bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degree Reduction of Q-Bézier Curves via Squirrel Search Algorithm
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Abbas Muhammad , Hu Gang , BiBi Samia
Published: September 2021

Q-Bézier curves find extensive applications in shape design owing to their excellent geometric properties and good shape adjustability. In this article, a new method for the multiple-degree reduction of Q-Bézier curves by incorporating the swarm intelligence-based squirrel search algorithm (SSA) is proposed. We formulate the degree reduction as an optimization problem, in which the objective function is defined as the distance between the original curve and the approximate curve. By using the squirrel search algorithm, we search within a reasonable range for the optimal set of control points of the approximate curve to minimize the objective function. As a result, the optimal approximating Q-Bézier curve of lower degree can be found. The feasibility of the method is verified by several examples, which show that the method is easy to implement, and good degree reduction effect can be achieved using it.
Combined Influence of Nutrient Supply Level and Tissue Mechanical Properties on Benign Tumor Growth as Revealed by Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Kuznetsov Maxim
Published: September 2021

A continuous mathematical model of non-invasive avascular tumor growth in tissue is presented. The model considers tissue as a biphasic material, comprised of a solid matrix and interstitial fluid. The convective motion of tissue elements happens due to the gradients of stress, which change as a result of tumor cells proliferation and death. The model accounts for glucose as the crucial nutrient, supplied from the normal tissue, and can reproduce both diffusion-limited and stress-limited tumor growth. Approximate tumor growth curves are obtained semi-analytically in the limit of infinite tissue hydraulic conductivity, which implies instantaneous equalization of arising stress gradients. These growth curves correspond well to the numerical solutions and represent classical sigmoidal curves with a short initial exponential phase, subsequent almost linear growth phase and a phase with growth deceleration, in which tumor tends to reach its maximum volume. The influence of two model parameters on tumor growth curves is investigated: tissue hydraulic conductivity, which links the values of stress gradient and convective velocity of tissue phases, and tumor nutrient supply level, which corresponds to different permeability and surface area density of capillaries in the normal tissue that surrounds the tumor. In particular, it is demonstrated, that sufficiently low tissue hydraulic conductivity (intrinsic, e.g., to tumors arising from connective tissue) and sufficiently high nutrient supply can lead to formation of giant benign tumors, reaching tens of centimeters in diameter, which are indeed observed clinically.
An Improved Lotka–Volterra Model Using Quantum Game Theory
Authors: Huang Dingxuan , Delang Claudio , Wu Yongjiao , Li Shuliang
Published: September 2021

Human decision-making does not conform to the independent decision-making hypothesis from classical decision-making theory. Thus, we introduce quantum decision-making theory into the Lotka–Volterra model (L–V model), to investigate player population dynamics while incorporating the initial strategy, game payoffs and interactive strategies in an open social system. Simulation results show that: (1) initial strategy, entanglement intensity of strategy interaction, and payoffs impact population dynamics; (2) In cooperative coexistence, game players mutually exceed the initial environmental capacity in an open system, but not in competitive coexistence; (3) In competitive coexistence, an initial strategy containing an entanglement intensity of strategies plays a vital role in game outcomes. Furthermore, our proposed model more realistically delineates the characteristics of population dynamics in competitive or cooperative coexistence scenarios.
The Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method for Solving Two Strongly Fractional-Order Nonlinear Benchmark Oscillatory Problems
Authors: Shatnawi Mohd Taib , Ouannas Adel , Bahia Ghenaiet , Batiha Iqbal M. , Grassi Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

This paper proceeds from the perspective that most strongly nonlinear oscillators of fractional-order do not enjoy exact analytical solutions. Undoubtedly, this is a good enough reason to employ one of the major recent approximate methods, namely an Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method (OHAM), to offer approximate analytic solutions for two strongly fractional-order nonlinear benchmark oscillatory problems, namely: the fractional-order Duffing-relativistic oscillator and the fractional-order stretched elastic wire oscillator (with a mass attached to its midpoint). In this work, a further modification has been proposed for such method and then carried out through establishing an optimal auxiliary linear operator, an auxiliary function, and an auxiliary control parameter. In view of the two aforesaid applications, it has been demonstrated that the OHAM is a reliable approach for controlling the convergence of approximate solutions and, hence, it is an effective tool for dealing with such problems. This assertion is completely confirmed by performing several graphical comparisons between the OHAM and the Homotopy Analysis Method (HAM).
Approximation Solution for the Zener Impact Theory
Authors: Tsai Ping-Kun , Li Cheng-Han , Lai Chia-Chun , Huang Ko-Jung , Cheng Ching-Wei
Published: September 2021

Collisions can be classified as completely elastic or inelastic. Collision mechanics theory has gradually developed from elastic to inelastic collision theories. Based on the Hertz elastic collision contact theory and Zener inelastic collision theory model, we derive and explain the Hertz and Zener collision theory model equations in detail in this study and establish the Zener inelastic collision theory, which is a simple and fast calculation of the approximate solution to the nonlinear differential equations of motion. We propose an approximate formula to obtain the Zener nonlinear differential equation of motion in a simple manner. The approximate solution determines the relevant values of the collision force, material displacement, velocity, and contact time.
An Edgeworth Expansion for the Ratio of Two Functionals of Gaussian Fields and Optimal Berry–Esseen Bounds
Authors: Kim Yoon-Tae , Park Hyun-Suk
Published: September 2021

This paper is concerned with the rate of convergence of the distribution of the sequence {Fn/Gn}, where Fn and Gn are each functionals of infinite-dimensional Gaussian fields. This form very frequently appears in the estimation problem of parameters occurring in Stochastic Differential Equations (SDEs) and Stochastic Partial Differential Equations (SPDEs). We develop a new technique to compute the exact rate of convergence on the Kolmogorov distance for the normal approximation of Fn/Gn. As a tool for our work, an Edgeworth expansion for the distribution of Fn/Gn, with an explicitly expressed remainder, will be developed, and this remainder term will be controlled to obtain an optimal bound. As an application, we provide an optimal Berry–Esseen bound of the Maximum Likelihood Estimator (MLE) of an unknown parameter appearing in SDEs and SPDEs.
Acrometastases to the Hand: A Systematic Review
Authors: Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Scalia Gianluca , Palmisciano Paolo , Passanisi Maurizio , Da Ros Valerio , Pompili Gianluca , Barone Fabio , Amico Paolo , Tomasi Santino Ottavio , Graziano Francesca , Patti Iolanda Valeria , Mele Stefania , Maugeri Rosario , Raffa Giovanni , Giammalva Giuseppe Roberto , Iacopino Gerardo Domenico , Germanò Antonino , Nicoletti Giovanni Federico , Ippolito Massimo , Sabini Maria Gabriella , Cicero Salvatore , Strigari Lidia , Cuttone Giacomo
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: The term acrometastases (AM) refers to secondary lesions sited distally to the elbow and knee, representing 0.1% of all bony metastases. By frequency, pulmonary cancer and gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract neoplasms are the most responsible for the reported AM. Improvements in oncologic patient care favor an increase in the incidence of such rare cases. We performed a systematic review of acrometastases to the hand to provide further insight into the management of these fragile patients. We also present a peculiar case of simultaneous acrometastasis to the ring finger and pathological vertebral fracture. Material and Methods: A literature search according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement was conducted using the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases in December 2020 on metastasis to the hand and wrist, from 1986 to 2020. MeSH terms included acrometastasis, carpal metastasis, hand metastasis, finger metastasis, phalangeal metastasis, and wrist metastasis. Results: In total, 215 studies reporting the follow-up of 247 patients were analyzed, with a median age of 62 years (range 10–91 years). Overall, 162 out of 247 patients were males (65.6%) and 85 were females (34.4%). The median reported follow-up was 5 months (range 0.5–39). The median time from primary tumor diagnosis to acrometastasis was 24 months (range 0.7–156). Acrometastases were located at the finger/phalanx (68.4%), carpal (14.2%), metacarpal (14.2%), or other sites (3.2%). The primary tumors were pulmonary in 91 patients (36.8%). The average interval from primary tumor diagnosis to acrometastasis varied according to the primary tumor type from 2 months (in patients with mesenchymal tumors) to 64.0 months (in patients with breast cancer). Conclusions: Acrometastases usually develop in the late stage of oncologic disease and are associated with short life expectancy. Their occurrence can no longer be considered rare; physicians should thus be updated on their surgical management and their impact on prognosis and survival.
Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgery after Primary Breast Reconstruction Using an Abdominal Flap
Authors: Nakagawa Tsuyoshi , Oda Goshi , Mori Hiroki , Uemura Noriko , Wakana Kimio , Oshima Noriko , Tokunaga Masanori , Sato Yuya , Hayashi Kumiko , Kumaki Yuichi , Ishikawa Toshiaki , Okamoto Kentaro , Uetake Hiroyuki
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: Our department has been performing primary breast reconstruction for breast cancer surgery, incorporating a transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (TRAM)/vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (VRAM) since 1998 and a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap (DIEP) since 2008. Currently, most gastrointestinal operations in abdominal surgery are performed laparoscopically or are robot-assisted. Cases in which abdominal surgery was performed after breast reconstruction using an abdominal flap were reviewed. Method: A total of 119 cases of primary breast reconstruction using an abdominal flap performed in our department were reviewed. Result: The reconstructive techniques were DIEP in 69 cases and TRAM/VRAM in 50 cases. After breast surgery, seven abdominal operations were performed in six cases. In DIEP cases, one robotic surgery was performed for uterine cancer, and one laparoscopic surgery was performed for ovarian tumor. In TRAM/VRAM cases, two laparoscopic cholecystectomies, one laparoscopic total gastrectomy, one laparoscopic ileus reduction, and one open total hysterectomy oophorectomy were performed. Six surgeries were completed by laparoscopy or robotic assistance. Conclusion: The survival rate after breast cancer surgery is improving, and the choice of breast reconstruction procedure should take into account the possibility of performing a prophylactic resection of the ovaries due to the genetic background and possibly postoperative abdominal surgery due to other diseases. However, in cases in which laparoscopic surgery was attempted after breast reconstruction using an abdominal flap, the laparoscopic surgery could be completed in all cases.
What WGS Reveals about Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica in Wildlife in Germany
Authors: Uelze Laura , Bloch Angelina , Borowiak Maria , Grobbel Mirjam , Deneke Carlus , Fischer Matthias , Malorny Burkhard , Pietsch Michael , Simon Sandra , Szabó István , Tausch Simon H. , Fischer Jennie
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to gain an overview of the genetic diversity of Salmonella found in wildlife in Germany. We were particularly interested in exploring whether wildlife acts as a reservoir of certain serovars/subtypes or antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. Moreover, we wanted to explore the potential of Salmonella in spreading from wildlife to livestock and humans. To answer these questions, we sequenced 260 Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica isolates sampled between 2002 and 2020 from wildlife across Germany, using short-read whole genome sequencing. We found, consistent with previous findings, that some Salmonella sequence types are associated with certain animal species, such as S. Choleraesuis ST145 with wild boar and S. Enteritidis ST183 with hedgehogs. Antibiotic resistance was detected in 14.2% of all isolates, with resistance against important WATCH group antibiotics present in a small number of isolates. We further found that wildlife isolates do not form separate phylogenetic clusters distant to isolates from domestic animals and foodstuff, thus indicating frequent transmission events between these reservoirs. Overall, our study shows that Salmonella in German wildlife are diverse, with a low AMR burden and close links to Salmonella populations of farm and food-production environments.
Phytopythium vexans Associated with Apple and Pear Decline in the Saïss Plain of Morocco
Authors: Jabiri Salma , Bahra Chaimaa , MacLean Dustin , Radouane Nabil , Barka Essaid Ait , Bendriss Amraoui Mohamed , Lahlali Rachid
Published: September 2021

An extensive survey conducted in the Saïss plain of Morocco during the 2017–2018 growing season revealed that 35 out of 50 apple and pear orchards were infested with a pathogen that causes the decline disease. Morphological and phylogenetic tree analyses using the cox II gene allowed us to identify the pathogen as Phytopythium vexans. Interestingly, no Phytophthora and Pythium species were isolated. The occurrence and prevalence of the disease varied between locations; the most infested locations were Meknes (100%), Imouzzer (83%), and Sefrou (80%). To fulfill Koch’s postulate, a greenhouse pathogenicity test was performed on the stem and collar of one-year-old healthy seedlings of apple rootstock M115. Symptoms similar to those observed in the field were reproduced in less than 4 months post-inoculation with root rot disease severity ranging from 70 to 100%. The survey results evidenced that apple rootstocks, soil type, and irrigation procedure may contribute significantly to the occurrence of the disease. The disease was most prevalent in drip water irrigation and sandy-clay soil on wild apple rootstock. Accordingly, a rational drip advanced watering system and good sanitation practices could eliminate water stagnation and help prevent the onset of this disease. It was concluded that Pp. vexans occurrence may be strongly influenced by irrigation mode and type of soil. Therefore, the obtained findings of this study could help to better understand the recurrence of this disease and to develop a reliable integrated strategy for its management.
Isolation and Characterization of Outer Membrane Vesicles of Pectobacterium brasiliense 1692
Authors: Maphosa Silindile , Moleleki Lucy Novungayo
Published: September 2021

Pectobacterium brasiliense (Pbr) 1692 is an aggressive phytopathogen affecting a broad host range of crops and ornamental plants, including potatoes. Previous research on animal pathogens, and a few plant pathogens, revealed that Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMVs) are part of Gram-negative bacteria’s (GNB) adaptive toolkit. For this reason, OMV production and subsequent release from bacteria is a conserved process. Therefore, we hypothesized that OMVs might transport proteins that play a critical role in causing soft rot disease and in the survival and fitness of Pbr1692. Here, we show that the potato pathogen, Pbr1692, releases OMVs of various morphologies in Luria Bertani media at 31 °C. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) confirmed the production of OMVs by Pbr1692 cells. Transmission Electron Microscopy showed that these exist as chain-, single-, and double-membrane morphologies. Mass spectrometry followed by Gene Ontology, Clusters of Orthologous Groups, Virulence Factor, CAZymes, Antibiotic Resistance Ontology, and Bastion6 T6SE annotations identified 129 OMV-associated proteins with diverse annotated roles, including antibiotic stress response, virulence, and competition. Pbr1692 OMVs contributed to virulence in potato tubers and elicited a hypersensitive response in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. Furthermore, Pbr1692 OMVs demonstrated antibacterial activity against Dickeya dadantii.
Historical Differentiation and Recent Hybridization in Natural Populations of the Nematode-Trapping Fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora in China
Authors: Zhou Duanyong , Xu Jianping , Dong Jianyong , Li Haixia , Wang Da , Gu Juan , Zhang Ke-Qin , Zhang Ying
Published: September 2021

Maintaining the effects of nematode-trapping fungi (NTF) agents in order to control plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) in different ecological environments has been a major challenge in biological control applications. To achieve such an objective, it is important to understand how populations of the biocontrol agent NTF are geographically and ecologically structured. A previous study reported evidence for ecological adaptation in the model NTF species Arthrobotrys oligospora. However, their large-scale geographic structure, patterns of gene flow, their potential phenotypic diversification, and host specialization remain largely unknown. In this study, we developed a new panel of 20 polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) markers and analyzed 239 isolates of A. oligospora from 19 geographic populations in China. In addition, DNA sequences at six nuclear gene loci and strain mating types (MAT) were obtained for these strains. Our analyses suggest historical divergence within the A. oligospora population in China. The genetically differentiated populations also showed phenotypic differences that may be related to their ecological adaptations. Interestingly, our analyses identified evidence for recent dispersion and hybridization among the historically subdivided geographic populations in nature. Together, our results indicate a changing population structure of A. oligospora in China and that care must be taken in selecting the appropriate strains as biocontrol agents that can effectively reproduce in agriculture soil while maintaining their nematode-trapping ability.
Strategies for Preparation of Chiral Stationary Phases: Progress on Coating and Immobilization Methods
Authors: Fernandes Carla , Teixeira Joana , Pinto Madalena M. M. , Tiritan Maria Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Enantioselective chromatography is one of the most used techniques for the separation and purification of enantiomers. The most important issue for a specific successful enantioseparation is the selection of the suitable chiral stationary phase (CSP). Different synthetic approaches have been applied for the preparation of CSPs, which embrace coating and immobilization methods. In addition to the classical and broadly applied coating and immobilization procedures, innovating strategies have been introduced recently. In this review, an overview of different methods for the preparation of coated and immobilized CSPs is described. Updated examples of CSPs associated with the various strategies are presented. Considering that after the preparation of a CSP its characterization is fundamental, the methods used for the characterization of all the described CSPs are emphasized.
Halogen Interactions in Halogenated Oxindoles: Crystallographic and Computational Investigations of Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Silva Rodrigo A. Lemos , da Silva Filho Demetrio A. , Moberg Megan E. , Pappenfus Ted M. , Janzen Daron E.
Published: September 2021

X-ray structural determinations and computational studies were used to investigate halogen interactions in two halogenated oxindoles. Comparative analyses of the interaction energy and the interaction properties were carried out for Br···Br, C-H···Br, C-H···O and N-H···O interactions. Employing Møller–Plesset second-order perturbation theory (MP2) and density functional theory (DFT), the basis set superposition error (BSSE) corrected interaction energy (Eint(BSSE)) was determined using a supramolecular approach. The Eint(BSSE) results were compared with interaction energies obtained by Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM)-based methods. Reduced Density Gradient (RDG), QTAIM and Natural bond orbital (NBO) calculations provided insight into possible pathways for the intermolecular interactions examined. Comparative analysis employing the electron density at the bond critical points (BCP) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) showed that the interaction energies and the relative orientations of the monomers in the dimers may in part be understood in light of charge redistribution in these two compounds.
Diet in Intestinal Fibrosis: A Double-Edged Sword
Authors: Marion-Letellier Rachel , Leboutte Mathilde , Amamou Asma , Raman Maitreyi , Savoye Guillaume , Ghosh Subrata
Published: September 2021

The natural history of inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn’s disease, is frequently complicated by intestinal fibrosis. Because of the lack of effective treatments for intestinal fibrosis, there is an urgent need to develop new therapies. Factors promoting intestinal fibrosis are currently unclear, but diet is a potential culprit. Diet may influence predisposition to develop intestinal fibrosis or alter its natural history by modification of both the host immune response and intestinal microbial composition. Few studies have documented the effects of dietary factors in modulating IBD-induced intestinal fibrosis. As the mechanisms behind fibrogenesis in the gut are believed to be broadly similar to those from extra-intestinal organs, it may be relevant to investigate which dietary components can inhibit or promote fibrosis factors such as myofibroblasts progenitor activation in other fibrotic diseases.
Direct-Channel Option of the Forward Slope Increase
Authors: Troshin Sergey , Tyurin Nikolai
Published: September 2021

The LHC data on the elastic scattering indicate that the forward slope increase is not consistent with the contributions of the simple Regge poles only with the linear Regge trajectories. The dynamics might be associated with unitarization in the direct channel of reaction. We discuss the problems of the Regge model and provide a respective illustration of the direct-channel option.
Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns and Risk Factors Associated with Salmonella spp. Isolates from Poultry Farms in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Osman Abdinasir Yusuf , Elmi Sharifo Ali , Simons David , Elton Linzy , Haider Najmul , Khan Mohd Azam , Othman Iekhsan , Zumla Alimuddin , McCoy David , Kock Richard
Published: September 2021

The burden of antimicrobial use in agricultural settings is one of the greatest challenges facing global health and food security in the modern era. Malaysian poultry operations are a relevant but understudied component of epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance. We aimed to identify the prevalence, resistance patterns, and risk factors associated with Salmonella isolates from poultry farms in three states of East Coast Peninsular Malaysia. Between 8 February 2019 and 23 February 2020, a total of 371 samples (cloacal swabs = 259; faecal = 84; Sewage = 14, Tap water = 14) was collected from poultry operations. Characteristics of the sampled farms and associated risk factors were obtained using semi-structured questionnaires. Presumptive Salmonella spp. isolates were identified based on colony morphology with subsequent biochemical and PCR confirmation. Susceptibility of isolates was tested against a panel of 12 antimicrobials using disk diffusion method. Our findings revealed that the proportion of Salmonella spp.-positive isolates across sample source were as following: cloacal swab (46.3%, 120/259); faecal (59.5%, 50/84); in tap water (14.3%, 2/14); and in sewage sample (35.7%, 5/14). Isolates from faecal (15.5%, 13/84), cloacal (1.2%, 3/259), and sewage (7.1%, 1/14) samples were significantly resistant to at least five classes of antimicrobials. Resistance to Sulfonamides class (52%, 92/177) was predominantly observed followed by tetracycline (39.5%, 70/177) and aminoglycosides (35.6%, 63/177). Multivariate regression analysis identified intensive management system (OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.00–2.40) as a leading driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) acquisition. A prevalence of resistance to common antimicrobials was recorded for sulfamethoxazole (33.9%), tetracycline (39.5%), and trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (37.9%). A close association between different risk factors and the prevalence of AMR of Salmonella strains suggests a concern over rising misuse of veterinary antimicrobials that may contribute to the emergence and evolution of multidrug-resistant pathogen isolates. One Health approach is recommended to achieve a positive health outcome for all species.
Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) Block Protects against Loss of White Matter Function during Ischaemia in the Mouse Optic Nerve
Authors: Lajoso Wendy , Flower Grace , Giacco Vincenzo , Kaul Anjuli , La Mache Circe , Brăban Andra , Roxas Angela , Hamilton Nicola B.
Published: September 2021

Oligodendrocytes produce myelin, which provides insulation to axons and speeds up neuronal transmission. In ischaemic conditions, myelin is damaged, resulting in mental and physical disabilities. Recent evidence suggests that oligodendrocyte damage during ischaemia can be mediated by Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin-1 (TRPA1), whose activation raises intracellular Ca2+ concentrations and damages compact myelin. Here, we show that TRPA1 is constitutively active in oligodendrocytes and the optic nerve, as the specific TRPA1 antagonist, A-967079, decreases basal oligodendrocyte Ca2+ concentrations and increases the size of the compound action potential (CAP). Conversely, TRPA1 agonists reduce the size of the optic nerve CAP in an A-967079-sensitive manner. These results indicate that glial TRPA1 regulates neuronal excitability in the white matter under physiological as well as pathological conditions. Importantly, we find that inhibition of TRPA1 prevents loss of CAPs during oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) and improves the recovery. TRPA1 block was effective when applied before, during, or after OGD, indicating that the TRPA1-mediated damage is occurring during both ischaemia and recovery, but importantly, that therapeutic intervention is possible after the ischaemic insult. These results indicate that TRPA1 has an important role in the brain, and that its block may be effective in treating many white matter diseases.
Opposing Effects of Additives in Dry Milling and Tableting of Organic Particles
Authors: Miethke Lina , Prziwara Paul , Finke Jan Henrik , Breitung-Faes Sandra
Published: September 2021

Applying additives and excipients during the dry processing of fine particles is a common measure to control the particle–particle interactions, to specifically influence the powder properties and to enhance the process efficiency or product quality. In this study, the impacts of a particulate lubricant, a nano-disperse flow additive and liquid grinding aids on the dry fine milling and subsequent tableting of the ground material were investigated for three different organic model compounds. It is presented that the three additive classes cause varying and partly opposing effects during these process steps. Especially the lubricant and the grinding aids were shown to increase the efficiency of the milling process as well as the product fineness of the ground material, and to avoid critical product adhesions on the machine surfaces. Thereby, stable and efficient grinding conditions were partially not possible without the addition of such additives. However, as these positive effects are attributed to a reduction of the adhesive forces between the particles, much lower tablet strengths were achieved for these additives. This propagation of powder, and in turn, final product properties over whole process chains, has not been studied in detail so far. It was further revealed that the material behavior and the microstructure of the product particles is decisive for the processing as well, which is why additive effects may be product-specific and can even be suppressed under certain processing conditions. In comparison to the process performances, the powder properties and surface energies of the product particles were less influenced by the additives. On the contrary, particle-based morphologies or deformation behavior seem to play a major role in comparison to inorganic materials. Thus, it can be stated that global bulk properties and surface energies provide first indications of powder behavior and susceptibility. However, additional specific properties need to be evaluated to more clearly understand the influences of additives.
Changes in Japanese Pharmacists’ Recognition of Their Role in Community Public Health before and after the Spread of COVID-19
Authors: Mamiya Kayoko Takeda , Yoshida Akari
Published: September 2021

Background: In our previous study regarding infection prevention after COVID-19, many Japanese citizen respondents had not received education/training on infection prevention. However, a total of 47.7% (n = 143) of these respondents wanted to receive education from healthcare professionals regarding the methods and effects of infection prevention. Therefore, changes in recognition of the roles of Japanese pharmacists before and after COVID-19 were investigated. Methods: We conducted a survey to determine whether recognition of Japanese pharmacists’ roles, especially their role in public health in the community, changed after COVID-19. Results: A total of 93.9% (n = 307) of the pharmacist respondents showed an increased awareness of infection prevention. Before COVID-19, the hospital pharmacists (67.2%; n = 80) were more aware of infection prevention than were pharmacy pharmacists (51.7%; n = 74) and drugstore pharmacists (47.7%; n = 31). The number of pharmacists who felt that the role of pharmacists in the community had changed after the pandemic increased, but the numbers of community pharmacy pharmacists (51.8%; n = 74) and drugstore pharmacists (55.4%; n = 36) were found to be slightly higher than those of hospital pharmacists (47.9%; n = 57). Conclusions: In a society in which swift responses and changes are required, for individuals to work as medical personnel their ability to respond while always being aware of the needs of society is required now more than ever.
Sensitivity Enhanced Refractive Index Fiber Sensor Based on Long-Range Surface Plasmon Resonance in SiO2-Au-TiO2 Heterostructure
Authors: Bu Wenyi , Wu Zhifang , Shum Perry Ping , Shao Xuguang , Pu Jixiong
Published: September 2021

Long-range surface plasmon resonance (LRSPR), generated from a coupled plasmon polariton in a thin metal slab sandwiched by two dielectrics, has attracted more and more attention due to its merits, such as longer propagation and deeper penetration than conventional single-interface surface plasmon resonance. Many useful applications related to light–medium interaction have been demonstrated based on the LRSPR effect, especially in the sensing area. Here, we propose and demonstrate an LRSPR-based refractive index sensor by using a SiO2-Au-TiO2 heterostructure, in which a D-shaped honeycomb-microstructure optical fiber (MOF) is designed as the silica substrate and then deposited with a gold film and thin-layer titanium dioxide (TiO2). By using the full-vector finite-element method (FEM), this heterostructure is numerically investigated and demonstrated to excite LRSPR without a buffer layer, which is usually necessary in previous LRSPR devices. Through comprehensive discussion about the influence of structural parameters on the resonant wavelength, the excitation of the LRSPR in the proposed heterostructure is revealed to be highly related to the effective refractive index of MOF’s fundamental core mode, which is mainly determined by the MOF’s pitch, the thicknesses of the silica web and the planar-layer silica. Moreover, the thin-layer TiO2 plays an important role in significantly enhancing the resonance and the sensitivity to analyte’s refractive index as well, when it is coated on the top of the Au film rather than between the metal and waveguide. Finally, the proposed LRSPR sensor based on SiO2-Au-TiO2 heterostructure shows an ultra-high wavelength sensitivity of 20,100 nm/RIU and the corresponding minimum resolution is as low as 4.98×10−7 RIU. Thus, the proposed LRSPR device offers considerable potential for sensing applications in biomedical and biochemical areas.
Soil Bacteria to Regulate Phoebe bournei Seedling Growth and Sustainable Soil Utilization under NPK Fertilization
Authors: Yang Zhi-Jian , Wu Xiao-Hui , Huang Lan-Ming , Xie Wei-Wei , Chen Yu , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Feng Jin-Ling
Published: September 2021

Soil bacteria play a key role in the plant–soil system and can regulate the growth of Phoebe bournei seedlings under fertilization. However, there are few reports on how soil bacteria respond to fertilization and regulate seedling growth. This study adopted the “3414” field fertilization experiment, combined with soil microbial sequencing, nutrient contents, and biomass measurement, to explore the changes of soil chemical properties and bacterial structure under different NPK fertilization conditions and to establish the coupling relationship between soil bacteria, soil nutrients, and plant growth. The results showed that NPK fertilization decreased soil pH; increased soil N, P, and K content; reduced bacterial diversity and abundance; promoted the growth of dominant bacterial species; and enhanced Phoebe bournei seedlings’ soil N, P, and K elements. NPK fertilization promoted Proteobacteria growth, especially of three genera (Methylobacterium, Sphingobium, and Acinetobacter) and Actinobacteria, while it decreased Acidobacteria and Chloroflexi. By reducing the ratio of N to K and increasing P, NPK fertilization can slow soil acidification, promote bacterial reproduction, maintain P. bournei seedlings’ soil ecological stability, and balance the seedlings’ growth and sustainable soil utilization. AD3, Pseudomonas, and Rhodanobacter can be used as the marker species for N, P, and K fertilization, respectively, while Methylobacterium, Brevundimonas, Acinetobacter, and Sphingobium can be used as indicator species for soil pH and soil N, P, and K content changes, respectively. These results provided a theoretical basis and technical guidance for the effective fertilization and cultivation of robust P. bournei seedlings.
The Arabinogalactan Protein Family of Centaurium erythraea Rafn
Authors: Paunović Danijela M. , Ćuković Katarina B. , Bogdanović Milica D. , Todorović Slađana I. , Trifunović-Momčilov Milana M. , Subotić Angelina R. , Simonović Ana D. , Dragićević Milan B.
Published: September 2021

Centaurium erythraea (centaury) is a medicinal plant with exceptional developmental plasticity in vitro and vigorous, often spontaneous, regeneration via shoot organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis, during which arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) play an important role. AGPs are highly glycosylated proteins belonging to the super family of O-glycosylated plant cell surface hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins (HRGPs). HRGPs/AGPs are intrinsically disordered and not well conserved, making their homology-based mining ineffective. We have applied a recently developed pipeline for HRGP/AGP mining, ragp, which is based on machine learning prediction of proline hydroxylation, to identify HRGP sequences in centaury transcriptome and to classify them into motif and amino acid bias (MAAB) classes. AGP sequences with low AG glycomotif representation were also identified. Six members of each of the three AGP subclasses, fasciclin-like AGPs, receptor kinase-like AGPs and AG peptides, were selected for phylogenetic and expression analyses. The expression of these 18 genes was recorded over 48 h following leaf mechanical wounding, as well as in 16 tissue samples representing plants from nature, plants cultivated in vitro, and developmental stages during shoot organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis. None of the selected genes were upregulated during both wounding recovery and regeneration. Possible functions of AGPs with the most interesting expression profiles are discussed.
Waste Tire Heat Treatment to Prepare Sulfur Self-Doped Char: Operando Insight into Activation Mechanisms Based on the Char Structures Evolution
Authors: Ren Qiangqiang , Hu Song , Hu Qingwei , Li Qing , He Limo , Lei Zhiwen , Su Sheng , Wang Yi , Jiang Long , Xiang Jun
Published: September 2021

Waste tire (WT) can be heat-treated to be high-quality sulfur self-doped char via pyrolysis and K2FeO4-assisted activation processes. This work aimed at further studying the activation mechanisms based on the char structures evolution by operando experimental method. Activation treatment process (from 50 °C to 800 °C and then held for 3 h) was divided into six typical stages (S1–S6) and consisted of carbonization process (S1–S4) and effective activation process (S4–S6). During the carbonization process, the specific capacitance only increased from 0.2 F/g to 12.4 F/g, aromatic ring systems and alkyl-aryl C-C bonds generated, S 2p3/2 (sulphide bridge) was mainly gradually consumed. During the effective activation process, the specific capacitance hugely increased from 12.4 F/g to 112.5 F/g, aromatic ring systems and alkyl-aryl C-C bonds turned to ordered graphitic char. The pores massively generated from S4 to S5, while micropores partly formed to larger and mesopores+macropores fractionally converting to smaller from S5 to S6. Besides, both S 2p3/2 and S 2p5/2 (sulphone bridge) were enriched after S5. Furthermore, the key structural parameters for huge improvement of specific capacitance were found and it further revealed that mesopores+macropores possessed stronger promotion effect than micropores and S 2p3/2 was more beneficial than S 2p5/2.
Computational Experience with Piecewise Linear Relaxations for Petroleum Refinery Planning
Authors: Rana Zaid Ashraf , Khor Cheng Seong , Zabiri Haslinda
Published: September 2021

Refinery planning optimization is a challenging problem as regards handling the nonconvex bilinearity, mainly due to pooling operations in processes such as crude oil distillation and product blending. This work investigated the performance of several representative piecewise linear (or piecewise affine) relaxation schemes (referred to as McCormick, bm, nf5, and nf6t) and de (which is a new approach proposed based on eigenvector decomposition) that mainly give rise to mixed-integer optimization programs to convexify a bilinear term using predetermined univariate partitioning for instances of uniform and non-uniform partition sizes. The computational results showed that applying these schemes improves the relaxation tightness compared to only applying convex and concave envelopes as estimators. Uniform partition sizes typically perform better in terms of relaxation solution quality and convergence behavior. It was also seen that there is a limit on the number of partitions that contribute to relaxation tightness, which does not necessarily correspond to a larger number of partitions, while a direct relationship between relaxation size and tightness does not always hold for non-uniform partition sizes.
Uncovering Quercetin’s Effects against Influenza A Virus Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Kim Minjee , Kim Young Bong
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: Re-emerging influenza threats continue to challenge medical and public health systems. Quercetin is a ubiquitous flavonoid found in food and is recognized to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer activities. (2) Methods: To elucidate the targets and mechanisms underlying the action of quercetin as a therapeutic agent for influenza, network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed. Biological targets of quercetin and target genes associated with influenza were retrieved from public databases. Compound–disease target (C-D) networks were constructed, and targets were further analyzed using KEGG pathway analysis. Potent target genes were retrieved from the compound–disease–pathway (C-D-P) and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks. The binding affinities between quercetin and the targets were identified using molecular docking. (3) Results: The pathway study revealed that quercetin-associated influenza targets were mainly involved in viral diseases, inflammation-associated pathways, and cancer. Four targets, MAPK1, NFKB1, RELA, and TP53, were identified to be involved in the inhibitory effects of quercetin on influenza. Using the molecular docking method, we evaluated the binding affinity of each ligand (quercetin)–target and discovered that quercetin and MAPK1 showed the strongest calculated binding energy among the four ligand–target complexes. (4) Conclusion: These findings identified potential targets of quercetin and suggest quercetin as a potential drug for influenza treatment.
Ultrasound-Assisted Transglutaminase Catalysis of the Cross-Linking and Microstructure of αs-Casein, β-Casein and κ-Casein
Authors: Chen Chun-Chi , Chen Liang-Yu , Li Wen-Tai , Chang Ken-Lin , Tseng Hsien-Wei , Chen Bang-Yuan , Chen Chao-Jung , Hsieh Jung-Feng
Published: September 2021

The effects of ultrasonic treatment (UT)-assisted transglutaminase (TGase) catalysis on the physicochemical properties of individual αs-casein (αs-CN), β-casein (β-CN), and κ-casein (κ-CN) were investigated. After 60 min of incubation at 30 °C, αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN were cross-linked with TGase (6.0 units/mL), and high molecular weight polymers (>200 kDa) were formed. The use of TGase in conjunction with UT (20 kHz, power of 400 W, and amplitude 20%) led to an increase in the rate of αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN polymerization compared to the individual casein that contained TGase but did not undergo UT. SDS-PAGE scrutiny showed that the intensities of αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN incubation with regard to TGase and UT at 30 °C for 60 min noticeably decreased to 5.66 ± 0.39, 3.97 ± 0.43, and 26.07 ± 1.18%, respectively (p < 0.05). Particle size analysis results indicated that the molecule size appropriation for the cross-linking of αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN ranged from 6000 to 10,000 nm after 60 min incubation with TGase and UT. Transmission electron microscopy investigation showed network structures of cross-linking αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN were formed from αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN, respectively. As our results show, the comprehensive utilization of TGase and UT will be a superior method for the polymerization of αs-CN, β-CN, and κ-CN.
Correction: Schneider et al. A Satellite-Based Spatio-Temporal Machine Learning Model to Reconstruct Daily PM2.5 Concentrations across Great Britain. Remote Sens. 2020, 12, 3803
Authors: Schneider Rochelle , Vicedo-Cabrera Ana M. , Sera Francesco , Masselot Pierre , Stafoggia Massimo , de Hoogh Kees , Kloog Itai , Reis Stefan , Vieno Massimo , Gasparrini Antonio
Published: September 2021

In the original article [...]
Multiple Ship Tracking in Remote Sensing Images Using Deep Learning
Authors: Wu Jin , Cao Changqing , Zhou Yuedong , Zeng Xiaodong , Feng Zhejun , Wu Qifan , Huang Ziqiang
Published: September 2021

In remote sensing images, small target size and diverse background cause difficulty in locating targets accurately and quickly. To address the lack of accuracy and inefficient real-time performance of existing tracking algorithms, a multi-object tracking (MOT) algorithm for ships using deep learning was proposed in this study. The feature extraction capability of target detectors determines the performance of MOT algorithms. Therefore, you only look once (YOLO)-v3 model, which has better accuracy and speed than other algorithms, was selected as the target detection framework. The high similarity of ship targets will cause poor tracking results; therefore, we used the multiple granularity network (MGN) to extract richer target appearance information to improve the generalization ability of similar images. We compared the proposed algorithm with other state-of-the-art multi-object tracking algorithms. Results show that the tracking accuracy is improved by 2.23%, while the average running speed is close to 21 frames per second, meeting the needs of real-time tracking.
Towards Intraoperative Quantification of Atrial Fibrosis Using Light-Scattering Spectroscopy and Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Knighton Nathan J. , Cottle Brian K. , Kelson Bailey E. B. , Hitchcock Robert W. , Sachse Frank B.
Published: September 2021

Light-scattering spectroscopy (LSS) is an established optical approach for characterization of biological tissues. Here, we investigated the capabilities of LSS and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to quantitatively characterize the composition and arrangement of cardiac tissues. We assembled tissue constructs from fixed myocardium and the aortic wall with a thickness similar to that of the atrial free wall. The aortic sections represented fibrotic tissue. Depth, volume fraction, and arrangement of these fibrotic insets were varied. We gathered spectra with wavelengths from 500–1100 nm from the constructs at multiple locations relative to a light source. We used single and combinations of two spectra for training of CNNs. With independently measured spectra, we assessed the accuracy of the CNNs for the classification of tissue constructs from single spectra and combined spectra. Combined spectra, including the spectra from fibers distal from the illumination fiber, typically yielded the highest accuracy. The maximal classification accuracy of the depth detection, volume fraction, and permutated arrangements was (mean ± standard deviation (stddev)) 88.97 ± 2.49%, 76.33 ± 1.51%, and 84.25 ± 1.88%, respectively. Our studies demonstrate the reliability of quantitative characterization of tissue composition and arrangements using a combination of LSS and CNNs. The potential clinical applications of the developed approach include intraoperative quantification and mapping of atrial fibrosis, as well as the assessment of ablation lesions.
Artificial Intelligence-Enabled ECG Algorithm Based on Improved Residual Network for Wearable ECG
Authors: Li Hongqiang , An Zhixuan , Zuo Shasha , Zhu Wei , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Shanshan , Zhang Cheng , Song Wenchao , Mao Quanhua , Mu Yuxin , Li Enbang , García Juan Daniel Prades
Published: September 2021

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women globally. The residual network (ResNet) evolution of electrocardiogram (ECG) technology has contributed to our understanding of cardiac physiology. We propose an artificial intelligence-enabled ECG algorithm based on an improved ResNet for a wearable ECG. The system hardware consists of a wearable ECG with conductive fabric electrodes, a wireless ECG acquisition module, a mobile terminal App, and a cloud diagnostic platform. The algorithm adopted in this study is based on an improved ResNet for the rapid classification of different types of arrhythmia. First, we visualize ECG data and convert one-dimensional ECG signals into two-dimensional images using Gramian angular fields. Then, we improve the ResNet-50 network model, add multistage shortcut branches to the network, and optimize the residual block. The ReLu activation function is replaced by a scaled exponential linear units (SELUs) activation function to improve the expression ability of the model. Finally, the images are input into the improved ResNet network for classification. The average recognition rate of this classification algorithm against seven types of arrhythmia signals (atrial fibrillation, atrial premature beat, ventricular premature beat, normal beat, ventricular tachycardia, atrial tachycardia, and sinus bradycardia) is 98.3%.