhile, a colorimetric card based on the true color of the test strips was developed for the qualitative analysis of 2,4-D on-site. The samples (water, fruits and vegetables) with and without 2,4-D were detected by the immunochromatographic strips, and the results showed the accuracy and reliability. Thus, this assay is a rapid and simple on-site analytical tool to detect and quantify 2,4-D levels in environmental samples, and the analytical results can be obtained in about ten minutes. In addition, the nanobody technology used in this study provides an inexhaustible supply of a relatively stable antibodies that can be archived as a nanobody, plasmid or even its sequence.
Neurological Prognostic Factors in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Drabik Leszek , Derbisz Justyna , Chatys-Bogacka Zaneta , Mazurkiewicz Iwona , Sawczynska Katarzyna , Kesek Tomasz , Czepiel Jacek , Wrona Pawel , Szaleniec Joanna , Wojcik-Bugajska Malgorzata , Garlicki Aleksander , Malecki Maciej , Jozefowicz Ralph , Slowik Agnieszka , Wnuk Marcin
Published: January 2022

We aimed to search whether neurological symptoms or signs (NSS) and the MEWS (Modified Early Warning Score) score were associated with in-hospital mortality or oxygen requirement during the first 14 days of hospitalization in COVID-19 patients recruited at the University Hospital in Krakow, Poland. The detailed clinical questionnaires on twenty NSS were either filled out by patients prospectively or retrospectively assessed by neurologists based on daily medical records. NSS were considered high or low-risk if they were associated with increased or decreased mortality in the univariable analysis. This cohort study included 349 patients with COVID-19 (median age 64, interquartile range (51–77), women 54.72%). The presence of high-risk NSS (decreased level of consciousness, delirium, seizures, and symptoms of stroke or transient ischemic attack) or its combination with the absence of low-risk NSS (headache, dizziness, decreased mood, and fatigue) increased the risk of in-hospital mortality in SARS-CoV-2 infection 3.13 and 7.67-fold, respectively. The presence of low-risk NSS decreased the risk of in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients more than 6-fold. Death in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, apart from NSS, was predicted by older age, neoplasm, and higher MEWS scores on admission. High-risk NSS or their combination with the absence of low-risk NSS increased the risk of oxygen requirement during hospitalization in COVID-19 patients 4.48 and 1.86-fold, respectively. Independent predictors of oxygen therapy during hospitalization in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were also older age, male sex, neoplasm, and higher MEWS score on admission.
Effects of Motor Imagery Tasks on Brain Functional Networks Based on EEG Mu/Beta Rhythm
Authors: Yu Hongli , Ba Sidi , Guo Yuxue , Guo Lei , Xu Guizhi
Published: January 2022

Motor imagery (MI) refers to the mental rehearsal of movement in the absence of overt motor action, which can activate or inhibit cortical excitability. EEG mu/beta oscillations recorded over the human motor cortex have been shown to be consistently suppressed during both the imagination and performance of movements, although the specific effect on brain function remains to be confirmed. In this study, Granger causality (GC) was used to construct the brain functional network of subjects during motor imagery and resting state based on EEG in order to explore the effects of motor imagery on brain function. Parameters of the brain functional network were compared and analyzed, including degree, clustering coefficient, characteristic path length and global efficiency of EEG mu/beta rhythm in different states. The results showed that the clustering coefficient and efficiency of EEG mu/beta rhythm decreased significantly during motor imagery (p < 0.05), while degree distribution and characteristic path length increased significantly (p < 0.05), mainly concentrated in the frontal lobe and sensorimotor area. For the resting state after motor imagery, the changes of brain functional characteristics were roughly similar to those of the task state. Therefore, it is concluded that motor imagery plays an important role in activation of cortical excitability.
Frequency Domain Analysis of Alongwind Response and Study of Wind Loads for Transmission Tower Subjected to Downbursts
Authors: Zhong Yongli , Li Shun , Jin Weichen , Yan Zhitao , Liu Xinpeng , Li Yan
Published: January 2022

Downburst is one of the high-intensity winds that cause transmission tower failures. The regulations of transmission tower-line systems under downburst wind loads cannot meet the design requirements at present. In this paper, the calculation formulas of the background and resonant components of transmission tower under downburst wind loads are obtained, based on the modal analysis theory of non-stationary wind for the single-degree-of-freedom system in the frequency domain. The effects of structural dynamic characteristics, damping ratio, and mean wind speed vertical profile on dynamic effect on structural response are discussed. Then the equivalent static wind load (ESWL) is obtained according to the maximum response and compared with the finite element method (FEM) in the time domain. Applications of these formulas are addressed to the cases from the empirical model of Holmes and field record of a rear flank downdraft (RFD). The results show that the maximum responses obtained by the current formulas match well with those from the modal decomposition method and dynamic analysis with FEM. The internal forces of tower members calculated by ESWL based on maximum response are closer to the results from FEM than those calculated by downburst loads recommended in ASCE guidelines. The presented framework can be used to assist the wind-resistant design of transmission towers considering downburst wind load.
Effect of Cell Therapy and Exercise Training in a Stroke Model, Considering the Cell Track by Molecular Image and Behavioral Analysis
Authors: Nucci Mariana P. , Oliveira Fernando A. , Ferreira João M. , Pinto Yolanda O. , Alves Arielly H. , Mamani Javier B. , Nucci Leopoldo P. , Valle Nicole M. E. , Gamarra Lionel F.
Published: January 2022

The goal of this study is to see how combining physical activity with cell treatment impacts functional recovery in a stroke model. Molecular imaging and multimodal nanoparticles assisted in cell tracking and longitudinal monitoring (MNP). The viability of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) was determined using a 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and bioluminescent image (BLI) after lentiviral transduction and MNP labeling. At random, the animals were divided into 5 groups (control-G1, and experimental G2-G5). The photothrombotic stroke induction was confirmed by local blood perfusion reduction and Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC), and MSC in the G3 and G5 groups were implanted after 24 h, with BLI and near-infrared fluorescence image (NIRF) tracking these cells at 28 h, 2, 7, 14, and 28 days. During a 28-day period, the G5 also conducted physical training, whereas the G4 simply did the training. At 0, 7, 14, and 28 days, the animals were functionally tested using a cylinder test and a spontaneous motor activity test. MNP internalization in MSC was confirmed using brightfield and fluorescence microscopy. In relation to G1 group, only 3% of cell viability reduced. The G2–G5 groups showed more than 69% of blood perfusion reduction. The G5 group performed better over time, with a progressive recovery of symmetry and an increase of fast vertical movements. Up to 7 days, BLI and NIRF followed MSC at the damaged site, demonstrating a signal rise that could be connected to cell proliferation at the injury site during the acute phase of stroke. Local MSC therapy mixed with physical activity resulted in better results in alleviating motor dysfunction, particularly during the acute period. When it comes to neurorehabilitation, this alternative therapy could be a suitable fit.
Enhancing In Vitro Production of the Tree Fern Cyathea delgadii and Modifying Secondary Metabolite Profiles by LED Lighting
Authors: Tomaszewicz Wojciech , Cioć Monika , Dos Santos Szewczyk Katarzyna , Grzyb Małgorzata , Pietrzak Wioleta , Pawłowska Bożena , Mikuła Anna
Published: January 2022

The tree ferns are an important component of tropical forests. In view of this, the enhancement of in vitro production of these plants is needed. Thus, the effect of different light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as well as control fluorescent lamps (Fl) and a 3-week-long period of darkness at the beginning of in vitro culture on micropropagation of the tree fern Cyathea delgadii Sternb. was analysed. Moreover, the photosynthetic pigment content and secondary metabolite profiles were estimated. The period of darkness contributed to a high production of somatic embryo-derived sporophytes and a low production of gametophytes. The formation of new sporophytes was stimulated by RBY (35% red, 15% blue, and 50% yellow) and B (100% blue) lights when the stipe explants or whole young sporophytes were used in the culture, respectively. The elongation of the roots and leaves was stimulated by RBfR light (35% red, 15% blue, and 50% far red), while root production increased under RBY light. The RB (70% red and 30% blue) and B lights stimulated the accumulation of chlorophyll better than Fl light. The most abundant metabolite found in the plant extracts was trans-5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (1.013 µg/mg of dry weight). The extract obtained from plants growing in a greenhouse had the best antioxidant activity.
Pioneer Role of Extracellular Vesicles as Modulators of Cancer Initiation in Progression, Drug Therapy, and Vaccine Prospects
Authors: Jahan Sadaf , Mukherjee Shouvik , Ali Shaheen , Bhardwaj Urvashi , Choudhary Ranjay Kumar , Balakrishnan Santhanaraj , Naseem Asma , Mir Shabir Ahmad , Banawas Saeed , Alaidarous Mohammed , Alyenbaawi Hadeel , Iqbal Danish , Siddiqui Arif Jamal
Published: January 2022

Cancer is one of the leading diseases, causing deaths worldwide. Nearly 10 million deaths were reported in 2020 due to cancer alone. Several factors are involved in cancer progressions, such as lifestyle and genetic characteristics. According to a recent report, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in cancer initiation, progression, and therapy failure. EVs can play a major role in intracellular communication, the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, and pathogenesis in several types of diseases. In a healthy person, EVs carry different cargoes, such as miRNA, lncRNA etc., to help other body functions. On the other hand, the same EV in a tumor microenvironment carries cargoes such as miRNA, lncRNA, etc., to initiate or help cancer progression at various stages. These stages may include the proliferation of cells and escape from apoptosis, angiogenesis, cell invasion, and metastasis, reprogramming energy metabolism, evasion of the immune response, and transfer of mutations. Tumor-derived EVs manipulate by altering normal functions of the body and affect the epigenetics of normal cells by limiting the genetic makeup through transferring mutations, histone modifications, etc. Tumor-derived EVs also pose therapy resistance through transferring drug efflux pumps and posing multiple drug resistances. Such EVs can also help as biomarkers for different cancer types and stages, which ultimately help with cancer diagnosis at early stages. In this review, we will shed light on EVs’ role in performing normal functions of the body and their position in different hallmarks of cancer, in altering the genetics of a normal cell in a tumor microenvironment, and their role in therapy resistance, as well as the importance of EVs as diagnostic tools.
A Systemic Review of the Integral Role of TRPM2 in Ischemic Stroke: From Upstream Risk Factors to Ultimate Neuronal Death
Authors: Zong Pengyu , Lin Qiaoshan , Feng Jianlin , Yue Lixia
Published: January 2022

Ischemic stroke causes a heavy health burden worldwide, with over 10 million new cases every year. Despite the high prevalence and mortality rate of ischemic stroke, the underlying molecular mechanisms for the common etiological factors of ischemic stroke and ischemic stroke itself remain unclear, which results in insufficient preventive strategies and ineffective treatments for this devastating disease. In this review, we demonstrate that transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily M, member 2 (TRPM2), a non-selective ion channel activated by oxidative stress, is actively involved in all the important steps in the etiology and pathology of ischemic stroke. TRPM2 could be a promising target in screening more effective prophylactic strategies and therapeutic medications for ischemic stroke.
Smartphone-Operated Wireless Chemical Sensors: A Review
Authors: Chandra Kishore Somasundaram , Samikannu Kanagesan , Atchudan Raji , Perumal Suguna , Edison Thomas Nesakumar Jebakumar Immanuel , Alagan Muthulakshmi , Sundramoorthy Ashok K. , Lee Yong Rok
Published: January 2022

Wireless chemical sensors have been developed as a result of advances in chemical sensing and wireless communication technology. Because of their mobility and widespread availability, smartphones have been extensively combined with sensors such as hand-held detectors, sensor chips, and test strips for biochemical detection. Smartphones are frequently used as controllers, analyzers, and displayers for quick, authentic, and point-of-care monitoring, which may considerably streamline the design and lower the cost of sensing systems. This study looks at the most recent wireless and smartphone-supported chemical sensors. The review is divided into four different topics that emphasize the basic types of wireless smartphone-operated chemical sensors. According to a study of 114 original research publications published during recent years, market opportunities for wireless and smartphone-supported chemical sensor systems include environmental monitoring, healthcare and medicine, food quality, sport, and fitness. The issues and illustrations for each of the primary chemical sensors relevant to many application areas are covered. In terms of performance, the advancement of technologies related to chemical sensors will result in smaller and more lightweight, cost-effective, versatile, and durable devices. Given the limitations, we suggest that wireless and smartphone-supported chemical sensor systems play a significant role in the sensor Internet of Things.
Palladium Nanoparticle-Modified Carbon Spheres @ Molybdenum Disulfide Core-Shell Composite for Electrochemically Detecting Quercetin
Authors: Pei Fubin , Wu Yi , Feng Shasha , Wang Hualai , He Guangyu , Hao Qingli , Lei Wu
Published: January 2022

Quercetin (QR), abundant in plants, is used to treat colitis and gastric ulcer and is also a promising anticancer agent. To quantificationally detect QR, a sensitive electrochemical sensor was fabricated by palladium nanoparticles loaded on carbon sphere @ molybdenum disulfide nanosheet core-shell composites (Cs@MoS2-Pd NPs). The Cs@MoS2-Pd NPs worked to remedy the shortcomings of MoS2 and exhibited good catalytic activity to QR. The oxidation reaction of QR on Cs@MoS2-Pd NPs/GCE involved two electrons and two protons. Furthermore, the molecular surface for electrostatic potential, Laplacian bond order, and Gibbs free energy were computationally simulated to speculate the order and site of the oxidation of QR. The results showed that the 4′ O–H and 3′ O–H broke successively during the oxidation reaction. When the concentration of QR was within 0.5 to 12 μM, the fabricated sensor could achieve linear detection, and the detection limit was 0.02 μM (S/N = 3). In addition, the sensor possessed good selectivity, repeatability, and stability, which has a broad prospect in practical application.
Recent Advances in the Development of Laccase-Based Biosensors via Nano-Immobilization Techniques
Authors: Kadam Avinash A. , Saratale Ganesh D. , Ghodake Gajanan S. , Saratale Rijuta G. , Shahzad Asif , Magotra Verjesh Kumar , Kumar Manu , Palem Ramasubba Reddy , Sung Jung-Suk
Published: January 2022

Monitoring phenolic compounds is critical in the environmental, food, and medical sectors. Among many recent advanced detection platforms, laccase-based biosensing platforms gave very rapid, effective, online, and in situ sensing of phenolic compounds. In laccase-based biosensors, laccase immobilization techniques have a vital role. However, a detailing of the advancements in laccase immobilization techniques employed in laccase-based biosensors is lacking in the literature. Thus, in this review, we assessed how the nano-immobilization techniques shaped the laccase biosensing platforms. We discussed novel developments in laccase immobilization techniques such as entrapment, adsorption, cross-linking, and covalent over new nanocomposites in laccase biosensors. We made a comprehensive assessment based on the current literature for future perspectives of nano-immobilized laccase biosensors. We found the important key areas toward which future laccase biosensor research seems to be heading. These include 1. A focus on the development of multi-layer laccase over electrode surface, 2. The need to utilize more covalent immobilization routes, as they change the laccase specificity toward phenolic compounds, 3. The advancement in polymeric matrices with electroconductive properties, and 4. novel entrapment techniques like biomineralization using laccase molecules. Thus, in this review, we provided a detailed account of immobilization in laccase biosensors and their feasibility in the future for the development of highly specific laccase biosensors in industrial, medicinal, food, and environmental applications.
Course of Treatment and Short-Term Outcome of Surgically Treated Paediatric Upper Limb Fractures during the COVID-19 Pandemic—Experiences of a Level 1 Trauma Centre in Central Europe
Authors: Payr Stephan , Dangl Theresia , Schuller Andrea , Scheider Philipp , Chocholka Britta , Jaindl Manuela , Schwendenwein Elisabeth , Tiefenboeck Thomas M.
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions led to a reduced number of surgeries. This study examines its impact on the course of treatment and clinical outcome of surgically treated paediatric upper limb fractures during that specific period. This retrospective cohort study evaluated all children aged 0–18 years presenting with an upper limb fracture treated surgically at the level 1 trauma centre of the University Clinic of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery of Vienna within lockdown from 16 March to 29 May 2020 (definition applied through corresponding legislation) compared to the same period from 2015 to 2019. A total number of 127 children (m:63; f:44) were included. The lockdown did not lead to a significant increase in complications during and after initial surgery. Time until removal of implant was not significantly prolonged (p = 0.068; p = 0.46). The clinical outcome did not significantly differ compared to previous years. The experience of a level 1 trauma centre showed that despite reduced surgical capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic, no negative differences concerning course of treatment and clinical outcome of surgically treated paediatric upper limb fractures were present. These findings are still of importance since the COVID-19 pandemic continues and several countries in Central Europe are currently under their fourth lockdown.
Surface Modification of 6xxx Series Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Bhat Kuruveri Udaya , Panemangalore Devadas Bhat , Kuruveri Spandana Bhat , John Merbin , Menezes Pradeep L.
Published: January 2022

Due to their superior mechanical properties, formability, corrosion resistance, and lightweight nature, 6xxx series aluminum (Al) alloys are considered as a promising structural material. Nevertheless, the successful application of these materials depends on their response to the external environment. Recently, designers considered the surface properties an equally important aspect of the component design. Due to this concern, these alloys are subjected to varieties of surface modification methodologies. Many methodologies are explored to modify the 6xxx series Al alloys surfaces effectively. These methods are anodizing, plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), cladding, friction stir processing, friction surfacing, melting, alloying, and resolidification using high energy beams, etc. This review work discusses some of these methods, recent research activities on them, important process variables, and their role on the final properties of the surfaces.
Analyzing the Data of COVID-19 with Quasi-Distribution Fitting Based on Piecewise B-Spline Curves
Authors: Zhao Qingliang , Lu Zhenhuan , Wang Yiduo
Published: January 2022

Facing the worldwide coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a new fitting method (QDF, quasi-distribution fitting) which can be used to analyze the data of COVID-19 is developed based on piecewise quasi-uniform B-spline curves. For any given country or district, it simulates the distribution histogram data which is made from the daily confirmed cases (or the other data including daily recovery cases and daily fatality cases) of COVID-19 with piecewise quasi-uniform B-spline curves. After using the area normalization method, the fitting curves could be regarded as a kind of probability density function (PDF): its mathematical expectation and the variance could be used to analyze the situation of the coronavirus pandemic. Numerical experiments based on the data of certain countries have indicated that the QDF method demonstrates the intrinsic characteristics of COVID-19 data of a given country or district, and because the interval of data used in this paper is over one year (500 days), it reveals the fact that after the multi-wave transmission of the coronavirus, the case fatality rate has obviously declined. These results show that the QDF method is effective and feasible as an appraisal method.
The Parasomnias and Sleep Related Movement Disorders—A Look Back at Six Decades of Scientific Studies
Authors: Broughton Roger J.
Published: January 2022

The objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive personal survey of all the major parasomnias with coverage of their clinical presentation, investigation, physiopathogenesis and treatment. These include the four major members of the slow-wave sleep arousal parasomnias which are enuresis nocturna (bedwetting), somnambulism (sleepwalking), sleep terrors (pavor nocturnus in children, incubus attacks in adults) and confusional arousals (sleep drunkenness). Other parasomnias covered are sleep-related aggression, hypnagogic and hypnopompic terrifying hallucinations, REM sleep terrifying dreams, nocturnal anxiety attacks, sleep paralysis, sleep talking (somniloquy), sexsomnia, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), nocturnal paroxysmal dystonia, sleep starts (hypnic jerks), jactatio capitis nocturna (head and total body rocking), periodic limb movement disorder (PLMs), hypnagogic foot tremor, restless leg syndrome (Ekbom syndrome), exploding head syndrome, excessive fragmentary myoclonus, nocturnal cramps, and sleep-related epileptic seizures. There is interest in the possibility of relationships between sleep/wake states and creativity.
An Evidence-Based Guideline for Surveillance of Patients after Curative Treatment for Colon and Rectal Cancer
Authors: Kennedy Erin , Zwaal Caroline , Asmis Tim , Cho Charles , Galica Jacqueline , Ginty Alexandra , Govindarajan Anand
Published: January 2022

Objective: To provide recommendations for a surveillance regimen that leads to the largest overall survival benefit for patients after curative treatment for Stage I–IV colon and rectal cancer. Methods: Consistent with the Program in Evidence-Based Care’s standard approach, guideline databases, i.e., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and PROSPERO, were systematically searched. Then, we drafted recommendations and methodology experts performed an internal review of the resulting draft recommendations, which was followed by an external review by targeted experts and intended users. Results: Four systematic reviews and two randomized controlled trials were identified that provided evidence for recommendations. Conclusions: For patients with stage I–III colon cancer, a medical history and physical examination should be performed every six months for three years; computed tomography (CT) of the chest-abdomen-pelvis (CT CAP) should be performed at one and three years, or one CT CAP could be performed at 18 months; the use of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is optional if CT imaging is being performed; and surveillance colonoscopy should be performed one year after the initial surgery. The frequency of subsequent surveillance colonoscopy should be dictated by previous findings, but generally, colonoscopies should be performed every five years if the findings are normal. There was insufficient evidence to support these recommendations for patients with rectal cancer, Stage IV colon cancer, and patients over the age of 75 years. Patients should be informed of current recommendations and the treating physician should discuss the specific risks and benefits of each recommendation with their patients.
Two New Amanita Species in Section Amanita from Thailand
Authors: Liu Yuan S. , Liu Jiankui , Kumla Jaturong , Lumyong Saisamorn
Published: January 2022

Based on a survey of macro-fungi in northern and northeastern Thailand, nine samples collected in 2020 are identified as Amanita and introduced here as two new species, Amanita kalasinensis and A. ravicrocina. Typical macro- and microscopical characteristics indicate that both of these two species belong to Amanita section Amanita, but differ from other currently known species. Amanita kalasinensis is characterized by having a greyish yellow pileus covering with a conical to granuliform, yellowish white volval remnant; the presence of clamps; and a broadly ellipsoid to ellipsoid basidiospore. Amanita ravicrocina is characterized by having a brown to greyish orange pileus covering with a patchy, white volval remnant; a collar-like volval remnant on the stipe; and a subglobose to broadly ellipsoid basidiospore. Multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of partial nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), partial nuclear rDNA large subunit region (nrLSU), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2), partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α), and beta-tubulin gene (TUB) also revealed that positions of A. kalasinensis and A. ravicrocina are well-supported within A. section Amanita, but form distinct lineages and do not show any close relationship with any species. The detailed morphological features, line-drawing illustration, and comparison with morphological similar taxa are provided.
Isolated Cerebral Mucormycosis Caused by Lichtheimia Species in a Polytrauma Patient
Authors: Mamali Vasiliki , Koutserimpas Christos , Zarkotou Olympia , Vrioni Georgia , Samonis George
Published: January 2022

Isolated post-traumatic cerebral mucormycosis represents an extremely rare and severe disease. A case of isolated cerebral mucormycosis infection caused by Lichtheimia spp. in a 21-year-old multi-trauma patient is presented. The patient was hospitalized in the intensive care unit and underwent craniotomy due to brain injuries. Two weeks following the initial procedure, pus drained from the surgical wound was microscopically examined and cultured, yielding Lichtheimia spp. Imaging showed parietal, temporal and frontal abscesses at the right side. The patient was commenced on amphotericin B and underwent surgical debridement, while histopathological examination of the affected tissue demonstrated broad, aseptate hyphae, findings typical for mucormycetes. The patient passed away due to heavy traumatic injuries after 2 months. It is speculated that direct inoculation was the portal of entry for infection, and that high steroid use for 2 weeks following inoculation contributed to the severity of infection that developed. Isolated cerebral mucormycosis in immunocompetent hosts is an extremely rare, but severe disease. Diagnosis is established through direct microscopy, histopathology and/or cultures. PCR-based techniques are useful either to detect mucormycetes in tissues, especially when cultures are negative, or to accurately identify the fungi grown in cultures at the species level. A high suspicion index, especially in the necrotic lesions of traumas, is of the utmost importance for early diagnosis. Appropriate surgical debridement, as well as antifungal therapy, including amphotericin B, represents the treatment of choice.
Helstrom Bound for Squeezed Coherent States in Binary Communication
Authors: Curado Evaldo M. F. , Faci Sofiane , Gazeau Jean-Pierre , Noguera Diego
Published: January 2022

In quantum information processing, using a receiver device to differentiate between two non-orthogonal states leads to a quantum error probability. The minimum possible error is known as the Helstrom bound. In this work, we study the conditions for state discrimination using an alphabet of squeezed coherent states and compare them with conditions using the Glauber-Sudarshan, i.e., standard, coherent states.
Mobile Learning Applications for Refugees: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Drolia Maria , Papadakis Stamatios , Sifaki Eirini , Kalogiannakis Michail
Published: January 2022

The proliferation of mobile devices in everyday life since the end of the 20th century has led to mobile applications for educational purposes and the creation of the research field of mobile learning. Despite the extended research interest on the effectiveness of this field, there is limited research on mobile learning for various social groups, such as refugees, students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Due to the unprecedented number (over one hundred million) of refugees during the second decade of the 21st century worldwide, many NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) and UN (United Nations) initiatives have proposed leveraging mobile learning for refugee educational needs. This research article focuses on mobile learning for refugee education. Namely, the present systematic literature review results from 2015 to 2020 will give a concrete picture of the recently existing mobile learning apps for refugees and their characteristics. According to the research findings, 15 characteristics were collected out of 14 applications. According to prior literature, areas of agreement or discrepancies in the field were found. Two new -to previous literature- characteristics were revealed: interwoven psychological and educational features and refugees’ cultural features in the apps. The summarization and categorization of the app’s characteristics aim to contribute to mobile learning research and impact game developers, educators, and NGOs according to refugee needs. The limitations of this study and issues for further exploration will also be discussed in the last sections.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of EJIHPE in 2021
Authors:   EJIHPE Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]