bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Comparison of Field and Accelerated Random Vertical Vibration Levels of Stacked Packages for Small Parcel Delivery Shipments
Authors: Molnár Bence , Böröcz Péter
Published: March 2021

In the last decade, there has been a significant increase in parcel delivery shipments all over the world due to online stores and consumer demand to receive the products in a shorter period of time. It is especially true when situations like COVID-19 limits personal purchases in shopping malls as well as grocery and pharmaceutical stores. This often means that courier operators try to deliver packages utilizing vehicles with racks or shelves, which during the COVID-19 epidemic are not there anymore. This study measured the vertical vibration levels that occur in stacked parcels during express delivery versus the simulation technique in the laboratory. The goal of this paper was to measure and compare the vibration levels between laboratory practice and field transportation. For the measurement a three-layer stacked unit was built to observe the vibration levels on different road conditions in a parcel delivery vehicle and ASTM vibration profile (ASTM International). Then the measured acceleration-time data were analyzed in terms of power spectral densities (PSD) and the presented statistical data provided an understanding of the variability of intensity in different levels in stacked unit. The results showed that the vibration level increases in the stacked load upwards and with worse road conditions, but even in the worst case it did not reach those vibration levels that the laboratory test showed. Moreover, the layers of the stacked unit are in out-of-phase motion in the field, while the stacked unit in the vibration simulation usually is in-phase motion. Results indicate that the proposed vibration simulation does not correlate well with typical field vibration. This is fundamentally true as during a forced vibration created by a single-axis shaker, do not account for additional inputs occurring simultaneously creating an off-balance to the loads and as a result are less severe than simulated conditions. These findings are limited to single axis vibration simulation and unsecured loads.
Design of an Atypical Construction of Equipment for Additive Manufacturing with a Conceptual Solution of a Printhead Intended for the Use of Recycled Plastic Materials
Authors: Kaščak Jakub , Gašpár Štefan , Paško Ján , Knapčíková Lucia , Husár Jozef , Baron Petr , Török Jozef
Published: March 2021

This article presents the variability of Fused deposition modelling (FDM) technology and the possibilities of its use in the design and implementation of a prototype atypical device. The assumptions of the behaviour of individual components and subsystems of the design result from an extensive application of the finite element method and motion analysis of subsystems and various parts of the structure. The use of this method to such an extent accelerated the design process and its implementation. The proposal itself reflects the current state of this technology and its focus is on improving sustainable development. As is generally known, great efforts are currently being made to reduce plastic waste volume and its environmental burden. The proposed concept is modified to replace the final treatment of the top layers of the models, called “ironing” by non-planar layering of material. At the same time, it points out the advantages of this method in reducing energy requirements and the time required to produce models. The conclusion is a conceptual design of a printhead for a proposed prototype, designed to use recycled FDM, intending to streamline the possibility of recycling with little serial and piece production. This process thus closes the circle of opportunities published by us, which in the future can contribute to the optimisation of this technology towards increasing the efficiency of resource use, reduction of energy demands and environmental burden.
The Implementation Factors of Information and Communication Technology in the Life Cycle Costs of Buildings
Authors: Mésároš Peter , Mandičák Tomáš , Spišáková Marcela , Behúnová Annamária , Behún Marcel
Published: March 2021

Life cycle cost management is an integral part of buildings construction. The life cycle cost approach can be considered an objective approach because it considers all life cycles of buildings. Information and communication technology is one of the critical factors for the success of construction projects. Several studies point to the importance of information and communication technology use in life cycle cost management. Generally, information and communication technology can be helpful in the cost management process of buildings. However, few implementation factors of information and communication technology are used in the life cycle cost management of buildings. The research assumes that the most critical implementation factor is the investment cost for information and communication technologies used in cost management during the life cycle. The relative importance index method was used to evaluate and quantify the final rank of implementation factors. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to confirm or reject research results that were statistically significant.
Investigations on Dynamical Stability in 3D Quadrupole Ion Traps
Authors: Mihalcea Bogdan M. , Lynch Stephen
Published: March 2021

We firstly discuss classical stability for a dynamical system of two ions levitated in a 3D Radio-Frequency (RF) trap, assimilated with two coupled oscillators. We obtain the solutions of the coupled system of equations that characterizes the associated dynamics. In addition, we supply the modes of oscillation and demonstrate the weak coupling condition is inappropriate in practice, while for collective modes of motion (and strong coupling) only a peak of the mass can be detected. Phase portraits and power spectra are employed to illustrate how the trajectory executes quasiperiodic motion on the surface of torus, namely a Kolmogorov–Arnold–Moser (KAM) torus. In an attempt to better describe dynamical stability of the system, we introduce a model that characterizes dynamical stability and the critical points based on the Hessian matrix approach. The model is then applied to investigate quantum dynamics for many-body systems consisting of identical ions, levitated in 2D and 3D ion traps. Finally, the same model is applied to the case of a combined 3D Quadrupole Ion Trap (QIT) with axial symmetry, for which we obtain the associated Hamilton function. The ion distribution can be described by means of numerical modeling, based on the Hamilton function we assign to the system. The approach we introduce is effective to infer the parameters of distinct types of traps by applying a unitary and coherent method, and especially for identifying equilibrium configurations, of large interest for ion crystals or quantum logic.
Evaluation of the Ultimate Strength of the Ultra-High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Bae Baek-Il , Lee Moon-Sung , Choi Chang-Sik , Jung Hyung-Suk , Choi Hyun-Ki
Published: March 2021

Evaluation of the ultimate strength for the UHPFRC (ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete) flexural members was conducted. In this study, an experimental program about UHPFRC beams was conducted with the effect of fiber volume fraction, shear span to depth ratio, and compressive strength of matrix as the main variables. Among them, it was found that fiber volume fraction was the variable that had the greatest influence on the ultimate strength. The inclusion of 2% volume fraction steel fiber increases the shear and flexural strength of UHPFRC beams significantly. In particular, steel fiber inclusion changed the mode of failure of beams from diagonal shear failure into flexural failure. For the classification of failure patterns, the ultimate flexural strength and shear strength of UHPFRC members were evaluated using the current design code and UHPC guidelines. Flexural ultimate strength was affected by the size and shape of the stress block and consideration of the matrix’s tensile strength. For the accurate shear strength prediction of UHPFRC beams, the tensile strength of the high strength matrix and the effect of steel fiber should be considered.
Microwave Performance, Microstructure, and Crystallization of (Mg0.6Zn0.4)1−yNiyTiO3 Ilmenite Ceramics
Authors: Shen Chun-Hsu , Pan Chung-Long , Lin Shih-Hung , Ho Cheng-Che
Published: March 2021

The sintering behavior, microstructure analysis, crystallization, and microwave performance of (Mg0.6Zn0.4)1−yNiyTiO3 (y = 0.01–0.2) ceramics, processed with raw powders of MgO, NiO, ZnO, and TiO2 via the conventional solid-state method, are investigated. The main phases of (Mg0.6Zn0.4)1−yNiyTiO3 ceramics were obtained. With partial replacement by Ni2+, the (Mg0.6Zn0.4)0.95Ni0.05TiO3 could be well sintered at 1200 °C, and the microwave performance was shown to be positively correlated with sintering temperature. The permittivity (εr) saturated at 18.7–19.3, and the quality factor (Qf) values approached 72,000–165,000 (GHz) as the sintering temperatures increase from 1125 to 1250 °C. The temperature coefficient of resonance frequency (τf) falls in a stable range of −62.9 to −66 ppm/°C as sintering temperature rising. A permittivity (εr) of 19.3, a maximum Qf value of 165,000 (GHz), and a temperature coefficient (τf) of −65.4 ppm/°C were measured for the samples at 1200 °C/4 h. (Mg0.6Zn0.4)0.95Ni0.05TiO3 material system shows high potential for applications of high frequency-selection components in satellite communication and 5G wireless telecommunication systems.
Molecular Mechanisms behind Inherited Neurodegeneration of the Optic Nerve
Authors: Maresca Alessandra , Carelli Valerio
Published: March 2021

Inherited neurodegeneration of the optic nerve is a paradigm in neurology, as many forms of isolated or syndromic optic atrophy are encountered in clinical practice. The retinal ganglion cells originate the axons that form the optic nerve. They are particularly vulnerable to mitochondrial dysfunction, as they present a peculiar cellular architecture, with axons that are not myelinated for a long intra-retinal segment, thus, very energy dependent. The genetic landscape of causative mutations and genes greatly enlarged in the last decade, pointing to common pathways. These mostly imply mitochondrial dysfunction, which leads to a similar outcome in terms of neurodegeneration. We here critically review these pathways, which include (1) complex I-related oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) dysfunction, (2) mitochondrial dynamics, and (3) endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondrial inter-organellar crosstalk. These major pathogenic mechanisms are in turn interconnected and represent the target for therapeutic strategies. Thus, their deep understanding is the basis to set and test new effective therapies, an urgent unmet need for these patients. New tools are now available to capture all interlinked mechanistic intricacies for the pathogenesis of optic nerve neurodegeneration, casting hope for innovative therapies to be rapidly transferred into the clinic and effectively cure inherited optic neuropathies.
Endurance Training Regulates Expression of Some Angiogenesis-Related Genes in Cardiac Tissue of Experimentally Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Khajehlandi Mojdeh , Bolboli Lotfali , Siahkuhian Marefat , Rami Mohammad , Tabandeh Mohammadreza , Khoramipour Kayvan , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: March 2021

Exercise can ameliorate cardiovascular dysfunctions in the diabetes condition, but its precise molecular mechanisms have not been entirely understood. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of endurance training on expression of angiogenesis-related genes in cardiac tissue of diabetic rats. Thirty adults male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups (N = 10) including diabetic training (DT), sedentary diabetes (SD), and sedentary healthy (SH), in which diabetes was induced by a single dose of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). Endurance training (ET) with moderate-intensity was performed on a motorized treadmill for six weeks. Training duration and treadmill speed were increased during five weeks, but they were kept constant at the final week, and slope was zero at all stages. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis was used to measure the expression of myocyte enhancer factor-2C (MEF2C), histone deacetylase-4 (HDAC4) and Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in cardiac tissues of the rats. Our results demonstrated that six weeks of ET increased gene expression of MEF2C significantly (p < 0.05), and caused a significant reduction in HDAC4 and CaMKII gene expression in the DT rats compared to the SD rats (p < 0.05). We concluded that moderate-intensity ET could play a critical role in ameliorating cardiovascular dysfunction in a diabetes condition by regulating the expression of some angiogenesis-related genes in cardiac tissues.
Comparative Study of Validity and Reliability of Two Handgrip Dynamometers: K-Force Grip and Jamar
Authors: Nikodelis Thomas , Savvoulidis Stratos , Athanasakis Petros , Chalitsios Christos , Loizidis Theodoros
Published: March 2021

Background: Handheld dynamometers are used for diagnosis and rehabilitation at several pathologies. Grip force is essential for a person’s quality of life. Most dynamometers are not equipped with rehabilitation or training protocols, although the bibliography highlights this need. Objective: To compare the validity and reliability of Jamar and K-Force Grip dynamometers in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome and healthy people. Methods: Concurrent validity was assessed using known weights. Forty-four (44) patients and 69 healthy adults performed three maximum repetitions in random order with each hand, at each instrument. Reliability was evaluated using ICCs for each instrument separately, and between the two instruments. The differences between the two dynamometers were evaluated using repeated t-tests. Results: Concurrent validity of the two instruments did not reveal fix or proportional bias. Analyses for reliability yield high correlation coefficients for both groups with the lower one being between the two instruments r = 0.90, p < 0.05, (0.72–0.91) for the healthy group. T-tests showed that all participants had lower force values when using the K-Force Grip (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Both dynamometers were reliable in measuring hand grip strength for both groups. K-Force Grip was reliable and valid with respect to Jamar that was used as a benchmark. The different handle dimensions between the two dynamometers may be the reason for the different force values.
Inhibitory Effects of STAT3 Transcription Factor by Synthetic Decoy ODNs on Autophagy in Renal Fibrosis
Authors: Kim Young-Ah , Kim Hyun-Ju , Gwon Mi-Gyeong , Gu Hyemin , An Hyun-Jin , Bae Seongjae , Leem Jaechan , Jung Hyun Jin , Park Kwan-Kyu
Published: March 2021

Autophagy in the proximal tubules may promote fibrosis by activating tubular cell death, interstitial inflammation, and the production of pro-fibrotic factors. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is activated as a potential transcription factor, which mediates the stimulation of renal fibrosis. We investigated the role of the STAT3 in autophagy and its effect on the prevention of interstitial renal fibrosis. In this study, we use synthesized STAT3 decoy oligonucleotides (ODN), which were injected into the tail veins of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice, to explore the regulation of autophagy in UUO-induced renal fibrosis. The expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and collagen were decreased by STAT3 decoy ODN. The autophagy markers microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3) and fibronectin, were identified through immunofluorescent staining, indicating that they were reduced in the group injected with ODN. The expressions of LC3, Beclin1, p62, and autophagy-related 5–12 (Atg5–12) and hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) were inhibited in the ODN injection group. We determined the inhibitory effect of autophagy in chronic kidney disease and confirmed that STAT3 decoy ODN effectively inhibited autophagy by inhibiting the expression of STAT3 transcription factors in the UUO group.
Rare Childhood Malignancy
Authors: Algar Elizabeth M
Published: March 2021

This small collection of six original research papers and two review articles in the Special Issue “Rare Childhood Malignancy” highlights the diversity and importance of empirical research into childhood malignancy, a theme that underpins the significant advances that have been made in treating the diseases that constitute cancers in children [...]
Recent Advances in Cobalt and Related Catalysts: From Catalyst Preparation to Catalytic Performance
Authors: Vakros John
Published: March 2021

In our days cobalt, Co, and related catalysts are very attractive because they exhibit a lot of advantages like low cost and high activity in a significant variety of different applications [...]
Mdm2-Mediated Downmodulation of GRK2 Restricts Centrosome Separation for Proper Chromosome Congression
Authors: Reglero Clara , Ortiz del Castillo Belén , Rivas Verónica , Mayor Federico , Penela Petronila
Published: March 2021

The timing of centrosome separation and the distance moved apart influence the formation of the bipolar spindle, affecting chromosome stability. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling induces early centrosome separation through downstream G protein-coupled receptor kinase GRK2, which phosphorylates the Hippo pathway component MST2 (Mammalian STE20-like protein kinase 2), in turn allowing NIMA kinase Nek2A activation for centrosomal linker disassembly. However, the mechanisms that counterbalance centrosome disjunction and separation remain poorly understood. We unveil that timely degradation of GRK2 by the E3 ligase Mdm2 limits centrosome separation in the G2. Both knockout expression and catalytic inhibition of Mdm2 result in GRK2 accumulation and enhanced centrosome separation before mitosis onset. Phosphorylation of GRK2 on residue S670 enables a complex pattern of non-K48-linked polyubiquitin chains assembled by Mdm2, which correlate with kinase protein degradation. Remarkably, GRK2-S670A protein fails to phosphorylate MST2 despite overcoming Mdm2-dependent degradation, which results in defective centrosome separation, shorter spindles, and abnormal chromosome congression. Conversely, extra levels of wild-type kinase in the G2 cause increased inter-centrosome distances with longer spindles, also converging in congression issues. Our findings show that the signals enabling activity of the GRK2/MST2/Nek2A axis for separation also switches on Mdm2 degradation of GRK2 to ensure accurate centrosome dynamics and proper mitotic spindle functionality.
Neonatal Respiratory Distress and Airway Emergency: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Bresciani Lorenzo , Grazioli Paola , Bosio Roberta , Chirico Gaetano , Zambelloni Cesare , Santoro Amerigo , Baronchelli Carla , Redaelli de Zinis Luca O.
Published: March 2021

We discuss two cases of congenital airway malformations seen in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The aim is to report extremely rare events characterized by immediate respiratory distress after delivery and the impossibility to ventilate and intubate the airway. The first case is a male twin born at 34 weeks by emergency caesarean section. Immediately after delivery, the newborn was cyanotic and showed severe respiratory distress. Bag-valve-mask ventilation did not relieve the respiratory distress but allowed for temporary oxygenation during subsequent unsuccessful oral-tracheal intubation (OTI) attempts. Flexible laryngoscopy revealed complete subglottic obstruction. Postmortem analysis revealed a poly-malformative syndrome, unilateral multicystic renal dysplasia with a complete subglottic diaphragm, and a tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF). The second case is a male patient that was vaginally born at 35 weeks. Antenatally, an ultrasound (US) arose suspicion for a VACTERL association (vertebral defects, anal atresia, TEF with esophageal atresia and radial or renal dysplasia, plus cardiovascular and limb defects) and a TEF, and thus, fetal magnetic resonance (MRI) was scheduled. Spontaneous labor started shortly thereafter, before imaging could be performed. Respiratory distress, cyanosis, and absence of an audible cry was observed immediately at delivery. Attempts at OTI were unsuccessful, whereas bag-valve-mask ventilation and esophageal intubation allowed for sufficient oxygenation. An emergency tracheostomy was attempted, although no trachea could be found on cervical exploration. Postmortem analysis revealed tracheal agenesis (TA), renal dysplasia, anal atresia, and a single umbilical artery. Clinicians need to be aware of congenital airway malformations and subsequent difficulties upon endotracheal intubation and must plan for multidisciplinary management of the airway at delivery, including emergency esophageal intubation and tracheostomy.
Shared Language Erosion: Rethinking Immigrant Family Communication and Impacts on Youth Development
Authors: Cox Ronald B. , deSouza Darcey K. , Bao Juan , Lin Hua , Sahbaz Sumeyra , Greder Kimberly A. , Larzelere Robert E. , Washburn Isaac J. , Leon-Cartagena Maritza , Arredondo-Lopez Alma
Published: March 2021

In this paper we make the case for Shared Language Erosion as a potential explanation for the negative outcomes described in the immigrant paradox for second- and third- generation immigrants (e.g., declines in physical, mental, and behavioral health). While not negating the important role of cultural adaptation, we posit that parent-child communication difficulties due to a process we are calling Shared Language Erosion is driving the observed affects previously attributed to changes in cultural values and beliefs. Shared Language Erosion is the process during which adolescents improve their English skills while simultaneously losing or failing to develop their heritage language; at the same time their parents acquire English at a much slower rate. This lack of a common shared language makes it difficult for parents and their adolescent children to effectively communicate with each other, and leads to increased parent-child conflict, reduced parental competence, aggravated preexisting flaws in parent-child attachment, and increased adolescent vulnerability to deviant peer influences.
Recent Advances in the Prediction of Protein Structural Classes: Feature Descriptors and Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Zhu Lin , Davari Mehdi D. , Li Wenjin
Published: March 2021

In the postgenomic age, rapid growth in the number of sequence-known proteins has been accompanied by much slower growth in the number of structure-known proteins (as a result of experimental limitations), and a widening gap between the two is evident. Because protein function is linked to protein structure, successful prediction of protein structure is of significant importance in protein function identification. Foreknowledge of protein structural class can help improve protein structure prediction with significant medical and pharmaceutical implications. Thus, a fast, suitable, reliable, and reasonable computational method for protein structural class prediction has become pivotal in bioinformatics. Here, we review recent efforts in protein structural class prediction from protein sequence, with particular attention paid to new feature descriptors, which extract information from protein sequence, and the use of machine learning algorithms in both feature selection and the construction of new classification models. These new feature descriptors include amino acid composition, sequence order, physicochemical properties, multiprofile Bayes, and secondary structure-based features. Machine learning methods, such as artificial neural networks (ANNs), support vector machine (SVM), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), random forest, deep learning, and examples of their application are discussed in detail. We also present our view on possible future directions, challenges, and opportunities for the applications of machine learning algorithms for prediction of protein structural classes.
Maintenance of Dental Records and Forensic Odontology Awareness: A Survey of Croatian Dentists with Implications for Dental Education
Authors: Savić Pavičin Ivana , Jonjić Ana , Maretić Ivana , Dumančić Jelena , Zymber Çeshko Ajla
Published: March 2021

Forensic odontology is the application of dentistry within the criminal justice system. Forensic expertise, including dental identification, mostly relies on dental records. We explored the practice of maintaining dental records among Croatian dentists, as well as their knowledge of legal regulations and the application of dental records in forensic odontology. In all, 145 dentists participated in an online survey. Questions covered general information on dentists, maintenance of dental records, and knowledge of legal requirements and forensic odontology. Overall, 70% of dentists obtain and archive written informed consents, while 87% record dental status. Generally, non-carious dental lesions and developmental dental anomalies were not recorded. About 72% of dentists record filling material and surfaces. Only 32% of dentists know the legal requirements for keeping records, whereas 21% have no knowledge of forensic odontology and its purpose. The survey revealed different practices in the maintenance of dental records, including significant flaws and lack of awareness of its forensic importance. This obvious need for additional education on proper maintenance of dental records could be met by including forensic odontology in compulsory undergraduate courses and postgraduate dental education. Establishing national and international standards in dental charting would comply with contemporary trends in health care and the requirements of forensic expertise.
Detecting Convergence Trends among EU Universities
Authors: Adamakou Maria , Kallioras Dimitris , Petrakos George
Published: March 2021

Universities are emerging growth determinants. This is so as, in addition to the fulfillment of their traditional role in teaching and (basic) research, universities, as aptly described within the helix framework, are expected to engage in regional development processes. The paper aims to detect trends of convergence among EU universities in terms of performance. To the best of our knowledge, this topic has not hitherto been examined. The empirical analysis of the paper covers the period 2014–2021, utilizes data obtained from URAP (University Ranking by Academic Performance), and employs the methodological approach of convergence clubs. The findings of the paper provide valuable insight into both theory and policy-making. We conclude that despite the unification of EU educational space, trends of divergence among EU universities are still present, and notable divisions still remain. Consequently, this indicates that the impact of EU universities on the formation of spatial disparities across EU space is not neutral.
Darknet Traffic Big-Data Analysis and Network Management for Real-Time Automating of the Malicious Intent Detection Process by a Weight Agnostic Neural Networks Framework
Authors: Demertzis Konstantinos , Tsiknas Konstantinos , Takezis Dimitrios , Skianis Charalabos , Iliadis Lazaros
Published: March 2021

Attackers are perpetually modifying their tactics to avoid detection and frequently leverage legitimate credentials with trusted tools already deployed in a network environment, making it difficult for organizations to proactively identify critical security risks. Network traffic analysis products have emerged in response to attackers’ relentless innovation, offering organizations a realistic path forward for combatting creative attackers. Additionally, thanks to the widespread adoption of cloud computing, Device Operators (DevOps) processes, and the Internet of Things (IoT), maintaining effective network visibility has become a highly complex and overwhelming process. What makes network traffic analysis technology particularly meaningful is its ability to combine its core capabilities to deliver malicious intent detection. In this paper, we propose a novel darknet traffic analysis and network management framework to real-time automating the malicious intent detection process, using a weight agnostic neural networks architecture. It is an effective and accurate computational intelligent forensics tool for network traffic analysis, the demystification of malware traffic, and encrypted traffic identification in real time. Based on a weight agnostic neural networks (WANNs) methodology, we propose an automated searching neural net architecture strategy that can perform various tasks such as identifying zero-day attacks. By automating the malicious intent detection process from the darknet, the advanced proposed solution is reducing the skills and effort barrier that prevents many organizations from effectively protecting their most critical assets.
TDMA Datalink Cooperative Navigation Algorithm Based on INS/JTIDS/BA
Authors: Cao Shuo , Qin Honglei , Cong Li , Huang Yingtao
Published: March 2021

Position information is very important tactical information in large-scale joint military operations. Positioning with datalink time of arrival (TOA) measurements is a primary choice when a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is not available, datalink members are randomly distributed, only estimates with measurements between navigation sources and positioning users may lead to a unsatisfactory accuracy, and positioning geometry of altitude is poor. A time division multiple address (TDMA) datalink cooperative navigation algorithm based on INS/JTIDS/BA is presented in this paper. The proposed algorithm is used to revise the errors of the inertial navigation system (INS), clock bias is calibrated via round-trip timing (RTT), and altitude is located with height filter. The TDMA datalink cooperative navigation algorithm estimate errors are stated with general navigation measurements, cooperative navigation measurements, and predicted states. Weighted horizontal geometric dilution of precision (WHDOP) of the proposed algorithm and the effect of the cooperative measurements on positioning accuracy is analyzed in theory. We simulate a joint tactical information distribution system (JTIDS) network with multiple members to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm. The simulation results show that compared to an extended Kalman filter (EKF) that processes TOA measurements sequentially and a TDMA datalink navigation algorithm without cooperative measurements, the TDMA datalink cooperative navigation algorithm performs better.
A Simple and Novel Localization Method Using the Radiated Ultra-Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Wave Signals from the Surface Vehicle and Submerged Ones
Authors: Yang Ke , Li Dongsheng , Li Hao , Ding Kai , Li Bin
Published: March 2021

Because the surface and submerged vehicles radiate Ultra-Low-Frequency (ULF) Electromagnetic waves, the status of the vehicles in the ocean can be detected and explored by analyzing such signals, and this has been gained increasing attention. In this paper, a hybrid algorithm of the ant colony algorithm and Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm is proposed to locate a moving target with a constant speed based on the fully investigation of the uniformly magnetized spheroid model. Additionally, an experiment has been conducted to validate the performance of the hybrid algorithm. At the same time, the comparison between the proposed ellipsoid model with the conventional dipole model has also been done, and the results show that the calculated results based on the prolate spheroid model agree well with the recorded GPS results with maximum 6.67% average error, which is way better than the dipole model (31.59%, max.).
Enhancement of the Antileukemic Action of the Inhibitors of DNA and Histone Methylation: 5-Aza-2′-Deoxycytidine and 3-Deazaneplanocin-A by Vitamin C
Authors: Momparler Richard L. , Côté Sylvie , Momparler Louise F.
Published: March 2021

Epigenetic gene silencing by DNA methylation and histone methylation by EZH2 play an important role in the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). EZH2 catalyzes the trimethylation of histone H3-lysine 27-trimethylated (H3K27me3). These epigenetic alterations silence the expression of the genes that suppress leukemogenesis. Reversal of this gene silencing by 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-CdR), an inhibitor of DNA methylation, and by 3-deazaneplanocin-A (DZNep), an inhibitor of EZH2, results in synergistic gene reactivation and antileukemic interaction. The objective of this study is to determine if the addition of another epigenetic agent could further enhance the antileukemic action of these inhibitors of DNA and histone methylation. Vitamin C (Vit C) is reported to enhance the antineoplastic action of 5-Aza-CdR on AML cells. The mechanism responsible for this action of Vit C is due to its function as a cofactor of alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (α-KGDD). The enhancement by Vit C of the catalytic activity of α-KGDD of the ten eleven translocation (TET) pathway, as well as of the Jumonji C histone demethylases (JHDMs), is shown to result in demethylation of DNA and histones, leading to reactivation of tumor suppressor genes and an antineoplastic effect. This action of Vit C has the potential to complement the antileukemic action of 5-Aza-CdR and DZNep. We observe that Vit C remarkably increases the antineoplastic activity of 5-Aza-CdR and DZNep against myeloid leukemic cells. An important step to bring this novel epigenetic therapy to clinical trial in patients with AML is the determination of its optimal dose schedule.
Effect of Oil Content and Oil Addition Point on the Extrusion Processing of Wheat Gluten-Based Meat Analogues
Authors: Kendler Christina , Duchardt Arvid , Karbstein Heike P. , Emin M. Azad
Published: March 2021

High-moisture extrusion is a common process to impart an anisotropic, meat-like structure to plant proteins, such as wheat gluten. The addition of oil during the process promises to enhance the sensory properties of the meat analogs. In this study, the influence of oil on extrusion-relevant parameters as well as the structure-related characteristics of extruded wheat gluten was investigated. Oil was added directly to the extruder at different contents (0, 2, 4, 6%) and addition points (front/end of the extruder barrel). Process conditions, complex viscosity, Young’s modulus and oil phase morphology were determined as a function of oil content and oil addition point. With increasing oil content, material temperature, die pressure, and complex viscosity decreased. The addition of oil at the end of the extruder barrel reduced this effect compared to the addition of oil in the front part of the extruder. It was observed that the extrudate’s tensile strength is a function of material temperature, resulting in an increase in tensile strength with increasing material temperature. The oil was dispersed in the gluten matrix as small droplets with irregular shape. As the oil content increased, the size of the oil droplets increased, while the addition of oil at the end of the extruder resulted in a decrease in droplet size.
Probiotics as a Possible Strategy for the Prevention and Treatment of Allergies. A Narrative Review
Authors: Lopez-Santamarina Aroa , Gonzalez Esther Gonzalez , Lamas Alexandre , Mondragon Alicia del Carmen , Regal Patricia , Miranda Jose Manuel
Published: March 2021

Allergies are an increasing global public health concern, especially for children and people living in urban environments. Allergies impair the quality of life of those who suffer from them, and for this reason, alternatives for the treatment of allergic diseases or reduction in their symptoms are being sought. The main objective of this study was to compile the studies carried out on probiotics as a possible therapy for allergies. The most studied allergies on which probiotics have been shown to have a beneficial effect are rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. Most studies have studied the administration of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium spp. in children and have shown beneficial effects, such as a reduction in hyperreactivity and inflammation caused by allergens and a decrease in cytokine release, among other beneficial effects. In the case of children, no clear beneficial effects were found in several studies, and the potential risk from the use of some opportunistic bacteria, such as probiotics, seems controversial. In the studies that reported beneficial results, these effects were found to make allergy symptoms less aggressive, thus reducing morbidity in allergy sufferers. The different effects of the same probiotic bacteria on different patients seem to reinforce the idea that the efficacy of probiotics is dependent on the microbial species or strain, its derived metabolites and byproducts, and the gut microbiota eubiosis of the patient. This study is relevant in the context of allergic diseases, as it provides a broader understanding of new alternatives for the treatment of allergies, both in children, who are the main sufferers, and adults, showing that probiotics, in some cases, reduce the symptoms and severity of such diseases.
Recent Advances of Taxol-Loaded Biocompatible Nanocarriers Embedded in Natural Polymer-Based Hydrogels
Authors: Voci Silvia , Gagliardi Agnese , Molinaro Roberto , Fresta Massimo , Cosco Donato
Published: March 2021

The discovery of paclitaxel (PTX) has been a milestone in anti-cancer therapy and has promoted the development and marketing of various formulations that have revolutionized the therapeutic approach towards several malignancies. Despite its peculiar anti-cancer activity, the physico-chemical properties of PTX compromise the administration of the compound in polar media. Because of this, since the development of the first Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved formulation (Taxol®), consistent efforts have been made to obtain suitable delivery systems able to preserve/increase PTX efficacy and to overcome the side effects correlated to the presence of some excipients. The exploitation of natural polymers as potential materials for drug delivery purposes has favored the modulation of the bioavailability and the pharmacokinetic profiles of the drug, and in this regard, several formulations have been developed that allow the controlled release of the active compound. In this mini-review, the recent advances concerning the design and applications of natural polymer-based hydrogels containing PTX-loaded biocompatible nanocarriers are discussed. The technological features of these formulations as well as the therapeutic outcome achieved following their administration will be described, demonstrating their potential role as innovative systems to be used in anti-tumor therapy.
Scale and Scope of Gene-Alcohol Interactions in Chronic Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chen Jian-Min , Herzig Anthony , Génin Emmanuelle , Masson Emmanuelle , Cooper David , Férec Claude
Published: March 2021

Background: Excessive alcohol consumption has long been known to be the primary cause of chronic pancreatitis (CP) but genetic risk factors have been increasingly identified over the past 25 years. The scale and scope of gene-alcohol interactions in CP nevertheless remain unclear. Methods: All studies that had obtained genetic variant data concurrently on alcoholic CP (ACP) patients, non-ACP (NACP) patients and normal controls were collated. Employing normal controls as a common baseline, paired ORACP and ORNACP (odds ratios associated with ACP and NACP, respectively) values were calculated and used to assess gene-alcohol interactions. Results: Thirteen variants involving PRSS1, SPINK1, CTRC, CLDN2, CPA1, CEL and CTRB1-CTRB2, and varying from very rare to common, were collated. Seven variants had an ORACP > ORNACP, which was regarded as an immediate indicator of gene-alcohol interactions in CP. Variants with an ORACP < ORNACP were also found to interact with alcohol consumption by virtue of their impact on age at first pancreatitis symptoms in ACP. Conclusions: This study revealed evidence for extensive gene-alcohol interactions in CP. Our findings lend support to the hypothesis that alcohol affects the expression of genetically determined CP and highlight a predominant role of weak-effect variants in the development of ACP.
Detection of Highly Divergent Tandem Repeats in the Rice Genome
Authors: Korotkov Eugene V. , Kamionskya Anastasiya M. , Korotkova Maria A.
Published: March 2021

Currently, there is a lack of bioinformatics approaches to identify highly divergent tandem repeats (TRs) in eukaryotic genomes. Here, we developed a new mathematical method to search for TRs, which uses a novel algorithm for constructing multiple alignments based on the generation of random position weight matrices (RPWMs), and applied it to detect TRs of 2 to 50 nucleotides long in the rice genome. The RPWM method could find highly divergent TRs in the presence of insertions or deletions. Comparison of the RPWM algorithm with the other methods of TR identification showed that RPWM could detect TRs in which the average number of base substitutions per nucleotide (x) was between 1.5 and 3.2, whereas T-REKS and TRF methods could not detect divergent TRs with x > 1.5. Applied to the search of TRs in the rice genome, the RPWM method revealed that TRs occupied 5% of the genome and that most of them were 2 and 3 bases long. Using RPWM, we also revealed the correlation of TRs with dispersed repeats and transposons, suggesting that some transposons originated from TRs. Thus, the novel RPWM algorithm is an effective tool to search for highly divergent TRs in the genomes.
Conceptualizing “Family” and the Role of “Chosen Family” within the LGBTQ+ Refugee Community: A Text Network Graph Analysis
Authors: Kim Seohyun , Feyissa Israel Fisseha
Published: March 2021

This study analyzed meaning attributions regarding “family” and “chosen family” by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Pansexual, Transgender, Gender Queer, Queer, Intersex, Agender, Asexual, and other Queer-identifying community (LGBTQ+) refugees. The meaning and significance of a chosen family in the newly established life of the refugees was also pin-pointed for its value of safekeeping the wellbeing and settlement process. We analyzed narrative statements given by 67 LGBTQ+ refugees from 82 YouTube videos. Using InfraNodus, a text graph analysis tool, we identified pathways for meaning circulation within the narrative data, and generated a contextualized meaning for family and chosen family. The conceptualization process produced a deduction within family relationships, exploring why people, other than in biological relationships, appear to be vital in their overall wellbeing and settlement, as well as the process through which this occurs. Biological family is sometimes associated with words that instigate fear, danger, and insecurity, while the concept of chosen family is associated with words like trusting, like-minded, understanding, welcoming, loving, committed, etc. The results of the study are intended to add knowledge to the gap by showing the types and characteristics of family relationships in LGBTQ+ refugee settings. It is also a call for the relevant research community to produce more evidence in such settings, as this is essential for obtaining a better understanding of these issues.
Synthetic 3D Recording of a Shipwreck Embedded in Seafloor Sediments: Distinguishing Internal Details
Authors: Boldreel Lars O. , Grøn Ole , Cvikel Deborah
Published: March 2021

3D recording of shipwrecks completely buried in seafloor sediments has great potential as an important aspect of maritime archaeological surveys and management. Buried shipwrecks have been recorded directly with seismic 3D Chirp sub-bottom profilers on an experimental basis. This method is, however, expensive, time-consuming and complicated. This article outlines the application of a faster, cheaper, and less complicated method of synthetic 3D recording, which is also less sensitive to weather conditions. It involves the acquisition of a larger number of seismic 2D high-resolution sub-bottom profiles in a dense grid that does not need to be regular. The method is based on the results of survey work conducted in the Akko Harbour area, on the Carmel coast of Israel, which shows that the shape of the hull of a shipwreck can be precisely determined, and that the sedimentary units bounding it can be outlined and interpreted. Based on an interpretation of the shape of the hull, the depth of the structure was measured, and a 3D image of the shipwreck was subsequently generated. Samples of the sub-seafloor were obtained across the area, and the sample located within the area of the mapped shipwreck was found to contain wood fragments and a piece of rope. This article demonstrates that 2D surveying is a viable and cost-effective alternative to 3D surveying that is able to produce good results.
Depth Contours and Coastline Generalization for Harbour and Approach Nautical Charts
Authors: Skopeliti Andriani , Tsoulos Lysandros , Pe’eri Shachak
Published: March 2021

Generalization of nautical charts and electronic nautical charts (ENCs) is a critical process which aims at the safety of navigation and clear cartographic presentation. This paper elaborates on the problem of depth contours and coastline generalization—natural and artificial—for medium-scale charts (harbour and approach) taking into account International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) standards, hydrographic offices’ (HOs) best practices and cartographic literature. Additional factors considered are scale, depth, and seafloor characteristics. The proposed method for depth contour generalization utilizes contours created from high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) or those already portrayed on nautical charts. Moreover, it ensures consistency with generalized soundings. Regarding natural coastline generalization, the focus was on managing the resolution, while maintaining the shape, and on the islands. For the provision of a suitable generalization solution for the artificial shoreline, it was preprocessed in order to automatically recognize the shape of each structure as perceived by humans (e.g., a pier that looks like a T). The proposed generalization methodology is implemented with custom-developed routines utilizing standard geo-processing functions available in a geographic information system (GIS) environment and thus can be adopted by hydrographic agencies to support their ENC and nautical chart production. The methodology has been tested in the New York Lower Bay area in the U.S.A. Results have successfully delineated depth contours and coastline at scales 1:10 K, 1:20 K, 1:40 K and 1:80 K.