bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Etiopathogenetic Factors of Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Overall Survival, and Their Evolution over Time—Czech Tertiary Center Overview
Authors: Hříbek Petr , Klasová Johana , Tůma Tomáš , Kupsa Tomáš , Urbánek Petr
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer with a highly unfavorable prognosis. Aims: Retrospective statistical analysis of patients with HCC in the field of liver cirrhosis treated at our center from the perspective of demography, and the effects of key changes in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the last 10 years on overall survival (OS) and earlier diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This study included 170 cirrhotic patients with HCC (136 men, 80%). Demographic and etiological factors and OS were analyzed based on distribution into three groups according to the period and key changes in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches (BCLC classification staging; standardization of protocol for transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and the introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) for the treatment of chronic viral hepatitis C (HCV); expansion of systemic oncological therapy). Results: The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 69.3 years (SD = 8.1), and etiology was as follows: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) 39%, alcoholic liver disease (ALD) 36%, HCV 18%, cryptogenic liver cirrhosis 3%, chronic hepatitis B infection (HBV) 2%, and other etiology 2%. Distribution of stages according to the BCLC: 0 + A 36%, B 31%, C 22%, and D 11%. However, the distribution in the first studied period was as follows: 0 + A 15%, B 34%, C 36%, and D 15%; and in the last period: 0 + A 45%, B 27%, C 17%, and D 11%, and difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The median OS for stages 0 + A, B, C, and D was 58, 19, 6, and 2 months, respectively. During the monitored period, there was a visible increase in the etiology of ALD from 30% to 47% and a decrease in HCV from 22% to 11%. In patients treated with TACE (stage B), the median OS grew from 10 to 24 months (p < 0.0001) between the marginal monitored periods. Conclusions: We described a decreasing number of patients with HCV-related HCC during follow-up possibly linked with the introduction of DAA. In our cohort, an improvement in early-stage diagnosis was found, which we mainly concluded as a result of proper ultrasound surveillance, the institution of a HCV treatment center, and increased experience of our sonographers with an examination of cirrhotic patients. Lastly, we described significantly improved overall survival in patients with intermediate HCC treated by TACE, due to the increased experience of interventional radiologists with the method at our facility and an earlier switch to systemic therapy in case of non-response to TACE.
Research Trends in the Use of Polyaniline Membrane for Water Treatment Applications: A Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Naseer Muhammad , Dutta Kingshuk , Zaidi Asad , Asif Muhammad , Alqahtany Ali , Aldossary Naief , Jamil Rehan , Alyami Saleh , Jaafar Juhana
Published: August 2022

Polyaniline (PANI), which is a member of the family of electrically conducting polymers, has been widely discussed as a potential membrane for wastewater treatment. Although a steady growth in PANI literature was observed, analyzing PANI literature quantitatively is still a novelty. The main aim of this study is to unearth the current research status, global trends, and evolution of PANI membranes literature and their use in water treatment applications over time. For this purpose, a scientometric study was performed consisting of bibliometric and bibliographic analysis. A total of 613 entities were extracted from Web of Science published during the last 50 years and were analyzed to map trends based on leading peer-reviewed journals, publication records, leading research disciplines, countries, and organizations. The study shows that the number of annual publications increased exponentially from 2005 to 2020 and is expected to keep increasing in the current decade. The Journal of Membrane Science published the highest number of articles and was identified as the most-cited journal in the field. China, India, and the USA were observed as the top three research hubs. The top-ranked authors in the field were Wang, Jixiao, and Wang, Zhi. To find research trends, four different clusters of keywords were generated and analyzed. The top five most frequent keywords turn out to be polyaniline, water, performance, membranes, and nanoparticles. The analysis suggests that the application of nanotechnology for modifying PANI membranes (using nanoparticles, nanotubes, and graphene specifically) is the future of this field. This study elucidates the research streamline of the field that may serve as a quick reference for early career researchers and industries exploring this field.
A Proton Battery Stack Real-Time Monitor with a Flexible Six-in-One Microsensor
Authors: Lee Chi-Yuan , Chen Chia-Hung , Chien Yun-Hsiu , Huang Zhi-Yu
Published: August 2022

A proton battery is a hybrid battery produced by combining a hydrogen fuel cell and a battery system in an attempt to obtain the advantages of both systems. As the battery life of a single proton battery is not good, the proton battery stack is developed by connecting in parallel, which can greatly improve the battery life of proton batteries. In order to obtain important information about the proton battery stack in real time, a flexible six-in-one microsensor is embedded in the proton battery stack. This study has successfully developed a health diagnostic tool for a proton battery stack using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. This study also focused on the innovatively developed hydrogen microsensor, and integrated the voltage, current, temperature, humidity, and flow microsensors, as previously developed by our laboratory, to complete the flexible six-in-one microsensor. Six important internal physical parameters were simultaneously measured during the entire operation of the proton battery stack. It also established a complete database and monitor system in real time to detect the internal health status of the proton cell stack and observe if there were problems, such as water accumulation, aging, or failure, in order to understand the changes and effects of the various physical quantities of long-term operation. The study found that the proton batteries exhibited significant differences in the hydrogen absorb rates and hydrogen release rates. The ceramic circuit board used in the original sensor is replaced by a flexible board to improve problems such as peeling and breaking.
Control of Line Tension at Phase-Separated Lipid Domain Boundaries: Monounsaturated Fatty Acids with Different Chain Lengths and Osmotic Pressure
Authors: Wongsirojkul Nichaporn , Masuta Aiko , Shimokawa Naofumi , Takagi Masahiro
Published: August 2022

Line tension at phase-separated lipid domain boundaries is an important factor that governs the stability of the phase separation. We studied the control of the line tension in lipid membranes composed of dioleoylphosphocholine (DOPC), dipalmitoylphosphocholine (DPPC), and cholesterol (Chol) by the addition of the following three monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) with different chain lengths: palmitoleic acid (PaA), oleic acid (OA), and eicosenoic acid (EiA). In addition, we attempted to alter the line tension by applying osmotic pressure. The phase behavior of the MUFA-containing lipid membranes in the presence and absence of osmotic stress was observed by fluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The line tension was quantitatively measured from the domain boundary fluctuation by flicker spectroscopy, and the interactions between the lipids and MUFAs were examined by differential scanning calorimetry. PaA and OA, which are shorter MUFAs, decreased the line tension, whereas EiA changed the liquid domain to a solid domain. The osmotic pressure increased the line tension, even in the presence of MUFAs. It may be possible to control the line tension by combining the chemical approach of MUFA addition and the physical approach of applying osmotic pressure.
Effect of Equal Channel Angular Pressing on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of an Mg–5Sn Alloy
Authors: Zhuo Xiaoru , Shao Cong , Zhang Peng , Hu Zhichao , Liu Huan
Published: August 2022

An Mg–5Sn alloy was processed by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) for different passes (4P, 8P, and 12P), and the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties were investigated. The grain size, amount of Mg2Sn precipitates, and texture of ECAP alloys depend on the number of passes. The ECAP 8P alloy has the finest grains and largest area fraction of Mg2Sn particles, followed by the ECAP 12P alloy. The ECAP 4P and 8P alloys exhibit basal textures tilted towards transverse direction (TD), whereas the ECAP 12P alloy shows basal texture with the c-axis of the grains parallel to the extrusion direction (ED). ECAP alloys show superior strengths compared to the as-cast alloy, mainly attributed to fine grain strengthening, precipitation strengthening, texture strengthening, and dislocation strengthening. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) increases while the elongation (EL) decreases with increasing ECAP pass.
Influence of Current Modulation on Melting Behavior during Wire Arc Spraying
Authors: Weis Sebastian , Brumm Stefan , Grunert Robin , Morgenschweis Jan , Bosler Jürgen , Grund Thomas
Published: August 2022

The atomizing gas dynamics and the applied process energy have a significant influence on the produced particles. The melting process of the two wires can be influenced by current modulation. As for arc welding processes, more and more electronic and software-controlled machines are being used for arc spraying and will have replaced conventional power sources in the future. Due to the highly dynamic, fast regulating computing technology in the latest energy source, technology arcs can be operated with different current forms and types. The modern machines allow process-stable, reproducible variation of the particles and heat input into the substrate. Constant and pulsed current can be used as current forms. Usable current types are direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). The electrical parameters must be analyzed to evaluate the process behavior. The consumable used is a wire-shaped iron-based alloy with a diameter of 1.6 mm. Relevant process parameters such as basic current Iground, pulse current Ipulse, pulse duration tpulse, impulse frequency fpulse, and alternating current frequency, fAC, are varied and recorded using appropriate measurement technology. The aim is to change the process performance and thereby the particle formation in a broad band. High-speed images are used to observe the arc and the deposition process. In addition, particle sizes are determined.
Critical Evaluation and Thermodynamic Modeling of the Li-Se and Na-Se Binary Systems Using Combined CALPHAD and First-Principles Calculations Method
Authors: Ma Jie , Ji Chen , Wang Jian , Han Dong , Cui Zhou , Sa Baisheng , Cui Senlin
Published: August 2022

This work presents a complete review of the literature on and a critical evaluation and thermodynamic optimization of the Li-Se and Na-Se binary systems. The modified quasi-chemical model in the pair approximation (MQMPA) was employed to describe the liquid solution exhibiting a high degree of short-range ordering behavior of atoms. The thermodynamic properties of the compounds Li2Se (cF12_Fm3¯m), Na2Se (cF12_Fm3¯m), NaSe (hP8_P63/mmc), and NaSe2 (tI48_I4¯2d) were also calculated by using first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations to assist the thermodynamic description of these two binary systems. All the available and reliable experimental data are reproduced within experimental error limits. Moreover, the phase equilibria of these two systems at low total pressure were analyzed by using the developed thermodynamic model.
Automatic Ore Blending Optimization Algorithm for Sintering Based on the Cartesian Product
Authors: Ren Xinying , Gao Chaoyi , Wang Hanchen , Feng Shilong , Xue Tao , Yang Aimin
Published: August 2022

In actual sinter production, batching is a complex metallurgical and mathematical problem. Aiming at the problem of the precising batching of iron ore in the process of sintering batching, an automatic batching algorithm based on a Cartesian product to batch sinter was proposed for the first time. When the algorithm is applied to the sintering batching process, a complete batching scheme can be obtained, which can realize the organic combination with other calculation processes, can effectively save the manpower and material cost of sintering batching, and is of great significance to the comprehensive use of iron ore resources. Taking the actual sintering production batching of a domestic iron and steel plant as an example, according to the batching requirements compared with various ore batching schemes, combined with the actual production situation, the automatic batching optimization algorithm based on a Cartesian product is applied to build a mathematical model of sintering batching. Through the algorithm test, the practicability of the automatic batching algorithm is verified. In addition, the automatic batching algorithm based on a Cartesian product has good performance in other batching fields.
Tolerance and Cadmium (Cd) Immobilization by Native Bacteria Isolated in Cocoa Soils with Increased Metal Content
Authors: Feria-Cáceres Pedro F. , Penagos-Velez Lucas , Moreno-Herrera Claudia X.
Published: August 2022

Twelve cadmium native bacteria previously isolated in soils of cocoa farms located in the western Colombian Andes (Santander), and tolerant to 2500 µM CdCl2 (120 mg Cd/L), were chosen in order to test their tolerance and Cd immobilization using liquid culture medium (Nutritive broth) at different concentrations of heavy metals. Furthermore, in the greenhouse experiments, the strains Exiguobacterium sp. (11-4A), Klebsiella variicola sp. (18-4B), and Enterobacter sp. (29-4B) were applied in combined treatments using CCN51 cacao genotype seeds grown in soil with different concentrations of Cd. All bacterial strains’ cell morphologies were deformed in TEM pictures, which also identified six strain interactions with biosorption and four strain capacities for bioaccumulation; FT-IR suggested that the amide, carbonyl, hydroxyl, ethyl, and phosphate groups on the bacteria biomass were the main Cd binding sites. In the pot experiments, the concentration of Cd was distributed throughout the cacao plant, but certain degrees of immobilization of Cd can occur in soil to prevent an increase in this level in roots with the presence of Klebsiella sp.
Atypical Presentation of Aspergillus niger Infection in the Oral Cavity as a Prediction of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in a Patient with COVID-19: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Fiema Mateusz , Wlodarczyk Aleksandra , Wojkowska-Mach Jadwiga , Garlicki Jaroslaw , Gregorczyk-Maga Iwona
Published: August 2022

Coinfections between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other respiratory pathogens such as Aspergillus have become challenging, as well as being associated with high morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Aspergillus niger is a common environmental mold. Before the emergence of COVID-19, it was considered a very rare cause of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), occurring mainly in immunocompromised patients. The aim of this study was to describe a very rare case of IPA caused by A. niger found in the oral cavity of a mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patient. A. niger detected in the gingival pocket was diagnosed earlier than in the bronchial lavage, and without treatment, passed into the lungs of the patient, causing serious complications. The swab from the oral cavity of mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients can be a predictor of the subsequent severity of inflammatory lesions and the development of suspected IPA.
Experimental Study on the Interaction between Backfill and Surrounding Rock in the Overhand Cut-and-Fill Method
Authors: Liang Wei , Li Ke , Luo Jiashun , Zhe Yalei , Xu Mengtang , Feng Fushou
Published: August 2022

Backfilling is commonly used in underground mines to improve the stability of overlying strata. The performance of the backfill and its interaction with surrounding rock are the key issues in backfill mining research. In this paper, the displacement and stress field evolution characteristics of the overlying strata in backfill mining were analyzed by a physical model, as well as the interaction between the backfill and surrounding rock. The research results show that when backfill mining is employed, the backfill mass and the unexcavated rock mass jointly bear the loads of the overlying strata. The loads of the overlying strata are transferred to the dense backfill mass and the surrounding rock. The stress in the near-field area of the surrounding rock increases and stabilizes gradually. The backfill mass improves the stress distribution state and reduces the stress concentration of the surrounding rock, which is conducive to preventing the progressive damage of the overlying strata. In addition, the backfill mass excavation has a significant influence on the stability of the overlying strata and the surrounding rock stress field. The backfill mass is a passive force-bearing structure that can effectively manage the deformation of the overlying strata and the phenomenon of underground pressure.
AFM Image Analysis of the Adsorption of Xanthate and Dialkyl Dithiophosphate on Chalcocite
Authors: Zhang Jinhong , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2022

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been applied to study the adsorption morphology of various collectors, i.e., potassium ethyl xanthate (KEX) and potassium amyl xanthate (PAX) and Cytec Aerofloat 238 (sodium dibutyl dithiophosphate), on chalcocite in situ in aqueous solutions. The AFM images show that all these collectors adsorb strongly on chalcocite. Xanthate adsorbs mainly in the form of insoluble cuprous xanthate (CuX), which binds strongly with the mineral surface without being removed by flushing with ethanol alcohol. This xanthate/chalcocite adsorption mechanism is very similar to the one obtained with the xanthate/bornite system; while it is different from the one of the xanthate/chalcopyrite systems, for which oily dixanthogen is the main adsorption product on chalcopyrite surface. On the other hand, dibutyl dithiophosphate adsorbs on chalcocite in the form of hydrophobic patches, which can be removed by rinsing with ethanol alcohol. AFM images show that the adsorption of collectors increases with increasing adsorption time and collectors’ concentration. In addition, increasing the solution pH to 10 does not prevent the adsorption of xanthate and Aerofloat 238 on chalcocite and the result is in line with the fact that chalcocite floats well in a wide pH range up to 12 with xanthate and dialkyl dithiophosphate being used as collectors. The blending collectors study shows that xanthate and dialkyl dithiophosphate can co-adsorb with both insoluble cuprous xanthate and oily Cu(DTP)2 (Cu dibutyl dithiophosphate) on a chalcocite surface. The present study helps to clarify the flotation mechanism of chalcocite in industry practice using xanthate and dialkyl dithiophosphate as collectors.
Research on the Mechanical Properties of Flexible Material Backfilling Wall in Gob-Side Entry Retaining
Authors: Pang Dongdong , Zhou Yong , Niu Xingang , He Kai , Li Chuanming , Chen Zhongqi
Published: August 2022

In order to solve the problems of the uneven deformation of Gangue Filled Wall and the difficulty of large-scale promotion of roadway side support, and to achieve the purposes of direct disposal of coal mine waste, reducing costs, and protecting the environment, the failure mechanics model of the bagged gangue was established, and the mechanical action relationship between longitudinal external load and transverse external load of gangue woven bag was deduced. Through the uniaxial compression test of large-scale flexible backfill (coal gangue of different particle sizes), it was obtained that when the strain is 0.2, the bearing capacity of particles with particle sizes between 0 and 10 mm is greater than 5 MPa, and when the strain is 1.27, the bearing capacity of particles with particle thicknesses between 10 and 20 mm is greater than 0 mpa, which meets the requirements of resistance value and resistance growth rate of gob side entry. In the “load deflection” test of backfill (gangue) samples, it was found that the maximum failure load of wet shotcrete is greater than that of dry shotcrete, and the wet shotcrete can withstand greater deformation under the same load conditions. Through the analysis of the experimental results of “flexural strength thickness” and “maximum failure load thickness”, it was finally determined that the thickness of the spray layer with good flexibility and sufficient support force is controlled at about 80 mm.
Investigation into a Lightweight Polymeric Porous Sponge with High Magnetic Field and Strain Sensitivity
Authors: Fu Yu , Zhao Shijie , Wan Zhenshuai , Tian Ye , Wang Shuangkun
Published: August 2022

Recently, flexible sensors have gained significant attention due to their potential applications in soft robotics and biomimetic intelligent devices. However, the successful production of favorable flexible sensors integrated with high flexibility, sensitivity and excellent environment adaptability toward multiple external stimuli is still an enormous challenge. Herein, a lightweight polymeric porous sponge capable of detecting an external magnetic field and strain excitations is proposed by assembling a sodium alginate/chitosan (SA/CHI) porous sponge with micron carbonyl iron and nanoscale Fe3O4 magnetic particles (MPs). Based on the double network structure, the SA/CHI sponge possesses preferable mechanical strength and hydrophilicity, demonstrating its high flexibility and deformability. More importantly, the electrical response of the SA/CHI sponge sensors can display remarkable variation under external magnetic and mechanical stimuli due to their superior magnetic characteristics and electrical conductivity. Meanwhile, their sensing properties can maintain relatively stable recoverability and repeatability towards the periodic excitations and releases. Additionally, a potential mechanism is provided to investigate their stimuli-sensitive behavior. It is highly dependent on the microstructure variations in MPs and conductive multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) networks. Due to its exceptional magnetic controllability and appropriate electrical sensitivity, the proposed sensor shows high potential in wearable multi-sensing electronics and intelligent transport devices.
Comparative Physicochemical and Catalytic Study of Nanocrystalline Mg-Al Hydrotalcites Precipitated with Inorganic and Organic Bases
Authors: Karcz Robert , Napruszewska Bogna D. , Walczyk Anna , Kryściak-Czerwenka Joanna , Duraczyńska Dorota , Płaziński Wojciech , Serwicka Ewa M.
Published: August 2022

Synthetic Mg-Al hydrotalcites (HT) are environmentally friendly solid bases frequently applied as catalysts in base catalyzed reactions. The most common synthesis method, using NaOH as precipitant, is problematized by the possibility of introducing undesired Na contamination. Alkali-free synthesis is usually performed with NH3aq, a precipitant which is less efficient in incorporation of Mg into HT lattice. In the present work, organic bases, tetrabutylammonium hydroxide and choline hydroxide, were successfully employed as precipitating agents in a new alkali-free route of Mg-Al HT synthesis. HT solids were also obtained with inorganic bases, NH3aq and NaOH. Characterization with X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry, confirmed the formation of nanocrystalline HT compounds with all employed bases. HT prepared with NH3aq exhibited an Mg deficit, which was detrimental to the catalytic activity in base catalyzed reactions. The effect was attributed to the tendency of Mg2+ to form ammine complexes, a conclusion supported by quantum mechanical calculations. HT prepared with NaOH showed the highest crystallinity, which was unfavorable for catalytic application. The addition of starch to the synthesis medium provided a means by which to diminish the crystal size of all HT precipitates. Catalytic tests of the Baeyer–Villiger oxidation of cyclohexanone demonstrated that the highest yields of ε-caprolactone were obtained with fine-crystalline HT catalysts prepared with organic bases in the presence of a starch template.
Iron(III)–Quercetin Complexes’ Safety for MRI Cell Tracking in Cell Therapy Applications: Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Assessment
Authors: Dechsupa Nathupakorn , Kosintarajit Panida , Kamkan Kanyapak , Khanjina Thanyalak , Sirikul Chonticha , Innuan Phattarawadee , Suwan Authaphinya , Anukul Nampeung , Kantapan Jiraporn
Published: August 2022

The theranostic agent iron–quercetin complex (IronQ) provides a T1-positive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent. The magnetically IronQ-labeled cells can be used for cell tracking and have active biological applications in promoting cell and tissue regeneration. However, a detailed investigation of IronQ’s cytotoxicity and genotoxicity is necessary. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the possibility of IronQ inducing cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We evaluated the vitality of cells, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the level of antioxidant enzymes, and the stability of the genetic material in PBMCs treated with IronQ. The results show that IronQ had a negligible impact on toxicological parameters such as ROS production and lipid peroxidation, indicating that it is not harmful. IronQ-labeled PMBCs experienced an insignificant depletion of antioxidant enzyme levels at the highest concentration of IronQ. There is no evident genotoxicity in the magnetically IronQ-labeled PBMCs. The results show that IronQ does not potentiate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity effects of the labeled PMBCs and might be safe for therapeutic and cell tracking purposes. These results could provide a reference guideline for the toxicological analysis of IronQ in in vivo studies.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Sulfur Quantum Dots for Detection of Alkaline Phosphatase Activity
Authors: Ma Fanghui , Zhou Qing , Yang Minghui , Zhang Jianglin , Chen Xiang
Published: August 2022

Sulfur quantum dots (SQDs) are a kind of pure elemental quantum dots, which are considered as potential green nanomaterials because they do not contain heavy metal elements and are friendly to biology and environment. In this paper, SQDs with size around 2 nm were synthesized by a microwave-assisted method using sulfur powder as precursor. The SQDs had the highest emission under the excitation of 380 nm and emit blue fluorescence at 470 nm. In addition, the SQDs had good water solubility and stability. Based on the synthesized SQDs, a fluorescence assay for detection of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was reported. The fluorescence of the SQDs was initially quenched by Cr (VI). In the presence of ALP, ALP-catalyzed hydrolysis of 2-phospho-L-ascorbic acid to generate ascorbic acid. The generated ascorbic acid can reduce Cr (VI) to Cr (III), thus the fluorescence intensity of SQDs was restored. The assay has good sensitivity and selectivity and was applied to the detection of ALP in serum samples. The interesting properties of SQDs can find a wide range of applications in different sensing and imaging areas.
Family Visiting Restrictions and Postoperative Clinical Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Danielis Matteo , Iob Rosa , Achil Illarj , Palese Alvisa
Published: August 2022

In the last two years, all hospitals have adopted restricted visitation policies due to the coronavirus disease 2019. The objective of this study was to assess the consequences of hospital visitation restrictions on the most common outcome measures on adult patients who underwent surgery. A retrospective study design was conducted according to the STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology statements in 2021. Forty patients exposed to a no-visitors policy and forty unexposed patients (1:1) were enrolled. Patients who were not allowed to receive family visits were more likely to report disorientation/agitation episodes (n = 25, 62.5% vs. n = 12, 30.0%; p < 0.01), spend more sleepless nights (n = 10, 25.0% vs. n = 1, 2.5%; p < 0.01), be restrained (n = 8, 20.0% vs. n = 1, 2.5%; p = 0.02), incur device-removal incidents (n = 14, 35.0% vs. n = 5, 12.5%; p = 0.01) compared to unexposed patients. Conversely, pain episodes were significantly more frequent in the unexposed group (n = 7.1, SD = 7.9 vs. n = 2.4, SD = 2.8; p < 0.01), and there was lower clinical deterioration risk (NEWS of 0–4 average 19.5, SD = 12.2 evaluations vs. 12.3, SD = 8.6; p < 0.01) compared to exposed patients. According to the results, family visiting restrictions should be measured against their possible advantages in order to prevent negative outcomes for surgical patients and to improve the quality of care.
Rapid and Accurate Detection of Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi the Causal Agent of Chestnut Rot, through an Internally Controlled Multiplex PCR Assay
Authors: Silva-Campos Matias , Nadiminti Pavani , Cahill David
Published: August 2022

The fungus Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi is a significant threat to the production of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) nuts in Australia and worldwide. The pathogen causes nut rot, which leads to substantial production losses. Early and accurate diagnosis of the disease is essential to delineate and implement control strategies. A specific and sensitive multiplex PCR was developed based on the amplification of three barcode sequences of G. smithogilvyi. The assay reliability was enhanced by including the amplification of a host gene as an internal control. Primers were thoroughly evaluated in silico before assessing them in vitro. Primer annealing temperature and concentration were optimised to enhance the assay sensitivity and specificity. The assay detection limit ranged between 0.1 and 1.0 pg (5 and 50 fg/μL) of genomic DNA per reaction. No cross-reactivity was observed with genomic DNA from closely and distantly related fungal species. We also characterised Australian G. smithogilvyi isolates phenotypically and genotypically and found significant differences in morphologic and virulence traits of the isolates. An understanding of the virulence of G. smithogilvyi and the availability of a reliable and accurate diagnostic technique will enable earlier detection of the pathogen, which will contribute to effective control strategies for the disease.
Toxoplasma gondii Genetic Diversity in Mediterranean Dolphins
Authors: Fernández-Escobar Mercedes , Giorda Federica , Mattioda Virgina , Audino Tania , Di Nocera Fabio , Lucifora Giuseppe , Varello Katia , Grattarola Carla , Ortega-Mora Luis Miguel , Casalone Cristina , Calero-Bernal Rafael
Published: August 2022

Toxoplasma gondii constitutes a major zoonotic agent but also has been frequently identified as an important cause of clinical disease (e.g., abortion, pneumonia, encephalitis) in wildlife; specifically, T. gondii has been associated with neurological disease in cetaceans. This study investigated the genetic diversity of T. gondii strains involved in infections in dolphins found stranded in the Mediterranean coastlines of Italy. Tissue samples from 16 dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba and Tursiops truncatus species) positive for T. gondii-DNA presence by PCR were examined by histology and subjected to further genetic characterization of strains detected by PCR-RFLP and multilocus PCR-sequencing assays. According to fully genotyped samples, the genotypes ToxoDB#3 (67%) and #2 (22%) were detected, the latter being reported for the first time in cetaceans, along with a mixed infection (11%). Subtyping by PCR-seq procedures provided evidence of common point mutations in strains from southwestern Europe. Despite evidence of T. gondii as a cause of neurological disease in dolphins, sources of infections are difficult to identify since they are long-living animals and some species have vast migration areas with multiple chances of infection. Finally, the genetic diversity of T. gondii found in the dolphins studied in the Mediterranean coastlines of Italy reflects the main genotypes circulating inland in the European continent.
Statistical Analysis of the Photon Loss in Fiber-Optic Communication
Authors: Czerwinski Artur , Czerwinska Katarzyna
Published: August 2022

In optical communication systems, photons are lost due to the attenuation of the transmission medium. To efficiently implement quantum information protocols, we need to be able to precisely describe such processes. In this paper, we propose statistical methods to estimate the attenuation coefficient of the fiber link. By following the Beer–Lambert law, we utilize the properties of the exponential distribution to estimate the rate parameter based on observable data. In particular, we determine the explicit forms of unbiased estimators that are suitable for censored (truncated) sets of data. Moreover, we focus on minimum-variance methods that ensure a reliable estimation of the attenuation coefficient.
Special Issue on Polarized Light and Optical Systems
Authors: Petrov Nikolai I. , Porfirev Alexey P.
Published: August 2022

Polarization is often measured to study the interaction of light and matter, so the description of the polarization of light beams is of both practical and fundamental interest [...]
Potato Periderm Development and Tuber Skin Quality
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Ginzberg Idit
Published: August 2022

The periderm is a corky tissue that replaces the epidermis when the latter is damaged, and is critical for preventing pathogen invasion and water loss. The periderm is formed through the meristematic activity of phellogen cells (cork cambium). The potato skin (phellem cells) composes the outer layers of the tuber periderm and is a model for studying cork development. Early in tuber development and following tuber expansion, the phellogen becomes active and produces the skin. New skin layers are continuously added by division of the phellogen cells until tuber maturation. Some physiological disorders of the potato tuber are related to abnormal development of the skin, including skinning injuries and russeting of smooth-skinned potatoes. Thus, characterizing the potato periderm contributes to modeling cork development in plants and helps to resolve critical agricultural problems. Here, we summarize the data available on potato periderm formation, highlighting tissue characteristics rather than the suberization processes.
Brassica and Sinapis Seeds in Medieval Archaeological Sites: An Example of Multiproxy Analysis for Their Identification and Ethnobotanical Interpretation
Authors: Bosi Giovanna , De Felice Simona , Wilkinson Michael J. , Allainguillaume Joël , Arru Laura , Nascimbene Juri , Buldrini Fabrizio
Published: August 2022

The genus Brassica includes some of the most important vegetable and oil crops worldwide. Many Brassica seeds (which can show diagnostic characters useful for species identification) were recovered from two archaeological sites in northern Italy, dated from between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. We tested the combined use of archaeobotanical keys, ancient DNA barcoding, and references to ancient herbarium specimens to address the issue of diagnostic uncertainty. An unequivocal conventional diagnosis was possible for much of the material recovered, with the samples dominated by five Brassica species and Sinapis. The analysis using ancient DNA was restricted to the seeds with a Brassica-type structure and deployed a variant of multiplexed tandem PCR. The quality of diagnosis strongly depended on the molecular locus used. Nevertheless, many seeds were diagnosed down to species level, in concordance with their morphological identification, using one primer set from the core barcode site (matK). The number of specimens found in the Renaissance herbaria was not high; Brassica nigra, which is of great ethnobotanical importance, was the most common taxon. Thus, the combined use of independent means of species identification is particularly important when studying the early use of closely related crops, such as Brassicaceae.
QTL Analysis for Bread Wheat Seed Size, Shape and Color Characteristics Estimated by Digital Image Processing
Authors: Arif Mian Abdur Rehman , Komyshev Evgenii G. , Genaev Mikhail A. , Koval Vasily S. , Shmakov Nikolay A. , Börner Andreas , Afonnikov Dmitry A.
Published: August 2022

The size, shape, and color of wheat seeds are important traits that are associated with yield and flour quality (size, shape), nutritional value, and pre-harvest sprouting (coat color). These traits are under multigenic control, and to dissect their molecular and genetic basis, quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis is used. We evaluated 114 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) in a bi-parental RIL mapping population (the International Triticeae Mapping Initiative, ITMI/MP) grown in 2014 season. We used digital image analysis for seed phenotyping and obtained data for seven traits describing seed size and shape and 48 traits of seed coat color. We identified 212 additive and 34 pairs of epistatic QTLs on all the chromosomes of wheat genome except chromosomes 1A and 5D. Many QTLs were overlapping. We demonstrated that the overlap between QTL regions was low for seed size/shape traits and high for coat color traits. Using the literature and KEGG data, we identified sets of genes in Arabidopsis and rice from the networks controlling seed size and color. Further, we identified 29 and 14 candidate genes for seed size-related loci and for loci associated with seed coat color, respectively.
Discovery and Domestication of New Fruit Trees in the 21st Century
Authors: Huang Hongwen
Published: August 2022

The exploration and use of wild plant resources goes back to our rooted history of human civilization over about 20,000 years ago, before Ancient Mesopotamia in the Valley of the Tigris and Euphrates where barley, lentil and wheat were first domesticated [...]
Centromere-Specific Single-Copy Sequences of Secale Species
Authors: Pan Zijin , Luo Jie , Tang Zongxiang , Fu Shulan
Published: August 2022

Single-copy FISH analysis is a useful tool to physically locate a given sequence on chromosome. Centromeric single-copy sequences can be used to locate the position of centromere and disclose the subtle differences among different centromeres. Nine centromeric single-copy sequences 1R1, 3R1, 4R1, 4R2, 5R1, 5R2, 6R2, 6R3, and 7R1 were cloned from Kustro (Secale cereale L.). FISH analysis using these sequences as probes indicated that the signals of 1R1, 3R1, 4R1, 4R2, 5R1, 5R2, 6R1, 6R2, and 7R1 were located in the centromeric regions of rye 1R, 3R, 4R, 4R, 5R, 5R, 6R, 6R, and 7R chromosomes, respectively. In addition, for each of the centromeric single-copy sequences, high sequence similarity was observed among different Secale species. Combined with rye genomic sequence, single-copy FISH analysis indicated that the 1BL.1RS translocations in wheat cultivar CN17 and wheat line 20T363-4 contained the centromeric segment of 1R chromosome from 349,498,361 to 349,501,266 bp, and the 1BL.1RS translocations in the other two wheat cultivars did not contain this segment. The nine sequences are useful in determining the centromere location on rye chromosomes, and they have the potential to disclose the accurate structural differences of centromeres among the wheat-rye centric fusion translocation chromosomes; therefore, more centromeric single-copy sequences are needed.
Reliability Modelling through the Three-Parametric Weibull Model Based on Microsoft Excel Facilities
Authors: Titu Aurel Mihail , Boroiu Andrei Alexandru , Boroiu Alexandru , Dragomir Mihai , Pop Alina Bianca , Titu Stefan
Published: August 2022

The paper aims to capitalize on the new features that are offered by the Microsoft Excel calculation program for reliability modeling, using the Median Ranks estimator that is calculated directly with the BETA.INV function, not estimated by various algebraic estimators, as is generally the case. Starting from this first step, a method of modeling reliability is elaborated through the three-parametric Weibull model that is based exclusively on this software, which is accessible to anyone and can be used even in the case of online learning, which is widespread in recent years due to the pandemic situation. The probability plotting method is applied, using the Median Ranks estimator that is calculated directly with the BETA.INV function for a probability equal to 0.5. A flowchart is made for the proposed method, which could be easily translated into a calculation program. By representing in logarithmic coordinates, we determined the Weibull models for different values that were initially adopted for the location parameter: using as a criterion the coefficient of determination that was obtained using the trendline function for the linear model, it was possible to identify, by successive tests, the optimal value of the location parameter—for which the three-parametric model has a good likelihood. By the proposed method, this value can be found following this iterative process. So, based on the current facilities of the Microsoft Excel program, a precise and easy-to-apply method has been achieved, through which an appropriate three-parametric Weibull model can be identified.
Recent Progression Developments on Process Optimization Approach for Inherent Issues in Production Shop Floor Management for Industry 4.0
Authors: Tripathi Varun , Chattopadhyaya Somnath , Mukhopadhyay Alok Kumar , Sharma Shubham , Li Changhe , Singh Sunpreet , Saleem Waqas , Salah Bashir , Mohamed Abdullah
Published: August 2022

In the present industry revolution, operations management teams emphasize implementing an efficient process optimization approach with a suitable strategy for achieving operational excellence on the shop floor. Process optimization is used to enhance productivity by eliminating idle activities and non-value-added activities within limited constraints. Various process optimization approaches are used in operations management on the shop floor, including lean manufacturing, smart manufacturing, kaizen, six sigma, total quality management, and computational intelligence. The present study investigates strategies used to implement the process optimization approach provided in the previous research to eliminate problems encountered in shop floor management. Furthermore, the authors suggest an idea to industry individuals, which is to understand the operational conditions faced in shop floor management. The novelty of the present study lies in the fact that a methodology for implementing a process optimization approach with an efficient strategy has been reported for the first time that eliminates problems faced in shop floor management, including industry 4.0. The authors of the present research strongly believe that this research will help researchers and operations management teams select an appropriate strategy and process optimization approach to improve operational performance on the shop floor within limited constraints.
Effect of Fulvic Acid in Landfill Leachate Membrane Concentrate on Evaporation Process
Authors: Liu Lu , Wu Mengyao , Chen Yuxiao , Wang Heli
Published: August 2022

Landfill leachate membrane concentrate (LLMC) poses risks to the environment and is commonly treated by evaporation. As the main component of the dissolved organic matter in LLMC, fulvic acid (FA) was selected as a representative to investigate its effect on evaporation and the removal efficiency by pretreatment in this study. According to the water quality indexes and three-dimensional fluorescence spectra of LLMC samples collected from five landfills in China, the concentration of total organic carbon in LLMC was 700–2500 mg·L−1, in which FA accounted for 50–85%. The boiling point and viscosity of the configured FA-NaCl-Na2SO4 solution both increased significantly when FA was concentrated 20 times (approximately 30,000 mg·L−1). Due to the presence of FA, the violent frothing phenomenon appeared at above 70 °C in evaporation, and the solubility of CaSO4·2H2O in FA-NaCl-Na2SO4 solution was significantly lower than that without FA. All these results indicated that the high FA concentration in LLMC could lead to decreased heat transfer coefficient and evaporation capacity during evaporation. Therefore, the softening pretreatment including the addition of Ca(OH)2, Na2CO3, and coagulants was employed to reduce the hardness and FA concentration. After the softening experiments, the removal efficiency of FA was >95% for the configured LLMC sample, while for the actual LLMC sample collected from landfills, the removal efficiency of FA and chemical oxygen demand could reach >80% and about 30%, respectively. The remaining concentration of FA in LLMC was about 200 mg·L−1, and the recovery efficiency of clean water could be 90% in the evaporation process. This research has important guiding significance for the evaporation treatment of LLMC.
Strain Development, Substrate Utilization, and Downstream Purification of Vitamin C
Authors: Tucaliuc Alexandra , Cîșlaru Ana , Kloetzer Lenuţa , Blaga Alexandra Cristina
Published: August 2022

Vitamin C, C6H8O6, is a water-soluble vitamin that is widespread in nature. It is an essential nutrient involved in many biological processes in the living organisms: it enhances collagen biosynthesis, ensures the optimal functioning of enzymes and the immune system, has a major role in lipid and iron metabolism, and it enhances the biosynthesis of l-carnitine. Due to its antioxidant activity, vitamin C can neutralize the tissue-damaging effects of free radicals. Vitamin C is being related to the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This review includes current information on the biosynthesis of ascorbic acid, as new methods are now challenging the traditional Reichstein process for vitamin C’s industrial-scale production. Different strains were analyzed in correlation with their ability to synthesize ascorbic acid, and several separation techniques were investigated for a more effective production of vitamin C.
Development of chitosan edible film incorporated with curry leaf and kesum for the packaging of chicken breast meat
Authors: Kong Ianne , Heng Zi Wen , Pui Liew Phing
Published: August 2022

Edible film is commonly applied on meat products. In this study, kesum leaf extract (KE) and curry leaf extract (CLE) were incorporated into chitosan based film, in varying concentrations of KE and CLE to determine the physicochemical, mechanical and antimicrobial properties of chitosan film formed. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to assess and compare the effect of chitosan film incorporated with CLE and KE on microbiological properties of chicken breast meat. Increase in KE and CLE concentrations leads to the decrease in mechanical strength of the chitosan film, while increased in its water solubility. In addition, the addition of KE and CLE to the chitosan films produced film that is darker, greener and less yellowish in colour compared to plain films. Increased KE and CLE concentrations increase the inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella spp. in terms of antimicrobial activity. In storage test, control and sample (chicken breast meat wrapped with chitosan film incorporated with 2.0% (w/v) KE and 2.0% (w/v) CLE) were kept at 4°C for 14 days. The sample were reported to have pH values, mesophilic and psychrotrophic total plate counts that were considerably lower than control during the storage time. The sample coated with chitosan film incorporated with 2.0% (w/v) of KE and 2.0% (w/v) CLE improved the storage life of chicken breast meat by at least 2 days. Chitosan films incorporated with KE and CLE held enormous promise as active packaging materials for meat preservation.