bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Additional Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Offset Potential from Sugarcane Straw Recovery for Bioenergy Production in Southern Brazil
Authors: de Figueiredo Eduardo Barretto , Jayasundara Susantha , Bordonal Ricardo de Oliveira , Panosso Alan Rodrigo , Scala Newton La
Published: November 2021

This study was designed to assess the additional greenhouse (GHG) emissions including measurements of soil CO 2 -C emissions in sugarcane areas plus emissions associated with the recovery and transport operations of straw bales up to the factory gate for electricity production, contrasting with leaving all straw on the soil surface. The total additional GHG emissions considering the main sources evaluated ( i.e ., soil CO 2 -C, diesel use and N 2 O from straw), was estimated at 1,465 kg CO 2 eq ha -1 , resulting an emission factor of 212. 6 kg CO 2 eq ton -1 of straw recovered. Applying the parameters cited in this study for electricity or 2G ethanol production (GHG balance of emission and offset potential), our results showed that straw-based for electricity production would result in additional GHG emissions of (+) 860 kg CO 2 eq ha -1 . In contrast, applying the same study parameters for 2G ethanol production replacing gasoline, an avoided GHG emission of (-) 2,316 kg CO 2 eq ha -1 could be achieved. The route of recovering around 27% of sugarcane straw through bale system for bioelectricity production using technical parameters and industrial efficiency rate of this study could not be a sustainable option because the additional emissions can be higher than its potential to offset generated emissions, based on the emission factor of Brazilian energy matrix. Applying the same experimental parameters, the option of producing ethanol 2G with around 6.89 ton DM ha -1 of sugarcane straw could offset gasoline GHG emissions, contributing with sustainable energy systems.
Development of Optical Biosensor For The Detection of Glutamine in Human Biofluids Using Merocyanine Dye
Authors: Sathya Vijayakumar , Deepa Appadurai , Sangeetha Lakshmi Kandhan , Srinivasadesi Venkatesan , Lee Shyi-Long , Padmini Vediappen
Published: November 2021

Merocyanine dye based fluorescent organic compound has been synthesized for the detection of glutamine. The probe showed remarkable fluorescent intensity with glutamine through ICT. Hence, it is tested for the detection of glutamine using colorimetric and fluorimetric techniques in physiological and neutral pH (7.2). Under optimized experimental conditions, the probe detects glutamine selectively among other interfering biomolecules. The probe has showed a LOD of 9.6 nm at the linear range 20-180 µM towards glutamine. The practical application of the probe is successfully tested in human biofluids.
Classification and regression tree for estimating predictive markers to detect T790M mutations after acquired resistance to first line EGFR-TKI: HOPE-002
Authors: Tamiya Motohiro , Fujikawa Kei , Suzuki Hidekazu , Yokoyama Toshihide , Uenami Takeshi , Tamiya Akihiro , Saito Yuki , Saito Go , Uchida Junji , Morita Mitsunori , Hirashima Tomonori , Fukuda Yasushi , Kanazu Masashi , Hosoya Kazutaka , Suzuki Takuji , Ueno Kiyonobu , Fujimoto Daichi , Kumagai Toru , Teramukai Satoshi
Published: November 2021

Background and objective: Osimertinib as first-line treatment for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor (EGFR) mutations remains controversial. Sequential EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) might be superior to the first line osimertinib in patients at risk of developing acquired T790M mutations.Methods: We enrolled consecutive patients with EGFR-mutated (deletion 19 or L858R) advanced NSCLC treated with first-line drugs and evaluated predictive markers using classification and regression tree (CART) for the detection of T790M mutations based on patient backgrounds prior to initial treatment.Results: Patients without acquired T790M mutations had worse outcomes than those with T790M mutations (median OS: 798 days vs. not reached; HR: 2.70; P<0.001). CART identified three distinct groups based on variables associated with acquired T790M mutations (age, CYF, WBC, liver metastasis, and LDH; AUROC: 0.77). Based on certain variables, CART identified three distinct groups in deletion 19 (albumin, LDH, bone metastasis, pleural effusion, and WBC; AUROC: 0.81) and two distinct groups in L858R (age, CEA, and ALP; AUROC: 0.80). The T790M detection frequencies after TKI resistance of afatinib and first-generation EGFR-TKIs were similar (35.3% vs. 37.4%, P=0.933). Afatinib demonstrated longer PFS (398 vs. 279 days; HR: 0.67; P=0.004) and OS (1053 vs. 956 days; HR: 0.68; P=0.051) than first-generation EGFR-TKIs.Conclusion: Identification of patients at risk of acquiring T790M mutations after EGFR-TKI failure may aid in choice of first-line EGFR-TKI. Furthermore, afatinib may be the more effective 1st-line EGFR-TKI treatment for patients at risk of developing T790M as initial EGFR-TKI resistance.
Transmission of gut bacteria and viruses from mothers to infants
Authors: Garmaeva Sanzhima , Sinha Trishla , Gulyaeva Anastasia , Gacesa Ranko , Andreu-Sanchez Sergio , Vila Arnau Vich , Chen Lianmin , Spreckels Johanne , Brushett Siobhan , Kruk Marloes , Dekens Jackie , Sikkema Jan , Kuipers Folkert , Shkoporov Andrey , Hill Colin , Scherjon Sicco , Kurilshikov Alexander , Wijmenga Cisca , Fu Jingyuan , Zhernakova Alexandra
Published: November 2021

Seeding and development of the gut ecosystem are crucial for health, both in childhood and later in life. While the composition of infant gut bacterial communities has been described, the composition and origin of the infant gut virome remains under-studied. Here, we explore mother-to-infant transmission of bacteria and viruses in 30 mother–infant pairs in a longitudinal collection of faecal samples taken during pregnancy and the first 3 months after birth. We demonstrate that infant bacterial strains resemble maternal strains more than those of unrelated mothers. We quantify viromes using a complementary approach examining both total metagenomes and viral metagenomes. The virome composition is highly consistent between viral and total metagenomes. The infant gut viromes are dominated by active temperate bacteriophages, which are more abundant in infants than mothers (p-value=7.2e-06). We observe that the proportion of shared viruses between maternal and infant gut is only 11.3% when considering the active virome fraction alone, but increases to 37.6% when taking into account temperate phages in the form of prophages. These findings indicate that viruses are vertically transmitted from mothers to infants early in life and that pioneering phages can reach the infant gut via vertical transmission of their bacterial hosts.
Changes in Community Composition Following Secondary Succession of a Temperate Oak-hornbeam Forest After Grassland Abandonment and Their Effect on Soil Carbon and Nutrient Pools
Authors: Jelinčić Antun , Papković Dora , Zgorelec Željka , Perčin Aleksandra
Published: November 2021

To date, changes in C and nutrient cycling during succession are somewhat studied, however, results are often contrasting for different nutrients and successional sequences. Generally, due to increment of litter rich in lignocellulosic components during late succession, mineralization of nutrients is expected to decelerate, and large amounts of nutrients become captivated within tree biomass. We investigated the changes in community composition following secondary succession of oak-hornbeam forest after grassland abandonment, along with the differences in soil chemistry between early- and late- successional stages. We aimed to discover whether late succession increases soil organic C and total N and S pool, but decreases the pools of plant available P and K, and that of micronutrients due to their captivation within the tree biomass.The successional sequence studied had a following pathway: Helictotrichon pubescens haypastures à Brachypodium pinnatum successional grasslands à Cornus sanguinea scrubs à late-successional Populus tremula forests à late-successional oak-hornbeam (Quercus-Carpinus) forests. Total species number was highest in haypastures and lowest in late-successional P. tremula forest. Species richness of haypastures was higher from that of mid-successional scrub and late-successional forest stages. Species richness did not differ between mid-successional scrub and late-successional forest stages. Occurrences of plant species throughout secondary succession was mostly stage-specific; only Fragaria vesca, Ajuga reptans, Cornus sanguinea, Prunus spinosa, and Viola hirta showed survival ability throughout almost all stages. Late-successional forest stages had a higher soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM), and KA concentration, along with the higher soil C:N and C:S ratio in A horizon compared to early-successional grassland stages, whereas concentrations of plant available P and total N, S, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cu, and Fe remained unaltered.Even though late-successional forest stages tighten the nutrient cycles through nutrient captivation within the tree biomass, we found that late succession efficiently retained PA and micronutrient pools and even increased KA concentration in the A horizon, despite the fact that great amounts of these nutrients were already excluded from the nutrient cycle. Despite the contradicting C inputs, soil total N and S concentration did not differ between late-successional forest and early-successional grassland stages.
Low-Cost Imaging of Fluorescent DNA in Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Using Raspberry Pi Cameras
Authors: Abid Hassan Ali , Ong Jian Wern , Lin Eric Shen , Song Zhixiong , Liew Oi Wah , Ng Tuck Wah
Published: November 2021

Low-cost analytical solutions built around microcomputers like the Raspberry Pi help to facilitate laboratory investigations in resource limited venues. Here, three camera modules (V1.3 with and without filter, as well as NoIR) that work with this microcomputer were assessed for their suitability in imaging fluorescent DNA following agarose gel electrophoresis. Evaluation of their utility was based on signal-to-noise (SNR) and noise variance metrics that were developed. Experiments conducted with samples were subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and the amplified products were separated using gel electrophoresis and stained with Midori green. Image analysis revealed the NoIR camera performed the best with SNR and noise variance values of 21.7 and 0.222 respectively. In experiments conducted using UV LED lighting to simulate ethidium bromide (EtBr) excitation, the NoIR and V1.3 with filter removed cameras showed comparable SNR values.
Efficacy of UC-II® Undenatured Type II Collagen on Knee Joint Function in Healthy Subjects: an Exploratory Post Hoc Analysis of a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial
Authors: Saiyed Zainulabedin , Durkee Shane , Bowman James , Juturu Vijaya
Published: November 2021

BackgroundUC-II® is a unique joint health ingredient derived from chicken sternum. In a previous study, UC-II® improved knee extension range of motion and extend exercise time before the onset of knee pain in healthy participants. MethodsThe current exploratory post hoc analyses sought to assess items from the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) in healthy participants aged ≥50 years who previously participated in a randomized controlled trial. All participants reported knee pain following a standardized stepmill test and were randomized to receive placebo or 40 mg UC-II® supplementation containing ≥ 3% (≥ 1.2 mg) undenatured type II collagen for 120 days. For the current post hoc analyses, 17 participants (UC-II® = 9, placebo = 8) met the acceptance criteria (age ≥ 50 years). Analysis was carried out for the KOOS survey results with modified intent-to-treat analysis (mITT). P-values ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant. ResultsAfter 120 days of supplementation, participants in the UC-II® supplementation group exhibited statistically significant improvements versus the placebo in select KOOS items including reduced pain during standing upright and going up or down stairs, decreased discomfort in climbing ascending stairs or bending to floor to pick an object, or squatting during physical activity (p<0.05). ConclusionUC-II® supplementation has the potential to improve knee joint function, mobility, flexibility, free movements and performance of daily activities in healthy participants ≥ 50 years old with exercise-induced knee pain.
In Patients With Well-Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumours, There Is No Apparent Benefit of Somatostatin Analogues After Disease Control By Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy
Authors: Syguła Aleksandra , Ledwon Aleksandra , Hasse-Lazar Kornelia , Jurecka-Lubieniecka Beata , Michalik Barbara , Paliczka-Cieślik Ewa , Zeman Marcin , Chmielik Ewa , Sczasny Monika , Jarzab Barbara , Handkiewicz-Junak Daria
Published: November 2021

Purpose Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) and somatostatin analogues (SSAs) are commonly combined as primary treatment for neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN), and SSAs given as maintenance treatment. We sought to evaluate whether sequential therapy with PRRT followed by SSAs has progression or survival benefits in patients with NEN.Methods This prospective, randomised, single-centre study had as principal eligibility criteria: unresectable, locally-advanced, or metastatic, histologically-confirmed well-differentiated NEN; no symptoms of carcinoid syndrome; no SSAs or ≤3 months of SSAs before PRRT; and stable disease or partial/complete response after PRRT. Altogether 115 patients were randomised 2:1 to an SSA group (n=74) given octreotide acetate LAR every 4 weeks, or to a control group (n=41) receiving best supportive care. Octreotide treatment was to stop upon intolerable toxicity or patient refusal, or, at physician/patient discretion, upon progression. Primary study endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS).Results Overall, median (25th-75th percentile) follow-up from the first PRRT activity to death or latest observation was 6.6 (3.18-10.22) years. During that time, 71/115 patients (62%) progressed, 52/74 (70%) in the SSA group, 19/41 (46%) in the control group (p = 0.01). Eighty-eight /115 (76%) patients died, 58/74 (78%) in the SSA group, 30/41 (73%) in the control group (p = 0.52). Median (95% CI) PFS was respectively, 4.7 (2.8-7.7) in the SSA group, and 6.4 (4.1-not reached) years in controls. Median OS was 6,6 years in whole group of patients. Neither PFS nor OS differed between groups (p = 0.129, p = 0.985, respectively).Conclusions In patients with disease control after PRRT, subsequent SSA treatment appeared not to be associated with better PFS or OS. Whether to continue or stop SSA administration upon progression after PRRT requires evaluation in a prospective, randomised, controlled multicenter study with a relatively homogeneous sample.
The Mechanism of Hyperammonemia Triggered by Corticosteroid Administration in Late-Onset Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency
Authors: Imoto Koji , Tanaka Masatake , Goya Takeshi , Aoyagi Tomoko , Takahashi Motoi , Kurokawa Miho , Tashiro Shigeki , Kohjima Motoyuki , Kato Masaki , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: November 2021

Background: Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) is most popular among urea cycle disorders (UCDs), defined by the loss of function in any of the enzymes associated with ureagenesis. Corticosteroid administration to UCD patients, including OTCD patients, is well known to induce life-threatening hyperammonemia. The mechanism has been considered nitrogen overload due to the catabolic effect of corticosteroids; however, the pathophysiological process is unclear. We evaluated the effects of corticosteroids on urea cycle enzyme expressions and urea cycle-associated metabolites in OTC-deficient mice.Methods: The clinical courses of two adult-onset OTCD patients were presented. To elucidate the mechanism of hyperammonemia induced by corticosteroid administration in OTCD patients, we developed a mouse model by administering corticosteroids to OTCspf-ash mice deficient in the OTC gene. Dexamethasone (DEX; 20 mg/kg) was administered to the OTCspf-ash and wild-type (WT) mice at 0 and 24 h, and the serum ammonia concentrations, the levels of the hepatic metabolites, and the gene expressions of urea-cycle-related genes were analyzed.Results: Two adult-onset OTCD patients received multimodal treatment, including dialysis, and recovered completely from severe hyperammonemia. The ammonia levels in Otcspf-ash mice that were administered DEX tended to increase at 24 h and increased significantly at 48 h. The metabolomic analysis showed that the levels of citrulline, arginine, and ornithine did not differ significantly between Otcspf-ash mice that were administered DEX and normal saline; however, the level of aspartate was increased drastically in Otcspf-ash mice owing to DEX administration (P < 0.01). Among the enzymes associated with the urea cycle, mRNA expressions of carbamoyl-phosphate synthase 1, ornithine transcarbamylase, arginosuccinate synthase 1, and arginosuccinate lyase were significantly downregulated by DEX administration in both the Otcspf-ash and WT mice (P < 0.01).Conclusions: We elucidated that corticosteroid administration induced hyperammonemia in Otcspf-ash mice by suppressing urea-cycle-related gene expressions as early as 24 h. Since the urea cycle intermediate amino acids, such as arginine, might not be effective because of the suppressed expression of urea-cycle-related genes by corticosteroid administration, we should consider an early intervention by renal replacement therapy in cases of UCD patients induced by corticosteroids to avoid brain injuries or fatal outcomes.
Oscillatory Motion of Viscoelastic Drops on Slippery Lubricated Surfaces
Authors: Sartori Paolo , Ferraro Davide , Dassie Marco , Meggiolaro Alessio , Filippi Daniele , Zaltron Annamaria , Pierno Matteo , Mistura Giampaolo
Published: November 2021

The introduction of slippery lubricated surfaces allows the investigation of the flow of highly viscous solutions which otherwise will hardly move on standard solid surfaces. Here we present the study of the gravity induced motion of small viscoelastic drops deposited on inclined lubricated surfaces. The viscoelastic fluids exhibit shear thinning and, more importantly, a significant first normal stress difference N1. Despite the homogeneity of the surface and of the fluids, drops of sufficiently high N1 move down with an oscillating instantaneous speed whose frequency is found to be directly proportional to the average speed and inversely to the drop volume. The oscillatory motion is caused by the formation of a bulge at the drop rear that starts rolling around the moving drop.
Mouse Models Characterize GNAO1 Encephalopathy as a Neurodevelopmental Disorder Leading to Motor Anomalies: from a Severe G203R to a Milder C215Y Mutation
Authors: Silachev Denis , Koval Alexey , Savitsky Mikhail , Padmasola Guru , Quairiaux Charles , Thorel Fabrizio , Katanaev Vladimir L.
Published: November 2021

GNAO1 encephalopathy characterized by a wide spectrum of neurological deficiencies in pediatric patients originates from de novo heterozygous mutations in the gene encoding Gαo, the major neuronal G protein. Efficient treatments and even the proper understanding of the underlying etiology are currently lacking for this dominant disease. Adequate animal models of GNAO1 encephalopathy are urgently needed. Here we describe establishment and characterization of mouse models of the disease based on two point mutations in GNAO1 with different clinical manifestations. One of them is G203R leading to the early-onset epileptic seizures, motor dysfunction, developmental delay and intellectual disability. The other is C215Y producing much milder clinical outcomes, mostly – late-onset motor hyperactivity. The resultant mouse models show distinct phenotypes: severe neonatal lethality in GNAO1[G203R]/+ mice vs. normal vitality in GNAO1[C215Y]/+. The latter model further revealed strong hyperactivity and hyperlocomotion in a panel of behavioral assays, without signs of epilepsy, recapitulating the patients’ manifestations. Importantly, despite these differences the two models similarly revealed prenatal brain developmental anomalies, such as enlarged lateral ventricles and decreased numbers of neuronal precursor cells in the cortex. Thus, our work unveils GNAO1 encephalopathy as to a large extent neurodevelopmental malady. We expect that this understanding and the tools we established will be instrumental for future therapeutic developments.
Complete genome sequence of a novel fusarivirus from the phytopathogenic fungus Corynespora cassiicola
Authors: Liu Mingming , Liu Xintao , Zhao Hui , Ni Yunxia , Jia Min , Hu Peilin , Liu Hongyan , Tian Baoming
Published: November 2021

Corynespora cassiicola is an important phytopathogenic fungus and it has severely impaired the production of crops. In this study, we report on the molecular characterization of a novel (+) ssRNA mycovirus, Corynespora cassiicola fusarivirus 1 (CcFV1) isolated from C. cassiicola strain 20200826-3-1. Excluding a poly (A) tail, the genome of the virus is 6491 nt containing three putative open reading frames. The large ORF1 encodes a polypeptide of 1524aa with a conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) domain, a helicase (Hel) domain, and a Phage-holin-3-6 (Phage-holin) domain. ORF2 encodes a polypeptide with a conserved Chromosome segregation ATPase (Smc) domain. The smallest ORF3 encodes a putative protein with an unknown function. Phylogenetic analysis based on the ORF1 and ORF2 of CcFV1 encoded polypeptide showed that CcFV1 is phylogenetically related to the newly proposed family Fusariviridae. Thus, we suggest that CcFV1 might be a novel member of the family Fusariviridae and is also the first discovered in C. cassiicola.
A Novel Force Variation Fine Blanking Process for the High-strength and Low-plasticity Material
Authors: Mao Huajie , Chen Han , Liu Yanxiong , Ji Kaisheng
Published: November 2021

Fine blanking is a kind of metal forming process with the advantages of high precision, good surface quality and low cost. Influenced by the concept of lightweight, a large number of metal materials with high strength are widely used in various fields. High strength materials are prone to be cracked during plastic deformation due to their poor plasticity, which limits the application range of them. This paper proposed a force variation fine blanking process for high-strength and low-plasticity materials. At the same time, a method to find the curve of forming force for this novel process was presented. A 2D finite element fine blanking model was established for the TC4 material. Combining genetic algorithm and neural network methods, a model was built up to find the optimal forming force loading curve. The parts fabricated by force variation loading and constant loading fine blanking process were compared through experiments. The mechanism of force variation fine blanking is also revealed. The forming force mainly affects the length of clean cutting surface by affecting hydrostatic stress. According to the ultimate optimal loading curve, the forming force should be kept at a low level in the early stage of blanking stroke, and increased gradually in the ending stage. In the application of force variation fine blanking, the part with long length of clean cutting surface can be obtained with lower die load.
Selective Disruption of Drp1-Independent Mitophagy and Mitolysosome Trafficking by an Alzheimer’s Disease Relevant Tau Modification in a Novel C. elegans Model
Authors: Guha Sanjib , Cheng Anson , Carroll Trae , King Dennisha , Koren Shon , Swords Sierra , Nehrke Keith , Johnson Gail VW
Published: November 2021

Background: Accumulation of inappropriately phosphorylated tau into neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) is a defining feature of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), with specific epitopes such as Tau pT231 emerging early in the development of tau pathology. Previously, we demonstrated that a phosphomimetic mutant (T231E) of human tau drove the loss of neuronal function and structural integrity with age in a novel C. elegans single-copy gene insertion AD model. A critical finding was that T231E, unlike wild type tau, suppressed oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial autophagy, or mitophagy. Regulation of mitochondrial morphology by fission is important for mitophagy, which has been reported to be dysregulated by AD-relevant tau species. Dynamin Related Protein 1 (Drp1) is a GTPase that plays a central role in mediating mitochondrial fission, and its altered function may contribute to AD pathogenesis. Methods: Genetically-encoded fluorescent biosensors and dynamic imaging approaches were combined with a genomic drp-1(-) loss-of-function and transgenic tau mutants to derive a comprehensive in vivo analysis of age-associated changes in mitochondria and mitolysosome (ML) morphology, abundance, neurite trafficking, and stress-induced mitophagy. Results: Strain expressing disease-associated PTM mimetic Tau T231E demonstrated a surprisingly selective effect on ML development and trafficking, with no effect on lysosomes or autolysosomes, and a subtle effect on mitochondria that was apparent mainly in older animals. Unexpectedly, we found that drp-1(-) mutants mount a robust mitophagy response to oxidative stress, consistent with recent observations that adaptive mitophagy may occur independent of the canonical DRP1 pathway. Moreover, T231E continued to suppress oxidative stress-induced mitophagy in the drp-1(-) background. Conclusions: Our C. elegans single-copy gene insertion model unveils multiple levels of selectivity – phenotypic selectivity for mutations that mimic pathologic tauopathy-associated PTM and physiologic selectivity for organelles that contain damaged mitochondria. In addition, our novel findings provide compelling support for DRP1-independent mechanisms playing a pivotal role in regulating mitochondrial dynamics and function in the context of AD-relevant tau species and age-associated stress.
Geometric Mediator Structures, Transition Dynamics and Force Constants
Authors: Koehler Dale. R.
Published: November 2021

It is shown in the present work that the distorted-space model of matter can describe conventional force-constants and transition-mediator structures. We use the verbiage “distorted” to communicate the concept of “energetic warping” to distinguish “spatial warping” from “classical matter warping”, although the concept of “matter” is in fact, in the present context, the “geometric distortion energy” of the spatial manifold itself without a classical “matter stress-energy source”. The “distorted-geometry” structures exhibit non-Newtonian features wherein the hole or core-region fields of the structures are energetically-repulsive (negative pressure), do not behave functionally in an r-4 manner and terminate at zero at the radial origin (no singularity). Near the core of the distortion the magnetic fields dominate the energy-densities of the structures thereby departing from classical particle-structure descriptions. Black-body radiation-emission and structural modeling lead to a description of transition dynamics and photonic entities.
Disentangling potential genotypes for macro and micro nutrients and polymorphic markers in Chickpea
Authors: Mittal Neha , Bhardwaj Juhi , Verma Shruti , Singh Rajesh Kumar , Yadav Renu , Kaur D. , Talukdar Akshay , Yadav Neelam , Kumar Rajendra
Published: November 2021

Background- The present investigation was conducted to assess the nutritional diverseness and identify novel genetic resources to be utilized in chickpea breeding for macro and micro nutrients. Methods-The plants were grown in randomized block design. Nutritional and phytochemical properties of nine chickpea genotypes were estimated. The EST sequences from NCBI database were downloaded in FASTA format, clustered into contigs using CAP3, mined for novel SSRs using TROLL analysis and primer pairs were designed using Primer 3 software. Jaccard’s similarity coefficients were used to compare the nutritional and molecular indexes followed by dendrograms construction employing UPGMA approach. Results- The genotypes PUSA-1103, K-850, PUSA-1108, PUSA-1053 and the EST-SSR markers ICCeM012, ICCeM0049, ICCeM0070, ICCeM0078, SVP55, SVP95, SVP96, SVP146, SVP213 & SVP217 were found as potential donor / marker resources for the macro-micro nutrients. The genotypes differed (p<0.05) for nutritional properties. Amongst newly designed primers, 6 were found polymorphic with median PIC (0.46). The alleles per primer ranged 1 to 8. Cluster analysis based on nutritional and molecular diversities partially matched to each other in principle. Conclusion-The identified novel genetic resources may be used to widen the germplasm base, prepare maintainable catalogue and identify systematic blueprints for future chickpea breeding strategies targeting macro-micro nutrients.
Investigation of the Cutting Uid'S Ow and its Thermomechanical Effect on the Cutting Zone Based on Uid-Structure Interaction (FSI) Simulation
Authors: Liu Hui , Meurer Markus , Schraknepper Daniel , Bergs Thomas
Published: November 2021

Cutting fluids are an important part of today's metal cutting processes, especially when machining aerospace alloys. They offer the possibility to extend tool life and improve cutting performance. However, the equipment and handling of cutting fluids also raises manufacturing costs. To reduce the negative impact of the high cost of cutting fluids, cooling systems and strategies are constantly being optimized. In most existing works, the influences of different cooling strategies on the relevant process parameters, such as tool wear, cutting forces, chip breakage, etc., are empirically investigated. Due to the limitations of experimental methods, analysis and modeling of the working mechanism has so far only been carried out at a relatively abstract level. For a better understanding of the mechanism of cutting fluids, a thermal coupled two-dimensional simulation approach for the orthogonal cutting process was developed in this work. This approach is based on the Coupled Eulerian Lagrangian (CEL) method and provides a detailed investigation of the cutting fluid’s impact on chip formation and tool temperature. For model validation, cutting tests were conducted on a broaching machine. The simulation resolved the fluid behavior in the cutting area and showed the distribution of convective cooling on the tool surface. This work demonstrates the potential of CEL based cutting fluid simulation, but also pointed out the shortcomings of this method.
Lab On a Chip System for Size-Based Gold and Polymer Nanoparticle Separation
Authors: Yoon Jaeyun , Kim Insup , Lee Suhan , Won Wan-Sik , Noh Jinhong , Kim Noori , Yoon Yong-Jin
Published: November 2021

Despite the increasing demand for nanoscale biomolecule analysis for point-of-care (POC) application, nanoparticle separation remains a challenge in many applications due to huge sample loss during separation, low throughput, large scale input materials requirement, and sophisticated technologies. As the separation efficiency may affect the subsequent sample processing and analysis, a robust and reliable size-based separation technique is necessary. This study presents a lab on a chip system to enhance the separation performance by using rapid and straightforward polymer prototyping. In particular, the system consists of a microfluidic network with embedded membrane filters with different pore size cut-offs and an ultrasonic transmitter for acoustic agitation. Using the novel system, we successfully demonstrate the fractionation of 15 nm Au NP from polydisperse nanoparticle solution in the presence of ultrasonic wave (28-40 kHz) generated by the transducer incorporated with the microfluidic system during the separation. Ultrasonic irradiation helps in preventing cake formation and reversing the fouling process by acoustic agitation. The suggested system significantly increases the flow rate during the separation process and improves the recovery of target size nanoparticles. This microfluidic platform is expected to serve as a powerful tool for sample preparation and analytical methodology in POC applications.
Forced Sliding Mode Control for Chaotic Systems Synchronization
Authors: Kuz'menko Andrey A.
Published: November 2021

Synchronization of chaotic systems is considered to be a common engineering problem. However, the proposed laws of synchronization control do not always provide robustness towards the parametric perturbations. The purpose of this article is to show the use of synergy-cybernetic approach for the construction of robust law for Arneodo chaotic systems synchronization. As the main method of design of robust control, the method of design of control with forced sliding mode of the synergetic control theory is considered. To illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed law it's compared in this article with the classical sliding mode control. The distinctive features of suggested robust control law are the more good compensation of parametric perturbations (better performance indexes --- the root-mean-square error, average absolute value of error) without designing perturbation observers, the ability to exclude the chattering effect, less energy-consuming and a simpler analysis of the stability of a closed-loop system. Offered approach will allow a new consideration for the design of robust control laws for chaotic systems, taking into account the ideas of directed self-organization and robust control. It can be used for synchronization other chaotic systems.Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 93B35 · 93B52 · 93C30 · 93D21 · 34H10
Neonatal Magnesemia in Preterm Neonates Unexposed to Maternal MgSO4 Administration and in Neonates Exposed for Fetal Neuroprotection or Maternal Eclampsia Prevention.
Authors: Dehaene Isabelle , Steenstraeten Tessa Van , De Coen Kris , De Buyser Stefanie , Decruyenaere Johan , Smets Koenraad , Roelens Kristien
Published: November 2021

Objective - To compare neonatal magnesemia in the first fifteen days of neonatal life between three groups: a control group not exposed to MgSO4, a neuroprotection group, and an eclampsia prevention group, and to explore its’ associations with child outcomes. Design - Retrospective single-centre cohort study. Setting - Tertiary care setting. Population - Infants admitted at the neonatal intensive care unit born between 24 and 32 weeks’ gestation, regardless of etiology of preterm birth.Methods - Linear mixed regression of neonatal magnesemia on exposure group and day of life. Generalised estimating equations models of child outcomes on neonatal magnesemia according to exposure group and day of life. Main outcome measures - Neonatal magnesemia (mmol/l). Results - Neonatal magnesemia is significantly higher in the preeclampsia group compared to the control and neuroprotection group. On the day of birth, this is irrespective of maternal magnesemia (preeclampsia vs control group), and the maternal total dose or duration of MgSO4 administration (preeclampsia vs neuroprotection group). No differences were found in short-term composite outcome between the three groups. Conclusions - We found mean differences in neonatal magnesemia between children not exposed to MgSO4 antenatally, children exposed for fetal neuroprotection, and children exposed for maternal eclampsia prevention. A 4g loading and 1g/h maintenance dose, for fetal neuroprotection and eclampsia prevention, appears to be safe on the short term for the neonate.
High power selective laser melting of crack sensitive nickel-base alloy CM247LC, including dimensional analysis and modelling
Authors: Gerstgrasser Marcel , Cloots Michael , Jakob Raphael , Stirnimann Josef , Wegener Konrad
Published: November 2021

Compared to reference parameters in the low power and scan velocity range, which lead to dense and crack-free CM247LC LPBF samples due to in-situ crack healing, high power, high scan velocities and increased laser beam diameters are investigated, to decrease the production time further. By keeping the maximum laser intensity from the reference and the laser power to scan velocity ratio constant, the intensity approach provides an initial estimation for the laser spot size regarding the measured Archimedean density and crack density in the high power and high scan velocity range. The investigated cracks are identified as re-melting cracks. Solidification or hot cracks are not observed, since the crack healing effect for those kinds of cracks still occurs. Furthermore, a melt pool depth range is discovered, where not only solidification cracks can be avoided, but also re-melting cracks, which are resulting from higher laser power inputs. This theory can be proven by further laser spot size optimization, where the melt pool depth comes closer to the mentioned range. The Archimedean density and crack density results, in case of the 600 W power parameter with 2400 mm/s scan velocity and a beam diameter of 164 µm, are close to the one obtained from the reference with 200 W, a scan velocity of 800 mm/s and a laser spot of 90 µm. With the intensity approach and laser beam diameter optimization, the production time can be reduced by 300%. Based on dimensional analysis, a model, which combines the samples density with the crack density through the melt pool depth, is presented. Six main and two additional process and laser parameters are taken into relation. The result from the model and the measured values from experiments are in good agreement. Additionally, the influence of the doubled layer thickness and an increased hatch distance by 50% with varying scan velocities on the Archimedean density and crack density is analysed.
Comparison of the Psychological Profile of Ankle Sprain Between Coper and Chronic Ankle Instability Individuals: Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Babakhanian Shima , Mansori Mohammad Hani , Ardakani Mohammad Karimizadeh , Naderifar Homa
Published: November 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the psychological parameters in Coper individuals and people with chronic ankle instability (CAI).Methods: This study was a cross-sectional and comparative study. Sixty elite athletes, from multiple athletic disciplines, who have suffered from lateral ankle sprains at least once in the last two years, were selected as research subjects and were divided into two groups: Copers (n = 30) and CAI (n = 30). Classification of CAI, and coper groups were done by AJFAT, CAIT and FAAM self-report questionnaires. Athletes' psychological characteristics were measured using the Ottawa Mental Skills Assessment Tool (OMSAT-3). Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and independent t-test were used to evaluate the differences between groups at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The results showed there was a significant difference between the two groups in Goal setting, Self-confidence, Commitment, Relaxation, Fear control and Coping with stress, Focusing, Refocusing, and Mental practice (P <0.05). And Coper athletes scored higher than ankle instability athletes. But there were no significant differences between the two groups in the following parameters: Inactivation, Imagery, and Competition planning skills (P <0.05).Conclusion: The findings showed that athletes with CAI scored lower than Coper athletes on psychological exams. Given the importance of prioritizing the mental components of goal setting, imagery, relaxation, activation, and self-confidence, the design of the competition should be a priority for rehabilitation. Therefore, coaches and sports experts are recommended to focus and improve mental skills in athletes who suffer from sports injuries, to reduce the occurrence of repetitive sports injuries.
A Cross-Sectional Study to Compare Differences on Clinical and Laboratory Findings in Children with Seropositive and Seronegative Lupus
Authors: Salehi Shima , Shamsabadi Rozita Hosseini , Otukesh Hassan , Shiari Reza , Sharafi Monir
Published: November 2021

Background: Lupus is an inflammatory and autoimmune disease that involves various tissues and organs of the body. Identification of diagnostic elements to rapid identification of seronegative lupus cases is very important in order to prevent morbidity and progression of disease. This study aimed to compare clinical and laboratory findings of seropositive cases with seronegative lupus patients. Methods: This cross-sectional analytic study was performed on 43 children (17 seronegative and 26 seropositive) with lupus who were admitted to Ali Asghar Hospital during 2007-2017. Seropositive patients had anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) titration >1/80, while seronegative patients had ANA titration <1/80 (at the time of disease diagnosis). Clinical and laboratory findings were compared between two groups.Results: Serositis in patients with ANA- was significantly higher than ANA+ (41.17% vs. 23.07%; p = 0.042). ANA- group had higher autoimmune disease history than ANA+ group (42.85% vs. 15.0%; p = 0.041). The family history of the disease in the ANA- group was greater than ANA+ group (50% vs. 23.52%). The percentage of hypertensive patients in ANA- group was higher than ANA+ group (52.94% vs. 26.92%; p = 0.037). Neurologic symptoms in ANA+ and ANA- groups were 38.46% and 17.64%, respectively (p = 0.043). The frequency of patients with thrombocytopenia in ANA+ group was significantly greater than ANA- group (32% vs. 12.5%; p=0.041). There was no significant difference in other clinical and laboratory findings between two groups. Conclusion: Seronegative lupus patients had higher percentage of musculoskeletal symptoms, autoimmune disease history, familial history of disease, and hypertension, while neurological and thrombocytopenia symptoms were higher in seropositive patients compared to seronegative cases. Therefore, evaluation of these factors can be helpful to diagnosis of seronegative patients.
Modeling of Material Removal Morphology And Prediction of Surface Roughness Based On WEDM Successive Discharges
Authors: Li Zhaolong , Liu Yingtao , Cao Bingren , Li Wangwang
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a successive discharges material removal model is proposed to predict the surface roughness of the EN-GJL-250 (Grey Cast Iron) under different discharge parameters of Wire-cut electrical discharge machining (WEDM). Firstly, the finite element method (FEM) was used to analogue simulation the distribution of material surface temperature and flow field in the WEDM single pulse discharge machining process. According to the principle of energy conservation, the surface morphology and characteristic parameter size of a single pulse crater under different discharge parameters are simulated. Secondly, the discharge position is determined by the minimum gap width between the initial surface of the workpiece and the electrode wire during the establishment of the material removal model. Simulation results show: The magnitude of the single pulse discharge energy has an important influence on the morphology and characteristic size of the crater. Due to the different discharge energy, the increasing trend of crater radius, depth and flanging height is not synchronized, and the increase of crater radius is more obvious and rapid. Meanwhile, the final morphology of the WEDM machined surface is determined by the morphology size of a single pulse crater and the location distribution of discharge points. Finally, the same discharge parameters are used to verify the surface quality of machined materials. Experimental results show: The surface morphology of the WEDM workpiece is in good agreement with the material removal model, and the average relative error of surface roughness between the simulation results and the experimental results is 8.26%
Optical, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties of (Y1-xScx)2O3 Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Huang Jiquan , YANG Changliang , HUANG Qiufeng , DENG Zhonghua , WANG Yun , Li Xiaoyun , Zhou Zehua , CHEN Jian , LIU Zhuguang , GUO Wang
Published: November 2021

Sesquioxides such as Y2O3 and Sc2O3 are important optical materials, but the fabrication of their transparent ceramics remains a challenge due to the ultra-high melting point of over 2400 oC. In this work, a series of (Y1-xScx)2O3 transparent ceramics were successfully fabricated by a simple vacuum sintering process without any sintering additives, and the effect of Scandium (Sc) content on the crystal structure and optical/thermal/mechanical properties were evaluated. Y2O3 and Sc2O3 form a complete solid solution with a cubic bixbyite structure. The formation of (Y1-xScx)2O3 solid solution promotes the densification of ceramics, leading to the realization of high transparency close to the theoretical transmittance over a wide wavelength range of 0.35-8 mm. In particular, the in-line transmittance in the range of 0.6-6 mm remains above 80% for (Y1-xScx)2O3 with x = 0.23-0.31, while the pristine Y2O3 and Sc2O3 are opaque. Moreover, the mechanical properties including Vickers hardness (Hv), fracture toughness (KIC), and biaxial strength (δb) are evidently enhanced due to the solid solution strengthening, while the thermal conductivity is reduced due to the reduction of photon free path. This study demonstrates that forming of solid solution is a facile and universal approach for preparing sesquioxides transparent ceramics with high optical and mechanical quality.
Neuroblastoma in Children: Intraoperative Goal Directed Therapy, Intraoperative And Postoperative Outcomes
Authors: Kumba Claudine
Published: November 2021

Background: Neuroblastoma is the most common tumor in children. Anesthetic management can be challenging due to the localization and catecholamine-secreting characteristics of the tumor. We undertook a secondary analysis in a previous study to describe patients who underwent neuroblastoma resection.Objective: To describe intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent neuroblastoma resection and to propose optimal intraoperative management for postoperative outcome improvement.Methods: This was a secondary analysis of children who underwent neuroblastoma resection in the initial retrospective study.Results: There were 16 patients with a mean age of 39.3±22.1 months. Seven (43.8%) patients presented with intraoperative or postoperative complications. One (6.3%) patient had intraoperative broncholaryngospasm and difficult intubation. Two (12.5%) patients had intraoperative hemorrhagic shock. One patient (6.3%) had postoperative renal failure. Two patients (12.5%) had postoperative respiratory failure, and 3 (18.8%) patients had postoperative cardiocirculatory failure. One (6.3%) had postoperative pulmonary sepsis and septicemia. Thirteen (81.3%) patients were intraoperatively transfused. There was no in-hospital mortality.Conclusion: In this cohort, 43.8% of the patients had intraoperative and/or postoperative complications in terms of organ dysfunction or sepsis. A total of 81.3% of the patients received intraoperative transfusion. Neuroblastoma surgery can be a challenging situation where cardiovascular instability, high blood loss and transfusion requirements can be encountered. Consequently, preoperative preparation and optimal intraoperative management with validated tools in children could be necessary for a better postoperative outcome in this surgical setting.