bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Design of Auxiliary Generator for Enthalpy Reduction and Steady Speed Scroll Expander
Authors: Cai Jiongjiong , Ke Peng , Qu Xiao , Wang Zihui
Published: April 2022

To help the reverse Brayton cycle cool the refrigerant from 100 K to 50 K, an auxiliary generator, with a housed stator, is studied and optimized, and the influences of weights in the cost- function on the results are discussed. The power demand and adiabatic characteristics of reverse Brayton cycle expansion are analyzed, after which the optimization indexes, including output rated power, efficiency, the air gap between rotor and stator, loss, and volume, are decided. The initial model of the auxiliary generator is then constructed and the parameters to be optimized are also determined. Taking the low loss and sinusoidal back-EMF as the evaluation indexes, the single parameter optimizations of the auxiliary generator are carried out. The co-simulation of the generator and its corresponding driving circuit is investigated, with which the power generation efficiency is calculated. The global optimizations of the generator parameters are carried out using a genetic algorithm. A suitable analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model is proposed, with which a three-order judgment matrix is constructed, and the effects of different weight combinations, in the cost-function, on generator performance are compared. The experimental results show that the output back-EMF amplitude is 28.2 V, which is about 10% smaller than the simulation results; the output power of the auxiliary generator under load is about 3.7 W, meeting the rated demand.
Forecasting Daily Electricity Consumption in Thailand Using Regression, Artificial Neural Network, Support Vector Machine, and Hybrid Models
Authors: Pannakkong Warut , Harncharnchai Thanyaporn , Buddhakulsomsiri Jirachai
Published: April 2022

This article involves forecasting daily electricity consumption in Thailand. Electricity consumption data are provided by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, the leading power utility state enterprise under the Ministry of Energy. Five forecasting techniques, including multiple linear regression, artificial neural network (ANN), support vector machine, hybrid models, and ensemble models, are implemented. The article proposes a hyperparameter tuning technique, called sequential grid search, which is based on the widely used grid search, for ANN and hybrid models. Auxiliary variables and indicator variables that can improve the models’ forecasting performance are included. From the computational experiment, the hybrid model of a multiple regression model to forecast the expected daily consumption and ANNs from the sequential grid search to forecast the error term, along with additional indicator variables for some national holidays, provides the best mean absolution percentage error of 1.5664% on the test data set.
Displacement-Constrained Neural Network Control of Maglev Trains Based on a Multi-Mass-Point Model
Authors: Pan Hongliang , Wang Hao , Yu Chenglong , Zhao Junjie
Published: April 2022

To address the safety displacement-constrained control problem of maglev trains during operation, this study applied the radial-based neural network control displacement-constrained method to maglev trains based on the multi-mass-point model, and strictly limited the output of maglev train displacement and speed values to keep the overshoot within a given range. Firstly, the dynamics and kinematics of the maglev train were modeled from the perspective of multi-mass modeling. Secondly, the basic structure of the radial-based neural network was determined according to the displacement-limited constraints of the maglev train during operation, and the stability was proven by applying the control rate and output-limited priming according to the limitations. Finally, based on the displacement-limited operation control of maglev trains, the system of the radial-based neural network was simulated. The simulation results show that this method can make the displacement and velocity signals of the maglev train converge to the command signals, the target convergence position is reached rapidly, and the deviation can be kept within a stable range so that the displacement and velocity signals of the maglev train can be limited to the desired safety constraints, which can guarantee the stability and safety of the maglev transportation system in the operation process.
The Use of a Model-Based Controller for Dynamics Improvement of the Hydraulic Drive with Proportional Valve and Synchronous Motor
Authors: Rybarczyk Dominik , Milecki Andrzej
Published: April 2022

Electrohydraulic drives consist of several nonlinear elements, and the use and design of their control system is difficult. One of the most important parameters of the industrial drive is its settling time, which characterizes their dynamics. An interesting control method, which can be used for the improvement of electrohydraulic drive properties, is the model-following control (MFC). This technique enables to ensure the good control parameters of nonlinear systems in quite an easy way. In this paper, a modification consisting of changing the oil flow factor in the reference model is proposed. This improves both the dynamics of the electrohydraulic servo drive and the adaptation to the load forces, and thus energy consumption. The article describes the application of the MFC method to control an electrohydraulic servo drive in which a special proportional valve, with an permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), is used. To verify the effectiveness of this method, a theoretical description of the drive is proposed. The applied MFC control system is then modeled and investigated in simulations. Lastly, laboratory investigations are made and chosen results are presented and described in the paper. The results obtained in simulation are compared with results obtained in laboratory tests. The investigations show that the usage of MFC shortens the drive settling time and, in this way, improves its dynamics.
Utilization of Window System as Exhaust Air Heat Recovery Device and Its Energy Performance Evaluation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Guo Jue , Zhang Chong
Published: April 2022

The exhaust air glass unit (EAGU) can be treated as an integration of multilayer glazing unit and heat recovery device to utilize the exhaust air from conditioned space with a fresh air ventilation system to improve the thermal performance of window system. However, compared with the conventionally used mechanical ventilation with a heat recovery (MVHR) system, whether the use of EAGU is energy-efficient or not has not been estimated. In this paper, a numerical model, validated by experimental measurement, was used to calculate the hourly cooling and heating loads and annual energy demand of EAGU. This study compared the annual energy performance of EAGU and MVHR under various conditions, and further discusses the applicability of EAGU for different climates. The results indicate that the energy saving potential of EAGU ranges from 26.8% to 38.2% for different climate conditions. In the cooling season, the energy saving potential of EAGU performed much better than that of the commonly used MVHR. However, the EAGU was inferior to the MVHR in the heating season. Moreover, the EAGU is more suitable for application in warm climates, rather than cold climates. This study can provide some application guidelines about the selection of exhaust air heat recovery devices for maximizing the energy saving potential.
Extracellular Vesicles and Immunomodulation in Mosquitoes and Ticks
Authors: Leal-Galvan Brenda , Arocho Rosario Charluz , Oliva Chávez Adela
Published: April 2022

Extracellular vesicles are small blebs that are secreted by cells, which are lipid-rich and contain proteomic and genomic material (including small RNAs, mRNA, and plasmid DNA). These materials are delivered into recipient cells leading to a phenotypic change. Recent studies have demonstrated the secretion of extracellular vesicles by mosquito and tick cells, as well as tick salivary glands. Further, these studies suggest vesicles play a role in the transmission of vector-borne pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, and are involved in the manipulation of wound healing and immune responses. Both of these processes are key in the host response to hematophagous arthropods’ feeding. The role of mosquito and tick EVs in the modulation of immune responses and pathogen transmission is discussed in this entry.
Coexistence of Inverse and Direct Energy Cascades in Faraday Waves
Authors: Colombi Raffaele , Rohde Niclas , Schlüter Michael , von Kameke Alexandra
Published: April 2022

In nature, turbulent flows exist that are neither simply 2D nor 3D but are forced towards one state or the other by boundary conditions such as varying stratification. Here, we report the first evidence of the co-existence of an inverse and a direct energy cascade in an experimental flow driven by Faraday waves in water. We find that an inverse energy cascade at the fluid surface and a direct energy cascade in the 3D bulk flow underneath co-exist. We base our analysis on temporally and spatially well-resolved velocity fields obtained by particle image velocimetry measurements at planes parallel and perpendicular to the water surface. The findings also provide strong evidence that the intense turbulent 2D surface flow drives the 3D bulk flow through sporadic vertical jets as a source of momentum to the bulk liquid.
Stereolithography 3D Printer for Micromodel Fabrications with Comprehensive Accuracy Evaluation by Using Microtomography
Authors: Patmonoaji Anindityo , Mahardika Mohammmad Azis , Nasir Muhammad , She Yun , Wang Weicen , Muflikhun Muhammad Akhsin , Suekane Tetsuya
Published: April 2022

Micromodels are important for studying various pore-scale phenomena in hydrogeology. However, the fabrication of a custom micromodel involves complicated steps with cost-prohibitive equipment. The direct fabrication of micromodels with a 3D printer can accelerate the fabrication steps and reduce the cost. A stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer is one of the best options because it has sufficient printing performance for micromodel fabrication and is relatively inexpensive. However, it is not without drawbacks. In this report, we explored the capability of an SLA 3D printer for micromodel fabrication. Various parameters affecting the printing results, such as the effects of geometries, dimensions, printing axis configurations, printing thickness resolutions, and pattern thicknesses were investigated using microtomography for the first time. Eventually, the most optimal printing configuration was then also discussed. In the end, a complete micromodel was printed, assembled, and used for fluid displacement experiments. As a demonstration, viscous and capillary fingerings were successfully performed using this micromodel design.
Potential Resilience to Ocean Acidification of Benthic Foraminifers Living in Posidonia oceanica Meadows: The Case of the Shallow Venting Site of Panarea
Authors: Di Bella Letizia , Conte Aida Maria , Conti Alessia , Esposito Valentina , Gaglioti Martina , Ingrassia Michela , De Vittor Cinzia , Bigi Sabina
Published: April 2022

This research shows the results regarding the response to acidic condition of the sediment and Posidonia foraminiferal assemblages collected around the Panarea Island. The Aeolian Archipelago represents a natural laboratory and a much-promising study site for multidisciplinary marine research (carbon capture and storage, geochemistry of hydrothermal fluids and ocean acidification vs. benthic and pelagic organisms). The variability and the complexity of the interaction of the ecological factors characterizing extreme environments such as shallow hydrothermal vents did not allow us to carry out a real pattern of biota responses in situ, differently from those observed under controlled laboratory conditions. However, the study provides new insights into foraminiferal response to increasing ocean acidification (OA) in terms of biodiversity, faunal density, specific composition of the assemblages and morphological variations of the shells. The study highlights how the foraminiferal response to different pH conditions can change depending on different environmental conditions and microhabitats (sediments, Posidonia leaves and rhizomes). Indeed, mineral sediments were more impacted by acidification, whereas Posidonia microhabitats, thanks to their buffer effect, can offer “refugia” and more mitigated acidic environment. At species level, rosalinids and agglutinated group represent the most abundant taxa showing the most specific resilience and capability to face acidic conditions.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of LBD Transcription Factor Genes in Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Authors: Liang Jianxiang , Hou Zhimin , Liao Jingyi , Qin Yuan , Wang Lulu , Wang Xiaomei , Su Weiqiang , Cai Zhaoyan , Fang Yunying , Aslam Mohammad , Cheng Yan , Zheng Ping
Published: April 2022

The lateral organ boundary domain (LBD) gene is a plant-specific transcription factor that plays a crucial role in plant growth and development, including the development of lateral vegetative organs such as leaf and root development, as well as floral organs such as sepal, petal, and pollen development. Passion fruit is a tropical fruit with important agricultural, economic and ornamental value. However, there is no systematic research report available on the LBD gene family of passion fruit. In this study, a genome-wide analysis of passion fruit LBD genes identified 33 PeLBDs that were unevenly distributed across nine chromosomes. According to phylogenetic and gene structure analysis, PeLBDs were divided into two categories: Class I (27) and Class II (6). Homologous protein modeling results showed that the gene members of the two subfamilies were structurally and functionally similar. Cis-acting element and target gene prediction analysis suggested that PeLBDs might participate in various biological processes by regulating diverse target genes involved in growth and development, metabolism, hormones and stress response. Collinearity analysis indicated that the expansion of the PeLBD gene family likely took place mainly by segmental duplication, and some duplicated gene pairs such as PeLBD13/15 might show functional redundancy, while most duplicated gene pairs such as PeLBD8/12 showed different expression profiles indicating their functional diversification. After filtering low expressed genes, all Class Id PeLBDs were more highly expressed during pollen development. At the same, all Class Ic and many other PeLBDs were relatively highly expressed during ovule development, similar with their homologous LBD genes in Arabidopsis, indicating their potential regulatory roles in reproductive tissue development in passion fruit. PeLBDs that were highly expressed in floral tissues were also expressed at a higher level in tendrils with some differences, indicating the close relationships of tendrils to floral tissues. Some genes such as PeLBD23/25 might be simultaneously related to floral development and leaf early formation in passion fruit, while other PeLBDs showed a strong tissue-specific expression. For example, PeLBD17/27/29 were specifically expressed in floral tissues, while PeLBD11 were only highly expressed in fruit, suggesting their specific function in the development of certain tissues. A qRT-PCR was conducted to verify the expression levels of six PeLBDs in different tissues. Our analysis provides a basis for the functional analysis of LBD genes and new insights into their regulatory roles in floral and vegetative tissue development.
There Is No Influence of Egg Size on Sex Allocation in Arrhenotokous Lineages of Thrips tabaci Lindeman
Authors: Musa Saranda , Ladányi Márta , Fail József
Published: April 2022

In two haplodiploid species, sex allocation in young arrhenotokous females is mediated by egg size. We tested if sex allocation is mediated by egg size in two arrhenotokous lineages of the haplodiploid species complex of T. tabaci: L1 and T. We measured the size of eggs produced by very young mothers, 3–5-day-old mothers (just like in the case of Tetranychus urticae) and 7–10-day-old mothers (as in Pezothrips kellyanus). Moreover, we measured the size of eggs oviposited by mothers in their entire lifespan. We found that in T. tabaci, sex allocation is not mediated by egg size. Egg size and gender were independent of maternal age in the L1 lineage, whilst in the T lineage, the observed egg size difference between males and females was only present in the progeny of young females (7–10-day-old mothers). Furthermore, we found that male eggs produced by mated mothers were larger than those produced by virgin mothers in the L1 lineage, but in the T lineage, there were no differences in the size of male eggs produced by mated and virgin mothers. Our results indicate that these two subspecies have different resource allocation strategies in response to maternal mating status.
Impact of Renal Replacement Therapy on Mortality and Renal Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients with Acute Kidney Injury: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Korea between 2008 and 2015
Authors: Hwang Subin , Kang Danbee , Park Hyejeong , Kim Youngha , Guallar Eliseo , Jeon Junseok , Lee Jung-Eun , Huh Wooseong , Suh Gee-Young , Cho Juhee , Jang Hye-Ryoun
Published: April 2022

The outcomes depending on the type of renal replacement therapy (RRT) or pre-existing kidney disease in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) have not been fully elucidated. All adult intensive care unit patients with AKI in Korea from 2008 to 2015 were screened. A total of 124,182 patients, including 21,165 patients with pre-existing kidney disease, were divided into three groups: control (no RRT), dialysis, and continuous RRT (CRRT). In-hospital mortality and progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) were analyzed according to the presence of pre-existing kidney disease. The CRRT group had a higher risk of in-hospital mortality. Among the patients with pre-existing kidney disease, the dialysis group had a lower risk of in-hospital mortality compared to other groups. The risk of ESKD was higher in the dialysis and CRRT groups compared to the control group. In the CRRT group, the risk of ESKD was even higher in patients without pre-existing kidney disease. Although both dialysis and CRRT groups showed a higher incidence of ESKD, in-hospital mortality was lower in the dialysis group, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. Our study supports that RRT and pre-existing kidney disease may be important prognostic factors for overall and renal outcomes in patients with AKI.
Effects of Sex, Age and Height on Symphysis–Ischial Spine Distance Measured on a Pelvic CT
Authors: Sánchez García Daniel , Aguado del Hoyo Alejandra , Sánchez Pérez María , Larroca Santiago García-Tizón , Ruiz Martín Yolanda , Gordillo Gutiérrez Isabel , Arribas Coral Bravo , Alvarez-Mon Melchor , Ortega Miguel A. , De Leon-Luis Juan
Published: April 2022

Objective: To examine the influence of age, sex and height on the symphysis–ischial spine distance (SID) measured on pelvic Computed tomography (CT)images in subjects of reproductive age, and to determine the interobserver reproducibility. This measurement (SID) is of great importance because the use of intrapartum ultrasound is based on the assumption of a specific value (30 mm) of such a measurement. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study in which SID was measured in subjects aged 20 to 44 years who had been scheduled for pelvic CT at our centre from January 2018 to May 2021 for different reasons. Radiographic measurements of the pelvis were obtained through the multiplanar reconstruction of the CT image. The images obtained from all of the participants were independently assessed by three senior radiologists, and the SID measurements made by each one were blinded from those of the remaining observers. Correlations between the SID and patient age, height and sex were analyzed by univariate and multivariate linear regression. Results: The mean SID for 87 of the enrolled participants (45 women, 42 men) was 28.2 ± 6.25 mm. Among the observers, the mean difference in this distance was 1 to 2 mm, and was scarcely related to measurement size, with agreement being greater than 70%. The mean SID was significantly related to sex and height (SID = −24.9 − 6.51 × sex (0 or 1) + 0.34 × height (cm); p = 0.01; sex equals 1 for a man and 0 for a woman), such that it was a mean of 2.5 mm greater in women than men (29.50 mm vs. 26.99 mm). Conclusion: Measurements of SID on CT images show good interobserver reproducibility, and are related to sex and height.
Clinical and Biological Variables Influencing Outcome in Patients with Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Treated with Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 Antibodies: A Prospective Multicentre Study
Authors: Quaquarini Erica , Sottotetti Federico , Agustoni Francesco , Pozzi Emma , Malovini Alberto , Teragni Cristina Maria , Palumbo Raffaella , Saltalamacchia Giuseppe , Tagliaferri Barbara , Balletti Emanuela , Rinaldi Pietro , Canino Costanza , Pedrazzoli Paolo , Bernardo Antonio
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become the standard of treatment for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, there are still many uncertainties regarding the selection of the patient who could benefit more from this treatment. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic and predictive role of clinical and biological variables in unselected patients with advanced NSCLC candidates to receive ICIs. Methods: This is an observational and prospective study. The primary objective is the evaluation of the relationship between clinical and biological variables and the response to ICIs. Secondary objectives included: safety; assessment of the relationship between clinical and biological parameters/concomitant treatments and progression-free survival at 6 months and overall survival at 6 and 12 months. Nomograms to predict these outcomes have been generated. Results: A total of 166 patients were included. An association with response was found in the presence of the high immunohistochemical PD-L1 expression, squamous cell histotype, and early line of treatment, whereas a higher probability of progression was seen in the presence of anemia, high LDH values and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), pleural involvement, and thrombosis before treatment. The nomogram showed that anemia, PD-L1 expression, NLR, and LDH represented the most informative predictor as regards the three parameters of interest. Conclusions: In the era of personalized medicine, the results are useful for stratifying the patients and tailoring the treatments, considering both the histological findings and the clinical features of the patients.
Climate Change Perceptions and Adaptations among Smallholder Farmers in the Mountains of Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Amani Rodriguez Kakule , Riera Bernard , Imani Gerard , Batumike Rodrigue , Zafra-Calvo Noelia , Cuni-Sanchez Aida
Published: April 2022

The warming rates in many mountain areas are higher than the global average, negatively impacting crop systems. Little is known about the climatic changes which are already being observed in eastern Democratic Republic (DR) of Congo, due to the lack of long-term meteorological data. Local perceptions could help us to understand not only the climatic changes and impacts but also which adaptation strategies are already being used by local smallholder farmers. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 300 smallholder Bafuliru (n = 150) and Lega (n = 150) farmers living in the Itombwe Mountains. The respondents reported climatic changes and impacts, with the Bafuliru—living on the eastern drier slopes—reporting more changes and impacts. While the Bafuliru were implementing several adaptation strategies (e.g., increased irrigation and use of inputs, more soil conservation, more income diversification), the Lega were implementing very few, due to soft limits (access to inputs, markets, and information) and culture (less interest in farming, less capacity to organize into groups). The results highlight important differences in sociocultural contexts, even for one ‘remote’ mountain, calling for a more collaborative approach to adaptation planning and action.
Influence of Ethylene-1-Alkene Copolymers Microstructure on Thermo-Rheological Behavior of Model Blends for Enhanced Recycling
Authors: Galgali Girish , Kaliappan Senthil Kumar , Pandit Tej
Published: April 2022

Polyethylenes (PE) are the most commonly occurring ingredients for post-consumer recyclates (PCR). The structure–property relationships of different types of model PE-based blends are established using multiple thermo-rheological analyses. Although considered “simple”, the complex behavior of model PE-based blends is experimentally demonstrated for the first time for metallocene-catalyzed, linear, low-density polyethylenes (mLLDPE) with different microstructures that are commonly encountered in PCR. During non-isothermal crystallization, the microstructure of mLLDPE predominantly influences the interaction between mLLDPE and LDPE. Based on the mLLDPE microstructure, the molten LDPE phase acts either as a nucleating agent or as a crystallization rate promoting agent. Both rheological and thermal analyses show that higher activation energy is required for the reptation or movement of polymer chains in a highly branched microstructure with long chain branching (LCB) compared to a linear microstructure with short chain branching (SCB). The quasi-melt response, as measured by thermal analysis under non-isothermal conditions, is distinctly different and sensitive to both the SCB and LCB present in the LLDPE/LDPE blends.
Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Marine Strain Streptomyces sp. 891, an Excellent Producer of Chrysomycin A with Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Hu Xu , Tang Yuqi , Liu Yuanyuan , Pei Xinwei , Huang Ziwei , Song Fuhang , Zhang Huawei
Published: April 2022

Chrysomycin A is one of the most promising therapeutic candidates for treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-positive bacteria. By hybridizing next-step generation (Illumina) and third-generation (PacBio) sequencing technologies, a high-quality chromosome-level genome together with a plasmid was firstly assembled for chrysomycin A-producing marine strain 891. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences revealed that this strain unambiguously belonged to the genus Streptomyces, and its genomic features and functional genes were comprehensively analyzed and annotated. AntiSMASH analysis of this strain unveiled one key biosynthetic gene cluster, T2PKS, responsible for the biosynthesis of chrysomycin, the biosynthesis pathway of which was putatively proposed. These findings definitely shed light on further investigation for construction of a robust industrial strain with high-yield chrysomycin A production using genetic engineering techniques and combinatorial biology approaches.
The Influence of Periodontal Disease on Oral Health Quality of Life in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: A Cross-Sectional Observational Single-Center Study
Authors: Lazureanu Pompilia Camelia , Popescu Florina Georgeta , Stef Laura , Focsa Mircea , Vaida Monica Adriana , Mihaila Romeo
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of global death with a rising prevalence and a heavy economic burden. Periodontal disease has been associated with cardiovascular diseases—including incident coronary heart disease, peripheral artery disease and ischemic stroke. The study evaluates the quality of life of patients with cardiovascular and periodontal disease from the point of view of oral health by using the short version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire. Materials and Methods: This study included a total of 221 patients (61.86 ± 15.03 years old) selected from the Emergency Hospital of Sibiu, Romania. The participants self-completed the OHIP-14 questionnaire and they benefited from an oral health examination conducted to assess the presence and the severity of periodontal disease. Results: Out of the 147 patients with cardiovascular disease, 77.5% had periodontal disease (32.6% stage I, 29.2% stage II, and 15.6% stage III and IV). The presence of periodontal disease was associated with a lower oral-health-related quality of life (p < 0.001, ANOVA) and with a higher OHIP-14 score in patients with cardiovascular disease (18.67 ± 8.17, p < 0.001 ANOVA). No significant difference was observed concerning patient sex and background; however, age, body mass index and the lack of an appropriate oral hygiene routine had a strong association with the individual quality of life. The general OHIP-14 score was higher in patients with periodontal disease and associated cardiovascular disease, the presence of both cardiovascular and periodontal disease being associated with a lower quality of life. Conclusions: By increasing the patients’ awareness to oral healthcare measures, better outcomes and improved oral-health-related quality of life could be observed.
Apple Juice, Manure and Whey Concentration with Forward Osmosis Using Electrospun Supported Thin-Film Composite Membranes
Authors: Nijmeijer Kitty , Oymaci Pelin , Lubach Sjoukje , Borneman Zandrie
Published: April 2022

Forward osmosis (FO), using the osmotic pressure difference over a membrane to remove water, can treat highly foul streams and can reach high concentration factors. In this work, electrospun TFC membranes with a very porous open support (porosity: 82.3%; mean flow pore size: 2.9 µm), a dense PA-separating layer (thickness: 0.63 µm) covalently attached to the support and, at 0.29 g/L, having a very low specific reverse salt flux (4 to 12 times lower than commercial membranes) are developed, and their FO performance for the concentration of apple juice, manure and whey is evaluated. Apple juice is a low-fouling feed. Manure concentration fouls the membrane, but this results in only a small decrease in overall water flux. Whey concentration results in instantaneous, very severe fouling and flux decline (especially at high DS concentrations) due to protein salting-out effects in the boundary layer of the membrane, causing a high drag force resulting in lower water flux. For all streams, concentration factors of approximately two can be obtained, which is realistic for industrial applications.
Knowledge and Technology Used in Capacitive Deionization of Water
Authors: Salari Kamran , Zarafshan Payam , Khashehchi Morteza , Chegini Gholamreza , Etezadi Hamed , Karami Hamed , Szulżyk-Cieplak Joanna , Łagód Grzegorz
Published: April 2022

The demand for water and energy in today’s developing world is enormous and has become the key to the progress of societies. Many methods have been developed to desalinate water, but energy and environmental constraints have slowed or stopped the growth of many. Capacitive Deionization (CDI) is a very new method that uses porous carbon electrodes with significant potential for low energy desalination. This process is known as deionization by applying a very low voltage of 1.2 volts and removing charged ions and molecules. Using capacitive principles in this method, the absorption phenomenon is facilitated, which is known as capacitive deionization. In the capacitive deionization method, unlike other methods in which water is separated from salt, in this technology, salt, which is a smaller part of this compound, is separated from water and salt solution, which in turn causes less energy consumption. With the advancement of science and the introduction of new porous materials, the use of this method of deionization has increased greatly. Due to the limitations of other methods of desalination, this method has been very popular among researchers and the water desalination industry and needs more scientific research to become more commercial.
Stereoselectivity of Interaction of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug S-Ketoprofen with L/D-Tryptophan in Phospholipid Membranes
Authors: Mastova Anna V. , Selyutina Olga Yu. , Polyakov Nikolay E.
Published: April 2022

The mechanisms of stereoselectivity of the interaction of chiral drugs with active sites of enzymes and cell receptors attract significant attention. The first reason is the difference in therapeutic activity of the enantiomers of the common drugs. Another reason is the interest in the role of chiral inversion of amino acids involved in various peptides in the development of many diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, type II diabetes, and a number of other pathological conditions. In our study we use elementary chemical process—electron transfer (ET) to simulate individual stages of ligand–receptor and enzyme–substrate interactions. In particular, previous studies of photoinduced ET in chiral donor-acceptor dyads consisting of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (R/S)-ketoprofen and (L)-tryptophan show the stereo and spin selectivity of ET in diastereomers. The present study is devoted to the interaction of (S)-ketoprofen with L- and D-enantiomers of tryptophan in homogeneous aqueous solution and in phospholipid membranes. The study was done using the NMR technique and molecular modeling. These approaches confirm efficient penetration of ketoprofen into the lipid bilayer and binding with tryptophan molecule. The short-lived paramagnetic intermediates formed during the photoinduced ET from electron donor tryptophan to ketoprofen have been detected using the chemically induced dynamic nuclear polarization (CIDNP) technique. It was found that S-ketoprofen interacts stereoselectively with tryptophan enantiomers in the lipid membrane. The formation of the ketyl radical of ketoprofen under irradiation leads to the oxidation of membrane lipids and may be the cause of ketoprofen phototoxicity. However, in contrast to a homogeneous solution in phosphate buffer saline, where the amino acid tryptophan accelerates the photodecomposition of KP due to intramolecular hydrogen transfer, tryptophan in a lipid membrane significantly reduces the rate of photodegradation due to a reversible electron (or hydrogen) transfer reaction. The stereoselectivity in the rate of KP and lipids decomposition under UV irradiation of S-ketoprofen in the presence of tryptophan enantiomers in lipid bilayer has been detected.
Calvaria Critical Size Defects Regeneration Using Collagen Membranes to Assess the Osteopromotive Principle: An Animal Study
Authors: Bizelli Vinícius Ferreira , Ramos Edith Umasi , Veras Allice Santos Cruz , Teixeira Giovana Rampazzo , Faverani Leonardo P. , Bassi Ana Paula Farnezi
Published: April 2022

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a common practice in implantology, and it is necessary to use membranes in this process. The present study aimed to evaluate the osteopromotive principle of two porcine collagen membranes in critical-size defects at rats calvaria. Ninety-six Albinus Wistar rats were divided into BG (positive control), JS, CS, and CG (negative control) groups and were sacrificed at 7, 15, 30, and 60 days postoperatively. The samples were assessed by histological, histometric, immunohistochemical, and microtomographic analyses. More intense inflammatory profile was seen in the JS and CS groups (p < 0.05). At 60 days, the JS group showed a satisfactory osteopromotive behavior compared to BG (p = 0.193), while CS did not demonstrate the capacity to promote bone formation. At the immunohistochemical analysis, the CS showed mild labeling for osteocalcin (OC) and osteopontin (OP), the JS demonstrated mild to moderate for OC and OP and the BG demonstrated moderate to intense for OC and OP. The tridimensional analysis found the lowest average for the total volume of newly formed bone in the CS (84,901 mm2), compared to the BG (319,834 mm2) (p < 0.05). We conclude that the different thicknesses and treatment techniques of each membrane may interfere with its biological behavior.
Preparation of Non-Toxic Fluorescent Peptide-Coated Silica/PEG Nanoparticles from Peptide-Block Copolymer Conjugates
Authors: Santino Federica , Stavole Pasquale , He Tingting , Pieraccini Silvia , Paolillo Mayra , Prodi Luca , Rampazzo Enrico , Gentilucci Luca
Published: April 2022

Peptide-decorated nanosystems have demonstrated higher stability and improved cellular uptake as compared to bare NPs and appear highly promising in diagnostics and theranostics of cancer. Herein, we discuss the preparation and structural characterization of peptide-functionalized silica/PEG NPs, starting from peptide–block copolymers, prepared in turn by conjugation of the peptides to block copolymers before NP formation. This synthetic design allowed full control of density and composition of peptide surface coverage. Preliminary experiments support the low toxicity of the fluorescent peptide–NPs and their ability of cell internalization.
Adsorption Kinetics of Imidacloprid, Acetamiprid and Methomyl Pesticides in Aqueous Solution onto Eucalyptus Woodchip Derived Biochar
Authors: Srikhaow Assadawoot , Chaengsawang Wasitthi , Kiatsiriroat Tanongkiat , Kajitvichyanukul Puangrat , Smith Siwaporn M.
Published: April 2022

This work reports the application of a biochar (BC) derived from eucalyptus wood chips to remove pesticides (imidacloprid, acetamiprid and methomyl) from water. The pseudo-second order kinetic adsorption model is the best fit describing the adsorption of pesticides on BC. Furthermore, the Langmuir model correlated well with the adsorption isotherm data for acetamiprid and methomyl, while the Freundlich model was selected to explain the adsorption of imidacloprid on BC. The maximum adsorption capacities for methomyl, imidacloprid and acetamiprid on the BC material are 32.42, 14.75 and 4.87 mg g−1, respectively. The highest adsorption capacity of methomyl on the BC surface could be the result of multilayer adsorption suggested by the adsorption isotherm studies, with imidacloprid (or acetamiprid) monolayer being adsorbed on the BC surface. The structure, functional groups of pesticides, including their polarity, all played an important role contributing to the performance of biochar sorbent. Preferable interactions between the studied pesticides and the BC surface may include π-π interactions and hydrogen bonding. The steric aromatic entity in adsorbed imidacloprid and acetamiprid on the BC surface may hinder the possibility of other pesticide molecules approaching the available sorption sites on the surface.
Development of Neuropeptide Y and Cell-Penetrating Peptide MAP Adsorbed onto Lipid Nanoparticle Surface
Authors: Silva Sara , Marto Joana , Gonçalves Lídia M. , Fernandes Henrique S. , Sousa Sérgio F. , Almeida António J. , Vale Nuno
Published: April 2022

Functionalization of nanoparticles surfaces have been widely used to improve diagnostic and therapeutic biological outcome. Several methods can be applied to modify nanoparticle surface; however, in this article we focus toward a simple and less time-consuming method. We applied an adsorption method on already formulated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) to functionalize these nanoparticles with three distinct peptides sequences. We selected a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), a lysine modified model amphipathic peptide (Lys(N3)-MAP), CPP/drug complex, and the neuropeptide Y. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of several parameters such as peptide concentration, different types of NLC, different types of peptides, and incubation medium on the physicochemical proprieties of NLC and determine if adsorption occurs. The preliminary results from zeta potential analysis indicate some evidence that this method was successful in adsorbing three types of peptides onto NLC. Several non-covalent interactions appear to be involved in peptide adsorption with the possibility of three adsorption peptide hypothesis that may occur with NLC in solution. Moreover, and for the first time, in silico docking analysis demonstrated strong interaction between CPP MAP and NPY Y1 receptor with high score values when compared to standard antagonist and NPY.
Anodic Stripping Voltammetric Analysis of Trace Arsenic(III) on a Au-Stained Au Nanoparticles/Pyridine/Carboxylated Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes/Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Du Yun , Sun Chenglong , Shen Yuru , Liu Luyao , Chen Mingjian , Xie Qingji , Xiao Hongbo
Published: April 2022

A Au-stained Au nanoparticle (Aus)/pyridine (Py)/carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (C-MWCNTs)/glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was prepared for the sensitive analysis of As(III) by cast-coating of C-MWCNTs on a GCE, electroreduction of 4-cyanopyridine (cPy) to Py, adsorption of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and gold staining. The Py/C-MWCNTs/GCE can provide abundant active surface sites for the stable loading of AuNPs and then the AuNPs-initiated Au staining in HAuCl4 + NH2OH solution, giving a large surface area of Au on the Aus/Py/C-MWCNTs/GCE for the linear sweep anodic stripping voltammetry (LSASV) analysis of As(III). At a high potential-sweep rate of 5 V s−1, sharp two-step oxidation peaks of As(0) to As(III) and As(III) to As(V) were obtained to realize the sensitive dual-signal detection of As(III). Under optimal conditions, the ASLSV peak currents for oxidation of As(0) to As(III) and of As(III) to As(V) are linear with a concentration of As(III) from 0.01 to 8 μM with a sensitivity of 0.741 mA μM−1 and a limit of detection (LOD) of 3.3 nM (0.25 ppb) (S/N = 3), and from 0.01 to 8.0 μM with a sensitivity of 0.175 mA μM−1 and an LOD of 16.7 nM (1.20 ppb) (S/N = 3), respectively. Determination of As(III) in real water samples yielded satisfactory results.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and a De Novo Kcnq2 Gene Mutation: A Case Report
Authors: Siracusano Martina , Marcovecchio Claudia , Riccioni Assia , Dante Caterina , Mazzone Luigi
Published: April 2022

The KCNQ2 gene, encoding for the Kv7.2 subunits of the Kv7 voltage potassium channel, is involved in the modulation of neuronal excitability and plays a crucial role in brain morphogenesis and maturation during embryonic life. De novo heterozygous mutations in KCNQ2 genes are associated with early-onset epileptic encephalopathy and neurodevelopmental disorders including developmental delay and intellectual disability. However, little is known about the socio-communicative phenotype of children affected by the KCNQ2 mutation, and a detailed behavioral characterization focused on autistic symptoms has not yet been conducted. This case report describes the clinical behavioral phenotype of a 6-year-old boy carrying a de novo heterozygous KCNQ2 mutation, affected by early-onset seizures and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We performed a neuropsychiatric assessment of cognitive, adaptive, socio-communicative and autistic symptoms through the administration of standardized tools. The main contribution of this case report is to provide a detailed developmental and behavioral characterization focused on ASD symptoms in a child with [c.812 G > A; p. (Gly271Asp)]mutation in the KCNQ2 gene.
An Overview of Soil and Soilless Cultivation Techniques—Chances, Challenges and the Neglected Question of Sustainability
Authors: Fussy Andre , Papenbrock Jutta
Published: April 2022

Resources such as fertile soil and clean water are already limited in many parts of the world. Additionally, the conventional use of arable land is becoming increasingly difficult, which is further exacerbated by climate change. Soilless cultivation systems do not only offer the opportunity to save water and cultivate without soil but also the chance to open up urban areas such as residential rooftops for food production in close proximity to consumers. In this review, applications of soilless farming systems are identified and compared to conventional agriculture. Furthermore, aspects of economic viability, sustainability and current developments are investigated. An insight into the most important soilless farming systems—hydroponics, aquaponics and vertical farming—is provided. The systems are then differentiated from each other and, as far as possible, evaluated in terms of their environmental impact and compared with conventional cultivation methods. Comparing published data analyzing the yield of hydroponic cultivation systems in comparison to soil-based cultivation methods enables a basic overview of the profitability of both methods and, thus, lays the foundation for future research and practical applications. The most important inert substrates for hydroponic applications are presented, and their degree of sustainability is compared in order to emphasize environmental impacts and affect substrate selections of future projects. Based on an assessment of the most important soilless cultivation systems, the challenges and developments of current techniques are highlighted and discussed.
Application of Fungal Biomass for the Development of New Polylactic Acid-Based Biocomposites
Authors: Asadollahzadeh Mohammadtaghi , Mahboubi Amir , Taherzadeh Mohammad J. , Åkesson Dan , Lennartsson Patrik R.
Published: April 2022

Fungal biomass (FB), a by-product of the fermentation processes produced in large volumes, is a promising biomaterial that can be incorporated into poly(lactic acid) (PLA) to develop enhanced biocomposites that fully comply with the biobased circular economy concept. The PLA/FB composites, with the addition of triethyl citrate (TEC) as a biobased plasticizer, were fabricated by a microcompounder at 150 °C followed by injection molding. The effects of FB (10 and 20 wt %) and TEC (5, 10, and 15 wt %) contents on the mechanical, thermal and surface properties of the biocomposites were analyzed by several techniques. The PLA/FB/TEC composites showed a rough surface in their fracture section. A progressive decrease in tensile strength and Young’s modulus was observed with increasing FB and TEC, while elongation at break and impact strength started to increase. The neat PLA and biocomposite containing 10% FB and 15% TEC exhibited the lowest (3.84%) and highest (224%) elongation at break, respectively. For all blends containing FB, the glass transition, crystallization and melting temperatures were shifted toward lower values compared to the neat PLA. The incorporation of FB to PLA thus offers the possibility to overcome one of the main drawbacks of PLA, which is brittleness.
A Review of the Methods on Cobb Angle Measurements for Spinal Curvature
Authors: Jin Chen , Wang Shengru , Yang Guodong , Li En , Liang Zize
Published: April 2022

Scoliosis is a common disease of the spine and requires regular monitoring due to its progressive properties. A preferred indicator to assess scoliosis is by the Cobb angle, which is currently measured either manually by the relevant medical staff or semi-automatically, aided by a computer. These methods are not only labor-intensive but also vary in precision by the inter-observer and intra-observer. Therefore, a reliable and convenient method is urgently needed. With the development of computer vision and deep learning, it is possible to automatically calculate the Cobb angles by processing X-ray or CT/MR/US images. In this paper, the research progress of Cobb angle measurement in recent years is reviewed from the perspectives of computer vision and deep learning. By comparing the measurement effects of typical methods, their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed. Finally, the key issues and their development trends are also discussed.