bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Factor Analysis (FA), Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) for Electrical Conductivity Prediction in Aquifers in the Gallikos River Basin, Northern Greece
Authors: Mattas Christos , Dimitraki Lamprini , Georgiou Pantazis , Venetsanou Panagiota
Published: August 2021

Due to the fact of water resource deterioration from human activities and increased demand over the last few decades, optimization of management practices and policies is required, for which more reliable data are necessary. Cost and time are always of importance; therefore, methods that can provide low-cost data in a short period of time have been developed. In this study, the ability of an artificial neural network (ANN) and a multiple linear regression (MLR) model to predict the electrical conductivity of groundwater samples in the GallikosRiver basin, northern Greece, was examined. A total of 233 samples were collected over the years 2004–2005 from 89 sampling points. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation matrix, and factor analysis were applied to select the inputs of the water quality parameters. Input data to the ANN and MLR were Ca, Mg, Na, and Cl. The best results regarding the ANN were provided by a model that included one hidden layer of three neurons. The mean absolute percentage error, modeling efficiency, and root mean square error were used to evaluate the performances of the methods and to compare the prediction capabilities of the ANN and MLR. We concluded that the ANN and MLR models were valid and had similar accuracy (using the same inputs) with a large number of samples, but in the case of a smaller data set, the MLR showed a better performance.
Performance of Qualitative and Quantitative Antigen Tests for SARS-CoV-2 Using Saliva
Authors: Yokota Isao , Sakurazawa Takayo , Sugita Junichi , Iwasaki Sumio , Yasuda Keiko , Yamashita Naoki , Fujisawa Shinichi , Nishida Mutsumi , Konno Satoshi , Teshima Takanori
Published: August 2021

The rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 is critical for the prevention of disease outbreaks. Antigen tests such as immunochromatographic assay (ICA) and chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) can yield results more quickly than PCR. We evaluated the performance of ICA and CLEIA using 34 frozen PCR-positive (17 saliva samples and 17 nasopharyngeal swabs [NPS]) and 309 PCR-negative samples. ICA detected SARS-CoV-2 in only 14 (41%) samples, with positivity rates of 24% in saliva and 59% in NPS. Notably, ICA detected SARS-CoV-2 in 5 of 6 samples collected within 4 days after symptom onset. CLEIA detected SARS-CoV-2 in 31 (91%) samples, with a positivity of 82% in saliva and 100% in NPS. These results suggest that the use of ICA should be limited to an earlier time after symptom onset and CLEIA is more sensitive and can be used in situations where quick results are required.
Imaging of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Chiti Giuditta , Grazzini Giulia , Cozzi Diletta , Danti Ginevra , Matteuzzi Benedetta , Granata Vincenza , Pradella Silvia , Recchia Laura , Brunese Luca , Miele Vittorio
Published: August 2021

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (panNENs) represent the second most common pancreatic tumors. They are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with varying clinical expression and biological behavior, from indolent to aggressive ones. PanNENs can be functioning or non-functioning in accordance with their ability or not to produce metabolically active hormones. They are histopathologically classified according to the 2017 World Health Organization (WHO) classification system. Although the final diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumor relies on histologic examination of biopsy or surgical specimens, both morphologic and functional imaging are crucial for patient care. Morphologic imaging with ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used for initial evaluation and staging of disease, as well as surveillance and therapy monitoring. Functional imaging techniques with somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) and positron emission tomography (PET) are used for functional and metabolic assessment that is helpful for therapy management and post-therapeutic re-staging. This article reviews the morphological and functional imaging modalities now available and the imaging features of panNENs. Finally, future imaging challenges, such as radiomics analysis, are illustrated.
Multicomponent Physical Exercise Training in Multimorbid and Palliative Oldest Adults
Authors: Blasco-Lafarga Cristina , Sanchis-Soler Gema , Llorens Pere
Published: August 2021

Exercise counteracts aging and pathology symptoms, but there is still scarce research on exercise programs for multimorbid and/or palliative old patients (MPO-Ps). In order to analyze whether the multicomponent physical–cognitive training is beneficial for this population, 17 MPO-Ps (81.59 ± 5.63 years) completed a >26 weeks home-based intervention (20–50 min/session, three sessions/week). Twenty-eight supervised and thirty-two autonomous sessions were gradually distributed along three phases: supervised training (ST), reduced supervision training (RST), and autonomous training (AT). Physical function (gait speed, hand grip and lower-limb strength, balance, and agility), mental status (MMSE), and autonomy in daily living (the Barthel Index) were assessed. Categorical analyses regarding the changes in the walking aids used in the test were added to improve the assessment of strength and agility along the intervention. Despite important study limitations, such as the small sample size and lack of a control group, and despite the MPO-Ps’ very low baseline fitness and initial exercise intolerance, they benefited from the dual-tasking approach, especially in autonomy, lower-limb strength, and balance. Agility improvements were shown only by categorical analyses. As expected, most benefits increased the supervision (ST phase). Gait speed and cognitive status maintained despite the total autonomy in training in the last phase. Further research with larger samples should confirm if multicomponent physical–cognitive exercise, individualized and tailored on daily-basis, together with technical assistance and medical supervision, benefits this MPO-Ps population, and if it can be prescribed to them with security, in spite some of them already being palliative patients.
Physicochemical Properties of Indoor and Outdoor Particulate Matter 2.5 in Selected Residential Areas near a Ferromanganese Smelter
Authors: Mbazima Setlamorago Jackson , Masekameni Masilu Daniel , Nelson Gill
Published: August 2021

Particulate matter (PM) of different sizes and elemental composition is a leading contributor to indoor and outdoor air pollution in residential areas. We sought to investigate similarities between indoor and outdoor PM2.5 in three residential areas near a ferromanganese smelter in Meyerton to apportion the emission source(s). Indoor and outdoor PM2.5 samples were collected concurrently, using GilAir300 plus samplers, at a flow rate of 2.75 L/min. PM2.5 was collected on polycarbonate membrane filters housed in 37 mm cassettes coupled with PM2.5 cyclones. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy was used to study the morphology, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy was used to analyse the elemental composition of the PM2.5. Mean indoor and outdoor PM2.5 mass concentrations were 10.99 and 24.95 µg/m3, respectively. Mean outdoor mass concentration was 2.27-fold higher than the indoor concentration. Indoor samples consisted of irregular and agglomerated particles, ranging from 0.09 to 1.06 µm, whereas outdoor samples consisted of irregular and spherical particles, ranging from 0.10 to 0.70 µm. Indoor and outdoor PM2.5 were dominated by manganese, silicon, and iron, however, outdoor PM2.5 had the highest concentration of all elements. The ferromanganese smelter was identified as the potential main contributing source of PM2.5 of different physicochemical properties.
A Systematic Review on Mobile Health Applications’ Education Program for Patients Taking Oral Anticoagulants
Authors: Jang Insil
Published: August 2021

Warfarin is widely used as an oral anticoagulant. However, it is difficult to manage patients due to its narrow therapeutic range and individualized differences. Using controlled trials and real-world observational studies, this systematic review aimed to analyze health education’s impact among patients on warfarin therapy by mobile application. Smartphone and tablet applications have the potential to actively educate patients by providing them with timely information through push notifications. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane electronic databases were searched using the keywords “anticoagulants,” “warfarin”, “mobile application”, and “smartphone” up to May 2020. Of the 414 articles obtained, 12 articles met the inclusion criteria for this review. The education and self-management programs using the mobile health application had diverse contents. A meta-analysis was not deemed appropriate because of the heterogeneity of populations, interventions, and outcomes. Thus, a narrative synthesis is presented instead. This review demonstrates that educating patients for anticoagulation management through their smartphones or tablets improves their knowledge levels, medication or treatment adherence, satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Moreover, it has a positive effect on continuing health care. Future research concerning patients taking warfarin should include key self-management outcomes in larger, more rigorously designed studies, allowing for comparisons across studies. This study proposes a continuous application of timely education through smartphone applications to the current medical and nursing practice.
Equity in Access: A Mixed Methods Exploration of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Access Program for the Kimberley Region, Western Australia
Authors: White Caitlyn S. , Spry Erica , Griffiths Emma , Carlin Emma
Published: August 2021

This study explored the process and early outcomes of work undertaken by a program to increase Aboriginal people’s awareness of, and access to, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This ‘Access Program’ was implemented through the Aboriginal Community Controlled Sector in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia. Access Program staff were interviewed to explore the strengths, challenges, and future directions of the program. The demographics, primary disability types, and NDIS access outcomes for clients who engaged with the program in the first 12 months of its implementation have been described. The Access Program engaged with 373 clients during the study period and assisted 118 of these to achieve access to the NDIS. The program was reported as successful by staff in its aim of connecting eligible people with the NDIS. Vital to this success was program implementation by the Aboriginal Community Controlled Sector. Staff in these organisations held community trust, provided culturally appropriate services, and utilised strengths-based approaches to overcome barriers that have historically hindered Aboriginal people’s engagement with disability services. Our results demonstrate the Access Program is a successful start in increasing awareness of, and access to, the NDIS for Aboriginal people in the Kimberley region. Much work remains to assist the large number of Aboriginal people in the Kimberley region believed to be eligible for NDIS support who are yet to achieve access.
Implementation of the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Smoke-Free Rule: A Socio-Ecological Qualitative Assessment of Administrator and Resident Perceptions
Authors: Horn Kimberly , Johnson Sallie Beth , Patiño Sofía Rincón-Gallardo , Krost Kevin , Gray Tiffany , Dearfield Craig , Du Chenguang , Bernat Debra
Published: August 2021

In July 2018, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) implemented a mandatory smoke-free rule in public housing. This study assessed administrator and resident perceptions of rule implementation during its initial year in the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA). Assessment included nine focus groups (n = 69) with residents and in-depth interviews with administrators (n = 7) and residents (n = 26) from 14 DCHA communities (family = 7 and senior/disabled = 7). Semi-structured discussion guides based on the multi-level socio-ecological framework captured dialogue that was recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded inductively. Emerging major themes for each socio-ecological framework level included: (1) Individual: the rule was supported due to perceived health benefits, with stronger support among non-smokers; (2) Interpersonal: limiting secondhand smoke exposure was perceived as a positive for vulnerable residents; (3) Organizational: communication, signage, and cessation support was perceived as a need; (4) Community: residents perceived mobility, disability, weather, and safety-related issues as barriers; and (5) Public Policy: lease amendments were perceived as enablers of rule implementation but expressed confusion about violations and enforcement. A majority of administrators and residents reported favorable implications of the mandated HUD rule. The novel application of a socio-ecological framework, however, detected implementation nuances that required improvements on multiple levels, including more signage, cessation support, clarification of enforcement roles, and addressing safety concerns.
Effect of Treating Acid Sulfate Soils with Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria on Germination and Growth of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)
Authors: Kim Jae Hwan , Kim So-Jeong , Nam In-Hyun
Published: August 2021

Acid sulfate soils contain sulfide minerals that have adverse environmental effects because they can lead to acidic drainage and prevent the establishment of vegetation. The current study examined the effect of a novel method for the restoration of these soils and the promotion of germination and plant growth. Thus, we isolated two strains of phosphate solubilizing bacteria, Methylobacterium sp. PS and Caballeronia sp. EK, characterized their properties, and examined their effects in promoting the growth of tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) in acid sulfate soil. Compared with untreated control soil, treatment of acid sulfate soils with these bacterial strains led to increased seed germination, growth of plants with more leaves, and plants with greater levels of total-adenosine tri-phosphate (tATP). Relative to the untreated control soil, the addition of Caballeronia sp. EK led to a 60% increase in seed germination after 52 days, growth of plants with more than 3 times as many leaves, and a 45.2% increase in tATP after 50 days. This strain has potential for use as a plant biofertilizer that promotes vegetation growth in acid sulfate soils by improving the absorption of phosphorous.
Pain Reduction after Short Exposure to Virtual Reality Environments in People with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Putrino David , Tabacof Laura , Breyman Erica , Revis Jordan , Soomro Zulfi , Chopra Divija , Delaney Kathleen , Smeragliuolo Anna , Cortes Mar
Published: August 2021

Emerging literature suggests that virtual reality (VR) may be a viable therapy for neuropathic pain (NP). This pilot study aimed to investigate the immediate effect of VR in reducing NP in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). Eight individuals with chronic NP after SCI were recruited and underwent consecutive exposure to scenery and somatic virtual environments (VE). The numeric rating scale (NRS) was used to assess pain before and after exposure to each VE. The Immersive Tendencies Questionnaire (ITQ) and Presence Questionnaire (UQO-PQ) were used to investigate the interaction between reported pain relief post-intervention with immersion and presence. There was a significant reduction in pain levels (5.1 ± 0.4, mean ± SEM) after short exposure to the scenery (3.1 ± 0.7, p = 0.04) and somatic VE (3.0 ± 0.7, p = 0.04), with no difference between intervention types (p = 0.56). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between the total ITQ score and the change in NRS after the scenery VR intervention (rs = 0.743, p = 0.035). PQ scores showed no significant correlation with changes in pain following either intervention type. We found that short-term exposure to VR environments results in a reduction in chronic NP intensity in people with SCI.
Properties and Application of Cell-Free DNA as a Clinical Biomarker
Authors: de Miranda Felipe Silva , Barauna Valério Garrone , dos Santos Leandro , Costa Gustavo , Vassallo Paula Frizera , Campos Luciene Cristina Gastalho
Published: August 2021

Biomarkers are valuable tools in clinical practice. In 2001, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) standardized the definition of a biomarker as a characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or pharmacological responses to a therapeutic intervention. A biomarker has clinical relevance when it presents precision, standardization and reproducibility, suitability to the patient, straightforward interpretation by clinicians, and high sensitivity and/or specificity by the parameter it proposes to identify. Thus, serum biomarkers should have advantages related to the simplicity of the procedures and to the fact that venous blood collection is commonplace in clinical practice. We described the potentiality of cfDNA as a general clinical biomarker and focused on endothelial dysfunction. Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) refers to extracellular DNA present in body fluid that may be derived from both normal and diseased cells. An increasing number of studies demonstrate the potential use of cfDNA as a noninvasive biomarker to determine physiologic and pathologic conditions. However, although still scarce, increasing evidence has been reported regarding using cfDNA in cardiovascular diseases. Here, we have reviewed the history of cfDNA, its source, molecular features, and release mechanism. We also show recent studies that have investigated cfDNA as a possible marker of endothelial damage in clinical settings. In the cardiovascular system, the studies are quite new, and although interesting, stronger evidence is still needed. However, some drawbacks in cfDNA methodologies should be overcome before its recommendation as a biomarker in the clinical setting.
Nerve Growth Factor: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Lung Diseases
Authors: Liu Piaoyang , Li Shun , Tang Liling
Published: August 2021

The lungs play a very important role in the human respiratory system. However, many factors can destroy the structure of the lung, causing several lung diseases and, often, serious damage to people’s health. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a polypeptide which is widely expressed in lung tissues. Under different microenvironments, NGF participates in the occurrence and development of lung diseases by changing protein expression levels and mediating cell function. In this review, we summarize the functions of NGF as well as some potential underlying mechanisms in pulmonary fibrosis (PF), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), pulmonary hypertension (PH), asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. Furthermore, we highlight that anti-NGF may be used in future therapeutic strategies.
circRNA-Mediated Inhibin–Activin Balance Regulation in Ovarian Granulosa Cell Apoptosis and Follicular Atresia
Authors: Ma Mengnan , Wang Huiming , Zhang Yi , Zhang Jinbi , Liu Jingge , Pan Zengxiang
Published: August 2021

Ovarian granulosa cells (GC) play an essential role in the development and atresia of follicles. Emerging studies suggest that non-coding RNAs are involved in the regulation of GC apoptosis. Here, we aimed to analyze the function of ssc-circINHA-001, coded by the first exon of the inhibin subunit α gene (INHA), in resisting GC apoptosis and follicular atresia by enhancing the expression of the inhibin subunit β A (INHBA) through a cluster of miRNAs. A higher expression of ssc-circINHA-001 in healthy follicles compared to early atretic follicles was detected by qRT-PCR. Its circular structure was confirmed by RNase R treatment and reversed PCR. The function of ssc-circINHA-001 in GC resistance to apoptosis was detected by in vitro transfection of its si-RNA. Furthermore, the dual-luciferase reporter assay suggested that ssc-circINHA-001 adsorbed three miRNAs, termed miR-214-5p, miR-7144-3p, and miR-9830-5p, which share the common target INHBA. A low expression of ssc-circINHA-001 increased the levels of the free miRNAs, inhibited INHBA expression, and thus raised GCs apoptosis through a shift from the secretion of activin to that of inhibin. Our study demonstrated the existence of a circRNA–microRNAs–INHBA regulatory axis in follicular GC apoptosis and provides insight into the relationship between circRNA function and its coding gene in inhibin/activin balance and ovarian physiological functions.
Exploring the Binding Mechanism of PF-07321332 SARS-CoV-2 Protease Inhibitor through Molecular Dynamics and Binding Free Energy Simulations
Authors: Ahmad Bilal , Batool Maria , Ain Qurat ul , Kim Moon Suk , Choi Sangdun
Published: August 2021

The novel coronavirus disease, caused by severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), rapidly spreading around the world, poses a major threat to the global public health. Herein, we demonstrated the binding mechanism of PF-07321332, α-ketoamide, lopinavir, and ritonavir to the coronavirus 3-chymotrypsin-like-protease (3CLpro) by means of docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations. The analysis of MD trajectories of 3CLpro with PF-07321332, α-ketoamide, lopinavir, and ritonavir revealed that 3CLpro–PF-07321332 and 3CLpro–α-ketoamide complexes remained stable compared with 3CLpro–ritonavir and 3CLpro–lopinavir. Investigating the dynamic behavior of ligand–protein interaction, ligands PF-07321332 and α-ketoamide showed stronger bonding via making interactions with catalytic dyad residues His41–Cys145 of 3CLpro. Lopinavir and ritonavir were unable to disrupt the catalytic dyad, as illustrated by increased bond length during the MD simulation. To decipher the ligand binding mode and affinity, ligand interactions with SARS-CoV-2 proteases and binding energy were calculated. The binding energy of the bespoke antiviral PF-07321332 clinical candidate was two times higher than that of α-ketoamide and three times than that of lopinavir and ritonavir. Our study elucidated in detail the binding mechanism of the potent PF-07321332 to 3CLpro along with the low potency of lopinavir and ritonavir due to weak binding affinity demonstrated by the binding energy data. This study will be helpful for the development and optimization of more specific compounds to combat coronavirus disease.
Enhancement of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Mediated Anti-Cancer Immunity by Intranasal Treatment of Ecklonia cava Fucoidan against Metastatic Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Wei , Hwang Juyoung , Yadav Dhananjay , An Eun-Koung , Kwak Minseok , Lee Peter Chang-Whan , Jin Jun-O
Published: August 2021

Although fucoidan, a well-studied seaweed-extracted polysaccharide, has shown immune stimulatory effects that elicit anticancer immunity, mucosal adjuvant effects via intranasal administration have not been studied. In this study, the effect of Ecklonia cava-extracted fucoidan (ECF) on the induction of anti-cancer immunity in the lung was examined by intranasal administration. In C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice, intranasal administration of ECF promoted the activation of dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer (NK) cells, and T cells in the mediastinal lymph node (mLN). The ECF-induced NK and T cell activation was mediated by DCs. In addition, intranasal injection with ECF enhanced the anti-PD-L1 antibody-mediated anti-cancer activities against B16 melanoma and CT-26 carcinoma tumor growth in the lungs, which were required cytotoxic T lymphocytes and NK cells. Thus, these data demonstrated that ECF functioned as a mucosal adjuvant that enhanced the immunotherapeutic effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors against metastatic lung cancer.
RNA Modifications in Genomic RNA of Influenza A Virus and the Relationship between RNA Modifications and Viral Infection
Authors: Furuse Yuki
Published: August 2021

Recent studies about the transcriptome-wide presence of RNA modifications have revealed their importance in many cellular functions. Nevertheless, information about RNA modifications in viral RNA is scarce, especially for negative-strand RNA viruses. Here we provide a catalog of RNA modifications including m1A, ac4C, m7G, inosine, and pseudouridine on RNA derived from an influenza A virus infected into A549 cells, as studied by RNA immunoprecipitation followed by deep-sequencing. Possible regions with RNA modifications were found in the negative-strand segments of viral genomic RNA. In addition, our analyses of previously published data revealed that the expression levels of the host factors for RNA modifications were affected by an infection with influenza A virus, and some of the host factors likely have a proviral effect. RNA modification is a novel aspect of host–virus interactions leading to the discovery of previously unrecognized viral pathogenicity mechanisms and has the potential to aid the development of novel antivirals.
Identification of Rf Genes in Hexaploid Wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) by RNA-Seq and Paralog Analyses
Authors: Tyrka Mirosław , Bakera Beata , Szeliga Magdalena , Święcicka Magdalena , Krajewski Paweł , Mokrzycka Monika , Rakoczy-Trojanowska Monika
Published: August 2021

Among the natural mechanisms used for wheat hybrid breeding, the most desirable is the system combining the cytoplasmic male sterility (cms) of the female parent with the fertility-restoring genes (Rf) of the male parent. The objective of this study was to identify Rf candidate genes in the wheat genome on the basis of transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) and paralog analysis data. Total RNA was isolated from the anthers of two fertility-restorer (Primépi and Patras) and two non-restorer (Astoria and Grana) varieties at the tetrad and late uninucleate microspore stages. Of 36,912 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 21 encoding domains in known fertility-restoring proteins were selected. To enrich the pool of Rf candidates, 52 paralogs (PAGs) of the 21 selected DEGs were included in the analyses. The expression profiles of most of the DEGs and PAGs determined bioinformatically were as expected (i.e., they were overexpressed in at least one fertility-restorer variety). However, these results were only partially consistent with the quantitative real-time PCR data. The DEG and PAG promoters included cis-regulatory elements common among PPR-encoding genes. On the basis of the obtained results, we designated seven genes as Rf candidate genes, six of which were identified for the first time in this study.
Cereulide Exposure Caused Cytopathogenic Damages of Liver and Kidney in Mice
Authors: Li Danyang , Lin Ruqin , Xu Yangyang , Chen Qingmei , Deng Fengru , Deng Yiqun , Wen Jikai
Published: August 2021

Cereulide is one of the main food-borne toxins for vomiting synthesized by Bacillus cereus, and it widely contaminates meat, eggs, milk, and starchy foods. However, the toxicological effects and mechanisms of the long-time exposure of cereulide in vivo remain unknown. In this study, oral administration of 50 and 200 μg/kg body weight cereulide in the mice for 28 days caused oxidative stress in liver and kidney tissues and induce abnormal expression of inflammatory factors. In pathogenesis, cereulide exposure activated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) via the pathways of inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α)/Xbox binding protein (XBP1) and PRKR-like ER kinase (PERK)/eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), and consequently led to the apoptosis and tissue damages in mouse liver and kidney. In vitro, we confirmed that the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by cereulide is the main factor leading to ER stress in HepaRG and HEK293T cells. Supplementation of sodium butyrate (NaB) inhibited the activations of IRE1α/XBP1 and PERK/eIF2α pathways caused by cereulide exposure in mice, and reduced the cell apoptosis in liver and kidney. In conclusion, this study provides a new insight in understanding the toxicological mechanism and prevention of cereulide exposure.
Dimensionless Numbers Relationships for Outer Air Seal of Low Pressure Turbine
Authors: Pałkus Kacper , Strzelczyk Piotr
Published: August 2021

The dimensional analysis and the numerical parametric study of the typical outer air seal from a low-pressure turbine were performed in the framework of the presented paper. The most crucial variables for the flow through the outer air seal were identified and further dimensionless numbers were derived. The dependent quantities resulting from the analysis were: the axial Reynolds number (formulated with the bulk velocity, corresponding to the mass flow through the seal), the outlet swirl ratio (incorporating the exit flow angle, important for mixing) and the windage heating (related to the internal losses). Additionally, the discharge coefficient was cross-checked enabling further comparison with the available literature. The comprehensive numerical parametric study included all important contributors for the flow through the seal with a parameter operating range appropriate for engine outer air seals.
Data Security Protocol with Blind Factor in Cloud Environment
Authors: Zhang Ping , Chi Huanhuan , Wang Jiechang , Shang Youlin
Published: August 2021

Compared with the traditional system, cloud storage users have no direct control over their data, so users are most concerned about security for their data stored in the cloud. One security requirement is to resolve any threats from semi-trusted key third party managers. The proposed data security for cloud environment with semi-trusted third party (DaSCE) protocol has solved the security threat of key managers to some extent but has not achieved positive results. Based on this, this paper proposes a semi-trusted third-party data security protocol (ADSS), which can effectively remove this security threat by adding time stamp and blind factor to prevent key managers and intermediaries from intercepting and decrypting user data. Moreover, the ADSS protocol is proved to provide indistinguishable security under a chosen ciphertext attack. Finally, the performance evaluation and simulation of the protocol show that the ADSS security is greater than DaSCE, and the amount of time needed is lower than DaSCE.
Feature Extraction Network with Attention Mechanism for Data Enhancement and Recombination Fusion for Multimodal Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Qi Qingfu , Lin Liyuan , Zhang Rui
Published: August 2021

Multimodal sentiment analysis and emotion recognition represent a major research direction in natural language processing (NLP). With the rapid development of online media, people often express their emotions on a topic in the form of video, and the signals it transmits are multimodal, including language, visual, and audio. Therefore, the traditional unimodal sentiment analysis method is no longer applicable, which requires the establishment of a fusion model of multimodal information to obtain sentiment understanding. In previous studies, scholars used the feature vector cascade method when fusing multimodal data at each time step in the middle layer. This method puts each modal information in the same position and does not distinguish between strong modal information and weak modal information among multiple modalities. At the same time, this method does not pay attention to the embedding characteristics of multimodal signals across the time dimension. In response to the above problems, this paper proposes a new method and model for processing multimodal signals, which takes into account the delay and hysteresis characteristics of multimodal signals across the time dimension. The purpose is to obtain a multimodal fusion feature emotion analysis representation. We evaluate our method on the multimodal sentiment analysis benchmark dataset CMU Multimodal Opinion Sentiment and Emotion Intensity Corpus (CMU-MOSEI). We compare our proposed method with the state-of-the-art model and show excellent results.
Decentralized Offloading Strategies Based on Reinforcement Learning for Multi-Access Edge Computing
Authors: Hu Chunyang , Li Jingchen , Shi Haobin , Ning Bin , Gu Qiong
Published: August 2021

Using reinforcement learning technologies to learn offloading strategies for multi-access edge computing systems has been developed by researchers. However, large-scale systems are unsuitable for reinforcement learning, due to their huge state spaces and offloading behaviors. For this reason, this work introduces the centralized training and decentralized execution mechanism, designing a decentralized reinforcement learning model for multi-access edge computing systems. Considering a cloud server and several edge servers, we separate the training and execution in the reinforcement learning model. The execution happens in edge devices of the system, and edge servers need no communication. Conversely, the training process occurs at the cloud device, which causes a lower transmission latency. The developed method uses a deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm to optimize offloading strategies. The simulated experiment shows that our method can learn the offloading strategy for each edge device efficiently.
Powder Epoxy for One-Shot Cure, Out-of-Autoclave Applications: Lap Shear Strength and Z-Pinning Study
Authors: Noble Thomas , Davidson James R. , Floreani Christophe , Bajpai Ankur , Moses William , Dooher Thomas , McIlhagger Alistair , Archer Edward , Ó Brádaigh Conchúr M. , Robert Colin
Published: August 2021

Large composite structures manufactured out-of-autoclave require the assembly and bonding of multiple parts. A one-shot cure manufacturing method is demonstrated using powder epoxy. Lap shear plates were manufactured from powder epoxy and glass fiber-reinforced plastic with four different bonding cases were assessed: secondary bonding using standard adhesive film, secondary bonding using powder epoxy, co-curing, and co-curing plus a novel Z-pinning method. This work investigates the lap shear strength of the four cases in accordance with ISO 4587:2003. Damage mechanisms and fracture behavior were explored using digital image correlation (DIC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. VTFA400 adhesive had a load at break 24.8% lower than secondary bonding using powder epoxy. Co-curing increased the load at break by 7.8% compared to powder epoxy secondary bonding, with the co-cured and pinned joint resulting in a 45.4% increase. In the co-cured and co-cured plus pinned cases, DIC indicated premature failure due to resin spew. SEM indicated shear failure of resin areas and a large amount of fiber pullout in both these cases, with pinning delaying fracture phenomena resulting in increased lap joint strength. This highlights the potential of powder epoxy for the co-curing of large composite structures out-of-autoclave.
Analysis of the Putative Nucleoporin POM33 in the Filamentous Fungus Sordaria macrospora
Authors: Groth Anika , Schmitt Kerstin , Valerius Oliver , Herzog Britta , Pöggeler Stefanie
Published: August 2021

In the filamentous fungus Sordaria macrospora (Sm), the STRIPAK complex is required for vegetative growth, fruiting-body development and hyphal fusion. The SmSTRIPAK core consists of the striatin homolog PRO11, the scaffolding subunit of phosphatase PP2A, SmPP2AA, and its catalytic subunit SmPP2Ac1. Among other STRIPAK proteins, the recently identified coiled-coil protein SCI1 was demonstrated to co-localize around the nucleus. Pulldown experiments with SCI identified the transmembrane nucleoporin (TM Nup) SmPOM33 as a potential nuclear-anchor of SmSTRIPAK. Localization studies revealed that SmPOM33 partially localizes to the nuclear envelope (NE), but mainly to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We succeeded to generate a Δpom33 deletion mutant by homologous recombination in a new S. macrospora Δku80 recipient strain, which is defective in non-homologous end joining. Deletion of Smpom33 did neither impair vegetative growth nor sexual development. In pulldown experiments of SmPOM33 followed by LC/MS analysis, ER-membrane proteins involved in ER morphology, protein translocation, glycosylation, sterol biosynthesis and Ca2+-transport were significantly enriched. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD026253. Although no SmSTRIPAK components were identified as putative interaction partners, it cannot be excluded that SmPOM33 is involved in temporarily anchoring the SmSTRIPAK to the NE or other sites in the cell.
Technological Windows of Opportunity for Russian Arctic Regions: Modeling and Exploitation Prospects
Authors: Samarina Vera P. , Skufina Tatiana P. , Savon Diana Yu. , Kudryavtseva Svetlana S.
Published: August 2021

The problems of exploitation of technological windows of opportunity are of particular scientific and practical interest in terms of the development of Russia’s national economy, and the Arctic region, which has a strong mineral and raw materials potential, is important in terms of its use for achieving the technological and national security of the Russian state. Considering this, the study of the theoretical and methodical aspects of the development of emerging technological windows of opportunity is important and relevant for the regions of the Russian Arctic zone. The purpose of this study is to assess the potential and reserves for exploitation of the emerging technological windows of opportunity during the deployment of a new technological order by mobilizing material and human capital in the Arctic regions. Methodological tools for the study of this problem included dynamic series analysis, structural analysis, comparison, description, descriptive statistics, cross-correlation analysis, production function model and its visualization. An analytical review of scientific publications, a set of tools and methods of research, allowed to obtain the following scientific results: A significant variability in the contribution of science-intensive and high-tech industry to the formation of gross value added in the Arctic region has been revealed; meanwhile, we can note stable dynamics of the contribution of the Arctic economy to the gross domestic product (GRP) of Russia as a whole. There is a steady excess of the productivity index over the Russian average, which can be regarded as a potential for growth of high-tech components of labor in the development of the economy of the Arctic region. There is a negative statistically significant relationship between the share of the gross regional product of the Arctic in the Russian GRP and the share of gross value added (GVA) of science-intensive products in the Arctic GRP, which can be regarded as a factor preventing the exploitation of the emerging technological windows of opportunity. The construction of a model of production function of technological windows of opportunities for the Arctic zone of Russia pointed to the presence of potential in the exploitation of emerging technological windows in the Arctic zone of Russia in the development of human capital through the activation and use of high labor productivity, creating high-performance jobs. The results of the study, its findings and its proposals can be used in the development, monitoring and implementation of state federal and regional programs and projects aimed at improving the level of technology and science intensity of production in the Arctic zone, improving its competitiveness, which is highly important for the national economy.
Ecology and Esthetics, Esthetic Ecology and the Ecological Esthetic in the Landscape: Contributions to the Apparent TongueTwister
Authors: López-Rodríguez Alicia , Berrocal Menárguez Ana-Belén , Escribano Bombín Rafael , Bell Simon
Published: August 2021

The interface between ecology and esthetics does not only exist but is often vaster than thought at first sight. The implications of one for the other are diverse and often subtle, but both dimensions share a link that is as elusive as it is significant because of its influence on human behavior and on the landscape itself. Therefore, it is increasingly viewed as one of the aspects in the complex human–nature reality that should receive serious consideration to better manage the landscape. However, this relationship can be approached in different ways, and each of these perspectives will shape certain outcomes and different ways of intervening in the landscape. This article presents a generic framework of the models of analysis and intervention in the landscape from the point of view of how they address the ecological and esthetic component, with the aim of defining the limits in which each one moves, the differentiating nuances, and the repercussions they can have on the landscape. Likewise, the strategy that would best incorporate a more effective and meaningful relationship between ecology and esthetics in landscape planning is suggested.
Broadband Vibration Attenuation Achieved by 2D Elasto-Acoustic Metamaterial Plates with Rainbow Stepped Resonators
Authors: Wei Wenming , Chronopoulos Dimitrios , Meng Han
Published: August 2021

This paper investigates the influences of nonperiodic rainbow resonators on the vibration attenuation of two-dimensional metamaterial plates. Rainbow metamaterial plates composed of thin host plates and nonperiodic stepped resonators are considered and compared with periodic metamaterial plates. The metamaterial plates are modelled with the finite element modelling method and verified by the plane wave expansion method. It was found that the rainbow metamaterial plates with spatially varying resonators possess broader vibration attenuation bands than the periodic metamaterial plate with the same host plates and total mass. The extension of attenuation bands was found not to be attributed to the extended bandgaps for the two-dimensional metamaterial plates, as is generally believed for a one-dimensional metamaterial beam. The complete local resonance bandgap of the metamaterial plates is separated to discrete bandgaps by the modes of nonperiodic resonators. Although the additional modes stop the formation of integrated bandgaps, the vibration of the plate is much smaller than that of resonators at these modal frequencies, the rainbow metamaterial plates could have a distinct vibration attenuation at these modal frequencies and achieve broader integrated attenuation bands as a result. The present paper could offer a new idea for the development of plate structures with broadband vibration attenuation by introducing non-periodicity.
Inverse Transformation in Eddy Current Tomography with Continuous Optimization of Reference Defect Parameters
Authors: Nowak Paweł , Szewczyk Roman , Ostaszewska-Liżewska Anna
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a methodology of inverse tomography transformation in eddy current tomography with the use of continuous optimization of reference defect parameters. Ferromagnetic steel samples with rectangular air inclusion defects of known dimensions were prepared and measured using an eddy current tomography setup. FEM-based (Finite Element Method based) forward tomography transformation was developed and utilized in inverse tomography transformation. The presented method of inverse tomography transformation is based on the continuous optimization of parameters that can describe the sample, such as the diameter and dimensions of the reference defect. The obtained results of inverse tomography transformation were in high accordance with the real parameters of the samples. Additionally, the presented method had acceptable repeatability. The obtained values of the sample parameters fit within the range of expanded uncertainty when compared to the real parameters of the sample.
Influences of Sodium Lignosulfonate and High-Volume Fly Ash on Setting Time and Hardened State Properties of Engineered Cementitious Composites
Authors: Atmajayanti Anggun Tri , Hung Chung-Chan , Yuen Terry Y. P. , Shih Run-Chan
Published: August 2021

Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) exhibit high ductility accompanied by multiple narrow cracking behavior under uniaxial tension. The study experimentally investigated the influence of sodium lignosulfonate and high volumes of fly ash (HVFA) on the properties of fresh and hardened ECC, with the experimental variables including the amounts of fly ash, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers, and sodium lignosulfonate. The test results were discussed extensively in terms of the initial and final setting times, compressive and tensile behavior, and drying and autogenous shrinkage. The results indicated that the initial and final setting times of ECC were increased along with the sodium lignosulfonate content of up to 1%. The drying shrinkage development was governed by the first 14 days. In addition, the major autogenous shrinkage developed for more than 28 days. The amounts of fly ash, PVA fibers, and sodium lignosulfonate considerably impacted the autogenous shrinkage. Moreover, it was found that the dosage of sodium lignosulfonate at 0.5% of the weight of Portland cement optimally reduced the shrinkage and enhanced the tensile strain capacity for ECC.
Recent Advancements in Plastic Packaging Recycling: A Mini-Review
Authors: Beghetto Valentina , Sole Roberto , Buranello Chiara , Al-Abkal Marco , Facchin Manuela
Published: August 2021

Today, the scientific community is facing crucial challenges in delivering a healthier world for future generations. Among these, the quest for circular and sustainable approaches for plastic recycling is one of the most demanding for several reasons. Indeed, the massive use of plastic materials over the last century has generated large amounts of long-lasting waste, which, for much time, has not been object of adequate recovery and disposal politics. Most of this waste is generated by packaging materials. Nevertheless, in the last decade, a new trend imposed by environmental concerns brought this topic under the magnifying glass, as testified by the increasing number of related publications. Several methods have been proposed for the recycling of polymeric plastic materials based on chemical or mechanical methods. A panorama of the most promising studies related to the recycling of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS) is given within this review.
Obstacles and Recommendations for Clinical Translation of Nanoparticle System-Based Targeted Alpha-Particle Therapy
Authors: Kleynhans Janke , Sathekge Mike , Ebenhan Thomas
Published: August 2021

The rationale for application of nanotechnology in targeted alpha therapy (TAT) is sound. However, the translational strategy requires attention. Formulation of TAT in nanoparticulate drug delivery systems has the potential to resolve many of the issues currently experienced. As α-particle emitters are more cytotoxic compared to beta-minus-emitting agents, the results of poor biodistribution are more dangerous. Formulation in nanotechnology is also suggested to be the ideal solution for containing the recoil daughters emitted by actinium-225, radium-223, and thorium-227. Nanoparticle-based TAT is likely to increase stability, enhance radiation dosimetry profiles, and increase therapeutic efficacy. Unfortunately, nanoparticles have their own unique barriers towards clinical translation. A major obstacle is accumulation in critical organs such as the spleen, liver, and lungs. Furthermore, inflammation, necrosis, reactive oxidative species, and apoptosis are key mechanisms through which nanoparticle-mediated toxicity takes place. It is important at this stage of the technology’s readiness level that focus is shifted to clinical translation. The relative scarcity of α-particle emitters also contributes to slow-moving research in the field of TAT nanotechnology. This review describes approaches and solutions which may overcome obstacles impeding nanoparticle-based TAT and enhance clinical translation. In addition, an in-depth discussion of relevant issues and a view on technical and regulatory barriers are presented.