bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LKB1 Regulates Vascular Macrophage Functions in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Wang Xuewen , Liang Ziwei , Xiang Hong , Li Yanqiu , Chen Shuhua , Lu Hongwei
Published: December 2021

Liver kinase B1 (LKB1) is known to shape the regulation of macrophage function by participating in multiple processes including cell metabolism, growth, and polarization. However, whether LKB1 also affects the functional plasticity of macrophages in atherosclerosis has not attracted much attention. Abnormal macrophage function is a pathophysiological hallmark of atherosclerosis, characterized by the formation of foam cells and the maintenance of vascular inflammation. Mounting evidence supports that LKB1 plays a vital role in the regulation of macrophage function in atherosclerosis, including affecting lipid metabolism reprogramming, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy in macrophages. Thus, decreased expression of LKB1 in atherosclerosis aggravates vascular injury by inducing excessive lipid deposition in macrophages and the formation of foam cells. To systematically understand the role and potential mechanism of LKB1 in regulating macrophage functions in atherosclerosis, this review summarizes the relevant data in this regard, hoping to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Machines for Materials and Materials for Machines: Metal-Insulator Transitions and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Fowlie Jennifer , Georgescu Alexandru Bogdan , Mundet Bernat , del Valle Javier , Tückmantel Philippe
Published: December 2021

In this perspective, we discuss the current and future impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning for the purposes of better understanding phase transitions, particularly in correlated electron materials. We take as a model system the rare-earth nickelates, famous for their thermally-driven metal-insulator transition, and describe various complementary approaches in which machine learning can contribute to the scientific process. In particular, we focus on electron microscopy as a bottom-up approach and metascale statistical analyses of classes of metal-insulator transition materials as a bottom-down approach. Finally, we outline how this improved understanding will lead to better control of phase transitions and present as an example the implementation of rare-earth nickelates in resistive switching devices. These devices could see a future as part of a neuromorphic computing architecture, providing a more efficient platform for neural network analyses – a key area of machine learning.
Genomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Provide Insights Into Root Rot Resistance in Panax notoginseng
Authors: Ning Kang , Li Mengzhi , Wei Guangfei , Zhou Yuxin , Zhang Guozhuang , Huai Hao , Wei Fugang , Chen Zhongjian , Wang Yong , Dong Linlin , Chen Shilin
Published: December 2021

Panax notoginseng (Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen), a plant of high medicinal value, is severely affected by root rot during cultivation. Here, we generated a reference genome of P. notoginseng, with a contig N50 size of 241.268 kb, and identified 66 disease-resistance genes (R-genes) as candidate genes for breeding disease-resistant varieties. We then investigated the molecular mechanism underlying the responses of resistant and susceptible P. notoginseng genotypes to Fusarium oxysporum infection at six time points by RNA-seq. Functional analysis of the genes differentially expressed between the two genotypes indicated that genes involved in the defense response biological process like hormone transduction and plant-pathogen interaction are continuously and highly expressed in resistant genotype during infection. Moreover, salicylic acid and jasmonic acid levels gradually increased during infection in the resistant genotype. Coexpression analysis showed that PnWRKY22 acts as a hub gene in the defense response of the resistant genotype. Finally, transiently overexpressing PnWRKY22 increased salicylic acid levels in P. notoginseng leaves. Our findings provide a theoretical basis for studying root rot resistance in P. notoginseng.
Understanding Mental Burden and Factors Associated With Study Worries Among Undergraduate Medical Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Guse Jennifer , Heinen Ines , Mohr Sonja , Bergelt Corinna
Published: December 2021

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is affecting many areas of life and has led to major changes in undergraduate medical education. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, high mental burden of medical students has frequently been reported in the literature. Additional pandemic-specific stressors could exacerbate this situation. This study aimed to assess mental health outcomes among medical students during the first semester after the COVID-19 outbreak and perception of the students on how the learning environment has changed. In May 2020, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among undergraduate medical students at a large medical school in Germany. The survey included validated mental health instruments (Distress Thermometer, Patient Health Questionnaire 4) and self-developed items to examine the perception of the study situation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Open-ended questions were analyzed by conventional content analyses. The response rate was 59.2% (914/1,545). Overall, 61.9% of the students reported distress levels above the cutoff. Year 1 students reported significantly higher levels of distress, anxiety and depression than students during their second to fourth year of studies. 48.3% of the students indicated a decrease in their study motivation since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic with significant differences between study years. The binary logistic regression model showed that male gender, being in study year 2, higher distress scores and higher symptoms of depression were significantly associated with a higher likelihood for experiencing serious worries. In the open-ended questions on current concerns related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their studies, students most frequently reported concerns about missing relevant practical learning experience, difficulties with self-regulated learning and self motivation as well as study-related worries. Year 4 students reported significantly more worries about the lack of practical training than students from study years 1 to 3. Analysis of gender differences showed that female students reported more frequently diverse worries. In contrast, female students shared more frequently helpful strategies in all the categories compared to male students. Our findings suggest that medical students experience significant levels of distress and mental burden during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight the need for ongoing psychological and educational support for medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic and after.
What Makes Babies Musical? Conceptions of Musicality in Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Buren Verena , Müllensiefen Daniel , Roeske Tina C. , Degé Franziska
Published: December 2021

Despite major advances in research on musical ability in infants, relatively little attention has been paid to individual differences in general musicality in infants. A fundamental problem has been the lack of a clear definition of what constitutes “general musicality” or “musical ability” in infants and toddlers, resulting in a wide range of test procedures that rely on different models of musicality. However, musicality can be seen as a social construct that can take on different meanings across cultures, sub-groups, and individuals, and may be subject to change over time. Therefore, one way to get a clearer picture of infant musicality is to assess conceptions of musicality in the general population. Using this approach, we surveyed 174 German adults, asking about their view and conceptions regarding behaviors that characterize a musical child under 3 years. Based on previous studies on adult and child musicality, we designed a survey containing 41 statements describing musical behaviors in children. Participants were asked to rate how indicative these behaviors were of musicality in infants and toddlers. PCA analysis revealed 4 components of musical abilities and behaviors in under-3-year-olds: Musical Communication, Enthusiasm and Motivation, Adaptive Expressiveness, and Musical Abilities as traditionally defined. Professional background and musical expertise of the respondents did not significantly influence participants’ conceptions. Our results suggest that, in order to capture musicality in young children, a wider range of skills and observable behaviors should be taken into account than those assessed by traditional musical ability tests for young children.
Students' Learned Helplessness and Teachers' Care in EFL Classrooms
Authors: He Hua
Published: December 2021

The construct of learned helplessness, as one of the noticeable emotional issues in education, has been investigated and approved its prominent place in education for its stimulus on students' accomplishment, enthusiasm, and commitment in learning. Moreover, the role of teachers as the most crucial issues in the learning viewpoint is at the center of attention since they help learners to be more motivated and provide a supportive context by caring. So, the current review of literature tries to emphasize teachers' care and its effects on decreasing learned helplessness in EFL classrooms. The review of this study underscores the important role of the teachers' care and support in learners' improvement of learned helplessness that can be alleviated in this way. Afterward, some suggestions are offered to illuminate the exercise of teachers, learners, teacher trainers, and syllabus designers.
What Contributes to the Development and Maintenance of School Refusal in Chinese Adolescents: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Liu Liang , Gu Hong , Zhao Xudong , Wang Yanbo
Published: December 2021

Objective:Although, there has been a growing number of studies on school refusal in Western cultures, the underlying factors that contribute to school refusal in Chinese adolescents remain unclear. This study aimed to better understand why Chinese adolescents refuse to go to school and to further interpret what they want to express through their school refusal behaviors.

Methods:We performed a qualitative study using an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Twenty adolescents with school refusal experiences were recruited from the clinical psychology department of two mental health hospitals in Shanghai, China. They participated in semistructured, face-to-face in-depth interviews. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed according to the guidelines of interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings:Five main superordinate themes emerged from data analysis: (a) competition-oriented social environment; (b) family living space dominated by conflicts; (c) personal living space lacking meaningful support; (d) conflict between the pros and cons of being labeled with a psychiatric diagnosis; and (e) reintegration in school life.

Conclusions:Our analysis emphasized the complex interacting effects of the social environment, family interpersonal conflicts, personal psychological factors and mental health complaints on the development and maintenance of Chinese adolescents' school refusal. These factors contributed to school refusal at each level and influenced each other's effects on school refusal behaviors. Therefore, interventions for Chinese teenagers with school refusal may need to integrate strategies that inspire reorganization and changes in different ecosystems, such as strategies related to government policy, peer relationships, family systems and individual inner dynamics.
Effects of Recovery-Orientation on the Use of Forced Medication and Maximum Daily Drug Dose: The “Weddinger Modell”
Authors: Czernin Klara , Bermpohl Felix , Wullschleger Alexandre , Mahler Lieselotte
Published: December 2021

Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of the implementation of the Recovery-orientated psychiatric care concept “Weddinger Modell” on the incidence of forced medication, the total number of forced medication incidents per affected case, the maximum dose of a singular forced medication and the maximum voluntary daily drug dose of different psychotropic drugs administered during an inpatient stay.

Methods: This retrospective case-control study included 234 patients. A pre/post-comparison of patients on two acute psychiatric wards before (control group, n = 112) and after (intervention group, n = 122) the implementation of the Weddinger Modell in 2010 was performed. Patient data was selected at two reporting periods before and at two reporting periods after 2010.

Results: No significant differences were found in the incidence of forced medication and the total number of forced medications. A significant reduction of the maximum forced medication dose of haloperidol in the intervention group was seen. Furthermore, the analysis of the intervention group showed a significant reduction of the maximum voluntary daily drug doses of clozapine, haloperidol and risperidone.

Discussion: The results indicate that the implementation of the Weddinger Modell had no effect on the incidence of forced medication, but it can help to improve the approach to psychotropic drugs. Despite the reduction of mechanical coercive measures by the model, as shown in a previous study, there is no increase in forced medications or administered drug doses. Focus on Recovery helps in reducing coercion in acute psychiatric care.
Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotic Treatment in Schizophrenia and Co-occurring Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coles Alexandria S. , Knezevic Dunja , George Tony P. , Correll Christoph U. , Kane John M. , Castle David
Published: December 2021

Objectives: Co-occurring substance use disorders (SUDs) among individuals with schizophrenia are a prevalent and complex psychiatric comorbidity, which is associated with increased symptom severity, worsened illness trajectory and high rates of treatment non-adherence. Recent evidence suggests that the use of long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics may provide an effective treatment option for individuals with this dual-diagnosis.

Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted using the databases PubMed, PsychInfo and Google Scholar for English-language studies, investigating the use of LAIs in co-occurring schizophrenia and substance use disorders (SCZ-SUDs).

Results: Eight reports [one case study (n = 1), one case series (n = 8), three open-label retrospective studies (n = 75), and three randomized controlled trials (n = 273)] investigated the use of LAI antipsychotics in 357 participants with SCZ-SUDs [alcohol use disorder: 5 studies, n = 282; cocaine use disorder: 5 studies, n = 85; amphetamine use disorder: 1 study, n = 1; cannabis use disorder: 3 studies, n = 160; opioid use disorder: 3 studies, n = 19; methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) use disorder: 2 studies, n = 9; ketamine use disorder: 1 study, n = 4] and were included in this systematic review. Findings indicate significant improvements in substance use related outcomes across 7 of 8 studies, while in 6 of 8 studies, significant improvements in psychopathology-related outcomes were reported.

Conclusions: LAI antipsychotics may be an efficacious intervention option for the treatment of SCZ-SUDs. However, varying methodological rigor, generally small sample sizes and heterogeneity of samples, settings, substances of abuse, tested LAIs and comparators, as well as psychosocial cotreatments and level of reported detail across studies requires that these findings be considered preliminary and interpreted with caution. Further research is required to better understand the effects of LAIs among individuals with SCZ-SUDs.
The Evolution of Urban Australian Meat-Eating Practices
Authors: Khara Tani , Riedy Christopher , Ruby Matthew B.
Published: December 2021

This qualitative study used social practice theory to explore how meat-eating practices are changing in contemporary urban Australia, drawing on a sample of Sydney residents aged 23–45 years. The research used an iterative study design and an inductive analysis approach. Semi-structured face-to-face in-depth interviews were the main mode of data collection, supplemented by observations in places such as markets and local neighborhoods. Research participants explained that the role of meat in their diet has changed in response to shifting conventions and social infrastructures. They have reduced consumption of red meat in favor of meats considered healthier or more ethical. Key factors driving the change include exposure to alternative eating practices brought about through changes in political policy and the advent of globalization. Changing discourses of masculinity and the move toward embracing more fluid representations of gender have, in turn, changed meanings in relation to the meat-eating man and a meat-heavy diet. Rising environmental and health consciousness, and concerns for animal welfare have also contributed to dietary changes. While several participants claimed to have increased their consumption of plant-based foods, meat still continues to maintain a significant presence within their diets. Many participants expressed interest in cutting back further on meat consumption and adopting more plant-based foods but they also identified several challenges—e.g., limited access to plant-based ingredients and recipes, negative meanings associated with vegetarian and vegan diets, and a lack of competence in relation to preparing and consuming appetizing meals using plant-based foods.
Retroperitoneal Spindle Cell Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Hua Hao , He Zhiwei , Lei Linhan , Xie Huahua , Deng Zilei , Cheng Zili , Zuo Shi , Sun Chengyi , Yu Chao
Published: December 2021

Spindle cell tumor is very rare. Herein, we report a case of retroperitoneal spindle cell tumor in a 52-year-old female. The patient first presented with a complaint of persistent pain in the right upper abdomen. In the follow-up, a CT scan was performed and showed a retroperitoneal soft tissue density mass measuring 11 cm in diameter. Then, a subsequent operation was performed, and we completely removed the tumor and partially invaded lesions. The tumor was histologically diagnosed as a spindle cell tumor. Therefore, it is imperative for us to enhance the understanding of this seldom found tumor. Surgery remains the best option for treatment.
Tigilanol Tiglate-Mediated Margins: A Comparison With Surgical Margins in Successful Treatment of Canine Mast Cell Tumours
Authors: De Ridder Thomas , Reddell Paul , Jones Pamela , Brown Graham , Campbell Justine
Published: December 2021

Tigilanol tiglate (TT) is a novel small molecule registered as a veterinary pharmaceutical for intratumoural treatment of canine mast cell tumours (MCTs). The drug has a multifactorial mode of action resulting in rapid destruction of the treated tumour by haemorrhagic necrosis and subsequent slough of the necrotic tumour to reveal a tissue deficit that is left to heal by second intention with minimal to no veterinary intervention. Here we introduce the concept of TT-mediated margins, the calculated margin of tissue loss analogous to surgically applied margins to help clinicians conceptualise tissue deficits formed following tumour destruction by TT relative to surgical excision. We used data from 51 dogs that were recurrence-free 12 months after a single administered TT dose into a single target MCT <10 cm3 in volume in a randomised, controlled clinical trial in the USA. We calculated TT-mediated margins based on length of the longest axis of (i) the tumour prior to treatment and (ii) the maximum tissue deficit formed 7–14 days after TT treatment. We compared these TT-mediated margins for each tumour to two surgical approaches to MCT excision in general practise: modified proportional margins (with 2 cm upper limit) and 3 cm fixed margins. For most dogs, TT-mediated margins were less than half the length of the margins calculated for the two surgical approaches in removing the same tumour. There was a trend for TT-mediated margins to increase with increasing tumour volume. Nonetheless, even for the larger tumours in this study (>2 cm3 volume), 50% of TT-mediated margins were less than half the length of the two surgical margins. Eighteen cases were lower limb MCTs, sites often surgically challenging in veterinary practise. On these lower limbs, TT-mediated margins were less than half the length of the corresponding proportional margins in 56% of cases and larger than proportional margins in only two cases. This study suggests that, in many cases, smaller and more targeted margins could be expected when treating MCTs <10 cm3 volume with TT compared with surgical excision. TT-mediated margins are a novel approach to conceptualise tissue deficits after intratumoural TT treatment.
Recent Innovations in Post-Harvest Preservation and Protection of Agricultural Products
Authors: Maier Dirk E. , Chikez Hory
Published: December 2021

Food loss and waste is a global problem that negatively impacts the bottom lines of producers and agri-businesses, wastes limited resources, and contributes to climate change [...]
Two Methods of Monitoring Cats at a Landscape-Scale
Authors: Lohr Cheryl A. , Nilsson Kristen , Johnson Ashleigh , Hamilton Neil , Onus Mike , Algar Dave
Published: December 2021

Feral cats are difficult to manage and harder to monitor. We analysed the cost and the efficacy of monitoring the pre- and post-bait abundance of feral cats via camera-traps or track counts using four years of data from the Matuwa Indigenous Protected Area. Additionally, we report on the recovery of the feral cat population and the efficacy of subsequent Eradicat® aerial baiting programs following 12 months of intensive feral cat control in 2019. Significantly fewer cats were captured in 2020 (n = 8) compared to 2019 (n = 126). Pre-baiting surveys for 2020 and 2021 suggested that the population of feral cats on Matuwa was very low, at 5.5 and 4.4 cats/100 km, respectively, which is well below our target threshold of 10 cats/100 km. Post-baiting surveys then recorded 3.6 and 3.0 cats/100 km, respectively, which still equates to a 35% and 32% reduction in cat activity. Track counts recorded significantly more feral cats than camera traps and were cheaper to implement. We recommend that at least two methods of monitoring cats be implemented to prevent erroneous conclusions.
The Effect of Neutrophil-Derived Products on the Function of Leukocytes Obtained after Titanium Implantation in the Ovine Model
Authors: Zdziennicka Joanna , Wessely-Szponder Joanna , Starobrat Grzegorz , Junkuszew Andrzej
Published: December 2021

Titanium (Ti) is currently the most common biomaterial used for orthopedic implants; however, these implants may cause deleterious immune response. To investigate the possible mechanisms involved in excessive inflammation, we assessed the activity of neutrophils and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) during the insertion of the Ti implant in a sheep model. The study was conducted on 12 sheep, 4 of which were control animals and 8 were in the experimental group with inserted Ti implant. Neutrophil secretory response was estimated at two time points T0 before surgery and T1 1 h after implantation and was based on the release of enzymes from neutrophil granules and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) generation. MDM function was evaluated 5 months after implantation, on the basis of RONS generation arginase activity and morphological changes. Moreover, the influence of some autologous neutrophil derived products, namely, antimicrobial neutrophil extract (ANE) and neutrophil degranulation products (DGP) on leukocytes was estimated. Our study revealed that Ti implant insertion did not cause any adverse effects up to 5 months after surgical procedure. Stimulation of neutrophil cultures with ANE decreased the enzyme release as well as superoxide generation. Treatment of MDM with ANE diminished superoxide and NO generation and increased arginase activity. On the other hand, MDM stimulated with DGP showed elevated superoxide and NO generation as well as decreased arginase activity. To summarize, ANE exerted an anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving effect on studied leukocytes, whereas DGP acted as pro-inflammatory.
Dietary Arginine Supplementation Improves Intestinal Mitochondrial Functions in Low-Birth-Weight Piglets but Not in Normal-Birth-Weight Piglets
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zheng Ping , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , He Jun , Mao Xiangbing , Yu Jie , Luo Yuheng , Luo Junqiu , Huang Zhiqing , Yan Hui
Published: December 2021

Our previous studies revealed that L-arginine supplementation had beneficial effects on intestinal barrier functions of low-birth-weight (LBW) piglets, which were associated with the enhanced antioxidant capacity. Moreover, mitochondrial functions are closely related to the redox state. This study was to explore potential mechanisms of L-arginine-induced beneficial effects against intestinal dysfunction by regulating mitochondrial function of LBW piglets. Twenty 4-day-old normal birth weight (NBW) piglets (BW: 2.08 ± 0.09 kg) and 20 LBW siblings (BW: 1.16 ± 0.07 kg) were artificially fed either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 1.0% L-arginine for 21 d, respectively. Growth performance, intestinal morphology, redox status, mitochondrial morphology, and mitochondrial functions were examined. Data were subjected to two-way analysis of variance. LBW piglets presented lower (p < 0.05) ADG, shorter (p < 0.05) intestinal villus height, lower (p < 0.05) jejunal adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content and higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of Ca2+ and 8-OH-dG in jejunal mitochondria, compared with NBW piglets. Supplementation with 1.0% L-arginine significantly increased (p < 0.05) ADG, the activities of CAT, SOD, and GPx, intestinal villus height and mRNA abundances of ZO-1 (2-fold) in the jejunum of LBW piglets, but not in NBW piglets. Furthermore, the concentrations of ATP and the transcription of COX IV, COX V genes were up-regulated (p < 0.05) and the concentration of Ca2+ and 8-OH-dG were decreased (p < 0.05) in arginine-treated LBW piglets. The results suggest that mitochondrial morphology is affected, and mitochondrial functions are impaired in the jejunum of LBW piglets. While supplementation with 1.0% L-arginine relieved intestinal dysfunction through enhancing antioxidant capacity and improving mitochondrial functions via repairing mitochondrial morphology, normalizing mitochondrial calcium, and increasing ATP concentration in the jejunum of LBW piglets. However, supplementation with L-arginine has no significant beneficial effects on intestinal health in NBW piglets.
Bert-Based Latent Semantic Analysis (Bert-LSA): A Case Study on Geospatial Data Technology and Application Trend Analysis
Authors: Cheng Quanying , Zhu Yunqiang , Song Jia , Zeng Hongyun , Wang Shu , Sun Kai , Zhang Jinqu
Published: December 2021

Geospatial data is an indispensable data resource for research and applications in many fields. The technologies and applications related to geospatial data are constantly advancing and updating, so identifying the technologies and applications among them will help foster and fund further innovation. Through topic analysis, new research hotspots can be discovered by understanding the whole development process of a topic. At present, the main methods to determine topics are peer review and bibliometrics, however they just review relevant literature or perform simple frequency analysis. This paper proposes a new topic discovery method, which combines a word embedding method, based on a pre-trained model, Bert, and a spherical k-means clustering algorithm, and applies the similarity between literature and topics to assign literature to different topics. The proposed method was applied to 266 pieces of literature related to geospatial data over the past five years. First, according to the number of publications, the trend analysis of technologies and applications related to geospatial data in several leading countries was conducted. Then, the consistency of the proposed method and the existing method PLSA (Probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis) was evaluated by using two similar consistency evaluation indicators (i.e., U-Mass and NMPI). The results show that the method proposed in this paper can well reveal text content, determine development trends, and produce more coherent topics, and that the overall performance of Bert-LSA is better than PLSA using NPMI and U-Mass. This method is not limited to trend analysis using the data in this paper; it can also be used for the topic analysis of other types of texts.
A Novel 3D Titanium Surface Produced by Selective Laser Sintering to Counteract Streptococcus oralis Biofilm Formation
Authors: D’Ercole Simonetta , Mangano Carlo , Cellini Luigina , Di Lodovico Silvia , Atalayin Ozkaya Cigdem , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano , Petrini Morena
Published: December 2021

The topography of implant surfaces influences the interaction relationship between material and bacteria. The aim of this work was to characterize a novel 3D titanium surface, produced using Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and to compare the bacterial interaction with machined and double acid etching (DAE) discs. The surface was characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDX). The wettability was measured using the sessile method. The microbiological investigation consisted in the cultivation of a bacterial pioneer, Streptococcus oralis, on titanium surfaces, previously covered by human saliva in order to form the acquired pellicle. Then, colony forming units (CFUs), biofilm biomass quantification, analyses of viable and dead cells, and SEM observation were determined after 24 h of S. oralis biofilm formation on the different discs. A significantly higher nano-roughness with respect to the other two groups characterized the novel 3D surface, but the wettability was similar to that of machined samples. The microbiological assays demonstrated that the 3D discs reported significantly lower values of CFUs and biofilm biomass with respect to machined surfaces; however, no significant differences were found with the DAE surfaces. The live/dead staining confirmed the lower percentage of living cells on DAE and 3D surfaces compared with the machined. This novel 3D surface produced by SLS presented a high antiadhesive and antibiofilm activity.
Implementation of a Floating Head Pressure Condensation Control to Reduce Electrical Energy Consumption in an Industrial Refrigeration System
Authors: Carrir Fábio Luiz da Costa , Biserni Cesare , Aguiar Danilo Barreto , dos Santos Elizaldo Domingues , Acunha Júnior Ivoni Carlos
Published: December 2021

The growing global demand for energy and the costly taxes on electric energy demonstrate the importance of seeking new techniques to improve energy efficiency in industrial facilities. Refrigeration units demand a large amount of electricity due to the high power needs of the components of the system. One strategy to reduce the electric energy consumption in these facilities is pressure condensation control. The objective here was to develop a logical control model where the physical quantities in the thermodynamic process can be monitored and used to determine the optimum point of the condensation pressure and the mass flow rate of the air in the evaporative condenser. The algorithm developed was validated through experiments and was posteriorly implemented in an ammonia industrial system of refrigeration over a period of sixteen months (480 days). The results showed that the operation of the evaporative condenser with a controlled air mass flow rate by logical modeling achieved a reduction of 7.5% in the consumption of electric energy, leading to a significant reduction in the operational cost of the refrigeration plant.
Spatial Analysis for Landscape Changes
Authors: Gioia Dario , Danese Maria
Published: December 2021

Landscape is the backcloth over which environmental and anthropic events occur, and recent increasing trends of natural and anthropic processes, such as urbanization, land-use changes, and extreme climate events, have a strong impact on landscape modification [...]
Parameter Identification of Photovoltaic Cell Model Using Modified Elephant Herding Optimization-Based Algorithms
Authors: Malki Amer , Mohamed Abdallah A. , Rashwan Yasser I. , El-Sehiemy Ragab A. , Elhosseini Mostafa A.
Published: December 2021

The use of metaheuristics in estimating the exact parameters of solar cell systems contributes greatly to performance improvement. The nonlinear electrical model of the solar cell has some parameters whose values are necessary to design photovoltaic (PV) systems accurately. The metaheuristic algorithms used to determine solar cell parameters have achieved remarkable success; however, most of these algorithms still produce local optimum solutions. In any case, changing to more suitable candidates through elephant herd optimization (EHO) equations is not guaranteed; in addition, instead of making parameter α adaptive throughout the evolution of the EHO, making them adaptive during the evolution of the EHO might be a preferable choice. The EHO technique is used in this work to estimate the optimum values of unknown parameters in single-, double-, and three-diode solar cell models. Models for five, seven, and ten unknown PV cell parameters are presented in these PV cell models. Applications are employed on two types of PV solar cells: the 57 mm diameter RTC Company of France commercial silicon for single- and double-diode models and multi-crystalline PV solar module CS6P-240P for the three-diode model. The total deviations between the actual and estimated result are used in this study as the objective function. The performance measures used in comparisons are the RMSE and relative error. The performance of EHO and the proposed three improved EHO algorithms are evaluated against the well-known optimization algorithms presented in the literature. The experimental results of EHO and the three improved EHO algorithms go as planned and proved to be comparable to recent metaheuristic algorithms. The three EHO-based variants outperform all competitors for the single-diode model, and in particular, the culture-based EHO (CEHO) outperforms others in the double/three-diode model. According the studied cases, the EHO variants have low levels of relative errors and therefore high accuracy compared with other optimization algorithms in the literature.
A Complete Software Stack for IoT Time-Series Analysis that Combines Semantics and Machine Learning—Lessons Learned from the Dyversify Project
Authors: De Paepe Dieter , Vanden Hautte Sander , Steenwinckel Bram , Moens Pieter , Vaneessen Jasper , Vandekerckhove Steven , Volckaert Bruno , Ongenae Femke , Van Hoecke Sofie
Published: December 2021

Companies are increasingly gathering and analyzing time-series data, driven by the rising number of IoT devices. Many works in literature describe analysis systems built using either data-driven or semantic (knowledge-driven) techniques. However, little to no works describe hybrid combinations of these two. Dyversify, a collaborative project between industry and academia, investigated how event and anomaly detection can be performed on time-series data in such a hybrid setting. We built a proof-of-concept analysis platform, using a microservice architecture to ensure scalability and fault-tolerance. The platform comprises time-series ingestion, long term storage, data semantification, event detection using data-driven and semantic techniques, dynamic visualization, and user feedback. In this work, we describe the system architecture of this hybrid analysis platform and give an overview of the different components and their interactions. As such, the main contribution of this work is an experience report with challenges faced and lessons learned.
Trafficking of Full-Length and N-Terminally Truncated Cathepsin B in Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Tamhane Tripti , Njenga Robin W. , Burden Roberta E. , Büth Heiko , Maelandsmo Gunhild M. , Haugen Mads H. , Scott Christopher J. , Brix Klaudia
Published: December 2021

Cathepsin B is an endo-lysosomal cysteine protease. However, its increased expression and altered localization to the extracellular space, to mitochondria, or to the nucleus has been linked to tumor progression. In the present study, we show enhanced levels of cathepsin B in adenocarcinoma tissue in comparison to adjacent normal colon. Additionally, cathepsin B was observed in the nuclear compartment of mucosal cells in adenocarcinoma tissue samples and in the nuclei of the colorectal carcinoma cell line HCT116. Accordingly, a distinct 40-kDa form of cathepsin B was detected in HCT116 cells, which is proposed to represent a specific form lacking the signal peptide and parts of the propeptide. Trafficking studies with an EGFP-tagged N-terminally truncated form, mimicking the 40-kDa form, demonstrated accumulation in aggresome-like inclusion bodies, while EGFP-tagged full-length cathepsin B revealed regular sorting to endo-lysosomes. We conclude that the identity of nuclear cathepsin B in colorectal adenocarcinoma (in situ) and in carcinoma cells (in vitro) cannot be attributed to either full-length or 40-kDa N-terminally truncated cathepsin B forms. Hence, future studies are needed to demonstrate which form/s of cathepsin B may be sorted to the nuclei of colorectal carcinoma cells, and whether redundant regulation of related cathepsin expression occurs.
Seawater Effect on Fatigue Behaviour of Notched Carbon/Epoxy Laminates
Authors: Branco Ricardo , Reis Paulo N. B. , Neto Maria A. , Costa José D. , Amaro Ana M.
Published: December 2021

This paper studies the effect of seawater immersion on the fatigue behavior of notched carbon/epoxy laminates. Rectangular cross-section specimens with a central hole were immersed in natural and artificial seawater for different immersion times (0, 30 and 60 days), being the water absorption rate evaluated over time. After that, fatigue tests were performed under uniaxial cyclic loading using a stress ratio equal to 0.1. After the tests, the optical microscopy technique allowed the examination of the failure micro-mechanisms at the fracture surfaces. The results showed that saturation appeared before 30 days of immersion and that water absorption rates were similar for natural and artificial seawater. The S–N curves showed that the seawater immersion affects the fatigue strength, but there were no relevant effects associated with the type of seawater. Moreover, it was also clear that fatigue life was similar for long lives, close to 1 million cycles, regardless of the immersion time or the type of seawater. On the contrary, for short lives, near 10 thousand cycles, the stress amplitude of dry laminates was 1.2 higher than those immersed in seawater. The failure mechanisms were similar for all conditions, evidencing the fracture of axially aligned fibres and longitudinal delamination between layers.
Bone Regeneration by Dedifferentiated Fat Cells Using Composite Sponge of Alfa-Tricalcium Phosphate and Gelatin in a Rat Calvarial Defect Model
Authors: Tsumano Nobuhito , Kubo Hirohito , Imataki Rie , Honda Yoshitomo , Hashimoto Yoshiya , Nakajima Masahiro
Published: December 2021

Mechanical and resorbable scaffolds are in high demand for stem cell-based regenerative medicine, to treat refractory bone defects in craniofacial abnormalities and injuries. Multipotent progenitor cells, such as dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells, are prospective sources for regenerative therapies. Herein, we aimed to demonstrate that a composite gelatin sponge (α-TCP/GS) of alfa-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) mixed with gelatin scaffolds (GS), with/without DFATs, induced bone regeneration in a rat calvarial defect model in vivo. α-TCP/GS was prepared by mixing α-TCP and 2% GS using vacuum-heated methods. α-TCP/GS samples with/without DFATs were transplanted into the model. After 4 weeks of implantation, the samples were subjected to micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) and histological analysis. α-TCP/GS possessed adequate mechanical strength; α-TCP did not convert to hydroxyapatite upon contact with water, as determined by X-ray diffraction. Moreover, stable α-TCP/GS was formed by electrostatic interactions, and verified based on the infrared peak shifts. μ-CT analyses showed that bone formation was higher in the α-TCP/GS+ DFAT group than in the α-TCP/GS group. Therefore, the implantation of α-TCP/GS comprising DFAT cells enhanced bone regeneration and vascularization, demonstrating the potential for healing critical-sized bone defects.
Performance and Parameter Sensitivity Analysis of the PEMFC Flow Channel with Porous Baffles
Authors: Chen Cong , Xuan Dongji , Wu Mingge , Liu Shengnan , Shen Yunde
Published: December 2021

In this paper, a method to improve the performance of PEMFCs using porous material as a flow channel baffle is proposed. The results show that PEMFCs with four porous baffles flow channels have better performance at high current density compared with the traditional flow channel. The structural parameters of the flow channel explored in this study include porosity, the thickness of the baffle and the number of baffles, and their influence on the performance of PEMFCs. Sensitivity analysis results show that the performance of the PEMFCs with the porous baffle channel is the most sensitive to baffle thickness, and the thickness and baffle could be appropriately adjusted. The number of plates and porosity of the baffle are adjusted to improve the performance of the PEMFCs.
Fuzzy Logic-Based Controller for Bipedal Robot
Authors: Khoi Phan Bui , Nguyen Xuan Hong
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the problem of controlling a human-like bipedal robot while walking is studied. The control method commonly applied when controlling robots in general and bipedal robots in particular, was based on a dynamical model. This led to the need to accurately define the dynamical model of the robot. The activities of bipedal robots to replace humans, serve humans, or interact with humans are diverse and ever-changing. Accurate determination of the dynamical model of the robot is difficult because it is difficult to fully and accurately determine the dynamical quantities in the differential equations of motion of the robot. Additionally, another difficulty is that because the robot’s operation is always changing, the dynamical quantities also change. There have been a number of works applying fuzzy logic-based controllers and neural networks to control bipedal robots. These methods can overcome to some extent the uncertainties mentioned above. However, it is a challenge to build appropriate rule systems that ensure the control quality as well as the controller’s ability to perform easily and flexibly. In this paper, a method for building a fuzzy rule system suitable for bipedal robot control is proposed. The design of the motion trajectory for the robot according to the human gait and the analysis of dynamical factors affecting the equilibrium condition and the tracking trajectory were performed to provide informational data as well as parameters. Based on that, a fuzzy rule system and fuzzy controller was proposed and built, allowing a determination of the control force/moment without relying on the dynamical model of the robot. For evaluation, an exact controller based on the assumption of an accurate dynamical model, which was a two-feedback loop controller based on integrated inverse dynamics with proportional integral derivative, is also proposed. To confirm the validity of the proposed fuzzy rule system and fuzzy controller, computation and numerical simulation were performed for both types of controllers. Comparison of numerical simulation results showed that the fuzzy rule system and the fuzzy controller worked well. The proposed fuzzy rule system is simple and easy to apply.
Bead Geometry Prediction in Laser-Wire Additive Manufacturing Process Using Machine Learning: Case of Study
Authors: Mbodj Natago Guilé , Abuabiah Mohammad , Plapper Peter , El Kandaoui Maxime , Yaacoubi Slah
Published: December 2021

In Laser Wire Additive Manufacturing (LWAM), the final geometry is produced using the layer-by-layer deposition (beads principle). To achieve good geometrical accuracy in the final product, proper implementation of the bead geometry is essential. For this reason, the paper focuses on this process and proposes a layer geometry (width and height) prediction model to improve deposition accuracy. More specifically, a machine learning regression algorithm is applied on several experimental data to predict the bead geometry across layers. Furthermore, a neural network-based approach was used to study the influence of different deposition parameters, namely laser power, wire-feed rate and travel speed on bead geometry. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a test split validation strategy was applied to train and validate the machine learning models. The results show a particular evolutionary trend and confirm that the process parameters have a direct influence on the bead geometry, and so, too, on the final part. Several deposition parameters have been found to obtain an accurate prediction model with low errors and good layer deposition. Finally, this study indicates that the machine learning approach can efficiently be used to predict the bead geometry and could help later in designing a proper controller in the LWAM process.