bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid Metaheuristics Parameter Tuning Approach for Scheduling through Racing and Case-Based Reasoning
Authors: Pereira Ivo , Madureira Ana , Costa e Silva Eliana , Abraham Ajith
Published: April 2021

In real manufacturing environments, scheduling can be defined as the problem of effectively and efficiently assigning tasks to specific resources. Metaheuristics are often used to obtain near-optimal solutions in an efficient way. The parameter tuning of metaheuristics allows flexibility and leads to robust results, but requires careful specifications. The a priori definition of parameter values is complex, depending on the problem instances and resources. This paper implements a novel approach to the automatic specification of metaheuristic parameters, for solving the scheduling problem. This novel approach incorporates two learning techniques, namely, racing and case-based reasoning (CBR), to provide the system with the ability to learn from previous cases. In order to evaluate the contributions of the proposed approach, a computational study was performed, focusing on comparing our results previous published results. All results were validated by analyzing the statistical significance, allowing us to conclude the statistically significant advantage of the use of the novel proposed approach.
Design and Implementation of EOICHD Based Clustered Routing Protocol Variants for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Bongale Anupkumar , Bongale Arunkumar , Kumar Satish , Joshi Rahul , Bhamidipati Kishore
Published: April 2021

Efficient energy utilization and network life prolongation are primary objectives to be considered when designing a Wireless Sensor Network. Cluster-based routing protocols are most suitable for achieving such goals. Energy and Optimal Inter Cluster Head Distance (EOICHD) is a cluster-based hierarchical routing protocol inspired by the Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) protocol. EOICHD resolves the problems associated with LEACH protocol, such as selecting cluster head nodes in close proximity. By carefully selecting the cluster head nodes based on residual energy and optimal inter-cluster head distance, EOICHD ensures that selected cluster head nodes are separated by a certain optimal distance. This approach ensures uniform distribution of cluster head nodes across the entire network. The study of the EOICHD protocol presented so far is not sufficient. Hence, in this paper, we propose three variants of EOICHD protocol to understand its behavior in a better manner. A comparative analysis of all three EOICHD variants, LEACH and LEACH-central constrained (LEACH-C) protocol, is performed by considering comparative parameters such as alive nodes, cumulative network energy, data packets arrived at the base station, and stability of the network.
Implementing Circular Economy Strategies in Buildings—From Theory to Practice
Authors: Rahla Kamel , Mateus Ricardo , Bragança Luís
Published: April 2021

Population growth, along with a rapid urban expansion, is imposing a heavy pressure on the planet’s finite resources. It is widely acknowledged that the building industry consumes large amounts of raw materials while generating waste and emissions. To set apart economic growth from environmental repercussions, the Circular Economy (CE) arose as an innovative paradigm that can offer a fast-track towards a sustainable built environment. This paper will tackle a research gap that academia and policymakers often highlighted, which is how can we apply CE to assets that are predominantly meant to be demolished and their resources wasted when they reach their end-of-life. Globally, the paradigm aims at erasing the waste concept, relying on renewable and regenerative sources, and keeping the materials, components, and systems in use at their highest value as long as possible. The concept’s implementation would attempt to consider the built environment as a closed-loop system wherein resources are viewed as a scarce commodity. Although the CE seems straightforward, translating the circular thinking to the building level might be a hardship. The following paper will attempt to shed light on how to promote CE in buildings that will ultimately lead to healthier, more efficient, and more sustainable cities on a broader scale. The proposed framework considers CE implementation strategies throughout the building’s lifecycle and mainly deals with three innovative aspects: wise resource management, building design approaches, and digitalization of the building industry. In this sense, this study will explore these game-changing factors that are considered paramount to concretize the concept in practice and provide a smooth pathway for CE uptake in buildings.
Influence of Aging on the Failing Behavior of Automotive Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Essl Christiane , Golubkov Andrey W. , Fuchs Anton
Published: April 2021

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are a dominant state-of-the-art energy storage system and have importance in the automotive sector. Still, LIBs suffer from aging effects and serious hazards from failing batteries are possible. These failures can lead to exothermic chemical reactions inside the cell, ending up in thermal runaway (TR). TR has caused most electric vehicle (EV) fires. Since statistically most accidents with EVs happen after about one year of vehicle usage, in particular, the failing behavior of aged cells needs to be investigated. Little information is available in open literature about the influence of aging paths on the failing behavior and especially on the degassing behavior of large automotive LIBs. Therefore, this study investigates the influence of three different aging paths (cyclic at −10 °C and at 45 °C and calendric at 60 °C) on the thermal behavior, the vent gas emission, and the vent gas composition. The results show a clear effect of aging on the failing behavior. The aged cells showed a less violent failing reaction, reduced maximal temperatures, lower amount of produced gas, significantly lower amount of CO in the vent gas, and lower mass loss than fresh cells in the same overtemperature experiments. The results are valuable for the scientific and industrial community dealing with LIBs.
Expression of Components of the Renin-Angiotensin System by Cancer Stem Cells in Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Siljee Sam , Milne Bridget , Brasch Helen D. , Bockett Nicholas , Patel Josie , Davis Paul F. , Kennedy-Smith Andrew , Itinteang Tinte , Tan Swee T.
Published: April 2021

This study investigated the expression of components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by cancer stem cells (CSCs) we have recently demonstrated in renal clear cell carcinoma (RCCC). Fifteen RCCC tissue samples underwent immunohistochemical staining for components of the RAS: renin, pro-renin receptor (PRR), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and angiotensin II receptor 2 (AT2R). Immunofluorescence co-staining or double immunohistochemical staining of these components of the RAS with stemness-associated markers OCT4 or KLF4 was performed on two of the samples. Protein and transcript expression of these components of the RAS in six RCCC tissue samples was investigated using western blotting and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), respectively. In addition, angiotensin II receptor 1 (AT1R) was investigated using RT-qPCR only. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated expression of renin, PRR, and ACE2 in 11, 13, and 13 out of 15 RCCC samples, respectively, while AT2R was expressed in all 15 samples. ACE was detected in the endothelium of normal vasculature only. Double immunohistochemical staining demonstrated localization of ACE2, but not renin, to the KLF4+ CSCs. Immunofluorescence staining showed localization of PRR and AT2R to the OCT4+ CSCs. Western blotting confirmed protein expression of all components of the RAS except renin. RT-qPCR demonstrated transcript expression of all components of the RAS including AT1R, but not AT2R, in all six RCCC tissue samples. This study demonstrated expression of PRR, ACE2, and AT2R by the CSCs within RCCC. Further studies may lead to novel therapeutic targeting of CSCs by manipulation of the RAS in the treatment of this aggressive cancer.
Mesothelin Expression in Human Tumors: A Tissue Microarray Study on 12,679 Tumors
Authors: Weidemann Sören , Gagelmann Pauline , Gorbokon Natalia , Lennartz Maximilian , Menz Anne , Luebke Andreas M. , Kluth Martina , Hube-Magg Claudia , Blessin Niclas C. , Fraune Christoph , Möller Katharina , Bernreuther Christian , Lebok Patrick , Clauditz Till S. , Jacobsen Frank , Izbicki Jakob R. , Jansen Kristina , Sauter Guido , Uhlig Ria , Wilczak Waldemar , Steurer Stefan , Minner Sarah , Burandt Eike , Krech Rainer H. , Dum David , Krech Till , Marx Andreas H. , Simon Ronald
Published: April 2021

Mesothelin (MSLN) represents an attractive molecule for targeted cancer therapies. To identify tumors that might benefit from such therapies, tissue microarrays including 15,050 tumors from 122 different tumor types and 76 healthy organs were analyzed for MSLN expression by immunohistochemistry. Sixty-six (54%) tumor types showed at least occasional weak staining, including 50 (41%) tumor types with at least one strongly positive sample. Highest prevalence of MSLN positivity had ovarian carcinomas (serous 97%, clear cell 83%, endometrioid 77%, mucinous 71%, carcinosarcoma 65%), pancreatic adenocarcinoma (ductal 75%, ampullary 81%), endometrial carcinomas (clear cell 71%, serous 57%, carcinosarcoma 50%, endometrioid 45%), malignant mesothelioma (69%), and adenocarcinoma of the lung (55%). MSLN was rare in cancers of the breast (7% of 1138), kidney (7% of 807), thyroid gland (1% of 638), soft tissues (0.3% of 931), and prostate (0 of 481). High expression was linked to advanced pathological tumor (pT) stage (p < 0.0001) and metastasis (p < 0.0001) in 1619 colorectal adenocarcinomas, but unrelated to parameters of malignancy in 1072 breast-, 386 ovarian-, 174 lung-, 757 kidney-, 171 endometrial-, 373 gastric-, and 925 bladder carcinomas. In summary, numerous important cancer types with high-level MSLN expression might benefit from future anti-MSLN therapies, but MSLN’s prognostic relevance appears to be limited.
Therapeutic Effect of Endothelin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor on Chronic Kidney Disease through the Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and the NLRP3 Inflammasome
Authors: Hsu Yung-Ho , Zheng Cai-Mei , Chou Chu-Lin , Chen Yi-Jie , Lee Yu-Hsuan , Lin Yuh-Feng , Chiu Hui-Wen
Published: April 2021

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress significantly contribute to the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The NOD-like receptor family pyrin containing domain-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a key role in the inflammatory response. The renal endothelin (ET) system is activated in all cases of CKD. Furthermore, ET-1 promotes renal cellular injury, inflammation, fibrosis and proteinuria. Endothelin-converting enzymes (ECEs) facilitate the final processing step of ET synthesis. However, the roles of ECEs in CKD are not clear. In this study, we investigated the effects of ETs and ECEs on kidney cells. We found that ET-1 and ET-2 expression was significantly upregulated in the renal tissues of CKD patients. ET-1 and ET-2 showed no cytotoxicity on human kidney tubular epithelial cells. However, ET-1 and ET-2 caused endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in tubular epithelial cells. The ECE inhibitor phosphoramidon induced autophagy. Furthermore, phosphoramidon inhibited ER stress and the NLRP3 inflammasome in tubular epithelial cells. In an adenine diet-induced CKD mouse model, phosphoramidon attenuated the progression of CKD by regulating autophagy, the NLRP3 inflammasome and ER stress. In summary, these findings showed a new strategy to delay CKD progression by inhibiting ECEs through autophagy activation and restraining ER stress and the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Allotetraploidization in Brachypodium May Have Led to the Dominance of One Parent’s Metabolome in Germinating Seeds
Authors: Skalska Aleksandra , Wolny Elzbieta , Beckmann Manfred , Doonan John H. , Hasterok Robert , Mur Luis A. J.
Published: April 2021

Seed germination is a complex process during which a mature seed resumes metabolic activity to prepare for seedling growth. In this study, we performed a comparative metabolomic analysis of the embryo and endosperm using the community standard lines of three annual Brachypodium species, i.e., B. distachyon (Bd) and B. stacei (Bs) and their natural allotetraploid B. hybridum (BdBs) that has wider ecological range than the other two species. We explored how far the metabolomic impact of allotetraploidization would be observable as over-lapping changes at 4, 12, and 24 h after imbibition (HAI) with water when germination was initiated. Metabolic changes during germination were more prominent in Brachypodium embryos than in the endosperm. The embryo and endosperm metabolomes of Bs and BdBs were similar, and those of Bd were distinctive. The Bs and BdBs embryos showed increased levels of sugars and the tricarboxylic acid cycle compared to Bd, which could have been indicative of better nutrient mobilization from the endosperm. Bs and BdBs also showed higher oxalate levels that could aid nutrient transfer through altered cellular events. In Brachypodium endosperm, the thick cell wall, in addition to starch, has been suggested to be a source of nutrients to the embryo. Metabolites indicative of sugar metabolism in the endosperm of all three species were not prominent, suggesting that mobilization mostly occurred prior to 4 HAI. Hydroxycinnamic and monolignol changes in Bs and BdBs were consistent with cell wall remodeling that arose following the release of nutrients to the respective embryos. Amino acid changes in both the embryo and endosperm were broadly consistent across the species. Taking our data together, the formation of BdBs may have maintained much of the Bs metabolome in both the embryo and endosperm during the early stages of germination. In the embryo, this conserved Bs metabolome appeared to include an elevated sugar metabolism that played a vital role in germination. If these observations are confirmed in the future with more Brachypodium accessions, it would substantiate the dominance of the Bs metabolome in BdBs allotetraploidization and the use of metabolomics to suggest important adaptive changes.
KLF4 Regulates Metabolic Homeostasis in Response to Stress
Authors: Blum Andrew , Mostow Kate , Jackett Kailey , Kelty Estelle , Dakpa Tenzing , Ryan Carly , Hagos Engda
Published: April 2021

Cancerous cells are detrimental to the human body and can be incredibly resilient against treatments because of the complexities of molecular carcinogenic pathways. In particular, cancer cells are able to sustain increased growth under metabolic stress due to phenomena like the Warburg effect. Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), a context-dependent transcription factor that can act as both a tumor suppressor and an oncogene, is involved in many molecular pathways that respond to low glucose and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), raising the question of its role in metabolic stress as a result of increased proliferation of tumor cells. In this study, metabolic assays were performed, showing enhanced efficiency of energy production in cells expressing KLF4. Western blotting showed that KLF4 increases the expression of essential glycolytic proteins. Furthermore, we used immunostaining to show that KLF4 increases the localization of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) to the cellular membrane. 2′,7′-Dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCF-DA) was used to analyze the production of ROS, and we found that KLF4 reduces stress-induced ROS within cells. Finally, we demonstrated increased autophagic death in KLF4-expressing cells in response to glucose starvation. Collectively, these results relate KLF4 to non-Warburg metabolic behaviors that support its role as a tumor suppressor and could make KLF4 a target for new cancer treatments.
Tissues and Tumor Microenvironment (TME) in 3D: Models to Shed Light on Immunosuppression in Cancer
Authors: Ho Teresa , Msallam Rasha
Published: April 2021

Immunosuppression in cancer has emerged as a major hurdle to immunotherapy efforts. Immunosuppression can arise from oncogene-induced signaling within the tumor as well as from tumor-associated immune cells. Understanding various mechanisms by which the tumor can undermine and evade therapy is critical in improving current cancer immunotherapies. While mouse models have allowed for the characterization of key immune cell types and their role in tumor development, extrapolating these mechanisms to patients has been challenging. There is need for better models to unravel the effects of genetic alterations inherent in tumor cells and immune cells isolated from tumors on tumor growth and to investigate the feasibility of immunotherapy. Three-dimensional (3D) organoid model systems have developed rapidly over the past few years and allow for incorporation of components of the tumor microenvironment such as immune cells and the stroma. This bears great promise for derivation of patient-specific models in a dish for understanding and determining the impact on personalized immunotherapy. In this review, we will highlight the significance of current experimental models employed in the study of tumor immunosuppression and evaluate current tumor organoid-immune cell co-culture systems and their potential impact in shedding light on cancer immunosuppression.
Determination of Uric Acid in Artificial Saliva with Compact AMP3291 Reader and Au Nanoparticles Modified Electrode
Authors: Piedras Jessica , Dominguez Rocio B. , Gutiérrez Juan Manuel
Published: April 2021

Uric acid (UA) is a residual product of purines in the body and has been proposed as a valuable biomarker for Diabetes Mellitus, renal disorder, hypertension and preeclampsia. This work presents a sensing platform for nonenzymatic UA detection using a screen-printed electrode modified with gold nanoparticles (SPE-AuNps) operated with the compact and low-cost amperometric reader AMP3291. This laboratory-made instrument was designed using the analog front end LMP91000 and the microcontroller ESP32; the operational parameters like working potential, acquisition time and dynamic measuring range were configured for UA detection. The whole sensing system (AMP3291+ SPE-AuNps) was evaluated for nonenzymatic sensing of UA, showing a fast response time of 3.5 s, a sensitivity of 0.022 μA·μM−1, a linear range from 20 to 200 μM (R2 = 0.993) and a limit of detection of 11.91 μM. Throughout, a piece of commercial equipment was used for validation and noticeably the measurements with the AMP3291-based platform showed improved performance, indicating the feasibility of the developed instrument for UA monitoring and potentially for in situ decentralized applications. Finally, artificial saliva was used as model medium exhibiting interesting analytical parameters, encouraging to consider the reported system as a potentially valuable tool for monitoring UA for clinical applications in resource-limited settings.
Enhancing Value and Uptake for Whole-Population Cohorts of Children and Parents: Methods to Integrate Registries into the Generation Victoria Cohort
Authors: Sung Valerie , Williams Katrina , Perlow Ella , Hu Yanhong J. , Ahern Susannah , Said Joanne M. , Karanatsios Bill , Hopper John L. , McNeil John J. , Donnan Leo , Goldfeld Sharon , Wake Melissa
Published: April 2021

Health registries are critical to understanding, benchmarking and improving quality of care for specific diseases and conditions, but face hurdles including funding, bias towards clinical rather than population samples, lack of pre-morbid and outcomes data, and absent cross-registry harmonisation and coordination. Children are particularly under-represented in registry research. This paper lays out novel principles, methods and governance to integrate diverse registries within or alongside a planned children’s mega-cohort to rapidly generate translatable evidence. GenV (Generation Victoria) will approach for recruitment parents of all newborns (estimated 150,000) over two years from mid-2021 in the state of Victoria (population 6.5 million), Australia. Its sample size and population denominator mean it will contain almost all children with uncommon or co-morbid conditions as they emerge over time. By design, it will include linked datasets, biosamples (including from pregnancy), phenotypes and participant-reported measures, all of which will span pre-morbid to long-term outcomes. We provide a vignette of a planned new registry for high-risk pregnancies to illustrate the possibilities. To our knowledge, this is the first paper to describe such a methodology designed prospectively to enhance both the clinical relevance of a large multipurpose cohort and the value and inclusivity of registries in a population.
Optimization of AlSi10MgMn Alloy Heat Treatment Process Based on Orthogonal Test and Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Zhang Fubao , Zhang Jiaqiao , Ni Hongjun , Zhu Yu , Wang Xingxing , Wan Xiaofeng , Chen Ke
Published: April 2021

By applying the orthogonal test, the T6 heat treatment test of the casting AlSi10MgMn alloy was carried out. Hardness, tensile strength, and elongation were selected as indicators for evaluating the toughness of alloy. Grey relational analysis was used to comprehensively evaluate the toughness of the alloy. Based on multiple linear regression, prediction models of hardness, tensile strength, elongation, and grey correlation were established. Through planning and solving, the optimal T6 heat treatment process parameters were obtained. According to the results of the metallographic structure analysis and the fracture SEM on the alloy after the T6 heat treatment, aging time, solution time, and solution temperature were identified as the most important factors affecting alloy hardness, tensile strength, and elongation, respectively. Through the application of grey relational analysis, the optimal T6 heat treatment process of an AlSi10MgMn alloy was obtained, namely 530 °C/1 h + 190 °C/6 h. Based on the solving of the prediction models, the optimal T6 heat treatment process and solution temperature of AlSi10MgMn alloy were obtained, namely 530 °C/3 h + 190 °C/8 h. Under these conditions, the hardness of the alloy was 96.9 HV, the tensile strength was 344.6 MPa, and the elongation was 6.1%. In contrast, the toughness of the alloy was better than that obtained by grey relational analysis. The T6 heat treatment refined the microstructure of the alloy, which resulted in a significant increase in fracture dimples.
FastFix Albatross Data: Snapshots of Raw GPS L-1 Data from Southern Royal Albatross
Authors: Molteno Timothy C. A. , Payne Keith W.
Published: April 2021

This dataset contains 4-millisecond snapshots of the GPS radio spectrum stored by wildlife tracking tags deployed on adult Southern Royal Albatross (Diomedea epomophora) in New Zealand. Approximately 60,000 snapshots were recovered from nine birds over two southern-hemisphere summers in 2012 and 2013. The data can be post-processed using snapshot positioning algorithms, and are made available as a test dataset for further development of these algorithms. Included are post-processed position estimates for reference, as well as test data from stationary tags positioned under various test conditions for the purposes of characterizing tag performance.
Mobile Money Use: The Impact of Macroeconomic Policy and Regulation
Authors: Katusiime Lorna
Published: April 2021

This paper examines the effects of macroeconomic policy and regulatory environment on mobile money usage. Specifically, we develop an autoregressive distributed lag model to investigate the effect of key macroeconomic variables and mobile money tax on mobile money usage in Uganda. Using monthly data spanning the period March 2009 to September 2020, we find that in the short run, mobile money usage is positively affected by inflation while financial innovation, exchange rate, interest rates and mobile money tax negatively affect mobile money usage in Uganda. In the long run, mobile money usage is positively affected by economic activity, inflation and the COVID-19 pandemic crisis while mobile money customer balances, interest rate, exchange rate, financial innovation and mobile money tax negatively affect mobile money usage.
Surveillance System in Smart Cities: A Dependability Evaluation Based on Stochastic Models
Authors: Gonçalves Igor , Rodrigues Laécio , Silva Francisco Airton , Nguyen Tuan Anh , Min Dugki , Lee Jae-Woo
Published: April 2021

Surveillance monitoring systems are highly necessary, aiming to prevent many social problems in smart cities. The internet of things (IoT) nowadays offers a variety of technologies to capture and process massive and heterogeneous data. Due to the fact that (i) advanced analyses of video streams are performed on powerful recording devices; while (ii) surveillance monitoring services require high availability levels in the way that the service must remain connected, for example, to a connection network that offers higher speed than conventional connections; and that (iii) the trust-worthy dependability of a surveillance system depends on various factors, it is not easy to identify which components/devices in a system architecture have the most impact on the dependability for a specific surveillance system in smart cities. In this paper, we developed stochastic Petri net models for a surveillance monitoring system with regard to varying several parameters to obtain the highest dependability. Two main metrics of interest in the dependability of a surveillance system including reliability and availability were analyzed in a comprehensive manner. The analysis results show that the variation in the number of long-term evolution (LTE)-based stations contributes to a number of nines (#9s) increase in availability. The obtained results show that the variation of the mean time to failure (MTTF) of surveillance cameras exposes a high impact on the reliability of the system. The findings of this work have the potential of assisting system architects in planning more optimized systems in this field based on the proposed models.
Parameter Extraction of Photovoltaic Module Using Tunicate Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Dasgotra Ankit , Tiwari Sunil Kumar , Sharma Abhinav , Jately Vibhu , Azzopardi Brian
Published: April 2021

In the renewable energy sector, the extraction of parameters for solar photovoltaic (PV) cells is a widely studied area of research. Parameter extraction is a non-linear complex optimization problem for solar PV cells. In this research work, the authors have implemented the Tunicate swarm algorithm (TSA) to estimate the optimized value of the unknown parameters of a PV cell/module under standard temperature conditions. The simulation results have been compared with four different, pre-existing optimization algorithms: gravitational search algorithm (GSA), a hybrid of particle swarm optimization and gravitational search algorithm (PSOGSA), sine cosine (SCA), and whale optimization (WOA). The comparison of results broadly demonstrates that the TSA algorithm outperforms the existing optimization algorithms in terms of root mean square error (RMSE) and convergence rate. Furthermore, the statistical results confirm that the TSA algorithm is a better algorithm in terms of average robustness and precision. The Friedman ranking test is also carried out to demonstrate the competency and reliability of the implemented approach.
A Topical Review on Machine Learning, Software Defined Networking, Internet of Things Applications: Research Limitations and Challenges
Authors: Imran  , Ghaffar Zeba , Alshahrani Abdullah , Fayaz Muhammad , Alghamdi Ahmed Mohammed , Gwak Jeonghwan
Published: April 2021

In recent years, rapid development has been made to the Internet of Things communication technologies, infrastructure, and physical resources management. These developments and research trends address challenges such as heterogeneous communication, quality of service requirements, unpredictable network conditions, and a massive influx of data. One major contribution to the research world is in the form of software-defined networking applications, which aim to deploy rule-based management to control and add intelligence to the network using high-level policies to have integral control of the network without knowing issues related to low-level configurations. Machine learning techniques coupled with software-defined networking can make the networking decision more intelligent and robust. The Internet of Things application has recently adopted virtualization of resources and network control with software-defined networking policies to make the traffic more controlled and maintainable. However, the requirements of software-defined networking and the Internet of Things must be aligned to make the adaptations possible. This paper aims to discuss the possible ways to make software-defined networking enabled Internet of Things application and discusses the challenges solved using the Internet of Things leveraging the software-defined network. We provide a topical survey of the application and impact of software-defined networking on the Internet of things networks. We also study the impact of machine learning techniques applied to software-defined networking and its application perspective. The study is carried out from the different perspectives of software-based Internet of Things networks, including wide-area networks, edge networks, and access networks. Machine learning techniques are presented from the perspective of network resources management, security, classification of traffic, quality of experience, and quality of service prediction. Finally, we discuss challenges and issues in adopting machine learning and software-defined networking for the Internet of Things applications.
Target Based 2D Digital Image Correlation Deflection Monitoring to Analyze the Environmental Effect on Variations of Deflection on Structures
Authors: Taghavikish Sina , Elhabiby Mohamed
Published: April 2021

The truss upgrade for the Calgary Municipal Building posed a unique challenge for live tracking of the structure’s reaction to the pre-loadings, welding operations, and the removal of the preloads. The authors, therefore, devised a method for a special case of deflection monitoring, with the pre-condition of having a displacement-free location available where cameras could be installed. The dust and other construction material would appear above the specimen, and the light over the specimen was variable. The proposed approach of this research was to use a correlation-based object recognition for retro-reflective targets. The technique maintained an accuracy of 0.08 mm in deflection monitoring with a camera at 15-m away from the targets over a period of eight months data acquisition. The conclusion was that this digital image correlation (DIC) technique can provide deflections in the perpendicular plane to the line of sight of the cameras and can be used under harsh conditions for the targets (e.g., dust and physical damage), with a limited light source. The effect of external environmental parameters, such as daily temperature, solar radiation, and air pressure on the observed deflections, were analyzed and the close relationship between temperature and variations in deflection were observed.
Strength Training versus Stretching for Improving Range of Motion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Afonso José , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo , Moscão João , Rocha Tiago , Zacca Rodrigo , Martins Alexandre , Milheiro André A. , Ferreira João , Sarmento Hugo , Clemente Filipe Manuel
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Stretching is known to improve range of motion (ROM), and evidence has suggested that strength training (ST) is effective too. However, it is unclear whether its efficacy is comparable to stretching. The goal was to systematically review and meta-analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of ST and stretching on ROM (INPLASY 10.37766/inplasy2020.9.0098). (2) Methods: Cochrane Library, EBSCO, PubMed, Scielo, Scopus, and Web of Science were consulted in October 2020 and updated in March 2021, followed by search within reference lists and expert suggestions (no constraints on language or year). Eligibility criteria: (P) Humans of any condition; (I) ST interventions; (C) stretching (O) ROM; (S) supervised RCTs. (3) Results: Eleven articles (n = 452 participants) were included. Pooled data showed no differences between ST and stretching on ROM (ES = −0.22; 95% CI = −0.55 to 0.12; p = 0.206). Sub-group analyses based on risk of bias, active vs. passive ROM, and movement-per-joint analyses showed no between-protocol differences in ROM gains. (4) Conclusions: ST and stretching were not different in their effects on ROM, but the studies were highly heterogeneous in terms of design, protocols and populations, and so further research is warranted. However, the qualitative effects of all the studies were quite homogeneous.
Influence of Plant Physical and Anatomical Characteristics on the Ovipositional Preference of Orius sauteri (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)
Authors: Zhang Liu , Qin Zifang , Liu Pingping , Yin Yue , Felton Gary W. , Shi Wangpeng
Published: April 2021

Natural enemies play an important role in managing insect pests. Orius sauteri (Poppius) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae), a predator of many soft-body insects, is an important biological control agent in Asia. Understanding this predator’s egg-laying preferences and a habitat needs is important for its success in pest control. We investigated the plant acceptability and ovipositional preference of O. sauteri for coriander (Coriadrum sativum L., Apiales: Apiaceae), marigold (Tagetes erecta L., Asterales: Asteraceae), sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima L., Brassicales: Brassicaceae), and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L., Fabales: Fabaceae), and focused on the effects of plant physical and anatomical characteristics on the ovipositional preference of O. sauteri. The results showed that O. sauteri can lay eggs on uninfested plants in the vegetative stage and their eggs hatched normally. Orius sauteri females prefer plants with high stomatal density, a large stomatal area, and fewer trichomes as oviposition hosts, and the depth of egg placement was determined by leaf thickness. Our studies suggested that O. sauteri females can select oviposition hosts and specific oviposition sites by assessing the structural qualities of plant surface. Coriander and marigold are potentially suitable host plants for O.sauteri. The results aid the selection of cover crops to enhance natural enemies in the fields.
Gut Bacterial and Fungal Communities of the Wild and Laboratory-Reared Thitarodes Larvae, Host of the Chinese Medicinal Fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis on Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Guiqing , Zheng Xuehong , Long Hailin , Rao Zhongchen , Cao Li , Han Richou
Published: April 2021

By employing a culture-dependent and -independent 16S rRNA and ITS gene high-throughput sequencing analyses, comprehensive information was obtained on the gut bacterial and fungal communities in the ghost moth larvae of three different geographic locations from high-altitude on Tibet plateau and from low-altitude laboratory. Twenty-six culturable bacterial species belonging to 21 genera and 14 fungal species belonging to 12 genera were identified from six populations by culture-dependent method. Carnobacterium maltaromaticum was the most abundant bacterial species from both the wild and laboratory-reared larvae. The most abundant OTUs in the wild ghost moth populations were Carnobacteriaceae, Enterobacteriaceae for bacteria, and Ascomycota and Basidiomycota for fungi. Larval microbial communities of the wild ghost moth from different geographic locations were not significantly different from each other but significant difference in larval microbial community was detected between the wild and laboratory-reared ghost moth. The larval gut of the wild ghost moth was dominated by the culturable Carnobacterium. However, that of the laboratory-reared ghost moth exhibited significantly abundant Wolbachia, Rhizobium, Serratia, Pseudomonas, and Flavobacterium. Furthermore, the larval gut of the wild ghost moth had a significantly higher abundance of Ophiocordyceps but lower abundance of Candida and Aspergillus than that of the laboratory-reared ghost moth.
Use of Sugar Dispensers to Disrupt Ant Attendance and Improve Biological Control of Mealybugs in Vineyard
Authors: Parrilli Martina , Profeta Marco , Casoli Luca , Gambirasio Fabio , Masetti Antonio , Burgio Giovanni
Published: April 2021

Planococcus ficus (Signoret) and Pseudococcus comstocki (Kuwana) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) are economically important pests occurring in vineyards, causing severe economic losses for growers and compromising bunch production. The partial effectiveness of insecticides used in controlling mealybug infestations as well as their high impact on the environment and on human health have led to the research of alternative and sustainable control methods, including biological control. Several natural enemies are reported to be effective against mealybugs, but their activity may be hindered by tending ants. These social insects are known to exhibit a mutualistic relationship with mealybugs, resulting in extremely aggressive behavior against beneficial insects. Consequently, this study explored a method to mitigate ant attendance by means of sugar dispensers in order to improve ecosystem services, as well as decrease mealybug infestation in vineyards. Field trials were carried out in four commercial vineyards of Northern Italy infested by mealybugs, in which Anagyrus vladimiri Triapitsyn (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) were released as biological control agents. Our results showed that sugar dispensers reduced ant activity and mealybug infestation, leading to a significant enhancement of ecosystem services. The technique showed a great potential in boosting biological control against mealybugs in field conditions, though the field application seemed to be labour intensive and needs to be replicated for a multi-year evaluation.
Obesity Does Not Interfere with the Cholesterol-Lowering Effect of Plant Stanol Ester Consumption (as Part of a Heart-Healthy Diet)
Authors: Simonen Piia , Arte Elisa , Gylling Helena
Published: April 2021

Dietary modifications including plant stanol ester consumption are recommended measures to control serum and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol concentrations, but obesity can affect their responses. We investigated whether body mass index (BMI) affects serum cholesterol levels during plant stanol (mainly sitostanol) ester consumption. This ad hoc analysis was based on earlier results of a cross-over, randomized controlled trial of postmenopausal women consuming rapeseed oil-based margarine without or with plant stanol ester (3 g plant stanols/day) for seven weeks. We classified the subjects as normal-weight (BMI ≤ 25 kg/m2, n = 9, mean 22.6 kg/m2) or overweight/obese (BMI > 25 kg/m2, n = 11, mean 28.4 kg/m2), and recalculated the results, focusing on cholesterol absorption, cholesterol synthesis, and fecal steroid outputs. Serum cholesterol levels were similar in the groups during the control diet. Plant stanol ester reduced serum cholesterol by 0.63 ± 0.19 mmol/L (11%) in normal-weight and by 0.75 ± 0.13 mmol/L (12%) in overweight/obese subjects (p < 0.05 for both), and cholesterol absorption was reduced in both groups. However, relative and dietary cholesterol absorption were more effectively reduced in normal-weight subjects. In conclusion, overweight/obesity did not interfere with the serum cholesterol response to plant stanol ester consumption despite substantial differences in cholesterol metabolism between the groups.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Screening in a Selected Cohort of Patients Affected by Chronic Pulmonary Diseases in Naples, Italy
Authors: Annunziata Anna , Ferrarotti Ilaria , Coppola Antonietta , Lanza Maurizia , Imitazione Pasquale , Spinelli Sara , Micco Pierpaolo Di , Fiorentino Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

Introduction. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic condition associated with several respiratory diseases in patients with severe protein deficiency. AATD is often late diagnosed or underdiagnosed. Diagnosis frequently occurs in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema characterized by frequent exacerbations and over ten years’ duration. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency in patients with the chronic pulmonary disease after a thorough screening in the city of Naples in southern Italy. Materials and methods. Two hundred patients suffering from respiratory pathology (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, asthma, or bronchiectasis) were examined and evaluated in our outpatients’ clinic and tested for serum levels of AAT. Patients who had a respiratory disease suspected of AATD and/or serum AAT < 120 mg/dL underwent genetic testing. Genetic screening was performed on samples from 141 patients. Results. A total of 36 patients had an intermediate deficiency of AAT levels. Among them, 8 were PI*MZ, 6 were PI*MS and 22 had rare pathological mutations. Five patients had a severe AATD, all were composite heterozygous with S or Z allele, while the other allele had a rare pathological mutation. Conclusions. The incidence of genetic defects as AATD in the population of patients affected by chronic respiratory disorders is always a matter of discussion because of the frequent interaction between genes and environmental causes. In our series, numerous rare variants and compound heterozygosity have been described. No homozygous patients have been described. The present is one of few studies available on the incidence of rare variants in the geographic area of the city of Naples. So, our results could be considered interesting not only to know the incidence of AATD and its related rare mutations but also to support early diagnosis and treatments for patients with chronic pulmonary disease and frequent exacerbation and to fight the association with environmental causes of pulmonary damages as smoking.
Mevalonate Kinase-Associated Diseases: Hunting for Phenotype–Genotype Correlation
Authors: Boursier Guilaine , Rittore Cécile , Milhavet Florian , Cuisset Laurence , Touitou Isabelle
Published: April 2021

Mevalonate kinase-associated diseases (MKAD) are caused by pathogenic mutations in the mevalonate kinase gene (MVK) and encompass several phenotypically different rare and hereditary autoinflammatory conditions. The most serious is a recessive systemic metabolic disease called mevalonic aciduria, and the most recently recognized is disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis, a dominant disease limited to the skin. To evaluate a possible correlation between genotypes and (1) the different MKAD clinical subtypes or (2) the occurrence of severe manifestations, data were reviewed for all patients with MVK variants described in the literature (N = 346), as well as those referred to our center (N = 51). The genotypes including p.(Val377Ile) (homozygous or compound heterozygous) were more frequent in mild systemic forms but were also sometimes encountered with severe disease. We confirmed that amyloidosis was more prevalent in patients compound heterozygous for p.(Ile268Thr) and p.(Val377Ile) than in others and revealed new associations. Patients homozygous for p.(Leu264Phe), p.(Ala334Thr) or compound heterozygous for p.(His20Pro) and p.(Ala334Thr) had increased risk of severe neurological or ocular symptoms. All patients homozygous for p.(Leu264Phe) had a cataract. The variants associated with porokeratosis were relatively specific and more frequently caused a frameshift than in patients with other clinical forms (26% vs. 6%). We provide practical recommendations focusing on phenotype–genotype correlation in MKAD that could be helpful for prophylactic management.
Severity and Duration of Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease after Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Choe Suk Hyung , Cho Hyeyeon , Bae Jinyoung , Ji Sang-Hwan , Yoon Hyun-Kyu , Lee Ho-Jin , Lee Ji-Hyun , Kim Jin-Tae , Kim Won Ho
Published: April 2021

We aimed to evaluate whether the duration and stage of acute kidney injury (AKI) are associated with the occurrence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients undergoing cardiac or thoracic aortic surgery. A total of 2009 cases were reviewed. The patients with postoperative AKI stage 1 and higher stage were divided into transient (serum creatinine elevation ≤48 h) or persistent (>48 h) AKI, respectively. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values during three years after surgery were collected. Occurrence of new-onset CKD stage 3 or higher or all-cause mortality was determined as the primary outcome. Multivariable Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis were performed. The Median follow-up of renal function after surgery was 32 months. The cumulative incidences of our primary outcome at one, two, and three years after surgery were 19.8, 23.7, and 26.1%. There was a graded significant association of AKI with new-onset CKD during three years after surgery, except for transient stage 1 AKI (persistent stage 1: HR 3.11, 95% CI 2.62–4.91; transient higher stage: HR 4.07, 95% CI 2.98–6.11; persistent higher stage: HR 13.36, 95% CI 8.22–18.72). There was a significant difference in survival between transient and persistent AKI at the same stage. During three years after cardiac surgery, there was a significant and graded association between AKI stages and the development of new-onset CKD, except for transient stage 1 AKI. This association was stronger when AKI lasted more than 48 h at the same stage. Both duration and severity of AKI provide prognostic value to predict the development of CKD.
Aspects of Reproductive Biology of the European Hake (Merluccius merluccius) in the Northern and Central Adriatic Sea (GSA 17-Central Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Candelma Michela , Marisaldi Luca , Bertotto Daniela , Radaelli Giuseppe , Gioacchini Giorgia , Santojanni Alberto , Colella Sabrina , Carnevali Oliana
Published: April 2021

The study focused on the macroscopic, histological, and biometric analysis of European hake females in GSA 17 (Central-North Adriatic Sea). From 2013 to 2015, 976 females were collected and analyzed monthly. Though females in spawning conditions were found during the whole year, the trend of GSI showed a peak of the reproductive season from April to July in 2014 and 2015. HSI and Kn reached the highest values in September, after the spawning peaks. In 2013, the trend of these indices did not highlight an evident peak, probably due to an adverse event that occurred in the previous winter in the Adriatic shelf. The length at first maturity (L50) was estimated by macroscopic and histological approaches, resulting in 30.81 cm for the macroscopical length and 33.73 cm for the histological length; both values are higher than the current catching legal size. For the first time in this area, batch and relative fecundity were estimated. Relative fecundity was similar to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic stocks, whereas batch fecundity values were lower compared to other fishing grounds. Overall, the analysis of reproductive parameters plays a fundamental role in the sustainable management of this resource in an area as overfished as the Central-North Adriatic Sea.