bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microalgae: Bioactive Composition, Health Benefits, Safety and Prospects as Potential High-Value Ingredients for the Functional Food Industry
Authors: Ampofo Josephine , Abbey Lord
Published: June 2022

Global population is estimated to reach about 9.22 billion by 2075. The increasing knowledge on the relationship between food biochemistry and positive health gives an indication of the urgency to exploit food resources that are not only sustainable but also impact human health beyond basic nutrition. A typical example of such novel food is microalgae, an aquatic microorganism with a plethora of diverse bioactive compounds including phenolics, carotenoids, vitamin B12 and peptides. Microalgal bioactive compounds have been shown to possess positive health effects such as antihypertensive, anti-obesity, antioxidative, anticancer and cardiovascular protection. Although, the utilization of microalgal biomass by the functional food industry has faced lots of challenges because of species diversity and variations in biomass and cultivation factors. Other documented challenges were ascribed to changes in functional structures during extraction and purification due to inefficient bio-processing techniques, inconclusive literature information on the bioavailability and safety of the microalgal bioactive compounds and the fishy odor and taste when applied in food formulations. In spite of these challenges, great opportunities exist to exploit their utilization for the development of functional foods. Microalgae are a renewable resource and have fast growth rate. Therefore, detailed research is needed to bridge these challenges to pave way for large-scale commercialization of microalgal-based healthy foods. The focus of this review is to discuss the potential of microalgae as natural ingredients for functional food development, factors limiting their acceptance and utilization in the food industry as well as their safety concerns with respect to human consumption.
Impacts of COVID-19 Sanitary Cues on Hedonic Appreciation of Foods
Authors: Oliveira Jarina Gabrielle Aquino , Sampaio Adriana Conceição Soares , Lapenta Olivia Morgan
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic led to several lifestyle changes, including eating behavior. Herein, we aimed to evaluate how pandemic-related sanitary cues presented in food videos impact food appraisal and desire to eat, and their priming after-effects on subsequent food pictures presented without such cues. In two online sessions, separated by 4 to 7 days, participants watched either a Non-Pandemic or a Pandemic video of a woman eating, the latter containing sanitary elements adopted during the pandemic. The order of the videos was counterbalanced across participants over the two experimental sessions. Videos were followed by images of food from different categories. After observing both videos and each picture, participants were instructed to evaluate the visual aspect, expected smell and flavor, and rate their desire to eat. Our study demonstrated (1) higher hedonic responses to the Non-Pandemic compared to the Pandemic video, (2) a priming effect showing higher appreciation for sweet foods after the Non-Pandemic compared to the Pandemic video, (3) that food exposure gradually increases one’s desire to eat, but such effects are impacted by pandemic sanitary cues, and (4) greater hedonic responses are given for sweet and high-calorie foods compared to salty and low-calorie ones, irrespective of pandemic priming. Finally, depression and anxiety symptoms were associated with lower smell evaluations only in the Pandemic condition.
Utilising a Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitor as Part of a Low Glycaemic Index and Load Diet and Determining Its Effect on Improving Dietary Intake, Body Composition and Metabolic Parameters of Overweight and Obese Young Adults: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Chekima Khadidja , Noor Mohd Ismail , Ooi Yasmin Beng Houi , Yan See Wan , Jaweed Mohammad , Chekima Brahim
Published: June 2022

A randomised controlled trial to measure the effects of integrating real-time continuous glucose monitor (rtCGM) into a low glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) dietary intervention on dietary intake, body composition and specific metabolic parameters was carried out. A total of 40 overweight young adults [(means ± SD) age: 26.4 ± 5.3 years, BMI: 29.4 ± 4.7 kg/m2] were randomised into an intervention and control groups for a period of eight weeks. Both groups received nutrition education on low GI and GL foods. The intervention group also received an rtCGM system to monitor their glucose levels 24 h a day. While controlling for physical activities and GI and GL nutrition knowledge, the results indicated that the rtCGM system further improved body weight, BMI, fat mass, fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in the intervention group (p < 0.05). This trial unveils the robustness of the rtCGM where non-diabetic overweight and obese young adults can benefit from this device and utilise it as a management tool for overweight and obesity and a primary prevention tool for type 2 diabetes, as it provides real-time and personalised information on physiological changes.
Asian-White Mixed Identity after COVID-19: Racist Racial Projects and the Effects on Asian Multiraciality
Authors: Strmic-Pawl Hephzibah , Chito Childs Erica , Laudone Stephanie
Published: June 2022

With the onset of the Coronavirus and racist statements about the origins of COVID-19 in 9 China there has been a surge in anti-Asian discrimination in the United States. The U.S. case is worthy of special focus because of former President Trump’s explicit racist rhetoric, referring to the 11 Coronavirus as the “China virus” and “Kung-flu”. This rise in anti-Asian discrimination has led to 12 a heightened awareness of racism against Asians and a corollary increase in AAPI activism. Based 13 on survey and in-depth interview data with Asian-White multiracials, we examine how recent 14 spikes in anti-Asian hate has shifted Asian-White multiracials to have a more heightened awareness 15 of racism and a shift in their racial consciousness. We theorize how multiracials intermediary sta-16 tus on the racial hierarchy can be radically shifted at any moment in relation to emerging racist 17 racial projects, which has broader implications for the status of mixed people globally.
Alzheimer’s Disease Connected Genes in the Post-Ischemic Hippocampus and Temporal Cortex
Authors: Pluta Ryszard
Published: June 2022

It is considered that brain ischemia can be causative connected to Alzheimer’s disease. In the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus and temporal cortex, genes related to Alzheimer’s disease, such as the amyloid protein precursor (APP), β-secretase (BACE1), presenilin 1 (PSEN1) and 2 (PSEN2), are deregulated by ischemia. The pattern of change in the CA1 area of the hippocampus covers all genes tested, and the changes occur at all post-ischemic times. In contrast, the pattern of gene changes in the CA3 subfield is much less intense, does not occur at all post-ischemic times, and is delayed in time post-ischemia relative to the CA1 field. Conversely, the pattern of gene alterations in the temporal cortex appears immediately after ischemia, and does not occur at all post-ischemic times and does not affect all genes. Evidence therefore suggests that various forms of dysregulation of the APP, BACE1 and PSEN1 and PSEN2 genes are associated with individual neuronal cell responses in the CA1 and CA3 areas of the hippocampus and temporal cortex with reversible cerebral ischemia. Scientific data indicate that an ischemic episode of the brain is a trigger of amyloidogenic processes. From the information provided, it appears that post-ischemic brain injury additionally activates neuronal death in the hippocampus and temporal cortex in an amyloid-dependent manner.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Roles of Sucrose in Anthocyanin Accumulation in ‘Kuerle Xiangli’ (Pyrus sinkiangensis Yü)
Authors: Zhang Xiangzhan , Li Bo , Duan Ruiwei , Han Chunhong , Wang Lei , Yang Jian , Wang Long , Wang Suke , Su Yanli , Xue Huabai
Published: June 2022

Pear (Pyrus L.) is one of the most important temperate fruit crops worldwide, with considerable economic value and significant health benefits. Red-skinned pears have an attractive appearance and relatively high anthocyanin accumulation, and are especially favored by customers. Abnormal weather conditions usually reduce the coloration of red pears. The application of exogenous sucrose obviously promotes anthocyanins accumulation in ‘Kuerle Xiangli’ (Pyrus sinkiangensis Yü); however, the underlying molecular mechanism of sucrose-mediated fruit coloration remains largely unknown. In this study, comprehensive transcriptome analysis was performed to identify the essential regulators and pathways associated with anthocyanin accumulation. The differentially expressed genes enriched in Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes items were analyzed. The transcript levels of some anthocyanin biosynthetic regulatory genes and structural genes were significantly induced by sucrose treatment. Sucrose application also stimulated the expression of some sugar transporter genes. Further RT-qPCR analysis confirmed the induction of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes. Taken together, the results revealed that sucrose promotes pear coloration most likely by regulating sugar metabolism and anthocyanin biosynthesis, and this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms underlying the coloration of red-skinned pear.
Conditions for Feasibility of a Multicomponent Intervention to Reduce Social Isolation and Loneliness in Noninstitutionalized Older Adults
Authors: Hernández-Ascanio Jose , Ventura-Puertos Pedro Emilio , Rich-Ruiz Manuel , Cantón-Habas Vanesa , Roldán-Villalobos Ana María , Pérula-de Torres Luis Ángel
Published: June 2022

Aims: To identify the factors conditioning the feasibility of an intervention to reduce social isolation and loneliness in noninstitutionalized older adults from the perspective of the intervention agents. Design: A Dimensional Grounded Theory study conducted from December 2019 to January 2020. Methods: Twelve participants were recruited from an experimental study developed in a health district of a southern Spanish city. Data were collected through focus group meetings, individual interviews, biograms, anecdote notebooks, and the field diaries of two participants not included in the other techniques. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings: Findings were divided into three themes: (a) the elderly between the walls of loneliness, economic difficulties, losses, and the past; (b) intervention agents/volunteers between the walls of inexperience in the management of psychological/emotional processes, lack of moral authority, and difficulty in planning results adapted to the (elderly) person; and (c) intervention between the walls of (interest in) company and assistance at home, lack of involvement (“waiting for you to save them”), and withdrawal/“abandonment”. Conclusion: A profile of the specialized intervention agent, professionalized (or at least a mentored agent), with both technical and relational competencies; a clear understanding of the purposes of the intervention (empowerment, as opposed to having company or being helped with household chores) and the commitment to active participation by the elder; or adequate management of the completion of the intervention (flexibility, attachment management) are some of the main factors contributing to the feasibility of these approaches. Impact: The findings have potential implications in the field of primary healthcare because primary and community healthcare services can implement corrections to the proposed intervention and ensure its effectiveness under feasible conditions. The nurse is shown as the most appropriate profile to conduct this intervention, although more research is needed to analyze the feasibility of this type of intervention in the daily practice of community nurses.
Vertebral Related Diseases in Healthcare: The Role of Pain Management and Rehabilitation
Authors: de Sire Alessandro , Marotta Nicola , Ammendolia Antonio
Published: June 2022

The increase in the life expectancy of the general population implied for vertebral diseases an impacting role for the medical condition of the person, not only in the clinical context, but also from a social and economic point of view, due to the underestimation of primary prevention and complex secondary prevention rehabilitation frameworks [...]
Clinical Communication in Rehabilitation
Authors: Carvalho Irene P. , Dores Artemisa R.
Published: June 2022

Rehabilitation can be a challenging process for both patients and health care professionals [...]
Editorial of Special Issue “Deep Learning and Machine Learning in Bioinformatics”
Authors: Kang Mingon , Oh Jung Hun
Published: June 2022

In recent years, deep learning has emerged as a highly active research field, achieving great success in various machine learning areas, including image processing, speech recognition, and natural language processing, and now rapidly becoming a dominant tool in biomedicine [...]
Drugs, Guts, Brains, but Not Rock and Roll: The Need to Consider the Role of Gut Microbiota in Contemporary Mental Health and Wellness of Emerging Adults
Authors: Lee Ju Eun , Walton David , O’Connor Colleen P. , Wammes Michael , Burton Jeremy P. , Osuch Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2022

Emerging adulthood (ages 18–25) is a critical period for neurobiological development and the maturation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Recent findings also suggest that a natural perturbation of the gut microbiota (GM), combined with other factors, may create a unique vulnerability during this period of life. The GM of emerging adults is thought to be simpler, less diverse, and more unstable than either younger or older people. We postulate that this plasticity in the GM suggests a role in the rising mental health issues seen in westernized societies today via the gut–brain–microbiota axis. Studies have paid particular attention to the diversity of the microbiota, the specific function and abundance of bacteria, and the production of metabolites. In this narrative review, we focus specifically on diet, physical activity/exercise, substance use, and sleep in the context of the emerging adult. We propose that this is a crucial period for establishing a stable and more resilient microbiome for optimal health into adulthood. Recommendations will be made about future research into possible behavioral adjustments that may be beneficial to endorse during this critical period to reduce the probability of a “dysbiotic” GM and the emergence and severity of mental health concerns.
Pharmacotherapy Based on ACE2 Targeting and COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Vitiello Antonio , Ferrara Francesco
Published: June 2022

The new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. A massive vaccination campaign, which is still ongoing, has averted most serious consequences worldwide; however, lines of research are continuing to identify the best drug therapies to treat COVID-19 infection. SARS-CoV-2 penetrates the cells of the host organism through ACE2. The ACE2 protein plays a key role in the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and undergoes changes in expression during different stages of COVID-19 infection. It appears that an unregulated RAS is responsible for the severe lung damage that occurs in some cases of COVID-19. Pharmacologically modifying the expression of ACE2 could be an interesting line of research to follow in order to avoid the severe complications of COVID-19.
The Role of Macrophages in Liver Fibrosis: New Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Binatti Eleonora , Gerussi Alessio , Barisani Donatella , Invernizzi Pietro
Published: June 2022

Chronic inflammation is the hallmark of fibrotic disorders and is characterized by the activation of immune cells in the damaged tissues. Macrophages have emerged as central players in the fibrotic process since they initiate, sustain and amplify the inflammatory reaction. As regards the liver, distinct populations of phagocytic cells, like Kupffer cells and monocyte-derived macrophages, are indisputably key cells implicated in the pathogenesis of several chronic liver diseases. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the origin, role and functions of macrophages in fibrotic conditions, with a specific focus on liver fibrosis; then, we discuss some innovative therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages in fibrotic liver diseases.
Deep-Learning-Based Drive-by Damage Detection System for Railway Bridges
Authors: Hajializadeh Donya
Published: June 2022

With the ever-increasing number of well-aged bridges carrying traffic loads beyond their intended design capacity, there is an urgency to find reliable and efficient means of monitoring structural safety and integrity. Among different attempts, vibration-based indirect damage identification systems have shown great promise in providing real-time information on the state of bridge damage. The fundamental principle in an indirect vibration-based damage identification system is to extract bridge damage signatures from on-board measurements, which also embody vibration signatures from the vehicle and road/rail profile and can be contaminated due to varying environmental and operational conditions. This study presents a numerical feasibility study of a novel data-driven damage detection system using train-borne signals while passing over a bridge with the speed of traffic. For this purpose, a deep Convolutional Neural Network is optimised, trained and tested to detect damage using a simulated acceleration response on a nominal RC4 power car passing over a 15 m simply supported reinforced concrete railway bridge. A 2D train–track interaction model is used to simulate train-borne acceleration signals. Bayesian Optimisation is used to optimise the architecture of the deep learning algorithm. The damage detection algorithm was tested on 18 damage scenarios (different severity levels and locations) and has shown great accuracy in detecting damage under varying speeds, rail irregularities and noise, hence provides promise in transforming the future of railway bridge damage identification systems.
Reviewing the WHO Tube Bioassay Methodology: Accurate Method Reporting and Numbers of Mosquitoes Are Key to Producing Robust Results
Authors: Praulins Giorgio , McDermott Daniel P. , Spiers Angus , Lees Rosemary Susan
Published: June 2022

Accurately monitoring insecticide resistance in target mosquito populations is important for combating malaria and other vector-borne diseases, and robust methods are key. The “WHO susceptibility bioassay” has been available from the World Health Organization for 60+ years: mosquitoes of known physiological status are exposed to a discriminating concentration of insecticide. Several changes to the test procedures have been made historically, which may seem minor but could impact bioassay results. The published test procedures and literature for this method were reviewed for methodological details. Areas where there was room for interpretation in the test procedures or where the test procedures were not being followed were assessed experimentally for their impact on bioassay results: covering or uncovering of the tube end during exposure; the number of mosquitoes per test unit; and mosquito age. Many publications do not cite the most recent test procedures; methodological details are reported which contradict the test procedures referenced, or methodological details are not fully reported. As a result, the precise methodology is unclear. Experimental testing showed that using fewer than the recommended 15–30 mosquitoes per test unit significantly reduced mortality, covering the exposure tube had no significant effect, and using mosquitoes older than 2–5 days old increased mortality, particularly in the resistant strain. Recommendations are made for improved reporting of experimental parameters
Technological Performance of Cricket Powder (Acheta domesticus L.) in Wheat-Based Formulations
Authors: Bresciani Andrea , Cardone Gaetano , Jucker Costanza , Savoldelli Sara , Marti Alessandra
Published: June 2022

The recent socio-economic situation requires producers to change the composition of basic foods. The aim of this study was to assess the technological properties of wheat flour enriched with cricket powder (CP) (at 5%, 10%, and 20% levels) for the development of bread and pasta. The hydration (i.e., water absorption capacity, oil absorption capacity, water absorption index, water solubility index, and swelling power), foaming (i.e., foaming capacity and stability),emulsifying (emulsifying activity and emulsion stability), and rheological (during gluten aggregation, mixing, extension, and leavening) properties were investigated. Finally, bread and fresh pasta were prepared and characterized. Emulsifying activity, stability, and foaming capacity decreased in the presence of CP, whereas foaming stability and water solubility increased. The results on dough rheology highlighted the need to increase the amount of water, and to decrease the mixing and leavening time, to keep an acceptable bread volume. Indeed, 10% CP enrichment led to a product characterized by a similar volume and crumb hardness to the control (wheat flour). Despite the decrease in extensibility caused by CP, it was possible to produce fresh pasta enriched with CP, with the best cooking behavior obtained at a 5% replacement level.
Understanding the Impact of Care Literacy on Preventive Care: Evidence from Family Carers in Japan
Authors: Costantini Hiroko
Published: June 2022

To address the importance of family carers’ understanding of care, encompassing their own care as well as the broader care and health social systems, this paper leverages the notion of ‘care literacy’. The aim of this study is to understand the variation in care literacy and the impact of care literacy on preventive care. The empirical focus is on working family carers for older relatives in Japan, through a cross-sectional online survey that includes a novel operationalization of care literacy, an established measure of health literacy, the assessment of information used to understand care, and measures of preventive care. The participants’ (n = 281) mean age was 53, with 44% women, and an average of 8.3 h per week caring for their parent(s). The measure of care literacy is shown to be correlated, as expected, but distinct to health literacy (correlation 0.60). Based on regression analysis of care literacy, significant explanatory variables are health literacy (p < 0.001), gender (p = 0.044), number of sources of information on care (p = 0.029), and care hours (p < 0.001). In contrast, proximity in living arrangements of the carer and care receiver and severity of care needs were not significant predictors. Turning to the impact of care literacy, care literacy is a significant explanatory variable for use of preventive measures (p = 0.002), in particular as related to nutrition (p < 0.001), frailty (p = 0.028), and general home renovations (p = 0.018). The pattern of results from this cross-sectional analysis indicates the importance of understanding the potential for improved care literacy as an enabler of better care.
The Aftermath of Bariatric Surgery: Can the Average Emergency Surgeon Deal with Its Complications? Comment on Zawadzka et al. Current Knowledge and Perceptions of Bariatric Surgery among Diabetologists and Internists in Poland. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 2028
Authors: Papageorgopoulou Chrysanthi , Nikolakopoulos Konstantinos , Seretis Charalampos
Published: June 2022

We read with great interest the article by Zawadzka et al. [...]
Fibromyalgia Syndrome and Cognitive Decline: The Role of Body Mass Index and Clinical Symptoms
Authors: Muñoz Ladrón de Guevara Cristina , Reyes del Paso Gustavo A. , Fernández Serrano María José , Montoro Casandra I.
Published: June 2022

The high prevalence of obesity and overweight in fibromyalgia (FM) may be an important factor in the well-known cognitive deficits seen in the disorder. This study analyzed the influence of body mass index (BMI) and primary clinical symptoms of FM (pain, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and depression) on attention, memory, and processing speed in FM. Fifty-two FM patients and thirty-two healthy participants completed cognitive tasks assessing selective, sustained, and divided attention; visuospatial and verbal memory; and information processing speed. Furthermore, they were evaluated in terms of the main clinical symptoms of the disorder. FM patients showed a marked reduction of cognitive performance in terms of selective, sustained, and divided attention; visuospatial memory; and processing speed, but no group differences were observed in verbal memory. BMI negatively affects sustained and selective attention, verbal memory, and processing speed and is the main predictor of performance in these basic cognitive domains. Our findings confirm the presence of cognitive deficits with respect to attention and visual memory, as well as slower processing speed, in FM. Moreover, the results support a role of BMI in the observed cognitive deficits. Interventions increasing physical activity and promoting cognitive stimulation could be useful for strengthening cognitive function in FM patients.
A Case Report of Immunotherapy-Resistant MSI-H Gastric Cancer with Significant Intrapatient Tumoral Heterogeneity Characterized by Histologic Dedifferentiation
Authors: Kethireddy Nikhila , Arvanitis Leonidas , LoBello Janine , Woo Yanghee , Szelinger Szabolcs , Chao Joseph
Published: June 2022

We describe a patient with both gastric adenocarcinoma and metastatic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of unknown primary site. The possibility of a single malignant clonal process as opposed to differing primaries was supported by the finding of both histologies exhibiting high microsatellite instability. Despite evidence of tumor microsatellite instability, the patient’s disease process did not respond to immune checkpoint inhibition. Our pursuit of whole-exome sequencing and comparing the single-nucleotide variant profiles of both tumors supported a single clonal process with the development of significant intratumoral heterogeneity. High intratumoral heterogeneity has posed a challenge to precision medicine approaches, but we also provide a review of the literature of this phenomenon mediating resistance to immunotherapy strategies.
Effect of a 16-Session Qigong Program in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Vargas-Román Keyla , De la Fuente-Solana Emilia I. , Cortés-Martín Jonathan , Sánchez-García Juan Carlos , González-Vargas Christian J. , Díaz-Rodríguez Lourdes
Published: June 2022

Background: The treatment associated with non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients may cause adverse effects on their physical and psychological condition. The aim of this study is to detect the response to an eight-week, 16-session, 60-min presential Qigong program in anxiety, depression and vagal nerve activity alongside a control group. Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was managed. Randomization was carried out by generating a numerical sequence of three cycles through the software EPIDAT 4.1. Numbers were placed in sealed opaque envelopes for assignment to the different groups. Results: Anxiety levels were substantially decreased in the experimental group, with a large effect size (F = 30.38, p < 0.00). Depression levels had an improvement in the experimental group in contrast to the control group, reaching statistical significance (F = 19.19, p < 0.00). Heart Rate Variability unveiled significant results in terms of between-group differences, with a large effect size in the HRV Index (F = 15.80, p < 0.00), SDNN (F = 8.82, p < 0.00), and RMSSD (F = 6.72, p < 0.01) in the time domain, and a medium effect size in the HF (F = 9.78, p < 0.003), LF (F = 9.78, p < 0.00), and LF/HF Ratio (F = 18.44, p < 0.00) in the frequency domain, which were all bettered in the experimental group, after the Qigong program. Conclusions: Qigong therapy can be an effective therapeutic activity in consonance with traditional medicine to improve psychological health and autonomic nervous system balance in non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors.
Conductive Oxides for Formulating Mitigated-Sensitivity Energetic Composite Materials
Authors: Gibot Pierre , Puel Estelle , Lallemand Bastien , Oudot Franck
Published: June 2022

Composite energetic nanomaterials, otherwise known as nanothermites, consist of physical mixtures of fuel and oxidizer nanoparticles. When a combustion reaction takes place between both components, extremely impressive conditions are created, such as high temperatures (>1000 °C), intense heat releases (>kJ/cm3), and sometimes gas generation. These conditions can be adjusted by modifying the chemical nature of both reactants. However, these energetic composites are extremely sensitive to electrostatic discharge. This may lead to accidental ignitions during handling and transportation operations. This study examines the use of a n-type semiconductor ITO material as an alternative oxidizer combined with aluminum fuel. Indium tin oxide (ITO) ceramic is widely used in the elaboration of conducting coatings for antistatic applications because of its ability to conduct electrical charges (n-type semiconductor). The energetic performance of the Al/ITO thermite was determined, i.e., the sensitivity threshold regarding mechanical (impact and friction) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) stresses, as well as the reactive behavior (heat of reaction, combustion front velocity). The results demonstrate insensitivity toward mechanical stresses regardless of the ITO granulometry. As regards the spark sensitivity, using ITO microparticles considerably raises the sensitivity threshold value (<0.21 mJ vs. 13.70 mJ). A combustion velocity of nearly 650 m/s was also determined.
Near-Optimal Control for Offshore Structures with Nonlinear Energy Sink Mechanisms
Authors: Chen Wei , Du Xingyu , Zhang Bao-Lin , Cai Zhihui , Zheng Zhongqiang
Published: June 2022

To improve the safety and reliability of offshore structures subject to wave loading, the active vibration control problem is always one of significant issues in the field of ocean engineering. This paper deals with the near–optimal control problem of offshore structures with a nonlinear energy sink (NES) mechanism. By taking the dominant vibration mode of the offshore structure with the NES into account, a nonlinear dynamic model of the steel–jacket structure subject to wave loading is presented first. Then, using the parameter perturbation approach to solve a nonlinear two–point boundary value problem, an NES–based optimal controller with the form of infinite series sum is presented to suppress the vibration of the offshore structure. Third, an iteration algorithm is provided to obtain the near–optimal controller. Simulation results demonstrate that the NES–based near–optimal controller can mitigate the oscillation amplitude of offshore structures significantly. Moreover, the NES–based optimal controller outperforms the one based on active tuned mass damper.
Association of Dipstick Proteinuria with Long-Term Mortality among Patients with Hypertensive Crisis in the Emergency Department
Authors: Kim Byung Sik , Yu Mi-Yeon , Park Jin-Kyu , Shin Jinho , Shin Jeong-Hun
Published: June 2022

Proteinuria, frequently observed in hypertensive crisis, is a risk factor for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in patients with hypertension. Here we investigated the association between proteinuria and all-cause mortality in patients with a hypertensive crisis in the emergency department (ED). This retrospective study included patients admitted to the ED of a tertiary referral center between 2016 and 2019 with hypertensive crisis (systolic blood pressure ≥ 180 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 110 mmHg); 3599 patients with an assay for proteinuria were included in this study. Proteinuria was defined as a trace or more protein on a urine dipstick test. Proteinuria was present in 1964 (54.6%) of 3599 patients. At 3 years, crude all-cause mortality rates were 10.8% for patients with negative proteinuria, 21.7% for those with trace proteinuria, 29.0% for those with proteinuria (1+), 32.0% for those with proteinuria (2+), and 35.4% for those with proteinuria (≥3+). After adjusting for age, sex, blood pressure, and comorbid conditions, the hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for dipstick proteinuria was 1.91 (1.53–2.37) for those with trace proteinuria, 2.32 (1.85–2.91) for those with proteinuria (1+), 2.40 (1.86–3.10) for those with proteinuria (2+), and 2.40 (1.78–3.24) for those with proteinuria (≥3+) compared to the reference of negative proteinuria. In patients with hypertensive crisis, dipstick proteinuria was a significant predictor of all-cause mortality, and the risk of all-cause mortality increased in a dose-dependent manner according to its degree. Moreover, even trace proteinuria was associated with an increased risk of mortality. The dipstick urine test could be used as a simple and useful method for risk assessment of all-cause mortality in patients with hypertensive crisis.
The Optimization of Dietary Protein Level and Carbon Sources on Biofloc Nutritive Values, Bacterial Abundance, and Growth Performances of Whiteleg Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) Juveniles
Authors: Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , Ashry Ola A. , Ashour Mohamed , Alsaqufi Ahmed Saud , Ramadan Khaled M. A. , Sharawy Zaki Z.
Published: June 2022

A biofloc technology-based 75-day indoor growth trial in an 80 L glass aquaria was conducted to evaluate the effects of two different carbon sources (sugarcane bagasse, SB, and wheat flour, WF) on the biofloc composition, bacterial abundance, and growth of whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) juveniles (0.23 ± 0.04 g). Three different levels of dietary protein content (250, 300, and 350 g protein kg−1 diet) and two carbon sources (SB and WF) were applied (SB250, WF250, SB300, WF300, SB350, and WF350, respectively), comparing to a controlled diet without biofloc and fed on a 450 g protein kg−1 diet (C450). With the addition of SB and WF, water quality was in the ideal recommended ranges for L. vannamei culture. At the end of the experiment, the biofloc volume increased with increasing dietary protein levels. The nutritional value of biofloc in different treatments was influenced by dietary protein and added SB and WF. Increasing dietary protein significantly increased the protein and lipid contents of the produced biofloc. The use of WF as a carbon source significantly increased lipids and nitrogen-free extract in the biofloc. The total heterotrophic bacterial (THB) count was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in WF300 and WF350 than in the other treatments. The mean effect of the protein levels and carbon source was significantly reported, whereas the highest significant THB count was recorded with 300 dietary protein and using WF as a carbon source. The growth performances of L. vannamei fed with biofloc treatments were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the C450 group. The highest final weight and weight gain were recorded in SB350 treatment. The feed conversion ratio was not affected by reducing dietary protein levels; meanwhile, the protein efficiency ratio increased significantly in biofloc treatments than in the control. Overall, the results demonstrate that, compared to the control treatment of 450 dietary protein, the biofloc treatments using WF as a carbon source could compensate for the reduction in the dietary protein levels in the diet of L. vannamei and maintain higher zootechnical performance.
Research and Statistical Analysis on Impact Resistance of Steel Fiber Expanded Polystyrene Concrete and Expanded Polystyrene Concrete
Authors: Huo Wenlong , Zhang Sherong
Published: June 2022

Steel fiber foamed concrete (SFFC) combines the impact resistance of steel fiber concrete (SFC) and the energy absorption characteristics of foamed concrete (FC), and it has brought attention to the impact field. Using the mechanical properties of SFFC expanded polystyrene concrete, we prepared (EPSC) specimens with 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% by volume of expanded polystyrene (Veps), and steel fiber expanded polystyrene concrete (SFEPSC) specimens by adding 1% steel fiber (SF) based on the EPSC in this study. The relationship between compressive strength, the Veps and apparent density was revealed. The relationship between the first crack and the ultimate failure impact of SFEPSC specimens was obtained by a drop-weight test. The impact resistance of SFEPSC and EPSC and the variation law of Veps were studied by mathematical statistics. The log-normal and the two-parameter Weibull distributions were used to fit the probability distribution of impact resistance of the SFEPSC and EPSC specimens. Finally, both types of specimens’ destruction modes and mechanisms were analyzed. The mechanism of the EPS particles and the SFs dissipating impact load energy was analyzed from the energy point of view.
Influence and Suppression Method of the Eddy Current Effect on the Suspension System of the EMS Maglev Train
Authors: Yang Qing , Chi Zhenxiang , Wang Lianchun
Published: June 2022

The suspension system of the EMS (Electro-Magnetic Suspension) medium-and-low-speed maglev train is affected by the eddy current effect when the train is in motion. This is a crucial problem related to the improvement of train operation speed. In this article, this phenomenon is analyzed and the method of suppressing the eddy current effect is put forward. Firstly, theoretical analysis and experimental verification are carried out. It is worth mentioning that the experimental data, which thoroughly show how the suspension current changes with the maglev train speed under the influence of the eddy current effect, are collected and published for the first time, which strongly confirms the accuracy of the theoretical analysis. Secondly, an improved scheme to suppress the influence of the eddy current effect is proposed from the perspective of the rail structure for the first time and simulation results verify the effectiveness of the improved scheme. This research makes important progress on the improvement of the rail used in the maglev train.
Relaxed Observer-Based H∞-Control for Markov Jump Fuzzy Systems with Incomplete Transition Probabilities and Sensor Failures
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Binh , Song Hyoung-Kyu
Published: June 2022

This paper is concerned with linear matrix inequality conditions to design observer-based H∞-controllers for discrete-time Markov jump fuzzy systems with regard to incomplete transition probabilities and sensor failures. Since some system states involved in fuzzy premise variables are immeasurable or under sensor failures, the observer-based fuzzy controller does not share the same fuzzy basic functions with plants, leading to a mismatch phenomenon. Our work contributes a new single-step LMI method for synthesizing the observer-based controller of the Markov jump fuzzy system in the presence of sensor failures with regard to the mismatched phenomenon. The non-convex H∞-stabilization conditions induced by the output-feedback scheme are firstly formulated in terms of multiple-parameterized linear matrix inequalities (PLMIs). Secondly, by assuming that the differences of fuzzy basic functions between the controller and plant are bounded, the multi-PLMI-based conditions are cast into linear matrix inequalities standing for tractable conditions. The designed observer-based controller guarantees the stochastic stability of the closed-loop system and less conservative results compared to existing works in three numerical examples.
Secondary Metabolites and Biosynthetic Gene Clusters Analysis of Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vent-Derived Streptomyces sp. SCSIO ZS0520
Authors: Zhang Huaran , Chen Yingying , Li Yanqing , Song Yongxiang , Ma Junying , Ju Jianhua
Published: June 2022

Streptomyces sp. SCSIO ZS0520 is a deep-sea hydrothermal vent-derived actinomycete. Our previous metabolism investigation showed that Streptomyces sp. SCSIO ZS0520 is a producer of cytotoxic actinopyrones. Here, another four types of secondary metabolites were identified, including six salinomycin isomers (2–7), the macrolide elaiophylin (8), the triterpene N-acetyl-aminobacteriohopanetriol (9), and the pyrone minipyrone (10). Among them, compounds 2–6 and 10 are new compounds. To understand the biosynthetic pathway of these compounds, a bioinformatic analysis of the whole genome was carried out, which identified 34 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters. Next, the biosynthetic pathways responsive to four types of products were deduced on the basis of gene function predictions and structure information. Taken together, these findings prove the metabolite potential of ZS0520 and lay the foundations to solve the remaining biosynthetic issues in four types of marine natural products.
The Therapeutic Role of PNU-74654 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma May Involve Suppression of NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Wu Min-You , Wang Chi-Chih , Chang Ya-Chuan , Yu Chia-Ying , Sung Wen-Wei , Chen Chih-Jung , Tsai Ming-Chang
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: PNU-74654, a Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor, has reported antitumor activities; however, the therapeutic potential of PNU-74654 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been investigated in detail. The aim of this study was to clarify the cytotoxic effects of PNU-74654 against HCC and to uncover its molecular mechanism. Materials and Methods: HepG2 and Huh7 liver cancer cell lines were selected to determine the antitumor properties of PNU-74654. Survival of the liver cancer cells in response to PNU-74654 was assessed by cell viability assays, and the apoptosis effect of PNU-74654 was analyzed by flow cytometry and visualized by Hoechst staining. An oncology array was used to explore the underlying molecular routes of PNU-74654 action in the cells. The migration properties were examined with a wound healing assay, and western blotting was conducted to evaluate protein expression. Results: Treatment with PNU-74654 decreased cell viability and inhibited cell migration. The cell cycle analysis and Hoechst staining revealed an increase in the population of cells at the sub-G1 stage and apoptotic morphological changes in the nucleus. The oncology array identified 84 oncology-related proteins and a suppressed expression of Bcl-xL and survivin. Western blotting showed that PNU-74654 could interfere with cell cycle-related proteins through the NF-κB pathway. Conclusions: PNU-74654 shows antiproliferative and antimigration effects against HepG2 and Huh7 cells, and its antitumor activity may be attributable to its interference in cell cycle regulation and the NF-κB pathway.
Extracellular Particles as Carriers of Cholesterol Not Associated with Lipoproteins
Authors: Landa Sergey , Verlov Nicolay , Fedorova Natalia , Filatov Mikhail , Pantina Rimma , Burdakov Vladimir , Varfolomeeva Elena , Emanuel Vladimir
Published: June 2022

Exosomes and exomeres are the smallest microparticles ranging from 20 to 130 nm in diameter. They are found in almost all biological fluids. Exosomes and exomeres are of considerable interest since they can be involved in intercellular signaling and are biological markers of the state of cells, which can be used for diagnostics. The nomenclature of exosomes remains poorly developed. Most researchers try to classify them based on the mode of formation, physicochemical characteristics, and the presence of tetrasporin markers CD9, CD63, and CD81. The data presented in this work show that although exomeres carry tetrasporin biomarkers, they differ from exosomes strongly in lipid composition, especially in cholesterol content. The production of exomeres by cells is associated with the synthesis of cholesterol in cells and is expressed or suppressed by regulators of the synthesis of mevalonate, an intermediate product of cholesterol metabolism. In addition, the work shows that the concentration of extracellular particles in the body correlates with the concentration of cholesterol in the plasma, but weakly correlates with the concentration of cholesterol in lipoproteins. This suggests that not all plasma cholesterol is associated with lipoproteins, as previously thought.
3D-Printed Dip Slides Miniaturize Bacterial Identification and Antibiotic Susceptibility Tests Allowing Direct Mastitis Sample Analysis
Authors: Diep Tai The , Bizley Samuel , Edwards Alexander Daniel
Published: June 2022

The early detection of antimicrobial resistance remains an essential step in the selection and optimization of antibiotic treatments. Phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility testing including the measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) remains critical for surveillance and diagnostic testing. Limitations to current testing methods include bulky labware and laborious methods. Furthermore, the requirement of a single strain of bacteria to be isolated from samples prior to antibiotic susceptibility testing delays results. The mixture of bacteria present in a sample may also have an altered resistance profile to the individual strains, and so measuring the susceptibility of the mixtures of organisms found in some samples may be desirable. To enable simultaneous MIC and bacterial species detection in a simple and rapid miniaturized format, a 3D-printed frame was designed for a multi-sample millifluidic dip-slide device that combines panels of identification culture media with a range of antibiotics (Ampicillin, Amoxicillin, Amikacin, Ceftazidime, Cefotaxime, Ofloxacin, Oxytetracycline, Streptomycin, Gentamycin and Imipenem) diluted in Muëller–Hinton Agar. Our proof-of-concept evaluation confirmed that the direct detection of more than one bacterium parallel to measuring MIC in samples is possible, which is validated using reference strains E. coli ATCC 25922, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 12600 and with mastitis milk samples collected from Reading University Farm. When mixtures were tested, a MIC value was obtained that reflected the most resistant organism present (i.e., highest MIC), suggesting it may be possible to estimate a minimum effective antibiotic concentration for mixtures directly from samples containing multiple pathogens. We conclude that this simple miniaturized approach to the rapid simultaneous identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing may be suitable for directly testing agricultural samples, which is achieved through shrinking conventional tests into a simple “dip-and-incubate” device that can be 3D printed anywhere.