bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Azimuth Estimation of Multi-LFM Signals Based on Improved Complex Acoustic Intensity Method
Authors: Wang Yan , Wang Zherui , Wang Yilin , Dong Wenfeng , Lan Tian
Published: November 2022

The complex acoustic intensity method is one of the common methods used for the azimuth estimation of single-vector sensors. However, this method establishes a relationship between frequency and azimuth, which limits its practical applicability for multiple linear frequency modulation (LFM) signals with overlapping frequency domains. In this paper, the time–frequency distribution information of the LFM signal is combined with the complex acoustic intensity method, and more signal parameter information is used to expand the application scenario of the single-vector sensor. The proposed method first processes the time–frequency graph of the signal to obtain a stable and clear time–frequency distribution, and then obtains the acoustic intensity distribution of the signal using the time integration of the energy on the ridge of the signal to estimate the target orientation more stably. The simulation results show that the root mean square error of azimuth estimation is less than 1° when the SNR is greater than 0 dB. Furthermore, a pool experiment was carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Experimental Study on Dynamic Parameters of Calcareous Sand Subgrade under Long-Term Cyclic Loading
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2022

A long-term cyclic loading test of calcareous sand from an island reef in the South China Sea was conducted under conditions of unequal consolidation and drainage. The axial cumulative strain and dynamic characteristics of coral sand samples with different physical and mechanical properties were studied under different stress levels, yielding a model prediction formula. The results show that (1) the axial cumulative strain and dynamic elastic modulus increase with increasing vibration times of the cyclic load, whereas the dynamic damping ratio decreases with increasing cyclic vibration time; (2) the axial cumulative strain, elastic modulus, and damping ratio are affected by dynamic stress amplitude, load frequency, confining pressure, consolidation stress, compactness and moisture content; and (3) based on dynamic triaxial test results, the axial cumulative strain model of calcareous sand under cyclic loading and its permanent deformation prediction formula are established by introducing the cyclic stress ratio. Two parameters, the elastic modulus evolution parameter and the damping ratio evolution parameter, are introduced, and the axial cumulative strain is normalized. The results of this research have significance for understanding the long-term deformation and dynamic response of coral sand subgrade soil under cyclic vibration loads.
Perspectives and Advancements on “Land Use and Land Cover Mapping in a Changing World”
Authors: Pulighe Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

It is increasingly recognized that land use and land cover changes driven by anthropogenic pressures are increasingly impacting terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and their services, human society, and human livelihoods and well-being [...]
From Deindustrialization to a Reinforced Process of Reshoring in Europe. Another Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Authors: Somoza Medina Xosé
Published: November 2022

In the middle of the 20th century, economic theories predicted an evolution towards development that involved the tertiarization of the productive structure, with industry losing weight to the benefit of commerce and services. This model justified the deindustrialization of countries when, promoting globalization, large companies relocated production phases to third countries to take advantage of lower labor costs. Since the Great Recession and aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic and other economic factors, globalization seems to be entering a new phase in the third decade of the 21st century, in which Global Value Chains are changing to become even more regional and reshoring is a strategy increasingly employed by large European and North American companies. In the medium term, this global change will have a considerable impact on land systems on a global scale in what could be a new reindustrialization of the old continent. The article presents an investigation carried out on the impact of reshoring in leading European companies in six different industrial branches. The results of the research show how the relocation of the industry in the most developed countries is an incipient trend practiced by the leading European companies.
Interrogative Constructions in Guaraní: Grammatical, Pragmatic and Typological Aspects
Authors: Paz Silvina , Vidal Alejandra
Published: November 2022

This article is set in the framework of typological and functional studies on interrogativity, and focuses on the study of Guaraní, based on primary data collected in Formosa (Argentina). Interrogative constructions encode the speaker’s request for information, and their intention to confirm the underlying statement of the information that is the focus of the question. This topic has been partially addressed in previous descriptive works on Guaraní. There are, however, aspects in this domain yet to be explored. One involves the functions and meanings of the different interrogative strategies this language exhibits and the semantic particularities of their combination. In this regard, we analyze the distribution, meaning and pragmatic function of clitics =pa and =piko in polar and content questions. Furthermore, a preliminary analysis of tag questions (as a subtype of polar questions) is advanced here. Finally, we also discuss the way how the concurrence of interrogative words and clitics in Guarani is pragmatically and semantically motivated by the speaker’s epistemic attitude when posing the question.
Using Two Group-Contribution Methods to Calculate Properties of Liquid Compounds Involved in the Cyclohexanone Production Operations
Authors: Fernández Luis , Ortega Juan , Domínguez Leandro , Lorenzo David , Santos Aurora , Romero Arturo
Published: November 2022

A numerical application has been carried out to determine the thermophysical properties of more than fifty pure liquid compounds involved in the production process of cyclohexanone, whose real values are unknown, in many cases. Two group-contribution methods, the Joback and the Marrero–Gani methods, both used in the fields of physicochemistry and engineering, are employed. Both methods were implemented to evaluate critical properties, phase transition properties, and others, which are required for their use in industrial process simulation/design. The quality of the estimates is evaluated by comparing them with those from the literature, where available. In general, both models provide acceptable predictions, although each of them shows improvement for some of the properties considered, recommending their use, when required.
The Preparation and Performance Analysis of a Cr2O3 Gel Abrasive Tool for Sapphire Substrate Polishing
Authors: Zhao Liang , Feng Kaiping , Zhao Tianchen , Zhou Zhaozhong , Ding Junkai
Published: November 2022

In order to solve the problem of the agglomeration of abrasives in traditional hot-pressing abrasive tools, this paper proposes a chromium oxide (Cr2O3) gel abrasive tool with a polyacrylamide gel and a polyimide resin as the bonding agent. The effects of the dispersant and slurry pH on slurry viscosity and the effects of different sintering temperatures on the properties of the abrasives tool were explored. The influence of abrasive tools on the friction coefficient at different sintering temperatures was compared through friction and wear experiments. A comparison experiment of sapphire substrate polishing was carried out to compare the processing effect of the hot-pressing abrasive tool and the gel abrasive tool on the workpiece. The experimental results show that, when the pH value of the slurry is between 8–9 and the mass fraction of the dispersant is 1.5 wt%, the viscosity of the slurry is the lowest. When the sintering temperature is 350 °C, the tensile and flexural strengths of the abrasive tool reach 96 MPa and 42 MPa, and the hardness reaches 72 HRF. In the friction wear test, the friction coefficient is the most stable, and the wear rate of the abrasive tool is the lowest. In the polishing experiment, the gel abrasive tool performs better than the hot-pressing abrasive tool. After processing using the gel abrasive tool, the average surface roughness Ra reaches 2.69 nm, and the flatness PV reaches 0.65 μm; after CMP, the surface roughness Ra reaches 0.67 nm and no scratches appear on the surface of the sapphire.
Assessing the High-Temperature Deposit Formation of Paraffinic and Naphthenic Oil Blends Using the Oil Chute Method
Authors: Ronai Bettina , Schneidhofer Christoph , Novotny-Farkas Franz , Norrby Thomas , Li Jinxia , Pichler Jasmin , Frauscher Marcella
Published: November 2022

Due to the demand for higher efficiency, gas engine designs are changing in that gas engine oils are exposed to higher thermal stress and face challenges regarding the prevention of deposits. In this work, the “oil chute” laboratory test was used to study the high-temperature deposit-formation tendency of various paraffinic and naphthenic base oil blends. The oil chute is a setup that circulates oil through two different temperature zones, the hot zone being a heated metal chute that triggers deposit formation. In addition, the thermo-oxidative stability of the oil blends was investigated using an artificial alteration method. The results showed that naphthenic base oils have the capability of substantially reducing high-temperature deposit formation. However, they tend to degrade faster under thermo-oxidative stress. Therefore, finding the right balance between paraffinic and naphthenic base oil components will allow the formulation of gas engine oils that provide the right properties to cope with the higher stress levels they are subjected to in modern gas engines.
Development of Evolutionary Systems Based on Quantum Petri Nets
Authors: Letia Tiberiu Stefan , Durla-Pasca Elenita Maria , Al-Janabi Dahlia , Cuibus Octavian Petru
Published: November 2022

Evolutionary systems (ES) include software applications that solve problems using heuristic methods instead of the deterministic ones. The classical computing used for ES development involves random methods to improve different kinds of genomes. The mappings of these genomes lead to individuals that correspond to the searched solutions. The individual evaluations by simulations serve for the improvement of their genotypes. Quantum computations, unlike the classical computations, can describe and simulate a large set of individuals simultaneously. This feature is used to diminish the time for finding the solutions. Quantum Petri Nets (QPNs) can model dynamical systems with probabilistic features that make them appropriate for the development of ES. Some examples of ES applications using the QPNs are given to show the benefits of the current approach. The current research solves quantum evolutionary problems using quantum genetic algorithms conceived and improved based on QPN. They were tested on a dynamic system using a Quantum Discrete Controlled Walker (QDCW).
Power Families of Bivariate Proportional Hazard Models
Authors: Martínez-Flórez Guillermo , Barrera-Causil Carlos , Lemonte Artur J.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we propose a general class of bivariate proportional hazard distributions, which is based on the family of asymmetric proportional hazard distributions and the bivariate Pareto copula. Distributional properties of the bivariate proportional hazard distribution are derived. We specialize the bivariate proportional hazard family of distributions to the normal case, and so we introduce the bivariate proportional hazard normal distribution. Parameter estimation by the maximum likelihood method of the bivariate proportional hazard normal distribution is then discussed. Finally, an application of the new bivariate distribution to real data is considered for illustrative purposes.
Vectorized MATLAB Implementation of the Incremental Minimization Principle for Rate-Independent Dissipative Solids Using FEM: A Constitutive Model of Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Frost Miroslav , Valdman Jan
Published: November 2022

The incremental energy minimization principle provides a compact variational formulation for evolutionary boundary problems based on constitutive models of rate-independent dissipative solids. In this work, we develop and implement a versatile computational tool for the resolution of these problems via the finite element method (FEM). The implementation is coded in the MATLAB programming language and benefits from vector operations, allowing all local energy contributions to be evaluated over all degrees of freedom at once. The monolithic solution scheme combined with gradient-based optimization methods is applied to the inherently nonlinear, non-smooth convex minimization problem. An advanced constitutive model for shape memory alloys, which features a strongly coupled rate-independent dissipation function and several constraints on internal variables, is implemented as a benchmark example. Numerical simulations demonstrate the capabilities of the computational tool, which is suited for the rapid development and testing of advanced constitutive laws of rate-independent dissipative solids.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Outcomes of Transarterial Chemoembolization in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Single Center Experience from a Developing Country
Authors: Filipović Aleksandar , Mašulović Dragan , Živanović Marko , Filipović Tamara , Bulatović Dušan , Zakošek Miloš , Nikolić Dejan , Galun Danijel
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Treatment of cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge worldwide. In accordance with the current recommendations for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) management during the COVID-19 pandemic, loco-regional therapy such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) was proposed with the purpose of achieving local tumor control and improving overall survival. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to evaluate the outcomes of TACE treatment in patients with HCC during the COVID-19 pandemic in comparison with the outcomes of patients treated in the pre-pandemic period. Materials and Methods: Between September 2018 and December 2021, 154 patients were managed by serial TACE procedures for different liver tumors. Ninety-seven patients met the study criteria and were divided into two groups: the study group n = 49 (patients treated from May 2020 to December 2021); the control group n = 48 (patients treated from September 2018 to May 2020). Results: The mean waiting time for TACE was significantly longer in the study group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). No significant difference in survival between the groups is noted (log-rank test p = 0.823). In multivariate analysis, the MELD score (HR 1.329, 95% CI 1.140–1.548, p < 0.001) remained a significant predictor of mortality. Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic did not affect the final outcome of TACE treatment.
The Bovhyaluronidase Azoximer (Longidaza®) Disrupts Candida albicans and Candida albicans-Bacterial Mixed Biofilms and Increases the Efficacy of Antifungals
Authors: Gatina Alina , Trizna Elena , Kolesnikova Alena , Baidamshina Diana , Gorshkova Anna , Drucker Valentin , Bogachev Mikhail , Kayumov Airat
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Candida albicans causes various diseases ranging from superficial mycoses to life-threatening systemic infections often associated with biofilm formation, including mixed fungal–bacterial consortia. The biofilm matrix protects cells, making Candida extremely resistant to treatment. Here, we show that the bovhyaluronidase azoximer (Longidaza®) in vitro destroys the biofilm formed by either C. albicans alone or mixed with bacteria, this way decreasing the concentrations of antimicrobials required for the pathogen’s eradication. Materials and Methods: Bovhyaluronidase azoximer, Longidaza® was obtained from NPO Petrovax Pharm Ltd., Moscow, Russia as lyophilized powder. The antifungal activity was assessed by microdilution assay and CFUs counting. Antibiofilm activity was evaluated via biofilms staining and scanning electron microscopy. Results: Thus, treatment with Longidaza® reduced the biofilm biomass of nine C. albicans clinical isolates by 30–60%, while mixed biofilms of C. albicans with various bacteria were destroyed by 30–40%. Furthermore, the concentration of fluconazole required to achieve a similar reduction of the residual respiratory activity of detached cell clumps of four C. albicans isolates has been reduced four-fold when combined with Longidaza®. While in the biofilm, two of four isolates became significantly more susceptible to fluconazole in combination with Longidaza®. Conclusion: Taken together, our data indicate that Longidaza® is capable of suppression of tissues and artificial surfaces biofouling by C. albicans biofilms, as well as facilitating drug penetration into the cell clumps, this way decreasing the effective MIC of antifungals.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Disease Control Status and Quality of Life of Patients with Acromegaly
Authors: Herman Rok , Janež Andrej , Goričar Katja , Rizzo Manfredi , Jensterle Mojca
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Despite the best efforts of healthcare workers and the deployment of alternative healthcare delivery solutions through telemedicine, the pandemic has disrupted standard care for patients with chronic conditions. The long-lasting pandemic has also had a profound impact on the quality of life (QoL) of the majority of patients with chronic illnesses. The management of rare diseases has been particularly challenging. We aimed to evaluate the impacts that the long-lasting pandemic had on the disease control status and QoL in patients with acromegaly. Materials and Methods: Our prospective study included 34 patients from a national referral centre. The baseline SAGIT and AcroQoL results were obtained in October 2020 during the lockdown period of the SARS-CoV2 pandemic. The follow-up results were assessed during the summer of 2022 in a period without any public health restrictions. All the patients were additionally evaluated for their attitude towards preventative public health measures against SARS-CoV2 spread and required mask wearing during the pandemic. Results: By comparing assessments in 2020 during the lockdown period and 2022 post-lockdown, we observed some improvement in SAGIT subscores T and I, most likely reflecting treatment changes in a small number of patients. The global SAGIT score remained stable. QoL measurement by AcroQoL did not demonstrate any changes. There was a negative correlation between SAGIT subscore S and the AcroQoL results. We also noted that the group of patients with the most negative attitude toward public health measurements for preventing SARS-CoV2 spread had higher AcroQoL results than others. Conclusion: Our results showcase that the SARS-CoV2 pandemic, lasting over two years, did not impact the disease control status and QoL in patients with acromegaly. The cohort continued to be well controlled and without changes in QoL. We measured a relatively favourable attitude towards the public health measures to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV2; in particular, patients who had a lower QoL had more positive attitudes towards these measures.
Predictors of Liver Injury in Hospitalized Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Mihai Nicoleta , Lazar Mihai , Tiliscan Catalin , Barbu Ecaterina Constanta , Chitu Cristina Emilia , Stratan Laurentiu , Ganea Oana Alexandra , Arama Sorin Stefan , Ion Daniela Adriana , Arama Victoria
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: SARS-CoV-2 infection is frequently associated with pneumonia but has a broad tissue tropism also leading to systemic complications (hematologic, gastro-intestinal, cardiac, neurologic, etc.). In this study, we aim to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 infection on the liver and to identify the risk factors/predictors for liver injury at admission to the hospital. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study on 249 patients, divided into two Group A (157 patients with liver involvement) and Group B (92 patients without liver involvement). We recorded demographic and lifestyle parameters, anthropometric parameters, comorbidities, clinical parameters, inflammation markers, complete blood count, coagulation, and biochemical parameters. Lung parenchyma, liver dimensions, and morphology were evaluated by computer tomography (CT) scans. Results: Patients with liver involvement had higher heart and respiratory rates, lower oxygen saturation (SO2), and necessitated higher oxygen flow at admittance. We found higher serum levels of C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, ferritin, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), serum triglycerides, and lower values for serum albumin in Group A patients. The patients with liver involvement presented more extensive lung injury with higher percentages of alveolar, mixed, and interstitial lesions, an increase in liver dimensions, and lower density ranges for the liver parenchyma. The patients presented hepatocytolytic involvement in 26 cases (10.4% from the entire study population), cholestatic involvement in 63 cases (37.7% from the entire study population), and mixed liver involvement in 68 cases (37.7% from the entire study population). Conclusions: Liver involvement in COVID-19 patients is frequent, usually mild, and occurs mostly in male patients over 50 years old. Cholestatic and mixed liver injuries are more frequent than hepatocytolytic injuries. The severity of lung injury evaluated by CT scan, increased values of inflammatory markers, LDH, and low values of SO2 can be considered risk factors/predictors for liver injury at admission to the hospital.
Chitosan-Based Gastric Dressing Materials Loaded with Pomegranate Peel as Bioactive Agents: Pharmacokinetics and Effects on Experimentally Induced Gastric Ulcers in Rabbits
Authors: Jebahi Samira , Ben Salah Ghada , Jarray Soufien , Naffati Mounir , Ahmad Mohammad Ayaz , Brahmi Faten , Saeed Mohd , Siddiqui Arif J. , Abdelmajid Khabir , Badraoui Riadh
Published: November 2022

This study reported the fabrication and characterization of gastric dressing, composed of gelatine (GEL), chitosan (CH), and pomegranate peel (PP) extract. The structural changes occurring after γ-irradiation of GEL–CH–PP dressing were reported. The results showed that the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy of un-irradiated GEL–CH–PP showed two paramagnetic centers, which corresponded to g = 2.19 and g = 2.002. After irradiation, a new active centre appeared at g = 2.0035 at 10 kGy. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses revealed an increase in peak intensity at C–H chains, as well as the C=O carboxyl groups at 10 kGy, due to the cross-linking phenomenon. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed a low change of crystallinity between the range of 2θ (15–30°). Moreover, γ-rays enhanced scavenging DPPH radical activity (51±%) and chelating power activities 79.12%. A significant inhibition of antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities (p < 0.01) was noticed. The hemolysis rates showed 0.42%, suggesting a high hemocompatibility, and exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in vitro (48%). In vivo, the healing effects of GEL–CH–PP dressing showed that the incidence and severity of gastric histopathological lesions decreased, compared with the ulcerated group, which could explain the bioavailability and the pharmacokinetic findings. The results highlight the loading of bioactive agents into polymer-based gastric dressings, with promising pharmacokinetics properties and effects on the induced ulcera in rabbits.
Microbiome in Male Genital Mucosa (Prepuce, Glans, and Coronal Sulcus): A Systematic Review
Authors: Gonçalves Micael F. M. , Fernandes Ângela Rita , Rodrigues Acácio Gonçalves , Lisboa Carmen
Published: November 2022

The human body represents a complex and diverse reservoir of microorganisms. Although the human microbiome remains poorly characterized and understood, it should not be underestimated, since recent studies have highlighted its importance in health. This is especially evident when considering microbiota in the male reproductive system, responsible for men’s fertility and sexual behavior. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the microbial communities of the healthy male genital mucosa and its role in disease. This study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was limited to the English language and studies published until August 2022 that included culture-independent techniques for microbiome characterization in male genital mucosa. Ten articles were included. The bacterial composition of the male genital mucosa consists of several genera including Prevotella, Finegoldia, Peptoniphilus, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Anaerococcus, suggesting that the male genital microbiome composition shows similarities with the adjacent anatomical sites and is related with sexual intercourse. Moreover, male circumcision appears to influence the penile microbiome. Despite the lack of knowledge on the male genital mucosa microbiome in disease, it was reported that Staphylococcus warneri and Prevotella bivia were associated with balanoposthitis, whereas Enterobacteriaceae, Prevotella, and Fusobacterium were more abundant in male genital lichen sclerosus. The limited data and paucity of prospective controlled studies highlight the need for additional studies and established criteria for sampling methods and the microbiome assay procedure. Such a consensus would foster the knowledge about the composition of the genital microbiome of healthy males and its role in disease.
Multi-Time-Point Fecal Sampling in Human and Mouse Reveals the Formation of New Homeostasis in Gut Microbiota after Bowel Cleansing
Authors: Li Mingyang , Qian Weike , Yu Leilei , Tian Fengwei , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei , Xue Yuzheng , Zhai Qixiao
Published: November 2022

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is one of the most commonly used bowel cleansing methods. Although the safety of PEG for bowel cleansing has been proven, its impact on intestinal microbiota has not been clearly explained, especially in terms of the dynamic changes in intestinal microbiota after PEG bowel cleansing, and there are no consistent results. In this study, stool samples were collected from 12 participants at six time points before and after bowel cleansing. We obtained data on the microbiota of these samples using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and analysis. The data revealed that the structure and composition of the microbiota changed greatly approximately 7 d after intestinal cleansing. The analysis of the dynamic changes in the microbiota showed that the change was most significant at day 3, but the internal structure of the microbiota was similar to that before bowel cleansing. A comparison of the most significantly changed microbiota at different time points before and after bowel cleansing revealed four bacteria: Bacteroides, Roseburia, Eubacterium, and Bifidobacterium. We also established a humanized mouse model to simulate human bowel cleansing using PEG. The results showed that the mouse model achieved similar effects to human bowel cleansing, but its recovery speed was one stage earlier than that of humans. These findings suggest that the intestinal microbiota after bowel cleansing initially underwent a short-term change and then actively returned to its initial status. The results on key bacteria and establishment of mouse models can provide a reference for subsequent research on bowel cleansing.
Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Effect of Brazilian Green Propolis Aqueous Extract against Dental Anaerobic Bacteria
Authors: de Sá Assis Maria Angélica , de Paula Ramos Lucas , Abu Hasna Amjad , de Queiroz Talita Suelen , Pereira Thaís Cristine , Nagai de Lima Patrícia Michelle , Berretta Andresa Aparecida , Marcucci Maria Cristina , Talge Carvalho Cláudio Antonio , de Oliveira Luciane Dias
Published: November 2022

Green propolis may represent a promising therapeutic alternative against dental anaerobic pathogens because of its antimicrobial action. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm actions of Brazilian green propolis aqueous extract (BGP-AqExt) against dental anaerobic bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum microbicide concentration (MMC) of the extract were determined against the standard strains (ATCC) of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Parvimonas micra, Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Porphyromonas endodontalis. BGP-AqExt was chemically characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis. Antibiofilm action was measured by MTT and crystal violet tests. The data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey (5%) tests. The extract had antimicrobial action against all tested anaerobic bacteria, with an MIC value of 55 mg/mL for all bacteria, an MMC of 27.5 mg/mL for F. nucleatum and P. micra and 55 mg/mL for P. intermedia. Chemically, BGP-AqExt is composed of quercetin, gallic acid, caffeic and p-coumaric acid, drupani, kaempferol and Artepillin C. Significant reductions in biomass and metabolic action of biofilms were found after BGP-AqExt application. Therefore, BGP-AqExt has an antimicrobial and antibiofilm effect against dental anaerobic bacteria.
A Simplified Treatment for Efficiently Modeling the Spectral Signal of Vibronic Transitions: Application to Aqueous Indole
Authors: Chen Cheng Giuseppe , Aschi Massimiliano , D’Abramo Marco , Amadei Andrea
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we introduce specific approximations to simplify the vibronic treatment in modeling absorption and emission spectra, allowing us to include a huge number of vibronic transitions in the calculations. Implementation of such a simplified vibronic treatment within our general approach for modelling vibronic spectra, based on molecular dynamics simulations and the perturbed matrix method, provided a quantitative reproduction of the absorption and emission spectra of aqueous indole with higher accuracy than the one obtained when using the existing vibronic treatment. Such results, showing the reliability of the approximations employed, indicate that the proposed method can be a very efficient and accurate tool for computational spectroscopy.
Comparative Pharmacokinetics and Tissue Distribution of M10 and Its Metabolite Myricetin in Normal and Dextran-Sodium-Sulfate-Induced Colitis Mice
Authors: Zhao Jianchun , Yuan Wenmin , Wang Shixiao , Zhang Hongwei , Chen Dan , Niu Xiaochen , Liu Xiaochun , Liu Li , Gao Jiangming
Published: November 2022

M10, a novel myricetin derivative, is an anti-inflammatory agent designed for treatment of colitis. Here, we aim to investigate its pharmacokinetic behavior and tissue distribution in a mouse model with colitis. Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of M10 and its metabolite myricetin were compared in normal mice and in dextran-sodium-sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mice. The role of fecal microbiota was also analyzed during metabolism of M10 in vitro. After oral administration, M10 was very low in the plasma of both normal and diseased mice. However, both M10 and myricetin were mainly distributed in the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, colon and small intestine, in physiological and pathological conditions. Significantly, M10 and myricetin were found in higher levels in gastrointestinal tracts with inflamed tissues than in normal tissues of mice. An in vitro assay revealed that 80% of M10 was metabolized to myricetin via fecal microbiota. After oral administration, M10 was not absorbed into circulation but mainly distributed in the inflamed submucosal tissues of colitic mice, where it was metabolized into myricetin to prevent colitis development.
Activation of Vegetable Oils by Reaction with Maleic Anhydride as a Renewable Source in Chemical Processes: New Experimental and Computational NMR Evidence
Authors: Lanero Francesco , Bresolin Bianca Maria , Scettri Anna , Nogarole Marco , Schievano Elisabetta , Mammi Stefano , Saielli Giacomo , Famengo Alessia , Semenzato Alessandra , Tafuro Giovanni , Sgarbossa Paolo , Bertani Roberta
Published: November 2022

Vegetable oils are bio−based and sustainable starting materials that can be used to develop chemicals for industrial processes. In this study, the functionalization of three vegetable oils (grape, hemp, and linseed) with maleic anhydride was carried out either by conventional heating or microwave activation to obtain products that, after further reactions, can enhance the water dispersion of oils for industrial applications. To identify the most abundant derivatives formed, trans-3-octene, methyl oleate, and ethyl linoleate were reacted as reference systems. A detailed NMR study, supported by computational evidence, allowed for the identification of the species formed in the reaction of trans-3-octene with maleic anhydride. The signals in the 1H NMR spectra of the alkenyl succinic anhydride (ASA) moieties bound to the organic chains were clearly identified. The reactions achieved by conventional heating were carried out for 5 h at 200 °C, resulting in similar or lower amounts of ASA units/g of oil with respect to the reactions performed by microwave activation, which, however, induced a higher viscosity of the samples.
Identifying and Addressing Needs of Heterogeneous User Groups—A Case Study from the Banking Sector
Authors: Pollmann Kathrin , Janssen Doris , Fronemann Nora , Velić Milena , Bouillé Philippe , Foucault Béatrice , Bégoc Bécam Nathalie
Published: November 2022

Adopting a need-based approach can help companies to create products and services that are preferred by their customers and improve their well-being, thus providing a competitive advantage. To put need-based designs into practice, it would be interesting to know how innovative product and service ideas can address the needs of a specific target group in a specific business domain. This paper presents an approach for (a) identifying such target group-specific need sets based on an online survey and (b) integrating them into the company’s innovation processes as part of a Need-based Creativity Workshop. To illustrate and validate this approach, we present a case study that investigates varying need subsets for two different user groups of future banking products and services in France: adults with and without families. Our study shows that a different set of needs is important for each group and reflects upon the benefits and challenges of a target group-specific, need-based design approach to leverage a company’s potential for innovation.
Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis: An Update on Assessment and Management
Authors: Portaccio Emilio , Amato Maria Pia
Published: November 2022

Cognitive impairment (CI) is a core feature of multiple sclerosis (MS) and affects up to 65% of patients in every phase of the disease, having a deep impact on all aspects of patients’ lives. Cognitive functions most frequently involved include information processing speed, learning and memory, visuospatial abilities, and executive function. The precise pathogenetic mechanisms underpinning CI in MS are still largely unknown, but are deemed to be mainly related to pathological changes in lesioned and normal-appearing white matter, specific neuronal grey matter structures, and immunological alterations, with particular impact on synaptic transmission and plasticity. Moreover, much research is needed on therapeutic strategies. Small to moderate efficacy has been reported for disease-modifying therapies, particularly high-efficacy drugs, and symptomatic therapies (dalfampridine), while the strongest benefit emerged after cognitive training. The present narrative review provides a concise, updated overview of more recent evidence on the prevalence, profile, pathogenetic mechanisms, and treatment of CI in people with MS. CI should be screened on a regular basis as part of routine clinical assessments, and brief tools are now widely available (such as the Symbol Digit Modalities Test). The main goal of cognitive assessment in MS is the prompt implementation of preventive and treatment interventions.
A Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of the Emergent Klebsiella pneumoniae ST16 Lineage: Virulence, Antimicrobial Resistance and a Comparison with the Clinically Relevant ST11 Strain
Authors: de Sales Romário Oliveira , Leaden Laura , Migliorini Letícia Busato , Severino Patricia
Published: November 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniae is considered an opportunistic pathogen frequently involved with healthcare-associated infections. The genome of K. pneumoniae is versatile, harbors diverse virulence factors and easily acquires and exchanges resistance plasmids, facilitating the emergence of new threatening clones. In the last years, ST16 has been described as an emergent, clinically relevant strain, increasingly associated with outbreaks, and carrying virulence factors (such as ICEKp, iuc, rmpADC/2) and a diversity of resistance genes. However, a far-reaching phylogenetic study of ST16, including geographically, clinically and temporally distributed isolates is not available. In this work, we analyzed all publicly available ST16 K. pneumoniae genomes in terms of virulence factors, including capsular lipopolysaccharide and polysaccharide diversity, plasmids and antimicrobial resistance genes. A core genome SNP analysis shows that less than 1% of studied sites were variant sites, with a median pairwise single nucleotide polymorphism difference of 87 SNPs. The number and diversity of antimicrobial resistance genes, but not of virulence-related genes, increased consistently in ST16 strains during the studied period. A genomic comparison between ST16 and the high-risk clone ST11 K. pneumoniae, showed great similarities in their capacity to acquire resistance and virulence markers, differing mostly in the great diversity of capsular lipopolysaccharide and polysaccharide types in ST11, in comparison with ST16. While virulence and antimicrobial resistance scores indicated that ST11 might still constitute a more difficult-to-manage strain, results presented here demonstrate the great potential of the ST16 clone becoming critical in public health.
Dermanyssosis in the Urban Context: When the One Health Paradigm Is Put into Practice
Authors: Barlaam Alessandra , Puccini Antonella , Caiaffa Maria Filomena , Di Bona Danilo , Macchia Luigi , Giangaspero Annunziata
Published: November 2022

Poultry red mites (Dermanyssus gallinae) are primarily ectoparasites of laying hens but also parasitize synanthropic birds in urban contexts. This mite can occasionally attack mammals, including humans, and cause mild to severe dermatitis. Attacks by zoonotic Mesostigmata mites are currently an increasing but still neglected problem of urban life. The authors present two cases of dermanyssosis involving two health workers at a hospital, linked to air conditioning outdoor units colonized by pigeons. Videos that describe the environmental contamination by D. gallinae and show where the infestation originated are presented. In addition, the authors update the literature of all urban cases, which, to date, reports over 240 clinical cases, mostly in private homes but also in public buildings. Dermatitis due to these mites is often unrecognized and, therefore, misdiagnosed. This report describes how the two cases herein reported were rapidly resolved thanks to the close cooperation between veterinary parasitologists and allergologists. It is crucial to raise awareness of the problem among general practitioners and specialists. In addition, the authors suggest a reconsideration of urban architectural choices that increase the public health risk posed by dermanyssosis and other diseases related to synanthropic birds.
Ticks, Fleas, and Harboured Pathogens from Dogs and Cats in Cyprus
Authors: Diakou Anastasia , Sofroniou Dimitra , Paoletti Barbara , Tamvakis Androniki , Kolencik Stanislav , Dimzas Dimitris , Morelli Simone , Grillini Marika , Traversa Donato
Published: November 2022

Ticks and fleas are blood-sucking ectoparasites that cause irritation and anaemia to their hosts and act as vectors of pathogens (vector-borne pathogens, VBPs) of relevance for animal and human health. In the present study, tick and flea species in dogs and cats from Cyprus were recorded and VBPs were detected in the collected specimens. Ectoparasites were collected from 220 animals (161 dogs and 59 cats), and a questionnaire including demographic, clinical, and other information was filled out for each animal. The ectoparasites were morphologically identified and the detection of VBPs was performed by PCR-coupled sequencing. Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato was found on 108 dogs and 13 cats, and Ixodes gibbosus on 2 dogs. Ctenocephalides felis was the predominant flea species (on 62 dogs and 45 cats), while one dog and one cat were infested by Ctenocephalides canis and Echidnophaga gallinacea, respectively. The VBPs in ticks were Anaplasma platys, Rickettsia massiliae, Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia felis, Hepatozoon felis and Hepatozoon canis, while Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia sp., Bartonella koehlerae, Bartonella clarridgeiae, and Bartonella henselae were recorded in fleas. Statistical analysis (chi-square test and multiple univariate generalized linear model) showed that animals up to 6 months of age were less likely to be infested with ticks than older animals, but more likely to be infested with fleas. Ticks were more prevalent in sheltered than in owned animals, while the odds ratio of flea presence was higher in owned animals than those living in shelters. The present study is the first investigation on the occurrence of ticks and fleas in dogs and cats from Cyprus, showing the presence of different VBPs in these important ectoparasites. The results point out the importance of systematic ectoparasite control in dogs and cats.
Staphylococcus aureus from Subclinical Cases of Mastitis in Dairy Cattle in Poland, What Are They Hiding? Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence Profile
Authors: Kaczorek-Łukowska Edyta , Małaczewska Joanna , Sowińska Patrycja , Szymańska Marta , Wójcik Ewelina Agnieszka , Siwicki Andrzej Krzysztof
Published: November 2022

Bovine mastitis is a common disease worldwide, and staphylococci are one of the most important etiological factors of this disease. Staphylococcus aureus show adaptability to new conditions, by which monitoring their virulence and antibiotic resistance mechanisms is extremely important, as it can lead to the development of new therapies and prevention programs. In this study, we analyzed Staphylococcus aureus (n = 28) obtained from dairy cattle with subclinical mastitis in Poland. The sensitivity of the isolated strains to antibiotics were confirmed by the disc diffusion method. Additionally, minimum inhibitory concentration values were determined for vancomycin, cefoxitin and oxacillin. Genotyping was performed by two methods: PCR melting profile and MLVF-PCR (multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat fingerprinting). Furthermore, the presence of antibiotic resistance and virulence genes were checked using PCR reactions. The analyzed strains showed the greatest resistance to penicillin (57%), oxytetracycline (25%) and tetracycline (18%). Among the analyzed staphylococci, the presence of 9 of 15 selected virulence-related genes was confirmed, of which the icaD, clfB and sea genes were confirmed in all staphylococci. Biofilm was observed in the great majority of the analyzed bacteria (at least 70%). In the case of genotyping among the analyzed staphylococci (combined analysis of results from two methods), 14 patterns were distinguished, of which type 2 was the dominant one (n = 10). This study provides new data that highlights the importance of the dominance of biofilm over antibiotic resistance among the analyzed strains.
Photonic Crystal Surface Emitting Diode Lasers with λ near 2 µm
Authors: Liu Ruiyan , Shterengas Leon , Stein Aaron , Kipshidze Gela , Zakharov Dmitri , Kisslinger Kim , Belenky Gregory L.
Published: November 2022

Epitaxially regrown electrically pumped photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSELs) operating near 2 µm were designed and fabricated within a III-V-Sb material system. A high-index-contrast photonic crystal layer was incorporated into the laser heterostructures by air-pocket-retaining epitaxial regrowth. Transmission electron microscopy studies confirmed uniform and continuous AlGaAsSb initial growth over the nano-patterned GaSb surface, followed by the development of the air-pockets. The PCSEL threshold current density had a minimal value of ~170 A/cm2 in the 160–180 K temperature range when the QW gain spectrum aligned with the Γ2 band edge of the photonic crystal. The devices operated in a continuous wave regime at 160 K. The divergence and polarization of the multimode laser beam emitted from the 200 µm × 200 µm PCSEL aperture were controlled by filamentation.
Contributions of Beneficial Microorganisms in Soil Remediation and Quality Improvement of Medicinal Plants
Authors: Wang Gang , Ren Ying , Bai Xuanjiao , Su Yuying , Han Jianping
Published: November 2022

Medicinal plants (MPs) are important resources widely used in the treatment and prevention of diseases and have attracted much attention owing to their significant antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and other activities. However, soil degradation, caused by continuous cropping, excessive chemical fertilizers and pesticide residues and heavy metal contamination, seriously restricts the growth and quality formation of MPs. Microorganisms, as the major biota in soil, play a critical role in the restoration of the land ecosystem. Rhizosphere microecology directly or indirectly affects the growth and development, metabolic regulation and active ingredient accumulation of MPs. Microbial resources, with the advantages of economic efficiency, harmless to environment and non-toxic to organisms, have been recommended as a promising alternative to conventional fertilizers and pesticides. The introduction of beneficial microbes promotes the adaptability of MPs to adversity stress by enhancing soil fertility, inhibiting pathogens and inducing systemic resistance. On the other hand, it can improve the medicinal quality by removing soil pollutants, reducing the absorption and accumulation of harmful substances and regulating the synthesis of secondary metabolites. The ecological and economic benefits of the soil microbiome in agricultural practices are increasingly recognized, but the current understanding of the interaction between soil conditions, root exudates and microbial communities and the mechanism of rhizosphere microecology affecting the secondary metabolism of MPs is still quite limited. More research is needed to investigate the effects of the microbiome on the growth and quality of different medicinal species. Therefore, the present review summarizes the main soil issues in medicinal plant cultivation, the functions of microbes in soil remediation and plant growth promotion and the potential mechanism to further guide the use of microbial resources to promote the ecological cultivation and sustainable development of MPs.