bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloud-Edge-Terminal-Based Synchronized Decision-Making and Control System for Municipal Solid Waste Collection and Transportation
Authors: Wan Ming , Qu Ting , Huang Manna , Qiu Xiaohua , Huang George Q. , Zhu Jinfu , Chen Junrong
Published: September 2022

Due to dynamics caused by factors such as random collection and transportation requirements, vehicle failures, and traffic jams, it is difficult to implement regular waste collection and transportation schemes effectively. A challenge for the stable operation of the municipal solid waste collection and transportation (MSWCT) system is how to obtain the whole process data in real time, dynamically judge the process control requirements, and effectively promote the synchronization operation between multiple systems. Based on this situation, this study proposes a cloud-edge-terminal-based synchronization decision-making and control system for MSWCT. First, smart terminals and edge computing devices are deployed at key nodes of MSWCT for real-time collection and edge computing analysis of the whole process data. Second, we propose a collaborative analysis and distributed decision-making method based on the cloud-edge-terminal multi-level computing architecture. Finally, a “three-level and two-stage” synchronization decision-making mechanism for the MSWCT system is established, which enables the synchronization operation between various subsystems. With a real-world application case, the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed decision-making and control system are evaluated based on real data of changes in fleet capacity and transportation costs.
Coordination Control of Multi-Axis Steering and Active Suspension System for High-Mobility Emergency Rescue Vehicles
Authors: Chen Hao , Gong Ming-De , Zhao Ding-Xuan , Liu Wen-Bin , Jia Guan-Yong
Published: September 2022

This study proposes a coordinated control strategy to solve the coupling problem between the multi-axle steering system and the active suspension system of emergency rescue vehicles. Firstly, an eleven-degree-of-freedom coupling model of an emergency rescue vehicle is established. Secondly, a dual sliding mode (DSM) controller is designed for the multi-axle steering system and a dual linear quadratic regulator (DLQR) controller is designed for the active suspension system. Finally, the coordinated control strategy is designed, and the weight values are selected using the fuzzy algorithm. Results show that compared with the individual control, the root mean square (RMS) value of the body roll angle, roll angle acceleration, and yaw angle acceleration with coordinated control are reduced by 16.89%, 29.08%, and 27.75%, respectively. The proposed coordinated control strategy effectively improves the handling stability and ride comfort of the vehicle.
Prediction and Optimization of Pile Bearing Capacity Considering Effects of Time
Authors: Khanmohammadi Mohammadreza , Armaghani Danial Jahed , Sabri Sabri Mohanad Muayad
Published: September 2022

Prediction of pile bearing capacity has been considered an unsolved problem for years. This study presents a practical solution for the preparation and maximization of pile bearing capacity, considering the effects of time after the end of pile driving. The prediction phase proposes an intelligent equation using a genetic programming (GP) model. Thus, pile geometry, soil properties, initial pile capacity, and time after the end of driving were considered predictors to predict pile bearing capacity. The developed GP equation provided an acceptable level of accuracy in estimating pile bearing capacity. In the optimization phase, the developed GP equation was used as input in two powerful optimization algorithms, namely, the artificial bee colony (ABC) and the grey wolf optimization (GWO), in order to obtain the highest bearing capacity of the pile, which corresponds to the optimum values for input parameters. Among these two algorithms, GWO obtained a higher value for pile capacity compared to the ABC algorithm. The introduced models and their modeling procedure in this study can be used to predict the ultimate capacity of piles in such projects.
A Wavelet PM2.5 Prediction System Using Optimized Kernel Extreme Learning with Boruta-XGBoost Feature Selection
Authors: Heidari Ali Asghar , Akhoondzadeh Mehdi , Chen Huiling
Published: September 2022

The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration has been a vital source of info and an essential indicator for measuring and studying the concentration of other air pollutants. It is crucial to realize more accurate predictions of PM2.5 and establish a high-accuracy PM2.5 prediction model due to their social impacts and cross-field applications in geospatial engineering. To further boost the accuracy of PM2.5 prediction results, this paper proposes a new wavelet PM2.5 prediction system (called WD-OSMSSA-KELM model) based on a new, improved variant of the salp swarm algorithm (OSMSSA), kernel extreme learning machine (KELM), wavelet decomposition, and Boruta-XGBoost (B-XGB) feature selection. First, we applied the B-XGB feature selection to realize the best features for predicting hourly PM2.5 concentrations. Then, we applied the wavelet decomposition (WD) algorithm to reach the multi-scale decomposition results and single-branch reconstruction of PM2.5 concentrations to mitigate the prediction error produced by time series data. In the next stage, we optimized the parameters of the KELM model under each reconstructed component. An improved version of the SSA is proposed to reach higher performance for the basic SSA optimizer and avoid local stagnation problems. In this work, we propose new operators based on oppositional-based learning and simplex-based search to mitigate the core problems of the conventional SSA. In addition, we utilized a time-varying parameter instead of the main parameter of the SSA. To further boost the exploration trends of SSA, we propose using the random leaders to guide the swarm towards new regions of the feature space based on a conditional structure. After optimizing the model, the optimized model was utilized to predict the PM2.5 concentrations, and different error metrics were applied to evaluate the model’s performance and accuracy. The proposed model was evaluated based on an hourly database, six air pollutants, and six meteorological features collected from the Beijing Municipal Environmental Monitoring Center. The experimental results show that the proposed WD-OLMSSA-KELM model can predict the PM2.5 concentration with superior performance (R: 0.995, RMSE: 11.906, MdAE: 2.424, MAPE: 9.768, KGE: 0.963, R2: 0.990) compared to the WD-CatBoost, WD-LightGBM, WD-Xgboost, and WD-Ridge methods.
Carotenoids from Marine Microalgae as Antimelanoma Agents
Authors: Ferraz Christiane Adrielly Alves , Grougnet Raphaël , Nicolau Elodie , Picot Laurent , de Oliveira Junior Raimundo Gonçalves
Published: September 2022

Melanoma cells are highly invasive and metastatic tumor cells and commonly express molecular alterations that contribute to multidrug resistance (e.g., BRAFV600E mutation). Conventional treatment is not effective in a long term, requiring an exhaustive search for new alternatives. Recently, carotenoids from microalgae have been investigated as adjuvant in antimelanoma therapy due to their safety and acceptable clinical tolerability. Many of them are currently used as food supplements. In this review, we have compiled several studies that show microalgal carotenoids inhibit cell proliferation, cell migration and invasion, as well as induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in various melanoma cell lines. MAPK and NF-ĸB pathway, MMP and apoptotic factors are frequently affected after exposure to microalgal carotenoids. Fucoxanthin, astaxanthin and zeaxanthin are the main carotenoids investigated, in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Preclinical data indicate these compounds exhibit direct antimelanoma effect but are also capable of restoring melanoma cells sensitivity to conventional chemotherapy (e.g., vemurafenib and dacarbazine).
Multiple Post-SARS-COV2 Infectious Complications in Kidney Transplant Recipient
Authors: Grzejszczak Patrycja , Płuciennik Agnieszka , Kumor-Kisielewska Anna , Kurnatowska Ilona
Published: September 2022

A forty-seven-year-old recipient in late period after kidney transplantation with chronic estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, fully vaccinated against COVID-19 was diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection in November 2021. After an initially mild course of the disease, he developed multiorgan failure requiring periodic respiratory and dialysis therapy. Covid-19 disease was complicated by multiple infections such Clostridioides difficile infection, Streptococcus epidermidis bacteriemia, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida glabrata urinary tract disease, cytomegalovirus infection and oral candidiasis. In a short period, he was readmitted to the hospital twice with recurrent Klebsiella pneumoniae urosepsis. One of those hospitalizations was also complicated by another COVID-19 infection that was confirmed with non-reactive neutralizing antibody. Due to severe infections the patient required individualized modification of immunotherapy; however, due to their recurrence it was finally decided to be discontinued. The patient was also reintroduced to hemodialysis therapy and no infections occurred since then.
Optimization of a Pyrometallurgical Process to Efficiently Recover Valuable Metals from Commercially Used Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode Materials LCO, NCA, NMC622, and LFP
Authors: Holzer Alexandra , Wiszniewski Lukas , Windisch-Kern Stefan , Raupenstrauch Harald
Published: September 2022

With an ever-growing demand for critical raw materials for the production of lithium-ion batteries and a price increase of respective commodities, an ever louder call from the industry for efficient recycling technologies can be noticed. So far, state-of-the-art industry-scaled pyrometallurgical recycling technologies all suffer from the same bottleneck of lithium slagging. At the Chair of Thermal Processing Technology at Montanuniversitaet Leoben, a novel reactor was developed to recover lithium and phosphorus via the gas phase in a pyrometallurgical process. Critical elements such as Li, Ni, Co, and Mn of the commercially used cathode materials LCO (LiCoO2), LFP (LiFePO4), NCA (LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2), and NMC622 (LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2) were analyzed in a batch version of the so-called InduRed reactor concept. The analyses underline that the reactor concept is highly suitable for an efficient recovery for the metals Ni and Co and that slagging of Li can not only be largely prohibited, but the elements lithium and phosphorous can even be recovered from the gas phase. Plant engineering issues were also considered for further development toward a continuous process. The MgO crucible used shows significant diffusion of various elements from the battery material, which is why the choice of crucible material still requires in-depth research.
Metabolic Profiling of Pregnant Women with Obesity: An Exploratory Study in Women at Greater Risk of Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Quotah Ola F. , Poston Lucilla , Flynn Angela C. , White Sara L.
Published: September 2022

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most prevalent obstetric conditions, particularly among women with obesity. Pathways to hyperglycaemia remain obscure and a better understanding of the pathophysiology would facilitate early detection and targeted intervention. Among obese women from the UK Pregnancies Better Eating and Activity Trial (UPBEAT), we aimed to compare metabolic profiles early and mid-pregnancy in women identified as high-risk of developing GDM, stratified by GDM diagnosis. Using a GDM prediction model combining maternal age, mid-arm circumference, systolic blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides and HbA1c, 231 women were identified as being at higher-risk, of whom 119 women developed GDM. Analyte data (nuclear magnetic resonance and conventional) were compared between higher-risk women who developed GDM and those who did not at timepoint 1 (15+0–18+6 weeks) and at timepoint 2 (23+2–30+0 weeks). The adjusted regression analyses revealed some differences in the early second trimester between those who developed GDM and those who did not, including lower adiponectin and glutamine concentrations, and higher C-peptide concentrations (FDR-adjusted p < 0.005, < 0.05, < 0.05 respectively). More differences were evident at the time of GDM diagnosis (timepoint 2) including greater impairment in β-cell function (as assessed by HOMA2-%B), an increase in the glycolysis-intermediate pyruvate (FDR-adjusted p < 0.001, < 0.05 respectively) and differing lipid profiles. The liver function marker γ-glutamyl transferase was higher at both timepoints (FDR-adjusted p < 0.05). This exploratory study underlines the difficulty in early prediction of GDM development in high-risk women but adds to the evidence that among pregnant women with obesity, insulin secretory dysfunction may be an important discriminator for those who develop GDM.
Environmental Adaptability and Organic Pollutant Degradation Capacity of a Novel Rhodococcus Species Derived from Soil in the Uninhabited Area of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Huang Jiao , Ai Guomin , Liu Ning , Huang Ying
Published: September 2022

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) is known for extreme natural environments and, surprisingly, has been reported to contain widespread organic pollutants. Rhodococcus can survive a variety of extreme environments and degrade many organic contaminants. Here, we isolated a Rhodococcus strain (FXJ9.536 = CGMCC 4.7853) from a soil sample collected in the QTP. Phylogenomic analysis indicated that the strain represents a novel Rhodococcus species, for which the name Rhodococcus tibetensis sp. nov. is proposed. Interestingly, R. tibetensis FXJ9.536 maintained a fast growth rate and degraded 6.2% of p-nitrophenol (4-NP) and 50.0% of malathion even at 10 °C. It could degrade 53.6% of 4-NP and 99.9% of malathion at a moderate temperature. The genome of R. tibetensis FXJ9.536 contains 4-hydroxyphenylacetate 3-monoxygenase and carboxylesterase genes, which are likely associated with the degradation of 4-NP and malathion, respectively. Further genomic analysis revealed that the strain might employ multiple strategies to adapt to the harsh QTP environment. These include synthesizing cold shock proteins, compatible solutes, secondary metabolites, and storage compounds, utilizing inorganic compounds as energy and nutrition sources, as well as degrading a range of organic pollutants. Overall, our study reveals the potential of a QTP-derived new actinobacterial species for environmental adaptation and remediation in cold regions.
SARS-CoV-2: The Impact of Co-Infections with Particular Reference to Mycoplasma pneumonia—A Clinical Review
Authors: Marino Silvia , Pavone Piero , Marino Lidia , Nunnari Giuseppe , Ceccarelli Manuela , Coppola Claudio , Distefano Chiara , Falsaperla Raffaele
Published: September 2022

Background: After its 2019 outbreak in Wuhan, scientists worldwide have been studying the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in children. Evidence indicates that children with SARS-CoV-2 infection are more likely to develop upper and lower respiratory tract infections in association with other infectious agents, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Here, we conducted a systematic review of SARS-CoV-2 and Mycoplasma pneumoniae co-infection and their clinical course in children. Methods: We evaluated the published literature on SARS-CoV-2 by using the medical databases PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. In the searches, the Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms “SARS-CoV-2 and Mycoplasma pneumoniae” AND “co-infection SARS-CoV-2” were used. Studies describing co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 and Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children were included in the review. The study was conducted and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: According to the PRISMA guidelines, of the 38 identified studies, 14 were conducted in children (children/adolescents 0–18 years), 6 of which were included in this review. In total, 5867 children under the age of 17 years were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection through real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of nasopharyngeal swabs to detect viral RNA. Elevated serum IgM levels specific to Mycoplasma pneumoniae were observed in 534 children and were associated with a Kawasaki-like illness in one child. To date, all of the children are alive. Conclusion: This study underlines the importance of considering, depending on the clinical context, a possible co-infection between SARS-CoV-2 and atypical bacteria, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Co-infections with other respiratory pathogens during the pandemic and hospital stay can cause mistakes in clinical diagnostic and drug treatment. Physicians should perform early differential diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 in association with other infectious agents. Further studies are needed to have a real incidence of these co-infections and their impact on symptoms, course, and outcome of patients with SARS-CoV-2.
Biodiversity and Structure of Microbial Community in Glacial Melts and Soil in the High Arctic Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard
Authors: Zhang Fang , Lv Fenglin , Chen Mianrun
Published: September 2022

Ny-Ålesund in Svalbard is a complex area with both continental and tidal glaciers. There are a lot of studies on prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities in coastal water and soil, but without studies in glacial-related waters. We make a distinctive and consolidated study on the structure of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities of pure glacial meltwater, glacial melting lake, glacial meltwater flowing via different types of soil at various elevations, estuarine glacial water and marine water. Moreover, we analyze the environmental–microbial relationships of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities via a canonical correspondence analysis and redundant analysis compared by a Pearson analysis. We found that there were distinct microbes in different environments. Altitude had significant correlations with prokaryotic and eukaryotic species in the 12 water samples (ppro = 0.001, npro = 1010, and peuk = 0.012, npro = 1651) (Pearson analysis). Altitude, temperature and salinity, respectively, accounted for 28.27%, 10.86% and 8.24% in the prokaryotic community structure and 25.77%, 17.72% and 3.46% in the eukaryotic, respectively, in water. Nitrogen, silicate and pH accounted for 38.15%, 6.15% and 2.48% in the prokaryotic community structure in soil and 26.65%, 12.78% and 8.66% in the eukaryotic. Eukaryotes were more stable than prokaryotes in changing environments. Cyanobacteria and dinoflagellates better adapt to a warming environment. Gammaproteobacteria and Chrysophysceae were most abundant in soil. Alphaproteobacteria, Bacteroidia, Mamiellophyceae and Prasinophytae were most abundant in water. Within these microbes, Bacilli and Chlorophyceae were only found in glaciers; Actinobacteria, KD94-96, Thermleophilia, Embryophyta, Trebouxiophyceae and Sordariomycetes were unique to soil.
Clay Minerals in the Deep Reservoir of the Cerro Pabellón Geothermal System (Northern Chile)
Authors: Vidal Jeanne , Patrier Patricia , Beaufort Daniel , Maza Santiago , Rivera Germain , Volpi Gianni , Morata Diego
Published: September 2022

This study focuses on hydrothermal alteration, and more specifically clays, in the geothermal reservoir of Cerro Pabellón in Andean Cordillera, Northern Chile. Although it is the first commercial geothermal power plant in South America with 48 MWe installed and an additional 33 MWe during 2022, the alteration mineralogy of the deep reservoir remains poorly investigated. Cuttings from two deep wells drilled between 500 and 3000 m depth were sampled. The fine-grained clay fraction was analyzed using X-ray diffraction to observe the mineral distribution and variations of crystal structure of the clays. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy allowed us to perform microanalysis of the clays. The results suggest a high heterogeneity of the reservoir in term of alteration: a pervasive alteration dominated by trioctahedral clays was observed in all the samples, whereas a fracture-controlled alteration was only observed locally, dominated by dioctahedral clays. Illite-smectite mixed layers with more than 90% illite typically occur in permeable fracture and fault as a typical clay signature. This study completed an integrated conceptual model of the high enthalpy reservoir (>250 °C). Circulations of a neutral pH Na-K-Cl fluid occur in a wide fracture system connected to highly dipping and NW-striking faults and could extend beyond the Pabelloncito graben.
Geochemical Conditions and Factors Controlling the Distribution of Major, Trace, and Rare Elements in Sul Hamed Granitic Rocks, Southeastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Abed Neveen S. , El Feky Mohamed G. , El-Taher Atef , Massoud Ehab El Sayed , Khattab Mahmoud R. , Alqahtani Mohammed S. , Yousef El Sayed , Hanfi Mohamed Y.
Published: September 2022

Egypt is mainly covered by ophiolitic rocks, muscovite, and two mica granites, in addition to different types of acidic and basic dikes. Our field observations indicated that El Sela granites were subjected to alteration types such as silicification, kaolinization, and hematitization, which is associated with uranium mineralization. Petrographic investigations clarified that these rocks were affected by saussiritization, muscovitization, and silicifications as the main alteration types associated with uranium mineralization (uranophane and autunite). We carried out chemical analyses of our samples for major oxides and trace and rare earth elements using ICP-OES and ICP-MS. The studied altered granites had high silica, titanium, and phosphorous as major components, with enhanced amounts of trace elements such as Nb, Ta, Zn, Mo, Pb, and Re, in addition to REE, especially light ones. The average REE content was higher than that of worldwide granites with LREE enrichment. One sample had a strong M-type tetrad effect in the fourth type; other samples had weak W-type in the third type, indicating the effect of hydrothermal alteration processes in the altered granites. This was confirmed by calculating the ratios of most isovalents that deviated from the chondritic ratio in many values. Variation diagrams of U and some trace elements illustrated that U had a weak positive correlation with Y and a strong positive correlation with gold, while it had weak to moderate negative correlation with Hf and Zr/U. In addition, uranium had a weakly defined correlation with the other trace elements, indicating a weak to moderate effect of magmatic processes, while the post-magmatic processes surficial or underground water greatly influenced the redistribution of uranium and other elements.
A Set of In-Well Receiver Array for Borehole Induced Polarization Detecting Technology in Deep Mine Exploration
Authors: Mao Yurong , Yan Liangjun , Zhou Lei , Xu Jianmei , Chen Huaizhi
Published: September 2022

With the rapid development of the economy, the demand for mineral resources has increased dramatically. Because it is difficult to explore new mines in deep and peripheral areas, new theories, technologies, methods, and equipment are needed. How to accurately and effectively carry out new mine exploration has become an urgent research topic. In this study, based on the requirements of mine exploration within a depth of 3000 m, an array receiver for borehole-induced polarization was developed. Each channel of the receiver array independently acquires data, and it is able to carry out full waveform acquisition in the dual voltage and voltage difference mode. The structure of the receiver array can be flexibly adjusted to obtain array observations of induced polarization in different ways. Experiments demonstrated that the device works well at a high temperature of 155 °C, its resolution reached 0.1 μV, and the error between the different channels was less than 3%. Its dynamic range is 180 db. Through experiments on induced polarization in a demonstration mining area, the apparent resistivity curve and the apparent polarization curve were determined to be consistent with the known well-logging information, and the interpretation results were in agreement with the stratum information.
Collision Cross Section Prediction with Molecular Fingerprint Using Machine Learning
Authors: Yang Fan , van Herwerden Denice , Preud’homme Hugues , Samanipour Saer
Published: September 2022

High-resolution mass spectrometry is a promising technique in non-target screening (NTS) to monitor contaminants of emerging concern in complex samples. Current chemical identification strategies in NTS experiments typically depend on spectral libraries, chemical databases, and in silico fragmentation tools. However, small molecule identification remains challenging due to the lack of orthogonal sources of information (e.g., unique fragments). Collision cross section (CCS) values measured by ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) offer an additional identification dimension to increase the confidence level. Thanks to the advances in analytical instrumentation, an increasing application of IMS hybrid with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) in NTS has been reported in the recent decades. Several CCS prediction tools have been developed. However, limited CCS prediction methods were based on a large scale of chemical classes and cross-platform CCS measurements. We successfully developed two prediction models using a random forest machine learning algorithm. One of the approaches was based on chemicals’ super classes; the other model was direct CCS prediction using molecular fingerprint. Over 13,324 CCS values from six different laboratories and PubChem using a variety of ion-mobility separation techniques were used for training and testing the models. The test accuracy for all the prediction models was over 0.85, and the median of relative residual was around 2.2%. The models can be applied to different IMS platforms to eliminate false positives in small molecule identification.
Artemisia Species with High Biological Values as a Potential Source of Medicinal and Cosmetic Raw Materials
Authors: Ekiert Halina , Klimek-Szczykutowicz Marta , Rzepiela Agnieszka , Klin Paweł , Szopa Agnieszka
Published: September 2022

Artemisia species play a vital role in traditional and contemporary medicine. Among them, Artemisia abrotanum, Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia annua, Artemisia dracunculus, and Artemisia vulgaris are the most popular. The chemical composition and bioactivity of these species have been extensively studied. Studies on these species have confirmed their traditional applications and documented new pharmacological directions and their valuable and potential applications in cosmetology. Artemisia ssp. primarily contain sesquiterpenoid lactones, coumarins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Essential oils obtained from these species are of great biological importance. Extracts from Artemisia ssp. have been scientifically proven to exhibit, among others, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, antidepressant, cytotoxic, and digestion-stimulating activities. In addition, their application in cosmetic products is currently the subject of several studies. Essential oils or extracts from different parts of Artemisia ssp. have been characterized by antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities. Products with Artemisia extracts, essential oils, or individual compounds can be used on skin, hair, and nails. Artemisia products are also used as ingredients in skincare cosmetics, such as creams, shampoos, essences, serums, masks, lotions, and tonics. This review focuses especially on elucidating the importance of the most popular/important species of the Artemisia genus in the cosmetic industry.
Interactions of Isoquinoline Alkaloids with Transition Metals Iron and Copper
Authors: Parvin Mst Shamima , Chlebek Jakub , Hošťálková Anna , Catapano Maria Carmen , Lomozová Zuzana , Macáková Kateřina , Mladěnka Přemysl
Published: September 2022

Data on alkaloid interactions with the physiologically important transition metals, iron and copper, are mostly lacking in the literature. However, these interactions can have important consequences in the treatment of both Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. As isoquinoline alkaloids include galanthamine, an approved drug for Alzheimer’s disease, as well as some potentially useful compounds with cytostatic potential, 28 members from this category of alkaloids were selected for a complex screening of interactions with iron and copper at four pathophysiologically relevant pH and in non-buffered conditions (dimethyl sulfoxide) by spectrophotometric methods in vitro. With the exception of the salts, all the alkaloids were able to chelate ferrous and ferric ions in non-buffered conditions, but only five of them (galanthine, glaucine, corydine, corydaline and tetrahydropalmatine) evoked some significant chelation at pH 7.5 and only the first two were also active at pH 6.8. By contrast, none of the tested alkaloids chelated cuprous or cupric ions. All the alkaloids, with the exception of the protopines, significantly reduced the ferric and cupric ions, with stronger effects on the latter. These effects were mostly dependent on the number of free aromatic hydroxyls, but not other hydroxyl groups. The most potent reductant was boldine. As most of the alkaloids chelated and reduced the ferric ions, additional experimental studies are needed to elucidate the biological relevance of these results, as chelation is expected to block reactive oxygen species formation, while reduction could have the opposite effect.
pH-Responsive Inorganic/Organic Nanohybrids System for Controlled Nicotinic Acid Drug Release
Authors: Yu Seungjin , Piao Huiyan , Rejinold N. Sanoj , Lee Hanna , Choi Goeun , Choy Jin-Ho
Published: September 2022

Although nicotinic acid (NA) has several clinical benefits, its potency cannot be fully utilized due to several undesirable side effects, including cutaneous flushing, GIT-associated symptoms, etc. To overcome such issues and improve the NA efficacy, a new inorganic–organic nanohybrids system was rationally designed. For making such a hybrid system, NA was intercalated into LDH through a coprecipitation technique and then coated with Eudragit® S100 to make the final drug delivery system called Eudragit® S100-coated NA-LDH. The as-made drug delivery system not only improved the NA release profile but also exhibited good bio-compatibility as tested on L929 cells. Such an inorganic–organic nanohybrid drug delivery agent is expected to reduce the undesirable side effects associated with NA and hopefully improve the pharmacological effects without inducing any undesirable toxicity.
Removal of Anionic and Cationic Dyes Present in Solution Using Biomass of Eichhornia crassipes as Bioadsorbent
Authors: López-Ahumada Eunice , Salazar-Hernández Mercedes , Talavera-López Alfonso , Solis-Marcial O. J. , Hernández-Soto Rosa , Ruelas-Leyva Jose P. , Hernández José Alfredo
Published: September 2022

The discharge of large amounts of effluents contaminated with gentian violet (GV) and phenol red (PR) threatens aquatic flora and fauna as well as human health, which is why these effluents must be treated before being discarded. This study seeks the removal of dyes, using water lily (Eichhornia crassipes) as an adsorbent with different pretreatments. PR and GV were analyzed by a UV-visible spectrophotometer. Equilibrium experimental data showed that Freundlich is the best model to fit PR and SIPS for GV, showing that the adsorption process for both dyes was heterogeneous, favorable, chemical (for GV), and physical (for PR). The thermodynamic analysis for the adsorption process of both dyes depends directly on the increase in temperature and is carried out spontaneously. The Pseudo first Order (PFO) kinetic model for GV and PR is the best fit for the dyes having an adsorption capacity of 91 and 198 mg/g, respectively. The characterization of the materials demonstrated significant changes in the bands of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, which indicates that the functional groups could participate in the capture of the dyes together with the electrostatic forces of the medium, from which it be concluded that the adsorption process is carried out by several mechanisms.
High-Performance Flexible Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor Printed with 3D Microstructures
Authors: Hu Guohong , Huang Fengli , Tang Chengli , Gu Jinmei , Yu Zhiheng , Zhao Yun
Published: September 2022

Flexible pressure sensors have been widely used in health detection, robot sensing, and shape recognition. The micro-engineered design of the intermediate dielectric layer (IDL) has proven to be an effective way to optimize the performance of flexible pressure sensors. Nevertheless, the performance development of flexible pressure sensors is limited due to cost and process difficulty, prepared by inverted mold lithography. In this work, microstructured arrays printed by aerosol printing act as the IDL of the sensor. It is a facile way to prepare flexible pressure sensors with high performance, simplified processes, and reduced cost. Simultaneously, the effects of microstructure size, PDMS/MWCNTs film, microstructure height, and distance between the microstructures on the sensitivity and response time of the sensor are studied. When the microstructure size, height, and distance are 250 µm, 50 µm, and 400 µm, respectively, the sensor shows a sensitivity of 0.172 kPa−1 with a response time of 98.2 ms and a relaxation time of 111.4 ms. Studies have proven that the microstructured dielectric layer printed by aerosol printing could replace the inverted mold technology. Additionally, applications of the designed sensor are tested, such as the finger pressing test, elbow bending test, and human squatting test, which show good performance.
Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Coupling Heat Transfer between Solid and Gas Phases of Nanoporous Materials
Authors: Han Yafen , Li Shuai , Liu Haidong , Li Yucong
Published: September 2022

In order to deeply study the heat conduction of nanoporous aerogel, a model of gas-solid heat conduction was established based on the microstructure of aerogel. The model was divided into two subdomains with uniform mesh because of the different gas-solid characteristics, and simulation was performed on each domain using the lattice Boltzmann method. The value of temperature on the boundaries of subdomains was determined by interpolation. Finally, the temperature distribution and the thermal conductivity were maintained. It can be concluded that when the gas-phase scale was fixed, the temperature distribution of the solid phase became more uniform when the scale increased; when the solid-phase scale was fixed, the temperature jump on the gas-solid interface decreased with the increase in the gas-phase scale; and the thermal conductivity of gas-solid coupling varied with the scale of the gas phase or solid phase, showing a scale effect in varying degrees.
Stabilizing Li-Rich Layered Cathode Materials Using a LiCoMnO4 Spinel Nanolayer for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Lin Hsiu-Fen , Cheng Si-Ting , Chen De-Zhen , Wu Nian-Ying , Jiang Zong-Xiao , Chang Chun-Ting
Published: September 2022

Lithium–rich cathodes have excess lithium in the transition metal layer and exhibit an extremely high specific capacity and good energy density. However, they still have some disadvantages. Here, we propose LiCoMnO4, a new nanolayer coating material with a spinel structure, to modify the surface of lithium cathode oxide (Li7/6Mn1/2Ni1/6Co1/6O2) with a layered structure. The designed cathode with nanolayer spinel coating delivers an excellent reversible capacity, outstanding rate capability, and superior cycling ability whilst exhibiting discharge capacities of 300, 275, 220, and 166 mAh g−1 at rates of 0.1 C at 2.0−4.8 V formation and 0.1, 1, and 5 C, respectively, between 2.0 and 4.6 V. The cycling ability and voltage fading at a high operational voltage of 4.9 V were also investigated, with results showing that the nanolayer spinel coating can depress the surface of the lithium cathode oxide layer, leading to phase transformation that enhances the electrochemical performance.
Prevalence of Zinc Deficiency in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zupo Roberta , Sila Annamaria , Castellana Fabio , Bringiotti Roberto , Curlo Margherita , De Pergola Giovanni , De Nucci Sara , Giannelli Gianluigi , Mastronardi Mauro , Sardone Rodolfo
Published: September 2022

Malabsorptive disorders are closely associated with micronutrient deficiencies. In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), trace element deficiencies pose a clinical burden from disease onset throughout its course, contributing to morbidity and poor quality of life. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of zinc deficiency in IBD. Literature screening was performed on six electronic databases until 1 May 2022. Two independent investigators assessed the 152 retrieved articles for inclusion criteria, met by only nine, that included 17 prevalence entries for Crohn’s disease (CD) (n = 9) and ulcerative colitis (UC) (n = 8). No exclusion criteria were applied to language, deficiency cut-offs, population age, general health status, country, or study setting (cohort or cross-sectional). The prevalence of zinc deficiency in blood was scored positive if due to a single disease, not cumulative factors. Zinc deficiency prevalence across selected studies showed higher values in CD than in UC. Pooled analyses by the IBD subgroup showed a total population of 1677 with CD, for an overall mean zinc deficiency prevalence of 54% and 95% confidence intervals (CI) ranging from 0.51 to 0.56, versus 41% (95%CI 0.38–0.45) in the UC population (n = 806). The overall prevalence at meta-analysis was estimated at 50% (95%CI 0.48–0.52), but with high heterogeneity, I2 = 96%. The funnel plot analysis failed to show any evidence of publication bias. The risk of bias across selected studies was moderate to low. In IBD contexts, one of two patients suffers from zinc deficiency. Mismanagement of micronutrient deficiencies plays a role in inflammation trajectories and related cross-pathways. Clinicians in the field are advised to list zinc among trace elements to be monitored in serum.
Reduction in Serum Magnesium Levels and Renal Function Are Associated with Increased Mortality in Obese COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Pulido Perez Patricia , Póndigo de los Angeles Jorge Alberto , Perez Peralta Alonso , Ramirez Mojica Eloisa , Torres Rasgado Enrique , Hernandez-Hernandez Maria Elena , Romero Jose R.
Published: September 2022

Several studies provide evidence that obesity is a significant risk factor for adverse outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Altered renal function and disturbances in magnesium levels have been reported to play important pathophysiological roles in COVID-19. However, the relationship between obesity, renal function, circulating magnesium levels, and mortality in patients with COVID-19 remains unclear. In this retrospective cohort study, we characterized 390 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 that were categorized according to their body mass index (BMI). Patients were clinically characterized and biochemical parameters, renal function, and electrolyte markers measured upon admission. We found that in patients who died, BMI was associated with reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, Rho: −0.251, p = 0.001) and serum magnesium levels (Rho: −0.308, p < 0.0001). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that death was significantly associated with obesity (p = 0.001). The Cox model for obese patients showed that magnesium levels were associated with increased risk of death (hazard ratio: 0.213, 95% confidence interval: 0.077 to 0.586, p = 0.003). Thus, reduced renal function and lower magnesium levels were associated with increased mortality in obese COVID-19 patients. These results suggest that assessment of kidney function, including magnesium levels, may assist in developing effective treatment strategies to reduce mortality among obese COVID-19 patients.
Nutritional Management of Patients with Fontan Circulation: A Potential for Improved Outcomes from Birth to Adulthood
Authors: Baldini Letizia , Librandi Katia , D’Eusebio Chiara , Lezo Antonella
Published: September 2022

Fontan circulation (FC) is a surgically achieved palliation state offered to patients affected by a wide variety of congenital heart defects (CHDs) that are grouped under the name of univentricular heart. The procedure includes three different surgical stages. Malnutrition is a matter of concern in any phase of life for these children, often leading to longer hospital stays, higher mortality rates, and a higher risk of adverse neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes. Notwithstanding the relevance of proper nutrition for this subset of patients, specific guidelines on the matter are lacking. In this review, we aim to analyze the role of an adequate form of nutritional support in patients with FC throughout the different stages of their lives, in order to provide a practical approach to appropriate nutritional management. Firstly, the burden of faltering growth in patients with univentricular heart is analyzed, focusing on the pathogenesis of malnutrition, its detection and evaluation. Secondly, we summarize the nutritional issues of each life phase of a Fontan patient from birth to adulthood. Finally, we highlight the challenges of nutritional management in patients with failing Fontan.
Association between Plasma Omega-3 and Handgrip Strength According to Glycohemoglobin Levels in Older Adults: Results from NHANES 2011–2012
Authors: Batista Raíssa A. B. , de Branco Flávia M. S. , Nehme Rafaela , de Oliveira Erick P. , Pena Geórgia das G.
Published: September 2022

Background: Low muscle strength is a predictor of mortality in older adults. Although the evidence concerning hyperglycemia is limited, evidence shows that omega-3 (ω-3) intake may be positively associated with muscle strength. However, the association between plasma ω-3 and muscle strength in older adults according to glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) levels has not yet been investigated. Objective: To evaluate whether plasma ω-3 levels are associated with handgrip strength in individuals over 50 years according to HbA1c levels. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 950 older adults (50–85 years) from NHANES 2011–2012. Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between plasma ω-3 and handgrip strength in individuals with elevated (≥5.7%) or normal HbA1c levels after adjustments for confounders. Results: Total plasma ω-3, docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and alpha-linolenic acid were not associated with handgrip strength in older adults regardless of HbA1c levels. Conclusion: Plasma ω-3 levels are not associated with handgrip strength in individuals over 50 years old independent of HbA1c levels.
Association of Folic Acid Supplementation in Early Pregnancy with Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Chen Hongyan , Hu Yaqiong , Li Yannan , Zhou Wenzheng , Zhou Niya , Yang Huan , Chen Qing , Li Yawen , Huang Qiao , Chen Zhen
Published: September 2022

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may lead to many adverse effects on women and their offspring. Method: 24,429 pregnant women were enrolled during early pregnancy from January 2018 to December 2021. The self-reported intake of folic acid supplements was assessed via a questionnaire. Oral glucose tolerance tests were used for the diagnosis of GDM. The association between intake or not, dose, and duration of folic acid and GDM risk was assessed. Results: 6396 (26.18%) women were diagnosed with GDM. In the univariate models, folic acid was found to be correlated with total GDM risk (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70~0.95, p = 0.009). After adjusting for potential confounders, the association with total GDM risk was not significant, but the association of folic acid with 2-h PBG diagnosed GDM risk was consistently significant (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.63~0.90, p = 0.002). No significant association between the dose and duration of folic acid supplementation and GDM risk was observed in the analyses. Conclusion: Folic acid supplementation might be a protective factor for the risk of GDM caused by the high level of postprandial blood glucose, but the dose or duration-related association between folic acid supplementation and GDM risk is not clear.
Utilization of Machine Learning Methods for Predicting Orthodontic Treatment Length
Authors: Elnagar Mohammed H. , Pan Allen Y. , Handono Aryo , Sanchez Flavio , Talaat Sameh , Bourauel Christoph , Kaboudan Ahmed , Kusnoto Budi
Published: September 2022

Treatment duration is one of the most important factors that patients consider when deciding whether to undergo orthodontic treatment or not. This study aimed to build and compare machine learning (ML) models for the prediction of orthodontic treatment length and to identify factors affecting the duration of orthodontic treatment using the ML approach. Records of 518 patients who had successfully finished orthodontic treatment were used in this study. Seventy percent of the patient data were used for training ML models, and thirty percent of the data were used for testing these models. We applied and compared nine machine-learning algorithms: simple linear regression, modified simple linear regression, polynomial linear regression, K nearest neighbor, simple decision tree, bagging regressor, random forest, gradient boosting regression, and adaboost regression. We then calculated the importance of patient data features for the ML models with the highest performance. The best overall performance was obtained through the bagging regressor and adaboost regression ML methods. The most important features in predicting treatment length were age, crowding, artificial intelligence case difficulty score, overjet, and overbite. Without patient information, several ML algorithms showed comparable performance for predicting treatment length. Bagging and adaboost showed the best performance when patient information, including age, malocclusion, and crowding, was provided.
Serological, Virological Investigation and Hepatic Injury Evaluation for Hepatitis E Virus in Hunting Dogs
Authors: Bernardini Angelica , Pacini Maria Irene , Fonti Niccolò , Forzan Mario , Marchetti Veronica , Mazzei Maurizio
Published: September 2022

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a quasi-enveloped single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus belonging to the Orthohepevirus A genus within the Hepeviridae family. The most common transmission route of this virus is fecal–oral, although zoonotic transmission by contact with infected animals has also been described. In this study, 80 sera and rectal swabs were collected from dogs during the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 wild boar hunting season in Tuscany. All dogs were submitted for serological screening to detect the presence of anti-HEV antibodies. To evaluate the circulation of HEV, rectal swabs from both seropositive dogs and dogs living in the same kennels were examined by One-Step RT-qPCR. In addition, the presence of markers of hepatic damage in dogs’ sera was investigated. Results indicated the presence of anti-HEV antibodies in 4/80 subjects (5%). However, neither HEV RNA nor signs of hepatic damage were found. In conclusion, although HEV can stimulate a specific immuno-response in dogs, this species does not seem to play an important role in HEV epidemiology.