bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ESTUDO FITOQUÍMICO E ATIVIDADE ANTIOXIDANTE DE Dioclea virgata (RICH) AMSH
Authors: Silva Carol Anne Pereira
Published: February 2022

O gênero Dioclea pertence à família Leguminosae (Fabaceae) e possui cerca de 50 espécies distribuídas em zonas tropicais, sendo a maioria encontrada na América Central e do Sul, especialmente na Amazônia. Diversas espécies deste gênero têm sido estudadas através da análise de proteínas, sendo descrito na literatura o isolamento de lectinas das sementes destas espécies com atividade anticancerígena (MACIEL, 2002). As espécies deste gênero são utilizadas na medicina popular para o tratamento de diversos males, como no tratamento de doenças dos rins e da próstata. Apesar do grande interesse pelo estudo de plantas com reconhecida atividade medicinal, ainda existem espécies desse gênero que não foram estudadas do ponto de vista fitoquímico, nem avaliadas quanto ao seu potencial biológico (ALVES, 2000). O termo oxidação de uma substância era comumente definido como a incorporação de oxigênio em sua estrutura. Existem muitos testes para avaliar a atividade antioxidante de diversas substâncias. Estes testes têm se tornado ferramentas usuais e extremamente necessárias na seleção inicial de substâncias que possam ser utilizadas como fármacos, auxiliando os pesquisadores na avaliação da atividade (ALVES, 2010). Um dos métodos utilizados para a avaliação dessa atividade é o sequestro do radical 2,2-difenil-1-picril-hidrazil (DPPH). Este ensaio se baseia na medida da capacidade antioxidante de uma determinada substância em sequestrar o radical DPPH, reduzindo-o a hidrazina (MOLYNEUX et al, 2000). Quando uma determinada substância que age como doador de átomos de hidrogênio é adicionada a uma solução de DPPH, a hidrazina é obtida com mudança simultânea na coloração de violeta a amarelo pálido. Portanto, diante dos efeitos farmacológicos observados em espécies do gênero Dioclea, faz-se de grande importância o aprofundamento no estudo fitoquímico visando um melhor conhecimento das classes de metabólitos produzidos por estas espécies, bem como na busca de compostos bioativos oriundos de plantas. Esta pesquisa tem como tema o Estudo Fitoquímico e Atividade Antioxidante de Dioclea virgata (Rich) amsh, onde o objetivo principal é fazer o estudo dos constituintes químicos presentes no extrato clorofórmio das folhas desta espécie e a avaliação da atividade antioxidante do extrato bruto e frações.
Pseudo-modal expansions for generating random electromagnetic beams
Authors: Hyde Milo Wilt , Korotkova Olga
Published: February 2022

We derive two pseudo-modal expansions that provide insight into the
structure of stationary electromagnetic sources and can be used for
their physical realization and in computer simulations. Both
expansions are derived from the vectorial version of Bochner’s theorem
of functional analysis. The first expansion employs the incoherent
superposition of two completely polarized fields, while the second is
based on the incoherent sum of three polarized fields. We generate, in
simulation, two random electromagnetic beams from the literature using
both expansions and compare the results to theory to validate our
work. The primary utility of this research is twofold: in optical
simulations involving partially coherent, partially polarized light
beams and in the design/validation of new random electromagnetic
sources.
Towards machine learning for heterogeneous inverse scattering in 3D microscopy
Authors: Wertheimer Zsolt-Alon , Bar Chen , Levin Anat
Published: February 2022

Light propagating through a nonuniform medium scatters as it interacts with particles with different refractive properties such as cells in the tissue. In this work we aim to utilize this scattering process to learn a volumetric reconstruction of scattering parameters, in particular particle densities. We target microscopy applications where coherent speckle effects are an integral part of the imaging process. We argue that the key for successful learning is modeling realistic speckles in the training process. To this end, we build on the development of recent physically accurate speckle simulators. We also explore how to incorporate speckle statistics, such as the memory effect, in the learning framework. Overall, this paper contributes an analysis of multiple aspects of the network design including the learning architecture, the training data and the desired input features. We hope this study will pave the road for future design of learning based imaging systems in this challenging domain.
Wave-optics simulation software for synchrotron radiation from 4th generation storage rings based on a coherent modes model
Authors: Xu Han , Zhu Zhongzhu , Li Xiao , Liu Peng , Dong Yuhui , Zhou Liang
Published: February 2022

The evolution from 3rd to 4th generation of storage rings significantly enhanced the coherence of synchrotron radiation sources, making coherent scattering techniques such as coherent X-ray diffraction imaging (CXDI) and X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy more accessible. In conformance with the design requirements of coherent beamlines at the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS), we have developed wave optics simulation software, the Coherence Analysis Toolbox, based on coherent modes decomposition and a wavefront propagation model. Simulations of beamline performance and a CXDI experiment on the hard X-ray coherent scattering beamline at HEPS were carried out. This software is open source and now available on GitHub.
Generation of broadband parabolic pulses based on a pre-chirper free, core-pumped nonlinear fiber amplifier for coherent anti-Stokes Raman imaging
Authors: Yang Kangwen , Wu Jiamei , Ao JianPeng , Hao Qiang , Yan Ming , Huang Kun , Ji Minbiao , Zeng Heping
Published: February 2022

We report the generation of parabolic pulses with broadband spectrum from a core-pumped Yb-doped fiber amplifier seeded by a dispersion managed fiber oscillator. The net cavity dispersion of Yb-doped oscillator was continuously changed from 0.074 to -0.170 ps2, which enabled us to achieve dissipative soliton, stretched pulse and soliton mode-locking operations. Spectral evolution processes in the core-pumped nonlinear fiber amplifier seeded by various input solitons were investigated experimentally and theoretically. Our finding indicates that cavity dispersion of oscillator can be used to engineer the input pulse parameter for amplifier, thus forming a pre-chirper free fiber amplification structure. In the experiment, we obtained 410-mW parabolic pulses with spectral bandwidth up to 56 nm. In combination with a passively synchronized frequency-doubled Er-doped fiber laser, we have demonstrated coherent anti-Stokes Raman imaging. The compact dual-color fiber laser source may facilitate practical applications of nonlinear biomedical imaging beyond the laboratory environment.
Shot-noise limited homodyne detection for MHz quantum light characterisation in the 2 µm band
Authors: Biele Jake , Tasker Joel F. , Silverstone Joshua W. , Matthews Jonathan C. F.
Published: February 2022

Characterising quantum states of light in the 2 µm band requires high-performance shot-noise limited detectors. Here, we present the characterisation of a homodyne detector that we use to observe vacuum shot-noise via homodyne measurement with a 2.07 µm pulsed mode-locked laser. The device is designed primarily for pulsed illumination. It has a 3-dB bandwidth of 13.2 MHz, total conversion efficiency of 57% at 2.07 µm, and a common-mode rejection ratio of 48 dB at 39.5 MHz. The detector begins to saturate at 1.8 mW with 9 dB of shot-noise clearance at 5 MHz. This demonstration enables the characterisation of megahertz-quantum optical behaviour in the 2 µm band and provides a guide of how to design a 2 µm homodyne detector for quantum applications.
Optical fiber thermo-refractometer
Authors: Imas J. J. , Zamarreño C. R. , Del Villar I. , Da Silva J. C. C. , Oliveira V. , Matías I. R.
Published: February 2022

This work presents the implementation of a thermo-refractometer, which integrates the measurement of both refractive index and temperature in a single optical fiber structure. To this purpose, a lossy mode resonance (LMR)-based refractometer is obtained by means of the deposition of a titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin film onto a side-polished (D-shaped) single mode fiber. Measurement and subsequent temperature compensation are achieved by means of a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) inscribed in the core of the D-shaped region. The LMR wavelength shift is monitored in transmission while the FBG (FBG peak at 1533 nm) displacement is observed in reflection. The LMR is sensitive to both the surrounding refractive index (SRI), with a sensitivity of 3725.2 nm/RIU in the 1.3324–1.3479 range, and the temperature (- 0.186 nm/°C); while the FBG is only affected by the temperature (32.6 pm/°C in the 25°C – 45°C range). With these values, it is possible to recover the SRI and temperature variations from the wavelength shifts of the LMR and the FBG, constituting a thermo-refractometer, where it is suppressed the effect of the temperature over the refractometer operation, which could cause errors in the fourth or even third decimal of the measured SRI value.
Nanoantenna effect dependent on the center structure of Bull’s eye-type plasmonic chip
Authors: Nagasue Tomoya , Shinohara Takeha , Hasegawa Seiju , Imura Kohei , Tawa Keiko
Published: February 2022

A bright spot is observable in the center of Bull’s eye plasmonic pattern with a fluorescence microscope due to the plasmonic nanoantenna effect. In this effect, a propagating wave of surface plasmon resonance concentrates in the center. This study focused on the relationship between the center structure of Bull’s eye pattern and the nanoantenna effect in four fabricated Bull’s eye-type plasmonic chips with centers of different sizes (full- or half-pitch diameter) and shapes (convex or concave). The fluorescence intensity of the fluorescent nanoparticles adsorbed to these plasmonic chips was measured with an upright–inverted microscope to evaluate the plasmonic chip enhancement factor composed of the product of the excitation and emission enhancement and individual factors. When the emission enhancement factor was investigated under nonresonance excitation conditions, by the disappearance of a bright spot, excitation enhancement was found to contribute to the plasmonic nanoantenna effect. The concave Bull’s eye structure with a half-pitch diameter demonstrates the highest nanoantenna effect due to the formation of a larger constructive wave in the superposition of the diffraction wave of incident light under resonance conditions. In addition, the electromagnetic field intensity simulated by discrete dipole approximation agrees with the microscopy results. Overall, the results indicate that the plasmonic nanoantenna effect could be controlled depending on the resonance condition and center structure.
A mechanistic modeling framework reveals the key principles underlying tumor metabolism
Authors: Tripathi Shubham , Park Jun Hyoung , Pudakalakatti Shivanand , Bhattacharya Pratip K. , Kaipparettu Benny Abraham , Levine Herbert
Published: February 2022

While aerobic glycolysis, or the Warburg effect, has for a long time been considered a hallmark of tumor metabolism, recent studies have revealed a far more complex picture. Tumor cells exhibit widespread metabolic heterogeneity, not only in their presentation of the Warburg effect but also in the nutrients and the metabolic pathways they are dependent on. Moreover, tumor cells can switch between different metabolic phenotypes in response to environmental cues and therapeutic interventions. A framework to analyze the observed metabolic heterogeneity and plasticity is, however, lacking. Using a mechanistic model that includes the key metabolic pathways active in tumor cells, we show that the inhibition of phosphofructokinase by excess ATP in the cytoplasm can drive a preference for aerobic glycolysis in fast-proliferating tumor cells. The differing rates of ATP utilization by tumor cells can therefore drive heterogeneity with respect to the presentation of the Warburg effect. Building upon this idea, we couple the metabolic phenotype of tumor cells to their migratory phenotype, and show that our model predictions are in agreement with previous experiments. Next, we report that the reliance of proliferating cells on different anaplerotic pathways depends on the relative availability of glucose and glutamine, and can further drive metabolic heterogeneity. Finally, using treatment of melanoma cells with a BRAF inhibitor as an example, we show that our model can be used to predict the metabolic and gene expression changes in cancer cells in response to drug treatment. By making predictions that are far more generalizable and interpretable as compared to previous tumor metabolism modeling approaches, our framework identifies key principles that govern tumor cell metabolism, and the reported heterogeneity and plasticity. These principles could be key to targeting the metabolic vulnerabilities of cancer.
Predictors of genomic differentiation within a hybrid taxon
Authors: Cuevas Angélica , Eroukhmanoff Fabrice , Ravinet Mark , Sætre Glenn-Peter , Runemark Anna
Published: February 2022

Hybridization is increasingly recognized as an important evolutionary force. Novel genetic methods now enable us to address how the genomes of parental species are combined in hybrid lineages. However, we still do not know the relative importance of admixed proportions, genome architecture and local selection in shaping hybrid genomes. Here, we take advantage of the genetically divergent island populations of Italian sparrow on Crete, Corsica and Sicily to investigate the predictors of genomic variation within a hybrid taxon. We test if differentiation is affected by recombination rate, selection, or variation in ancestry proportions. We find that the relationship between recombination rate and differentiation is less pronounced within hybrid lineages than between the parent species, as expected if purging of minor parent ancestry in low recombination regions reduces the variation available for differentiation. In addition, we find that differentiation between islands is correlated with differences in signatures of selection in two out of three comparisons. Signatures of selection within islands are correlated across all islands, suggesting that shared selection may mould genomic differentiation. The best predictor of strong differentiation within islands is the degree of differentiation from house sparrow, and hence loci with Spanish sparrow ancestry may vary more freely. Jointly, this suggests that constraints and selection interact in shaping the genomic landscape of differentiation in this hybrid species.
One Day in Denmark: Nationwide point-prevalence survey of human bacterial isolates and comparison of classical and whole-genome sequence-based species identification methods
Authors: Rebelo Ana Rita , Ibfelt Tobias , Bortolaia Valeria , Leekitcharoenphon Pimlapas , Hansen Dennis Schrøder , Nielsen Hans Linde , Ellermann-Eriksen Svend , Kemp Michael , Røder Bent Løwe , Frimodt-Møller Niels , Søndergaard Turid Snekloth , Coia John Eugenio , Østergaard Claus , Pedersen Michael , Westh Henrik , Aarestrup Frank Møller
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Implementing whole-genome sequencing (WGS) technologies in clinical microbiology laboratories can increase the amount and quality of information available for healthcare practitioners. In this study, we analysed the applicability of this method and determined the distribution of bacterial species processed in clinical settings in Denmark.

Methods

We performed a point-prevalence study of all bacterial isolates (n = 2,009) processed and reported in the Clinical Microbiology Laboratories in Denmark in one day in January 2018. We compared species identification as performed by classical methods (MALDI-TOF) and by bioinformatics analysis (KmerFinder and rMLST) of WGS (Illumina NextSeq) data. We compared the national point-prevalence of bacterial isolates observed in clinical settings with the research attention given to those same genera in scientific literature.

Results

The most prevalent bacterium was Escherichia coli isolated from urine (n = 646), followed by Staphylococcus spp. from skin or soft tissues (n = 197). The distribution of bacterial species throughout the country was not homogeneous. We observed concordance of species identification for all methods in 95.7% (n = 1,919) of isolates, furthermore obtaining concordance for 99.7% (n = 1,999) at genus level. The number of scientific publications in the country did not correlate with the number of bacterial isolates of each genera analysed in this study.

Conclusions

WGS technologies have the potential to be applied in clinical settings for routine diagnostics purposes. This study also showed that bioinformatics databases should be continuously improved and results from local point-prevalence surveys should not be applied at national levels without previously determining possible regional variations.
X-ray scintillator lens-coupled with CMOS camera for pre-clinical cardiac vascular imaging—A feasibility study
Authors: Balasubramanian Swathi Lakshmi , Krishnamurthi Ganapathy
Published: February 2022

We present the design and characterization of an X-ray imaging system consisting of an off-the-shelf CMOS sensor optically coupled to a CsI scintillator. The camera can perform both high-resolution and functional cardiac imaging. High-resolution 3D imaging requires microfocus X-ray tubes and expensive detectors, while pre-clinical functional cardiac imaging requires high flux pulsed (clinical) X-ray tubes and high-end cameras. Our work describes an X-ray camera, namely an “optically coupled X-ray(OCX) detector,” used for both the aforementioned applications with no change in the specifications. We constructed the imaging detector with two different CMOS optical imaging cameras called CMOS sensors, 1.A monochrome CMOS sensor coupled with an f1.4 lens and 2.an RGB CMOS sensor coupled with an f0.95 prime lens. The imaging system consisted of our X-ray camera, micro-focus X-ray source (50kVp and 1mA), and a rotary stage controlled from a personal computer (PC) and LabVIEW interface. The detective quantum efficiency (DQE) of the imaging system(monochrome) estimated using a cascaded linear model was 17% at 10 lp/mm. The system modulation transfer function (MTF) and the noise power spectrum (NPS) were inputs to the DQE estimation. Because of the RGB camera’s low quantum efficiency (QE), the OCX detector DQE was 19% at 5 lp/mm. The contrast to noise ratio (CNR) at different frame rates was studied using the capillary tubes filled with various dilutions of iodinated contrast agents. In-vivo cardiac angiography demonstrated that blood vessels of the order of 100 microns or above were visible at 40 frames per second despite the low X-ray flux. For high-resolution 3D imaging, the system was characterized by imaging a cylindrical micro-CT contrast phantom and comparing it against images from a commercial scanner.
The dual mechanism of social networks on the relationship between internationalization and firm performance: Empirical evidence from china
Authors: Cao Xin , Li Peng , Huang Xiaozhi , Fan Limin
Published: February 2022

The effects of social networks on the relationship between internationalization and firm performance have been well documented in the international literature, and two dimensions of social networks have also been identified: business ties and political ties. However, few efforts have been made to examine whether there are different mechanisms of business ties and political ties. Based on social network theory and boundary spanning theory, we build a model of a dual mechanism of social networks, and the business ties and political ties of social networks that correspond with information processing and the external representation of boundary spanning theory. Using the data of Chinese listed companies in 2005–2013 and 2013–2017 to test the model, the results indicate that (1) in the relationship between internationalization and firm performance, the role of social networks has a dual mechanism. (2) Business ties play a mediating role in the relationship between internationalization and firm performance. Business ties are conducive to a company’s information acquisition and knowledge sharing and play the role of information processing. (3) Political ties play a U-shaped moderating role in the relationship between internationalization and firm performance and assume the role of external representation.
Neural crest cell genes and the domestication syndrome: A comparative analysis of selection
Authors: Rubio Andrew O. , Summers Kyle
Published: February 2022

Neural crest cell genes control the migration of neural crest cells to multiple parts of developing vertebrate embryos. A recent hypothesis posits that the “domestication syndrome” characteristic of domesticated animals is driven by selection for tameness acting on neural crest cell genes, particularly those affecting cell migration. This is posited to explain why this syndrome involves many disparate phenotypic effects. These effects can be connected to deficits in neural crest cell migration. This hypothesis predicts that patterns of selection on these neural crest cell genes will differ between domesticated species and related wild species. Specifically, it predicts higher levels of positive selection on these genes in domesticated species, relative to closely related wild species. Here we test this prediction in a comparative framework. We obtained DNA sequences from a public database (NCBI) for eleven key neural crest cell genes from a set of thirty domesticated vertebrates and matched close relatives that remain wild. We used the program Contrast-FEL in the software suite HyPhy to compare the number of sites under positive selection (as measured by non-synonymous to synonymous nucleotide substitution rates across codons) between these two types of taxa in a phylogenetic framework. We found that domesticated lineages showed a consistently higher level of positive selection on these key genes, relative to their closely related wild counterparts. In addition, we found support for relaxation of selection and purifying selection. We argue that this result is consistent with an important role for these genes in the domestication syndrome.
Residual efficacy of Fludora Fusion against Anopheles arabiensis in simple huts in Ethiopia
Authors: Animut Abebe , Horstmann Sebastian
Published: February 2022

Emergence and spread of malaria vectors resistant to the available insecticides required a new and efficacious insecticide. Residual efficacy of Fludora® Fusion was evaluated against insecticide susceptible Anopheles arabiensis in ten circular huts similar to the residential huts. Fludora® Fusion WP-SB 56.25, FICAM WP80 and Clothianidin WG70 were sprayed, by experienced technician, on interior wall surfaces: paint, dung, smooth mud, and rough mud. WHO cone bioassays were carried out a month after spraying and thereafter on monthly intervals for 12 months. Knockdown was recorded at 60 minutes and mortality at 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours holding time post-exposure. Fludora Fusion induced 100% An. arabiensis mortality during the first four months post-treated on all surface types at 24 hours holding time post-exposure. Its activity remained over 80% from the fifth to the twelfth month post-treated on the surfaces with the exception of two assessment points, at seventh month and eleventh month, on paint and smooth mud surfaces. FICAM induced 100% mortality rate during the first 4 months and 92% mortality during the fifth month post-treatment on painted surfaces. Its activity was over 96% mortality 1-month post-treatment on smooth mud and rough mud surfaces and 92% mortality 2-month post-treatment on dung surfaces. Clothianidin caused 89% and 86% mortality 1-month post-treatment on smooth mud and rough mud surfaces. Fludora Fusion can be used as alternative indoor residual insecticide spraying against An. arabiensis in Ethiopia.
The real-time status of strong and weak islands
Authors: Cokal Derya , Sturt Patrick
Published: February 2022

In two eye-tracking reading experiments, we used a variant of the filled gap technique to investigate how strong and weak islands are processed on a moment-to-moment basis during comprehension. Experiment 1 provided a conceptual replication of previous studies showing that real time processing is sensitive to strong islands. In the absence of an island, readers experienced processing difficulty when a pronoun appeared in a position of a predicted gap, but this difficulty was absent when the pronoun appeared inside a strong island. Experiment 2 showed an analogous effect for weak islands: a processing cost was seen for a pronoun in the position of a predicted gap in a that-complement clause, but this cost was absent in a matched whether clause, which constitutes a weak island configuration. Overall, our results are compatible with the claim that active dependency formation is suspended, or reduced, in both weak and strong island structures.
Aortic Agatston score correlates with the progression of acute type A aortic dissection
Authors: Tashima Yasushi , Iwakoshi Shinichi , Inoue Takeshi , Nakamura Noriyuki , Sano Taichi , Kimura Naoyuki , Inoue Takashi , Adachi Koichi , Yamaguchi Atsushi
Published: February 2022

Aortic calcification in the tunica media is correlated with aortic stiffness, elastin degradation, and wall shear stress. The study aim was to determine if aortic calcifications influence disease progression in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). We retrospectively reviewed a total of 103 consecutive patients who had undergone surgery for ATAAD at our institution between January 2009 and December 2019. Of these, 85 patients who had preoperatively undergone plain computed tomography angiography (CTA) for evaluation of their aortic calcification were included. Moreover, we assessed the progression of aortic dissection after surgery via postoperative CTA. Using a classification and regression tree to identify aortic Agatston score thresholds predictive of disease progression, the patients were classified into high-score (Agatston score ≥ 3344; n  =   36) and low-score (<3344; n  =   49) groups. Correlations between aortic Agatston scores and CTA variables were assessed. Higher aortic Agatston scores were significantly correlated with the smaller distal extent of aortic dissection (p < 0.001), larger true lumen areas of the ascending (p  =  0.009) and descending aorta (p =   0.002), and smaller false lumen areas of the descending aorta (p =  0.028). Patients in the high-score group were more likely to have DeBakey type II dissection (p =  0.001) and false lumen thrombosis (p  =  0.027) than those in the low-score group, thereby confirming the correlations. Aortic dissection in the high-score group was significantly less distally extended (p < 0.001). A higher aortic Agatston score correlates with the larger true lumen area of the ascending and descending aorta and the less distal progression of aortic dissection in patients with ATAAD. Interestingly, the findings before and after surgery were consistent. Hence, aortic Agatston scores are associated with aortic dissection progression and may help predict postoperative residual dissected aorta remodeling.
Effect of trimetazidine on the functional capacity of ischemic heart disease patients not suitable for revascularization: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ajabnoor Alyaa , Mukhtar Amnah
Published: February 2022

Objective

To explore the effect of adding trimetazidine to other anti-anginal drugs on the functional capacity of ischemic heart disease (IHD) patients not suitable for revascularization when compared to first-line antianginal drugs alone.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched for English-language peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing trimetazidine with first-line antianginal drugs alone or with placebo in IHD patients not suitable for revascularization and were included in this review. Quality of studies were assessed using the Cochrane collaboration “risk of bias” tool.

Results

Six RCTs, three were crossover studies. A total of 312 participants were included in this review. Overall quality of studies was moderate. Two studies found improvement in the 6-minute walking test (6-MWT) [standardized mean differences (SMD) 1.75; 95% CI 1.35 to 2.14; p <0.001], and two trials found improvement in the Canadian cardiovascular society (CCS) grading of angina class (SMD -1.37; 95% CI -1.89 to -0.84) in the trimetazidine group. Three of the better-quality trials found no increase in total exercise duration (TED) (SMD 0.34; 95% CI -0.10 to 0.78; p < 0.13). Significant heterogeneity was identified among trials describing outcomes for the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF %).

Conclusion

Trimetazidine improve walking time and angina severity in IHD patients not suitable for revascularization. Due to the inconsistency of available evidence, RCTs targeting IHD patients with “no option” to undergo coronary revascularization is required to clarify this review question.
Shigella flexneri vaccine development: Oral administration of peptides derived from the 49.8 kDa pili protein subunit activates the intestinal immune response in mice
Authors: Anam Khoirul , Endharti Agustina Tri , Poeranto Sri , Sujuti Hidayat , Hidayati Dwi Yuni Nur , Prawiro Sumarno Reto
Published: February 2022

Background and Aim: The morbidity and mortality of Shigella infections remain a global challenge. Epitope-based vaccine development is an emerging strategy to prevent bacterial invasion. This study aimed to identify the ability of the 49.8 kDa pili subunit adhesin protein epitope of Shigella flexneri to induce an intestinal immune response in mice. Materials and Methods: Thirty adult male Balb/c mice were divided into a control group, cholera toxin B subunit (CTB) group, CTB+QSSTGTNSQSDLDS (pep_1) group, CTB+DTTITKAETKTVTKNQVVDTPVTTDAAK (pep_2) group, and CTB+ ATLGATLNRLDFNVNNK (pep_3). We performed immunization by orally administering 50 μg of antigen and 50 μl of adjuvant once a week over 4 weeks. We assessed the cellular immune response by quantifying T helper 2 (Th2) and Th17 using flow cytometry. In addition, we assessed the humoral immune response by quantifying interleukin (IL-4), IL-17, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), and β-defensin using enzyme-linked immunoassay. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance and Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: Peptide oral immunization increases the cellular immune response as reflected by the increase of Th2 (p=0.019) and Th17 (p=0.004) cell counts, particularly in the CTB_pep_1 group. Humoral immune response activation was demonstrated by increased IL-4 levels, especially in the CTB+pep_3 group (p=0.000). The IL-17 level was increased significantly in the CTB+pep_1 group (p=0.042). The mucosal immune response was demonstrated by the sIgA levels increase in the CTB+pep_3 group (p=0.042) and the β-defensin protein levels (p=0.000). Conclusion: All selected peptides activated the cellular and humoral immune responses in the intestine of mice. Further studies are necessary to optimize antigen delivery and evaluate whether the neutralizing properties of these peptides allow them to prevent bacterial infection.
Immunosuppression by piperine as a regulator of the NLRP3 inflammasome through MAPK/NF-κB in monosodium urate-induced rat gouty arthritis
Authors: Jati Galih Aji Kuncoro , Assihhah Nazzun , Wati Anas Ardiana , Salasia Siti Isrina Oktavia
Published: February 2022

Background and Aim: Gouty arthritis is a metabolic disorder involving monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposition as a key initiator of acute inflammation. Dysregulation of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is associated with the pathogenesis of gout through the maturation of interleukin-1β. Piperine (PIP) is a phytochemical with an anti-inflammatory activity that has the potential as an alternative treatment for gout. In this study, we examined the effect of PIP in immunosuppression of gout inflammation through the regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.

Materials and Methods: An in silico study was done by pharmacodynamic modeling of PIP in suppressing MSU-induced inflammation through disruption of the NLRP3 inflammasome. In vivo tests, including inflammatory assessment, histopathology, cytology, estimation of lipid peroxidation index, and detection of systemic inflammatory reactants, were performed on two groups using preventive and curative protocols.

Results: In silico studies of molecular docking demonstrated the activity of PIP as a competitive inhibitor of the mitogen-activated protein kinases/nuclear factor-kappaB axis, upstream of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Analysis of gout models with curative and preventive protocols revealed the immunosuppression activity of PIP by reducing inflammatory symptoms, inhibiting tophus formation resulting from NETosis, reducing cartilage erosion, inhibiting leukocyte exudation, suppressing lipid peroxidation index, and inhibiting the production of C-reactive protein.

Conclusion: The results demonstrate the activity of PIP as an immunosuppressant in gout flare. These findings indicate the potential of PIP as a candidate for prophylactic and therapeutic agent for the treatment of gouty arthritis.
Driver behavior analysis on a curve through immersive simulation and a segmented regression model
Authors: Scalco Leonardo , Bordin Fabiane , Menezes de Souza Eniuce , Racolte Graciela , Marques Jr Ademir , Craveiro Cunto Flávio José , Da Silveira Jr Luiz Gonzaga , Veronez Maurício Roberto
Published: February 2022

Considering all the elements related to the occurrence of accidents, an important aspect is to identify the drivers most prone to accidents. This study aims to evaluate the behavior of drivers concerning gender and age. For this, a stretch of highway with a dangerous curve was modeled in a simulator using an immersive virtual environment and 59 people experienced the simulation. The car speed was registered along the route and from a segmented regression model, the behavior for both groups was evaluated regarding average speed. The results showed that older drivers (26 to 35 years old) of the female gender slowed the car before the other profile groups. Also, younger drivers (18 to 25 years old) took longer to slow down and had more accidents in the simulations. These results show that there are differences in driver’s behavior concerning gender and age.
Spectral, Tensor and Domain Decomposition Methods for Fractional PDEs
Authors: Shi Tianyi , Antil Harbir , Kouri Drew P.
Published: February 2022

Fractional PDEs have recently found several geophysics and imaging science applications due to their nonlocal nature and their flexibility in capturing sharp transitions across interfaces.
However, this nonlocality makes it challenging to design efficient solvers for such problems.
In this paper, we introduce a spectral method based on an ultraspherical polynomial discretization of the Caffarelli–Silvestre extension to solve such PDEs on rectangular and disk domains.
We solve the discretized problem using tensor equation solvers and thus can solve higher-dimensional PDEs.
In addition, we introduce both serial and parallel domain decomposition solvers.
We demonstrate the numerical performance of our methods on a 3D fractional elliptic PDE on a cube as well as an application to optimization problems with fractional PDE constraints.
Finite Element Penalty Method for the Oldroyd Model of Order One with Non-smooth Initial Data
Authors: Bir Bikram , Goswami Deepjyoti , Pani Amiya K.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a penalty formulation is proposed and analyzed in both continuous and finite element setups, for the two-dimensional Oldroyd model of order one, when the initial velocity is in

𝐇
0
1

{\mathbf{H}_{0}^{1}}

.
New regularity results which are valid uniformly in time as

t
→
∞

{t\to\infty}

and in the penalty parameter ε as

ε
→
0

{\varepsilon\to 0}

are derived for the solution of the penalized problem.
Then, based on conforming finite elements to discretize the spatial variables and keeping temporal variable continuous, a semidiscrete problem is discussed and a uniform-in-time a priori bound of the discrete velocity in Dirichlet norm is derived with the help of a penalized discrete Stokes operator and a modified uniform Gronwall’s lemma.
Further, optimal error estimates for the penalized velocity in

𝐋
2

{\mathbf{L}^{2}}

as well in

𝐇
1

{\mathbf{H}^{1}}

-norms and for the penalized pressure in

L
2

{L^{2}}

-norm have been established for the semidiscrete problem with non-smooth data.
These error estimates hold uniformly in time under uniqueness assumption and also in the penalty parameter as it goes to zero.
Our analysis relies on the suitable use of the inverse of the penalized Stokes operator, penalized Stokes–Volterra projection and judicious application of weighted time estimates with positivity property of the memory term.
Finally, several numerical experiments are conducted on benchmark problems which confirm our theoretical findings.
High-temperature creep behavior and hot-pressing consolidation of NiAl
Authors: Chen Hao , Hu Weiping , Zhong Yunlong , Gottstein Günter
Published: February 2022

The steady-state creep behavior of NiAl was studied by constant strain-rate tests in the strain-rate regime 1.5 × 10−4≤ ɛ̇ ≤ 1.0 × 10−2s−1.Primary creep of NiAl was investigated at different stresses (10 MPa−40 MPa) in the temperature range from 1200 to 1400°C. The steady-state creep rate was fitted to a temperature-compensated power-law expression ɛ̇ =B(σ/μ)nexp(−Q/RT), from which a stress exponent n≈3.5 and an activation energy Q ≈ 398 kJ/mol were derived, respectively. The obtained activation parameters indicate that dislocation creep dominates the creep behavior of NiAl at temperatures above 1200°C up to 1400°C. The transient creep behavior at 40 MPa could be fitted to a power-law equationε=ε0+btmwithbα σ3:5and 0.52<m<0.68. The creep data of NiAl obtained in this study were utilized for modeling and simulation of the consolidation process of NiAl composites during hot pressing by finite-element analysis.
Thermo-mechanical analysis of cast/mould interaction in casting processes
Authors: Laschet Gottfried , Jakumeit Jürgen , Benke Stefan
Published: February 2022

The numerical analysis of the thermo-mechanical interaction between the cast part and mould in casting processes requires a strong coupling between the thermal and mechanical simulation. This includes a 3-D frictionless contact algorithm and a model to describe the local heat transfer between part and mould as a function of the contact pressure or the formation of a local gap between both domains. Several features suitable for the analysis of solidification processes have been introduced in the classical master/slave contact algorithm like a temperature-dependent penalty factor and implemented in the software package CASTS. Benchmark tests and two industrial casting applications illustrate the correctness of the developed thermo-mechanical program and the ability to simulate complex cast parts.
Fabrication and application of co-continuous Al2O3/Al composite by reactive infiltration of molten Al into the preform of SiO2 with cordierite addition
Authors: Li J. Q. , Xie S. H. , Zhuang Y. H. , Zeng X. R.
Published: February 2022

Interpenetration Al2O3/Al(Si) composites were fabricated by reactive infiltration of molten Al into the preforms with SiO2–4.6 mol.% cordierite at 1150 °C in air. The formation kinetics and microstructures of the composites were investigated. Experimental results show that the addition of cordierite in SiO2 is favorable for wetting of molten Al on the preform, leading to high growth rate of the composite (8.76 mm min –1). The growth rate of the composite was controlled by the infiltration of molten Al into the preform through the open pores and cracks formed during the preform fabrication or through microcracks created during the infiltration process. Since the addition of cordierite in SiO2 can lower the preform sintering temperature, one of its applications is used for ceramic – ceramic or ceramic – metal joints. A strong Al2O3–Al2O3 joint with a shear strength of 109 MPa was fabricated and investigated using the Al2O3/Al(Si) interlayer formed by this method.
Microstructure and age-hardening effects of aluminium alloys with additions of scandium and zirconium
Authors: Galun Rolf , Mordike Barry Leslie , Maiwald Thorsten , Smola Bohumil , Mergen Robert , Manner Markus , Uitz Walter
Published: February 2022

The aim of the work presented in this report was to produce age-hardenable aluminium alloys containing scandium and zirconium by a casting process with similar cooling conditions like an industrial casting process. Microstructure, precipitation structure and age-hardening response of different alloys with up to 0.4 wt.% Sc and Zr were investigated. Age-hardening experiments from the as-cast condition without solution annealing showed a significant increase of hardness of about 100% for Sc-rich alloys and of 50% for Zr-rich alloys compared to the as-cast condition. TEM investigations revealed the formation of precipitates of ternary Al3(Sc
x
Zr1–x) phases with a cubic cP4 crystal structure. In addition to the strengthening effect, a high thermal stability especially of the precipitates in Zr-rich alloys up to 400 °C let these alloys look very promising for high-temperature applications.
Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus: a comprehensive overview
Authors: Vaz de Castro Pedro Alves Soares , Bitencourt Letícia , de Oliveira Campos Juliana Lacerda , Fischer Bruna Luisa , Soares de Brito Stephanie Bruna Camilo , Soares Beatriz Santana , Drummond Juliana Beaudette , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: February 2022

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is characterized by the inability to concentrate urine that results in polyuria and polydipsia, despite having normal or elevated plasma concentrations of arginine vasopressin (AVP). In this study, we review the clinical aspects and diagnosis of NDI, the various etiologies, current treatment options and potential future developments. NDI has different clinical manifestations and approaches according to the etiology. Hereditary forms of NDI are mainly caused by mutations in the genes that encode key proteins in the AVP signaling pathway, while acquired causes are normally associated with specific drug exposure, especially lithium, and hydroelectrolytic disorders. Clinical manifestations of the disease vary according to the degree of dehydration and hyperosmolality, being worse when renal water losses cannot be properly compensated by fluid intake. Regarding the diagnosis of NDI, it is important to consider the symptoms of the patient and the diagnostic tests, including the water deprivation test and the baseline plasma copeptin measurement, a stable surrogate biomarker of AVP release. Without proper treatment, patients may developcomplications leading to high morbidity and mortality, such as severe dehydration and hypernatremia. In that sense, the treatment of NDI consists in decreasing the urine output, while allowing appropriate fluid balance, normonatremia, and ensuring an acceptable quality of life. Therefore, therapeutic options include nonpharmacological interventions, including sufficient water intake and a low-sodium diet, and pharmacological treatment. The main medications used for NDI are thiazide diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and amiloride, used isolated or in combination.
Numerical simulation of the effect of rod bowing on critical heat flux
Authors: Ren Bing , Xu Shiyin , Gan Fujun , Yang Ping
Published: February 2022

The paper demonstrates the CFD capability to predict the effect of rod bowing on CHF. The applicability and performance of the models are validated based on the Weatherhead experimental data for vertical pipe and NUPEC PWR subchannel and bundle test (PSBT) International Benchmark for rod bundle. The capability of the existing CFD method in predicting CHF is studied both qualitatively and quantitatively. Based on the validated method, the effect of the bowed rod on CHF is evaluated. The bow is assumed to occur at the midspan between two spacer grids in the region where DNB is predicted to occur. The results indicate that rod bowing has a deleterious effect on CHF, but this adverse bowing effect is dependent on the closure (i.e., the ratio of the change of the fuel rod gap to the nominal gap). There is no effect on CHF for closure between 0 and 50%, but adverse effect on CHF for closure larger than 50%, even more considerable effect as the closure increases to larger than 85%. The findings can be used to assist in designing the test fuel rod before the rod bowing CHF experiment.
Analysis of SMART reactor core with uranium mononitride for prolonged fuel cycle using OpenMC
Authors: Al-Zahrani Yahya A. , Mehboob Khurram , Alshahrani Tariq F. , Abolaban Fouad A. , Younis Hannan
Published: February 2022

The neutronics performance and safety characteristics of Uranium mononitride (UN) fuel for System-Integrated Modular Advanced Reactor (SMART) has been investigated to discern the potential for non-proliferation, waste, and accident tolerance benefits of UN fuel. The neutronic evaluation of UN fuel for SMART reactor has been carried out under normal operation using OpenMC and compared with Uranium dioxide (UO2) in terms of fuel cycle length, reactivity coefficients, Fuel depletion (burnup), thermal flux, and fission product activity. The power peaking factor (PPF) has been compared at the beginning of the fuel cycle (BOC), mid of the fuel cycle (MOC), and at the end of the fuel cycle (EOC). Results indicate that the UN fuel can be operated beyond the designed fuel cycle length of the SMART reactor, which induces the positive reactivity at the end of the fuel cycle of about 4625 pcm. However, the UO2 showed negative reactivity after three years. The total fission product activity at the end of the fuel cycle (3.5 years) for UO2 and UN has been founded 1.003 × 1020 Bq and 1.023 × 1020 Bq, respectively.
Crystal structure of Dy11Ge4.33In5.67 and Tm11Ge4In6 from X-ray single-crystal and powder data
Authors: Dominyuk Nataliya , Nychyporuk Galyna , Muts Ihor , Tyvanchuk Yuriy , Zaremba Vasyl’ , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: February 2022

Single crystals of Dy11Ge4.33In5.67 were grown from a sample of the starting composition Dy55Ge20In25 by arc-melting and subsequent annealing. Dy11Ge4.33In5.67 crystallizes with the Sm11Ge4In6-type structure, space group I4/mmm, which was refined from single-crystal X-ray diffractometer data: a = 11.4329(16), c = 16.168(3) Å, wR2 = 0.0341, 927 F
2 values and 42 refined parameters. The isotypic compound Tm11Ge4In6 was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction: a = 11.262(2), c = 15.979(3) Å, R
Bragg = 3.53%. The Sm11Ge4In6-type structure is a coloring variant of the Ho11Ge10 type, realized through germanium-indium ordering. The p-element substructure has four crystallographically independent sites: isolated germanium atoms (Ge4− Zintl anions), In4 squares and In/Ge–In/Ge dumb-bells with pronounced Ge/In mixing.