bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of UAV with Infrared Camera and RFID for Airframe Condition Monitoring
Authors: Hrúz Michal , Bugaj Martin , Novák Andrej , Kandera Branislav , Badánik Benedikt
Published: April 2021

The new progressive smart technologies announced in the fourth industrial revolution in aviation—Aviation 4.0—represent new possibilities and big challenges in aircraft maintenance processes. The main benefit of these technologies is the possibility to monitor, transfer, store, and analyze huge datasets. Based on analysis outputs, there is a possibility to improve current preventive maintenance processes and implement predictive maintenance processes. These solutions lower the downtime, save manpower, and extend the components’ lifetime; thus, the maximum effectivity and safety is achieved. The article deals with the possible implementation of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with an infrared camera and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) as two of the smart hangar technologies for airframe condition monitoring. The presented implementations of smart technologies follow up the specific results of a case study focused on trainer aircraft failure monitoring and its impact on maintenance strategy changes. The case study failure indexes show the critical parts of aircraft that are subjected to damage the most. The aim of the article was to justify the need for thorough monitoring of critical parts of the aircraft and then analyze and propose a more effective and the most suitable form of technical condition monitoring of aircraft critical parts. The article describes the whole process of visual inspection performed by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with an IR camera and its related processes; in addition, it covers the possible usage of RFID tags as a labeling tool supporting the visual inspection. The implementations criteria apply to the repair and overhaul small aircraft maintenance organization, and later, it can also increase operational efficiency. The final suggestions describe the possible usage of proposed solutions, their main benefits, and also the limitations of their implementations in maintenance of trainer aircraft.
Fabrication of Lensed Optical Fibers for Biosensing Probes Using CO2 and Femtosecond Lasers
Authors: Lim Ki-Dong , Choi Hun-Kook , Sohn Ik-Bu , Lee Byeong-Ha , Kim Jin-Tae
Published: April 2021

We propose a new method for precisely fabricating a lensed fiber with a desired focal length by first cleaving a coreless silica fiber using an ultrafast femtosecond laser without thermal effects and subsequently shaping the radius of curvature at the optical-fiber end using a CO2 laser. The precisely cleaved segment of the coreless silica fiber obtained with the femtosecond laser is attached to a long single-mode fiber. The beam-exposure time and laser power of the CO2 laser are adjusted to melt the coreless-fiber end to yield a uniform, consistent, and precise radius of curvature, thereby realizing a lensed optical fiber. The precision of the radius of curvature in this case is greater than those obtained with the conventional arc discharge method with thermal treatment requiring fairly complex processes and yielding relatively low fabrication accuracy. In our study, we observe a difference between the measured and calculated focal lengths of the fabricated lens, possibly because the exact value of the mode field diameter is uncertain. On the other hand, the beam size measured using the knife-edge method matches closely with the theoretical size. Our findings confirm the feasibility of fabricating lensed optical fibers for fiber-based biosensing using CO2 and femtosecond lasers.
Design and Modelling of an Amphibious Spherical Robot Attached with Assistant Fins
Authors: Chi Xing , Zhan Qiang
Published: April 2021

Mobile robots that can survive in unstructured wildernesses is essential in many applications such as environment detecting and security surveillance. In many of these applications, it is highly desirable that the robot can adapt robustly to both terrestrial environment and aquatic environment, and translocate swiftly between various environments. A novel concept of amphibious spherical robot with fins is proposed in this paper, capable of both terrestrial locomotion and aquatic locomotion. Unlike the traditional amphibious robots, whose motions are commonly induced by propellers, legs or snake-like tandem joints, the proposed amphibious spherical robot utilizes the rolling motion of a spherical shell as the principal locomotion mode in the aquatic environment. Moreover, spinning motion of the spherical shell is used to steer the spherical robot efficiently and agilely; several fins are attached to the outer spherical shell as an assistance to the rolling motion. These two motion modes, rolling and spinning, can be used unchangeably in the terrestrial environment, leading to a compact and highly adaptive design of the robot. The work introduced in this paper brings in an innovative solution for the design of an amphibious robot.
Sequential Analysis of Trace Elements in a Micro Volume Urine Sample Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Laur Nico , Kaiser Lars , Deigner Hans-Peter , Kinscherf Ralf
Published: April 2021

In this work, we describe a simple, fast, cheap, accurate and high-throughput method for the determination of Al; V; Cr; Mn; Fe; Co; Cu; Zn; As; Se; Mo; Cd; Sn; Ba; TI; Pb in a micro volume of urine by using inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) equipped with an octupole-based collision cell. The samples were directly analyzed after a simple acidification with 3% nitric acid. Validation of this method was performed by using certified urine reference material. He and H were used as collision gas for reducing polyatomic interference for most of the measured elements. Finally, we partook in an external quality assurance conducted by ISNTAND e.V. 2. Results show that our high-throughput method is ideal for detecting elements in newborns and infants because of its simplicity, speed, accuracy and low sample volume.
Seepage Mechanism of Tight Sandstone Reservoir Based on Digital Core Simulation Method
Authors: Wu Huaiyu , Dong Xisong , Xu Yang , Xiong Gang , Shen Zhen , Wang Yong
Published: April 2021

Recently, tight sandstone oil has played an increasingly important role in the energy strategies of countries around the world. However, the understanding of a microscopic mechanism is still not clear enough, which has been affecting the improvement of the recovery of tight sandstone oil. In this article, a digital core model was established to simulate the pore network of a physical core with CT scan and difference equations were verified by Fourier counting. Then, a combination of orthogonal tests and cubic digital cores was used to experimentally investigate various parameters including pressure, length, permeability, viscosity, and time. By combining the physical experiments with the digital core methods, it can be observed that the state of the micro-crack affects the conductivity of the core, which may be the decisive reason for changing the pressure gradient. The orthogonal test showed that the sensitivity of the parameters was pressure, length, permeability, time, and viscosity in order. The results of the numerical simulations showed that this method can reveal the seepage mechanism of a tight sandstone reservoir, greatly shortening the experimental time and improving flexibility.
Design and Preliminary Testing of an In-Field Passive Treatment System for Removing Phosphorus from Surface Water
Authors: Carleton George , Glowczewski Jessica , Cutright Teresa
Published: April 2021

It is well documented that excess phosphorus in source waters is a major contributor to harmful algal bloom formation. While there are many approaches to controlling algal populations in reservoirs, including a variety of phosphorus reduction approaches (e.g., sequestration of legacy phosphorus with alum or clay products), addressing physical phosphorus loading upstream is considered less often. Water treatment residuals (WTR) containing alum, a common waste product of conventional surface water treatment, have been shown to retain the ability to capture phosphorus even after the WTR ‘sludge’ is formed and removed from the sedimentation process. This research designed and tested a refillable, reusable in-stream phosphorus cartridge system which beneficially reutilizes WTR ‘sludge’ to sequester instream phosphorus and remove it from the water when spent media is replaced. This reduces in-stream phosphorus entering into the reservoir without permanently adding additional materials to the waterbody and provides measurable results as to the amount of phosphorus removed. The ten sampling events during the first year’s field assessment indicated that the gates removed a total of 556.31 g of reactive phosphorus (PO43−) and it is anticipated that the actual phosphorous removal was even greater. Other watershed managers can implement the same approach using their own WTR to capture in-stream phosphorus.
Municipal Solid Waste Management and Waste-to-Energy Potential from Rajshahi City Corporation in Bangladesh
Authors: Habib Md. Ahasan , Ahmed Mim Mashrur , Aziz Muhammad , Beg Mohd. Rafiqul Alam , Hoque Md. Emdadul
Published: April 2021

Waste management is becoming one of the most challenging tasks for developing countries in order to ensure good human health, as well as a healthy environment. Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) is one of the 12 city corporations in Bangladesh. Various environmental and human health problems have arisen due to a lack of proper knowledge of waste management. Thus, the aim of this work is to illustrate the present status of MSW generation and management in Rajshahi City Corporation, Bangladesh. Fifty households were selected throughout RCC for waste collection, which represent approximately all types of households in RCC. From the qualitative and quantitative analysis, it is estimated that the approximate MSW generation in RCC is 358.19 t/d (tons/day) at an approximate rate of 0.4214 kg/person/d. Calorific values of the wastes have also been determined using the ultimate analysis results of the MSW. A higher calorific value of the dry MSW has been calculated as 14.9 MJ/kg. Moisture content of the MSW has been found to be 48.28%. It is also estimated that the possible power generation (steam energy to electrical power) from MSW generated in RCC is 159.40 MWh/d. Lastly, future scopes of MSW management and different waste management measures that need to be taken are illustrated. Waste-to-energy (WTE) conversion has been given priority and anaerobic digestion (AD) has been found to be an interesting prospect in this sector. Techno-economic analysis of the AD has been conducted. Energy potential from the proposed plant has been calculated as 3.85 MW and the payback period has been found to be 4.9 years. It has been observed that employing AD on a large scale can not only reduce the waste, but also meet a large portion of the energy demand of this city.
Isatin-Hydrazones with Multiple Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) Inhibitory Activity and In-Silico Binding Mechanism
Authors: Al-Salem Huda S. , Arifuzzaman Md , Issa Iman S. , Rahman A. F. M. Motiur
Published: April 2021

Recently, we have reported a series of isatin hydrazone, two of them, namely, 3-((2,6-dichlorobenzylidene)hydrazono)indolin-2-one (1) and 3-((2-chloro-6-fluorobenzylidene)hydrazono)indolin-2-one (2) having potent cytotoxicity, showing cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK2) inhibitory activity and bearing recommended drug likeness properties. Since both compounds (1 and 2) showed inhibitory activity against CDK2, we assumed it would also have multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) inhibitory activity. Considering those points, here, above-mentioned two isatin hydrazone 1 and 2 were synthesized using previously reported method for further investigation of their potency on RTKs (EGFR, VEGFR-2 and FLT-3) inhibitory activity. As expected, Compound 1 exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, IC50 = 0.269 µM), vascular epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2, IC50 = 0.232 µM) and FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 (FLT-3, IC50 = 1.535 µM) tyrosine kinases. On the other hand, Compound 2 also exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against EGFR (IC50 = 0.369 µM), VEGFR-2 (IC50 = 0.266 µM) and FLT-3 (IC50 = 0.546 µM) tyrosine kinases. A molecular docking study with EGFR, VEGFR-2 and FLT-3 kinase suggested that both compounds act as type I ATP competitive inhibitors against EGFR and VEGFR-2, and type II ATP non-competitive inhibitors against FLT-3.
Correlation between Uniaxial Compression Test and Ultrasonic Pulse Rate in Cement with Different Pozzolanic Additions
Authors: Presa Leticia , Costafreda Jorge L. , Martín Domingo Alfonso
Published: April 2021

This work aims to study the relationship between the compression resistance and velocity from ultrasonic pulses in samples of mortars with 25% of pozzolanic content. Pozzolanic cement is a low-priced sustainable material that can reduce costs and CO2 emissions that are produced in the manufacturing of cement from the calcination of calcium carbonate. Using ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) to estimate the compressive resistance of mortars with pozzolanic content reduces costs when evaluating the quality of structures built with this material since it is not required to perform an unconfined compression test. The objective of this study is to establish a correlation in order to estimate the compression resistance of this material from its ultrasonic pulse velocity. For this purpose, we studied a total of 16 cement samples, including those with additions of pozzolanic content with different compositions and a sample without any additions. The results obtained show the mentioned correlation, which establishes a basis for research with a higher number of samples to ascertain if it holds true at greater curing ages.
HSB-SPAM: An Efficient Image Filtering Detection Technique
Authors: Agarwal Saurabh , Jung Ki-Hyun
Published: April 2021

Median filtering is being used extensively for image enhancement and anti-forensics. It is also being used to disguise the traces of image processing operations such as JPEG compression and image resampling when utilized in image de-noising and smoothing tool. In this paper, a robust image forensic technique namely HSB-SPAM is proposed to assist in median filtering detection. The proposed technique considers the higher significant bit-plane (HSB) of the image to highlight the statistical changes efficiently. Further, multiple difference arrays along with the first order pixel difference is used to separate the pixel difference, and Laplacian pixel difference is applied to extract a robust feature set. To compact the size of feature vectors, the operation of thresholding on the difference arrays is also utilized. As a result, the proposed detector is able to detect median, mean and Gaussian filtering operations with higher accuracy than the existing detectors. In the experimental results, the performance of the proposed detector is validated on the small size and post JPEG compressed images, where it is shown that the proposed method outperforms the state of art detectors in the most of the cases.
A Survey on Recent Advanced Research of CPS Security
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Xie Wei , Wang Baosheng , Tao Jing , Wang Enze
Published: April 2021

Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) are next-generation intelligent systems that integrate computing, communication, and control. Malicious attacks on CPSs can lead to both property damage and casualties. Therefore, it is worth surveying CPS security by reviewing and analyzing the latest high-quality related works. In this paper, we provide an overview of the CPS security studies from the last five years and select 142 related works from A- or B-level conferences/journals recommended by the China Computer Federation (CCF). First, we review the main contents of the selected papers and classify them into 24 topics. Then, we analyze hotspots and trends of CPS security technologies in three dimensions: (1) architecture layers (perception, network, and application); (2) application scenarios (smart grids, health care, smart transportation, smart homes, and general grids); and (3) MADC (Measure, Attack, Defense, and Control) types. Finally, we also perform a statistical analysis in terms of paper publication times, author institutes, countries, and sponsors to show the current worldwide CPS security research situation.
The Feature Extraction through Wavelet Coefficients of Metal Friction Noise for Adhesive and Abrasive Wear Monitoring
Authors: Seong Yeonuk , Lee Donghyeon , Yeom Jihye , Park Junhong
Published: April 2021

Friction between metals is a physical phenomenon that occurs in manufacturing machine tools. This annoying noise implies unnecessary metal contact and deterioration of a mechanical system. In this study, for the monitoring of the friction between two metal surfaces, the acoustic signature was extracted by applying the wavelet transform method to the noise measured from the change in contact force for each state of adhesive and abrasive wear. Experiments were conducted with a constant relative speed between the contacting metal surfaces. For the adhesive wear, the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) calculated by the wavelet transformation increases with the increasing contact pressure. Opposite trends were observed for the abrasive wear. The proposed index formed a group within a specific range. This ratio exhibited a strong relationship with the wear characteristics and the surface condition. From the proposed index calculated by the wavelet coefficients, the continuous monitoring of the wear influence on the failure of the machine movement operations is achieved by the sound radiation from the contacting surfaces.
Machine Learning Applied to the NOx Prediction of Diesel Vehicle under Real Driving Cycle
Authors: Lee Jonghak , Kwon Sangil , Kim Hyungjun , Keel Jihoon , Yoon Taekwan , Lee Jongtae
Published: April 2021

Euro 6 standards impose stringent nitrogen oxide (NOx) emission limits on diesel cars. NOx emissions are significantly different between Euro 6 diesel cars and the previous standards in real-world driving. In this research, the NOx concentrations of Euro 6 diesel engines during real-world driving were studied considering various factors. Real driving emission (RDE) tests were conducted using vehicles equipped with portable emissions measurement systems. Urban, rural, and motorway test routes were utilized. Road environment, atmospheric, and after-treatment performance factors were collected in each case. An artificial neural network was used for evaluation using RDE test data and various statistical parameters. It was found that the proposed method predicted the pollutant emissions effectively. Lastly, the relative importance of each predictor was derived, and the NOx concentrations were analyzed. These approaches provide accurate emission information for an environmental effect evaluation that reflects more realistic road conditions.
Digital Twins Driven Supply Chain Visibility within Logistics: A New Paradigm for Future Logistics
Authors: Moshood Taofeeq , Nawanir Gusman , Sorooshian Shahryar , Okfalisa Okfalisa
Published: April 2021

The supply chains shaping their distribution networks become more diverse as companies respond to global markets’ stringent criteria. This is also counterproductive to the visibility of the supply chain within the company and can adversely affect the organization’s core business. This paper attempts to evaluate how organizations can benefit from introducing Digital Twins to enhance their logistics supply network visibility. Additionally, deployment issues and technologies supporting Digital Twins were reviewed. This study used ATLAS.ti 9 software tools to save, classify, and evaluate the data for this analysis to systematically review the literature. We reviewed, compiled, and sorted papers from 227 publications for this article and then recognized 104 as critical to the work scope; this analysis’ quest date was set from 2002 to 2021. This article represents the first attempt at dealing with the issue of supply chain visibility through the Digital Twins in the logistics field. The research outcomes found that Digital Twins would help companies develop predictive metrics, diagnostics, projections, and physical asset descriptions for their logistics. This study also suggested some steps to overcome the challenges in implementing a Digital Twins in the logistics industry. For researchers, this review offers the possibility to unify and expand existing solutions and to identify links and interfaces that are still needed. As for managerial implications, this study can be used to identify future strategies and technologies to fulfil certain logistics tasks and develop new technological solutions for current and future demands.
The Signal to Noise Ratio and the Completeness Magnitude: The Effect of the COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Godano Cataldo , Convertito Vincenzo , Pino Nicola Alessandro
Published: April 2021

We analyse the earthquakes catalogues for Italy, South California, and Greece across the COVID-19 lockdown period for each country. The results for Italy and Greece show that, even if the reduction of the signal to noise ratio has improved the earthquake detection capability, the completeness magnitude remains substantially unchanged, making the improved detection capability ineffective from the statistical point of view. A slight reduction (0.2) of the completeness magnitude is observed for South California, likely related to the relatively higher number of seismic stations located close to urban areas. Our findings suggest that—given the present configuration of the seismic network considered here—only an important decrease in the station spacing can produce a significant decrease of the completeness magnitude.
Estimation and Prediction of Industrial VOC Emissions in Hebei Province, China
Authors: Guo Xiurui , Shen Yaqian , Liu Wenwen , Chen Dongsheng , Liu Junfang
Published: April 2021

The study of industrial volatile organic compound (VOC) emission inventories is essential for identifying VOC emission levels and distribution. This paper established an industrial VOC emission inventory in 2015 for Hebei Province and completed an emission projection for the period 2020–2030. The results indicated that the total emissions of industrial VOCs in 2015 were 1017.79 kt. The use of VOC products accounted for more than half of the total. In addition, the spatial distribution characteristics of the industrial VOC emissions were determined using a geographic information statistics system (GIS), which showed that the VOCs were mainly distributed the central and southern regions of Hebei. Considering the future economic development trends, population changes, related environmental laws and regulations, and pollution control technology, three scenarios were defined for forecasting the industrial VOC emissions in future years. This demonstrated that industrial VOC emissions in Hebei would amount to 1448.94 kt and 2203.66 kt in 2020 and 2030, with growth rates of 42.36% and 116.51% compared with 2015, respectively. If all industrial enterprises took the control measures, the VOC emissions could be reduced by 69% in 2030. The analysis of the scenarios found that the most effective action plan was to take the best available control technologies and clean production in key industries, including the chemical medicine, coke production, mechanical equipment manufacturing, organic chemical, packaging and printing, wood adhesive, industrial and construction dye, furniture manufacturing, transportation equipment manufacturing, and crude oil processing industries.
Iron Deficiency in Obesity and after Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Bjørklund Geir , Peana Massimiliano , Pivina Lyudmila , Dosa Alexandru , Aaseth Jan , Semenova Yuliya , Chirumbolo Salvatore , Medici Serenella , Dadar Maryam , Costea Daniel-Ovidiu
Published: April 2021

Iron deficiency (ID) is particularly frequent in obese patients due to increased circulating levels of acute-phase reactant hepcidin and adiposity-associated inflammation. Inflammation in obese subjects is closely related to ID. It induces reduced iron absorption correlated to the inhibition of duodenal ferroportin expression, parallel to the increased concentrations of hepcidin. Obese subjects often get decreased inflammatory response after bariatric surgery, accompanied by decreased serum hepcidin and therefore improved iron absorption. Bariatric surgery can induce the mitigation or resolution of obesity-associated complications, such as hypertension, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia, adjusting many parameters in the metabolism. However, gastric bypass surgery and sleeve gastrectomy can induce malabsorption and may accentuate ID. The present review explores the burden and characteristics of ID and anemia in obese patients after bariatric surgery, accounting for gastric bypass technique (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass—RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). After bariatric surgery, obese subjects’ iron status should be monitored, and they should be motivated to use adequate and recommended iron supplementation.
Custard Apple (Annona squamosa L.) Leaves: Nutritional Composition, Phytochemical Profile, and Health-Promoting Biological Activities
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Changan Sushil , Tomar Maharishi , Prajapati Uma , Saurabh Vivek , Hasan Muzaffar , Sasi Minnu , Maheshwari Chirag , Singh Surinder , Dhumal Sangram , Radha  , Thakur Mamta , Punia Sneh , Satankar Varsha , Amarowicz Ryszard , Mekhemar Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Annona squamosa L. (custard apple) belongs to the family Annonaceae and is an important tropical fruit cultivated in the West Indies, South and Central America, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, India, Mexico, the Bahamas, Bermuda, and Egypt. Leaves of custard apple plants have been studied for their health benefits, which are attributed to a considerable diversity of phytochemicals. These compounds include phenol-based compounds, e.g., proanthocyanidins, comprising 18 different phenolic compounds, mainly alkaloids and flavonoids. Extracts from Annona squamosa leaves (ASLs) have been studied for their biological activities, including anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiobesity, lipid-lowering, and hepatoprotective functions. In the current article, we discussed the nutritional and phytochemical diversity of ASLs. Additionally, ASL extracts were discussed with respect to their biological activities, which were established by in vivo and in vitro experiments. A survey of the literature based on the phytochemical profile and health-promoting effects of ASLs showed that they can be used as potential ingredients for the development of pharmaceutical drugs and functional foods. Although there are sufficient findings available from in vitro and in vivo investigations, clinical trials are still needed to determine the exact effects of ASL extracts on human health.
Concentrations of Ca, Mg, P, Prostaglandin E2 in Bones and Parathyroid Hormone; 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3; 17-β-estradiol; Testosterone and Somatotropin in Plasma of Aging Rats Subjected to Physical Training in Cold Water
Authors: Bosiacki Mateusz , Gutowska Izabela , Piotrowska Katarzyna , Lubkowska Anna
Published: April 2021

Exposure to low temperatures can be considered a stressor, which when applied for a specific time can lead to adaptive reactions. In our study we hypothesized that cold, when applied to the entire body, may be a factor that positively modifies the aging process of bones by improving the mechanisms related to the body’s mineral balance. Taking the above into account, the aim of the study was to determine the concentration of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (P) in bones, and to examine bone density and concentrations of the key hormones for bone metabolism, namely parathyroid hormone (PTH), somatotropin (GH), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, 17-β estradiol, testosterone (T) in plasma, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the bone of aging rats subjected to physical training in cold water. The animals in the experiment were subjected to a series of swimming sessions for nine weeks. Study group animals (male and female respectively) performed swimming training in cold water at 5 ± 2 °C and in water with thermal comfort temperature (36 ± 2 °C). Control animals were kept in a sedentary condition. Immersion in cold water affects bone mineral metabolism in aging rats by changing the concentration of Ca, Mg, and P in the bone, altering bone mineral density and the concentration of key hormones involved in the regulation of bone mineral metabolism. The effect of cold-water immersion may be gender-dependent. In females, it decreases Ca and Mg content in bones while increasing bone density and 17-β estradiol and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 levels, and with a longer perspective in aging animals may be positive not only for bone health but also other estrogen-dependent tissues. In males, cold water swimming decreased PTH and PGE2 which resulted in a decrease in phosphorus content in bones (with no effect on bone density), an increase in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, and increase in T and GH, and may have positive consequences especially in bones and muscle tissue for the prevention of elderly sarcopenia.
Fluorescence Based on Surface Plasmon Coupled Emission for Ultrahigh Sensitivity Immunoassay of Cardiac Troponin I
Authors: Tran Vien Thi , Ju Heongkyu
Published: April 2021

This work demonstrates the quantitative assay of cardiac Troponin I (cTnI), one of the key biomarkers for acute cardiovascular diseases (the leading cause of death worldwide) using the fluorescence-based sandwich immune reaction. Surface plasmon coupled emission (SPCE) produced by non-radiative coupling of dye molecules with surface plasmons being excitable via the reverse Kretschmann format is exploited for fluorescence-based sandwich immunoassay for quantitative detection of cTnI. The SPCE fluorescence chip utilizes the gold (2 nm)-silver (50 nm) bimetallic thin film, with which molecules of the dye Alexa 488 (conjugated with detection antibodies) make a near field coupling with the plasmonic film for SPCE. The experimental results find that the SPCE greatly improves the sensitivity via enhancing the fluorescence signal (up to 50-fold) while suppressing the photo-bleaching, permitting markedly enhanced signal-to-noise ratio. The limit of detection of 21.2 ag mL−1 (atto-gram mL−1) is obtained, the lowest ever reported to date amid those achieved by optical technologies such as luminescence and label-free optical sensing techniques. The features discovered such as ultrahigh sensitivity may prompt the presented technologies to be applied for early diagnosis of cTnI in blood, particularly for emergency medical centers overloaded with patients with acute myocardial infarction who would suffer from time-delayed diagnosis due to insufficient assay device sensitivity.
Behavioural Measures of Infant Activity but Not Attention Associate with Later Preschool ADHD Traits
Authors: Goodwin Amy , Hendry Alexandra , Mason Luke , Bazelmans Tessel , Begum Ali Jannath , Pasco Greg , Charman Tony , Jones Emily , Johnson Mark ,   The BASIS/STAARS Team
Published: April 2021

Mapping infant neurocognitive differences that precede later ADHD-related behaviours is critical for designing early interventions. In this study, we investigated (1) group differences in a battery of measures assessing aspects of attention and activity level in infants with and without a family history of ADHD or related conditions (ASD), and (2) longitudinal associations between the infant measures and preschool ADHD traits at 3 years. Participants (N = 151) were infants with or without an elevated likelihood for ADHD (due to a family history of ADHD and/or ASD). A multi-method assessment protocol was used to assess infant attention and activity level at 10 months of age that included behavioural, cognitive, physiological and neural measures. Preschool ADHD traits were measured at 3 years of age using the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) and the Child Behaviour Questionnaire (CBQ). Across a broad range of measures, we found no significant group differences in attention or activity level at 10 months between infants with and without a family history of ADHD or ASD. However, parent and observer ratings of infant activity level at 10 months were positively associated with later preschool ADHD traits at 3 years. Observable behavioural differences in activity level (but not attention) may be apparent from infancy in children who later develop elevated preschool ADHD traits.
Comparison of Four fMRI Paradigms Probing Emotion Processing
Authors: Hartling Corinna , Metz Sophie , Pehrs Corinna , Scheidegger Milan , Gruzman Rebecca , Keicher Christian , Wunder Andreas , Weigand Anne , Grimm Simone
Published: April 2021

Previous fMRI research has applied a variety of tasks to examine brain activity underlying emotion processing. While task characteristics are known to have a substantial influence on the elicited activations, direct comparisons of tasks that could guide study planning are scarce. We aimed to provide a comparison of four common emotion processing tasks based on the same analysis pipeline to suggest tasks best suited for the study of certain target brain regions. We studied an n-back task using emotional words (EMOBACK) as well as passive viewing tasks of emotional faces (FACES) and emotional scenes (OASIS and IAPS). We compared the activation patterns elicited by these tasks in four regions of interest (the amygdala, anterior insula, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC)) in three samples of healthy adults (N = 45). The EMOBACK task elicited activation in the right dlPFC and bilateral anterior insula and deactivation in the pgACC while the FACES task recruited the bilateral amygdala. The IAPS and OASIS tasks showed similar activation patterns recruiting the bilateral amygdala and anterior insula. We conclude that these tasks can be used to study different regions involved in emotion processing and that the information provided is valuable for future research and the development of fMRI biomarkers.
A Scoping Review of Cognitive Training in Neurodegenerative Diseases via Computerized and Virtual Reality Tools: What We Know So Far
Authors: Lasaponara Stefano , Marson Fabio , Doricchi Fabrizio , Cavallo Marco
Published: April 2021

Most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis are heterogeneous in their clinical profiles and underlying pathophysiology, although they typically share the presence of cognitive impairment that worsens significantly during the course of the disease. Viable pharmacological options for cognitive symptoms in these clinical conditions are currently lacking. In recent years, several studies have started to apply Computerized Cognitive Training (CCT) and Virtual Reality (VR) tools to try and contrast patients’ cognitive decay over time. However, no in-depth literature review of the contribution of these promising therapeutic options across main neurodegenerative diseases has been conducted yet. The present paper reports the state-of-the-art of CCT and VR studies targeting cognitive impairment in most common neurodegenerative conditions. Our twofold aim is to point out the scientific evidence available so far and to support health professionals to consider these promising therapeutic tools when planning rehabilitative interventions, especially when the access to regular and frequent hospital consultations is not easy to be provided.
The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test: Split-Half Reliability Estimates for a Self-Administered Computerized Variant
Authors: Steinke Alexander , Kopp Bruno , Lange Florian
Published: April 2021

Self-administered computerized assessment has the potential to increase the reach of neuropsychological assessment. The present study reports the first split-half reliability estimates for a self-administered computerized variant of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), which is considered as a gold standard for the neuropsychological assessment of executive functions. We analyzed data from a large sample of young volunteers (N = 375). Split-half reliability estimates for perseveration errors, set-loss errors, and inference errors were all above 0.90. Split-half reliability estimates for response time measures on switch and repeat trials exceeded 0.95. Our results indicated sufficient split-half reliability for a self-administered computerized WCST, paving the way for an advanced digital assessment of executive functions. We discuss potential effects of test formats, administration variants, and sample characteristics on split-half reliability.
ctDNA-Based Liquid Biopsy of Cerebrospinal Fluid in Brain Cancer
Authors: Escudero Laura , Martínez-Ricarte Francisco , Seoane Joan
Published: April 2021

The correct characterisation of central nervous system (CNS) malignancies is crucial for accurate diagnosis and prognosis and also the identification of actionable genomic alterations that can guide the therapeutic strategy. Surgical biopsies are performed to characterise the tumour; however, these procedures are invasive and are not always feasible for all patients. Moreover, they only provide a static snapshot and can miss tumour heterogeneity. Currently, monitoring of CNS cancer is performed by conventional imaging techniques and, in some cases, cytology analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); however, these techniques have limited sensitivity. To overcome these limitations, a liquid biopsy of the CSF can be used to obtain information about the tumour in a less invasive manner. The CSF is a source of cell-free circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), and the analysis of this biomarker can characterise and monitor brain cancer. Recent studies have shown that ctDNA is more abundant in the CSF than plasma for CNS malignancies and that it can be sequenced to reveal tumour heterogeneity and provide diagnostic and prognostic information. Furthermore, analysis of longitudinal samples can aid patient monitoring by detecting residual disease or even tracking tumour evolution at relapse and, therefore, tailoring the therapeutic strategy. In this review, we provide an overview of the potential clinical applications of the analysis of CSF ctDNA and the challenges that need to be overcome in order to translate research findings into a tool for clinical practice.
Impact of Pharmaceutical Prophylaxis on Radiation-Induced Liver Disease Following Radioembolization
Authors: Seidensticker Max , Fabritius Matthias Philipp , Beller Jannik , Seidensticker Ricarda , Todica Andrei , Ilhan Harun , Pech Maciej , Heinze Constanze , Powerski Maciej , Damm Robert , Weiss Alexander , Rueckel Johannes , Omari Jazan , Amthauer Holger , Ricke Jens
Published: April 2021

Background: Radioembolization (RE) with yttrium-90 (90Y) resin microspheres yields heterogeneous response rates in with primary or secondary liver cancer. Radiation-induced liver disease (RILD) is a potentially life-threatening complication with higher prevalence in cirrhotics or patients exposed to previous chemotherapies. Advances in RILD prevention may help increasing tolerable radiation doses to improve patient outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of post-therapeutic RILD-prophylaxis in a cohort of intensely pretreated liver metastatic breast cancer patients; Methods: Ninety-three patients with liver metastases of breast cancer received RE between 2007 and 2016. All Patients received RILD prophylaxis for 8 weeks post-RE. From January 2014, RILD prophylaxis was changed from ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and prednisolone (standard prophylaxis [SP]; n = 59) to pentoxifylline (PTX), UDCA and low-dose low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) (modified prophylaxis (MP); n = 34). The primary endpoint was toxicity including symptoms of RILD; Results: Dose exposure of normal liver parenchyma was higher in the modified vs. standard prophylaxis group (47.2 Gy (17.8–86.8) vs. 40.2 Gy (12.5–83.5), p = 0.017). All grade RILD events (mild: bilirubin ≥ 21 µmol/L (but <30 μmol/L); severe: (bilirubin ≥ 30 µmol/L and ascites)) were observed more frequently in the SP group than in the MP group, albeit without significance (7/59 vs. 1/34; p = 0.140). Severe RILD occurred in the SP group only (n = 2; p > 0.1). ALBI grade increased in 16.7% patients in the MP and in 27.1% patients in the SP group, respectively (group difference not significant); Conclusions: At established dose levels, mild or severe RILD events proved rare in our cohort. RILD prophylaxis with PTX, UDCA and LMWH appears to have an independent positive impact on OS in patients with metastatic breast cancer and may reduce the frequency and severity of RILD. Results of this study as well as pathophysiological considerations warrant further investigations of RILD prophylaxis presumably targeting combinations of anticoagulation (MP) and antiinflammation (SP) to increase dose prescriptions in radioembolization.
Dual Switch in Lipid Metabolism in Cervical Epithelial Cells during Dysplasia Development Observed Using Raman Microscopy and Molecular Methods
Authors: Sitarz Katarzyna , Czamara Krzysztof , Bialecka Joanna , Klimek Malgorzata , Szostek Slawa , Kaczor Agnieszka
Published: April 2021

Cellular lipid metabolism is significantly transformed during oncogenesis. To assess how dysplasia development influences lipid cellular metabolisms and what is the molecular background behind it, cervical epithelial cells of 63 patients assigned to seven groups (based on the cytological examination and HPVhr test results) were studied using a multimethodological approach including Raman microscopy and molecular methods. The consistent picture obtained studying the lipid content, cell inflammation, SREBF1 gene methylation (hence SREBP1 inhibition) and level of mitochondrial DNA copies (indirectly the number of mitochondria) showed that changes in lipid metabolism were multidirectional. Cells from patients classified as mildly dysplastic (LSIL) exhibited a unique behavior (the highest level of inflammation and SREBF1 methylation, the lowest lipid content and mitochondrial DNA). On the contrary, cells from severe dysplastic (HSIL) and cancer (SCC) groups showed the opposite characteristics including the lowest SREBF1 gene methylation as well as the highest level of mitochondrial DNA and lipid cellular concentration (for HSIL/HPVhr+ and SCC groups). Following dysplastic progression, the lipid content decreases significantly (compared to the control) for mildly abnormal cells, but then increases for HSIL/HPVhr+ and SCC groups. This intriguing dual switch in lipid metabolism (reflected also in other studied parameters) on the way from normal to squamous carcinoma cells is of potential diagnostic interest.
CD81 Enhances Radioresistance of Glioblastoma by Promoting Nuclear Translocation of Rad51
Authors: Zheng Wang , Chen Qianping , Liu Hongxia , Hu Songling , Zhou Yuchuan , Bai Yang , Zhang Jianghong , Pan Yan , Shao Chunlin
Published: April 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common type of primary tumor in central nervous system in adult with a 5-year survival rate of ≤5%. Despite of recent advances in tumor radiotherapy, the prognosis of GBM remains to be dismal due to radioresistance. In this study, we identified CD81 as a potential biomarker of GBM radioresistance with the analysis of upregulated genes in human glioma radioresistant cell lines U251R and T98G in comparison with U251 cells. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that suppressing CD81 by siRNA/shRNA enhanced radiation-induced cell killing and DNA damage of γ-H2AX formation, and delayed tumor xenograft growth of GBM. Mechanistically, we found that knockdown of CD81 significantly decreased radiation-induced expression of nuclear Rad51, a key protein involved in homologous recombination repair (HRR) of DNA, suggesting that CD81 is essential for DNA damage response. Meanwhile, when the cells were treated with B02, a Rad51 inhibitor, silencing CD81 would not sensitize GBM cells to radiation, which further illustrates that Rad51 acts as an effector protein of CD81 in tumor radioresistance. Dual immunofluorescence staining of CD81 and Rad51 illustrated that nuclear membrane CD81 contributed to the nuclear transport of Rad51 after irradiation. In conclusion, we demonstrated for the first time that CD81 not only played a vital role in DNA repair through regulating Rad51 nuclear transport, but also might serve as a potential target of GBM radiotherapy.
The Context-Dependent Impact of Integrin-Associated CD151 and Other Tetraspanins on Cancer Development and Progression: A Class of Versatile Mediators of Cellular Function and Signaling, Tumorigenesis and Metastasis
Authors: Erfani Sonia , Hua Hui , Pan Yueyin , Zhou Binhua , Yang Xiuwei
Published: April 2021

As a family of integral membrane proteins, tetraspanins have been functionally linked to a wide spectrum of human cancers, ranging from breast, colon, lung, ovarian, prostate, and skin carcinomas to glioblastoma. CD151 is one such prominent member of the tetraspanin family recently suggested to mediate tumor development, growth, and progression in oncogenic context- and cell lineage-dependent manners. In the current review, we summarize recent advances in mechanistic understanding of the function and signaling of integrin-associated CD151 and other tetraspanins in multiple cancer types. We also highlight emerging genetic and epigenetic evidence on the intrinsic links between tetraspanins, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stem cells (CSCs), and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, as well as the dynamics of exosome and cellular metabolism. Finally, we discuss the implications of the highly plastic nature and epigenetic susceptibility of CD151 expression, function, and signaling for clinical diagnosis and therapeutic intervention for human cancer.
Cardiac Involvement in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Spinelli Letizia , Giugliano Giuseppe , Esposito Giovanni
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular disorders are the main complication in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). contributing to both morbidity and mortality. This review considers clinical studies unveiling cardiovascular features in patients with ADPKD. Additionally, it focuses on basic science studies addressing the dysfunction of the polycystin proteins located in the cardiovascular system as a contributing factor to cardiovascular abnormalities. In particular, the effects of polycystin proteins’ deficiency on the cardiomyocyte function have been considered.
Chlorodifluoromethane Hydrodechlorination on Carbon-Supported Pd-Pt Catalysts. Beneficial Effect of Catalyst Oxidation
Authors: Radlik Monika , Juszczyk Wojciech , Raróg-Pilecka Wioletta , Zybert Magdalena , Karpiński Zbigniew
Published: April 2021

Previously tested 2 wt % palladium-platinum catalysts supported on Norit activated carbon preheated to 1600 °C have been reinvestigated in CHFCl2 hydrodechlorination. An additionally adopted catalyst oxidation at 350–400 °C produced nearly an order of magnitude increase in the turnover frequency of Pd/C, from 4.1 × 10−4 to 2.63 × 10−3 s−1. This increase is not caused by changes in metal dispersion or possible decontamination of the Pd surface from superficial carbon, but rather by unlocking the active surface, originally inaccessible in metal particles tightly packed in the pores of carbon. Burning carbon from the pore walls attached to the metal changes the pore structure, providing easier access for the reactants to the entire palladium surface. Calcination of Pt/C and Pd-Pt/C catalysts results in much smaller evolution of catalytic activity than that observed for Pd/C. This shapes the relationship between turnover frequency (TOF) and alloy composition, which now does not confirm the Pd-Pt synergy invoked in the previous work. The absence of this synergy is confirmed by gradual regular changes in product selectivity, from 70 to 80% towards CH2F2 for Pd/C to almost 60% towards CH4 for Pt/C. The use of even higher-preheated carbon (1800 °C), completely free of micropores, results in a Pd/C catalyst that does not need to be oxidized to achieve high activity and excellent selectivity to CH2F2 (>90%).