bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Long-Term Dynamic Analysis of Heat Pumps Coupled to Ground Heated by Solar Collectors
Authors: Ballerini Vincenzo , Rossi di Schio Eugenia , Valdiserri Paolo , Naldi Claudia , Dongellini Matteo
Published: June 2023

In agreement with the decarbonization of the building sector to meet the 2050 climate neutrality targets, borehole thermal storage for solar energy represents a potential solution to increase the energy efficiency of renewable energy plants. As is well known, electricity is not the optimum solution to integrate large inflows of fluctuating renewable energy. In the present paper, we investigate the possibility to use the solar collector to give energy to the borehole field. In detail, a solar-assisted geothermal heat pump is applied to a school located in Milan, Italy. In winter, both the energy from the solar collector and the heat pump are collected into a storage tank connected to the emission terminals, whereas, in summer, as there is no energy demand, the hot water from the solar collector flows into the geothermal probes. By means of this seasonal thermal energy storage technology, the intermittent solar energy collected and stored during the summer months can be utilized during the winter months when the heating demand is high. A long-term dynamic analysis is performed by employing Trnsys. The results show that solar collectors coupled with ground-source heat pumps can give an important contribution to the soil temperature drift, and this also applies in cases of un-balanced loads during the heating season. Moreover, the employment of solar collectors increases the seasonal coefficient of performance of the heat pumps and may rise to reductions to the probes field.
Dual-Energy CT Applications in Urological Diseases
Authors: Cellina Michaela , Bausano Maria Vittoria , Pais Daniele , Chiarpenello Vittoria , Costa Marco , Vincenzo Zakaria , Cè Maurizio , Martinenghi Carlo , Oliva Giancarlo , Carrafiello Gianpaolo
Published: June 2023

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is a medical imaging technique that uses two different energy levels of X-rays to provide more detailed information about the composition of tissues and materials within the body. DECT technology is still relatively new but different applications have been developed for the urological field. For example, it can be used to analyze the composition of stones to determine whether they are likely to be made up of calcium oxalate, uric acid, or other minerals. This information can help guide treatment decisions, as different types of stones may require different approaches to treatment. The availability of iodine maps helps the differentiation between benign and malignant tumors of the urinary tract, including the bladder, kidneys, and ureters. The iodine maps generated by DECT can provide information on tumor vascularity, which can help in staging and determining the aggressiveness of the tumor. DECT can assess blood flow in the kidneys and detect vascular disorders such as renal artery stenosis or aneurysms. This can be critical for early detection and management of these disorders, which can reduce the risk of renal failure and improve outcomes. DECT is a valuable tool in the urological field that can provide clinicians with detailed and accurate information for the diagnosis and treatment planning of various urological conditions. In this narrative review, we propose an overview of the possible application of DECT in the field of urological diseases.
Amino-Acid-Derived Oxazolidin-5-Ones as Chemical Markers for Schiff Base Formation in Glycation Reactions
Authors: Kim Eun Sil , Yaylayan Varoujan
Published: June 2023

Imine or Schiff base formation is considered as a key event in the catalytic mechanisms of many enzymes and in certain biological transformations, including glycation. In this process, less stable amino-acid-derived Schiff bases rearrange into more stable ketoamines or Amadori products. Schiff bases are also stipulated to be stabilized through complexation with metal ions, or through intramolecular cyclization to form more stable and reversible cyclic isomers, such as oxazolidin-5-ones. These intermediates can be easily detected relative to Schiff bases due to their higher stability. In this study, high-resolution mass spectrometry and isotope labeling techniques were used to identify labile imines as their oxazolidin-5-one derivatives in heated reaction systems of glucose/alanine/FeCl2, including their 13C-labeled counterparts. The reaction mixtures were heated for 2h at 110 °C and were analyzed by high resolution qTOF/MS for the presence of masses corresponding to Schiff bases of α-alanine with short chain aldehydes that can be generated from glucose degradation and also for the incorporation of 13C-labeled atoms from 13C-3 alanine and 13C-U glucose. Analysis of the data has indicated that Schiff bases can indeed be detected in the form of oxazolidin-3-ones, when methanol is used as the solvent. Furthermore, it was discovered that metal-ion-stabilized Schiff bases, in addition to forming oxazolidin-3-ones, can also undergo aldol addition with short chain sugars and initiate oligomerization reactions, leading to the formation of dimeric or trimeric oxazolidin-3-one oligomers, as demonstrated by their characteristic MS/MS fragmentations.
Will Artificial Intelligence Provide Answers to Current Gaps and Needs in Chronic Heart Failure?
Authors: Boccuto Fabiola , De Rosa Salvatore , Torella Daniele , Veltri Pierangelo , Guzzi Pietro Hiram
Published: June 2023

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a prevalent and multifactorial condition associated with a significant burden of morbidity and mortality. Despite progress in its clinical management, the projected increase in CHF prevalence due to population ageing, increased cardiovascular risk burdens, and advancing diagnostic and therapeutic options have led to a growing burden on healthcare systems and public budgets worldwide. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) holds promise in assisting clinical decision-making, especially in analysing raw image data and electrocardiogram recordings. This article provides an overview of the current gaps and needs in CHF research and clinical management and the current and under-development AI-powered tools that may address these gaps and needs.
Special Issue on “Recycling Waste in Construction Materials, Volume II”
Authors: Giro-Paloma Jessica
Published: June 2023

Recycling plays a key role in decreasing present-day waste [...]
Development of Risk Management Mitigation Plans for the Infant Formula Milk Supply Chain Using an AHP Model
Authors: Haji Mona , Kerbache Laoucine , Al-Ansari Tareq
Published: June 2023

Infant formula milk (IFM) is critical in the diet of many babies and must be of high-quality. Unfortunately, IFM has been a target of adulteration by those attempting to make illegal profits and has suffered from contamination-related issues. This study’s main objective was to identify the most critical risks affecting IFM quality in the supply chain and determine mitigation strategies to improve IFM performance measurement. We developed a model to reduce adulteration and contamination rates in the infant formula milk supply chains (IFMSCs) and maximize safety. The steps to achieve the study’s objectives included: (1) identifying the importance of IFMs for infant nutrition and their risks; (2) establishing mitigation criteria for evaluating IFMSC’s performance to maximize quality; and (3) analyzing each mitigation criterion to maximize IFM safety. Based on pairwise comparisons by professionals in the food supply chain (FSC) of decision-making, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model was used to analyze and prioritize mitigation alternatives. According to the contamination quality risk agent, mitigation alternative (QR.M2) ranked highest. This study’s findings illustrate how vital avoiding risk is when dealing with public health, especially infants’ health, and how IFM must undergo precise testing and quality checks at every supply chain stage to ensure quality.
Influence of Spherical Caverns on the Failure Characteristics of Neighboring Tunnels under True Triaxial Conditions: Insights from an Experimental Test and Discrete Element Simulation
Authors: Chen Congcong , She Xianwei , Zhao Yusong
Published: June 2023

Caverns are generally formed by a combination of regional geological action and groundwater, and their improper treatment will inevitably lead to dangerous conditions in underground works. To detect the specific failure mechanism of tunnel-surrounding rock induced by invisible caverns, a true triaxial compression test is conducted, accompanied by acoustic emission technology and an internal borehole camera, for monitoring the acoustic response and visible secondary cracks, and a corresponding DEM simulation is carried out to reveal the meso-mechanism. The results indicate the following: (1) The invisible cavern demonstrates a negative influence on the stability of the tunnel and leads to a 25.82% reduction in the peak z-axis load of the specimens. (2) The acoustic emission results show that the relatively severe dominant failures mainly occur near the peak stress in all types of specimens, and the speed and intensity of the cavern-existing specimen is significantly greater than that of the cavern-free specimen. (3) The cavity-free tunnel shows mirror-symmetric splitting failure on the left and right sidewalls, while the secondary cracks appear earlier and show asymmetrical distribution in the cavern-existing specimen, and the volume of broken rock blocks near the free surface is larger. (4) The cavern directly changes the failure process of the tunnel-surrounding rock (intermediate rock failure occurs earlier than splitting failure), the distribution of principal stress, and the corresponding mechanism of secondary failures. (5) Application of the displacement and velocity trend fields helped to reveal accurate failure procedures in the true triaxial test.
Application of an Artificial Neural Network Model Based on Mineral Composition to the Prediction of Physical and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Gong Wenteng , Tang Liansheng , Chen Yang , Cheng Zihua
Published: June 2023

The physical and mechanical properties of soil are crucial in engineering construction, but conducting extensive experimental tests can be time-consuming, laborious, and subject to uncertainties due to the heterogeneity of the soil and variations in experimental conditions. Soil is composed of various minerals, and the mineral composition is the fundamental determinant of various physical and mechanical properties of the soil. The purpose of this study is to establish a convenient and reliable soil property prediction model based on mineral composition. To achieve this end, a dataset comprising the percentage content of different minerals in the soil, as well as the soil’s mechanical and physical properties, was collected. Using artificial neural network methods, prediction models for liquid limit, plastic limit, internal friction angle, and cohesion of the soil were developed based on mineral composition. Each model’s performance was evaluated through deviation analysis, and models with poor prediction accuracy were optimized using a genetic algorithm. The results demonstrate that the neural network model based on mineral composition can accurately predict soil properties with high applicability. This research provides a method for accurately predicting the majority of engineering properties of soil using experimental data on mineral composition, which is significant for cost savings and improving work efficiency in engineering projects.
Toward Patient-Centric Healthcare Systems: Key Requirements and Framework for Personal Health Records Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Aldamaeen Ohud , Rashideh Waleed , Obidallah Waeal J.
Published: June 2023

Healthcare data are considered sensitive and confidential, and storing these sensitive data in traditional (i.e., centralized) databases may expose risks, such as penetration or data leaks. Furthermore, patients may have incomplete health records since they visit various healthcare centers and leave their data scattered in different places. One solution to resolve these problems and permit patients to own their records is a decentralized personal health record (PHR); this can be achieved through decentralization and distribution systems, which are fundamental attributes of blockchain technology. Additionally, the requirements for this solution should be identified to provide practical solutions for stakeholders. This study aims to identify the key requirements for PHRs. A design science methodology was utilized to meet the study objectives, and thirteen healthcare experts were interviewed to elicit the requirements and the previous studies. Thirty-three requirements are defined, and based on these, high- and low-level architectures are developed and explained. The result illustrates that the developed solution-based Hyperledger Fabric framework is a promising method for the achievement of PHRs that guarantee security aspects, such as integrity, confidentiality, privacy, traceability, and access control.
Remote Sensing Multimodal Image Matching Based on Structure Feature and Learnable Matching Network
Authors: Han Songlai , Liu Xuesong , Dong Jing , Liu Haiqiao
Published: June 2023

Matching remotely sensed multimodal images is a crucial process that poses significant challenges due to nonlinear radiometric differences and substantial image noise. To overcome these difficulties, this study presents a novel and practical template-matching algorithm specifically designed for this purpose. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on image intensity, the proposed algorithm focuses on matching multimodal images based on their geometric structure information. This approach enables the method to effectively adapt to variations in grayscale caused by radiometric differences. To enhance the matching performance, principal component analysis calculation based on the log-Gabor filter is proposed to estimate the structural feature of the image. The proposed method can estimate the structure feature accurately even under severe noise distortion. In addition, a learnable matching network is proposed for similarity measuring to adapt to the gradient reversal caused by the radiometric difference among remotely sensed multimodal images. Infrared, visible light, and synthetic aperture radar images are adopted for the evaluation, to verify the performance of the proposed algorithm. Based on the results, the proposed algorithm has a distinct advantage over other state-of-the-art template-matching algorithms.
Finite Element Model Updating for Composite Plate Structures Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Tran Minh Q. , Sousa Hélder S. , Matos José , Fernandes Sérgio , Nguyen Quyen T. , Dang Son N.
Published: June 2023

In the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, particularly civil engineering, the Finite Element Method (FEM) is a widely applied method for computational designs. In this regard, computational simulation has increasingly become challenging due to uncertain parameters, significantly affecting structural analysis and evaluation results, especially for composite and complex structures. Therefore, determining the exact computational parameters is crucial since the structures involve many components with different material properties, even removing some additional components affects the calculation results. This study presents a solution to increase the accuracy of the finite element (FE) model using a swarm intelligence-based approach called the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The FE model is created based on the structure’s easily observable characteristics, in which uncertainty parameters are assumed empirically and will be updated via PSO using dynamic experimental results. The results show that the finite element model achieves high accuracy, significantly improved after updating (shown by the evaluation parameters presented in the article). In this way, a precise and reliable model can be applied to reliability analysis and structural design optimization tasks. During this research project, the FE model considering the PSO algorithm was integrated into an actual bridge’s structural health monitoring (SHM) system, which was the premise for creating the initial digital twin model for the advanced digital twinning technology.
An Opcode-Based Vulnerability Detection of Smart Contracts
Authors: Sui Jia , Chu Lili , Bao Han
Published: June 2023

Aiming at the problem of insufficient technology for detecting smart contract vulnerabilities and the lack of improvement of certain detection tools, a method for the expansion and improvement of the internal module of the Mythril method is proposed. Since the technology of detecting vulnerabilities is not yet mature and there are vulnerabilities in smart contracts, vulnerability detection is particularly important. Since the Mythril tool covers the most types of vulnerabilities, its accuracy rate is also the highest. In order to ensure the effect of smart contract vulnerability detection, this paper proposes the expansion and improvement of the internal module of Mythril, which realizes the operation of automatic vulnerability analysis when performing vulnerability detection by improving the operation efficiency and simplifying the operation of smart contract opcodes while analyzing them. The comparison of experimental results shows that the proposed method is more suitable for smart contract vulnerability detection, and the detection accuracy and efficiency are improved, with an average accuracy rate of 94.07%. It performs better in vulnerability detection and provides an effective guarantee for the security and reliability of smart contracts, which has important application value and research significance.
Compact Dual-Circularly Polarized Traveling-Wave Series-Fed Patch Array for Use as a Non-Linear Tag Antenna for Bio-Sensing Applications
Authors: Lee Wonryeol , Oh Sooyoung , Hong Sun K.
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a compact K-band dual-circularly polarized antenna that can be implemented on a non-linear tag based on third-order intermodulation (IM3) for bio-sensing applications. The proposed antenna has the characteristics of being low-profile and lightweight, with opposite circular polarizations (CP) between ports. The non-linear tag-based bio-sensing scenario utilizes K-band millimeter wave frequencies, which allows for compact non-linear tags for attachment to the body. Also, the proposed antenna features dual-CP, which are for the reception and re-radiation of incident transmit signals and the IM3 responses, respectively. To this end, a two-port traveling-wave series-fed patch array with coplanar proximity coupling is designed. Here, to minimize the size of the antenna, we use only four circular patch elements with a modified diamond-shaped microstrip feedline. Through simulation and measurement, we demonstrate that the proposed antenna has an axial ratio of less than 3 dB from 23.25 GHz to 24.1 GHz, with the reflection coefficients below −10 dB and port-to-port coupling below −15 dB. These results indicate the potential utility of the proposed antenna as a tag antenna for non-linear detection-based bio-sensing applications.
Non-Thermal Technologies for Food Processing
Authors: Silva Filipa Vinagre Marques , Oey Indrawati
Published: June 2023

This Special Issue covers the utilization of non-thermal technologies, specifically high pressure processing (HPP) or high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), pulsed electric field (PEF), ultrasound (US), and ultraviolet (UV) for food processing and preservation [...]
Video between Architecture and Telepathy
Authors: Holt Nicolas
Published: June 2023

On 6 January 1973, Chilean media artist Juan Downey exhibited Plato Now at the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse, New York. A hybrid multichannel video installation and performance, this was Downey’s restaging of Plato’s Parable of the Cave—the “Now” registering what the myth might look like from the vantage of his own historical moment. And whereas Plato’s original operated through an inflexible division between the space of the mind and a derivative sensual reality, Plato Now explicitly sought to blur those philosophical lines by assembling a relay of invisible energies, brain waves, video signals, and telepathic communications, such that the space of mind and sensual reality became speculatively entangled. This article clarifies just how Plato Now did this, and situates its philosophical vision as a significant, if relatively unremarked, aesthetic prefiguration of the new materialist tendencies towards relationality, hybrid assemblages, and vibrant conceptions of energy and matter.
Immune Transcriptional Response in Head Kidney Primary Cell Cultures Isolated from the Three Most Important Species in Chilean Salmonids Aquaculture
Authors: Nualart Daniela P. , Dann Francisco , Oyarzún-Salazar Ricardo , Morera Francisco J. , Vargas-Chacoff Luis
Published: June 2023

Fish cell culture is a common in vitro tool for studies in different fields such as virology, toxicology, pathology and immunology of fish. Fish cell cultures are a promising help to study how to diagnose and control relevant viral and intracellular bacterial infections in aquaculture. They can also be used for developing vaccines and immunostimulants, especially with the ethical demand aiming to reduce and replace the number of fish used in research. This study aimed to isolate head kidney primary cell cultures from three Chilean salmonids: Salmo salar, Oncorhynchus kisutch, and Oncorhynchus mykiss, and characterize the response to bacterial and viral stimuli by evaluating various markers of the innate and adaptive immune response. Specifically, the primary cell cultures of the head kidney from the three salmonids studied were cultured and exposed to two substances that mimic molecular patterns of different pathogens, i.e., Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (bacterial) and Polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (POLY I:C). Subsequently, we determined the mRNA expression profiles of the TLR-1, TLR-8, IgM, TLR-5, and MHC II genes. Head kidney primary cell cultures from the three species grown in vitro responded differently to POLY I:C and LPS. This is the first study to demonstrate and characterize the expression of immune genes in head kidney primary cell culture isolated from three salmonid species. It also indicates their potential role in developing immune responses as defense response agents and targets of immunoregulatory factors.
Decision-Making in Patients with Vasovagal Syncope: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Méchenin Muriel , Fortrat Jacques-Olivier
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in performance during a decisional conflict task between subjects with emotional/blood phobia and those with an orthostatic vasovagal syncope. A total of 332 young subjects were included, from which 99 were excluded because of their condition or treatment. The subjects were classified into four groups depending on their responses to a questionnaire: 98 in a control group, 10 in an emotional/blood phobia syncope group, 38 in an orthostatic syncope group, and 87 in an unclear status group. This former group was excluded. The subjects performed a decisional conflict task to quantify their conflict-management ability. The task was the computer version of the Simon Task. Emotional/blood phobia syncope subjects showed a delayed reaction time when faced with decisional conflict in comparison with the control and orthostatic syncope subjects (55.8 ± 17.7 ms, 20.5 ± 4.9 ms, and 13.4 ± 9.2 ms, respectively, p ≤ 0.05). Our result suggests that emotional/blood phobia and orthostatic syncope are two clinical entities. Decisions could be a target of management in patients with emotional/blood phobia syncope. The altered decision-making of subjects with emotion/blood phobia syncope emphasized the role of higher cerebral functions in blood pressure control.
Development and Validation of an Endometriosis Diagnostic Method Based on Serum Biomarkers and Clinical Variables
Authors: Herranz-Blanco Bárbara , Daoud Elza , Viganò Paola , García-Velasco Juan Antonio , Colli Enrico
Published: June 2023

Endometriosis affects more than 10% of women of reproductive age, significantly impacting their quality of life. Diagnosis typically takes 4 to 11 years from symptom onset. The gold standard for diagnosing this disease, laparoscopy, is invasive, contributing to this delay in diagnosis. Two studies were conducted to develop a diagnostic test based on the combination of serum biomarkers and clinical variables. Study 1, the development study, aimed to: (i) confirm the ability of CA125, BDNF and clinical variables to differentiate between cases and controls, and (ii) develop a diagnostic algorithm based on these results. Study 2 validated the clinical performance of the developed in vitro diagnostic (IVD) test in diagnosing endometriosis. Serum samples and clinical variables extracted from psychometric questionnaires were obtained from the Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre biobank (UK). Case/control classification was performed based on laparoscopy and histological verification of the excised lesions. Studies 1 and 2 included n = 204 and n = 79 patients, respectively. Study 1 found a statistically significant difference between cases and controls for levels of both biomarkers. Of the assessed clinical variables from the patients’ medical histories, six were found to be significantly different between endometriosis cases and controls. CA125, BDNF and these six clinical variables were combined into a multivariable prediction model. In Study 2, the IVD test demonstrated sensitivity and specificity values of 46.2% (25.5–66.8%) and 100% (86.7–100%), respectively. Due to its high specificity, this IVD test is a simple and accurate rule-in test for early disease identification, even in the presence of non-specific symptoms.
Bioinspired Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for the Remediation of Toxic Pollutants and Enhanced Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Mandal Sujata , Hwang Sangchul , Marpu Sreekar B. , Omary Mohammad A. , Prybutok Victor , Shi Sheldon Q.
Published: June 2023

This research presents a novel and environmentally friendly approach for the synthesis of multifunctional nanobiocomposites for the efficient removal of toxic heavy metal and dye, as well as the disinfection of wastewater microorganisms. The nanobiocomposites (KAC-CS-AgNPs) were prepared by incorporating photochemically generated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) within a chitosan (CS)-modified, high-surface-area activated carbon derived from kenaf (KAC), using a unique self-activation method. The even distribution of AgNPs was visible in the scanning electron microscopy images and a Fourier transform infra red study demonstrated major absorption peaks. The experimental results revealed that KA-CS-AgNPs exhibited exceptional adsorption efficiency for copper (Cu2+), lead (Pb2+), and Congo Red dye (CR), and showed potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The maximum adsorption capacity (mg g−1) of KAC-CS-AgNPs was 71.5 for Cu2+, 72.3 for Pb2+, and 75.9 for CR, and the adsorption phenomena followed on the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models and the second-order kinetic model (R2 > 0.99). KAC-CS-AgNPs also exhibited excellent reusability of up to four consecutive cycles with minor losses in adsorption ability. The thermodynamic parameters indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The bacterial inactivation tests demonstrated that KAC-CS-AgNPs had a strong bactericidal effect on both E. coli and S. aureus, with MIC calculated for E. coli and S. aureus as 32 µg mL−1 and 44 µg mL−1, respectively. The synthesized bioinspired nanocomposite KAC-CS-AgNPs could be an innovative solution for effective and sustainable wastewater treatment and has great potential for commercial applications.
Brain Monoamine Dysfunction in Response to Predator Scent Stress Accompanies Stress-Susceptibility in Female Rats
Authors: Wilkinson Courtney S. , Blount Harrison L. , Schwendt Marek , Knackstedt Lori A.
Published: June 2023

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent in women; however, preclinical research on PTSD has predominantly been conducted in male animals. Using a predator scent stress (PSS) rodent model of PTSD, we sought to determine if stress-susceptible female rats show altered monoamine concentrations in brain regions associated with PTSD: the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and dorsal (dHIPP) and ventral (vHIPP) hippocampus. Female Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to a single, 10-min PSS exposure and tested for persistent anhedonia, fear, and anxiety-like behavior over four weeks. Rats were phenotyped as stress-Susceptible based on sucrose consumption in the sucrose preference task and time spent in the open arms of the elevated plus maze. Brain tissue was collected, and norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, and their metabolites were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. Stress-susceptibility in female rats was associated with increased dopamine and serotonin turnover in the mPFC. Susceptibility was also associated with elevated dopamine turnover in the NAc and increased norepinephrine in the vHIPP. Our findings suggest that stress-susceptibility after a single stress exposure is associated with long-term effects on monoamine function in female rats. These data suggest interventions that decrease monoamine turnover, such as MAOIs, may be effective in the treatment of PTSD in women.
Cyclodextrins as Drug Release Modulators and Toxic Compound Removal Agents
Authors: Ribeiro Ana C. F. , Esteso Miguel A.
Published: June 2023

This Special Issue shows new strategies for the controlled release of drugs using cyclodextrins as carriers [...]
Effect of Phytate (InsP6) and Other Inositol-Phosphates (InsP5, InsP4, InsP3, InsP2) on Crystallization of Calcium Oxalate, Brushite, and Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Calvó Paula , Costa-Bauza Antònia , Grases Felix
Published: June 2023

Pathological calcifications may consist of calcium oxalate (CaOx), hydroxyapatite (HAP), and brushite (BRU). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of phytate (inositol hexakisphosphate, InsP6), InsP6 hydrolysates, and individual lower InsPs (InsP5, InsP4, InsP3, and InsP2) on the crystallization of CaOx, HAP and BRU in artificial urine. All of the lower InsPs seem to inhibit the crystallization of calcium salts in biological fluids, although our in vitro results showed that InsP6 and InsP5 were stronger inhibitors of CaOx crystallization, and InsP5 and InsP4 were stronger inhibitors of BRU crystallization. For the specific in vitro experimental conditions we examined, the InsPs had very weak effects on HAP crystallization, although it is likely that a different mechanism is responsible for HAP crystallization in vivo. For example, calciprotein particles seem to have an important role in the formation of cardiovascular calcifications in vivo. The experimental conditions that we examined partially reproduced the in vivo conditions of CaOx and BRU crystallization, but not the in vivo conditions of HAP crystallization.
Serotonergic Modulation of Neurovascular Transmission: A Focus on Prejunctional 5-HT Receptors/Mechanisms
Authors: González-Hernández Abimael , Marichal-Cancino Bruno A. , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette , Villalón Carlos M.
Published: June 2023

5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), or serotonin, plays a crucial role as a neuromodulator and/or neurotransmitter of several nervous system functions. Its actions are complex, and depend on multiple factors, including the type of effector or receptor activated. Briefly, 5-HT can activate: (i) metabotropic (G-protein-coupled) receptors to promote inhibition (5-HT1, 5-HT5) or activation (5-HT4, 5-HT6, 5-HT7) of adenylate cyclase, as well as activation (5-HT2) of phospholipase C; and (ii) ionotropic receptor (5-HT3), a ligand-gated Na+/K+ channel. Regarding blood pressure regulation (and beyond the intricacy of central 5-HT effects), this monoamine also exerts direct postjunctional (on vascular smooth muscle and endothelium) or indirect prejunctional (on autonomic and sensory perivascular nerves) effects. At the prejunctional level, 5-HT can facilitate or preclude the release of autonomic (e.g., noradrenaline and acetylcholine) or sensory (e.g., calcitonin gene-related peptide) neurotransmitters facilitating hypertensive or hypotensive effects. Hence, we cannot formulate a specific impact of 5-HT on blood pressure level, since an increase or decrease in neurotransmitter release would be favoured, depending on the type of prejunctional receptor involved. This review summarizes and discusses the current knowledge on the prejunctional mechanisms involved in blood pressure regulation by 5-HT and its impact on some vascular-related diseases.
Correction: Górski et al. Application of Two-Dimensional Entropy Measures to Detect the Radiographic Signs of Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis in an Equine Model. Biomedicines 2022, 10, 2914
Authors: Górski Kamil , Borowska Marta , Stefanik Elżbieta , Polkowska Izabela , Turek Bernard , Bereznowski Andrzej , Domino Małgorzata
Published: June 2023

In the original article [...]
Electrochemical Sensor for Simple and Sensitive Determination of Hydroquinone in Water Samples Using Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Karami-Kolmoti Parisa , Beitollahi Hadi , Modiri Sina
Published: June 2023

This study addressed the use of manganese dioxide nanorods/graphene oxide nanocomposite (MnO2 NRs/GO) for modifying a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The modified electrode (MnO2 NRs/GO/GCE) was used as an electrochemical sensor for the determination of hydroquinone (HQ) in water samples. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and chronoamperometry were used for more analysis of the HQ electrochemical behavior. Analyses revealed acceptable electrochemical functions with lower transfer resistance of electrons and greater conductivity of the MnO2 NRs/GO/GCE. The small peak-to-peak separation is an indication of a rapid electron transfer reaction. Therefore, this result is probably related to the effect of the MnO2 NRs/GO nanocomposite on the surface of GCE. In the concentration range of 0.5 μM to 300.0 μM with the detection limit as 0.012 μM, there was linear response between concentration of HQ and the current. The selectivity of the modified electrode was determined by detecting 50.0 μM of HQ in the presence of various interferent molecules. At the end, the results implied the acceptable outcome of the prepared electrode for determining HQ in the water samples.
Evaluation of Safety and Potency of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) Vaccine Inactivated with Different Concentrations of Formalin and Comparative Evaluation of In Vitro and In Vivo Methods of Virus Titration in KFD Vaccine
Authors: Srikanth Ullas Gowda K. , Marinaik Chandranaik B. , Gomes Amitha Reena , Rathnamma Doddamane , Byregowda Sonnahallipura M. , Isloor Shrikrishna , Munivenkatarayappa Archana , Venkatesha Mudalagiri D. , Rao Suguna , Rizwan Apsana , Hegde Raveendra
Published: June 2023

We evaluated the safety and potency of the Kyasanur Forest disease (KFD) vaccine inactivated with different formalin concentrations in mice, since the side effects due to higher formalin concentrations have been a major reason for vaccine refusal. Furthermore, with an objective to reduce the use of mice in vaccine testing, we performed quantification of the KFD virus by real-time PCR and compared it with in vivo titration in mice. The KFD vaccine prepared in chicken embryo fibroblast cells was inactivated with 0.04%, 0.06%, and 0.08% concentrations of formalin. The vaccine inactivated with 0.04% and 0.06% formalin failed the safety test, whereas the KFD vaccine inactivated with 0.08% formalin was safe and potent with a log protective index of 5678 in mice. This reduced formalin content may induce no/lesser side-effects of pain/swelling which may increase the vaccine acceptance. The real-time PCR on individual KFD vaccine harvests interpreted that when the CT value of each harvest is <20, the vaccine will have sufficient viral particles to pass the potency test. Comparison of the real-time PCR on tenfold dilutions of the pooled harvests with in vivo mice inoculation test revealed that the 1MLD50 of the vaccine lies in the tenfold dilution that yields CT values between 31 and 34.
Attitudes toward Aging among College Students: Results from an Intergenerational Reminiscence Project
Authors: Xu Ling , Fields Noelle L. , Cassidy Jessica , Daniel Kathryn M. , Cipher Daisha J. , Troutman Brooke A.
Published: June 2023

The detrimental effects of negative attitudes toward aging among younger adults extend to both older and young adults, highlighting the need for attention from academics, applied researchers, and practitioners. To improve college students’ attitudes toward aging, an intergenerational reminiscence intervention was conducted. College students, who were randomized to intervention or control groups and matched with older adults, made weekly phone calls to community-dwelling older adults with cognitive impairment for ten weeks. This study investigated whether college students improved their attitudes toward aging after participating in this project. A total of 64 college student participants completed the whole intervention and all data collection. The Fraboni Scale of Ageism was used to measure attitudes toward aging and administered at three time points (pre-, mid-, and post-test). Parametric and nonparametric tests were examined to understand changes over time, and post-hoc analyses were conducted to understand timepoints in which changes occurred. The results showed that both the intervention and control groups evidenced a decrease in the majority of the ageism scale, including statistical improvements in three specific negative items, which were “Seniors are stingy and hoard money”, “Seniors live in the past”, and “I prefer not to spend time with seniors”. Overall, the findings indicate that weekly engagement with older adults is promising in improving attitudes toward aging among college students. Implications for future research on intergenerational contacts to improve attitudes toward aging are discussed.
Lifelong Fitness in Ambulatory Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy I: Key Ingredients for Bone and Muscle Health
Authors: Moreau Noelle G. , Friel Kathleen M. , Fuchs Robyn K. , Dayanidhi Sudarshan , Sukal-Moulton Theresa , Grant-Beuttler Marybeth , Peterson Mark D. , Stevenson Richard D. , Duff Susan V.
Published: June 2023

Physical activity of a sufficient amount and intensity is essential to health and the prevention of a sedentary lifestyle in all children as they transition into adolescence and adulthood. While fostering a fit lifestyle in all children can be challenging, it may be even more so for those with cerebral palsy (CP). Evidence suggests that bone and muscle health can improve with targeted exercise programs for children with CP. Yet, it is not clear how musculoskeletal improvements are sustained into adulthood. In this perspective, we introduce key ingredients and guidelines to promote bone and muscle health in ambulatory children with CP (GMFCS I–III), which could lay the foundation for sustained fitness and musculoskeletal health as they transition from childhood to adolescence and adulthood. First, one must consider crucial characteristics of the skeletal and muscular systems as well as key factors to augment bone and muscle integrity. Second, to build a better foundation, we must consider critical time periods and essential ingredients for programming. Finally, to foster the sustainability of a fit lifestyle, we must encourage commitment and self-initiated action while ensuring the attainment of skill acquisition and function. Thus, the overall objective of this perspective paper is to guide exercise programming and community implementation to truly alter lifelong fitness in persons with CP.
The Influence of Self-Expansion and Consumer Engagement on Consumers’ Continuous Participation in Virtual Corporate Social Responsibility Co-Creation
Authors: Nie Jinjun , Wang Xiaoyi , Yang Chan
Published: June 2023

Virtual corporate social responsibility co-creation (VCSRC) became an effective strategic tool with which enterprises can fulfill social responsibilities and retain customers. This study investigated the drivers of consumers’ continuous participation in VCSRC based on online survey data collected from 336 VCSRC participants. From a new perspective of self-expansion theory and by integrating consumer engagement (CE), we constructed a theoretical model and proposed a set of hypotheses, which were tested by using the structural equation model (SEM). Our findings show that self-expansion (experience-based expansion, competence-based expansion, and identity-based expansion) has a significant positive impact on continuous participation, with CE (conscious attention, enthusiasm, and social connection) playing a partial mediating role. Our research not only theoretically contributes to the research on VCSRC and self-expansion theory, but also inspires the operation of VCSRC projects in motivating consumers’ continuous participation.
Characterization of a New Lightweight Plaster Material with Superabsorbent Polymers and Perlite for Building Applications
Authors: Guijarro-Miragaya Patricia , Ferrández Daniel , Atanes-Sánchez Evangelina , Zaragoza-Benzal Alicia
Published: June 2023

The building sector is facing the challenge of transitioning to a more industrialized construction approach and is thus promoting the development of new materials that enable the production of lighter prefabricated products with enhanced thermal performance. This study conducts the physicochemical and mechanical characterization of a new plaster material intended for application in the building sector. The plaster material developed contains potassium polyacrylate and perlite in its composition and has been reinforced with wood, glass and polypropylene fibers to improve its physical and mechanical properties. The results demonstrate that the combined incorporation of potassium polyacrylate and expanded perlite leads to a decrease in density and thermal conductivity by 10.5% and 47%, respectively, compared to traditional plasters. In addition, the incorporation of reinforcement fibers in the plaster matrix, particularly glass fiber, improves the mechanical strength of the new material. The plaster composite developed for this research offers lightweight characteristics and improves the energy efficiency of the construction systems into which it can be integrated and is designed for use in prefabricated panels and plates especially. This progress represents a step towards more efficient industrialized construction.
Flexural Behavior of Precast UHPC Segmental Beams with Unbonded Tendons and Epoxy Resin Joints
Authors: Zheng Hui , Chen Daixing , Ou Mingfu , Liang Xuejiao , Luo Yuan
Published: June 2023

Precast concrete segmental bridges (PCSBs) with hybrid tendons may be the most competitive solution for achieving the advantages of rapid construction and favorable structural performance. Therefore, the flexural behavior of precast concrete segmental bridges (PCSBs) with unbonded tendons and epoxy joints was experimentally investigated in this study, and the effects of the joint types were recorded. Investigations were carried out on the ultimate loads, prestressed strand stresses, deflections, as well as failure modes, while an unbonded monolithic beam was tested for comparison. In addition, the strain measurement proved that the average strains agree with the assumption of plane section, regardless of whether the joints were set. The flexural strengths of prefabricated components were 9~15% lower than those of the monolithic beams with unbonded tendons. Meanwhile, the shape of the joints also influenced the flexural bearing capacity; the bearing capacity of the dual-tooth joint beam was 4.5% lower than that of the single-tooth one, and the bearing capacity of the flat butt joint member was 5.7% lower than that of the dual-tooth joint beam. Moreover, the experimental deflection curve and ultimate bearing capacity of the models with different shear keys showed a good correlation with the FE results. These research outcomes will aid in comprehending the roles of joints in the flexural behaviors of precast UHPC segmental bridges.
Evaluation of Thermal Comfort with and without Fill Using a Thermal Environment Analysis Method for Building Envelopes with Thermally Complex Geometry: A Case Study in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Yamamoto Tatsuhiro
Published: June 2023

Recently, the number of buildings with curved surfaces has been increasing. Although these buildings are not complex from a design perspective, they are thermally complex from an environmental engineering perspective. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a tool used in environmental engineering analysis that requires advanced analysis techniques. Its analysis load is high, making its use impractical in design. Therefore, a coupled analysis method was developed using the two-dimensional heat flow calculation tool Hygrabe, energy simulation, and CFD. Using this method, the environmental analysis of a building with fill in Hokkaido, Japan, was performed and the accuracy of the analysis was verified. The results of the coupled analysis model were used to evaluate thermal insulation performance. The high thermostability of the fill contributes to the high degree of freedom of the exterior skin and is highly useful for design. The results show that the thermal performance of the building envelope with and without fill did not change the insulation performance. The results for January 15 were below −3.0 °C for all insulation performance levels but higher than the outside air temperature during the night.
Effects of Multi-Directional Seismic Input on Non-Linear Static Analysis of Existing Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Cantagallo Cristina , Terrenzi Marco , Spacone Enrico , Camata Guido
Published: June 2023

Recent studies have shown the importance of including the seismic input directionality in nonlinear analyses for an accurate prediction of the structural demand on frame structures. This paper proposes a new method that includes the multi-directionality of the input seismic forces in Nonlinear Static Analyses (NSAs). Conventionally, the pushover (PO) analyses apply monotonically increasing lateral loads in two directions that typically correspond with the building X and Y directions, that in the case of a rectangular plan are parallel to the building sides. Since in general the direction of the seismic input is a priori unknown, the effects of applying the PO load patterns along varying angles are studied in this paper. Two non-code-conforming reinforced concrete buildings are used as a case study. They have identical structural design but the first one is doubly symmetric while the second one has a significant plan asymmetry due to the translation of the center of mass. PO loads are applied to both structures at angles between 0° and 360° with 15° increments. The results of the NSAs are compared with those of multi-directional NHAs applied at the same angles. The structural demands show that the multi-directional NSAs are more conservative than the conventional NSAs, especially at the corners of the asymmetric- plan building where they can yield significantly higher demands. The base shear capacities in the X and Y directions decrease for intermediate angles due to the interaction between the responses in the X and Y directions that can be captured thanks to the columns’ fiber section discretization. On average the results of the multi-directional NSAs are closer to those of the NHAs, even though they are generally lower.