bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current and Future Potential of Shellfish and Algae Mariculture Carbon Sinks in China
Authors: Lai Qiuying , Ma Jie , He Fei , Zhang Aiguo , Pei Dongyan , Yu Minghui
Published: July 2022

Shellfish and algae mariculture make up an important part of the marine fishery carbon sink. Carbon sink research is necessary to ensure China achieves its goal of carbon neutrality. This study used the material quality assessment method to estimate the carbon sink capacity of shellfish and algae. Product value, carbon storage value, and oxygen release value were used to calculate the economic value of shellfish and algae carbon sequestration. The results showed that the annual average shellfish and algae carbon sink in China was 1.10 million tons from 2003 to 2019, of which shellfish accounted for 91.63%, wherein Crassostreagigas, Ruditapesphilippinarum, and Chlamysfarreri were the main contributors. The annual average economic value of China’s shellfish and algae carbon sequestration was USD 71,303.56 million, and the product value was the main contributor, accounting for 99.11%. The carbon sink conversion ratios of shellfish and algae were 8.37% and 5.20%, respectively, thus making shellfish the aquaculture species with the strongest carbon sink capacity and the greatest carbon sink potential. The estimated growth rate in the shellfish and algae removable carbon sink was 33,900 tons/year in China, but this trend was uncertain. The capacity for carbon sequestration and exchange by aquaculture can be improved by expanding breeding space, promoting multi-level comprehensive breeding modes, and marine artificial upwelling projects.
Screening of Patient Impairments in an Outpatient Clinic for Suspected Rare Diseases—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gutenbrunner Christoph , Schiller Joerg , Goedecke Vega , Lemhoefer Christina , Boekel Andrea
Published: July 2022

Background: Most rare diseases are chronic conditions with variable impairment of functionality, which can result in a need for rehabilitation. To our knowledge, there are no systematic studies on the rehabilitation needs of patients in centres for rare diseases in the literature. Our hypothesis is that participation of these patients is so limited that there is an increased need for rehabilitation. For this reason, a survey on the need for rehabilitation was carried out in all patients presenting to the centre for rare diseases, in order to assess the need for rehabilitative measures to counteract disturbances in activity and participation. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed to collect data using a written questionnaire from December 2020 to June 2021, including patients presenting personally in the center for rare diseases. Results: Nearly 70% of the participants assessed their own ability to work as critical. Of those surveyed, n = 30 (44.9%) had PDI total ≥ 33 points and, thus, a clear pain-related impairment. Conclusion: The results show functional restrictions in the areas of mental well-being and activity. As expected, the health-related quality of life is reduced as compared to healthy people. Almost half of the participants reported significant pain-related impairments, however, only 9% of all respondents stated that they had received appropriate pain therapy. The results show the need for rehabilitation-specific skills in the care and counseling of patients with rare diseases.
Exploring the Role of Green Finance and Energy Development towards High-Quality Economic Development: Application of Spatial Durbin Model and Intermediary Effect Model
Authors: Wang Rong , Wang Fayuan
Published: July 2022

Finance is the blood of the economy, and energy is the foundation and source of power for economic and social development. It is crucial to the prosperity and development of the country, the improvement of people’s lives and the long-term stability of society. It is a booster for the implementation of the concept of green development and the realization of high-quality economic development (HQED). Based on the panel data of 11 provinces and cities in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2007 to 2019, this paper selects green investment and carbon emission intensity as green financial values and calculates energy development indicators from the three dimensions of energy supply, energy consumption and energy efficiency. The three dimensions of development capability, high-quality development structure and high-quality development benefit are used to construct an indicator system for high-quality economic development, and the spatial Durbin model is selected to study the spatial effects of green finance and energy development on high-quality economic development. At the same time, the mediation effect model is used to test whether there is a mediation effect in the development of green finance on high-quality economic development. The results show that: green finance has a significant positive impact on high-quality economic development, and the spatial spillover effect is not significant; energy development has a significant positive impact on high-quality economic development, and the spatial spillover effect is significantly negative; the interaction term between green finance and energy development has a significant negative impact on high-quality economic development, and the spatial spillover effect is not significant and green finance plays a partial intermediary role in the process of energy development promoting high-quality economic development. Existing research considers less of the impact of green finance on high-quality development. On the one hand, the research in this paper can theoretically supplement and improve existing research and expand the research field; on the other hand, it can provide a policy basis for the realization of high-quality development in the region, which has important practical significance for the realization of sustainable development goals in the region.
Parametric and Visual Programming BIM Applied to Museums, Linking Container and Content
Authors: Lo Turco Massimiliano , Giovannini Elisabetta Caterina , Tomalini Andrea
Published: July 2022

In recent years we have been experiencing an ever-increasing number of Building Modeling Modeling (BIM) and Visual Programming Language (VPL) approaches in the architectural design field. These experiments have inspired new research strictly focused on exploring values, criticalities, and the advantages of applying these combined methodologies in the Cultural Heritage domain. This integrated approach has emphasized the benefits derived from HBIM. The next step is to critically evaluate the application of BIM and VPL processes used in the management and valorisation of museum heritage, pursuing both parametric and algorithmic approaches. The research group worked on building a model that shared the BIM hierarchical structure and the flexibility of the VPL methodologies. Semi-automatic procedures were developed within a rigorous BIM workflow, with the help of Autodesk and McNeel tools, to show and manage complex museum management phenomena. These procedures aimed to respond to three different objectives. First, the need to associate information from the Facility Report to the individual BIM components to predict and monitor the conditions in which museum collections are found. Second, the intention to measure the attractiveness of the artifacts within the exhibition project and the design effects for a correct prefiguration of visitor flows. Third, the elements involved included the exhibition area obtained from an HBIM model (converted into a visual field through interoperable processes), the digitized collections (the attractive elements), the users and, finally, the numerical evaluation of the visibility of specific objects within collections by simulating the human point of view. Once automated, the devised procedures can be considered a prototype to support curators in controlling and improving the efficiency of the exhibition layout.
Overexpression of AcEXPA23 Promotes Lateral Root Development in Kiwifruit
Authors: Wu Zhiyong , Li Ming , Zhong Yunpeng , Li Lan , Cheng Dawei , Gu Hong , Guo Xizhi , Qi Xiujuan , Chen Jinyong
Published: July 2022

Kiwifruit is loved by consumers for its unique taste and rich vitamin C content. Kiwifruit are very sensitive to adverse soil environments owing to fleshy and shallow roots, which limits the uptake of water and nutrients into the root system, resulting in low yield and poor fruit quality. Lateral roots are the key organs for plants to absorb water and nutrients. Improving water and fertilizer use efficiency by promoting lateral root development is a feasible method to improve yield and quality. Expansin proteins plays a major role in lateral root growth; hence, it is important to identify expansin protein family members, screen key genes, and explore gene function in root development. In this study, 41 expansin genes were identified based on the genome of kiwifruit (‘Hongyang’, Actinidia chinensis). By clustering with the Arabidopsis thaliana expansin protein family, the 41 AcExpansin proteins were divided into four subfamilies. The AcExpansin protein family was further analysed by bioinformatics methods and was shown to be evolutionarily diverse and conserved at the DNA and protein levels. Based on previous transcriptome data and quantitative real-time PCR assays, we screened the candidate gene AcEXPA23. Overexpression of AcEXPA23 in kiwifruit increased the number of kiwifruit lateral roots.
A Novel Isaindigotone Derivative Displays Better Anti-Proliferation Activities and Induces Apoptosis in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Du Kangjia , Yang Chengjie , Zhou Zhongkun , Ma Yunhao , Tian Yanan , Zhang Rentao , Zhang Hao , Jiang Xinrong , Zhu Hongmei , Liu Huanxiang , Chen Peng , Liu Yingqian
Published: July 2022

Isaindigotone is an alkaloid containing a pyrrolo-[2,1-b]quinazoline moiety conjugated with a benzylidene group and isolated from the root of Isatis indigotca Fort. However, further anticancer activities of this alkaloid and its derivatives have not been fully explored. In this work, a novel isaindigotone derivative was synthesized and three different gastric cell lines and one human epithelial gastric cell line were used to study the anti-proliferation effects of the novel isaindigotone derivative BLG26. HGC27 cells and AGS cells were used to further explore the potential mechanisms. BLG26 exhibited better anti-proliferation activities in AGS cells with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 1.45 μM. BLG26 caused mitochondrial membrane potential loss and induced apoptosis in both HGC27 cells and AGS cells by suppressing mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis. Acute toxicity experiment showed that LD50 (median lethal dose) of BLG26 was above 1000.0 mg/kg. This research suggested that BLG26 can be a potential candidate for the treatment of gastric cancer.
Antimicrobial Efficacy and Permeability of Various Sealing Materials in Two Different Types of Implant–Abutment Connections
Authors: Smojver Igor , Bjelica Roko , Vuletić Marko , Gerbl Dražena , Budimir Ana , Gabrić Dragana
Published: July 2022

The presence of a microgap along an implant–abutment connection (IAC) is considered the main disadvantage of two-piece implant systems. Its existence may lead to mechanical and biological complications. Different IAC designs have been developed to minimise microleakage through the microgap and to increase the stability of prosthodontic abutments. Furthermore, different sealing materials have appeared on the market to seal the gap at the IAC. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy and permeability of different materials designed to seal the microgap, and their behaviour in conical and straight types of internal IACs. One hundred dental implants with original prosthodontic abutments were divided into two groups of fifty implants according to the type of IAC. Three different sealing materials (GapSeal, Flow.sil, and Oxysafe gel) were applied in the test subgroups. The contamination of implant–abutment assemblies was performed by a joint suspension containing Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. It was concluded that the IAC type had no significant influence on microleakage regarding microbial infection. No significant difference was found between the various sealing agents. Only one sealing agent (GapSeal) was found to significantly prevent microleakage. A complete hermetic seal was not achieved with any of the sealing agents tested in this study.
Therapeutic Potential of Photobiomodulation for Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bian Ji , Liebert Ann , Bicknell Brian , Chen Xin-Ming , Huang Chunling , Pollock Carol A.
Published: July 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing global public health problem. The implementation of evidence-based clinical practices only defers the development of kidney failure. Death, transplantation, or dialysis are the consequences of kidney failure, resulting in a significant burden on the health system. Hence, innovative therapeutic strategies are urgently needed due to the limitations of current interventions. Photobiomodulation (PBM), a form of non-thermal light therapy, effectively mitigates mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut microbiota dysbiosis, all of which are inherent in CKD. Preliminary studies suggest the benefits of PBM in multiple diseases, including CKD. Hence, this review will provide a concise summary of the underlying action mechanisms of PBM and its potential therapeutic effects on CKD. Based on the findings, PBM may represent a novel, non-invasive and non-pharmacological therapy for CKD, although more studies are necessary before PBM can be widely recommended.
A Bioinformatics Approach to MicroRNA-Sequencing Analysis Based on Human Saliva Samples of Patients with Endometriosis
Authors: Bendifallah Sofiane , Dabi Yohann , Suisse Stéphane , Jornea Ludmila , Bouteiller Delphine , Touboul Cyril , Puchar Anne , Daraï Emile
Published: July 2022

Endometriosis, defined by the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterus, affects 2–10% of the female population, i.e., around 190 million women, worldwide. The aim of the prospective ENDO-miRNA study was to develop a bioinformatics approach for microRNA-sequencing analysis of 200 saliva samples for miRNAome expression and to test its diagnostic accuracy for endometriosis. Among the 200 patients, 76.5% (n = 153) had confirmed endometriosis and 23.5% (n = 47) had no endometriosis (controls). Small RNA-seq of 200 saliva samples yielded ~4642 M raw sequencing reads (from ~13.7 M to ~39.3 M reads/sample). The number of expressed miRNAs ranged from 1250 (outlier) to 2561 per sample. Some 2561 miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in the saliva samples of patients with endometriosis compared with the control patients. Among these, 1.17% (n = 30) were up- or downregulated. Among these, the F1-score, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC ranged from 11–86.8%, 5.8–97.4%, 10.6–100%, and 39.3–69.2%, respectively. Here, we report a bioinformatic approach to saliva miRNA sequencing and analysis. We underline the advantages of using saliva over blood in terms of ease of collection, reproducibility, stability, safety, non-invasiveness. This report describes the whole saliva transcriptome to make miRNA quantification a validated, standardized, and reliable technique for routine use. The methodology could be applied to build a saliva signature of endometriosis.
Designing and Synthesis of New Isatin Derivatives as Potential CDK2 Inhibitors
Authors: Czeleń Przemysław , Skotnicka Agnieszka , Szefler Beata
Published: July 2022

Tumors are still one of the main causes of death; therefore, the search for new therapeutic agents that will enable the implementation of effective treatment is a significant challenge for modern pharmacy. One of the important factors contributing to the development of neoplastic diseases is the overexpression of enzymes responsible for the regulation of cell division processes such as cyclin-dependent kinases. Numerous studies and examples of already-developed drugs confirm that isatin is a convenient basis for the development of new groups of inhibitors for this class of enzyme. Therefore, in this work, a new group of potential inhibitors of the CDK2 enzyme, utilizing isatin derivatives and substituted benzoylhydrazines, has been designed based on the application of computational chemistry methods, such as docking and molecular dynamics, and their inhibiting ability was assessed. In the cases of the selected compounds, a synthesis method was developed, and the selected physicochemical properties of the newly synthesized derivatives were estimated. As part of the completed project, new compounds are developed which are potential inhibitors of the CDK2 enzyme.
Frontiers in Antimicrobial Materials
Authors: Serrano-Aroca Ángel , Tambuwala Murtaza M. , Birkett Martin
Published: July 2022

The aim of this Special Edition is to highlight the exponential work performed in the field of antimicrobial material research from the beginning of the current COVID-19 pandemic [...]
Tumor-Stroma Ratio and Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 Expression in Preoperative Biopsy and Matched Laryngeal Carcinoma Surgical Specimen
Authors: Alessandrini Lara , Franz Leonardo , Sbaraglia Marta , Saccardo Tommaso , Cappello Filippo , Drigo Alessandro , Frigo Anna Chiara , Marioni Gino
Published: July 2022

Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) seems to rely on close relations between neoplastic and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Tumor to stroma ratio (TSR) has been associated with prognosis in different malignancies. The aims of this exploratory investigation were to analyze for the first time the: (i) association between TSR, PD-L1 expression and other clinical–pathological features in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) biopsies and paired surgical specimens; (ii) prognostic and predictive role of TSR and PD-L1. TSR, PD-L1 expression (in terms of combined positive score [CPS]), and other clinical–pathological features were analyzed in biopsies and surgical specimens of 43 consecutive LSCC cases. A CPS < 1 evaluated on surgical specimens was associated with a low TSR (stroma rich) on both biopsies and surgical specimens (p = 0.0143 and p = 0.0063). Low TSR showed a significant negative prognostic value when evaluated on both biopsies and surgical specimens (HR = 8.808, p = 0.0003 and HR = 11.207, p = 0.0002). CPS ≥ 1 appeared to be a favorable prognostic factor (HR = 0.100, p = 0.0265). The association between bioptic and surgical specimen TSR and PD-L1 expression should be further investigated for a potential impact on targeted treatments, also with regard to immunotherapeutic protocols.
The Presence of Bacteremia Indicates Higher Inflammatory Response and Augments Disease Severity in Adult Patients with Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Hsu Chien-Chin , Lin Pei-Chen , Chen Kuo-Tai
Published: July 2022

Background: This study investigated the association between the presence of bacteremia and increase in the requirement for intensive care in adult patients with urinary tract infection (UTI). The study also analyzed the differences in clinical features between patients with versus without bacteremia. Methods: We conducted a retrospective screening of the medical records of adult patients admitted during a 4-month period at a single medical center. We excluded patients with concomitant infections and patients whose urine and blood samples were not collected in the emergency department (ED). The included patients were allocated to two groups—bacteremia and nonbacteremia groups—according to the blood culture results for samples collected in the ED. Results: The study cohort comprised 637 patients, including 158 (24.8%) patients in the bacteremia group and 479 (75.2%) patients in the nonbacteremia group. Compared with the patients in the nonbacteremia group, those in the bacteremia group satisfied more systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria; they had a higher white cell count, C-reactive protein level, and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores; and had a greater requirement for intensive care (bacteremia vs. nonbacteremia; SIRS: 79.1% vs. 49.9%, p = 0.000; leukocytosis: 68.2% vs. 57.6%, p = 0.000; elevation of CRP: 96.2% vs. 78.6%, p = 0.000; SOFA: 39.2% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.000; requirement for intensive care: 13.9% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.000, respectively). According to the results of multivariate logistic regression, bacteremia and sepsis were independent factors associated with the requirement for intensive care. Conclusions: Bacteremia increased the requirement for intensive care in patients with UTI. Physicians can identify bacteremia using inflammatory markers, the SIRS criteria, and SOFA scores.
Multi-Center Comparison of Two Self-Expanding Transcatheter Heart Valves: A Propensity Matched Analysis
Authors: Blumenstein Johannes , Eckel Clemens , Husser Oliver , Kim Won-Keun , Renker Matthias , Choi Yeong-Hoon , Hamm Christian W. , Al-Terki Hani , Sötemann Dagmar , Körbi Leon , Tiyerili Vedat , Grothusen Christina , Gaede Luise , Dohmen Guido , Möllmann Helge
Published: July 2022

Background: During the last years, several transcatheter aortic heart valves entered the clinical market and are commercially available. The prostheses differ regarding several technical and functional aspects. However, little is known regarding head-to-head comparative data of the ACURATE neo and the PORTICO valve prostheses. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare two self-expanding transcatheter aortic heart valves (THV), the ACURATE neo and the PORTICO, with regard to in-hospital and 30-day outcomes, as well as early device failures. Methods: A total of 1591 consecutive patients with severe native aortic valve stenosis from two centers were included in the analyses and matched by 1:1 nearest neighbor matching to identify one patient treated with PORTICO (n = 344) for each patient treated with ACURATE neo (n = 344). Results: In-hospital complications were comparable between both valves, including any kind of stroke (ACURATE neo = 3.5% vs. PORTICO = 3.8%; p = 1.0), major vascular complications (ACURATE neo = 4.5% vs. PORTICO = 5.4%; p = 0.99) or life-threatening bleeding (ACURATE neo = 1% vs. PORTICO = 2%; p = 0.68). The rate of device failure defined by the VARC-2 criteria were comparable, including elevated gradients and moderate-to-severe paravalvular leakage (ACURATE neo = 7.3% vs. PORTICO = 7.6%; p = 1.0). However, the need for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) was significantly more frequent after the use of PORTICO THV (9.5% vs. 18.7%; p = 0.002). Conclusions: In this two-center case-matched comparison, short-term clinical and hemodynamic outcomes showed comparable results between PORTICO and ACURATE neo prostheses. However, PORTICO was associated with a significant higher incidence of PPI.
Evaluating the Roles of Different Types of Laser Therapy in Becker’s Nevus Treatment
Authors: Al-Bakaa Muhammad K. , Al-Dhalimi Muhsin A. , Dube Prabhatchandra , Khalaf Fatimah K.
Published: July 2022

Becker’s nevus (BN) is a cutaneous hamartoma of benign nature that develops through adolescence and affects mostly young men. The nevus is usually located unilaterally and is characterized by hypertrichosis and hyperpigmentation. Despite recent advances in treatment modalities, no effective treatment has been established for BN hyperpigmentation. We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of fractional Erbium: YAG 2940 nm and Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm lasers in the treatment of BN hyperpigmentation. Twenty-three patients with BN were included in a prospective, randomized-controlled, observer-blinded, split-lesion comparative technique trial. In each patient, two similar square test regions were randomized to either be treated with a fractional Erbium: YAG 2940 nm laser or with a Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser. Each patient was treated with three sessions at six-week intervals. At the follow-up, clearance of hyperpigmentation was assessed by physician global assessment, visual analogue scale, grade of improvement, patient global assessment, and patient satisfaction. Regions treated with the fractional Erbium: YAG 2940 nm laser demonstrated significantly better improvement compared to ones treated with the Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm (p-value = 0.001) laser. Adverse effects such as repigmentation and hypertrophic scarring were not reported during the follow-up period. The outcomes were cosmetically acceptable with overall high satisfaction among the included patients. Our data suggest a superior role for the fractional Erbium: YAG (2940 nm) laser in the treatment of BN hyperpigmentation compared to the Q-switched Nd: YAG (1064 nm) laser, along with being a safer method and having no reported side effects.
Disparities in Survival Outcomes of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients between Urban and Rural Areas and the Identification of Modifiable Factors in an Area of South Korea
Authors: Park Song , Lim Daesung , Kim Seong , Ryu Ji , Kim Yong , Choi Byungho , Kim Sun
Published: July 2022

This retrospective study aimed to compare the survival outcomes of adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients between urban (Busan, Ulsan, Changwon) and rural (Gyeongnam) areas in South Korea and identify modifiable factors in the chain of survival. The primary and secondary outcomes were survival to discharge and modifiable factors in the chain of survival were identified using logistic regression analysis. In total, 1954 patients were analyzed. The survival to discharge rates in the whole region and in urban and rural areas were 6.9%, 8.7% (Busan 8.7%, Ulsan 10.3%, Changwon 7.2%), and 3.4%, respectively. In the urban group, modifiable factors associated with survival to discharge were no advanced airway management (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.065, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.138–3.747), no mechanical chest compression (aOR 3.932, 95% CI: 2.015–7.674), and an emergency medical service (EMS) transport time of more than 8 min (aOR 3.521, 95% CI: 2.075–5.975). In the rural group, modifiable factors included an EMS scene time of more than 15 min (aOR 0.076, 95% CI: 0.006–0.883) and an EMS transport time of more than 8 min (aOR 4.741, 95% CI: 1.035–21.706). To improve survival outcomes, dedicated resources and attention to EMS practices and transport time in urban areas and EMS scene and transport times in rural areas are needed.
Acute Liver Failure and Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure in COVID-19 Era
Authors: Kanda Tatsuo , Sasaki-Tanaka Reina , Ishii Tomotaka , Abe Hayato , Ogawa Masahiro , Enomoto Hirayuki
Published: July 2022

Acute liver failure (ALF) and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), respectively, occur in patients with normal liver and patients with chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis [...]
From Three-Dimensional (3D)- to 6D-Printing Technology in Orthopedics: Science Fiction or Scientific Reality?
Authors: Vasiliadis Angelo V. , Koukoulias Nikolaos , Katakalos Konstantinos
Published: July 2022

Over the past three decades, additive manufacturing has changed from an innovative technology to an increasingly accessible tool in all aspects of different medical practices, including orthopedics. Although 3D-printing technology offers a relatively inexpensive, rapid and less risky route of manufacturing, it is still quite limited for the fabrication of more complex objects. Over the last few years, stable 3D-printed objects have been converted to smart objects or implants using novel 4D-printing systems. Four-dimensional printing is an advanced process that creates the final object by adding smart materials. Human bones are curved along their axes, a morphological characteristic that augments the mechanical strain caused by external forces. Instead of the three axes used in 4D printing, 5D-printing technology uses five axes, creating curved and more complex objects. Nowadays, 6D-printing technology marries the concepts of 4D- and 5D-printing technology to produce objects that change shape over time in response to external stimuli. In future research, it is obvious that printing technology will include a combination of multi-dimensional printing technology and smart materials. Multi-dimensional additive manufacturing technology will drive the printing dimension to higher levels of structural freedom and printing efficacy, offering promising properties for various orthopedic applications.
Correction: Xing et al. An Investigation of Adaptive Radius for the Covariance Localization in Ensemble Data Assimilation. J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9, 1156
Authors: Xing Xiang , Liu Bainian , Zhang Weimin , Wu Jianping , Cao Xiaoqun , Huang Qunbo
Published: July 2022

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Development of a Monoclonal Antibody and a Serodiagnostic Lateral-Flow Device Specific to Rhizopus arrhizus (Syn. R. oryzae), the Principal Global Agent of Mucormycosis in Humans
Authors: Davies Genna E. , Thornton Christopher R.
Published: July 2022

Mucormycosis is a highly aggressive angio-invasive disease of humans caused by fungi in the zygomycete order, Mucorales. Though a number of different species can cause mucormycosis, the principal agent of the disease worldwide is Rhizopus arrhizus, which accounts for the majority of rhino-orbital-cerebral, pulmonary, and disseminated infections in immunocompromised individuals. It is also the main cause of life-threatening infections in patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, and in corticosteroid-treated patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, where it causes the newly described disease, COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). Diagnosis currently relies on non-specific CT, a lengthy and insensitive culture from invasive biopsy, and a time-consuming histopathology of tissue samples. At present, there are no rapid antigen tests for the disease that detect biomarkers of infection, and which allow point-of-care diagnosis. Here, we report the development of an IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), KC9, which is specific to Rhizopus arrhizus var. arrhizus (syn. Rhizopus oryzae) and Rhizopus arrhizus var. delemar (Rhizopus delemar), and which binds to a 15 kDa extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) antigen secreted during hyphal growth of the pathogen. Using the mAb, we have developed a competitive lateral-flow device (LFD) that allows rapid (30 min) and sensitive (~50 ng/mL running buffer) detection of the EPS biomarker, and which is compatible with human serum (limit of detection of ~500 ng/mL) and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (limit of detection of ~100 ng/mL). The LFD, therefore, provides a potential novel opportunity for the non-invasive detection of mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus arrhizus.
Association between Age of Onset of Hypertension and Incident Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lee Yonggu , Shin Jeong-Hun , Kim Byung Sik , Kook Hyungdon , Kim Woohyeun , Heo Ran , Lim Young-Hyo , Shin Jinho , Kim Chun Ki , Park Jin-Kyu
Published: July 2022

We investigated whether age at hypertension (HTN) onset was associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the general population. This prospective longitudinal community-based cohort study included 9892 participants without AF at baseline, who underwent biennial electrocardiography for a median duration of 11.5 years. The participants were divided into five groups, consisting of a normotensive group (Group-N) and four HTN groups based on HTN onset age: <45 years (Group-H1); 45–54 years (Group-H2); 55–64 years (Group-H3); and ≥65 years (Group-H4). A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed that the presence of HTN at baseline was associated with higher AF risk (hazard ratio [HR], 1.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32–2.80). The participants in Group-H1 had the highest risk of AF (HR 3.18; CI 1.74–5.82), and the risk of AF decreased as HTN onset age increased across the four HTN groups (p for trend = 0.014). The AF onset age was significantly younger in participants in Group-H1 than in Groups-H2–H4. Early-onset HTN was associated with an increased risk of AF, and younger onset of AF in the general population. Surveillance for AF should be considered at a younger age in individuals with HTN.
Cellular Automata in Modeling and Predicting Urban Densification: Revisiting the Literature since 1971
Authors: Chakraborty Anasua , Sikder Sujit , Omrani Hichem , Teller Jacques
Published: July 2022

The creation of an accurate simulation of future urban growth is considered to be one of the most important challenges of the last five decades that involves spatial modeling within a GIS environment. Even though built-up densification processes, or transitions from low to high density, are critical for policymakers concerned with limiting sprawl, the literature on models for urban study reveals that most of them focus solely on the expansion process. Although the majority of these models have similar goals, they differ in terms of implementation and theoretical assumptions. Cellular automata (CA) models have been proven to be successful at simulating urban growth dynamics and projecting future scenarios at multiple scales. This paper aims to revisit urban CA models to determine the various approaches for a realistic simulation and prediction of urban densification. The general characteristics of CA models are described with respect to analysis of various driving factors that influence urban scenarios. This paper also critically analyzes various hybrid models based on CA such as the Markov chain, artificial neural network (ANN), and logistic regression (LR). Limitation and uncertainties of CA models, namely, neighborhood cell size, may be minimized when integrated with empirical and statistical models. The result of this review suggests that it is useful to use CA models with multinomial logistic regression (MLR) in order to analyze and model the effects of various driving factors related to urban densification. Realistic simulations can be achieved when multidensity class labels are integrated in the modeling process.
Perspectives of Post-Industrial Towns and Landscape in Eastern Slovakia—Case Study Strážske
Authors: Hajduková Romana , Sopirová Alžbeta
Published: July 2022

This study examines the impact of socialist industrialisation from the 1950s to 1989 and deindustrialisation from 1989 on urban development and landscape transformation in Strážske—the former centre of the chemical industry in Eastern Slovakia. We focus on contemporary challenges: the emergence of brownfields, environmental burdens, and urban shrinkage, to propose strategies for creating a sustainable and resilient shrinking town of Strážske. We have divided the methods and results into two sections: the first is the mapping of urban and landscape development, brownfields, and environmental burdens, and the second is the proposal of perspective strategies for brownfield redevelopment. The study combines morphological research, field survey, data analysis and literature review. The results confirmed that socialist industrialisation was a determining factor in urban growth and landscape transformation, as well as the negative impact of chemical production on the environment and the emergence of brownfields. In the second stage of results, four proposed scenarios are portraying the possible strategies for brownfield redevelopment regarding sustainability and resilience. The results can serve as a non-binding spatial planning document for the local government of Strážske. However, especially for shrinking cities, it is necessary to create a systematic legislative and financial support system from the state, as well as a change in spatial planning legislative and methodology.
Riverine Plastic Pollution in Asia: Results from a Bibliometric Assessment
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Dedeoglu Cagdas , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Salvia Amanda Lange , Barbir Jelena , Voronova Viktoria , Abubakar Ismaila Rimi , Iital Arvo , Pachel Karin , Huthoff Fredrik , Sharifi Ayyoob , Yang Peter J. , Klavins Maris , Emanche Victoria Omeche
Published: July 2022

Rivers are important ecosystems, vital to the livelihoods of hundreds of millions of humans and other species. Despite their environmental, social, and economic importance, current use of rivers is unsustainable, due to a combination of solid waste and high levels of pollutants. Plastic materials are among the most predominant of such pollutants. Based on the need for additional research in this area, this study examines pressures put to rivers and explores trends related to riverine plastic pollution, with a focus on Asia. Apart from the bibliometric analysis, and relying on the collected information, examples describing the drivers of riverine plastic pollution in a sample of Asian countries are described, outlining the specific problem and its scope. Among some of the results obtained from it, mention can be made to the fact that much of the literature focuses on plastic pollution as a whole and less on one of its most significant ramifications, namely microplastics. Additionally, there is a need related to data availability on riverine plastic data and improving the understanding of transport mechanisms in relation to riverine plastic emission into the ocean. The results from this study illustrate the significance of the problems posed by plastic waste to Asian rivers and point out the fact that there are still significant gaps in respect of regulations and standards, which prevent improvements that are highlighted in this study. Based on the results of this bibliometric assessment, specific measures via which levels of riverine plastic pollution may be reduced are presented, bringing relevant new insights on this topic beyond the existing reviews.
Measurement of the Threatened Biodiversity Existence Value Output: Application of the Refined System of Environmental-Economic Accounting in the Pinus pinea Forests of Andalusia, Spain
Authors: Campos Pablo , Oviedo José L. , Álvarez Alejandro , Mesa Bruno
Published: July 2022

Are we able to determine the existence value output generated for society through the preservation of wild species threatened with extinction? In this article we defend the theory that the service of preserving threatened species with risk of extinction is an existence value output with a hidden transaction price if it can be established that there are consumer or state willingness to pay an additional tax above the government total cost to avoid an increase in one threatened species in relation to the number recorded at the opening of the accounting period. This output is estimated by adding the total cost and the additional consumer tax which the consumers state that they are willing to pay through a choice experiment survey. Our refined monetary System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (rSEEA) extends the existence value output concept and valuation principles recommended by the United Nations. In this paper, this rSEEA was applied to Pinus pinea forests in protected as well as non-protected areas of Andalusia, Spain in 2010. The results show that the net value added from protected areas is 40% higher than that from non-protected areas. It is incidental that the environmental benefits in both areas coincide.
Derivation of Empirical Relationships to Predict Cambodian Masonry Strength
Authors: Kandymov Nurmurat , Mohd Hashim Nor Fazilah , Ismail Syuhaida , Durdyev Serdar
Published: July 2022

Masonry material characteristics, such as compressive strength, and the relationship between brick, mortar, and masonry compressive strengths are required for the analysis and assessment of masonry structures. This paper aimed to investigate the compressive strength relationship of Cambodian masonry. A total number of 42 prisms were constructed in the laboratory using six different brick/mortar combinations. Two brick types, solid and hollow, and three—1:3, 1:4, and 1:6—cement–sand mortar combinations were used. The effects of brick and mortar strengths were analysed. Using regression analysis, a simple empirical relationship was derived for masonry compressive strength as a function of brick and mortar strength in the Cambodian context.
Systems, Properties, Surface Modification and Applications of Biodegradable Magnesium-Based Alloys: A Review
Authors: Chen Junxiu , Xu Yu , Kolawole Sharafadeen Kunle , Wang Jianhua , Su Xuping , Tan Lili , Yang Ke
Published: July 2022

In recent years, biodegradable magnesium (Mg) alloys have attracted the attention of many researchers due to their mechanical properties, excellent biocompatibility and unique biodegradability. Many Mg alloy implants have been successfully applied in clinical medicine, and they are considered to be promising biological materials. In this article, we review the latest research progress in biodegradable Mg alloys, including research on high-performance Mg alloys, bioactive coatings and actual or potential clinical applications of Mg alloys. Finally, we review the research and development direction of biodegradable Mg alloys. This article has a guiding significance for future development and application of high-performance biodegradable Mg alloys, promoting the future advancement of the magnesium alloy research field, especially in biomedicine.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Chitosan and Tea Tree Oil on Plain and Satin Weave Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Flinčec Grgac Sandra , Tesla Tea , Čorak Ivana , Žuvela Bošnjak Franka
Published: July 2022

The paper aimed at enhancing the antimicrobial activity of chitosan by using tea tree essential oil with the purpose of durably finishing cotton fabrics for use in a hospital environment. The influence of crosslinkers and catalysts on the possibility of obtaining stable bonds using hydrothermal in situ synthesis between cellulosic material and chitosan with and without tea tree essential oil was investigated in detail. The morphology of the sample surface before and after the treatment and textile care cycle was investigated using a field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and indicated the presence of chitosan and a thin film on all treated samples, which showed durability of the treatment. The FTIR spectra obtained by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) using attenuated total reflection measurement technique (ATR) analysis, showed that all the samples tested recorded physicochemical changes in the structure. The analysis of the samples on the goniometer proved the hydrophilicity of the materials, with a film forming on the surface of the treated samples, which is extremely beneficial given the end use of dressing samples to promote wound healing. The presence of a significant amount of bound chitosan with tea tree oil was confirmed by measuring the mass per unit area of the samples after the treatment and textile care cycles. The results of antimicrobial efficacy show that the materials treated with chitosan were resistant to bacteria and fungi in most cases, but only the samples treated in Bath I showed a zone of inhibition against the fungus Candida albicans, indicating the positive effect of tea tree essential oil.
First-Principles Study on the Adsorption Behavior of O2 on the Surface of Plutonium Gallium System
Authors: Li Longxian , Zhu Min , Zheng Guikai , Li Yan , Yang Yang , Liu Yilong , Su Huan
Published: July 2022

To deeply understand the adsorption process of oxygen on the surface of a plutonium gallium system and to reveal the chemical reaction mechanism at the initial stage of oxidative corrosion on the surface of plutonium gallium alloy at a theoretical level, the adsorption behavior of oxygen molecules on the surface of a plutonium gallium system was investigated by a first-principles approach based on density flooding theory. The results show that the molecular bond length increases and finally breaks when the surface oxygen molecule is adsorbed on the surface of plutonium gallium system and dissociates into two atomic states. The most likely adsorption position of oxygen molecules on the surface of plutonium gallium system is hole-site vertical adsorption with the adsorption energy size of 10.7 eV. The bonding between oxygen atom and surface is mainly due to the overlapping hybridization of Pu-6s, Pu-7s, Pu-6d, Ga-3d and O-2p orbitals. Oxygen molecules mainly interact with the atoms of the first layer on the surface of the plutonium gallium system. The oxygen atoms after stable adsorption are able to diffuse to the subsurface of the plutonium gallium system after overcoming the energy barrier of 16.7 eV and form a stable structure. The research results reveal the initial reaction process and adsorption law of oxygen on the surface of plutonium gallium system from microscopic level, which is helpful to further explore the surface corrosion prevention technology of plutonium gallium system and improve the reliability and safety of plutonium gallium alloy components.
On the Sintering Behavior of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 Mixed Oxide Powders
Authors: Chorney Maureen P. , Mondal Kunal , Downey Jerome P. , Tripathy Prabhat K.
Published: July 2022

A mixed oxide system consisting of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5, was subjected to annealing in air/hydrogen up to 950 °C for 1–4 h to study its sintering behavior. The thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimetry (TGA–DSC) thermograms indicated the formation of multiple endothermic peaks at temperatures higher than 925 °C. Subsequently, a 30% Ta2O5 and 70% Nb2O5 (mol%) pellet resulted in good sintering behavior at both 900 and 950 °C. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images corroborated these observations with necking and particle coarsening. The sintered pellets contained a 20.4 and 20.8% mixed oxide (Nb4Ta2O15) phase, along with Ta2O5 and Nb2O5, at both 900 and 950 °C, indicating the possibility of the formation of a solid solution phase. In situ high-temperature X-ray diffraction (XRD) scans also confirmed the formation of the ternary oxide phase at 6 and 19.8% at 890 and 950 °C, respectively. The Hume–Rothery rules could explain the good sintering behavior of the Ta2O5 and Nb2O5 mixed oxides. An oxide composition of 30% Ta2O5 and 70% Nb2O5 (mol%) and a sintering temperature of 950 °C appeared adequate for fabricating well-sintered oxide precursors for subsequent electrochemical polarization studies in fused salts.
Mechanosynthesis of High-Nitrogen Steels Strengthened by Secondary Titanium Nitrides
Authors: Shabashov Valery , Lyashkov Kirill , Zamatovskii Andrey , Kozlov Kirill , Kataeva Natalya , Novikov Evgenii , Ustyugov Yurii
Published: July 2022

The solid-phase mechanical synthesis of high-nitrogen ferritic and austenitic steel composites in the course of mechanical activation in a ball mill is studied by the method of Mössbauer spectroscopy and electron microscopy. For mechanical alloying, mixtures of iron alloys doped with transition metals (Ni, Cr, Mn, and Ti) and nitrides with low stability to deformation (CrN and Mn2N) were used. The correlation between the phase–concentration composition of the mechanically synthesized samples and the heat of formation of transition metal nitrides, which are part of the initial metal mixtures, is investigated. It is established that the use of titanium as an alloying additive of the Fe component of the mixture accelerates the processes of dissolution of primary nitrides and allows the transference of chromium and manganese to the position of substitution in the metallic solid solution. In addition, the titanium additive entails the formation of secondary nitrides with stabilizing the nanostructure of the mechanically synthesized samples.