bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Meloidogyne graminicola Pectate Lyase Is Involved in Virulence and Activation of Host Defense Responses
Authors: Chen Jiansong , Li Zhiwen , Lin Borong , Liao Jinling , Zhuo Kan
Published: March 2021

Plant-parasitic nematodes secrete an array of cell-wall-degrading enzymes to overcome the physical barrier formed by the plant cell wall. Here, we describe a novel pectate lyase geneMg-PEL1fromM. graminicola. Quantitative real-time PCR assay showed that the highest transcriptional expression level ofMg-PEL1occurred in pre-parasitic second-stage juveniles, and it was still detected during the early parasitic stage. Usingin situhybridization, we showed that Mg-PEL1 was expressed exclusively within the subventral esophageal gland cells ofM. graminicola.The yeast signal sequence trap system revealed that it possessed an N-terminal signal peptide with secretion function. Recombinant Mg-PEL1 exhibited hydrolytic activity toward polygalacturonic acid. Rice plants expressing RNA interference vectors targetingMg-PEL1showed an increased resistance toM. graminicola. In addition, using anAgrobacterium-mediated transient expression system and plant immune response assays, we demonstrated that the cell wall localization of Mg-PEL1 was required for the activation of plant defense responses, including programmed plant cell death, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and expression of defense-related genes. Taken together, our results indicated that Mg-PEL1 could enhance the pathogenicity ofM. graminicolaand induce plant immune responses during nematode invasion into plants or migration in plants. This provides a new insight into the function of pectate lyases in plants-nematodes interaction.
The Effects of Physically Embodied Multiple Conversation Robots on the Elderly
Authors: Nishio Toshiaki , Yoshikawa Yuichiro , Sakai Kazuki , Iio Takamasa , Chiba Mariko , Asami Taichi , Isoda Yoshinori , Ishiguro Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

In recent years, communication robots aiming to offer mental support to the elderly have attracted increasing attention. Dialogue systems consisting of two robots could provide the elderly with opportunities to hold longer conversations in care homes. In this study, we conducted an experiment to compare two types of scenario-based dialogue systems with different types of bodies—physical and virtual robots—to investigate the effects of embodying such dialogue systems. Forty elderly people aged from 65 to 84 interacted with either an embodied desktop-sized humanoid robot or computer graphic agent displayed on a monitor. The elderly participants were divided into groups depending on the success of the interactions. The results revealed that (i) in the group where the robots responded more successfully with the expected conversation flow, the elderly are more engaged in the conversation with the physical robots than the virtual robots, and (ii) the elderly in the group in which robots responded successfully are more engaged in the conversation with the physical robots than those in the group in which the robots responded with ambiguous responses owing to unexpected utterances from the elderly. These results suggest that having a physical body is advantageous in promoting high engagement, and the potential advantage appears depending on whether the system can handle the conversation flow. These findings provide new insight into the development of dialogue systems assisting elderly in maintaining a better mental health.
A Feature Selection Algorithm Performance Metric for Comparative Analysis
Authors: Mostert Werner , Malan Katherine M. , Engelbrecht Andries P.
Published: March 2021

This study presents a novel performance metric for feature selection algorithms that is unbiased and can be used for comparative analysis across feature selection problems. The baseline fitness improvement (BFI) measure quantifies the potential value gained by applying feature selection. The BFI measure can be used to compare the performance of feature selection algorithms across datasets by measuring the change in classifier performance as a result of feature selection, with respect to the baseline where all features are included. Empirical results are presented to show that there is performance complementarity for a suite of feature selection algorithms on a variety of real world datasets. The BFI measure is a normalised performance metric that can be used to correlate problem characteristics with feature selection algorithm performance, across multiple datasets. This ability paves the way towards describing the performance space of the per-instance algorithm selection problem for feature selection algorithms.
Efficiency Analysis of SMA-Based Actuators: Possibilities of Configuration According to the Application
Authors: Arias Guadalupe Janeth , Copaci Dorin , Serrano del Cerro David , Moreno Luis , Blanco Dolores
Published: March 2021

Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators have recently demonstrated their potential for various applications in fields such as robotics, medicine, aerospace, and automotive. Its features, such as low weight and high force, simplicity, noiseless operation, and low cost compared with other conventional actuator, are only a few advantages of this actuator, which is receiving increasing interest among researchers. However, the use of these actuators is still limited by some of their characteristics: high position error in the cooling stage when the actuator works at frequencies that exceed the necessary cooling time and high electrical energy consumption. Different actuator configurations can help minimize these disadvantages through modifying the length, the number of cables, or the sheath used in the actuator, which modify the characteristics of the complete system. In this work, we developed different configurations of SMA actuators and tested their performance in terms of efficiency and the position error in the cooling stage. The findings demonstrate that over-dimensioned actuators are more energetically efficient and present a faster initial form recovery. The multi-wires actuator configuration produce a better response in terms of position but are less energy efficient. These conclusions allow for the selection of the most appropriate configuration based on the requirements of each particular application.
Adolescents—A New Open Access Journal
Authors: Hayman Laura
Published: March 2021

It is our pleasure to introduce the new open access journal: Adolescents (ISSN 2673-7051) [...]
Flavouring Extra-Virgin Olive Oil with Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Essential Oils Stabilizes Oleic Acid Composition during Photo-Oxidative Stress
Authors: Barreca Salvatore , La Bella Salvatore , Maggio Antonella , Licata Mario , Buscemi Silvestre , Leto Claudio , Pace Andrea , Tuttolomondo Teresa
Published: March 2021

Essential oils (EOs) from medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are well-known as natural antioxidants. Their addition to extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) can contribute to reducing fat oxidation. The main aim of this study was to improve both food shelf-life and aromatic flavour of EVOO, adding different EOs of Sicilian accessions of common sage, oregano, rosemary and thyme. The morphological and production characteristics of 40 accessions of MAPs were preliminarily assessed. EOs from the most promising accessions of MAPs were analysed by gas-chromatography and mass spectrometry. Photo-oxidative studies of the EOs were carried out and the determination of the EVOO fatty acids obtained from 4 Italian olive varieties was also made. EO content was on average 1.45% (v/w) for common sage, 3.97% for oregano, 1.42% for rosemary and 5.90% for thyme accessions. The highest average EO yield was found in thyme (172.70 kg ha−1) whilst the lowest (9.30 kg ha−1) in rosemary accessions. The chemical composition of EOs was very different in the four MAPs in the study. No significant change of oleic acid percentage was detected in the mixture of EVOO with EO samples. The results seem to highlight the presence of an antioxidant effect of EOs on EVOO.
Effects of Light Orientation and Mechanical Damage to Leaves on Isoflavone Accumulation in Soybean Seeds
Authors: Barion Giuseppe , Hewidy Mohamed , Panozzo Anna , Aloia Andrea , Vamerali Teofilo
Published: March 2021

Soybean is largely cultivated worldwide providing high amounts of proteins and oil for food and feed, and isoflavones for nutraceutical uses. The increasing interest in agroforestry practices for improving carbon sequestration and mitigating climate changes suggests the need to assess soybean response to variations of light availability and direction. A two-year pot trial was carried out at Legnaro (NE Italy) in order to mimic the response of the soybean var. Sponsor to contrasting light orientation (east or west) by artificial shading, associated or not with mechanical leaf damage, in terms of protein accumulation, total cotyledon isoflavone concentration (TCIC) and isoflavone profile. Here, we demonstrate that a different intensity of the isoflavone metabolism exists in response to lighting conditions, with higher TCIC and slightly increased seed crude proteins in plants lighted from the east (morning time) and after mechanical leaf damage. The isoflavone profile was not changed, but low temperatures and high rainfall during seed filling (1st year) were associated with increased accumulation of medium-high molecular weight (MW) forms (i.e., glycosyls and malonyls), while high temperatures and low rainfall (2nd year) with increased accumulation of medium-low MW forms (i.e., glycosyls and aglycones). It is concluded that within agroforestry systems, there is possibly a large scope for maximizing isoflavone accumulation by selecting the harvesting area in the neighboring of the east side of the tree alleys, with further improvements if a mild shoot stripping is applied before flowering.
Techno-Economic Viability of Agro-Photovoltaic Irrigated Arable Lands in the EU-Med Region: A Case-Study in Southwestern Spain
Authors: Moreda Guillermo P. , Muñoz-García Miguel A. , Alonso-García M. Carmen , Hernández-Callejo Luis
Published: March 2021

Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy is positioned to play a major role in the electricity generation mix of Mediterranean countries. Nonetheless, substantial increase in ground-mounted PV installed capacity could lead to competition with the agricultural use of land. A way to avert the peril is the electricity-food dual use of land or agro-photovoltaics (APV). Here, the profitability of a hypothetical APV system deployed on irrigated arable lands of southwestern Spain is analyzed. The basic generator design, comprised of fixed-tilt opaque monofacial PV modules on a 5 m ground-clearance substructure, featured 555.5 kWp/ha. Two APV shed orientations, due south and due southwest, were compared. Two 4-year annual-crop rotations, cultivated beneath the heightened PV modules and with each rotation spanning 24 ha, were studied. One crop rotation was headed by early potato, while the other was headed by processing tomato. All 9 crops involved fulfilled the two-fold condition of being usually cultivated in the area and compatible with APV shed intermitent shading. Crop revenues under the partial shading of PV modules were derived from official average yields in the area, through the use of two alternative sets of coefficients generated for low and high crop-yield shade-induced penalty. Likewise, two irrigation water sources, surface and underground, were compared. Crop total production costs, PV system investment and operating costs and revenues from the sale of electricity, were calculated. The internal rates of return (IRRs) obtained ranged from a minimum of 3.8% for the combination of southwest orientation, early-potato rotation, groundwater and high shade-induced crop-yield penalty, to a maximum of 5.6% for the combination of south orientation, processing-tomato rotation, surface water and low shade-induced crop-yield penalty.
Foliar Thidiazuron Promotes the Growth of Axillary Buds in Strawberry
Authors: Li Yali , Hu Jiangtao , Xiao Jie , Guo Ge , Jeong Byoung Ryong
Published: March 2021

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) can be easily propagated with daughter plants or through crown division, which are developed from the axillary bud at the axils of leaves. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different cytokinins, auxins, and their combinations on the axillary bud growth in strawberry. Four cytokinins (6-benzyladenine, kinetin, zeatin, and thidiazuron (TDZ)) and three auxins (indole-3-acetic acid, indole-3-butyric acid, and naphthaleneacetic acid) at a concentration of 50 mg·L−1 were sprayed on the leaves three times in 10-day intervals. The expression levels of cytokinin, auxin, and meristem-related genes in the crowns were also investigated. The results showed that TDZ was the most effective hormone for the axillary bud growth, and also promoted plant growth. However, chlorophyll, soluble sugar, and starch contents in the leaves were lower after TDZ. TDZ activated the cytokinin signal transduction pathway, while repressing the auxin synthesis genes. Several meristem-related transcription factors were upregulated, which might be essential for the growth of the axillary buds. These results suggested that TDZ can improve the cultivation of strawberry, while further research is needed to explain the effect on phytochemistry.
In Vitro Screening of Sugarcane Cultivars (Saccharum spp. Hybrids) for Tolerance to Polyethylene Glycol-Induced Water Stress
Authors: Hernández-Pérez César A. , Gómez-Merino Fernando Carlos , Spinoso-Castillo José L. , Bello-Bello Jericó J.
Published: March 2021

Water stress caused by drought affects the productivity of the sugarcane crop. A breeding alternative is the selection of drought-tolerant sugarcane cultivars. The objective of this study was the in vitro screening of cultivars tolerant to water stress using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a stressing agent. Cultivars (cv) Mex 69-290, CP 72-2086, Mex 79-431 and MOTZMex 92-207 were subjected to different concentrations of PEG 6000 (0, 3, 6 and 9% w/v) using Murashige and Skoog semi-solid culture medium. At 30 days of culture, different developmental variables and dry matter (DM), total protein (TP), proline (Pr) and glycine-betaine (GB) contents were evaluated. The results showed reduced development in cv CP 72-2086, Mex 79-431 and MOTZMex 92-207 with increasing PEG concentration. The cv Mex 69-290 showed tolerance to osmotic stress of −0.45 MPa using 3% PEG. Overall, TP content decreased with increasing PEG concentration, while DM, Pr and GB contents rose with increasing PEG concentration in all evaluated cultivars. Our results suggest that cv Mex 69-290 has a slight tolerance to water stress and could be used for rainfed cultivation with low rainfall or reduced irrigation for better water use efficiency. In conclusion, the in vitro screening technique of cultivars tolerant to PEG-induced water stress is an alternative for early determination of drought stress in sugarcane.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Common Respiratory Pathogens of Chronic Bronchiectasis Patients: A Literature Review
Authors: Inchingolo Riccardo , Pierandrei Chiara , Montemurro Giuliano , Smargiassi Andrea , Lohmeyer Franziska Michaela , Rizzi Angela
Published: March 2021

Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis is a chronic disorder in which immune system dysregulation and impaired airway clearance cause mucus accumulation and consequent increased susceptibility to lung infections. The presence of pathogens in the lower respiratory tract causes a vicious circle resulting in impaired mucociliary function, bronchial inflammation, and progressive lung injury. In current guidelines, antibiotic therapy has a key role in bronchiectasis management to treat acute exacerbations and chronic infection and to eradicate bacterial colonization. Contrastingly, antimicrobial resistance, with the risk of multidrug-resistant pathogen development, causes nowadays great concern. The aim of this literature review was to assess the role of antibiotic therapy in bronchiectasis patient management and possible concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance based on current evidence. The authors of this review stress the need to expand research regarding bronchiectasis with the aim to assess measures to reduce the rate of antimicrobial resistance worldwide.
Licensed Anti-Microbial Drugs Logical for Clinical Trials against Pathogens Currently Suspected in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Norins Leslie C.
Published: March 2021

There is now considerable evidence that several infectious agents (viruses, bacteria, or parasites) may play a contributing role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The six primary suspects are herpes viruses, spirochetal bacteria, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Porphyromonas gingivalis, mycobacteria, and toxoplasma parasites. Also, some of the antimicrobial and antiviral agents that are used to treat them have shown promise for AD interventions. I describe this evidence and assert it is now time to accelerate clinical trials of these existing drugs, already federally approved, to determine if such treatments can delay, halt, or reverse AD.
Exploring Farmers’ Reasons for Antibiotic Use and Misuse in Pig Farms in Brazil
Authors: Albernaz-Gonçalves Rita , Olmos Gabriela , Hötzel Maria José
Published: March 2021

Stressful management that makes farmed pigs susceptible to infections is associated with high antibiotic use (AMU) and resistance (AMR). Pig farmers are key stakeholders to support the international agenda pushing AMU restrictions. We interviewed 58 pig farmers on AMU/AMR, biosecurity, veterinary assistance, disease prevention and treatment, aiming to understand practices and attitudes towards the AMU/AMR problem. Farmers described a reliance on antibiotics to prevent and treat disease while neglecting biosecurity measures. We identified inappropriate AMU practices (high use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, incorrect dosage or treatment length) and unrestricted access to antibiotics, which encouraged imprudent AMU. Nevertheless, most farmers considered this AMU legitimate to guarantee herd productivity and showed unpreparedness and resistance to changing AMU practices, perceiving limitations (economic, sanitary and inspection) more easily than alternatives to reduce AMU. Agro-industries and foreign markets were mentioned, and internal consumers dismissed as potential motivators for behavioral changes. Importantly, farmers’ economic, technical and social factors may limit their autonomy to change practices. We conclude that the observed distancing of pig farmers from the AMU/AMR problem limits the efficiency of policies aiming for a prudent AMU. Our study indicates a need for education, training and behavior change nudging that should include other stakeholders beyond farmers.
Identification of Bioactive Compounds from Marine Natural Products and Exploration of Structure-Activity Relationships (SAR)
Authors: Dinarvand Mojdeh , Spain Malcolm
Published: March 2021

Marine natural products (MNPs) have been an important and rich source for antimicrobial drug discovery and an effective alternative to control drug resistant infections. Herein, we report bioassay guided fractionation of marine extracts from sponges Lendenfeldia, Ircinia and Dysidea that led us to identify novel compounds with antimicrobial properties. Tertiary amines or quaternary amine salts: aniline 1, benzylamine 2, tertiary amine 3 and 4, and quaternary amine salt 5, along with three known compounds (6–8) were isolated from a crude extract and MeOH eluent marine extracts. The antibiotic activities of the compounds, and their isolation as natural products have not been reported before. Using tandem mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, potential structures of the bioactive fractions were assigned, leading to the hit validation of potential compounds through synthesis, and commercially available compounds. This method is a novel strategy to overcome insufficient quantities of pure material (NPs) for drug discovery and development which is a big challenge for pharmaceutical companies. The antibacterial screening of the marine extracts has shown several of the compounds exhibited potent in-vitro antibacterial activity, especially against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between 15.6 to 62.5 microg mL−1. Herein, we also report structure activity relationships of a diverse range of commercial structurally similar compounds. The structure-activity relationships (SAR) results demonstrate that modification of the amines through linear chain length, and inclusion of aromatic rings, modifies the observed antimicrobial activity. Several commercially available compounds, which are structurally related to the discovered molecules, showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against different test pathogens with a MIC range of 50 to 0.01 µM. The results of cross-referencing antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity establish that these compounds are promising potential molecules, with a favourable therapeutic index for antimicrobial drug development. Additionally, the SAR studies show that simplified analogues of the isolated compounds have increased bioactivity.
To Synthesize Hydroxyapatite by Modified Low Temperature Method Loaded with Bletilla striata Polysaccharide as Antioxidant for the Prevention of Sarcopenia by Intramuscular Administration
Authors: Liang Ya-Jyun , Hong Jia-Yu , Yang I-Hsuan , Zhou Xin-Ran , Lin Yi-Wen , Lin Tzu-Chieh , Hou Chun-Han , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: March 2021

Oxidative stress has been suggested as an important factor in the progress of sarcopenia. The current treatments for sarcopenia have the disadvantages of insufficient effect or daily administration. Therefore, an alternative for effective, safety and long-term treatment may be a solution for unmet needs. Bletilla striata polysaccharide has been reported to have anti­oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we used Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) combined with hydroxyapatite, a carrier. We hypothesized that the resulting combination (BSP-HAP) is a good formula for the controlled release of BSP via intramuscular (IM) administration, so as to prevent the worsening of presarcopenia or even recover from the early stage of the illness. In this research, BSP-HAP was synthesized by a modified low temperature co-precipitation process that would be beneficial for BSP loading. By conducting DCFDA, WST-1 and the Live/Dead assay, BSP-HAP is shown to be a biocompatible material which may release BSP by cells through the endocytosis pathway. Animal studies revealed that the rats treated with BSP-HAP could effectively recover muscle endurance, grip strength or fat/lean mass ratio from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sarcopenia. This study shows BSP delivered by BSP-HAP system has potential for application in the treatment and prevention of sarcopenia in the future.
Development of Water-Insoluble Vehicle Comprising Natural Cyclodextrin—Vitamin E Complex
Authors: Ogawa Shigesaburo , Shinkawa Mai , Hirase Ryuji , Tsubomura Taro , Iuchi Katsuya , Hara Setsuko
Published: March 2021

Development of a novel antioxidant-delivery vehicle exerting biosafety has been attracting a great deal of interest. In this study, a vehicle comprising a natural composite consisting of vitamin E (α-tocopherol; Toc) and cyclodextrin (CD) additives was developed, directed toward aqua-related biological applications. Not only β-CD, but also γ-CD, tended to form a water-insoluble aggregate with Toc in aqueous media. The aggregated vehicle, in particular the γ-CD-added system, showed a remarkable sustained effect because of slow dynamics. Furthermore, a prominent cytoprotective effect by the γ-CD–Toc vehicle under the oxidative stress condition was confirmed. Thus, the novel vitamin E vehicle motif using γ-CD as a stabilizer was proposed, widening the usability of Toc for biological applications.
Pterostilbene in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Obrador Elena , Salvador-Palmer Rosario , Jihad-Jebbar Ali , López-Blanch Rafael , Dellinger Thanh H. , Dellinger Ryan W. , Estrela José M.
Published: March 2021

Natural polyphenols are organic chemicals which contain phenol units in their structures and possess antitumor properties. However, a key problem is their short half-life and low bioavailability under in vivo conditions. Pterostilbene (3,5-dimethoxy-4′-hydroxystilbene; PT) is a phytoalexin originally isolated from the heartwood of red sandalwood. As recently reported by our group, PT was shown to be effective in the treatment of melanoma. Counterintuitively, PT is not effective (cytotoxic) against melanoma in vitro, and only under in vivo conditions does PT display its anticancer activity. This study elucidated that PT can be effective against melanoma through the inhibition of adrenocorticotropic hormone production in the brain of a mouse, which weakens the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant defenses of melanoma and also pancreatic cancers. This results in both the inhibition of tumor growth and sensitization of the tumor to oxidative stress. Moreover, PT can promote cancer cell death via a mechanism involving lysosomal membrane permeabilization. Different grades of susceptibility were observed among the different cancer cells depending on their lysosomal heat shock protein 70 content, a known stabilizer of lysosomal membranes. In addition, the safety of PT administered i.v. has been evaluated in mice. PT was found to be pharmacologically safe because it showed no organ-specific or systemic toxicity (including tissue histopathologic examination and regular hematology and clinical chemistry data) even when administered i.v. at a high dose (30 mg/kg per day × 23 days). Moreover, new pharmacological advances are being developed to increase its bioavailability and, thereby, its bioefficacy. Therefore, although applications of PT in cancer therapy are just beginning to be explored, it represents a potential (and effective) adjuvant/sensitizing therapy which may improve the results of various oncotherapies. The aim of this review is to present and discuss the results that in our opinion best support the usefulness of PT in cancer therapy, making special emphasis on the in vivo evidence.
The Impact of Early Pregnancy and Exposure to Tobacco Smoke on Blood Antioxidant Status and Copper, Zinc, Cadmium Concentration—A Pilot Study
Authors: Bizoń Anna , Milnerowicz Halina , Kowalska-Piastun Katarzyna , Milnerowicz-Nabzdyk Ewa
Published: March 2021

The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of early pregnancy and exposure to tobacco smoke on antioxidant status and copper, zinc, and cadmium concentrations in the blood of non-smoking and smoking, as well as non-pregnant or pregnant women. The study included 213 women. More specifically, 150 women in first trimester of pregnancy and 63 non-pregnant women. Women were divided into subgroups according to exposure to tobacco smoke. Pregnancy significant influences higher copper and lower zinc concentration in the serum, whereas exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy is mainly associated with an elevation in cadmium and zinc concentration. It seems that metallothionein, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase are the important antioxidants during early pregnancy, when exposure to tobacco smoke occurs, whereas the pregnancy itself is associated with a higher concentration of metallothionein and activity of catalase. Both pregnancy in the first trimester and exposure to tobacco smoke decrease glutathione concentration. In addition, active and passive maternal smoking have a similarly negative effect on antioxidant status in the first trimester. Early pregnancy as well as exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with significant alteration in antioxidant status and copper, zinc, and cadmium concentration. Due to a small number of smoking subjects (11 cases of non-pregnant, active smokers and 14 pregnant active smokers), the obtained results should be treated as a pilot, and this should be considered for future studies.
SVM-Based Bearing Anomaly Identification with Self-Tuning Network-Fuzzy Robust Proportional Multi Integral and Smart Autoregressive Model
Authors: TayebiHaghighi Shahnaz , Koo Insoo
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the combination of an indirect self-tuning observer, smart signal modeling, and machine learning-based classification is proposed for rolling element bearing (REB) anomaly identification. The proposed scheme has three main stages. In the first stage, the original signal is resampled, and the root mean square (RMS) signal is extracted from it. In the second stage, the normal resampled RMS signal is approximated using the AutoRegressive with eXternal Uncertainty (ARXU) technique. Moreover, the nonlinearity of the bearing signal is solved using the combination of the ARXU and the machine learning-based regression, which is called AMRXU. After signal modeling by AMRXU, the RMS resampled signal is estimated using a combination of the proportional multi-integral (PMI) technique, the variable structure (VS) Lyapunov technique, and a self-tuning network-fuzzy system (SNFS). Finally, in the third stage, the difference between the original signal and the estimated one is calculated to generate the residual signal. A machine learning-based classification technique is utilized to classify the residual signal. The Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) dataset is used to evaluate anomaly identification performance of the proposed scheme. Regarding the experimental results, the average accuracy for REB crack identification is 98.65%, 97.7%, 97.35%, and 97.67%, respectively, when the motor torque loads are 0-hp, 1-hp, 2-hp, and 3-hp.
Performance Analysis of Tunnel Boring Machines for Rock Excavation
Authors: Cardu Marilena , Catanzaro Ettore , Farinetti Angelo , Martinelli Daniele , Todaro Carmine
Published: March 2021

The study takes into account different classes of tunnel boring machines (TBM), with the aim of identifying correlation models which are meant to estimate, at a preliminary design phase, the construction time of a tunnel and to evaluate the mechanical and operational parameters of the TBMs, starting from the knowledge of the tunnel length and the excavation diameter. To achieve this goal, first of all a database was created, thanks to the collection of the most meaningful technical parameters from a large number of tunnels; afterwards, it was statistically analyzed through Microsoft Excel. In a first phase, forecasting models were identified for the three types of machines investigated, separately for compact rocks (open TBM) and fractured rocks (single and double shield TBM). Then, the mechanical parameters collected through the database were analyzed, with the aim of obtaining models that take into account, in addition to the type of TBM, the geological aspect and the type of rock characterizing the rock mass. Finally, the validation of the study was proposed in a real case, represented by the Moncenisio base tunnel, a work included in the new Turin–Lyon connection line. The estimated values were compared with the real ones, in order to verify the accuracy of the experimental models identified.
Estimating Recycling Return of Integrated Circuits Using Computer Vision on Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Silva Leandro H. de S. , Júnior Agostinho A. F. , Azevedo George O. A. , Oliveira Sergio C. , Fernandes Bruno J. T.
Published: March 2021

The technological growth of the last decades has brought many improvements in daily life, but also concerns on how to deal with electronic waste. Electrical and electronic equipment waste is the fastest-growing rate in the industrialized world. One of the elements of electronic equipment is the printed circuit board (PCB) and almost every electronic equipment has a PCB inside it. While waste PCB (WPCB) recycling may result in the recovery of potentially precious materials and the reuse of some components, it is a challenging task because its composition diversity requires a cautious pre-processing stage to achieve optimal recycling outcomes. Our research focused on proposing a method to evaluate the economic feasibility of recycling integrated circuits (ICs) from WPCB. The proposed method can help decide whether to dismantle a separate WPCB before the physical or mechanical recycling process and consists of estimating the IC area from a WPCB, calculating the IC’s weight using surface density, and estimating how much metal can be recovered by recycling those ICs. To estimate the IC area in a WPCB, we used a state-of-the-art object detection deep learning model (YOLO) and the PCB DSLR image dataset to detect the WPCB’s ICs. Regarding IC detection, the best result was obtained with the partitioned analysis of each image through a sliding window, thus creating new images of smaller dimensions, reaching 86.77% mAP. As a final result, we estimate that the Deep PCB Dataset has a total of 1079.18 g of ICs, from which it would be possible to recover at least 909.94 g of metals and silicon elements from all WPCBs’ ICs. Since there is a high variability in the compositions of WPCBs, it is possible to calculate the gross income for each WPCB and use it as a decision criterion for the type of pre-processing.
Relations between Geometric Parameters and Numerical Simulation Accuracy in Modeling Signal Transmission in the Presynaptic Bouton
Authors: Gierdziewicz Maciej
Published: March 2021

In order to examine nerve impulses by means of simulation methodology, the models of all parts of nervous system, well suited for numerical modeling, are needed. In this paper the problem of setting up such a model, namely, that of a presynaptic bouton, is addressed. Simulation of the neurotransmitter flow inside the presynaptic bouton is performed. The transport is modeled with a partial differential equation with an additional nonlinear term. Two ways of modeling the bouton are applied. One of them let reflect a complex shape of the bouton and of some inner organelles. The influence of the generated mesh quality on the accuracy of numerical simulations is studied by comparing the released amount of neurotransmitter. The only mesh that produced diminished output was the worst one. The conclusion is that even slightly optimized tetrahedral mesh is suitable for calculations.
Wavelet Packet Transform Modulus-Based Feature Detection of Stochastic Power Quality Disturbance Signals
Authors: Choe Sangho , Yoo Jeonghwa
Published: March 2021

Wavelet transform modulus (WTM) has been used to detect or localize transient signal discontinuities. A numerical analysis indicated that these power quality disturbance (PQD) events are extremely sensitive to the random phase offset due to shift-variant wavelet or wavelet packet characteristics, which have not been comprehensively discussed yet. In this paper, we define wavelet packet transform modulus (WPTM) and present a WPTM-based PQD feature detection that is robust to severe power signal channels including random phase offset and low signal-to-noise ratio (≤25 dB). The presented WPTM-based detection that exhibits an exponentially increased degrees of freedom (DoF) and has better correlation properties than existing WTM-based detection of a limited DoF (two or three). We then use a standard median filter to efficiently remove impulsive noise and add a threshold modification step to reduce the false edge detection rate under random phase offset conditions while maintaining a reasonable detection rate. The proposed scheme uses the majority voting-based indirect correlation or root-mean-square metric between wavelet packet coefficients, rather than the conventional wavelet denoising or correlation metric. For a reliable numerical analysis, the proposed scheme uses both double- and single-edge-based detection measures, and the results verify its superiority over the conventional wavelet-based, wavelet-correlation-based, or non-wavelet-based schemes.
10th Anniversary of Applied Sciences-Invited Papers in Chemistry Section
Authors: Adeloju Samuel B.
Published: March 2021

MDPI´s Applied Sciences reached a remarkable milestone in 2020 when the 10th volume of the journal was published and an impact factor of 2 [...]
A Serum Metabolomic Signature for the Detection and Grading of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Troisi Jacopo , Colucci Angelo , Cavallo Pierpaolo , Richards Sean , Symes Steven , Landolfi Annamaria , Scala Giovanni , Maiorino Francesco , Califano Alfonso , Fabiano Marco , Silvestre Gianmarco , Mastella Federica , Caputo Alessandro , D’Antonio Antonio , Altieri Vincenzo
Published: March 2021

Bladder cancer has a high incidence and is marked by high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis is still challenging. The objective of this study was to create a metabolomics-based profile of bladder cancer in order to provide a novel approach for disease screening and stratification. Moreover, the study characterized the metabolic changes associated with the disease. Serum metabolomic profiles were obtained from 149 bladder cancer patients and 81 healthy controls. Different ensemble machine learning models were built in order to: (1) differentiate cancer patients from controls; (2) stratify cancer patients according to grading; (3) stratify patients according to cancer muscle invasiveness. Ensemble machine learning models were able to discriminate well between cancer patients and controls, between high grade (G3) and low grade (G1-2) cancers and between different degrees of muscle invasivity; ensemble model accuracies were ≥80%. Relevant metabolites, selected using the partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) algorithm, were included in a metabolite-set enrichment analysis, showing perturbations primarily associated with cell glucose metabolism. The metabolomic approach may be useful as a non-invasive screening tool for bladder cancer. Furthermore, metabolic pathway analysis can increase understanding of cancer pathophysiology. Studies conducted on larger cohorts, and including blind trials, are needed to validate results.
Generalization of the Regularization Method to Singularly Perturbed Integro-Differential Systems of Equations with Rapidly Oscillating Inhomogeneity
Authors: Bobodzhanov Abdukhafiz , Kalimbetov Burkhan , Safonov Valeriy
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we consider systems of singularly perturbed integro-differential equations with a rapidly oscillating right-hand side, including an integral operator with a slowly varying kernel. Differential equations of this type and integro-differential equations with slowly varying inhomogeneity and with a rapidly oscillating coefficient at an unknown function are studied. The main goal of this work is to generalize the Lomov’s regularization method and to reveal the influence of the rapidly oscillating right-hand side on the asymptotics of the solution to the original problem.
PNPLA3 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Prevalence and Association with Liver Disease in a Diverse Cohort of Persons Living with HIV
Authors: Sherman Kenneth E. , Rouster Susan D. , Meeds Heidi , Tamargo Javier , Chen Jun , Ehman Richard , Baum Marianna
Published: March 2021

In persons living with HIV (PLWH), there are multiple sources of liver injury. Gene polymorphisms of PNPLA3 (patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3) have been identified as an important cofactor for increased disease severity in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We utilized a well-characterized cohort of ethnically and racially diverse patients with HIV to define the prevalence of PNPLA3 SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphism) (rs738409), and to determine the relationship to hepatic steatosis and liver fibrosis. Steatosis was determined using MRI-PDFF (magnetic resonance imaging-determined proton density fat fraction) and fibrosis was estimated using MR Elastography (MRE). From the Miami Area HIV Study (MASH) cohort, 100 HIV positive participants and 40 controls (HCV/HIV = 20; HCV and HIV negative = 20) were evaluated. Nearly 40% of all participants carried the variant G allele associated with increased liver disease severity and 5% were homozygotic GG. The variant SNP occurred most frequently in those self-identified as Hispanic compared to white or Black participants. Hepatic steatosis (>5% fat) was present significantly more often in those without HIV vs. those with (p < 0.001). Putative NAFLD/NASH was found to be present in 6% of tested subjects, who were HIV monoinfected. BMI was lower in those that carried the G allele for PNPLA3. This finding suggests that PNPLA3 may be an independent component to NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease)/NASH development and longitudinal follow-up of the cohort is warranted.
Equine Genital Squamous Cell Carcinoma Associated with EcPV2 Infection: RANKL Pathway Correlated to Inflammation and Wnt Signaling Activation
Authors: Mecocci Samanta , Porcellato Ilaria , Armando Federico , Mechelli Luca , Brachelente Chiara , Pepe Marco , Gialletti Rodolfo , Passeri Benedetta , Modesto Paola , Ghelardi Alessandro , Cappelli Katia , Razzuoli Elisabetta
Published: March 2021

Equine genital squamous cell carcinomas (egSCCs) are among the most common equine tumors after sarcoids, severely impairing animal health and welfare. Equus caballus papillomavirus type 2 (EcPV2) infection is often related to these tumors. The aim of this study was to clarify the molecular mechanisms behind egSCCs associated with EcPV2 infection, investigating receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL) signaling in NF-kB pathway, together with the Wnt and IL17 signaling pathways. We analyzed the innate immune response through gene expression evaluation of key cytokines and transcription factors. Moreover, Ki67 index was assessed with immunohistochemistry. EcPV2-E6 DNA was checked, and viral presence was confirmed in 21 positive out to 23 cases (91%). Oncogene expression was confirmed in 14 cases (60.8%) for E6 and in 8 (34.7%) for E2. RANKL, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFKB)-p50, NFKBp65, interleukin (IL)-6, IL17, IL23p19, IL8, IL12p35, IL12p40, β-catenin (BCATN1), FOS like 1 (FOSL1), and lymphoid enhancer binding factor 1 (LEF1) showed a significant upregulation in tumor samples compared to healthy tissues. Our results describe an inflammatory environment characterized by the activation of RANKL/RANK and IL17 with the relative downstream pathways, and a positive modulation of inflammatory cytokines genes such as IL6 and IL8. Moreover, the increase of BCATN1, FOSL1, and LEF1 gene expression suggests an activation of both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway that could be critical for carcinogenesis and tumor progression.
Chemoinformatic Screening for the Selection of Potential Senolytic Compounds from Natural Products
Authors: Barrera-Vázquez Oscar Salvador , Gómez-Verjan Juan Carlos , Magos-Guerrero Gil Alfonso
Published: March 2021

Cellular senescence is a cellular condition that involves significant changes in gene expression and the arrest of cell proliferation. Recently, it has been suggested in experimental models that the elimination of senescent cells with pharmacological methods delays, prevents, and improves multiple adverse outcomes related to age. In this sense, the so-called senoylitic compounds are a class of drugs that selectively eliminates senescent cells (SCs) and that could be used in order to delay such adverse outcomes. Interestingly, the first senolytic drug (navitoclax) was discovered by using chemoinformatic and network analyses. Thus, in the present study, we searched for novel senolytic compounds through the use of chemoinformatic tools (fingerprinting and network pharmacology) over different chemical databases (InflamNat and BIOFACQUIM) coming from natural products (NPs) that have proven to be quite remarkable for drug development. As a result of screening, we obtained three molecules (hinokitiol, preussomerin C, and tanshinone I) that could be considered senolytic compound candidates since they share similarities in structure with senolytic leads (tunicamycin, ginsenoside Rb1, ABT 737, rapamycin, navitoclax, timosaponin A-III, digoxin, roxithromycin, and azithromycin) and targets involved in senescence pathways with potential use in the treatment of age-related diseases.
Cerrena unicolor Laccases, Genes Expression and Regulation of Activity
Authors: Pawlik Anna , Ciołek Beata , Sulej Justyna , Mazur Andrzej , Grela Przemysław , Staszczak Magdalena , Niścior Mateusz , Jaszek Magdalena , Matuszewska Anna , Janusz Grzegorz , Paszczyński Andrzej
Published: March 2021

A white rot fungus Cerrena unicolor has been identified as an important source of laccase, unfortunately regulation of this enzyme genes expression is poorly understood. Using 1D and 2D PAGE and LC-MS/MS, laccase isoenzymes were investigated in the liquid filtrate of C. unicolor culture. The level of expression of laccase genes was measured using qPCR. The elevated concentrations of copper and manganese in the medium caused greatest change in genes expression and three laccase transcripts were significantly affected after culture temperature was decreased from 28 to 4 °C or increased to 40 °C. The small differences in the PAGE band intensities of individual laccase proteins were also observed, indicating that given compound affect particular laccase’s transcript. Analyses of laccase-specific activity, at all tested conditions, showed the increased activities as compared to the control, suggesting that enzyme is regulated at the post-translational stage. We observed that the aspartic protease purified from C. unicolor, significantly stimulate laccase activity. Moreover, electrochemical analysis of protease-treated laccase sample had 5 times higher redox peaks. The obtained results indicate that laccases released by C. unicolor are regulated at transcriptional, translational, and at the post-translational steps of gene expression helping fungus adapt to the environmental changes.
Enzymatic Electroanalytical Biosensor Based on Maramiellus colocasiae Fungus for Detection of Phytomarkers in Infusions and Green Tea Kombucha
Authors: Batista Érica A. , Silva Giovanna N. M. , Sgobbi Livia F. , Machado Fabio B. , Macedo Isaac Y. , Moreno Emily K. , Neto Jerônimo R. , Scalize Paulo S. , Gil Eric S.
Published: March 2021

In this work, we developed an enzymatic voltammetric biosensor for the determination of catechin and gallic acid in green tea and kombucha samples. The differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) methodology was optimized regarding the amount of crude enzyme extract, incubation time in the presence of the substrates, optimal pH, reuse of the biosensor, and storage time. Samples of green tea and kombucha were purchased in local markets in the city of Goiânia-GO, Brazil. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and Folin-Ciocalteu spectrophotometric techniques were performed for the comparison of the analytical methods employed. In addition, two calibration curves were made, one for catechin with a linear range from 1 to 60 µM (I = −0.152 * (catechin) − 1.846), with a detection limit of 0.12 µM and a quantification limit of 0.38 µM and one for gallic acid with a linear range from 3 to 60 µM (I = −0.0415 * (gallic acid) − 0.0572), with a detection limit of 0.14 µM and a quantification limit of 0.42 µM. The proposed biosensor was efficient in the determination of phenolic compounds in green tea.
Cultural Heritage: A Hybrid Framework for Ranking Adaptive Reuse Strategies
Authors: Della Spina Lucia
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this research is to illustrate, through a case study, a multilevel decision-making process able to support the decision maker in optimizing investment choices for the efficient allocation of public resources, with specific reference to recovery and adaptation to the reuse of unused historical public heritage. During the evaluation process, two methods in particular were combined according to a multiphase design: (i) a multi-criteria analysis to identify the Highest and Best Use among alternative reuse scenarios and (ii) a Discounted Cash Flow Analysis to support verification of the financial feasibility of the investment, in the hypothesis of an enhancement concession in a public–private partnership. Each method was applied in parallel to the evolution of the different design scenarios. The results of the study show that hybrid approaches are a promising line of research in the field of evaluation and urban design, applied to cultural heritage.