bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEEDSP: Deadline‐aware and energy‐efficient dynamic service placement in integrated Internet of Things and fog computing environments
Authors: Sri Raghavendra Meeniga , Chawla Priyanka , Singh Gill Sukhpal
Published: October 2021

Fog computing has become adaptable and also as a promising infrastructure for providing elastic resources at the edge of the network. Fog computing reduces the transmission latency and consumption of bandwidth while processing the incoming requests from various Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Moreover, fog computing can support and facilitate geographically distributed applications with low and predictable latency. However, this technology also has significant research issues in its current stage such as successful implementation of service location models. In this article, we propose a deadline‐aware and energy‐efficient dynamic service placement (DEEDSP) technique for fog computing that supports the placement of IoT based services. Further, hyper‐heuristic algorithm based energy‐efficient service placement technique is proposed to balance the energy‐delay trade‐off based on different service placement decision criteria (eg, minimum response time or energy consumption). The proposed algorithm is able to dynamically minimize the energy consumption of the system while ensuring that the response time satisfies a given time constraint. Finally, the proposed technique is evaluated in simulated fog computing environment and experimental results show that this technique performs better than state‐of‐the‐art placement techniques in terms of energy and latency.
Geographic variation in management of patients with placenta accreta spectrum: An international survey of experts (GPASS)
Authors: Brown Alec D. , Hart Jessica M. , Modest Anna M. , Hess Philip E. , Abbas Ahmed M. , Nieto‐Calvache Albaro J. , Bhide Amarnath , Lim Boon , Dunjin Chen , Palacios‐Jaraquemada José , Sentilhes Loïc , Soma‐Pillay Priya , Aryananda Rozi A. , Hantoushzadeh Sedigheh , Wang Shan , Shamshirsaz Alireza A. , Shainker Scott A.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To describe global geographic variations in the diagnosis and management of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS).

Methods

An international cross‐sectional study was conducted among PAS experts practicing at medical institutions in member states of the United Nations. Survey questions focused on diagnostic evaluation and management strategies for PAS.

Results

A total of 134 centers participated. Participating centers represented each of the United Nations' designated regions. Of those, 118 (88%) reported practicing in a medium‐volume or high‐volume center. First‐trimester PAS screen was reported in 35 (26.1%) centers. Respondents consistently implement guideline‐supported care practices, including utilization of ultrasound as the primary diagnostic modality (134, 100%) and implementation of multidisciplinary care teams (115, 85.8%). Less than 10% of respondents reported routinely managing PAS without hysterectomy; these centers were predominantly located in Europe and Africa. Antepartum management and availability of mental health support for PAS patients varied widely.

Conclusion

Worldwide, there is a strong adherence to PAS care guidelines; however, regional variations do exist. Comparing variations in care to outcomes will provide insight into the clinically significant practice variability.
Line‐field confocal optical coherence tomography as a tool for three‐dimensional in vivo quantification of healthy epidermis: A pilot study
Authors: Chauvel‐Picard Julie , Bérot Vincent , Tognetti Linda , Orte Cano Carmen , Fontaine Margot , Lenoir Clément , Pérez‐Anker Javiera , Puig Susana , Dubois Arnaud , Forestier Sandra , Monnier Jilliana , Jdid Randa , Cazorla Gabriel , Pedrazzani Mélanie , Sanchez Antoine , Fischman Sébastien , Rubegni Pietro , del Marmol Véronique , Malvehy Joseph , Cinotti Elisa , Perrot Jean L. , Suppa Mariano
Published: October 2021

Epidermal three‐dimensional (3D) topography/quantification has not been completely characterized yet. The recently developed line‐field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC‐OCT) provides real‐time, high‐resolution, in‐vivo 3D imaging of the skin. This pilot study aimed at quantifying epidermal metrics (epidermal thicknesses, dermal‐epidermal junction [DEJ] undulation and keratinocyte number/shape/size) using 3D LC‐OCT. For each study participant (8 female, skin‐type‐II, younger/older volunteers), seven body sites were imaged with LC‐OCT. Epidermal metrics were calculated by segmentations and measurements assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) when appropriate. Thicknesses of epidermis/SC, DEJ undulation and keratinocyte nuclei volume varied across body sites. Evidence of keratinocyte maturation was observed in vivo: keratinocyte nuclei being small/spherical near the DEJ and flatter/elliptical near the skin surface. Skin microanatomy can be quantified by combining LC‐OCT and AI. This technology could be highly relevant to understand aging processes and conditions linked to epidermal disorders. Future clinical/research applications are to be expected in this scenario.
Application of Sigma metrics in the quality control strategies of immunology and protein analytes
Authors: Luo Yanfen , Yan Xingxing , Xiao Qian , Long Yifei , Pu Jieying , Li Qiwei , Cai Yimei , Chen Yushun , Zhang Hongyuan , Chen Cha , Ou Songbang
Published: October 2021

Background

Six Sigma (6σ) is an efficient laboratory management method. We aimed to analyze the performance of immunology and protein analytes in terms of Six Sigma.

Methods

Assays were evaluated for these 10 immunology and protein analytes: Immunoglobulin G (IgG), Immunoglobulin A (IgA), Immunoglobulin M (IgM), Complement 3 (C3), Complement 4 (C4), Prealbumin (PA), Rheumatoid factor (RF), Anti streptolysin O (ASO), C‐reactive protein (CRP), and Cystatin C (Cys C). The Sigma values were evaluated based on bias, four different allowable total error (TEa) and coefficient of variation (CV) at QC materials levels 1 and 2 in 2020. Sigma Method Decision Charts were established. Improvement measures of analytes with poor performance were recommended according to the quality goal index (QGI), and appropriate quality control rules were given according to the Sigma values.

Results

While using the TEaNCCL, 90% analytes had a world‐class performance with σ>6, Cys C showed marginal performance with σ<4. While using minimum, desirable, and optimal biological variation of TEa, only three (IgG, IgM, and CRP), one (CRP), and one (CRP) analytes reached 6σ level, respectively. Based on σNCCL that is calculated from TEaNCCL, Sigma Method Decision Charts were constructed. For Cys C, five multi‐rules (13s/22s/R4s/41s/6X, N = 6, R = 1, Batch length: 45) were adopted for QC management. The remaining analytes required only one QC rule (13s, N = 2, R = 1, Batch length: 1000). Cys C need to improve precision (QGI = 0.12).

Conclusions

The laboratories should choose appropriate TEa goals and make judicious use of Sigma metrics as a quality improvement tool.
Roles of extracellular vesicles in the aging microenvironment and age‐related diseases
Authors: Yin Yujia , Chen Huihui , Wang Yizhi , Zhang Ludi , Wang Xipeng
Published: October 2021

Cellular senescence is a persistently hypoproliferative state with diverse stressors in a specific aging microenvironment. Senescent cells have a double‐edged sword effect: they can be physiologically beneficial for tissue repair, organ growth, and body homeostasis, and they can be pathologically harmful in age‐related diseases. Among the hallmarks of senescence, the SASP, especially SASP‐related extracellular vesicle (EV) signalling, plays the leading role in aging transmission via paracrine and endocrine mechanisms. EVs are successful in intercellular and interorgan communication in the aging microenvironment and age‐related diseases. They have detrimental effects on downstream targets at the levels of immunity, inflammation, gene expression, and metabolism. Furthermore, EVs obtained from different donors are also promising materials and tools for antiaging treatments and are used for regeneration and rejuvenation in cell‐free systems. Here, we describe the characteristics of cellular senescence and the aging microenvironment, concentrating on the production and function of EVs in age‐related diseases, and provide new ideas for antiaging therapy with EVs.
Trans‐10 18:1 in ruminant meats: A review
Authors: Alves Susana P. , Vahmani Payam , Mapiye Cletos , McAllister Tim A. , Bessa Rui J. B. , Dugan Michael E. R.
Published: October 2021

Trans(t) fatty acids (TFA) from partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (i.e., industrialtrans) have been phased out of foods in many countries due to their promotion of cardiovascular disease. This leaves ruminant‐derived foods as the main source of TFA. Unlike industrial TFA where catalytic hydrogenation yields a broad distribution of isomers, ruminant TFA are enzymatically derived and can result in enrichment of specific isomers. Comparisons between industrial and ruminant TFA have often exonerated ruminant TFA due to their lack or at times positive effects on health. At extremes, however, ruminant‐sourced foods can have either high levels oft10‐ ort11‐18:1, and when considering enriched sources,t10‐18:1 has properties similar to industrial TFA, whereast11‐18:1 can be converted to an isomer of conjugated linoleic acid (cis(c)9,t11‐conjugated linoleic acid), both of which have potential positive health effects. Increasedt10‐18:1 in meat‐producing ruminants has not been associated with negative effects on live animal production or meat quality. As such, reducingt10‐18:1 has not been of immediate concern to ruminant meat producers, as there have been no economic consequences for its enrichment; nevertheless at high levels, it can compromise the nutritional quality of beef and lamb. In anticipation that regulations regarding TFA may focus more ont10‐18:1 in beef and lamb, the present review will cover its production, analysis, biological effects, strategies for manipulation, and regulatory policy.
Biomimetic Graphene/Spongin Scaffolds for Improved Osteoblasts Bioactivity via Dynamic Mechanical Stimulation
Authors: Semitela Ângela , Carvalho Sara , Fernandes Cristiana , Pinto Susana , Fateixa Sara , Nogueira Helena I. S. , Bdikin Igor , Completo António , Marques Paula A. A. P. , Gonçalves Gil
Published: October 2021

Biomimetics offers excellent prospects for design a novel generation of improved biomaterials. Here the controlled integration of graphene oxide (GO) derivatives with a 3D marine spongin (MS) network is explored to nanoengineer novel smart bio‐based constructs for bone tissue engineering. The results point out that 3D MS surfaces can be homogeneously coated by layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly of oppositely charged polyethyleneimine (PEI) and GO. Notably, the GOPEI@MS bionanocomposites present a high structural and mechanical stability under compression tests in wet conditions (shape memory). Dynamic mechanically (2 h of sinusoidal compression cyclic interval (0.5 Hz, 0–10% strain)/14 d) stimulates GOPEI@MS seeded with osteoblast (MC3T3‐E1), shows a significant improvement in bioactivity, with cell proliferation being two times higher than under static conditions. Besides, the dynamic assays show that GOPEI@MS bionanocomposites are able to act as mechanical stimulus‐responsive scaffolds able to resemble physiological bone extracellular matrix (ECM) requirements by strongly triggering mineralization of the bone matrix. These results prove that the environment created by the system cell‐GOPEI@MS is suitable for controlling the mechanisms regulating mechanical stimulation‐induced cell proliferation for potential in vivo experimentation.
Visible Light Induced Conventional Step‐Growth and Chain‐Growth Condensation Polymerizations by Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution
Authors: Kiliclar Huseyin Cem , Gencosman Emirhan , Yagci Yusuf
Published: October 2021

A novel visible light induced step‐growth polymerization by electrophilic aromatic substitution between photochemically generated carbocations and dimethoxybenzene nucleophile is described. Conventional step‐growth polymerization and chain‐growth condensation polymerization (CCP) mechanisms are presented. It is found that by changing the molar ratios of the monomers slightly, the CCP mechanism becomes operative and relatively higher molecular weight polymers are obtained because of the higher reactivity of the end groups of the intermediates and oligomers than that of the monomers. The possibility of grafting onto polymers containing epoxide at their side chains by photoinduced chain end activation of poly(dimethoxyphenylene methylene) is demonstrated. This study is expected to promote potential applications of the combination of photoinduced electron transfer reactions and CCP in macromolecular synthesis and material science.
Pragmatic Approach on Neuroimaging Techniques for the Differential Diagnosis of Parkinsonisms
Authors: Peralta Cecilia , Strafella Antonio P. , van Eimeren Thilo , Ceravolo Roberto , Seppi Klaus , Kaasinen Valtteri , Arena Julieta E. , Lehericy Stephane ,   the International Parkinson Movement Disorders Society‐Neuroimaging Study Group
Published: October 2021

Background

Rapid advances in neuroimaging technologies in the exploration of the living human brain also apply to movement disorders. However, the accurate diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) and atypical parkinsonian disorders (APDs) still remains a challenge in daily practice.

Methods

We review the literature and our own experience as the Movement Disorder Society–Neuroimaging Study Group in Movement Disorders with the aim of providing a practical approach to the use of imaging technologies in the clinical setting.

Results

The enormous amount of articles published so far and our increasing recognition of imaging technologies contrast with a lack of imaging protocols and updated algorithms for differential diagnosis. The distinctive pathological involvement in different brain structures and the correlation with imaging findings obtained with magnetic resonance, positron emission tomography, or single‐photon emission computed tomography illustrate what qualitative and quantitative measures may be useful in the clinical setting.

Conclusion

We delineate a pragmatic approach to discuss imaging technologies, updated imaging algorithms, and their implications for differential diagnoses in PD and APDs.
Three‐dimensional analytical continuum model for axially loaded noncircular piles in multilayered elastic soil
Authors: Li Xiancheng , Zhou Hang , Liu Hanlong , Chen Zhixiong
Published: October 2021

To investigate the settlement response, load transfer behavior, and geometric effect of noncircular piles, a general three‐dimensional (3D) analytical continuum model for axially loaded noncircular pile‐multilayered homogeneous soil systems is presented. In the analysis, both the vertical and horizontal soil displacement fields are considered, and the variations of the soil displacement components are described by the three displacement transfer functions along the x, y, and z directions. The governing differential equations of noncircular piles and soil are derived by applying the principle minimum potential energy and variational method to the pile‐soil system. A complex variable function conformal mapping technique is introduced to overcome the complex boundary conditions of the transfer functions. Then, the numerical solutions of all the governing differential equations are simultaneously solved following an iterative algorithm. The reliability of this approach is validated by comparing some pile and soil responses with the results from existing analytical solutions or a rigorous finite element analysis. Differences in the settlement response and the axial force distribution between noncircular and circular piles are observed. In addition, the pile shaft resistance along the perimeter of the cross‐sections shows that a greater load is required in order to fully mobilize the ultimate resistance of the noncircular piles. We also compare the stress () contours of some typical noncircular piles with a circular pile, which provides useful insights into the geometric effect.
Preparation and Crystallization of Magnetic Glass‐Ceramics from the Residues after Sulfur Release and Iron Recovery from Copper Ore Tailings with Varied CaO Content
Authors: Luo Bing , Peng Tongjiang , Sun Hongjuan , Hui Tao
Published: October 2021

To comprehensively reuse copper ore tailings (COT), the fabrication of glass‐ceramics by the direct sintering method was investigated, where the residues after sulfur release and iron recovery from copper ore tailings were used as raw materials. The effect of the CaO added on the fabrication of glass‐ceramics was emphasized. After analysis of chemical composition and thermodynamics, crystallization kinetics were analyzed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and fitted to the Kissinger equation. The crystal phase and microstructure of sintered glass‐ceramics heated between 1080 °C and 1100 °C were estimated by X‐Ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. Furthermore, the effects of the addition of CaO on the properties of the sintered glass‐ceramics have been discussed. The results showed that the magnetic glass‐ceramics were sintered by the residues successfully, the color of which was lighter than that of glass‐ceramics sintered by raw materials before iron recovery. According to the XRD analysis, hedenbergite, wollastonite and sekaninaite were formed with traces of maghemite and quartz. In terms of crystallization kinetics and sintering results, a decrease in the activation energies of crystallization and in sintering temperature were observed for an increase in the addition of CaO of up to 10 wt.%. Moreover, the properties of the sintered glass‐ceramics, including bulk density, linear shrinkage and flexural strength, were enhanced, while water absorption and true density were reduced with the increase of the amount of CaO added.
Thank you, COVID‐19: Positive social psychology towards the new normal
Authors: Rahaman Md. Saidur , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Ali Reza Syed Muhammod , Reza Mohammad Nasim , Chowdhury Md. Solaiman
Published: October 2021

During the time being, while everybody else is busy conversing about the adverse effects of COVID‐19, researchers solemnly look forward to intensifying the positive effects of COVID‐19 on political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and ethical (PESTEL) aspects, as it was unrevealed. The FGD (Focus Group Discussion) and Delphi methods were conducted from April 2020 to January 2021 through the online platform to collect the data. In this research, 40 graduates from 40 families were taken as our sample size who carried out the opinions of their family members. The average duration of the interview was 30–40 min. This article highlighted that COVID‐19 has some positive effects on social‐psychological aspects (PESTEL) and, people are trying to adapt to new practices (New Normal) to improve their lifestyles against the deadly virus. COVID‐19 would pass, but life will never be the same; thus, researchers conduct the research based on a country, which may not be similar to the other cultures and countries' perceptions. This is the first and foremost study on the positive effects of covid‐19 and a guideline to cope with any pandemic in the near future. The study's findings are intended to assist the community in developing positive social psychology to call the covid‐19 into question and look forward to a new standard.
Hygrothermal vibration of a laminated sandwich plate with magnetostrictive faces and a homogeneous core
Authors: Zenkour Ashraf M. , El‐Shahrany Hela D.
Published: October 2021

Hygrothermal forced vibration and damping analyses of a simply supported symmetric laminated composite plate with homogeneous core and magnetostrictive layers are examined using the exponential displacement model in this article. Three hygrothermal environment distribution types are investigated: uniform, linear and nonlinear rises in the present analysis. The equations of motion for laminated rectangular plates subjected to hygrothermal loads and in‐plane forces in x and y directions are developed through Hamilton's principle. The closed‐form solution is arrived at based on Navier's technique to analyze the hygrothermal effect on the vibrational behavior of the structure. Some parametric examples are presented to discuss the effects of the smart layer location, lamination schemes, mode number, aspect ratio, thickness ratio, feedback gain control value, in‐plane forces, core thickness‐to‐fiber reinforced layer thickness ratio, magnetostrictive layer thickness to fiber‐reinforced layer thickness ratio, temperature and moisture changes on vibration response of the proposed model. The study results illustrate that the high hygro ratio weakens the plate stiffness, and accordingly, the amplitude of the deflection increases with raising the moisture and/or temperature. The numerical results emphasize the strong role of the feedback control gain values and the smart layer position in controlling the system vibration. The largest deflections and highest damping time interval happen in the uniform temperature distribution and moisture concentration case. Moreover, the vibration frequencies of the thin smart plates are smaller than the thick ones.
Histamine in cancer immunology and immunotherapy. Current status and new perspectives
Authors: Sarasola María de la Paz , Táquez Delgado Mónica A. , Nicoud Melisa B. , Medina Vanina A.
Published: October 2021

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and its incidence and mortality are rapidly increasing worldwide. The dynamic interaction of immune cells and tumor cells determines the clinical outcome of cancer. Immunotherapy comes to the forefront of cancer treatments, resulting in impressive and durable responses but only in a fraction of patients. Thus, understanding the characteristics and profiles of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a necessary step to move forward in the design of new immunomodulatory strategies that can boost the immune system to fight cancer. Histamine produces a complex and fine‐tuned regulation of the phenotype and functions of the different immune cells, participating in multiple regulatory responses of the innate and adaptive immunity. Considering the important actions of histamine‐producing immune cells in the TME, in this review we first address the most important immunomodulatory roles of histamine and histamine receptors in the context of cancer development and progression. In addition, this review highlights the current progress and foundational developments in the field of cancer immunotherapy in combination with histamine and pharmacological compounds targeting histamine receptors.
Strategies to apply 3Rs in preclinical testing
Authors: Gorzalczany Susana B. , Rodriguez Basso Angeles G.
Published: October 2021

Animal experimentation has been fundamental in biological and biomedical research. To guarantee the maximum quality, efficacy and/or safety of products intended for the use in humans in vivo testing is necessary; however, for over 60 years, alternative methods have been developed in response to the necessity to reduce the number of animals used in experimentation, to guarantee their welfare; resorting to animal models only when strictly necessary. The three Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), seek to ensure the rational and respectful use of laboratory animals and maintain an adequate projection in terms of bioethical considerations. This article describes different approaches to apply 3Rs in preclinical experimentation for either research or regulatory purposes.
Out‐of‐Plane Tension of Thin Two‐Layered Plates of Cubic Crystals
Authors: Gorodtsov Valentin A. , Volkov Mikhail A. , Lisovenko Dmitry S.
Published: October 2021

Herein, the theoretical analysis of out‐of‐plane tension of a thin rectangular two‐layered plate of cubic crystals with the same orientation is provided. The dependences of effective Young's modulus and effective Poisson's ratio of the plate on Poisson's ratios of layers, the ratio of Young's moduli, and the thickness ratio are obtained. It is shown that when the ratios between Young's moduli and ratios between Poisson's ratios of the layers are equal, effective Young's modulus and effective Poisson's ratio coincide with Reuss'es means. The rules of mixtures are not fulfilled in the absence of equality of these ratios. In this case, effective Young's modulus can exceed not only Reuss'es mean but also Voigt's mean. It is demonstrated that effective Young's modulus can be larger than Young's moduli of both layers in two‐layered plates of nonauxetic−nonauxetic and auxetic−auxetic type. It is established that the behavior of effective Poisson's ratio of nonauxetic−nonauxetic plates can vary depending on the ratio of the layer thicknesses. At the same time, effective Poisson's ratio of plates from pairs of auxetics cannot be less than Poisson's ratios of both initial auxetic layers.
Studies on Schottky Barrier Diodes Fabricated using Single‐Crystal Wafers of β‐Ga2O3 Grown by the Optical Floating Zone Technique
Authors: Dhanabalan Dhandapani , Ananthu Vijayan , Akshita Kaza Venkata , Bhattacharya Sudipto , Varadarajan Elangovan , Ganesamoorthy Sarveswaran , Moorthy Babu Sridharan , Natarajan Venkatachalam , Verma Sudeep , Srivatsava Meenakshi , Lourdudoss Sebastian
Published: October 2021

β‐Ga2O3 is one of the most promising wide‐bandgap materials for optoelectronic applications as well as a conducting substrate for GaN‐based device technologies. Single crystals of undoped β‐Ga2O3 are grown by the optical floating zone technique utilizing compressed dry air as growth atmosphere. The properties of β‐Ga2O3 are highly anisotropic. Optimization of the processing recipe for wafers along different orientations suitable for device development is conducted. Structural, optical, and electrical properties of the wafers are determined. Efforts are made to fabricate Schottky diodes based on Pt/Ti/Au–β‐Ga2O3–Ti/Au device structures. Devices are fabricated on (−201) cut wafers. The device characteristics are discussed in detail.
Photodegradation Attenuated Oscillation:A Novel Photocatalytic Characteristic for the Polymetallic Oxide Semiconductor Porous Materials with Energy Bandgap Gradient
Authors: Liu Shao‐You , Chen Yuan‐Dao , Zuo Cheng‐Gang , Feng Qing‐Ge
Published: October 2021

Samples of metal oxide SnO2 and its composite SnO2/Bi2O3, ploymetallic oxides SnO2/Bi2O3/CdO, SnO2/Bi2O3/Fe2O3, and SnO2/Bi2O3/CdO/Fe2O3 powder materials were successfully prepared by a simple solid‐state reaction method at room temperature using sodium benzenesulfonate (SBS) surfactant as template. The synthesized powder materials were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV‐vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (UV‐Vis), scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM/EDX), infrared spectroscopy (IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), N2 adsorption‐desorption and the migration rate testing of charges. Moreover, the adsorption characteristic and photodegradation performance of methyl blue (MB, co=100 mg/L) on the materials were investigated. The results show that the degradation rate (94.2 %) of MB on the SnO2/Bi2O3/CdO/Fe2O3 nanomaterial is the highest than that of the other materials within 10 min under the visible‐light irradiation. After that, the photodegradation rate of MB on the as‐prepared SnO2/Bi2O3/CdO, SnO2/Bi2O3/Fe2O3 and SnO2/Bi2O3/CdO/Fe2O3 semiconductor materials with energy band gap gradient generates the novel phenomena of photo‐ degradation attenuated oscillation but absent for the SnO2/Bi2O3 and SnO2 materials. It may be originated from the presence of the phase‐transitions of α‐Bi2O3 and β‐Bi2O3, the change ratio of Fe3+ and Fe2+ in the photocatalytic process, and the characteristic adsorption of MB molecular groups by the different metal oxides. This provides new ideas for future inspiring continued research on this emerging class of mixed metal oxides semiconductors and thereby enables innovations.
Construction of NaYF4 Library for Morphology‐Controlled Multimodality Applications
Authors: Wen Cong , Yin Fangfei , Cheng Yue , Yu Hua , Sun Yi‐Qing , Yin Xue‐Bo
Published: October 2021

Morphology and size of the nanoparticles are highly related to the properties; establishing a library to summarize the relationship between the morphology/size and property is very helpful for associated applications. However, the NaYF4 library and thus the correlation between the morphology and property are still absent. Here NaYF4 library is presented and their morphologies and structures are illustrated at atomic scale for the first time. How about the crystal formation affects the morphology is further used to guide the property. Through rational doping, upconversion luminescence, magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography are investigated with the nanoprisms, nanoflowers, and nanoplates as models to reveal the effect of the size and morphology. The difference of the properties provides strong evidence on the importance of the library. In particular, the “imperfect structure” of nanoflower is observed on atomic scale and enhances the MR response. The different upconversion intensity ratio for the emissions at 475 and 693 nm is observed from doped NaYF4 with different morphology. Thus, controllable fabrication of NaYF4 with desired morphology is indispensable to achieve the optimal properties as the guidance on how to choose matrix from the library to meet the specific applications.
Universal Control for Micromotor Swarms with a Hybrid Sonoelectrode
Authors: Lu Xiaolong , Wei Ying , Ou Huan , Zhao Cong , Shi Lukai , Liu Wenjuan
Published: October 2021

Enabled by active motion of microrobots, conventional biological detection and chemical analyses limited by passive diffusion can be significantly enhanced with fast testing speed and unique sensitiveness. However, controlled release and precise enrichment of microrobot swarms are still difficult to accomplish and thus prohibit them away from practical applications. Here, an efficient and versatile strategy utilizing a needle‐shaped hybrid sonoelectrode to disperse and aggregate distinct micromotors is presented, remarkably accelerating mass transfer and enhancing the signal intensity. Hydrogen bubbles generated at the tip of charged electrode can oscillate as actuated by the acoustic field, creating intensified vortexes to disperse micromotors spontaneously. Via removing the attached bubble, the sonoelectrode serving as solid needle isolator is capable of collecting micromotors in a large scale with acoustic streaming in the working reservoir at higher ultrasound frequency. Numerical calculation reveals the streaming profiles with/without microbubbles, and manipulations on classic spherical and tubular micromotor models confirm that the acoustic‐powered prototype device is effective for controlling different swarming behaviors in microfluidic channels. Overall, the proposed hybrid sonoelectrode offers a universal and rapid strategy to tailor micromotor swarm behaviors, advancing intelligent microrobots to be featured with active enrichment and compatible for next‐generation sensitive portable detection microsystems.
Enhancement of Breast Mammography to Rapid Screen Abnormalities Using 2D Spatial Fractional‐Order Feature Extraction and Multilayer Machine Vision Classifier
Authors: Chen Pi‐Yun , Wu Jian‐Xing , Lin Chia‐Hung , Hsu Jin‐Chyr , Pai Neng‐Sheng
Published: October 2021

While breast tumor symptoms [benign (B) or malignant (M) tumors] or lymph node metastasis can be detected at an early stage, the timely discovery of abnormalities could simultaneously improve survival rates and enhance therapeutic efficacy. During first‐line mammography examination, upon finding any solid‐white region, clinicians or radiologists can manually select the region of interest (ROI) from lateral‐view images with a specific bounding box (BB). This study used two‐dimensional (2D) fractional‐order convolution (FOC) operations with fractional‐order parameters (v = 0.3−0.4) to sharpen and retain the structure of possible focus, inhibit the features of background tissue, and remove unwanted noise. The gray‐scale values of breast mammography can be readjusted to enhance the image contrast using a nonlinear intensity transformation function. Abnormal contour levels can automatically be searched on the basis of the edge detection of normalized gradients to interpret the main ROI region using a contour algorithm. Hence, the main ROI can be rapidly identified on each breast mammography. The central region of the main ROI can then be divided into five sub ROIs, which are fed to a multilayer machine vision classifier. We used a general regression neural network (GRNN)‐based classifier to separate normal (no tumor) images from abnormal (B or M tumor) ones and obtain an automatic screening support tool that can decisively confirm suspicious lesions and achieve accurate detection. Using images from the Mammographic Image Analysis Society (MIAS) digital breast mammogram database, we applied the proposed GRNN‐based classifier with K‐fold cross‐validation to emphasize the possible focus and provide additional confidence during imaging examination. Results showed an average recall (%), an average precision (%), an average accuracy (%), and an average F1 score of 87.31%, 90.50%, 88.67%, and 0.8883%, respectively, for the rapid screening of B and M tumors on digital breast X‐ray images. The GRNN‐based classifier is superior to traditional techniques in terms of adaptive learning schemes, computational time consumption, and design cycle. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Novel stripe rust all‐stage resistance loci identified in a worldwide collection of durum wheat using genome‐wide association mapping
Authors: Aoun Meriem , Chen Xianming , Somo Mohamed , Xu Steven S. , Li Xuehui , Elias Elias M.
Published: October 2021

Durumwheat [Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum (Desf.)] production is constrained by fungal diseases including stripe rust caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici Erikss. (Pst). Continuous mining of germplasm for the discovery and deployment of stripe rust resistance (Yr) genes is needed to counter the impact of this disease. In this study, we evaluated a worldwide collection of 432 durum wheat accessions to seven U.S. Pst races that carry diverse virulence and avirulence combinations on wheat Yr genes. We found that 47–82% of the durum wheat accessions were susceptible to each of the tested Pst races. A total of 32 accessions were resistant to all seven races. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) using over 97,000 single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers generated from genotyping‐by‐sequencing of 364 accessions identified 56 quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with all‐stage stripe rust resistance located on all 14 durum wheat chromosomes. Six of these QTL were associated with resistance to 2–4 Pst races, and none were associated with resistance to all seven races. The remaining 50 QTL were race specific. Eighteen of the 56 identified QTL had relatively large effects against at least one of the races. A map‐based comparison of the discovered QTL in this study with previously published Yr genes and QTL showed that 29 were previously identified, whereas the remaining 27 QTL appeared to be novel. This study reports effective sources of stripe rust resistance to contemporary races in the United States and shows that this durum wheat collection is abundant in novel resistance loci that can be transferred into adapted durum cultivars.
Improvement of the optical characteristics of PVA/PVP blend with different concentrations of SnS2/Fe
Authors: El‐naggar Ahmed M. , Heiba Zein K. , Mohamed Mohamed Bakr , Kamal Amgad M. , Osman Mohamed M. , Albassam Abdullah A. , Lakshminarayana Gandham
Published: October 2021

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP; weight 7:3) polymer blends doped with different ratios (1 wt%, 3 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%) from nano SnS2/Fe are developed using casting and thermolysis procedures. Rietveld analysis showed that Fe is incorporated into the SnS2 lattice forming a single hexagonal phase with an average crystallite size of 6 nm along [00l] direction and 15 nm along [h00] direction. X‐ray diffraction together with Fourier transform infrared data is used to examine the homogeneity distribution of the nanofiller over the blend matrix. The effect of doping on the absorbance, transmittance, extinction coefficient, refractive index, direct and indirect optical band gaps, and other dispersion parameters of the blend is studied in detail. The nature of electronic transitions in the different blends was determined using Tauc's relation and the dielectric loss parameter. As the weight concentrations of SnS2/Fe dopants increased, the nonlinear optical parameters are increased relative to the undoped PVA/PVP polymer blend. The influence of the different excitation wavelengths and the amount of nanofillers on the fluorescence spectra from different blends are also investigated.
Spatial and temporal variability characteristics of offshore wind energy in the United Kingdom
Authors: Potisomporn Panit , Vogel Christopher R.
Published: October 2021

The growing reliance on intermittent sources of renewable energy poses challenges for developing reliable electricity networks. This study has analysed the spatial and temporal characteristics of the UK's offshore wind energy production based on reanalysis of offshore wind speeds between 2000–2017, considering both the 2019 and future distribution of offshore wind farm capacity in UK waters. The extent and frequency of low wind power events are assessed, which are shown to vary seasonally. The correlation in output from offshore wind farm pairs reduces with increasing distance between them, albeit at a slower rate than has been observed for onshore wind farms. The conditional probability between regions of low energy production is also evaluated, which reveals that regions such as the English Channel are much more susceptible to simultaneous periods of low wind energy production if there is limited wind energy production in south‐west England or in the North Sea. Nevertheless, aggregating energy production from all offshore wind farms has a positive effect in reducing the likelihood of prolonged periods of country‐wide very low energy production. Comments are made on the possibilities for regional distribution of installed capacity to reduce the overall variability of wind energy and the relevance of these findings to electricity networks with increasing penetration of wind‐generated electricity.
Transferability of tigecycline resistance: Characterization of the expanding Tet(X) family
Authors: Cui Chao‐Yue , Chen Qiwei , He Qian , Chen Chong , Zhang Rong‐Min , Feng Youjun , Sun Jian
Published: October 2021

Tetracycline and its derivative tigecycline are clinical options against Gram‐negative bacterial infections. The emergence of mobile Tet(X) enzymes that destruct tetracycline‐type antibiotics is posing a big challenge to antibacterial therapy and food/environmental securities. Here, we present an update on a growing number of Tet(X) variants. We describe structure and action of Tet(X) enzyme, and discuss the evolutional origin. In addition, potential Tet(X) inhibitors are given. This mini‐review might benefit better understanding of Tet(X)‐mediated tigecycline resistance.

This article is categorized under:

Infectious Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors

Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
APPROACH AND KEY AREAS OF FOCUS
Authors: Mitteregger Mathias , Bruck Emilia M. , Soteropoulos Aggelos , Stickler Andrea , Berger Martin , Dangschat Jens S. , Scheuvens Rudolf , Banerjee Ian
Published: October 2021

The aim of the AVENUE21. Connected and Automated Driving: Prospects for Urban Europe research project is to examine the near-term impacts CAT will have on the European city and to analyse the potentials – both positive and negative – of this new technology. By shifting the perspective away from the technological possibilities and their likely applications and towards the possible effects on planning policy, the impacts in terms of urban development and urban societies, we are able to focus our attention on an area that has until now largely been given little, or, in many cases, only selective, consideration.
CONNECTED AND AUTOMATED TRANSPORT IN THE LONG LEVEL 4
Authors: Mitteregger Mathias , Bruck Emilia M. , Soteropoulos Aggelos , Stickler Andrea , Berger Martin , Dangschat Jens S. , Scheuvens Rudolf , Banerjee Ian
Published: October 2021

Connection and automation are the instrumental drivers of change in the transport system – yet they are two fundamentally different trends that are not necessarily related to one another (Perret et al. 2017: 6). Despite this, there is growing emphasis on their simultaneity and parallel development: whereas early research frequently spoke of autonomous driving or autonomous vehicles, more recent articles increasingly use the term “connected and automated vehicles”: “Even though automated vehicles do not necessarily need to be connected and connected vehicles do not require automation, it is expected that in the medium term connectivity will be a major enabler for automated vehicles” (European Commission 2018: 4).
Continuous gastric saline perfusion elicits cardiovascular responses in freshwater rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Morgenroth Daniel , McArley Tristan , Ekström Andreas , Gräns Albin , Axelsson Michael , Sandblom Erik
Published: October 2021

When in seawater, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) drink to avoid dehydration and display stroke volume (SV) mediated elevations in cardiac output (CO) and an increased proportion of CO is diverted to the gastrointestinal tract as compared to when in freshwater. These cardiovascular alterations are associated with distinct reductions in systemic and gastrointestinal vascular resistance (RSys and RGI, respectively). Although increased gastrointestinal blood flow (GBF) is likely essential for osmoregulation in seawater, the sensory functions and mechanisms driving the vascular resistance changes and other associated cardiovascular changes in euryhaline fishes remain poorly understood. Here, we examined whether internal gastrointestinal mechanisms responsive to osmotic changes mediate the cardiovascular changes typically observed in seawater, by comparing the cardiovascular responses of freshwater-acclimated rainbow trout receiving continuous (for 4 days) gastric perfusion with half-strength seawater (½ SW, ~ 17 ppt) to control fish (i.e., no perfusion). We show that perfusion with ½ SW causes significantly larger increases in CO, SV and GBF, as well as reductions in RSys and RGI, compared with the control, whilst there were no significant differences in blood composition between treatments. Taken together, our data suggest that increased gastrointestinal luminal osmolality is sensed directly in the gut, and at least partly, mediates cardiovascular responses previously observed in SW acclimated rainbow trout. Even though a potential role of mechano-receptor stimulation from gastrointestinal volume loading in eliciting these cardiovascular responses cannot be excluded, our study indicates the presence of internal gastrointestinal milieu-sensing mechanisms that affect cardiovascular responses when environmental salinity changes.
Genetic microbial faecal source tracking: rising technology to support future water quality testing and safety management
Authors: Steinbacher Sophia D. , Savio Domenico , Demeter Katalin , Karl Martin , Kandler Wolfgang , Kirschner Alexander K. T. , Reischer Georg H. , Ixenmaier Simone K. , Mayer René E. , Mach Robert L. , Derx Julia , Sommer Regina , Linke Rita , Farnleitner Andreas H.
Published: October 2021

Recent developments in water resource monitoring have increased the demand for the reliable identification of faecal pollution sources, also defined as microbial (faecal) source tracking (MST). Standardized faecal indicator bacteria (SFIB) enumeration does not directly support MST, as SFIB occur in animal and human sources. The aim of this study was to rigorously evaluate the applicability of host-associated faecal genetic MST markers detected by quantitative PCR (qPCR) at representative Austrian water resources (ground-, surface-, raw and treated wastewater, n = 196 samples) with high importance for the water management sector. Groundwater covered a gradient of non- (i.e., deep wells) to surface influenced resources (i.e., karst and shallow wells). In addition, single faecal excreta from humans as well as representative livestock and wildlife species were collected to evaluate the faecal source-specificity and -sensitivity of the MST assays. Genetic MST marker resistance against UV irradiation was evaluated in on-site ground and wastewater treatment installations. Bacteroides-based human- (HF183II, BacHum), ruminant- (BacR), and pig-associated (Pig2Bac) MST marker qPCR quantification was performed in concert with cultivation of E. coli, intestinal enterococci, and Clostridium perfringens (SFIB diagnostics). The selected MST makers revealed high faecal source identification capacity for the Austrian water compartments and quantitatively reflected the selected faecal pollution gradient. The study also demonstrated that SFIB data can efficiently be combined with MST data to solve previously unanswered questions in water safety monitoring and management (e.g., support pollution source-targeted catchment protection, hazard assessment, and health risk management). Further research and development needs are discussed to exploit the full power of MST technology. In conclusion, this study illustrates the capacity of molecular faecal pollution diagnostics to revolutionize water quality testing in the decades to come.
Allergie und Trockenes Auge
Authors: Woltsche Nora , Boldin Ingrid , Horwath-Winter Jutta
Published: October 2021

Allergische Erkrankungen der Augenoberfläche (okuläre Allergie, OA) und Trockene Augen (Keratokonjunktivitis sicca, KCS) sind zwei häufige klinische Entitäten, die oft konkomitant auftreten und sich vice versa gegenseitig bedingen. Dieser Artikel fasst die Assoziationen zwischen OA und KCS in Pathophysiologie, Diagnostik und Therapie zusammen und wird aufzeigen, dass das Kardinalsymptom des Juckreizes kein allgemeingültiges Dogma darstellen muss, anhand dessen diese 2 Entitäten korrekt voneinander differenziert werden können. Es folgt weiters ein Überblick über Überempfindlichkeits-Reaktionen der Augenoberfläche, welche sich häufig als KCS äußern, sowie über KCS als okuläre Nebenwirkung von systemischen anti-allergischen Medikamenten.
Spatiotemporal modeling of first and second wave outbreak dynamics of COVID-19 in Germany
Authors: Lippold Dorothee , Kergaßner Andreas , Burkhardt Christian , Kergaßner Matthias , Loos Jonas , Nistler Sarah , Steinmann Paul , Budday Dominik , Budday Silvia
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has kept the world in suspense for the past year. In most federal countries such as Germany, locally varying conditions demand for state- or county-level decisions to adapt to the disease dynamics. However, this requires a deep understanding of the mesoscale outbreak dynamics between microscale agent models and macroscale global models. Here, we use a reparameterized SIQRD network model that accounts for local political decisions to predict the spatiotemporal evolution of the pandemic in Germany at county resolution. Our optimized model reproduces state-wise cumulative infections and deaths as reported by the Robert Koch Institute and predicts the development for individual counties at convincing accuracy during both waves in spring and fall of 2020. We demonstrate the dominating effect of local infection seeds and identify effective measures to attenuate the rapid spread. Our model has great potential to support decision makers on a state and community politics level to individually strategize their best way forward during the months to come.