bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large Animal Model of Osteoporotic Defect Healing: An Alternative to Metaphyseal Defect Model
Authors: Rupp Markus , Biehl Christoph , Malhan Deeksha , Hassan Fathi , Attia Sameh , Rosch Sebastian , Schäfer Annemarie B. , McMahon Erin , Kampschulte Marian , Heiss Christian , El Khassawna Thaqif
Published: March 2021

Osteoporosis is a common metabolic disorder diagnosed by lower bone density and higher risk of fracture. Fragility fractures because of osteoporosis are associated with high mortality rate. Deep understanding of fracture healing in osteoporosis is important for successful treatment. Therefore, the FDA approved the use of small and large animal models for preclinical testing. This study investigated the clinical relevance of a fracture defect model in the iliac crest of the osteoporotic sheep model and its several advantages over other models. The osteoporosis was achieved using ovariectomy (OVX) in combination with diet deficiency (OVXD) and steroid administration (OVXDS). Fluorochrome was injected to examine the rate of bone remodelling and bone mineralization. The defect areas were collected and embedded in paraffin and polymethyl metha acrylate (PMMA) for histological staining. OVXDS showed significantly lower bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) at all time points. Furthermore, variations in healing patterns were noticed, while the control, OVX and OVXD showed complete healing after 8 months. Bone quality was affected mostly in the OVXDS group showing irregular trabecular network, lower cortical bone thickness and higher cartilaginous tissue at 8 months. The mineral deposition rate showed a declining pattern in the control, OVX, and OVXD from 5 months to 8 months. One the contrary, the OVXDS group showed an incremental pattern from 5 months to 8 months. The defect zone in osteoporotic animals showed impaired healing and the control showed complete healing after 8 months. This unique established model serves as a dual-purpose model and has several advantages: no intraoperative and postoperative complications, no need for fixation methods for biomaterial testing, and reduction in animal numbers, which comply with 3R principles by using the same animal at two different time points.
Modeling Recidivism through Bayesian Regression Models and Deep Neural Networks
Authors: de la Cruz Rolando , Padilla Oslando , Valle Mauricio A. , Ruz Gonzalo A.
Published: March 2021

This study aims to analyze and explore criminal recidivism with different modeling strategies: one based on an explanation of the phenomenon and another based on a prediction task. We compared three common statistical approaches for modeling recidivism: the logistic regression model, the Cox regression model, and the cure rate model. The parameters of these models were estimated from a Bayesian point of view. Additionally, for prediction purposes, we compared the Cox proportional model, a random survival forest, and a deep neural network. To conduct this study, we used a real dataset that corresponds to a cohort of individuals which consisted of men convicted of sexual crimes against women in 1973 in England and Wales. The results show that the logistic regression model tends to give more precise estimations of the probabilities of recidivism both globally and with the subgroups considered, but at the expense of running a model for each moment of the time that is of interest. The cure rate model with a relatively simple distribution, such as Weibull, provides acceptable estimations, and these tend to be better with longer follow-up periods. The Cox regression model can provide the most biased estimations with certain subgroups. The prediction results show the deep neural network’s superiority compared to the Cox proportional model and the random survival forest.
On Small Deviation Asymptotics in the L2-Norm for Certain Gaussian Processes
Authors: Rozovsky Leonid
Published: March 2021

The results obtained allow finding sharp small deviations in a Hilbert norm for centered Gaussian processes in the case where their covariances have a special form of the eigenvalues and allow us to describe small deviation asymptotics for certain Gaussian processes.
Buckling of Tapered Heavy Columns with Constant Volume
Authors: Lee Byoung Koo , Lee Joon Kyu
Published: March 2021

This paper studies the buckling of standing columns under self-weight and tip load. An emphasis is placed on linearly tapered columns with regular polygons cross-section whose volume is constant. Five end conditions for columns are considered. The differential equation governing the buckling shapes of the column is derived based on the equilibrium equations of the buckled column elements. The governing equation is numerically integrated using the direct integration method, and the eigenvalue is obtained using the determinant search method. The accuracy of the method is verified against the existing solutions for particular cases. The effects of side number, taper ratio, self-weight, and end condition on the buckling load and mode shape are investigated. The contribution of self-weight acting alone to the buckling response is also explored. For a given column volume, especially, the buckling length and its stress distribution of the columns with different geometries and end conditions are estimated.
Clinical Reality and Treatment for Local Recurrence of Rectal Cancer: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Jankowski Michał , Las-Jankowska Manuela , Rutkowski Andrzej , Bała Dariusz , Wiśniewski Dorian , Tkaczyński Karol , Kowalski Witold , Głowacka-Mrotek Iwona , Zegarski Wojciech
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: Despite advances in treatment, local recurrence remains a great concern in patients with rectal cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors of local recurrence of rectal cancer in our single center over a 7-year-period. Materials and Methods: Patients with stage I-III rectal cancer were treated with curative intent. The necessity for radiotherapy and chemotherapy was determined before surgery and/or postoperative histopathological results. Results: Of 365 rectal cancer patients, 76 (20.8%) developed recurrent disease. In total, 27 (7.4%) patients presented with a local tumor recurrence (isolated in 40.7% of cases). Radiotherapy was performed in 296 (81.1%) patients. The most often used schema was 5 × 5 Gy followed by immediate surgery (n = 214, 58.6%). Local recurrence occurred less frequently in patients treated with 5 × 5 Gy radiotherapy followed by surgery (n = 9, 4%). Surgical procedures of relapses were performed in 12 patients, six of whom were operated with radical intent. Only two (7.4%) patients lived more than 5 years after local recurrence treatment. The incidence of local recurrence was associated with primary tumor distal location and worse prognosis. The median overall survival of patients after local recurrence treatment was 19 months. Conclusions: Individualized rectal cancer patient selection and systematic treatment algorithms should be used clinical practice to minimize likelihood of relapse. 5 × 5 Gy radiotherapy followed by immediate surgery allows good local control in resectable cT2N+/cT3N0 patients. Radical resection of isolated local recurrence offers the best chances of cure.
Safety and Performance of Titanium Suture Anchors Used in Knee Ligament Repair Procedures
Authors: Maestro Antonio , Pipa Iván , Rodríguez Nicolás , Toyos Carmen , Torrontegui-Duarte Marcelino , Castaño Cesar
Published: March 2021

Injuries to the knee ligaments can be particularly disabling in young patients, given the risk of long-term disability if adequate fixation is not achieved during initial repair. The TWINFIX™ titanium (Ti) suture anchor with ULTRABRAID™ Suture (Smith and Nephew, London, UK) was designed to secure tendon and ligament reconstructions with increased boney ingrowth at the anchor site with minimal invasive technique. This retrospective analysis looked at 33 patients (41 implants) operated with this device between 2015 and 2019 at a single institution. The average age of patients was 33.18 years (standard deviation [SD], 15.26), with an average body mass index of 24.88 (SD, 3.49). The indications were lateral extra-articular tenodesis during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction, quadriceps or patellar tendon repair and medial collateral ligament repair. After an average follow up of 24.3 + 6.53 months, there was no reports of clinical failure or radiographic evidence of implant failure or loosening. One patient experienced a complication unrelated to the study device, requiring manipulation under anesthesia with resolution of symptoms. This case series supports the safety and performance of this implants for the knee procedures in which its use is indicated. Additional follow-up will be required to determine whether these effects are sustained at medium- and long-term durations.
Effectiveness of Dental and Maxillary Transverse Changes in Tooth-Borne, Bone-Borne, and Hybrid Palatal Expansion through Cone-Beam Tomography: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Coloccia Giovanni , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Inchingolo Angelo Michele , Malcangi Giuseppina , Montenegro Valentina , Patano Assunta , Marinelli Grazia , Laudadio Claudia , Limongelli Luisa , Di Venere Daniela , Hazballa Denisa , D’Oria Maria Teresa , Bordea Ioana Roxana , Xhajanka Edit , Scarano Antonio , Lorusso Felice , Laforgia Alessandra , Inchingolo Francesco , Dipalma Gianna
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: Palatal expansion is a common orthodontic technique able to increase the transverse changes for subjects with constricted maxillary arches. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate through a systematic review the tomography effectiveness of different palatal expander approaches. Materials and Methods: The database used to perform the screening and determine the eligibility of the clinical papers was PubMed (Medline). Results: The database search included a total of 284 results, while 271 articles were excluded. A total of 14 articles were included for the qualitative assessment. Conclusions: The effectiveness of the present studies reported that skeletal expansion was a useful approach to increase the transverse changes for subjects with constricted maxillary arches.
Affective Temperaments, Panic Disorder and Their Bipolar Connections
Authors: Belteczki Zsuzsanna , Rihmer Zoltan , Rozsa Sandor , Ujvari Julia , Pompili Maurizio , Gonda Xenia , Dome Péter
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: The role of affective temperament in the genesis and outcome of major mood disorders is well studied, but there are only a few reports on the relationship between panic disorder (PD) and affective temperaments. Accordingly, we aimed to study the distribution of affective temperaments (depressive (DE); cyclothymic (CT); irritable (IRR); hyperthymic (HT) and anxious (ANX)) among outpatients with PD. Materials and Methods: Affective temperaments of 118 PD outpatients (80 females and 38 males) with or without agoraphobia but without any other psychiatric disorder at the time of inclusion were evaluated using the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A) and compared with the affective temperament scores of control subjects. All patients were followed up for at least 1.5 years in order to detect the onset of any major affective disorders, substance use disorders and suicide attempts. Results: Among females, the dominant ANX and DE temperaments were four and three times as common as in a large normative Hungarian sample (for both cases p < 0.01). Among male PD patients, only the dominant DE temperament was slightly overrepresented in a non-significant manner. Females with PD obtained significantly higher scores on ANX, DE and CT subscales of the TEMPS-A, whereas males with PD showed significantly higher scores on ANX, DE and HT temperament subscales compared with the members of a large normative Hungarian sample and also with a gender- and age-matched control group. During the follow-up, newly developed unipolar major depression and bipolar spectrum (bipolar I or II and cyclothymic) disorders appeared in 64% and 22% of subjects, respectively. Conclusions: Our preliminary findings suggest that a specific, ANX-DE-CT affective temperament profile is characteristic primarily for female patients, and an ANX-DE-HT affective temperament profile is characteristic for male patients with PD, respectively. These findings are in line with expectations because PD is an anxiety disorder par excellence on the one hand, whereas, on the other hand, it is quite frequently comorbid with mood (including bipolar) disorders.
Evaluation of Electrodialysis Desalination Performance of Novel Bioinspired and Conventional Ion Exchange Membranes with Sodium Chloride Feed Solutions
Authors: Hyder AHM Golam , Morales Brian A. , Cappelle Malynda A. , Percival Stephen J. , Small Leo J. , Spoerke Erik D. , Rempe Susan B. , Walker W. Shane
Published: March 2021

Electrodialysis (ED) desalination performance of different conventional and laboratory-scale ion exchange membranes (IEMs) has been evaluated by many researchers, but most of these studies used their own sets of experimental parameters such as feed solution compositions and concentrations, superficial velocities of the process streams (diluate, concentrate, and electrode rinse), applied electrical voltages, and types of IEMs. Thus, direct comparison of ED desalination performance of different IEMs is virtually impossible. While the use of different conventional IEMs in ED has been reported, the use of bioinspired ion exchange membrane has not been reported yet. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ED desalination performance differences between novel laboratory‑scale bioinspired IEM and conventional IEMs by determining (i) limiting current density, (ii) current density, (iii) current efficiency, (iv) salinity reduction in diluate stream, (v) normalized specific energy consumption, and (vi) water flux by osmosis as a function of (a) initial concentration of NaCl feed solution (diluate and concentrate streams), (b) superficial velocity of feed solution, and (c) applied stack voltage per cell-pair of membranes. A laboratory‑scale single stage batch-recycle electrodialysis experimental apparatus was assembled with five cell‑pairs of IEMs with an active cross-sectional area of 7.84 cm2. In this study, seven combinations of IEMs (commercial and laboratory-made) were compared: (i) Neosepta AMX/CMX, (ii) PCA PCSA/PCSK, (iii) Fujifilm Type 1 AEM/CEM, (iv) SUEZ AR204SZRA/CR67HMR, (v) Ralex AMH-PES/CMH-PES, (vi) Neosepta AMX/Bare Polycarbonate membrane (Polycarb), and (vii) Neosepta AMX/Sandia novel bioinspired cation exchange membrane (SandiaCEM). ED desalination performance with the Sandia novel bioinspired cation exchange membrane (SandiaCEM) was found to be competitive with commercial Neosepta CMX cation exchange membrane.
Grain Size Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Nb, V–Nb, and Ti–Nb Boron Type S1100QL Steels
Authors: Foder Jan , Burja Jaka , Klančnik Grega
Published: March 2021

Titanium additions are often used for boron factor and primary austenite grain size control in boron high- and ultra-high-strength alloys. Due to the risk of formation of coarse TiN during solidification the addition of titanium is limited in respect to nitrogen. The risk of coarse nitrides working as non-metallic inclusions formed in the last solidification front can degrade fatigue properties and weldability of the final product. In the presented study three microalloying systems with minor additions were tested, two without any titanium addition, to evaluate grain size evolution and mechanical properties with pre-defined as-cast, hot forging, hot rolling, and off-line heat-treatment strategy to meet demands for S1100QL steel. Microstructure evolution from hot-forged to final martensitic microstructure was observed, continuous cooling transformation diagrams of non-deformed austenite were constructed for off-line heat treatment, and the mechanical properties of Nb and V–Nb were compared to Ti–Nb microalloying system with a limited titanium addition. Using the parameters in the laboratory environment all three micro-alloying systems can provide needed mechanical properties, especially the Ti–Nb system can be successfully replaced with V–Nb having the highest response in tensile properties and still obtaining satisfying toughness of 27 J at –40 °C using Charpy V-notch samples.
Enhancing Heat Treatment Conditions of Joints in Grade P91 Steel: Looking for More Sustainable Solutions
Authors: Sousa Vitor F. C. , Silva Francisco J. G. , Pinho António P. , Pereira António B. , Paiva Olga C.
Published: March 2021

Grade P91 is a relatively new class of steel, which has received special attention from designers because it presents extremely interesting characteristics for specific applications. This steel exhibits ideal properties for demanding applications, especially involving high temperature and pressure, being employed in facilities such as power plants and other equipment, such as heat exchangers. P91 welds usually need heat treatments, which are already parameterized in the codes. However, standardized treatments are time-consuming and harmful to the environment, as they massively consume energy. Some attempts have been made in the past to reduce the time and energy spent on these treatments. This work aims to extend this study, now presenting better solutions than those obtained previously. This work presents four new conditions for the heat treatment of joints carried out on P91 steel, with a view to reducing processing time, reducing energy consumption, and an even better balance between mechanical strength and elongation after failure. Heat treatment conditions were established in which there was a loss of about 14% in Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS), but in which a gain of about 50% in elongation was obtained, compared to welding without any treatment, but also with 10% losses in the UTS and 30% gains in elongation when compared to the solution recommended as more correct in the codes, saving a lot of time and energy in the treatment process. Thus, these solutions may be adopted in the future with gains in terms of productivity and economic and environmental sustainability.
Does DDI-Predictor Help Pharmacists to Detect Drug-Drug Interactions and Resolve Medication Issues More Effectively?
Authors: Moreau Fanny , Simon Nicolas , Walther Julia , Dambrine Mathilde , Kosmalski Gaetan , Genay Stéphanie , Perez Maxime , Lecoutre Dominique , Belaiche Stéphanie , Rousselière Chloé , Tod Michel , Décaudin Bertrand , Odou Pascal
Published: March 2021

The characterization of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) may require the use of several different tools, such as the thesaurus issued by our national health agency (i.e., ANSM), the metabolic pathways table from the Geneva University Hospital (GUH), and DDI-Predictor (DDI-P). We sought to (i) compare the three tools’ respective abilities to detect DDIs in routine clinical practice and (ii) measure the pharmacist intervention rate (PIR) and physician acceptance rate (PAR) associated with the use of DDI-P. The three tools’ respective DDI detection rates (in %) were measured. The PIRs and PARs were compared by using the area under the curve ratio given by DDI-P (RAUC) and applying a chi-squared test. The DDI detection rates differed significantly: 40.0%, 76.5%, and 85.2% for ANSM (The National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products), GUH and DDI-P, respectively (p < 0.0001). The PIR differed significantly according to the DDI-P’s RAUC: 90.0%, 44.2% and 75.0% for RAUC ≤ 0.5; RAUC 0.5–2 and RAUC > 2, respectively (p < 0.001). The overall PAR was 85.1% and did not appear to depend on the RAUC category (p = 0.729). Our results showed that more pharmacist interventions were issued when details of the strength of the DDI were available. The three tools can be used in a complementary manner, with a view to refining medication adjustments.
Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis by UHPLC-MS/MS of Soybean Plant in a Compatible Response to Phakopsora pachyrhizi Infection
Authors: Silva Evandro , Perez da Graça José , Porto Carla , Martin do Prado Rodolpho , Nunes Estela , Corrêa Marcelino-Guimarães Francismar , Conrado Meyer Mauricio , Jorge Pilau Eduardo
Published: March 2021

Phakopsora pachyrhizi is a biotrophic fungus, causer of the disease Asian Soybean Rust, a severe crop disease of soybean and one that demands greater investment from producers. Thus, research efforts to control this disease are still needed. We investigated the expression of metabolites in soybean plants presenting a resistant genotype inoculated with P. pachyrhizi through the untargeted metabolomics approach. The analysis was performed in control and inoculated plants with P. pachyrhizi using UHPLC-MS/MS. Principal component analysis (PCA) and the partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), was applied to the data analysis. PCA and PLS-DA resulted in a clear separation and classification of groups between control and inoculated plants. The metabolites were putative classified and identified using the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking platform in flavonoids, isoflavonoids, lipids, fatty acyls, terpenes, and carboxylic acids. Flavonoids and isoflavonoids were up-regulation, while terpenes were down-regulated in response to the soybean–P. pachyrhizi interaction. Our data provide insights into the potential role of some metabolites as flavonoids and isoflavonoids in the plant resistance to ASR. This information could result in the development of resistant genotypes of soybean to P. pachyrhizi, and effective and specific products against the pathogen.
Cutting Force Prediction Models by FEA and RSM When Machining X56 Steel with Single Diamond Grit
Authors: Zhang Lan , Sha Xianbin , Liu Ming , Wang Liquan , Pang Yongyin
Published: March 2021

In the field of underwater emergency maintenance, submarine pipeline cutting is generally performed by a diamond wire saw. The process, in essence, involves diamond grits distributed on the surface of the beads cutting X56 pipeline steel bit by bit at high speed. To find the effect of the different parameters (cutting speed, coefficient of friction and depth of cut) on cutting force, the finite element (FEA) method and response surface method (RSM) were adopted to obtain cutting force prediction models. The former was based on 64 simulations; the latter was designed according to DoE (Design of Experiments). Confirmation experiments were executed to validate the regression models. The results indicate that most of the prediction errors were within 10%, which were acceptable in engineering. Based on variance analyses of the RSM models, it could be concluded that the depth of the cut played the most important role in determining the cutting force and coefficient the of friction was less influential. Despite making little direct contribution to the cutting force, the cutting speed is not supposed to be high for reducing the coefficient of friction. The cutting force models are instructive in manufacturing the diamond beads by determining the protrusion height of the diamond grits and the future planning of the cutting parameters.
Antilisterial Potential of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Eliminating Listeria monocytogenes in Host and Ready-to-Eat Food Application
Authors: Yap Phui-Chyng , MatRahim Nor-Aziyah , AbuBakar Sazaly , Lee Hai Yen
Published: March 2021

Listeriosis is a severe food borne disease with a mortality rate of up to 30% caused by pathogenic Listeria monocytogenes via the production of several virulence factors including listeriolysin O (LLO), transcriptional activator (PrfA), actin (Act), internalin (Int), etc. It is a foodborne disease predominantly causing infections through consumption of contaminated food and is often associated with ready-to-eat food (RTE) and dairy products. Common medication for listeriosis such as antibiotics might cause an eagle effect and antibiotic resistance if it is overused. Therefore, exploration of the use of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with probiotic characteristics and multiple antimicrobial properties is increasingly getting attention for their capability to treat listeriosis, vaccine development, and hurdle technologies. The antilisterial gene, a gene coding to produce antimicrobial peptide (AMP), one of the inhibitory substances found in LAB, is one of the potential key factors in listeriosis treatment, coupled with the vast array of functions and strategies; this review summarizes the various strategies by LAB against L. monocytogenes and the prospect in development of a ‘generally regarded as safe’ LAB for treatment of listeriosis.
Potentiality of Native Ascomycete Strains in Bioremediation of Highly Polychlorinated Biphenyl Contaminated Soils
Authors: Germain Joaquim , Raveton Muriel , Binet Marie-Noëlle , Mouhamadou Bello
Published: March 2021

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are organic pollutants that are harmful to environment and toxic to humans. Numerous studies, based on basidiomycete strains, have reported unsatisfactory results in the mycoremediation of PCB-contaminated soils mainly due to the non-telluric origin of these strains. The abilities of a five-Ascomycete-strain consortium in the mycoremediation of PCB-polluted soils and its performance to restore their sound functioning were investigated using mesocosm experiments associated with chromatography gas analysis and enzymatic activity assays. With the soil H containing 850 ppm PCB from which the strains had been isolated, a significant PCB depletion of 29% after three months of treatment was obtained. This led to an important decrease of PCBs from 850 to 604 ppm. With the soil L containing 36 ppm PCB, biodegradation did not occur. In both soils, the fungal biomass quantified by the ergosterol assay, did not increase at the end of the treatment. Biodegradation evidenced in the soil H resulted in a significantly improved stoichiometry of N and P acquiring enzymatic activities. This unprecedented study demonstrates that the native Ascomycetes display remarkable properties for remediation and restoration of functioning of the soil they originated from paving the way for greater consideration of these strains in mycoremediation.
A Mouse Model Suggests That Heart Failure and Its Common Comorbidity Sleep Fragmentation Have No Synergistic Impacts on the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Khannous-Lleiffe Olfat , Willis Jesse R. , Saus Ester , Cabrera-Aguilera Ignacio , Almendros Isaac , Farré Ramon , Gozal David , Farré Nuria , Gabaldón Toni
Published: March 2021

Heart failure (HF) is a common condition associated with a high rate of hospitalizations and adverse outcomes. HF is characterized by impairments of either the cardiac ventricular filling, ejection of blood capacity or both. Sleep fragmentation (SF) involves a series of short sleep interruptions that lead to fatigue and contribute to cognitive impairments and dementia. Both conditions are known to be associated with increased inflammation and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. In the present study, mice were distributed into four groups, and subjected for four weeks to either HF, SF, both HF and SF, or left unperturbed as controls. We used 16S metabarcoding to assess fecal microbiome composition before and after the experiments. Evidence for distinct alterations in several bacterial groups and an overall decrease in alpha diversity emerged in HF and SF treatment groups. Combined HF and SF conditions, however, showed no synergism, and observed changes were not always additive, suggesting preliminarily that some of the individual effects of either HF or SF cancel each other out when applied concomitantly.
High Efficacy of Saliva in Detecting SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR in Adults and Children
Authors: Huber Michael , Schreiber Peter Werner , Scheier Thomas , Audigé Annette , Buonomano Roberto , Rudiger Alain , Braun Dominique L. , Eich Gerhard , Keller Dagmar I. , Hasse Barbara , Böni Jürg , Berger Christoph , Günthard Huldrych F. , Manrique Amapola , Trkola Alexandra
Published: March 2021

Rising demands for repetitive SARS-CoV-2 screens and mass testing necessitate additional test strategies. Saliva may serve as an alternative to nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) as its collection is simple, non-invasive and amenable for mass- and home testing, but its rigorous validation, particularly in children, is missing. We conducted a large-scale head-to-head comparison of SARS-CoV-2 detection by RT-PCR in saliva and NPS of 1270 adults and children reporting to outpatient test centers and an emergency unit. In total, 273 individuals were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in either NPS or saliva. SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR results in the two specimens showed a high agreement (overall percent agreement = 97.8%). Despite lower viral loads in the saliva of both adults and children, detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva fared well compared to NPS (positive percent agreement = 92.5%). Importantly, in children, SARS-CoV-2 infections were more often detected in saliva than NPS (positive predictive value = 84.8%), underlining that NPS sampling in children can be challenging. The comprehensive parallel analysis reported here establishes saliva as a generally reliable specimen for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, with particular advantages for testing children, that is readily applicable to increase and facilitate repetitive and mass testing in adults and children.
Relative Contribution of Each Component of the French Ante-Mortem Surveillance System for Bovine Tuberculosis in Its Overall Sensitivity
Authors: Guétin-Poirier Valentine , Rivière Julie , Dufour Barbara
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the contribution to the sensitivity of the French ante-mortem surveillance system for bovine tuberculosis in cattle of each of the system’s components (periodic screening, epidemiological investigations, and screening exchanged animals), on a local scale defined by administrative areas. These components were individually assessed in previous studies by scenario tree modeling. We used scenario tree modeling at the herd level and combined the results to evaluate the overall sensitivity of the ante-mortem surveillance system. The probability to detect at least one infected herd was consistent with the location of the outbreaks detected in 2016. In areas with a high apparent incidence, the probability of an infected herd to be detected was satisfactory (for an infected herd there was a 100% probability to be detected over a two-year period). Periodic screening was the most important component for the overall sensitivity in infected areas. In other areas, where periodic screening had stopped, tracing-on epidemiological investigation was the most sensitive component of the system. Screening exchanged animals had a negligible part in the overall sensitivity of the surveillance system.
Structural Economic Assessment of Polymetallic Nodules Mining Project with Updates to Present Market Conditions
Authors: Abramowski Tomasz , Urbanek Marcin , Baláž Peter
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the economic structure, assumptions, and relations of deep-sea mining project assessment and the results of its evaluation, based on exploration activities and research in the field of geology, mining technology, processing technology, and environmental and legislative studies. The Interoceanmetal Joint Organization (IOM) and cooperating organizations conducted a study incorporating those elements of the project that are recognized as most important for commercial viability. On the basis of formulated financial flow of operating and capital expenses of one processing technology the possible market unit price of polymetallic nodules was estimated and the result is presented in this paper. The rapidly changing economic situation, affected inter alia by the COVID-19 pandemic, is reflected in the study and updated results are based on recent changes in metal prices. Although assumptions related to mining costs need to be confirmed during pilot mining tests, promising results have been shown in the case of the use of high-pressure acid leaching processing technology (HPAL) as well as in the case of raw ore sales. A pre-feasibility study of the project will focus on the two most promising variants of the model.
A Review on the Beneficiation Methods of Borate Minerals
Authors: Powoe Soehoe-Panhyonon Benedict , Kromah Varney , Jafari Mohammad , Chehreh Chelgani Saeed
Published: March 2021

The modern boron applications have adsorbed the mineral processors’ attention to improve typical boron mineral’s (BM) beneficiation methods. In this regard, dry treatment and pretreatment processes—such as magnetic separation and calcination as environmentally friendly methods, due to their minimal or zero adverse effect on the environment—need more consideration. Over the years, anionic flotation has become the main technique for beneficiation of friable BMs; however, there is a gap in the investigation of cationic flotation separation since BMs’ surface negatively charges in a wide pH range. At present, enriching BMs’ flotation via surface modification is taking center stage, which can also be considered for reprocessing long-forgotten BM tailings. As a comprehensive review, this work is going to provide a synopsis of the processes, techniques, optimum parameters, and conditions—such as size reduction, zeta potential, pH, and reagents—which have been employed in the processing of BMs. Gaps in our understanding of BM’s flotation are presented in the context of addressing the existing processes, considering possibilities and rooms for efficiency improvement. Considering these gaps may improve the performance of existing methods for processing fine and ultrafine BMs, and help in the development of new technologies to improve flotation recoveries.
5-Aryl-1-Arylideneamino-1H-Imidazole-2(3H)-Thiones: Synthesis and In Vitro Anticancer Evaluation
Authors: Abu Almaaty Ali H. , Toson Eslam E. M. , El-Sayed El-Sherbiny H. , Tantawy Mohamed A. M. , Fayad Eman , Abu Ali Ola A. , Zaki Islam
Published: March 2021

A novel series of N-1 arylidene amino imidazole-2-thiones were synthesized, identified using IR, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectral data. Cytotoxic effect of the prepared compounds was carried out utilizing three cancer cell lines; MCF-7 breast cancer, HepG2 liver cancer, and HCT-116 colon cancer cell lines. Imidazole derivative 5 was the most potent of all against three cell lines. DNA flow cytometric analysis showed that, imidazoles 4d and 5 exhibit pre-G1 apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. The results of the VEGFR-2 and B-Raf kinase inhibition assay revealed that compounds 4d and 5 displayed good inhibitory activity compared with reference drug erlotinib.
Synthesis, Antifungal Activity, and 3D-QSAR Study of Novel Nopol-Derived 1,3,4-Thiadiazole-Thiourea Compounds
Authors: Chen Ming , Duan Wen-Gui , Lin Gui-Shan , Fan Zhong-Tian , Wang Xiu
Published: March 2021

A series of novel nopol derivatives bearing the 1,3,4-thiadiazole-thiourea moiety were designed and synthesized by multi-step reactions in search of potent natural product-based antifungal agents. Their structures were confirmed by FT-IR, NMR, ESI-MS, and elemental analysis. Antifungal activity of the target compounds was preliminarily evaluated by in vitro methods against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum, Cercospora arachidicola, Physalospora piricola, Alternaria solani, Gibberella zeae, Rhizoeotnia solani, Bipolaris maydis, and Colleterichum orbicalare at 50 µg/mL. All the target compounds exhibited better antifungal activity against P. piricola, C. arachidicola, and A. solani. Compound 6j (R = m, p-Cl Ph) showed the best broad-spectrum antifungal activity against all the tested fungi. Compounds 6c (R = m-Me Ph), 6q (R = i-Pr), and 6i (R = p-Cl Ph) had inhibition rates of 86.1%, 86.1%, and 80.2%, respectively, against P. piricola, much better than that of the positive control chlorothalonil. Moreover, compounds 6h (R = m-Cl Ph) and 6n (R = o-CF3 Ph) held inhibition rates of 80.6% and 79.0% against C. arachidicola and G. zeae, respectively, much better than that of the commercial fungicide chlorothalonil. In order to design more effective antifungal compounds against A. solani, analysis of the three-dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D-QSAR) was carried out using the CoMFA method, and a reasonable and effective 3D-QSAR model (r2 = 0.992, q2 = 0.753) has been established. Furthermore, some intriguing structure–activity relationships were found and are discussed by theoretical calculation.
Isotopic Characterization of 100% Agave Tequila (Silver, Aged and Extra-Aged Class) for Its Use as an Additional Parameter in the Determination of the Authenticity of the Beverage Maturation Time
Authors: Fonseca-Aguiñaga Rocío , Warren-Vega Walter M. , Miguel-Cruz Floriberto , Romero-Cano Luis A.
Published: March 2021

Isotopic ratios of δ13CVPDB and δ18OVSMOW have been used as an additional parameter to ensure the authenticity of the aging time of 100% agave tequila. For this purpose, 120 samples were isotopically analyzed (40 silver class, 40 aged class, and 40 extra-aged classes). The samples were obtained through a stratified sampling by proportional allocation, considering tequila producers from the main different regions of Jalisco, Mexico (Valles 41%, Altos Sur 31%, Cienega 16%, and Centro 12%). The results showed that the δ13CVPDB was found in an average of −12.85 ‰ for all the analyzed beverages, with no significant difference between them. Since for all the tested samples the Agave tequilana Weber blue variety was used as source of sugar to obtain alcohol, those results were foreseeable, and confirm the origin of the sugar source. Instead, the results for δ18OVSMOW showed a positive slope linear trend for the aging time (silver class 19.52‰, aged class 20.54‰, extra-aged class 21.45‰), which is associated with the maturation process, there are oxidation reactions that add congeneric compounds to the beverage, these can be used as tracers for the authenticity of the aging time. Additionally, the experimental data showed homogeneity in the beverages regardless of the production region, evidencing the tequila industry’s high-quality standards. However, a particular case occurs with the δ18OVSMOW data for the silver class samples, in which a clear trend is noted with the altitude of the region of origin; therefore, this information suggests that this analytical parameter could be useful to authenticate the regional origin of beverage.
Rare Sugars: Recent Advances and Their Potential Role in Sustainable Crop Protection
Authors: Mijailovic Nikola , Nesler Andrea , Perazzolli Michele , Aït Barka Essaid , Aziz Aziz
Published: March 2021

Rare sugars are monosaccharides with a limited availability in the nature and almost unknown biological functions. The use of industrial enzymatic and microbial processes greatly reduced their production costs, making research on these molecules more accessible. Since then, the number of studies on their medical/clinical applications grew and rare sugars emerged as potential candidates to replace conventional sugars in human nutrition thanks to their beneficial health effects. More recently, the potential use of rare sugars in agriculture was also highlighted. However, overviews and critical evaluations on this topic are missing. This review aims to provide the current knowledge about the effects of rare sugars on the organisms of the farming ecosystem, with an emphasis on their mode of action and practical use as an innovative tool for sustainable agriculture. Some rare sugars can impact the plant growth and immune responses by affecting metabolic homeostasis and the hormonal signaling pathways. These properties could be used for the development of new herbicides, plant growth regulators and resistance inducers. Other rare sugars also showed antinutritional properties on some phytopathogens and biocidal activity against some plant pests, highlighting their promising potential for the development of new sustainable pesticides. Their low risk for human health also makes them safe and ecofriendly alternatives to agrochemicals.
Synthesis and Morphological Control of VO2 Nanostructures via a One-Step Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Karahan Ozlem , Tufani Ali , Unal Serkan , Misirlioglu I. Burc , Menceloglu Yusuf Z. , Sendur Kursat
Published: March 2021

The morphology of nanostructures is a vital parameter to consider in components comprised of materials exhibiting specific functionalities. The number of process steps and the need for high temperatures can often be a limiting factor when targeting a specific morphology. Here, we demonstrate a repeatable synthesis of different morphologies of a highly crystalline monoclinic phase of vanadium dioxide (VO2(M)) using a one-step hydrothermal method. By adjusting the synthesis parameters, such as pH, temperature, and reducing agent concentration in the precursor, VO2 nanostructures with high uniformity and crystallinity are achieved. Some of these morphologies were obtained via the choice of the reducing agent that allowed us to skip the annealing step. Our results indicate that the morphologies of the nanostructures are very sensitive to the hydrazine hydrate (N2H4.H2O) concentration. Another reducing agent, dodecylamine, was used to achieve well-organized and high-quality VO2(M) nanotubes. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments revealed that all samples display the monoclinic-to-tetragonal structural transition (MTST) regardless of the morphology, albeit at different temperatures that can be interpreted as the variations in overheating and undercooling limits. VO2(M) structures with a higher surface to volume ratio exhibit a higher overheating limit than those with low ratios.
Effects of Acid-Anhydride-Modified Cellulose Nanofiber on Poly(Lactic Acid) Composite Films
Authors: Jamaluddin Naharullah , Hsu Yu-I , Asoh Taka-Aki , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

In this study, we investigated the effect of the addition of cellulose nanofiber (CNF) fillers on the performance of poly(lactic acid) (PLA). Modification of the hydroxyl group of cellulose to the acyl group by acid anhydrides changed the compatibility of the CNF with PLA. CNF was modified by acetic anhydride, propionic anhydride, and butyric anhydride to form surface-modified acetylated CNF (CNFa), propionylated CNF (CNFp), and butyrylated CNF (CNFb), respectively, to improve the compatibility with the PLA matrix. The effects of the different acid anhydrides were compared based on their rates of reaction in the acylation process. PLA with modified cellulose nanofiber fillers formed smoother surfaces with better transparency, mechanical, and wettability properties compared with the PLA/CNF composite film. The effects of CNFa, CNFp, and CNFb on the PLA matrix were compared, and it was found that CNFp was the best filler for PLA.
Review of Interface Passivation of Perovskite Layer
Authors: Wu Yinghui , Wang Dong , Liu Jinyuan , Cai Houzhi
Published: March 2021

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are the most promising substitute for silicon-based solar cells. However, their power conversion efficiency and stability must be improved. The recombination probability of the photogenerated carriers at each interface in a PSC is much greater than that of the bulk phase. The interface of a perovskite polycrystalline film is considered to be a defect-rich area, which is the main factor limiting the efficiency of a PSC. This review introduces and summarizes practical interface engineering techniques for improving the efficiency and stability of organic–inorganic lead halide PSCs. First, the effect of defects at the interface of the PSCs, the energy level alignment, and the chemical reactions on the efficiency of a PSC are summarized. Subsequently, the latest developments pertaining to a modification of the perovskite layers with different materials are discussed. Finally, the prospect of achieving an efficient PSC with long-term stability through the use of interface engineering is presented.
An Overview of Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Applications of the Transition Metal Carbide Nanomaterials
Authors: Ahmad Saba , Ashraf Iffat , Mansoor Muhammad Adil , Rizwan Syed , Iqbal Mudassir
Published: March 2021

Good stability and reproducibility are important factors in determining the place of any material in their respective field and these two factors also enable them to use in various applications. At present, transition metal carbides (TMCs) have high demand either in the two-dimensional (2D) form (MXene) or as nanocomposites, nanoparticles, carbide films, carbide nano-powder, and carbide nanofibers. They have shown good stability at high temperatures in different environments and also have the ability to show adequate reproducibility. Metal carbides have shown a broad spectrum of properties enabling them to engage the modern approach of multifacet material. Several ways have been routed to synthesize metal carbides in their various forms but few of those gain more attention due to their easy approach and better properties. TMCs find applications in various fields, such as catalysts, absorbents, bio-sensors, pesticides, electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL), anti-pollution and anti-bacterial agents, and in tumor detection. This article highlights some recent developments in the synthesis methods and applications of TMCs in various fields.
Antifouling Strategies of Nanoparticles for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Application: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Bevilacqua Paolo , Nuzzo Silvia , Torino Enza , Condorelli Gerolama , Salvatore Marco , Grimaldi Anna Maria
Published: March 2021

Nanoparticles (NPs) are promising platforms for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic tools. One of the main hurdle to their medical application and translation into the clinic is the fact that they accumulate in the spleen and liver due to opsonization and scavenging by the mononuclear phagocyte system. The “protein corona” controls the fate of NPs in vivo and becomes the interface with cells, influencing their physiological response like cellular uptake and targeting efficiency. For these reasons, the surface properties play a pivotal role in fouling and antifouling behavior of particles. Therefore, surface engineering of the nanocarriers is an extremely important issue for the design of useful diagnostic and therapeutic systems. In recent decades, a huge number of studies have proposed and developed different strategies to improve antifouling features and produce NPs as safe and performing as possible. However, it is not always easy to compare the various approaches and understand their advantages and disadvantages in terms of interaction with biological systems. Here, we propose a systematic study of literature with the aim of summarizing current knowledge on promising antifouling coatings to render NPs more biocompatible and performing for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Thirty-nine studies from 2009 were included and investigated. Our findings have shown that two main classes of non-fouling materials (i.e., pegylated and zwitterionic) are associated with NPs and their applications are discussed here highlighting pitfalls and challenges to develop biocompatible tools for diagnostic and therapeutic uses. In conclusion, although the complexity of biofouling strategies and the field is still young, the collective data selected in this review indicate that a careful tuning of surface moieties is a pivotal step to lead NPs through their future clinical applications.