bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indoor Emergency Path Planning Based on the Q-Learning Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Xu Shenghua , Gu Yang , Li Xiaoyan , Chen Cai , Hu Yingyi , Sang Yu , Jiang Wenxing
Published: January 2022

The internal structure of buildings is becoming increasingly complex. Providing a scientific and reasonable evacuation route for trapped persons in a complex indoor environment is important for reducing casualties and property losses. In emergency and disaster relief environments, indoor path planning has great uncertainty and higher safety requirements. Q-learning is a value-based reinforcement learning algorithm that can complete path planning tasks through autonomous learning without establishing mathematical models and environmental maps. Therefore, we propose an indoor emergency path planning method based on the Q-learning optimization algorithm. First, a grid environment model is established. The discount rate of the exploration factor is used to optimize the Q-learning algorithm, and the exploration factor in the ε-greedy strategy is dynamically adjusted before selecting random actions to accelerate the convergence of the Q-learning algorithm in a large-scale grid environment. An indoor emergency path planning experiment based on the Q-learning optimization algorithm was carried out using simulated data and real indoor environment data. The proposed Q-learning optimization algorithm basically converges after 500 iterative learning rounds, which is nearly 2000 rounds higher than the convergence rate of the Q-learning algorithm. The SASRA algorithm has no obvious convergence trend in 5000 iterations of learning. The results show that the proposed Q-learning optimization algorithm is superior to the SARSA algorithm and the classic Q-learning algorithm in terms of solving time and convergence speed when planning the shortest path in a grid environment. The convergence speed of the proposed Q- learning optimization algorithm is approximately five times faster than that of the classic Q- learning algorithm. The proposed Q-learning optimization algorithm in the grid environment can successfully plan the shortest path to avoid obstacle areas in a short time.
Demand for Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Jarrar Yazun , Lee Su-Jun
Published: January 2022

The application of personalized medicine (PM) is rapidly evolving [...]
(E)-1-(3-Benzoyl-4-phenyl-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)-3-phenylprop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Noti Viola , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra
Published: January 2022

Over the last decade, there has been an increasing effort to fight inflammatory conditions establishing new multitarget approaches. Chronic inflammation is implicated in many multifactorial diseases, constituting a great economic burden and a chronic health problem. In an attempt to develop new potent multifunctional anti-inflammatory agents, a cinnamic-pyrrole hybrid (6) was synthesized and screened for its antioxidant and anti-Lipoxygenase potential. The new compound, in comparison with its pyrrole precursor (4), showed improved biological activities. In silico calculations were performed to predict its drug-likeness. The examined derivative is considered orally bioavailable according to Lipinski’s rule of five. Compound 6 could be used as a lead for the synthesis of more effective hybrids.
Analysis of Platen Superheater Tube Degradation in Thermal Power Plants via Destructive/Non-Destructive Characteristic Evaluation
Authors: Oh Se-Beom , Kim Jongbeom , Han Soon-Woo , Kim Kyung-Mo , Yun Dong-Seok , Kim Dong-Wook
Published: January 2022

Coal-fired power plants operating under Korea’s standard supercritical pressure operate in a high-temperature environment, with steam temperatures reaching 540 °C. A standard coal-fired power plant has a 30-year design life, and lifespan diagnosis is performed on facilities that have operated for more than 100,000 h or 20 years. Visual inspection, thickness measurements, and hardness measurements in the field are used to assess the degree of material degradation at the time of diagnosis. In this study, aging degradation was assessed using an electromagnetic acoustic transducer to measure the change in transverse ultrasonic propagation speed, and the results were compared to microstructural analysis and tensile test results. Based on the experimental results, it was found that the boiler tube exposed to a high-temperature environment during long-term boiler operation was degraded and damaged, the ultrasonic wave velocity was reduced, and the microstructural grains were coarsened. It was also confirmed through tensile testing that the tensile and yield strengths increased with degradation. Our findings prove that the degree of change in mechanical properties as a function of the material’s degradation state is proportional to the change in ultrasonic wave velocity.
Seismic Performance Evaluation of RC Columns Retrofitted by 3D Textile Reinforced Mortars
Authors: Kim Siyun , Kim Sung Jig , Chang Chunho
Published: January 2022

The paper investigates the seismic performance of rectangular RC columns retrofitted by a newly developed 3D Textile Reinforced Mortar (TRM) panel. The 3D-TRM used in this study consists of two components: self-leveling mortar and 3D textiles. Firstly, the flexural capacity of the 3D-TRM panel was investigated through the four-point flexural test. Secondly, a total of five specimens were constructed and experimentally investigated through static cyclic loading tests with constant axial load. One specimen was a non-seismically designed column without any retrofit, while the others were strengthened with either the 3D-TRM panel or conventional Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sheets. Experimental results in terms of hysteretic behavior, ductility ratio, and energy dissipation are investigated and compared with the cases of specimens with conventional retrofitting methods and without any retrofit. The maximum lateral force, ductility, stiffness degradation, and energy dissipation of RC columns with 3D-TRM panels were significantly improved compared with the conventional RC column. Therefore, it is concluded that the proposed retrofitting method can improve the seismic performance of non-conforming RC columns.
On Active Vibration Absorption in Motion Control of a Quadrotor UAV
Authors: Beltran-Carbajal Francisco , Yañez-Badillo Hugo , Tapia-Olvera Ruben , Favela-Contreras Antonio , Valderrabano-Gonzalez Antonio , Lopez-Garcia Irvin
Published: January 2022

Conventional dynamic vibration absorbers are physical control devices designed to be coupled to flexible mechanical structures to be protected against undesirable forced vibrations. In this article, an approach to extend the capabilities of forced vibration suppression of the dynamic vibration absorbers into desired motion trajectory tracking control algorithms for a four-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is introduced. Nevertheless, additional physical control devices for mechanical vibration absorption are unnecessary in the proposed motion profile reference tracking control design perspective. A new dynamic control design approach for efficient tracking of desired motion profiles as well as for simultaneous active harmonic vibration absorption for a quadrotor helicopter is then proposed. In contrast to other control design methods, the presented motion tracking control scheme is based on the synthesis of multiple virtual (nonphysical) dynamic vibration absorbers. The mathematical structure of these physical mechanical devices, known as dynamic vibration absorbers, is properly exploited and extended for control synthesis for underactuated multiple-input multiple-output four-rotor nonlinear aerial dynamic systems. In this fashion, additional capabilities of active suppression of vibrating forces and torques can be achieved in specified motion directions on four-rotor helicopters. Moreover, since the dynamic vibration absorbers are designed to be virtual, these can be directly tuned for diverse operating conditions. In the present study, it is thus demonstrated that the mathematical structure of physical mechanical vibration absorbers can be extended for the design of active vibration control schemes for desired motion trajectory tracking tasks on four-rotor aerial vehicles subjected to adverse harmonic disturbances. The effectiveness of the presented novel design perspective of virtual dynamic vibration absorption schemes is proved by analytical and numerical results. Several operating case studies to stress the advantages to extend the undesirable vibration attenuation capabilities of the dynamic vibration absorbers into trajectory tracking control algorithms for nonlinear four-rotor helicopter systems are presented.
Recovering Heat Source from Fourth-Order Inverse Problems by Weighted Gradient Collocation
Authors: Yang Judy P. , Li Hsiang-Ming
Published: January 2022

The weighted gradient reproducing kernel collocation method is introduced to recover the heat source described by Poisson’s equation. As it is commonly known that there is no unique solution to the inverse heat source problem, the weak solution based on a priori assumptions is considered herein. In view of the fourth-order partial differential equation (PDE) in the mathematical model, the high-order gradient reproducing kernel approximation is introduced to efficiently untangle the problem without calculating the high-order derivatives of reproducing kernel shape functions. The weights of the weighted collocation method for high-order inverse analysis are first determined. In the benchmark analysis, the unclear illustration in the literature is clarified, and the correct interpretation of numerical results is given particularly. Two mathematical formulations with four examples are provided to demonstrate the viability of the method, including the extreme cases of the limited accessible boundary.
Bifurcation and Patterns Analysis for a Spatiotemporal Discrete Gierer-Meinhardt System
Authors: Liu Biao , Wu Ranchao
Published: January 2022

The Gierer-Meinhardt system is one of the prototypical pattern formation models. The bifurcation and pattern dynamics of a spatiotemporal discrete Gierer-Meinhardt system are investigated via the couple map lattice model (CML) method in this paper. The linear stability of the fixed points to such spatiotemporal discrete system is analyzed by stability theory. By using the bifurcation theory, the center manifold theory and the Turing instability theory, the Turing instability conditions in flip bifurcation and Neimark–Sacker bifurcation are considered, respectively. To illustrate the above theoretical results, numerical simulations are carried out, such as bifurcation diagram, maximum Lyapunov exponents, phase orbits, and pattern formations.
Comment on Fierro et al. Severe Hypotension, Bradycardia and Asystole after Sugammadex Administration in an Elderly Patient. Medicina 2021, 57, 79
Authors: Sagliocco Orlando , Betelli Mauro
Published: January 2022

We read with great interest the case report by Fierro et al. [...]
Influence of Potassium Ions on Act of Amphotericin B to the DPPC/Chol Mixed Monolayer at Different Surface Pressures
Authors: Wang Juan
Published: January 2022

Amphotericin B (AmB) is an antifungal drug that rarely develops resistance. It has an affinity with the cholesterol on mammalian cell membranes, disrupting the structure and function of the membranes, which are also affected by potassium ions. However, the mechanism is unclear. In this paper, the Langmuir monolayer method was used to study the effects of potassium ions on the surface pressure–mean molecular area of isotherms, elastic modulus and the surface pressure–time curves of a 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine/cholesterol (DPPC/Chol) monolayer and a DPPC/Chol/AmB monolayer. The morphology and thickness of the Langmuir–Blodgett films were studied via atomic force microscopy. The results showed that AmB can increase the mean molecular area of the DPPC/Chol mixed monolayer at low pressures (15 mN/m) but reduces it at high pressures (30 mN/m). The potassium ions may interfere with the effect of AmB in different ways. The potassium ions can enhance the influence of AmB on the stability of monolayer at low surface pressures, but weaken it at high surface pressures. The potassium ions showed significant interference with the interaction between AmB and the cholesterol-enriched region. The results are helpful for us to understand how the effect of amphotericin B on the phospholipid membrane is interfered with by potassium ions when amphotericin B enters mammalian cell membrane.
Silver Nanoparticles: An Instantaneous Solution for Anticancer Activity against Human Liver (HepG2) and Breast (MCF-7) Cancer Cells
Authors: Al-Khedhairy Abdulaziz A. , Wahab Rizwan
Published: January 2022

Cancer is a cataclysmic disease that affects not only the target organ, but also the whole body. Metal-based nanoparticles (NPs) have recently emerged as a better option for the treatment of this deadly disease. Accordingly, the present work describes a means to control the growth of cancer cells by using colloidal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) processed via homemade solutions and the characterization of these materials. The AgNPs may become an instantaneous solution for the treatment of these deadly diseases and to minimize or remove these problems. The AgNPs exhibit excellent control of the growth rate of human liver (HepG2) and breast (MCF-7) cancer cells, even at a very low concentrations. The cytotoxic effects of AgNPs on HepG2 and MCF-7 cancer cells were dose dependent (2–200 μg/mL), as evaluated using MTT and NRU assays. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was increased by 136% and 142% in HepG2 and MCF-7 cells treated with AgNPs, respectively. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) data for both cell types (HepG2 and MCF-7) after exposure to AgNPs showed up- and downregulation of the expression of apoptotic (p53, Bax, caspase-3) and anti-apoptotic (BCl2) genes; moreover, their roles were described. This work shows that NPs were successfully prepared and controlled the growth of both types of cancer cells.
Continuous Prediction Model of Carbon Content in 120 t Converter Blowing Process
Authors: Wang Dazhi , Gao Fang , Xing Lidong , Chu Jianhua , Bao Yanping
Published: January 2022

A continuous prediction model of carbon content of 120 t BOF is established in this paper. Based on the three-stage decarburization theory and combined with the production process of 120 t converter, the effects of oxygen lance height and top blowing oxygen flow rate are also considered in the model. The explicit finite difference method is used to realize continuous prediction of carbon content in the converter blowing process. The model parameters such as ultimate carbon content in molten pool are calculated according to the actual data of 120 t BOF, which improves the hit rate of the model. Process verification and end-point verification for the continuous prediction model have been carried out, and the results of process verification indicate that the continuous prediction model established in the paper basically accords with the actual behavior of decarburization. Moreover, the hit ratio of the continuous prediction model reached 85% for the prediction of end-point carbon content within a tolerance of ±0.02%.
Relationship of Inflammatory Markers and Metabolic Syndrome in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Sinatora Renata Vargas , Chagas Eduardo Federighi Baisi , Mattera Fernando Otavio Pires , Mellem Luciano Junqueira , Santos Ana Rita de Oliveira dos , Pereira Larissa Pires , Aranão Ana Luíza de Carvalho , Guiguer Elen Landgraf , Araújo Adriano Cressoni , Haber Jesselina F. dos Santos , Guissoni Leila Campos , Barbalho Sandra Maria
Published: January 2022

The increased deposition of visceral fat in the postmenopause period increases the production of inflammatory cytokines and the release of tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and decrease in IL-10. This study investigated the relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and metabolic syndrome (MS) in postmenopausal women considering different diagnostic criteria. We conducted a cross-sectional observational study based on STROBE. Data were collected regarding the diagnostic criteria for MS (International Diabetes Federation; NCEP (International Diabetes Federation (IDF), National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP-III), and Harmonized criteria), body composition, comorbidities, time without menstruation, values of IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α. ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis, Levene tests, ROC, and odds ratio were performed to analyze the data. The results showed no significant difference between the methods and no interaction between the method and the presence of MS. However, for the values of WC, body fat percentage, TNF-α, and IL-10/TNF-α ratio, a significant effect of MS was observed. In subjects with MS, lower values of body fat percentage and TNF-α and higher values of the IL-10/TNF-α ratio were also observed. The higher IL-10/TNF-α ratio in the MS group is related to the greater anti-inflationary action of IL-10. The IL-10/TNF-α ratio showed significant accuracy to discriminate patients with MS according to the NCEP-ATP III criteria.
Effect of Storage Temperatures on Physico-Chemicals, Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Properties of Watermelon Juice (Citrullus lanatus)
Authors: Mohamad Salin Nur Shafinaz , Md Saad Wan Mazlina , Abdul Razak Hairil Rashmizal , Salim Fatimah
Published: January 2022

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) consists of high moisture content and is favoured for its juice products. The popular fruit has a tempting taste, sweet aroma and attractive flesh colour. It is enriched with phytochemicals and antioxidant properties that are beneficial to human health. Due to convenience, the majority of individuals are likely to consume watermelon juice. However, little is known about the fruit juice storage and temperatures that may affect its beneficial properties. This study investigated the effect of storage temperature at room temperature, refrigerator cold, refrigerator freeze and freeze-dried, and analyzed the juice physico-chemicals (weight loss, pH, ash, moisture, total soluble solid, browning and turbidity), phytochemicals (total phenolic, total flavonoid, lycopene and β-carotene) and antioxidant scavenging activities during 9 days of storage. The results showed that watermelon juice was affected by storage temperatures and conditions with significant changes in physico-chemical appearance and decrease in total phytochemical content, thus consequently affecting their antioxidant activities during 9 days of storage. Although fresh watermelon juice can be consumed for its high nutritional values, freeze-drying is the preferable technique to retain its benefits and to delay juice degradation.
The Use of Ozone as an Eco-Friendly Strategy against Microbial Biofilm in Dairy Manufacturing Plants: A Review
Authors: Panebianco Felice , Rubiola Selene , Di Ciccio Pierluigi Aldo
Published: January 2022

Managing spoilage and pathogenic bacteria contaminations represents a major challenge for the food industry, especially for the dairy sector. Biofilms formed by these microorganisms in food processing environment continue to pose concerns to food manufacturers as they may impact both the safety and quality of processed foods. Bacteria inside biofilm can survive in harsh environmental conditions and represent a source of repeated food contamination in dairy manufacturing plants. Among the novel approaches proposed to control biofilm in food processing plants, the ozone treatment, in aqueous or gaseous form, may represent one of the most promising techniques due to its antimicrobial action and low environmental impact. The antimicrobial effectiveness of ozone has been well documented on a wide variety of microorganisms in planktonic forms, whereas little data on the efficacy of ozone treatment against microbial biofilms are available. In addition, ozone is recognized as an eco-friendly technology since it does not leave harmful residuals in food products or on contact surfaces. Thus, this review intends to present an overview of the current state of knowledge on the possible use of ozone as an antimicrobial agent against the most common spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms, usually organized in biofilm, in dairy manufacturing plants.
Enhancing Saccharomyces cerevisiae Taxane Biosynthesis and Overcoming Nutritional Stress-Induced Pseudohyphal Growth
Authors: Walls Laura Ellen , Martinez José L. , Rios-Solis Leonardo
Published: January 2022

The recent technological advancements in synthetic biology have demonstrated the extensive potential socio-economic benefits at laboratory scale. However, translations of such technologies to industrial scale fermentations remains a major bottleneck. The existence and lack of understanding of the major discrepancies in cultivation conditions between scales often leads to the selection of suboptimal bioprocessing conditions, crippling industrial scale productivity. In this study, strategic design of experiments approaches were coupled with state-of-the-art bioreactor tools to characterize and overcome nutritional stress for the enhanced production of precursors to the blockbuster chemotherapy drug, Taxol, in S. cerevisiae cell factories. The batch-to-batch variation in yeast extract composition was found to trigger nutritional stress at a mini-bioreactor scale, resulting in profound changes in cellular morphology and the inhibition of taxane production. The cells shifted from the typical budding morphology into striking pseudohyphal cells. Doubling initial yeast extract and peptone concentrations (2×YP) delayed filamentous growth, and taxane accumulation improved to 108 mg/L. Through coupling a statistical definitive screening design approach with the state-of-the-art high-throughput micro-bioreactors, the total taxane titers were improved a further two-fold, compared to the 2×YP culture, to 229 mg/L. Filamentous growth was absent in nutrient-limited microscale cultures, underlining the complex and multifactorial nature of yeast stress responses. Validation of the optimal microscale conditions in 1L bioreactors successfully alleviated nutritional stress and improved the titers to 387 mg/L. Production of the key Taxol precursor, T5αAc, was improved two-fold to 22 mg/L compared to previous maxima. The present study highlights the importance of following an interdisciplinary approach combining synthetic biology and bioprocessing technologies for effective process optimization and scale-up.
It Works! Organic-Waste-Assisted Trichoderma spp. Solid-State Fermentation on Agricultural Digestate
Authors: Alias Carlotta , Bulgari Daniela , Gobbi Emanuela
Published: January 2022

This study aimed at valorizing digestate through Trichoderma spp. solid-state fermentation (SSF) to produce a potentially ameliorated fertilizer combined with fungal biomass as a value-added bioproduct. Plant-growth-promoting Trichoderma atroviride Ta13, T. reesei RUT-C30, T. asperellum R, and T. harzianum T-22 were tested on different SSF substrates: whole digestate (WD), digestate dried up with wood sawdust (SSF1), and digestate enriched with food waste and dried up with wood sawdust (SSF2). The fungal biomass was quantified by using a qPCR assay. The growth of the four Trichoderma spp. was only observed on the SSF2 substrate. The highest quantity of mycelium was produced by T. reesei RUT-30 (689.80 ± 80.53 mg/g substrate), followed by T. atroviride Ta13, and T. asperellum R (584.24 ± 13.36 and 444.79 ± 91.02 mg/g substrate). The germination of Lepidium sativum seeds was evaluated in order to assess the phytoxicity of the Trichoderma-enriched substrate. The treatments with 7.5% SSF2-R, 3.75% SSF2-T-22, and 1.8% SSF2-Ta13 equally enhanced the root elongation in comparison to the non-fermented SSF-2. This study demonstrated that digestate, mixed with agro-food waste, was able to support the cultivation of Trichoderma spp., paving the way to the valorization of fermented digestate as a proper biofertilizer.
Biocontrol Potential of Chitin and Chitosan Extracted from Black Soldier Fly Pupal Exuviae against Bacterial Wilt of Tomato
Authors: Kemboi Violah , Kipkoech Carolyne , Njire Moses , Were Samuel , Lagat Mevin , Ndwiga Francis , Wesonga John , Tanga Chrysantus
Published: January 2022

Globally, Ralstonia solanacearum (Smith) is ranked one of the most destructive bacterial pathogens inducing rapid and fatal wilting symptoms on tomatoes. Yield losses on tomatoes vary from 0 to 91% and most control measures are unaffordable to resource-poor farmers. This study investigated the antimicrobial activities of chitin and chitosan extracted from black soldier fly (BSF) pupal exuviae against R. solanacearum. Morphological, biochemical, and molecular techniques were used to isolate and characterize R. solanacearum for in vitro pathogenicity test using disc diffusion technique. Our results revealed that BSF chitosan significantly inhibited the growth of R. solanacearum when compared to treatments without chitosan. However, there was no significant difference in the antibacterial activities between BSF and commercial chitosan against R. solanacearum. Soil amended with BSF-chitin and chitosan demonstrated a reduction in bacterial wilt disease incidence by 30.31% and 34.95%, respectively. Whereas, disease severity was reduced by 22.57% and 23.66%, when inoculated tomato plants were subjected to soil amended with BSF chitin and chitosan, respectively. These findings have demonstrated that BSF pupal shells are an attractive renewable raw material for the recovery of valuable products (chitin and chitosan) with promising ability as a new type of eco-friendly control measure against bacterial wilt caused by R. solanacearum. Further studies should explore integrated pest management options that integrate multiple components including insect-based chitin and chitosan to manage bacterial wilt diseases, contributing significantly to increased tomato production worldwide.
Borrelia Infections in Ageing Ticks: Relationship with Morphometric Age Ratio in Field-Collected Ixodes ricinus Nymphs
Authors: Springer Andrea , Jordan Daniela , Glass Antje , Kahl Olaf , Fingerle Volker , Girl Philipp , Chitimia-Dobler Lidia , Strube Christina
Published: January 2022

In Europe, Ixodes ricinus plays a major role as a vector of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) spirochaetes, the causative agents of Lyme borreliosis, among other pathogens. In unfed ticks, Borrelia spirochaetes experience prolonged nutrient restriction. However, only few studies exist with regard to Borrelia infections in unfed ticks of different physiological ages. Changing body dimensions of unfed ticks, due to the consumption of energy reserves, allow physiological age estimation. The present study investigated the relationship of morphometric age with Borrelia prevalence and spirochaete load in 1882 questing I. ricinus nymphs, collected at two different locations in northern Germany in 2020. In addition, Borrelia species composition was investigated by employing a reverse line blot (RLB) probe panel suitable for the detection of ten different B. burgdorferi s.l. species, as well as the relapsing-fever spirochaete B. miyamotoi. Overall, Borrelia prevalence was 25.8% (485/1882). Whilst there was no statistically significant difference in Borrelia prevalence between the different morphometric age groups, Borrelia infection intensity as determined by probe-based quantitative real-time PCR significantly declined with increasing morphometric age. Borrelia species differentiation by RLB was successful in 29.5% of positive ticks, and revealed B. afzelii as the dominating species (65.0% of the differentiated infections). Additionally, B. garinii, B. valaisiana, B. burgdorferi sensu stricto, B. spielmanii, and B. miyamotoi were detected.
Food Additives, a Key Environmental Factor in the Development of IBD through Gut Dysbiosis
Authors: Raoul Pauline , Cintoni Marco , Palombaro Marta , Basso Luisa , Rinninella Emanuele , Gasbarrini Antonio , Mele Maria Cristina
Published: January 2022

Diet is a key environmental factor in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and, at the same time, represents one of the most promising therapies for IBD. Our daily diet often contains food additives present in numerous processed foods and even in dietary supplements. Recently, researchers and national authorities have been paying much attention to their toxicity and effects on gut microbiota and health. This review aims to gather the latest data focusing on the potential role of food additives in the pathogenesis of IBDs through gut microbiota modulation. Some artificial emulsifiers and sweeteners can induce the dysbiosis associated with an alteration of the intestinal barrier, an activation of chronic inflammation, and abnormal immune response accelerating the onset of IBD. Even if most of these results are retrieved from in vivo and in vitro studies, many artificial food additives can represent a potential hidden driver of gut chronic inflammation through gut microbiota alterations, especially in a population with IBD predisposition. In this context, pending the confirmation of these results by large human studies, it would be advisable that IBD patients avoid the consumption of processed food containing artificial food additives and follow a personalized nutritional therapy prescribed by a clinical nutritionist.
The Potential of Esteya spp. for the Biocontrol of the Pinewood Nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Authors: Pires David , Vicente Cláudia S. L. , Inácio Maria L. , Mota Manuel
Published: January 2022

The pinewood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is the causal agent of pine wilt disease (PWD) and a quarantine organism in many countries. Managing PWD involves strict regulations and heavy contingency plans, and present climate change scenarios predict a spread of the disease. The urgent need for sustainable management strategies has led to an increasing interest in promising biocontrol agents capable of suppressing the PWN, like endoparasitic nematophagous fungi of the Esteya genus. Here, we review different aspects of the biology and ecology of these nematophagous fungi and provide future prospects.
Boswellia serrata Extract as an Antibiofilm Agent against Candida spp.
Authors: Jaroš Petr , Vrublevskaya Maria , Lokočová Kristýna , Michailidu Jana , Kolouchová Irena , Demnerová Kateřina
Published: January 2022

The use of antibiotics or antifungals to control infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms is currently insufficiently effective because of their emerging resistance. Thanks to the ability of microorganisms to form a biofilm and thus increase their resistance to administered drugs even more, modern medicine faces the task of finding novel substances to combat infections caused by them. In this regard, the effects of essential oils or plant extracts are often studied. Among the relatively neglected plants is Boswellia serrata, which has a high content of biologically active boswellic acids. In this study, we focused on one of the most common nosocomial infections, which are caused by Candida species. The most common representative is C. albicans, although the number of infections caused by non-albicans species has recently been increasing. We focused on the antifungal activity of Boswellia serrata extract Bioswellix against planktonic and adhering cells of Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei. The antifungal activity against adhering cells was further explored by determining the metabolic activity of cells (MTT) and determining the total amount of biofilm using crystal violet. Boswellic acid-containing plant extract was shown to suppress the growth of a suspension population of all tested Candida species. Boswellia serrata extract Bioswellix was most effective in inhibiting C. albicans biofilm formation.
The Recent Progress China Has Made in the Backfill Mining Method, Part III: Practical Engineering Problems in Stope and Goaf Backfill
Authors: Yu Haoxuan , Li Shuai , Wang Xinmin
Published: January 2022

With the continuous innovation and development of science and technology, the mining industry has also benefited greatly and improved over time, especially in the field of backfill mining. Mining researchers are increasingly working on cutting-edge technologies, such as applying artificial intelligence to mining production. However, in addition, some problems in the actual engineering are worth people’s attention, and especially in China, such a big mining country, the actual engineering faces many problems. In recent years, Chinese mining researchers have conducted a lot of studies on practical engineering problems in the stope and goaf of backfill mining method in China, among which the three most important points are (1) Calculation problems of backfill slurry transportation; (2) Reliability analysis of backfill pipeline system; (3) Stope backfill process and technology. Therefore, this final part (Part III) will launch the research progress of China’s practical engineering problems from the above two points. Finally, we claim that Part III serves just as a guide to starting a conversation, and hope that many more experts and scholars will be interested and engage in the research of this field.
The Cost of Improving the Precision of the Variational Quantum Eigensolver for Quantum Chemistry
Authors: Miháliková Ivana , Pivoluska Matej , Plesch Martin , Friák Martin , Nagaj Daniel , Šob Mojmír
Published: January 2022

New approaches into computational quantum chemistry can be developed through the use of quantum computing. While universal, fault-tolerant quantum computers are still not available, and we want to utilize today’s noisy quantum processors. One of their flagship applications is the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE)—an algorithm for calculating the minimum energy of a physical Hamiltonian. In this study, we investigate how various types of errors affect the VQE and how to efficiently use the available resources to produce precise computational results. We utilize a simulator of a noisy quantum device, an exact statevector simulator, and physical quantum hardware to study the VQE algorithm for molecular hydrogen. We find that the optimal method of running the hybrid classical-quantum optimization is to: (i) allow some noise in intermediate energy evaluations, using fewer shots per step and fewer optimization iterations, but ensure a high final readout precision; (ii) emphasize efficient problem encoding and ansatz parametrization; and (iii) run all experiments within a short time-frame, avoiding parameter drift with time. Nevertheless, current publicly available quantum resources are still very noisy and scarce/expensive, and even when using them efficiently, it is quite difficult to perform trustworthy calculations of molecular energies.
Comparison of Plasma Deposition of Carbon Nanomaterials Using Various Polymer Materials as a Carbon Atom Source
Authors: Vesel Alenka , Zaplotnik Rok , Primc Gregor , Paul Domen , Mozetič Miran
Published: January 2022

Carbon nanowalls are promising materials for various electrochemical devices due to their chemical inertness, desirable electrical conductivity, and excellent surface-to-mass ratio. Standard techniques, often based on plasma-assisted deposition using gaseous precursors, enable the synthesis of top-quality carbon nanowalls, but require long deposition times which represents a serious obstacle for mass applications. Here, an alternative deposition technique is presented. The carbon nanowalls were synthesized on titanium substrates using various polymers as solid precursors. A solid precursor and the substrate were mounted into a low-pressure plasma reactor. Plasma was sustained by an inductively coupled radiofrequency discharge in the H-mode at the power of 500 W. Spontaneous growth of carbon nanomaterials was observed for a variety of polymer precursors. The best quality of carbon nanowalls was obtained using aliphatic polyolefins. The highest growth rate of a thin film of carbon nanowalls of about 200 nm/s was observed. The results were explained by different degradation mechanisms of polymers upon plasma treatment and the surface kinetics.
Theory of MBE Growth of Nanowires on Reflecting Substrates
Authors: Dubrovskii Vladimir G.
Published: January 2022

Selective area growth (SAG) of III-V nanowires (NWs) by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and related epitaxy techniques offer several advantages over growth on unpatterned substrates. Here, an analytic model for the total flux of group III atoms impinging NWs is presented, which accounts for specular re-emission from the mask surface and the shadowing effect in the absence of surface diffusion from the substrate. An expression is given for the shadowing length of NWs corresponding to the full shadowing of the mask. Axial and radial NW growths are considered in different stages, including the stage of purely axial growth, intermediate stage with radial growth, and asymptotic stage, where the NWs receive the maximum flux determined by the array pitch. The model provides good fits with the data obtained for different vapor–liquid–solid and catalyst-free III-V NWs.
Fabrication of a Covalent Triazine Framework Functional Interlayer for High-Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Hu Ben , Ding Bing , Xu Chong , Fan Zengjie , Luo Derong , Li Peng , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: January 2022

The shuttling effect of polysulfides is one of the major problems of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, which causes rapid capacity fading during cycling. Modification of the commercial separator with a functional interlayer is an effective strategy to address this issue. Herein, we modified the commercial Celgard separator of Li–S batteries with one-dimensional (1D) covalent triazine framework (CTF) and a carbon nanotube (CNT) composite as a functional interlayer. The intertwined CTF/CNT can provide a fast lithium ionic/electronic transport pathway and strong adsorption capability towards polysulfides. The Li–S batteries with the CTF/CNT/Celgard separator delivered a high initial capacity of 1314 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and remained at 684 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles−1 at 1 C. Theoretical calculation and static-adsorption experiments indicated that the triazine ring in the CTF skeleton possessed strong adsorption capability towards polysulfides. The work described here demonstrates the potential for CTF-based permselective membranes as separators in Li–S batteries.
Reply to Erren et al. Chronodisruption: Origin, Roots, and Developments of an 18-Year-Old Concept. Comment on “Desmet et al. Time-Restricted Feeding in Mice Prevents the Disruption of the Peripheral Circadian Clocks and Its Metabolic Impact during Chronic Jetlag. Nutrients 2021, 13, 3846”
Authors: Desmet Louis , Thijs Theo , Mas Rosalie , Verbeke Kristin , Depoortere Inge
Published: January 2022

We would like to thank Erren et al. [...]
Greater Glycemic Burden Is Associated with Further Poorer Glycemic Control in Newly-Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients
Authors: Wen Wei-Lun , Huang Hui-Chun , Lin Hsiu-Chu , Lo Wan-Ching , Chen Szu-Chia , Lee Mei-Yueh
Published: January 2022

Aims: hyperglycemia impairs pancreatic β-cell function instantly, also known as glucotoxicity. It is unknown whether this insult is temporary or sustained, and little real-world evidence needs to reflect the relationship between hyperglycemic burden, per se, and glycemic durability. Materials and Methods: a retrospective observational cohort study was conducted to recruit newly-diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Durability was defined as the episode from first glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) below 7.0% to where it exceed 8.0% (with treatment failure) or where study ended (without treatment failure). Glycemic burden was defined with the area above a burden value line (HbA1c = 6.5%) but under the HbA1c curve (AUC), and it was then divided into two compartments with the demarcation timepoint once HbA1c was treated below or equal to 7.0%; the former AUC’ represented the initial insult; the latter AUC” represented the residual part. Multivariable regression models assessed factors associated with durability in whole participants and two distinct subgroups: patients with baseline HbA1c > 7.0% or ≤7.0%. Results: 1048 eligible participants were recruited and analyzed: 291 patients with treatment failure (durability 26.8 ± 21.1 months); 757 patients without treatment failure (durability 45.1 ± 31.8 months). Besides age, glycemic burden was the only constant determinant in the two subgroups. AUC’ or AUC” increased treatment failure, respectively, in baseline HbA1c > 7.0% or ≤7.0% subgroup [per 1%/90 days hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.026 (1.018–1.034) and 1.128 (1.016–1.253)]. Other determinants include baseline HbA1c, initial OAD, and education level. Conclusions: in patients with newly-diagnosed T2DM, glycemic durability was negatively associated with greater glycemic burden.
Lupins and Health Outcomes: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bryant Lesley , Rangan Anna , Grafenauer Sara
Published: January 2022

Lupins have a unique nutrient profile among legumes and may have beneficial health effects when included in the diet. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of lupin on a range of health outcome measures. Databases included MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL, and focused on controlled intervention studies on healthy adults and those with chronic disease such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and overweight. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol was followed. Investigated intervention diets utilised whole lupin, lupin protein or lupin fibre, and outcomes were measured by markers of chronic disease, body weight and satiety. Quality assessment of results was performed using the Cochrane revised risk of bias tool. Overall, 21 studies with 998 participants were included: 12 using whole lupin, four used lupin protein and five lupin fibre. Beneficial changes were observed in 71% of studies that measured blood pressure, 83% measuring satiety and 64% measuring serum lipids. Unintended weight loss occurred in 25% of studies. Whole lupin demonstrated more consistent beneficial effects for satiety, glycaemic control and blood pressure than lupin protein or lupin fibre. Heterogeneity, low study numbers and a small participant base indicated further studies are required to strengthen current evidence particularly regarding the protein and dietary fibre components of lupin.
Dietary Intake and Status of Vitamin B12 in Slovenian Population
Authors: Lavriša Živa , Hristov Hristo , Hribar Maša , Žmitek Katja , Kušar Anita , Koroušić Seljak Barbara , Gregorič Matej , Blaznik Urška , Gregorič Nadan , Zaletel Katja , Oblak Adrijana , Osredkar Joško , Pravst Igor
Published: January 2022

Vitamin B12 deficiency poses a health concern, especially in vulnerable populations. Dietary vitamin B12 intake was obtained by two 24 h dietary recalls and food propensity questionnaires in a representative Slovenian cross-sectional food consumption survey, SI.Menu (n = 1248 subjects; 10–74 years). For a subgroup of 280 participants, data on serum vitamin B12 were available through the Nutrihealth study. The estimated usual population-weighted mean daily vitamin B12 intakes were 6.2 µg (adults), 5.4 µg (adolescents), and 5.0 µg (elderly). Lower intakes were observed in females. Inadequate daily vitamin B12 intake (<4 µg) was detected in 37.3% of adolescents, 31.7% of adults, and 58.3% elderlies. The significant predictors for inadequate daily vitamin B12 intake were physical activity score in all age groups, sex in adolescents and adults, financial status and smoking in elderly, and employment in adults. Meat (products), followed by milk (products), made the highest vitamin B12 contribution in all age groups. In adolescents, another important vitamin B12 contributor was cereals. The mean population-weighted serum vitamin B12 levels were 322.1 pmol/L (adults) and 287.3 pmol/L (elderly). Low serum vitamin B12 concentration (<148 nmol/L) and high serum homocysteine (>15 µmol/L) were used as criteria for vitamin B12 deficiency. The highest deficiency prevalence was found in elderlies (7.0%), particularly in males (7.9%). Factors associated with high serum homocysteine were also investigated. In conclusion, although vitamin B12 status was generally not critical, additional attention should be focused particularly to the elderly.
Effect of Heat-Treated Garlic (Allium sativum L.) on Growth Parameters, Plasma Lipid Profile and Histological Changes in the Ileum of Atherogenic Rats
Authors: Najman Katarzyna , Sadowska Anna , Buczak Krzysztof , Leontowicz Hanna , Leontowicz Maria
Published: January 2022

Dietary supplementation with raw garlic has a preventive and healing effect in cardiovascular diseases, but it could also damage the intestinal mucosa, resulting in impairment of nutrient absorption. Garlic processing, including heat treatment, changes the content and biological activity of garlic, so it is crucial to find food-processing methods that will preserve the health-promoting properties of garlic while minimizing its negative impact on the digestive system. Therefore, in this study, the effect of garlic (Allium sativum L.) on growth parameters, plasma lipid profile, and morphological parameters in the ileum of Wistar rats subjected to various types of heat treatment (90 s blanching garlic, 10 min boiling in water, 10 min pan frying without fat, microwave heating fresh garlic, 90 s blanching and microwave heating garlic, 10 min boiling in water and microwave heating garlic, and 10 min pan frying without fat and microwave heating garlic) was determined in an atherogenic diet (containing 1% addition of cholesterol). In the conducted research, it was found that the diet supplemented with heat-treated garlic used in the atherogenic diet improved the consumption and growth parameters of rats, depending on the type and time of its use. The highest consumption was recorded in atherogenic groups supplemented with garlic subjected to a longer (10 min) heat treatment and was then heated in a microwave oven. Garlic subjected to the shortest heat treatment proved to be most effective, and a significant improvement in the lipid profiles of rats’ plasma with atherogenic was observed. Extending the time of heat treatment of garlic and, additionally, its microwaving significantly weakened the action of garlic in the body, but still retained its hypolipidemic effect. The greatest influence on the structural changes in the mucosa of the rats’ iliac intestine, manifested by degeneration of the mucosa, shortening the length of the intestinal villi, damage to the brush border, and thus impairment of the intestinal absorption, was exerted by supplementing the atherogenic diet with garlic subjected to short-term heat treatment. Among the processes used, blanching was the least favorable, and the long-lasting thermal processes (cooking, frying for 10 min) had a positive effect on the mucosa of the rats’ intestines. The results obtained in this study confirm that the selection of an appropriate method of thermal processing of garlic may allow for the maintenance of preventive and therapeutic efficacy of garlic in cardiovascular diseases, while ensuring the safety of its long-term use in the context of degenerative changes in the gastrointestinal tract.