bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Improved Vector Control Strategy for Switched Reluctance Motor Drive Based on the Two-Degree-of-Freedom Internal Model Control
Authors: Liu Di , Wang Guofeng , Liu Jian , Fan Yunsheng , Mu Dongdong
Published: May 2022

The unipolar sinusoidal current excited control strategy of the switched reluctance motor (SRM) has been widely attended for its wide driving area and acceptable torque ripple. However, due to the SRM’s time-varying, non-linear, and high coupling features, the traditional vector control strategies are unable to provide excellent current control performance. In this paper, a novel vector control method based on a two-degree-of-freedom internal model control (2DOF IMC) is proposed. The main objectives of this article are to improve the control precision and to enhance the system’s robustness. Firstly, considering the non-linear characteristics of the system in the rotating reference frame, a 2DOF IMC controller based on a simplified SRM model is designed and the stability analysis of the controller is implemented. Since the time-varying disturbance cannot be effectively eliminated using the 2DOF IMC with constant filter parameters, a simple adaptive disturbance observer (ADO) is incorporated into the inner-loop system to online estimate and eliminate these disturbances. Moreover, a stability analysis based on Lyapunov theory is also presented, and the ADO’s stability and convergence are guaranteed by tuning the adaption gain law. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is demonstrated by experiments, and the results illustrate that the proposed method can effectively improve the control and disturbance rejection performance of the SRM drives.
Modeling and Application of Dynamic Soaring by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Wang Wei , An Weigang , Song Bifeng
Published: May 2022

Albatross have a significant gliding ability called dynamic soaring. In the bionic study, dynamic soaring has a great potential to enhance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) flight range and endurance. The previous study on dynamic soaring mainly focused on the energy harvesting mechanism, trajectory optimization, and flight test. However, the longtime optimization became the challenge of the UAV dynamic soaring application. Similarly, due to the difficulty of the dynamic soaring test flight, both the feasibility of dynamic soaring application and the energy harvesting mechanism model’s accuracy lack validation. This paper proposes a new method to give a dynamic soaring trajectory, and a flight simulation program is built to realize the dynamic soaring flight test. The results show that the new method can guide the UAV to achieve dynamic soaring and verify the improvement of its flight performance through dynamic soaring. Meanwhile, the accuracy of the energy harvesting mechanism model is verified. The results indicate the indirect way to achieve the UAV dynamic soaring and provide a flight test foundation for a profound dynamic soaring mechanism study.
Different DNA Sequencing Using DNA Graphs: A Study
Authors: Alanazi Abdulaziz M. , Muhiuddin G. , Al-Balawi Doha A. , Samanta Sovan
Published: May 2022

Natural genetic material may shed light on gene expression mechanisms and aid in the detection of genetic disorders. Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP), small insertions and deletions (indels), and major chromosomal anomalies are all chromosomal abnormality-related disorders. As a result, several methods have been applied to analyze DNA sequences, which constitutes one of the most critical aspects of biological research. Thus, numerous mathematical and algorithmic contributions have been made to DNA analysis and computing. Cost minimization, deployment, and sensitivity analysis to many factors are all components of sequencing platforms built on a quantitative framework and their operating mechanisms. This study aims to investigate the role of DNA sequencing and its representation in the form of graphs in the analysis of different diseases by means of DNA sequencing.
Study on Surface Roughness of Sidewall When Micro-Milling LF21 Waveguide Slits
Authors: Lu Xiaohong , Hou Pengrong , Luan Yihan , Sun Xudong , Qiao Jinhui , Zhou Yu
Published: May 2022

The surface quality of the sidewall in waveguide antennae is important, especially surface roughness, which directly affects the electrical performance of the slotted waveguide antenna. Micro-milling is a potentially effective processing technique for the antenna. However, surface roughness has been difficult to guarantee within a reasonable accuracy range. In this study, orthogonal experiments of micro-milling LF21 waveguide slits were conducted. The results of the range analysis mainly sorted the factors that affected the surface roughness and also helped to determine how surface roughness could be kept at a minimum. The surface roughness was predicted by using the group method of data handling (GMDH). The importance of the applied GMDH was that it continuously adjusted the network structure according to the potential relationship between cutting parameters and the corresponding surface roughness, which helped determine the model most optimally fitted to the experimental data. This research can be used as a reference for selecting cutting parameters in micro-milling LF21.
Enhanced Discrimination of Seismic Geological Channels Based on Multi-Trace Variational Mode Decomposition
Authors: Leng Jiaxuan , Yu Zhichao , Wu Chaodong
Published: May 2022

The spectral decomposition is a valuable tool for improving the resolution of seismic interpretation, and thus can improve the accuracy of the subtle geo-features (thin and narrow channels, thin reservoirs, etc.). Variational mode decomposition (VMD) is an adaptive signal decomposition algorithm that non-recursively decomposes multicomponent signals into several band-limited intrinsic mode functions, which is competitive in enhancing time-frequency resolution. However, discontinuity is normally caused by the trace-by-trace process, making the 3D seismic interpretation difficult. To address this issue, we present a novel seismic geological channel detection method for 3D seismic dataset based on multi-trace variational mode decomposition (MTVMD). The proposed method decomposes the broadband seismic data into several intrinsic mode functions and then computes seismic attributes from each component for geological feature analysis. Further tested by field seismic case, the proposed method demonstrates strength in depicting the detailed edges and sedimentary signatures of paleochannels. Overall, the proposed method provides an alternative approach to identifying seismic channels, especially for the detailed portrayals of subtle geo-features in low-quality seismic data.
Mechanical Behavior of Large-Diameter Adjacent Shield Tunnelling Bridge Piles: A Case Study of Chunfeng Tunnel
Authors: Wu Jingang , Zhao Jinpeng , Tan Zhongsheng , Liu Xiangyu , Wang Xia , Liu Minggao
Published: May 2022

When a large-diameter shield crosses through bridge piles, stress and deformation of the bridge piles caused by tunnel excavation occurs. This is a an exciting topic of engineering research into the construction of subways. We considered an 15.8 m large-diameter shield machine made in China to excavate the Chunfeng tunnel as the background of our research. First, based on the previous engineering experience, reinforcement measures of the shield crossing the bridge piles were investigated. PLAXIS 3D finite element software was used to simulate the process of shield tunnelling through the piles of Hongling Interchange No. 1 Bridge. We analyzed the mechanical characteristics of the piles in the process of shield tunnelling through the bridge piles and evaluated the reliability of the reinforcement measures. Finally, combined with field monitoring data, the accuracy of the model and the rationality of the treatment measures were verified. This research considered a successful case of 15.8 m large-diameter adjacent shield tunnelling bridge piles. Analysis of the stratum and the mechanical behavior of bridge piles in the process of crossing provides a theoretical reference for engineering measures on similar projects in the future.
Impact of Flexibility on Vertical Jump, Balance and Speed in Amateur Football Players
Authors: Bogalho Daniel , Gomes Ricardo , Mendes Rui , Dias Gonçalo , Castro Maria António
Published: May 2022

Muscle strength, power, balance and speed assume decisive roles in football performance. This study aims to investigate whether lower limb flexibility, particularly the hip flexors and knee extensor and flexor muscles, are correlated with vertical jump performance, balance and speed in adult football players. A sample of 22 male amateur football players (age: 22.3 ± 3 years; height: 175.4 ± 7.4 cm; weight: 74.9 ± 11.6 kg; BMI: 24.2 ± 2.6 kg/m2) were assessed for lower limb flexibility, vertical jump, balance and speed. Results indicated that vertical jump ability is moderately correlated with left knee extensors flexibility (ρ = −0.426; p = 0.048), which did not occur on the right side. There were no statistically significant correlations between vertical jump and knee flexors flexibility (ρ = 0.330; p = 0.133). In balance, the reaching distance on the right side presented a moderate and statistically significant correlation with the knee flexors flexibility (ρ = 0.411; p = 0.040), which was not observed on the left side. Velocity was not correlated with the knee extensors flexibility (right: ρ = 0.360; p = 0.100; left: ρ = 0.386; p = 0.076), or with the knee flexors flexibility (ρ = −0.173; p = 0.440). In conclusion, the influence of flexibility on vertical jump ability, balance and speed appears to exist. Further research should seek to clarify the associations between these abilities.
Analysis of the Effect of Pore Structure on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete Based on the Meso Numerical Model
Authors: Yang Hao , Zhu Eryu , Liu Lei
Published: May 2022

In the research on the influence of pore structure on the macroscopic mechanical properties of concrete, the experimental method cannot realize the accurate control of the pore structure parameters, and the research based on the numerical simulation method is insufficient in the scientific simulation and parameterization of the complex pore structure. A new numerical concrete modeling method is proposed, which introduces the total porosity, pore gradation, pore size, and sub-porosity of each gradation segment to realize the accurate simulation and parameterization of the pore structure. Based on the control variable method, 25 concrete mesoscopic models with the same aggregate structure and different pore structures are established, and uniaxial tensile experiments are performed. The pore structure accelerates the process of damage expansion from the periphery to the center of the specimen and makes the damage inside the cement mortar more localized. There are obvious exponential function relationships of three pairs: total porosity and elastic modulus, PSSA and elastic modulus, and tensile strength and total porosity. There is an obvious quadratic polynomial function relationship between tensile strength and specific surface area. For specimens with the same aggregate structure and total porosity, the elastic modulus increases with the increase of the macropore content, and the tensile strength and elastic modulus are basically not affected by the average pore radius. The effect of pore space distribution and sub-porosity on peak strain is greater than that of total porosity, but no obvious regularity is shown. For pores with a radius in the range of 0.15–0.8 mm, the smaller the pores, the greater the effect of their porosity on the elastic modulus and tensile strength, and the less effect on the peak strain.
Enhancement of Radio Frequency Plasma Plume by Pulsed Plasma Bullet at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Han Qianhan , Guo Ying , Zhang Yarong , Zhang Jing , Shi Jianjun
Published: May 2022

An experimental study of a plasma plume generated by radio frequency atmospheric pressure glow discharge and enhanced in terms of plume length and intensity by pulsed discharge is presented. When injecting a pulsed plasma bullet into the radio frequency plasma plume, the length of the plasma plume into ambient air can be elongated from 2 mm to 6 mm and the intensity of the plasma plume can be elevated by four times. The propagation of the pulsed plasma bullet and the interaction with radio frequency discharge and plume are demonstrated by the temporal evolution of the discharge spatial appearance. The enhanced plasma plume is employed to improve the O/C ratio of carbon fiber, which is attributed to the synergistic effect of the radio frequency plasma plume and pulsed plasma bullet.
Time-Invariant Features-Based Online Learning for Long-Term Notification Management: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lee Jemin , Park Sihyeong , Kim Taeho , Kim Hyungshin
Published: May 2022

The increasing number of daily notifications generated by smartphones and wearable devices increases mental burdens, deteriorates productivity, and results in energy waste. These phenomena are exacerbated by emerging use cases in which users are wearing and using an increasing number of personal mobile devices, such as smartphones, smartwatches, AirPods, or tablets because all the devices can generate redundant notifications simultaneously. Therefore, in addition to distraction, redundant notifications triggered by multiple devices result in energy waste. Prior work proposed a notification management system called PASS, which automatically manipulates the occurrence of notifications based on personalized models. However, machine-learning-based models work poorly against new incoming notifications because prior work has not investigated behavior changes over time. To reduce the gap between modeling and real deployment when the model is to be used long-term, we conducted a longitudinal study with data collection over long-term periods. We collected an additional 11,258 notifications and analyzed 18,407 notifications, including the original dataset. The total study spans two years. Through a statistical test, we identified time-invariant features that can be fully used for training. To overcome the accuracy drop caused by newly occurring data, we design windowing time-invariant online learning (WTOL). In the newly collected dataset, WTOL improves the F-score of the original models based on batch learning from 44.3% to 69.0% by combining online learning and windowing features depending on time sensitivity.
Sequence Planner: A Framework for Control of Intelligent Automation Systems
Authors: Dahl Martin , Erős Endre , Bengtsson Kristofer , Fabian Martin , Falkman Petter
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a framework that tackles the challenges met in the development of automation systems featuring collaborative robotics and other machines that have some degree of autonomy. These machines rely on online algorithms for both sensing and acting in order to achieve a very high level of flexibility. To take advantage of these new machines and algorithms, control systems must also be increasingly flexible. In this paper, we present a framework for control of this new class of intelligent automation systems called Sequence Planner (SP), which helps with control of both traditional automation equipment and machines with autonomy. To aid the complex task of developing automation control solutions, SP relies on supporting algorithms for control logic synthesis and online planning. SP has been implemented with plug-in support for the Robot Operating System (ROS) and applied to an industrial demonstrator. We present our findings on how SP performed as a control system for this demonstrator, where we show that it is an adequate approach to implement automation for a highly flexible single station system. As a standardized way of automating such systems is missing, we hope that our contribution will provide a foundation for how to develop intelligent automation systems.
Domain Adversarial Network for Cross-Domain Emotion Recognition in Conversation
Authors: Ma Hongchao , Zhang Chunyan , Zhou Xiabing , Chen Junyi , Zhou Qinglei
Published: May 2022

Emotion Recognition in Conversation (ERC) aims to recognize the emotion for each utterance in a conversation automatically. Due to the difficulty of collecting and labeling, this task lacks the dataset corpora available on a large scale. This increases the difficulty of finishing the supervised training required by large-scale neural networks. Introducing the large-scale generative conversational dataset can assist with modeling dialogue. However, the spatial distribution of feature vectors in the source and target domains is inconsistent after introducing the external dataset. To alleviate the problem, we propose a Domain Adversarial Network for Cross-Domain Emotion Recognition in Conversation (DAN-CDERC) model, consisting of domain adversarial and emotion recognition models. The domain adversarial model consists of the encoders, a generator and a domain discriminator. First, the encoders and generator learn contextual features from a large-scale source dataset. The discriminator performs domain adaptation by discriminating the domain to make the feature space of the source and target domain consistent, so as to obtain domain invariant features. Then DAN-CDERC transfers the learned domain invariant dialogue context knowledge from the domain adversarial model to the emotion recognition model to assist in modeling the dialogue context. Due to the use of a domain adversarial network, DAN-CDERC obtains dialogue-level contextual information that is domain invariant, thereby reducing the negative impact of inconsistency in domain space. Empirical studies illustrate that the proposed model outperforms the baseline models on three benchmark emotion recognition datasets.
A Comparison of Three Culture Media for the Detection of Rapid-Growing Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Environmental Samples
Authors: Fisher Katherine E. , Chhabra Avneet K. , Wickenberg Leah P. , McCoy William F.
Published: May 2022

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are common in the environment and certain species can cause serious infections. Improved environmental surveillance methods are needed to combat the increased incidence of NTM disease. Recently, two methods were developed to improve NTM detection. The MYChrOme™ Culture Plate (patent-pending, Phigenics, LLC, Reno, NV, USA) is the first chromogenic medium for rapid-growing NTM detection in water samples. NTM Elite agar (Biomerieux, Marcy-l’Étoile, France), was developed for rapid-growing NTM detection in clinical samples. Fifty water samples (25 potable and 25 non-potable) with three technical replicates were analyzed by each method and Middlebrook 7H11 selective medium (7H11S) (ASTM E2563-07 method modified for water). The MYChrOme method was overall equivalent to or better than 7H11S medium and NTM Elite agar for the detection of rapid-growing NTM in potable water. All three methods detected similar amounts of NTM in non-potable water samples. The chromogenic property of MYChrOme allowed NTM colonies to be quickly identified and differentiated from other bacteria. Additional analysis is required for colony confirmation on 7H11S medium and NTM Elite agar. The use of innovative environmental NTM diagnostics, in addition to proper water management, can greatly reduce the risk of NTM disease.
Body and Mind, and Vice-Versa, or the Continuing Performative Sexual Revolution in Portuguese Arts
Authors: Madeira Claudia
Published: May 2022

In Everyday Life in the Modern World, first published in 1968, Henri Lefebvre presents the sexual revolution as the first instance of the cultural revolution. This aspect has remained one of the central themes of contemporary activism, often reflecting the relationship between social and artistic performance, between art and life or even presenting life as art. Hinged on this relationship, we will discuss some Portuguese art works produced between the 1960s and the present: from dictatorship into democracy. These works build a continuing thematic thread related to what has been termed the “intensification of bodies” but also, as we intend to explore in this article, to a necessary “intensification of minds”, concerning eroticism, sexuality and love.
Novel Glycosylation by Amylosucrase to Produce Glycoside Anomers
Authors: Wu Jiumn-Yih , Ding Hsiou-Yu , Luo Shun-Yuan , Wang Tzi-Yuan , Tsai Yu-Li , Chang Te-Sheng
Published: May 2022

Glycosylation occurring at either lipids, proteins, or sugars plays important roles in many biological systems. In nature, enzymatic glycosylation is the formation of a glycosidic bond between the anomeric carbon of the donor sugar and the functional group of the sugar acceptor. This study found novel glycoside anomers without an anomeric carbon linkage of the sugar donor. A glycoside hydrolase (GH) enzyme, amylosucrase from Deinococcus geothermalis (DgAS), was evaluated to glycosylate ganoderic acid F (GAF), a lanostane triterpenoid from medicinal fungus Ganoderma lucidum, at different pH levels. The results showed that GAF was glycosylated by DgAS at acidic conditions pH 5 and pH 6, whereas the activity dramatically decreased to be undetectable at pH 7 or pH 8. The biotransformation product was purified by preparative high-performance liquid chromatography and identified as unusual α-glucosyl-(2→26)-GAF and β-glucosyl-(2→26)-GAF anomers by mass and nucleic magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. We further used DgAS to catalyze another six triterpenoids. Under the acidic conditions, two of six compounds, ganoderic acid A (GAA) and ganoderic acid G (GAG), could be converted to α–glucosyl-(2→26)-GAA and β–glucosyl-(2→26)-GAA anomers and α-glucosyl-(2→26)-GAG and β-glucosyl-(2→26)-GAG anomers, respectively. The glycosylation of triterpenoid aglycones was first confirmed to be converted via a GH enzyme, DgAS. The novel enzymatic glycosylation-formed glycoside anomers opens a new bioreaction in the pharmaceutical industry and in the biotechnology sector.
Assessment of Body Composition and Physical Performance of Young Soccer Players: Differences According to the Competitive Level
Authors: Toselli Stefania , Mauro Mario , Grigoletto Alessia , Cataldi Stefania , Benedetti Luca , Nanni Gianni , Di Miceli Riccardo , Aiello Paolo , Gallamini Davide , Fischetti Francesco , Greco Gianpiero
Published: May 2022

Soccer is a multifactorial sport, in which players are expected to possess well developed physical, psychological, technical, and tactical skills. Thus, the anthropometric and fitness measures play a determinant role and could vary according to the competitive level. Therefore, the present study aimed to verify differences in body composition and physical performance between two soccer team. 162 young soccer players (from the Under 12 to Under 15 age categories; age: 13.01 ± 1.15 years) of different competitive levels (elite—n = 98 and non-elite—n = 64) were recruited. Anthropometric characteristics (height, weight, lengths, widths, circumferences, and skinfold thicknesses (SK)), bioelectrical impedance, physical performance test as countermovement jump (CMJ), 15 m straight-line sprints, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo), and 20 + 20 m repeated-sprint ability (RSA)) were carried out. In addition, Body mass index (BMI), body composition parameters (percentage of fat mass (%F), Fat mass (FM, kg), and Fat-free mass (FFM, kg)) and the areas of the upper arm, calf and thigh were calculated, and the Bioelectric Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA) procedures were applied. In addition, a linear discriminant analysis was assessed to determine which factors better discriminate between an elite and non-elite football team. Many differences were observed in body composition between and within each football team’s category, especially in triceps SK (p < 0.05), %F (p < 0.05), and all performance tests (p < 0.01). The canonical correlation was 0.717 (F(7,128) = 19.37, p < 0.0001), and the coefficients that better discriminated between two teams were 15 m sprint (−2.39), RSA (1−26), suprailiac SK (−0.5) and CMJ (−0.45). Elite soccer team players present a better body composition and greater physical efficiency. In addition, BIVA outcome could be a relevant selection criterion to scout among younger soccer players.
Comprehensive In Silico Analysis of Retrotransposon Insertions within the Survival Motor Neuron Genes Involved in Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Pinto Albano , Cunha Catarina , Chaves Raquel , Butchbach Matthew E. R. , Adega Filomena
Published: May 2022

Transposable elements (TEs) are interspersed repetitive and mobile DNA sequences within the genome. Better tools for evaluating TE-derived sequences have provided insights into the contribution of TEs to human development and disease. Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive motor neuron disease that is caused by deletions or mutations in the Survival Motor Neuron 1 (SMN1) gene but retention of its nearly perfect orthologue SMN2. Both genes are highly enriched in TEs. To establish a link between TEs and SMA, we conducted a comprehensive, in silico analysis of TE insertions within the SMN1/2 loci of SMA, carrier and healthy genomes. We found an Alu insertion in the promoter region and one L1 element in the 3′UTR that may play an important role in alternative promoter as well as in alternative transcriptional termination. Additionally, several intronic Alu repeats may influence alternative splicing via RNA circularization and causes the presence of new alternative exons. These Alu repeats present throughout the genes are also prone to recombination events that could lead to SMN1 exons deletions and, ultimately, SMA. TE characterization of the SMA genomic region could provide for a better understanding of the implications of TEs on human disease and genomic evolution.
Structure of New Ferroverdins Recruiting Unconventional Ferrous Iron Chelating Agents
Authors: Martinet Loïc , Baiwir Dominique , Mazzucchelli Gabriel , Rigali Sébastien
Published: May 2022

Ferroverdins are ferrous iron (Fe2+)-nitrosophenolato complexes produced by a few Streptomyces species as a response to iron overload. Previously, three ferroverdins were identified: ferroverdin A, in which three molecules of p-vinylphenyl-3-nitroso-4-hydroxybenzoate (p-vinylphenyl-3,4-NHBA) are recruited to bind Fe2+, and Ferroverdin B and Ferroverdin C, in which one molecule of p-vinylphenyl-3,4-NHBA is substituted by hydroxy-p-vinylphenyl-3,4-NHBA, and by carboxy-p-vinylphenyl-3,4-NHBA, respectively. These molecules, especially ferroverdin B, are potent inhibitors of the human cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and therefore candidate hits for the development of drugs that increase the serum concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, thereby diminishing the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In this work, we used high-resolution mass spectrometry combined with tandem mass spectrometry to identify 43 novel ferroverdins from the cytosol of two Streptomyces lunaelactis species. For 13 of them (designated ferroverdins C2, C3, D, D2, D3, E, F, G, H, CD, DE, DF, and DG), we could elucidate their structure, and for the other 17 new ferroverdins, ambiguity remains for one of the three ligands. p-formylphenyl-3,4-NHBA, p-benzoic acid-3,4-NHBA, 3,4-NHBA, p-phenylpropionate-3,4-NHBA, and p-phenyacetate-3,4-NHBA were identified as new alternative chelators for Fe2+-binding, and two compounds (C3 and D3) are the first reported ferroverdins that do not recruit p-vinylphenyl-3,4-NHBA. Our work thus uncovered putative novel CETP inhibitors or ferroverdins with novel bioactivities.
Pyruvate Dehydrogenase A1 Phosphorylated by Insulin Associates with Pyruvate Kinase M2 and Induces LINC00273 through Histone Acetylation
Authors: Hossain Abu Jubayer , Islam Rokibul , Kim Jae-Gyu , Dogsom Oyungerel , Cap Kim Cuong , Park Jae-Bong
Published: May 2022

Insulin potently promotes cell proliferation and anabolic metabolism along with a reduction in blood glucose levels. Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) plays a pivotal role in glucose metabolism. Insulin increase PDH activity by attenuating phosphorylated Ser293 PDH E1α (p-PDHA1) in normal liver tissue. In contrast to normal hepatocytes, insulin enhanced p-PDHA1 level and induced proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. Here, we attempted to find a novel function of p-PDHA1 in tumorigenesis upon insulin stimulation. We found that p-Ser293 E1α, but not the E2 or E3 subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC), co-immunoprecipitated with pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) upon insulin. Of note, the p-PDHA1 along with PKM2 translocated to the nucleus. The p-PDHA1/PKM2 complex was associated with the promoter of long intergenic non-protein coding (LINC) 00273 gene (LINC00273) and recruited p300 histone acetyl transferase (HAT) and ATP citrate lyase (ACL), leading to histone acetylation. Consequently, the level of transcription factor ZEB1, an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker, was promoted through increased levels of LINC00273, resulting in cell migration upon insulin. p-PDHA1, along with PKM2, may be crucial for transcriptional regulation of specific genes through epigenetic regulation upon insulin in hepatocarcinoma cells.
A Fast and Label-Free Potentiometric Method for Direct Detection of Glutamine with Silicon Nanowire Biosensors
Authors: Jia Yonghao , Wang Jianyu , Yosinski Shari , Xu Yuehang , Reed Mark A.
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a potentiometric method is used for monitoring the concentration of glutamine in the bioprocess by employing silicon nanowire biosensors. Just one hydrolyzation reaction was used, which is much more convenient compared with the two-stage reactions in the published papers. For the silicon nanowire biosensor, the Al2O3 sensing layer provides a highly sensitive to solution-pH, which has near-Nernstian sensitivity. The sensitive region to detect glutamine is from ≤40 μM to 20 mM. The Sigmoidal function was used to model the pH-signal variation versus the glutamine concentration. Compared with the amperometric methods, a consistent result from different devices could be directly obtained. It is a fast and direct method achieved with our real-time setup. Also, it is a label-free method because just the pH variation of the solution is monitored. The obtained results show the feasibility of the potentiometric method for monitoring the glutamine concentrations in fermentation processes. Our approach in this paper can be applied to various analytes.
Towards Development of Molecularly Imprinted Electrochemical Sensors for Food and Drug Safety: Progress and Trends
Authors: Zhou Shuhong , Liu Chen , Lin Jianguo , Zhu Zhi , Hu Bing , Wu Long
Published: May 2022

Due to their advantages of good flexibility, low cost, simple operations, and small equipment size, electrochemical sensors have been commonly employed in food safety. However, when they are applied to detect various food or drug samples, their stability and specificity can be greatly influenced by the complex matrix. By combining electrochemical sensors with molecular imprinting techniques (MIT), they will be endowed with new functions of specific recognition and separation, which make them powerful tools in analytical fields. MIT-based electrochemical sensors (MIECs) require preparing or modifying molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) on the electrode surface. In this review, we explored different MIECs regarding the design, working principle and functions. Additionally, the applications of MIECs in food and drug safety were discussed, as well as the challenges and prospects for developing new electrochemical methods. The strengths and weaknesses of MIECs including low stability and electrode fouling are discussed to indicate the research direction for future electrochemical sensors.
Spatial Differences in Outdoor Thermal Comfort during the Transition Season in Cold Regions of China
Authors: Guo Fei , Wang Zuoxing , Dong Jing , Zhang Hongchi , Lu Xiaodong , Lau Stephen Siu Yu , Miao Yijia
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the differences in outdoor thermal comfort in different spatial types over long-term observations during the transition season in a cold region. Using the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) as an evaluation index, subjective questionnaires and field surveys were conducted on thermal comfort in three different typical outdoor environments (sunlight, tree shade and building shade) in Dalian (Northeast China). The results demonstrated the following: (1) Air temperature and mean radiant temperature were the dominant meteorological factors affecting outdoor thermal comfort in Dalian. (2) The main thermal sensation recorded in the transition season was “slightly cool”. Over time, the human thermal sensation experienced a gradual transition from “hot” to “cold”. (3) Compared with direct sunlight, the average UTCI decreased by 6.6 and 3.5 °C for building shade and tree shade environments, and the neutral UTCI in Dalian was found to be 18.8 °C. Subjects were most sensitive to the thermal environment in building shade, then in tree shade and the least in sunlight. (4) When UTCI ≥ 21.9 °C, the thermal acceptability rate in building shade remained the highest; when 10.2 °C ≤ UTCI < 21.9 °C, it was highest in tree shade; and when the UTCI < 10.2 °C, it was highest in sunlight. This study verifies the UTCI applicability in the transition season in cold regions and analyzes the spatial differences in human thermal comfort. These differences play a positive role in developing optimization strategies for outdoor thermal environments, improving environmental satisfaction and facilitating pedestrian outdoor activities.
Research on the Spatio-Temporal Differentiation Characteristics and Factors of Typical Square Cities in China from the Perspective of Human Settlements
Authors: Gao Jiaji , Li Songbo , Sun Dongqi , Zhang Yingjia , Li Xueming
Published: May 2022

Taking Dalian, a typical square city in China, as an example based on data from remote sensing images, questionnaires, spatial statistics, social economy, etc., 48 squares in the main districts were constructed from the perspective of human settlements in order to build five systems: nature, humanity, society, residence and support. The aim was to explore the spatio-temporal differentiation characteristics and their driving mechanism. The results show the following: (1) The index system was constructed based on the human settlements perspective, and PCA was used to comprehensively evaluate it. Four principal component factors were extracted, and their cumulative contribution rate is 78.701%. On this basis, city squares were divided into four types: comprehensive square, recreational square, commercial service square and traffic square. (2) Using Mapinfo to visualize the square space, and taking the People’s Square as the center, the squares from the Tsarist Russia and Japanese colonial rule time periods were mainly distributed within 5 km, mostly in the direction of NE-SEE. During the construction of New China, city squares were distributed in all directions of the city, mainly between NE-SE and NNW-SSW. (3) ArcGIS was used to create an analysis chart of square service scope. Compared with 1999, it was more concentrated in central cities in 2016, and the service scope was relatively small. However, a square with high popularity has a wider influence. (4) The formation and evolution of the spatial pattern of city squares are affected by many factors, such as nature, economy, society, politics, ecological environment and technology. In the planning and development of city squares, Dalian should pay full attention to human settlements perpectives and add luster to the development of livable cities.
Development of Variable Side Mold for Free-Form Concrete Panel Production
Authors: Youn Jongyoung , Yun Jiyeong , Kim Jihye , Lee Donghoon
Published: May 2022

With the increase of free-form architecture, many studies have been conducted for producing free-form Concrete Panels (FCP), but there are still areas that are lacking in terms of the technological aspect. In particular, as free-form panels are produced by hand, the precision of the shapes is low and cost and time are high. FCP production equipment was developed to resolve this. In this study, the variable side mold for FCP production used in side control equipment among FCP production equipment was developed. Variable side mold is equipment that satisfies five requirements to configure the form of FCPs. The variable side mold is made with steel plates so that it can withstand the side pressure of concrete. As a result, the material has a uniform thickness throughout and is molded to the desired shape. Therefore, in order to verify this, the panel was manufactured as a variable side mold to compare the side form with the designed form through 3D scanning and quality inspection to check for errors. As a result, there was a 0.276 mm mean difference for both ends of the panel and the central part, and it was therefore verified through t-test that errors occurred within the allowed margin of 95% confidence level.
A Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Induces Acetyl-CoA Depletion Leading to Lethal Metabolic Stress in RAS-Pathway Activated Cells
Authors: Basseville Agnes , Violet Pierre-Christian , Safari Maryam , Sourbier Carole , Linehan W. Marston , Robey Robert W. , Levine Mark , Sackett Dan L. , Bates Susan E.
Published: May 2022

Background: The mechanism of action of romidepsin and other histone deacetylase inhibitors is still not fully explained. Our goal was to gain a mechanistic understanding of the RAS-linked phenotype associated with romidepsin sensitivity. Methods: The NCI60 dataset was screened for molecular clues to romidepsin sensitivity. Histone acetylation, DNA damage, ROS production, metabolic state (real-time measurement and metabolomics), and gene expression alterations (transcriptomics) were determined in KRAS-WT versus KRAS-mutant cell groups. The search for biomarkers in response to HDACi was implemented by supervised machine learning analysis on a 608-cell transcriptomic dataset and validated in a clinical dataset. Results: Romidepsin treatment induced depletion in acetyl-CoA in all tested cell lines, which led to oxidative stress, metabolic stress, and increased death—particularly in KRAS-mutant cell lines. Romidepsin-induced stresses and death were rescued by acetyl-CoA replenishment. Two acetyl-CoA gene expression signatures associated with HDACi sensitivity were derived from machine learning analysis in the CCLE (Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia) cell panel. Signatures were then validated in the training cohort for seven HDACi, and in an independent 13-patient cohort treated with belinostat. Conclusions: Our study reveals the importance of acetyl-CoA metabolism in HDAC sensitivity, and it highlights acetyl-CoA generation pathways as potential targets to combine with HDACi.
Detecting Early-Stage Oral Cancer from Clinically Diagnosed Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders by DNA Methylation Profile
Authors: Mori Kazuki , Hamada Tomofumi , Beppu Mahiro , Tsuchihashi Hiroki , Goto Yuichi , Kume Kenichi , Hijioka Hiroshi , Nishi Keitaro , Mishima Yumiko , Sugiura Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2022

Clinically, early-stage oral cancers are difficult to distinguish from oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs), and invasive tissue biopsy should be performed to determine a treatment strategy. Previously, we focused on gargle fluid as a noninvasive testing method and reported aberrant methylation in gargle fluid in patients with oral cancer. This study aimed to distinguish early-stage oral cancer from clinically diagnosed OPMDs using gargle fluid samples. We collected gargle fluid samples from 40 patients who were clinically diagnosed with OPMDs in the training set; among them, 9 patients were pathologically diagnosed with oral cancer. Methylation levels of 25 tumor suppressor genes were analyzed using the methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA) method. We found that a combination of six genes (TP73, CASP8, RARB, KLLN, GSTP1, and CHFR) could distinguish oral cancer from clinically diagnosed OPMDs with high diagnostic performance (area under the curve [AUC], 0.885; sensitivity, 77.8%; and specificity, 87.1%). Additionally, the panel comprised of the six methylated genes was validated in the test set. Furthermore, when compared with cytology testing, the panel could accurately detect oral cancer. The present methylated gene panel may serve as a novel biomarker for oral cancer.
Transcriptional Dynamics of DNA Damage Responsive Genes in Circulating Leukocytes during Radiotherapy
Authors: Cruz-Garcia Lourdes , Nasser Farah , O’Brien Grainne , Grepl Jakub , Vinnikov Volodymyr , Starenkiy Viktor , Artiukh Sergiy , Gramatiuk Svetlana , Badie Christophe
Published: May 2022

External beam radiation therapy leads to cellular activation of the DNA damage response (DDR). DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) activate the ATM/CHEK2/p53 pathway, inducing the transcription of stress genes. The dynamic nature of this transcriptional response has not been directly observed in vivo in humans. In this study we monitored the messenger RNA transcript abundances of nine DNA damage-responsive genes (CDKN1A, GADD45, CCNG1, FDXR, DDB2, MDM2, PHPT1, SESN1, and PUMA), eight of them regulated by p53 in circulating blood leukocytes at different time points (2, 6–8, 16–18, and 24 h) in cancer patients (lung, neck, brain, and pelvis) undergoing radiotherapy. We discovered that, although the calculated mean physical dose to the blood was very low (0.038–0.169 Gy), an upregulation of Ferredoxin reductase (FDXR) gene transcription was detectable 2 h after exposure and was dose dependent from the lowest irradiated percentage of the body (3.5% whole brain) to the highest, (up to 19.4%, pelvic zone) reaching a peak at 6–8 h. The radiation response of the other genes was not strong enough after such low doses to provide meaningful information. Following multiple fractions, the expression level increased further and was still significantly up-regulated by the end of the treatment. Moreover, we compared FDXR transcriptional responses to ionizing radiation (IR) in vivo with healthy donors’ blood cells exposed ex vivo and found a good correlation in the kinetics of expression from the 8-hours time-point onward, suggesting that a molecular transcriptional regulation mechanism yet to be identified is involved. To conclude, we provided the first in vivo human report of IR-induced gene transcription temporal response of a panel of p53-dependant genes. FDXR was demonstrated to be the most responsive gene, able to reliably inform on the low doses following partial body irradiation of the patients, and providing an expression pattern corresponding to the % of body exposed. An extended study would provide individual biological dosimetry information and may reveal inter-individual variability to predict radiotherapy-associated adverse health outcomes.
Reovirus Activated Cell Death Pathways
Authors: DeAntoneo Carly , Danthi Pranav , Balachandran Siddharth
Published: May 2022

Mammalian orthoreoviruses (ReoV) are non-enveloped viruses with segmented double-stranded RNA genomes. In humans, ReoV are generally considered non-pathogenic, although members of this family have been proven to cause mild gastroenteritis in young children and may contribute to the development of inflammatory conditions, including Celiac disease. Because of its low pathogenic potential and its ability to efficiently infect and kill transformed cells, the ReoV strain Type 3 Dearing (T3D) is clinical trials as an oncolytic agent. ReoV manifests its oncolytic effects in large part by infecting tumor cells and activating programmed cell death pathways (PCDs). It was previously believed that apoptosis was the dominant PCD pathway triggered by ReoV infection. However, new studies suggest that ReoV also activates other PCD pathways, such as autophagy, pyroptosis, and necroptosis. Necroptosis is a caspase-independent form of PCD reliant on receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) and its substrate, the pseudokinase mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL). As necroptosis is highly inflammatory, ReoV-induced necroptosis may contribute to the oncolytic potential of this virus, not only by promoting necrotic lysis of the infected cell, but also by inflaming the surrounding tumor microenvironment and provoking beneficial anti-tumor immune responses. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the ReoV replication cycle, the known and potential mechanisms by which ReoV induces PCD, and discuss the consequences of non-apoptotic cell death—particularly necroptosis—to ReoV pathogenesis and oncolysis.
Intercepting of Class III Malocclusion with a Novel Mechanism Built on the Orthopaedic Appliance: A Case Report
Authors: Manzo Paolo , De Felice Maria Elena , Caruso Sara , Gatto Roberto , Caruso Silvia
Published: May 2022

Aim: The following case report aims to show a novel orthopaedic appliance to reduce the side effects of the orthopaedic Class III treatment through the use of two acrylic splints combined with a PowerScope device. Materials and Methods: This case report describes the treatment of a 6-year-old patient with a skeletal Class III relationship with a maxillary deficiency and a severe hyperdivergency. The patient underwent a sagittal orthopaedic treatment with a PowerScope device for 12 months. The retention period lasted 4 months. Results: The response of the craniofacial complex to the active orthopaedic treatment of the Class III malocclusion with the PowerScope™ device splints consisted of significant changes in maxillary growth and position. Both angular and linear sagittal measurements of the maxilla showed improvements during active treatment, respectively, of 0.6° and 1.2 mm (SNA from 75.8° to 76.4°; maxillary length from 38.8 mm to 40 mm). These effects allowed for a highly significant improvement in the maxillomandibular skeletal relationships. ANB improved by 1.6° and Wits appraisal by 4 mm. Using this appliance in a hyperdivergent patient, we obtained a vertical control of the mandible with a SN/Go-Gn stable value at 40° and a significant improvement of the ANS-PNS/GoGn angle from 30° to 28°. Conclusion: The Class III orthopaedic treatment with the PowerScope™ telescopic and NiTi spring device mounted on the upper and lower resin splints in a Class III correction offered good vertical control during the early orthopaedic treatment by improving the skeletal discrepancy and controlling the hyperdivergency, which is one of the most difficult factors to control in Class III malocclusions.
Characterization of Insulin-like Peptide (ILP) and Its Potential Role in Ovarian Development of the Cuttlefish Sepiella japonica
Authors: Lü Zhenming , Yao Chenghao , Zhao Shijie , Zhang Yao , Gong Li , Liu Bingjian , Liu Liqin
Published: May 2022

The insulin-like peptide (ILP) family is well known for regulating reproduction in invertebrates, while its role in mollusks remains largely unknown. In this study, we first isolated and characterized the ILP gene in the cuttlefish Sepiella japonica. The full-length SjILP cDNA obtained was 926 bp and encoded a precursor protein of 161 amino acids. The precursor protein consisted of a signal peptide, a B chain, a C-peptide, and an A chain. It possessed the typical features of ILP proteins, including two cleavage sites (KR) and eight conserved cysteines. To define the function of SjILP, the expression of SjILP in different tissues and ovarian development stages were analyzed using qRT-PCR. SjILP was mainly expressed in the ovary, and its gene expression correlated with ovarian development. Furthermore, silencing SjILP using RNA interference (RNAi) dramatically decreased the expression levels of four ovarian-development-related genes (vitellogenin1, vitellogenin2, cathepsin L1-like, and follistatin). These data suggest the critical role of SjILP in the regulation of ovarian development in S. japonica.