bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulación de escenarios urbanos mediante autómata celular para modelar el crecimiento de Campinas – SP, Brasil
Authors:   Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Campinas, Brasil., Marques Mara-Lúcia , Müller-Pessôa Vinícius ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Campinas, Brasil., Camargo Danilo ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Campinas, Brasil., Cecagno Camila ,   Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas, Campinas, Brasil.
Published: April 2021

La dinámica urbana analizada por el Sistema de Información Geográfica contribuye a la identificación de especificidades locales de ocupación y transformación del espacio. El presente estudio analizó el crecimiento espacial utilizando un autómata celular para una propuesta de escenarios futuros en la región norte-noroeste de Campinas-SP, Brasil. El modelamiento fue realizado en el software SLEUTH, el cual tiene respaldo en el modelo de crecimiento urbano de Clarke, que requiere información del uso de suelo, pendiente, red de carreteras, relieve sombreado, áreas de restricción y áreas urbanas con el objetivo de simular el crecimiento para 2040. El área analizada mostró una tendencia al crecimiento, con una dinámica constante de expansión y densificación a partir de los centros urbanos existentes y en el entorno de la red de carreteras. Los factores limitantes de expansión fueron las grandes áreas institucionales no edificadas, las áreas de preservación y las propiedades rurales. Por lo tanto, el modelo de crecimiento simulado por SLEUTH fue adecuado para el análisis de los factores físico-ambientales e infraestructura que determinan la dinámica urbana.
¿Hacia un cambio de ciclo en el urbanismo del litoral?
Authors:   Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, España., Sainz-Gutiérrez Victoriano
Published: April 2021

Título libro: El urbanismo en el litorial andaluz tras la última burbuja inmobiliaria Autor: Pedro Górgolas Martín Edición: Valencia: Tirant Humanidades, 2020 (215 págs.) ISBN: 978-84-17973-10-0
Clinical and Endoscopic Profile of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleed: A Cross-sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Southern India
Authors: Surendran Manju , Kumar K Sunil
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Acute Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI) bleed is a common potentially life threatening emergency. The aetiological profile of bleed and prognosis varies according to geographical region and availability of endoscopic facilities. Aim: To determine the clinical and endoscopic profile of UGI bleed, risk factors and prognosis in the patients. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 12 months at a tertiary care centre in Southern India. Patients admitted with history of hematemesis and melena, satisfying the inclusion criteria was taken consecutively. Clinical and endoscopic profile were noted and followed-up for six weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test for qualitative variables and independent t-test for quantitative variables. Significance level was fixed as p-value of <0.05. Results: A total of 138 patients were studied in this period. The male to female ratio in the study was 3.5:1. The mean age was 53.5±13.17 years. The most common clinical presentation was hematemesis in 57 patients (41.3%) followed by haematemesis and melena in 46 patients (33.3%). The most common cause on endoscopy was portal hypertension-related oesophageal and gastric varices (51.4%) followed by antral gastritis (15.2%). The cause of UGI bleeding could not be identified in 5.1% in which the endoscopy was normal. Haemogram, platelet count and serum albumin were significantly lower in variceal bleed group, compared to non-variceal group. Eleven patients succumbed to death secondary to UGI bleed. Conclusion: The most common causes of UGI bleed are portal hypertension related gastric and oesophageal varices. The in-hospital mortality in the study was 7.9%.
Diagnostic Validity of Computed Tomography Thorax in Comparison with Fibreoptic Bronchoscopy for Endobronchial Lesions
Authors: Mamatha S , Haran Alamelu , Ashwini S , Ganga Ranganath T , Ajit H
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Fibreoptic Bronchoscopy (FOB) is the gold standard for diagnosis of endobronchial diseases, an invasive procedure not without risks. Computed Tomography (CT) illustration of thoracic anatomy provides guidance in sampling procedure for diagnosis of endobronchial disease through FOB. Yet, in real life scenario, we find discrepancy between findings of CT and bronchoscopy which necessitates the patients to undergo second invasive procedure for a definitive diagnosis. Aim: To assess the diagnostic validity of CT imaging in diagnosing endobronchial diseases by comparing with FOB findings and to correlate FOB findings with pathological results. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional retrospective analysis over six years in a tertiary care centre from January 2012 to December 2018. The findings on CT and FOB were classified as normal, abnormal mucosa, mass and extrinsic compression. FOB samples were sent for pathological examination. Results: A total of 426 patients were included in the study. The sensitivity of CT for presence of normal bronchus, abnormal mucosa, mass and extrinsic compression was 93.03%, 27.50%, 89.00% and 59.52% and specificity was 91.76%, 98.45%, 89.88% and 94.79%, respectively. Pathological diagnosis was obtained in 135(97.12%) out of 139 cases. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common 62 (41.01%) histological diagnosis. Conclusion: Computed Tomography (CT) thorax imaging has good sensitivity and specificity to detect endobronchial mass but has poor sensitivity for detection of extrinsic compression and mucosal abnormalities in bronchi. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common pathological diagnosis.
Varieties of Mushrooms and their Nutraceutical Importance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chatterjee Debasmita , Halder Dipankar , Das Satadal
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Around 2000 species of mushrooms exist in nature, of which hardly 25 varieties are accepted as edible in nature. “Nutraceuticals” are food substances that are associated with immense health benefits and also hinder the development of several maladies. Aim: This review article aims to explore the nutritional contents/composition of the varied types of mushrooms and their clinical importance for the human being. Materials and Methods: The methodology adopted is a comprehensive systematic literature review. The suitable electronic databases sources that were reviewed were Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline, and Grey literature databases namely GreyNet International, Open Grey, and Med Nar. The literatures were screened by customising the databases based on the pre-determined inclusion and exclusion criteria and up to the most recent contents of the year, 2019. In total, 63 articles were considered for the systematic literature review. Results: The findings of the selected pieces of evidence were critically appraised and thematically presented. Mushrooms serve as a great nutritional source; as they are rich in proteins, contain essential amino acids, fibre, and an excellent source of fatty acids but poor in fat content. Their nutritional significance increases due to the presence of vitamins B1, B2, B12, C, D, and E. Significant content of carbohydrates are present in an edible variety of mushrooms. Trehalose, glucose, and mannitol are among the abundant sugars present in the cultivated edible mushrooms that are responsible for different categories of medicinal properties for instance immunomodulating properties, antitumour properties by modulating the immune response of the host. The distinguished protein substances present in mushrooms are specific immunomodulatory proteins, lectins, antimicrobial proteins, ribosome-inactivating proteins, ribonucleases, and laccases that have interesting biological activities. Mushrooms contain significant amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acid that contribute to the reduction of cholesterol levels in the serum and also certain essential fatty acids such as oleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, palmitic acids. Conclusion: Mushrooms can thus be considered to be a reservoir of varied significant dietary composition contributing to a healthy diet and their daily consumption may hinder any development of maladies within our physiological system.
Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease in Medical Students in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sethia Rajni , Modi Samiksha , Shah Aarushi , Mehta Jay
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Dry eyes is a chronic disorder affecting the ocular surface causing tear film instability, visual problems, redness and a feeling of irritation in the eye. It is an emerging preventable health hazard among the young individuals. Aim: To find the prevalence and risk factors of Dry Eye Disease (DED) in the medical field amongst the postgraduates in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional observational study. All participants were assessed on a number of variables, which included duration of residency, smoking, use of cosmetics, screen time and distance of screen from eyes. The present study enrolled 132 students (264 eyes), out of which 66 students were (132 eyes) from surgical field and 66 students were (132 eyes) were from non-surgical field. They were examined for a panel of tests for DED, i.e., Schirmer Test, Tear Break Up Time (TBUT) Test, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) grading and Conjunctival Staining. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v20 was used for statistical analysis. All the qualitative data were analysed by using Chi-square test. Results: Overall prevalence of DED was 56.81% in the medical field amongst residents. Based on the results of all the conventional test performed, most of the residents belonged to the mild category followed by moderate and least in the severe category. Based on TBUT, prevalence of DED was more in surgical (62.67%) compared to non-surgical (37.33%) residents with an Odds Ratio (OR) of 3.35, p-value <0.0001 and risk ratio of 1.67. Residents who spend more screen time (>4 hours/day) and use screen at a distance more than arm-forearm length have more prevalence of DED (p-value of 0.001 and 0.002, respectively). Conclusion: Overall prevalence of DED was 56.81% in the medical field amongst residents. It is concluded that surgeons have a 3.35 chance greater than non-surgical residents for development of DED. Early diagnosis and curbing the modifiable risk factors can reduce the burden of DED and improve the quality of life.
Pulmonary Lymphangioleiomyomatosis and Role of Pleurodesis: Rare Case Reports
Authors: Shah Kusum V , Goyal Sonal , Kumar Saket , Shah Arti D , Rana Yash
Published: April 2021

Pulmonary Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare disease, mostly seen in women of reproductive age group. Most common presentation is dyspnoea on exertion, may be associated with haemoptysis and chest pain. LAM is a cystic lung disease, with a poor prognosis and is difficult to treat. In this case reports, we discussed two patients who presented with dyspnoea and chest pain due to pneumothorax and were later diagnosed as case of LAM on clinical and radiological basis. Intercostal Chest tube Drainage (ICD) was inserted for resolution of pneumothorax and subsequently pleurodesis was done to prevent recurrent pneumothorax. In case of recurrent pneumothorax, LAM should be considered as a differential diagnosis. Pleurodesis can be considered to prevent recurrent pneumothorax.
Risk Factors, Epidemiological and Clinical Outcome of Close Contacts of COVID-19 Cases in a Tertiary Hospital in Southern India
Authors: Areekal Binu , Vijayan Sajna Mathumkunnath , Suseela Mini Sreedharan , Andrews MA , Ravi Rajesh Koothupalakkal , Sukumaran Sudhiraj Thiruthara , Jose Rajany , Edappanatt Fathima Thasleema Thoombath
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The knowledge of epidemiologic characteristics and transmission dynamics of a novel pathogen, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) among close contacts can help in planning and development of effective control policies in different parts of the world. Aim: To assess the epidemiological and clinical outcome of close contacts of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-2019) cases admitted in a tertiary COVID hospital and to assess the role of risk factors in predicting the epidemiological outcome of these contacts. Materials and Methods: The current retrospective cohort study was conducted among 1286 close contacts of COVID-19 patients admitted to Government Medical College, Thrissur, Kerala. The data collection was done by a semi-structured telephonic interview by the contact tracing team. The questions included the type of exposure to the index case, symptoms if any, date of last exposure with COVID-19 positive patients, and final COVID-19 status of the contact at the end of 14 days. The association of risk factors of COVID-19 positivity was done using binary logistic regression. Results: Proportion of close contacts of COVID-19 who developed the disease was 24.2% (21.87-26.52%). The mean incubation period was found to be 4.22 days (C.I-3.71-4.65). The serial interval mean was found to be 5.24 days (C.I 4.764-5.716). The proportion of household contacts of COVID-19 cases who developed the disease was found to be 26% (C.I-23%-29%). The majority (52.4%) of infections among contacts were asymptomatic. Most common symptom among the COVID-19 positive was fever (32.8%) followed by cough (16.1%). The most common risk factors of infection among primary close contacts were sharing the same room (adjusted odds ratio-2.394) and common use of fomites (adjusted odds ratio-1.953) while use of a mask was found to be protective (adjusted odds ratio-0.570). Significant factors associated with the type of contact with infection were workplace-related contact (adjusted odds ratio-6.629), household contact (adjusted odds ratio-4.856), and travel-related contact (adjusted odds ratio-2.899). Conclusion:The study concludes important risk factors of transmission among close contacts of COVID-19 as being in a household, workplace and travel related contact where the use of mask was found to be protective. The study also concludes that most of the COVID-19 infections in close contacts are asymptomatic.
Comprehensive Study of the Influence of the Bonding Temperature and Contact Pressure Regimes during Diffusion Bonding on the Deformation and Mechanical Properties of AISI 304
Authors: Gietzelt Thomas , Walter Mario , Toth Volker , Messerschmidt Florian , Blem Melina
Published: April 2021

Process parameters for diffusion bonding are temperature, dwell time, and contact pressure. Temperature and contact pressure have opposite effects on deformation. The effect of temperature on deformation was investigated in steps of 20 K from 1015 to 1135 °C. Contact pressure and dwell time were 16 MPa and 4 h, respectively. The deformation increase steadily with temperature. Yield strength and tensile strength decrease slightly with temperature, which is attributed to grain growth. The elongation‐at‐fracture values are 100–105%. For 925 to 995 °C, values for elongation at fracture decrease. It was investigated if comparable mechanical properties can be obtained at a temperature of 850 °C only. Experiments with higher constant contact pressures were supplemented by tests with superimposed short load peaks. Similar and higher values for the yield strength were achieved. A correlation of yield strength, tensile strengths and elongation‐at‐fracture values with contact pressure and contact pressure regime was found. The values for elongation at fracture are significantly lower than those for higher temperatures. This even applies to parameter sets at different temperatures, leading to almost identical deformations. Reduced elongation‐at‐fracture values at 850 °C are attributed to microscopically small defects in the bonding plane and to notch effects.
Directional Modulation of Exciton Emission Using Single Dielectric Nanospheres
Authors: Fang Jie , Wang Mingsong , Yao Kan , Zhang Tianyi , Krasnok Alex , Jiang Taizhi , Choi Junho , Kahn Ethan , Korgel Brian A. , Terrones Mauricio , Li Xiaoqin , Alù Andrea , Zheng Yuebing
Published: April 2021

Coupling emitters with nanoresonators is an effective strategy to control light emission at the subwavelength scale with high efficiency. Low‐loss dielectric nanoantennas hold particular promise for this purpose, owing to their strong Mie resonances. Herein, a highly miniaturized platform is explored for the control of emission based on individual subwavelength Si nanospheres (SiNSs) to modulate the directional excitation and exciton emission of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs). A modified Mie theory for dipole–sphere hybrid systems is derived to instruct the optimal design for desirable modulation performance. Controllable forward‐to‐backward intensity ratios are experimentally validated in 532 nm laser excitation and 635 nm exciton emission from a monolayer WS2. Versatile light emission control is achieved for different emitters and excitation wavelengths, benefiting from the facile size control and isotropic shape of SiNSs. Simultaneous modulation of excitation and emission via a single SiNS at visible wavelengths significantly improves the efficiency and directionality of TMD exciton emission and leads to the potential of multifunctional integrated photonics. Overall, the work opens promising opportunities for nanophotonics and polaritonic systems, enabling efficient manipulation, enhancement, and reconfigurability of light–matter interactions.
Covalent Chemistry‐Mediated Multimarker Purification of Circulating Tumor Cells Enables Noninvasive Detection of Molecular Signatures of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Na , Lee Yi‐Te , Kim Minhyung , Wang Jasmine J. , Zhang Ceng , Teng Pai‐Chi , Qi Dongping , Zhang Ryan Y. , Tran Benjamin V. , Lee Yue Tung , Ye Jinglei , Palomique Juvelyn , Nissen Nicholas N. , Han Steven‐Huy B. , Sadeghi Saeed , Finn Richard S. , Saab Sammy , Busuttil Ronald W. , Posadas Edwin M. , Liang Li , Pei Renjun , Yang Ju Dong , You Sungyong , Agopian Vatche G. , Tseng Hsian‐Rong , Zhu Yazhen
Published: April 2021

Transcriptomic profiling of tumor tissues introduces a large database, which has led to improvements in the ability of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. However, performing tumor transcriptomic profiling in the clinical setting is very challenging since the procurement of tumor tissues is inherently limited by invasive sampling procedures. Here, the feasibility of purifying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from clinical patient samples is demonstrated with improved molecular integrity using Click Chips in conjunction with a multimarker antibody cocktail. The purified CTCs are then subjected to messenger RNA profiling by NanoString nCounter platform, targeting 64 HCC‐specific genes, which are generated from an integrated data analysis framework with eight tissue‐based prognostic gene signatures from seven publicly available HCC transcriptomic studies. After bioinformatics analysis and comparison, the HCC CTC‐derived gene signatures show high concordance with HCC tissue‐derived gene signatures from the Cancer Genome Atlas database, suggesting that HCC CTCs purified by Click Chips can enable the translation of HCC tissue molecular profiling into a noninvasive setting.
A Ratiometric Fluorescent Biosensor Reveals Dynamic Regulation of Long‐Chain Fatty Acyl‐CoA Esters Metabolism
Authors: Wang Weibo , Wei Qingpeng , Zhang Jiayuan , Zhang Meiqi , Wang Chuchen , Qu Renyu , Wang Yuan , Yang Guangfu , Wang Jing
Published: April 2021

Despite increasing awareness of the biological impacts of long‐chain fatty acyl‐CoA esters (LCACoAs), our knowledge about the subcellular distribution and regulatory functions of these acyl‐CoA molecules is limited by a lack of methods for detecting LCACoAs in living cells. Here, we report development of a genetically encoded fluorescent sensor that enables ratiometric quantification of LCACoAs in living cells and subcellular compartments. We demonstrate how this FadR‐cpYFP fusion “LACSer sensor” undergoes LCACoA‐induced conformational changes reflected in easily detectable fluorescence responses, and show proof‐of‐concept for real‐time monitoring of LCACoAs in human cells. Subsequently, we applied LACSer in scientific studies investigating how disruption of ACSL enzymes differentially reduces cytosolic and mitochondrial LCACoA levels, and show how genetic disruption of an acyl‐CoA binding protein (ACBP) alters mitochondrial accumulation of LCACoAs.
Watching the embryo: Evolution of the microscope for the study of embryogenesis
Authors: Iyer Sharada , Mukherjee Sulagna , Kumar Megha
Published: April 2021

Embryos and microscopes share a long, remarkable history and biologists have always been intrigued to watch how embryos develop under the microscope. Here we discuss the advances in microscopy which have greatly influenced our current understanding of embryogenesis. We highlight the evolution of microscopes and the optical technologies that have been instrumental in studying various developmental processes. These imaging modalities provide mechanistic insights into the dynamic cellular and molecular events which drive lineage commitment and morphogenetic changes in the developing embryo. We begin the journey with a brief history of microscopy to study embryos. First, we review the principles and optics of light, fluorescence, confocal, and electron microscopy which have been key techniques for imaging cellular and molecular events during embryonic development. Next, we discuss recent key imaging modalities such as light‐sheet microscopy, which are suitable for whole embryo imaging. Further, we highlight imaging techniques like multiphoton and super resolution microscopy for beyond light diffraction limit, high resolution imaging. Lastly, we review some of the scattering‐based imaging methods and techniques used for imaging human embryos.
Continuous monitoring of cell transfection efficiency with micropatterned substrates
Authors: Azuaje‐Hualde Enrique , Rosique Melania , Calatayud‐Sanchez Alba , Benito‐Lopez Fernando , M. de Pancorbo Marian , Basabe‐Desmonts Lourdes
Published: April 2021

The effect of cell–cell contact on gene transfection is mainly unknown. Usually, transfection is carried out in batch cell cultures without control over cellular interactions, and efficiency analysis relies on complex and expensive protocols commonly involving flow cytometry as the final analytical step. Novel platforms and cell patterning are being studied to control cellular interactions and improve quantification methods. In this study, we report the use of surface patterning of fibronectin for the generation of two types of mesenchymal stromal cell patterns: single‐cell patterns without cell‐to‐cell contact, and small cell‐colony patterns. Both scenarios allowed the integration of the full transfection process and the continuous monitoring of thousands of individualized events by fluorescence microscopy. Our results showed that cell‐to‐cell contact clearly affected the transfection, as single cells presented a maximum transfection peak 6 h earlier and had a 10% higher transfection efficiency than cells with cell‐to‐cell contact.
Are fiscal policy incentives effective in stimulating firms' eco‐product innovation? The moderating role of dynamic capabilities
Authors: Long Siying , Liao Zhongju
Published: April 2021

This study investigates the effectiveness of fiscal policy incentives—in particular, direct subsidies and tax credits—in stimulating eco‐product innovation among Chinese manufacturing firms. We also examine the moderating effects of dynamic capabilities. The empirical results, which are based on survey data from 265 firms in China, demonstrate that both direct subsidies and tax credits are conducive to firms' eco‐product innovation. In addition, we find that when firms' dynamic integration capabilities are strong, the facilitating effects of direct subsidies and tax credits on eco‐product innovation are likewise strong. Moreover, dynamic reconfiguration capabilities positively moderate the relationship between tax credits and eco‐product innovation. By identifying moderators that influence the effect of fiscal incentives on eco‐product innovation in heterogeneous firms, this study contributes to fiscal policy debates and realizing sustainable development.
miR‐140‐3p inhibits colorectal cancer progression and its liver metastasis by targeting BCL9 and BCL2
Authors: Liu Dingsheng , Chen Chunsheng , Cui Mingming , Zhang Hong
Published: April 2021

Recent studies have identified microRNAs (miRNAs) as a compelling novel class of biomarker in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and metastasis. Here, we demonstrated that the level of plasma exosomal miR‐140‐3p in CRC patients was lower than that in healthy controls. The decreased miR‐140‐3p level was also observed in CRC patients with liver metastasis. The expression of miR‐140‐3p in CRC tissues were significantly lower than that in matched normal tissues. Functionally, miR‐140‐3p overexpression suppressed proliferation, migration, invasion, and β‐catenin nuclear translocation, as well as promoted apoptosis in LoVo cells, while inhibition of miR‐140‐3p reversed these cellular processes in HCT 116 cells. Notably, BCL9 and BCL2 were recognized as direct targets of miR‐140‐3p. BCL9 knockdown abrogated miR‐140‐3p inhibitor‐induced effects on HCT 116 cells with decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion. BCL2 knockdown increased apoptosis of miR‐140‐3p inhibitor‐transfected HCT 116 cells. In vivo experiments revealed that miR‐140‐3p overexpression inhibited tumor growth in LoVo xenograft model and diminished metastatic nodules in nude mice liver. Taken together, this work supports that miR‐140‐3p exerts as a tumor suppressor in CRC progression via targeting BCL9 and BCL2, and suggests miR‐140‐3p‐BCL9/BCL2 axis may be applied in miRNA‐based therapy and prognostication of CRC.
EmoDescriptor: A hybrid feature for emotional classification in dance movements
Authors: Bai Junxuan , Dai Rong , Dai Ju , Pan Junjun
Published: April 2021

Similar to language and music, dance performances provide an effective way to express human emotions. With the abundance of the motion capture data, content‐based motion retrieval and classification have been fiercely investigated. Although researchers attempt to interpret body language in terms of human emotions, the progress is limited by the scarce 3D motion database annotated with emotion labels. This article proposes a hybrid feature for emotional classification in dance performances. The hybrid feature is composed of an explicit feature and a deep feature. The explicit feature is calculated based on the Laban movement analysis, which considers the body, effort, shape, and space properties. The deep feature is obtained from latent representation through a 1D convolutional autoencoder. Eventually, we present an elaborate feature fusion network to attain the hybrid feature that is almost linearly separable. The abundant experiments demonstrate that our hybrid feature is superior to the separate features for the emotional classification in dance performances.
Energy‐efficient fuzzy logic‐based cross‐layer hierarchical routing protocol for wireless Internet‐of‐Things sensor networks
Authors: Nasri Mohsen , Helali Abdelhamid , Maaref Hassen
Published: April 2021

With rapid increase of the advancement in wireless technologies, the world is now moving toward smart wireless devices which require the communication and collaboration of the Internet of Things (IoT). The smart devices, which called sensor nodes, enhance the use of the IoT as the essential components of today's smart world. Therefore, the wireless sensor network (WSN) is the most widely used technology enabling IoT scenarios. Using the technology, a huge volume of data needs to be tackled and transmitted carefully via the internet. Since the lifetime of the network is related to the reduced battery capacity of the connected wireless sensor nodes, extending the network lifetime is the main goal to be achieved. Clustering algorithm has a significant effect on the system lifetime for the IoT‐enabled WSN applications. In this paper, a fuzzy‐based routing protocol (FRP‐LEACH) and a cross‐layer routing protocol (CLRP‐LEACH) are proposed based on the clustering topology. The proposed algorithms are designed for the healthcare IoT applications. These algorithms offer several advanced cloud‐based services and facilities to serve patients more effectually and protect the medical and paramedical framework from pandemic illness like the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic. To address the above‐mentioned concerns, an energy efficient routing protocol based on fuzzy logic is proposed to optimize wireless Internet‐of‐Things sensor networks performance. Simulation results are presented, and they show that the proposed algorithms outperform current cluster based‐routing protocols using a fuzzy logic algorithm in terms of generating stable clusters and extending the network lifetime.
Impacts of permeable interlocking concrete pavement on the runoff hydrograph: Volume reduction, peak flow mitigation, and extension of lag times
Authors: Tirpak R. Andrew , Winston Ryan J. , Feliciano Melissa , Dorsey Jay D. , Epps Thomas H.
Published: April 2021

Permeable pavements are implemented to provide at‐source treatment of urban stormwater runoff while supporting vehicular and pedestrian use. Studies on these systems have mainly focused on those treating only direct rainfall and installed atop well‐drained soils which typically provide substantial hydrologic mitigation through exfiltration that may not be representative of more hydrologically taxing conditions. A single lane parking area retrofitted with permeable interlocking concrete pavement in Vermilion, OH, USA was monitored over a 15‐month period to quantify its hydrologic performance under such conditions. The 470 m2 permeable pavement was underlain by silt loam soils and a shallow bedrock layer and treated run‐on from the adjacent 324 m2 asphalt drive lane. Observed data were compared to a calibrated SWMM model developed to simulate the pre‐retrofit conditions of the site (i.e., a completely impervious parking lot). Cumulative runoff volumes were reduced by 43% across all events in the monitoring period compared to a fully impervious parking lot. While median peak flows were reduced by 75%, substantial mitigation was limited to smaller, lower intensity events with longer antecedent dry periods (i.e., non‐flood producing events). The permeable pavement significantly delayed the occurrence of peak flows from the site following peak rainfall intensity by a median 29 min. Results from this study demonstrate that permeable pavements which receive run‐on from adjacent imperious cover and are installed atop poorly drained soils can significantly reduce runoff volumes and peak flow rates and delay the occurrence of peak discharge. The modelling approach implemented can provide a better estimation of diffuse inflows to green infrastructure stormwater controls and aid in refining design features which enhance the hydrologic performance in systems underlain by poorly drained soils.
FOXD1 promotes dedifferentiation and targeted therapy resistance in melanoma by regulating the expression of connective tissue growth factor
Authors: Sun Qian , Novak Daniel , Hüser Laura , Poelchen Juliane , Wu Huizi , Granados Karol , Federico Aniello , Liu Ke , Steinfass Tamara , Vierthaler Marlene , Umansky Viktor , Utikal Jochen
Published: April 2021

Metastatic melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer and associated with a poor prognosis. In clinical terms, targeted therapy is one of the most important treatments for patients with BRAFV600E‐mutated advanced melanoma. However, the development of resistance to this treatment compromises its therapeutic success. We previously demonstrated that forkhead box D1 (FOXD1) regulates melanoma migration and invasion. Here, we found that FOXD1 was highly expressed in melanoma cells and was associated with a poor survival of patients with metastatic melanoma. Upregulation of FOXD1 expression enhanced melanoma cells' resistance to vemurafenib (BRAF inhibitor [BRAFi]) or vemurafenib and cobimetinib (MEK inhibitor) combination treatment whereas loss of FOXD1 increased the sensitivity to treatment. By comparing gene expression levels between FOXD1 knockdown (KD) and overexpressing (OE) cells, we identified the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) as a downstream factor of FOXD1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase assay demonstrated the direct binding of FOXD1 to the CTGF promoter. Similar to FOXD1, knockdown of CTGF increased the sensitivity of BRAFi‐resistant cells to vemurafenib. FOXD1 KD cells treated with recombinant CTGF protein were less sensitive towards vemurafenib compared to untreated FOXD1 KD cells. Based on these findings, we conclude that FOXD1 might be a promising new diagnostic marker and a therapeutic target for the treatment of targeted therapy resistant melanoma.
Coronavirus genomic nsp14‐ExoN, structure, role, mechanism, and potential application as a drug target
Authors: Tahir Mohammed
Published: April 2021

The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), causing a global pandemic with devastating effects on healthcare and social‐economic systems, has no special antiviral therapies available for human coronaviruses (CoVs). The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐Cov‐2) possesses a nonstructural protein (nsp14), with amino‐terminal domain coding for proofreading exoribonuclease (ExoN) that is required for high‐fidelity replication. The ability of CoVs during genome replication and transcription to proofread and exclude mismatched nucleotides has long hindered the development of anti‐CoV drugs. The resistance of SARS‐CoV‐2 to antivirals, especially nucleoside analogs (NAs), shows the need to identify new CoV inhibition targets. Therefore, this review highlights the importance of nsp14‐ExoN as a target for inhibition. Also, nucleoside analogs could be used in combination with existing anti‐CoV therapeutics to target the proofreading mechanism.
Conjugation of (–)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate and protein isolate from large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea) roe: improvement of antioxidant activity and structural characteristics
Authors: Du Yi‐Nan , Han Jia‐Run , Yin Zhi‐Kang , Yan Jia‐Nan , Jiang Xin‐Yu , Wu Hai‐Tao
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea) roe is the main by‐product in the processing of large yellow croaker. Previous studies have found that its protein isolates are composed of vitellogenin, as well as vitellogenin B and C, having good functional properties. (‐)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is a natural antioxidant component that can be combined with protein to improve antioxidant activity and structural characteristics of protein.

RESULTS

EGCG was bound with the P. crocea roe protein isolate (pcRPI) by the free radical method to prepare the conjugate. The formation of pcRPI–EGCG conjugates was confirmed by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gel permeation chromatography, which showed that the calculated weight‐average molar masses of native‐pcRPI and pcRPI–EGCG conjugates were 86.9 and 215.3 kDa, respectively. The results of fluorescence, ultraviolet, circular and infrared spectra indicated that the conjugation of EGCG with native‐pcRPI changed the secondary and tertiary structure of native‐pcRPI. The pcRPI–EGCG conjugates exhibited higher thermal stability than native‐pcRPI. The radical scavenging and reducing power of native‐pcRPI were increased by 2.0–2.5‐ and 1.4‐fold, respectively, after the EGCG‐grafting reaction.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that the binding of pcRPI and EGCG effectively improved the antioxidant properties and structural characteristics of the pcRPI. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Reproducibility of Ultrasonographic Findings of Rectosigmoid Endometriosis Among Examiners With Different Level of Expertise
Authors: Guerriero Stefano , Pascual MariaAngela , Ajossa Silvia , Neri Manuela , Pilloni Monica , Graupera Betlem , Rodriguez Ignacio , Alcazar Juan Luis
Published: April 2021

Objective

To analyze the reproducibility of ultrasonographic (US) findings of rectosigmoid endometriosis among examiners with different level of expertise using stored three‐dimensional (3D) volumes of the posterior compartment of the pelvis as a part of SANABA (Sardinia‐Navarra‐Barcelona) collaborative study.

Materials and methods

Six examiners in 3 academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, with different levels of experience and blinded to each other, evaluated 60 stored 3D volumes from the posterior compartment of the pelvis and looked for the presence or absence of features of rectosigmoid endometriotic lesions defined as an irregular hypoechoic nodule with or without hypoechoic foci at the level of the muscularis propria of the anterior wall rectum sigma. Multiplanar view and virtual navigation were used. All examiners had to assess the 3D volume of posterior compartment of the pelvis and classify it as present or absent disease. To analyze intra‐observer and the inter‐observer agreements, each examiner performed the assessment twice with a 2‐week interval between the first and second assessments. Reproducibility was assessed by calculating the weighted Kappa index.

Results

Intra‐observer reproducibility was moderate to very good for all observers (Kappa index ranging from 0.49 to 0.96) associated with a good diagnostic accuracy of each reader. Inter‐observer reproducibility was fair to very good (Kappa index range: 0.21–0.87).

Conclusions

The typical US sign of rectosigmoid endometriosis is reasonably recognizable to observers with different level of expertise when assessed in stored 3D volumes.
On the potential of ROI imaging in x‐ray CT – A comparison of novel dynamic beam attenuators with current technology
Authors: Huck Sascha Manuel , Fung George S.K. , Parodi Katia , Stierstorfer Karl
Published: April 2021

Purpose

In this work, we explore the potential of region‐of‐interest (ROI) imaging in x‐ray computed tomography (CT). Using two dynamic beam attenuator (DBA) concepts for fluence field modulation (FFM) previously developed, we investigate and evaluate the potential dose savings in comparison with current FFM technology.

Methods

ROI imaging is a special application of FFM where the bulk of x‐ray radiation is propagated toward a certain anatomical target (ROI), specified by the imaging task, while the surrounding tissue is spared from radiation. We introduce a criterion suitable to quantitatively describe the balance between image quality inside an ROI and total radiation dose with respect to a given ROI imaging task. It accounts for the mean image variance at the ROI and the effective patient dose calculated from Monte Carlo simulations. The criterion is further used to compile task‐specific DBA trajectories determining the primary x‐ray fluence, and eventually used for comparing different FFM techniques, namely the sheet‐based dynamic beam attenuator (sbDBA), the z‐aligned sbDBA (z‐sbDBA), and an adjustable static operation mode of the z‐sbDBA. Furthermore, two static bowtie filters and the influence of tube current modulation (TCM) are included in the comparison.

Results

Our findings demonstrate by simulations that the presented trajectory optimization method determines reasonable DBA trajectories. The influence of TCM is strongly depending on the imaging task. The narrow bowtie filter allows for dose reductions of about 10% compared to the regular bowtie filter in the considered ROI imaging tasks. The DBAs are shown to realize substantially larger dose reductions. In our cardiac imaging scenario, the DBAs can reduce the effective dose by about 30% (z‐sbDBA) or 60% (sbDBA). We can further verify that the noise characteristics are not adversely affected by the DBAs.

Conclusion

Our research demonstrates that ROI imaging using the presented DBA concepts is a promising technique toward a more patient‐ and task‐specific CT imaging requiring lower radiation dose. Both the sbDBA and the z‐sbDBA are potential technical solutions for realizing ROI imaging in x‐ray CT.
Perfusion quantification using voxel‐wise proton density and median signal decay in PREFUL MRI
Authors: Glandorf Julian , Klimeš Filip , Behrendt Lea , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Kaireit Till F. , Gutberlet Marcel , Wacker Frank , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Contrast‐free lung MRI based on Fourier decomposition is an attractive method to monitor various lung diseases. However, the accuracy of the current perfusion quantification is limited. In this study, a new approach for perfusion quantification based on voxel‐wise proton density and median signal decay toward the steady state for Fourier decomposition‐based techniques is proposed called QQuantified (QQuant).

Methods

Twenty patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 18 patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension received phase‐resolved functional lung‐MRI (PREFUL) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI. Nine healthy participants received phase‐resolved functional lung‐MRI only. Median values of QQuant were compared to a Fourier decomposition perfusion quantification presented by Kjørstad et al (QKjørstad) and validated toward pulmonary blood flow derived by DCE‐MRI (PBFDCE). Blood fraction maps determined by the new approach were calculated. Regional and global correlation coefficients were calculated, and Bland‐Altman plots were created. Histogram analyses of all cohorts were created.

Results

The introduced parameter QQuant showed only 2 mL/min/100 mL mean deviation to PBFDCE in the patient cohort and showed less bias than QKjørstad. Significant increases of regional correlation with PBFDCE were achieved (r = 0.3 vs. r = 0.2, P < .01*). The trend of global correlation toward PBFDCE is not uniform, showing higher values for QKjørstad in the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease cohort than for QQuant and vice versa in the chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension cohort. In contrast to QKjørstad, QQuant perfusion maps indicate a physiologic dorsoventral gradient in supine position similar to PBFDCE with similar value distribution in the histograms.

Conclusion

We proposed a new approach for perfusion quantification of phase‐resolved functional lung measurements. The developed parameter QQuant reveals a higher accuracy compared to QKjørstad.
Temperature‐Gradient‐Controlled Method Enabling Shape Control of 2D Perovskite Single Crystals for Photodetection
Authors: Liu Guoqiang , Liu Jiang , Fan Zhengfang , He Xulin , Luo Kun , Ye Qinyan , Liao Cheng
Published: April 2021

2D hybrid organic–inorganic lead halide perovskites have been reported as promising photodetection active semiconductor materials due to their excellent photoelectric properties and stability. However, the solution growth of 2D crystal materials is affected adversely by narrow process windows, low process reproducibility, and small crystal sizes. Herein, a temperature‐gradient‐controlled method to grow high‐quality 2D perovskite crystals on the order of centimeters is developed. Using this new method, BA2PbI4 and mixed‐cation BA2FAxMA1−xPb2I7 crystals are produced with shape control and improved quality at the bottom of the precursor solution. Subsequently, their photoelectric responses are investigated comprehensively. Photodetectors based on these single crystals exhibit outstanding performances, affording 10−11 A dark current, > 103 on–off ratio, ≈10 mA W−1 responsivity, excellent stability, and linear photoresponse. Moreover, the annealing of crystals effectively reduces the dark current of the detectors. The mixed‐cation BA2FA0.4MA0.6Pb2I7 crystal demonstrates improved photoelectric response and a significant change in morphology.
Ultrasonic‐Assisted Ionic Liquid Extraction of Four Biflavonoids from Ginkgo biloba L.
Authors: Lei Jie , Jiang Yongmei , Luo Xirong , Zheng Yu , Zhu Lei , Sun Chengxin , Linghu Lang , Qin Cheng , Gang Wang
Published: April 2021

In the study, four main biflavonoids (bilobetin (BIL), ginkgetin (GIN), isoginkgetin (IGIN) and sciadopitysin (SCI)) were extracted from Ginkgo biloba L. by ultrasonic‐assisted ionic liquid extraction (UAILE). The above four biflavonoids from Ginkgo biloba L. were simultaneously determined by the established high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) approach. Next, three novel ionic liquids (ILs) were synthesized by one‐step method from benzoxazole and three acids or salts. The structure of ILs were characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. Moreover, the thermal stability of ILs was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis. Through screening the extraction effect of 9 different ILs, [EPy]BF4 was screened as the optimal extraction agent. Through single factor and response surface analysis, the optimum extraction conditions of the four kinds of biflavonoids from Ginkgo biloba L. were further investigated. The optimum conditions were as follows: 0.148 mol/L IL concentration, 25 min extraction time, 1 : 14 g/ml solid‐liquid ratio, and 280 W ultrasonic power. The extraction rates of BIL, GIN, IGIN and SCI in Ginkgo biloba L. were 2.44 mg/g, 4.33 mg/g, 6.50 mg/g and 13.97 mg/g, respectively. Compared with ethanol‐UAE, infiltration extraction (IE) and percolation extraction (PE), UAILE not only could obtain more biflavonoids, but also could save the extraction time. In addition, the results of recovery test indicated that the recovered IL could be repeatedly extracted for 6 times. In general, three novel ILs were first synthesized in this study. The UAILE was first applied to extract the four biflavonoids in G. biloba L. This study provided a valuable reference for further investigation on G. biloba L.
The Effects of pH on the Supramolecular Structure of Amino Amides
Authors: Islas‐Trejo Eltonh , Avila‐Montiel Concepción , Tlahuext Hugo , Lechuga‐Islas Víctor D. , Tapia‐Benavides Antonio R. , Tlahuextl Margarita
Published: April 2021

Here, we report the determination of acidity constants of eight amino amides through the use of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) to carry out the selective crystallization of diprotonated (a), monoprotonated (b), and neutral species (c) derived from these compounds. Crystallographic studies of compounds 2 a, 6 a, 7 a, 8 a, 2 b, 3 b, 6 b and 2 c revealed that the presence of substituents at the C8 and C10 positions determines the conformation of the molecule regardless of its degree of protonation. Although diprotonated species (a) have the same conformation and similar hydrogen bonding patterns, the supramolecular structures of these compounds are different. Furthermore, chloride ions and solvent molecules play an outstanding role in stabilizing the supramolecular structure of these compounds. This phenomenon restricts the π⋅⋅⋅π interactions between benzimidazole groups and consequently limits the possibility of aggregation in amino amides 1–8.