bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thiazole/Thiadiazole/Benzothiazole Based Thiazolidin-4-One Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of Main Protease of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Petrou Anthi , Zagaliotis Panagiotis , Theodoroula Nikoleta F. , Mystridis George A. , Vizirianakis Ioannis S. , Walsh Thomas J. , Geronikaki Athina
Published: March 2022

Since the time of its appearance until present, COVID-19 has spread worldwide, with over 71 million confirmed cases and over 1.6 million deaths reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). In addition to the fact that cases of COVID-19 are increasing worldwide, the Delta and Omicron variants have also made the situation more challenging. Herein, we report the evaluation of several thiazole/thiadiazole/benzothiazole based thiazolidinone derivatives which were chosen from 112 designed derivatives by docking as potential molecules to inhibit the main protease of SARS-CoV-2. The contained experimental data revealed that among the fifteen compounds chosen, five compounds (k3, c1, n2, A2, A1) showed inhibitory activity with IC50 within the range of 0.01–34.4 μΜ. By assessing the cellular effects of these molecules, we observed that they also had the capacity to affect the cellular viability of human normal MRC-5 cells, albeit with a degree of variation. More specifically, k3 which is the most promising compound with the higher inhibitory capacity to SARS-CoV-2 protease (0.01 μΜ) affects in vitro cellular viability only by 57% at the concentration of 0.01 μM after 48 h in culture. Overall, these data provide evidence on the potential antiviral activity of these molecules to inhibit the main protease of SARS-CoV-2, a fact that sheds light on the chemical structure of the thiazole/thiadiazole/benzothiazole based thiazolidin-4-one derivatives as potential candidates for COVID-19 therapeutics.
Effects of LiBF4 Addition on the Lithium-Ion Conductivity of LiBH4
Authors: de Kort Laura M. , Gulino Valerio , Blanchard Didier , Ngene Peter
Published: March 2022

Complex hydrides, such as LiBH4, are a promising class of ion conductors for all-solid-state batteries, but their application is constrained by low ion mobility at room temperature. Mixing with halides or complex hydride anions, i.e., other complex hydrides, is an effective approach to improving the ionic conductivity. In the present study, we report on the reaction of LiBH4 with LiBF4, resulting in the formation of conductive composites consisting of LiBH4, LiF and lithium closo-borates. It is believed that the in-situ formation of closo-borate related species gives rise to highly conductive interfaces in the decomposed LiBH4 matrix. As a result, the ionic conductivity is improved by orders of magnitude with respect to the Li-ion conductivity of the LiBH4, up to 0.9 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 30 °C. The insights gained in this work show that the incorporation of a second compound is a versatile method to improve the ionic conductivity of complex metal hydrides, opening novel synthesis pathways not limited to conventional substituents.
Lipid-Based Nanoparticle Formulation of Diallyl Trisulfide Chemosensitizes the Growth Inhibitory Activity of Doxorubicin in Colorectal Cancer Model: A Novel In Vitro, In Vivo and In Silico Analysis
Authors: Alrumaihi Faris , Khan Masood Alam , Babiker Ali Yousif , Alsaweed Mohammed , Azam Faizul , Allemailem Khaled S. , Almatroudi Ahmad A. , Ahamad Syed Rizwan , Alsugoor Mahdi H. , Alharbi Khloud Nawaf , Almansour Nahlah Makki , Khan Arif
Published: March 2022

Garlic’s main bioactive organosulfur component, diallyl trisulfide (DATS), has been widely investigated in cancer models. However, DATS is not suitable for clinical use due to its low solubility. The current study seeks to improve DATS bioavailability and assess its chemopreventive and chemosensitizing properties in an AOM-induced colorectal cancer model. The polyethylene glycol coated Distearoylphosphatidylcholine/Cholesterol (DSPC/Chol) comprising DATS-loaded DATSL and doxorubicin (DOXO)-encapsulated DOXL liposomes was prepared and characterized. The changes in the sensitivity of DATS and DOXO by DATSL and DOXL were evaluated in RKO and HT-29 colon cancer cells. The synergistic effect of DATSL and DOXL was studied by cell proliferation assay in the combinations of IC10, IC25, and IC35 of DATSL with the IC10 of DOXL. AOM, DATSL, and DOXL were administered to different groups of mice for a period of 21 weeks. The data exhibited ~93% and ~46% entrapment efficiency of DATSL and DOXL, respectively. The size of sham liposomes was 110.5 nm, whereas DATSL and DOXL were 135.5 nm and 169 nm, respectively. DATSL and DOXL exhibited significant sensitivity in the cell proliferation experiment, lowering their IC50 doses by more than 8- and 14-fold, respectively. However, the DATSL IC10, IC25, and IC35 showed escalating chemosensitivity, and treated the cells in combination with DOXL IC10. Analysis of histopathological, cancer marker enzymes, and antioxidant enzymes revealed that the high dose of DATSL pretreatment and DOXL chemotherapy is highly effective in inhibiting AOM-induced colon cancer promotion. The combination of DATSL and DOXL indicated promise as a colorectal cancer treatment in this study. Intermolecular interactions of DATS and DOXO against numerous cancer targets by molecular docking indicated MMP-9 as the most favourable target for DATS exhibiting binding energy of −4.6 kcal/mol. So far, this is the first research to demonstrate the chemopreventive as well as chemosensitizing potential of DATSL in an animal model of colorectal cancer.
Antimicrobial Triterpenoids and Ingol Diterpenes from Propolis of Semi-Arid Region of Morocco
Authors: Chimshirova Ralitsa , Popova Milena , Chakir Amina , Valcheva Violeta , Dimitrov Simeon , Trusheva Boryana , Romane Abderrahmane , Bankova Vassya
Published: March 2022

The chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of propolis from a semi-arid region of Morocco were investigated. Fifteen compounds, including triterpenoids (1, 2, 7–12), macrocyclic diterpenes of ingol type (3–6) and aromatic derivatives (13–15), were isolated by various chromatographic methods. Their structures were elucidated by a combination of spectroscopic and chiroptical methods. Compounds 1 and 3 are new natural compounds, and 2, 4–6, and 9–11 are newly isolated from propolis. Moreover, the full nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) assignments of three of the known compounds (2, 4 and 5) were reported for the first time. Most of the compounds tested, especially the diterpenes 3, 4, and 6, exhibited very good activity against different strains of bacteria and fungi. Compound 3 showed the strongest activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in the range of 4–64 µg/mL. The combination of isolated triterpenoids and ingol diterpenes was found to be characteristic for Euphorbia spp., and Euphorbia officinarum subsp. echinus could be suggested as a probable and new plant source of propolis.
The Role Played by Ionic Liquids in Carbohydrates Conversion into 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural: A Recent Overview
Authors: Marullo Salvatore , D’Anna Francesca
Published: March 2022

Obtaining industrially relevant products from abundant, cheap, renewable, and low-impacting sources such as lignocellulosic biomass, is a key step in reducing consumption of raw fossil materials and, consequently, the environmental footprint of such processes. In this regard, a molecule that is similar to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) plays a pivotal role, since it can be produced from lignocellulosic biomass and gives synthetic access to a broad range of industrially important products and polymers. Recently, ionic liquids (ILs) have emerged as suitable solvents for the conversion of biomass and carbohydrates into 5-HMF. Herein, we provide a bird’s-eye view on recent achievements about the use of ILs for the obtainment of 5-HMF, covering works that were published over the last five years. In particular, we first examine reactions involving homogeneous catalysis as well as task-specific ionic liquids. Then, an overview of the literature addressing the use of heterogeneous catalysts, including enzymes, is presented. Whenever possible, the role of ILs and catalysts driving the formation of 5-HMF is discussed, also comparing with the same reactions that are performed in conventional solvents.
Essential Oils as In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation Manipulators to Mitigate Methane Emission by Beef Cattle Grazing Tropical Grasses
Authors: Benetel Gabriela , Silva Thaysa dos Santos , Fagundes Gisele Maria , Welter Katiéli Caroline , Melo Flavia Alves , Lobo Annelise A. G. , Muir James Pierre , Bueno Ives C. S.
Published: March 2022

There is increasing pressure to identify natural feed additives to mitigate methane emissions from livestock systems. Our objective was to investigate the effects of essential oils (EO) extracts star anise (Illicium verum), citronella (Cymbopogon winterianus), clove bud (Eugenia caryophyllus), staigeriana eucalyptus (Eucalyptus staigeriana), globulus eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), ginger (Zingiber officinale), ho wood (Cinnamomum camphora), melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia), oregano (Origanum vulgare) and white thyme (Thymus vulgaris) on in vitro methane emissions from four rumen-cannulated Nellore cattle grazing a tropical grass pasture as inoculum donors. The semi-automated gas production technique was used to assess total gas production, dry matter degradability, partitioning factor, ammoniacal nitrogen, short-chain fatty acids and methane production. All essential oils were tested in four doses (0, 50, 250 and 500 mg/L) in a randomized block design, arranged with four blocks, 10 treatments, four doses and two replicates. Within our study, oregano and white Thyme EO reduced net methane production at 250 mg/L, without affecting substrate degradation. Essential oils from oregano and white thyme have the potential to modify ruminal fermentation and suppress rumen methanogenesis without negative effects on feed digestibility, indicating promise as alternatives to ionophores for methane reduction in beef cattle.
The Role of Double-Diffusion Convection and Induced Magnetic Field on Peristaltic Pumping of a Johnson–Segalman Nanofluid in a Non-Uniform Channel
Authors: Khan Yasir , Akram Safia , Athar Maria , Saeed Khalid , Muhammad Taseer , Hussain Anwar , Imran Muhammad , Alsulaimani H. A.
Published: March 2022

The peristaltic propulsion of a Johnson–Segalman nanofluid under the dependency of a double-diffusion convection and induced magnetic field was investigated in this study. On the premise of continuity, linear momentum, solute concentration, thermal energy, and nanoparticle concentration, a flow issue was proposed. The lubrication methodology was used to carry out mathematical modelling. Numerical techniques were used to solve the corresponding highly nonlinear partial differential equations. The exact solution of concentration, temperature, and nanoparticle were computed. The manifestations of all relevant constraints were theoretically and graphically evaluated. The current study develops a theoretical model that can predict how various parameters affect the characteristics of blood-like fluid flows.
The Relevance of Circadian Clocks to Stem Cell Differentiation and Cancer Progression
Authors: Malik Astha , Nalluri Shreya , De Arpan , Beligala Dilshan , Geusz Michael E.
Published: March 2022

The molecular mechanism of circadian clocks depends on transcription-translation feedback loops (TTFLs) that have known effects on key cellular processes. However, the distinct role of circadian TTFLs in mammalian stem cells and other less differentiated cells remains poorly understood. Neural stem cells (NSCs) of the brain generate neurons and glia postnatally but also may become cancer stem cells (CSCs), particularly in astrocytomas. Evidence indicates clock TTFL impairment is needed for tumor growth and progression; although, this issue has been examined primarily in more differentiated cancer cells rather than CSCs. Similarly, few studies have examined circadian rhythms in NSCs. After decades of research, it is now well recognized that tumors consist of CSCs and a range of other cancer cells along with noncancerous stromal cells. The circadian properties of these many contributors to tumor properties and treatment outcome are being widely explored. New molecular tools and ones in development will likely enable greater discrimination of important circadian and non-circadian cells within malignancies at multiple stages of cancer progression and following therapy. Here, we focus on adult NSCs and glioma CSCs to address how cells at different stages of differentiation may harbor unique states of the molecular circadian clock influencing differentiation and cell fate.
COVID-19 Disease and Outcomes among Critically Ill Patients: The Case of Medical Nutritional Therapy
Authors: Karayiannis Dimitrios , Kakavas Sotirios , Bouloubasi Zoi , Mastora Zafeiria
Published: March 2022

The recent COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted from SARS CoV-2 coronavirus infection, contributed toa rapid increasein hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions [...]
Evidence to Action: Translating Innovations in Management of Child and Adolescent TB into Routine Practice in High-Burden Countries
Authors: Moore Brittany K. , Dlodlo Riitta A. , Dongo John Paul , Verkuijl Sabine , Sekadde Moorine P. , Sandy Charles , Maloney Susan A.
Published: March 2022

Child and adolescent tuberculosis (TB) has been long neglected by TB programs but there have been substantive strides in prioritizing TB among these populations in the past two decades. Yet, gaps remain in translating evidence and policy to action at the primary care level, ensuring access to novel tools and approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention for children and adolescents at risk of TB disease. This article describes the progress that has been made and the gaps that remain in addressing TB among children and adolescents while also highlighting pragmatic approaches and the role of multisectoral partnerships in facilitating integration of innovations into routine program practice.
Metabolic Response to Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Infection and Bacterial Co-Infections
Authors: Dobrzyńska Marta , Moniuszko-Malinowska Anna , Jarocka-Karpowicz Iwona , Czupryna Piotr , Groth Monika , Skrzydlewska Elżbieta
Published: March 2022

Ticks are vectors of various pathogens, including tick-borne encephalitis virus and bacteria such as B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum, causing infections/co-infections, which are still a diagnostic and therapeutic problem. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the effects of TBEV infection/bacterial co-infection on metabolic changes in the blood of patients before and after treatment. It was found that those infections promote plasma ROS enhanced generation and antioxidant defence reduction, especially in relation to glutathione and thioredoxin systems, despite the increased effectiveness of Nrf2 transcription factor in granulocytes. Observed oxidative stress promotes the oxidative modifications of phospholipids containing polyunsaturated fatty acids (LA, AA, EPA) with increased lipid peroxidation (estimated as 8-isoPGF2α, 4-HNE). It is accompanied by protein modifications measured as 4-HNE-protein adducts, carbonyl groups, dityrosine increase, and tryptophan level decrease, which promote structural and functional modification of the following transcription factors: Nrf2 and NFkB inhibitors. The lower level of 8-iso-PGF2α in co-infections indicates an impairment of the body’s ability to intensify inflammation and fight co-infections, while an increased level of Trx after therapy may contribute to the intensification of the inflammatory process. The obtained results indicate the potential possibility of using the assessed metabolic parameters to introduce targeted pharmacotherapy in cases of TBEV infections/bacterial co-infections.
Antimicrobial Resistance, Pathogenic, and Molecular Characterization of Escherichia coli from Diarrheal Patients in South Korea
Authors: Park Seong Bin , Park Yon Kyoung , Ha Min Woo , Thompson Kim D. , Jung Tae Sung
Published: March 2022

Diarrheal diseases due to foodborne Escherichia coli are the leading cause of illness in humans. Here, we performed pathogenic typing, molecular typing, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests on seventy-five isolates of E. coli isolated from stool samples of patients suffering from foodborne diseases in Busan, South Korea. All the isolates were identified as E. coli by both biochemical analysis (API 20E system) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The bacteria displayed entero-pathogenic E. coli (EPEC) (47.0%), entero-aggregative E. coli (EAEC) (33.3%), entero-toxigenic E. coli (ETEC) (6.6%), ETEC and EPEC (6.6%), EPEC and EAEC (4%), and ETEC and EAEC (2.7%) characteristics. The E. coli isolates were highly resistant to nalidixic acid (44.0%), tetracycline (41.3%), ampicillin (40%), ticarcillin (38.7%), and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (34.7%); however, they were highly susceptible to imipenem (98.6%), cefotetan (98.6%), cefepime (94.6%), and chloramphenicol (94.6%). Although 52 strains (69.3%) showed resistance against at least 1 of the 16 antibiotics tested, 23 strains (30.7%) were susceptible to all the antibiotics. Nine different serotypes (O166, O8, O20, O25, O119, O159, O28ac, O127a, and O18), five genotypes (I to V, random-amplified polymorphic DNA), and four phenotypes (A to D, MALDI-TOF MS) were identified, showing the high level of heterogeneity between the E. coli isolates recovered from diarrheal patients in South Korea.
Superantigens and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Hamdy Adam , Leonardi Anthony
Published: March 2022

It has been posited SARS-CoV-2 contains at least one unique superantigen-like motif not found in any other SARS or endemic coronaviruses. Superantigens are potent antigens that can send the immune system into overdrive. SARS-CoV-2 causes many of the biological and clinical consequences of a superantigen, and, in the context of reinfection and waning immunity, it is important to better understand the impact of a widely circulating, airborne pathogen that may be a superantigen, superantigen-like or trigger a superantigenic host response. Urgent research is needed to better understand the long-term risks being taken by governments whose policies enable widespread transmission of a potential superantigenic pathogen, and to more clearly define the vaccination and public health policies needed to protect against the consequences of repeat exposure to the pathogen.
Large Mode Area Single Mode Fiber with a Twisted Polygon-Shaped Core
Authors: Sun Kexiong , Zhu Shicheng , Li Li , Hu Chang , Ma Xiuquan
Published: March 2022

We present numerical studies on twisted polygon-shaped core fibers for achieving single mode operation with a large mode area propagation in this paper. These large mode area fibers can achieve single mode operation due to twisting-induced high losses to higher order modes and coupling higher order modes with leaky modes. A tail-like profile will appear in higher order modes when they couple with leaky modes, and the tail-like profile also indicates that these modes carry angular momentum. Numerical simulations show that twisted octagon-shaped core fiber with a core diameter of 80 μm can obtain first higher order mode losses larger than 19 dB/m while maintaining fundamental mode losses at about 0.15 dB/m. In the case of twisted heptagon-shaped core, an 80 μm diameter fiber design exists with more than 17 dB/m first higher order modes propagation losses and less than 0.14 dB/m fundamental mode losses.
Advanced Machine Learning Methods for Learning from Sparse Data in High-Dimensional Spaces: A Perspective on Uses in the Upstream of Development of Novel Energy Technologies
Authors: Manzhos Sergei , Ihara Manabu
Published: March 2022

Machine learning (ML) has found increasing use in physical sciences, including research on energy conversion and storage technologies, in particular, so-called sustainable technologies. While often ML is used to directly optimize the parameters or phenomena of interest in the space of features, in this perspective, we focus on using ML to construct objects and methods that help in or enable the modeling of the underlying phenomena. We highlight the need for machine learning from very sparse and unevenly distributed numeric data in multidimensional spaces in these applications. After a brief introduction of some common regression-type machine learning techniques, we focus on more advanced ML techniques which use these known methods as building blocks of more complex schemes and thereby allow working with extremely sparse data and also allow generating insight. Specifically, we will highlight the utility of using representations with subdimensional functions by combining the high-dimensional model representation ansatz with machine learning methods such as neural networks or Gaussian process regressions in applications ranging from heterogeneous catalysis to nuclear energy.
Mowing Facilitated Shoot and Root Litter Decomposition Compared with Grazing
Authors: Zhang Shuzhen , Wei Yuqi , Liu Nan , Wang Yongqi , Manlike Asiya , Zhang Yingjun , Zhang Bo
Published: March 2022

Shoot and root litter are two major sources of soil organic carbon, and their decomposition is a crucial nutrient cycling process in the ecosystem. Altitude and land use could affect litter decomposition by changing the environment in mountain grassland ecosystems. However, few studies have investigated the effects of land use on litter decomposition in different altitudes. We examined how land-use type (mowing vs. grazing) affected shoot and root litter decomposition of a dominant grass (Bromus inermis) in mountain grasslands with two different altitudes in northwest China. Litterbags with 6 g of shoot or root were fixed in the plots to decompose for one year. The mass loss rate of the litter, and the environmental attributes related to decomposition, were measured. Litter decomposed faster in mowing than grazing plots, resulting from the higher plant cover and soil moisture but lower bulk density, which might promote soil microbial activities. Increased altitude promoted litter decomposition, and was positively correlated with soil moisture, soil organic carbon (SOC), and β-xylosidase activity. Our results highlight the diverse influences of land-use type on litter decomposition in different altitudes. The positive effects of mowing on shoot decomposition were stronger in lower than higher altitude compared to grazing due to the stronger responses of the plant (e.g., litter and aboveground biomass) and soil (e.g., soil moisture, soil bulk density, and SOC). Soil nutrients (e.g., SOC and soil total nitrogen) seemed to play essential roles in root decomposition, which was increased in mowing plots at lower altitude and vice versa at higher altitude. Therefore, grazing significantly decreased root mass loss at higher altitude, but slightly increased at lower altitude compared to mowing. Our results indicated that the land use might variously regulate the innate differences of the plant and edaphic conditions along an altitude gradient, exerting complex impacts in litter decomposition and further influencing carbon and nutrient cycling in mountain grasslands.
Metal Tolerance Protein Encoding Gene Family in Fagopyrum tartaricum: Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization and Expression under Multiple Metal Stresses
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Wang Chenglong , Wang Kaiyi , Zhao Jiayu , Shao Jirong , Chen Hui , Zhou Meiliang , Zhu Xuemei
Published: March 2022

Metal tolerance proteins (MTP) as divalent cation transporters are essential for plant metal tolerance and homeostasis. However, the characterization and the definitive phylogeny of the MTP gene family in Fagopyrum tartaricum, and their roles in response to metal stress are still unknown. In the present study, MTP genes in Fagopyrum tartaricum were identified, and their phylogenetic relationships, structural characteristics, physicochemical parameters, as well as expression profiles under five metal stresses including Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Cd were also investigated. Phylogenetic relationship analysis showed that 12 Fagopyrum tartaricum MTP genes were classified into three major clusters and seven groups. All FtMTPs had typical structural features of the MTP gene family and were predicted to be located in the cell vacuole. The upstream region of FtMTPs contained abundant cis-acting elements, implying their functions in development progress and stress response. Tissue-specific expression analysis results indicated the regulation of FtMTPs in the growth and development of Fagopyrum tataricum. Besides, the expression of most FtMTP genes could be induced by multiple metals and showed different expression patterns under at least two metal stresses. These findings provide useful information for the research of the metal tolerance mechanism and genetic improvement of Fagopyrum tataricum.
The Phytoremediation Potential and Physiological Adaptive Response of Tamarix tetrandra Pall. Ex M. Bieb. during the Restoration of Chronosequence Fly Ash Deposits
Authors: Kostić Olga , Jarić Snežana , Gajić Gordana , Pavlović Dragana , Mataruga Zorana , Radulović Natalija , Mitrović Miroslava , Pavlović Pavle
Published: March 2022

The challenging process of identifying and selecting plant species suited to the phytoremediation of fly ash (FA) dumps involves studying their functional properties and physiological response to a deficit of essential elements and toxicity from heavy metal(loid)-induced oxidative stress. We hypothesised that Tamarix tetrandra has high potential to be used for the phytoremediation of FA deposit sites thanks to its secretion strategy and antioxidative system. In this study, this hypothesis was examined by determining the bioconcentration and translocation factors for As, B, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Se and Zn at the FA disposal lagoons at the ‘Nikola Tesla A’ thermal power plant in Obrenovac, Serbia, three (lagoon L1) and eleven (lagoon L2) years after the phytoremediation process had begun, and by measuring parameters of photosynthetic efficiency and chlorophyll concentration, non-enzymatic antioxidant defence (carotenoids, anthocyanins and phenolics), oxidative stress (concentration of malondialdehyde—MDA) and total antioxidant capacity to neutralise DPPH free radical activity. Tamarisk not only showed the ability to phytostabilise As, Cr and Ni and to accumulate low-availability Mn, Zn and Cu, but also the potential to maintain the structural and functional integrity of cell membranes and stable vitality at L1 under multiple stress conditions due to the high synthesis of phenols and tolerance to increased salinity. However, toxic concentrations of B and Se in leaves induced oxidative stress in tamarisk at L2 (reflected in higher MDA content and lower vitality) and also decreased the synthesis of chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins and total antioxidant activity. In addition, the prooxidative behaviour of phenols in the presence of spin-stabilising metals from FA could also have resulted in their weaker antioxidant protection at L2. These findings indicate that the choice of tamarisk was justified, but only at the beginning of the phytoremediation process because its presence contributed to an improvement in the harsh conditions at FA deposit sites and the creation of more favourable conditions for new plant species. This knowledge can be of great importance when planning sustainable ash deposit site management worldwide.
Biochemical and Physiological Plant Processes Affected by Seed Treatment with Non-Thermal Plasma
Authors: Mildaziene Vida , Ivankov Anatolii , Sera Bozena , Baniulis Danas
Published: March 2022

Among the innovative technologies being elaborated for sustainable agriculture, one of the most rapidly developing fields relies on the positive effects of non-thermal plasma (NTP) treatment on the agronomic performance of plants. A large number of recent publications have indicated that NTP effects are far more persistent and complex than it was supposed before. Knowledge of the molecular basis and the resulting outcomes of seed treatment with NTP is rapidly accumulating and requires to be analyzed and presented in a systematic way. This review focuses on the biochemical and physiological processes in seeds and plants affected by seed treatment with NTP and the resulting impact on plant metabolism, growth, adaptability and productivity. Wide-scale changes evolving at the epigenomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolic levels are triggered by seed irradiation with NTP and contribute to changes in germination, early seedling growth, phytohormone amounts, metabolic and defense enzyme activity, secondary metabolism, photosynthesis, adaptability to biotic and abiotic stress, microbiome composition, and increased plant fitness, productivity and growth on a longer time scale. This review highlights the importance of these novel findings, as well as unresolved issues that remain to be investigated.
Design and Control of Extractive Dividing Wall Column for Separating Dipropyl Ether/1-Propyl Alcohol Mixture
Authors: Ye Qiliang , Wang Yule , Pan Hui , Zhou Wenyong , Yuan Peiqing
Published: March 2022

The focus of this work is the study of the extractive dividing wall column (EDWC) for separating the azeotropic mixture of dipropyl ether and 1-propyl alcohol with N, N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC) as the entrainer. Three separation sequences are investigated, including a conventional extractive distillation sequence (CEDS), EDWC and a pressure swing distillation sequence (PSDS). The static simulation results showed that the EDWC with DMAC as the entrainer is more economically attractive than CEDS and PSDS. Subsequently, a control structure CS1 based on a three-temperature control loop and a control structure CS2 with the vapor split ratio as the manipulated variable are investigated for the EDWC. Their dynamic control performances are evaluated by facing large feed flow rates and composition disturbances. The results showed that the CS1 can deal with feed flow rate disturbance effectively. However, the transient deviation is large and the settling time is too long when facing feed flow composition disturbances. The CS2 can quickly and effectively deal with feed flow rate and composition disturbances, and it can maintain the two products at high purity.
Rendering of Beef Tallow for Biodiesel Production: Microwave versus Boiling Water and Acetone Fat Extraction
Authors: Soares Dias Ana Paula , Ramos Marta , Rijo Bruna
Published: March 2022

Biodiesel can substitute for conventional diesel fuel and contribute to the decarbonization of the transportation sector. To improve biodiesel sustainability and decrease production costs, low-grade fats such as non-edible animal fats must be used. Animal fats are mixed with tissues which must be removed before alcoholysis to avoid biodiesel contamination with nitrogen and phosphorus-containing compounds. Biodiesel was produced by the methanolysis of beef tallow and beef tallow/soybean oil mixtures over calcium heterogeneous catalysts obtained by the calcination of scallop shells. The tallow from fatty bovine tissues was extracted using boiling water, dry microwave treatment, and acetone extraction. The thermal stability and the moisture content of the extracted fats were evaluated by thermogravimetry. The thermograms of fats revealed that microwave treatment, which was faster (3 min instead of 40 min for boiling water and 240 min for acetone extraction) and had the lowest energy consumption, led to a dry fat with a thermal stability analogous to that of fats extracted with boiling water and acetone. All the extracted fats behaved similarly in the methanolysis reaction over calcium catalyst, with biodiesel yield (61–62%) being 30% lower than the analogous obtained from soybean oil (88%). Co-processing the extracted tallow with soybean oil overcomes the drawback related to the low-grade fats.
Clinical Results in Posterior-Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty with Cementless Tibial Component in Porous Tantalum: Comparison between Monoblock and Two Pegs vs. Modular and Three Pegs
Authors: Solarino Giuseppe , Carlet Arianna , Moretti Lorenzo , Miolla Maria Paola , Ottaviani Guglielmo , Moretti Biagio
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is widely considered to be the gold standard for treatment of end-stage knee osteoarthritis. Although the optimal mode of fixation in TKA continues to be an important area of investigation, cementless fixation offers the possibility to gain biologic fixation, preserve bone stock and mineral density, and potentially improve survivorship. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical results of a posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty with cementless tibial component in porous tantalum, comparing two groups: Group A (30 patients), TKA with a monoblock component and two pegs, and Group B (22 patients), with a modular component and three pegs. Knee Society Score (KSS) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were submitted to the patients, and radiographs were collected at the last follow-up. The mean follow-up was 26.32 (20–40) months. Significant differences were not detected between the postoperative KSS values in the two groups (p = 0.44). Evaluating KOOS outcomes, we found in Group A that the rating system showed a statistically significant improvement from a preoperative average rating of 51.4 (SD ± 15) to an average of 72.66 (SD ± 19) at final follow-up (p < 0.05). In Group B, the KOOS rating system showed a statistically significant improvement from a preoperative average rating of 48.3 (SD ± 18) to an average of 79.54 (SD ± 17) postoperatively (p < 0.05). Comparing KOOS final outcomes between groups, we found no statistically significant difference at the mean final follow-up (p = 0.20), with the exception of the sport-related section (p < 0.05). Radiological evaluation at the final follow-up did not show any sign of polyethylene wear, radiolucency, septic or aseptic loosening, or change in alignment in either group. The current study demonstrates an excellent survivorship of cementless tibial components in porous tantalum and the possibility of osseous integration, without significant differences between the two groups under investigation.
Association between Mothers’ Attachment Styles and Parenting Stress among Japanese Mothers with Toddlers
Authors: Kit Ayano , Arima Kazuhiko , Abe Yasuyo , Mizukami Satoshi , Tomita Yoshihito , Hasegawa Maiko , Sou Yoko , Nishimura Takayuki , Ohnishi Mayumi , Aoyagi Kiyoshi
Published: March 2022

Parenting stress is affected by various factors, including maternal attachment; however, the number of studies focusing on Japanese samples is limited. As such, we explored the association between mothers’ attachment styles and parenting stress among Japanese mothers with 18-month-old toddlers. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Sasebo City, Japan between 2018 and 2019. Anonymous self-reported questionnaires were distributed to 1399 mothers who attended an infant health check-up. We categorized maternal attachment style as secure, anxious/ambivalent, or avoidant, and conducted a multiple logistic regression analysis to evaluate the associations between each attachment style and parenting stress. Of the 1399 mothers, 529 responded to the survey (37.8%). About 40% reported experienced parenting stress. Further, approximately two-thirds showed a secure attachment style, 20% had an anxious/ambivalent style, and 15% had an avoidant style. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, the ambivalently attached mothers had a significantly higher level of parenting stress than those with secure attachment (odds ratio = 2.4, 95% confidence interval (1.5, 3.9)), but avoidantly attached mothers did not have a significantly higher level of parenting stress than those with secure attachment (odds ratio = 0.9, 95% confidence interval (0.5, 1.6)). The findings demonstrate that an anxious/ambivalent attachment style is associated with a higher level of parenting stress than a secure style. Thus, it is important for experts to understand the mother’s attachment style when offering childrearing support.
A Survey on Deep Learning-Based Change Detection from High-Resolution Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Jiang Huiwei , Peng Min , Zhong Yuanjun , Xie Haofeng , Hao Zemin , Lin Jingming , Ma Xiaoli , Hu Xiangyun
Published: March 2022

Change detection based on remote sensing images plays an important role in the field of remote sensing analysis, and it has been widely used in many areas, such as resources monitoring, urban planning, disaster assessment, etc. In recent years, it has aroused widespread interest due to the explosive development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, and change detection algorithms based on deep learning frameworks have made it possible to detect more delicate changes (such as the alteration of small buildings) with the help of huge amounts of remote sensing data, especially high-resolution (HR) data. Although there are many methods, we still lack a deep review of the recent progress concerning the latest deep learning methods in change detection. To this end, the main purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the available deep learning-based change detection algorithms using HR remote sensing images. The paper first describes the change detection framework and classifies the methods from the perspective of the deep network architectures adopted. Then, we review the latest progress in the application of deep learning in various granularity structures for change detection. Further, the paper provides a summary of HR datasets derived from different sensors, along with information related to change detection, for the potential use of researchers. Simultaneously, representative evaluation metrics for this task are investigated. Finally, a conclusion of the challenges for change detection using HR remote sensing images, which must be dealt with in order to improve the model’s performance, is presented. In addition, we put forward promising directions for future research in this area.
Non-Line-of-Sight Moving Target Detection Method Based on Noise Suppression
Authors: Wei Yilin , Sun Bing , Zhou Yuetong , Wang Haochuan
Published: March 2022

At the present time, most of existing security systems only detect and track targets in line-of-sight (LOS). However, in practice, the locations of targets are often out of the line of sight. This article focuses on the non-line-of-sight (NLOS) moving target detection with low-power transmission signals by reflection. There are two key problems, the weak target echo signal and the multipath effect. In terms of the issues, this paper constructs the echo signal model of the NLOS target. On the basis of the echo model, the detection method of NLOS moving target based on millimeter-wave radar comes up, which is of great theoretical value and important practical significance for indoor security. This paper innovatively applies the polynomial fitting method to suppress static noise and range gating method to suppress noise from other range gates. Then, the location and velocity of the target are estimated by two-dimensional fast Fourier transform (FFT) and the multiple signal classification (MUSIC) method. Furthermore, in order to verify the accuracy of the NLOS target echo signal model proposed in this paper, we respectively simulated two important parts of the signal in the model, the target echo signal and the direct backscattered signal of the intermediate interface, both of which are multipath signals. We counted the echo path length distribution in these two parts, and applied the NLOS target detection method to process them respectively. In addition, we also simulated the NLOS target echo signal and obtained actual data in the actual scene, and processed both the simulated data and the actual data. Comparing the results of target detection with and without denoising methods, the effectiveness of the two denoising methods proposed in this paper is verified.
An Estimation Method for PM2.5 Based on Aerosol Optical Depth Obtained from Remote Sensing Image Processing and Meteorological Factors
Authors: Gu Jilin , Wang Yiwei , Ma Ji , Lu Yaoqi , Wang Shaohua , Li Xueming
Published: March 2022

Understanding the spatiotemporal variations in the mass concentrations of particulate matter ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5) in size is important for controlling environmental pollution. Currently, ground measurement points of PM2.5 in China are relatively discrete, thereby limiting spatial coverage. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) data obtained from satellite remote sensing provide insights into spatiotemporal distributions for regional pollution sources. In this study, data from the Multi-Angle Implementation of Atmospheric Correction (MAIAC) AOD (1 km resolution) product from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and hourly PM2.5 concentration ground measurements from 2015 to 2020 in Dalian, China were used. Although trends in PM2.5 and AOD were consistent over time, there were seasonal differences. Spatial distributions of AOD and PM2.5 were consistent (R2 = 0.922), with higher PM2.5 values in industrial areas. The method of cross-dividing the test set by year was adopted, with AOD and meteorological factors as the input variable and PM2.5 as the output variable. A backpropagation neural network (BPNN) model of joint cross-validation was established; the stability of the model was evaluated. The trend in the predicted values of BPNN was consistent with the monitored values; the estimation result of the BPNN with the introduction of meteorological factors is better; coefficient of determination (R2) and RMSE standard deviation (SD) between the predicted values and the monitored values in the test set were 0.663–0.752 and 0.01–0.05 μg/m3, respectively. The BPNN was simpler and the training time was shorter compared with those of a regression model and support vector regression (SVR). This study demonstrated that BPNN could be effectively applied to the MAIAC AOD data to estimate PM2.5 concentrations.
Design and Reliability Analysis of a Novel Redundancy Topology Architecture
Authors: Li Fei , Liu Wenyi , Gao Wanjia , Liu Yanfang , Hu Yanjun
Published: March 2022

Topology architecture has a decisive influence on network reliability. In this paper, we design a novel redundancy topology and analyze the structural robustness, the number of redundant paths between two terminal nodes, and the reliability of the proposed topology by using natural connectivity and time-independent and time-dependent terminal pair reliability, k-terminal reliability, and all-terminal reliability comprehensively and quantitatively, and we compare these measures of the proposed topology with AFDX in three scenarios. The evaluations show that in the structural robustness analysis, when no nodes are removed, the natural connectivity of the proposed topology with 10 nodes, 16 nodes, and 20 nodes is 77.8%, 26.95%, and 81.39% higher than that of AFDX, respectively. In the time-independent reliability analysis, when the link reliability is 0.9, terminal pair reliability of the proposed topology with 10 nodes, 16 nodes, and 20 nodes is 5.78%, 17.75%, and 34.65% higher than that of AFDX, respectively; k-terminal reliability is 10.04%, 31.97%, and 53.74% higher than that of AFDX, respectively; and all-terminal reliability is 29.36%, 74.37%, and 107.91% higher than that of AFDX, respectively. In the time-dependent reliability analysis, when the operating time is 8000 h, the terminal pair reliability of the proposed topology with 10 nodes, 16 nodes, and 20 nodes is 3.53%, 10.87%, and 21.08% higher than that of AFDX, respectively; the k-terminal reliability is 6.20%, 19.65%, and 32.58% higher than that of AFDX, respectively; and the all-terminal reliability is 18.25%, 45.04%, and 63.86% higher than that of AFDX, respectively. The proposed topology increases the redundant paths of data transmission. It ensures reliable data transmission and has high robustness and reliability. It provides a new idea for improving the reliability of industrial buses.
A Multi-Modal Analysis of the Freezing of Gait Phenomenon in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Mesin Luca , Porcu Paola , Russu Debora , Farina Gabriele , Borzì Luigi , Zhang Wei , Guo Yuzhu , Olmo Gabriella
Published: March 2022

Background: Freezing of Gait (FOG) is one of the most disabling motor complications of Parkinson’s disease, and consists of an episodic inability to move forward, despite the intention to walk. FOG increases the risk of falls and reduces the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. The phenomenon is difficult to appreciate during outpatients visits; hence, its automatic recognition is of great clinical importance. Many types of sensors and different locations on the body have been proposed. However, the advantages of a multi-sensor configuration with respect to a single-sensor one are not clear, whereas this latter would be advisable for use in a non-supervised environment. Methods: In this study, we used a multi-modal dataset and machine learning algorithms to perform different classifications between FOG and non-FOG periods. Moreover, we explored the relevance of features in the time and frequency domains extracted from inertial sensors, electroencephalogram and skin conductance. We developed both a subject-independent and a subject-dependent algorithm, considering different sensor subsets. Results: The subject-independent and subject-dependent algorithms yielded accuracies of 85% and 88% in the leave-one-subject-out and leave-one-task-out test, respectively. Results suggest that the inertial sensors positioned on the lower limb are generally the most significant in recognizing FOG. Moreover, the performance impairment experienced when using a single tibial accelerometer instead of the optimal multi-modal configuration is limited to 2–3%. Conclusions: The achieved results disclose the possibility of getting a good FOG recognition using a minimally invasive set-up made of a single inertial sensor. This is very significant in the perspective of implementing a long-term monitoring of patients in their homes, during activities of daily living.
Adaptive Slicing Method of the Spatiotemporal Event Stream Obtained from a Dynamic Vision Sensor
Authors: Zhang Yisa , Zhao Yuchen , Lv Hengyi , Feng Yang , Liu Hailong , Han Chengshan
Published: March 2022

The dynamic vision sensor (DVS) measures asynchronously change of brightness per pixel, then outputs an asynchronous and discrete stream of spatiotemporal event information that encodes the time, location, and sign of brightness changes. The dynamic vision sensor has outstanding properties compared to sensors of traditional cameras, with very high dynamic range, high temporal resolution, low power consumption, and does not suffer from motion blur. Hence, dynamic vision sensors have considerable potential for computer vision in scenarios that are challenging for traditional cameras. However, the spatiotemporal event stream has low visualization and is incompatible with existing image processing algorithms. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a new adaptive slicing method for the spatiotemporal event stream. The resulting slices of the spatiotemporal event stream contain complete object information, with no motion blur. The slices can be processed either with event-based algorithms or by constructing slices into virtual frames and processing them with traditional image processing algorithms. We tested our slicing method using public as well as our own data sets. The difference between the object information entropy of the slice and the ideal object information entropy is less than 1%.