bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Acetaminophen and Its Glucuronide in Fingerprint by SALDI Mass Spectrometry Using Zeolite and Study of Time-Dependent Changes in Detected Ion Amount
Authors: Horikoshi Toshiki , Kitaoka Chihiro , Fujii Yosuke , Asano Takashi , Xu Jiawei , Fujino Tatsuya
Published: August 2021

The ingredients of an antipyretic (acetaminophen, AAP) and their metabolites excreted into fingerprint were detected by surface-assisted laser desorption ionization (SALDI) mass spectrometry using zeolite. In the fingerprint taken 4 h after AAP ingestion, not only AAP but also the glucuronic acid conjugate of AAP (GAAP), caffeine (Caf), ethenzamide (Eth), salicylamide (Sala; a metabolite of Eth), and urea were detected. Fingerprints were collected over time to determine how the amounts of AAP and its metabolite changed with time, and the time dependence of the peak intensities of protonated AAP and GAAP was measured. It was found that the increase of [GAAP+H]+ peak started later than that of [AAP+H]+ peak, reflecting the metabolism of AAP. Both AAP and GAAP reached maximum concentrations approximately 3 h after ingestion, and were excreted from the body with a half-life of approximately 3.3 h. In addition, fingerprint preservation was confirmed by optical microscopy, and fingerprint shape was retained even after laser irradiation of the fingerprint. Our method may be used in fingerprint analysis.
Effect of Humic Substances as Feed Additive on the Growth Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Health Condition of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822)
Authors: Prokešová Markéta , Bušová Milena , Zare Mahyar , Tran Hung Quang , Kučerová Eliška , Ivanova Anna Pavlovna , Gebauer Tatyana , Stejskal Vlastimil
Published: August 2021

In the present study, a possible nature immunostimulant and growth promoter—humic substances (HS) originating from Siberian leonardite mineraloid—were tested on juvenile Clarias gariepinus performance. Feed additive was applied onto commercial pelleted feed at four HS levels—0, 1, 3, and 6% w/w (HS0, HS1, HS3, HS6, respectively). Diets were tested in five repetitions (in total, n = 1800 individuals, mean body weight 28.1 ± 6.2 g) for 56 days. Growth and production parameters, fish condition and somatic indices, and overall mortality were evaluated after 14, 28, 42, and 56 days of exposure. Whereas, plasma samples were collected only after 0, 28, and 56 days, when fish health status was assessed with biochemical parameters (total proteins, TP; alanine aminotransferase, ALT; aspartate aminotransferase, AST; lactate dehydrogenase, LDH; cholesterol, CHOL; triglycerides, TAG) and fish antioxidant status with glutathione (reduced glutathione, GSH; oxidized glutathione, GSSG; glutathione ratio GSH/GSSG). Although a significantly positive effect of HS feed additive on growth performance was not found in the present study, moderately positive effects were found regarding biochemical parameters (ALT, AST, LDH, CHOL, and TAG) and antioxidants (GSH/GSSG ratio) that were improved especially in the HS3 group.
The Untrained Response of Pet Dogs to Human Epileptic Seizures
Authors: Powell Neil A. , Ruffell Alastair , Arnott Gareth
Published: August 2021

Epilepsy is a debilitating and potentially life-threatening neurological condition which affects approximately 65 million people worldwide. There is currently no reliable and simple early warning seizure-onset device available, which means many people with unstable epilepsy live in fear of injury or sudden death and the negative impact of social stigmatization. If anecdotal claims that untrained dogs anticipate seizures are found to be true, they could offer a simple and readily available early warning system. We hypothesized that, given the extraordinary olfactory ability of dogs, a volatile organic compound exhaled by the dog’s epileptic owner may constitute an early warning trigger mechanism to which make dogs react by owner-directed affiliative responses in the pre-seizure period. Using 19 pet dogs with no experience of epilepsy, we exposed them to odours that were deemed to be characteristic of three seizure phases, by using sweat harvested from people with epilepsy. The odours were delivered to a point immediately under a non-epileptic and seated pet dog owner’s thighs. By altering the alternating odours emerging from sweat samples, captured before seizure, during a seizure and after a seizure, and two nonseizure controls, we were able to record the response of the 19 pet dogs. Our findings suggest that seizures are associated with an odour and that dogs detect this odour and demonstrate a marked increase in affiliative behaviour directed at their owners. A characteristic response of all 19 dogs to seizure odour presentation was an intense stare which was statistically significant, (p < 0.0029), across the pre-seizure, seizure and post-seizure phases when compared to control odours of nonseizure origin.
Malpigmentation of Common Sole (Solea solea) during Metamorphosis Is Associated with Differential Synaptic-Related Gene Expression
Authors: Kavouras Menelaos , Malandrakis Emmanouil E. , Blom Ewout , Tsilika Kyriaki , Danis Theodoros , Panagiotaki Panagiota , Exadactylos Athanasios
Published: August 2021

In farmed flatfish, such as common sole, color disturbances are common. Dyschromia is a general term that includes the color defects on the blind and ocular sides of the fish. The purpose was to examine the difference in gene expression between normal pigmented and juveniles who present ambicoloration. The analysis was carried out with next-generation sequencing techniques and de novo assembly of the transcriptome. Transcripts that showed significant differences (FDR < 0.05) in the expression between the two groups, were related to those of zebrafish (Danio rerio), functionally identified, and classified into categories of the gene ontology. The results revealed that ambicolorated juveniles exhibit a divergent function, mainly of the central nervous system at the synaptic level, as well as the ionic channels. The close association of chromophore cells with the growth of nerve cells and the nervous system was recorded. The pathway, glutamate binding–activation of AMPA and NMDA receptors–long-term stimulation of postsynaptic potential–LTP (long term potentiation)–plasticity of synapses, appears to be affected. In addition, the development of synapses also seems to be affected by the interaction of the LGI (leucine-rich glioma inactivated) protein family with the ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) ones.
The Antioxidative Impact of Dietary Vinegar and Rocket Salad on the Productivity, Serum Oxidation System, and Duodenal Histology of Chickens
Authors: Al-Shammari Karrar Imad Abdulsahib , Batkowska Justyna
Published: August 2021

The purpose of the study was to investigate the ameliorative effect of dietary rocket salad and apple cider vinegar on the oxidative stress (OS) status of broilers. Specifically, 720 Ross 308 chicks were divided into six groups: negative and positive controls (NC and PC with and without additives, Vi1 and V12 experimental groups fed with diets mixed with 5 and 10 mL of vinegar/kg, and Ro1 and Ro2 groups fed with diets mixed with 2 and 3 g of rocket salad/kg, respectively). The experimental groups Vi1 and Vi2 were fed with feed mixture moisturized with 5 and 10 mL of vinegar/kg, and Ro1 and Ro2 were fed with 2 and 3 g of rocket salad/kg, respectively. The birds’ productivity, oxidative serum parameters, and morphometric indices of the gastrointestinal tract were registered at 6 weeks of rearing. The vinegar or rocket salad additive had powerful potentials to significantly suppress (p ≤ 0.05) OS through improving the birds’ survivability, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and carcass yield. The highest villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio of the duodenum were achieved by Vi2, Ro1-2, and NC (p ≤ 0.05). The villus surface area and muscular layer thickness were smallest in the PC, while they did not differ significantly in other groups (p > 0.05). Similar relationships were found in serum superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, hydroperoxide, and malondialdehyde; however, higher doses of both additives were more effective. It seems that liquid vinegar and rocket salad could have beneficial influences on the antioxidant status of birds.
Antibiotics Prescribing in Intensive Care Settings during the COVID-19 Era: A Systematic Review
Authors: Abu-Rub Lubna I. , Abdelrahman Hana A. , Johar Al-Reem A. , Alhussain Hashim A. , Hadi Hamad Abdel , Eltai Nahla O.
Published: August 2021

The prevalence of patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) with SARS-CoV-2 infection who were prescribed antibiotics is undetermined and might contribute to the increased global antibiotic resistance. This systematic review evaluates the prevalence of antibiotic prescribing in patients admitted to ICUs with SARS-CoV-2 infection using PRISMA guidelines. We searched and scrutinized results from PubMed and ScienceDirect databases for published literature restricted to the English language up to 11 May 2021. In addition, we included observational studies of humans with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, clinical characteristics, and antibiotics prescribed for ICU patients with SARS-CoV-2 infections. A total of 361 studies were identified, but only 38 were included in the final analysis. Antibiotic prescribing data were available from 2715 patients, of which prevalence of 71% was reported in old age patients with a mean age of 62.7 years. From the reported studies, third generation cephalosporin had the highest frequency amongst reviewed studies (36.8%) followed by azithromycin (34.2%). The estimated bacterial infection in 12 reported studies was 30.8% produced by 15 different bacterial species, and S. aureus recorded the highest bacterial infection (75%). The fundamental outcomes were the prevalence of ICU COVID-19 patients prescribed antibiotics stratified by age, type of antibiotics prescribed, and the presence of co-infections and comorbidities. In conclusion, more than half of ICU patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection received antibiotics, and prescribing is significantly higher than the estimated frequency of identified bacterial co-infection.
Multi-Criteria Spare Parts Classification Using the Deep Convolutional Neural Network Method
Authors: Yang Ke , Wang Yongjian , Fan Shidong , Mosleh Ali
Published: August 2021

Spare parts management is a critical issue in the industrial field, alongside planning maintenance and logistics activities. For accurate classification in particular, the decision-makers can determine the optimal inventory management strategy. However, problems such as criteria selection, rules explanatory, and learning ability arise when managing thousands of spare parts for modern industry. This paper presents a deep convolutional neural network based on graph (G-DCNN) which will realize multi-criteria classification through image identification based on an explainable hierarchical structure. In the first phase, a hierarchical classification structure is established according to the causal relationship of multiple criteria; in the second phase, nodes are colored according to their criteria level status so that the traditional numerical information can be visible through graph style; in the third phase, the colored structures are transferred into images and processed by structure-modified convolutional neural network, to complete the classification. Finally, the proposed method is applied in a real-world case study to validate its effectiveness, feasibility, and generality. This classification study supplies a good decision support to improve the monitor-focus on critical component and control inventory which will benefit the collaborative maintenance.
Research of Personalized Recommendation Technology Based on Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Yang Xu , Huan Ziyi , Zhai Yisong , Lin Ting
Published: August 2021

Nowadays, personalized recommendation based on knowledge graphs has become a hot spot for researchers due to its good recommendation effect. In this paper, we researched personalized recommendation based on knowledge graphs. First of all, we study the knowledge graphs’ construction method and complete the construction of the movie knowledge graphs. Furthermore, we use Neo4j graph database to store the movie data and vividly display it. Then, the classical translation model TransE algorithm in knowledge graph representation learning technology is studied in this paper, and we improved the algorithm through a cross-training method by using the information of the neighboring feature structures of the entities in the knowledge graph. Furthermore, the negative sampling process of TransE algorithm is improved. The experimental results show that the improved TransE model can more accurately vectorize entities and relations. Finally, this paper constructs a recommendation model by combining knowledge graphs with ranking learning and neural network. We propose the Bayesian personalized recommendation model based on knowledge graphs (KG-BPR) and the neural network recommendation model based on knowledge graphs (KG-NN). The semantic information of entities and relations in knowledge graphs is embedded into vector space by using improved TransE method, and we compare the results. The item entity vectors containing external knowledge information are integrated into the BPR model and neural network, respectively, which make up for the lack of knowledge information of the item itself. Finally, the experimental analysis is carried out on MovieLens-1M data set. The experimental results show that the two recommendation models proposed in this paper can effectively improve the accuracy, recall, F1 value and MAP value of recommendation.
Development and Validation of Retention Models in Supercritical Fluid Chromatography for Impregnation Process Design
Authors: Sun Miaotian , Ülker Zeynep , Chen Zhixing , Deeptanshu Sivaraman , Johannsen Monika , Erkey Can , Gurikov Pavel
Published: August 2021

The retention factor is the key quantity for the thermodynamic analysis of the retention mechanism in chromatographic experiments. In this work, we measure retention factors for moderately polar solutes on four silica-based porous matrices as stationary phases by supercritical fluid chromatography. Elution of the solutes is only possible with binary mixtures of supercritical carbon dioxide (sc-CO2) and modifier (methanol) due to the low polarity of pure sc-CO2. The addition of modifiers makes the retention mechanism more complex and masks interactions between solute and stationary phase. In this work, we develop and validate several retention models that allow the obtaining of retention factors in modifier-free sc-CO2. Such models pave the way for quantifying adsorption interactions between polar solutes and non-swellable porous matrices in pure sc-CO2 based on retention data obtained in sc-CO2/modifier mixtures. The obtained information will thereby facilitate the understanding and design of impregnation processes, which are often performed in modifier-free conditions.
Signaling Pathways Associated with Macrophage-Activating Polysaccharide Isolated from Korea Red Ginseng
Authors: Gao Jie , Lee Sullim , Lee Ji-Hwan , Kang Ki-Sung , Shin Myoung-Sook
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Korean red ginseng (KRG) is known as an immune-enhancing health food and has been approved by the Korea Food and Drug Administration. We analyzed the immune-enhancing activity of KRG and its polysaccharide (KRG-P) using RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells. Materials and Methods: The protein and mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were measured using ELISA and qRT-PCR, respectively. Nitric oxide levels were measured using the Griess reagent. The phosphorylation and total protein levels of ERK, p38, JNK, p65, and GAPDH were determined by immunoblot assay. Results: The polysaccharide (KRG-P), but not KRG, produced nitric oxide, interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in RAW264.7 cells. KRG-P increased nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2), IL-6, and TNF-α expression in RAW264.7 cells. KRG-P also increased phosphorylation of MAPKs (mitogen-activate protein kinases) including ERK, p38, JNK, and NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) in a concentration-dependent manner in RAW264.7 cells. Conclusions: The polysaccharide KRG-P is the active component responsible for the immune-enhancing activity of Korean red ginseng and may modulate the systemic immune system in vivo.
Sensitivity Analysis of Anchored Slopes under Water Level Fluctuations: A Case Study of Cangjiang Bridge—Yingpan Slope in China
Authors: Liang Jinxi , Sui Wanghua
Published: August 2021

This paper presents an improved slope stability sensitivity analysis (ISSSA) model that takes anchoring factors into consideration in umbrella-anchored sand and clay slopes under reservoir water level fluctuation. The results of the ISSSA model show that the slope inclination and the layout density of anchors are the main controlling factors for sand slope stability under fluctuation of the water level, while the slope inclination and water head height are the main controlling factors for slope stability in the Cangjiang bridge—Yingpan slope of Yunnan province in China. Moreover, there is an optimum anchorage angle, in the range of 25–45 degrees, which has the greatest influence on slope stability. The fluctuation of the reservoir water level is an important factor that triggers slope instability; in particular, a sudden drop in the surface water level can easily lead to landslides; therefore, corresponding measures should be implemented in a timely manner in order to mitigate landslide disasters.
Exact and Evolutionary Algorithms for Synchronization of Public Transportation Timetables Considering Extended Transfer Zones
Authors: Nesmachnow Sergio , Risso Claudio
Published: August 2021

This article addresses timetable synchronization in public transportation, an important problem in modern smart cities, in order to guarantee a proper quality of service to citizens. Two variants of the bus timetabling synchronization problem considering extended transfer zones are studied: optimizing offsets and optimizing offsets and headways for each line. An exact mixed integer programming and an evolutionary algorithm are developed to solve both problem variants. The algorithms are evaluated on 45 instances of a real case study, the intelligent transportation system of Montevideo, Uruguay. Experimental results reported significant improvements over the current timetable implemented by the city administration. The number of successful synchronizations improved up to 66.6% and 179.9% for the first and second problem variant, respectively. The average waiting times for transfers improved, especially in tight problem instances (up to 57.8% and 158.3% for the first and second problem variant, respectively). The proposed planning methods are useful to help decision makers to configure public transportation systems.
Sequential Riemann–Liouville and Hadamard–Caputo Fractional Differential Systems with Nonlocal Coupled Fractional Integral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Kiataramkul Chanakarn , Yukunthorn Weera , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Tariboon Jessada
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we initiate the study of existence of solutions for a fractional differential system which contains mixed Riemann–Liouville and Hadamard–Caputo fractional derivatives, complemented with nonlocal coupled fractional integral boundary conditions. We derive necessary conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions of the considered system, by using standard fixed point theorems, such as Banach contraction mapping principle and Leray–Schauder alternative. Numerical examples illustrating the obtained results are also presented.
Effects of the Topical Administration of Semaglutide on Retinal Neuroinflammation and Vascular Leakage in Experimental Diabetes
Authors: Simó Rafael , Bogdanov Patricia , Ramos Hugo , Huerta Jordi , Simó-Servat Olga , Hernández Cristina
Published: August 2021

Background: An unexpected increase in the rate of severe diabetic retinopathy was observed in the Semaglutide in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes (SUSTAIN)-6 clinical trial. Although this effect was attributed to a rapid decrease in blood glucose levels, a direct deleterious effect of semaglutide on the retina could not be ruled out. In order to shed light on this issue, we have performed a study aimed at testing the direct effect of semaglutide administered by eye drops on retinal neuroinflammation and microvascular abnormalities using the db/db mouse model. Methods: Eye drops containing semaglutide (0.33 mg/mL; 5 μL once/daily) or vehicle (PBS; 5 μL once daily) were administered for 15 days. Results: We found that semaglutide significantly reduced glial activation, as well as the retinal expression of Nuclear factor kB (NF-κB), proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18) and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule (ICAM)-1. In addition, semaglutide prevented the apoptosis of cells from the retinal ganglion layer and activated the protein kinase B (AKT) pathway. Finally, a dramatic decrease in vascular leakage was observed in db/db mice treated with semaglutide. All these findings were observed without any change in blood glucose levels and, therefore, can be directly attributed to semaglutide. Conclusions: These experimental findings point to a beneficial rather than a deleterious effect of semaglutide on the retina of subjects with diabetes.
Anti-Toxoplasma gondii Effects of a Novel Spider Peptide XYP1 In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Liu Yuan , Tang Yaqin , Tang Xing , Wu Mengqi , Hou Shengjie , Liu Xiaohua , Li Jing , Deng Meichun , Huang Shuaiqin , Jiang Liping
Published: August 2021

Toxoplasmosis, caused by an obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, is one of the most prevalent zoonoses worldwide. Treatments for this disease by traditional drugs have shown numerous side effects, thus effective alternative anti-Toxoplasma strategies or drugs are urgently needed. In this study, a novel spider peptide, XYP1, was identified from the cDNA library of the venom gland of the spider Lycosa coelestis. Our results showed that XYP1 has potent anti-Toxoplasma activity in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, treatment with XYP1 significantly inhibited the viability, invasion and proliferation of tachyzoites with low cytotoxicity (IC50 = 38.79 μΜ) on human host cells, and increased the survival rate of mice acutely infected with T. gondii. Next, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and RNA sequencing were employed to further explore the functional mechanism of XYP1, and the results indicated that XYP1 causes membrane perforation, swelling and disruption of tachyzoites, which could be closely associated with differential expression of several membrane-associated proteins including HSP29. In conclusion, XYP1 may be a promising new drug candidate for the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
Depletion of Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone Induces Insatiable Appetite and Gains in Energy Reserves and Body Weight in Zebrafish
Authors: Hsieh Yang-Wen , Tsai Yi-Wen , Lai Hsin-Hung , Lai Chi-Yu , Lin Chiu-Ya , Her Guor Mour
Published: August 2021

The functions of anorexigenic neurons secreting proopiomelanocortin (POMC)/alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) of the melanocortin system in the hypothalamus in vertebrates are energy homeostasis, food intake, and body weight regulation. However, the mechanisms remain elusive. This article reports on zebrafish that have been genetically engineered to produce α-MSH mutants, α-MSH−7aa and α-MSH−8aa, selectively lacking 7 and 8 amino acids within the α-MSH region, but retaining most of the other normal melanocortin-signaling (Pomc-derived) peptides. The α-MSH mutants exhibited hyperphagic phenotypes leading to body weight gain, as observed in human patients and mammalian models. The actions of several genes regulating appetite in zebrafish are similar to those in mammals when analyzed using gene expression analysis. These include four selected orexigenic genes: Promelanin-concentrating hormone (pmch), agouti-related protein 2 (agrp2), neuropeptide Y (npy), and hypothalamic hypocretin/orexin (hcrt). We also study five selected anorexigenic genes: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (bdnf), single-minded homolog 1-a (sim1a), corticotropin-releasing hormone b (crhb), thyrotropin-releasing hormone (trh), and prohormone convertase 2 (pcsk2). The orexigenic actions of α-MSH mutants are rescued completely after hindbrain ventricle injection with a synthetic analog of α-MSH and a melanocortin receptor agonist, Melanotan II. We evaluate the adverse effects of MSH depletion on energy balance using the Alamar Blue metabolic rate assay. Our results show that α-MSH is a key regulator of POMC signaling in appetite regulation and energy expenditure, suggesting that it might be a potential therapeutic target for treating human obesity.
Differences in the Concentration of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibodies Post-COVID-19 Recovery or Post-Vaccination
Authors: Tretyn Andrzej , Szczepanek Joanna , Skorupa Monika , Jarkiewicz-Tretyn Joanna , Sandomierz Dorota , Dejewska Joanna , Ciechanowska Karolina , Jarkiewicz-Tretyn Aleksander , Koper Wojciech , Pałgan Krzysztof
Published: August 2021

At the end of 2020, population-based vaccination programs with new generation mRNA-based vaccines began almost all over the world. The aim of the study was to evaluate the titer of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies against the S1 subunit of the virus’s spike protein as a marker of the humoral response in 477 patients and the concentration of interferon-gamma as an indicator of cellular response in 28 individuals. In our studies, we used serological enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. IgG was measured in weeks 2 and 3 after the first dose and 1–5 weeks after the second dose of an mRNA vaccine in seropositive and seronegative individuals as well as in symptomatic and asymptomatic convalescents. High levels of antibodies were observed in 98% of our vaccinated cohort, and the presence of protective T cells was confirmed in the blood samples of all participants. The humoral immune response is diversified and is visible as early as 2–3 weeks after the first dose of the mRNA vaccine. The level of protection increased significantly after the second dose, with the increase being much greater in pre-vaccine healthy subjects and less in convalescents. In the second and third weeks after the second dose, the concentration of IgG antibodies was the highest, and in the following weeks, it decreased gradually. Regular serological measurements on eight subjects show that antibody titers are lower four months after vaccination than before the second dose.
A Comprehensive Review of the Genomics of Multiple Myeloma: Evolutionary Trajectories, Gene Expression Profiling, and Emerging Therapeutics
Authors: Awada Hassan , Thapa Bicky , Awada Hussein , Dong Jing , Gurnari Carmelo , Hari Parameswaran , Dhakal Binod
Published: August 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a blood cancer characterized by the accumulation of malignant monoclonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. It develops through a series of premalignant plasma cell dyscrasia stages, most notable of which is the Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS). Significant advances have been achieved in uncovering the genomic aberrancies underlying the pathogenesis of MGUS-MM. In this review, we discuss in-depth the genomic evolution of MM and focus on the prognostic implications of the accompanied molecular and cytogenetic aberrations. We also dive into the latest investigatory techniques used for the diagnoses and risk stratification of MM patients.
Thanaka (H. crenulata, N. crenulata, L. acidissima L.): A Systematic Review of Its Chemical, Biological Properties and Cosmeceutical Applications
Authors: Lim Min Wen , Aroua Mohamed Kheireddine , Gew Lai Ti
Published: August 2021

Thanaka (H. crenulata, N. crenulata, L. acidissima L.) is a common tree in Southeast Asia used by the people of Myanmar to create their distinctive face makeup meant for daily sun protection and skincare. Moreover, it is used as a traditional remedy to treat various diseases since it can also be applied as an insect repellent. In this systematic review, the chemical and biological properties of Thanaka have been summarised from 18 articles obtained from the Scopus database. Various extracts of Thanaka comprise a significant number of bioactive compounds that include antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, anti-melanogenic and anti-microbial properties. More importantly, Thanaka exhibits low cytotoxicity towards human cell lines. The use of natural plant materials with various beneficial biological activities have been commonly replacing artificial and synthetic chemicals for health and environmental reasons as natural plant materials offer advantages such as antioxidant, antibacterial qualities while providing essential nourishment to the skin. This review serves as a reference for the research, development and commercialisation of Thanaka skincare products, in particular, sunscreen. Natural sunscreens have attracted enormous interests as a potential replacement for sun protection products made using synthetic chemicals such as oxybenzone that would cause health issues and damage to the environment.
Impact of Long-Term Annealing on Photoluminescence from Ge1−xSnx Alloys
Authors: Olorunsola Oluwatobi , Stanchu Hryhorii , Ojo Solomon , Pandey Krishna , Said Abdulla , Margetis Joe , Tolle John , Kuchuk Andrian , Mazur Yuriy I. , Salamo Gregory , Yu Shui-Qing
Published: August 2021

We report on the connection between strain, composition, defect density and the photoluminescence observed before and after annealing at 300 °C for GeSn samples with Sn content of 8% to 10%. Results show how the composition and level of strain influenced the separation between the indirect and direct optical transitions, while changes in the level of strain also influenced the density of misfit dislocations and surface roughness. The effect of annealing is observed to lower the level of strain, decreasing the energy separation between the indirect and direct optical transitions, while also simultaneously increasing the density of misfit/threading dislocations and surface roughness. The reduction in energy separation leads to an increase of photoluminescence (PL) emission, while the increase of misfit/threading dislocations density and surface roughness results in a decrease of PL. Consequently, the competition between these factors is observed to determine the impact of annealing on the PL. As a result, annealing increases the collected PL for small (≤40 meV) separation between the indirect to direct optical transitions in the as-grown sample while decreases the PL for larger (≥60 meV) separations. More generally, these numbers have a small dependence on the level of strain in the as-grown samples.
Plaque-Like Dermatofibroma: Case Report of a Rare Entity
Authors: Moradi Sara , Mnayer Laila , Earle Jonathan , Cech Alex C. , Ehrig Torsten
Published: August 2021

A case of a well-demarcated plaque measuring 11 cm without satellites of several years’ duration is presented. It showed typical histologic findings of dermatofibroma, prompting a diagnosis of plaque-like dermatofibroma. The relationship to multiple clustered dermatofibromas and plaque-like myofibroblastic tumor is discussed.
Diagnostic Approach to Congenital Cystic Masses of the Neck from a Clinical and Pathological Perspective
Authors: Fanous Amanda , Morcrette Guillaume , Fabre Monique , Couloigner Vincent , Galmiche-Rolland Louise
Published: August 2021

Background: neck cysts are frequently encountered in pediatric medicine and can present a diagnostic dilemma for clinicians and pathologists. Several clinical items enable to subclassify neck cyst as age at presentation, anatomical location, including compartments and fascia of the neck, and radiological presentation. Summary: this review will briefly describe the clinical, imaging, pathological and management features of (I) congenital and developmental pathologies, including thyroglossal duct cyst, branchial cleft cysts, dermoid cyst, thymic cyst, and ectopic thymus; (II) vascular malformations, including lymphangioma. Key Messages: pathologists should be familiar with the diagnostic features and clinicopathologic entities of these neck lesions in order to correctly diagnose them and to provide proper clinical management.
A Network Slicing Framework for UAV-Aided Vehicular Networks
Authors: Skondras Emmanouil , Michailidis Emmanouel T. , Michalas Angelos , Vergados Dimitrios J. , Miridakis Nikolaos I. , Vergados Dimitrios D.
Published: August 2021

In a fifth generation (5G) vehicular network architecture, several point of access (PoA) types, including both road side units (RSUs) and aerial relay nodes (ARNs), can be leveraged to undertake the service of an increasing number of vehicular users. In such an architecture, the application of efficient resource allocation schemes is indispensable. In this direction, this paper describes a network slicing scheme for 5G vehicular networks that aims to optimize the performance of modern network services. The proposed architecture consists of ground RSUs and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) acting as ARNs enabling the communication between ground vehicular nodes and providing additional communication resources. Both RSUs and ARNs implement the LTE vehicle-to-everything (LTE-V2X) technology, while the position of each ARN is optimized by applying a fuzzy multi-attribute decision-making (fuzzy MADM) technique. With regard to the proposed network architecture, each RSU maintains a local virtual resource pool (LVRP) which contains local RBs (LRBs) and shared RBs (SRBs), while an SDN controller maintains a virtual resource pool (VRP), where the SRBs of the RSUs are stored. In addition, each ARN maintains its own resource blocks (RBs). For users connected to the RSUs, if the remaining RBs of the current RSU can satisfy the predefined threshold value, the LRBs of the RSU are allocated to user services. On the contrary, if the remaining RBs of the current RSU cannot satisfy the threshold, extra RBs from the VRP are allocated to user services. Similarly, for users connected to ARNs, the satisfaction grade of each user service is monitored considering both the QoS and the signal-to-noise plus interference (SINR) factors. If the satisfaction grade is higher than the predefined threshold value, the service requirements can be satisfied by the remaining RBs of the ARN. On the contrary, if the estimated satisfaction grade is lower than the predefined threshold value, the ARN borrows extra RBs from the LVRP of the corresponding RSU to achieve the required satisfaction grade. Performance evaluation shows that the suggested method optimizes the resource allocation and improves the performance of the offered services in terms of throughput, packet transfer delay, jitter and packet loss ratio, since the use of ARNs that obtain optimal positions improves the channel conditions observed from each vehicular user.
An Adaptive Rate Blocked Compressive Sensing Method for Video
Authors: Wang Jianming , Chen Jianhua
Published: August 2021

An adaptive rate Compressive Sensing (CS) method for video signals is proposed. The Blocked Compressive Sensing (BCS) scheme is adopted in this method. Firstly, each video frame is blocked and measured by the BCS scheme, and then the mean and variance of each image block are estimated by observing the CS measurement results. Using the mean and variance of each image block, the sparsity of the block is estimated and then the block can be classified. Adaptive rate sampling is realized by assigning different sampling rates to different classes. At the same time, in order to make better use of the correlation between video frames, a reference block subtraction method is also designed in this paper, which uses the estimates of the sparsity of image blocks as the basis for the reference block update. All operations of the proposed method only depend on the CS measurement results of image blocks and all calculations are simple. Thus, the proposed method is suitable for implementation in CS sampling devices with limited computational performance. Experiment results show that, compared with the actual values, the sparsity estimates and block classification results of the proposed method are accurate. Compared with the latest adaptive Compressive Video Sensing methods, the reconstructed image quality of the proposed method is better.
Navigation and Negotiation towards School Success at Upper Secondary School: The Interplay of Structural and Procedural Risk and Protective Factors for Resilience Pathways
Authors: Dueggeli Albert , Kassis Maria , Kassis Wassilis
Published: August 2021

Young male migrants, in particular, are at higher risk of not completing upper secondary education and do not have the same opportunities to put their educational resources to use in existing educational contexts. This work examines how socially and structurally disadvantaged male adolescents (migration biography and low SES) can be supported in attaining educational success at the upper secondary level by applying the resilience concept of navigation and negotiation. Within the framework of grounded theory and by a qualitative coding paradigm, we applied an exploratory heuristical approach in order to understand school success under a micro-sociological passage. Data were collected in German-speaking Switzerland as part of the programme’s evaluation, which show, firstly, that inter-individual processes of navigation and negotiation differ depending on the specific people involved and their objectives. Secondly, different forms of development of navigation and negotiation are seen within a single individual, and thirdly, the importance of institutional flexibility becomes apparent when adolescents experience successful processes of navigation or negotiation. The findings are discussed in the context of questions of justice and to their classification within the context of educational and psychological aspects for promoting resilience and on the basis of their overall significance for education policy.
Serial RRAM Cell for Secure Bit Concealing
Authors: Yang Binbin , Arumí Daniel , Manich Salvador , Gómez-Pau Álvaro , Rodríguez-Montañés Rosa , González Mireia Bargalló , Campabadal Francesca , Fang Liang
Published: August 2021

Non-volatile memory cells are exposed to adversary attacks since any active countermeasure is useless when the device is powered off. In this context, this work proposes the association of two serial RRAM devices as a basic cell to store sensitive data, which could solve this bothersome problem. This cell has three states: ‘1’, ‘0’, and masked. When the system is powered off or the data is not used, the cell is set to the masked state, where the cell still stores a ‘1’ or a ‘0’ but a malicious adversary is not capable of extracting the stored value using reverse engineering techniques. Before reading, the cell needs to be unmasked and it is masked afterwards until the next reading request. The operation of the cell also provides robustness against side-channel attacks. The presented experimental results confirm the validity of the proposal.
Characterization Techniques of Millimeter-Wave Orthomode Transducers (OMTs)
Authors: Navarrini Alessandro , Nesti Renzo
Published: August 2021

We report on advanced techniques for the accurate characterization of millimeter-wave Orthomode Transducers (OMTs) enabling the derivation of the fundamental parameters of such devices, i.e., the insertion loss, the return loss, the cross-polarization, and the isolation. These techniques include standard frequency-domain and time-domain VNA (Vector Network Analyzer) measurement methods, which can be applied to remove the effects of the waveguide transitions necessary to access the OMT ports and excite the desired modes. After reviewing the definition of the OMT parameters, we discuss the test equipment, the VNA calibration procedures as well as the VNA time-domain time-gating method for application in OMT characterization. We present simplified equations that relate the calibrated VNA measured quantities with the OMT S-parameters, illustrate various characterization methods, and examine various OMT experimental test setups. The advantages and disadvantages of each of the OMT characterization procedures are presented and compared among them. We provide a list of waveguide components required in the OMT test setups (adapters, loads, quarter-wave and longer waveguide sections, feed-horn, etc.), discuss the error terms introduced by such components and examine their impact on the measured values. Furthermore, we identify strategies to mitigate or remove the effects of the measured errors, to derive the desired OMT parameters. Different OMT configurations, with a distinct orientation of the waveguide input and outputs, are discussed. Although the presented techniques refer to the characterization of a specific configuration of a W-band OMT, the described methods can be applied to other OMT configurations and frequency ranges (from microwave to THz frequencies), therefore having a general validity.
Battery Management System Algorithm for Energy Storage Systems Considering Battery Efficiency
Authors: Lee Jeong , Kim Jun-Mo , Yi Junsin , Won Chung-Yuen
Published: August 2021

Aging increases the internal resistance of a battery and reduces its capacity; therefore, energy storage systems (ESSs) require a battery management system (BMS) algorithm that can manage the state of the battery. This paper proposes a battery efficiency calculation formula to manage the battery state. The proposed battery efficiency calculation formula uses the charging time, charging current, and battery capacity. An algorithm that can accurately determine the battery state is proposed by applying the proposed state of charge (SoC) and state of health (SoH) calculations. To reduce the initial error of the Coulomb counting method (CCM), the SoC can be calculated accurately by applying the battery efficiency to the open circuit voltage (OCV). During the charging and discharging process, the internal resistance of a battery increase and the constant current (CC) charging time decrease. The SoH can be predicted from the CC charging time of the battery and the battery efficiency, as proposed in this paper. Furthermore, a safe system is implemented during charging and discharging by applying a fault diagnosis algorithm to reduce the battery efficiency. The validity of the proposed BMS algorithm is demonstrated by applying it in a 3-kW ESS.
Transcending Parallel Play: Boundary Spanning for Collective Action in Wildfire Management
Authors: Davis Emily Jane , Huber-Stearns Heidi , Cheng Antony S. , Jacobson Meredith
Published: August 2021

A key challenge in the United States is how to manage wildfire risk across boundaries and scales, as roles, responsibilities, and ability to act are distributed among actors in ways that do not always incentivize collective action. In this review paper, we provide several conceptual contributions to the understanding of wildfire management through the application of boundary spanning frameworks. This includes: (1) a characterization of four major types of boundaries in managing wildfire risk; (2) a review of major boundary spanning features and frameworks that integrate them; and (3) consideration of current and potential applications of the boundary spanning construct to the domain of wildfire management. Our goal is to advance knowledge of how actors in this arena may overcome “parallel play” to more collectively address wildfire risk. We generate new thinking about wildfire management, and offer potential implications and questions for future research, policy, and management.
Use of Micellar Delivery Systems to Enhance Curcumin’s Stability and Microbial Photoinactivation Capacity
Authors: Ryu Victor , Ruiz-Ramirez Silvette , Chuesiang Piyanan , McLandsborough Lynne A. , McClements David Julian , Corradini Maria G.
Published: August 2021

Microbial photoinactivation using ultraviolet (UV) or visible light can be enhanced by photosensitizers. This study assessed the efficacy of encapsulating a food-grade photosensitizer (curcumin) in surfactant micelles on its water dispersibility, chemical stability, and antimicrobial activity. Stock curcumin-surfactant solutions were prepared with Surfynol 465 (S465) or Tween 80 (T80) (5 mM sodium citrate buffer). The antimicrobial activity of curcumin-loaded surfactant solutions was determined by monitoring the inactivation of Escherichia coli O157: H7 and Listeria innocua after 5-min irradiation with UV-A light (λ = 365 nm). The solutions mixed with the bacterial suspensions contained 1 µM curcumin and each surfactant below, near, and above their critical micelle concentrations (CMCs). The addition of surfactants at any level to the curcumin solution enhanced its dispersibility, stability, and efficacy as a photosensitizer, thereby enhancing its antimicrobial activity. Gram-positive bacteria were more susceptible than Gram-negative bacteria when curcumin-loaded micelles were used against them. The photoinactivation efficacy of curcumin-surfactant solutions depended on the pH of the solution (low > high), surfactant type (S465 > T80), and the amount of surfactant present (below CMC ≥ near CMC > above CMC = unencapsulated curcumin). This result suggests that excessive partitioning of curcumin into micelles reduced its ability to interact with microbial cells. Synergistic antimicrobial activity was observed when S465 was present below or near the CMC with curcumin at pH 3.5, which could be attributed to a more effective interaction of the photosensitizer with the cell membranes as supported by the fluorescence lifetime micrographs. The use of a micelle-based delivery system facilitates adsorption and generation of reactive oxygen species in the immediate environment of the microbial cell, enhancing photoinactivation.
Nutritional Profile of the Ethiopian Oilseed Crop Noug (Guizotia abyssinica Cass.): Opportunities for Its Improvement as a Source for Human Nutrition
Authors: Tsehay Sewalem , Ortiz Rodomiro , Geleta Mulatu , Bekele Endashaw , Tesfaye Kassahun , Johansson Eva
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of noug as a source for human nutrition. Diverse noug genotypes were evaluated for their content and/or composition of total lipids, fatty acids, proteins, and minerals using standard methods. The total lipid content (32.5–45.7%) and the proportion of an essential fatty acid, linoleic acid (72.2–77.8%), were high in noug, compared to other oilseed crops. The proportion of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, was low in noug (5.2–9.2%). The breeding objective of increasing the oleic acid level in the highland, where noug is mainly cultivated, was limited, as the content of this acid was low in this environment. The seed protein concentration (25.4–27.5%) and mineral content were mainly affected by the cultivation environment, as the high temperature increased the amount of protein, whereas the soil condition was a major factor in the variation of the mineral content. Thus, noug is a unique crop with a high seed oil content, of which a high proportion is linoleic acid. With the exception of the seed oleic acid content, when grown in low-altitude areas, the genotypic variation contributes less than the cultivation environment to the nutritional attributes of noug. Hence, high-oleic-acid noug for lowland production can be targeted as a breeding goal.