bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Predicting Role of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio for the Tumor Grade and Prognosis in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Oh Dongwook , Pyo Jung-Soo , Chung Kwang Hyun , Son Byoung Kwan
Published: March 2022

This study aims to investigate the prognostic role of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) using meta-analysis. This study evaluates the correlation between the NLR and the prognosis in PNETs from nine eligible studies. In addition, a subgroup analysis based on the tumor grade, treatment, and evaluation criteria, was conducted. The estimated rate of a high NLR was 0.253 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.198–0.317). The rate of high NLRs was significantly lower in patients with lower tumor grades (G1) than those with higher tumor grades (G2 or G3). In addition, the mean value of the NLR was significantly lower in lower tumor grades than in higher tumor grades. High NLRs were significantly correlated with worse overall and recurrence-free survivals (hazard ratio (HR) 2.180, 95% CI 1.499–3.169 and HR 2.462, 95% CI 1.677–3.615, respectively). In a subgroup analysis, the prognostic implications of the NLR were found in both higher and lower criteria of a high NLR. Taken together, our results show that the NLR could be useful for predicting the tumor grade and the prognosis in PNETs.
Liquid Profiling for Cancer Patient Stratification in Precision Medicine—Current Status and Challenges for Successful Implementation in Standard Care
Authors: Haselmann Verena , Hedtke Maren , Neumaier Michael
Published: March 2022

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), accurately described by the term liquid profiling (LP), enables real-time assessment of the tumor mutational profile as a minimally invasive test and has therefore rapidly gained traction, particular for the management of cancer patients. By LP, tumor-specific genetic alterations can be determined as part of companion diagnostics to guide selection of appropriate targeted therapeutics. Because LP facilitates longitudinal monitoring of cancer patients, it can be used to detect acquired resistant mechanisms or as a personalized biomarker for earlier detection of disease recurrence, among other applications. However, LP is not yet integrated into routine care to the extent that might be expected. This is due to the lack of harmonization and standardization of preanalytical and analytical workflows, the lack of proper quality controls, limited evidence of its clinical utility, heterogeneous study results, the uncertainty of clinicians regarding the value and appropriate indications for LP and its interpretation, and finally, the lack of reimbursement for most LP tests. In this review, the value proposition of LP for cancer patient management and treatment optimization, the current status of implementation in standard care, and the main challenges that need to be overcome are discussed in detail.
Comparability of a Blood-Pressure-Monitoring Smartphone Application with Conventional Measurements—A Pilot Study
Authors: Vischer Annina S. , Rosania Jana , Socrates Thenral , Blaschke Christina , Eckstein Jens , Proust Yara-Maria , Bonnier Guillaume , Proença Martin , Lemay Mathieu , Burkard Thilo
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: New cuffless technologies attempting blood-pressure measurements (BPM) offer possibilities to improve hypertension awareness and control. The aim of this study was to compare a smartphone application (app)-based algorithm with office BPM (OBPM). (2) Methods: We included consecutive patients with an indication for ambulatory BPM. The smartphone app (RIVA digital) acquired the pulse wave in the fingers’ arterial bed using the phone’s camera and estimated BP based on photoplethysmographic (PPG) waveforms. Measurements were alternatingly taken with an oscillometric cuff-based device and smartphone BPM (AppBP) on two consecutive days. AppBP were calibrated to the first OBPM. Each AppBP was compared to its CuffBP (mean of the previous/following OBPM). (3) Results: 50 participants were included, resulting in 50 AppBP values on Day 1 and 33 on Day 2 after exclusion of 225 AppBP due to insufficient quality. The mean ± SD of the differences between AppBP and CuffBP was 0.7 ± 9.4/1.0 ± 4.5 mmHg (p-value 0.739/0.201) on Day 1 and 2.6 ± 8.2/1.3 ± 4.1 mmHg (p-value 0.106/0.091) on Day 2 for systolic/diastolic values, respectively. There were no significant differences between the deviations on Day 1 and Day 2 (p-value 0.297/0.533 for systolic/diastolic values). Overall, there were 10 (12%) systolic measurement pairs differing by >15 mmHg. (4) Conclusions: In this pilot evaluation, the RIVA Digital app shows promising results when compared to oscillometric cuff-based measurements, especially regarding diastolic values. Its differences between AppBP–CuffBP have a good stability one day after calibration. Before clinical use, signal acquisition needs improvement and the algorithm needs to undergo formal validation against a gold-standard BPM method.
The Use of Chest Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Authors: Volpi Federica , D’Amore Caterina A. , Colligiani Leonardo , Milazzo Alessio , Cavaliere Silvia , De Liperi Annalisa , Neri Emanuele , Romei Chiara
Published: March 2022

In recent years, many articles have demonstrated that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed successfully in the study of the chest. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of MRI in the differentiation of benign from malignant pleural disease with a special focus on malignant pleural mesothelioma and on MRI protocols. A systematic literature search was performed to find original articles about chest MRI in patients with either benign or malignant pleural disease. We retrieved 1246 papers and 17 studies were finally identified as being in accordance with our purpose. For a morphologic assessment, T1-weighted and T2-weighted sequences were usually performed, eventually associated with T1 post-contrast sequences for better detection of pleural lesions. Functional sequences such as Diffusion Weighting Imaging (DWI), associated with the evaluation of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) maps, were lately and gradually introduced in chest MRI protocols and their potentiality in differentiating benign from malignant disease has been investigated by many authors. Many progresses have been performed to improve quality images and diagnostic performances of MRI. A better and early identification of pleural disease may be obtained, providing MRI as a possible tool that can differentiate malignant from benign pleural disease without using invasive procedures.
Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter Ultrasound: A Non-Invasive Approach to Evaluate Increased Intracranial Pressure in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients
Authors: Cannata Giulia , Pezzato Stefano , Esposito Susanna , Moscatelli Andrea
Published: March 2022

Early diagnosis of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment of intracranial hypertension in critically ill pediatric patients, preventing secondary brain damage and mortality. Although the placement of an external ventricular drain coupled to an external fluid-filled transducer remains the gold standard for continuous ICP monitoring, other non-invasive approaches are constantly being improved and can provide reliable estimates. The use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for the assessment of ICP has recently become widespread in pediatric emergency and critical care settings, representing a valuable extension of the physical examination. The aim of this manuscript is to review and discuss the basic principles of ultra-sound measurement of the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) and summarize current evidence on its diagnostic value in pediatric patients with ICP. There is increasing evidence that POCUS measurement of the ONSD correlates with ICP, thus appearing as a useful extension of the physical examination in pediatrics, especially in emergency medicine and critical care settings for the initial non-invasive assessment of patients with suspected raised ICP. Its role could be of value even to assess the response to therapy and in the follow-up of patients with diagnosed intracranial hypertension if invasive ICP monitoring is not available. Further studies on more homogeneous and extensive study populations should be performed to establish ONSD reference ranges in the different pediatric ages and to define cut-off values in predicting elevated ICP compared to invasive ICP measurement.
French Survey on Pain Perception and Management in Patients with Locked-In Syndrome
Authors: Bonin Estelle A. C. , Delsemme Zoé , Blandin Véronique , Alnagger Naji L. , Thibaut Aurore , Faymonville Marie-Elisabeth , Laureys Steven , Vanhaudenhuyse Audrey , Gosseries Olivia
Published: March 2022

Patients with locked-in syndrome (LIS) may suffer from pain, which can significantly affect their daily life and well-being. In this study, we aim to investigate the presence and the management of pain in LIS patients. Fifty-one participants completed a survey collecting socio-demographic information and detailed reports regarding pain perception and management (type and frequency of pain, daily impact of pain, treatments). Almost half of the LIS patients reported experiencing pain (49%) that affected their quality of life, sleep and cognition. The majority of these patients reported that they did not communicate their pain to clinical staff. Out of the 25 patients reporting pain, 18 (72%) received treatment (60% pharmacological, 12% non-pharmacological) and described the treatment efficacy as ‘moderate’. In addition, 14 (56%) patients were willing to try other non-pharmacological treatments, such as hypnosis or meditation. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of pain perception in LIS patients and highlights the lack of guidelines for pain detection and its management. This is especially pertinent given that pain affects diagnoses, by either inducing fatigue or by using pharmacological treatments that modulate the levels of wakefulness and concentration of such patients.
A High-Loop-Gain Low-Dropout Regulator with Adaptive Positive Feedback Compensation Handling 1-A Load Current
Authors: Jiang Yongchao , Wang Lixin , Wang Yue , Wang Shixin , Guo Min
Published: March 2022

Low-dropout regulators, which have the capabilities of handling large output current and obtaining a superior transient response, are receiving increasing attention. This paper presents a high-output-current low-dropout regulator with high loop gain. An adaptive positive feedback compensation method is presented. It guarantees stability under full load conditions and achieves high loop gain. Without relying on an external zero, a ceramic capacitor with low equivalent series resistance can be employed, resulting in the minimized output voltage variation during the load transient response. In addition, the load regulation and line regulation are both small. An impedance adapting stage is inserted between the error amplifier and power transistor. It is suitable for low-supply voltage applications and drives the power transistor quickly. The simulation results indicate that the proposed LDO can supply a 1000 mA load current with a 200 mV dropout voltage. The load regulation and line regulations are 0.089 μV/mA and 0.562 m V/V, respectively. The power supply rejection is above 75 dB at 1 kHz under the full range of the output current.
Non-Technical Electricity Losses
Authors: Carr Darragh , Thomson Murray
Published: March 2022

Non-technical loss of electricity (comprising theft, fraud, non-payment and billing irregularities) is a significant issue, particularly in developing countries, and represents a large financial burden on utility companies, governments and society as a whole. This paper takes a wholistic and global view of the challenge and provides a broad perspective of the interrelated issues. Media reports and public perception of non-technical losses tend to focus on residential consumers, particularly those with limited financial resources, whereas review of more robust literature indicates that the largest proportion of non-technical losses is often due to industry, state-owned enterprises and relatively well-off residential consumers. Measures to reduce non-technical losses focusing on average residential consumers, such as pre-paid metering, therefore have limited effect on overall losses. Strengthening of legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly with regard to those larger users, and installing high security tamper-resistant metering systems for commercial consumers may have more effect. The reasons for non-technical losses, especially theft, are complex, but the customer–utility relationship is a key determinant. Improvement of this relationship through local participation in development of renewable energy schemes, such as rooftop solar photovoltaics, could bring benefit if challenges such as financing, design of the distribution system, utility company codes and standards and competence in post installation maintenance can be overcome.
Dynamics of Vegetation and Climate Change
Authors: Raposo Mauro , Pinto-Gomes Carlos
Published: March 2022

A set of climatic events that have occurred throughout the Paleolithic ages and all the way up to the present day have led to profound changes in the biosphere, such as periods of glaciation and global warming [...]
Evaluating the Use of Alternative Normalization Approaches on SARS-CoV-2 Concentrations in Wastewater: Experiences from Two Catchments in Northern Sweden
Authors: Isaksson Frida , Lundy Lian , Hedström Annelie , Székely Anna J. , Mohamed Nahla
Published: March 2022

The detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA fragments in feces has paved the way for wastewater-based epidemiology to contribute to COVID-19 mitigation measures, with its use in a public health context still under development. As a way to facilitate data comparison, this paper explores the impact of using alternative normalization approaches (wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) flow, population size estimates (derived using total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) and census data) and pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV)) on the relationship between viral wastewater data and clinical case numbers. Influent wastewater samples were collected at two WWTPs in Luleå, northern Sweden, between January and March 2021. TN and TP were determined upon sample collection, with RNA analysis undertaken on samples after one freeze–thaw cycle. The strength of the correlation between normalization approaches and clinical cases differed between WWTPs (r ≤ 0.73 or r ≥ 0.78 at the larger WWTP and r ≤ 0.23 or r ≥ 0.43 at the smaller WWTP), indicating that the use of wastewater as an epidemiological tool is context-dependent. Depending on the normalization approach utilized, time-shifted analyses imply that wastewater data on SARS-CoV-2 RNA pre-dated a rise in clinical cases by 0–2 and 5–8 days, for the lager and smaller WWTPs, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 viral loads normalized to the population or PMMoV better reflect the number of clinical cases when comparing wastewater data between sewer catchments.
Monitoring Phycocyanin with Landsat 8/Operational Land Imager Orange Contra-Band
Authors: Ogashawara Igor , Li Lin , Howard Chase , Druschel Gregory K.
Published: March 2022

The Operational Land Imager (OLI) onboard the Landsat 8 satellite has a panchromatic band (503–676 nm) that has been used to compute a virtual spectral band known as “orange contra-band” (590–635 nm). The major application of the orange contra-band is the monitoring of cyanobacteria which is usually quantified by the measurement of the concentration of phycocyanin (PC) which has an absorption peak around 620 nm. In this study, we evaluated the use of the orange contra-band approach for estimating PC concentration from in situ proximal hyperspectral data from Eagle Creek Reservoir (ECR), in Indiana, USA. We first validated the empirical relationship for the computation of the orange contra-band by using the panchromatic, red, and green spectral bands from ECR. PC concentration retrieval using the orange contra-band were not successful when using the entire dataset (R2 < 0.1) or when using only PC concentrations higher than 50 mg/m3 (R2 < 0.24). Better results were achieved when using samples in which PC was 1.5 times higher than the chlorophyll-a concentration (R2 = 0.84). These results highlighted the need for the development of remote sensing algorithms for the accurate estimation of PC concentration from non-PC dominant waters which could be use to track and/or predict cyanobacteria blooms.
Ecological Stoichiometry in Pinus massoniana L. Plantation: Increasing Nutrient Limitation in a 48-Year Chronosequence
Authors: Ali Ashfaq , Hussain Majid , Ali Saqib , Akhtar Kashif , Muhammad Mamoona Wali , Zamir Ahmad , Ali Arshad , Nizami Syed Moazzam , Ahmad Bilal , Harrison Matthew Tom , Fahad Shah , Zhou Zhixiang , Yi Shanjun
Published: March 2022

Stoichiometric ratios of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) are considered indicators of nutrient status and ultimate ecosystem health. A detailed investigation of these elements in the leaves, branches, forest layer vegetation and soil, depending on stand age, was carried out. We investigated the effects of stand age (9-, 18-, 28-, and 48-year) on the aboveground plant parts (leaf, branch, herb, shrub, plant litter) and belowground pools (soil, roots) of P. massoniana plantations. The CNP stoichiometry of trees was affected by stand age. Mean N content in the aboveground parts in the nine-yr stand was greater than the other stands (18-, 28-, 48-yr), which decreased with increasing stand age. As stands aged, the nutrient demands of the plantations increased as well as their N:P ratios in soil. C content in the soil ranged from 30 to 105, the total N was 0.06 to 1.6, and the total P content ranged from 3.3–6.4 g kg−1. Soil C, N and P contents were greatly influenced by both stand age and soil depth, because surface soil sequester C and N more actively compared to deeper horizons, and more nutrients are released to the topsoil by the plant litter layer. Similarly, the ratios of other layers had a similar pattern as CNP because more nutrients were taken up by the plantations, decreasing nutrient supply in the deeper soil horizons. The green leaves N:P ratios (16) indicate limited growth of P. massoniana, as the range for global nutrient limitation for woody plants oscillated between 14–16, indicating N and P limitation. Young stands were observed to have greater P content and P resorption efficiency (56.9%–67.3%), with lower C:P and N:P ratios (704.4; 14.8). We conclude that with stand development, the nutrient demands of the plantations also increase, and soil N:P stoichiometry shows that these improve soil quality.
Experiencing Urban Green and Blue Spaces in Urban Wetlands as a Nature-Based Solution to Promote Positive Emotions
Authors: Li Hongyan , Peng Jiaxi , Jiao Yang , Ai Shengshu
Published: March 2022

Green and blue spaces are nature-based solutions (NBSs) that evoke positive emotions of experiencers therein. There is an impetus to optimize wetland forest landscapes by planning the geographical arrangement of metrics that promote positive emotion. The facial expressions of nature experiencers in photos, downloaded from social media databases with landscape metrics, were evaluated for emotions and given scores. Happy and sad scores were rated by FireFACE v1.0 software and positive response index (PRI) was calculated as happy score minus sad score. Spatial areas and tree height were evaluated from Landsat 8 images and digital model maps, respectively. Visitors at middle and senior ages smiled more frequently in southern parts than in northern parts, and females had higher happy scores and PRI than males. Both green- and blue-space areas had positive relationships with PRI scores, while blue spaces and their area to park area ratios had positive contributions to happy scores and PRI scores in multivariate linear regression models. Elevation had a negative relationship with positive facial emotion. Overall, based on spatial distributions of blue-space area and elevation, regional landscape was optimized so people perceived more happiness in wetlands around Zhejiang and Shanghai, while people in wetlands of Jiangxi and Hubei showed more net emotional expressions.
Price Modeling of Eucalyptus Wood under Different Silvicultural Management for Real Options Approach
Authors: Munis Rafaele Almeida , Camargo Diego Aparecido , da Silva Richardson Barbosa Gomes , Tsunemi Miriam Harumi , Ibrahim Siti Nur Iqmal , Simões Danilo
Published: March 2022

Choosing the ideal number of rotations of planted forests under a silvicultural management regime results in uncertainties in the cash flows of forest investment projects. We verified if there is parity in the Eucalyptus wood price modeling through fractional Brownian motion and geometric Brownian motion to incorporate managerial flexibilities into investment projects in planted forests. We use empirical data from three production cycles of forests planted with Eucalyptus grandis × E. urophylla in the projection of discounted cash flows. The Eucalyptus wood price, assumed as uncertainty, was modeled using fractional and geometric Brownian motion. The discrete-time pricing of European options was obtained using the Monte Carlo method. The root mean square error of fractional and geometric Brownian motions was USD 1.4 and USD 2.2, respectively. The real options approach gave the investment projects, with fractional and geometric Brownian motion, an expanded present value of USD 8,157,706 and USD 9,162,202, respectively. Furthermore, in both models, the optimal harvest ages execution was three rotations. Thus, with an indication of overvaluation of 4.9% when assimilating the geometric Brownian motion, there is no parity between stochastic processes, and three production cycles of Eucalyptus planted forests are economically viable.
Integrating Tree Species Identity and Diversity in Particulate Matter Adsorption
Authors: Steinparzer Matthias , Haluza Daniela , Godbold Douglas L.
Published: March 2022

The amount of PM bound by tree canopies depends on leaf traits, but also the leaf area available, both of which are dependent on tree identity. We investigated four species (Acer platanoides L., Tilia cordata Mill., Quercus robur L., Carpinus betulus L.) grown in monocultures and in two and four species polycultures. The amount of PM on the leaves of these species was determined by washing and fractionation of the PM into PM2.5, PM10 and PM100 size classes using a filtering method. The leaf area index was estimated by litter collection. The amount of PM2.5 per m2 leaf area was significantly higher in T. cordata compared to Q. robur and A. platanoides, and in C. betulus compared to A. platanoides. The leaf area index in monocultures was similar for all species except T. cordata which was considerably lower. Overyielding of LAI was shown in the two species polyculture of T. cordata and A. platanoides, and also in the four species polyculture. In polyculture, higher amounts of PM were determined in the two species polyculture of Q. robur and C. betulus and also in the four species polyculture. The result show that both tree identity and mixture influence the amount of PM in the canopy, and this is related to tree leaf traits, and also to overyielding of LAI in the polyculture.
Allometric Equations to Estimate Aboveground Biomass in Spotted Gum (Corymbia citriodora Subspecies variegata) Plantations in Queensland
Authors: Huynh Trinh , Lewis Tom , Applegate Grahame , Pachas Anibal Nahuel A. , Lee David J.
Published: March 2022

Accurate equations are critical for estimating biomass and carbon accumulation for forest carbon projects, bioenergy, and other inventories. Allometric equations can provide a reliable and accurate method for estimating and predicting biomass and carbon sequestration. Cross-validatory assessments are also essential to evaluate the prediction ability of the selected model with satisfactory accuracy. We destructively sampled and weighed 52 sample trees, ranging from 11.8 to 42.0 cm in diameter at breast height from three plantations in Queensland to determine biomass. Weighted nonlinear models were used to explore the influence of different variables using two datasets: the first dataset (52 trees) included diameter at breast height (D), height (H) and wood density (ρ); and the second dataset (40 trees) also included crown diameter (CD) and crown volume (CV). Cross validation of independent data showed that using D alone proved to be the best performing model, with the lowest values of AIC = 434.4, bias = −2.2% and MAPE = 7.2%. Adding H and ρ improved the adjusted. R2 (Δ adj. R2 from 0.099 to 0.135) but did not improve AIC, bias and MAPE. Using the single variable of CV to estimate aboveground biomass (AGB) was better than CD, with smaller AIC and MAPE less than 2.3%. We demonstrated that the allometric equations developed and validated during this study provide reasonable estimates of Corymbia citriodora subspecies variegata (spotted gum) biomass. This equation could be used to estimate AGB and carbon in similar spotted gum plantations. In the context of global forest AGB estimations and monitoring, the CV variable could allow prediction of aboveground biomass using remote sensing datasets.
Enterococcus faecium s6 Enabled Efficient Homofermentative Lactic Acid Production from Xylan-Derived Sugars
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Mohamed Ali
Published: March 2022

A thermotolerant Enterococcus faecium s6 strain exhibited homoferementative lactic acid (LA) production at high xylose concentration (≥50 g/L). In batch fermentation at 45 °C and controlled pH of 6.5, strain E. faecium s6 produced up to 72.9 g/L of LA with a yield of 0.99 g/g-consumed xylose and productivity of 1.74 g/L.h from 75 g/L xylose. An increased LA concentration and productivities with high yields were obtained in repeated batch fermentation that was conducted for 24 runs. In this mode, the strain could produce LA up 81.1 g/L within 5 h fermentation at a high productivity of 13.5 g/L.h and a yield of 1.02 g/g-consumed xylose. The strain was unable to consume birchwood xylan as sole carbon source. However, it could efficiently utilize xylooligosaccharides of xylobiose, xylotriose, xylotetraose, xylopentaose, and xylohexaose. The intracellular xylosidase activity was induced by xylose. Using xylooligosaccharide (50 g/L)/xylose (5 g/L) mixtures, the strain was able to produce maximum LA at 48.2 g/L within 120 h at a yield of 1.0 g/g-consumed sugar and productivity of 0.331 g/L.h. These results indicate that E. faecium s6 is capable of directly utilizing xylan-hydrolyzate and will enable the development of a feasible and economical approach to the production of LA from hemicellulosic hydrolysate.
From Milk Kefir to Water Kefir: Assessment of Fermentation Processes, Microbial Changes and Evaluation of the Produced Beverages
Authors: Tzavaras Dimitris , Papadelli Marina , Ntaikou Ioanna
Published: March 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate the feasibly of using traditional milk kefir grains for the production of water kefir-like beverages and assess the changes in the physicochemical characteristics and the microbial populations of the fermented beverages. To this end, experiments of milk fermentation were primarily conducted at different temperatures and upon selection of the optimal, a gradual substitution of the substrate was performed by replacing milk from a sucrose-based solution. After the successful fermentation of the sucrose substrate, fruit juices were used as fermentation substrates. Sensory evaluation of the sugar-based beverages was also performed in order to access their acceptability for consumption. According to the results, the transition from milk to water kefir is indeed feasible, leading to the production of beverages with relatively higher ethanol concentrations (up to 2.14 ± 0.12% w/v) than milk kefir and much lower lactic acid concentrations (up to 0.16 ± 0.01% w/v). During the fermentation of the sugary substrates, yeasts seemed to be dominant over lactic acid bacteria, in contrast to what was observed in the case of milk kefir, where LAB dominated. The sensory evaluation revealed that all sugar-based beverages were acceptable for consumption, with the fruit-based ones obtaining, though, a better score in all attributes.
Influence of Draw Ratio and Take-Up Velocity on Properties of Ultrafiltration Hollow Fiber Membranes from Polyethersulfone
Authors: Dibrov George , Kagramanov George , Sudin Vladislav , Molchanov Sergey , Grushevenko Evgenia , Yushkin Alexey , Volkov Vladimir
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to reveal the influence of the draw ratio and take-up speed on the pore size distribution and morphology of the hollow fiber ultrafiltration membrane selective layer. To this end, spinnerets with ring ducts of 1.8 and 1.3 mm were employed, whereas the external diameter of the obtained fiber was kept equal. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed to study the morphology of the selective layer. Liquid–liquid displacement porosimetry was used to determine the limiting pore size distribution. The produced polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membranes had a robust, sponge-like porous structure, permeance 1000 L/(m2·h·bar), smooth selective layer, and mean pore size 25 nm. It was found that limiting pore sizes are affected more by the change in the take-up speed, whereas the surface pore sizes, roughness, and morphology are controlled by the draw ratio. It was shown that excessive draw causes the selective layer stretching and crop-up of the porous sublayer. Consequently, the diameters of the spinneret ring duct and the bore needle should match the hollow fiber outer and lumen diameters, respectively.
Sensitivity of Zebrafish Embryogenesis to Risk of Fotemustine Exposure
Authors: Di Paola Davide , Iaria Carmelo , Lanteri Giovanni , Cordaro Marika , Crupi Rosalia , Siracusa Rosalba , D’Amico Ramona , Fusco Roberta , Impellizzeri Daniela , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Spanò Nunziacarla , Gugliandolo Enrico , Peritore Alessio
Published: March 2022

Several anthropogenic products in wastewater are considered a threat to the aquatic environment. In addition to common industrial pollutants, levels of pharmaceuticals have been increasingly found in the environment in recent years, which may present a strong risk to the aquatic species that live there. The constant consumption of biologically active chemicals for human health has been matched by an increase in the leaking of these compounds in natural habitats over the last two decades. This study is aimed at evaluating the developmental toxicity of fotemustine in the ecological environment. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to doses of 25, 50 and 100 µg/mL from 4 h post-fertilization to 120 h. This study confirms that fotemustine exposure at 50 and 100 µg/mL affects the survival and hatching rate, morphology score and body length. Additionally, it significantly disturbs the antioxidant defense system and increases ROS in zebrafish larvae. From the molecular point of view, fotemustine exposure strongly induces apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and the Wnt signaling pathway.
Molecular Characterization of Aquaporins Genes from the Razor Clam Sinonovacula constricta and Their Potential Role in Salinity Tolerance
Authors: Ruan Wenbin , Dong Yinghui , Lin Zhihua , He Lin
Published: March 2022

Aquaporins (AQPs) play crucial roles in osmoregulation, but the knowledge about the functions of AQPs in Sinonovacula constricta is unclear. In this study, Sc-AQP1, Sc-AQP8, and Sc-AQP11 were identified from S. constricta, and the three Sc-AQPs are highly conserved compared to the known AQPs. The qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the highest mRNA expressions of Sc-AQP1, Sc-AQP8, and Sc-AQP11 were detected in the gill, digestive gland, and adductor muscle, respectively. In addition, the highest mRNA expression of Sc-AQP1 and Sc-AQP11 was detected in the D-shaped larvae stage, whereas that of SC-AQP8 was observed in the umbo larvae stage. The mRNA expression of Sc-AQP1, Sc-AQP8, and Sc-AQP11 significantly increased to 12.45-, 12.36-, and 27.44-folds post-exposure of low salinity (3.5 psu), while only Sc-AQP1 and Sc-AQP11 significantly increased post-exposure of high salinity (35 psu) (p < 0.01). The fluorescence in situ hybridization also showed that the salinity shift led to the boost of Sc-AQP1, Sc-AQP8, and Sc-AQP11 mRNA expression in gill filament, digestive gland, and adductor muscle, respectively. Knockdown of the Sc-AQP1 and Sc-AQP8 led to the decreased osmotic pressure in the hemolymph. Overall, these findings would contribute to the comprehension of the osmoregulation pattern of AQPs in S. constricta.
Efficient Reduced Order Modeling of Large Data Sets Obtained from CFD Simulations
Authors: Holemans Thomas , Yang Zhu , Vanierschot Maarten
Published: March 2022

The ever-increasing computational power has shifted direct numerical simulations towards higher Reynolds numbers and large eddy simulations towards industrially-relevant flow scales. However, this increase in both temporal and spatial resolution has severely increased the computational cost of model order reduction techniques. Reducing the full data set to a smaller subset in order to perform reduced-order modeling (ROM) may be an interesting method to keep the computational effort reasonable. Moreover, non-tomographic particle image velocimetry measurements obtain a 2D data set of a 3D flow field and an interesting research question would be to quantify the difference between this 2D ROM compared to the 3D ROM of the full flow field. To provide an answer to both issues, the aim of this study was to test a new method for obtaining POD basis functions from a small subset of data initially and using them afterwards in the ROM of either the complete data set or the reduced data set. Hence, no new method of ROM is presented, but we demonstrate a procedure to significantly reduce the computational effort required for the ROM of very large data sets and a quantification of the error introduced by reducing the size of those data sets. The method applies eigenvalue decomposition on a small subset of data extracted from a full 3D simulation and the obtained temporal coefficients are projected back on the 3D velocity fields to obtain the 3D spatial modes. To test the method, an annular jet was chosen as a flow topology due to its simple geometry and the rich dynamical content of its flow field. First, a smaller data set is extracted from the 2D cross-sectional planes and ROM is performed on that data set. Secondly, the full 3D spatial structures are reconstructed by projecting the temporal coefficients back on the 3D velocity fields and the 2D spatial structures by projecting the temporal coefficients back on the 2D velocity fields. It is shown that two perpendicular lateral planes are sufficient to capture the relevant large-scale structures. As such, the total processing time can be reduced by a factor of 136 and up to 22 times less RAM is needed to complete the ROM processing.
On the Prediction of Boundary Layer Quantities at High Reynolds Numbers
Authors: Tschepe Jonathan
Published: March 2022

In the current paper, a new formula for calculating boundary layer quantities—such as the boundary layer thickness, friction coefficients, and the boundary layer profile—for a flat plate is presented. The formula is based on the power-law approach and represents a generalisation of the 1/7 power-law to a more extensive Reynolds number range. In addition to the derivation and the theoretical background, the main focus is on the comparison with various experimental data from the literature. The good agreement of the data shows that this approach allows for precise predictions of boundary layer quantities for a flat plate with zero-pressure gradients. Especially for estimating boundary layers along with large vehicles such as trains, ships, or aeroplanes, the formula offers added value in terms of accuracy compared to previously existing approaches, such as the 1/7 power-law.
Modelling Experimental Measurements of Fluid Flow through Railway Ballast
Authors: Alrdadi Raed , Meylan Michael H.
Published: March 2022

The flooding of railway ballasts can cause extensive damage. This process has been the subject of several experimental investigations. In the present work, a relatively easy to implement approach to modelling this fluid flow is presented. It is shown that good agreement with the experimental results is obtained. The fluid flow is modelled by Darcy’s law, which we extend to the free fluid flowing above the ballast. The main complexity is in determining the free surface position, which is accomplished using an iterative procedure. The equations are solved using the finite element method. The method is illustrated by careful numerical calculations that are carefully compared with the experimental results reported in the literature. The method is then extended to realistic railway ballast, including the effects of ballast fouling. It is shown that when the flow begins to overtop the ballast, the free surface shifts to greatly increase the chance of ballast scouring.
Response of Qualitative Traits and Antioxidant Systems to Chitosan Postharvest Treatment in ‘Black Golden’ Japanese Plum
Authors: Adiletta Giuseppina , Gliottone Giovanna , Di Matteo Marisa , Petriccione Milena
Published: March 2022

In this study, the influence of a chitosan-based coating was assessed on qualitative traits and non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant systems in Prunus salicina, ‘Black Golden’ Japanese Plum, during 35 days of cold storage followed by 3 days at 24 °C to evaluate its shelf life. Chitosan coating delayed the physico-chemical traits such as the total soluble solids, titratable acidity, firmness and skin color associated with the plum ripening process during cold storage and shelf life. Furthermore, the highest bioactive compounds’ content and antioxidant activity in the coated plum were registered during the stored period. Chitosan-based coating enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase during cold storage and shelf-life. Moreover, this edible coating contributes to reducing membrane damages with lower lipoxygenase activity and, consequently, malondialdehyde accumulation. A multivariate statistical analysis approach identified the two key components, correlated to all analyzed traits, that influenced the changes within chitosan coated and uncoated Japanese plums during storage. Chitosan coating is a cheap and eco-friendly tool to delay ripening process and to improve the antioxidant systems and storability of the ‘Black Golden’ Japanese plum.
“Vegan Teachers Make Students Feel Really Bad”: Is Teaching Sustainable Nutrition Indoctrinating?
Authors: Weber Alina , Linkemeyer Laura , Szczepanski Lena , Fiebelkorn Florian
Published: March 2022

The transformation toward more sustainable food choices may be supported by an education for sustainable nutrition. In schools, biology teachers play a key role in educating students as sustainability change makers, as biology lessons provide various opportunities to deal with ESD-topics such as sustainable nutrition. Teachers’ classroom practices may be influenced by their personal choices regarding sustainable nutrition. Additionally, students may see their teachers as role models for sustainable behavior. This presents the risk of students adopting teachers’ beliefs and behaviors without reflection. Teaching sustainable nutrition is therefore in potential conflict with indoctrinating young people toward sustainable diets. To date, no studies have addressed the perceived risk of indoctrination in the context of teaching sustainable nutrition in relation to teachers’ personal beliefs, behaviors, and teaching practices. Therefore, this study explored whether biology teachers themselves perceive a risk of indoctrination when teaching sustainable nutrition, and what methods they use for teaching it in a non-indoctrinating way. For this purpose, we conducted semi-structured interviews with seven in-service biology teachers from high schools in Germany. Data for this explorative qualitative study were collected from July to October 2021 using convenience sampling. These were analyzed by qualitative coding and content analysis. The preliminary results of this study show that participants recognize a high risk of indoctrination when teaching sustainable nutrition, primarily due to their own teaching actions, such as deciding whether to reveal their own dietary choices to students. While some participants believed teachers must be restrained, others thought that open communication about personal choices could benefit student decision-making skills. In terms of avoiding indoctrination when teaching sustainable nutrition, participants advocated for student-centered and multi-perspective teaching approaches. Based on the findings, initial implications for further research and teacher training are discussed.
Synchronization in a Multiplex Network of Nonidentical Fractional-Order Neurons
Authors: Ramakrishnan Balamurali , Parastesh Fatemeh , Jafari Sajad , Rajagopal Karthikeyan , Stamov Gani , Stamova Ivanka
Published: March 2022

Fractional-order neuronal models that include memory effects can describe the rich dynamics of the firing of the neurons. This paper studies synchronization problems in a multiple network of Caputo–Fabrizio type fractional order neurons in which the orders of the derivatives in the layers are different. It is observed that the intralayer synchronization state occurs in weaker intralayer couplings when using nonidentical fractional-order derivatives rather than integer-order or identical fractional orders. Furthermore, the needed interlayer coupling strength for interlayer near synchronization decreases for lower fractional orders. The dynamics of the neurons in nonidentical layers are also considered. It is shown that in lower fractional orders, the neurons’ dynamics change to periodic when the near synchronization state occurs. Moreover, decreasing the derivative order leads to incrementing the frequency of the bursts in the synchronization manifold, which is in contrast to the behavior of the single neuron.
Numerical Approximations for the Solutions of Fourth Order Time Fractional Evolution Problems Using a Novel Spline Technique
Authors: Akram Ghazala , Abbas Muhammad , Tariq Hira , Sadaf Maasoomah , Abdeljawad Thabet , Alqudah Manar A.
Published: March 2022

Developing mathematical models of fractional order for physical phenomena and constructing numerical solutions for these models are crucial issues in mathematics, physics, and engineering. Higher order temporal fractional evolution problems (EPs) with Caputo’s derivative (CD) are numerically solved using a sextic polynomial spline technique (SPST). These equations are frequently applied in a wide variety of real-world applications, such as strain gradient elasticity, phase separation in binary mixtures, and modelling of thin beams and plates, all of which are key parts of mechanical engineering. The SPST can be used for space discretization, whereas the backward Euler formula can be used for time discretization. For the temporal discretization, the method’s convergence and stability are assessed. To show the accuracy and applicability of the proposed technique, numerical simulations are employed.
Complexation of DNA with Thermoresponsive Charged Microgels: Role of Swelling State and Electrostatics
Authors: Maldonado-Valderrama Julia , Yang Yan , Jiménez-Guerra Maykel , del Castillo-Santaella Teresa , Ramos José , Martín-Molina Alberto
Published: March 2022

Micro- and nanogels are being increasingly used to encapsulate bioactive compounds. Their soft structure allows large loading capacity while their stimuli responsiveness makes them extremely versatile. In this work, the complexation of DNA with thermoresponsive microgels is presented. To this end, PEGylated charged microgels based on poly-N-isopropylacrylamide have been synthesized, allowing one to explore the electrostatics of the complexation. Cationic microgels complexate spontaneously by electrostatic attraction to oppositely charged DNA as demonstrated by electrophoretic mobility of the complexes. Then, Langmuir monolayers reveal an increased interaction of DNA with swollen microgels (20 °C). Anionic microgels require the presence of multivalent cations (Ca2+) to promote the complexation, overcoming the electrostatic repulsion with negatively charged DNA. Then again, Langmuir monolayers evidence their complexation at the surface. However, the presence of Ca2+ seems to induce profound changes in the interaction and surface conformation of anionic microgels. These alterations are further explored by measuring adsorbed films with the pendant drop technique. Conformational changes induced by Ca2+ on the structure of the microgel can ultimately affect the complexation with DNA and should be considered in the design. The combination of microstructural and surface properties for microgels offers a new perspective into complexation of DNA with soft particles with biomedical applications.
The Effect of Shear Rate on Dynamic Gelation of Phenol Formaldehyde Resin Gel in Porous Media
Authors: Yu Haiyang , Ma Zhenfu , Tang Lin , Li Yuesheng , Shao Xianzhen , Tian Yunxia , Qian Jun , Fu Jing , Li Dong , Wang Long , Ren Fengguo
Published: March 2022

Polymer gel is the most widely used plugging agent in profile control, whose formula and injected speed are very important process parameters. It is very significant to study the effect of shear rates on the dynamic gelation of polymer gel in porous media for selecting suitable formula and injection speed. Taking the phenol formaldehyde resin gel with static gelation time of 21 h in ampoule bottle as research objective, it was studied the dynamic gelation process and subsequent water flooding in porous media under different injected speeds by a circulated equipment. The results shown that final dynamic gelation time is 2.4 times longer than the static gelation time in porous media. The gel particles are formed and mainly accumulated in the near wellbore zone after dynamic gelation. Injection speed has little effect on the dynamic gelation time in porous media, but has a great effect on the gel strength. The effect of injection speed on dynamic gel strength is evaluated by established the quantitative relationship between shear rate and dynamic gel strength. According to subsequent water flooding results, gel particles have certain plugging capacity in the near wellbore zone. The plugging ability declines obviously with an increasing injection speed. The experimental results provide theoretical support for the successful application of polymer gel used in profile control.