bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nursing Activities Score at Discharge from the Intensive Care Unit Is Associated with Unplanned Readmission to the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Haruna Junpei , Masuda Yoshiki , Tatsumi Hiroomi , Sonoda Tomoko
Published: September 2022

This study evaluated the accuracy of predicting unplanned the intensive care unit (ICU) readmission using the Nursing Activities Score (NAS) at ICU discharge based on nursing workloads, and compared it to the accuracy of the prediction made using the Stability and Workload Index for Transfer (SWIFT) score. Patients admitted to the ICU of Sapporo Medical University Hospital between April 2014 and December 2017 were included, and unplanned ICU readmissions were retrospectively evaluated using the SWIFT score and the NAS. Patient characteristics, such as age, sex, the Charlson Comorbidity Index, and sequential organ failure assessment score at ICU admission, were used as covariates, and logistic regression analysis was performed to calculate the odds ratios for the SWIFT score and NAS. Among 599 patients, 58 (9.7%) were unexpectedly readmitted to the ICU. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of NAS (0.78) was higher than that of the SWIFT score (0.68), and cutoff values were 21 for the SWIFT and 53 for the NAS. Multivariate analysis showed that the NAS was an independent predictor of unplanned ICU readmission. The NAS was superior to the SWIFT in predicting unplanned ICU readmission. NAS may be an adjunctive tool to predict unplanned ICU readmission.
Low Serum BAFF Concentration Is Associated with Response to TNF Inhibitors in Seropositive Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hernández-Breijo Borja , Parodis Ioannis , Novella-Navarro Marta , Martínez-Feito Ana , Navarro-Compán Victoria , Díaz-Almirón Mariana , Pascual-Salcedo Dora , Balsa Alejandro , Plasencia-Rodríguez Chamaida
Published: September 2022

We investigated B-cell-activating factor (BAFF) in relation to response to treatment with TNF inhibitors (TNFis) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This was a longitudinal study including 158 patients with RA treated with TNFis and followed up for 6 months. Clinical response at 6 months of treatment was defined according to the EULAR criteria for good responders (GRs). BAFF concentration was measured in serum samples, collected at baseline and at 6 months. Associations with EULAR response were evaluated using univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. ROC analysis was performed to determine the optimal threshold of serum BAFF concentration associated with good EULAR response to treatment. After 6 months of TNFi treatment, 24% of patients were GRs. They had a lower BMI, lower baseline DAS28 and lower baseline serum BAFF concentration than non-responders. After 6 months of TNFi treatment, autoantibody-positive patients who attained GR had significantly lower serum BAFF concentrations compared with patients who did not. Serum BAFF < 968 pg/mL at 6 months represented the concentration likely to best discriminate between GR and non-GR at 6 months of TNFi treatment. Autoantibody-seropositive patients who had serum BAFF < 968 pg/mL at 6 months demonstrated a more than four-fold increased probability to be GRs compared with patients with higher BAFF concentrations. In conclusion, serum BAFF concentrations were associated with response to TNFis in seropositive RA patients, corroborating the importance of the B-cell compartment in RA.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness and the Risk of All-Cause, Cardiovascular and Cancer Mortality in Men with Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Sui Xuemei , Sarzynski Mark A. , Gribben Nicole , Zhang Jiajia , Lavie Carl J.
Published: September 2022

Background: Whether higher cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) confers protection against cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with manifest hypercholesterolemia is poorly understood. Methods: Participants were 8920 men aged 20–82 years with hypercholesterolemia but no history of CVD and/or cancer and who received a preventive examination at the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, TX, USA, during 1974–2001. CRF was quantified as maximal treadmill test duration and was grouped for analysis as low, moderate, or high based on the traditional Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study cutpoints. Using Cox regression analyses, we computed hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for risk of mortality based on CRF. Results: During an average of 17 years of follow-up, 329 CVD and 290 cancer deaths occurred. After control for baseline age, examination year, body mass index, total cholesterol, smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, hypertension, diabetes, and parental history of CVD, hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for CVD deaths across moderate and high categories of CRF (with low fit as referent) were: 0.66 (0.50–0.87) and 0.55 (0.39–0.79), respectively. There was an inverse association between CRF and CVD death among normal-weight (trend p < 0.0001), younger (<60 y, trend p = 0.01), and inactive men (trend p = 0.002). However, no significant association was found between CRF and cancer mortality. Conclusions: Among men with hypercholesterolemia, higher CRF was associated with a lower risk of dying from CVD independent of other clinical risk factors. Our findings underscored the importance of promoting CRF in the primary prevention of CVD in patients with hypercholesterolemia.
A Paradigm Shift in the Diagnosis of Aspiration Pneumonia in Older Adults
Authors: Yoshimatsu Yuki , Smithard David G.
Published: September 2022

In older adults, community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is often aspiration-related. However, as aspiration pneumonia (AP) lacks clear diagnostic criteria, the reported prevalence and clinical management vary greatly. We investigated what clinical factors appeared to influence the diagnosis of AP and non-AP in a clinical setting and reconsidered a more clinically relevant approach. Medical records of patients aged ≥75 years admitted with CAP were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 803 patients (134 APs and 669 non-APs) were included. The AP group had significantly higher rates of frailty, had higher SARC-F scores, resided in institutions, had neurologic conditions, previous pneumonia diagnoses, known dysphagia, and were more likely to present with vomiting or coughing on food. Nil by mouth orders, speech therapist referrals, and broad-spectrum antibiotics were significantly more common, while computed tomography scans and blood cultures were rarely performed; alternative diagnoses, such as cancer and pulmonary embolism, were detected significantly less. AP is diagnosed more commonly in frail patients, while aspiration is the underlying aetiology in most types of pneumonia. A presumptive diagnosis of AP may deny patients necessary investigation and management. We suggest a paradigm shift in the way we approach older patients with CAP; rather than trying to differentiate AP and non-AP, it would be more clinically relevant to recognise all pneumonia as just pneumonia, and assess their swallowing functions, causative organisms, and investigate alternative diagnoses or underlying causes of dysphagia. This will enable appropriate clinical management.
How Did We End Up Using a Quadruple Guided Therapy Combining At Least Two Antibiotics with a PPI to Eradicate Helicobacter pylori?
Authors: Pichon Maxime , Cremniter Julie , Burucoa Christophe
Published: September 2022

Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori, and even if the species is frequently susceptible to many antibiotics in vitro, only six of them (amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, tetracycline, levofloxacin, and rifabutin) and bismuth salts could be considered as effective in vivo to eliminate H pylori and have been used in recommended eradication treatments [...]
Cytomegalovirus and Glioblastoma: A Review of the Biological Associations and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Yang Tianrui , Liu Delin , Fang Shiyuan , Ma Wenbin , Wang Yu
Published: September 2022

Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive malignancy in the adult central nervous system. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and treatment of glioblastoma. We reviewed the epidemiology of CMV in gliomas, the mechanism of CMV-related carcinogenesis, and its therapeutic strategies, offering further clinical practice insights. To date, the CMV infection rate in glioblastoma is controversial, while mounting studies have suggested a high infection rate. The carcinogenesis mechanism of CMV has been investigated in relation to various aspects, including oncomodulation, oncogenic features, tumor microenvironment regulation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and overall immune system regulation. In clinical practice, the incidence of CMV-associated encephalopathy is high, and CMV-targeting treatment bears both anti-CMV and anti-tumor effects. As the major anti-CMV treatment, valganciclovir has demonstrated a promising survival benefit in both newly diagnosed and recurrent glioblastoma as an adjuvant therapy, regardless of surgery and the MGMT promoter methylation state. Immunotherapy, including DC vaccines and adoptive CMV-specific T cells, is also under investigation, and preliminary results have been promising. There are still questions regarding the significance of CMV infection and the carcinogenic mechanism of CMV. Meanwhile, studies have demonstrated the clinical benefits of anti-CMV therapy in glioblastoma. Therefore, anti-CMV therapies are worthy of further recognition and investigation.
Clinical Management of Migraine
Authors: Albanese Maria
Published: September 2022

Migraine is one of the most frequent neurological and vascular disorders, with an estimated global prevalence of 14 [...]
Optimization of Laboratory Diagnostics of Primary Biliary Cholangitis: When Solid-Phase Assays and Immunofluorescence Combine
Authors: Gaiani Federica , Minerba Roberta , Picanza Alessandra , Russo Annalisa , Melegari Alessandra , De Santis Elena , Trenti Tommaso , Belloni Lucia , Peveri Silvia , Aloe Rosalia , Ferrari Carlo , Laghi Luigi , de’Angelis Gian Luigi , Bonaguri Chiara
Published: September 2022

The laboratory diagnostics of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) have substantially improved, thanks to innovative analytical opportunities, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and multiple immunodot liver profile tests, based on recombinant or purified antigens. This study aimed to identify the best diagnostic test combination to optimize PBC diagnosis. Between January 2014 and March 2017, 164 PBC patients were recruited at the hospitals of Parma, Modena, Reggio-Emilia, and Piacenza. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) were assayed by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), ELISA, and immunodot assays (PBC Screen, MIT3, M2, gp210, and sp100). AMA-IIF resulted in 89.6% positive cases. Using multiple immunodot liver profiles, AMA-M2 sensitivity was 94.5%, while anti-gp210 and anti-sp100 antibodies were positive in 16.5% and 17.7% of patients, respectively. PBC screening yielded positive results in 94.5% of cases; MIT3, sp100, and gp210 were detected by individual ELISA test in 89.0%, 17.1%, and 18.9% of patients, respectively. The association of PBC screening with IIF-AMA improved the diagnostic sensitivity from 89.6% to 98.2% (p < 0.01). When multiple immunodot liver profile testing was integrated with AMA-IIF, the diagnostic sensitivity increased from 89.1% to 98.8% (p < 0.01). The combination of IIF with solid-phase methods significantly improved diagnostic efficacy in PBC patients.
Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: Genetics, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Viteri-Noël Adrian , González-García Andrés , Patier José Luis , Fabregate Martin , Bara-Ledesma Nuria , López-Rodríguez Mónica , Gómez del Olmo Vicente , Manzano Luis
Published: September 2022

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia is an inherited disease related to an alteration in angiogenesis, manifesting as cutaneous telangiectasias and epistaxis. As complications, it presents vascular malformations in organs such as the lung, liver, digestive tract, and brain. Currently, diagnosis can be made using the Curaçao criteria or by identifying the affected gene. In recent years, there has been an advance in the understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, which has allowed the use of new therapeutic strategies to improve the quality of life of patients. This article reviews some of the main and most current evidence on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, screening for complications, and therapeutic options, both pharmacological and surgical.
The Effects of Statin Treatment on Serum Ferritin Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jamialahmadi Tannaz , Abbasifard Mitra , Reiner Željko , Rizzo Manfredi , Eid Ali H. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: September 2022

Background: Statins are the most widely used drugs for decreasing elevated serum LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and thus for the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), but they have also some pleiotropic effects, including anti-inflammatory properties. Atherosclerosis is a low-grade inflammatory disease, and elevated ferritin is considered to be one of the markers of inflammation. Since the results of studies on the effects of statins on serum ferritin levels are conflicting, this meta-analysis was performed. Methods: A literature search was performed using major electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and ISI Web of Science) from inception up to 5 March 2022 to find studies evaluating the effect of different statins on serum ferritin levels. The effect size was determined using weighted mean differences (WMDs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: The meta-analysis of nine studies (1611 patients) analyzing the effects of statins on serum ferritin levels that were included showed a significant decrease in circulating ferritin levels caused by statins. The results did not suggest any significant association between the changes in concentrations of serum ferritin and the duration of treatment with statins. Conclusions: Statin therapy decreases the circulating concentrations of ferritin, which might be beneficial for the prevention and/or progression of ASCVD. This effect might be explained by the anti-inflammatory effects and maybe some other pleiotropic effects of statins and not by their lipid-lowering effects.
Prevalence and Long-Term Prognosis of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome after Sepsis: A Single-Center Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Inoue Shigeaki , Nakanishi Nobuto , Sugiyama Jun , Moriyama Naoki , Miyazaki Yusuke , Sugimoto Takashi , Fujinami Yoshihisa , Ono Yuko , Kotani Joji
Published: September 2022

Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) comprises physical, mental, and cognitive disorders following a severe illness. The impact of PICS on long-term prognosis has not been fully investigated. This study aimed to: (1) clarify the frequency and clinical characteristics of PICS in sepsis patients and (2) explore the relationship between PICS occurrence and 2-year survival. Patients with sepsis admitted to intensive care unit were enrolled. Data on patient background; clinical information since admission; physical, mental, and cognitive impairments at 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-sepsis onset; 2-year survival; and cause of death were obtained from electronic medical records and telephonic interviews with patients and their families. At 3 months, comparisons of variables were undertaken in the PICS group and the non-PICS group. Among the 77 participants, the in-hospital mortality rate was 11% and the 2-year mortality rate was 52%. The frequencies of PICS at 3, 6, and 12 months were 70%, 60%, and 35%, respectively. The 2-year survival was lower in the PICS group than in the non-PICS group (54% vs. 94%, p < 0.01). More than half of the survivors had PICS at 3 and 6 months after sepsis. Among survivors with sepsis, those who developed PICS after 3 months had a lower 2-year survival.
The Potential Impact of Heparanase Activity and Endothelial Damage in COVID-19 Disease
Authors: Zechendorf Elisabeth , Schröder Katharina , Stiehler Lara , Frank Nadine , Beckers Christian , Kraemer Sandra , Dreher Michael , Kersten Alexander , Thiemermann Christoph , Marx Gernot , Simon Tim-Philipp , Martin Lukas
Published: September 2022

SARS-CoV-2 was first detected in 2019 in Wuhan, China. It has been found to be the most pathogenic virus among coronaviruses and is associated with endothelial damage resulting in respiratory failure. Determine whether heparanase and heparan sulfate fragments, biomarkers of endothelial function, can assist in the risk stratification and clinical management of critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit. We investigated 53 critically ill patients with severe COVID-19 admitted between March and April 2020 to the University Hospital RWTH Aachen. Heparanase activity and serum levels of both heparanase and heparan sulfate were measured on day one (day of diagnosis) and day three in patients with COVID-19. The patients were classified into four groups according to the severity of ARDS. When compared to baseline data (day one), heparanase activity increased and the heparan sulfate serum levels decreased with increasing severity of ARDS. The heparanase activity significantly correlated with the lactate concentration on day one (r = 0.34, p = 0.024) and on day three (r = 0.43, p = 0.006). Heparanase activity and heparan sulfate levels correlate with COVID-19 disease severity and outcome. Both biomarkers might be helpful in predicting clinical course and outcomes in COVID-19 patients.
High Mortality in an Older Japanese Population with Low Forced Vital Capacity and Gender-Dependent Potential Impact of Muscle Strength: Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Miyatake Midori , Okazaki Tatsuma , Suzukamo Yoshimi , Matsuyama Sanae , Tsuji Ichiro , Izumi Shin-Ichi
Published: September 2022

Generally, weak muscle power is associated with high mortality. We aimed to evaluate the unknown association between % predicted value forced vital capacity (FVC% predicted) and mortality in asymptomatic older people, and the impact of muscle power on this association. We analyzed the Tsurugaya cohort that enrolled Japanese people aged ≥70 for 15 years with Cox proportional hazards model. Exposure variables were FVC% predicted and leg power. The outcome was all-cause mortality. The subjects were divided into quartiles by FVC% predicted or leg power, or into two groups by 80% for FVC% predicted or by the strongest 25% for leg power. Across 985 subjects, 262 died. The males with lower FVC% predicted exhibited higher mortality risks. The hazard ratio (HR) was 2.03 (95% CI 1.30–3.18) at the lowest relative to the highest groups. The addition of leg power reduced the HR to 1.78 (95% CI 1.12–2.80). In females, FVC% predicted under 80% was a risk factor and the HR was 1.67 (95% CI 1.05–2.64) without the effect of leg power. In FVC% predicted <80% males HRs were 2.44 (95% CI 1.48–4.02) in weak and 1.38 (95% CI 0.52–3.64) in strong leg power males, relative to ≥80% and strong leg power males. Low FVC% predicted was associated with high mortality with potential unfavorable effects of weak leg power in males.
Efficacy and Safety of Domperidone in Combination with Proton Pump Inhibitors in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Zamani Nur Fathurah , Sjahid Afifah Sjamun , Tuan Kamauzaman Tuan Hairulnizam , Lee Yeong Yeh , Islam Md Asiful
Published: September 2022

The aims of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treatment are symptom relief and healing of oesophagitis. Besides proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), prokinetic agents are also commonly prescribed to treat GERD. Domperidone, a well-known antiemetic, is an example of a prokinetic agent. It is a dopaminergic blocker that increases lower oesophagus sphincter pressure and activates gastric motility. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the benefits of domperidone in addition to PPI therapy for GERD. We searched for publications comparing PPI plus domperidone to PPI monotherapy in terms of symptom improvement in GERD (until 21 April 2022) on PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, WHO’s International Clinical Studies Registry Platform, and ClinicalTrials.gov without restricting date, language, or study design. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021242076). This meta-analysis incorporated 11 studies with a total of 841 participants (419 in the PPI plus domperidone group and 422 in the PPI monotherapy group). The combination of a PPI and domperidone resulted in a significant reduction in global GERD symptoms. Adverse events associated with PPI plus domperidone treatment were similar to those associated with PPI monotherapy. In conclusion, the combination of domperidone and a PPI is generally safe and effective in treating GERD as compared with that of PPI alone.
Biobased Polymer Composites: A Review
Authors: Pokharel Anamol , Falua Kehinde James , Babaei-Ghazvini Amin , Acharya Bishnu
Published: September 2022

Global environmental concerns, as well as the rapid depletion of non-renewable fossil fuel-based resources, have prompted research into the development of sustainable, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable materials for use in a variety of high-end applications. To mitigate the environmental setbacks caused by nonbiodegradable materials, the development of biocomposites with improved mechanical performance is gradually gaining momentum. Natural fibers such as hemp, flax, and sisal have been well incorporated into biocomposite development. Nonetheless, the impact of functional moieties in their life cycle cannot be underestimated. In this review paper, a detailed discussion of the characteristics and components of biocomposites is presented. The treatment of composite materials (alkali and acetylation), as well as several manufacturing processes (hand layup, 3D printing, extrusion, etc.) and the applications of biocomposites, which are not limited to the aerospace industry, packaging, biomedicine, etc., are presented. Biocomposites with excellent durability, performance, serviceability, and reliability must be produced to expand their applications.
Effect of Thermo-Physical Properties of the Tool Materials on the Electro-Discharge Machining Performance of Ti-6Al-4V and SS316 Work Piece Materials
Authors: Sethy Sunita , Behera Rajesh Kumar , Davim Jõao Paulo , Rana Jaydev
Published: September 2022

Electro-discharge machining (EDM) is a useful non-conventional machining operation frequently applied to make different complex geometries in any conducting material. The objectives of the present paper are to study the effect of a variation of thermo-physical properties (TPP) of three different tool materials on EDM performances. The different performances compared in this paper are: material removal rate (MRR), tool-wear rate (TWR), surface roughness (SR), radial overcut (ROC), surface-crack density (SCD) and surface hardness. Two of the most widely used work piece materials, such as corrosion-resistant austenitic stainless steel (SS316) and high strength corrosion-resistance titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V), are machined with the help of three different tools by varying input current and maintaining constant pulse-on time, pulse-off time and flushing pressure. Microstructural studies of the tool tip surface after machining have also been carried out. It is found that among these three tool materials, the copper tool showed the best machining performance with respect to material removal rate, radial overcut, surface finish and surface-crack density. This work will help industry personnel to choose a suitable tool for a specific work piece material.
Pesticide Pollution: Detrimental Outcomes and Possible Mechanisms of Fish Exposure to Common Organophosphates and Triazines
Authors: Khatib Ihab , Rychter Piotr , Falfushynska Halina
Published: September 2022

Pesticides are well known for their high levels of persistence and ubiquity in the environment, and because of their capacity to bioaccumulate and disrupt the food chain, they pose a risk to animals and humans. With a focus on organophosphate and triazine pesticides, the present review aims to describe the current state of knowledge regarding spatial distribution, bioaccumulation, and mode of action of frequently used pesticides. We discuss the processes by which pesticides and their active residues are accumulated and bioconcentrated in fish, as well as the toxic mechanisms involved, including biological redox activity, immunotoxicity, neuroendocrine disorders, and cytotoxicity, which is manifested in oxidative stress, lysosomal and mitochondrial damage, inflammation, and apoptosis/autophagy. We also explore potential research strategies to close the gaps in our understanding of the toxicity and environmental risk assessment of organophosphate and triazine pesticides.
Measuring the Spatial Conflict of Resource-Based Cities and Its Coupling Coordination Relationship with Land Use
Authors: Zheng Yang , Cheng Linlin , Wang Yifang
Published: September 2022

Scientifically diagnosing the spatial conflict of resource-based cities and clarifying the coupling coordination relationship between the intensity of spatial conflict and the dynamic degree of land use is of great significance for the transformation of urban areas and the rational use of regional resources. Based on the characteristics of a resource-based city in Xintai, the study constructed a spatial conflict measurement model from the dimensions of spatial pressure, spatial exposure, and spatial risk from the perspective of ecosystem service value. We then used the coupling coordination model to explore the relationship between change in the spatial conflict level and the dynamic degree of land use. The results showed that from 2009 to 2020, the spatial conflict index in Xintai remained stable, with a change of only 0.0018, and the changing trend of different conflict levels was different; the spatial pattern of conflicts was distributed in circles, and the conflict levels gradually weakened from the center to the surrounding areas. From 2009 to 2020, the average dynamic degree of land use in Xintai was 23.14%, with significant differences in spatial layout. The land use characteristics were mainly arable land to woodland, land reclamation, land restoration, expansion of construction land, and afforestation. According to the analysis of the degree of coupling coordination, the coupling coordination relationships between different spatial conflict changes and the dynamic degree of land use are significantly different. The weakened area is dominated by coordination relationships, with 774 units, accounting for 43.75%. According to the analysis of land use type changes and behavior-dominant factors, land use adjustment in Xintai mostly served the goals of ecological protection and economic development, and had a positive impact on the governance of spatial conflicts, but land use patterns in some areas still need to be optimally adjusted. The research is expected to provide a scientific basis for the rational use of regional land, the governance of spatial conflicts, and optimization of the spatial structure.
Spatiotemporal Study of Park Sentiments at Metropolitan Scale Using Multiple Social Media Data
Authors: Liang Huilin , Yan Qi , Yan Yujia , Zhang Lang , Zhang Qingping
Published: September 2022

Creating wonderful emotional experiences is the critical social function and cultural service of urban parks. Park sentiment patterns in rapidly urbanizing metropolitan areas need to be understood and interpreted thoroughly. This research aims to systematically study park sentiment patterns in metropolitan areas. By focusing on parks in Shanghai city and using the local mainstream social media data (SMD) of Dazhong Dianping, Ctrip, and Weibo, we created a series of score-related indicators to estimate park sentiment. We then applied statistical analyses to systematically interpret sentiment patterns in the spatial, temporal, and spatiotemporal domains, explored their related factors, and compared the performance of different SMD sources. The results proved that Shanghai parks generally bring positive emotions to visitors but showed uneven sentiment patterns citywide. Park sentiment distributions differed from various SMD sources, but the SMD sets of Dazhong Dianping and Ctrip showed significant correlations. For these two SMD sets, visitors have greater and more stable happiness in parks on a workday than on a non-workday and in spring than in other seasons. Parks with higher positive sentiments are scattered citywide, whereas those with lower emotions are clustered in the downtown area. For Weibo, more positive emotions occurred on non-workdays or in autumn, and the lower mood clustering did not exist. Moreover, the quality-related internal factors of the park itself, rather than external factors such as location and conditions, were identified to influence park sentiment. The innovations of park sentiment methods in this study included using multiple SMD sets, creating more accurate sentiment indexes, and applying statistics in temporal, spatial, and spatiotemporal domains. These enhanced sentiment analyses for urban parks to obtain more systematic, comprehensive, and thorough results. The defects and improvements for urban park construction were explored by interpreting park sentiment patterns and possible causes and effects. This motivates better park management and urban development, and enlightens urban planners, landscape designers, and policymakers.
Mixed Compounds: Where Morphology Interfaces with Syntax
Authors: Cocchi Gloria , Pierantozzi Cristina
Published: September 2022

In this work, we investigate a special type of CS below word level, which is observed in mixed compound words. In particular, we discuss mixed Italian–German compounds; this combination is particularly interesting since, in the two languages, the process of compounding follows different rules for what concerns the position of the head, as well as gender and number inflection. An Acceptability Judgment Task was administered to some bilingual speakers, who assessed the acceptability of mixed compounds inserted in both German and Italian clauses. Our conclusion is that it is possible to have mixed compounds, though this option is severely constrained, especially because of the different word order parameters exhibited by the two languages.
Performance of Cement Paste with Denitrified Fly Ash Containing NH4HSO4
Authors: Wang Yuan , Wang Zhi , Qin Hongyi , Jiang Linbo , Niu Jinghang , Liu Zhenhua
Published: September 2022

The denitrification process was completed in coal-fired power plants, resulting in the fly ash containing NH4HSO4. When this kind of fly ash with ammonia was applied to cement and concrete, there could be phenomena such as a retarded setting time, decreased compressive strength, and volume expansion. This paper mainly investigated the influence of fly ash containing NH4HSO4 on the properties of fly ash cement paste, and pastes with NaHSO4 were set as the control samples. The research on Na+ in cement hydration was studied. The influence of NH4HSO4 content in fly ash on the properties of fly ash cement paste was also investigated. It was found that NH4+ could greatly affect the properties of fly ash cement paste, such as significantly reducing the fluidity, prolonging the setting time, decreasing the compressive strength, increasing the drying shrinkage, decreasing the total heat released during the hydration, and affecting the content of calcium hydroxide hydrate. Increasing the ammonia content of the denitrified fly ash would reduce fluidity, retard its setting time, increase the porosity of the cement stone, and increase the number of pores with large sizes in the fly ash cement paste. The increase of porosity and pores with large sizes in cement decreases the compressive strength and increases the drying shrinkage of the fly ash cement paste.
Pullulan Oxidation in the Presence of Hydrogen Peroxide and N-Hydroxyphthalimide
Authors: Biliuta Gabriela , Baron Raluca Ioana , Coseri Sergiu
Published: September 2022

The C-6 in the maltotriose unit of pullulan was oxidized in an alkaline medium (pH = 10), utilizing a green method that included hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as an oxidant and N-hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) as a catalyst for various reaction times. The structure of the resulting oxidized pullulans (PO) was carefully characterized by titration, intrinsic viscosity, FTIR, 13C-NMR, and zeta potential. The content of carboxyl groups in PO was dependent on reaction time and varied accordingly. Furthermore, a fast reaction rate was found in the first 2–3 h of the reaction, followed by a decreased rate in the subsequent hours. FTIR and 13C-NMR proved that the selective oxidation of the primary alcohol groups of pullulan was achieved. The oxidation also caused the glycoside linkages in the pullulan chain to break, and the viscosity of the pullulan itself went down.
The Effect of a Chemical Foaming Agent and the Isocyanate Index on the Properties of Open-Cell Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Kamińska Klaudia , Barczewski Mateusz , Kurańska Maria , Malewska Elżbieta , Polaczek Krzysztof , Prociak Aleksander
Published: September 2022

This article presents an ecological approach based on climate neutrality to the synthesis of open-cell polyurethane foams with modified used cooking rapeseed oils. Water was used as a chemical blowing agent in the amount of 20–28 wt.% in relation to the weight of the bio-polyol. The influence of water on the physical and mechanical properties of the synthesized foams was investigated. The resultant porous materials were tested for the content of closed cells, cell structure, apparent density, thermal conductivity, compressive strength, and dimensional stability. It was found that the apparent density decreased in the range of 11–13 kg/m3 when the amount of the foaming agent was increased. In the next step, a foam with a water content of 22% was selected as having the most favorable physico–mechanical properties among all the foams with various water contents. The isocyanate index of the selected foam was then changed from 0.6 to 1.1 and it was observed that the compressive strength increased by an average of 10 kPa. The thermal conductivity coefficients of the final materials with different water contents and isocyanate indices were comparable and in the range of 40–43 mW/m·K.
Studies on the Impact of the Photoinitiator Amount Used during the PVP-Based Hydrogels’ Synthesis on Their Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Kędzierska Magdalena , Bańkosz Magdalena , Potemski Piotr
Published: September 2022

In recent times, a great interest is directed to developing biomaterials incorporated with various therapeutical substances which may enhance them with new properties and thus increase their application potential. In this work, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-based hydrogels modified with Aloe vera juice and vitamin C and differing in the amount of the photoinitiator used during their synthesis were developed. Analysis of hydrogels included characterization of their chemical structure via FT-IR spectroscopy, sorption properties, wettability, surface morphology, behavior in simulated physiological liquids and mechanical properties. Finally, hydrogels’ cytotoxicity towards L929 murine fibroblasts using MTT reduction assay was additionally verified. It was demonstrated that as the amount of the photoinitiator used during the synthesis of hydrogels increased, the smoother their surface and the higher their hydrophilicity. Next, the greater the amount of the photoinitiator, the lower is the percentage elongation of the hydrogel and the greater the hardness. In turn, the swelling ability of hydrogels depended strongly on the type of the absorbed liquid—swelling ratios of samples in distilled water were 24% higher than in SBF, 18% higher than in Ringer liquid, and 32% higher than in hemoglobin wherein the amount of the photoinitiator did not affect this property. Additionally, hydrogels were stable and did not degrade in simulated physiological liquids. The only changes in pH of the incubation media were probably caused by the active substances release from hydrogels which was also confirmed via a lesser intensity of the absorption band on FT-IR spectra corresponding to the functional group occurring in compounds included in Aloe vera juice. Importantly, the viability of fibroblasts incubated with developed materials was at least 86%. Thus the hydrogels, due to their properties, seem to show application potential to be used for biomedical purposes, e.g., as innovative dressing materials.
Improved Fluorescence and Gain Characteristics of Er-Doped Optical Fiber with PbS Nanomaterials Co-Doping
Authors: Pan Xiangping , Dong Yanhua , Wen Jianxiang , Shang Yana , Zhang Xiaobei , Huang Yi , Pang Fufei , Wang Tingyun
Published: September 2022

Er-doped optical fiber (EDF) with ultra-broad gain bandwidth is urgently needed given the rapid advancement of optical communication. However, the weak crystal field of the host silica glass severely restricts the bandwidth of traditional EDF at 1.5 μm. In this study, we theoretically explored the introduction of PbS nanomaterials in the silica network assisted with the non-bridging oxygen. This can significantly increase the crystal field strength of Er3+ ions in the local structure, leading to their energy level splitting and expanding the fluorescence bandwidth. Additionally, the PbS/Er co-doped optical fiber (PEDF) with improved fluorescence and gain characteristics was fabricated using modified chemical vapor deposition combined with the atomic layer deposition technique. The presence of PbS nanomaterials in the fiber core region, which had an average size of 4 nm, causes the 4I13/2 energy level of Er3+ ions to divide, increasing the fluorescence bandwidth from 32 to 39 nm. Notably, the gain bandwidth of PEDF greater than 20 dB increased by approximately 12 nm compared to that of EDF. The obtained PEDF would play an important role in the optical fiber amplifier and laser applications.
Effect of Rapid Heating and Cooling Conditions on Microstructure Formation in Powder Bed Fusion of Al-Si Hypoeutectic Alloy: A Phase-Field Study
Authors: Okugawa Masayuki , Furushiro Yuya , Koizumi Yuichiro
Published: September 2022

Al alloy parts fabricated by powder bed fusion (PBF) have attracted much attention because of the degrees of freedom in both shapes and mechanical properties. We previously reported that the Si regions in Al-Si alloy that remain after the rapid remelting process in PBF act as intrinsic heterogeneous nucleation sites during the subsequent resolidification. This suggests that the Si particles are crucial for a novel grain refinement strategy. To provide guidelines for grain refinement, the effects of solidification, remelting, and resolidification conditions on microstructures were investigated by multiphase-field simulation. We revealed that the resolidification microstructure is determined by the size and number of Si regions in the initial solidification microstructures and by the threshold size for the nucleation site, depending on the remelting and resolidification conditions. Furthermore, the most refined microstructure with the average grain size of 4.8 µm is predicted to be formed under conditions with a large temperature gradient of Gsol = 106 K/m in the initial solidification, a high heating rate of HR = 105 K/s in the remelting process, and a fast solidification rate of Rresol = 10−1 m/s in the resolidification process. Each of these conditions is necessary to be considered to control the microstructures of Al-Si alloys fabricated via PBF.
Surface Modification-Dominated Space-Charge Behaviors of LDPE Films: A Role of Charge Injection Barriers
Authors: Zhu Yuanwei , Chen Haopeng , Chen Yu , Qu Guanghao , Lu Guanghao , Min Daomin , Nie Yongjie , Li Shengtao
Published: September 2022

Gradually increasing power transmission voltage requires an improved high-voltage capability of polymeric insulating materials. Surface modification emerges as an easily accessible approach in enhancing breakdown and flashover performances due to the widely acknowledged modification of space-charge behaviors. However, as oxidation and fluorination essentially react within a limited depth of 2 μm underneath polymer surfaces, the nature of such bulk space-charge modulation remains a controversial issue, and further investigation is needed to realize enhancement of insulating performance. In this work, the surface oxidation-dependent space-charge accumulation in LDPE film was found to be dominated by an electrode/polymer interfacial barrier, but not by the generation of bulk charge traps. Through quantitative investigation of space-charge distributions along with induced electric field distortion, the functions of surface oxidation on the interfacial barrier of a typical dielectric polymer, LDPE, is discussed and linked to space-charge behaviors. As the mechanism of surface modification on space-charge behaviors is herein proposed, space-charge accumulation can be effectively modified by selecting an appropriate surface modification method, which consequentially benefits breakdown and flashover performances of polymeric insulating films for high-voltage applications.
Evaluation of CNTs and SiC Whiskers Effect on the Rheology and Mechanical Performance of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymers
Authors: Taborda-Barraza Madeleing , Padilha Francine , Silvestro Laura , Azevedo Afonso Rangel Garcez de , Gleize Philippe Jean Paul
Published: September 2022

Despite geopolymers having emerged as a more sustainable alternative to Portland cement, their rheological properties still need to be thoroughly investigated, aiming at the material’s applicability. Additionally, studies that evaluated the fresh state of geopolymer composites with nanomaterials are scarce. Thus, two metakaolin-based geopolymer systems were reinforced with nanomaterials with a similar geometry: carbon nanotubes (CNT) and silicon carbide whiskers (SCW). The nanomaterials incorporation was assessed by rotational rheometry (conducted up to 110 min), isothermal calorimetry, compressive strength after 7 and 28 days, and the microstructure was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). CNT and SCW incorporation (0.20 wt.%) did not significantly affect the yield stress and viscosity of the R2-group (based on metakaolin type 2), while increasing the rheological parameters up to 56.0% for the R1-group (based on metakaolin type 1). Both additions modified the reaction kinetics. Increments of up to 40.7% were observed in the compressive strength of geopolymer pastes with the incorporation of a SCW content of 0.2 wt.%. XRD and FTIR results suggest similar structural modifications between precursors. Nevertheless, R2 showed substantial transformations while the R1 group exhibited anhydrous material that can react over time. Overall, incorporating CNT and SCW contributed to higher mechanical increments on systems with average mechanical strength (R1) compared to systems with higher potential mechanical performance (R2).
Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Microbial Mineralization in Saturated Sand Centrifuge Shaking Table Test
Authors: Han Zhiguang , Xiao Jianzhang , Wei Yingqi
Published: September 2022

Calcium carbonate induced by microorganisms can quickly fill and cement sand particles, thereby effectively reducing the potential for the liquefaction of sand. This process could represent a new green approach to the liquefaction treatment of saturated sand and has good prospects for application. However, owing to the diversity of microbial activities and the heterogenous spatiotemporal distribution of bacterial nutrient seepage in sandy soil foundations, the resultant complex distribution of calcium carbonate deposition in a sandy soil foundation can lead to differences in solidification strength and improvement effect. To understand the influence of earthquake action on the liquefaction resistance of saturated sand treated by microorganisms, and to evaluate the effect of microbial technology on sand liquefaction prevention under dynamic load, this study simulated the dynamic stress conditions of saturated sand under shear waves, using the world′s first centrifuge shaking table (R500B), which realizes horizontal and vertical two-way vibration. On the basis of spatial heterogeneity of microbial mineralization after centrifuge shaking table tests, the effect of microbial strengthening on liquefied sand was analyzed, and the spatial distribution of calcium carbonate mineralization was examined. The results showed that the distribution of microorganisms in the solidified soil exhibited obvious spatial heterogeneity with a significant edge effect. Although microbial mineralization effectively improved the liquefaction resistance of saturated sand, a sudden change in the process of calcium carbonate deposition altered the cementation of the sand with depth. Moreover, the curing strength had obvious complexity and uncertainty that directly affected the shear stiffness of the soil under dynamic load, and this constitutes one of the reasons for the degradation of shear stiffness of sand during liquefaction. The derived conclusions could be used as a reference for engineering applications of microbial treatment of a liquefiable sandy soil foundation.
Experimental Study on Mechanical Properties and Failure Laws of Granite with Artificial Flaws under Coupled Static and Dynamic Loads
Authors: Li Guang , Liu Shuaiqi , Lu Rong , Ma Fengshan , Guo Jie
Published: September 2022

Rock is the main construction material of rock engineering, such as the engineering of mines and tunnels; in addition, its mechanical properties and failure laws are of great significance to the stability evaluation of rock engineering, especially under the conditions of coupled static–static stresses. In this study, granite specimens were manufactured with artificial flaws. Coupled static and dynamic loads tests were carried out with a modified split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus; and six typical levels of axial pre-stresses and three crack inclination angles were designed. Three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) was also applied to record and analyze the fracturing process and damage evolution of the specimens. The test results show that there was no compaction stage in the stress–strain curve under combined dynamic and static loading. The dynamic strength of the specimens increased first and then decreased with the increase in the static pressure; moreover, the specimens reached the maximum dynamic strength when the static pressure was 10% UCS. The dynamic strength decreased first and then increased with the increase in the crack inclination angle; and the lowest strength appeared when the inclination angle was 45°. The change in axial compression had a significant influence on the failure mode, and the failure mode gradually transformed from shear–tensile failure to shear failure with the increase in the pre-stress. The tensile strain was usually generated at the end of the fractures or near the rock bridge. When the axial pressure was small, the tensile strain zone parallel to the loading direction was easily generated; and when the axial pressure was large, a shear strain zone developed, extending along the diagonal direction. The research results can provide a theoretical reference for the correct understanding of the failure mechanisms of granite and its engineering stability under actual conditions.