bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities and Challenges for Gut Microbiota in Acute Leukemia
Authors: Ma Tao , Chen Yan , Li Li-Juan , Zhang Lian-Sheng
Published: July 2021

Acute leukemia (AL) is a highly heterogeneous hematologic malignancy, and although great progress has been made in the treatment of AL with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Allo-HSCT) and new targeted drugs, problems such as infection and GVHD in AL treatment are still serious. How to reduce the incidence of AL, improve its prognosis and reduce the side effects of treatment is a crucial issue. The gut microbiota plays an important role in regulating disease progression, pathogen colonization, and immune responses. This article reviews recent advances in the gut microbiota and AL pathogenesis, infection, treatment and its role in allo-HSCT.
The Wild Sugarcane and Sorghum Kinomes: Insights Into Expansion, Diversification, and Expression Patterns
Authors: Aono Alexandre Hild , Pimenta Ricardo José Gonzaga , Garcia Ana Letycia Basso , Correr Fernando Henrique , Hosaka Guilherme Kenichi , Carrasco Marishani Marin , Cardoso-Silva Cláudio Benício , Mancini Melina Cristina , Sforça Danilo Augusto , dos Santos Lucas Borges , Nagai James Shiniti , Pinto Luciana Rossini , Landell Marcos Guimarães de Andrade , Carneiro Monalisa Sampaio , Balsalobre Thiago Willian , Quiles Marcos Gonçalves , Pereira Welison Andrade , Margarido Gabriel Rodrigues Alves , de Souza Anete Pereira
Published: July 2021

The protein kinase (PK) superfamily is one of the largest superfamilies in plants and the core regulator of cellular signaling. Despite this substantial importance, the kinomes of sugarcane and sorghum have not been profiled. Here, we identified and profiled the complete kinomes of the polyploid Saccharum spontaneum (Ssp) and Sorghum bicolor (Sbi), a close diploid relative. The Sbi kinome was composed of 1,210 PKs; for Ssp, we identified 2,919 PKs when disregarding duplications and allelic copies, and these were related to 1,345 representative gene models. The Ssp and Sbi PKs were grouped into 20 groups and 120 subfamilies and exhibited high compositional similarities and evolutionary divergences. By utilizing the collinearity between the species, this study offers insights into Sbi and Ssp speciation, PK differentiation and selection. We assessed the PK subfamily expression profiles via RNA-Seq and identified significant similarities between Sbi and Ssp. Moreover, coexpression networks allowed inference of a core structure of kinase interactions with specific key elements. This study provides the first categorization of the allelic specificity of a kinome and offers a wide reservoir of molecular and genetic information, thereby enhancing the understanding of Sbi and Ssp PK evolutionary history.
Fine Mapping of a Novel Major Quantitative Trait Locus, qPAA7, That Controls Panicle Apical Abortion in Rice
Authors: Wang Xiaolei , Li Lingfeng , Sun Xiaotang , Xu Jie , Ouyang Linjuan , Bian Jianmin , Chen Xiaorong , Li Weixing , Peng Xiaosong , Hu Lifang , Cai Yicong , Zhou Dahu , He Xiaopeng , Fu Junru , Fu Haihui , He Haohua , Zhu Changlan
Published: July 2021

The panicle apical abortion (PAA) causes severe yield losses in rice production, but details about its development and molecular basis remain elusive. Here, we detected PAA quantitative trait loci (QTLs) in three environments using a set of chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs) that was constructed with indica Changhui121 as the recurrent parent and japonica Koshihikari as the donor parent. First, we identified a novel major effector quantitative trait locus, qPAA7, and selected a severe PAA line, CSSL176, which had the highest PAA rate among CSSLs having Koshihikari segments at this locus. Next, an F2 population was constructed from a cross between CSS176 and CH121. Using F2 to make recombinantion analysis, qPAA7 was mapped to an 73.8-kb interval in chromosome 7. Among nine candidate genes within this interval, there isn’t any known genes affecting PAA. According to the gene annotation, gene expression profile and alignment of genomic DNA, LOC_Os07g41220 and LOC_Os07g41280 were predicted as putative candidate genes of qPAA7. Our study provides a foundation for cloning and functional characterization of the target gene from this locus.
Mistrust and Beliefs in Conspiracy Theories Differently Mediate the Effects of Psychological Factors on Propensity for COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Simione Luca , Vagni Monia , Gnagnarella Camilla , Bersani Giuseppe , Pajardi Daniela
Published: July 2021

Vaccination is considered a key factor in the sanitary resolution of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, vaccine hesitancy can undermine its diffusion with severe consequences on global health. While beliefs in conspiracy theories, mistrust in science and in policymakers, and mistrust in official information channels may also increment vaccine hesitancy, understanding their psychological causes could improve our capacity to respond to the pandemic. Thus, we designed a cross-sectional study with the aim of probing vaccine propensity in the Italian population and explored its relationship with sociodemographic and psychological variables, and with misbeliefs in COVID-19. A battery of questionnaires was administered to a sample of 374 Italian adults during the first national lockdown (April 2020). The materials included an original instrument—Beliefs in COVID-19 Inventory—and questionnaires measuring perceived stress, anxiety, death anxiety, psychological distress, psychoticism, paranoia, anger, and somatization. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) on Beliefs in COVID-19 suggested the existence of three factors: belief in conspiracy theories, mistrust in medical information, and mistrust in medicine and science. These factors were positively correlated with female sex, age, religious beliefs, psychiatric conditions, and psychological variables, while negatively correlated with education levels. We conducted a mediation analysis by means of a structural equation model, including psychological factors as predictors, beliefs in COVID-19 scales as mediators, and vaccine propensity as an outcome. The model showed that death anxiety had a direct positive effect on the propensity to get vaccinated. It also showed that death anxiety reduced the propensity to get vaccinated through a mediated path in believing in conspiracy theories, whereas paranoia was linked to a reduction in vaccination adherence with the mediation effect of mistrust in medical science. Psychological distress reduced vaccination propensity by increasing both conspiracy beliefs and mistrust. On the other hand, anxiety increased the propensity to get vaccinated through a decrease in both belief in conspiracy theories and mistrust in science. Our results suggest that psychological dimensions are differentially related to belief in conspiracy theories, to mistrust in science, and to the propensity to get vaccinated. Based on this result, we propose an original interpretation of how conspiracy beliefs build on a paranoid and suspicious attitude. We also discuss the possible clinical implications of treatment for such pathological beliefs.
Entrepreneurship for People With Disabilities: From Skills to Social Value
Authors: Ortiz García Pilar , Olaz Capitán Ángel José
Published: July 2021

Entrepreneurship has undoubted social value as it contributes to socio-economic development of the context where entrepreneurship takes place. When the entrepreneurial activity is undertaken among especially vulnerable groups in the labor market, the multiplying effect of this value is made explicit in society, in general, and in the collective of people with disabilities (PWDs), in particular. The objective of this research study is to explore under which conditions this happens through the analysis not only of the relationship between the competencies that PWDs attribute to themselves and their development of the entrepreneurial activity but also of that between entrepreneurship and certain conditions that potentially create value by increasing the autonomy among this collective. A quantitative methodology based on the analysis of the survey carried out on a sample of 224 entrepreneurs with physical, sensory, or organic disabilities throughout Spain has been used. According to the results, entrepreneurs with disabilities (EWDs) have a higher self-evaluation competency. Furthermore, significant results concerning the link between the form of autonomous cohabitation of this collective and entrepreneurship have been obtained.
Reduced Cell-Free Mitochondrial DNA Levels Were Induced by Antipsychotics Treatment in First-Episode Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Ouyang Houxian , Huang Minfang , Xu Yongming , Yao Qin , Wu Xiangping , Zhou Dongsheng
Published: July 2021

Cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cf-mtDNA) is a damage-associated molecular pattern that boosts the release of cytokines and induces the immune response of the body; therefore, it is closely related to mental diseases. This study aims to evaluate a potential link between cf-mtDNA and clinical progression in first-episode patients with schizophrenia. In this study, plasma cf-mtDNA levels in 34 first-episode patients with schizophrenia before and after 8 weeks of antipsychotic treatment were examined. In addition, the clinical progression of first-episode schizophrenia was assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). The copy number changes in the plasma cf-mtDNA (Δcf-mtDNA) were significantly correlated with changes in the PANSS scale scores (ΔPANSS) in first-episode patients with schizophrenia (ΔPANSS total score, P = 0.002; ΔPANSS positive score, P = 0.01). Plasma cf-mtDNA may represent a relevant tool in the future to assist in the assessment of clinical progression in first-episode patients with schizophrenia.
Factors Behind the Higher COVID-19 Risk in Diabetes: A Critical Review
Authors: Magdy Beshbishy Amany , Oti Victor B. , Hussein Diaa E. , Rehan Ibrahim F. , Adeyemi Oluyomi S. , Rivero-Perez Nallely , Zaragoza-Bastida Adrian , Shah Muhammad Ajmal , Abouelezz Khaled , Hetta Helal F. , Cruz-Martins Natália , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: July 2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are public health issues worldwide, and their comorbidities trigger the progress to severe disease and even death in such patients. Globally, DM has affected an estimated 9.3% adults, and as of April 18, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 141,727,940 COVID-19 confirmed cases. The virus is spread via droplets, aerosols, and direct touch with others. Numerous predictive factors have been linked to COVID-19 severity, including impaired immune response and increased inflammatory response, among others. Angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme 2 have also been identified as playing a boosting role in both susceptibility and severity to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Specifically, in DM patients, both their control and management during this pandemic is herculean as the restriction periods have markedly hampered the maintenance of means to control glycemia, hypertension, and neuroendocrine and kidney diseases. In addition, as a result of the underlyin cardio-metabolic and immunological disorders, DM patients are at a higher risk of developing the severe form of COVID-19 despite other comorbidities, such as hypertension, also potentially boosting the development of higher COVID-19 severity. However, even in non-DM patients, SARS-CoV-2 may also cause transient hyperglycemia through induction of insulin resistance and/or pancreatic β-cell injury. Therefore, a strict glucose monitoring of DM patients with COVID-19 is mandatory to prevent life-threatening complications.
Consumer Privacy Protection With the Growth of AI-Empowered Online Shopping Based on the Evolutionary Game Model
Authors: Wang Su , Chen Zhuo , Xiao Yi , Lin Chunyu
Published: July 2021

Social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic has driven some consumers to online shopping, and concerns about pandemic risks and personal hygiene have increased the demand for e-commerce. Providing personalized recommendations seems quite profitable for e-commerce platforms, and consumers also benefit from personalized content with the advancement of AI technologies. However, this possible win-win situation is marred by the increase in consumers' privacy concerns. Technical solutions have been widely studied to protect consumer privacy, while few analyses have been conducted from the perspective of psychological and behavioral implications. In this paper, an evolutionary game model of privacy protection between e-commerce platforms and consumers is established to determine the mechanisms by which various factors exert influence, and evolutionary stable strategies are obtained from equilibrium points. Then, the strategy selections are simulated with MATLAB 2020 software. Based on the results, the following conclusions are drawn: (1) the application of AI technologies in e-commerce will fundamentally benefit consumers, which makes them actively share personal information with e-commerce platforms with incentives for generous rewards; (2) it is profitable for e-commerce platforms to conduct data mining by improving the ability to use AI technologies and making efforts to reduce technical costs; and (3) regulators should improve the level of supervision instead of imposing a large penalty to enhance consumer trust, which could effectively increase the profits of e-commerce platforms and protect consumers' privacy.
A Mismatch in Future Narratives? A Comparative Analysis Between Energy Futures in Policy and of Citizens
Authors: Haarbosch Simone W. , Kaufmann Maria , Veenman Sietske
Published: July 2021

In the Netherlands, one of the goals of the energy transition is to expand the energy neutrality of houses up to 1.5 million houses until 2030. Citizens are expected to play an important role in this process, but the implementation is hampering, as citizens do not take up this role, for example, installing solar panels. Policy documents tend to anticipate futures changes from an economic rationale, which tends to align more clearly with the anticipated futures of higher educated, financially wealthy households. So, in a broader perspective, it is unclear how the future desires and expectations of citizens are represented in policy. Often, policies focus on the implementation of best-practices, in contrast, this study investigated in the potential mismatches between futures of citizens and environmental policies. As (policy) narratives of the future are performative, excluding certain stakeholders' perceptions might lead to energy injustice and could jeopardize the implementation of the energy transition. Indeed, expectations and desires of citizens seem not to be considered as they are based on different rationales (e.g., clean, green, safe living environment). This paper aims to analyse the future “narrative mismatches” (Ottinger, 2017) in the context of the energy transition in the Netherlands. Therefore, we combine a futures perspective, which distinguishes between expected, desired, and strategic future; and an energy justice perspective as we want to analyse how different issues of energy justice are recognized in these future narratives. Our research question is “How do policy future narratives on energy relate to future narratives that are important to citizens' everyday life in the Netherlands?” A narrative approach had been chosen to conduct a comparative analysis between a set of policy documents and the narratives of 30 local citizens. We identified several future narrative mismatches, which can be distinguished in two main types: (1) opposing mismatches, where policy narratives and narratives of citizens anticipate antagonistic futures, and (2) disconnected mismatches, where the mismatch emerges because narratives do not engage with each other and focus on different issues. These mismatches of anticipated futures might create challenges for the implementation of the energy transition characterized by just decision-making and a fair distribution of burdens and benefits.
Design and Simulation of Novel 3-DOF Spherical Voice Coil Motor
Authors: Lin Yi-Hsuan , Liu Chien-Sheng , Yeh Chiu-Nung
Published: July 2021

Multi-DOF motion is realized in the eyes and joints of robots mostly through the combination of multiple one-degree-of-freedom (1-DOF) motors. However, this results in reduced efficiency, a large volume, reduced response speed, and inaccurate positioning. To solve these problems, this study proposes a novel 3-DOF spherical voice coil motor (VCM). In this VCM, 16 coils and a radially oriented ring magnet are used to generate a Lorentz force to achieve motion. In particular, coils for Z-axis rotation are sandwiched between the coils for X- and Y-axis rotation. Furthermore, the proposed VCM can achieve 360° rotation about the Z-axis. The commercial software ANSYS was used to design and verify the performance of the proposed VCM. Simulation results indicate that this VCM affords improved power efficiency because only a suitable combination of coils, rather than all coils, needs to be powered on. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed 3-DOF spherical VCM.
Two Distinct Soil Disinfestations Differently Modify the Bacterial Communities in a Tomato Field
Authors: Nakayasu Masaru , Ikeda Kyoko , Yamazaki Shinichi , Aoki Yuichi , Yazaki Kazufumi , Washida Haruhiko , Sugiyama Akifumi
Published: July 2021

Reductive soil disinfestation (RSD) and soil solarization (SS) were evaluated based on environmental factors, microbiome, and suppression of Fusarium oxysporum in a tomato field soil. Soil environmental factors (moisture content, electric conductivity, pH, and redox potential (RP)) were measured during soil disinfestations. All factors were more strongly influenced by RSD than SS. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing of RSD- and SS-treated soils was performed. The bacterial communities were taxonomically and functionally distinct depending on treatment methods and periods and significantly correlated with pH and RP. Fifty-four pathways predicted by PICRUSt2 (third level in MetaCyc hierarchy) were significantly different between RSD and SS. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that both treatments equally suppressed F. oxysporum. The growth and yield of tomato cultivated after treatments were similar between RSD and SS. RSD and SS shaped different soil bacterial communities, although the effects on pathogen suppression and tomato plant growth were comparable between treatments. The existence of pathogen-suppressive microbes, other than Clostridia previously reported to have an effect, was suggested. Comparison between RSD and SS provides new aspects of unknown disinfestation patterns and the usefulness of SS as an alternative to RSD.
Effects of Sowing Mode on Lodging Resistance and Grain Yield in Winter Wheat
Authors: Wu Lifeng , Han Xiaowei , Islam Shahidul , Zhai Shengnan , Zhao Hui , Zhang Guoshun , Cui Gangzhu , Zhang Feng , Han Wenliang , You Xiaosheng , Ju Zhengchun , Lv Peng , Zhou Jiangming , Gao Qi , Cui Baoming , Wu Yanfang , Yang Zhichao , Liu Qier , Yang Fan , Zhang Jingjuan , Liu Hang
Published: July 2021

For improving lodging resistance and increasing grain yield in wheat in the Yellow-Huai River Basin in China, different sowing modes have been investigated. Conventionally, the small-flat-plot sowing mode has been adopted in wheat cultivation. However, this sowing mode leads to heavy lodging and low land use efficiency. In this study, a new sowing mode, high-low-plot sowing mode with two more rows sowed on the high plot, was investigated. Two cultivars, Hengguan 35 and Jimai 44 were used for two seasonal field experiments from 2018 to 2020. The results showed that grain yield improved with the high-low sowing mode by as much as 25% since more spikes per unit area were observed concomitant with reduced stem lodging. The grain yield increase was mainly due to the enhanced spike number per m2, while the lodging resistance was improved through the lowered plant height and the center of gravity height. This research proves that the high-low-plot sowing mode is an improved sowing mode for producing greater grain yield with better lodging resistance in the wheat production area in northern China.
Global Optimization of Cultivar Trait Parameters in the Simulation of Sugarcane Phenology Using Gaussian Process Emulation
Authors: Bandara W. B. M. A. C. , Sakai Kazuhito , Nakandakari Tamotsu , Kapetch Preecha , Anan Mitsumasa , Nakamura Shinya , Setouchi Hideki , Rathnappriya R. H. K.
Published: July 2021

The global optimization of parameters in process-based crop models is often considered computationally expensive. Gaussian process (GP) emulation is a widely used method for reducing the computational burden of the optimization process. Total above-ground biomass and cane dry weight of three Thai sugarcane cultivars (KK3, LK92-11 and 02-2-058) collected under rainfed and irrigated conditions were used to optimize cultivar-specific parameters in the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM)-Sugarcane crop model through a GP emulation. GP emulators were trained and validated to approximate APSIM-Sugarcane model and then used for optimizing the cultivar-specific parameters through the differential evolution algorithm. Resulting optimized parameters allowed to obtain simulations that quite well approximated the observed biomass and CDW (validation results between simulated and observed yields: R2 0.93–0.98; normalized root mean squared error: 5–22%; Willmott’s agreement index: 0.87–0.99). The best parametrization was obtained under the lowest water stressed conditions. Based on these results, we suggest that GP emulation can be efficiently implemented for the parameterization of computationally expensive simulators.
Oil Palm Inflorescence Sex Ratio and Fruit Set Assessment in dura × pisifera Biparental Progenies on Fibric Peat Soil
Authors: Swaray Senesie , Amiruddin Mohd Din , Rafii Mohd Y. , Jamian Syari , Ismail Mohd Firdaus , Jalloh Momodu , Eswa Mazli , Marjuni Marhalil , Akos Ibrahim Silas , Yusuff Oladosu
Published: July 2021

This study investigated oil palm inflorescence sex ratio (ISR) and fruit set (FS) yield among 24 dura × pisifera biparental progenies on fibric peat soil, hybridized from ten genetic origins. Three-month intervals of data collection on ISR and “S-shape” procedure for FS determination were carried out in an independent complete randomized design for one year. Based on the assessment of individual progenies, analysis of variance revealed the existence of genetic heterogeneity. Five of the progenies had the highest ISR above 90%. However, 20.83% of the progenies (PK4841, PK4674, ECPHP415, ECPHP550, and PK4118) had the best normal range of ISR, indicating FS declined being influenced by ISR. Therefore, only 12.50% of the progenies (PK4674, PK4465, and PK4482) were above 60% FS critical level. Correlation analysis verified that ISR depends on the female flower and progeny PK4674 (65.78%) and PK4465 (62.62%) had the best FS and fruit to bunch. Among the parental origins, Deli Serdang × Cameroon was statistically the best for male flower production at 29.40% and ISR at 72.22%. The highest FS was recorded in Deli Banting × AVROS (54.00%) and Angola × AVROS (53.78%). However, molecular research, such as microsatellite molecular markers if concurrently used as a selection criterion with the present conventional study, could present further details to complement the present findings.
Modulation of the Intestinal Microbiota by the Early Intervention with Clostridium Butyricum in Muscovy Ducks
Authors: Xiao Xingning , Fu Zixian , Li Na , Yang Hua , Wang Wen , Lyu Wentao
Published: July 2021

This study evaluated the effects of early intervention with Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum) on shaping the intestinal microbiota of Muscovy ducklings. A total of 160 1-day-old male ducks were randomly divided into two groups: the CB group was administered with 1 mL of C. butyricum (2 × 109 CFU/mL), while the C group was given 1 mL of saline. The administration lasted for 3 days. We found that C. butyricum had no significant effect on growth performance. The results indicated that inoculation with C. butyricum could significantly increase the abundance of genera Bacteroides, Lachnospiraceae_uncultured, and Ruminococcaceae on Day 14 and reduce the abundance of Escherichia–Shigella and Klebsiella on Days 1 and 3. Moreover, the CB group ducks had higher concentrations of acetic, propionic, and butyrate in the cecum than the C group. Overall, these results suggest that early intervention with C. butyricum could have positive effects on Muscovy ducks’ intestinal health, which might be attributed to the modulation in the intestinal microbial composition and the increased concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). C. butyricum might even have the potential to help the colonization of beneficial bacteria in the intestine microbiota in Muscovy ducks in poultry and other livestock.
Protective Effects of Fucoxanthin Dampen Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern (PAMP) Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Action and Elevated Intraocular Pressure by Activating Nrf2 Signaling and Generating Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Chen Shiu-Jau , Lin Tzer-Bin , Peng Hsien-Yu , Lin Cheng-Hsien , Lee An-Sheng , Liu Hsiang-Jui , Li Chun-Chieh , Tseng Kuang-Wen
Published: July 2021

Inflammation and oxidative stress are closely related processes in the pathogenesis of various ocular diseases. Uveitis is a disorder of the uvea and ocular tissues that causes extreme pain, decreases visual acuity, and can eventually lead to blindness. The pharmacological functions of fucoxanthin, isolated from brown algae, induce a variety of therapeutic effects such as oxidative stress reduction and repression of inflammation reactions. However, the specific anti-inflammatory effects of fucoxanthin on pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) lipopolysaccharide-induced uveitis have yet to be extensively described. Therefore, the aim of present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of fucoxanthin on uveitis in rats. The results showed that fucoxanthin effectively enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in ocular tissues. Furthermore, fucoxanthin significantly increased the ocular activities of superoxide dismutase and decreased the levels of malondialdehyde stimulated by PAMP-induced uveitis. Ocular hypertension and the levels of inflammatory cells and proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the aqueous humor were alleviated with fucoxanthin treatment. Consequently, compared to the observed effects in lipopolysaccharide groups, fucoxanthin treatment significantly preserved iris sphincter innervation and pupillary function. Additionally, PAMP-induced corneal endothelial disruption was significantly inhibited by fucoxanthin treatment. Overall, these findings suggest that fucoxanthin may protect against inflammation from PAMP-induced uveitis by promoting the Nrf2 pathway and inhibiting oxidative stress.
A Novel mRNA-Mediated and MicroRNA-Guided Approach to Specifically Eradicate Drug-Resistant Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines by Se-Methylselenocysteine
Authors: Selvam Arun Kumar , Jawad Rim , Gramignoli Roberto , Achour Adnane , Salter Hugh , Björnstedt Mikael
Published: July 2021

Despite progress in the treatment of non-visceral malignancies, the prognosis remains poor for malignancies of visceral organs and novel therapeutic approaches are urgently required. We evaluated a novel therapeutic regimen based on treatment with Se-methylselenocysteine (MSC) and concomitant tumor-specific induction of Kynurenine aminotransferase 1 (KYAT1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines, using either vector-based and/or lipid nanoparticle-mediated delivery of mRNA. Supplementation of MSC in KYAT1 overexpressed cells resulted in significantly increased cytotoxicity, due to ROS formation, as compared to MSC alone. Furthermore, microRNA antisense-targeted sites for miR122, known to be widely expressed in normal hepatocytes while downregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma, were added to specifically limit cytotoxicity in HCC cells, thereby limiting the off-target effects. KYAT1 expression was significantly reduced in cells with high levels of miR122 supporting the concept of miR-guided induction of tumor-specific cytotoxicity. The addition of alpha-ketoacid favored the production of methylselenol, enhancing the cytotoxic efficacy of MSC in HCC cells, with no effects on primary human hepatocytes. Altogether, the proposed regimen offers great potential to safely and specifically target hepatic tumors that are currently untreatable.
Kinematic Analysis and Performance Test of a 6-DOF Parallel Platform with Dense Ball Shafting as a Revolute Joint
Authors: Han Hasiaoqier , Zhang Yang , Zhang Hui , Han Chunyang , Li Ang , Xu Zhenbang
Published: July 2021

To meet the special requirements of the third mirror adjustment system for an optical telescope, a 6-P-RR-R-RR parallel platform using offset RR-joints is designed with high precision, a large load-to-size ratio and high stiffness. In order to improve the adjustment accuracy and the stiffness of the whole mechanism, each rotating joint in the subchain is designed as a zero-gap bead shaft system. When compared with a traditional Hooke joint, the offset RR joint has certain characteristics, including large carrying capacity and easy processing and adjustment, that effectively reduce the risk of interference with the joint during rotation and increase the working space of the entire machine. Because of the additional variables introduced by the offset joints, the kinematics problem becomes much more complicated. Regarding the P-RRRRR series subchain, the kinematics model is established using the Denavit–Hartenberg parameter method and then solved by the numerical iteration method. The stiffness of the parallel platform is analyzed and tested, including static and fundamental frequency. Motion performance testing of the parallel platform is performed.
On Combining DeepSnake and Global Saliency for Detection of Orchard Apples
Authors: Jing Wang , Leqi Wang , Yanling Han , Yun Zhang , Ruyan Zhou
Published: July 2021

For the fast detection and recognition of apple fruit targets, based on the real-time DeepSnake deep learning instance segmentation model, this paper provided an algorithm basis for the practical application and promotion of apple picking robots. Since the initial detection results have an important impact on the subsequent edge prediction, this paper proposed an automatic detection method for apple fruit targets in natural environments based on saliency detection and traditional color difference methods. Combined with the original image, the histogram backprojection algorithm was used to further optimize the salient image results. A dynamic adaptive overlapping target separation algorithm was proposed to locate the single target fruit and further to determine the initial contour for DeepSnake, in view of the possible overlapping fruit regions in the saliency map. Finally, the target fruit was labeled based on the segmentation results of the examples. In the experiment, 300 training datasets were used to train the DeepSnake model, and the self-built dataset containing 1036 pictures of apples in various situations under natural environment was tested. The detection accuracy of target fruits under non-overlapping shaded fruits, overlapping fruits, shaded branches and leaves, and poor illumination conditions were 99.12%, 94.78%, 90.71%, and 94.46% respectively. The comprehensive detection accuracy was 95.66%, and the average processing time was 0.42 s in 1036 test images, which showed that the proposed algorithm can effectively separate the overlapping fruits through a not-very-large training samples and realize the rapid and accurate detection of apple targets.
Detection and Evaluation of Machine Learning Bias
Authors: Alelyani Salem
Published: July 2021

Machine learning models are built using training data, which is collected from human experience and is prone to bias. Humans demonstrate a cognitive bias in their thinking and behavior, which is ultimately reflected in the collected data. From Amazon’s hiring system, which was built using ten years of human hiring experience, to a judicial system that was trained using human judging practices, these systems all include some element of bias. The best machine learning models are said to mimic humans’ cognitive ability, and thus such models are also inclined towards bias. However, detecting and evaluating bias is a very important step for better explainable models. In this work, we aim to explain bias in learning models in relation to humans’ cognitive bias and propose a wrapper technique to detect and evaluate bias in machine learning models using an openly accessible dataset from UCI Machine Learning Repository. In the deployed dataset, the potentially biased attributes (PBAs) are gender and race. This study introduces the concept of alternation functions to swap the values of PBAs, and evaluates the impact on prediction using KL divergence. Results demonstrate females and Asians to be associated with low wages, placing some open research questions for the research community to ponder over.
A Low-Cost Contactless Overhead Micrometer Surface Scanner
Authors: Zabulis Xenophon , Koutlemanis Panagiotis , Stivaktakis Nikolaos , Partarakis Nikolaos
Published: July 2021

The design and implementation of a contactless scanner and its software are proposed. The scanner regards the photographic digitization of planar and approximately planar surfaces and is proposed as a cost-efficient alternative to off-the-shelf solutions. The result is 19.8 Kppi micrometer scans, in the service of several applications. Accurate surface mosaics are obtained based on a novel image acquisition and image registration approach that actively seeks registration cues by acquiring auxiliary images and fusing proprioceptive data in correspondence and registration tasks. The device and operating software are explained, provided as an open prototype, and evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively.
Mechanistic Insight into SARS-CoV-2 Mpro Inhibition by Organoselenides: The Ebselen Case Study
Authors: Madabeni Andrea , Nogara Pablo Andrei , Omage Folorunsho Bright , Rocha João Batista Teixeira , Orian Laura
Published: July 2021

The main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 is a current target for the inhibition of viral replication. Through a combined Docking and Density Functional Theory (DFT) approach, we investigated in-silico the molecular mechanism by which ebselen (IUPAC: 2-phenyl-1,2-benzoselenazol-3-one), the most famous and pharmacologically active organoselenide, inhibits Mpro. For the first time, we report on a mechanistic investigation in an enzyme for the formation of the covalent -S-Se- bond between ebselen and a key enzymatic cysteine. The results highlight the strengths and weaknesses of ebselen and provide hints for a rational drug design of bioorganic selenium-based inhibitors.
Recognition of Vehicle License Plates Based on Image Processing
Authors: Kim Tae-Gu , Yun Byoung-Ju , Kim Tae-Hun , Lee Jae-Young , Park Kil-Houm , Jeong Yoosoo , Kim Hyun Deok
Published: July 2021

In this study, we have proposed an algorithm that solves the problems which occur during the recognition of a vehicle license plate through closed-circuit television (CCTV) by using a deep learning model trained with a general database. The deep learning model which is commonly used suffers with a disadvantage of low recognition rate in the tilted and low-resolution images, as it is trained with images acquired from the front of the license plate. Furthermore, the vehicle images acquired by using CCTV have issues such as limitation of resolution and perspective distortion. Such factors make it difficult to apply the commonly used deep learning model. To improve the recognition rate, an algorithm which is a combination of the super-resolution generative adversarial network (SRGAN) model, and the perspective distortion correction algorithm is proposed in this paper. The accuracy of the proposed algorithm was verified with a character recognition algorithm YOLO v2, and the recognition rate of the vehicle license plate image was improved 8.8% from the original images.
A Soil-Dependent Approach for the Design of Novel Negative Stiffness Seismic Protection Devices
Authors: Kapasakalis Konstantinos A. , Antoniadis Ioannis A. , Sapountzakis Evangelos J.
Published: July 2021

Conventional base isolation (BI) techniques require a great reduction in the fundamental frequency of the system in order to mitigate the structural dynamic responses due to earthquake excitations. However, the resulting base displacements are large and can cause utility connection problems, rendering BI inadequate for retrofitting. This paper proposes a vibration control system (VCS) that can be used as a supplement to the conventional BI to increase the effective damping, and thus reduce the required base displacements. A novel passive negative stiffness (NS)-based vibration absorber, based on the KDamper, is implemented in parallel to a BI. The design of the VCS follows a constrained optimization approach that accounts for geometrical and manufacturing limitations. The NS is realized with a realistic displacement-dependent mechanism that generates controlled NS. The VCS is designed for various soil-types in order to determine its effectiveness and soil-structure-interaction (SSI) effects are accounted with respect to the soil-type. The earthquake excitation input is selected according to the EC8 by generating a database of artificial accelerograms for each ground type. Finally, the VCS is compared to a conventional BI, and based on the numerical results obtained, the VCS is an effective alternative to BI and a possible retrofitting option.
Effects of Extender Type, Storage Time, and Temperature on Bull Semen Parameters
Authors: Fernandez-Novo Aitor , Santos-Lopez Sergio , Barrajon-Masa Clara , Mozas Patricia , de Mercado Eduardo , Caceres Elisa , Garrafa Aizic , Gonzalez-Martin Juan Vicente , Perez-Villalobos Natividad , Oliet Agustin , Astiz Susana , Perez-Garnelo Sonia Salome
Published: July 2021

Seminal parameters can be evaluated in situ, or samples can be delivered to a diagnostic centre. How storage conditions affect ejaculates up to evaluation is unclear. We assessed, in 25 commercial bulls electroejaculated in the field, the impact of time until evaluation (0–2 h, 4–6 h, and 24 h post-ejaculation), holding temperature (5 °C vs. room temperature), and extender (AndroMed®, BIOXcell® or INRA96®) on semen quality. Acrosome integrity, sperm viability and morphology, CASA-total and progressive motility, pH, and colony-forming units were assessed. Semen quality was preserved for up to 4–6 h post-ejaculation, except for INRA96® at 5 °C. Regardless of extender or temperature, motility decreased from 4 to 6 h up to 24 h, with the best values obtained with BIOXcell® at 5 °C. pH differed from 4 to 6 h up to 24 h, acidifying when stored at room temperature. Microbiological load was stable over time with AndroMed® and BIOXcell®, and increased at room temperature with INRA96®. Our results suggest that AndroMed® and BIOXcell® can preserve semen quality for up to 6 h, either at 5 °C or room temperature, while INRA96® only at room temperature. These results help to fix adequate protocols for short-term storage and shipment of bovine semen collected under field conditions.
Stochastic Dynamic Analysis of Cultural Heritage Towers up to Collapse
Authors: Kouris Emmanouil-Georgios S. , Kouris Leonidas-Alexandros S. , Konstantinidis Avraam A. , Kourkoulis Stavros K. , Karayannis Chris G. , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: July 2021

This paper deals with the seismic vulnerability of monumental unreinforced masonry (URM) towers, the fragility of which has not yet been sufficiently studied. Thus, the present paper fills this gap by developing models to investigate the seismic response of URM towers up to collapse. On mount Athos, Greece, there exist more than a hundred medieval towers, having served mainly as campaniles or fortifications. Eight representative towers were selected for a thorough investigation to estimate their seismic response characteristics. Their history and architectural features are initially discussed and a two-step analysis follows: (i) limit analysis is performed to estimate the collapse mechanism and the locations of critical cracks, (ii) non-linear explicit dynamic analyses are then carried out, developing finite element (FE) simulations, with cracks modelled as interfacial surfaces to derive the capacity curves. A meaningful definition of the damage states is proposed based on the characteristics of their capacity curves, with the ultimate limit state related to collapse. The onset of slight damage-state is characterised by the formation and development of cracks responsible for the collapse mechanism of the structure. Apart from these two, another two additional limit states are also specified: the moderate damage-state and the extensive one. Fragility and vulnerability curves are finally generated which can help the assessment and preservation of cultural heritage URM towers.
Towards Sustainable Construction Practices: How to Reinvigorate Vernacular Buildings in the Digital Era?
Authors: Priavolou Christina , Tsiouris Nikiforos , Niaros Vasilis , Kostakis Vasilis
Published: July 2021

The starting point of this article is the critique on socioeconomic and environmental implications of conventional construction practices around sustainability. The focus is on exploring the sustainability dynamics of the emerging “Design Global, Manufacture Local” (DGML) configuration with emphasis on building construction. Combined with the concept of conviviality which we identify in aspects of vernacular architecture we explore how it can foster meaningful sustainability practices in the construction sector. We introduce a framework of “open construction systems”, an expression of DGML in building construction, as a way to foster the conjunctive use of the digital commons and local manufacturing technologies for the construction of buildings through three interlocked elements—modularity, sharing and adaptability. We suggest that the “open construction systems” framework may point towards more sustainability in building construction.
Critical Review of Polymeric Building Envelope Materials: Degradation, Durability and Service Life Prediction
Authors: Riahinezhad Marzieh , Hallman Madeleine , Masson J-F.
Published: July 2021

This paper provides a critical review of the degradation, durability and service life prediction (SLP) of polymeric building envelope materials (BEMs), namely, claddings, air/vapour barriers, insulations, sealants, gaskets and fenestration. The rate of material deterioration and properties determine the usefulness of a product; therefore, knowledge of the significant degradation mechanisms in play for BEMs is key to the design of proper SLP methods. SLP seeks to estimate the life expectancy of a material/component exposed to in-service conditions. This topic is especially important with respect to the potential impacts of climate change. The surrounding environment of a building dictates the degradation mechanisms in play, and as climate change progresses, material aging conditions become more unpredictable. This can result in unexpected changes and/or damages to BEMs, and shorter than expected SL. The development of more comprehensive SLP methods is economically and environmentally sound, and it will provide more confidence, comfort and safety to all building users. The goal of this paper is to review the existing literature in order to identify the knowledge gaps and provide suggestions to address these gaps in light of the rapidly evolving climate.
Experimental and Theoretical Studies of Sonically Prepared Cu–Y, Cu–USY and Cu–ZSM-5 Catalysts for SCR deNOx
Authors: Jodłowski Przemysław J. , Czekaj Izabela , Stachurska Patrycja , Kuterasiński Łukasz , Chmielarz Lucjan , Jędrzejczyk Roman J. , Jeleń Piotr , Sitarz Maciej , Górecka Sylwia , Mazur Michal , Kurzydym Izabela
Published: July 2021

The objective of our study was to prepare Y-, USY- and ZSM-5-based catalysts by hydrothermal synthesis, followed by copper active-phase deposition by either conventional ion-exchange or ultrasonic irradiation. The resulting materials were characterized by XRD, BET, SEM, TEM, Raman, UV-Vis, monitoring ammonia and nitrogen oxide sorption by FT-IR and Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS). XRD data confirmed the purity and structure of the Y/USY or ZSM-5 zeolites. The nitrogen and ammonia sorption results indicated that the materials were highly porous and acidic. The metallic active phase was found in the form of cations in ion-exchanged zeolites and in the form of nanoparticle metal oxides in sonochemically prepared catalysts. The latter showed full activity and high stability in the SCR deNOx reaction. The faujasite-based catalysts were fully active at 200–400 °C, whereas the ZSM-5-based catalysts reached 100% activity at 400–500 °C. Our in situ DRIFTS experiments revealed that Cu–O(NO) and Cu–NH3 were intermediates, also indicating the role of Brønsted sites in the formation of NH4NO3. Furthermore, the results from our experimental in situ spectroscopic studies were compared with DFT models. Overall, our findings suggest two possible mechanisms for the deNOx reaction, depending on the method of catalyst preparation (i.e., conventional ion-exchange vs. ultrasonic irradiation).
Association between miRNA Target Sites and Incidence of Primary Osteoarthritis in Women from Volga-Ural Region of Russia: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Tyurin Anton , Shapovalova Daria , Gantseva Halida , Pavlov Valentin , Khusainova Rita
Published: July 2021

Over the past decades, numerous studies on the genetic markers of osteoarthritis (OA) have been conducted. MiRNA targets sites are a promising new area of research. In this study, we analyzed the polymorphic variants in 3′ UTR regions of COL1A1, COL11A1, ADAMTS5, MMP1, MMP13, SOX9, GDF5, FGF2, FGFR1, and FGFRL1 genes to examine the association between miRNA target site alteration and the incidence of OA in women from the Volga-Ural region of Russia using competitive allele-specific PCR. The T allele of the rs9659030 was associated with generalized OA (OR = 2.0), whereas the C allele of the rs229069 was associated with total OA (OR = 1.43). The T allele of the rs13317 was associated with the total OA (OR = 1.67). After Benjamini-Hochberg correction, only rs13317 remained statistically significant. According to ethnic heterogeneity, associations between the T allele (rs1061237) with OA in women of Russian descent (OR = 1.77), the G allele (rs6854081) in women of Tatar descent (OR = 4.78), the C allele (rs229069) and the T allele (rs73611720) in women of mixed descent and other ethnic groups (OR = 2.25 and OR = 3.02, respectively) were identified. All associations remained statistically significant after Benjamini-Hochberg correction. Together, this study identified miRNA target sites as a genetic marker for the development of OA in various ethnic groups.