bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Mittag-Leffler Kernel Form Solutions of Free Convection Heat and Mass Transfer Flow of Maxwell Fluid with Newtonian Heating: Prabhakar Fractional Derivative Approach
Authors: Rehman Aziz , Jarad Fahd , Riaz Muhammad , Shah Zaheer
Published: February 2022

In this article, the effects of Newtonian heating along with wall slip condition on temperature is critically examined on unsteady magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flows of Prabhakar-like non integer Maxwell fluid near an infinitely vertical plate under constant concentration. For the sake of generalized memory effects, a new mathematical fractional model is formulated based on a newly introduced Prabhakar fractional operator with generalized Fourier’s law and Fick’s law. This fractional model has been solved analytically and exact solutions for dimensionless velocity, concentration, and energy equations are calculated in terms of Mittag-Leffler functions by employing the Laplace transformation method. Physical impacts of different parameters such as α, Pr, β, Sc, Gr, γ, and Gm are studied and demonstrated graphically by Mathcad software. Furthermore, to validate our current results, some limiting models such as classical Maxwell model, classical Newtonian model, and fractional Newtonian model are recovered from Prabhakar fractional Maxwell fluid. Moreover, we compare the results between Maxwell and Newtonian fluids for both fractional and classical cases with and without slip conditions, showing that the movement of the Maxwell fluid is faster than viscous fluid. Additionally, it is visualized that both classical Maxwell and viscous fluid have relatively higher velocity as compared to fractional Maxwell and viscous fluid.
Asset Pricing Model Based on Fractional Brownian Motion
Authors: Yan Yu , Wang Yiming
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces one unique price motion process with fractional Brownian motion. We introduce the imaginary number into the agent’s subjective probability for the reason of convergence; further, the result similar to Ito Lemma is proved. As an application, this result is applied to Merton’s dynamic asset pricing framework. We find that the four order moment of fractional Brownian motion is entered into the agent’s decision-making. The decomposition of variance of economic indexes supports the possibility of the complex number in price movement.
Considerations and Suggestions for the Reliable Analysis of miRNA in Plasma Using qRT-PCR
Authors: Ban Eunmi , Song Eun Joo
Published: February 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are promising molecules that can regulate gene expression, and their expression level and type have been associated with early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and prognosis of various diseases. Therefore, analysis of miRNA in the plasma or serum is useful for the discovery of biomarkers and the diagnosis of implicated diseases to achieve potentially unprecedented progress in early treatment. Numerous methods to improve sensitivity have recently been proposed and confirmed to be valuable in miRNA detection. Specifically, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is an effective and common method for sensitive and specific analysis of miRNA from biological fluids, such as plasma or serum. Despite this, the application of qRT-PCR is limited, as it can be affected by various contaminants. Therefore, extraction studies have been frequently conducted to maximize the extracted miRNA amount while simultaneously minimizing contaminants. Moreover, studies have evaluated extraction efficiency and normalization of the extracted sample. However, variability in results among laboratories still exists. In this review, we aimed to summarize the factors influencing the qualification and quantification of miRNAs in the plasma using qRT-PCR. Factors influencing reliable analysis of miRNA using qRT-PCR are described in detail. Additionally, we aimed to describe the importance of evaluating extraction and normalization for reliable miRNA analysis and to explore how miRNA detection accuracy, especially from plasma, can be improved.
The Caucasian Clover Gene TaMYC2 Responds to Abiotic Stress and Improves Tolerance by Increasing the Activity of Antioxidant Enzymes
Authors: Zhao Yihang , Yang Yupeng , Jiang Jingwen , Zhang Xiaomeng , Ma Zewang , Meng Lingdong , Cui Guowen , Yin Xiujie
Published: February 2022

Abiotic stress affects metabolic processes in plants and restricts plant growth and development. In this experiment, Caucasian clover (Trifolium ambiguum M. Bieb.) was used as a material, and the CDS of TaMYC2, which is involved in regulating the response to abiotic stress, was cloned. The CDS of TaMYC2 was 726 bp in length and encoded 241 amino acids. The protein encoded by TaMYC2 was determined to be unstable, be highly hydrophilic, and contain 23 phosphorylation sites. Subcellular localization results showed that TaMYC2 was localized in the nucleus. TaMYC2 responded to salt, alkali, cold, and drought stress and could be induced by IAA, GA3, and MeJA. By analyzing the gene expression and antioxidant enzyme activity in plants before and after stress, we found that drought and cold stress could induce the expression of TaMYC2 and increase the antioxidant enzyme activity. TaMYC2 could also induce the expression of ROS scavenging-related and stress-responsive genes and increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes, thus improving the ability of plants to resist stress. The results of this experiment provide references for subsequent in-depth exploration of both the function of TaMYC2 in and the molecular mechanism underlying the resistance of Caucasian clover.
Molecular Characterization of the miR156/MsSPL Model in Regulating the Compound Leaf Development and Abiotic Stress Response in Alfalfa
Authors: Min Xueyang , Luo Kai , Liu Wenxian , Zhou Keyou , Li Junyi , Wei Zhenwu
Published: February 2022

Plant leaf patterns and shapes are spectacularly diverse. Changing the complexity of leaflet numbers is a valuable approach to increase its nutrition and photosynthesis. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the most important forage legume species and has diversified compound leaf patterns, which makes it a model species for studying compound leaf development. However, transcriptomic information from alfalfa remains limited. In this study, RNA-Seq technology was used to identify 3746 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between multifoliate and trifoliate alfalfa. Through an analysis of annotation information and expression data, SPL, one of the key regulators in modifiable plant development and abiotic stress response, was further analyzed. Here, thirty MsSPL genes were obtained from the alfalfa genome, of which 16 had the putative miR156 binding site. A tissue expression pattern analysis showed that the miR156-targeted MsSPLs were divided into two classes, namely, either tissue-specific or widely expressed in all tissues. All miR156-targeted SPLs strongly showed diversification and positive roles under drought and salt conditions. Importantly, miR156/MsSPL08 was significantly suppressed in multifoliate alfalfa. Furthermore, in the paralogous mutant of MsSPL08 isolated from Medicago truncatula, the phenotypes of mutant plants reveal that miR156/MsSPL08 is involved not only involved the branches but also especially regulates the number of leaflets. The legume is a typical compound leaf plant; the ratio of the leaflet often affects the quality of the forage. This study sheds light on new functions of SPL genes that regulate leaflet number development.
Development and Validation of a Short Measure of Emotional, Physical, and Behavioral Markers of Eustress and Distress (MEDS)
Authors: Pluut Helen , Curșeu Petru L. , Fodor Oana C.
Published: February 2022

We report the results of three validation studies for a short measure of emotional, physical, and behavioral markers of eustress and distress as they occur when individuals encounter stressful events in academic and organizational settings. Given the importance of the distinction between “positive” and “negative” stress as well as the recent resurgence of research exploring the differences between challenge and hindrance stress and between eustress and distress, it is important to put forward a short, validated scale that evaluates these constructs. Our short measure—the MEDS—therefore has important theoretical as well as practical implications. By showing that the eustress and distress subscales have adequate internal consistency and good construct and criterion validity, we open new avenues for research that extends our knowledge and understanding of the antecedents and consequences of eustress and distress. We also discuss appropriate uses of the scale in educational and organizational settings.
Persistent Changes of Peripheral Blood Lymphocyte Subsets in Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Caruntu Ana , Moraru Liliana , Surcel Mihaela , Munteanu Adriana , Costache Daniel Octavian , Tanase Cristiana , Constantin Carolina , Scheau Cristian , Neagu Monica , Caruntu Constantin
Published: February 2022

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common cancer with high morbidity and mortality. Alterations of antitumor immune responses are involved in the development of this malignancy, and investigation of immune changes in the peripheral blood of OSCC patients has aroused the interest of researchers. Methods: In our study, we assessed the proportions of CD3+ total T lymphocytes, CD3+CD4+ helper T lymphocytes, CD3+CD8+ suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes, CD3−CD19+ total B lymphocytes, and CD3−CD16+CD56+ NK cells in the peripheral blood of OSCC patients. Results: The data obtained both pre- and post-therapy showed a similar level of total CD3+ T lymphocytes in OSCC patients and control subjects, pinpointing the stability of this immune parameter. On the other hand, pre-therapeutic data showed a lower proportion of helper T lymphocytes (CD4+), a significantly higher level of cytotoxic/suppressive T lymphocytes (CD8+), and a much lower CD4+ T lymphocyte/CD8+ T lymphocyte ratio compared to control subjects. Conversely, evaluation of circulating NK (CD16+) cells showed a markedly higher pre-therapeutic level compared to the control group. Conclusions: Our results related to immune changes in the peripheral blood add new information to this complex universe of connections between immuno-inflammatory processes and carcinogenesis.
Amikacin Therapy in Japanese Pediatric Patients: Narrative Review
Authors: Kato Hideo , Hamada Yukihiro
Published: February 2022

Children show a very wide range of physical development processes. These changes impact pharmacokinetic (PK) variability in pediatric patients. Most PK studies have been conducted on the Caucasian population. Therefore, whether current evidence of how developmental change affects PK and exposure-response relationships applies to Japanese pediatric patients remains unclear. This narrative review focuses on amikacin therapy in Japanese pediatric patients and shows the relationship between amikacin concentrations and efficacy/toxicity. Ten relevant articles were identified. Of these, nine articles were published in the 1980s. All studies reported a maximum concentration (Cmax) and minimum concentration (Cmin) of amikacin. Overall, articles reporting PK/pharmacodynamic (PD) indices and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of isolated bacteria in Japanese pediatric patients is lacking, whereas all patients recovered from an infection state and showed negative cultures. Five of the included studies reported the association between Cmin and toxicity. The Cmin in three of four patients who developed toxicity was above 10 mg/L. This narrative review shows that further PK study of amikacin in Japanese pediatric patients is necessary. In particular, the pursuit of knowledge of Cmax/MIC ratio is vital. On the other hand, this review demonstrates that the optimal Cmin for Japanese pediatric patients is below 10 mg/L as a candidate concentration. However, it is noted that the number of patients who developed toxicity is very small.
The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 among Women Accessing Family Care Centers during Pregnancy and the Postnatal Period in Italy
Authors: Lega Ilaria , Bramante Alessandra , Lauria Laura , Grussu Pietro , Dubini Valeria , Falcieri Marcella , Ghiani Maria Carmen , Giordano Antonia , Guidomei Stefania , Mignuoli Anna Domenica , Paris Serena , Bettinelli Maria Enrica , Proietti Patrizia , Andreozzi Silvia , Brenna Valeria , Bucciarelli Mauro , Martelli Gabriella , Ferraro Claudia , Torrisi Melissa , Carrozzino Danilo , Donati Serena
Published: February 2022

There has been concern about the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on women’s mental health during the perinatal period. We conducted a cross-sectional web-based study aimed at evaluating the psychological impact (BSI-18) of the COVID-19 pandemic on this population and collecting information on the perinatal experiences (COPE-IS) during the second Italian wave. Overall, 1168 pregnant women, and 940 within the first six months after childbirth, were recruited in selected Italian Family Care Centers from October 2020 to May 2021. The prevalence of psychological distress symptoms during pregnancy was 12.1% and 9.3% in the postnatal group. Financial difficulties, a previous mood or anxiety disorder and lack of perceived social support and of support provided by health professionals were associated to psychological distress symptoms in both groups. A third of the women felt unsupported by their social network; 61.7% of the pregnant women experienced changes in antenatal care; 21.2% of those in the postnatal period gave birth alone; more than 80% of the participants identified access to medical and mental health care and self-help as important resources in the present context. Health services should assure enhanced support to the most vulnerable women who face the perinatal period during the pandemic.
Sources of Polonium 210Po and Radio-Lead 210Pb in Human Body in Poland
Authors: Boryło Alicja , Skwarzec Bogdan , Wieczorek Jarosław
Published: February 2022

This article contains and discusses the results of research on the source of polonium 210Po and radio-lead 210Pb in the human body of adults living in Poland. An adult inhabitant of Poland receives an effective annual radiation dose of 309 µSv from inhalation and absorption of 210Po and 210Pb. The main sources of both radionuclides in the body is cigarette and marijuana smoking. In terms of food, the consumption of fish, cereals, vegetables and fruit as well as mushrooms have the largest contribution to annual dose. This study highlights the importance of cigarette smoking and the growing importance of marijuana hash smoking as the main source of 210Po and 210Pb for adults living in Poland. The calculated dose that results from the decay of both radionuclides in body is 1/10 of the annual radiation dose received by a Polish inhabitant from natural sources (2.8 mSv) and is almost five times lower than the dose resulting from the inhalation of 222Rn.
Research on the Paths and Effectiveness of Governance Tools Based on the Evolution of Environmental NIMBY Event
Authors: Xu Peng , Yao Xinyue , Lan Lan , Xu Ke , Bao Cunkuan
Published: February 2022

Identifying the path and effectiveness of governance tools is the key to environmental NIMBY (not in my back yard) event governance. However, there are limited studies on the path between effective governance tools and environmental NIMBY events. Based on the theory of emotional catharsis, we establish an analytical framework for the evolution of the environmental NIMBY event and analyze the effectiveness of the current main governance tools. The results show that government solicitation of opinions (GSOs) governance tools are insignificant in the governance of resistance behavior. The effects of public demand communication (PDC) governance tools and compensation negotiation (CN)governance tools on resistance behaviors all show a significant negative correlation; negative emotions play an intermediary role in their governance tools. The overall performance is that the greater the compensation, the lower the willingness to engage in resistance behavior. The establishment of a reasonable compensation system can effectively reduce the public’s willingness to engage in resistance behavior. Through the evaluation of the effectiveness of governance tools in environmental NIMBY events, this study helps to improve governance tools and has important practical significance for solving the environmental NIMBY dilemma.
The Barriers and Facilitators of Sport and Physical Activity Participation for Aboriginal Children in Rural New South Wales, Australia: A Photovoice Project
Authors: Liew Sarah , Gwynn Josephine , Smith Janice , Johnson Natalie A. , Plotnikoff Ronald , James Erica L. , Turner Nicole
Published: February 2022

Participating in physical activity is beneficial for health. Whilst Aboriginal children possess high levels of physical activity, this declines rapidly by early adolescence. Low physical activity participation is a behavioral risk factor for chronic disease, which is present at much higher rates in Australian Aboriginal communities compared to non-Aboriginal communities. Through photos and ‘yarning’, the Australian Aboriginal cultural form of conversation, this photovoice study explored the barriers and facilitators of sport and physical activity participation perceived by Aboriginal children (n = 17) in New South Wales rural communities in Australia for the first time and extended the limited research undertaken nationally. Seven key themes emerged from thematic analysis. Four themes described physical activity barriers, which largely exist at the community and interpersonal level of children’s social and cultural context: the physical environment, high costs related to sport and transport, and reliance on parents, along with individual risk factors such as unhealthy eating. Three themes identified physical activity facilitators that exist at the personal, interpersonal, and institutional level: enjoyment from being active, supportive social and family connections, and schools. Findings highlight the need for ongoing maintenance of community facilities to enable physical activity opportunities and ensure safety. Children held strong aspirations for improved and accessible facilities. The strength of friendships and the family unit should be utilized in co-designed and Aboriginal community-led campaigns.
Return to Work during the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Study on the Role of Job Demands, Job Resources, and Personal Resources upon the Administrative Staff of Italian Public Universities
Authors: Guidetti Gloria , Converso Daniela , Sanseverino Domenico , Ghislieri Chiara
Published: February 2022

Background: Compared to healthcare workers and teleworkers, occupational wellbeing of employees who continued or suddenly returned to work during the COVID-19 pandemic have received less attention thus far. Using the Job Demand–Resource model as a framework, the present study aimed at evaluating the role of job demands and job and personal resources in affecting emotional exhaustion among university administrative staff. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data collected through an online questionnaire completed by 364 administrative employees that continued working in presence (WP) and 1578 that continued working blended (WB), namely, partly remotely and partly in presence. Results: Among job demands, quantitative job demand overloads and perceived risk of being infected were positively associated with higher levels of emotional exhaustion. Among job resources, colleague support was significantly associated with lower emotional exhaustion for both WB and WP, whereas supervisor support and fatigue management were salient only for WB. Among personal resources, personal contribution in managing COVID-19-related risk at work emerged as a protective factor for emotional exhaustion. Conclusion: Insights for the development of targeted preventive measure for a more psychologically safe and productive return to work can be derived from these results.
Associations of Objectively-Measured Sedentary Time and Patterns with Cognitive Function in Non-Demented Japanese Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chen Sanmei , Chen Tao , Honda Takanori , Nofuji Yu , Kishimoto Hiro , Narazaki Kenji
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional associations of objectively-measured sedentary time and patterns with cognitive function in Japanese older adults. A total of 1681 non-demented community-dwelling older adults (aged 73 ± 6, 62.1% women) were included. Total sedentary time, prolonged sedentary time (accumulated in ≥30 min bouts) and mean sedentary bout length were assessed using a tri-axial accelerometer. Global and domain-specific cognitive functions were measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. The average of total sedentary time and prolonged sedentary time were 462 ± 125 and 186 ± 111 min/day, respectively. Greater prolonged sedentary time, but not total sedentary time, was significantly associated with poorer performance in the orientation domain even after controlling for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (p for trend = 0.002). A significant inverse association was also observed between mean sedentary bout length and the orientation domain (p for trend = 0.009). No significant associations were observed for global cognitive function or other cognitive domains. Sedentary time accumulated in prolonged bouts, but not total sedentary time, was inversely associated with orientation ability among older adults. Our results encourage further researches to confirm the role of prolonged sedentary time in changes to cognitive domains over time among older adults.
Synthesis, Physicochemical, Thermal and Antioxidative Properties of Zn(II) Coordination Compounds with Pyrazole-Type Ligand
Authors: Barta Holló Berta , Radanović Mirjana M. , Rodić Marko V. , Krstić Sanja , Jaćimović Željko K. , Vojinović Ješić Ljiljana S.
Published: February 2022

The reactions of pyrazole derivative, i.e., ethyl-5-amino-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate (L) with zinc halogenides in methanolic solution and zinc nitrate and zinc acetate in acetonic solution are described. The formulae of synthesized compounds are ZnL2Cl2 (1), [ZnL2Br2] (2), ZnL2I2·0.5MeOH (3), [Zn(L)2(H2O)4](NO3)2 (4), and {ZnL(OAc)2}2 (5). Two complexes are obtained in form of single crystals: [ZnL2Br2] (2) and [Zn(L)2(H2O)4](NO3)2 (4). Their crystal and molecular structure were determined by single-crystal X-ray structure analysis. The FTIR spectra of compounds prove the complex formation with all five zinc salts. The complexes are characterized by conductometric and thermoanalytical measurements, and their antioxidative activity was also tested by the scavenging effect on the DPPH radical. Conductometric results, solvolytic stability, and antioxidative activity of the compounds are in correlation.
Sensitivity of Buff-Tailed Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris L.) to Insecticides with Different Mode of Action
Authors: Cabezas Guillermo , Farinós Gema P.
Published: February 2022

Systemic insecticides are recognized as one of the drivers of the worldwide bee decline as they are exposed to them through multiple pathways. Specifically, neonicotinoids, some of which are banned for outdoor use in the European Union (EU), have been pointed out as a major cause of bee collapse. Thus, farmers have had to look for alternatives for pest control and use known insecticides or new substances reportedly less harmful to bees. We evaluated the oral acute toxicity of six insecticides (three of them systemic: imidacloprid, thiacloprid and sulfoxaflor) with four different modes of action on buff-tailed bumblebee workers (Bombus terrestris): two banned neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, thiacloprid), two pyrethroids (deltamethrin, esfenvalerate), one sulfoximine (sulfoxaflor) and a microbial insecticide based on Bacillus thuringiensis toxins, present in genetically modified (Bt) maize. The microbial insecticide only caused mortality to bumblebee workers at extremely high concentrations, so it is expected that Bt maize does not pose a risk to them. The toxicity of the other five insecticides on bumblebees was, from highest to lowest: imidacloprid, sulfoxaflor, deltamethrin, esfenvalerate and thiacloprid. This outcome suggests that certain insecticides in use are more toxic to B. terrestris than some banned neonicotinoids. Further chronic toxicity studies, under realistic conditions, are necessary for a proper risk assessment.
Multimorbidity among Latinx-Americans and Asian American/Pacific Islanders
Authors: Oh Hans , Leaune Edouard , Vancampfort Davy , Shin Jae Il , Stickley Andrew
Published: February 2022

Latinx and Asian American/Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) are the fastest growing racial/ethnic populations in the United States, and it is thus increasingly important to address multimorbidity within these populations. However, research has been challenging due to the immigrant health paradox, the variation across ethnic groups, underutilization of treatment, and inadequate mental health assessments. These issues make assessing the prevalence and burden of multimorbidity difficult among Latinx and AAPI populations. Further, racism remains a fundamental cause of health inequity, and should be addressed in policy and practice.
Lizard Blastema Organoid Model Recapitulates Regenerated Tail Chondrogenesis
Authors: Vonk Ariel C. , Hasel-Kolossa Sarah C. , Lopez Gabriela A. , Hudnall Megan L. , Gamble Darian J. , Lozito Thomas P.
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Lizard tail regeneration provides a unique model of blastema-based tissue regeneration for large-scale appendage replacement in amniotes. Green anole lizard (Anolis carolinensis) blastemas contain fibroblastic connective tissue cells (FCTCs), which respond to hedgehog signaling to create cartilage in vivo. However, an in vitro model of the blastema has not previously been achieved in culture. (2) Methods: By testing two adapted tissue dissociation protocols and two optimized media formulations, lizard tail FCTCs were pelleted in vitro and grown in a micromass blastema organoid culture. Pellets were analyzed by histology and in situ hybridization for FCTC and cartilage markers alongside staged original and regenerating lizard tails. (3) Results: Using an optimized serum-free media and a trypsin- and collagenase II-based dissociation protocol, micromass blastema organoids were formed. Organoid cultures expressed FCTC marker CDH11 and produced cartilage in response to hedgehog signaling in vitro, mimicking in vivo blastema and tail regeneration. (4) Conclusions: Lizard tail blastema regeneration can be modeled in vitro using micromass organoid culture, recapitulating in vivo FCTC marker expression patterns and chondrogenic potential.
Research on Calibration, Economy and PM Emissions of a Marine LNG–Diesel Dual-Fuel Engine
Authors: Zhang Beidong , Jiang Yankun , Chen Yexin
Published: February 2022

In order to convert the marine diesel engine into an LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas)–diesel dual-fuel engine and ensure its power and emission characteristics, a new calibration method is proposed, and the fuel substitution ratio, economy and detailed particulate matter emission law after the engine is calibrated using this method are studied. The calibration method takes the peak pressure in the cylinder and the exhaust temperature as constraints and uses the diesel mass substitution ratio as the objective function. Based on the proposed calibration method, the engine is calibrated by setting up a calibration test bench. The test obtains the distribution characteristics of the diesel mass substitution ratio under various operating conditions of the engine. The results show that the proposed calibration method allows the dual-fuel engine to achieve the same power performance as the original engine. At the same time, the diesel mass substitution ratio of the calibrated dual-fuel engine can reach up to 95% (800 r/min @ 800 Nm, 900 r/min @ 800 Nm and 1000 r/min @ 800 Nm). The substitution ratio in the range of 900 r/min~1200 r/min at a common speed is more than 70%, and the average diesel mass substitution ratio under all working conditions is 71%. Furthermore, the study of engine economy shows that the BSFC (brake specific fuel consumption) of the dual-fuel mode is higher than that of the pure diesel mode when working under external characteristics, propulsion characteristics and different loads at 1000 r/min speed. This is more obvious when the load is small, and the two are closer when the load is medium or high; however, the fuel cost when the engine works in dual-fuel mode is much lower than that of the pure diesel mode. In the usual speed and load range, the particulate matter emission test shows that its particle size distribution, total number of particles and particle volume are significantly reduced in the dual-fuel mode.
Board Information Technology Governance Mechanisms and Firm Performance among Iraqi Medium-Sized Enterprises: Do IT Capabilities Matter?
Authors: Menshawy Ibrahim M. , Basiruddin Rohaida , Mohdali Raihana , Qahatan Nazahan
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to investigate the perceptions of Iraqi medium-sized enterprises’ board members on how board information technology governance mechanisms affect their companies’ performance with the help of IT capabilities as a mediator. The study is based on a survey of 223 board members using a stratified random sampling technique. The Structural Equation Model (SEM) method results show that board IT governance structure and board IT governance relational have a significant direct and indirect positive relationship with firm performance through IT capabilities. Contrariwise, IT capabilities do not interfere with the relationship between board IT governance processes mechanisms and firm performance. Our study contributes to the IT business literature by addressing new relationships and providing empirical evidence that explains the inconsistent and mixed results of prior studies. Moreover, it extends and complements these prior studies by considering three board IT governance mechanisms, four IT capabilities, and merges the two dimensions of firm performance in a developing country that offers different institutional settings and litigation environment. The study findings offer notable implications for business practitioners and industry leaders to enhance the IT environment and maximize their corporate outcomes. In addition, these findings draw the attention of the board members, management, and corporate general assemblies to recognize the importance of intensifying the investment in IT capabilities to gain superior firm performance.
Polysaccharide-Based Membrane Biocompatibility Study of Anacardium occidentale L. and Polyvinyl Alcohol after Subcutaneous Implant in Rats
Authors: Chagas Angelica de Lima das , Oliveira Leiny Paula de , Cruz Mauricio Vicente , Melo Renato Miranda de , Miguel Marina Pacheco , Fernandes Katia Flavia , Menezes Liliana Borges de
Published: February 2022

Polymeric membranes are a viable and sustainable option for the biotechnology industry from an economic and environmental point of view. In this study, we evaluated tissue response and tolerance to the implantation of a polymeric membrane prepared with cashew gum polysaccharide (CGP) associated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The objective was to characterize the biocompatibility of the CGP/PVA membrane in vivo. Following the evaluation criteria of the ISO 10993-6 standard, we demonstrated that the CGP/PVA membrane showed moderate tissue reaction, with a non-irritating ISO pattern, a thinner fibrous capsule, and a smaller amount of collagen compared to the positive control group. At 30 and 60 days, the membrane presented a similar amount of mast cells to that observed in the negative control group. The data demonstrate that the CGP/PVA membrane presents biocompatibility in accordance with the ISO 10993-6 standard.
Hybridization Effects on Bending and Interlaminar Shear Strength of Composite Laminates
Authors: Monjon Alice , Santos Paulo , Valvez Sara , Reis Paulo N. B.
Published: February 2022

Fiber-reinforced composites are gradually replacing the traditional materials in many engineering applications. However, for many applications these materials are still unsuitable, due to their lack of toughness. In this context, hybridization is a promising strategy in which two or more types of fiber are combined to obtain a better balance of mechanical properties compared to non-hybrid composites. Therefore, the main goal of this work is to study the hybridization effect on the static performance and interlaminar shear strength. For this purpose, carbon, glass, and Kevlar fibers were used and combined in different proportions. It was possible to conclude that there is an ideal value of fiber content to maximize both properties and, depending on the type of fiber, they should be placed specifically on the compression or tensile side. For example, for composites involving carbon and glass fibers the latter must be placed on the compression side, and for a value of 17% by weight the flexural strength decreases by only 2.8% and the bending modulus by around 19.8%. On the other hand, when Kevlar fibers are combined with glass or carbon fibers, the Kevlar ones must always be placed on the tensile side and with an ideal value of 13% by weight.
The Optimization of Mix Proportion Design for SCC: Experimental Study and Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Ding Xinxin , Zhao Mingshuang , Qiu Xue , Wang Yupu , Ru Yijie
Published: February 2022

The optimization of mix proportions based on the targeted fresh and hardened performances of self-compacting concrete (SCC) is a foundation for its transition from laboratory research to industrial production. In this paper, the mix proportions of various SCC mixtures were designed by the absolute volume method with changes in the content of river sand and manufactured sand, the content of fly ash and granulated ground blast furnace slag (GGBS) and the maximum particle sizes of coarse aggregates. This experimental study was carried out to verify the workability, density and cubic compressive strength of SCC. The results show that SCC demonstrated good performance with appropriate mix proportions of manufactured sand and river sand. A hybrid effect of fly ash and GGBS appeared on the fresh performance of SCC with a constant strength, and the coarse aggregate with a smaller maximum particle size was beneficial to the workability but detrimental to the compressive strength of SCC. Finally, the optimization of the mix proportion of SCC was evaluated by grey relational analysis, in which the weight of the indicators was determined by the entropy method to improve the evaluation credibility. As a result, the optimal mix proportions of SCC were selected.
Re-Examination of the Microstructural Evolution in Undercooled Co-18.5at.%B Eutectic Alloy
Authors: He Yixuan , Wu Yuhao , Bu Fan , Zhang Yiyuan , Zhang Yifan , Hei Bo , Zhang Jianbao , Wang Haifeng
Published: February 2022

The undercooling (∆T) dependencies of the solidification pathways, microstructural evolution, and recalescence behaviors of undercooled Co-18.5at.%B eutectic alloys were systematically explored. Up to four possible solidification pathways were identified: (1) A lamellar eutectic structure consisting of the FCC–Co and Co3B phase forms, with extremely low ΔT; (2) The FCC–Co phase primarily forms, followed by the eutectic growth of the FCC–Co and Co2B phases when ΔT < 100 K; (3) As the ΔT increases further, the FCC–Co phase primarily forms, followed by the metastable Co23B6 phase with the trace of an FCC–Co and Co23B6 eutectic; (4) When the ΔT increases to 277 K, the FCC–Co phase primarily forms, followed by an FCC–Co and Co3B eutectic, which is similar in composition to the microstructure formed with low ΔT. The mechanisms of the microstructural evolution and the phase selection are interpreted on the basis of the composition segregation, the skewed coupled zone, the strain-induced transformation, and the solute trapping. Moreover, the prenucleation of the primary FCC–Co phase was also detected from an analysis of the different recalescence behaviors. The present work not only enriches our knowledge about the phase selection behavior in the undercooled Co–B system, but also provides us with guidance for controlling the microstructures and properties practically.
Reducing the γ′-Particle Size in CMSX-4 for Membrane Development
Authors: Lück Janik Marius , Rösler Joachim
Published: February 2022

Colloidal emulsions for lipophilic drugs can be fabricated using premix membrane emulsification. The state of the art is the application of membranes made from, for example, polycarbonate or polyester, which, however, are prone to fouling and cause waste, due to the low number of cycles. With the use of metallic membranes made from the nickel based single crystalline superalloy CMSX-4, these key disadvantages are eliminated. However, instead, the pore size and the resulting droplet size distribution need to be adjusted and improved. This can be realized by tailoring the size of the γ′-particles, which is controllable by the time and temperature used during precipitation heat treatment and the quenching method after homogenization heat treatment. Therefore, we utilized different heat treatment protocols, varying the cooling rate (water quenching and air cooling) after homogenization heat treatment and the holding time and temperature during precipitation heat treatment. Then, we investigated the γ/γ′-microstructure, including the γ′-morphology and γ′-particle size. We show that water quenching has a significant impact on the γ/γ′-microstructure and often leads to irregular-shaped and poorly aligned γ′-particles after precipitation heat treatment. In comparison, air cooling, followed by a subsequent precipitation heat treatment, results in well-aligned and cubic shaped γ′-particles and is, therefore, favorable for membrane fabrication. A reduction in precipitation temperature leads to morphology changes to the γ′-particles. A reduction of the holding time during precipitation heat treatment diminishes the γ′-particle growth, resulting in smaller γ′-particles. Additionally, a suitable heat treatment protocol for membrane fabrication was identified with a γ′-edge length of 224 ± 52 nm and well-aligned, cubic shaped γ′-particles.
Integration of Hot Tube Gas Forming and Die Quenching of Ultra-High Strength Steel Hollow Parts Using Low Pressure Sealed-Air
Authors: Talebi-Anaraki Ali , Maeno Tomoyoshi , Matsubara Yuta , Ikeda Ryohei , Mori Ken-ichiro
Published: February 2022

A low pressure sealed-air hot tube gas forming process of ultra-high strength steel tubes was developed not only to change the cross-section of the hollow products by bulging but also to increase the strength of components. Gas-formed components are typically formed by a controlled-gas pressure with extremely high internal pressure, which leads to affected production costs and safety. Moreover, compressing the gas with high pressure requires high energy during its preparation. Therefore, to simplify the internal pressure controlling system and improve the safety factor in gas forming processes, the sealed-air tubes are formed with a quite low initial pressure. The pressure of the sealed air increased with increasing temperature of the air inside the resistance-heated tube, and the bulging deformation was controlled only by axial feeding. The effects of the initial pressure and heating temperature on the bulging deformation and quenchability of the tubes, and the effect of the starting time of axial feeding on the bulging behavior were examined. Consequently, ultra-high strength steel bulged parts were produced even in low initial internal pressure and with the rapid heating of the tubes.
Lie Geometric Methods in the Study of Driftless Control Affine Systems with Holonomic Distribution and Economic Applications
Authors: Popescu Liviu , Militaru Daniel , Tică Gabriel
Published: February 2022

In the present paper, two optimal control problems are studied using Lie geometric methods and applying the Pontryagin Maximum Principle at the level of a new working space, called Lie algebroid. It is proved that the framework of a Lie algebroid is more suitable than the cotangent bundle in order to find the optimal solutions of some driftless control affine systems with holonomic distributions. Finally, an economic application is given.
Anti-Allergic Effect of 3,4-Dihydroxybenzaldehyde Isolated from Polysiphonia morrowii in IgE/BSA-Stimulated Mast Cells and a Passive Cutaneous Anaphylaxis Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Eun-A , Han Eui-Jeong , Kim Junseong , Fernando Ilekuttige Priyan Shanura , Oh Jae-Young , Kim Kil-Nam , Ahn Ginnae , Heo Soo-Jin
Published: February 2022

In this study, we investigated the anti-allergic effects of 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (DHB) isolated from the marine red alga, Polysiphonia morrowii, in mouse bone-marrow-derived cultured mast cells (BMCMCs) and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) immunoglobulin E (IgE)-sensitized mice. DHB inhibited IgE/bovine serum albumin (BSA)-induced BMCMCs degranulation by reducing the release of β-hexosaminidase without inducing cytotoxicity. Further, DHB dose-dependently decreased the IgE binding and high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) expression and FcεRI-IgE binding on the surface of BMCMCs. Moreover, DHB suppressed the secretion and/or the expression of the allergic cytokines, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and the chemokine, thymus activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), by regulating the phosphorylation of IκBα and the translocation of cytoplasmic NF-κB into the nucleus. Furthermore, DHB attenuated the passive cutaneous anaphylactic (PCA) reaction reducing the exuded Evans blue amount in the mouse ear stimulated by IgE/BSA. These results suggest that DHB is a potential therapeutic candidate for the prevention and treatment of type I allergic disorders.
Flow Cytometry and Molecular Techniques Could Complement Morphological Detection of Leukemic Infiltration in Ascitic Fluids: A Case Report
Authors: Martínez-Alfonzo Inés , Láinez-González Daniel , Solán-Blanco Laura , Franganillo-Suarez Aida , Cornejo José I. , Garcia-Lopez Amanda , Martín-Herrero Sara , Castaño-Bonilla Tamara , Salgado-Sánchez Rocío , Arquero-Portero Teresa , Cortti-Ferrari María J. , Llamas-Sillero Pilar , Alonso-Dominguez Juan M.
Published: February 2022

Extramedullary involvement of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is infrequent, and ascitic infiltration is even more unusual. We present a case of a 48-year-old woman diagnosed with NPM1-mutated AML that debuted with ascites, for which morphological studies of the ascitic fluid did not detect leukemic infiltration, maybe due to technical problems in the sample preparation. Multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) detected a blast population compatible with AML, and allele-specific PCR detected NPM1-mutated transcripts. Body fluid infiltrations are an infrequent initial manifestation or sign of progression in AML. As far as we know, this is the first reported case of an NPM1-mutated AML that debuted with ascites, and also the first description of the utilization of molecular techniques to detect the leukemic origin of the ascites. This case highlights that, given that allele-specific PCR and MFC increase the sensitivity of morphological studies, these techniques should be routinely applied in the study of any kind of effusion detected in an AML patient.
Recent Considerations on Gaming Console Based Training for Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation
Authors: Celesti Antonio , Cimino Vincenzo , Naro Antonino , Portaro Simona , Fazio Maria , Villari Massimo , Calabró Rocco Salvatore
Published: February 2022

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a well-known, chronic demyelinating disease of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and one of the most common causes of disability in young adults. In this context, one of the major challenges in patients’ rehabilitation is to maintain the gained motor abilities in terms of functional independence. This could be partially obtained by applying new emerging and cutting-edge virtual/augmented reality and serious game technologies for a playful, noninvasive treatment that was demonstrated to be quite efficient and effective in enhancing the clinical status of patients and their (re)integration into society. Recently, Cloud computing and Internet of Things (IoT) emerged as technologies that can potentially revolutionize patients’ care. To achieve such a goal, a system that on one hand gathers patients’ clinical parameters through a network of medical IoT devices equipped with sensors and that, on the other hand, sends the collected data to a hospital Cloud for processing and analytics is required. In this paper, we assess the effectiveness of a Nintendo Wii Fit® Plus Balance Board (WFBB) used as an IoT medical device adopted in a rehabilitation training program aimed at improving the physical abilities of MS patients (pwMS). In particular, the main scientific contribution of this paper is twofold: (i) to present a preliminary new pilot study investigating whether exercises based on the Nintendo Wii Fit® balance board included in a rehabilitation training program could improve physical abilities and Quality of Life (QoL) of patients compared to that of a conventional four-week rehabilitation training program; (ii) to discuss how such a rehabilitation training program could be adopted in the perspective of near future networks of medical IoT-based rehabilitation devices, interconnected with a hospital Cloud system for big data processing to improve patients’ therapies and support the scientific research about motor rehabilitation. Results demonstrate the advantages of our approach from both health and technological points of view.
Endothelial Cell Plasma Membrane Biomechanics Mediates Effects of Pro-Inflammatory Factors on Endothelial Mechanosensors: Vicious Circle Formation in Atherogenic Inflammation
Authors: Barvitenko Nadezhda , Ashrafuzzaman Mohammad , Lawen Alfons , Skverchinskaya Elisaveta , Saldanha Carlota , Manca Alessia , Uras Giuseppe , Aslam Muhammad , Pantaleo Antonella
Published: February 2022

Chronic low-grade vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In endothelial cells (ECs), anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory signaling can be induced by different patterns of the fluid shear stress (SS) exerted by blood flow on ECs. Laminar blood flow with high magnitude is anti-inflammatory, while disturbed flow and laminar flow with low magnitude is pro-inflammatory. Endothelial mechanosensors are the key upstream signaling proteins in SS-induced pro- and anti-inflammatory responses. Being transmembrane proteins, mechanosensors, not only experience fluid SS but also become regulated by the biomechanical properties of the lipid bilayer and the cytoskeleton. We review the apparent effects of pro-inflammatory factors (hypoxia, oxidative stress, hypercholesterolemia, and cytokines) on the biomechanics of the lipid bilayer and the cytoskeleton. An analysis of the available data suggests that the formation of a vicious circle may occur, in which pro-inflammatory cytokines enhance and attenuate SS-induced pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling, respectively.
Polymer Membranes for Gas Separation
Authors: Lasseuguette Elsa , Comesaña-Gándara Bibiana
Published: February 2022

Over the past decade, polymeric membranes have been widely investigated for a variety of industrial gas separation applications [...]