bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adipocyte-Specific ACKR3 Regulates Lipid Levels in Adipose Tissue
Authors: Gencer Selin , Döring Yvonne , Jansen Yvonne , Bayasgalan Soyolmaa , Schengel Olga , Müller Madeleine , Peters Linsey J. F. , Weber Christian , van der Vorst Emiel P. C.
Published: April 2021

Dysfunctional adipose tissue (AT) may contribute to the pathology of several metabolic diseases through altered lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3) expression was shown to increase in AT during obesity, and its ubiquitous elimination caused hyperlipidemia in mice. Although these findings point towards a role of ACKR3 in the regulation of lipid levels, the role of adipocyte-specific ACKR3 has not yet been studied exclusively in this context. In this study, we established adipocyte- and hepatocyte-specific knockouts of Ackr3 in ApoE-deficient mice in order to determine its impact on lipid levels under hyperlipidemic conditions. We show for the first time that adipocyte-specific deletion of Ackr3 results in reduced AT triglyceride and cholesterol content in ApoE-deficient mice, which coincides with increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) and increased Angptl4 expression. The role of adipocyte ACKR3 in lipid handling seems to be tissue-specific as hepatocyte ACKR3 deficiency did not demonstrate comparable effects. In summary, adipocyte-specific ACKR3 seems to regulate AT lipid levels in hyperlipidemic Apoe−/− mice, which may therefore be a significant determinant of AT health. Further studies are needed to explore the potential systemic or metabolic effects that adipocyte ACKR3 might have in associated disease models.
18F–THK–5351, Fluorodeoxyglucose, and Florbetaben PET Images in Atypical Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pictorial Insight into Disease Pathophysiology
Authors: Park Sohee , Oh Minyoung , Kim Jae , Lee Jae-Hong , Yoon Young , Roh Jee-Hoon
Published: April 2021

The recent advance of positron emission tomography (PET) tracers as biomarkers in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) provides more insight into pathophysiology, preclinical diagnosis, and further therapeutic strategies. However, synergistic processes or interactions between amyloid and tau deposits are still poorly understood. To better understand their relationship in focal brain changes with clinical phenotypes, we focused on region-specific or atypical AD characterized by focal clinical presentations: Posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) and logopenic variant of primary progressive aphasia (lpvPPA). We compared three different PET images with 18F–THK–5351 (tau), 18F–Florbetaben (amyloid beta, Aβ), and 18F–Fluorodeoxyglucose (glucose metabolism) to investigate potential interactions among pathologies and clinical findings. Whereas the amyloid accumulations were widespread throughout the neocortex, tau retentions and glucose hypometabolism showed focal changes corresponding to the clinical features. The distinctly localized patterns were more prominent in tau PET imaging. These findings suggest that tau pathology correlates more closely to the clinical symptoms and the neurodegenerative processes than Aβ pathology in AD.
Urban Quality Assessment of Public Housing Estates in Murcia, Spain (Vistabella 1940–1950s, La Paz 1960s, La Fama 1970s). Threats or Opportunities for the Medium-Sized Contemporary City?
Authors: Martínez-Espinosa Antonio Jesús , Reus Patricia , Ródenas-López Manuel Alejandro
Published: April 2021

The public housing built under the Franco regime in Spain (1939–1975) brought about the largest urban growth in the country’s recent history. It shares similar characteristics with other public housing built in Europe during the 20th century, and today it houses a predominantly multicultural and socioeconomically precarious population. This study analyses and evaluates three estates that make up a new urban axis in the city of Murcia. The objective is to evaluate the benefits and shortcomings of these developments in order to establish rehabilitation plans, which will seek to improve the lives of their inhabitants and enhance their experience of the urban area from environmental, functional and interactive perspectives. The methodology used for this study is based on the application of three systems of indicators in order to obtain a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of each neighborhood. The quantitative analysis evaluates the urban area in terms of environmental sustainability, while the two qualitative systems explore the neighborhoods’ functionality and ability to instil a sense of attachment, and therefore responsibility, among their inhabitants. In its conclusions, the article provides concrete lines of action for updating and regenerating these residential areas that form a significant part of the city of Murcia.
Oral–Gut Microbiome Axis in Gastrointestinal Disease and Cancer
Authors: Park Se-Young , Hwang Byeong-Oh , Lim Mihwa , Ok Seung Ho , Lee Sun Kyoung , Chun Kyung-Soo , Park Kwang-Kyun , Hu Yinling , Chung Won-Yoon , Song Na-Young
Published: April 2021

It is well-known that microbiota dysbiosis is closely associated with numerous diseases in the human body. The oral cavity and gut are the two largest microbial habitats, playing a major role in microbiome-associated diseases. Even though the oral cavity and gut are continuous regions connected through the gastrointestinal tract, the oral and gut microbiome profiles are well-segregated due to the oral–gut barrier. However, the oral microbiota can translocate to the intestinal mucosa in conditions of the oral–gut barrier dysfunction. Inversely, the gut-to-oral microbial transmission occurs as well in inter- and intrapersonal manners. Recently, it has been reported that oral and gut microbiomes interdependently regulate physiological functions and pathological processes. Oral-to-gut and gut-to-oral microbial transmissions can shape and/or reshape the microbial ecosystem in both habitats, eventually modulating pathogenesis of disease. However, the oral–gut microbial interaction in pathogenesis has been underappreciated to date. Here, we will highlight the oral–gut microbiome crosstalk and its implications in the pathogenesis of the gastrointestinal disease and cancer. Better understanding the role of the oral–gut microbiome axis in pathogenesis will be advantageous for precise diagnosis/prognosis and effective treatment.
Next Generation Sequencing Technology in the Clinic and Its Challenges
Authors: Vestergaard Lau K. , Oliveira Douglas N. P. , Høgdall Claus K. , Høgdall Estrid V.
Published: April 2021

Data analysis has become a crucial aspect in clinical oncology to interpret output from next-generation sequencing-based testing. NGS being able to resolve billions of sequencing reactions in a few days has consequently increased the demand for tools to handle and analyze such large data sets. Many tools have been developed since the advent of NGS, featuring their own peculiarities. Increased awareness when interpreting alterations in the genome is therefore of utmost importance, as the same data using different tools can provide diverse outcomes. Hence, it is crucial to evaluate and validate bioinformatic pipelines in clinical settings. Moreover, personalized medicine implies treatment targeting efficacy of biological drugs for specific genomic alterations. Here, we focused on different sequencing technologies, features underlying the genome complexity, and bioinformatic tools that can impact the final annotation. Additionally, we discuss the clinical demand and design for implementing NGS.
Frequency and Localization of Second Primary Tumors in Patients with Oropharyngeal Carcinoma—The Influence of the Human Papilloma Virus
Authors: Bosshart Salome L. , Morand Grégoire B. , Broglie Martina A.
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To investigate the frequency, localization, and survival of second primary tumors (SPT) of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) depending on human papillomavirus (HPV) status. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart analysis of 107 OPSCC patients treated at the Zurich University Hospital from 2001 to 2010. Rate and localization of SPT after an index OPSCC were stratified according to smoking and HPV infection status. Results: In total, 57/91 (63%) included patients showed an HPV-associated OPSCC. Of these, 37/57 (64.9%) patients with an HPV-positive and 32/34 (94.1%) patients with an HPV-negative OPSCC were smokers. The median age at diagnosis of the SPT was 59.54 years (interquartile range 52.7–65.6). In addition, 8/57 (14%) HPV-positive and 13/34 (38.2%) HPV-negative patients developed SPT. The rate of SPT in patients with HPV-positive index tumors was significantly lower than in patients with HPV-negative OPSCC (p-value 0.01). Smokers showed significantly more SPT in the head and neck area than outside. The development of an SPT led to a significantly lower survival time in HPV-negative patients, while it did not significantly affect the survival time of HPV-positive patients. Conclusions: Patients with HPV-positive index tumors had a significantly lower risk of developing SPT than patients with HPV-negative tumors. If SPT developed, survival was significantly shorter in patients with HPV-negative tumors than with HPV-positive tumors.
Lactonization of the Oncometabolite D-2-Hydroxyglutarate Produces a Novel Endogenous Metabolite
Authors: Berger Raffaela S. , Wachsmuth Christian J. , Waldhier Magdalena C. , Renner-Sattler Kathrin , Thomas Simone , Chaturvedi Anuhar , Niller Hans-Helmut , Bumes Elisabeth , Hau Peter , Proescholdt Martin , Gronwald Wolfram , Heuser Michael , Kreutz Marina , Oefner Peter J. , Dettmer Katja
Published: April 2021

In recent years, onco-metabolites like D-2-hydroxyglutarate, which is produced in isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutated tumors, have gained increasing interest. Here, we report a metabolite in human specimens that is closely related to 2-hydroxyglutarate: the intramolecular ester of 2-hydroxyglutarate, 2-hydroxyglutarate-γ-lactone. Using 13C5-L-glutamine tracer analysis, we showed that 2-hydroxyglutarate is the endogenous precursor of 2-hydroxyglutarate-lactone and that there is a high exchange between these two metabolites. Lactone formation does not depend on mutated isocitrate dehydrogenase, but its formation is most probably linked to transport processes across the cell membrane and favored at low environmental pH. Furthermore, human macrophages showed not only striking differences in uptake of 2-hydroxyglutarate and its lactone but also in the enantiospecific hydrolysis of the latter. Consequently, 2-hydroxyglutarate-lactone may play a critical role in the modulation of the tumor microenvironment.
Zona Pellucida Protein 2 (ZP2) Is Expressed in Colon Cancer and Promotes Cell Proliferation
Authors: Kraus Dominik , Glassmann Alexander , Golletz Carsten , Kristiansen Glen , Winter Jochen , Probstmeier Rainer
Published: April 2021

Background: Zona pellucida protein ZP2 has been identified as a new colon tumor biomarker. Its transcripts were specifically expressed in four out of four human colon cancer cell lines and enhanced in about 60% of primary colon cancer tissues when compared to matched healthy ones. ZP2 down-regulation by siRNA led to a decreased proliferation rate, EXOSC5 transcript, cyclin D1 protein level, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation state. Methods: Sensitivity and quantitative expression analysis of ZP2 transcripts in tumor and matched normal colon tissue was performed with respective cDNA preparations. Silencing RNA effects on colon cancer cells were examined by q-PCR, western blot, and proliferation rate experiments. Results: In a significant portion of 69 primary colon tumor samples, the molecule showed a low but specific expression, which revealed a sensitivity value of around 90% and a specificity value of 30% when matched to the respective normal counterparts. Down-regulation of ZP2 protein by siRNA led to a decreased proliferation rate, EXOSC5 and cyclin D1 level, and phosphorylation state of ERK1/2. ZP2 has also been found to be a cell membrane-bound protein. Conclusion: ZP2 shows an enhanced expression level in colon cancer tissue and, thus, can be used as a diagnostic tool, albeit in combination with other biomarkers. Its character as a membrane protein makes ZP2 even a potential target molecule for tumor therapy, especially as it positively affects colon cancer cell proliferation.
Layer-Like Zeolite X as Catalyst in a Knoevenagel Condensation: The Effect of Different Preparation Pathways and Cation Exchange
Authors: Grass Jan-Paul , Klühspies Katharina , Reiprich Bastian , Schwieger Wilhelm , Inayat Alexandra
Published: April 2021

This study is dedicated to the comparative investigation of the catalytic activity of layer-like Faujasite-type (FAU) zeolite X obtained from three different synthesis routes (additive-free route, Li2CO3 route, and TPOAC route) in a liquid-phase Knoevenagel condensation of benzaldehyde and ethyl cyanoacetate to ethyl trans-α-cyanocinnamate. It is shown that the charge-balancing cations (Na+ and K+) and the morphological properties have a strong influence on the apparent reaction rate and degree of conversion. The highest initial reaction rate could be found for the layer-like zeolite X synthesised by the additive-free route in the potassium form. In most cases, the potassium-exchanged zeolites enabled higher maximum conversions and higher reaction rates compared to the zeolite X catalysts in sodium form. However, very thin crystal plates (below 100 nm thickness), similar to those obtained in the presence of TPOAC, did not withstand the multiple aqueous ion exchange procedure, with the remaining coarse crystals facilitating less enhancement of the catalytic activity.
Examination of the SUPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale among Male and Female Youth: Psychometrics and Invariance
Authors: Pechorro Pedro , Revilla Rebecca , Palma Victor H. , Nunes Cristina , Martins Cátia , Cyders Melissa A.
Published: April 2021

The UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale is one of the most used and easily administered self-report measures of impulsive traits. The main objective of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the shorter SUPPS-P scale among a school sample of 470 youth (Mage = 15.89 years, SD = 1.00) from Portugal, subdivided into males (n = 257, Mage = 15.97 years, SD = 0.98) and females (n = 213, Mage = 15.79 years, SD = 1.03). Confirmatory factor analysis results revealed that the latent five-factor structure (i.e., Negative urgency, Lack of perseverance, Lack of premeditation, Sensation seeking, and Positive urgency) obtained adequate fit and strong measurement invariance demonstrated across sex. The SUPPS-P scale also demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties in terms of internal consistency, discriminant and convergent (e.g., with measures of youth delinquency, aggression) validities, and criterion-related validity (e.g., with crime seriousness). Findings support the use of the SUPPS-P scale in youth. Given the importance of adolescence as a critical period characterized by increases in impulsive behaviors, having a short, valid, reliable, and easily administered assessment of impulsive tendencies is important and clinically impactful.
The Geometric Surface Structure of EN X153CrMoV12 Tool Steel after Finish Turning Using PCBN Cutting Tools
Authors: Ociepa Michał , Jenek Mariusz , Kuryło Piotr
Published: April 2021

The article presents the results of studying the effects of coated (TiN, TiAlN) and uncoated polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) machining blades on the key geometric structure parameters of the surface of hardened and tempered EN X153CrMoV12 steel after finish turning. A comparative analysis of the use of coated and coated cutting tools in finish turning of hardened steels was made. Tool materials based on polycrystalline cubic boron nitride PCBN (High-CBN; Low-CBN) have been described and characterized. The advantages of using TiN and TiAlN-coated cutting tools compared to uncoated were demonstrated. The lowest influence of the feed on the values of all tested roughness parameters was noted for surfaces treated with TiN- and TiAlN-coated tools (both with 50 vol.% of CBN). For uncoated tools (60 vol.% of CBN) for feeds f = 0.2 and 0.3 mm/rev., the highest values of Ra and Rz roughness parameters were found. Moreover, the lack of protective coating contributed to the occurrence of intense adhesive wear on the flank surface, which was also in the range of the feed values f = 0.2 and 0.3 mm/rev. The analysis of material surface after treatment with the uncoated tools with the feed f = 0.2 mm/rev. showed the occurrence of the phenomenon of lateral material flow and numerous chip deflections.
Natural Ingredients in Functional Coatings—Recent Advances and Future Challenges
Authors: Fierascu Radu Claudiu , Fierascu Irina , Chican Irina Elena
Published: April 2021

In recent decades, coating materials have gained researchers’ interest, finding applications in different areas such as antimicrobial coatings for biomedical applications, coatings for increasing the shelf-life of commercial products, or coatings for the conservation of cultural heritage artifacts. The use of new types of coating materials based on natural ingredients can lead to the removal of harmful chemicals and contribute to the development of materials having different and promising properties. New challenges can appear both in the production process, as well as in the case of final application, when coating materials must be applied on various supports. The present review paper aims to be a critical discussion regarding the possibility of using natural ingredients as functional coatings, and to prove that the same material can be used in different fields, from the biomedical to environmental, or from cultural heritage protection to the food and cosmetic industries. The paper is based on the newest published studies, and its main goal is to be an inspiration source for researchers, in order to create more functional and applicable composite coatings in specific fields.
Carboranes as Lewis Acids: Tetrel Bonding in CB11H11 Carbonium Ylide
Authors: Ferrer Maxime , Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Oliva-Enrich Josep M.
Published: April 2021

High-level quantum-chemical computations (G4MP2) are carried out in the study of complexes featuring tetrel bonding between the carbon atom in the carbenoid CB11H11—obtained by hydride removal in the C-H bond of the known closo-monocarbadodecaborate anion CB11H12(−) and acting as Lewis acid (LA)—and Lewis bases (LB) of different type; the electron donor groups in the tetrel bond feature carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, fluorine, silicon, phosphorus, sulfur, and chlorine atomic centres in neutral molecules as well as anions H(−), OH(−), and F(−). The empty radial 2pr vacant orbital on the carbon centre in CB11H11, which corresponds to the LUMO, acts as a Lewis acid or electron attractor, as shown by the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) and electron localization function (ELF). The thermochemistry and topological analysis of the complexes {CB11H11:LB} are comprehensively analysed and classified according to shared or closed-shell interactions. ELF analysis shows that the tetrel C⋯X bond ranges from very polarised bonds, as in H11B11C:F(−) to very weak interactions as in H11B11C⋯FH and H11B11C⋯O=C=O.
The Effects of L2 Proficiency on Pragmatic Comprehension and Learner Strategies
Authors: Tai Hsuan-Yu , Chen Yuan-Shan
Published: April 2021

The present study aimed to examine the effect of proficiency on the pragmatic comprehension of speech acts, implicatures, and routines, as well as the way learners of different proficiency levels employ strategies when comprehending a pragmatic task. Thirty-three high-proficiency and forty-one low-proficiency Chinese learners of English completed a multiple-choice discourse completion task (MDCT). Of the participants, six were selected from the two proficiency groups to perform verbal retrospections to probe their strategy use in the MDCT task. The quantitative results showed that the high-proficiency group performed significantly better than the low-proficiency group on speech acts, implicatures, and routines. In addition, the analyses of verbal reports identified eight major strategies the learners used while performing the task, including sociopragmatics, hearer’s response, relevance, keyword/key phrase, life experience/world knowledge, amount of information, intuition, and multiple strategies. The high-proficiency group showed a significant use of multiple strategies, life experience/world knowledge, amount of information and relevance. The low-proficiency group, on the other hand, indicated a significant use of intuition. Close examination further revealed that the high-proficiency group showed more flexibility in strategy use, thus leading to more accurate performance. Conversely, the low-proficiency group did not vary their strategy use, which normally led to incorrect responses on the task. Finally, the study closes by providing pedagogical implications for language teachers as to how strategy instruction can be implemented in L2 pragmatics classrooms.
Double-Threshold Segmentation of Panicle and Clustering Adaptive Density Estimation for Mature Rice Plants Based on 3D Point Cloud
Authors: Sun Yixin , Luo Yusen , Chai Xiaoyu , Zhang Pengpeng , Zhang Qian , Xu Lizhang , Wei Lele
Published: April 2021

Crop density estimation ahead of the combine harvester provides a valuable reference for operators to keep the feeding amount stable in agriculture production, and, as a consequence, guaranteeing the working stability and improving the operation efficiency. For the current method depending on LiDAR, it is difficult to extract individual plants for mature rice plants with luxuriant branches and leaves, as well as bent and intersected panicles. Therefore, this paper proposes a clustering adaptive density estimation method based on the constructed LiDAR measurement system and double-threshold segmentation. The Otsu algorithm is adopted to construct a double-threshold according to elevation and inflection intensity in different parts of the rice plant, after reducing noise through the statistical outlier removal (SOR) algorithm. For adaptively parameter adjustment of supervoxel clustering and mean-shift clustering during density estimation, the calculation relationship between influencing factors (including seed-point size and kernel-bandwidth size) and number of points are, respectively, deduced by analysis. The experiment result of density estimation proved the two clustering methods effective, with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 9.968 and 5.877, and a Mean Absolute Percent Error (MAPE) of 5.67% and 3.37%, and the average accuracy was more than 90% and 95%, respectively. This estimation method is of positive significance for crop density measurement and could lay the foundation for intelligent harvest.
Design of a Wideband Doherty Power Amplifier with High Efficiency for 5G Application
Authors: Nasri Abbas , Estebsari Motahhareh , Toofan Siroos , Piacibello Anna , Pirola Marco , Camarchia Vittorio , Ramella Chiara
Published: April 2021

This paper discusses the design of a wideband class AB-C Doherty power amplifier suitable for 5G applications. Theoretical analysis of the output matching network is presented, focusing on the impact of the non-ideally infinite output impedance of the auxiliary amplifier in back off, due to the device’s parasitic elements. By properly accounting for this effect, the designed output matching network was able to follow the desired impedance trajectories across the 2.8 GHz to 3.6 GHz range (fractional bandwidth = 25%), with a good trade-off between efficiency and bandwidth. The Doherty power amplifier was designed with two 10 W packaged GaN HEMTs. The measurement results showed that it provided 43 dBm to 44.2 dBm saturated output power and 8 dB to 13.5 dB linear power gain over the entire band. The achieved drain efficiency was between 62% and 76.5% at saturation and between 44% and 56% at 6 dB of output power back-off.
Coil Design of a Wireless Power-Transfer Receiver Integrated into a Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Campi Tommaso , Cruciani Silvano , Maradei Francesca , Feliziani Mauro
Published: April 2021

This study deals with the design of a near-field wireless power transfer (WPT) system applied to a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to treat patients with heart-failure problems. An LVAD is an implanted electrically driven pump connected to the heart and is traditionally powered by batteries external to the human body via a percutaneous driveline cable. The main challenge of wirelessly powering an LVAD implanted deep in the human body is to transfer relatively high power with high efficiency levels. Here the optimal design of the primary and secondary WPT coils is proposed to improve the performance of the WPT, avoiding possible safety problems of electromagnetic fields (EMF). As a main result, an average power of 5 W is continuously delivered to the LVAD by the WPT system working at 6.78 MHz with a total (DC–to–DC) efficiency of approximately 65% for the worst-case configuration.
Experimental Study of the Free Space Optics Communication System Operating in the 8–12 µm Spectral Range
Authors: Garlinska Magdalena , Pregowska Agnieszka , Gutowska Izabela , Osial Magdalena , Szczepanski Janusz
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Free space optics communication (FSO) has improved wireless communication and data transfer thanks to high bandwidth, low power consumption, energy efficiency, a high transfer capacity, and a wide applicability field. The FSO systems also have their limitations, including weather conditions and obstacles in the way of transmission. (2) Methods: This research assesses the atmospheric conditions’ influence on the intensity of received radiation, both experimentally and theoretically. The construction of a laboratory test stand of the FSO system, which is operating in the third-atmosphere transmission window (8–12 µm), is proposed. Next, considering different atmospheric conditions, the experimental validation was conducted, both in a laboratory and real conditions. (3) Results: The measurements were carried out for two optical links working with wavelengths of 1.5 µm and 10 µm. It was found that optical radiation with a wavelength of about 10 µm is characterized by better transmission properties in the case of limited visibility (e.g., light rain and fogs) than in the case of near-infrared waves. The same conclusion was found in analytical investigations. (4) Conclusions: The results obtained show that optical radiation with a wavelength of about 10 µm in limited visibility is characterized by better transmission properties than near-infrared waves. This demonstrates the validity of designing FSO links operating in the range 8–12 µm band, e.g., based on quantum cascade lasers and HgCdTe photodiodes.
A Modified LADRC-Based DC-Link Voltage Controller for Photovoltaic Grid-Connected Inverters
Authors: Zhou Xuesong , Liu Qian , Ma Youjie , Li Wei , Xie Bingjie
Published: April 2021

To enhance the robust stability of the dc-link voltage in the photovoltaic (PV) grid-connected system, a modified linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC)-based regulation strategy is presented in this paper. The proposed control strategy is equipped with the cascaded extended state observer, which can supplement the disturbance information not estimated by the conventional one, thereby achieving a relatively fast and accurate disturbance reconstruction. The tracking performance and disturbance rejection performance of the modified LADRC are discussed and studied in the frequency domain. Finally, the experimental results are provided to verify the theoretical analysis.
ICEr: An Intermittent Computing Environment Based on a Run-Time Module for Energy-Harvesting IoT Devices with NVRAM
Authors: Kwak Junho , Kim Hyeongrae , Cho Jeonghun
Published: April 2021

With the development of energy-harvesting technology, various applications have been developed that can be operated only with harvested energy, thereby making energy-harvesting technology suitable for edge devices in poor environments where battery replacement is difficult. However, devices with energy-harvesting technology have limitations: an application can operate intermittently in an energy-harvesting device, and the device’s energy is greatly affected by the environment and the state of the device. Intermittent computing causes abnormal progress or affords incorrect results. The factors affecting the energy of the device can change the operation of the device. To solve these problems, we propose the “Intermittent Computing Environment based on a run-time module” (ICEr), which dynamically controls and manages an application for normal operation in intermittent computing. ICEr comprises an energy checker and a controller. The energy checker measures the energy state of a device at run-time, and the controller controls and manages an application through Backup, Restore, Sleep, and Wakeup. The controller optimizes those operations by considering the energy state and memory state together to minimize time and energy overhead. In this study, two kinds of experiments were conducted. In the first experiment, Embench was selected as the target application to validate ICEr and measure its performance. This experiment validated that ICEr behaves dynamically in various environments. Moreover, it showed a reduction in relative execution time overhead of up to 50% and a reduction in energy overhead of up to 49.5% against Hibernus, depending on the environment. In the second experiment, ICEr was applied to the Temperature Measurement Application, and the improvement of the energy efficiency for the real Internet-of-Things (IoT) application was confirmed.
Power Conversion Using Analytical Model of Cockcroft–Walton Voltage Multiplier Rectenna
Authors: Ali Esraa Mousa , Yahaya Nor Zaihar , Saraereh Omar Aqeel , Assaf Anwar Hamdan Al , Alqasem Bilal Hasan , Iqbal Shahid , Ibrahim Oladimeji , Patel Amit V
Published: April 2021

A voltage multiplier rectenna is a combination of a voltage multiplier rectifier and an antenna used for the conversion of AC to DC. It is an essential part of the system of RF energy harvesting. Conventional rectennas are characterized by low conversion efficiency. This study presents an analytical novel mode designed for RF energy harvesting systems to study the voltage and current output of rectifier stages for efficiency optimization. The design contains a voltage multiplier rectification circuit with seven stages. The Schottky diode HSMS 285-C was selected for the circuit modeling voltage multiplier circuit. Advanced Design System (ADS) simulation was used to validate the equations of the theoretical model solved with MATLAB code. The fabricated system was tested for an input power range of 10 μW to 100 mW; the maximum output power is 0.2577 mW with maximum efficiency of 29.85%.
Novel Intelligent Control Technology for Enhanced Stability Performance of an Ocean Wave Energy Conversion System
Authors: Lu Kai-Hung , Hong Chih-Ming , Tan Xiaojing , Cheng Fu-Sheng
Published: April 2021

In this article, a novelty control structure of grid-connected doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) based on a function link (FL)-based Wilcoxon radial basis function network (FLWRBFN) controller is proposed. The back-propagation (BP) method is used online to train the node connecting weights of the FLWRBFN. To improve the online learning capability of FLWBFN, differential evolution with particle swarm optimization (DEPSO) is used to tune the learning rates of FLWRBFN. For high randomness of wave energy generation, the transmission power between generators and electrical grids is easy to unstable and AC bus voltage and DC voltage will also lose constant under the conditions of variable generator speed and variable load. Therefore, the proposed intelligent controller can maintain the above power balance and voltage constant and reduce fluctuation. Finally, PSCAD/EMTDC software is used to simulate and study various cases to confirm the robustness and usefulness of the proposed intelligent control technology applied to an ocean wave energy conversion system.
COVID-19 and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Naz Adiba , Billah Muntasir
Published: April 2021

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. One of the main contributions of mortality and morbidity in CHD patients is acute myocardial infarction (AMI), which is the result of abrupt occlusion of an epicardial coronary artery due to a sudden rupture of atherosclerotic plaque, causing myocardial ischemia. In the initial stage of myocardial ischemia, lack of oxygen and nutrient supply results in biochemical and metabolic changes within the myocardium. Depletion of oxygen switches the aerobic cellular metabolism to anaerobic metabolism and impairs the oxidative phosphorylation pathway eventually leading to cardiomyocyte death. Several studies suggest an interlink between COVID-19 and ischemic heart disease. An increased ACE2 receptor expression in the myocardium may partly contribute to the myocardial injuries that are observed in patients affected by SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, pre-existing cardiovascular disease, in conjunction with an aggravated inflammatory response which causes an up-regulation in pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, patients with atherosclerosis are observed to be more prone to ischemic attacks when affected by COVID-19, due to hypercoagulation in the blood as well as elevated pro-inflammatory markers.
Effect of Temperature and Exposure Time on Cambium Cell Viability In Vitro for Eucalyptus Species
Authors: Subasinghe Achchige Yasika Medhavi , Volkova Liubov , Weston Christopher J.
Published: April 2021

(1) Research Highlights: Thermal damage to cambium cells of Eucalyptus held in vitro was recorded at sublethal temperatures (40 °C–50 °C) when the duration of exposure extends beyond 2.5 min up to 5 min. (2) Background and Objectives: During a forest fire, heat can be transferred through tree bark potentially impacting viability of vascular cambium cells and the perennial growth of the tree. With the increased temperature of the cambium, cells are known to lose viability at temperatures exceeding 60 °C. However, it is possible that extended exposure to temperatures below 60 °C may also impair cell viability. This study aimed to identify the effect of the temperature and exposure time interaction on the cambium cell viability of Eucalyptus, a genus widely distributed in natural forests and commercial plantations globally. (3) Methods: Excised cambium-phloem tissue sections from three Eucalyptus species (Messmate–E. obliqua L’Hér., Narrow-leaf peppermint–E. radiata Sieber ex DC. and Swamp gum–E. ovata Labill.) were exposed in vitro to a series of temperature–time treatments (40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C, 70 °C for 1 min, 2.5 min, and 5 min) and tested for cell viability using a tetrazolium reduction method. (4) Results: Cell viability of cambium cells decreased with increased temperature and exposure times for all three Eucalyptus species. Longer exposure to sublethal temperatures of 40 °C to 50 °C showed statistically similar results to shorter exposure to lethal temperatures (>50 °C). (5) Conclusions: Longer exposure to sublethal temperatures (40 °C–50 °C) caused irreversible thermal damage to cambium cells of Eucalyptus when tested in vitro, further refining our understanding of raised temperature on cell viability.
Utilization of Cumbeba (Tacinga inamoena) Residue: Drying Kinetics and Effect of Process Conditions on Antioxidant Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Ferreira João Paulo de Lima , Queiroz Alexandre José de Melo , Figueirêdo Rossana Maria Feitosa de , Silva Wilton Pereira da , Gomes Josivanda Palmeira , Santos Dyego da Costa , Silva Hanndson Araujo , Rocha Ana Paula Trindade , Paiva Anna Catarina Costa de , Chaves Alan Del Carlos Gomes , Lima Antônio Gilson Barbosa de , Andrade Romário Oliveira de
Published: April 2021

The residue generated from the processing of Tacinga inamoena (cumbeba) fruit pulp represents a large amount of material that is discarded without proper application. Despite that, it is a raw material that is source of ascorbic acid, carotenoids and phenolic compounds, which are valued in nutraceutical diets for allegedly combating free radicals generated in metabolism. This research paper presents a study focused on the mathematical modeling of drying kinetics and the effect of the process on the level of bioactive of cumbeba residue. The experiments of cumbeba residue drying (untreated or whole residue (WR), crushed residue (CR) and residue in the form of foam (FR)) were carried out in a fixed-bed dryer at four air temperatures (50, 60, 70 and 80 °C). Effective water diffusivity (Deff) was determined by the inverse method and its dependence on temperature was described by an Arrhenius-type equation. It was observed that, regardless of the type of pretreatment, the increase in air temperature resulted in higher rate of water removal. The Midilli model showed better simulation of cumbeba residue drying kinetics than the other models tested within the experimental temperature range studied. Effective water diffusivity (Deff) ranged from 6.4890 to 11.1900 × 10−6 m2/s, 2.9285 to 12.754 × 10−9 m2/s and 1.5393 × 10−8 to 12.4270 × 10−6 m2/s with activation energy of 22.3078, 46.7115 and 58.0736 kJ/mol within the temperature range of 50–80 °C obtained for the whole cumbeba, crushed cumbeba and cumbeba residue in the form of foam, respectively. In relation to bioactive compounds, it was observed that for a fixed temperature the whole residue had higher retention of bioactive compounds, especially phenolic compounds, whereas the crushed residue and the residue in the form of foam had intermediate and lower levels, respectively. This study provides evidence that cumbeba residue in its whole form can be used for the recovery of natural antioxidant bioactive compounds, mainly phenolic compounds, with the possibility of application in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Reinvigorating Modern Breadmaking Based on Ancient Practices and Plant Ingredients, with Implementation of a Physicochemical Approach
Authors: Sereti Vasileia , Lazaridou Athina , Biliaderis Costas G. , Valamoti Soultana Maria
Published: April 2021

In this study, the potential use of ancient plant ingredients in emerging bakery products based on possible prehistoric and/or ancient practices of grinding and breadmaking was explored. Various ancient grains, nuts and seeds (einkorn wheat, barley, acorn, lentil, poppy seeds, linseed) were ground using prehistoric grinding tool replicas. Barley-based sourdough prepared by multiple back-slopping steps was added to dough made from einkorn alone or mixed with the above ingredients (20% level) or commercial flours alone (common wheat, spelt, barley). Sieving analysis showed that 40% of the einkorn flour particles were >400 μm, whereas commercial barley and common wheat flours were finer. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed that lentil flour exhibited higher melting peak temperature and lower apparent enthalpy of starch gelatinization. Among all bread formulations tested, barley dough exhibited the highest elastic modulus and complex viscosity, as determined by dynamic rheometry; einkorn breads fortified with linseed and barley had the softest and hardest crust, respectively, as indicated by texture analysis; and common wheat gave the highest loaf-specific volume. Barley sourdough inclusion into einkorn dough did not affect the extent of starch retrogradation in the baked product. Generally, incorporation of ancient plant ingredients into contemporary bread formulations seems to be feasible.
Effect of Fortification with Raspberry Juice on the Antioxidant and Potentially Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Wafers Subjected to In Vitro Digestion
Authors: Szymanowska Urszula , Karaś Monika , Złotek Urszula , Jakubczyk Anna
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of raspberry juice addition on the content of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of wafers. The research was carried out on non-supplemented wafers (control) and wafers in which water was replaced with raspberry juice in the amount of 10%, 20%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The potential bioavailability of the phenolic compounds after in vitro digestion was also determined. As shown by the consumer assessment, wafers in which the water was replaced with 100% raspberry juice turned out to be the best variant of the enriched wafers. The content of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins in the tested products increased with the increasing amount of raspberry juice added to the wafers. The fortification of the wafers with raspberry juice had a positive effect on the antioxidant activity, expressed as the ability to neutralize free radicals ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) and DPPH (di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium), the ability to chelate iron ions, and as the reduction power. The simulated digestion increased the content of phenolic compounds and increased the antioxidant activity of the wafers. The ability to inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (i.e., enzymes involved in the induction of inflammation), varied and depended on both the amount of raspberry juice added and the type of extract.
Potential of Probiotic Frozen Blackcurrant Products: Consumer Preference, Physicochemical Characterization, and Cell Viability
Authors: Väkeväinen Kati , Rinkinen Noora , Willman Roosa-Maria , Lappi Jenni , Raninen Kaisa , Kårlund Anna , Mikkonen Santtu , Plumed-Ferrer Carme , Kolehmainen Marjukka
Published: April 2021

Blackcurrant is a healthy, affordable, and traditionally gardened berry that, thus far, has been underused in food applications. From the consumers’ point of view, the acidic taste of blackcurrants is a challenge; therefore, these berries have mainly been utilized for sugary juice production. This research study aimed to develop a frozen vegan blackcurrant product with pleasant sensory properties and potential probiotic function. A candidate probiotic, Lactoplantibacillus plantarum Q823, was used in the manufacturing process. The physicochemical properties, nutritional composition, and consumer preference for the developed product were assessed, as was the viability of L. plantarum Q823 during storage time and in an in vitro gastrointestinal model. Consumers (n = 71) perceived the developed product to be pleasant. L. plantarum Q823 had high viability counts (log colony forming units (cfu) g−1 7.0 ± 0.38) in the final product, although the viability of L. plantarum Q823 during storage time needs to be enhanced to obtain a probiotic product. Thus, within an optimized formulation, blackcurrant berries represent a potential raw material for functional frozen food products.
Thermorheological Characterization of Healthier Reduced-Fat Cocoa Butter Formulated by Substitution with a Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)-Based Oleogel
Authors: Alvarez María Dolores , Cofrades Susana , Espert María , Salvador Ana , Sanz Teresa
Published: April 2021

Cocoa butter (CB) is a main ingredient in pastry due to the unique functional properties of its fat, which is high in saturated fatty acids (SFAs). However, excessive consumption of SFAs is associated with the occurrence of several chronic diseases. This study researched the partial or total replacement of CB by an oleogel (OG) formulated with a healthier lipid profile, for mixed systems that would allow a partial substitution of CB in confectionery products. The “emulsion-templated approach” was used to develop a sunflower oil-HPMC-based OG. Different CB:OG ratios were formulated increasing the percentage replacement of CB by OG from 50 to 100%. Rheological and textural properties were determined and compared with a CB control at 20 and 10 °C. Oil-binding capacity was also analyzed. The systems showed a solid-like behavior, with higher elastic than viscous modulus, which increased with CB concentration. Compared with 20 °C, at 10 °C there was an increase in connectivity, viscoelasticity, and consistency of the systems, in response to a more complete CB crystallization. The replaced systems also presented a better lipid profile than CB. This evidence suggests that formulated CB:OG system at 50:50 ratio could become useful as a CB equivalent in chocolate products.
Genetic Regulation of Biomarkers as Stress Proxies in Dairy Cows
Authors: Milanesi Marco , Passamonti Matilde Maria , Cappelli Katia , Minuti Andrea , Palombo Valentino , Sgorlon Sandy , Capomaccio Stefano , D’Andrea Mariasilvia , Trevisi Erminio , Stefanon Bruno , Williams John Lewis , Ajmone-Marsan Paolo
Published: April 2021

Stress in livestock reduces productivity and is a welfare concern. At a physiological level, stress is associated with the activation of inflammatory responses and increased levels of harmful reactive oxygen species. Biomarkers that are indicative of stress could facilitate the identification of more stress-resilient animals. We examined twenty-one metabolic, immune response, and liver function biomarkers that have been associated with stress in 416 Italian Simmental and 436 Italian Holstein cows which were genotyped for 150K SNPs. Single-SNP and haplotype-based genome-wide association studies were carried out to assess whether the variation in the levels in these biomarkers is under genetic control and to identify the genomic loci involved. Significant associations were found for the plasma levels of ceruloplasmin (Bos taurus chromosome 1—BTA1), paraoxonase (BTA4) and γ-glutamyl transferase (BTA17) in the individual breed analysis that coincided with the position of the genes coding for these proteins, suggesting that their expression is under cis-regulation. A meta-analysis of both breeds identified additional significant associations with paraoxonase on BTA 16 and 26. Finding genetic associations with variations in the levels of these biomarkers suggests that the selection for high or low levels of expression could be achieved rapidly. Whether the level of expression of the biomarkers correlates with the response to stressful situations has yet to be determined.
Patterns and Facilitators for the Promotion of Glaucoma Medication Adherence—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Frech Stefanie , Guthoff Rudolf F. , Gamael Amin , Helbig Christian , Diener Annette , Ritzke Manuela , Wollny Anja , Altiner Attila
Published: April 2021

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a chronic optic neuropathy causing irreversible nerve fiber damage. Initially asymptomatic, it progresses slowly without any notable sign of vision loss, thus early detection and treatment is essential. The standard treatment being non-invasive topical administration of eye drops harbors the problem of patients not being adherent. This study aimed to explore the experiences and thoughts of glaucoma patients about their medication management to improve our knowledge on how adherence works for the individual patient. Narrative interviews were conducted with 21 glaucoma patients. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis and the documentary method. Different patterns of adherence were identified which depended on personal biographies, living conditions, or the patient’s knowledge about the disease. Interpreting eye drop medication as a ritual, a task, or routine was helpful for some patients, whereas other patients, who were aware of the consequences of not taking the drops, were motivated by intrinsic or extrinsic factors. The patterns identified here represent strategies for managing and adhering to daily glaucoma medication at an individual level. Linking daily drop application or medication intake to these patterns may help to promote correct medication management of patients with chronic diseases who lack a regular medication regimen.