bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-Scale Analysis of X Inactivation Variations between Primed and Naïve Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Sarel-Gallily Roni , Benvenisty Nissim
Published: May 2022

X chromosome inactivation is a mammalian dosage compensation mechanism, where one of two X chromosomes is randomly inactivated in female cells. Previous studies have suggested that primed human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) maintain an eroded state of the X chromosome and do not express XIST, while in naïve transition, both XIST and the eroded X chromosome are reactivated. However, the pattern of chromosome X reactivation in naïve hESCs remains mainly unknown. In this study, we examine the variations in the status of X chromosome between primed and naïve hESCs by analyzing RNA sequencing samples from different studies. We show that most samples of naïve hESCs indeed reactivate XIST and there is an increase in gene expression levels on chromosome X. However, most of the naïve samples do not fully activate chromosome X in a uniform manner and present a distinct eroded pattern, probably as a result of XIST reactivation and initiation of re-inactivation of chromosome X. This large-scale analysis provides a higher-resolution description of the changes occurring in chromosome X during primed-to-naïve transition and emphasizes the importance of taking these variations into consideration when studying X inactivation in embryonic development.
Alpha-Synuclein Aggregation Pathway in Parkinson’s Disease: Current Status and Novel Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Vidović Marija , Rikalovic Milena G.
Published: May 2022

Following Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative disorder, sharing an unclear pathophysiology, a multifactorial profile, and massive social costs worldwide. Despite this, no disease-modifying therapy is available. PD is tightly associated with α-synuclein (α-Syn) deposits, which become organised into insoluble, amyloid fibrils. As a typical intrinsically disordered protein, α-Syn adopts a monomeric, random coil conformation in an aqueous solution, while its interaction with lipid membranes drives the transition of the molecule part into an α-helical structure. The central unstructured region of α-Syn is involved in fibril formation by converting to well-defined, β-sheet rich secondary structures. Presently, most therapeutic strategies against PD are focused on designing small molecules, peptides, and peptidomimetics that can directly target α-Syn and its aggregation pathway. Other approaches include gene silencing, cell transplantation, stimulation of intracellular clearance with autophagy promoters, and degradation pathways based on immunotherapy of amyloid fibrils. In the present review, we sum marise the current advances related to α-Syn aggregation/neurotoxicity. These findings present a valuable arsenal for the further development of efficient, nontoxic, and non-invasive therapeutic protocols for disease-modifying therapy that tackles disease onset and progression in the future.
Reducing PDK1/Akt Activity: An Effective Therapeutic Target in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yang Shaobin , Du Yaqin , Zhao Xiaoqian , Wu Chendong , Yu Peng
Published: May 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common age-related neurodegenerative disease that leads to memory loss and cognitive function damage due to intracerebral neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and amyloid-β (Aβ) protein deposition. The phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase (PDK1)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway plays a significant role in neuronal differentiation, synaptic plasticity, neuronal survival, and neurotransmission via the axon–dendrite axis. The phosphorylation of PDK1 and Akt rises in the brain, resulting in phosphorylation of the TNF-α-converting enzyme (TACE) at its cytoplasmic tail (the C-terminal end), changing its internalization as well as its trafficking. The current review aimed to explain the mechanisms of the PDK1/Akt/TACE signaling axis that exerts its modulatory effect on AD physiopathology. We provide an overview of the neuropathological features, genetics, Aβ aggregation, Tau protein hyperphosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and aging in the AD brain. Additionally, we summarized the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/PDK1/Akt pathway-related features and its molecular mechanism that is dependent on TACE in the pathogenesis of AD. This study reviewed the relationship between the PDK1/Akt signaling pathway and AD, and discussed the role of PDK1/Akt in resisting neuronal toxicity by suppressing TACE expression in the cell membrane. This work also provides a perspective for developing new therapeutics targeting PDK1/Akt and TACE for the treatment of AD.
Cell–Cell Contact Mediates Gene Expression and Fate Choice of Human Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells
Authors: McIntyre William B. , Karimzadeh Mehran , Riazalhosseini Yasser , Khazaei Mohamad , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: May 2022

Transplantation of Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells (NPCs) is a promising regenerative strategy to promote neural repair following injury and degeneration because of the ability of these cells to proliferate, migrate, and integrate with the host tissue. Precise in vitro control of NPC proliferation without compromising multipotency and differentiation ability is critical in stem cell maintenance. This idea was highlighted in recent clinical trials, where discrepancies in NPC culturing protocols produced inconsistent therapeutic benefits. Of note, cell density plays an important role in regulating the survival, proliferation, differentiation, and fate choice of stem cells. To determine the extent of variability produced by inconsistent culturing densities, the present study cultured human-induced pluripotent NPCs (hiPSC-NPCs) at either a low or high plating density. hiPSC-NPCs were then isolated for transcriptomic analysis or differentiation in vitro. Following sequencing analysis, genes involved in cell–cell contact-mediated pathways, including Hippo-signaling, NOTCH, and WNT were differentially expressed. Modulation of these pathways was highly associated with the regulation of pro-neuronal transcription factors, which were also upregulated in response to higher-density hiPSC-NPC culture. Moreover, higher plating density translated into a greater neuronal and less astrocytic differentiation in vitro. This study highlights the importance of precisely controlling culture conditions during the development of NPC transplantation therapies.
Exogenous Ceramide Serves as a Precursor to Endogenous Ceramide Synthesis and as a Modulator of Keratinocyte Differentiation
Authors: Shin Kyong-Oh , Mihara Hisashi , Ishida Kenya , Uchida Yoshikazu , Park Kyungho
Published: May 2022

Since ceramide is a key epidermal barrier constituent and its deficiency causes barrier-compromised skin, several molecular types of ceramides are formulated in commercial topical agents to improve barrier function. Topical ceramide localizes on the skin surface and in the stratum corneum, but certain amounts of ceramide penetrate the stratum granulosum, becoming precursors to endogenous ceramide synthesis following molecular modification. Moreover, exogenous ceramide as a lipid mediator could modulate keratinocyte proliferation/differentiation. We here investigated the biological roles of exogenous NP (non-hydroxy ceramide containing 4-hydroxy dihydrosphingosine) and NDS (non-hydroxy ceramide containing dihydrosphingosine), both widely used as topical ceramide agents, in differentiated-cultured human keratinocytes. NDS, but not NP, becomes a precursor for diverse ceramide species that are required for a vital permeability barrier. Loricrin (late differentiation marker) production is increased in keratinocytes treated with both NDS and NP vs. control, while bigger increases in involucrin (an early differentiation marker) synthesis were observed in keratinocytes treated with NDS vs. NP and control. NDS increases levels of a key antimicrobial peptide (an innate immune component), cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP/LL-37), that is upregulated by a ceramide metabolite, sphingosine-1-phosphate. Our studies demonstrate that NDS could be a multi-potent ceramide species, forming heterogenous ceramide molecules and a lipid mediator to enhance differentiation and innate immunity.
Plasma Proteomic Analysis Identified Proteins Associated with Faulty Neutrophils Functionality in Decompensated Cirrhosis Patients with Sepsis
Authors: Sehgal Rashi , Kaur Navkiran , Maiwall Rakhi , Ramakrishna Gayatri , Maras Jaswinder Singh , Trehanpati Nirupma
Published: May 2022

Decompensated cirrhosis (DC) is susceptible to infections and sepsis. Neutrophils and monocytes provide the first line of defense to encounter infection. We aimed to evaluate proteins related to neutrophils functionality in sepsis. 70 (DC), 40 with sepsis, 30 without (w/o) sepsis and 15 healthy controls (HC) plasma was analyzed for proteomic analysis, cytokine bead array, endotoxin, cell free DNA and whole blood cells were analyzed for nCD64-mHLADR index, neutrophils-monocytes, functionality and QRT-PCR. nCD64-mHLADR index was significantly increased (p < 0.0001) with decreased HLA-DR expression on total monocytes in sepsis (p = 0.045). Phagocytic activity of both neutrophils and monocytes were significantly decreased in sepsis (p = 0.002 and p = 0.0003). Sepsis plasma stimulated healthy neutrophils, showed significant increase in NETs (neutrophil extracellular traps) and cell free DNA (p = 0.049 and p = 0.04) compared to w/o sepsis and HC. Proteomic analysis revealed upregulated- DNAJC13, TMSB4X, GPI, GSTP1, PNP, ANPEP, COTL1, GCA, APOA1 and PGAM1 while downregulated- AHSG, DEFA1,SERPINA3, MPO, MMRN1and PROS1 proteins (FC > 1.5; p < 0.05) associated to neutrophil activation and autophagy in sepsis. Proteins such as DNAJC13, GPI, GSTP1, PNP, ANPEP, COTL1, PGAM1, PROS1, MPO, SERPINA3 and MMRN1 showed positive correlation with neutrophils activity and number, oxidative burst activity and clinical parameters such as MELD, MELD Na and Bilirubin. Proteomic analysis revealed that faulty functionality of neutrophils may be due to the autophagy proteins i.e., DNAJC13, AHSG, TMSB4X, PROS1 and SERPINA3, which can be used as therapeutic targets in decompensated cirrhosis patients with sepsis.
Circ0001470 Acts as a miR-140-3p Sponge to Facilitate the Progression of Embryonic Development through Regulating PTGFR Expression
Authors: Zhang Long , Zhou Changfan , Jiang Xiaoyu , Huang Shuntao , Li Yiheng , Su Tao , Wang Guowei , Zhou You , Liu Min , Xu Dequan
Published: May 2022

Embryonic implantation and development are vital in early pregnancy and assisted reproduction. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the two physiological processes and thus regulate animal reproduction. However, their specific regulatory functions and mechanisms remain unclear. Here, a novel circ0001470, originating from the porcine GRN gene, differentially expressed on day 18 versus day 32 of gestation in Meishan and Yorkshire pigs was screened. The circularization characteristic of circ0001470 was identified based on divergent primer amplification, Sanger sequencing, RNase digestion, and RNA nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation. Functionally, circ0001470 can promote cell proliferation and cycle progression of endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) and also inhibit apoptosis of EECs using CCK-8 assays and flow cytometry analyses. Mechanistically, bioinformatics database prediction, luciferase screening, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA-pull down, and FISH co-localization experiments revealed that the circ0001470 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) through sponging miR-140-3p to regulate downstream PTGFR expression. Moreover, in vivo assays revealed that mmu_circGRN promoted embryonic development by affecting the expression of PTGFR, which can activate the MAPK reproduction pathway and facilitate pregnancy maintenance. This study enriched our understanding of circRNAs in embryo implantation and development by deciding the fate of EECs.
Novel Functions of Integrins as Receptors of CD154: Their Role in Inflammation and Apoptosis
Authors: Hassan Ghada S. , Salti Suzanne , Mourad Walid
Published: May 2022

CD154, an inflammatory mediator also known as CD40 ligand, has been identified as a novel binding partner for some members of the integrin family. The αIIbβ3, specifically expressed on platelets, was the first integrin to be described as a receptor for CD154 after CD40. Its interaction with soluble CD154 (sCD154) highly contributes to thrombus formation and stability. Identifying αIIbβ3 opened the door for investigating other integrins as partners of CD154. The αMβ2 expressed on myeloid cells was shown capable of binding CD154 and contributing as such to cell activation, adhesion, and release of proinflammatory mediators. In parallel, α5β1 communicates with sCD154, inducing pro-inflammatory responses. Additional pathogenic effects involving apoptosis-preventing functions were exhibited by the CD154–α5β1 dyad in T cells, conferring a role for such interaction in the survival of malignant cells, as well as the persistence of autoreactive T cells. More recently, CD154 receptors integrated two new integrin members, αvβ3 and α4β1, with little known as to their biological significance in this context. This article provides an overview of the novel role of integrins as receptors of CD154 and as critical players in pro-inflammatory and apoptotic responses.
Epigenetic Marks, DNA Damage Markers, or Both? The Impact of Desiccation and Accelerated Aging on Nucleobase Modifications in Plant Genomic DNA
Authors: Plitta-Michalak Beata P. , Litkowiec Monika , Michalak Marcin
Published: May 2022

Modifications of DNA nucleobases are present in all forms of life. The purpose of these modifications in eukaryotic cells, however, is not always clear. Although the role of 5-methylcytosine (m5C) in epigenetic regulation and the maintenance of stability in plant genomes is becoming better understood, knowledge pertaining to the origin and function of oxidized nucleobases is still scarce. The formation of 5-hydroxymetylcytosine (hm5C) in plant genomes is especially debatable. DNA modifications, functioning as regulatory factors or serving as DNA injury markers, may have an effect on DNA structure and the interaction of genomic DNA with proteins. Thus, these modifications can influence plant development and adaptation to environmental stress. Here, for the first time, the changes in DNA global levels of m5C, hm5C, and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-oxoG) measured by ELISA have been documented in recalcitrant embryonic axes subjected to desiccation and accelerated aging. We demonstrated that tissue desiccation induces a similar trend in changes in the global level of hm5C and 8-oxoG, which may suggest that they both originate from the activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our study supports the premise that m5C can serve as a marker of plant tissue viability whereas oxidized nucleobases, although indicating a cellular redox state, cannot.
The Correlation between Psychological Characteristics and Psychomotor Abilities of Junior Handball Players
Authors: Muntianu Vlad-Alexandru , Abalașei Beatrice-Aurelia , Nichifor Florin , Dumitru Iulian-Marius
Published: May 2022

The general development of the sports world has guided researchers in sports science to study excellence in sports performance, namely, the study of the characteristics and requirements specific to each sport. However, in order to meet these requirements, each individual must have a set of specific characteristics similar to those of the group to which he/she belongs. The variables in the study are related to the psychomotor abilities and psychological aspects that could influence the overall performance of junior III handball players. The main work instruments are related to field testing and psychological characteristics measurement. For psychomotor abilities, we used means such as the TReactionCo software (eye–hand coordination), Just Jump platform (dynamic balance), Tractronix system (general dynamic coordination), and Illinois test (spatial-temporal orientation), and for the psychological characteristics, we used the Motivational Persistence Questionnaire. In addition, the result of the study is represented by new software that we created in order to better observe the level of development of these characteristics in junior handball players. From a statistical point of view, we calculated the correlations between psychomotor abilities and psychological characteristics using ANOVA in order to see field position differences and performed linear regression for the variables of this study.
Evaluation of the Effect of Varying the Angle of Asphaltic Concrete Core on the Behavior of the Meijaran Rockfill Dam
Authors: Khalaj Omid , Ayati Ahmadi Alireza , Abedin Nejad Sobhan , Mašek Bohuslav , Štadler Ctibor , Skála Jiří
Published: May 2022

The use of asphaltic concrete cores for sealing embankments and rockfill dams is very important. The self-healing properties of bitumen, simple construction in cold and rainy conditions compared to clay cores, good flexibility and connection with embankment materials are the essential characteristics of asphaltic concrete. The main concern regarding the use of asphaltic concrete cores in Iran is mainly the performance of these dams under seismic loads. The evaluations of the performance of these types of dams in other countries show that asphaltic concrete cores perform satisfactorily in the static state, but in earthquake conditions, the situation may be different. In this paper, the static and seismic behavior of the Meijaran dam in Iran, Mazandaran, is evaluated for three core angles of 90°, 60° and 45°. This evaluation was conducted at the end of the impounding stage and after applying seismic loads using FLAC 2D software and Mohr–Coulomb consitutive models. The results were matched with the ICOLD recommendation to use angled cores in dams with asphaltic cores and showed that the dam performs better with angled cores. Finally, for the Meijaran dam, the results from the dynamic analysis are compared with the results from the centrifuge test.
Effects of Laser-Remelting on the Microstructure, Hardness and Oscillating Wear Resistance of Atmospheric Plasma Sprayed Alumina-Rich Coatings
Authors: Grimm Maximilian , Lindner Thomas , Lampke Thomas
Published: May 2022

Thermally sprayed ceramic coatings such as alumina have a specific microstructure characterized by porosity and microcracks. In addition, a process-related phase transformation from α-Al2O3 to γ-Al2O3 typically occurs, which affects the properties of the coatings compared to sintered alumina. In a previous study, simultaneous additions of Cr2O3 and TiO2 have already extended and improved the property profile of pure alumina coating (i.e., sliding wear resistance and corrosion resistance against 1N H2SO4). Depending on the powder material used, the phase composition of the coatings differs considerably, influencing the property profile. Chemical integration through reactive bonding promises a previously untapped potential for improvement. In this study, these alumina-rich ternary oxide coatings are remelted by laser, and the effect of different parameters such as speed, laser power or distance on the macro- and microstructure of the coatings is investigated. For this purpose, both light microscopic and SEM examinations are used as well as the determination of the phase composition by XRD and element distribution by EDS. The created coating microstructures are studied with respect to hardness and oscillation wear resistance.
Cold Spraying of Thick Biomimetic and Stoichiometric Apatite Coatings for Orthopaedic Implants
Authors: Paterlini Ambra , Alexis Joël , Balcaen Yannick , Bertrand Ghislaine
Published: May 2022

Ceramic coatings have a long history in the orthopaedic field, with plasma sprayed coatings of hydroxyapatite as leading standard in the manufacturing process; however, these coatings can contain secondary phases resulting from the decomposition of hydroxyapatite at high temperatures, which limit the lifetime of implants and their osseointegration. This work aims to produce coatings that can maximize bone osseointegration of metallic implants. In order to preserve the raw characteristics of hydroxyapatite powders that are thermally unstable, coatings were deposited by cold spray onto Ti6Al4V alloy substrates. In contrast with other thermal spray technologies, this process presents the advantage of spraying particles through a supersonic gas jet at a low temperature. On top of hydroxyapatite, carbonated nanocrystalline apatite was synthesized and sprayed. This biomimetic apatite is similar to bone minerals due to the presence of carbonates and its poor crystallinity. FTIR and XRD analyses proved that the biomimetic characteristics and the non-stoichiometric of the apatite were preserved in the cold spray coatings. The cold spray process did not affect the chemistry of the raw material. The adhesion of the coatings as well as their thicknesses were evaluated, showing values comparable to conventional process. Cold spraying appears as a promising method to preserve the characteristics of calcium phosphate ceramics and to produce coatings that offer potentially improved osseointegration.
Reduced Dislocation Density of an InP/GaAs Virtual Substrate Grown by Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Tsai Yu-Li , Wu Chih-Hung
Published: May 2022

Integrating indium phosphide (InP) material on a gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrate to form an InP/GaAs virtual substrate has been an attractive research subject over the past decade. However, the epitaxial growth of InP on GaAs is challenging due to a large mismatch in the lattice constant and thermal expansion coefficient. This paper describes the successful hetero-epitaxy of InP on a GaAs substrate by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. The hetero-epitaxy in this study utilized a hybrid growth method involving a thin indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) linearly graded buffer, two-step InP growth, and a post-annealing process. Transmission electron microscopic observations showed that a traditional two-step InP/GaAs virtual substrate was smooth but had a high threading dislocation density (TDD) of 1.5 × 109 cm−2 near the InP surface. The high TDD value can be reduced to 2.3 × 108 cm−2 by growing the two-step InP on a thin InGaAs linearly graded buffer. The TDD of an InP/GaAs virtual substrate can be further improved to the value of 1.5 × 107 cm−2 by removing the low-temperature InP nucleation layer and carrying out a post-annealing process. A possible reason for the improvement in TDD may relate to a dislocation interaction such as the annihilation of mobile threading dislocations. Room-temperature photoluminescence spectra of InP/GaAs virtual substrates with different TDD values were compared in this study. The optical and micro-structural characterization results suggest that the proposed growth method may be feasible for making good-quality and relatively low-cost InP/GaAs virtual substrates for the integration of optoelectronic devices on them.
Proposals of Frequency-Based and Direction Methods to Reduce the Influence of Surface Topography Measurement Errors
Authors: Podulka Przemysław
Published: May 2022

Various methods, based on both surface frequency and direction, can be alternatively proposed to reduce the influence of high-frequency measurement and data analysis errors. Various types of details were studied, e.g., cylinder liners after the plateau-honing process, plateau-honed cylinder liners with additionally burnished oil pockets (dimples), turned, ground, milled or laser-textured. They were measured with stylus or non-contact (optic) techniques. It was suggested to support various frequency-based methods, e.g., Frequency Spectrum, Power Spectral Densities or Autocorrelation Function, with direction techniques to provide reduction of errors in both detection and extraction of high-frequency measurement errors. Results can be especially valuable for regular studies when frequency-based measurement errors are difficult to be identified.
Control of Electrolyte Filtration through a Charged Porous Layer (Membrane) Using a Combination of Pressure Drop and an External Electric Field
Authors: Filippov Anatoly , Philippova Tamara
Published: May 2022

A novel method is proposed for calculating the solvent flux density and electric current density in the process of flow of an electrolyte solution through a charged porous layer (membrane) under the simultaneous action of external pressure and electric potential gradients. The method is based on irreversible thermodynamics and the cell model of an ion-exchange membrane. It is shown that, with the increase in the electrolyte concentration, the total permeability of the porous structure also increases as a result of both barofiltration and electroosmotic transfer of the solvent when both external gradients are co-directional vectors. As for the current density, it also increases with the increasing electrolyte concentration owing to the growth of the streaming current and specific conductivity.
Selective Internal Radiation Therapy with Yttrium-90 for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: A Systematic Review on Post-Treatment Dosimetry and Concomitant Chemotherapy
Authors: Hosseini Shabanan Sedighe , Nezami Nariman , Abdelsalam Mohamed E. , Sheth Rahul Anil , Odisio Bruno C. , Mahvash Armeen , Habibollahi Peiman
Published: May 2022

Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) with yttrium-90 (90Y)-loaded microspheres is increasingly used for the treatment of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Dosimetry verifications post-treatment are required for a valid assessment of any dose-response relationship. We performed a systematic review of the literature to determine how often clinics conducted post-treatment dosimetry verification to measure the actual radiation doses delivered to the tumor and to the normal liver in patients who underwent SIRT for ICC, and also to explore the corresponding dose-response relationship. We also investigated other factors that potentially affect treatment outcomes, including the type of microspheres used and concomitant chemotherapy. Out of the final 47 studies that entered our study, only four papers included post-treatment dosimetry studies after SIRT to quantitatively assess the radiation doses delivered. No study showed that one microsphere type provided a benefit over another, one study demonstrated better imaging-based response rates associated with the use of glass-based TheraSpheres, and two studies found similar toxicity profiles for different types of microspheres. Gemcitabine and cisplatin were the most common chemotherapeutic drugs for concomitant administration with SIRT. Future studies of SIRT for ICC should include dosimetry to optimize treatment planning and post-treatment radiation dosage measurements in order to reliably predict patient responses and liver toxicity.
Taxonomic Uncertainty and Its Conservation Implications in Management, a Case from Pyrus hopeiensis (Rosaceae)
Authors: Mu Xian-Yun , Wu Jiang , Wu Jun
Published: May 2022

Improved taxonomies and phylogenies are essential for understanding the evolution of organisms, the development of conservation plans, and the allocation of funds and resources, especially for threatened species with uncertain identities. Pears are an economically and nutritionally important fruit, and wild pear species are highly valued and protected because of their utility for the development of cultivars. Pyrus hopeiensis is an endangered species endemic to North China, which is sympatric with and difficult to distinguish from the widely distributed and morphologically similar species P. ussuriensis. To clarify its taxonomic identity, principal coordinate analysis was performed using 14 quantitative and qualitative characters from P. hopeiensis, P. ussuriensis, and P. phaeocarpa, and phylogenomic analysis was performed based on whole-genome resequencing and whole plastome data. Pyrus hopeiensis was synonymized with P. ussuriensis based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence, as well as our long-term field studies. Pyrus hopeiensis is proposed to be excluded from the list of local key protected wild plants. Given that the holotype of P. ussuriensis was not designated, a lectotype was designated in this work. Integrative evidence-based taxonomic study including museomics is suggested for organisms with uncertain identities, which will contribute to biodiversity conservation.
Recent Advances in Parrot Research and Conservation
Authors: Tella José L. , Blanco Guillermo , Carrete Martina
Published: May 2022

Parrots (Psittaciformes), with about 400 species widely distributed across continents and oceanic islands, stand out among birds for their poor conservation status [...]
Photon Counting CT Angiography of the Head and Neck: Image Quality Assessment of Polyenergetic and Virtual Monoenergetic Reconstructions
Authors: Michael Arwed Elias , Boriesosdick Jan , Schoenbeck Denise , Lopez-Schmidt Ingo , Kroeger Jan Robert , Moenninghoff Christoph , Horstmeier Sebastian , Pennig Lenhard , Borggrefe Jan , Niehoff Julius Henning
Published: May 2022

Background: The purpose of the present study was the evaluation of the image quality of polyenergetic and monoenergetic reconstructions (PERs and MERs) of CT angiographies (CTAs) of the head and neck acquired with the novel photon counting CT (PCCT) method in clinical routine. Methods: Thirty-seven patients were enrolled in this retrospective study. Quantitative image parameters of the extracranial, intracranial and cerebral arteries were evaluated for the PER and MER (40–120 keV). Additionally, two radiologists rated the perceived image quality. Results: The mean CTDIvol used in the PCCT was 8.31 ± 1.19 mGy. The highest signal within the vessels was detected in the 40 keV MER, whereas the lowest noise was detected in the 115 keV MER. The most favorable contrast-to-noise-ratio (CNR) and signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) were detected in the PER and low keV MER. In the qualitative image analysis, the PER was superior to the MER in all rated criteria. For MER, 60–65 keV was rated as best image quality. Conclusion: Overall, PCCT offers excellent image quality for CTAs of the head and neck. At the current state, the PER of the PCCT seems to be the most favorable reconstruction for diagnostic reporting.
Effects of Locally Delivered Minocycline Microspheres in Postmenopausal Female Patients with Periodontitis: A Clinical and Microbiological Study
Authors: Laza Georgeta-Maria , Sufaru Irina-Georgeta , Martu Maria-Alexandra , Martu Cristian , Diaconu-Popa Diana , Jelihovschi Igor , Martu Silvia
Published: May 2022

The postmenopausal period, due to low hormonal concentrations, can exert a negative influence on both periodontitis and osteoporosis evolution. The present study aimed to identify potential clinical and microbiological benefic effects of locally delivered minocycline microspheres (Arestin®) in post-menopausal female patients with moderate and severe periodontitis. Probing depth, clinical attachment levels and bleeding on probing index, along with BANA tests for Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola, were performed before and at 3 months after a combined treatment of scaling, root planing (SRP), and Arestin® placed in deep periodontal pockets. The association between SRP and Arestin® exerted significant improvements in terms of clinical periodontal parameters, as well as significant reductions in the red complex bacteria detection.
Role of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Diagnosis and Estimation of Shunt Effect for Hydrocephalus in Stroke Patients: A Narrative Review
Authors: Jang Sung-Ho , Cho Min-Jye
Published: May 2022

Hydrocephalus is a dilatation of the brain ventricular system by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricle caused by impaired cerebrospinal fluid circulation or clearance. A diagnosis of hydrocephalus at the chronic stage of stroke has been mainly made by clinical features and radiologic findings on brain computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. On the other hand, it could not determine the effect of hydrocephalus or shunt effect on the periventricular neural structures. By contrast, these effects on the periventricular neural structures can be estimated using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). This article reviewed 10 DTI-based studies related to the diagnosis and estimation of the shunt effect for hydrocephalus in stroke patients. These studies suggest that DTI could be a useful diagnostic and estimation tool of the shunt effect for hydrocephalus in stroke patients. In particular, some studies suggested that fractional anisotropy value in the periventricular white matter could be a diagnostic biomarker for hydrocephalus. As a result, the role of DTI in diagnosing and estimating the shunt effect for hydrocephalus in stroke patients appears to be promising. However, the number of studies and patients of all reviewed studies were limited (10 studies including a total of 58 stroke patients with heterogenous brain pathologies).
Adversarial Data Hiding in Digital Images
Authors: Wang Dan , Li Ming , Zhang Yushu
Published: May 2022

In recent studies of generative adversarial networks (GAN), researchers have attempted to combine adversarial perturbation with data hiding in order to protect the privacy and authenticity of the host image simultaneously. However, most of the studied approaches can only achieve adversarial perturbation through a visible watermark; the quality of the host image is low, and the concealment of data hiding cannot be achieved. In this work, we propose a true data hiding method with adversarial effect for generating high-quality covers. Based on GAN, the data hiding area is selected precisely by limiting the modification strength in order to preserve the fidelity of the image. We devise a genetic algorithm that can explore decision boundaries in an artificially constrained search space to improve the attack effect as well as construct aggressive covert adversarial samples by detecting “sensitive pixels” in ordinary samples to place discontinuous perturbations. The results reveal that the stego-image has good visual quality and attack effect. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to use covert data hiding to generate adversarial samples based on GAN.
Active or Healthy Ageing: “A Wonderful Journey between Body, Cognition and Emotion”
Authors: Dias Gonçalo
Published: May 2022

This Special Issue, “Active or Healthy Ageing”, presupposes a dynamic balance between body, cognition, and emotion, and it promises to be an important resource for any professional working with the older adult population [...]
Improved YOLO v5 Wheat Ear Detection Algorithm Based on Attention Mechanism
Authors: Li Rui , Wu Yanpeng
Published: May 2022

The detection and counting of wheat ears are essential for crop field management, but the adhesion and obscuration of wheat ears limit detection accuracy, with problems such as false detection, missed detection, and insufficient feature extraction capability. Previous research results have shown that most methods for detecting wheat ears are of two types: colour and texture extracted by machine learning methods or convolutional neural networks. Therefore, we proposed an improved YOLO v5 algorithm based on a shallow feature layer. There are two main core ideas: (1) to increase the perceptual field by adding quadruple down-sampling in the feature pyramid to improve the detection of small targets, and (2) introducing the CBAM attention mechanism into the neural network to solve the problem of gradient disappearance during training. CBAM is a model that includes both spatial and channel attention, and by adding this module, the feature extraction capability of the network can be improved. Finally, to make the model have better generalization ability, we proposed the Mosaic-8 data enhancement method, with adjusted loss function and modified regression formula for the target frame. The experimental results show that the improved algorithm has an mAP of 94.3%, an accuracy of 88.5%, and a recall of 98.1%. Compared with the relevant model, the improvement effect is noticeable. It shows that the model can effectively overcome the noise of the field environment to meet the practical requirements of wheat ear detection and counting.
Height Prediction and 3D Visualization of Mining-Induced Water-Conducting Fracture Zone in Western Ordos Basin Based on a Multi-Factor Regression Analysis
Authors: Yin Huiyong , Dong Fangying , Zhang Yiwen , Cheng Wenju , Zhai Peihe , Ren Xuyan , Liu Ziang , Zhai Yutao , Li Xin
Published: May 2022

The mining-induced water-conducting fracture zone (WCFZ) plays a critical role in roof water damage prevention and ecological protection. The measured heights of the WCFZ were collected from 52 working faces or boreholes in the Ordos Basin mining area. Four factors influencing the mining-induced height of the WCFZ, i.e., mining thickness, proportion coefficient of hard rock, working width, and mining depth, were analyzed. The optimal unitary function model of each factor and the height of the WCFZ were obtained through single-factor analysis. The grey correlation method and fuzzy ordered binary comparison method were used to determine the comprehensive weight, and the weighted improved multiple regression model was obtained by combination and iteration. The relative error of the model was basically controlled within 10%. Finally, taking the Qingshuiying Coalfield as an application case, we predicted the mining-induced height of the WCFZ by using the new prediction model. The spatial distribution characteristics of the WCFZ were analyzed by the geographic information system. In addition, Groundwater Modeling System (GMS) software was used to build a 3D structure model of WCFZ height to visualize the spatial distribution rules of the WCFZ. The results showed that the height of the WCFZ can be predicted quantitatively by this new method, and the visualization of the WCFZ can be realized. The proposed method effectively analyzes and predicts the mining-induced height of the WCFZ so that water gushing risks from overlying aquifers can be prevented or mitigated in mines.
Degradation Evaluation Method with a Test Device for Aging Diagnosis in PV Modules
Authors: Shen Jian , Han Byeong-Gill , Kim Ji-Myung , Choi Sung-Moon , Kim Kyung-Hwa , Lee Hu-Dong , Tae Dong-Hyun , Rho Dae-Seok
Published: May 2022

Generally, PV (photovoltaic) modules are known as devices which are used semi-permanently for more than 20 years, but the electrical performance and lifespan of PV modules can be significantly degraded due to various environmental factors. Thus, a proper evaluation method for aging phenomenon of PV modules is required. Although there already are methods which compare adjusted PV output power based on STC (standard test condition) with initial PV module specification, or perform direct comparison by conducting the test under STC, there are issues with objectivity or efficiency in the existing evaluation method of aging phenomenon due to the data distortion while adjusting measured data or difficulties in implementation. Therefore, in order to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantage of the existing evaluation method for deterioration in PV modules and evaluate the aging characteristics of PV modules based on on-site measurement data in an accurate and efficient manner, this paper implements a test device for aging diagnosis to measure and collect actual data from a PV module section, and presents a modeling of data analysis for aging phenomenon with MATLAB S/W in order to minimize the variability of PV output, communication error, delay, etc. Furthermore, this paper confirms the usefulness of the presented test device for aging diagnosis of the PV modules which is accurately evaluated by considering on-site measurement of PV output power by season.
Meat and Bone Meal and the Energy Balance of Winter Oilseed Rape—A Case Study in North-Eastern Poland
Authors: Jankowski Krzysztof Józef , Nogalska Anna
Published: May 2022

A two-year field experiment was conducted in Poland to determine energy efficiency (EE) in the production of winter oilseed rape (WOR) in different fertilization: (i) zero-fertilization; (ii) 158 kg N ha−1, 45 kg P ha−1 and 145 kg K ha−1 as mineral fertilizer (NPK); (iii) 1.0 Mg ha−1 meat and bone meal (MBM), 79 kg N ha−1 and 145 kg K ha−1 as mineral fertilizer; (iv) 1.5 Mg ha−1 MBM, 40 kg N ha−1 and 145 kg K ha−1 as mineral fertilizer; and (v) 2.0 Mg ha−1 MBM and 145 kg K ha−1 as mineral fertilizer. The replacement of NPK with MBM decreased energy inputs in WOR production by 20−55%. The NPK had a greater (16–21%) effect on seed yield formation than MBM. The replacement of NPK with MBM decreased the energy output of seeds (14–21%) and total biomass (12–20). The replacement of NPK with MBM decreased (6–13%) the energy gain from seed production. The application of MBM improved the EE ratio in the production of seeds (10–81%) and total biomass (11–85%) relative to NPK. The EE ratio of WOR production increased with a rise in MBM doses.
Practical Grid-Based Spatial Estimation of Number of Electric Vehicles and Public Chargers for Country-Level Planning with Utilization of GIS Data
Authors: Prakobkaew Pokpong , Sirisumrannukul Somporn
Published: May 2022

This research proposes an approach to estimate the number of different types of electric vehicles for a vast area or an entire country, which can be divided into a large number of small areas such as a subdistrict scale. The estimation methodology extensively utilizes the vehicle registration data in conjunction with Thailand’s so-called EV30@30 campaign and GIS-based road infrastructure data. To facilitate the analysis, square grids are built to form cells representing the number of electric vehicles in any specific area of interest. This estimated number of electric vehicles is further analyzed to determine the energy consumption, calculate the recommended number of public chargers, and visualize an increase in the substation loads from those charging stations. The effectiveness of the proposed methods is demonstrated using the whole area of Thailand, consisting of five regions with a total area of 513,120 km2. The results show that the trucks contribute the most energy consumption while taxis rely on a lot of public chargers. The total energy consumption is about 79.4 GWh per day. A total of 12,565 public fast chargers are needed across the country to properly support daily travel, around half of them being located in the metropolitan area.
Investigation of the Temperature Sensitivity of 20-Years Old Field-Aged Photovoltaic Panels Affected by Potential Induced Degradation
Authors: Segbefia Oscar Kwame , Sætre Tor Oskar
Published: May 2022

One effect of moisture ingress on solar panels is potential induced degradation (PID). Solar panels affected by PID experience large leakage currents between the solar cells and the module’s frame, which leads to substantial power degradation. In the present work, the temperature coefficients of 3 old PV panels affected by PID were investigated. In the electroluminescence images, solar cells nearer to the edge of the modules appear darker due to ohmic shunting. IR thermal images acquired under clear sky outdoor conditions show that the majority of the warmer cells (hotspots) were located closer to the edge of the modules. The difference in cell temperature (∆T) due to PID effect ranges from 7 °C to 15 °C for the 3 field-aged modules. The average temperature coefficient of efficiency (βηm) was found to be −0.5%/°C. Also, it was observed that the temperature coefficients of open circuit voltage (βVoc = −0.4%/°C), maximum power point voltage (βVmpp = −0.5%/°C), and fill factor (βFF = −0.2%/°C), were the underlying factors for the degradation in the Pmax of the old solar panels affected by PID. This accounted for an average 1.2%/year overall degradation in the efficiency of these modules. Most notably, it was discovered that the PV modules affected by PID show negative temperature coefficients of maximum power point current (βJmpp) due to large leakage currents. This observed negative βJmpp we believe is characteristic of PV panels affected by PID.
Effect of Deflocculant Addition on Energy Savings in Hydrotransport in the Lime Production Process
Authors: Jaworska-Jóźwiak Beata , Dziubiński Marek
Published: May 2022

The subject of the research was limestone hydromixture consisting of particles of a mean size of 45.5 μm conveyed by water in a pipeline of a total length of 632 m. In the paper, the results of rheological measurements of tested hydromixtures after the application of deflocculant consisting of waste product from the lime production process in the form of mineral particles and commonly known dispersant were presented. Calculations of pressure drop including hydromixtures with volume concentrations in the range of 21.30–50.00%, and density ranging from 1140–1410 kg/m3 in a pipeline of 200 mm diameter are presented. A decrease in friction losses in the flow in the pipeline of hydromixtures with different mass concentrations after the addition of deflocculant was observed. The study revealed that the addition of deflocculant resulted in a reduction of friction in the pipeline, enabling the pumping of hydromixtures with twice higher solids concentrations than originated from industrial installation, with a lower volumetric flow rate. This resulted in a decrease of the power consumption of the motor driving the pump, and obtained significant energy savings in the hydromixture transport process. The maximum energy saving achieved was equal to 58%.
Fault-Tolerant Control for Reducing Harmonic Distortion of Dual Three-Phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Authors: Zhao Liping , Ge Baojun , Gao Hanying , Tao Dajun
Published: May 2022

Aiming at the open circuit fault of a dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor, a normalized current method is used for open circuit fault diagnosis. Then, a fault-tolerant control strategy for reducing the harmonic distortion of a dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor is proposed, which is based on current model prediction control and keeps the decoupling transformation matrix unchanged. The fault-tolerant control method based on current model prediction considers the influence of the control quantity on the future state of the system, and effectively reduces the total harmonic distortion. Two fault-tolerant control strategies for the motor are analyzed, with minimizing stator copper consumption and maximizing torque output as control objectives. Through simulation and experiment of fault-tolerant control strategies for a dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor, the results verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the strategy.
Development and Examination of an Internally Switchable Thermosiphon
Authors: Voigt Immanuel , Lütke Niklas , Thüsing Kai , Winkler Markus , Drossel Welf-Guntram
Published: May 2022

Thermal switches contribute to efficient and safe thermal management of components and overall systems in various technical applications by actively controlling heat transfer in response to varying thermal loads and ambient conditions. Heat pipes are passive heat transfer devices constituting an integral part of various thermal management systems such as in spacecraft or consumer electronics thermal control. Heat pipes also form a promising approach for thermal switches due to their high effective thermal conductivity. In this paper, a wickless copper-water heat pipe based thermal switch with an electromagnetic linear actuator is presented. The magnetically actuated motion of a plunger integrated into the heat pipe affects the latent heat transport cycle leading to a switchable heat transfer. Thermal measurements conducted to determine the total thermal resistance of the heat pipe demonstrate the efficacy of the thermal switch. It was found that the thermal resistance of the heat pipe was increased by up to 53% in off state while the heat pipe performance in on state was not significantly affected by the integrated mechanism.