bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of the Predictive Model for the Differentiation between Vestibular Migraine and Meniere’s Disease
Authors: Liu Dan , Guo Zhaoqi , Wang Jun , Tian E , Chen Jingyu , Zhou Liuqing , Kong Weijia , Zhang Sulin
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Vestibular migraine (VM) and Meniere’s disease (MD) share multiple features in terms of clinical presentations and auditory-vestibular dysfunctions, e.g., vertigo, hearing loss, and headache. Therefore, differentiation between VM and MD is of great significance. (2) Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 110 patients with VM and 110 patients with MD. We at first established a regression equation by using logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predicted value (PV), and negative PV of screened parameters were assessed and intuitively displayed by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve). Then, two visualization tools, i.e., nomograph and applet, were established for convenience of clinicians. Furthermore, other patients with VM or MD were recruited to validate the power of the equation by ROC curve and the Gruppo Italiano per la Valutazione degli Interventi in Terapia Intensiva (GiViTI) calibration belt. (3) Results: The clinical manifestations and auditory-vestibular functions could help differentiate VM from MD, including attack frequency (X5), phonophobia (X13), electrocochleogram (ECochG) (X18), head-shaking test (HST) (X23), ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (o-VEMP) (X27), and horizontal gain of vestibular autorotation test (VAT) (X30). On the basis of statistically significant parameters screened by Chi-square test and multivariable double logistic regression analysis, we established a regression equation: P = 1/[1 + e−(−2.269× X5 − 2.395× X13 + 2.141× X18 + 3.949 × X23 + 2.798× X27 − 4.275× X30(1) − 5.811× X30(2) + 0.873)] (P, predictive value; e, natural logarithm). Nomographs and applets were used to visualize our result. After validation, the prediction model showed good discriminative power and calibrating power. (4) Conclusions: Our study suggested that a diagnostic algorithm based on available clinical features and an auditory-vestibular function regression equation is clinically effective and feasible as a differentiating tool and could improve the differential diagnosis between VM and MD.
Effects of Fasting and Lifestyle Modification in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cramer Holger , Hohmann Christoph , Lauche Romy , Choi Kyung-Eun (Anna) , Schneider Nadia , Steckhan Nico , Rathjens Florian , Anheyer Dennis , Paul Anna , von Scheidt Christel , Ostermann Thomas , Schneider Elisabeth , Koppold-Liebscher Daniela A. , Kessler Christian S. , Dobos Gustav , Michalsen Andreas , Jeitler Michael
Published: August 2022

Background: Lifestyle interventions, such as fasting, diet, and exercise, are increasingly used as a treatment option for patients with metabolic syndrome (MS). This study assesses the efficacy and safety of fasting followed by lifestyle modification in patients with MS compared to lifestyle modification only. Methods: Single-blind, multicenter, parallel, randomized controlled trial in two German tertiary referral hospitals in metropolitan areas. Interventions: (a) 5-day fasting followed by 10 weeks of lifestyle modification (modified DASH diet, exercise, mindfulness; n = 73); (b) 10 weeks of lifestyle modification only (n = 72). Main outcomes and measures: Co-primary outcomes were ambulatory systolic blood pressure and the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index at week 12. Further outcomes included anthropometric, laboratory parameters, and the PROCAM score at weeks 1, 12, and 24. Results: A total of 145 patients with metabolic syndrome (62.8% women; 59.7 ± 9.3 years) were included. No significant group differences occurred for the co-primary outcomes at week 12. However, compared to lifestyle modification only, fasting significantly reduced HOMA index (Δ = −0.8; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.7, −0.1), diastolic blood pressure (Δ = −4.8; 95% CI = −5.5, −4.1), BMI (Δ = −1.7; 95% CI = −2.0, −1.4), weight (Δ = −1.7; 95% CI = −2.0, −1.4), waist circumference (Δ = −2.6; 95% CI = −5.0, −0.2), glucose (Δ = −10.3; 95% CI = −19.0, −1.6), insulin (Δ = −2.9; 95% CI = −5.3, −0.4), HbA1c (Δ = −0.2; 95% CI = −0.4, −0.05;), triglycerides (Δ = −48.9; 95% CI = −81.0, −16.9), IL−6 (Δ = −1.2; 95% CI = −2.5, −0.005), and the 10-year risk of acute coronary events (Δ = −4.9; 95% CI = −9.5, −0.4) after week 1. Fasting increased uric acid levels (Δ = 1.0; 95% CI = 0.1, 1.9) and slightly reduced eGRF (Δ = −11.9; 95% CI = −21.8, −2.0). Group differences at week 24 were found for weight (Δ = −2, 7; 95% CI = −4.8, −0.5), BMI (Δ = −1.0; 95% CI = −1.8, −0.3), glucose (Δ = −7.7; 95% CI = −13.5, −1.8), HDL (Δ = 5.1; 95% CI = 1.5, 8.8), and CRP (Δ = 0.2; 95% CI = 0.03, 0.4). No serious adverse events occurred. Conclusions: A beneficial effect at week 24 was found on weight; fasting also induced various positive short-term effects in patients with MS. Fasting can thus be considered a treatment for initializing lifestyle modification for this patient group; however, it remains to be investigated whether and how the multilayered effects of fasting can be maintained in the medium and longer term.
SMARTEN—A Sample-Based Approach towards Privacy-Friendly Data Refinement
Authors: Stach Christoph , Behringer Michael , Bräcker Julia , Gritti Clémentine , Mitschang Bernhard
Published: August 2022

Two factors are crucial for the effective operation of modern-day smart services: Initially, IoT-enabled technologies have to capture and combine huge amounts of data on data subjects. Then, all these data have to be processed exhaustively by means of techniques from the area of big data analytics. With regard to the latter, thorough data refinement in terms of data cleansing and data transformation is the decisive cornerstone. Studies show that data refinement reaches its full potential only by involving domain experts in the process. However, this means that these experts need full insight into the data in order to be able to identify and resolve any issues therein, e.g., by correcting or removing inaccurate, incorrect, or irrelevant data records. In particular for sensitive data (e.g., private data or confidential data), this poses a problem, since these data are thereby disclosed to third parties such as domain experts. To this end, we introduce SMARTEN, a sample-based approach towards privacy-friendly data refinement to smarten up big data analytics and smart services. SMARTEN applies a revised data refinement process that fully involves domain experts in data pre-processing but does not expose any sensitive data to them or any other third-party. To achieve this, domain experts obtain a representative sample of the entire data set that meets all privacy policies and confidentiality guidelines. Based on this sample, domain experts define data cleaning and transformation steps. Subsequently, these steps are converted into executable data refinement rules and applied to the entire data set. Domain experts can request further samples and define further rules until the data quality required for the intended use case is reached. Evaluation results confirm that our approach is effective in terms of both data quality and data privacy.
Influences of Surface, Heat Treatment, and Print Orientation on the Anisotropy of the Mechanical Properties and the Impact Strength of Ti 6Al 4V Processed by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Meier Benjamin , Godja Norica , Warchomicka Fernando , Belei Carlos , Schäfer Sandra , Schindel Andreas , Palcynski Gregor , Kaindl Reinhard , Waldhauser Wolfgang , Sommitsch Christof
Published: August 2022

The scope of this work is to provide an overview of the influences of process parameters, print orientation, and post-process treatments of Ti6AlV4 processed by laser powder bed fusion on its microstructure and physical and mechanical properties and their anisotropic behavior. To avoid the influence of changes in powder quality and ensure comparability, experiments were carried out using a single batch of virgin powder. First, characterization of the density and surface roughness was performed to optimize the process parameters utilizing design of experiment. Tensile, notched bar impact and compression test specimens were built in three different orientations: vertically, horizontally, and inclined at 45° to the build plate. Later, the influence of the staircase effect and the possible course of anisotropy from vertical to horizontal were investigated. Subsequently, heat treatments for stress relief, furnace annealing, and hot isostatic pressing were performed. In addition to as-built samples, mechanical machining and a two-step electrochemical polishing surface treatment were applied to investigate the influence of the surface roughness. With parameter optimization, a relative density of 99.8% was achieved, and surface roughness was improved over default parameters, reducing Ra by up to 7 µm. Electrochemical polishing is a viable way to decrease the surface roughness. An Ra value of 1 µm and an Rz value of 4 µm can be achieved for 45° downskin surfaces with as-built surface roughness values of Ra 24 µm and Rz 117 µm. As-built and stress-relieved conditions show little anisotropy in their yield and tensile strength (max 2.7%), but there is a strong influence of the build orientation on necking, and brittle fracture behavior is shown due to the martensitic microstructure (up to 70%). Heat treatment can increase the ductility and further decrease the strength anisotropy with both furnace annealing and hot isostatic pressing delivering similar results for tensile properties, while angled samples exhibit behavior that is closer to vertical than horizontal, indicating a non-linear change in break behavior. Electrochemical polishing increases fracture necking, and its isotropy drastically increases from 4% to over 30% compared with as-built parts, which is close to the level of the machined specimen.
Outcomes of Importance to Patients in Reproductive Genetic Carrier Screening: A Qualitative Study to Inform a Core Outcome Set
Authors: Richardson Ebony , McEwen Alison , Newton-John Toby , Crook Ashley , Jacobs Chris
Published: August 2022

There is significant heterogeneity in the outcomes assessed across studies of reproductive genetic carrier screening (RGCS). Only a small number of studies have measured patient-reported outcomes or included patients in the selection of outcomes that are meaningful to them. This study was a cross-sectional, qualitative study of 15 patient participants conducted to inform a core outcome set. A core outcome set is an approach to facilitate standardisation in outcome reporting, allowing direct comparison of outcomes across studies to enhance understanding of impacts and potential harms. The aim of this study was to incorporate the patient perspective in the development of a core outcome set by eliciting a detailed understanding of outcomes of importance to patients. Data were collected via online, semi-structured interviews using a novel method informed by co-design and the nominal group technique. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Outcomes elicited from patient stakeholder interviews highlighted several under-explored areas for future research. This includes the role of grief and loss in increased risk couples, the role of empowerment in conceptualising the utility of RGCS, the impact of societal context and barriers that contribute to negative experiences, and the role of genetic counselling in ensuring that information needs are met and informed choice facilitated as RGCS becomes increasingly routine. Future research should focus on incorporating outcomes that accurately reflect patient needs and experience.
Industrial Packaging Performance Indicator Using a Group Multicriteria Approach: An Automaker Reverse Operations Case
Authors: da Cruz Marcelo Miguel , Caiado Rodrigo Goyannes Gusmão , Santos Renan Silva
Published: August 2022

Background: Due to the growing integration between the various logistics entities and other internal operations, packaging management in the automotive industry is becoming increasingly important from the strategic point of view of the logistics operations of automakers. Performance evaluation of reverse operations is also necessary for managers to know their efficiency, avoid unnecessary resource use and promote circular thinking, enabling more sustainable supply chains. Methods: This research proposes a group decision-making (GDM) approach to evaluate packaging performance in automakers to assist return activities in developing countries. The reverse flow in an automaker was mapped, and by combining literature and empirical views of a packaging engineering team of a Brazilian company, a multicriteria indicator for performance evaluation of packaging was elaborated. It was prioritized through the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-GDM method, combining judgments to establish a structured technical consensus. Results: It was possible to integrate multiple views of packaging engineering specialists within the same company to know which packaging deserves greater attention from managers when implementing reverse operations from a circular perspective. Conclusions: To demonstrate applicability, this composite indicator also aims to be a quick application approach, considering the restricted time and availability of the specialists in their daily routines.
SNAr Reactions on 2-Amino-4,6-dichloropyrimidine-5-carbaldehyde
Authors: Trilleras Jorge , Pérez-Gamboa Alfredo , Quiroga Jairo
Published: August 2022

We report the experimental results of unexpected aromatic nucleophilic substitution reaction products on 2-amino-4,6-dichloropyrimidine-5-carbaldehyde. The isolated compounds are products of amination, solvolysis, and condensation processes under mild and environmentally friendly conditions, due to the influence of structural factors of the starting pyrimidine and a high concentration of alkoxide ions. This method allows the building of pyrimidine-based compound precursors of N-heterocyclic systems.
Role of Confined Optical Phonons in Exciton Generation in Spherical Quantum Dot
Authors: Singh Ramji , Dutta Mitra , Stroscio Michael A.
Published: August 2022

Optical control of excitonic states in semiconducting quantum dots has enabled it to be deployed as a qubit for quantum information processing. For self-assembled quantum dots, these excitonic states couple with phonons in the barrier material, for which the previous studies have shown that such exciton—phonon coupling can also lead to the generation of exciton, paving the way for their deployment in qubit-state preparation. Previous studies on self-assembled quantum dots comprising polar materials have considered exciton—phonon coupling by treating phonon modes as bulk acoustic modes only, owing to nearly the same acoustic property of the dot and barrier material. However, the dimensional confinement leads to significant modification phonon modes, even though acoustic confinement is weak but optical confinement cannot be overlooked. In this paper, we investigate for the first time the exciton—optical phonon coupling using dielectric continuum model duly accounting for the dimensional confinement leading to exciton generation. We report that at low temperatures (below 10 K), the exciton creation rate attributed to confined optical phonon is approximately 5.7 times (~6) slower than bulk acoustic phonons, which cannot be ignored, and it should be accounted for in determining the effective phonon assisted exciton creation rate.
Off-Axis Compressive Behaviour of Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastic Composites
Authors: Ma Yifan , Li Yazhi , Liu Lu
Published: August 2022

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the mechanisms of damage onset and evolution in unidirectional PEEK/AS4 carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites subjected to off-axis compressive loadings. A test fixture was designed to prevent buckling, splitting, and end collapsing of the specimens during the test. A series of compression tests were conducted with specimens of various off-axis angles. The displacement and strain fields of all specimens during the tests were evaluated by the digital image correlation (DIC) method. In combination with the DIC results, the influence of the off-axis angles on the failure mechanisms and nonlinear stress–strain responses were analysed. The corresponding failure mechanisms were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The fracture angles of the tested specimens were evaluated and analysed according to Puck’s theory. The off-axis compression failure envelope based on LaRC05 and Hashin criteria was presented and compared to the experimental results. It was shown that the LaRC05 criterion can provide accurate predictions when the off-axis angle is larger than 15°. The complex failure mechanisms were analysed to better understand the effect of ductility of the thermoplastic matrix to the composites. The series of tests provide an experimental failure envelope in combined stress states and can be used for the evaluation of failure theories and the criteria of thermoplastic composites.
Effect of Water–Ethanol Extraction as Pre-Treatment on the Adsorption Properties of Aloe vera Waste
Authors: Mazzeo Leone , Bavasso Irene , Spallieri Melissa , Bracciale Maria Paola , Piemonte Vincenzo , Di Palma Luca
Published: August 2022

The adsorption properties of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) for the uptake of Methylene Blue (MB) from water were investigated after pre-treating the material with water–ethanol solutions at different ethanol concentrations: 0% v/v (AV0), 25% v/v (AV25), and 50% v/v (AV50). The pre-treated materials were characterized as follows: the pHZC was evaluated to be 6, 5.7, and 7.2 for AV0, AV25, and AV50, respectively; from BET-BJH analysis the mesoporous nature of the material and an increase from 108.2 (AV0) to 331.7 (AV50) m2/kg of its solid surface area was observed; TG analysis revealed a significat increase in volatile compounds from the untreated (5.4%) to the treated materials (8.9%, 10.3%, and 11.3% for AV0, AV25, and AV50, respectively). Adsorption batch tests were then performed to investigate the equilibrium, the kinetics, and the thermodynamics of the process. Results suggested that the Langmuir model was in agreement with the experimental results, and values for qmax of 199 mg/g, 311 mg/g, and 346 mg/g were calculated for AV0, AV25, and AV50, respectively. The kinetic results were used to develop a mathematical model to estimate the effective diffusion coefficient for each type of Aloe adopted. Effective diffusion coefficients of 5.43·10−7 cm2/min, 3.89·10−7 cm2/min, and 5.78·10−7 cm2/min were calculated for AV0, AV25, and AV50, respectively. It was found that pre-treatment, on the one hand, enhances the adsorption capacity of the material and on the other, reduces its affinity toward MB uptake.
Effect of Different Minerals on Water Stability and Wettability of Soil Silt Aggregates
Authors: Adamczuk Agnieszka , Gryta Angelika , Skic Kamil , Boguta Patrycja , Jozefaciuk Grzegorz
Published: August 2022

Knowledge on the effects of minerals on soil water stability and wettability is mostly gained from experiments on natural soils of different mineral composition. To gain a “clearer” picture, the water stability and wettability of artificial aggregates composed of soil silt and various proportions of pure minerals: kaolinite, montmorillonite, illite, zeolite and goethite, were examined. The wettability was attributed to contact angles measured goniometrically and to the water drop penetration time (WDPT). The water stability was measured by monitoring of air bubbling after aggregate immersion in water and the shrinking sphere model was used to analyse aggregates’ destruction kinetics. The rate of aggregate destruction in water increased with increasing mineral content and it slightly decreased for aggregates composed of all pure minerals except goethite. An apparent hydrophobicity period (a period where the bubbling stopped for some time), resulted most probably from the wavy shape of pores, was observed mainly for aggregates with low mineral proportions. Among all studied minerals, kaolinite increased the water contact angle and water repellency to the greatest extent. With increasing the mineral content in the aggregates up to 8%, contact angles decreased and then increased. Contact angles did not correlate with aggregates’ stability. Aggregates more rapidly penetrated by water (shorter WDPT) were destroyed faster. Water stability of aggregates containing all minerals except illite appeared to be higher for the more mechanically resistant aggregates.
Characteristics of Methyl Cellulose Based Solid Polymer Electrolyte Inserted with Potassium Thiocyanate as K+ Cation Provider: Structural and Electrical Studies
Authors: Aziz Shujahadeen B. , Dannoun Elham M. A. , Abdalrahman Ari A. , Abdulwahid Rebar T. , Al-Saeedi Sameerah I. , Brza Mohamad A. , Nofal Muaffaq M. , Abdullah Ranjdar M. , Hadi Jihad M. , Karim Wrya O.
Published: August 2022

The attention to a stable and ionic conductive electrolyte is driven by the limitations of liquid electrolytes, particularly evaporation and leakage, which restrain their widespread use for electrochemical device applications. Solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) is considered to be a potential alternative since it possesses high safety compared to its counterparts. However, it still suffers from low device efficiency due to an incomplete understanding of the mechanism of ion transport parameters. Here, we present a simple in situ solution casting method for the production of polymer-based electrolytes using abundantly available methylcellulose (MC) doped at different weight percentages of potassium thiocyanate (KSCN) salt. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods were used to characterize the prepared samples. Based on EIS simulation and FTIR deconvolution associated with the SCN anion peak, various ion transport parameters were determined. The host MC medium and KSCN salt have a strong interaction, which was evident from both peak shifting and intensity alteration of FTIR spectra. From the EIS modeling, desired electric circuits correlated with ion movement and chain polarization were drawn. The highest ionic conductivity of 1.54 × 10−7 S cm−1 is determined from the fitted EIS curve for the film doped with 30 wt.% of KSCN salt. From the FTIR deconvoluted peak, free ions, ions in contact with one another, and ion aggregates were separated. The extracted ion transport parameters from the EIS method and FTIR spectra of the SCN anion band confirm that both increased carrier concentration and their mobility were crucial in improving the overall conductivity of the electrolyte. The dielectric investigations were further used to understand the conductivity of the films. High dielectric constants were observed at low frequencies for all MC:KSCN systems. The dispersion with a high dielectric constant in the low-frequency band is ascribed to the dielectric polarization. The wide shift of M″ peak towards the high frequency was evidenced by the MC-based electrolyte impregnated with 30 wt.% of KSCN salt, revealing the improved ionic movement assisted with chain segmental motion. The AC conductivity pattern was influenced by salt concentration.
Bond Modification of Carbon Rovings through Profiling
Authors: Penzel Paul , May Maximilian , Hahn Lars , Scheerer Silke , Michler Harald , Butler Marko , Waldmann Martin , Curbach Manfred , Cherif Chokri , Mechtcherine Viktor
Published: August 2022

The load-bearing behavior and the performance of composites depends largely on the bond between the individual components. In reinforced concrete construction, the bond mechanisms are very well researched. In the case of carbon and textile reinforced concrete, however, there is still a need for research, especially since there is a greater number of influencing parameters. Depending on the type of fiber, yarn processing, impregnation, geometry, or concrete, the proportion of adhesive, frictional, and shear bond in the total bond resistance varies. In defined profiling of yarns, we see the possibility to increase the share of the shear bond (form fit) compared to yarns with a relatively smooth surface and, through this, to reliably control the bond resistance. In order to investigate the influence of profiling on the bond and tensile behavior, yarns with various profile characteristics as well as different impregnation and consolidation parameters are studied. A newly developed profiling technique is used for creating a defined tetrahedral profile. In the article, we present this approach and the first results from tensile and bond tests as well as micrographic analysis with profiled yarns. The study shows that bond properties of profiled yarns are superior to conventional yarns without profile, and a defined bond modification through variation of the profile geometry as well as the impregnation and consolidation parameters is possible.
Fluorescently Labeled α-Conotoxin TxID, a New Probe for α3β4 Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors
Authors: Huang Meiling , Zhu Xiaopeng , Yang Yishuai , Tan Yao , Luo Sulan , Zhangsun Dongting
Published: August 2022

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are important ion channel membrane proteins that are widely distributed in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). As an important member, α3β4 nAChRs are related to pain sensation in PNS and nicotine addiction in CNS. However, research related to the α3β4 nAChRs is greatly limited by the lack of subtype-selective pharmacological tools. The α-conotoxin (α-CTx) TxID from the marine cone snail, Conus textile, is a selective α3β4 nAChR antagonist with relatively high potency. In this study, a fluorescent dye (5-TAMRA SE) was used to label TxID on the N-terminus of α-CTx TxID, and pure TxID-F (fluorescent analogue of TxID) was obtained by HPLC. At the same time, the potency and selectivity of TxID-F were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, the potency and selectivity of TxID-F were determined by using a two-electrode voltage-clamp technique on various nAChRs expressed in the Xenopus oocyte expression system. The results obtained by electrophysiology showed that TxID-F maintained the same order of potency (IC50 73 nM) as the native toxin (IC50 25 nM) for the α3β4 nAChR subtype. In addition, the results of fluorescent spectroscopy and circular dichroism showed TxID-F has the same fluorescence as 5-TAMRA SE, as well as similar profiles as TxID. The results of flow cytometry showed that the histogram shifted significantly to the right for the RAW264.7 cells expressing α3β4-containing nAChRs stained with TxID-F and confirmed by live cell imaging. The study of fluorescent-labeled α-CTx TxID provides a rich pharmacological tool to explore the structure–function relationship, distribution, and ligand-binding domain of α3β4 nAChR subtype in the future.
Hemiacetalmeroterpenoids A–C and Astellolide Q with Antimicrobial Activity from the Marine-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. N-5
Authors: Chen Tao , Yang Wencong , Li Taobo , Yin Yihao , Liu Yufeng , Wang Bo , She Zhigang
Published: August 2022

Four new compounds including three andrastin-type meroterpenoids hemiacetalmeroterpenoids A-C (1–3), and a drimane sesquiterpenoid astellolide Q (15), together with eleven known compounds (4–14) were isolated from the cultures of the marine-derived fungus Penicillium sp. N-5, while compound 14 was first isolated from a natural source. The structures of the new compounds were determined by analysis of detailed spectroscopic data, and the absolute configurations were further decided by a comparison of the experimental and calculated ECD spectra. Hemiacetalmeroterpenoid A (1) possesses a unique and highly congested 6,6,6,6,5,5-hexa-cyclic skeleton. Moreover, the absolute configuration of compound 14 was also reported for the first time. Compounds 1, 5 and 10 exhibited significant antimicrobial activities against Penicillium italicum and Colletrichum gloeosporioides with MIC values ranging from 1.56 to 6.25 μg/mL.
Mixotrophic Cultivation Optimization of Microalga Euglena pisciformis AEW501 for Paramylon Production
Authors: Fan Panpan , Li Yanhua , Deng Rui , Zhu Feixia , Cheng Fengfeng , Song Gaofei , Mi Wujuan , Bi Yonghong
Published: August 2022

Euglena, a flagellated unicellular protist, has recently received widespread attention for various high-value metabolites, especially paramylon, which was only found in Euglenophyta. The limited species and low biomass of Euglena has impeded paramylon exploitation and utilization. This study established an optimal cultivation method of Euglena pisciformis AEW501 for paramylon production under mixotrophic cultivation. The results showed that the optimum mixotrophic conditions were 20 °C, pH 7.0, and 63 μmol photons m−2∙s−1, and the concentrations of sodium acetate and diammonium hydrogen phosphate were 0.98 g L−1 and 0.79 g L−1, respectively. The maximal biomass and paramylon content were 0.72 g L−1 and 71.39% of dry weight. The algal powder contained more than 16 amino acids, 6 vitamins, and 10 unsaturated fatty acids under the optimal cultivation. E. pisciformis paramylon was pure β-1,3-glucan-type polysaccharide (the purity was up to 99.13 ± 0.61%) composed of linear glucose chains linked together by β-1,3-glycosidic bonds. These findings present a valuable basis for the industrial exploitation of paramylon with E. pisciformis AEW501.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Outcomes by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
Authors: Assadi Hosamadin , Alabed Samer , Maiter Ahmed , Salehi Mahan , Li Rui , Ripley David P. , Van der Geest Rob J. , Zhong Yumin , Zhong Liang , Swift Andrew J. , Garg Pankaj
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: Interest in artificial intelligence (AI) for outcome prediction has grown substantially in recent years. However, the prognostic role of AI using advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) remains unclear. This systematic review assesses the existing literature on AI in CMR to predict outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease. Materials and Methods: Medline and Embase were searched for studies published up to November 2021. Any study assessing outcome prediction using AI in CMR in patients with cardiovascular disease was eligible for inclusion. All studies were assessed for compliance with the Checklist for Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging (CLAIM). Results: A total of 5 studies were included, with a total of 3679 patients, with 225 deaths and 265 major adverse cardiovascular events. Three methods demonstrated high prognostic accuracy: (1) three-dimensional motion assessment model in pulmonary hypertension (hazard ratio (HR) 2.74, 95%CI 1.73–4.34, p < 0.001), (2) automated perfusion quantification in patients with coronary artery disease (HR 2.14, 95%CI 1.58–2.90, p < 0.001), and (3) automated volumetric, functional, and area assessment in patients with myocardial infarction (HR 0.94, 95%CI 0.92–0.96, p < 0.001). Conclusion: There is emerging evidence of the prognostic role of AI in predicting outcomes for three-dimensional motion assessment in pulmonary hypertension, ischaemia assessment by automated perfusion quantification, and automated functional assessment in myocardial infarction.
Statin Prescription Patterns and Associations with Subclinical Inflammation
Authors: Kadappu Preetham , Jonnagaddala Jitendra , Liaw Siaw-Teng , Cochran Blake J. , Rye Kerry-Anne , Ong Kwok Leung
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: Statins have been extensively utilised in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) prevention and can inhibit inflammation. However, the association between statin therapy, subclinical inflammation and associated health outcomes is poorly understood in the primary care setting. Materials and Methods: Primary care electronic health record (EHR) data from the electronic Practice-Based Research Network (ePBRN) from 2012–2019 was used to assess statin usage and adherence in South-Western Sydney (SWS), Australia. Independent determinants of elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined. The relationship between baseline CRP levels and hospitalisation rates at 12 months was investigated. Results: The prevalence of lipid-lowering medications was 14.0% in all adults and 44.6% in the elderly (≥65 years). The prevalence increased from 2012 to 2019 despite a drop in statin use between 2013–2015. A total of 55% of individuals had good adherence (>80%). Hydrophilic statin use and higher intensity statin therapy were associated with elevated CRP levels. However, elevated CRP levels were not associated with all-cause or ASCVD hospitalisations after adjusting for confounders. Conclusions: The prevalence and adherence patterns associated with lipid-lowering medications highlighted the elevated ASCVD-related burden in the SWS population, especially when compared with the Australian general population. Patients in SWS may benefit from enhanced screening protocols, targeted health literacy and promotion campaigns, and timely incorporation of evidence into ASCVD clinical guidelines. This study, which used EHR data, did not support the use of CRP as an independent marker of future short-term hospitalisations.
Influence and Optimization Analysis of Servo Stroke Curve Design on Adhesive Wear in Deep Drawing of Tantalum
Authors: Wang Xin , Xu Teng , Gong Feng , Ran Jiaqi
Published: August 2022

The degree of wear on a material’s surface after deep drawing has a great influence on the performance and quality of the product; in particular, tantalum plates are prone to adhesive wear during deep drawing. In this paper, we propose a method to improve the surface quality of deep drawing products by optimizing the servo pulse stroke curve to solve the above problems. At the same time, in order to explore the influence of curve parameters on the adhesive wear of tantalum sheets in deep drawing, nine drawing stroke pulse curves are designed, with three levels and four factors. The finite element method is used to analyze the wear depth change of dies and products after drawing with different curve modes. It is found that the wear results obtained under the different curves differ greatly. Considering the actual production efficiency and production quality, the drawing time and the maximum wear depth are taken as optimization objectives. An analysis of variance is carried out using the Minitab software, considering the maximum wear depth and deep drawing time of the product in the finite element analysis results, and the best parameter combination is obtained for each quality characteristic. Then, the optimal drawing stroke curve is obtained using Taguchi grey relational analysis, with its grey relational grade being the highest among all curves. Finally, the optimal curve is compared against a traditional curve on a servo press. The results show that the surface quality of the product and the drawing efficiency can be improved by the use of the optimized mode; in particular, compared with traditional drawing, the maximum wear depth is reduced by 56.67% and the drawing time is reduced by 18.06%.
Recent Advances and Applications of Machine Learning in Metal Forming Processes
Authors: Prates Pedro , Pereira André
Published: August 2022

Machine Learning (ML) is a subfield of artificial intelligence, focusing on computational algorithms that are designed to learn and improve themselves, without the need to be explicitly programmed [...]
Isotope Ratio Outlier Analysis (IROA) for HPLC–TOFMS-Based Metabolomics of Human Urine
Authors: Fadil Fadi , Samol Claudia , Berger Raffaela S. , Kellermeier Fabian , Gronwald Wolfram , Oefner Peter J. , Dettmer Katja
Published: August 2022

Metabolic fingerprinting by mass spectrometry aims at the comprehensive, semiquantitative analysis of metabolites. Isotope dilution, if successfully implemented, may provide a more reliable, relative quantification. Therefore, the 13C labeled yeast extract of the IROA TruQuant kit was added as an internal standard (IS) to human urine samples measured in full-scan mode on a high-performance liquid chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometer (HPLC–TOFMS) system. The isotope ratio approach enabled the analysis of 112 metabolites. The correlation with reference data did not improve significantly using 12C/13C ratios compared to absolute 12C peak areas. Moreover, using an intricate 13C-labeled standard increased the complexity of the mass spectra, which made correct signal annotation more challenging. On the positive side, the ratio approach helps to reduce batch effects, but it does not perform better than computational methods such as the “removebatcheffect” function in the R package Limma.
RLC Circuit Forecast in Analog IC Packaging and Testing by Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Lai Jung-Pin , Lin Ying-Lei , Lin Ho-Chuan , Shih Chih-Yuan , Wang Yu-Po , Pai Ping-Feng
Published: August 2022

For electronic products, printed circuit boards are employed to fix integrated circuits (ICs) and connect all ICs and electronic components. This allows for the smooth transmission of electronic signals among electronic components. Machine learning (ML) techniques are popular and employed in various fields. To capture the nonlinear data patterns and input–output electrical relationships of analog circuits, this study aims to employ ML techniques to improve operations from modeling to testing in the analog IC packaging and testing industry. The simulation calculation of the resistance, inductance, and capacitance of the pin count corresponding to the target electrical specification is a complex process. Tasks include converting a two-dimensional circuit into a three-dimensional one in simulation and modeling-buried structure operations. In this study, circuit datasets are employed for training the ML model to predict resistance (R), inductance (L), and capacitance (C). The least squares support vector regression (LSSVR) with Genetic Algorithms (GA) (LSSVR-GA) serves as an ML model for forecasting RLC values. Genetic algorithms are used to select parameters of LSSVR models. To demonstrate the performance of LSSVR models in forecasting RLC values, three other ML models with genetic algorithms, including backpropagation neural networks (BPNN-GA), random forest (RF-GA), and eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost-GA), were employed to cope with the same data. Numerical results illustrated that the LSSVR-GA outperformed the three other forecasting models by around 14.84% averagely in terms of mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), weighted absolute percent error measure (WAPE), and normalized mean absolute error (NMAE). This study collected data from an IC packaging and testing firm in Taiwan. The innovation and advantage of the proposed method is using a machine approach to forecast RLC values instead of through simulation ways, which generates accurate results. Numerical results revealed that the developed ML model is effective and efficient in RLC circuit forecasting for the analog IC packaging and testing industry.
Protein Albumin Manipulation and Electrical Quantification of Molecular Dielectrophoresis Responses for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Nasir Nur Shahira Abdul , Deivasigamani Revathy , Wee M. F. Mohd Razip , Hamzah Azrul Azlan , Zaid Mohd Hazani Mat , Rahim Muhammad Khairulanwar Abdul , Kayani Aminuddin Ahmad , Abdulhameed Abdullah , Buyong Muhamad Ramdzan
Published: August 2022

Research relating to dielectrophoresis (DEP) has been progressing rapidly through time as it is a strong and controllable technique for manipulation, separation, preconcentration, and partitioning of protein. Extensive studies have been carried out on protein DEP, especially on Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA). However, these studies involve the usage of dye and fluorescent probes to observe DEP responses as the physical properties of protein albumin molecular structure are translucent. The use of dye and the fluorescent probe could later affect the protein’s physiology. In this article, we review three methods of electrical quantification of DEP responses: electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and capacitance measurement for protein BSA DEP manipulation. The correlation of these methods with DEP responses is further discussed. Based on the observations on capacitance measurement, it can be deduced that the electrical quantifying method is reliable for identifying DEP responses. Further, the possibility of manipulating the protein and electrically quantifying DEP responses while retaining the original physiology of the protein and without the usage of dye or fluorescent probe is discussed.
Enhanced Stability of Scorodite in Oxic and Anoxic Systems via Surface Coating with Hydroxyapatite and Fluorapatite
Authors: Rocha Sônia D. F. , Katsarou Lydia , Demopoulos George P.
Published: August 2022

With the objective of enhancing the stability of scorodite, its encapsulation with hydroxyapatite (Ca5(PO4)3OH) (HAP) and fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F) (FAP) surface coatings, the two most stable of the calcium phosphates, inert to pH and redox potential variations, are presented in this work. The experimental work includes: (1) determination of the metastable zone for HAP and FAP precipitation, (2) the synthesis of crystalline scorodite under atmospheric conditions using hydrothermal scorodite seed and its characterization, (3) the coating of scorodite with hydroxyapatite and fluorapatite with supersaturation-controlled heterogeneous crystallization, and (4) the long-term stability of the encapsulated scorodite solids. Hydroxyapatite and fluorapatite were prepared with homogeneous precipitation from a metastable solution to which reagents were added at a controlled flow rate. Crystalline scorodite was produced with seeding precipitation and encapsulated with a direct apatite (HAP or FAP) deposition that was controlled by adjusting the pH and reagent addition. The stability tests in oxic and anoxic environments over the pH range of 5–9 showed the release of arsenic from the apatite-coated scorodite to be much lower than from naked scorodite, thereby demonstrating that apatite-based encapsulation of hazardous materials is technically feasible and merits further consideration for development into an arsenic stabilizing technology.
Anti-Cancer Drug Solubility Development within a Green Solvent: Design of Novel and Robust Mathematical Models Based on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Huwaimel Bader , Alobaida Ahmed
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, supercritical CO2(SC-CO2) is known as a promising alternative for challengeable organic solvents in the pharmaceutical industry. The mathematical prediction and validation of drug solubility through SC-CO2 system using novel artificial intelligence (AI) approach has been considered as an interesting method. This work aims to evaluate the solubility of tamoxifen as a chemotherapeutic drug inside the SC-CO2 via the machine learning (ML) technique. This research employs and boosts three distinct models utilizing Adaboost methods. These models include K-nearest Neighbor (KNN), Theil-Sen Regression (TSR), and Gaussian Process (GPR). Two inputs, pressure and temperature, are considered to analyze the available data. Furthermore, the output is Y, which is solubility. As a result, ADA-KNN, ADA-GPR, and ADA-TSR show an R2 of 0.996, 0.967, 0.883, respectively, based on the analysis results. Additionally, with MAE metric, they had error rates of 1.98 × 10−6, 1.33 × 10−6, and 2.33 × 10−6, respectively. A model called ADA-KNN was selected as the best model and employed to obtain the optimum values, which can be represented as a vector: (X1 = 329, X2 = 318.0, Y = 6.004 × 10−5) according to the mentioned metrics and other visual analysis.
Facile Synthesis of Micro-Mesoporous Copper Phyllosilicate Supported on a Commercial Carrier and Its Application for Catalytic Hydrogenation of Nitro-Group in Trinitrobenzene
Authors: Kirichenko Olga , Kapustin Gennady , Mishin Igor , Nissenbaum Vera , Shuvalova Elena , Redina Elena , Kustov Leonid
Published: August 2022

Development of novel Cu-based catalysts has become one of the frontiers in the catalytic production of platform chemicals and in environment protection. However, the known methods of their synthesis are too complicated and result in materials that cannot be used instantly as commercial catalysts. In the present work, a novel material has been synthesized by the facile method of deposition–precipitation using thermal hydrolysis of urea. The conditions for Cu phyllosilicate formation have been revealed (molar ratio urea:copper = 10, 92 °C, 8–11 h). The prepared Cu-based materials were studied by TG–DTA, SEM, TEM, XRD, N2 adsorption and TPR-H2 methods, and it was found that the material involves nanoparticles of micro-mesoporous copper phyllosilicate phase with a chrysocolla-like structure inside the pores of a commercial meso-macroporous silica carrier. The chrysocolla-like phase is first shown to be catalytically active in the selective reduction of the nitro-group in trinitrobenzene to an amino-group with molecular hydrogen. Complete conversion of trinitrobenzene with a high yield of amines has been achieved in short time under relatively mild conditions (170 °C, 1.3 MPa) of nitroarene hydrogenation over a copper catalyst.
Sequential Extraction of Proanthocyanidin Fractions from Ficus Species and Their Effects on Rumen Enzyme Activities In Vitro
Authors: Koli Pushpendra , Singh Sultan , Bhadoria Brijesh K. , Agarwal Manjree , Lata Suman , Ren Yonglin
Published: August 2022

Three proanthocyanidin fractions per species were sequentially extracted by 50% (v/v) methanol–water, 70% (v/v) acetone–water, and distilled water from leaves of Ficus racemosa (fractions FR) and F. religiosa (fractions FRL) to yield fractions FR-50, FR-70, FR-DW, FRL-50, FRL-70, and FRL-DW. Fractions were examined for their molecular structure, effect on ruminal enzyme activities, and principal leaf protein (Rubisco) solubilization in vitro. All fractions except FRL-70 contained flavonoids including (+) catechin, (−) epicatechin, (+) gallocatechin, (−) epigallocatechin, and their -4-phloroglucinol adducts. The fractions FRL-50 and FRL-DW significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited the activity of ruminal glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and glutamic pyruvic transaminase. All fractions inhibited glutamate dehydrogenase activity (p < 0.05) with increasing concentration, while protease activity decreased 15–18% with increasing concentrations. Fractions FRL-50 and FRL-DW completely inhibited the activity of cellulase enzymes. Solubilization of Rubisco was higher in F. religiosa (22.36 ± 1.24%) and F. racemosa (17.26 ± 0.61%) than that of wheat straw (WS) (8.95 ± 0.95%) and berseem hay (BH) (3.04 ± 0.08%). A significant (p < 0.05) increase in protein solubilization was observed when WS and BH were supplemented with FR and FRL leaves at different proportions. The efficiency of microbial protein was significantly (p < 0.05) greater in diets consisting of WS and BH with supplementation of F. racemosa leaves in comparison to those supplemented with F. religiosa leaves. The overall conclusion is that the fractions extracted from F. religiosa showed greater inhibitory effects on rumen enzymes and recorded higher protein solubilization in comparison to the F. racemosa. Thus, PAs from F. religiosa are potential candidates to manipulate rumen enzymes activities for efficient utilization of protein and fiber in ruminants.