bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resource Analysis of the Log Files Storage Based on Simulation Models in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Magomedov Shamil , Ilin Dmitry , Nikulchev Evgeny
Published: May 2021

In order to perform resource analyses, we here offer an experimental stand on virtual machines. The concept of how to measure the resources of each component is proposed. In the case of system design, you can estimate how many resources to reserve, and if external modules are installed in an existing system, you can assess whether there are enough resources and whether the system can scale. This is especially important for large software systems with web services. The dataset contains a set of experimental data and the configuration of virtual servers of the experiment in order to conduct resource analyses of the logs.
Absorption Enhancement in Hyperbolic Metamaterials by Means of Magnetic Plasma
Authors: Gric Tatjana , Rafailov Edik
Published: May 2021

The main features of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) that can propagate in a metamaterial–magnetic plasma structure are studied from theoretical perspectives. Both the conventional and imaginary parts of the dispersion relation of SPPs are demonstrated considering transverse magnetic (TM) polarization. We examine and discuss the influence of the external magnetic field. The results demonstrate that this factor dramatically alters the nature of SPPs. It is concluded that the positions and propagation lengths of SPPs can be engineered. Moreover, we present an approach allowing for an absorption enhancement that is a pivotal factor in antenna design. A unified insight into the practical methods aiming to attain hyperbolic dispersion by means of nanostructured and nanowire metamaterials is demonstrated.
Evaluation of Deep Learning-Based Automatic Floor Plan Analysis Technology: An AHP-Based Assessment
Authors: Kim Hyunjung
Published: May 2021

This study proposes a technology that allows automatic extraction of vectorized indoor spatial information from raster images of floor plans. Automatic reconstruction of indoor spaces from floor plans is based on a deep learning algorithm, which trains on scanned floor plan images and extracts critical indoor elements such as room structures, junctions, walls, and openings. The newly developed technology proposed herein can handle complicated floor plans which could not be automatically extracted by previous studies because of its complexity and difficulty in being trained in deep learning. Such complicated reconstruction solely from a floor plan image can be digitized and vectorized either through manual drawing or with the help of newly developed deep learning-based automatic extraction. This study proposes an evaluation framework for assessing this newly developed technology against manual digitization. Using the analytical hierarchy process, the hierarchical aspects of technology value and their relative importance are systematically quantified. The analysis suggested that the automatic technology using a deep learning algorithm had predominant criteria followed by, substitutability, completeness, and supply and demand. In this study, the technology value of automatic floor plan analysis compared with that of traditional manual edits is compared systemically and assessed qualitatively, which had not been done in existing studies. Consequently, this study determines the effectiveness and usefulness of automatic floor plan analysis as a reasonable technology for acquiring indoor spatial information.
Salt Cavern Exergy Storage Capacity Potential of UK Massively Bedded Halites, Using Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES)
Authors: Evans David , Parkes Daniel , Dooner Mark , Williamson Paul , Williams John , Busby Jonathan , He Wei , Wang Jihong , Garvey Seamus
Published: May 2021

The increasing integration of large-scale electricity generation from renewable energy sources in the grid requires support through cheap, reliable, and accessible bulk energy storage technologies, delivering large amounts of electricity both quickly and over extended periods. Compressed air energy storage (CAES) represents such a storage option, with three commercial facilities using salt caverns for storage operational in Germany, the US, and Canada, with CAES now being actively considered in many countries. Massively bedded halite deposits exist in the UK and already host, or are considered for, solution-mined underground gas storage (UGS) caverns. We have assessed those with proven UGS potential for CAES purposes, using a tool developed during the EPSRC-funded IMAGES project, equations for which were validated using operational data from the Huntorf CAES plant. From a calculated total theoretical ‘static’ (one-fill) storage capacity exceeding that of UK electricity demand of ≈300 TWh in 2018, filtering of results suggests a minimum of several tens of TWh exergy storage in salt caverns, which when co-located with renewable energy sources, or connected to the grid for off-peak electricity, offers significant storage contributions to support the UK electricity grid and decarbonisation efforts.
Adjustment of Wire Vibrations in Order to Improve Geometric Accuracy and Surface Roughness at WEDM
Authors: Straka Ľuboslav , Čorný Ivan
Published: May 2021

Although WEDM is one of the most precise finishing technologies, deviations from the required geometric shapes and surface roughness occur in the production of parts with rotary surfaces. Even though these shortcomings have only a minimal impact on planar cuts, the production of circular profiles is a different problem. One of the factors causing this poor quality is the vibration of the wire electrode. With appropriate vibration adjustment, it would be possible to achieve significant improvements of the eroded area quality, both in terms of geometric accuracy and in terms of surface roughness. This would significantly increase quality, enabling WEDM technology to compete with other technologies in terms of economic efficiency. Therefore, the proposed solution aims to provide a partial adjustment to the wire tool electrode vibrations, based on their sensing by the means of acoustic emissions or a laser beam, with subsequent dynamic adjustment of the actual technological parameter values. This way, the given solution will increase the production accuracy of circular holes, increase productivity, and ultimately provide an overall increase in the economic efficiency of the WEDM process. The article also presents the scheme of a control algorithm for monitoring and subsequent adjustments of the vibrations of the wire tool electrode during the electroerosion process in order to minimize geometric deviations of circularity, cylindricity and roughness of the machined surface.
A Self-Optimizing Technique Based on Vertical Handover for Load Balancing in Heterogeneous Wireless Networks Using Big Data Analytics
Authors: Beshley Mykola , Kryvinska Natalia , Yaremko Oleg , Beshley Halyna
Published: May 2021

With the heterogeneity and collaboration of many wireless operators (2G/3G/4G/5G/Wi-Fi), the priority is to effectively manage shared radio resources and ensure transparent user movement, which includes mechanisms such as mobility support, handover, quality of service (QoS), security and pricing. This requires considering the transition from the current mobile network architecture to a new paradigm based on collecting and storing information in big data for further analysis and decision making. For this reason, the management of big data analytics-driven networks in a cloud environment is an urgent issue, as the growth of its volume is becoming a challenge for today’s mobile infrastructure. Thus, we have formalized the problem of access network selection to improve the quality of mobile services through the efficient use of heterogeneous wireless network resources and optimal horizontal–vertical handover procedures. We proposed a method for adaptive selection of a wireless access node in a heterogeneous environment. A structural diagram of the optimization stages for wireless heterogeneous networks was developed, making it possible to improve the efficiency of their functioning. A model for studying the processes of functioning of a heterogeneous network environment is proposed. This model uses the methodology of big data evaluation to perform data transmission monitoring, analysis of tasks generated by network users, and statistical output of vertical handover initiation in (2G/3G/4G/5G/Wi-Fi) mobile communication infrastructure. The model allows studying the issues of optimization of operators’ networks by implementing the algorithm of redistribution of its network resources and providing flexible load balancing with QoS users in mind. The effectiveness of the proposed solutions is evaluated, and the performance of the heterogeneous network is increased by 16% when using the method of static reservation of network resources, compared to homogeneous networks, and another 13% when using a uniform distribution of resources and a dynamic process of their reservation, as well as compared to the previous method. An appropriate self-optimizing technique based on vertical handover for load balancing in heterogeneous wireless networks, using big data analytics, improves the QoS for users.
Antifungal and Antioxidant Potential of Methanolic Extracts from Acorus calamus L., Chlorella vulgaris Beijerinck, Lemna minuta Kunth and Scenedesmus dimorphus (Turpin) Kützing
Authors: Dinev Toncho , Tzanova Milena , Velichkova Katya , Dermendzhieva Diyana , Beev Georgi
Published: May 2021

Plant extracts are an important alternative to antibiotics, which are ever more restricted because of their developing microbial resistance and some adverse effects that have been observed following frequent application. The aim of the present study was to determine the antifungal and antioxidant activity of the methanolic extracts of Acorus calamus, Chlorella vulgaris, Lemna minuta and Scenedesmus dimorphus. The antifungal activity of the extracts against strains of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus carbonarius, Fusarium graminearum, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium chrysogenum and Alternaria alternata was evaluated via the agar well diffusion method. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was measured through the determination of three parameters—total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and radical scavenging potential (determined through UV/Vis analysis). A. calamus extracts had the highest antimicrobial activity against eight fungal strains, followed by the C. vulgaris, L. minuta and S. dimorphus extracts, which were inhibitory against two to three strains. Among the extracts from the species studied, the extract from S. dimorphus showed the highest antioxidant potential, as determined via the DPPH (1,1’-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil-radical) method. This correlated to its high total phenolic and flavonoid content. From A. calamus and L. minuta, methanolic extracts were obtained that exhibited similar values of the aforementioned parameters, followed by C. vulgaris extracts, which showed the lowest antioxidant activity. Based on the Pearson correlation coefficients, the impacts of the total phenolic content and the total flavonoid content on radical scavenging capacity are similar, and flavonoids were a significant part of the total phenolic compounds extracted from the plant materials studied.
Vibrations of Nonlinear Elastic Structure Excited by Compressible Flow
Authors: Balázsová Monika , Feistauer Miloslav , Horáček Jaromír , Kosík Adam
Published: May 2021

This study deals with the development of an accurate, efficient and robust method for the numerical solution of the interaction of compressible flow and nonlinear dynamic elasticity. This problem requires the reliable solution of flow in time-dependent domains and the solution of deformations of elastic bodies formed by several materials with complicated geometry depending on time. In this paper, the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) problem is solved numerically by the space-time discontinuous Galerkin method (STDGM). In the case of compressible flow, we use the compressible Navier–Stokes equations formulated by the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) method. The elasticity problem uses the non-stationary formulation of the dynamic system using the St. Venant–Kirchhoff and neo-Hookean models. The STDGM for the nonlinear elasticity is tested on the Hron–Turek benchmark. The main novelty of the study is the numerical simulation of the nonlinear vocal fold vibrations excited by the compressible airflow coming from the trachea to the simplified model of the vocal tract. The computations show that the nonlinear elasticity model of the vocal folds is needed in order to obtain substantially higher accuracy of the computed vocal folds deformation than for the linear elasticity model. Moreover, the numerical simulations showed that the differences between the two considered nonlinear material models are very small.
Deep Learning for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Diagnosis
Authors: Ye Gen , Du Chen , Lin Tong , Yan Yan , Jiang Jack
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Deep learning has become ubiquitous due to its impressive performance in various domains, such as varied as computer vision, natural language and speech processing, and game-playing. In this work, we investigated the performance of recent deep learning approaches on the laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) diagnosis task. (2) Methods: Our dataset is composed of 114 subjects with 37 pH-positive cases and 77 control cases. In contrast to prior work based on either reflux finding score (RFS) or pH monitoring, we directly take laryngoscope images as inputs to neural networks, as laryngoscopy is the most common and simple diagnostic method. The diagnosis task is formulated as a binary classification problem. We first tested a powerful backbone network that incorporates residual modules, attention mechanism and data augmentation. Furthermore, recent methods in transfer learning and few-shot learning were investigated. (3) Results: On our dataset, the performance is the best test classification accuracy is 73.4%, while the best AUC value is 76.2%. (4) Conclusions: This study demonstrates that deep learning techniques can be applied to classify LPR images automatically. Although the number of pH-positive images used for training is limited, deep network can still be capable of learning discriminant features with the advantage of technique.
Transformative Use of Additive Technology in Design and Manufacture of Hydraulic Actuator for Fly-by-Wire System
Authors: Warzocha Krzysztof , Szura Jerzy , Bąk Piotr , Rzucidło Paweł , Rogalski Tomasz
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the results of research on additively manufactured aerospace parts made of maraging steel are presented. This state-of-the-art technology seems to have the highest potential for practical use in the field of ultra-light and high-performance aerospace hydraulic parts. The strength properties of representative specimens made with steel 1.2709 were investigated. The researchers conducted static tensile testing, fatigue tensile testing, and pressure impulse testing. A Goodman diagram was plotted to visualize the impact of the building orientation vs. load character on the fatigue strength of the additive manufacturing (AM) specimens. Based on the research carried out on the strength of the AM samples, an aircraft flight control actuator was designed to achieve the highest level of safety integrity along with the greatest simplicity and lowest weight relative to hydraulic actuators manufactured using classical methods. The entire design process was integrated with the manufacturing process to achieve this target.
Macroscopic and Multi-Scale Models for Multi-Class Vehicular Dynamics with Uneven Space Occupancy: A Case Study
Authors: Briani Maya , Cristiani Emiliano , Ranut Paolo
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we propose two models describing the dynamics of heavy and light vehicles on a road network, taking into account the interactions between the two classes. The models are tailored for two-lane highways where heavy vehicles cannot overtake. This means that heavy vehicles cannot saturate the whole road space, while light vehicles can. In these conditions, the creeping phenomenon can appear, i.e., one class of vehicles can proceed even if the other class has reached the maximal density. The first model we propose couples two first-order macroscopic LWR models, while the second model couples a second-order microscopic follow-the-leader model with a first-order macroscopic LWR model. Numerical results show that both models are able to catch some second-order (inertial) phenomena such as stop and go waves. Models are calibrated by means of real data measured by fixed sensors placed along the A4 Italian highway Trieste–Venice and its branches, provided by Autovie Venete S.p.A.
Use of Antibiotics and Probiotics Reduces the Risk of Metachronous Gastric Cancer after Endoscopic Resection
Authors: Arai Junya , Niikura Ryota , Hayakawa Yoku , Kawahara Takuya , Honda Tetsuro , Hasatani Kenkei , Yoshida Naohiro , Nishida Tsutomu , Sumiyoshi Tetsuya , Kiyotoki Shu , Ikeya Takashi , Arai Masahiro , Suzuki Nobumi , Tsuji Yosuke , Yamada Atsuo , Kawai Takashi , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: May 2021

Metachronous gastric cancer often occurs after endoscopic resection. Appropriate management, including chemoprevention, is required after the procedure. This study was performed to evaluate the association between medication use and the incidence of metachronous gastric cancer after endoscopic resection. This multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted with data from nine hospital databases on patients who underwent endoscopic resection for gastric cancer between 2014 and 2019. The primary outcome was the incidence of metachronous gastric cancer. We evaluated the associations of metachronous gastric cancer occurrence with medication use and clinical factors. Hazard ratios were adjusted by age and Charlson comorbidity index scores, with and without consideration of sex, smoking status, and receipt of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy during the study period. During a mean follow-up period of 2.55 years, 10.39% (140/1347) of all patients developed metachronous gastric cancer. The use of antibiotics other than those used for H. pylori eradication was associated with a lower incidence of metachronous gastric cancer than was non-use (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38–0.85, p = 0.006). Probiotic drug use was also associated with a lower incidence of metachronous gastric cancer compared with non-use (aHR 0.29, 95% CI 0.091–0.91, p = 0.034). In conclusion, the use of antibiotics and probiotic drugs was associated with a decreased risk of metachronous gastric cancer. These findings suggest that the gut microbiome is associated with metachronous gastric cancer development.
Beneficial Effects of Betaine: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Arumugam Madan Kumar , Paal Matthew C. , Donohue Terrence M. , Ganesan Murali , Osna Natalia A. , Kharbanda Kusum K.
Published: May 2021

Medicinal herbs and many food ingredients possess favorable biological properties that contribute to their therapeutic activities. One such natural product is betaine, a stable, nontoxic natural substance that is present in animals, plants, and microorganisms. Betaine is also endogenously synthesized through the metabolism of choline or exogenously consumed through dietary intake. Betaine mainly functions as (i) an osmolyte and (ii) a methyl-group donor. This review describes the major physiological effects of betaine in whole-body health and its ability to protect against both liver- as well as non-liver-related diseases and conditions. Betaine’s role in preventing/attenuating both alcohol-induced and metabolic-associated liver diseases has been well studied and is extensively reviewed here. Several studies show that betaine protects against the development of alcohol-induced hepatic steatosis, apoptosis, and accumulation of damaged proteins. Additionally, it can significantly prevent/attenuate progressive liver injury by preserving gut integrity and adipose function. The protective effects are primarily associated with the regulation of methionine metabolism through removing homocysteine and maintaining cellular SAM:SAH ratios. Similarly, betaine prevents metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and its progression. In addition, betaine has a neuroprotective role, preserves myocardial function, and prevents pancreatic steatosis. Betaine also attenuates oxidant stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, and cancer development. To conclude, betaine exerts significant therapeutic and biological effects that are potentially beneficial for alleviating a diverse number of human diseases and conditions.
Parasites, Drugs and Captivity: Blastocystis-Microbiome Associations in Captive Water Voles
Authors: Betts Emma L. , Hoque Sumaiya , Torbe Lucy , Bailey Jessica R. , Ryan Hazel , Toller Karen , Breakell Vicki , Carpenter Angus I. , Diana Alex , Matechou Eleni , Gentekaki Eleni , Tsaousis Anastasios D.
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Blastocystis is a microbial eukaryote inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract of a broad range of animals including humans. Several studies have shown that the organism is associated with specific microbial profiles and bacterial taxa that have been deemed beneficial to intestinal and overall health. Nonetheless, these studies are focused almost exclusively on humans, while there is no similar information on other animals. (2) Methods: Using a combination of conventional PCR, cloning and sequencing, we investigated presence of Blastocystis along with Giardia and Cryptosporidium in 16 captive water voles sampled twice from a wildlife park. We also characterised their bacterial gut communities. (3) Results: Overall, alpha and beta diversities between water voles with and without Blastocystis did not differ significantly. Differences were noted only on individual taxa with Treponema and Kineothrix being significantly reduced in Blastocystis positive water voles. Grouping according to antiprotozoal treatment and presence of other protists did not reveal any differences in the bacterial community composition either. (4) Conclusion: Unlike human investigations, Blastocystis does not seem to be associated with specific gut microbial profiles in water voles.
Vascular Calcification in Rodent Models—Keeping Track with an Extented Method Assortment
Authors: Herrmann Jaqueline , Gummi Manasa Reddy , Xia Mengdi , van der Giet Markus , Tölle Markus , Schuchardt Mirjam
Published: May 2021

Vascular calcification is a multifaceted disease and a significant contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The calcification deposits in the vessel wall can vary in size and localization. Various pathophysiological pathways may be involved in disease progression. With respect to the calcification diversity, a great number of research models and detection methods have been established in basic research, relying mostly on rodent models. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the currently available rodent models and quantification methods for vascular calcification, emphasizing animal burden and assessing prospects to use available methods in a way to address the 3R principles of Russel and Burch: “Replace, Reduce and Refine”.
DNMT3A Mutation-Induced CDK1 Overexpression Promotes Leukemogenesis by Modulating the Interaction between EZH2 and DNMT3A
Authors: Yang Ying , Dai Yujun , Yang Xuejiao , Wu Songfang , Wang Yueying
Published: May 2021

DNMT3A mutations are frequently identified in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and indicate poor prognosis. Previously, we found that the hotspot mutation DNMT3A R882H could upregulate CDK1 and induce AML in conditional knock-in mice. However, the mechanism by which CDK1 is involved in leukemogenesis of DNMT3A mutation-related AML, and whether CDK1 could be a therapeutic target, remains unclear. In this study, using fluorescence resonance energy transfer and immunoprecipitation analysis, we discovered that increased CDK1 could compete with EZH2 to bind to the PHD-like motif of DNMT3A, which may disturb the protein interaction between EZH2 and DNMT3A. Knockdown of CDK1 in OCI-AML3 cells with DNMT3A mutation markedly inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis. CDK1 selective inhibitor CGP74514A (CGP) and the pan-CDK inhibitor flavopiridol (FLA) arrested OCI-AML3 cells in the G2/M phase, and induced cell apoptosis. CGP significantly increased CD163-positive cells. Moreover, the combined application of CDK1 inhibitor and traditional chemotherapy drugs synergistically inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of OCI-AML3 cells. In conclusion, this study highlights CDK1 overexpression as a pathogenic factor and a potential therapeutic target for DNMT3A mutation-related AML.
An Emergent Form of Cardiotoxicity: Acute Myocarditis Induced by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Esposito Roberta , Fedele Teresa , Orefice Silvia , Cuomo Vittoria , Prastaro Maria , Canonico Mario Enrico , Ilardi Federica , De Stefano Francesco , Fiorillo Ludovica , Santoro Ciro , Esposito Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are monoclonal antibodies that activate the immune system, aiming at enhancing antitumor immunity. ICIs have shown great promise in the treatment of several advanced malignancies. However, therapy with these immunomodulatory antibodies may lead to a wide spectrum of immune-related adverse events in any organ and any tissue. Cardiologic immune-related events include pericarditis, pericardial effusion, various types of arrhythmias including the occurrence of complete atrioventricular block, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and myocarditis. Although relatively rare, myocarditis is associated with a very high reported mortality in comparison to other adverse events. Myocarditis often presents significant diagnostic complexity and may be under-recognized. When confronted with an unexpected change in the clinical picture, the physician must differentiate between immune-related adverse events, cancer worsening, or other causes unrelated to the cancer or its therapy. However, this is not always easy. Therefore, with the increasing use of checkpoint inhibitors in cancer, all providers who care for patients with cancer should be made aware of this rare, but potentially fatal, cardiologic immune-related adverse event, and able to recognize when prompt consultation with a cardiologist specialist is indicated. In this review, we evaluate currently available scientific evidence and discuss clinical manifestations and new potential approaches to the diagnosis and therapy of acute myocarditis induced by ICIs. Temporary or permanent discontinuation of the ICIs and high-dose steroids have been administered to treat myocarditis, but symptoms may worsen in some patients despite therapy.
The Roles of Various Prostaglandins in Fibrosis: A Review
Authors: Li Ke , Zhao Jing , Wang Mingxuan , Niu Lingzhi , Wang Yuanping , Li Yanxia , Zheng Yajuan
Published: May 2021

Organ fibrosis is a common pathological result of various chronic diseases with multiple causes. Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix and eventually leads to the destruction of the tissue structure and impaired organ function. Prostaglandins are produced by arachidonic acid through cyclooxygenases and various prostaglandin-specific synthases. Prostaglandins bind to homologous receptors on adjacent tissue cells in an autocrine or paracrine manner and participate in the regulation of a series of physiological or pathological processes, including fibrosis. This review summarizes the properties, synthesis, and degradation of various prostaglandins, as well as the roles of these prostaglandins and their receptors in fibrosis in multiple models to reveal the clinical significance of prostaglandins and their receptors in the treatment of fibrosis.
Mediterranean Diet and Neurodegenerative Diseases: The Neglected Role of Nutrition in the Modulation of the Endocannabinoid System
Authors: Armeli Federica , Bonucci Alessio , Maggi Elisa , Pinto Alessandro , Businaro Rita
Published: May 2021

Neurodegenerative disorders are a widespread cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, characterized by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and neuronal depletion. The broad-spectrum neuroprotective activity of the Mediterranean diet is widely documented, but it is not yet known whether its nutritional and caloric balance can induce a modulation of the endocannabinoid system. In recent decades, many studies have shown how endocannabinoid tone enhancement may be a promising new therapeutic strategy to counteract the main hallmarks of neurodegeneration. From a phylogenetic point of view, the human co-evolution between the endocannabinoid system and dietary habits could play a key role in the pro-homeostatic activity of the Mediterranean lifestyle: this adaptive balance among our ancestors has been compromised by the modern Western diet, resulting in a “clinical endocannabinoid deficiency syndrome”. This review aims to evaluate the evidence accumulated in the literature on the neuroprotective, immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties of the Mediterranean diet related to the modulation of the endocannabinoid system, suggesting new prospects for research and clinical interventions against neurodegenerative diseases in light of a nutraceutical paradigm.
Healing and Angiogenic Properties of Collagen/Chitosan Scaffolds Enriched with Hyperstable FGF2-STAB® Protein: In Vitro, Ex Ovo and In Vivo Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Vojtová Lucy , Pavliňáková Veronika , Muchová Johana , Kacvinská Katarína , Brtníková Jana , Knoz Martin , Lipový Břetislav , Faldyna Martin , Göpfert Eduard , Holoubek Jakub , Pavlovský Zdeněk , Vícenová Monika , Blahnová Veronika Hefka , Hearnden Vanessa , Filová Eva
Published: May 2021

Wound healing is a process regulated by a complex interaction of multiple growth factors including fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). Although FGF2 appears in several tissue engineered studies, its applications are limited due to its low stability both in vitro and in vivo. Here, this shortcoming is overcome by a unique nine-point mutant of the low molecular weight isoform FGF2 retaining full biological activity even after twenty days at 37 °C. Crosslinked freeze-dried 3D porous collagen/chitosan scaffolds enriched with this hyper stable recombinant human protein named FGF2-STAB® were tested for in vitro biocompatibility and cytotoxicity using murine 3T3-A31 fibroblasts, for angiogenic potential using an ex ovo chick chorioallantoic membrane assay and for wound healing in vivo with 3-month old white New Zealand rabbits. Metabolic activity assays indicated the positive effect of FGF2-STAB® already at very low concentrations (0.01 µg/mL). The angiogenic properties examined ex ovo showed enhanced vascularization of the tested scaffolds. Histological evaluation and gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR proved newly formed granulation tissue at the place of a previous skin defect without significant inflammation infiltration in vivo. This work highlights the safety and biocompatibility of newly developed crosslinked collagen/chitosan scaffolds involving FGF2-STAB® protein. Moreover, these sponges could be used as scaffolds for growing cells for dermis replacement, where neovascularization is a crucial parameter for successful skin regeneration.
Potential Applicability of Earth to Air Heat Exchanger for Cooling in a Colombian Tropical Weather
Authors: Peñaloza Peña Sergio Alexander , Jaramillo Ibarra Julián Ernesto
Published: May 2021

Buildings exhibit a high energy consumption compared with other economic sectors. While percentages vary from country to country, buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of the global energy demand. Most of this is consumed for achieving human thermal comfort. In Colombia, the government promotes policies for the adoption of efficient energy strategies in this sector. The earth to air heat exchanger (EAHE) can be used to reduce the cooling load of a building. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the energy savings that can be obtained by installing an EAHE in a tropical climate in Colombia. To do so, a mathematical model is implemented in TRNSYS (Transient System Simulation Tool) to predict the thermal performance and the cooling capacity of the EAHE. The system is modeled as a function of pipe length, diameter, material, thickness and air mass flow. Moreover, soil, local atmospheric conditions and building features are taken into account. It is found that the air leaves the EAHE at temperatures between 20.9 °C and 24.1 °C, which are approximately 3 °C below ambient temperature. Furthermore, the economic feasibility of the project is verified. Thereby, it is demonstrated that the EAHE can be a competitive alternative to current HVAC systems.
Editorial Catalysts: Special Issue on Heterogeneous Catalysis for Valorization of Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: García-Sancho Cristina , Luque Rafael
Published: May 2021

Modern life is currently based on the consumption of energy and chemicals coming from fossil fuels, mainly produced by the petrochemical industry [...]
Age-Related Changes in Bone-Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Babenko Valentina A. , Silachev Denis N. , Danilina Tatyana I. , Goryunov Kirill V. , Pevzner Irina B. , Zorova Ljubava D. , Popkov Vasily A. , Chernikov Valery P. , Plotnikov Egor Y. , Sukhikh Gennady T. , Zorov Dmitry B.
Published: May 2021

The use of stem cells is part of a strategy for the treatment of a large number of diseases. However, the source of the original stem cells for use is extremely important and determines their therapeutic potential. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have proven their therapeutic effectiveness when used in a number of pathological models. However, it remains an open question whether the chronological age of the donor organism affects the effectiveness of the use of MSC. The asymmetric division of stem cells, the result of which is some residential stem cells acquiring a non-senile phenotype, means that stem cells possess an intrinsic ability to preserve juvenile characteristics, implying an absence or at least remarkable retardation of senescence in stem cells. To test whether residential MSC senesce, we evaluated the physiological changes in the MSC from old rats, with a further comparison of the neuroprotective properties of MSC from young and old animals in a model of traumatic brain injury. We found that, while the effect of administration of MSC on lesion volume was minimal, functional recovery was remarkable, with the highest effect assigned to fetal cells; the lowest effect was recorded for cells isolated from adult rats and postnatal cells, having intermediate potency. MSC from the young rats were characterized by a faster growth than adult MSC, correlating with levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). However, there were no differences in respiratory activity of MSC from young and old rats, but young cells showed much higher glucose utilization than old ones. Autophagy flux was almost the same in both types of cells, but there were remarkable ultrastructural differences in old and young cells.
Expression of Immuno-Oncologic Biomarkers Is Enriched in Colorectal Cancers and Other Solid Tumors Harboring the A59T Variant of KRAS
Authors: Lou Emil , Xiu Joanne , Baca Yasmine , Nelson Andrew C. , Weinberg Benjamin A. , Beg Muhammad Shaalan , Salem Mohamed E. , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Philip Philip , El-Deiry Wafik S. , Korn W. Michael
Published: May 2021

The molecular heterogeneity of KRAS is well established, with a pool of variants comprising >75% of all known mutations; this pool includes mutations in classic codons 12, 13, and 61, as well as 146 and 117. In addition, there are rare variants that are more frequently encountered clinically due to the advances in next-generation sequencing and more widespread implementation of All-RAS sequencing over the past five years. We have previously identified a missense variant of KRAS, A59T, in a patient with CRC that was associated with a response to an epidermal growth factor inhibitor when added to chemotherapy, supporting the hypothesis that distinct biochemical impacts of different KRAS mutations may produce varied responses to targeted therapy. In this study, we explored a large genomic database comprising 17,909 cases of CRC to determine the prevalence of the A59T mutation and characterized the concurrent genomic alterations associated with this variant in more detail, particularly in relation to the expanding set of potential predictive immuno-oncologic biomarkers. We identified 14 cases of A59 mutations in this dataset (0.08% prevalence). We evaluated the prevalence of high tumor mutation burden (TMB), positive PD-L1 expression, and microsatellite instability-high/mismatch repair-deficiency (MSI-H/dMMR) using both next generation sequencing (NGS) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The genomic features of pertinent signaling pathways were also described, including RAS pathway, chromatin remodeling, DDR, hedgehog signaling, PI3K, receptor tyrosine kinases, signal transduction, TGF-beta, TP53, and WNT. We uncovered a high level of association of predictive markers of responsiveness to checkpoint inhibition and potentially other forms of immunotherapy, with nearly half of all cases harboring microsatellite instability as assessed using NGS. A59T was also detected in 11 additional cancer types, most prominently in cases of gynecologic or other gastrointestinal sites of origin. This study provides supportive evidence that A59T, and possibly other similarly rare KRAS variants, co-occur with predictive biomarkers of response to immunotherapy.
The Interplay between the Immune and the Endocannabinoid Systems in Cancer
Authors: Braile Mariantonia , Marcella Simone , Marone Gianni , Galdiero Maria Rosaria , Varricchi Gilda , Loffredo Stefania
Published: May 2021

The therapeutic potential of Cannabis sativa has been recognized since ancient times. Phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids activate two major G protein-coupled receptors, subtype 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2). Cannabinoids (CBs) modulate several aspects of cancer cells, such as apoptosis, autophagy, proliferation, migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and stemness. Moreover, agonists of CB1 and CB2 receptors inhibit angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Low-grade inflammation is a hallmark of cancer in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which contains a plethora of innate and adaptive immune cells. These cells play a central role in tumor initiation and growth and the formation of metastasis. CB2 and, to a lesser extent, CB1 receptors are expressed on a variety of immune cells present in TME (e.g., T cells, macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils, NK cells, dendritic cells, monocytes, eosinophils). The activation of CB receptors modulates a variety of biological effects on cells of the adaptive and innate immune system. The expression of CB2 and CB1 on different subsets of immune cells in TME and hence in tumor development is incompletely characterized. The recent characterization of the human cannabinoid receptor CB2-Gi signaling complex will likely aid to design potent and specific CB2/CB1 ligands with therapeutic potential in cancer.
Cardiac Output and Cerebral Oxygenation in Term Neonates during Neonatal Transition
Authors: Baik-Schneditz Nariae , Schwaberger Bernhard , Mileder Lukas , Höller Nina , Avian Alexander , Urlesberger Berndt , Pichler Gerhard
Published: May 2021

The immediate transition from foetus to neonate includes substantial changes, especially concerning the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, the brain is one of the most vulnerable organs to hypoxia during this period. According to current guidelines for postnatal stabilization, the recommended parameters for monitoring are heart rate (HR) and arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2). Recently, there is a growing interest in advanced monitoring of the cardio-circulatory system and the brain to get further objective information about the neonate’s condition during the immediate postnatal transition after birth. The aim of the present study was to combine cardiac output (CO) and brain oxygenation monitoring in term neonates after caesarean section in order to analyse the potential influence of CO on cerebral oxygenation during neonatal transition. This was a monocentric, prospective, observational study. For non-invasive cardiac output measurements, the electrical velocimetry (EV) method (Aesculon Monitor, Osypka Medical, CA, USA) was used. The pulse oximeter probe for SpO2 and HR measurements was placed on the right hand or wrist. The cerebral tissue oxygen index (cTOI) was measured using a NIRO-200NX monitor with the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) transducer on the right frontoparietal head. Monitoring started at minute 1 and was continued until minute 15 after birth. At minutes 5, 10, and 15 after birth, mean CO was calculated from six 10 s periods (with beat-to-beat analysis). During the study period, 99 term neonates were enrolled. Data from neonates with uncomplicated transitions were analysed. CO showed a tendency to decrease until minute 10. During the complete observational period, there was no significant correlation between CO and cTOI. The present study was the first to investigate a possible correlation between CO and cerebral oxygenation in term infants during the immediate neonatal transition. In term infants with uncomplicated neonatal transition after caesarean section, CO did not correlate with cerebral oxygenation.
Resolution of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Following Correction for Upper Cross Syndrome—A Case Study and Brief Review
Authors: Chu Eric Chun-Pu , Butler Kenneth R.
Published: May 2021

Upper cross syndrome (UCS) is a condition caused from prolonged poor posture manifesting as thoracic hyperkyphosis with forward head and shoulder postures. It has been associated with several other secondary conditions, causing pain and discomfort to those with the condition. This is a case report of a 35-year-old female presenting to clinic with a sharp pain in the neck, upper back, and sternum area for 4 weeks and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). She had been working at home for several months after the shelter at home order was issued. Following evaluation and corrective treatment with cervical adjustment and soft tissue massage, the patient’s posture improved and reported full pain resolution. Her symptoms of GERD concurrently resolved as well. She continued to receive chiropractic adjustment two times per month for correcting spinal misalignment. Full restoration of posture was attained on the full spine radiographs at 9 months follow-up. The patient remained symptom-free at 12 months follow-up. Manipulative and preventive therapies aimed at treating and preventing UCS should be more widely adopted to prevent secondary conditions.
Postharvest Physicochemical Properties and Fungal Populations of Treated Cucumber with Sodium Tripolyphosphate/Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles during Storage
Authors: Khojah Ebtihal , Sami Rokayya , Helal Mahmoud , Elhakem Abeer , Benajiba Nada , Alkaltham Mohammed Saeed , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad
Published: May 2021

Cucumbers have a limited shelf-life, from 10 to 14 days at commercial temperatures with relative humidity (80%). The aim of the work was to evaluate the postharvest physicochemical properties and fungal populations of cucumber treated with sodium tripolyphosphate/titanium dioxide nanoparticles during storage at 10 °C to prolong the shelf-life to 21 days. Cucumber samples treated with chitosan/sodium tripolyphosphate/titanium dioxide nanoparticles (Cu-CHS-TDN-ST) and (Cu-CHS-TDN-ST) were found to be in a well-hydrated state and with a green-colored appearance upon day 21, with excellent quality for consumption. Chitosan coating (Cu-CHS) alone prolonged the cucumber shelf-life for 14 days of storage. The Cu-CHS coating was less evident in reducing the respiration rate of cucumbers on day 14 than both nanocoatings, which were reported at the end of the storage period to be 5.09 and 5.38 mg·kg−1 h−1 for Cu-CHS-TDN-ST and Cu-CHS-TDN, respectively. The Cu-CHS-TDN-ST treatment reduced the loss of ascorbic acid content to 13.17 mg/100 g, delayed chilling injury, and had the highest chlorophyll contents during the whole storage period. The presence of sodium tripolyphosphate with the nanocoating delayed tissue damage. Peroxidase enzyme activity reached the maximum of 54.65 Ug−1 for Cu-CHS-TDN-ST on day 21, followed by Cu-CHS-TDN 50.1 Ug−1. On day 21, the fungal populations of Cu-CHS-TDN samples (3.77 log CFU/g) were more than that of Cu-CHS-TDN-ST (3.15 log CFU/g) against Cu-Control (100 % spoiled). It was noted that the Cu-CHS-TDN-ST and CHS-TDN-ST coating treatments were capable of preserving the cucumber samples’ quality during storage. The addition of sodium tripolyphosphate as a crosslinker for stabilizing the nanoparticle polymers in the coating treatments prolonged the shelf-life and achieved excellent quality for the cucumbers.
A Proposal to Improve Interoperability in the Industry 4.0 Based on the Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture Standard
Authors: Cavalieri Salvatore
Published: May 2021

The introduction of the Industrial Internet of Things in the factory environment is one of the most important features of the fourth industrial revolution. The main aim is the integration of sensor and actuator devices, based on the Internet of Things, with the industrial applications used for factory processes. This goal may be reached only if interoperability between the communication protocols existing in the domains of industrial applications and the Internet of Things is achieved. Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) is considered one of the main reference communication standards in Industry 4.0 among industrial applications. Within the Internet of Things domain, the oneM2M communication protocol has been defined for solving the current fragmentation of this domain in the information exchange between sensor and actuator devices. Interoperability between these two communication protocols may allow integration of the industrial applications with Internet of Things-based devices. The current state of the art does not present any interoperability solution to allow the information produced by oneM2M-based devices to be consumed by OPC UA industrial applications. In order to reach this aim, the paper proposes a novel solution based on the use of a standard interworking proxy. The paper will describe this solution and the relevant software implementation.
Successful Alectinib Treatment for Carcinoma of Unknown Primary with EML4-ALK Fusion Gene: A Case Report
Authors: Sugiyama Keiji , Izumika Ai , Iwakoshi Akari , Nishibori Riko , Sato Mariko , Shiraishi Kazuhiro , Hattori Hiroyoshi , Nishimura Rieko , Kitagawa Chiyoe
Published: May 2021

Gene alteration in anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) is rare, and the efficacy of ALK inhibitors in the treatment of carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) with ALK alteration remains unclear. The patient was a 56-year-old woman who presented with cervical lymph node swelling. Computed tomography revealed paraaortic, perigastric, and cervical lymph node swelling; ascites; a liver lesion; and a left adrenal mass. A cervical lymph node biopsy was performed, and pathological diagnosis of an undifferentiated malignant tumor was conducted. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with CUP and treated with chemotherapy. To evaluate actionable mutations, we performed a multigene analysis, using a next-generation sequencer (FoundationOne® CDx). It revealed that the tumor harbored an echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 (EML4) and ALK fusion gene. Additionally, immunohistochemistry confirmed ALK protein expression. Alectinib, a potent ALK inhibitor, was recommended for the patient at a molecular oncology conference at our institution. Accordingly, alectinib (600 mg/day) was administered, and the multiple lesions and symptoms rapidly diminished without apparent toxicity. The administration of alectinib continued for a period of 10 months without disease progression. Thus, ALK-tyrosine kinase inhibitors should be considered in patients with CUP harboring the EML4-ALK fusion gene.