bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting the Formation and Treatment of Thrombosis by Natural and Synthetic Compounds
Authors: Lichota Anna , Szewczyk Eligia M. , Gwozdzinski Krzysztof
Published: October 2020

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), whose consequence may be a pulmonary embolism (PE). Thrombosis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and is the third most common cardiovascular disease after myocardial infarction and stroke. DVT is associated with the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein in the body. Thrombosis promotes slowed blood flow, hypoxia, cell activation, and the associated release of many active substances involved in blood clot formation. All thrombi which adhere to endothelium consist of fibrin, platelets, and trapped red and white blood cells. In this review, we summarise the impact of various factors affecting haemostatic disorders leading to blood clot formation. The paper discusses the causes of thrombosis, the mechanism of blood clot formation, and factors such as hypoxia, the involvement of endothelial cells (ECs), and the activation of platelets and neutrophils along with the effects of bacteria and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Mechanisms related to the action of anticoagulants affecting coagulation factors including antiplatelet drugs have also been discussed. However, many aspects related to the pathogenesis of thrombosis still need to be clarified. A review of the drugs used to treat and prevent thrombosis and natural anticoagulants that occur in the plant world and are traditionally used in Far Eastern medicine has also been carried out.
The Nuclear Localization of the DnaJ-Like Zinc Finger Domain-Containing Protein EDA3 Affects Seed Development in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kong Meng-Juan , Huang Na , Chen Si-Ming , Liang Han-Yu , Liu Xin-Ya , Zhuang Zhong , Lu Shan
Published: October 2020

The DnaJ-like zinc finger domain-containing proteins are involved in different aspects of plastid function and development. Some of these proteins were recently reported to have dual subcellular localization in the nucleus and plastids. One member of this family, PSA2 (AT2G34860), was found to localize to the thylakoid lumen and regulate the assembly of photosystem I (PSI). However, PSA2 was also annotated as Embryo sac Development Arrest 3 (EDA3) from the observation that its embryo sac development was arrested at the two-nuclear stage. In this study, we characterized the eda3 mutant, and demonstrated that, as compared with the wild-type (WT) plants, the mutant has shorter siliques, fewer siliques per plant, and fewer seeds per silique. Both aborted and undeveloped ovules were observed in siliques of the mutant. By immunoblot analysis, we found that, different from the chloroplast localization in mature leaves, EDA3 localizes in the nucleus in seeds. A nuclear localization signal was identified from the deduced amino acid sequence of EDA3, and also proved to be sufficient for directing its fusion peptide into the nucleus.
Downregulation of miR-140-3p Contributes to Upregulation of CD38 Protein in Bronchial Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Chiba Yoshihiko , Matsumoto Mayumi , Hanazaki Motohiko , Sakai Hiroyasu
Published: October 2020

In allergic bronchial asthma, an increased smooth muscle contractility of the airways is one of the causes of the airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Increasing evidence also suggests a possible involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in airway diseases, including asthma, although their roles in function and pathology largely unknown. The current study aimed to determine the role of a miRNA, miR-140-3p, in the control of protein expression of CD38, which is believed to regulate the contraction of smooth muscles, including the airways. In bronchial smooth muscles (BSMs) of the mice that were actively sensitized and repeatedly challenged with ovalbumin antigen, an upregulation of CD38 protein concurrently with a significant reduction of miR-140-3p was observed. In cultured human BSM cells (hBSMCs), transfection with a synthetic miR-140-3p inhibitor caused an increase in CD38 protein, indicating that its basal protein expression is regulated by endogenous miR-140-3p. Treatment of the hBSMCs with interleukin-13 (IL-13), an asthma-related cytokine, caused both an upregulation of CD38 protein and a downregulation of miR-140-3p. Transfection of the hBSMCs with miR-140-3p mimic inhibited the CD38 protein upregulation induced by IL-13. On the other hand, neither a CD38 product cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR) nor its antagonist 8-bromo-cADPR had an effect on the BSM contraction even in the antigen-challenged mice. Taken together, the current findings suggest that the downregulation of miR-140-3p induced by IL-13 might cause an upregulation of CD38 protein in BSM cells of the disease, although functional and pathological roles of the upregulated CD38 are still unclear.
Role of AT1G72910, AT1G72940, and ADR1-LIKE 2 in Plant Immunity under Nonsense-Mediated mRNA Decay-Compromised Conditions at Low Temperatures
Authors: Nasim Zeeshan , Fahim Muhammad , Gawarecka Katarzyna , Susila Hendry , Jin Suhyun , Youn Geummin , Ahn Ji Hoon
Published: October 2020

Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) removes aberrant transcripts to avoid the accumulation of truncated proteins. NMD regulates nucleotide-binding, leucine-rich repeat (NLR) genes to prevent autoimmunity; however, the function of a large number of NLRs still remains poorly understood. Here, we show that three NLR genes (AT1G72910, AT1G72940, and ADR1-LIKE 2) are important for NMD-mediated regulation of defense signaling at lower temperatures. At 16 °C, the NMD-compromised up-frameshift protein1 (upf1) upf3 mutants showed growth arrest that can be rescued by the artificial miRNA-mediated knockdown of the three NLR genes. mRNA levels of these NLRs are induced by Pseudomonas syringae inoculation and exogenous SA treatment. Mutations in AT1G72910, AT1G72940, and ADR1-LIKE 2 genes resulted in increased susceptibility to Pseudomonas syringae, whereas their overexpression resulted in severely stunted growth, which was dependent on basal disease resistance genes. The NMD-deficient upf1 upf3 mutants accumulated higher levels of NMD signature-containing transcripts from these NLR genes at 16 °C. Furthermore, mRNA degradation kinetics showed that these NMD signature-containing transcripts were more stable in upf1 upf3 mutants. Based on these findings, we propose that AT1G72910, AT1G72940, and ADR1-LIKE 2 are directly regulated by NMD in a temperature-dependent manner and play an important role in modulating plant immunity at lower temperatures.
Pre-Machining of Rolled Plates as an Element of Minimising the Post-Machining Deformations
Authors: Zawada-Michałowska Magdalena , Kuczmaszewski Józef , Pieśko Paweł
Published: October 2020

The paper presents the influence of the milling strategy, the relation between the cutting tool feed direction and the rolling direction, as well as the pre-machining consisting of the removal of the textured surface layer of rolled plates in the rolling process on the thin-walled elements deformations made of the EN AW-2024 T351 wrought aluminium alloy, after milling. The research used strategies such as: high-performance cutting (HPC), high-speed cutting (HSC) and conventional milling (CM), as well as their combinations. Another tested variable was the relation between the tool feed direction and the rolling direction. In addition, the tests were carried out in the following versions: leaving the textured surface layer created after plastic working and with its removal with technological parameters corresponding to HSC and CM. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the post-machining deformation of thin-walled elements can be minimised owing to the use of a selected milling strategy and its combination with pre-machining (or lack thereof). It was also observed that larger deformations were obtained for samples after milling in the direction perpendicular to the rolling direction.
Research on the Influence of the Manufacturing Process Conditions of Iron Sintered with the Addition of Layered Lubricating Materials on its Selected Properties
Authors: Urbaniak Wieslaw , Majewski Tomasz , Wozniak Ryszard , Sienkiewicz Judyta , Kubik Jozef , Petelska Aneta
Published: October 2020

The purpose of the conducted experiments was to test the selected properties of materials intended for porous sintered bearings containing layered materials in the form of powders with an average particle size of 0.5–1.5 μm, with very good tribological properties. The subject of the research was a sinter based on iron powder with the addition of layered materials; molybdenum disulfide MoS2 (average particle size 1.5 μm), tungsten disulfide WS2 (average particle size 0.6 μm), hexagonal boron nitride, h-BN (average particle size 0.5 and 1.5 μm) with two different porosities. The article presents the results of density and porosity tests, compressive strength, metallographic and tribological tests and the assessment of changes in the surface condition occurring during the long storage period. The use of layered additives allows for an approximately 20% lower coefficient of friction. In the case of sulfides, the technological process of pressing 250 MPa, 350 MPa, and sintering at a temperature of 1120 °C allows us to obtain a material with good strength and tribological properties, better than in the case of h-BN. However, the main problem is the appearance of elements from the decomposition of sulfide compounds in the material matrix, which results in rapid material degradation. In hexagonal boron nitride, such disintegration under these conditions does not occur; the material as observed does not degrade. In this case, the material is characterized by lower hardness, resulting from a different behavior of hexagonal boron nitride in the pressing and sintering process; in this case, pressing at a pressure of 350 MPa seems to be too low. However, taking into account that even with these technological parameters, the obtained material containing 2.5% h-BN with an average grain size of 1.5 μm allowed obtaining a coefficient of friction at the level of 0.41, which, with very good material durability, seems to be very positive news before further tests.
Silicone Resin-Based Intumescent Paints
Authors: Zielecka Maria , Rabajczyk Anna , Cygańczuk Krzysztof , Pastuszka Łukasz , Jurecki Leszek
Published: October 2020

Silicone resins are widely applied as coating materials due to their unique properties, especially those related to very good heat resistance. The most important effect on the long-term heat resistance of the coating is connected with the type of resin. Moreover, this structure is stabilized by a chemical reaction between the hydroxyl groups from the organoclay and the silicone resin. The novel trends in application of silicone resins in intumescent paints used mostly for protection of steel structures against fire will be presented based on literature review. Some examples of innovative applications for fire protection of other materials will be also presented. The effect of silicone resin structure and the type of filler used in these paints on the properties of the char formed during the thermal decomposition of the intumescent paint will be discussed in detail. The most frequently used additives are expanded graphite and organoclay. It has been demonstrated that silicate platelets are intercalated in the silicone matrix, significantly increasing its mechanical strength and resulting in high protection against fire.
Evaluating Lattice Mechanical Properties for Lightweight Heat-Resistant Load-Bearing Structure Design
Authors: Wang Xinglong , Wang Cheng , Zhou Xin , Wang Di , Zhang Mingkang , Gao Yun , Wang Lei , Zhang Peiyu
Published: October 2020

Heat-resistant, load-bearing components are common in aircraft, and they have high requirements for lightweight and mechanical performance. Lattice topology optimization can achieve high mechanical properties and obtain lightweight designs. Appropriate lattice selection is crucial when employing the lattice topology optimization method. The mechanical properties of a structure can be optimized by choosing lattice structures suitable for the specific stress environment being endured by the structural components. Metal lattice structures exhibit excellent unidirectional load-bearing performance and the triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) porous structure can satisfy multi-scale free designs. Both lattice types can provide unique advantages; therefore, we designed three types of metal lattices (body-centered cubic (BCC), BCC with Z-struts (BCCZ), and honeycomb) and three types of TPMS lattices (gyroid, primitive, and I-Wrapped Package (I-WP)) combined with the solid shell. Each was designed with high level of relative density (40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, and 80%), which can be directly used in engineering practice. All test specimens were manufactured by selective laser melting (SLM) technology using Inconel 718 superalloy as the material and underwent static tensile testing. We found that the honeycomb test specimen exhibits the best strength, toughness, and stiffness properties among all structures evaluated, which is especially suitable for the lattice topology optimization design of heat-resistant, unidirectional load-bearing structures within aircraft. Furthermore, we also found an interesting phenomenon that the toughness of the primitive and honeycomb porous test specimens exhibited sudden increases from 70% to 80% and from 50% to 60% relative density, respectively, due to their structural characteristics. According to the range of the exponent value n and the deformation laws of porous structures, we also concluded that a porous structure would exhibit a stretching-dominated deformation behavior when exponent value n < 0.3, a bending-dominated deformation behavior when n > 0.55, and a stretching-bending-dominated deformation behavior when 0.3 < n < 0.55. This study can provide a design basis for selecting an appropriate lattice in lattice topology optimization design.
Effect of Blast-Furnace Slag Replacement Ratio and Curing Method on Pore Structure Change after Carbonation on Cement Paste
Authors: Kim Junho , Na Seunghyun , Hama Yukio
Published: October 2020

The frost damage resistance of blast-furnace slag (BFS) cement is affected by carbonation. Hence, this study investigates the carbonation properties of pastes incorporating BFS with different replacement ratios, such as 15%, 45%, and 65% by weight, and different curing conditions, including air and carbonation. The BFS replacement ratio properties, determined by the Ca/Si ratio of calcium silicate hydrate in the cement paste sample, were experimentally investigated using mercury intrusion porosimetry, X-ray diffraction, and thermal analysis. The experimental investigation of the pore structure revealed that total porosity decreased after carbonation. In addition, the porosity decreased at a higher rate as the BFS replacement rate increased. Results obtained from this study show that the chemical change led to the higher replacement rate of BFS, which produced a higher amount of vaterite. In addition, the lower the Ca/Si ratio, the higher the amount of calcium carbonate originating from calcium silicate hydrate rather than from calcium hydroxide. As a result of the pore structure change, the number of ink-bottle pores was remarkably reduced by carbonation. Comparing the pore structure change in air-cured and carbonation test specimens, it was found that as the replacement rate of BFS increased, the number of pores with a diameter of 100 nm or more also increased. The higher the replacement rate of BFS, the higher the amount of calcium carbonate produced compared with the amount of calcium hydroxide produced during water curing. Due to the generation of calcium carbonate and the change in pores, the overall number of pores decreased as the amount of calcium carbonate increased.
A Custom-Made Orthodontic Mini-Implant—Effect of Insertion Angle and Cortical Bone Thickness on Stress Distribution with a Complex In Vitro and In Vivo Biosafety Profile
Authors: Popa Adelina , Dehelean Cristina , Calniceanu Horia , Watz Claudia , Brad Silviu , Sinescu Cosmin , Marcu Olivia A. , Popa Casiana Simina , Avram Stefana , Nicolov Mirela , Szuhanek Camelia A.
Published: October 2020

Background: Orthodontic mini-implant failure is a debatable subject in clinical practice. However, the most important parameter to evaluate the success rate of mini-implant is the primary stability, which is mainly influenced by cortical bone thickness (CBT) and insertion angle. Materials and methods: Three-dimensional finite element models of the maxilla were created and a custom-made, self-drilling, tapered mini-implant was designed. For the pull-out test, 12 simulations were performed, sequentially increasing the thickness of the cortical bone (1, 1.5 and 2 mm) and the insertion angle (30°, 60°, 90°, 120°). For the force analysis, 24 simulations were performed using an experimental orthodontic traction force of 2 N both in the horizontal and vertical axis. Results: Insertion angle and CBT have significant impact on force reaction values (p < 0.05). Cortical bone stress had the lowest value when the mini-implant had a 30° insertion angle and the highest value when the implant had a 120° insertion angle, while the CBT was 1 mm. Cortical bone stress had the lowest value with an insertion angle of 90° and the highest value when the implant was inserted at an angle of 30°, while the CBT was 2 mm independent of the force direction. Regarding the biosafety profile of the mini-implant alloy, the present results reveal that the custom-made mini-implant presents good biocompatibility. Conclusions: When the CBT is reduced, we recommend inclined insertion while, when the CBT is appropriate, perpendicular insertion is advised.
Nanostructured Cobalt Doped Barium Strontium Titanate Thin Films with Potential in CO2 Detection
Authors: Ciobota Cristina F. , Piticescu Roxana M. , Neagoe Ciprian , Tudor Ioan A. , Matei Alexandru , Dragut Dumitru V. , Sobetkii Arcadie , Anghel Elena M. , Stanoiu Adelina , Simion Cristian E. , Florea Ovidiu G. , Bejan Simona E.
Published: October 2020

In this work, (Ba0.75Sr0.25) (Ti0.95Co0.05) O3 perovskite nanostructured material, denoted subsequently as Co-doped BaSrTiO3, was synthesized in a one-step process in hydrothermal conditions. The obtained powder was heat-treated at 800 °C and 1000 °C, respectively, in order to study nanostructured powder behavior during thermal treatment. The Co-doped BaSrTiO3 powder was pressed into pellets of 5.08 cm (2 inches) then used for thin film deposition onto commercial Al2O3 substrates by RF sputtering method. The microstructural, thermal, and gas sensing properties were investigated. The electrical and thermodynamic characterization allowed the evaluation of thermodynamic stability and the correlation of structural features with the sensing properties revealed under real operating conditions. The sensing behavior with respect to the temperature range between 23 and 400 °C, for a fixed CO2 concentration of 3000 ppm, highlighted specific differences between Co-doped BaSrTiO3 treated at 800 °C compared to that treated at 1000 °C. The influence of the relative humidity level on the CO2 concentrations and the other potential interfering gases was also analyzed. Two possible mechanisms for CO2 interaction were then proposed. The simple and low-cost technology, together with the high sensitivity when operating at room temperature corresponding to low power consumption, suggests that Co-doped BaSrTiO3 has a good potential for use in developing portable CO2 detectors.
Tunneled Peritoneal Catheter for Refractory Ascites in Cirrhosis: A Randomized Case-Series
Authors: Kimer Nina , Riedel Agnete Nordheim , Hobolth Lise , Mortensen Christian , Madsen Lone Galmstrup , Andersen Mette Lehmann , Schiødt Frank Vinholt , Møller Søren , Gluud Lise Lotte
Published: October 2020

Background and objectives: Refractory ascites markedly worsens prognosis in cirrhosis. Large volume paracentesis (LVP) is standard treatment, but complications are common. In a randomized controlled case-series, we assessed a permanent tunneled peritoneal catheter versus LVP in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. Materials and Methods: Random allocation was computer-generated, and concealment used opaque envelopes. Patients were included from January 2017 to December 2018. Inclusion criteria were cirrhosis and recurrent ascites and expected survival of more than 3 months. Results: Thirteen patients were enrolled (PleurX =6 versus LVP = 7). Seven were female, ranging in age from 51 to 80 years. No procedure-related complications occurred. Two patients died due to variceal bleeding (PleurX-group) and sepsis (LVP-group). One patient was withdrawn due to hyponatremia (PleurX-group). Two patients were withdrawn due to bacterial peritonitis and infection of unknown origin (control-group). In the PleurX-group, all patients colonized the catheter, two developed bacterial peritonitis. The most common bacterial colonization was Staph. Epidermidis (n = 4). Conclusions: In selected patients, the PleurX catheter mobilizes ascites and may be an alternative to LVP. The risk of infection should be considered in each case. The impact of colonization and risk of infections needs further investigation. The present trial does not allow for statistical conclusions.
Dripping, Jetting and Regime Transition of Droplet Formation in a Buoyancy-Assisted Microfluidic Device
Authors: Shen Chaoqun , Liu Feifan , Wu Liangyu , Yu Cheng , Yu Wei
Published: October 2020

Buoyancy-assisted droplet formation in a quiescent continuous phase is an effective technique to produce highly monodispersed droplets, especially millimetric droplets. A comprehensive study combining visualization experiment and numerical simulation was carried out to explore the underlying physics of single droplet generation in a buoyancy-assisted microfluidic device. Typical regimes, including dripping and jetting, were examined to gain a deep insight into the hydrodynamic difference between the regimes. Particularly, the transition from dripping regime to jetting regime was investigated to give an in-depth understanding of the transitional behaviors. The effects of interfacial tension coefficient on the droplet size and formation regimes are discussed, and a regime diagram is summarized. The results show that oscillation of the interface in dripping regimes after detachment is caused by the locally accelerated fluid during the neck pinching process. Droplet formation patterns with the characteristics of both dripping regime and jetting regime are observed and recognized as the transitional regime, and the interface oscillation lasts longer than that in dripping regime, implying intensive competition between interfacial tension and inertial force. Reducing interfacial tension coefficient results in the dripping-to-jetting transition occurring at a lower flow rate of the dispersed phase. The regime diagram indicates that only the inertial force is the indispensable condition of triggering the transition from dripping to jetting.
Opposing Effect of Naringenin and Quercetin on the Junctional Compartment of MDCK II Cells to Modulate the Tight Junction
Authors: Nakashima Mio , Hisada Misaki , Goda Natsuko , Tenno Takeshi , Kotake Ayaka , Inotsume Yuko , Kameoka Ikuo , Hiroaki Hidekazu
Published: October 2020

Maintaining tight junction (TJ) integrity is important for epithelial cell barriers. Previously, the enhancement of TJ integrity, induced by citrus-derived flavonoids, naringin (NRG) and hesperidin (HSD), was demonstrated, but the effects of their aglycones naringenin (NAR) and hesperetin (HST), and the mechanisms, have not been systematically investigated. Here we compared three series of flavonoids related to NAR, HST, quercetin (QUE) and their glycosides with the Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) II cell monolayers. The effect of flavonoids on the protein expression level of claudin (CLD)-2 and its subcellular localization were investigated. NAR, NRG, and HSD increased the CLD-2 localization at the TJ compartment, and its protein expression level. QUE and HST showed TJ-mitigating activity. Narirutin (NRT), neohesperidin (NHD) and rutin (RUT) did not affect the TJ. In addition, NAR and QUE induced an increase or decrease of the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) values of the MDCK II monolayers. Two known signaling pathways, phosphatidyl-inositol-3 kinase (PI3K) and 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), were further compared with NAR. Two-dimensional polyacrylamide electrophoresis (2D PAGE) analysis of whole-cell proteins treated with NAR, AICA-riboside (AMPK activator) and LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) showed in both a distinct pattern. This suggests the target of NAR’s CLD-2 or zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) modulation was unique.
Role of Flavonoids in the Interactions among Obesity, Inflammation, and Autophagy
Authors: García-Barrado María , Iglesias-Osma María , Pérez-García Elena , Carrero Sixto , Blanco Enrique , Carretero-Hernández Marta , Carretero José
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, obesity is considered as one of the main concerns for public health worldwide, since it encompasses up to 39% of overweight and 13% obese (WHO) adults. It develops because of the imbalance in the energy intake/expenditure ratio, which leads to excess nutrients and results in dysfunction of adipose tissue. The hypertrophy of adipocytes and the nutrients excess trigger the induction of inflammatory signaling through various pathways, among others, an increase in the expression of pro-inflammatory adipocytokines, and stress of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). A better understanding of obesity and preventing its complications are beneficial for obese patients on two facets: treating obesity, and treating and preventing the pathologies associated with it. Hitherto, therapeutic itineraries in most cases are based on lifestyle modifications, bariatric surgery, and pharmacotherapy despite none of them have achieved optimal results. Therefore, diet can play an important role in the prevention of adiposity, as well as the associated disorders. Recent results have shown that flavonoids intake have an essential role in protecting against oxidative damage phenomena, and presents biochemical and pharmacological functions beneficial to human health. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the anti-inflammatory actions and autophagic flux of natural flavonoids, and their molecular mechanisms for preventing and/or treating obesity.
A Novel Machine Learning Approach to Estimate Grapevine Leaf Nitrogen Concentration Using Aerial Multispectral Imagery
Authors: Moghimi Ali , Pourreza Alireza , Zuniga-Ramirez German , Williams Larry E. , Fidelibus Matthew W.
Published: October 2020

Assessment of the nitrogen status of grapevines with high spatial, temporal resolution offers benefits in fertilizer use efficiency, crop yield and quality, and vineyard uniformity. The primary objective of this study was to develop a robust predictive model for grapevine nitrogen estimation at bloom stage using high-resolution multispectral images captured by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Aerial imagery and leaf tissue sampling were conducted from 150 grapevines subjected to five rates of nitrogen applications. Subsequent to appropriate pre-processing steps, pixels representing the canopy were segmented from the background per each vine. First, we defined a binary classification problem using pixels of three vines with the minimum (low-N class) and two vines with the maximum (high-N class) nitrogen concentration. Following optimized hyperparameters configuration, we trained five machine learning classifiers, including support vector machine (SVM), random forest, XGBoost, quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA), and deep neural network (DNN) with fully-connected layers. Among the classifiers, SVM offered the highest F1-score (82.24%) on the test dataset at the cost of a very long training time compared to the other classifiers. Alternatively, QDA and XGBoost required the minimum training time with promising F1-score of 80.85% and 80.27%, respectively. Second, we transformed the classification into a regression problem by averaging the posterior probability of high-N class for all pixels within each of 150 vines. XGBoost exhibited a slightly larger coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.56) and lower root mean square error (RMSE) (0.23%) compared to other learning methods in the prediction of nitrogen concentration of all vines. The proposed approach provides values in (i) leveraging high-resolution imagery, (ii) investigating spatial distribution of nitrogen across a vine’s canopy, and (iii) defining spatial zones for nitrogen application and smart sampling.
Wide-Band High Concentration-Ratio Volume-Holographic Grating for Solar Concentration
Authors: Wang Chengchen , Ma Jianshe , Kao Hongxu , Wu Taihui , Su Ping
Published: October 2020

Efficient and low-cost solar-energy collection has become the focus of many research works. This paper proposes a recording method and an experimental verification of a wide-band, large-angle, and high concentration-ratio volume-holographic grating for solar concentration. We applied the Kogelnik coupled-wave theory and photopolymer diffusion model to analyse the formation mechanism and influencing factors on the diffraction efficiency of monochromatic volume-holographic gratings. We design and construct a three-color laser-interference system to record three monochromatic volume-holographic gratings. The best recording conditions are determined by experiment and simulation. A trichromatic volume-holographic grating is obtained by gluing the three monochromatic gratings together. The experimental results show that the trichromatic volume-holographic grating with a working angle of 6.7° and a working band of visible light has a light concentration ratio of 149.2 under an illumination of the combined recorded three-color beams, and that under sunlight is 27.2. We find that the proposed trichromatic volume-holographic grating for light concentration offers the advantages of wide band and high light concentration ratio, which provide a reference for solar concentration.
Oxygen Gas Sensing with Photothermal Spectroscopy in a Hollow-Core Negative Curvature Fiber
Authors: Hong Yingzhen , Bao Haihong , Jin Wei , Jiang Shoulin , Ho Hoi Lut , Gao Shoufei , Wang Yingying
Published: October 2020

We demonstrate a compact all-fiber oxygen sensor using photothermal interferometry with a short length (4.3 cm) of hollow-core negative curvature fibers. The hollow-core fiber has double transmission windows covering both visible and near-infrared wavelength regions. Absorption of a pump laser beam at 760 nm produces photothermal phase modulation and a probe Fabry-Perot interferometer operating at 1550 nm is used to detect the phase modulation. With wavelength modulation and first harmonic detection, a limit of detection down to 54 parts per million (ppm) with a 600-s averaging time is achieved, corresponding to a normalized equivalent absorption of 7.7 × 10−8 cm−1. The oxygen sensor has great potential for in situ detection applications.
Application of Wireless Accelerometer Mounted on Wheel Rim for Parked Car Monitoring
Authors: Borecki Michal , Rychlik Arkadiusz , Olejnik Arkadiusz , Prus Przemysław , Szmidt Jan , Korwin-Pawlowski Michael L.
Published: October 2020

Damages of different kinds that can be inflicted to a parked car. Among them, loosening of the car wheel bolts is difficult to detect during normal use of the car and is at the same time very dangerous to the health and life of the driver. Moreover, in patents and publications, only little information is presented about electronic sensors available for activation from inside of the car to inform the driver about the mentioned dangerous situation. Thus, the main aim of this work is the proposition and examination of a sensing device using of a wireless accelerometer head to detect loosening of wheel fixing bolts before ride has been started. The proposed sensing device consists of a wireless accelerometer head, an assembly interface and a receiver unit. The assembly interface between the head and the inner part of the rim enables the correct operation of the system. The data processing algorithm developed for the receiver unit enables the proper detection of the unscrewing of bolts. Moreover, the tested algorithm is resistant to the interference signals generated in the accelerometer head by cars and men passing in close distance.
Performance of Optical Coupling Materials in Scintillation Detectors Post Temperature Exposure
Authors: Romanchek Gregory , Wang Yuli , Marupudi Harsha , Abbaszadeh Shiva
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the room-temperature performance of different optical coupling materials post temperature exposure was tested. The tested couplers included OC431A-LVP, OG0010 optical grease, BLUESIL V-788, and SAINT-GOBAIN BC-630. This was done by subjecting the whole detector with newly applied optical coupling materials to a 2-h temperature exposure—ranging from −20 to 50 °C and then by letting it return to room temperature before collecting a spectrum from a Cs-137 source. The energy resolution at 662 keV was computed as the metric for evaluating the performance. Three trials were run at each coupler–temperature combination. Our results reveal that the performance of all coupling agents do indeed change with temperature after the 2-h exposure. Over all the tested temperature trials, the energy resolution ranged from 11.4 to 14.3% for OC431A-LVP; 10.2 to 14.6% for OG0010; 10 to 13.4% for BLUESIL V-788; and 9.8 to 13.3% for SAINT-GOBAIN BC-630. OC431A-LVP had the lowest variance over the full range, while BC-630 was the most constant for temperatures above 20 °C. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectra experiments were also performed on isolated optical coupling materials to measure the light absorption coefficient. The results show that the temperature-induced variance in light absorption coefficient of each optical coupling materials is one of the reasons for the variance in energy resolution performance. Our findings suggest the need for further investigation into this effect and the recommendation that optical coupling materials need to be selected for the task at hand with greater scrutiny.
Development of Scientific Fishery Biomass Estimator: System Design and Prototyping
Authors: Sthapit Pranesh , Kim MinSeok , Kang Donhyug , Kim Kiseon
Published: October 2020

This paper presents a new compact single beam advanced echosounder system designed to estimate fish count in real time. The proposed device is a standalone system, which consists of a transducer, a processing unit, a keypad, and a display unit to show output. A fish counting algorithm was developed and implemented in the device. The device is capable of performing all the functions required for fish abundance estimation including target strength calculation, simultaneous echo integration, and echogram generation. During operation, the device analyzes ping data continuously and calculates various parameters in real time while simultaneously displaying the echogram and results on the screen. The device has been evaluated by technical verification in a lab and on-site experiments. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed device is on par with a commercial echosounder and is capable of accurately estimating the fish abundance. The proposed device is beneficial for fish management.
A Multimodal Intention Detection Sensor Suite for Shared Autonomy of Upper-Limb Robotic Prostheses
Authors: Gardner Marcus , Mancero Castillo C. Sebastian , Wilson Samuel , Farina Dario , Burdet Etienne , Khoo Boo Cheong , Atashzar S. Farokh , Vaidyanathan Ravi
Published: October 2020

Neurorobotic augmentation (e.g., robotic assist) is now in regular use to support individuals suffering from impaired motor functions. A major unresolved challenge, however, is the excessive cognitive load necessary for the human–machine interface (HMI). Grasp control remains one of the most challenging HMI tasks, demanding simultaneous, agile, and precise control of multiple degrees-of-freedom (DoFs) while following a specific timing pattern in the joint and human–robot task spaces. Most commercially available systems use either an indirect mode-switching configuration or a limited sequential control strategy, limiting activation to one DoF at a time. To address this challenge, we introduce a shared autonomy framework centred around a low-cost multi-modal sensor suite fusing: (a) mechanomyography (MMG) to estimate the intended muscle activation, (b) camera-based visual information for integrated autonomous object recognition, and (c) inertial measurement to enhance intention prediction based on the grasping trajectory. The complete system predicts user intent for grasp based on measured dynamical features during natural motions. A total of 84 motion features were extracted from the sensor suite, and tests were conducted on 10 able-bodied and 1 amputee participants for grasping common household objects with a robotic hand. Real-time grasp classification accuracy using visual and motion features obtained 100%, 82.5%, and 88.9% across all participants for detecting and executing grasping actions for a bottle, lid, and box, respectively. The proposed multimodal sensor suite is a novel approach for predicting different grasp strategies and automating task performance using a commercial upper-limb prosthetic device. The system also shows potential to improve the usability of modern neurorobotic systems due to the intuitive control design.
UAV Path Optimization for Precision Agriculture Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Just Gilson E. , E. Pellenz Marcelo , Lima Luiz A. de Paula , S. Chang Bruno , Demo Souza Richard , Montejo-Sánchez Samuel
Published: October 2020

The use of monitoring sensors is increasingly present in the context of precision agriculture. Usually, these sensor nodes (SNs) alternate their states between periods of activation and hibernation to reduce battery usage. When employing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to collect data from SNs distributed over a large agricultural area, we must synchronize the UAV route with the activation period of each SN. In this article, we address the problem of optimizing the UAV path through all the SNs to reduce its flight time, while also maximizing the SNs’ lifetime. Using the concept of timeslots for time base management combined with the idea of flight prohibition list, we propose an efficient algorithm for discovering and reconfiguring the activation time of the SNs. Experimental results were obtained through the development of our own simulator—UAV Simulator. These results demonstrate a considerable reduction in the distance traveled by the UAV and also in its flight time. In addition, the model provides a reduction in transmission time by SNs after reconfiguration, thus ensuring a longer lifetime for the SNs in the monitoring environment, as well as improving the freshness and continuity of the gathered data, which support the decision-making process.
A Systematic Review of Machine Learning Techniques in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)
Authors: Gupta Vibhuti , Braun Thomas M. , Chowdhury Mosharaf , Tewari Muneesh , Choi Sung Won
Published: October 2020

Machine learning techniques are widely used nowadays in the healthcare domain for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of diseases. These techniques have applications in the field of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), which is a potentially curative therapy for hematological malignancies. Herein, a systematic review of the application of machine learning (ML) techniques in the HCT setting was conducted. We examined the type of data streams included, specific ML techniques used, and type of clinical outcomes measured. A systematic review of English articles using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases was performed. Search terms included “hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT),” “autologous HCT,” “allogeneic HCT,” “machine learning,” and “artificial intelligence.” Only full-text studies reported between January 2015 and July 2020 were included. Data were extracted by two authors using predefined data fields. Following PRISMA guidelines, a total of 242 studies were identified, of which 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies were sub-categorized into three broad topics and the type of ML techniques used included ensemble learning (63%), regression (44%), Bayesian learning (30%), and support vector machine (30%). The majority of studies examined models to predict HCT outcomes (e.g., survival, relapse, graft-versus-host disease). Clinical and genetic data were the most commonly used predictors in the modeling process. Overall, this review provided a systematic review of ML techniques applied in the context of HCT. The evidence is not sufficiently robust to determine the optimal ML technique to use in the HCT setting and/or what minimal data variables are required.
On the Design of Dual-Polarised Linear Antenna Arrays with Enhanced Port-to-Port Isolation
Authors: Wójcik Dariusz , Surma Maciej , Noga Artur , Magnuski Mirosław
Published: October 2020

The paper describes the process of designing a dual-polarised linear antenna array with enhanced port-to-port isolation, with the example of a four-element array with isolation better than 60 dB for the U-NII 5.15–5.925 GHz band. As a single antenna, dual-polarised electromagnetically coupled microstrip antennas were used with port-to-port isolation not exceeding 25 dB. A significant improvement in the isolation of the array was achieved thanks to the application of a dedicated feeding network. On the basis of theoretical analysis, a mathematical model describing port-to-port isolation was developed. Circuit and full-wave simulations were carried out to show the influence of electromagnetic couplings between antennas and/or the microstrip lines of the feeding network and the selection of phase shifters/power dividers on the isolation. The fabricated prototype is characterised by a gain of about 14 dBi, polarisation purity of at least −27 dB within the main lobe and close to expectations isolation better than 57 dB within the whole operational band.
Developing a CNT-SPE Sensing Platform Based on Green Synthesized AuNPs, Using Sargassum sp.
Authors: González-Fuentes Fanny J. , Molina Gustavo A. , Silva Rodolfo , López-Miranda José Luis , Esparza Rodrigo , Hernandez-Martinez Angel R. , Estevez Miriam
Published: October 2020

Detection and quantification of diverse analytes such as molecules, cells receptor and even particles and nanoparticles, play an important role in biomedical research, particularly in electrochemical sensing platform technologies. In this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) prepared by green synthesis from Sargassum sp. were characterized using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) and Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential (ζ) obtaining organic capped face-centered cubic 80–100 nm AuNPs with an excellent stability in a wide range of pH. The AuNPs were used to modify a carbon nanotubes-screen printed electrode (CNT-SPE), through the drop-casting method, to assemble a novel portable electrochemical sensing platform for glucose, using a novel combination of components, which together have not been employed. The ability to sense and measure glucose was demonstrated, and its electrochemical fundamentals was studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) to glucose were 50 μM and 98 μM, respectively, and these were compared to those of other sensing platforms.
Thyroid Nodule Classification for Physician Decision Support Using Machine Learning-Evaluated Geometric and Morphological Features
Authors: Gomes Ataide Elmer Jeto , Ponugoti Nikhila , Illanes Alfredo , Schenke Simone , Kreissl Michael , Friebe Michael
Published: October 2020

The classification of thyroid nodules using ultrasound (US) imaging is done using the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TIRADS) guidelines that classify nodules based on visual and textural characteristics. These are composition, shape, size, echogenicity, calcifications, margins, and vascularity. This work aims to reduce subjectivity in the current diagnostic process by using geometric and morphological (G-M) features that represent the visual characteristics of thyroid nodules to provide physicians with decision support. A total of 27 G-M features were extracted from images obtained from an open-access US thyroid nodule image database. 11 significant features in accordance with TIRADS were selected from this global feature set. Each feature was labeled (0 = benign and 1 = malignant) and the performance of the selected features was evaluated using machine learning (ML). G-M features together with ML resulted in the classification of thyroid nodules with a high accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. The results obtained here were compared against state-of the-art methods and perform significantly well in comparison. Furthermore, this method can act as a computer aided diagnostic (CAD) system for physicians by providing them with a validation of the TIRADS visual characteristics used for the classification of thyroid nodules in US images.
How Economic Development Influences Entrepreneurial Networks-Dissecting Reasons for the Birth, Development and Death of Local Development’s Agents
Authors: Pinheiro da Silveira Marco Antonio , Reis Mourão Paulo Jorge , Perciavali Telmo Rodrigues Thaís Helena
Published: October 2020

This case study will reflect upon the experience of important agents for local development—the Local Productive Arrangement (APL) composed by South American companies in the sector of wedding parties. This work will then reflect how Economic Development creates—but also may destroy—entrepreneurial networks. Data were observed by interviews with 30 businessmen participating in the Local Productive Arrangement. In 2009, the APL received support from Brazilian Service of Support to Micro and Small Companies (SEBRAE), which has been supporting several APL since 2002. However, starting in 2012, membership and motivation began to diminish, and in 2014, despite efforts made by the association’s president, the board decided to close it. This experience motivates several insights about how an entrepreneurship network evolves because this case study has been a pioneering case in Brazil. The analysis of the case offers an observation of the benefits of creating the association as well as the difficulties and challenges involved in the initiative.