bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: Using electroencephalogram classification in a convolutional neural network, infer privacy on healthcare internet of things 5.0
Authors: Mahalaxmi U. S. B. K. , Sahay Kishan Bhushan , Sabitha R. , Haleem Sulaima Lebbe Abdul , Kaur Prabjot , Vijayakumar P.
Published: March 2022

When enabled by the internet of health things (IoHT), brain neuroscience may conduct online analysis of brain information through multi‐variate electroencephalogram (EEG) classification, which would be a requirement for the recent surge in biofeedback technologies and medical supervision. With the ever‐increasing privacy issues and vulnerabilities of conventional methods, a universal and reliable‐based authentication framework for smart IoHT application with 5G technology (healthcare 5.0) is needed. Research teams have come to trust the EEG features because of their reliability, durability and universality. Fortunately, the testing paradigm's restricted functionality and poor classification accuracy have kept an EEG‐based identity authentication scheme from being widely seen in IoHT scenarios. However, due to unsatisfactory categories and the failure of a reliable identity authentication scheme, it remains important in research challenges. This research presents the design of an EEG identity authentication system supported via convolutional neural network classification includes cloud support storage methodology in the healthcare 5.0 environment, resulting in extremely high reliability, consistency and protection for the next generation of smart systems. The experimental results indicate that the accuracy and efficacy of the user authentication expect a higher legal probability of success and a lower unauthorized likelihood of success from a safety perspective. As compared to other frameworks, traditional EEG‐based authorization approaches test results to reveal that the proposed methodology yields the desired classification accuracy of 97.6%. The experiment performance on an authentication scenario is structured to prove that the proposed method is efficient, reliable and accurate.
Functional bacterial cultures for dairy applications: Towards improving safety, quality, nutritional and health benefit aspects
Authors: González-González Felipe , Delgado Susana , Ruiz Lorena , Margolles Abelardo , Ruas-Madiedo Patricia
Published: March 2022

Traditionally, fermentation was used to preserve the shelf life of food. Currently, in addition to favouring food preservation, well standardized and controlled industrial processes are also aimed at improving the functional characteristics of the final product. In this regard, starter cultures have become an essential cornerstone of food production. The selection of robust microorganisms, well adapted to the food environment, has been followed by the development of microbial consortia that provide some functional characteristics, beyond their acidifying capacity, achieving safer, high-quality foods with improved nutritional and health-promoting properties. In addition to starters, adjunct cultures and probiotics, which normally do not have a relevant role in fermentation, are added to the food in order to provide some beneficial characteristics. This review focuses on highlighting the functional characteristics of food starters, as well as adjunct and probiotic cultures (mainly lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria), with a specific focus on the synthesis of metabolites for preservation and safety aspects (e.g. bacteriocins), organoleptic properties (e.g. exopolysaccharides), nutritional (e.g. vitamins) and health improvement (e.g. neuroactive molecules). Literature reporting the application of these functional cultures in the manufacture of foods, mainly those related to dairy production, such as cheeses and fermented milks, has also been updated.
Proposal for a 6‐step approach for differential diagnosis of neonatal erythroderma
Authors: Cuperus E. , Bygum A. , Boeckmann L. , Bodemer C. , Bolling M.C. , Caproni M. , Diociaiuti A. , Emmert S. , Fischer J. , Gostynski A. , Guez S. , van Gijn M.E. , Hannulla‐Jouppi K. , Has C. , Hernández‐Martín A. , Martinez A.E. , Mazereeuw‐Hautier J. , Medvecz M. , Neri I. , Sigurdsson V. , Suessmuth K. , Traupe H. , Oji V. , Pasmans S.G.M.A.
Published: March 2022

The broad differential diagnosis of neonatal erythroderma often poses a diagnostic challenge. Mortality of neonatal erythroderma is high due to complications of the erythroderma itself and the occasionally severe and life‐threatening underlying disease. Early correct recognition of the underlying cause leads to better treatment and prognosis. Currently, neonatal erythroderma is approached on a case‐by‐case basis. The purpose of this scoping review was to develop a diagnostic approach in neonatal erythroderma. After a systematic literature search in Embase (January 1990 – May 2020, 74 cases of neonatal erythroderma were identified, and 50+ diagnoses could be extracted. Main causes were the ichthyoses (40%) and primary immunodeficiencies (35%). Congenital erythroderma was present in 64% (47/74) of the cases, predominantly with congenital ichthyosis (11/11; 100%), Netherton syndrome (12/14, 86%) and Omenn syndrome (11/23, 48%). Time until diagnosis ranged from 102 days to 116 days for cases of non‐congenital erythroderma and congenital erythroderma respectively. Among the 74 identified cases a total of 17 patients (23%) died within a mean of 158 days and were related to Omenn syndrome (35%), graft‐versus‐host disease (67%) and Netherton syndrome (18%). Disease history and physical examination are summarized in this paper. Age of onset and a collodion membrane can help to narrow the differential diagnoses. Investigations of blood, histology, hair analysis, genetic analysis and clinical imaging are summarized and discussed. A standard blood investigation is proposed, and the need for skin biopsies with lympho‐epithelial Kazal‐type related Inhibitor staining is highlighted. Overall, this review shows that diagnostic procedures narrow the differential diagnosis in neonatal erythroderma. A 6‐step flowchart for the diagnostic approach for neonatal erythroderma during the first month of life is proposed. The approach was made with the support of expert leaders from international multidisciplinary collaborations in the European Reference Network Skin‐subthematic group Ichthyosis.
Somatic mutational landscape of extracranial arteriovenous malformations and phenotypic correlations
Authors: El Sissy F.N. , Wassef M. , Faucon B. , Salvan D. , Nadaud S. , Coulet F. , Adle‐Biassette H. , Soubrier F. , Bisdorff A. , Eyries M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Somatic genetic variants may be the cause of extracranial arteriovenous malformations, but few studies have explored these genetic anomalies, and no genotype–phenotype correlations have been identified.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to characterize the somatic genetic landscape of extracranial arteriovenous malformations and correlate these findings with the phenotypic characteristics of these lesions.

Methods

This study included twenty‐three patients with extracranial arteriovenous malformations that were confirmed clinically and treated by surgical resection, and for whom frozen tissue samples were available. Targeted next‐generation sequencing analysis of tissues was performed using a gene panel that included vascular disease‐related genes and tumour‐related genes.

Results

We identified a pathogenic variant in 18 out of 23 samples (78.3%). Pathogenic variants were mainly located in MAP2K1 (n = 7) and KRAS (n = 6), and more rarely in BRAF (n = 2) and RASA1 (n = 3). KRAS variants were significantly (P < 0.005) associated with severe extended facial arteriovenous malformations, for which relapse after surgical resection is frequently observed, while MAP2K1 variants were significantly (P < 0.005) associated with less severe, limited arteriovenous malformations located on the lips.

Conclusions

Our study highlights a high prevalence of pathogenic somatic variants, predominantly in MAP2K1 and KRAS, in extracranial arteriovenous malformations. In addition, our study identifies for the first time a correlation between the genotype, clinical severity and angiographic characteristics of extracranial arteriovenous malformations. The RAS/MAPK variants identified in this study are known to be associated with malignant tumours for which targeted therapies have already been developed. Thus, identification of these somatic variants could lead to new therapeutic options to improve the management of patients with extracranial arteriovenous malformations.
Olfactory responses to volatile organic compounds and movement parameters of Philaenus spumarius and Cicadella viridis
Authors: Rodrigues Isabel , Benhadi‐Marín Jacinto , Rodrigues Nuno , Baptista Paula , Pereira José Alberto
Published: March 2022

Xylella fastidiosa, the causal agent of several diseases in crops of economic interest, could be rapidly transmitted and spread throughout the agroecosystem landscape by xylem sap‐feeding insects. Chemical signals in the environment drive the behaviour of insects. Attractive or repulsive responses to signals may affect insects’ fitness, survival and reproduction, and elicit different movement patterns. Specific movement patterns derived from olfactory cues towards the selection of plants for feeding may trigger the transmission of the pathogen by the insect. Thus, understanding vectors’ olfactory response and movement parameters are of utmost importance. This work aimed to assess the olfactory response of Philaenus spumarius and Cicadella viridis adults to two Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) (cis‐3‐hexenyl acetate and cis‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol) present in almond, olive and vine leaves. Insects’ behavioural responses were conducted in a four‐arm olfactometer, and the two aforementioned VOCs were tested at different concentrations (5, 10, 20 and 30 µg/µl). At the lowest concentration, females of P. spumarius were significantly attracted by the two VOCs. At the highest concentrations, no significant differences were detected among treatments. Cicadella viridis individuals showed no significant differences in their choice at any concentration. Additionally, the walking movement of these insects was also studied in the absence of food. Females of P. spumarius and C. viridis can walk significantly more at a significantly higher velocity than males. Knowledge of the olfactory response of X. fastidiosa vectors and their movement parameters can be essential to develop new tools to limit the spread of this phytopathogen.
The impact of fetal growth restriction in diagnosing preeclampsia on the severity of maternal features
Authors: Kasuya Minori , Akiba Naoya , Iriyama Takayuki , Sayama Seisuke , Kubota Kaori , Toshimitsu Masatake , Seyama Takahiro , Sone Kenbun , Kumasawa Keiichi , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: March 2022

Aim

We aimed to assess the impact of fetal growth restriction (FGR) as a diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia (PE) on the severity of maternal preeclamptic features by comparing it with other diagnostic criteria for PE, maternal organ dysfunction.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies. Based on the status at diagnosis, PE cases preceded by FGR without maternal organ dysfunction (Group F; n = 28) and those preceded by maternal organ dysfunction without FGR (Group M; n = 87) were analyzed.

Results

Group F had an earlier PE diagnosis (32.5 ± 4.9 vs. 36.7 ± 3.5 weeks, p < 0.01) and delivery (33.7 ± 4.5 vs. 37.5 ± 3.1 weeks, p < 0.01) than Group M. No significant differences in maternal morbidities were observed between the groups, including severe hypertension (75.0 vs. 60.0%), need for intravenous antihypertensives (42.9 vs. 48.3%) or magnesium sulfate (60.7 vs. 54.5%), or a composite of major maternal complications (17.9 vs. 21.8%). When limited to early‐onset PE diagnosed before 34 weeks of gestation (17 and 17 cases in Group F and M, respectively), the frequencies of maternal morbidities (severe hypertension: 70.6 vs. 52.9%, intravenous antihypertensives: 35.3 vs. 35.3%, magnesium sulfate: 58.8 vs. 47.1%, major complications: 29.4 vs. 23.5%) and the duration from diagnosis until delivery (11.2 ± 14.7 vs. 16.5 ± 21.7 days) were comparable between two groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the presence of FGR on PE diagnosis is associated with the development of severe maternal symptoms as much as that of maternal organ dysfunction at diagnosis, and it may be reasonable to include FGR in PE diagnostic criteria.
Identification and functional expression of a new xylose isomerase from the goat rumen microbiome in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: de Souza Colombo Gabriel , Viana Mendes Isis , de Morais Souto Betúlia , Chaves Barreto Cristine , Assis Serra Luana , Ferreira Noronha Eliane , Skorupa Parachin Nádia , Moreira de Almeida João Ricardo , Ferraz Quirino Betania
Published: March 2022

The current climate crisis demands replacement of fossil energy sources with sustainable alternatives. In this scenario, second-generation bioethanol, a product of lignocellulosic biomass fermentation, represents a more sustainable alternative. However, Saccharomyces cerevisiae cannot metabolize pentoses, such as xylose, present as a major component of lignocellulosic biomass. Xylose isomerase (XI) is an enzyme that allows xylose consumption by yeasts, because it converts xylose into xylulose, which is further converted to ethanol by the pentose-phosphate pathway. Only a few XI were successfully expressed in S. cerevisiae strains. This work presents a new bacterial XI, named GR-XI 1, obtained from a Brazilian goat rumen metagenomic library. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the bacterial origin of the gene, which is related to Firmicutes XIs. After codon optimization, this enzyme, renamed XySC1, was functionally expressed in S. cerevisiae, allowing growth in media with xylose as sole carbon source. Overexpression of XySC1 in S. cerevisiae allowed the recombinant strain to efficiently consume and metabolize xylose under aerobic conditions.
Sheathia yunnanensis, a new species of freshwater red alga (Rhodophyta: Batrachospermales) from Yunnan, China
Authors: Fang Kun‐Peng , Nan Fang‐Ru , Feng Jia , Lv Jun‐Ping , Liu Qi , Liu Xu‐Dong , Xie Shu‐Lian
Published: March 2022

The freshwater red algal genus Sheathia is one of the most species‐rich genera in the Batrachospermales, containing species with heterocortication (both bulbous and cylindrical cells covering the main axis) and homocortication (only cylindrical cells). The hidden diversity of homocorticated Sheathia species has gained research momentum. Recent studies have revised these taxa and described many new species. In this study, a new homocorticated Sheathia species is described and illustrated from Yunnan, China, based on phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data. Sheathia yunnanensis sp. nov is morphologically characterized by having homocortication, carpogonium with bent or slightly constricted lanceolate trichogyne, large carposporophyte and carposporangium. However, it is only distinguishable from other homocorticated species by DNA sequence data. Phylogenetic analyses based on rbcL, COI‐5P, psbA and concatenated rbcL + COI‐5P alignment indicated that Sheathia yunnanensis form an independent clade from other homocorticated Sheathia species with high interspecific divergence (rbcL: 3.9–4.9%/37–54 bp, COI‐5P: 6.1–6.6%/36–39 bp and psbA: 2.2–3.9%/18–32 bp). Sheathia yunnanensis, as the first gametophyte of Sheathia species reported in Yunnan, differs from other Sheathia species reported only as ‘Chantransia' sporophyte stage. As a result of this study, the number of Sheathia species recognized in China increased to eight, including one heterocorticate and seven homocorticated including three only known from the ‘Chantransia' sporophyte stage. The description of this new species expands the diversity of Sheathia in the world.
CanRumex madaio(Polygonaceae) be threatened by natural hybridization with an invasive species in Japan
Authors: Uemura Ryudo , Asakawa Akira , Fujii Shinji , Matsuo Ayumi , Suyama Yoshihisa , Maki Masayuki
Published: March 2022

Natural hybridization between the native speciesRumex madaioendemic to Japan and the congeneric invasive speciesR. obtusifolius, which frequently co‐occurs withR. madaio, was examined by molecular identification. At low frequencies, interspecific hybrids between the two species were confirmed using restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses of the internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA. Whereas these two species can hybridize because their flowering periods overlapped to some extent, the extremely low fertility ofR. madaiocaused by unknown genetic factors seemed to prevent extensive hybridization between these species. Population genetic analyses based on single nucleotide polymorphisms showed that there was a distinct population genetic structure inR. madaio, suggesting that local populations should be treated separately for genetic conservation of the species.
Rare Disasters, the Natural Interest Rate and Monetary Policy*
Authors: Cantelmo Alessandro
Published: March 2022

This article evaluates the impact of rare disasters on the natural interest rate and inflation, and their implications for monetary policy, by using data on natural disasters in OECD countries. Ex‐ante, disaster risk behaves as a negative demand shock and permanently lowers the natural rate and inflation. These effects become larger and nonlinear if the frequency of extreme natural disasters increases. Ex‐post, a disaster realization leads to temporarily higher or lower natural rate and inflation depending on whether supply‐ or demand‐side effects prevail. The article hence shows the importance of disentangling disaster strikes from disaster risk in shaping monetary policy.
New diagnostıc perspectives in the management of pediatrıc beta‐lactam allergy
Authors: Arıkoğlu Tuğba , Kuyucu Semanur , Caubet Jean‐Christoph
Published: March 2022

Since overdiagnosis of beta‐lactam (BL) allergy is common in the pediatric population, delabeling is a critical part of antimicrobial stewardship. Undesirable consequences of inaccurate BL allergy labeling can be handled by incorporating traditional delabeling or newer risk‐based strategies into antibiotic stewardship programs. Conventional assessment of BL allergy relies upon a stepwise algorithm including a clinical history with skin testing followed by drug provocation tests (DPTs). However, a growing number of studies highlighted the suboptimal diagnostic value of skin testing in children. Recently, there has been a paradigm shift in the practice of BL allergy assessment due to recent challenging data which emphasize the safety and accuracy of direct DPTs in children with a suspicion of non‐immediate mild cutaneous reactions such as maculopapular eruption, delayed urticaria, and possibly also for benign immediate reactions such as urticaria/angioedema. Identifying low‐risk BL allergy patients, in whom skin tests can be skipped and proceeding directly to DPTs could be safe, has become a hot topic in recent years. New risk stratification and predictive modeling studies that have the potential to better predict BL allergy risk status have recently been introduced into the field of drug allergy, particularly in adults. However, in contrast to adults, risk assessment studies in children are rare, and optimal risk definitions are controversial. In the coming years, promising potential methods to elucidate the predictors of BL allergy in children will require multidimensional approaches that may include predictive analytics, artificial intelligence techniques, and point‐of‐care clinical decision tools.
The Harbinger transposon‐derived gene PANDA epigenetically coordinates panicle number and grain size in rice
Authors: Mao Donghai , Tao Shentong , Li Xin , Gao Dongying , Tang Mingfeng , Liu Chengbing , Wu Dan , Bai Liangli , He Zhankun , Wang Xiaodong , Yang Lei , Zhu Yuxing , Zhang Dechun , Zhang Wenli , Chen Caiyan
Published: March 2022

Transposons significantly contribute to genome fractions in many plants. Although numerous transposon‐related mutations have been identified, the evidence regarding transposon‐derived genes regulating crop yield and other agronomic traits is very limited. In this study, we characterized a rice Harbinger transposon‐derived gene called PANICLE NUMBER AND GRAIN SIZE (PANDA), which epigenetically coordinates panicle number and grain size. Mutation of PANDA caused reduced panicle number but increased grain size in rice, while transgenic plants overexpressing this gene showed the opposite phenotypic change. The PANDA‐encoding protein can bind to the core polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) components OsMSI1 and OsFIE2, and regulates the deposition of H3K27me3 in the target genes, thereby epigenetically repressing their expression. Among the target genes, both OsMADS55 and OsEMF1 were negative regulators of panicle number but positive regulators of grain size, partly explaining the involvement of PANDA in balancing panicle number and grain size. Moreover, moderate overexpression of PANDA driven by its own promoter in the indica rice cultivar can increase grain yield. Thus, our findings present a novel insight into the epigenetic control of rice yield traits by a Harbinger transposon‐derived gene and provide its potential application for rice yield improvement.
Attention impedes neural representation of interpolated orientation during perceptual completion
Authors: Mo Ce , Zhang Shijia , Lu Junshi , Yu Mengxia , Yao Yujie
Published: March 2022

One of the most remarkable functional feats accomplished by visual system is the interpolation of missing retinal inputs based on surrounding information, a process known as perceptual completion. Perceptual completion enables the active construction of coherent, vivid percepts from spatially discontinuous visual information that is prevalent in real‐life visual scenes. Despite mounting evidence linking sensory activity enhancement and perceptual completion, surprisingly little is known about whether and how attention, a fundamental modulator of sensory activities, affects perceptual completion. Using EEG‐based time‐resolved inverted encoding model (IEM), we reconstructed the moment‐to‐moment representation of the illusory grating that resulted from spatially interpolating the orientation of surrounding inducers. We found that, despite manipulation of observers' attentional focus, the illusory grating representation unfolded in time in a similar manner. Critically, attention to the surrounding inducers simultaneously attenuated the illusory grating representation and delayed its temporal development. Our findings disclosed, for the first time, the suppressive role of selective attention in perceptual completion and were suggestive of a fast, automatic neural machinery that implements the interpolation of missing visual information.
Non‐classical crystallization of very high magnesium calcite and magnesite in the Coorong Lakes, Australia
Authors: Raudsepp Maija J. , Wilson Sasha , Morgan Bree , Patel Avni , Johnston Scott G. , Gagen Emma J. , Fallon Stewart J.
Published: March 2022

The Coorong Lakes, South Australia, are one of the models for unravelling the ‘Dolomite Problem’. Critically, today only a few modern environments remain where large quantities of very high magnesium calcite (VHMC; Ca0.5Mg0.5CO3; also described as protodolomite or disordered dolomite) and magnesite (MgCO3) precipitate. Previously conducted laboratory studies demonstrate that carbonate minerals can precipitate via classical and non‐classical crystallization pathways. This study uses the preserved crystal sizes, morphologies and microstructures of Ca–Mg carbonates in the Coorong Lakes (Milne Lake, Pellet Lake and North Stromatolite Lake) to evaluate which crystallization pathway most likely occurred. In the fine‐grained sediments of these lakes, very high magnesium calcite and magnesite occur as aggregate particles of nanocrystals (<100 nm). Rietveld refinements using X‐ray diffraction data give modelled Lvol–IB crystallite size values of <120 nm for all carbonates. Transmission electron microscopy shows that, within VHMC and magnesite particles, nanocrystals have an almost identical orientation of their crystal lattice fringes. This is morphologically similar to Ca–Mg carbonates formed via an amorphous carbonate precursor in non‐classical crystallization laboratory experiments. Precipitation of carbonate minerals via an amorphous‐to‐crystalline pathway requires the water to be supersaturated relative to both crystalline and amorphous phases. In the Coorong Lakes, surface water likely only becomes supersaturated relative to amorphous carbonate phases in the late summer after extensive evaporation. Observations suggest that VHMC and dolomite do not directly precipitate from bulk modern seawater, despite oversaturation relative to the crystalline phases, because seawater is undersaturated with respect to amorphous calcium magnesium carbonate, thus limiting the precipitation through a non‐classical crystallization pathway.
Immunohistochemical staining of immunoglobulin G in healthy equine, canine, and feline corneas
Authors: Herb Verena Maria , Url Angelika , Tichy Alexander , Nell Barbara
Published: March 2022

Objective

Establishing an immunohistochemical approach for semi‐quantitative assessment of the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in equine, canine, and feline corneas.

Procedures

Healthy corneas of horses, dogs, and cats, euthanized because of a fatal disease or an unrecoverable trauma unrelated to and without a history of ophthalmic disease were formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded, and determined to be pathomorphologically healthy by light microscopy. Automated immunohistochemistry was performed using primary antibodies against IgG, biotin‐conjugated secondary antibodies, and streptavidin‐peroxidase, as well as diaminobenzidine for visualization. After counterstaining with hematoxylin, epithelium, stroma, Descemet´s membrane (DM), and endothelium were semi‐quantitatively scored for the presence of IgG on a 4‐grade scale (0 = no, 1 = faint, 2 = medium, 3 = strong staining) by light microscopy.

Results

Corneal specimens of 20 horses (40 eyes) with a median age of 15.5 years (range 2–31 years), 12 dogs (21 eyes) with a median age of 10.0 years (range 4–16), and 13 cats (24 eyes) with a median age of 10.0 years (range 2–18) were included in the study. Different sexes and breeds were represented. In all corneas (100%), significant medium signal intensity in the stroma was observed. Variable immunosignal was obtained in epithelium, DM, and endothelium.

Conclusion

This method reproducibly allows for the detection of IgG in healthy equine, canine, and feline corneas, particularly stroma. Semi‐quantitative results evidence medium presence of IgG in the corneal stroma. Further research is needed to evaluate IgG presence in diseased corneas.
Modelling haemoglobin incremental loss on chronic red blood cell transfusions
Authors: Carter Phillip W. , Dunham Andrew J.
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

Understanding the impact of red blood cell (RBC) lifespan, initial RBC removal, and transfusion intervals on patient haemoglobin (Hb) levels and total iron exposure is not accessible for chronic transfusion scenarios. This article introduces the first model to help clinicians optimize chronic transfusion intervals to minimize transfusion frequency.

Materials and Methods

Hb levels and iron exposure from multiple transfusions were calculated from Weibull residual lifespan distributions, the fraction effete RBC removed within 24‐h (Xe) and the nominal Hb increment. Two‐unit transfusions of RBCs initiated at patient [Hb] = 7 g/dl were modelled for different RBC lifespans and transfusion intervals from 18 to 90 days, and Xe from 0.1 to 0.5.

Results

Increased Xe requires shorter transfusion intervals to achieve steady‐state [Hb] of 9 g/dl as follows: 30 days between transfusions at Xe = 0.5, 36 days at Xe = 0.4, 42 days at Xe = 0.3, 48 days at Xe = 0.2 and 54 days at Xe = 0.1. The same transfusion interval/Xe pairs result in a steady‐state [Hb] = 8 g/dl when the RBC lifespan was halved. By reducing transfused RBC increment loss from 30% to 10%, annual transfusions were decreased by 22% with iron addition decreased by 24%. Acute dosing of iron occurs at the higher values of Xe on the day after a transfusion event.

Conclusion

Systematic trends in fractional Hb incremental loss Xe have been modelled and have a significant and calculatable impact on transfusion intervals and associated introduction of iron.
GENETIC HISTORY OF SHEEP DOMESTICATION
Authors: Atavliyeva S , Tarlykov P.
Published: March 2022

Domestication of sheep in the Fertile Crescent region of the Near East is an important evolutionary and historical event. Modern DNA analysis of sheep remains can complement knowledge obtained through morphological analysis at archaeological sites. In particular, investigation of mitochondrial DNA and endogenous retroviral sequences are widely used for studying the domestication, migration, and origin of domestic sheep. Comparison of the mitochondrial genomes of wild and modern sheep has further facilitated investigations on the origin of domestic sheep, indicating that the mouflon (Ovis orientalis) is the ancestor of  domesticated sheep. To date, five phylogenetically divergent lineages of mitochondrial DNA have been identified in domestic sheep. Migration events from the center of domestication were studied in detail using retroviral integration. This progress highlights the need to conduct further genetic studies of modern and ancient samples of sheep so as to gain a more in-depth understanding of domestication events, migration processes, and the formation of basic breeds of domestic sheep.
PROTEOLYTIC ENZYMES IN CHEESE MAKING
Authors: Aktayeva S. , Akishev ZH. , Khassenov B.
Published: March 2022

There has been an increasing consumer demand for cheese along with a search for products with new organoleptic parameters, which has resulted in extensive research on alternative milk coagulants. The ratio of proteolytic activity to milk-clotting activity determines the requirements for proteases used in the cheese making process. To date, plant enzymes have largely been used for this purpose, along with traditional enzymes of animal origin, chymosin and pepsin. The most popular types of proteases used in the food industry, especially in cheese making, are plant proteases belonging to the cysteine (papain, bromelain, ficin), aspartate (cinarase, cardosin), and serine (kukumizin, leucine) group of proteases. The aspartate proteases of microbial origin mucorpepsin and endotyapepsin have found wide application in cheese production due to low production costs and high organoleptic characteristics of the final product. The use of plant and microbial milk-clotting enzymes as an alternative to animal-derived enzymes allows not only to diversify the assortment of cheeses on the market but also to solve ethical and economic issues. In addition, vegetable and microbial preparations meet the requirements of vegetarianism, halal, and kosher food, thus further opening the market.
ROLE OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI AND HOST GENE POLYMORPHISMS IN GASTRIC CARCINOGENESIS IN A KAZAKHS
Authors: Kulmambetova G.N. , Imanbekova M.K. , Aitkulova A.M. , Shtefanov I.I. , Makishev A.K. , Ramankulov Ye.M.
Published: March 2022

Emerging evidence indicated that common polymorphisms of TNF-α, IL1B, IL10, TP53, CD14, TLR4 genes might impact individual susceptibility to gastric cancer. Moreover, Helicobacter pylori plays an important role, provoking an increased susceptibility to the development of gastric pathologies. However, the results are still inconclusive, and specific alleles vary in different populations.  We conducted a study in the Kazakh population of the Northern region of Kazakhstan to identify potential risks or protective associations of SNP with gastric cancer, or H. pylori infection. We analyzed the association of SNPs in TNF-α (rs1800629 G/A), IL1B (rs16944 A/G), IL10 (rs1800872 G/T, rs1800871 G/A, rs1800896 A/C), TP53 (rs1042522 A/G), CD14 (rs2569190 G/A), and TLR4 (rs4986790 A/G, rs4986791 C/T) genes. We included cases with gastric cancer in a hospital-based Kazakh population (158 cases and 181 cancer-free controls). Identification of Helicobacter pylori was carried out by microbiological methods from biopsy specimens. Genotyping of the extended panel of polymorphisms of candidate genes was performed on the Quant Studio 12K Flex (Life Technologies). To estimate relative risk, odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated, and P value 0.05 was considered statistically significant. We found that the polymorphisms of TP53 (rs1042522 A/G, OR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.41-3.82, P-value=0.0009), CD14 (rs2569190 G/A, OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.36 - 0.96, P-value=0.035), and TLR4 (rs4986790 A/G, OR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.19 - 0.95, P-value=0.038) are associated with gastric cancer risk. No signiﬁcant association was observed between variant genotype polymorphisms of TNF-α, IL1B, IL10, TLR4 (ID: rs4986791) genes and gastric cancer risk. Further analyzes to assess the combined effect of TP53 rs1042522, CD14 rs2569190 and TLR4 rs4986791 and H. pylori infection on GC risk did not reveal significant associations. Our results testify to markers of GC risk among Kazakhs and may be the first step towards new approaches to diagnosis and prognosis in Kazakhstan.
A Noninvasive Assessment of Flow Based on Contrast Dispersion in Computed Tomography Angiography: A Computational and Experimental Phantom Study
Authors: Eslami Parastou , Seo Jung-Hee , Rahsepar Amir Ali , Shafique Asim , Rollison Shirley F. , Lardo Albert C. , Mittal Rajat , Chen Marcus Y.
Published: March 2022

Transluminal attenuation gradient (TAG), defined as the gradient of the contrast agent attenuation drop along the vessel, is an imaging biomarker that indicates stenosis in the coronary arteries. The transluminal attenuation flow encoding (TAFE) equation is a theoretical platform that quantifies blood flow in each coronary artery based on computed tomography angiography (CTA) imaging. This formulation couples TAG (i.e., contrast dispersion along the vessel) with fluid dynamics. However, this theoretical concept has never been validated experimentally. The aim of this proof-of-principle phantom study is to validate TAFE based on CTA imaging. Dynamic CTA images were acquired every 0.5 s. The average TAFE estimated flow rates were compared against four predefined pump values in a straight (20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 ml/min) and a tapered phantom (25, 35, 45, and 55 ml/min). Using the TAFE formulation with no correction, the flow rates were underestimated by 33% and 81% in the straight and tapered phantoms, respectively. The TAFE formulation was corrected for imaging artifacts focusing on partial volume averaging and radial variation of contrast enhancement. After corrections, the flow rates estimated in the straight and tapered phantoms had an excellent Pearson correlation of r = 0.99 and 0.87 (p < 0.001), respectively, with only a 0.6%±0.2 mL/min difference in estimation of the flow rate. In this proof-of-concept phantom study, we corrected the TAFE formulation and showed a good agreement with the actual pump values. Future clinical validations are needed for feasibility of TAFE in clinical use.
Design and Simulation of a Passive Absorber to Reduce Measured Postural Tremor Signal
Authors: Gebai Sarah , Cumunel Gwendal , Hammoud Mohammad , Foret Gilles , Roze Emmanuel , Hainque Elodie
Published: March 2022

Tremor is a semirhythmic oscillatory movement of a body part caused by alternating simultaneous contractions of an antagonistic muscle group. Medical and surgical treatments used to reduce the symptoms of involuntary tremor can cause negative side effects. This study examined the ability of passive vibration absorbers in reducing the amplitude of postural tremor (PT). Inertial measurement unit (IMU) was used to record PT signals at the forearm and hand of a patient. IMU signal was used to excite an upper limb modeled to represent the flexion–extension vibrational motion at the joints. Equations of motion were solved numerically to obtain a response that fits the measured tremor signal. Passive tuned mass damper (TMD) was modeled as a cantilever beam and a screw placed along its length, at a position reflecting its operational frequency. Natural frequency of the TMD was derived for different mass positions and validated numerically and experimentally. Modal damping ratio of the TMD, for each mass position, was also estimated. Mass position and damping coefficient of the TMD were optimized depending on the minimization in the power spectral density (PSD) of angular displacement amplitude at the wrist joint. Optimized three-TMD system of 28.64 g total effective mass with the estimated modal damping ratio reduced 83.1% of the PSD of the angular displacement amplitude. This study showed the performance ability of a lightweight passive absorber in controlling the involuntary tremor of a system excited by the measured tremor signal of a patient.
A Finite Element-Based Analysis of a Hemodynamics Efficient Flow Stent Suitable for Different Abdominal Aneurysm Shapes
Authors: Nada Ayat , Fakhr Mahmoud A. , El-Wakad Mohamed Tarek I. , Hassan Mohammed A.
Published: March 2022

This research aimed to examine the impact of a proposed flow stent (PFS) on different abdominal artery shapes. For that purpose, a finite element-based model using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method is developed. The effect of PFS intervention on the hemodynamic efficiency is estimated by all of the significant criteria used for the evaluation of aneurysm occlusion and possible rupture; the flow velocity, pressure, wall shear stress (WSS), and WSS-related indices. Results showed that PFS intervention preserves the effects of high flowrate and decreases irregular flow recirculation in the sac of the aneurysm. The flow velocity reduction inside the aneurysm sac is in the range of 55% to 80% and the time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS) reduction is in the range of 42% to 53% by PFS deployment. The simulation results implies that PFS could heal an aneurysm efficiently with a mechanism that causes the development of thrombus and ultimately leads to aneurysm resorption.
Effects of Near-Wall Streamwise Vortex on the Film Cooling Performance of a Fan-Shaped Hole
Authors: Cui Xiaofeng , Dai Ren , Liu Pengmin , Lin Chixiang
Published: March 2022

Fan-shaped hole is a typical shaped hole frequently used in gas turbine film cooling, which may operate in a complex vortical flow environment of turbine blade rows. It is critical to understand the destructive mechanism of the film cooling by near-wall vortex on the endwall surface. A vortex generator (VG) was installed in front of a discrete fan-shaped hole to produce a vortical environment on a flat plate. Heat transfer effects were experimentally studied for mainstream velocities of 20 m/s by measuring the adiabatic film cooling effectiveness at blowing ratios M = 0.5 to 2.5. Fluid dynamics effects of vortical upwash and downwash movements were numerically analyzed. Results show that near-wall streamwise vortex destroys the film flow and intensifies the mixing of hot gas and coolant flow, which leads to the deterioration of film cooling performance. Film coverage area varies remarkably with respect to the positions of streamwise vortex. An efficient blowing ratio has a strong ability to mitigate the influence of near-wall vortex. At M = 2.5, streamwise vortex can restrain liftoff tendency of coolant jet and retard the decrease of film cooling effects.
Performance Comparison of a Microchannel Heat Sink Using Different Nano-Liquid Metal Fluid Coolant: A Numerical Study
Authors: Khan Yasin , Sarowar Md Tanbir , Mobarrat Mahir , Rahman Md. Hamidur
Published: March 2022

This article presents performance comparison between different liquid metal-based nanofluids termed as nano-liquid metal fluids in a microchannel heat sink to achieve ultimate cooling solutions without sacrificing the compact structure and heavy computing speed. The hydraulic and thermal performance of nanofluids having five different liquid metals (Ga, GaIn, EGaIn, GaSn, and EGaInSn) as base fluid and four different nanoparticles (carbon nanotube (CNT), Al2O3, Cu, and diamond) as solute are evaluated comparing with water-based nanofluids. Three-dimensional flow inside miniaturized channels are predicted using single-phase and two-phase numerical simulations. Numerical models are validated against data obtained from experimental studies from the literature. Three different grids are developed, and several element sizes were compared to obtain the grid independence. Upon evaluation, the study can point out that liquid metal-based nanofluids can generate much superior heat transport characteristics with more than 3.41 times higher heat transfer coefficient compared to conventional water-based nanofluids. GaIn–CNT combination exhibits the best thermal solution possible with a heat transfer coefficient increment of 2.68%, 17.19%, 22.16%, and 2.62% over CNT particle-based EGaIn, EGaInSn, Ga, GaSn liquid metal, respectively, for Re = 750. Considering hydraulic performance, performance evaluation criterion (PEC) has been introduced and Ga-based nanofluids are found to be most effective in this perspective. The effect on overall cooling effectiveness has also been carried out with a detailed particle concentration study. This study paves the pathway of using these extraordinary coolants in mini/microchannel heat sinks.
Application of Computational Fluid Dynamics and Process Modeling to Investigate Low-Load Operation of a Subcritical Utility-Scale Boiler
Authors: Rawlins Brad T. , Laubscher Ryno , Rousseau Pieter
Published: March 2022

To enable the inclusion of intermittent renewable energy sources on existing power grids requires base-load coal-fired power plants to operate flexibly, including fast load changes and continuous low-load operation. Low-load operation of a 620 MWe subcritical boiler is analyzed with the aid of a cosimulation methodology that incorporates a detailed 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model together with a one-dimensional process model. A discretized one-dimensional model of the water/steam circuit was developed for the furnace, the radiant superheaters, and the convective/back pass heat exchangers. This is coupled with a detailed CFD model incorporating the furnace and radiant superheaters using an Eulerian–Eulerian reference frame. The coupled model is used to investigate the combustion stability, water/steam side effects, and the radiant heat-exchanger operational limits for six different burner firing arrangements at a low boiler load of 32% of maximum continuous rating. The results show that certain firing arrangements can lead to a high risk of fire-side corrosion and overheating of heat-exchanger components. Based on the analyses of combustion stability, boiler efficiency, and the safe operation of heat-exchanger components, a mixed firing arrangement with a higher secondary air mass flowrate for nonfiring burners was selected as the best operational strategy at this low load for the boiler under investigation.
An Approach to Extracting Intersecting Features From 2-D CAD
Authors: Ganesan Rajan , Devarajan Venkat
Published: March 2022

This paper describes a promising approach to solve one of the outstanding research issues in feature-based CAD — the problem of intersecting features. Feature extraction is important from several standpoints — automated process planning and NC machining, automated assembly and virtual prototyping. Conventional CAD (like 2-D CAD, 3-D CSG and BRep) do not contain feature data. Feature extraction has had limited success in extraing a partial list of non-intersecting features. The remaining intersecting features cannot be recognized as generic features in a typical feature database. Hence, techniques must be developed to extract intersecting features and identify them as combinations of standard features. Our methods of intersecting feature extraction are different from current methods in that they operate on 2-D projections of 3-D parts as input data, thus obviating analysis in complex 3-D space. Preliminary and encouraging results from extraction of simple intersecting features are presented in this paper.
Feature-Based Design in an Integrated CAD/CAM System for Design for Manufacturability of Machining Prismatic Parts
Authors: Lu Wen F. , Modi Ronak
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we put forth an approach of incorporating manufacturing knowledge in the design cycle for an integrated CAD/CAM system for design for manufacturability based on feature-based design. This system is intended to assist the designer to evaluate the design from the manufacturing point of view from the start of the product design cycle. The proposed system is composed of three major modules: design module, interface module, and design for manufacturability module. The design module includes a 3D geometric modeler and a feature library with features that are created by a hybrid CSG, B-rep and sweep approach. The design is communicated to the design for manufacturability module by an interface module. The interface module maps design features into manufacturing features. This mapping involves certain geometric reasoning, and thus, the mapping module interacts considerably with the geometric modeler. The mapping results are then used by the design for manufacturability module to evaluate the manufacturability of the designed part. This paper focuses on how the CAD data from design module are transformed into information that can be used by the design for manufacturability. Only machining of prismatic parts are considered in this paper. An example is given to illustrate the use of the proposed system.
Conceptual Design Tool for the Systematic Design Method
Authors: Sieger David B. , Salmi Reino E.
Published: March 2022

The significance of activities performed during the initial design process stages suggests the need for supporting computer applications. Currently, such support is not available until the detailed design stage is reached. Although several models addressing activities occurring prior to this stage appear in the literature, these models are limited in their ability to be scaled up to real-world problems, integrated with existing tools, and/or provide guidance to participants. A window-based application for the conceptual design stage that effectively addresses these limitations is presented in this paper. Our approach is unique in that it combines existing methodologies for function and system decomposition in a way not previously considered, as well as facilitating the use of a design guidance mechanism. An example demonstrating the use of the resulting tool to a conceptual design problem is provided.
A Software Tool for Economic Input-Output Life-Cycle Assessment
Authors: Espinosa Octavio Juarez , Garrett James , Hendrickson Chris
Published: March 2022

Software tools can be used to apply green design guidelines during product and process design. However, most current design systems do not consider the environmental impacts over the life-cycle of a product. This paper describes a software tool to calculate indirect and direct estimates of toxic releases and other environmental impacts during a product life-cycle. This software implements the EIO-LCA method, provides a Graphical User Interface (GUI) and includes some new features to facilitate the application of this method EIO-LCA is a life-cycle assessment method based upon economic input-output matrix models of the entire economy and, depending upon user needs, specific products or processes. The system architecture is presented and a session with the system is described. Future research directions and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages are also included.