bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of CPAP Failure Score to Predict the Risk of Helmet-CPAP Support Failure in COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Alessandri Francesco , Tosi Antonella , De Lazzaro Francesco , Andreoli Chiara , Cicchinelli Andrea , Carrieri Cosima , Lai Quirino , Pugliese Francesco ,   on behalf of the Policlinico Umberto I COVID-19 Group
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: the aim of this study was to create a score to predict the incidence of CPAP failure in COVID-19 patients early. (2) Methods: in this retrospective observational study, we included all consecutive adult patients admitted between February and April 2021. The main outcome was the failure of CPAP support (intubation or death). (3) Results: two-hundred and sixty-three COVID-19 patients were managed with CPAP. The population was divided in short-CPAP (CPAP days ≤ 10; 72.6%) and long-CPAP (>10; 27.4%) groups. After balancing the entire population using a stabilized IPTW method, we applied a multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the risk factors for CPAP failure. We used the identified covariates to create a mathematical model, the CPAP Failure Score (CPAP-FS). The multivariable logistic regression analysis identified four variables: SpO2 (OR = 0.86; p-value = 0.001), P/F ratio (OR = 0.99; p-value = 0.008), the Call Score (OR = 1.44; p-value = 0.02), and a pre-existing chronic lung disease (OR = 3.08; p-value = 0.057). The beta-coefficients obtained were used to develop the CPAP-FS, whose diagnostic ability outperformed other relevant COVID-19-related parameters (AUC = 0.87; p-value < 0.0001). We validated the CPAP-FS using a 10-fold internal cross-validation method which confirmed the observed results (AUCs 0.76–0.80; p-values < 0.0001). (4) Conclusions: the CPAP-FS can early identify COVID-19 patients who are at risk of CPAP failure.
Physical Examination for Endocrine Diseases: Does It Still Play a Role?
Authors: Crafa Andrea , Condorelli Rosita A. , Cannarella Rossella , Aversa Antonio , Calogero Aldo E. , La Vignera Sandro
Published: May 2022

A physical examination represents a fundamental step in diagnosing diseases. Due to the role that hormones play in the regulation of numerous biological processes in various organs and systems, endocrine diseases cause a variety of clinical manifestations that can be easily identified with a careful physical examination and can guide the clinician to specific diagnoses. Furthermore, the presence of specific clinical signs in various endocrine-metabolic diseases can predict the risk of developing comorbidities and serious adverse events. In this article, we present some of the main clinical signs of endocrine-metabolic diseases and the risk of comorbidities, summarizing the pathogenetic mechanisms that lead to their formation. The aim is to highlight how the identification of these specific signs can reduce the number of dynamic tests and the costs necessary to reach the diagnosis and allow the early identification of any complications associated with these diseases, improving the clinical management of affected patients.
Appendiceal Orifice Inflammation Is Associated with Lower Rate of Complete Endoscopic Remission in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Oh Chang Kyo , Lee Han Hee , Kim Jin Su , Lee Bo-In , Cho Young-Seok
Published: May 2022

Appendiceal orifice inflammation (AOI) is commonly considered a skip lesion in ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the clinical significance of AOI in UC patients remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical feature and long-term outcomes of AOI by comparing UC patients with and without AOI. This study was conducted as a retrospective design of patients who were newly diagnosed or referred within 3 months after diagnosis at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2020. All patients underwent index and follow-up colonoscopies. The long-term outcomes involved achieving complete endoscopic remission (ER), use of biologics, hospitalization, and proximal disease extension. Complete ER was defined as Mayo endoscopic subscore 0. In total, 318 UC patients were included, of which 140 had AOI. The baseline characteristics were not significantly different between AOI and non-AOI groups. The cumulative risk of complete ER was a significant difference between AOI and non-AOI groups (p = 0.041). The other cumulative risks of disease outcomes were not significantly different between AOI and non-AOI groups (use of biologics, p = 0.542; hospitalization, p = 0.795; proximal disease extension, p = 0.403). The multivariate Cox regression analysis also revealed that AOI was the significant factor of complete ER (hazard ratio, 0.656; 95% confidence interval, 0.462–0.932; p = 0.019) in UC patients. AOI shows a significant association with lower rate of complete ER in UC patients. Therefore, a meticulous treatment strategy may be recommended to achieve complete ER in UC patients with AOI.
Reliability Study of Inertial Sensors LIS2DH12 Compared to ActiGraph GT9X: Based on Free Code
Authors: Martín-Martín Jaime , Jiménez-Partinen Ariadna , De-Torres Irene , Escriche-Escuder Adrian , González-Sánchez Manuel , Muro-Culebras Antonio , Roldán-Jiménez Cristina , Ruiz-Muñoz María , Mayoral-Cleries Fermín , Biró Attila , Tang Wen , Nikolova Borjanka , Salvatore Alfredo , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I.
Published: May 2022

The study’s purpose was to assess the reliability of the LIS2DH12 in two different positions, using the commercial sensor Actigraph GT9X as a reference instrument. Five participants completed two gait tests on a treadmill. Firstly, both sensors were worn on the wrist and around the thigh. Each test consisted of a 1 min walk for participants to become accustomed to the treadmill, followed by a 2 min trial at ten pre-set speeds. Data from both sensors were collected in real-time. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate the equality of characteristics obtained by both sensors: maximum peaks, minimum peaks, and the mean of the complete signal (sequence of acceleration values along the time) by each axis and speed were extracted to evaluate the equality of characteristics obtained with LIS2DH12 compared to Actigraph. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was extracted, and a standard deviation of the mean was obtained from the data. Our results show that LIS2DH12 measurements present more reliability than Actigraph GT9X, ICC > 0.8 at three axes. This study concludes that LIS2DH12 is as reliable and accurate as Actigraph GT9X Link and, therefore, would be a suitable tool for future kinematic studies.
The Efficacy of Cannabis on Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptoms
Authors: Haddad Fatma , Dokmak Ghadeer , Karaman Rafik
Published: May 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is known as an autoimmune disease that damages the neurons in the central nervous system. MS is characterized by its most common symptoms of spasticity, muscle spasms, neuropathic pain, tremors, bladder dysfunction, dysarthria, and some intellectual problems, including memory disturbances. Several clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of cannabis on the relief of these symptoms in MS patients. The efficacy of Cannabis sativa (C. Sativa) in the management of MS outcomes such as spasticity, pain, tremors, ataxia, bladder functions, sleep, quality of life, and adverse effects were assessed in this review. Most clinical studies showed the positive effects of cannabinoids with their different routes of administration, such as oromucosal spray and oral form, in reducing most MS symptoms. The oromucosal spray Nabiximols demonstrated an improvement in reducing MS spasticity, pain, and quality of life with a tolerated adverse effect. Oral cannabinoids are significantly effective for treating MS pain and spasticity, while the other symptoms indicate slight improvement and the evidence is quite inconsistent. Oromucosal spray and oral cannabis are mainly used for treating patients with MS and have positive effects on treating the most common symptoms of MS, such as pain and spasticity, whereas the other MS symptoms indicated slight improvement, for which further studies are needed.
Contact Characteristics and Tribological Properties of the Weaving Surface of Mn-Cu and Fe-Zn Damping Alloys
Authors: Zhang Lin , Yan Xindong , Shu Ying , Yang Hongjuan , Kang Xiaomin , Cai Zhenbing , Zhu Minhao
Published: May 2022

In this paper, laser texturing is performed on the surface of Mn-Cu and Fe-Zn damping alloys and the tribological properties of the samples with various surface weaves under dry-sliding conditions are investigated. The results show that the surface weave parameters affect the size of the contact surface and change the number of micro-convex bodies at the contact interface. This leads to changes in the tangential damping of the contact and further affects the magnitude of the friction coefficient. Additionally, the damping properties significantly affect the wear mechanism and make it more prone to adhesive wear.
Effect of Yb3+ on the Structural and Visible to Near-Infrared Wavelength Photoluminescence Properties in Sm3+-Yb3+-Codoped Barium Fluorotellurite Glasses
Authors: Kumi-Barimah Eric , Chen Yan , Tenwick Rebekah , Al-Murish Mohanad , Sherma Geeta , Jha Animesh
Published: May 2022

We report on the Sm3+ and Sm3+:Yb3+-doped barium fluorotellurite glasses prepared using the conventional melting and quenching method. The spectroscopic characterisations were investigated with Raman and FTIR to evaluate the glasses’ structural and hydroxyl (-OH) content. The Raman analysis revealed a structural modification in the glass network upon adding and increasing the Yb3+ concentration from a TeO3 trigonal pyramid to a TeO4 trigonal bi-pyramid polyhedral. At the same time, the FTIR measurements showed the existence of -OH groups in the glass. Thus, under the current experimental conditions and nominal composition, the -OH group contents are too large to enable an effective removal. The near-infrared region of the absorption spectra is employed to determine the nephelauxetic ratio and bonding parameters. The average nephelauxetic ratio decreases, and the bonding parameter increases with the increasing Yb3+ content in the glasses. A room temperature visible and near-infrared photoluminescence ranging from 500 to 1500 nm in wavelength and decay properties were investigated for glasses doped with Sm3+ and Sm3+-Yb3+ by exciting them with 450 and 980 nm laser sources. Exciting the Sm3+- and Sm3+-Yb3+-doped glasses by 450 nm excitation reveals a new series of photoluminescence emissions at 1200, 1293, and 1418 nm, corresponding to the 6F11/2 state to the 6HJ (J = 7/2, 9/2, 11/2) transitions. Under the 976 nm laser excitation, a broad photoluminescence emission from 980 to 1200 nm was detected. A decay lifetime decreased from ~244 to ~43 μs by increasing the Yb3+ content, ascribing to concentration quenching and the OH content.
Effect of Niobium Content on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Simulated Coarse-Grained Heat-Affected Zone (CGHAZ) of High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) Steels
Authors: Yu Hongwei , Wu Kaiming , Dong Baoqi , Yu Liling , Liu Jingxi , Liu Zicheng , Xiao Daheng , Jing Xing , Liu Hankun
Published: May 2022

The effect of Nb-content and heat input rate on the mechanical properties and microstructure of simulated coarse-grained heat-affected zone (CGHAZ) of high-strength low-alloy steel (HSLA) was investigated. While using a low heat input (20 kJ/cm), the toughness of simulated CGHAZ was improved by increasing the Nb-content. The maximum toughness was obtained when the Nb-content was 0.110 wt.% and the heat input was 20 kJ/cm. The samples made at this condition had fine martensite/austenite (M/A-constituent), acicular ferrite and refined austenite grains. As the heat input was increased to 200 kJ/cm, the toughness of simulated CGHAZ was significantly decreased irrespective of the Nb-content because of the formation of coarse austenite grains, low angle grain boundaries, and massive M/A-constituents.
The Influence of Solar Sintering on Copper Heat Exchanger Parts with Controlled 3D-Printed Morphology
Authors: Pop Mihai Alin , Croitoru Cătălin , Bedo Tibor , Geamăn Virgil , Radomir Irinel , Crișan Aurel , Guillot Emmanuel , Miloșan Ioan , Zaharia Sebastian Marian , Chicoș Lucia Antoaneta
Published: May 2022

From a scientific point of view, heat transfer is different in solar furnaces compared with classical ones and the influence of direct concentrated solar radiation on sintered parts needs to be studied in detail to determine the feasibility of solar furnaces in manufacturing small workpieces. This study was performed on cylindrical samples with controlled morphology obtained by a powder metallurgy 3D printing technique. All samples were heated with a heating rate of 120 ± 10 °C/minute, with 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 min holding times at 900 °C and 930 °C. The morphology of the samples was analyzed microscopically, the microhardness was determined before and after sintering, and the results were correlated with the sintering parameters (temperature, heating rate and holding time). The best results were obtained at 930 °C with 5 min holding time from the microhardness value and microstructure point of view.
Anthropogenic Sources of Electromagnetic Interference in the Lowest ELF Band Recordings (Schumann Resonances)
Authors: Mlynarczyk Janusz , Tritakis Vasilis , Contopoulos Ioannis , Nieckarz Zenon , Christofilakis Vasilis , Tatsis Georgios , Repapis Christos
Published: May 2022

Recording systems that deal with Extra Low Frequency (ELF) data in the Schumann resonance (SR) range exhibit high sensitivity to external noise. In our effort to refine a time series by identifying and removing external disturbances from real data, we analyzed the effect of induced deliberate anthropogenic disturbances. The signals were recorded at the same time and same place by two separate systems with different designs and implementations. The main purpose of this experiment was to confirm that different systems in various observational sites could identify parasitic noises in the same way. The outcomes of this study may help ELF observers to discern intrinsic signals from artificial noise.
Knowledgebra: An Algebraic Learning Framework for Knowledge Graph
Authors: Yang Tong , Wang Yifei , Sha Long , Engelbrecht Jan , Hong Pengyu
Published: May 2022

Knowledge graph (KG) representation learning aims to encode entities and relations into dense continuous vector spaces such that knowledge contained in a dataset could be consistently represented. Dense embeddings trained from KG datasets benefit a variety of downstream tasks such as KG completion and link prediction. However, existing KG embedding methods fell short to provide a systematic solution for the global consistency of knowledge representation. We developed a mathematical language for KG based on an observation of their inherent algebraic structure, which we termed as Knowledgebra. By analyzing five distinct algebraic properties, we proved that the semigroup is the most reasonable algebraic structure for the relation embedding of a general knowledge graph. We implemented an instantiation model, SemE, using simple matrix semigroups, which exhibits state-of-the-art performance on standard datasets. Moreover, we proposed a regularization-based method to integrate chain-like logic rules derived from human knowledge into embedding training, which further demonstrates the power of the developed language. As far as we know, by applying abstract algebra in statistical learning, this work develops the first formal language for general knowledge graphs, and also sheds light on the problem of neural-symbolic integration from an algebraic perspective.
Marine Biopolymers as Bioactive Functional Ingredients of Electrospun Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Iliou Konstantina , Kikionis Stefanos , Ioannou Efstathia , Roussis Vassilios
Published: May 2022

Marine biopolymers, abundantly present in seaweeds and marine animals, feature diverse structures and functionalities, and possess a wide range of beneficial biological activities. Characterized by high biocompatibility and biodegradability, as well as unique physicochemical properties, marine biopolymers are attracting a constantly increasing interest for the development of advanced systems for applications in the biomedical field. The development of electrospinning offers an innovative technological platform for the production of nonwoven nanofibrous scaffolds with increased surface area, high encapsulation efficacy, intrinsic interconnectivity, and structural analogy to the natural extracellular matrix. Marine biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds with multifunctional characteristics and tunable mechanical properties now attract significant attention for biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, and wound healing. The present review, covering the literature up to the end of 2021, highlights the advancements in the development of marine biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibers for their utilization as cell proliferation scaffolds, bioadhesives, release modifiers, and wound dressings.
A Rare Case Report of Mesenchymal Chondrosarcoma with Pancreatic Metastasis
Authors: Chen Jian-Jiun , Chou Cheng-Wei
Published: May 2022

Background: Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma is a rare but aggressive subtype of sarcoma. The majority of involvement locates in the axial skeleton. Treatment modalities include radical surgery, local radiotherapy, and systemic chemotherapy. However, the long-term survival outcome remains poor. Case presentation: We present the case of a 33-year-old male with a palpable chest wall mass for one year, diagnosed with mesenchymal chondrosarcoma with surgical removal. Later, he had an unusual pancreatic tail tumor as the first presentation of disease metastasis which was proven by surgical resection one year later. Conclusion: Although mesenchymal chondrosarcoma locates mainly in the axial skeletal system, extra-skeletal soft tissue or organ involvement might be seen occasionally. Active surveillance with multidisciplinary team management could significantly prolong survival outcomes.
Machine Learning Assisted Prediction of Microstructures and Young’s Modulus of Biomedical Multi-Component β-Ti Alloys
Authors: Liu Xingjun , Peng Qinghua , Pan Shaobin , Du Jingtao , Yang Shuiyuan , Han Jiajia , Lu Yong , Yu Jinxin , Wang Cuiping
Published: May 2022

Recently, the development of β-titanium (Ti) alloys with a low Young’s modulus as human implants has been the trend of research in biomedical materials. However, designing β-titanium alloys by conventional experimental methods is too costly and inefficient. Therefore, it is necessary to propose a method that can efficiently and reliably predict the microstructures and the mechanical properties of biomedical titanium alloys. In this study, a machine learning prediction method is proposed to accelerate the design of biomedical multi-component β-Ti alloys with low moduli. Prediction models of microstructures and Young’s moduli were built at first. The performances of the models were improved by introducing new experimental data. With the help of the models, a Ti–13Nb–12Ta–10Zr–4Sn (wt.%) alloy with a single β-phase microstructure and Young’s modulus of 69.91 GPa is successfully developed. This approach could also be used to design other advanced materials.
Effect of Prior Cold Reduction of C–Si–Mn Hot-Rolled Sheet on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties after Quenching and Partitioning Treatment
Authors: Cheng Yuanyao , Zhao Gang , Xu Deming , Bao Siqian
Published: May 2022

This paper studies the microstructures and mechanical properties of quenching and partitioning (Q&P) samples prepared with 35% and 75% cold reduction sheets at an annealing temperature of 810 °C (intercritical temperature). The results indicate that prior cold reduction could significantly influence the ferrite recovery and recrystallization during intercritical annealing, which changes the size and distribution of the ferrite and retained austenite in the Q&P samples. Compared with the 75%—Q&P sample, the 35%—Q&P sample had smaller recrystallized ferrite and retained austenite grains, a higher volume fraction of retained austenite, and a more uneven size distribution of retained austenite. The 35%—Q&P sample presented better total elongation and a higher product of strength and elongation (PSE) than the 75%—Q&P sample. The higher total elongation was related to the higher content and uneven size distribution of retained austenite for they strengthened the TRIP effect and improved the uniform elongation of the sample. The results proved that Q&P steel prepared with a cold-rolled sheet with lower reduction exhibits a better combination of strength and plasticity due to the fact that lower reduction can delay the growth rate of austenite and recrystallized ferrite grains during the intercritical annealing stage.
Magnetic-Field-Induced Strain Enhances Electrocatalysis of FeCo Alloys on Anode Catalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Heyan , Ren Yanwei , Wang Kai , Mu Xiaoming , Song Shihao , Guo Jia , Yang Xiaojing , Lu Zunming
Published: May 2022

In water splitting, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance of transition metal alloy catalysts needs to be further improved. To solve this problem, the method of an external magnetic field was used to improve the OER catalytic performance of the alloy catalyst. In this paper, FeCo alloys with different composition ratios were prepared by an arc melting method, and OER catalysts with different compositions were obtained by annealing treatment. Under the action of a magnetic field, all three groups of catalysts showed a better catalytic performance than those without a magnetic field. The overpotentials of Fe35Co65, Fe22Co78 and Fe15Co85 at a current density of 20 mA cm−2 were reduced by 12 mV, 6 mV and 2 mV, respectively. It is found that, due to the magnetostrictive properties of FeCo alloys, the catalyst itself will generate strain under the action of a magnetic field, and the existence of strain may be the main reason for the enhanced OER performance of the magnetic field. Therefore, this work provides a new idea for the development of magnetic material catalysts and a magnetic field to improve the performance of catalysts.
Hybrid Method for Endpoint Prediction in a Basic Oxygen Furnace
Authors: Wang Ruibin , Mohanty Itishree , Srivastava Amiy , Roy Tapas Kumar , Gupta Prakash , Chattopadhyay Kinnor
Published: May 2022

Strict monitoring and prediction of endpoints in a Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) are essential for end-product quality and overall process efficiency. Existing control models are mostly developed based on thermodynamic principles or by deploying advanced sensors. This article aims to propose a novel hybrid algorithm for endpoint temperature, carbon, and phosphorus, based on heat and mass balance and a data-driven technique. Three types of static models were established in this study: firstly, theoretical models, based on user-specified inputs, were formulated based on mass and energy balance; secondly, artificial neural networks (ANN) were developed for endpoints predictions; finally, the proposed hybrid model was established, based upon exchanging outputs among theoretical models and ANNs. Data of steelmaking production details collected from 28,000 heats from Tata Steel India were used for this article. Machine learning model validation was carried out with five-fold cross-validation to ensure generalizations in model predictions. ANNs are found to achieve better predictive accuracies than theoretical models in all three endpoints. However, they cannot be directly applied in any steelmaking plants, due to possible variations in the production setting. After applying the hybrid algorithm, normalized root mean squared errors are reduced for endpoint carbon and phosphorus by 3.7% and 9.77%.
A Quantitative Evaluation of Size and Shape Characteristics for Desert Sand Particles
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Liu Ruidan , Lyu Kai , Gu Yue
Published: May 2022

In this paper, the size and shape characteristics of desert sand particles were quantitatively investigated via a combination of X-CT scanning and spherical harmonics functions. The size characteristics of the desert sand particles were evaluated via the Length (L), Width (W), Thickness (T), and Volume equivalent spherical diameter (VESD). The average value of the VESD for the desert sand particle is 118.2 μm, which is much smaller than that of commonly used fine aggregate, and more than 90% particles are smaller than 150 μm. The overall shape of the desert sand particles was assessed with two aspect ratios: elongation (EI) and flatness (FI). Desert sand particles were classified into four categories: spheroid-shaped, oblate-shaped, prolate-shaped, and blade-shaped. The sphericity (S) values of the desert sand particles were distributed in a wider range, with an average sphericity of 0.85, much larger than that of commonly used fine aggregates. Through a combination of aspect ratios and sphericity analysis, it can be roughly concluded that the desert sand particles appear in more irregular shapes, but with relatively smooth surface morphology and less convex or concave parts.
Formulation and Biological Evaluation of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Loaded with Combinations of Sortase A Inhibitors and Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Alharthi Sitah , Ziora Zyta M. , Janjua Taskeen , Popat Amirali , Moyle Peter M.
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to develop synergistic therapies to treat superbug infections through the encapsulation of sortase A inhibitors (SrtAIs; trans-chalcone (TC), curcumin (CUR), quercetin (QC), or berberine chloride (BR)) into MCM-41 mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) or a phosphonate-modified analogue (MCM-41-PO3−) to overcome their poor aqueous solubility. A resazurin-modified minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and checkerboard assays, to measure SrtAI synergy in combination with leading antimicrobial peptides (AMPs; pexiganan (PEX), indolicidin (INDO), and [I5, R8] mastoparan (MASTO)), were determined against methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results demonstrated that the MCM-41 and MCM-41-PO3− formulations significantly improved the aqueous solubility of each SrtAI. The MICs for SrtAI/MCM-41-PO3− formulations were lower compared to the SrtAI/MCM-41 formulations against tested bacterial strains, except for the cases of BR/MCM-41 and QC/MCM-41 against P. aeruginosa. Furthermore, the following combinations demonstrated synergy: PEX with TC/MCM-41 (against all strains) or TC/MCM-41-PO3− (against all strains except P. aeruginosa); PEX with BR/MCM-41 or BR/MCM-41-PO3− (against MSSA and MRSA); INDO with QC/MCM-41 or QC/MCM-41-PO3− (against MRSA); and MASTO with CUR/MCM-41 (against E. coli). These combinations also reduced each components’ toxicity against human embryonic kidney cells. In conclusion, MCM-41 MSNs provide a platform to enhance SrtAI solubility and demonstrated antimicrobial synergy with AMPs and reduced toxicity, providing novel superbug treatment opportunities.
Current Strategies to Enhance Delivery of Drugs across the Blood–Brain Barrier
Authors: Teleanu Raluca Ioana , Preda Manuela Daniela , Niculescu Adelina-Gabriela , Vladâcenco Oana , Radu Crina Ioana , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Teleanu Daniel Mihai
Published: May 2022

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) has shown to be a significant obstacle to brain medication delivery. The BBB in a healthy brain is a diffusion barrier that prevents most substances from passing from the blood to the brain; only tiny molecules can pass across the BBB. The BBB is disturbed in specific pathological illnesses such as stroke, diabetes, seizures, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The goal of this study is to offer a general overview of current brain medication delivery techniques and associated topics from the last five years. It is anticipated that this review will stimulate readers to look into new ways to deliver medications to the brain. Following an introduction of the construction and function of the BBB in both healthy and pathological conditions, this review revisits certain contested questions, such as whether nanoparticles may cross the BBB on their own and if medications are selectively delivered to the brain by deliberately targeted nanoparticles. Current non-nanoparticle options are also discussed, including drug delivery via the permeable BBB under pathological circumstances and the use of non-invasive approaches to improve brain medication absorption.
A New Spatial–Temporal Depthwise Separable Convolutional Fusion Network for Generating Landsat 8-Day Surface Reflectance Time Series over Forest Regions
Authors: Zhang Yuzhen , Liu Jindong , Liang Shunlin , Li Manyao
Published: May 2022

Landsat has provided the longest fine resolution data archive of Earth’s environment since 1972; however, one of the challenges in using Landsat data for various applications is its frequent large data gaps and heavy cloud contaminations. One pressing research topic is to generate the regular time series by integrating coarse-resolution satellite data through data fusion techniques. This study presents a novel spatiotemporal fusion (STF) method based on a depthwise separable convolutional neural network (DSC), namely, STFDSC, to generate Landsat-surface reflectance time series at 8-day intervals by fusing Landsat 30 m with high-quality Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) 500 m surface reflectance data. The STFDSC method consists of three main stages: feature extraction, feature fusion and prediction. Features were first extracted from Landsat and MODIS surface reflectance changes, and the extracted multilevel features were then stacked and fused. Both low-level and middle-level features that were generally ignored in convolutional neural network (CNN)-based fusion models were included in STFDSC to avoid key information loss and thus ensure high prediction accuracy. The prediction stage generated a Landsat residual image and is combined with original Landsat data to obtain predictions of Landsat imagery at the target date. The performance of STFDSC was evaluated in the Greater Khingan Mountains (GKM) in Northeast China and the Ziwuling (ZWL) forest region in Northwest China. A comparison of STFDSC with four published fusion methods, including two classic fusion methods (FSDAF, ESTARFM) and two machine learning methods (EDCSTFN and STFNET), was also carried out. The results showed that STFDSC made stable and more accurate predictions of Landsat surface reflectance than other methods in both the GKM and ZWL regions. The root-mean-square-errors (RMSEs) of TM bands 2, 3, 4, and 7 were 0.0046, 0.0038, 0.0143, and 0.0055 in GKM, respectively, and 0.0246, 0.0176, 0.0280, and 0.0141 in ZWL, respectively; it can be potentially used for generating the global surface reflectance and other high-level land products.
Ponencias
Authors: Autores Varios
Published: May 2022

Durante los días miércoles 25 y jueves 26 de agosto del 2021, se realizó la décimo cuarta versión del Encuentro Departamental de Semilleros de Investigación de la Red Regional de Semilleros de Investigación -RREDSI, Nodo Quindío.

En esta nueva versión, la Universidad del Quindío lideró la organización de este tradicional encuentro departamental, el cual acogió, de manera virtual, a estudiantes de todas las instituciones de educación del Departamento, entre las que se encuentran las universidades Remington, La Gran Colombia Armenia, Alexander von Humboldt, Corporación Universitaria Unificada Nacional de Educación Superior, Antonio Nariño, Institución Universitaria EAM y el SENA.

Un total de 88 trabajos de investigación socializados en la modalidad de ponencia, las cuales fueron resultado de la interacción con comunidades y el sector productivo a partir de sus proyectos de semilleros de investigación.
Perceptions and Impacts: An Observational Pilot Study of the Effects of Argentine Ants on Honey Bees in New Zealand
Authors: Jones Graham , Fraser Diane , Lallu Urvashi , Fenwick Sarah-Jayne
Published: May 2022

The Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) is an invasive species first identified in New Zealand in 1990. It is an aggressive tramp species that can form very large ‘super colonies’ extending over vast areas and has been reported to rob honey and predate honey bees in hives. This pilot study sought to establish, from a circulated survey of beekeepers, which ant species were present in their hives and what awareness the beekeepers had of the potential impact of Argentine ants. In addition, a simple method of quantifying the effects of the Argentine ant on brood abundance was trialled in the field. Results indicate that several species of ant are commonly found in hives and that surveyed beekeepers generally regard ants as passive occupiers. A percentage cover estimate of brood cover in frames may be a simple way of measuring ant impact when comparing hives uninfected by ants.Photographic evidence is presented as further indication that L. humile foraged within the hive and actively fed on both honey and emerging brood.
The Nephrolepis Boston fern complex (including Nephrolepis exaltata [L.] Schott), Nephrolepidaceae, naturalised in New Zealand
Authors: Large M , Farrington L
Published: May 2022

Nephrolepis cordifolia (ladder fern) is widely recorded as an invasive weed, and is naturalised in New Zealand. The first records of this plant being wild date from the 1970s. The presence of other native species of Nephrolepis (in particular N. flexuosa Colenso) potentially complicates the recognition of the naturalised species. However, N. cordifolia has been easily distinguished by the presence of ‘bulbils’ or ‘tubers’ that appear along wire-like runners. In this paper we report the presence of the Boston fern complex (including N. exaltata) now apparently wild in the Auckland region. This aggregate is without bulbils and may superficially be confused with the other native and non-native species.
Rito Greco i Rito Latino - opažanja
o problematici nasilnih otmica djevojaka iz ženidbenih spisa Ninske biskupije
(17. – 18. st.)
Authors: Dundović Zdenko
Published: May 2022

U radu se na temelju arhivskih izvornika o ženidbenim slučajevima na prostoru Ninske biskupije u 17. i 18. stoljeću razmatra problematika otmica djevojaka radi sklapanja ženidbe. Naglasak je stavljen na komparativnu analizu odnosa svećenika grčkog i latinskog obreda prema otmicama i sklapanju braka u razmatranom razdoblju te suradnji ninskih biskupa i mletačkih državnih vlasti oko suzbijanja te, po crkvenim i državnim propisima, neuredne prakse među stanovništvom Ninske biskupije. Kroz optiku ninskoga crkvenoga suda u radu se nastoji pokazati da su ninski biskupi, unatoč mnogim kontroverzama oko položaje žene u razmatranom razdoblju, na određeni način štitili integritet otetih djevojaka, a sudske presude u slučajevima nasilnih otmica bitno su utjecale na njihove daljnje sudbine.
Biosurfactants Production by Fermentation Process Using Waste as Substrate – A Patent Search Report
Authors: Ana Verena Pimentel Leal de Moraes Rego  , Márcio Costa Pinto da Silva  , Edna dos Santos Almeida  , Érika Durão Vieira
Published: May 2022

Biosurfactants are active compounds capable of reducing surface tensions produced by microorganisms, having low toxicity and high biodegradability with possible production from renewable sources. This work aims at presenting a patents search on the biosurfactants production through fermentation, using waste as substrate. The methodology consisted of searching keywords and their blending, using the database of Derwent innovation. The search returned 15 patent registrations filed in the last 8 years. Of the 15, 10 orders are active. After analysis, 3 of the 10 selected patents showed strong adherence to the subject, describing the use of waste as substrates to produce more economical biosurfactants.
New Approaches of JBTH
Authors: Luciana Bastianelli  , Roberto Badaró
Published: May 2022

Due to the increase in the number of articles denied by the JBTH that included in their scope several areas related to engineering and bioengineering, chemistry, and technologies, but not directly linked to the health area, many highly relevant papers had to be out of the Journal. As one of the important responsibilities of the Editorial Board is to evaluate the scope of the papers, they have stressed how significant the other areas of SENAI CIMATEC advances are to scientific discovery and development and decided to extend the scope of JBTH to include papers that provide the engineerings, bioengineering, technologies, chemistry, and related areas, but not linked just for health. In this sense, we have already received many strong submissions in many fields we expected. Now, the Journal reflects the evolution we have seen. We ensure it remains relevant and interesting to our readers and researchers. We've had March and part of April issues ready for publication.However, not to lose the indexes DOI, and Crossref, the acronym, and the website remained the same, changing only the name, the editorial board, and the scope of the Journal. Therefore, the Journal is now called "The Journal of Bioengineering, Technologies, and Health (JBTH)".
Smart Warehouses: Logical Architecture for Logistics 4.0
Authors: Carlos César Ribeiro Santos  , Lucas de Freitas Gomes  , Herman Augusto Lepikson  , Gilana Pinheiro de Oliveira  , Lucas Cruz da Silva
Published: May 2022

This article proposes an approach based on Industry 4.0 technologies for building smart warehouses aiming to improve the performance of this logistic system operation. It is considered that the development of general and scalable logical warehouse architecture was to increase the traceability, reliability, and agility of intralogistics activities. It was observed potential gains (structuring and well-organized operations, orchestration of technological resources to improve logistical performance, reduction of human intervention in the process, increased productivity, and proof of operation errors) when modeling and simulating the proposal presented to build a testbed.
Development of Experimental Bench for Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Ítala Liz da Conceição Santana Silva  , Wanberton Gabriel de Souza
Published: May 2022

Wireless-power-transfer (WPT) for powering low-power devices has increased in recent years. The inductive resonant coupling method is the most used technique for this application and consists of taking advantage of the magnetic field generated in a coil so that there is current circulation in another nearby coil. In this work, using this technique, the series-series (SS) compensation topology was used to develop a test bench that should supply a load of up to 10W. Therefore, a brief explanation of the topic, calculations used, defined parameters, and we presented preliminary results of the proposed system.
Comparative Between Neural and Networks Generate Predictions for Global Solar Radiation and Air Temperature
Authors: Lucas Calil Barbosa Duarte  , Moisés Araújo da Paixão  , Luis Felipe da Fé Bastos  , Flávio Santos Conterato
Published: May 2022

Technology is becoming an increasingly important and indispensable tool in human life, making it necessary to develop various forms of renewable energies. However, over time it became necessary to improve this technology that becomes more advanced and efficient. The purpose of the research is to compare the results of three distinct AI algorithms, forecasting in two hours, using the database available by the Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET). The results indicate that the K-Nearest Neighbors Regression network proved to be more effective for estimating Global Solar Radiation (W/m²) and Multi-LayerPerceptron for forecasting Air Temperature (ºC).
Heart and Vascular Lesions in Children in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Рубан А.П.
Published: May 2022

Статья посвящена проблеме кардиоваскулярных нарушений у педиатрических пациентов в эпоху COVID-19. Автор дает характеристику наиболее частым вариантам поражений сердца и сосудов, ассоциированных с COVID-19, у детей. В статье обозначены возможные патогенетические механизмы и соответствующие им проявления кардиоваскулярных поражений при COVID-19. Автором представлены основные алгоритмы диагностического поиска, а также подходы к профилактике осложнений коронавирусной инфекции со стороны сердечно-сосудистой системы. Перечислены ургентные кардиологические состояния и обозначены подходы к их коррекции. В материале сделан акцент на практических моментах, основанных на собственных клинических наблюдениях. Продемонстрированы результаты инструментальных исследований при различных вариантах кардиоваскулярных поражений. Автор обобщает отечественную нормативную документацию по ведению пациентов с COVID-19.

The article is devoted to the problem of cardiovascular disorders in pediatric patients in the era of COVID-19. The author characterizes the most frequent variants of heart and vascular lesions in children associated with COVID-19. Possible pathogenetic mechanisms and their corresponding manifestations of cardiovascular lesions in COVID-19 are outlined in the article. The author presents the main algorithms of diagnostic search, as well as approaches to the prevention of cardiovascular complications of coronavirus infection. Urgent cardiac conditions are listed and approaches to their correction are outlined. The article focuses on practical points based on our own clinical observations. The results of instrumental investigations for different variants of cardiovascular lesions are demonstrated. The author summarizes national regulatory documentation on the management of patients with COVID-19.
The Effectiveness of Medical Rehabilitation in Older People with Bronchial Asthma after Pneumonia COVID-19
Authors: Оленская Т.Л. , Азаренок М.К. , Кокойченко А.А. , Николаева А.Г.
Published: May 2022

В работе представлены результаты исследования пациентов старшего возраста с бронхиальной астмой и различным уровнем физической активности после перенесенной пневмонии, ассоциированной с инфекцией COVID-19, после программы медицинской реабилитации.С учетом полученных результатов показана рациональность применения для данной категории пациентов предложенных компонентов на амбулаторном этапе медицинской реабилитации.

The paper presents the results of a study of older patients with bronchial asthma and various levels of physical activity after suffering pneumonia associated with COVID-19 infection after a medical rehabilitation program.Taking into account the results obtained, the rationality of using the proposed components for this category of patients at the outpatient stage of medical rehabilitation is shown.
Desogestrel-containing Contraceptive in the Treatment and Prevention of Fibroids, Dysmenorrhea and Endometriosis
Authors: Гутикова Л.В. , Павловская М.А. , Кухарчик Ю.В.
Published: May 2022

В течение 12 месяцев обследовано 25 курящих женщин с межмышечными миомами матки клинически незначимых размеров (от 0,5 до 1,0 см в диаметре – ультразвуковая находка) в возрасте от 25 до 38 лет. Всем пациенткам был назначен дезогестрелсодержащий контрацептив Лактинет в непрерывном режиме с 1-го дня менструального цикла по 1 таблетке в сутки в одно и то же время без перерыва на менструацию. Была зарегистрирована стабилизация размеров клинически незначимых миоматозных узлов. Межменструальные кровянистые выделения продолжительностью от 7 до 12 дней, возникающие периодически в течение менструального цикла, были отмечены в период до 3 месяцев использования Лактинета у 9 женщин, в период до 6 месяцев – у 3 пациенток. Аменорея зафиксирована в период до 3 месяцев у 15 пациенток, через 6 месяцев – у 22 пациенток, через 9 и 12 мес. – у 25 женщин. К 12-му месяцу использования Лактинета предменструальный синдром и дисменорея были выявлены лишь у одной женщины.

Within 12 months, 25 smoking women with intermuscular uterine fibroids of clinically insignificant size (from 0.5 to 1.0 cm in diameter – ultrasound finding) aged 25 to 38 years were examined. All patients were prescribed desogestrel-containing contraceptive Lactinet in continuous mode from the 1st day of the menstrual cycle, 1 tablet per day at the same time without a break for menstruation. Stabilization of the sizes of clinically insignificant myomatous nodes was registered. Intermenstrual spotting lasting from 7 to 12 days, occurring periodically during the menstrual cycle, was observed in the period up to 3 months of using Lactinet in 9 women, in the period up to 6 months – in 3 patients. Amenorrhea was recorded in the period up to 3 months in 15 patients, after 6 months – in 22 patients, after 9 and 12 months – in 25 women. By the 12th month of using Lactinet, premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea were detected in only one woman.
Admission of COVID-19 Reconvalescent under the Age of 18 to Participate in Sports
Authors: Рубан А.П.
Published: May 2022

Статья посвящена проблеме допуска детей и подростков, являющихся реконвалесцентами COVID-19, к занятиям физической культурой и спортом. Автор обосновывает необходимость обязательного медицинского наблюдения детей и подростков на этапах выздоровления после COVID-19, делает акцент на оценке кардиоваскулярных рисков. Указывает на важность применения функциональных диагностических методов на этапе реконвалесценции. В статье представлены зарубежные подходы к оценке кардиорисков (экспертов Американской кардиологической ассоциации), а также британский алгоритм адаптации к физической нагрузке. В статье представлен алгоритм выбора схемы возврата к физическим нагрузкам в зависимости от тяжести перенесенного COVID-19. Автор обобщает отечественную нормативную документацию по вопросам допуска реконвалесцентов COVID-19 к занятиям физической культурой и спортом.

The article is devoted to the problem of admission of children and adolescents who are COVID-19 reconvalescents to physical training and sports. The author substantiates the necessity of obligatory medical monitoring of children and adolescents at the stages of recovery after COVID-19, emphasizes the assessment of cardiovascular risks. He points out the importance of using functional diagnostic methods at the stage of recuperation. The article presents foreign approaches to cardiac risk assessment (experts of the American Heart Association), as well as the British algorithm of adaptation to physical activity. The article presents an algorithm for selecting the scheme of return to physical activity depending on the severity of the suffered COVID-19. The author summarizes domestic normative documentation in the issues of admission of COVID-19 reconvalescents to physical training and sports activities.
Mapeamento do ensino de práticas integrativas e complementares nas graduações de Enfermagem, Medicina e Odontologia
Authors: Rocha Erika Maria Sampaio , Nascimento Ezequiel Batista do , Marques Carolina Alves , Passos Larissa Ferreira , Barreto Lucas Alves Noronha , Souza Reinan do Carmo , Souza Thaynara Ferreira de , Fonseca Yago Soares
Published: May 2022

O estudo analisou a oferta de disciplinas abordando as Práticas Integrativas e Complementares em Saúde nas graduações em Enfermagem, Medicina e Odontologia de universidades públicas brasileiras. O mapeamento foi realizado a partir de dados disponibilizados no site do Cadastro Nacional de Cursos e Instituições de Ensino Superior (Cadastro e-MEC) e por posterior análise de documentos (projeto político-pedagógico, matriz curricular e/ou ementário), disponibilizados nos sites oficiais das universidades. A concordância dos dados foi testada pela avaliação inter-juízes e pela realização de estatística descritiva. Em relação ao apontado na literatura, houve um aumento na oferta curricular sobre o tema, porém, esse tópico continua pouco expressivo nas universidades, face à demanda da população. A maioria dos componentes curriculares foram ofertados nos cursos de Enfermagem e Medicina de universidades públicas das regiões Nordeste e Sudeste. Predominaram componentes curriculares optativos e apenas um pequeno número destes desenvolveu atividades práticas. Destacam-se, nos ementários, temas de caráter generalista, com grande interface com a Saúde Coletiva.