bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Segmentation Algorithm of Colonoscopy Images Based on Multi-Scale Feature Fusion
Authors: Yu Jing , Li Zhengping , Xu Chao , Feng Bo
Published: August 2022

Colorectal cancer is a common malignant tumor. Colorectal cancer is primarily caused by the cancerization of an adenomatous polyp. Segmentation of polyps in computer-assisted enteroscopy images is helpful for doctors to diagnose and treat the disease accurately. In this study, a segmentation algorithm of colonoscopy images based on multi-scale feature fusion is proposed. The proposed algorithm adopts ResNet50 as the backbone network to extract features. The shallow features are processed using the cross extraction module, thus increasing the receptive field, retaining the texture information, and fusing the processed shallow features and deep features at different proportions based on a multi-proportion fusion module. The proposed algorithm is capable of suppressing redundant information, removing background noise, and sharpening boundaries while acquiring considerable semantic information. As revealed by the results of the experiments on the published Kvasir-SEG dataset of intestinal polyps, the mean Dice coefficient and mean intersection over union were obtained as 0.9192 and 0.8873, better than that of existing mainstream algorithms. The result verifies the effectiveness of the proposed network and provides a reference for deep learning concerning the image processing and analysis of intestinal polyps.
A Review of AC and DC Collection Grids for Offshore Renewable Energy with a Qualitative Evaluation for Marine Energy Resources
Authors: Fjellstedt Christoffer , Ullah Md Imran , Forslund Johan , Jonasson Erik , Temiz Irina , Thomas Karin
Published: August 2022

Marine energy resources could be crucial in meeting the increased demand for clean electricity. To enable the use of marine energy resources, developing efficient and durable offshore electrical systems is vital. Currently, there are no large-scale commercial projects with marine energy resources, and the question of how to design such electrical systems is still not settled. A natural starting point in investigating this is to draw on experiences and research from offshore wind power. This article reviews different collection grid topologies and key components for AC and DC grid structures. The review covers aspects such as the type of components, operation and estimated costs of commercially available components. A DC collection grid can be especially suitable for offshore marine energy resources, since the transmission losses are expected to be lower, and the electrical components could possibly be made smaller. Therefore, five DC collection grid topologies are proposed and qualitatively evaluated for marine energy resources using submerged and non-submerged marine energy converters. The properties, advantages and disadvantages of the proposed topologies are discussed, and it is concluded that a suitable electrical system for a marine energy farm will most surely be based on a site-specific techno-economic analysis.
Research on Image Identification Method of Rock Thin Slices in Tight Oil Reservoirs Based on Mask R-CNN
Authors: Liu Tao , Li Chunsheng , Liu Zongbao , Zhang Kejia , Liu Fang , Li Dongsheng , Zhang Yan , Liu Zhigang , Liu Liyuan , Huang Jiacheng
Published: August 2022

Terrestrial tight oil has extremely strong diagenesis heterogeneity, so a large number of rock thin slices are needed to reveal the real microscopic pore-throat structure characteristics. In addition, difficult identification, high cost, long time, strong subjectivity and other problems exist in the identification of tight oil rock thin slices, and it is difficult to meet the needs of fine description and quantitative characterization of the reservoir. In this paper, a method for identifying the characteristics of rock thin slices in tight oil reservoirs based on the deep learning technique was proposed. The present work has the following steps: first, the image preprocessing technique was studied. The original image noise was removed by filtering, and the image pixel size was unified by a normalization technique to ensure the quality of samples; second, the self-labeling image data augmentation technique was constructed to solve the problem of sparse samples; third, the Mask R-CNN algorithm was introduced and improved to synchronize the segmentation and recognition of rock thin slice components in tight oil reservoirs; Finally, it was demonstrated through experiments that the SMR method has significant advantages in accuracy, execution speed and migration.
Partial Discharge (PD) Signal Detection and Isolation on High Voltage Equipment Using Improved Complete EEMD Method
Authors: Thuc Vu Cong , Lee Han Soo
Published: August 2022

Electricity has a crucial function in contemporary civilization. The power grid must be stable to ensure the efficiency and dependability of electrical equipment. This implies that the high-voltage equipment at the substation must be reliably operated. As a result, the appropriate and dependable use of systems to monitor the operating status of high-voltage electrical equipment has recently gained attention. Partial discharge (PD) analysis is one of the most promising solutions for monitoring and diagnosing potential problems in insulation systems. Noise is a major challenge in diagnosing and detecting defects when using this measurement. This study aims to denoise PD signals using a data decomposition method, improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise algorithm, combined with statistical significance test to increase noise reduction efficiency and to derive and visualize the Hilbert spectrum of the input signal in time-frequency domain after filtering the noise. In the PD signal analysis, both artificial and experimental signals were used as input signals in the decomposition method. For these signals, this study has yielded significant improvement in the denoising and the PD detecting process indicated by statistical measures. Thus, the signal decomposition by using the proposed method is proven to be a useful tool for diagnosing the PD on high voltage equipment.
Residual Biomass Conversion to Bioenergy
Authors: Morrone Biagio
Published: August 2022

Greenhouse gases (GHG) concentration (CO2, CH4, and NOx mainly) in the Earth’s atmosphere has dramatically increased since 1960; in particular, the atmospheric CO2 levels have increased from 320 ppm to 412 ppm from 1960 to 2019 [...]
Advanced Local Grid Control System for Offshore Wind Turbines with the Diode-Based Rectifier HVDC Link Implemented in a True Scalable Test Bench
Authors: Herrera Danilo , Tricarico Thiago , Oliveira Diego , Aredes Mauricio , Galván-Díez Eduardo , Carrasco Juan M.
Published: August 2022

Diode-based HVDC link technology is considered an alternative to reduce the cost and complexity of offshore HVDC platforms. When this technology is used, the AC grid of the wind farm must be created artificially. This paper proposes an advanced frequency control method that permits forming an AC grid voltage system to connect offshore wind turbines to a diode-based HVDC link rectifier. The proposed algorithm can be easily implemented in the wind farm’s overall Power Plant Controller (PPC) without any change in the commercial wind turbine firmware. All wind turbines receive reactive power targets from the PPC to maintain the frequency and amplitude of the offshore AC line, delivering the maximum active power generated by the wind. A novel black start method is proposed to establish the wind farm’s local AC grid voltage system. The control method has been implemented and proved in an experimental setting. The black start has been successfully verified, and the frequency control algorithm shows excellent experimental results.
Development of a Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) Ballot and Machine Learning for Generation Z Consumers for Innovative Traditional Food
Authors: Wang Bo , Shen Che , Zhao Ting , Zhai Xiuwen , Ding Meiqi , Dai Limei , Gai Shengmei , Liu Dengyong
Published: August 2022

Generation Z (Gen Z) consumers account for an increasing proportion of the food market. The aim of this study took lamb shashliks as an example and developed novel products from the perspective of cooking methods in order to develop a traditional food suitable for Gen Z consumers. The sensory characterization of electric heating air (EH), microwave heating (MH), air frying (AF), and control (traditional burning charcoal (BC) of lamb shashliks) was performed using the CATA methodology with 120 Gen Z consumers as assessors. A 9-point hedonic scale was used to evaluate Gen Z consumers’ preferences for the cooking method, as well as a CATA ballot with 46 attributes which described the sensory characteristics of lamb shashliks. The machine learning algorithms were used to identify consumer preferences for different cooking methods of lamb shashliks as a function of sensory attributes and assessed the relationship between products and attributes present in the perceptual map for the degree of association. Meanwhile, sensory attributes as important variables play a relatively more important role in each cooking method. The most important variables for sensory attributes of lamb shashliks using BC are char-grilled aroma and smoky flavor. Similarly, the most important variables for AF samples are butter aroma, intensity aroma, and intensity aftertaste, the most important variables for EH samples are dry texture and hard texture, and the most important variables for MH samples are light color regarding external appearance and lumpy on chewing texture. The interviews were conducted with Gen Z consumers to investigate why they prefer innovative products—AF. Grounded theory and the social network analysis (SNA) method were utilized to explore why consumers chose AF, demonstrating that Gen Z consumers who had previously tasted AF lamb shashliks could easily perceive the buttery aroma. This study provides a theoretical and practical basis for developing lamb shashliks tailored to Gen Z consumers.
Enzymatic Glycerolysis of Palm Kernel Olein-Stearin Blend for Monolaurin Synthesis as an Emulsifier and Antibacterial
Authors: Ngatirah Ngatirah , Hidayat Chusnul , Rahayu Endang S. , Utami Tyas
Published: August 2022

Monolaurin is a monoacylglycerol, which can act as an emulsifier and antibacterial. Palm kernel oil is a monolaurin raw material that can be fractionated into palm kernel olein (PKOo) and palm kernel stearin (PKS). Therefore, this study prepares monolaurin through enzymatic glycerolysis of the PKOo-PKS blend. The effects of enzyme concentration, molar ratio of oil to glycerol, solvent to oil ratio, and reaction temperature on the products of glycerolysis were investigated. The best conditions were selected for further production, purification, and characterization of the monolaurin. The results showed that the best glycerolysis condition was obtained with an enzyme concentration of 10% w/w, an oil–glycerol molar ratio of 1:4, a solvent–oil ratio of 2:1 v/w, and a glycerolysis temperature of 40 °C with a stirring speed of 600 rpm based on the monoacylglycerol (MAG) concentration. The identification of the sample with FTIR and NMR indicated that the purified glycerolysis product is the monolaurin. The thermal analysis showed a large endothermic peak with a melting point of 35.56 °C. The purified monolaurin has a HLB value of 5.92, and an emulsion capacity and stability of 93.66 ± 1.85% and 89.54 ± 3.36%, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the monolaurin for Escherichia coli FNCC 0091 and Staphylococcus aureus FNCC 0047 were at 500 ppm, and 100 ppm for Bacillus subtilis FNCC 0060.
The Influence of Gel Preparation and Thermal Treatment on the Optical Properties of SiO2-ZnO Powders Obtained by Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Mocioiu Oana-Cătălina , Vlăduț Cristina Maria , Atkinson Irina , Brătan Veronica , Mocioiu Ana-Maria
Published: August 2022

The effect of gel preparation and heat treatment on the structural and optical properties of SiO2-ZnO materials prepared by the sol–gel method was investigated. Zinc acetate dehydrate, TEOS (tetraethylortosilicate), ethanol, distillated water and HCl were used as a starting material, solvent and catalyst, respectively. Four powders (G1–G4) were prepared in different ways from the starting materials mentioned above. The method of adding Zn precursors during the synthesis differed from one another. For the G1 synthesis, only Zn acetate powder was employed; for the G2 synthesis, Zn acetate was dissolved in distilled water; and for the G3 synthesis, Zn acetate was dissolved in ethanol. When synthesizing G4, TEOS was added last, after Zn acetate had been combined with water and ethanol. The SiO2-ZnO materials were dried at 200 °C and then heat-treated at 700 °C and 900 °C. All samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy in order to investigate their structure. SEM measurements were performed to investigate the morphology of materials. Optical properties were influenced by gel preparation and heat treatments. A reflectance of over 60% was obtained for G3 and G4 powders, while for G1 and G2, the reflectance was below 30%. In conclusion, synthesis steps and heat treatment can control the structure and properties of the powders.
Determinants of Displacement and Displacement Duration Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita: A Hurdle Model Approach
Authors: Price James I. , Bohara Alok K. , Hansen Wendy L.
Published: August 2022

In 2005, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused widespread destruction and displacement in parts of Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. This research evaluates determinants of displacement and, conditional on being displaced, the duration of displacement for households living in areas affected by these hurricanes. Hurdle Models, which assume that different processes govern zero outcomes (i.e., no displacement) and positive outcomes (i.e., amount of time displaced), are used to model the likelihood of household displacement and its duration as a function of socioeconomic characteristics, hurricane-caused property and neighborhood damage, social support, and financial assistance. Results show that mobile home residence, marital status, educational attainment, the presence of children, and property and neighborhood damage affect the likelihood and expected length of displacement among sample respondents. Financial assistance and social support are also correlated with displacement and its duration, but endogeneity concerns complicate the interpretation of these results. The findings highlight the diversity of factors that slow households’ return following displacement and underscore the need for additional research on the role of social capital in determining hazard-related outcomes.
Relationships among Local Agricultural Product Purchases, Self-Cooked Meal Consumption, and Healthy Eating Habits: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Town in Gunma, Japan
Authors: Machida Daisuke , Sugiura Yuki
Published: August 2022

This study examined whether the frequency of purchasing local agricultural products and the intake frequency of self-cooked meals were related to healthy eating habits. A cross-sectional study was conducted using anonymized data from the “Survey on health promotion and food-and-nutritional education” conducted in 2021 in Tamamura, Gunma, Japan, targeting residents aged 20–65. Logistic regression analyses were conducted using the purchasing frequency of local agricultural products (often/sometimes/rarely) and the intake frequency of self-cooked meals (almost every day/not every day) as independent variables. The dependent variables were the frequencies of breakfast (every day/not every day), balanced meal (two times/day or more/fewer than two times/day), and vegetable intake (two times/day or more/fewer than two times/day). The purchasing frequency of local agricultural products was positively related to the frequency of balanced meal and vegetable intake. Additionally, the intake frequency of self-cooked meals was positively related to the frequencies of breakfast, balanced meal, and vegetable intake. In conclusion, significant positive relationships of the purchasing frequency of local agricultural products and the intake frequency of self-cooked meals with healthy eating habits were confirmed.
Application of Essential Oils to Control the Biodeteriogenic Microorganisms in Archives and Libraries
Authors: Bosco Francesca , Mollea Chiara , Demichela Micaela , Fissore Davide
Published: August 2022

Microbial contamination control in indoor environments, such as libraries and archives, represents a challenge. Essential oils (EOs), well-known for their antimicrobial properties, have been applied in pharmaceutical and food industry from many years. In the present study, Thymus vulgaris and Origanum vulgare EO antimicrobial efficacy on paper-born microorganisms, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Alternaria alternata, was investigated to protect water-damaged paper documents and to control indoor air quality for operator’s health safety. T. vulgaris EO was the most effective: Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values obtained for S. epidermidis and R. mucilaginosa, with a broth macro-dilution method, were 7.5 µg/mL and 5.63 µg/mL, respectively. T. vulgaris EO (0.75% v/v), nebulized immediately after the inoculation on agar plates or paper sheets, showed a high inhibition effect against the three biodeteriogenic microorganisms, also when lyophilized on paper sheets; in this last case, the EO has a higher efficacy when applied immediately after the freeze drying. Regarding the EO effect against A. alternata, the inhibition percentage of the mycelial growth, MGI, (81.4%), observed for nonsporulated mycelium, was higher than that for the sporulated one (51.4%). Finally, T. vulgaris EO (0.75% v/v) was effectively applied on a real contaminated book cover by means of EO impregnated contact sheets. Obtained results demonstrated that tested EOs were able to delay or completely inhibit paper-born microorganism growth for both flood-independent or -dependent contamination.
New Possibilities in the Therapeutic Approach to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Doroszkiewicz Julia , Mroczko Barbara
Published: August 2022

Despite the fact that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, after many years of research regarding this disease, there is no casual treatment. Regardless of the serious public health threat it poses, only five medical treatments for Alzheimer’s disease have been authorized, and they only control symptoms rather than changing the course of the disease. Numerous clinical trials of single-agent therapy did not slow the development of disease or improve symptoms when compared to placebo. Evidence indicates that the pathological alterations linked to AD start many years earlier than a manifestation of the disease. In this pre-clinical period before the neurodegenerative process is established, pharmaceutical therapy might prove invaluable. Although recent findings from the testing of drugs such as aducanumab are encouraging, they should nevertheless be interpreted cautiously. Such medications may be able to delay the onset of dementia, significantly lowering the prevalence of the disease, but are still a long way from having a clinically effective disease-modifying therapy.
Behavioral, Neural, and Molecular Mechanisms of Conditioned Mate Preference: The Role of Opioids and First Experiences of Sexual Reward
Authors: Quintana Gonzalo R. , Mac Cionnaith Conall E. , Pfaus James G.
Published: August 2022

Although mechanisms of mate preference are thought to be relatively hard-wired, experience with appetitive and consummatory sexual reward has been shown to condition preferences for partner related cues and even objects that predict sexual reward. Here, we reviewed evidence from laboratory species and humans on sexually conditioned place, partner, and ejaculatory preferences in males and females, as well as the neurochemical, molecular, and epigenetic mechanisms putatively responsible. From a comprehensive review of the available data, we concluded that opioid transmission at μ opioid receptors forms the basis of sexual pleasure and reward, which then sensitizes dopamine, oxytocin, and vasopressin systems responsible for attention, arousal, and bonding, leading to cortical activation that creates awareness of attraction and desire. First experiences with sexual reward states follow a pattern of sexual imprinting, during which partner- and/or object-related cues become crystallized by conditioning into idiosyncratic “types” that are found sexually attractive and arousing. These mechanisms tie reward and reproduction together, blending proximate and ultimate causality in the maintenance of variability within a species.
Matrix Metalloproteinases in Dental and Periodontal Tissues and Their Current Inhibitors: Developmental, Degradational and Pathological Aspects
Authors: Elgezawi Moataz , Haridy Rasha , Almas Khalid , Abdalla Moamen A. , Omar Omar , Abuohashish Hatem , Elembaby Abeer , Christine Wölfle Uta , Siddiqui Yasir , Kaisarly Dalia
Published: August 2022

Objectives: This review article aims to describe some of the roles of Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in enamel, dentine, dental caries, hybrid layer degradation, pulp and periodontal tissues, throwing light on their current inhibitors. The article addresses the potential of MMPs to serve as biomarkers with diagnostic and therapeutic value. Design: The sections of this review discuss MMPs’ involvement in developmental, remodeling, degradational and turnover aspects of dental and periodontal tissues as well as their signals in the pathogenesis, progress of different lesions and wound healing of these tissues. The literature was searched for original research articles, review articles and theses. The literature search was conducted in PubMed and MEDLINE for articles published in the last 20 years. Results: 119 published papers, two textbooks and two doctoral theses were selected for preparing the current review. Conclusions: MMPs are significant proteases, of evident contribution in dental and periapical tissue development, health and disease processes, with promising potential for use as diagnostic and prognostic disease biomarkers. Continuing understanding of their role in pathogenesis and progress of different dental, periapical and periodontal lesions, as well as in dentine-pulp wound healing could be a keystone to future diagnostic and therapeutic regimens.
Congo Red as a Supramolecular Carrier System for Doxorubicin: An Approach to Understanding the Mechanism of Action
Authors: Kwiecińska Klaudia , Stachowicz-Kuśnierz Anna , Korchowiec Beata , Roman Maciej , Kwiatek Wojciech M. , Jagusiak Anna , Roterman Irena , Korchowiec Jacek
Published: August 2022

The uptake and distribution of doxorubicin in the MCF7 line of breast-cancer cells were monitored by Raman measurements. It was demonstrated that bioavailability of doxorubicin can be significantly enhanced by applying Congo red. To understand the mechanism of doxorubicin delivery by Congo red supramolecular carriers, additional monolayer measurements and molecular dynamics simulations on model membranes were undertaken. Acting as molecular scissors, Congo red particles cut doxorubicin aggregates and incorporated them into small-sized Congo red clusters. The mixed doxorubicin/Congo red clusters were adsorbed to the hydrophilic part of the model membrane. Such behavior promoted transfer through the membrane.
Differential CFTR-Interactome Proximity Labeling Procedures Identify Enrichment in Multiple SLC Transporters
Authors: Chevalier Benoît , Baatallah Nesrine , Najm Matthieu , Castanier Solène , Jung Vincent , Pranke Iwona , Golec Anita , Stoven Véronique , Marullo Stefano , Antigny Fabrice , Guerrera Ida Chiara , Sermet-Gaudelus Isabelle , Edelman Aleksander , Hinzpeter Alexandre
Published: August 2022

Proteins interacting with CFTR and its mutants have been intensively studied using different experimental approaches. These studies provided information on the cellular processes leading to proper protein folding, routing to the plasma membrane, recycling, activation and degradation. Recently, new approaches have been developed based on the proximity labeling of protein partners or proteins in close vicinity and their subsequent identification by mass spectrometry. In this study, we evaluated TurboID- and APEX2-based proximity labeling of WT CFTR and compared the obtained data to those reported in databases. The CFTR-WT interactome was then compared to that of two CFTR (G551D and W1282X) mutants and the structurally unrelated potassium channel KCNK3. The two proximity labeling approaches identified both known and additional CFTR protein partners, including multiple SLC transporters. Proximity labeling approaches provided a more comprehensive picture of the CFTR interactome and improved our knowledge of the CFTR environment.
Microenvironment in Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders: Multi-Dimensional Characteristics and Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis
Authors: Deng Shuzhi , Wang Shimeng , Shi Xueke , Zhou Hongmei
Published: August 2022

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) are a group of diseases involving the oral mucosa and that have a risk of carcinogenesis. The microenvironment is closely related to carcinogenesis and cancer progression by regulating the immune response, cell metabolic activities, and mechanical characteristics. Meanwhile, there are extensive interactions between the microenvironments that remodel and provide favorable conditions for cancer initiation. However, the changes, exact roles, and interactions of microenvironments during the carcinogenesis of OPMDs have not been fully elucidated. Here, we present an updated landscape of the microenvironments in OPMDs, emphasizing the changes in the immune microenvironment, metabolic microenvironment, mechanical microenvironment, and neural microenvironment during carcinogenesis and their carcinogenic mechanisms. We then propose an immuno–metabolic–mechanical–neural interaction network to describe their close relationships. Lastly, we summarize the therapeutic strategies for targeting microenvironments, and provide an outlook on future research directions and clinical applications. This review depicts a vivid microenvironment landscape and sheds light on new strategies to prevent the carcinogenesis of OPMDs.
AMPK Activation Is Important for the Preservation of Insulin Sensitivity in Visceral, but Not in Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue of Postnatally Overfed Rat Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Mićić Bojana , Teofilović Ana , Djordjevic Ana , Veličković Nataša , Macut Djuro , Vojnović Milutinović Danijela
Published: August 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a well-known reproductive syndrome usually associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and hyperinsulinemia. Although the first signs of PCOS begin early in adolescence, it is underexplored whether peripubertal obesity predisposes women to PCOS metabolic disturbances. To highlight that, we examined the impact of postnatal overfeeding-induced obesity, achieved by litter size reduction during the suckling period, on metabolic disturbances associated with visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue (VAT and SAT) function in the 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT)-induced animal model of PCOS. We analyzed markers of insulin signaling, lipid metabolism, and energy sensing in the VAT and SAT. Our results showed that postnatally overfed DHT-treated Wistar rats had increased VAT mass with hypertrophic adipocytes, together with hyperinsulinemia and increased HOMA index. In the VAT of these animals, insulin signaling remained unchanged while lipogenic markers decreased, which was accompanied by increased AMPK activation. In the SAT of the same animals, markers of lipogenesis and lipolysis increased, while the activity of AMPK decreased. Taken together, obtained results showed that postnatal overfeeding predisposes development of PCOS systemic insulin resistance, most likely as a result of worsened metabolic function of SAT, while VAT preserved its tissue insulin sensitivity through increased activity of AMPK.
Characterization of Transposon-Derived Accessible Chromatin Regions in Rice (Oryza Sativa)
Authors: Zhang Aicen , Zhang Wenli
Published: August 2022

Growing evidence indicates that transposons or transposable elements (TEs)-derived accessible chromatin regions (ACRs) play essential roles in multiple biological processes by interacting with trans-acting factors. However, the function of TE-derived ACRs in the regulation of gene expression in the rice genome has not been well characterized. In this study, we examined the chromatin dynamics in six types of rice tissues and found that ~8% of ACRs were derived from TEs and exhibited distinct levels of accessibility and conservation as compared to those without TEs. TEs exhibited a TE subtype-dependent impact on ACR formation, which can be mediated by changes in the underlying DNA methylation levels. Moreover, we found that tissue-specific TE-derived ACRs might function in the tissue development through the modulation of nearby gene expression. Interestingly, many genes in domestication sweeps were found to overlap with TE-derived ACRs, suggesting their potential functions in the rice domestication. In addition, we found that the expression divergence of 1070 duplicate gene pairs were associated with TE-derived ACRs and had distinct distributions of TEs and ACRs around the transcription start sites (TSSs), which may experience different selection pressures. Thus, our study provides some insights into the biological implications of TE-derived ACRs in the rice genome. Our results imply that these ACRs are likely involved in the regulation of tissue development, rice domestication and functional divergence of duplicated genes.
Cardioprotective Strategies from Cardiotoxicity in Cancer Patients: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kourek Christos , Touloupaki Maria , Rempakos Athanasios , Loritis Konstantinos , Tsougkos Elias , Paraskevaidis Ioannis , Briasoulis Alexandros
Published: August 2022

Cardiotoxicity is a significant complication of chemotherapeutic agents in cancer patients. Cardiovascular incidents including LV dysfunction, heart failure (HF), severe arrhythmias, arterial hypertension, and death are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Risk stratification of cancer patients prior to initiation of chemotherapy is crucial, especially in high-risk patients for cardiotoxicity. The early identification and management of potential risk factors for cardiovascular side effects seems to contribute to the prevention or minimization of cardiotoxicity. Screening of cancer patients includes biomarkers such as cTnI and natriuretic peptide and imaging measurements such as LV function, global longitudinal strain, and cardiac MRI. Cardioprotective strategies have been investigated over the last two decades. These strategies for either primary or secondary prevention include medical therapy such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, b-blockers, aldosterone antagonists, statins and dexrazoxane, physical therapy, and reduction of chemotherapeutic dosages. However, data regarding dosages, duration of medical therapy, and potential interactions with chemotherapeutic agents are still limited. Collaboration among oncologists, cardiologists, and cardio-oncologists could establish management cardioprotective strategies and approved follow-up protocols in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy.
Prognostic Role of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Piovani Daniele , Tsantes Andreas G. , Bonovas Stefanos
Published: August 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has had a major impact on global health, continuing to put strain on healthcare systems and disrupting socioeconomic life [...]
Vaccines to Prevent Coccidioidomycosis: A Gene-Deletion Mutant of Coccidioides Posadasii as a Viable Candidate for Human Trials
Authors: Galgiani John N. , Shubitz Lisa F. , Orbach Marc J. , Mandel M. Alejandra , Powell Daniel A. , Klein Bruce S. , Robb Edward J. , Ohkura Mana , Seka Devin J. , Tomasiak Thomas M. , Monath Thomas P.
Published: August 2022

Coccidioidomycosis is an endemic fungal infection that is reported in up to 20,000 persons per year and has an economic impact close to $1.5 billion. Natural infection virtually always confers protection from future exposure, and this suggests that a preventative vaccine strategy is likely to succeed. We here review progress toward that objective. There has been ongoing research to discover a coccidioidal vaccine over the past seven decades, including one phase III clinical trial, but for reasons of either efficacy or feasibility, a safe and effective vaccine has not yet been developed. This review first summarizes the past research to develop a coccidioidal vaccine. It then details the evidence that supports a live, gene-deletion vaccine candidate as suitable for further development as both a veterinary and a human clinical product. Finally, a plausible vaccine development plan is described which would be applicable to this vaccine candidate and also useful to other future candidates. The public health and economic impact of coccidioidomycosis fully justifies a public private partnership for vaccine development, and the development of a vaccine for this orphan disease will likely require some degree of public funding.
Depression, Stress, and Suicide in Korean Adults before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic Using Data from the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey
Authors: Kim So Young , Yoo Dae Myoung , Kwon Mi Jung , Kim Ji Hee , Kim Joo-Hee , Wee Jee Hye , Choi Hyo Geun
Published: August 2022

This study investigated changes in the prevalence of depression, stress, and suicidal attempts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ≥19-year-old population in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2019 and 2020 was included. The histories of depression, stress, and suicidal attempts were compared between the 2019 and 2020 cohorts using multiple logistic regression analysis with complex sampling. The prevalence of depression was not significantly different between the 2019 and 2020 groups (4.1% vs. 4.5%, p = 0.326). The prevalence of stress and suicide attempts was also not significantly different between groups (all p > 0.05). The rates of depression, stress, and suicide attempts were not associated with the 2020 group compared to the 2019 group (all p > 0.05). The 19- to 39-year-old group in the 2020 group indicated a higher rate of depression (diagnosed by physicians) than the 19- to 39-year-old group in the 2019 group (adjusted odds ratio = 1.58, 95% confidence intervals = 1.00–2.50, p = 0.049). The risks of depression, stress, and suicidal attempts were not related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Korean adults. A young adult population demonstrated an increased risk of depression associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Regulation and Control: What Bimodal Bilingualism Reveals about Learning and Juggling Two Languages
Authors: Frederiksen Anne Therese , Kroll Judith F.
Published: August 2022

In individuals who know more than one language, the languages are always active to some degree. This has consequences for language processing, but bilinguals rarely make mistakes in language selection. A prevailing explanation is that bilingualism is supported by strong cognitive control abilities, developed through long-term practice with managing multiple languages and spilling over into more general executive functions. However, not all bilinguals are the same, and not all contexts for bilingualism provide the same support for control and regulation abilities. This paper reviews research on hearing sign–speech bimodal bilinguals who have a unique ability to use and comprehend their two languages at the same time. We discuss the role of this research in re-examining the role of cognitive control in bilingual language regulation, focusing on how results from bimodal bilingualism research relate to recent findings emphasizing the correlation of control abilities with a bilingual’s contexts of language use. Most bimodal bilingualism research has involved individuals in highly English-dominant language contexts. We offer a critical examination of how existing bimodal bilingualism findings have been interpreted, discuss the value of broadening the scope of this research and identify long-standing questions about bilingualism and L2 learning which might benefit from this perspective.
Desynchronosis: Types, Main Mechanisms, Role in the Pathogenesis of Epilepsy and Other Diseases: A Literature Review
Authors: Bazhanova Elena D.
Published: August 2022

Circadian information is stored in mammalian tissues by an autonomous network of transcriptional feedback loops that have evolved to optimally regulate tissue-specific functions. Currently, stable circadian rhythms of the expression of clock genes (Bmal1/Per2/Cry1, etc.), hormones, and metabolic genes (Glut4/leptin, etc.) have been demonstrated. Desynchronoses are disorders of the body’s biorhythms, where the direction and degree of shift of various indicators of the oscillatory process are disturbed. Desynchronosis can be caused by natural conditions or man-made causes. The disruption of circadian rhythms is a risk factor for the appearance of physiological and behavioral disorders and the development of diseases, including epilepsy, and metabolic and oncological diseases. Evidence suggests that seizure activity in the epilepsy phenotype is associated with circadian dysfunction. Interactions between epilepsy and circadian rhythms may be mediated through melatonin, sleep–wake cycles, and clock genes. The correction of circadian dysfunction can lead to a decrease in seizure activity and vice versa. Currently, attempts are being made to pharmacologically correct desynchronosis and related psycho-emotional disorders, as well as combined somatic pathology. On the other hand, the normalization of the light regimen, the regulation of sleep–wake times, and phototherapy as additions to standard treatment can speed up the recovery of patients with various diseases.
Numerical Study of Flow Field Optimization for Forebay and Suction Chamber to Solve the Vibration of Pumps in a Parallel Circulation Pumping Station
Authors: Wang Weishu , Zhen Juan , Xu Weihui , Guo Jiawei , Zhai Yuxin
Published: August 2022

The water inlet channel is an essential component of the thermal power plant’s circulating water system. It primarily arranges the water flow in the channel so that it is introduced into the pump room smoothly, steadily, and uniformly. Significantly, the operation state of the circulating water pump is impacted by the flow condition of the water inlet channel. The coal-fired generating set’s water input channel was chosen as the research object in this work, and the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Method was used to examine hydraulic issues impacting anomalous vibration of circulating pumps. Nine optimization options were also suggested, and the effects of the various plans on the water inlet channel’s flow state were examined—the simulation’s outcomes. The simulation’s findings indicate that the arc deflector can enhance the water entry channel’s flow pattern. The wall-attached bias flow of the suction chamber vanished, and the constant flow state is present around the pump’s bellmouth. The thermal power unit’s circulating water pump’s vibration was eliminated, and the circulating pump’s operating efficiency increased due to the curved deflector’s rectification procedures being implemented in the forebay. The study’s findings can guide the hydraulic performance optimization of channels for water inlets with similar sideways or high slopes.
Speed Estimation of PMSM Based on a Super-Twisting Slide Mode Observer
Authors: Li Long , Zhou Weidong , Bi Xianting , Shi Xiaoping
Published: August 2022

To limit the high-frequency chattering originating from the conventional sliding mode observer in a PMSM sensorless control system of vacuum pumps and reduce the steady-state error caused by the phase lag of the coordinate system on the estimated speed, a speed estimation algorithm was proposed based on the super-twisting sliding mode observer. Then, the proposed algorithm was applied to observe an electromotive force. To this end, the Lyapunov function was established to analyze the stability of the current dynamic error equation. In this regard, the estimated phase lag of the rotating coordinate system was considered to study the influence of the speed estimation error. Moreover, a speed estimation algorithm considering the d-axis estimation of back electromotive force is proposed. The performed analyses show that the speed estimation algorithm based on a super-twisting sliding mode observer has promising estimation accuracy. It is concluded that the proposed algorithm can be effectively applied to suppress high-frequency chattering in the system, reduce the influence of phase lag in the estimation coordinate system on the speed estimation error, remove the low-pass filter and phase compensation module, and improve the accuracy of speed estimation.
Spin-Filter Magnetic Tunnel Junctions Based on A-Type Antiferromagnetic CrSBr with Giant Tunnel Magnetoresistance
Authors: Liu Hao , Liu Yue-Yang , Wen Hongyu , Wu Haibin , Zong Yixin , Xia Jianbai , Wei Zhongming
Published: August 2022

CrSBr is a stable two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) magnet with intralayer ferromagnetic and interlayer antiferromagnetic couplings. Here, we propose to use CrSBr as the barrier in spin-filter (sf) MTJ and establish the devices based on graphene/CrSBr/graphene structures. Employing density functional theory (DFT) combined with the nonequilibrium Green’s function approach, we investigated the transmission details, and the results show TMR values above 330%, 2 × 107% and 105% with two-, four- and six-layer CrSBr at zero bias, respectively. Subsequently, we systematically analyze the transmission spectra, transmission eigenstates, electrostatic potentials, band structures and local density of states to elaborate the underlying mechanism of the TMR effect in the sf-MTJs. Our results indicate the great prospect of CrSBr-based sf-MTJs in applications, and provide guidance for futural experiments.
Solution Bounds and Numerical Methods of the Unified Algebraic Lyapunov Equation
Authors: Zhang Juan , Li Shifeng , Gan Xiangyang
Published: August 2022

In this paper, applying some properties of matrix inequality and Schur complement, we give new upper and lower bounds of the solution for the unified algebraic Lyapunov equation that generalize the forms of discrete and continuous Lyapunov matrix equations. We show that its positive definite solution exists and is unique under certain conditions. Meanwhile, we present three numerical algorithms, including fixed point iterative method, the acceleration fixed point method and the alternating direction implicit method, to solve the unified algebraic Lyapunov equation. The convergence analysis of these algorithms is discussed. Finally, some numerical examples are presented to verify the feasibility of the derived upper and lower bounds, and numerical algorithms.
ReSMAP: Web Server for Predicting Residue-Specific Membrane-Association Propensities of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins
Authors: Qin Sanbo , Hicks Alan , Dey Souvik , Prasad Ramesh , Zhou Huan-Xiang
Published: August 2022

The functional processes of many proteins involve the association of their intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) with acidic membranes. We have identified the membrane-association characteristics of IDRs using extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and validated them with NMR spectroscopy. These studies have led to not only deep insight into functional mechanisms of IDRs but also to intimate knowledge regarding the sequence determinants of membrane-association propensities. Here we turned this knowledge into a web server called ReSMAP, for predicting the residue-specific membrane-association propensities from IDR sequences. The membrane-association propensities are calculated from a sequence-based partition function, trained on the MD simulation results of seven IDRs. Robustness of the prediction is demonstrated by leaving one IDR out of the training set. We anticipate there will be many applications for the ReSMAP web server, including rapid screening of IDR sequences for membrane association.
Piroplasm Infection in Domestic Cats in the Mountainous Region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Palmer João Pedro , Gazêta Gilberto , André Marcos , Coelho Aline , Corrêa Laís , Damasceno José , Israel Carolina , Pereira Rafael , Barbosa Alynne
Published: August 2022

Piroplasm infections in domestic cats have been reported with increasing frequency in numerous countries. However, in some states of Brazil, little information is available about the occurrence of these parasites. Blood samples were collected from 250 cats treated at a private clinic in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro. The samples were each subjected to a blood count, microscopic examination, and molecular research on piroplasms. The animals’ clinical histories and epidemiological information were analyzed to identify the risk factors associated with infection. Ticks were recovered during the clinical care and were identified and subjected to molecular analyses to determine the presence of piroplasm DNA. Piroplasms were detected in 2.7% (7/250) of the cats. Nucleotide sequences of Babesia vogeli were identified in six cats, while the Cytauxzoon sp. was identified in one cat. Cats displaying apathy/weakness/prostration and hemorrhage/bleeding were more likely to be infected. In addition, Amblyomma aureolatum was recovered from a cat PCR-negative for piroplasms. This is the first study in Rio de Janeiro that has detected Babesia vogeli in cats. The results obtained here underscore the need for further studies in Rio de Janeiro to investigate the dynamics of such infections and the vectors involved.
Assessment of Knowledge of Monkeypox Viral Infection among the General Population in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshahrani Najim Z. , Alzahrani Faris , Alarifi Abdullah M. , Algethami Mohammed R. , Alhumam Maathir Naser , Ayied Hatim Abdullah Mohammed , Awan Ahmed Zuhier , Almutairi Abdullah Faisal , Bamakhrama Saeed Abdullah , Almushari Budur Saad , Sah Ranjit
Published: August 2022

Monkeypox is re-emerging and spreading over the world, posing a serious threat to human life, especially in non-endemic countries, including Saudi Arabia. Due to the paucity of research on knowledge about monkeypox in Saudi Arabia, this study aimed to evaluate the general population’s knowledge of monkeypox in a sample of the country. A web-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from 25 May 2022 to 15 July 2022. Participants’ knowledge about monkeypox on a 23-item scale and socio-demographic characteristics were gathered in the survey. Pearson’s Chi-square test was used to compare knowledge level (categorized into high and low) and explanatory variables. Out of 480, only 48% of the respondents had high knowledge (mean score > 14). Participants’ age, marital status, residential region, living in the urban area, education level, employment status, being a healthcare worker, income, and smoking status were significantly associated with the level of knowledge about monkeypox (p < 0.01). Overall, social media (75.0%) was the most frequently reported source from where participants obtained monkeypox-related information followed by TV and radio (45.6%), family or friend (15.6%), and healthcare provider (13.8%). We found that overall knowledge of monkeypox infection was slightly poor among the Saudi population. These findings highlight the urgent need for public education on monkeypox to promote awareness and engage the public ahead of the outbreak.