bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of Cell Behavior by 3D Biocompatible Hydrogel Microscaffolds with Precise Configuration
Authors: Zhang Wei-Cai , Zheng Mei-Ling , Liu Jie , Jin Feng , Dong Xian-Zi , Guo Min , Li Teng
Published: September 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) micronano structures have attracted much attention in tissue engineering since they can better simulate the microenvironment in vivo. Two-photon polymerization (TPP) technique provides a powerful tool for printing arbitrary 3D structures with high precision. Here, the desired 3D biocompatible hydrogel microscaffolds (3D microscaffold) with structure design referring to fibroblasts L929 have been fabricated by TPP technology, particularly considering the relative size of cell seed (cell suspension), spread cell, strut and strut spacing of scaffold. Modulation of the cell behavior has been studied by adjusting the porosity from 69.7% to 89.3%. The cell culture experiment results reveal that the obvious modulation of F-actin can be achieved by using the 3D microscaffold. Moreover, cells on 3D microscaffolds exhibit more lamellipodia than those on 2D substrates, and thus resulting in a more complicated 3D shape of single cell and increased cell surface. 3D distribution can be also achieved by employing the designed 3D microscaffold, which would effectively improve the efficiency of information exchange and material transfer. The proposed protocol enables us to better understand the cell behavior in vivo, which would provide high prospects for the further application in tissue engineering.
Differences in Dietary Patterns of Adolescent Patients with IBD
Authors: Kikut Justyna , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Sochaczewska Diana , Kordek Agnieszka , Szczuko Małgorzata
Published: September 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The prevalence of both in pediatric populations has been constantly increasing. This study aimed to analyze the diet of adolescent patients with IBD in comparison to healthy controls and the current dietary standards for the Polish population to further their optimal supplementation regimen. The study group consisted of 53 patients (21 girls and 32 boys) with IBD (CD: n = 27; UC: n = 26) at a mean age of 15.4 ± 2.4 and 14.7 ± 2.2, years for girls and boys, respectively. The control group (CG) consisted of 20 patients, and 72 h of recall diaries on nutrition were collected. The nutritional data were analyzed in the Dieta 6D dietary program. When compared to Polish dietary standards, the largest differences girls with IBD and boys with IBD were found for the intake of energy (61.9 and 71.9%), iodine (61.9 and 62.6%), folates (76.2 and 87.5%), vitamin D (100 and 96.9%), potassium (61.9 and 59.4%), and calcium (85.7 and 93.8%). The overconsumption of saturated fatty acids (SFA) (61.9 and 56.3%) and sodium (76.2 and 90.6%) in girls and boys, respectively, was noted. In relation to girls with CG, girls with IBD showed a significantly higher intake of energy (1751. 3 vs. 1558.6 p = 0.0224), total protein (71.3 vs. 56.2 p = 0.0217), animal protein (47.8 vs. 34.5 p = 0.0183), total carbohydrates (237.3 vs. 196.1 p = 0.0442), and assimilable carbohydrates (219.8 vs. 180.5 p = 0.7921). Boys in the CG consumed significantly more calcium (851.8 vs. 432 p = 0.0006), phosphorus (1024.3 vs. 1357.5 p = 0.0431), lactose (11.6 vs. 6.1 p = 0.0016), and riboflavin (1.7 vs. 1.3 p = 0.0123) compared to boys with IBD. Dietician care should therefore be mandatorily provided alongside outpatient care. Based on our results, we suggest that supplementation with the selected components be considered.
Potential Health Benefits of Curcumin on Female Reproductive Disorders: A Review
Authors: Kamal Datu Agasi Mohd , Salamt Norizam , Yusuf Allia Najmie Muhammad , Kashim Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd , Mokhtar Mohd Helmy
Published: September 2021

Curcumin is one of the main polyphenolic compounds in the turmeric rhizome. It possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-arthritis, anti-asthmatic, anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. This review aims to provide an overview of the potential health benefits of curcumin to treat female reproductive disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian failure and endometriosis. Comprehensive information on curcumin was retrieved from electronic databases, which were MEDLINE via EBSCOhost, Scopus and Google Scholar. The available evidence showed that curcumin reduced the high level of androgen in PCOS. Studies in rodents suggest that curcumin resulted in the disappearance of cysts and the appearance of healthy follicles and corpora lutea. Furthermore, animal studies showed curcumin improved the overall function of the ovary in ovarian diseases and reversed the disturbance in oxidative stress parameters. Meanwhile, in vitro and in vivo studies reported the positive effects of curcumin in alleviating endometriosis through anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic mechanisms. Thus, curcumin possesses various effects on PCOS, ovarian diseases and endometriosis. Some studies found considerable therapeutic effects, whereas others found no effect. However, none of the investigations found curcumin to be harmful. Curcumin clinical trials in endometriosis and ovarian illness are still scarce; thus, future studies need to be conducted to confirm the safety and efficacy of curcumin before it could be offered as a complementary therapy agent.
Toric Intraocular Lens Results Considering Posterior Corneal Astigmatism with Online Calculators: Phacoemulsification vs. Femtosecond
Authors: Fernández Joaquín , Rodríguez-Vallejo Manuel , Burguera Noemí , Salvestrini Patrizia , Garzón Nuria
Published: September 2021

To evaluate the prediction error (PE) obtained in Phacoemulsification (Phaco) or Femtosecond (Femto) surgeries without considering posterior corneal astigmatism correction (non-PCA) versus the correction based on Abulafia-Koch + Medicontur (AK) and Barrett calculators in toric intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation. 58 right eyes were retrospectively retrieved from our database. Two groups formed by 28 and 30 eyes depending on the surgery type, Phaco or Femto respectively, were defined. Astigmatism PE were evaluated considering the approach used for calculation of the implanted IOL power (AK) versus the estimation of PEs in non-PCA and Barrett formula. A doubly-multivariate analysis was conducted to assess the differences between-surgery types, within-methods of calculation, and interaction. Mean centroid PE was significantly different between non-PCA, AK and Barrett approaches (p < 0.0005), and neither differences (p < 0.239) nor interaction (p = 0.672) between Phaco or Femto were found. Post-hoc univariate analysis showed a higher PE for the x-component of the non-PCA method versus AK (0.15 D, p < 0.0005) and non-PCA versus Barrett (0.18 D, p < 0.0005), though no differences were found between AK and Barrett (0.03 D, p = 0.93). Against-the-rule under-correction and with-the-rule overcorrection were found in both arms when PCA was not considered. Both calculators provide comparable clinical results.
An Accessible Diagnostic Toolbox to Detect Bacterial Causes of Ovine and Caprine Abortion
Authors: Brom René van den , Santman-Berends Inge , Dijkman Remco , Vellema Piet , Dijkman Reinie , Engelen Erik van
Published: September 2021

Results of laboratory investigations of ovine and caprine cases of abortion in the lambing season 2015–2016 were analyzed, using pathology records of submissions to Royal GD (Deventer, the Netherlands) from January until and including April 2016, in comparison with the results of two accessible alternative techniques for sampling aborted lambs and kids, swabbing the fetal oropharynx and puncture of the fetal lung. Chlamydia abortus was the main cause of abortion in sheep as well as in goats. Other causes of abortion were Campylobacter spp., Listeria spp., Escherichia coli, and Yersinia enterocolitica. Ovine pathological submissions resulted more often in detecting an infectious agent compared to caprine submissions. For the three main bacterial causes of abortion, Campylobacter spp., Listeria spp., and Chlamydia spp., compared to results of the pathological examination, oropharynx mucus, and fetal lung puncture samples showed an observed agreement of 0.87 and 0.89, an expected agreement of 0.579 and 0.584, and a kappa value of 0.691 and 0.737 (95% CI: 0.561–0.82 and 0.614–0.859), respectively. The agreement between the results of the pathological examination and both fetal lung puncture and oropharynx mucus samples was classified as good. In conclusion, although a full step-wise post-mortem examination remains the most proper way of investigating small ruminant abortions, the easily accessible, low-threshold tools for practitioners and farmers as described in this paper not only provide reliable results compared to results of the post-mortem examination but also stimulates farmers and veterinarians to submit fetuses and placentas if necessary. Suggestions for further improvement of both alternatives have been summarized. Both alternatives could also be tailor-made for specific regions with their specific causes of abortion.
Amphiphilic Poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) Nanoparticles Conjugated with DR5-Specific Antitumor Cytokine DR5-B for Targeted Delivery to Cancer Cells
Authors: Yagolovich Anne , Kuskov Andrey , Kulikov Pavel , Kurbanova Leily , Bagrov Dmitry , Artykov Artem , Gasparian Marine , Sizova Svetlana , Oleinikov Vladimir , Gileva Anastasia , Kirpichnikov Mikhail , Dolgikh Dmitry , Markvicheva Elena
Published: September 2021

Nanoparticles based on the biocompatible amphiphilic poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (Amph-PVP) derivatives are promising for drug delivery. Amph-PVPs self-aggregate in aqueous solutions with the formation of micellar nanoscaled structures. Amph-PVP nanoparticles are able to immobilize therapeutic molecules under mild conditions. As is well known, many efforts have been made to exploit the DR5-dependent apoptosis induction for cancer treatment. The aim of the study was to fabricate Amph-PVP-based nanoparticles covalently conjugated with antitumor DR5-specific TRAIL (Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand) variant DR5-B and to evaluate their in vitro cytotoxicity in 3D tumor spheroids. The Amph-PVP nanoparticles were obtained from a 1:1 mixture of unmodified and maleimide-modified polymeric chains, while DR5-B protein was modified by cysteine residue at the N-end for covalent conjugation with Amph-PVP. The nanoparticles were found to enhance cytotoxicity effects compared to those of free DR5-B in both 2D (monolayer culture) and 3D (tumor spheroids) in vitro models. The cytotoxicity of the nanoparticles was investigated in human cell lines, namely breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 and colorectal carcinomas HCT116 and HT29. Notably, DR5-B conjugation with Amph-PVP nanoparticles sensitized resistant multicellular tumor spheroids from MCF-7 and HT29 cells. Taking into account the nanoparticles loading ability with a wide range of low-molecular-weight antitumor chemotherapeutics into hydrophobic core and feasibility of conjugation with hydrophilic therapeutic molecules by click chemistry, we suggest further development to obtain a versatile system for targeted drug delivery into tumor cells.
Development of Dextran-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles Loaded with Protocatechuic Acid for Vascular Inflammation Therapy
Authors: Anghelache Maria , Turtoi Mihaela , Petrovici Anca Roxana , Fifere Adrian , Pinteala Mariana , Calin Manuela
Published: September 2021

Vascular inflammation plays a crucial role in the progression of various pathologies, including atherosclerosis (AS), and thus it has become an attractive therapeutic target. The protocatechuic acid (PCA), one of the main metabolites of complex polyphenols, is endowed with anti-inflammatory activity, but its formulation into nanocarriers may increase its bioavailability. In this study, we developed and characterized dextran shell‒iron oxide core nanoparticles loaded with PCA (MNP-Dex/PCA) and assessed their cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory potential on cells acting as key players in the onset and progression of AS, namely, endothelial cells (EC) and monocytes/macrophages. The results showed that MNP-Dex/PCA exert an anti-inflammatory activity at non-cytotoxic and therapeutically relevant concentrations of PCA (350 μM) as supported by the reduced levels of inflammatory molecules such as MCP-1, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and CCR2 in activated EC and M1-type macrophages and functional monocyte adhesion assay. The anti-inflammatory effect of MNP-Dex/PCA was associated with the reduction in the levels of ERK1/2 and p38-α mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and NF-kB transcription factor. Our data support the further development of dextran shell-magnetic core nanoparticles as theranostic nanoparticles for guidance, imaging, and therapy of vascular inflammation using PCA or other anti-inflammatory compounds.
Identification and First Report of Fusarium andiyazi Causing Sheath Rot of Zizania latifolia in China
Authors: Ma Ya-Min , Zhu Jun-Zi , Li Xiao-Gang , Wang Lai-Liang , Zhong Jie
Published: September 2021

Zizania latifolia is a perennial plant native to East Asia. The swollen culm of Z. latifolia is a popular vegetable and traditional herbal medicine consumed in China and some other Asian countries. From 2019 to 2021, a sheath rot disease was found in Zhejiang Province of China. Symptoms mainly occurred in the leaf sheath showing as brown necrotic lesions surrounded by yellow halos. The pathogen fungal isolates were isolated from the affected sheaths. Ten representative isolates were selected for morphological and molecular identification by phylogenetic analyses of the translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1) and the RNA polymerase II subunit beta (RPB2) gene regions. Based on the combined datasets, the fungal isolates were identified as Fusarium andiyazi. Koch’s postulates were confirmed by pathogenicity test, re-isolation and re-identification of the fungal isolates. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of sheath rot caused by F. andiyazi in Z. latifolia in China.
Surface Modification by the DBD Plasma to Improve the Flame-Retardant Treatment for Dyed Polyester Fabric
Authors: Ngo Ha-Thanh , Vu Thi Hong Khanh , Nguyen The-Bach
Published: September 2021

In the first part of the study, dyed polyester fabric was treated with a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma at 1 W/cm2 for 15, 30, 60 and 90 s. The wicking height, tensile strength and color of the control and plasma treated fabrics were measured. Results show that the fabric capillary increases with plasma treatment time up to 90 s. However, plasma treatment time longer than 60 s caused an obvious color change and decrease in tensile strength of fabric. Plasma contact time should be such that plasma can improve the hydrophilicity of the fabric and adversely affect the properties of the fabric as little as possible. Thus, the suitable plasma contact time should be less than 60 s. Based on these results, in the second part of the study, three different time levels (15, 20 and 30 s) were selected for plasma pretreatment of this fabric. The plasma-treated fabric was then padded with the flame retardant (FR) (CETAFLAM PDP 30), dried and finally cured at 190 °C for 120 s. The limited oxygen index (LOI) of FR fabrics and the vertical fire characteristics of FR fabric after being washed 5 times also were measured. Comparison of these results with those of FR fabrics without plasma pretreatment shows that plasma pretreatment improves the fabric’s flame retardancy and FR durability. Moreover, it also reduces the heat shrinkage of PET fabric due to high temperature curing. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the fabric after plasma treatment and FR treatment and the energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) spectrum of the fabric are consistent with the above results.
A Critical Review on Polymeric Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kalirajan Cheirmadurai , Dukle Amey , Nathanael Arputharaj Joseph , Oh Tae-Hwan , Manivasagam Geetha
Published: September 2021

Natural and synthetic polymers have been explored for many years in the field of tissue engineering and regeneration. Researchers have developed many new strategies to design successful advanced polymeric biomaterials. In this review, we summarized the recent notable advancements in the preparation of smart polymeric biomaterials with self-healing and shape memory properties. We also discussed novel approaches used to develop different forms of polymeric biomaterials such as films, hydrogels and 3D printable biomaterials. In each part, the applications of the biomaterials in soft and hard tissue engineering with their in vitro and in vivo effects are underlined. The future direction of the polymeric biomaterials that could pave a path towards successful clinical implications is also underlined in this review.
Geometry Effects on Mode I Brittle Fracture in VO-Notched PMMA Specimens
Authors: Bahadori Robab , Ayatollahi Majid Reza , Cicero Sergio , Álvarez José Alberto
Published: September 2021

This paper gathers experimental and theoretical investigations about both the geometry-dependent fracture initiation angle and the fracture strength in VO-notched polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) specimens under mode I loading conditions. The numerical analyses revealed that despite the application of pure mode I loading on the geometrically symmetric VO-notched samples, the maximum tangential stress occurs at two points symmetrically placed on either side of the notch bisector line. The experimental tests performed on some specimens showed that a crack does not necessarily propagate along the notch bisector line. Stress-based theoretical studies were then carried out to justify the experimental findings. The conventional maximum tangential stress (MTS) criterion gave weak predictions of the fracture. Therefore, the predictions were checked with the generalized MTS (GMTS) criterion by taking into consideration the higher-order stress terms. It was demonstrated that the GMTS criterion predictions have satisfactory consistency with the experimental results of the crack initiation angle and the fracture strength.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Metal-Containing Ultraviolet-Cured Wood Floor Coatings
Authors: Chang Chia-Wei , Lu Kun-Tsung
Published: September 2021

In our previous report, the antibacterial agents with different metals, mono(hydroxyethoxyethyl)phthalate [M(HEEP)2, M = Zn, Mn, and Ca], were synthesized. For increasing their yields, modified synthesis and purified processes were further investigated. The result of energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed the M(HEEP)2 could be stable and successfully synthesized, and their yields were raised to 73–85% from our previous report of 43–55%. For ultraviolet-cured wood floor coating application, the Zn(HEEP)2 was selected as an antibacterial agent and mixed with commercial UV wood floor coating. The effects on the antibacterial activity of UV films with different Zn(HEEP)2 additions of 0, 4, 8, and 12 phr as well as the commercial nano-Ag of 12 phr against Escherichia coli were evaluated. In the static antibacterial test, the UV films with Zn(HEEP)2 additions had similar antibacterial activity of 57–59%. In another dynamic shaking antibacterial test, the film containing 12 phr Zn(HEEP)2 had the best antibacterial activity among all the UV films. On the film properties, the Zn(HEEP)2-containing UV films had lower gloss and abrasion resistance, and slightly increased the hardness than those of UV film without Zn(HEEP)2 addition. However, there were no noticeable differences in mass retention, lightfastness, and thermal stability between UV films with and without the Zn(HEEP)2 addition. In this study, the 12 phr Zn(HEEP)2-containing UV film provided the best antibacterial activity against E. coli and had the balanced film properties for application on the UV wood floor coating.
Surface Recovery Investigation of Silicone Rubber Composites for Outdoor Electrical Insulation under Accelerated Temperature and Humidity
Authors: Raza M. Hassan , Khattak Abraiz , Ali Asghar , Butt Safi Ullah , Iqbal Bilal , Ulasyar Abasin , Alahmadi Ahmad Aziz , Ullah Nasim , Khan Adam
Published: September 2021

Degradation of silicon rubber due to heat and humidity affect its performance in outdoor applications. To analyze the effects of high temperature and humidity on room temperature vulcanized (RTV) silicone rubber (SiR) and its composites, this study was performed. Five different sample compositions including neat silicone rubber (nSiR), microcomposites (15 wt% silica(SMC 15% SiO2) and 15 wt% ATH(SMC 15% ATH), nanocomposite (2.5 wt% silica(SNC 2.5% SiO2) and hybrid composite (10 wt% micro alumina trihydrate with 2 wt% nano silica(SMNC 10% ATH 2% SiO2) were prepared and subjected to 70 ˚C temperature and 80% relative humidity in an environmental chamber for 120 h. Contact angle, optical microscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were employed to analyze the recovery properties before and after applying stresses. Different trends of degradation and recovery were observed for different concentrations of composites. Addition of fillers improved the overall performance of composites and SMC 15% ATH composite performed better than other composites. For high temperature and humidity, the ATH-based microcomposite was recommended over silica due to its superior thermal retardation properties of ATH. It has been proved that ATH filler is able to withstand high temperature and humidity.
Experiment on Pressure Pulsation of Axial Flow Pump System with Different Runaway Head
Authors: Dai Jing , Liu Xueqin , Huang Congbing , Xu Xuemei , Bu Ge , Zhong Ziye , Xu Feng , Dai Qifan
Published: September 2021

The runaway condition is a damage condition for pumps and turbines which can induce the wake vortex, reverse flow, and severe pressure pulsation. This study aimed to research the characteristics of pressure pulsation of axial flow pumps under different runaway conditions, and the runaway model test was performed with different blade angles and heads. Moreover, four pressure sensors were uniformly arranged at the impeller inlet section to eliminate the random error. The time domain and frequency domain analysis were the main methods to obtain the change regulations. Results showed that the pressure pulsation under the runaway condition are mainly influenced by the rotation frequency, blade passing frequency, and wake vortex frequency. The dimensionless pressure pulsation coefficient of rotation frequency and wake vortex frequency increased obviously with the runaway head increasing, but changed little with different blade angles. In addition, the dimensionless pressure coefficient of wake vortex frequency of the sensors around the impeller inlet section differed a lot, which means that the wake vortex core is not in center of the rotation axis. The average dimensionless pressure pulsation coefficient of wake vortex frequency is higher than that of rotation frequency with the same runaway head, owing to the severer wake vortex.
Comparative Thermal Degradation Behaviors and Kinetic Mechanisms of Typical Hardwood and Softwood in Oxygenous Atmosphere
Authors: Xu Xiaokang , Pan Renming , Chen Ruiyu
Published: September 2021

In order to utilize woody biomass effectively for bioenergy and chemical feedstocks, the comparative thermal degradation behaviors and kinetic mechanisms of typical hardwood (beech wood) and softwood (camphorwood) were studied at various heating rates in air. The Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose approach combined with the Coats-Redfern approach was employed to estimate the kinetic triplet. Softwood degradation began and ended at lower temperatures than hardwood. Compared with softwood, the maximal reaction rate of hardwood was greater and occurred in the higher temperature region. Two decomposition regions were determined by the variation of activation energy, and the dividing point was α = 0.6 and α = 0.65 for hardwood and softwood, respectively. Moreover, the average activation energy of hardwood was larger than that of softwood during the whole decomposition process. The thermal degradation process occurring in region 1 was dominated by the Avrami-Erofeev and 3D diffusion models for hardwood and softwood, respectively. Furthermore, the kinetic modeling results showed good consistency between the experimental and simulated curves under 5, 15, 20, and 40 K/min. It is noted that the thermogravimetric experimental profile under 20 K/min was not used for estimating the kinetic triplet. Besides, the combustion performance of hardwood is superior to softwood under the same external conditions (heating rate and atmosphere).
Detection of Microplastics in Water and Ice
Authors: Jang Seohyun , Kim Joo-Hyung , Kim Jihyun
Published: September 2021

It is possible to detect various microplastics (MPs) floating on water or contained in ice due to the unique optical characteristics of plastics of various chemical compositions and structures. When the MPs are measured in the spectral region between 800 and 1000 nm, which has relatively little influence on the temperature change in water, they are frequently perceived as noise or obscured by the surrounding reflection spectra because of the small number and low intensity of the representative peak wavelengths. In this study, we have applied several mathematical methods, including the convex hull, Gaussian deconvolution, and curve fitting to amplify and normalize the reflectance and thereby find the spectral properties of each polymer, namely polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), methyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polyethylene (PE). Blunt-shaped spectra with a relatively large maximum of normalized reflectance (NRmax) can be decomposed into several Gaussian peak wavelengths: 889, 910, and 932 nm for the PP and 898 and 931 nm for the PE. Moreover, unique peak wavelengths with the meaningful measure at 868 and 907 nm for the PET and 887 nm for the PMMA were also obtained. Based on the results of the study, one can say that each plastic can be identified with up to 81% precision by compensating based on the spectral properties even when they are hidden in water or ice.
Highly Reliable Fuzzy-Logic-Assisted AODV Routing Algorithm for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Li Jiamin , Wang Mengling , Zhu Pengcheng , Wang Dongming , You Xiaohu
Published: September 2021

Due to the noncentered, self-organizing, and self-healing characteristics, mobile ad hoc networks (MANET) have been more and more widely used as an alternative access technology for regions having no fixed infrastructure. On-demand routing protocols (e.g., ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV)) are used to cope with the rapidly changing topology of MANET and reduce the network overhead. Taking delay, stability, and remaining energy of nodes into consideration, a fuzzy-logic-assisted AODV (FL-AODV) routing algorithm is proposed in this paper to further improve the reliability of the route in MANET. In the route discovery phase, the node with the highest reliability is selected as the relay node, and the route with the highest accumulated reliability is reserved for data transmission. Simulation results show that, compared with the traditional AODV protocol and the fuzzy logic routing algorithm (FLRA), the proposed routing protocol has higher reliability without increasing delay, i.e., better link connectivity and longer route life. The average routing reliability is about 18% higher than AODV while the average delay is the same low when the number of node greater than 70.
Programming Robots by Demonstration Using Augmented Reality
Authors: Soares Inês , Petry Marcelo , Moreira António Paulo
Published: September 2021

The world is living the fourth industrial revolution, marked by the increasing intelligence and automation of manufacturing systems. Nevertheless, there are types of tasks that are too complex or too expensive to be fully automated, it would be more efficient if the machines were able to work with the human, not only by sharing the same workspace but also as useful collaborators. A possible solution to that problem is on human–robot interaction systems, understanding the applications where they can be helpful to implement and what are the challenges they face. This work proposes the development of an industrial prototype of a human–machine interaction system through Augmented Reality, in which the objective is to enable an industrial operator without any programming experience to program a robot. The system itself is divided into two different parts: the tracking system, which records the operator’s hand movement, and the translator system, which writes the program to be sent to the robot that will execute the task. To demonstrate the concept, the user drew geometric figures, and the robot was able to replicate the operator’s path recorded.
Novel Application of Light-Emitting Diode Therapy in the Treatment of Eyebrow Loss in Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia
Authors: Gerkowicz Agnieszka , Bartosińska Joanna , Raczkiewicz Dorota , Kwaśny Mirosław , Krasowska Dorota
Published: September 2021

Background: Eyebrow loss in the course of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is becoming a growing issue among older females. It has a considerable negative impact on patients’ quality of life. Since there is no standardized treatment, photobiomodulation with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) could be an option. Here we assess, for the first time, the efficacy of LED therapy in the treatment of eyebrow loss in females with FFA. Methods: 16 female patients with FFA aged 60–74 years were enrolled in the study. LED therapy was performed once a week for a 10-week session. The LEDs’ effectiveness was assessed at the baseline, after 10 irradiations, and 6 months after the end of treatment during a follow-up visit. Results: The therapy was well tolerated. After 10 irradiations, the total eyebrow hair count increased significantly, as did the number of thick hairs and mid-thick hairs (p = 0.002, p = 0.002, and p = 0.044, respectively). During the follow-up visit, the total number of eyebrow hairs remained significantly higher than before treatment (p = 0.002). Conclusion: The study revealed that LED therapy seems to be a novel and promising therapeutic option for eyebrow loss in patients with FFA. It is safe and well tolerated and leads to clinically and cosmetically acceptable improvement.
EMG Based Analysis of Gait Symmetry in Healthy Children
Authors: Daunoraviciene Kristina , Ziziene Jurgita , Pauk Jolanta , Juskeniene Giedre , Raistenskis Juozas
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in muscular activity between the left and right lower legs during gait in healthy children throughout temporal parameters of EMG and symmetry index (SI). A total of 17 healthy children (age: 8.06 ± 1.92 years) participated in this study. Five muscles on both legs were examined via the Vicon 8-camera motion analysis system synchronized with a Trigno EMG Wireless system and a Bertec force plate; onset–offset intervals were analyzed. The highest occurrence frequency of the primary activation modality was found in the stance phase. In the swing phase, onset–offset showed only a few meaningful signs of side asymmetry. The knee flexors demonstrated significant differences between the sides (p < 0.05) in terms of onset–offset intervals: biceps femoris in stance, single support, and pre-swing phases, with SI values = −6.45%, −14.29%, and −17.14%, respectively; semitendinosus in single support phase, with SI = −12.90%; lateral gastrocnemius in swing phase, with SI = −13.33%; and medial gastrocnemius in stance and single support phases, with SI = −13.33% and −23.53%, respectively. The study outcomes supply information about intra-subject variability, which is very important in follow-up examinations and comparison with other target groups of children.
Ameliorating Effect of Combined Cinnamon and Ginger Oils against the Neurotoxicity of Nicotine Administration on the Prefrontal Cortex of Adult Albino Rats: Immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural Study
Authors: Taha Medhat , Ibrahim Mohie Mahmoud , Eldesoqui Mamdouh , Iesa Mohamed A. M. , Baokbah Tourki A. S. , Sonpol Hany M. A.
Published: September 2021

Background: Nicotine is the active alkaloid in cigarettes. It was reported that tobacco smoking has many hazards; one of these hazards is the effect on the cognitive function of the prefrontal cortex. The aim of our study is to investigate the antioxidant effects of ginger, cinnamon oils, and their combination on morphological changes in the prefrontal cortex that were induced by nicotine. Materials and methods: Fifty adult male albino rats were divided into five groups: group I (control group), group II (nicotine), group III (nicotine + cinnamon), group IV (nicotine + ginger), and group V (nicotine + cinnamon + ginger). The coronal sections from the anterior part of the rat brain at the site of prefrontal cortex were examined by light microscope for (H&E and immunohistochemical staining with TNF-α and GFAP), while the ultrastructure morphology was examined by transmission electron microscopy. Levels of the oxidative stress markers (MDA, GSH) in the rats’ brain tissue homogenate were biochemically assessed. Results: Compared to the control group, the rats that were treated with nicotine (group II) showed a significant oxidative stress in the form of marked elevation of MDA and decrease in GSH, apoptotic changes especially in the pyramidal cells in the form of neuronal cell degeneration and pyknosis, and an elevation in the inflammatory marker TNF-α and GFAP expressions. These changes were observed to a lesser degree in rat group (III) and group (IV), while there was a marked improvement achieved by the combined usage of cinnamon and ginger oils, together compared to the nicotine group. Conclusions: Ginger and cinnamon are powerful antioxidants which ameliorate the degenerative and oxidative effects produced by nicotine on a rat’s prefrontal cortex.
Mixture Density Conditional Generative Adversarial Network Models (MD-CGAN)
Authors: Zand Jaleh , Roberts Stephen
Published: September 2021

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have gained significant attention in recent years, with impressive applications highlighted in computer vision, in particular. Compared to such examples, however, there have been more limited applications of GANs to time series modeling, including forecasting. In this work, we present the Mixture Density Conditional Generative Adversarial Model (MD-CGAN), with a focus on time series forecasting. We show that our model is capable of estimating a probabilistic posterior distribution over forecasts and that, in comparison to a set of benchmark methods, the MD-CGAN model performs well, particularly in situations where noise is a significant component of the observed time series. Further, by using a Gaussian mixture model as the output distribution, MD-CGAN offers posterior predictions that are non-Gaussian.
The Revised Version of the Committing and Experiencing Cyber-Violence Scale and Its Relation to Psychosocial Functioning and Online Behavioral Problems
Authors: Šincek Daniela
Published: September 2021

Cyber-violence is the type of online risk behavior inclined to harm others. Development of new forms of cyber-violent behavior leads to the need to revise specific-item measures of cyber-violence periodically. The aim of this research was to explore the psychometric properties of the revised Committing and Experiencing Cyber-Violence Scale: its latent structure, reliability, and descriptive statistics of underlying dimensions, as well as the relation of some known correlates of cyber-violence, like indicators of psychosocial functioning and online behavioral problems, with cyber-violence. Online questionnaires (cyber-violence, depression, anxiety and stress, problematic Internet use, and problematic gaming) were filled out by 1725 adolescents from a convenient sample. Using exploratory factor analysis and hierarchical regression analysis, the questionnaire’s latent structure and contribution of relevant correlates for explaining cyber-violence variance was examined. Results: Exploratory factor analysis showed a five-factor solution with satisfactory reliability: shaming, information manipulation, hate speech, technology abuse, and information sharing. Participants commit and experience cyber-violence rarely, leading to a positive distribution of data in the factors. The Committing and Experiencing Cyber-violence subscales have a large positive correlation. Gender (male), grades, maternal education, depression, anxiety, stress, problematic Internet use, and problematic gaming are positive predictors of experiencing cyber-violence, whereas gender (male), grades, hours spent online on weekdays, depression, anxiety, stress, problematic Internet use, and problematic gaming are positive predictors of committing cyber-violence. Conclusions: Cyber-violence is connected with lower psychosocial functioning and more risky behavior online (problematic Internet use, problematic online gaming).
Parental Mental Health Problems and the Risk of Child Maltreatment: The Potential Role of Psychotherapy
Authors: Lopes Ana Isabel , Leal João , Sani Ana Isabel
Published: September 2021

Parental mental health is a risk factor for numerous issues affecting a child’s physical and psychological development, especially the perpetration of child maltreatment. This paper aims to contribute a theoretical review of the risks faced by some children living in families with parental mental health problems and argues that psychotherapy has an essential role in resolving emotional and interpersonal difficulties, based on the example of Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). This model has revealed benefits in interventions with several types of patients and is consequently a promising model for preventing the risk of aggressive behaviors. The programs addressing both parents and children have been proven to contribute to more informed and effective interventions.
The Paradoxes of the Pandemic and World Inequalities
Authors: Fatton Robert
Published: September 2021

While causing over 150,000 deaths in Africa, the spread of the COVID-19 virus did not produce the expected hecatomb. Clearly, the crisis is not over and with the emergence of new variants, the death toll could increase significantly. So far, however, COVID-19 has caused fewer African victims than elsewhere. Explaining this reality remains difficult and speculative. It appears, however, that a major reason might be the continent’s very young population and the fact that it enjoys relatively low levels of obesity. These two factors have played a significant role in the high COVID-19 mortality rate in the most affected industrialized countries. In addition, many African countries have learned how to deal with health emergencies from their past experiences with other major pandemics. A final and more controversial explanation of the low death rate in the region is that in their fight against malaria, Africans have used hydroxychloroquine—a medicine that has allegedly curbed the effects of COVID-19—on a mass scale and for generations. COVID-19 has also had crippling consequences for the continent’s already debilitated economies and raised poverty to alarming levels. The pandemic has also highlighted the persistence of narrow nationalistic interests, as well as the massive inequalities of wealth and power that structure the global system. This is evident in the very uneven worldwide distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines.
Towards a Framework for Promoting Communication during Project Definition
Authors: Chbaly Hafsa , Forgues Daniel , Ben Rajeb Samia
Published: September 2021

Project definition refers to the first three stages of a project life cycle, namely planning, programming, and preliminary design during which client needs are identified and translated into design solutions. An ill-defined hospital project definition may lead to hospital-acquired infections or patient mortality. The traditional management practices have been proved to be inadequate since architects usually do not communicate with users, and thus do not have detailed knowledge about how services are performed in the building. There is the need for more knowledge about the subject to improve and thus promote client value generation. This study first reviews factors that impact the communication between architects and clients during project definition based on the literature. The study then offers a framework based on these factors to help managers assess and improve communication between professionals and clients. The validity of the framework will then be empirically validated and revised based on findings of a longitudinal mega-hospital case study. The main objective of the current investigation is to improve the project definition practices of complex projects, and the assumption is that an effective communication provides more value to end users, as well as better project performance in terms of environmental and social sustainability.
The Business Model of Sustainable Competitive Advantage through Strategic Leadership Capabilities and Knowledge Management Processes to Overcome COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mahdi Omar Rabeea , Nassar Islam A.
Published: September 2021

In recent decades, particularly during the outbreak of COVID-19, businesses organizations have focused on knowledge management processes in order to attain a sustainable competitive advantage by creating human and social capital as strategic leadership capabilities. This paper aims to develop an integrated conceptual and theoretical framework that connects strategic leadership capabilities, knowledge management processes, and sustainable competitive advantage for the public and private organizations within the service industry. The model approach has been used to build a theoretical framework that predicts the relationships between the variables. To support the link between them, a systematic literature review of traditional and contemporary theoretical and empirical research studies is conducted. Through the combination of the related literature, propositions are established. This conceptual research is primarily comprised of a model and assertions concerning strategic leadership capabilities, knowledge management processes, and sustainable competitive advantage. The outcomes of this study reflect that strategic leadership capabilities can accomplish sustainable competitive advantage. They also have the greatest potential to impact sustainable competitive advantage via engaging the knowledge management processes. Particularly, there are significant implications of this study. Regarding the theoretical implication, it contributes to the resource-based view, knowledge-based view, and knowledge creation theory in supporting strategic leadership capabilities, knowledge management processes, and sustainable competitive advantage. To the practical implication, the study linked the concepts of research variables for public and private enterprises within the service industry. It can also enable strategic leaders and businesses owners to participate in real-time opportunities and determine threats for achieving a sustainable competitive advantage in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a preliminary study of the sustainable competitive advantage literature that includes the concept of strategic leadership as a knowledge management processes enabler for achieving a sustainable competitive advantage. Until now, there has not been any work like it in the literature, save in the qualitative style.
Towards Personal Sustainability: Renewal as an Antidote to Stress
Authors: Dhar Udayan , Liu Han , Boyatzis Richard E.
Published: September 2021

Research about stress management has traditionally focused on reducing possible stressors. However, more recent studies have highlighted the importance of renewal as an antidote to stress. The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical explanation of how renewal activities can invoke a psycho-physiological response that enhances personal sustainability. By drawing upon recent evidence from the fields of medicine, psychology, and management, we developed a conceptual understanding of how renewal activities are characterized by the movement of the individual from a negative to a positive psycho-physiological state. Such a transition happens over a tipping point, which people can enact in themselves and in others through emotional and social intelligence competencies. We illustrate this proposition with the specific case of ideal self-based coaching in the workplace that can enhance personal sustainability among both leaders and their team members.
Employee Satisfaction, Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance
Authors: Chang Chu-Hsuan , Lin Hsiou-Wei , Tsai Wen-Hsien , Wang Wei-Liang , Huang Cheng-Tsu
Published: September 2021

This study explores the extent to which employee turnover, a proxy variable to employee loyalty, helps mediate the relationship between Taiwanese firms’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance and financial outcome. The results show that a firm’s CSR performance is negatively correlated with employee turnover and turnover variability, and moreover, employee turnover is negatively correlated with a firm’s financial performance. The result is especially noteworthy for studies regarding Taiwanese companies since quite a few of them are original equipment manufacturers (hereafter also referred to as OEMs), of intermediate goods. For the sample firms, although the contribution of social responsibility appears to have insignificantly direct benefit on financial performance, we document that the extent to which CSR conducts influence on long-term financial outcomes may be moderated and mediated by employee enthusiasm.
Coalition-Committees as Network Interventions: Baseline Network Composition in Context of Childhood Obesity Prevention Interventions
Authors: Moore Travis R. , Pachucki Mark C. , Calancie Larissa , Korn Ariella R. , Hennessy Erin , Economos Christina D.
Published: September 2021

Community coalitions can address local issues with deep, historic, and contextual understanding that enables customized implementation of evidence-based strategies. The individuals within the coalition, their partnerships, and the social context is likely an important component of unraveling the challenges of implementation so interventions reach people in need. We focus on the relevance of baseline coalition-committee network (CCN), the networks of purposely formed subcommittees within community coalitions, structure as one of the moderating, theoretical links between community coalition social networks and intervention success. We explore the baseline composition and characteristics of five CCNs at the beginning of childhood obesity prevention interventions. Using a combination of social network, multidimensional scaling, and correspondence analyses, we examine the structure and heterogeneity of five CCNs, each consisting of a core group of stakeholders in the coalition and sometimes the broader community itself. Cross-sectional analyses are used to examine the composition of coalition-committees related to network density, centralization, hierarchy, and coalition demographics and characteristics. Results indicate that CCNs are patterned in their structure and characteristics, and we discuss whether adjustments to childhood obesity prevention interventions according to baseline structure and characteristics could be advantageous for intervention implementation. Together, these findings can inform future longitudinal investigations into CCN network structure.