bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caracterização física e química de frutos de umbugueleira (Spondias sp.) no semiárido pernambucano
Authors: Costa Rosemeire Santos , Ataíde Elma Machado , Bastos Débora Costa
Published: December 2021

As frutas nativas passaram a ser vistas como uma excelente alternativa para a região Nordeste, especialmente a umbugueleira. Os frutos das Spondias sp. são apreciados pelos consumidores devido aos compostos bioativos, o que tem favorecido agregar valor aos produtos e aumentar a renda familiar. No entanto, pesquisas sobre qualidade de frutos são necessárias e importantes, já que os resultados obtidos são ainda inconsistentes. Face ao exposto, objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar as características físicas e químicas de frutos de umbugueleira no semiárido pernambucano. O trabalho foi realizado no Laboratório de Química da Unidade Acadêmica de Serra Talhada da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Utilizou-se fruto no estádio maduro, com coloração da casca amarela. Foram selecionadas quanto à uniformidade, em seguida, realizou-se a caracterização física e química da massa do fruto, formato do fruto, rendimento de polpa, casca e de semente, teor de sólidos solúveis (oBrix), acidez titulável, pH, e o índice de maturação (relação SS/AT), respectivamente. Utilizou-se 20 repetições de 10 frutos. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de parâmetros descritivos e determinação dos coeficientes de correlação linear de Pearson. Com base nos resultados, observou-se que os frutos com maior comprimento e diâmetro obtiveram maior rendimento de polpa. A relação SS/AT apresentou maior correlação com os sólidos solúveis do que a acidez dos frutos, sendo mais representativa que a medição isolada desses parâmetros, uma vez que o índice de maturação é uma das formas mais adequadas para avaliar o sabor.
PENGARUH MOTIVASI, GAYA BELAJAR, DAN SUASANA RELIGIUS TERHADAP PRESTASI BELAJAR PESERTA DIDIK DI MADRASAH IBTIDAIYAH NEGERI 3 PURWOREJO
Authors: , Suharti , , Zakiyah
Published: December 2021

Penelitian ini didasari oleh pentingnya prestasi beelajar peserta didik.Sehubungan dengan hal tersebut, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui Pengaruh Motivasi, Gaya Belajar, dan Suasana Religius terhadap Prestasi Belajar Peserta Didik di MIN 3 Purworejo. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif. Populasi penelitian ini adalah seluruh peserta didik di MIN 3 Purworejo, sedangkan sampel penelitian yaitu peserta didik kelas VI di MIN 3 Purworejo yang berjumlah40 orang.Pengumpulan data menggunakan angket, dan analisis data menggunakan teknik analisis regresi sederhana dan regresi ganda. Penelitian ini menghasilkan kesimpulan sebagai berikut. (1) Motivasimemiliki pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan terhadap prestasi belajar peserta didik di MIN 3 Purworejo, terbukti dari nilai Sig = 0,038< α = 0,05. Adapun nilai koefisien korelasi (r2) = 0,108 atau berkontribusi sebesar 10,8%. (2) Gaya belajar memiliki pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan terhadap prestasi belajar peserta didik di MIN 3 Purworejo, terbukti dari nilai Sig = 0,017
Penerapan Metode Drill Pada Mata Pelajaran Matematika Pada Anak Berkebutuhan Khusus Gangguan Penglihatan (Tunanetra) di SLB Negeri 1 Pemalang
Authors: Kismiati R. Neli , Muslih Moh , Pramesti Santika Lya Diah , Mahmudah Umi
Published: December 2021

This study aims to reveal more deeply about how effective the implementation of the drill method in mathematics is for children with special needs (blind) at SLB Negeri 1 Pemalang. This research includes field research and the approach used is a qualitative approach. Data collection techniques are observation, interviews and documentation. The data sources are class IVA2 teachers and class VA teachers at SLB Negeri 1 Pemalang in mathematics, while the analysis used in this study is descriptive analysis. From the results of the application of the drill method in mathematics subjects, it produced satisfactory results, especially in the concept of multiplication in the form of rote memorization. The value of the results of the development of memorizing mathematical concepts is seen from the existing assessment rubrics.
Challenges of Future Jobs in Macedonia - Remote or Hybrid Generation?
Authors: APOSTOLOVA NIKOLOVSKA Marıja , DİMİTROVSKA Nadezda
Published: December 2021

The subject of research is current, contemporary, empirical and is a challenge for a number of current and future researchers.This paper theoretically analyzes several research questions regarding the future of work and jobs according to relevant studies and many researches in the last period: How might the current labor force in innovation be unique in relation to today? How might occupations and jobs change? What abilities and capacities will be required? The changes in the information technology also change the nature of the work in the company and with it the work of the manager in the institutions in N. Macedonia. The paper uses official statistical data from N. Macedonia, primarily due to their availability. The introduction of high technology and computerization of a large number of jobs indicate the need for analysis of the cognitive components of the job. However, the changes will not only happen in relation to the jobs; there will also be changes in the way we organize ourselves. The paper also presents an analysis of the situation in N. Macedonia of employees according to the sectors of activity in the past five years, at the same time an analysis is made of the sectors in which there is an increase in the number of employees. According to the data, it is emphasized that the social and technological changes that occur in the past period in N. Macedonia have a strong impact on the number of employees by sectors of activity especially on the number of employees in the sector of agriculture, forestry and fishing where the number of employees decreased by 24758 persons, while in the last five years the number of employees in the manufacturing sector has increased by 20520.
Benin on the Axis of the Law of the Primate City: The Case of Cotonou
Authors: ŞAKACI Bilge Kağan , SOUMANOU Abdel , ÖZKAYA Selçuk
Published: December 2021

Jefferson's “law of the primate city” states that the principal city of a country always disproportionately and deliberately represents the national economic capacity and the sense of nation in the population. This study examines the extent to which Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, is fully in line with Jefferson's “law”. Some spatial and situational factors were highlighted to show how Cotonou has become the most populous city and dominant economic city in Benin. Considering that Cotonou is disproportionately large and has a significant share of the country's economic capacity, it is clear that today there is some uncertainty as to whether Cotonou is truly representative of national feeling. In order to clarify this issue, an explanation of the cultural landscape, a literature review and interviews with Beninese residents are conducted to assess the extent to which Cotonou represents national feeling. Furthermore, it is noted that as Benin modernizes, Cotonou will continue to attract more people from other parts of Benin and may therefore become more representative of the country's cultural identity.
The Antimicrobial Resistance Characteristics of Imipenem-Non-Susceptible, Imipenemase-6-Producing Escherichia coli
Authors: Onishi Reo , Shigemura Katsumi , Osawa Kayo , Yang Young-Min , Maeda Koki , Fang Shiuh-Bin , Sung Shian-Ying , Onuma Kenichiro , Uda Atsushi , Miyara Takayuki , Fujisawa Masato
Published: December 2021

Imipenemase-6 (IMP-6) type carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae is regarded as dangerous due to its unique lack of antimicrobial susceptibility. It is resistant to meropenem (MEPM) but susceptible to imipenem (IPM). In addition to carbapenemase, outer membrane porins and efflux pumps also play roles in carbapenem resistance by reducing the antimicrobial concentration inside cells. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) is transmitted with IMP-6 by the plasmid and broadens the spectrum of antimicrobial resistance. We collected 42 strains of IMP-6-producing Escherichia coli and conducted a molecular analysis of carbapenemase, ESBL, porin, efflux, and epidemiological characteristics using plasmid replicon typing. Among the 42 isolates, 21 strains were susceptible to IPM (50.0%) and 1 (2.4%) to MEPM. Seventeen strains (40.5%) co-produced CTX-M-2 type ESBL. We found that the relative expression of ompC and ompF significantly correlated with the MIC of IPM (p = 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). Sixty-eight% of CTX-M-2-non-producing strains had IncI1, which was significantly different from CTX-M-2-producing strains (p < 0.001). In conclusion, 50.0% of our IMP-6-producing strains were non-susceptible to IPM, which is different from the typical pattern and can be attributed to decreased porin expression. Further studies investigating other types of carbapenemase are warranted.
An Evidence-Based Multidisciplinary Approach Focused on Creating Algorithms for Targeted Therapy of Infection-Related Ventilator-Associated Complications (IVACs) Caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii in Critically Ill Adult Patients
Authors: Gatti Milo , Viaggi Bruno , Rossolini Gian Maria , Pea Federico , Viale Pierluigi
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: To develop evidence-based algorithms for targeted antibiotic therapy of infection-related ventilator-associated complications (IVACs) caused by non-fermenting Gram-negative pathogens. (2) Methods: A multidisciplinary team of four experts had several rounds of assessments for developing algorithms devoted to targeted antimicrobial therapy of IVACs caused by two non-fermenting Gram-negative pathogens. A literature search was performed on PubMed-MEDLINE (until September 2021) to provide evidence for supporting therapeutic choices. Quality and strength of evidence was established according to a hierarchical scale of the study design. Six different algorithms with associated recommendations in terms of therapeutic choice and dosing optimization were suggested according to the susceptibility pattern of two non-fermenting Gram-negative pathogens: multi-susceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), multidrug-resistant (MDR) metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL)-negative-PA, MBL-positive-PA, carbapenem-susceptible Acinetobacter baumannii (AB), and carbapenem-resistant AB. (3) Results: Piperacillin–tazobactam or fourth-generation cephalosporins represent the first therapeutic choice in IVACs caused by multi-susceptible PA. A carbapenem-sparing approach favouring the administration of novel beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitors should be pursued in the management of MDR-MBL-negative PA infections. Cefiderocol should be used as first-line therapy for the management of IVACs caused by MBL-producing-PA or carbapenem-resistant AB. Fosfomycin-based combination therapy, as well as inhaled colistin, could be considered as a reasonable alternative for the management of IVACs due to MDR-PA and carbapenem-resistant AB. (4) Conclusions: The implementation of algorithms focused on prompt revision of antibiotic regimens guided by results of conventional and rapid diagnostic methodologies, appropriate place in therapy of novel beta-lactams, implementation of strategies for sparing the broadest-spectrum antibiotics, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic optimization of antibiotic dosing regimens is strongly suggested.
Bacterial Mixology: Combining Pharmacodynamic Models to Predict In Vitro Competition of MCR-1-Harboring E. coli
Authors: Smith Nicholas M. , Chan Arthur , Nguyen Thomas D. , Dumbleton Jacob T.
Published: December 2021

The emergence of mobile colistin resistance (mcr)-mediated polymyxin resistance has resulted in a significant detriment to the utility of the polymyxins in the clinical setting. Though the risk for horizontal transfer of an mcr-containing plasmid is a major component of the transmissibility, selection of polymyxin resistant subpopulations is still a major risk factor for developing polymyxin-resistant infections. Using static time-kills over 24 h (h), we performed competition studies by mixing known inocula of isogenic Escherichia coli strains (wildtype [WT] and mcr-1-harboring) and treating with a concentration array of polymyxin B. These results were then compared to a priori predictions of bacterial-killing effects by polymyxin B on a mixed population of E. coli cells using a previously published mechanism-based model. The data showed that both selective pressure between WT and mcr-1-harboring strains as well as underlying polymyxin B heteroresistance within each of the two strains contributed to bacterial regrowth despite treatment with high concentration polymyxin B. Moreover, the simulations showed that when mcr-1-harboring cells were 1% or 10% of the total population, regrowth by 24 h was still observed in ≥50% of the simulated subjects for both a 106 and 108 inoculum. These results indicate that at lower inoculums with a low proportion of mcr-1-harboring cells, selective pressure from a pharmacokinetic-optimized regimen of polymyxin B still results in regrowth and selection of polymyxin-resistant cells.
Distribution of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase Genes and Antimicrobial Susceptibility among Residents in Geriatric Long-Term Care Facilities in Japan
Authors: Akine Dai , Sasahara Teppei , Kiga Kotaro , Ae Ryusuke , Kosami Koki , Yoshimura Akio , Kubota Yoshinari , Sasaki Kazumasa , Kimura Yumiko , Ogawa Masanori , Watanabe Shinya , Morisawa Yuji , Cui Longzhu
Published: December 2021

A high prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) may call for monitoring in geriatric long-term care facilities (g-LTCFs). We surveyed the distribution of ESBL-causative gene types and antimicrobial susceptibility in ESBL-PE strains from residents in g-LTCFs, and investigated the association between ESBL-causative gene types and antimicrobial susceptibility. First, we analyzed the types of ESBL-causative genes obtained from 141 ESBL-PE strains collected from the feces of residents in four Japanese g-LTCFs. Next, we determined the minimum inhibitory concentration values for alternative antimicrobial agents against ESBL-PE, including β-lactams and non-β-lactams. Escherichia coli accounted for 96% of the total ESBL-PE strains. Most strains (94%) contained blaCTX-M group genes. The genes most commonly underlying resistance were of the blaCTX-M-9 and blaCTX-M-1 groups. Little difference was found in the distribution of ESBL-causative genes among the facilities; however, antimicrobial susceptibility differed widely among the facilities. No specific difference was found between antimicrobial susceptibility and the number of ESBL-causative genes. Our data showed that ESBL-PEs were susceptible to some antimicrobial agents, but the susceptibility largely differed among facilities. These findings suggest that each g-LTCF may require specific treatment strategies based on their own antibiogram. Investigations into drug resistance should be performed in g-LTCFs as well as acute medical facilities.
The Effects of Different UVA Photoperiods on the Growth Performance, Immune Responses, Antioxidant Status and Apoptosis-Related Gene Expression of the Pacific White Shrimp (Penaeus vannamei)
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Liu Baoliang , Gao Xiaoqiang , Wang Xi , Li Hongxu , Xu Liang , Wang Guiming , Zhao Kuifeng , Huang Bin
Published: December 2021

UVA is the most common type of solar UV radiation in aquatic environments; however, the effects it causes in shrimp farming in recirculating water systems (RAS) is unclear. Thus, the growth performance, immune responses, antioxidant status and apoptosis-related gene expression in Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei (body weight 9.56 ± 0.10 g), reared with 12L: 12D full spectrum light as background light under five UVA (peak at 400 nm) photoperiods (0L: 24D, 2L: 22D, 4L: 20D, 8L: 16D and 12L: 12D) at a light intensity of 1 W/m2 were investigated. The results showed that the 2L: 22D and 4L: 20D UVA photoperiods enhanced the growth performance and reduced the feed conversion ratio and the shrimp mortality. Shrimp exposed to UVA (2L: 22D and 4L: 20D) also displayed higher levels of hepatopancreas catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), acid phosphatase (ACP), phenol oxidase (PO) and lysozyme (LZM) compared to the 8L: 16D and 12L: 12D groups. The malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased in line with the extension of the UVA irradiation time. The mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes in all the UVA treatments were significantly higher than with the control treatment, except for the 2L: 22D group. The results of the 2L: 22D and 4L: 20D treatments were significantly higher than those of the control group, except for LGBP. In conclusion, 2L: 22D and 4L: 20D UVA photoperiods increased growth performance and decreased FCR, improved the innate immunity and antioxidant response and reduced the mortality rate in adult shrimp.
Parkinson’s Disease and the Metal–Microbiome–Gut–Brain Axis: A Systems Toxicology Approach
Authors: Forero-Rodríguez Lady Johanna , Josephs-Spaulding Jonathan , Flor Stefano , Pinzón Andrés , Kaleta Christoph
Published: December 2021

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease, leading to motor and non-motor complications. Autonomic alterations, including gastrointestinal symptoms, precede motor defects and act as early warning signs. Chronic exposure to dietary, environmental heavy metals impacts the gastrointestinal system and host-associated microbiome, eventually affecting the central nervous system. The correlation between dysbiosis and PD suggests a functional and bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain. The bioaccumulation of metals promotes stress mechanisms by increasing reactive oxygen species, likely altering the bidirectional gut–brain link. To better understand the differing molecular mechanisms underlying PD, integrative modeling approaches are necessary to connect multifactorial perturbations in this heterogeneous disorder. By exploring the effects of gut microbiota modulation on dietary heavy metal exposure in relation to PD onset, the modification of the host-associated microbiome to mitigate neurological stress may be a future treatment option against neurodegeneration through bioremediation. The progressive movement towards a systems toxicology framework for precision medicine can uncover molecular mechanisms underlying PD onset such as metal regulation and microbial community interactions by developing predictive models to better understand PD etiology to identify options for novel treatments and beyond. Several methodologies recently addressed the complexity of this interaction from different perspectives; however, to date, a comprehensive review of these approaches is still lacking. Therefore, our main aim through this manuscript is to fill this gap in the scientific literature by reviewing recently published papers to address the surrounding questions regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms between metals, microbiota, and the gut–brain-axis, as well as the regulation of this system to prevent neurodegeneration.
Effects of Erythrodiol on the Antioxidant Response and Proteome of HepG2 Cells
Authors: Peñas-Fuentes Juan Luis , Siles Eva , Rufino-Palomares Eva E. , Pérez-Jiménez Amalia , Reyes-Zurita Fernando J. , Lupiáñez José A. , Fuentes-Almagro Carlos , Peragón-Sánchez Juan
Published: December 2021

Erythrodiol (EO) is a pentacyclic triterpenic alcohol found in olive tree leaves and olive oil, and it has important effects on the health properties and quality of olive oil. In this study, we characterized the cytotoxic effects of EO on human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells by studying changes in cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, antioxidant defense systems, and the proteome. The results reveal that EO markedly decreased HepG2 cell viability without changing ROS levels. The concentrations of glutathione and NADPH were significantly reduced, with selective changes in the activity of several antioxidant enzymes: glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase. Proteomic data reveal that EO led to the complete elimination or decreased abundance of 41 and 3 proteins, respectively, and the abundance of 29 proteins increased. The results of functional enrichment analysis show that important metabolic processes and the nuclear transport of mature mRNA were impaired, whereas AMP biosynthesis and cell cycle G2/M phase transition were induced. The transcription factors and miRNAs involved in this response were also identified. These potent antiproliferative effects make EO a good candidate for the further analysis of its hepatic antitumor effects in in vivo studies.
Indicaxanthin from Opuntia ficus-indica Fruit Ameliorates Glucose Dysmetabolism and Counteracts Insulin Resistance in High-Fat-Diet-Fed Mice
Authors: Terzo Simona , Attanzio Alessandro , Calvi Pasquale , Mulè Flavia , Tesoriere Luisa , Allegra Mario , Amato Antonella
Published: December 2021

Obesity-related dysmetabolic conditions are amongst the most common causes of death globally. Indicaxanthin, a bioavailable betalain pigment from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit, has been demonstrated to modulate redox-dependent signalling pathways, exerting significant anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo. In light of the strict interconnections between inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance (IR), a nutritionally relevant dose of indicaxanthin has been evaluated in a high-fat diet (HFD) model of obesity-related IR. To this end, biochemical and histological analysis, oxidative stress and inflammation evaluations in liver and adipose tissue were carried out. Our results showed that indicaxanthin treatment significantly reduced body weight, daily food intake and visceral fat mass. Moreover, indicaxanthin administration induced remarkable, beneficial effects on HFD-induced glucose dysmetabolism, reducing fasting glycaemia and insulinaemia, improving glucose and insulin tolerance and restoring the HOMA index to physiological values. These effects were associated with a reduction in hepatic and adipose tissue oxidative stress and inflammation. A decrease in RONS, malondialdehyde and NO levels, in TNF-α, CCL-2 and F4-80 gene expression, in p65, p-JNK, COX-2 and i-NOS protein levels, in crown-like structures and hepatic inflammatory foci was, indeed, observed. The current findings encourage further clinical studies to confirm the effectiveness of indicaxanthin to prevent and treat obesity-related dysmetabolic conditions.
Vitamin B12 Reduces TDP-43 Toxicity by Alleviating Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Jeon Yu-Mi , Kwon Younghwi , Lee Shinrye , Kim Seyeon , Jo Myungjin , Lee Seongsoo , Kim Sang Ryong , Kim Kiyoung , Kim Hyung-Jun
Published: December 2021

TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) is a member of an evolutionarily conserved family of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins that modulate multiple steps in RNA metabolic processes. Cytoplasmic aggregation of TDP-43 in affected neurons is a pathological hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and limbic predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE). Mislocalized and accumulated TDP-43 in the cytoplasm induces mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxidative species (ROS) production. Here, we show that TDP-43- and rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in the human neuronal cell line SH-SY5Y were attenuated by hydroxocobalamin (Hb, vitamin B12 analog) treatment. Although Hb did not affect the cytoplasmic accumulation of TDP-43, Hb attenuated TDP-43-induced toxicity by reducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Moreover, a shortened lifespan and motility defects in TDP-43-expressing Drosophila were significantly mitigated by dietary treatment with hydroxocobalamin. Taken together, these findings suggest that oral intake of hydroxocobalamin may be a potential therapeutic intervention for TDP-43-associated proteinopathies.
Additive Manufacturing Interventions during the COVID-19 Pandemic: South Africa
Authors: Dzogbewu Thywill Cephas , Afrifa Jnr Sampson , Amoah Nathaniel , Fianko Samuel Koranteng , de Beer Deon
Published: December 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is considered a renaissance of the manufacturing industry. Its unique capability of manufacturing 3D objects with intricate geometrical configurations has been used to produce hospital equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) in an attempt to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. The technology has been used by different research units to produce ventilators, respirator face masks, oscillating respiratory devices, oxygen connectors, oxygen splitters, non-invasive ventilation helmets, reusable clinician PPE, visor frames for face shields, etc. Despite the efforts of the AM community in South Africa, COVID-19 infections have continued to increase in the country. It came to light that technological interventions (including AM) alone cannot prevent the spread of the virus without the corresponding adaptive behavioural changes, such as adhering to COVID-19 prevention protocols (washing of hands, social distancing, etc.). It could be postulated that the spread of COVID-19 can only be prevented by inter-marrying the technological interventions (AM) with adaptive behavioural changes.
Properties of Emulsion Paint with Modified Natural Rubber Latex/Polyvinyl Acetate Blend Binder
Authors: Ibrahim Bahruddin , Helwani Zuchra , Fadhillah Ivan , Wiranata Arya , Miharyono Joni
Published: December 2021

The direct use of natural rubber latex (NRL) as a binder for emulsion paints did not produce emulsion paints with good opacity, washability resistance, and regulated touch drying time, even when mixed with polyvinyl acetate (PVAc). This study aimed to study the properties of opacity (hiding power), washability resistance, and set drying touch time of emulsion paint with a binder added from a mixture of modified natural rubber latex (NRL) and PVAc. NRL modifications included UV photodepolymerization with TiO2 catalyst and grafting copolymerization of methyl methacrylate and styrene (NRL-g-(MMA-co-St)). NRL was mixed with PVAC at ratios of 0/100; 15/85; 25/75; 35/65; 50/50; 100/0% w/w before being used as a binder for emulsion paint. Emulsion paint samples had different binder contents, namely 2, 4, 6, and 8% w/w. Tests on paint samples included opacity using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer (EASYSPEC safas Monaco), washability using the Digital BGD 526 Wet Abrasion Scrub Tester, and drying time set using the ASTM STP500 procedure. The results showed that the opacity (hiding power), washability resistance, and set drying touch time met the emulsion paint standards for all binder levels, except the 100% w/w modified NRL composition. The higher level of NRL in the binder causes these properties to decrease and become unstable. The best opacity (hidden power), washing resistance, and drying touch time were obtained on modified NRL with a concentration of 15% w/w. The binder content in the paint was around 4% w/w, with an opacity of about 1.78% abs, washing resistance of 12 times, and the set drying touch time to 80 min.
A Novel Unsupervised Spectral Clustering for Pure-Tone Audiograms towards Hearing Aid Filter Bank Design and Initial Configurations
Authors: Elkhouly Abeer , Andrew Allan Melvin , Rahim Hasliza A , Abdulaziz Nidhal , Abdulmalek Mohamedfareq , Mohd Yasin Mohd Najib , Jusoh Muzammil , Sabapathy Thennarasan , Siddique Shafiquzzaman
Published: December 2021

The current practice of adjusting hearing aids (HA) is tiring and time-consuming for both patients and audiologists. Of hearing-impaired people, 40–50% are not satisfied with their HAs. In addition, good designs of HAs are often avoided since the process of fitting them is exhausting. To improve the fitting process, a machine learning (ML) unsupervised approach is proposed to cluster the pure-tone audiograms (PTA). This work applies the spectral clustering (SP) approach to group audiograms according to their similarity in shape. Different SP approaches are tested for best results and these approaches were evaluated by Silhouette, Calinski-Harabasz, and Davies-Bouldin criteria values. Kutools for Excel add-in is used to generate audiograms’ population, annotated using the results from SP, and different criteria values are used to evaluate population clusters. Finally, these clusters are mapped to a standard set of audiograms used in HA characterization. The results indicated that grouping the data in 8 groups or 10 results in ones with high evaluation criteria. The evaluation for population audiograms clusters shows good performance, as it resulted in a Silhouette coefficient >0.5. This work introduces a new concept to classify audiograms using an ML algorithm according to the audiograms’ similarity in shape.
Real Color Sectioned Images and Correspondence with Ultrasound Images of the Palmar Wrist
Authors: Kim Seul Ki , Hur Mi-Sun , Park Jin Seo
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study was to identify sequential changes in the actual sites and shapes of wrist structures on the high-resolution sectioned images and to compare these with those on ultrasound (US) images. These images of the wrist may yield guidelines for diagnosing various pathological lesions in the wrist. In the sectioned images of a whole cadaver body, and the images including the wrist were selected, and part of the hand was cropped. A wrist of one healthy Korean subject was scanned by ultrasonography to obtain US images of the wrist. Wrist structures were identified and labeled in detail on the sectioned images and the corresponding US images. Serial changes of the sites and shapes of the wrist structures mainly occurred in the bones, median nerve, ulnar artery, ulnar nerve, and the flexor pollicis longus tendon, along with thickening of the thenar and hypothenar muscles. The present results could provide a new guide for anatomy mapping, diagnosing, and detecting various lesions of the wrist. They can also be useful and effective for educational purposes related to interpreting US images.
A Note on “Wiener Index of a Fuzzy Graph and Application to Illegal Immigration Networks”
Authors: Lee Hoon , Chen Xue-gang , Sohn Moo Young
Published: December 2021

Connectivity parameters have an important role in the study of communication networks. Wiener index is such a parameter with several applications in networking, facility location, cryptology, chemistry, and molecular biology, etc. In this paper, we show two notes related to the Wiener index of a fuzzy graph. First, we argue that Theorem 3.10 in the paper “Wiener index of a fuzzy graph and application to illegal immigration networks, Fuzzy Sets and Syst. 384 (2020) 132–147” is not correct. We give a correct statement of Theorem 3.10. Second, by using a new operator on matrix, we propose a simple and polynomial-time algorithm to compute the Wiener index of a fuzzy graph.
Controlled Production of Natural Gas Hydrates in an Experimental Device with an Internal Circulation Circuit
Authors: Hečko Dávid , Malcho Milan , Mičko Pavol , Kantová Nikola Čajová , Kolková Zuzana , Hrabovský Peter , Belány Pavol
Published: December 2021

For countries with limited access to conventional hydrocarbon gases, methane hydrates have emerged as a potential energy source. In view of the European Union’s requirements to reduce the energy intensity of technological processes and increase energy security, it appears promising to accumulate natural gas and biomethane in the form of hydrate structures and release them if necessary. Storing gas in this form in an energy-efficient manner creates interest in developing and innovating technologies in this area. Hydrates that form in gas pipelines are generated by a more or less random process and are an undesirable phenomenon in gas transportation. In our case, the process implemented in the proposed experimental device is a controlled process, which can generate hydrates in orders of magnitude shorter times compared to the classical methods of generating natural gas hydrates in autoclaves by saturating water only. The recirculation of gas-saturated water has been shown to be the most significant factor in reducing the energy consumption of natural gas hydrate generation. Not only is the energy intensity of generation reduced, but also its generation time. In this paper, a circuit diagram for an experimental device for natural gas hydrate generation is shown with complete description, principle of operation, and measurement methodology. The natural gas hydrate formation process is analyzed using a mathematical model that correlates well with the measured hydrate formation times. Hydrates may become a current challenge in the future and, once verified, may find applications in various fields of technology or industry.
Endogenously-Produced Hyaluronan and Its Potential to Regulate the Development of Peritoneal Adhesions
Authors: Kocurkova Anna , Nesporova Kristina , Sandanusova Miriam , Kerberova Michaela , Lehka Katerina , Velebny Vladimir , Kubala Lukas , Ambrozova Gabriela
Published: December 2021

Formation of peritoneal adhesions (PA) is one of the major complications following intra-abdominal surgery. It is primarily caused by activation of the mesothelial layer and underlying tissues in the peritoneal membrane resulting in the transition of mesothelial cells (MCs) and fibroblasts to a pro-fibrotic phenotype. Pro-fibrotic transition of MCs—mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT), and fibroblasts activation to myofibroblasts are interconnected to changes in cellular metabolism and culminate in the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the form of fibrotic tissue between injured sides in the abdominal cavity. However, ECM is not only a mechanical scaffold of the newly synthetized tissue but reciprocally affects fibrosis development. Hyaluronan (HA), an important component of ECM, is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan consisting of N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) and D-glucuronic acid (GlcUA) that can affect the majority of processes involved in PA formation. This review considers the role of endogenously produced HA in the context of different fibrosis-related pathologies and its overlap in the development of PA.
Endurance Training in Humans Modulates the Bacterial DNA Signature of Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Villarroel Julia , Donkin Ida , Champion Camille , Burcelin Rémy , Barrès Romain
Published: December 2021

Accumulating evidence supports the existence of a tissue microbiota, which may regulate the physiological function of tissues in normal and pathological states. To gain insight into the regulation of tissue-borne bacteria in physiological conditions, we quantified and sequenced the 16S rRNA gene in aseptically collected skeletal muscle and blood samples from eight healthy male individuals subjected to six weeks of endurance training. Potential contamination bias was evaluated and the taxa profiles of each tissue were established. We detected bacterial DNA in skeletal muscle and blood, with background noise levels of detected bacterial DNA considerably lower in control versus tissue samples. In both muscle and blood, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the most prominent phyla. Endurance training changed the content of resident bacterial DNA in skeletal muscle but not in blood, with Pseudomonas being less abundant, and both Staphylococcus and Acinetobacter being more abundant in muscle after exercise. Our results provide evidence that endurance training specifically remodels the bacterial DNA profile of skeletal muscle in healthy young men. Future investigations may shed light on the physiological impact, if any, of training-induced changes in bacterial DNA in skeletal muscle.
Lateral Flow Immunoassay Coupled with Copper Enhancement for Rapid and Sensitive SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Detection
Authors: Peng Tao , Jiao Xueshima , Liang Zhanwei , Zhao Hongwei , Zhao Yang , Xie Jie , Jiang You , Yu Xiaoping , Fang Xiang , Dai Xinhua
Published: December 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still raging all over the world. Hence, the rapid and sensitive screening of the suspected population is in high demand. The nucleocapsid protein (NP) of SARS-CoV-2 has been selected as an ideal marker for viral antigen detection. This study describes a lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) based on colloidal gold nanoparticles for rapid NP antigen detection, in which sensitivity was improved through copper deposition-induced signal amplification. The detection sensitivity of the developed LFIA for NP antigen detection (using certified reference materials) under the optimized parameters was 0.01 μg/mL and was promoted by three orders of magnitude to 10 pg/mL after copper deposition signal amplification. The LFIA coupled with the copper enhancement technique has many merits such as low cost, high efficiency, and high sensitivity. It provides an effective approach to the rapid screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of the suspected population in the COVID-19 outbreak.
EvoMBN: Evolving Multi-Branch Networks on Myocardial Infarction Diagnosis Using 12-Lead Electrocardiograms
Authors: Liu Wenhan , Ji Jiewei , Chang Sheng , Wang Hao , He Jin , Huang Qijun
Published: December 2021

Multi-branch Networks (MBNs) have been successfully applied to myocardial infarction (MI) diagnosis using 12-lead electrocardiograms. However, most existing MBNs share a fixed architecture. The absence of architecture optimization has become a significant obstacle to a more accurate diagnosis for these MBNs. In this paper, an evolving neural network named EvoMBN is proposed for MI diagnosis. It utilizes a genetic algorithm (GA) to automatically learn the optimal MBN architectures. A novel fixed-length encoding method is proposed to represent each architecture. In addition, the crossover, mutation, selection, and fitness evaluation of the GA are defined to ensure the architecture can be optimized through evolutional iterations. A novel Lead Squeeze and Excitation (LSE) block is designed to summarize features from all the branch networks. It consists of a fully-connected layer and an LSE mechanism that assigns weights to different leads. Five-fold inter-patient cross validation experiments on MI detection and localization are performed using the PTB diagnostic database. Moreover, the model architecture learned from the PTB database is transferred to the PTB-XL database without any changes. Compared with existing studies, our EvoMBN shows superior generalization and the efficiency of its flexible architecture is suitable for auxiliary MI diagnosis in real-world.
Research on Cooperative Behavior of Green Technology Innovation in Construction Enterprises Based on Evolutionary Game
Authors: Wang Qing’e , Lai Wei , Ding Mengmeng , Qiu Qi
Published: December 2021

The dynamic evolution game model is built by using evolutionary game theory, and the evolutionarily stable strategy is analyzed by matlab2018b software in this paper. The cooperation willingness, sharing level, income distribution, and punishment mechanism are comprehensively considered in this model, and numerical simulations of the influence of various influencing factors on the cooperation strategy selection of green technology innovation for construction enterprises are carried out. Then, countermeasures and suggestions are put forward. The results of evolutionary game analysis show that the cooperation willingness, sharing level, income distribution, and punishment mechanism have a significant impact on the cooperative evolution direction of green technology innovation for construction enterprises, separately. Stronger cooperation willingness or higher relative value of positive spillover, or reasonable income distribution can promote partners to adopt active cooperative strategies, while appropriately increasing punishment intensity can prevent opportunistic behaviors and improve the probability of success of cooperative innovation.
Development of an Offsite Construction Typology: A Delphi Study
Authors: Ginigaddara Buddhini , Perera Srinath , Feng Yingbin , Rahnamayiezekavat Payam
Published: December 2021

Offsite construction (OSC) delivers multiple products that vary in design and building complexity. Considering the growing prevalence of OSC, a systematic categorization of OSC types can offer operational and macroeconomic benefits to the construction industry. The purpose of this study is to develop an OSC typology through a systematic process, as existing studies do not present a rigorously evaluated typology that suits the modern OSC context. The research addresses the following research question: what are the distinct characteristics of unique OSC types that have emerged through the adoption of Industry 4.0-based technological advancements? Due to the rapid advancement of production and construction technologies, the existing OSC classifications are becoming outdated. As such, a detailed review of OSC technologies was conducted which enabled the identification of OSC categories: components, panels, pods, modules, complete buildings, and flat-pack (foldable structure). A series of case studies was then reviewed to explore and analyze the relevance of these OSC types in practice. It was then subjected to a Delphi-based multi-level expert forum to develop a modern and future-proof OSC typology. The rigorous process validated, defined, and delineated the boundaries between the OSC types. The research confirmed that OSC types can be broadly categorized as volumetric (pods, modules, complete buildings) and non-volumetric (components, panels, foldable structure). The results indicated that OSC skills vary with the complexity of OSC types, and that lightweight steel and timber are the most common materials.
Approaches of the Innate Immune System to Ameliorate Adaptive Immunotherapy for B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Their Microenvironment
Authors: Watanabe Takashi
Published: December 2021

A dominant paradigm being developed in immunotherapy for hematologic malignancies is of adaptive immunotherapy that involves chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and bispecific T-cell engagers. CAR T-cell therapy has yielded results that surpass those of the existing salvage immunochemotherapy for patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after first-line immunochemotherapy, while offering a therapeutic option for patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). However, the role of the innate immune system has been shown to prolong CAR T-cell persistence. Cluster of differentiation (CD) 47-blocking antibodies, which are a promising therapeutic armamentarium for DLBCL, are novel innate immune checkpoint inhibitors that allow macrophages to phagocytose tumor cells. Intratumoral Toll-like receptor 9 agonist CpG oligodeoxynucleotide plays a pivotal role in FL, and vaccination may be required in MCL. Additionally, local stimulator of interferon gene agonists, which induce a systemic anti-lymphoma CD8+ T-cell response, and the costimulatory molecule 4-1BB/CD137 or OX40/CD134 agonistic antibodies represent attractive agents for dendritic cell activations, which subsequently, facilitates initiation of productive T-cell priming and NK cells. This review describes the exploitation of approaches that trigger innate immune activation for adaptive immune cells to operate maximally in the tumor microenvironment of these lymphomas.
Outcomes after Surgical Treatment of Metastatic Disease in the Adrenal Gland; Valuable for the Patient?
Authors: Metman Madelon J. H. , Viëtor Charlotte L. , Seinen Auke J. , Berends Annika M. A. , Hemmer Patrick H. J. , Kerstens Michiel N. , Feelders Richard A. , Franssen Gaston J. H. , van Ginhoven Tessa M. , Kruijff Schelto
Published: December 2021

The adrenal glands are common dissemination sites for metastasis of various solid tumors. Surgical treatment is often recommended because targeted therapies and immunotherapy are frequently ineffective for adrenal metastasis. We report the experience with short-term and long-term surgical outcomes of patients undergoing surgery for adrenal metastasis in two hospitals. A retrospective, multicenter study was performed to analyze patient characteristics, tumor-related data, perioperative outcomes, and oncological outcomes. Postoperative complications that occurred within 30 days were scored according to the Clavien Dindo classification. Metastatic adrenalectomy was performed in 95 patients. We observed an increase from an average of 3 metastatic adrenalectomies per year between 2001–2005 to 10 between 2015–2019. The most frequent underlying malignancies were colorectal and lung cancer. In 55.8%, minimal invasive adrenalectomy was performed, including six conversions to open surgery. A total of 37.9% of patients had postoperative complications, of which ileus or gastroparesis, wound problems, pneumonia, and heart arrhythmias were the most occurring complications. Improved cancer care has led to an increased demand for metastatic adrenalectomy over the past years. Complication rates of 37.9% are significant and cannot be neglected. Therefore, multidisciplinary teams should weigh the decision to perform metastatic adrenalectomy for each patient individually, taking into account the drawbacks of the described morbidity versus the potential benefits.
Contribution of Precision Livestock Farming Systems to the Improvement of Welfare Status and Productivity of Dairy Animals
Authors: Simitzis Panagiotis , Tzanidakis Christos , Tzamaloukas Ouranios , Sossidou Evangelia
Published: December 2021

Although the effects of human–dairy cattle interaction have been extensively examined, data concerning small ruminants are scarce. The present review article aims at highlighting the effects of management practices on the productivity, physiology and behaviour of dairy animals. In general, aversive handling is associated with a milk yield reduction and welfare impairment. Precision livestock farming systems have therefore been applied and have rapidly changed the management process with the introduction of technological and computer innovations that contribute to the minimization of animal disturbances, the promotion of good practices and the maintenance of cattle’s welfare status and milk production and farms’ sustainability and competitiveness at high levels. However, although dairy farmers acknowledge the advantages deriving from the application of precision livestock farming advancements, a reluctance concerning their regular application to small ruminants is observed, due to economic and cultural constraints and poor technological infrastructures. As a result, targeted intervention training programmes are also necessary in order to improve the efficacy and efficiency of handling, especially of small ruminants.