bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermally Reduced Graphene Oxide Membranes Revealed Selective Adsorption of Gold Ions from Mixed Ionic Solutions
Authors: Qiang Yu , Gao Siyan , Zhang Yueyu , Wang Shuai , Chen Liang , Mu Liuhua , Fang Haiping , Jiang Jie , Lei Xiaoling
Published: July 2023

The recovery of gold from water is an important research area. Recent reports have highlighted the ultrahigh capacity and selective extraction of gold from electronic waste using reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Here, we made a further attempt with the thermal rGO membranes and found that the thermal rGO membranes also had a similarly high adsorption efficiency (1.79 g gold per gram of rGO membranes at 1000 ppm). Furthermore, we paid special attention to the detailed selectivity between Au3+ and other ions by rGO membranes. The maximum adsorption capacity for Au3+ ions was about 16 times that of Cu2+ ions and 10 times that of Fe3+ ions in a mixture solution with equal proportions of Au3+/Cu2+ and Au3+/Fe3+. In a mixed-ion solution containing Au3+:Cu2+:Na+:Fe3+:Mg2+ of printed circuit board (PCB), the mass of Au3+:Cu2+:Na+:Fe3+:Mg2+ in rGO membranes is four orders of magnitude higher than the initial mass ratio. A theoretical analysis indicates that this selectivity may be attributed to the difference in the adsorption energy between the metal ions and the rGO membrane. The results are conducive to the usage of rGO membranes as adsorbents for Au capture from secondary metal resources in the industrial sector.
The Proof-of-Concept of MBA121, a Tacrine–Ferulic Acid Hybrid, for Alzheimer’s Disease Therapy
Authors: Rodríguez-Ruiz Emelina R. , Herrero-Labrador Raquel , Fernández-Fernández Ana P. , Serrano-Masa Julia , Martínez-Montero José A. , González-Nieto Daniel , Hana-Vaish Mayuri , Benchekroun Mohamed , Ismaili Lhassane , Marco-Contelles José , Martínez-Murillo Ricardo
Published: July 2023

Great effort has been devoted to the synthesis of novel multi-target directed tacrine derivatives in the search of new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Herein we describe the proof of concept of MBA121, a compound designed as a tacrine–ferulic acid hybrid, and its potential use in the therapy of AD. MBA121 shows good β-amyloid (Aβ) anti-aggregation properties, selective inhibition of human butyrylcholinesterase, good neuroprotection against toxic insults, such as Aβ1–40, Aβ1–42, and H2O2, and promising ADMET properties that support translational developments. A passive avoidance task in mice with experimentally induced amnesia was carried out, MBA121 being able to significantly decrease scopolamine-induced learning deficits. In addition, MBA121 reduced the Aβ plaque burden in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus in APPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic male mice. Our in vivo results relate its bioavailability with the therapeutic response, demonstrating that MBA121 is a promising agent to treat the cognitive decline and neurodegeneration underlying AD.
Integrated Approach to Highlighting the Molecular Bases of a Deep Vein Thrombosis Event in an Elite Basketball Athlete
Authors: Mennitti Cristina , Miele Ciro , Scarano Carmela , Veneruso Iolanda , Gentile Alessandro , Mormile Rosaria , Saviano Francesca , D’Alicandro Giovanni , Mazzaccara Cristina , Frisso Giulia , Capasso Filomena , D’Argenio Valeria , Scudiero Olga
Published: July 2023

Acute or intense exercise can result in metabolic imbalances, muscle injuries, or reveal hidden disorders. Laboratory medicine in sports is playing an increasingly crucial role in monitoring athletes’ health conditions. In this study, we designed an integrated approach to explore the causes of a deep venous thrombosis event in an elite basketball player. Since the complete blood count revealed a marked platelet count (838 × 103 µL), and thrombophilia screening tests did not reveal any significant alteration, we evaluated the thrombin generation, which highlights a state of hypercoagulability. First-level haemostasis exams showed only a slight prolongation of the activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). Thus, screening tests for von Willebrand Disease showed a reduction in vWF parameters. Therefore, we directed our hypothesis towards a diagnosis of acquired von Willebrand disease secondary to Essential Thrombocythemia (ET). To confirm this hypothesis and highlight the molecular mechanism underlying the observed phenotype, molecular tests were performed to evaluate the presence of the most common mutations associated with ET, revealing a 52-bp deletion in the coding region of CALR exon 9. This case report highlights the importance of an integrated approach to monitoring the athletes’ health status to personalise training and treatments, thus avoiding the appearance of diseases and injuries that, if underestimated, can undermine the athlete’s life.
Adipocyte- and Monocyte-Mediated Vicious Circle of Inflammation and Obesity (Review of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms)
Authors: Todosenko Natalia , Khaziakhmatova Olga , Malashchenko Vladimir , Yurova Kristina , Bograya Maria , Beletskaya Maria , Vulf Maria , Mikhailova Larisa , Minchenko Anastasia , Soroko Irina , Khlusov Igor , Litvinova Larisa
Published: July 2023

Monocytes play a key role in the development of metabolic syndrome, and especially obesity. Given the complex features of their development from progenitor cells, whose regulation is mediated by their interactions with bone marrow adipocytes, the importance of a detailed study of the heterogeneous composition of monocytes at the molecular and systemic levels becomes clear. Research argues for monocytes as indicators of changes in the body’s metabolism and the possibility of developing therapeutic strategies to combat obesity and components of metabolic syndrome based on manipulations of the monocyte compound of the immune response. An in-depth study of the heterogeneity of bone-marrow-derived monocytes and adipocytes could provide answers to many questions about the pathogenesis of obesity and reveal their therapeutic potential.
Cytokine Kinetics during Progression of COVID-19 in Rwanda Patients: Could IL-9/IFNγ Ratio Predict Disease Severity?
Authors: Ndoricyimpaye Ella Larissa , Van Snick Jacques , Robert Rutayisire , Bikorimana Emmanuel , Majyambere Onesphore , Mukantwari Enatha , Nshimiyimana Thaddée , Mbonigaba Valens , Coutelier Jean Paul , Rujeni Nadine
Published: July 2023

For effective treatments and preventive measures against severe COVID-19, it is essential to determine early markers of disease severity in different populations. We analysed the cytokine kinetics of 129 COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms, 68 severe cases, and 20 healthy controls for the first time in Rwanda. Pro-inflammatory (IFNγ, IL-6, TNFα), Treg (IL-10, TGFβ1, TGFβ3), Th9 (IL-9), Th17 (IL-17), and Th2 (IL-4, IL-13) cytokines, total IgM and IgG, as well as gene expressions of FoxP3, STAT5+, IFNγ-R1, and ROR alpha+, were measured at day 1, day 7, day 14, day 21, and day 28 post-infection. Severe cases showed a significantly stronger increase than mild patients in levels of all cytokines (except IL-9) and all gene expression on day 1 of infection. Some cytokine levels dropped to levels comparable to mild cases at later time points. Further analysis identified IFNγ as a marker of severity throughout the disease course, while TGFβ1, IL-6, and IL-17 were markers of severity only at an early phase. Importantly, this study revealed a striking low IL-9 level and high IFNγ/IL-9 ratio in the plasma of patients who later died compared to mild and severe cases who recovered, suggesting that this could be an important biomarker for predicting the severity of COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 syndrome.
The Assessment of Metal Resistance through the Expression of Hsp-70 and HO-1 Proteins in Giant Reed
Authors: Shaheen Shahida , Majeed Zahid , Mahmood Qaisar
Published: July 2023

None of our investigations have identified stress in response to the HSP70 and HO-1 proteins in metals under stress in our study, which aimed to understand the genetic basis of the metal tolerance of Arundo donax. Thus, the present work aimed to investigate the levels of expression of two important stress-related proteins, HO-1 and HSP70, in A. donax after exposure to various metals. The plants were collected from uncontaminated sites in Abbottabad, Pakistan. Their rhizomes were grown in Hoagland solution, and upon attaining suitable biomass, the plants were used to investigate the effects of metals on protein expression. The metal treatments were carried out with synthetic wastewater containing four Cr treatments (0, 34, 66, 134, and 267 mgL−1), namely, Cd, As, Pb, Cu and Ni (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mgL−1), and the plants were grown for three weeks. The treatments were applied according to a randomized block design (RBD) based on hydroponics. The selected protein expression was examined after 10 days of metal exposure. For the HSP70 and HO-1 protein studies, leaves were separated following a previously reported standard procedure. The maximum level of HO-1 and HSP70 expressions was noted at 66 mgL−1 of Cr, and then it slightly declined. Significantly, high protein expression was observed at Cd exposure concentrations of 50 to 100 mgL−1. For Cu, As and Ni, significantly high HO-1 and HSP70 expressions were noted at metal exposure concentrations of 75 to 100 mgL−1. The expression levels of these two stress-related proteins showed a linear increase with increasing metal exposure in the giant reed. It is clear from the present research that HSP70 and HO-1 proteins may contribute significantly to plant tolerance to metal stress, in addition to other possible tolerance mechanisms.
Climate Change and Insects
Authors: Eickermann Michael , Junk Jürgen , Rapisarda Carmelo
Published: July 2023

Climate change (CC) poses one of the foremost challenges for humanity in the 21st century [...]
Alopecias: Practical Tips for the Management of Biopsies and Main Diagnostic Clues for General Pathologists and Dermatopathologists
Authors: Pinedo-Moraleda Fernando , Tristán-Martín Belén , Dradi Giulia Greta
Published: July 2023

Accurately diagnosing specific variants of alopecia remains challenging for pathologists, potentially delaying appropriate therapeutic decisions by dermatologists. Issues such as limited knowledge on optimal biopsy types and processing methods add complexity. Understanding the normal histology of hair follicles and their changes throughout the follicular cycle further complicates microscopic evaluation. This paper aims to summarize these characteristics and highlight essential diagnostic clues for pathologists to confidently suggest a diagnosis, therefore playing a key role in alopecia diagnosis. Ongoing education, collaboration with dermatologists, and staying up to date on advancements is crucial for the accurate diagnosis and effective management of different types of alopecia.
Sociodemographic, Behavioural, and Health Factors Associated with Sedentary Behaviour in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jang Dong Kee , Park Mina , Kim Yeo Hyung
Published: July 2023

Few studies have focused on factors associated with sedentary behaviour among older Asian adults. This study aimed to identify factors independently associated with prolonged sedentary times in Korean older adults. We included 8273 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years who participated in the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Self-reported sedentary times were assessed via the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and sedentary times of ≥420 min/day were considered ‘long’. Complex-sample multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the factors associated with long sedentary times. Among the participants, 4610 (55.72%) had long sedentary times that were associated with advanced age (odds ratio [OR], 2.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.05–3.01), female sex (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.11–1.57), unemployment (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.09–1.38), living alone (OR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.08–1.43), urban residence (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.14–1.61), and insufficient aerobic exercise (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.60–2.02). Among health factors, obesity (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.12–1.45), diabetes (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.04–1.32), cardiovascular diseases (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.11–1.52), and arthritis (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.11–1.43) had positive associations with long sedentary times. A tailored approach that considered various sociodemographic, behavioural, and health factors is needed to reduce sedentary behaviour in this population.
Nerve MR in the Differential Diagnosis of Neuropathies: A Case Series from a Single Center
Authors: Giordano Carolina , Sciarrone Maria Ausilia , Vitali Francesca , Romano Angela , Guerri Giulia , Perlangeli Valentina , Gaudino Simona , Luigetti Marco
Published: July 2023

In the present study, through a case series, we highlighted the role of magnetic resonance (MR) in the identification and diagnosis of peripheral neuropathies. MR neurography allows the evaluation of the course of nerves through 2D and 3D STIR sequences with an isotropic voxel, whereas the relationship between nerves, vessels, osteo-ligamentous and muscular structures can be appraised with T1 sequences. Currently, DTI and tractography are mainly used for experimental purposes. MR neurography can be useful in detecting subtle nerve alterations, even before the onset of symptoms. However, despite being sensitive, MR neurography is not specific in detecting nerve injury and requires careful interpretation. For this reason, MR information should always be supported by instrumental clinical tests.
Occlusion-Based Three-Dimensional Craniofacial Anthropometric and Symmetric Evaluation in Preadolescences: A Comparative COHORT Study
Authors: Chen Gloria , Hsieh Emma Yuh-Jia , Chen Shih-Heng , Pai Betty C. J. , Tsai Ching-Yen , Wang Sheng-Wei , Chou Pang-Yun
Published: July 2023

Background: The importance of early diagnosis of pediatric malocclusion and early intervention has been emphasized. Without use of radiation, 3D imaging holds the potential to be an alternative for evaluating facial features in school-aged populations. Methods: Students aged 9 and 10 years were recruited. We performed annual 3D stereophotogrammetry of the participants’ heads. A total of 37 recognizable anatomical landmarks were identified for linear, angular, and asymmetric analyses using the MATLAB program. Results: This study included 139 healthy Taiwanese children with a mean age of 9.13, of whom 74 had class I occlusion, 50 had class II malocclusion, and 15 had class III malocclusion. The class III group had lower soft-tissue convexity (p = 0.01) than the class II group. The boys with class II malocclusion had greater dimensions in the anteroposterior position of the mid-face (p = 0.024) at age 10. Overall asymmetry showed no significance (p > 0.05). Heat maps of the 3D models exhibited asymmetry in the mid-face of the class II group and in the lower face of the class III group. Conclusion: Various types of malocclusion exhibited distinct facial traits in preadolescents. Those with class II malocclusion had a protruded maxilla and convex facial profile, whereas those with class III malocclusion had a less convex facial profile. Asymmetry was noted in facial areas with relatively prominent soft-tissue features among different malocclusion types.
Early Posttraumatic Antifibrinolysis Reduces Perioperative Hidden Blood Loss in Elderly Patients with an Intertrochanteric Fracture: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Luo Gang , Chen Zhiguo , Liu Jiacheng , Ni Weidong , Huang Wei
Published: July 2023

Background: This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of posttraumatic antifibrinolysis with multidose tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing perioperative hidden blood loss (HBL) in elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients. Method: Ninety-six elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients admitted to our department from June 2021 to September 2022 were randomized into two groups. The control group (Group A) received 100 mL of normal saline, while the experimental group (Group B) received 1.5 g of TXA intravenously q12 h from postadmission Day 1 (PAD1) to the day before surgery, and both groups received 1.5 g of TXA q12 h from postoperative Day 1 (POD1) to POD3. Haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (Hct), coagulation parameters, fibrinogen degradation product (FDP), and D-dimer (D-D) were recorded from PAD1 to POD3. HBL was calculated using the gross formula and recorded as the primary outcome. Result: In all-over analyses, the patients in Group B had lower perioperative HBL (on PAD3, POD1, and POD3), preoperative HBL (HBLpre), decline of haemoglobin (ΔHb-on PAD3), allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) rate, FDP (on PAD3), and D-D (on PAD3) compared with Group A. No significant differences were exhibited in postoperative HBL (HBLpost) between the 2 groups. In subgroup analyses, for patients who received intervention within 24 h, the result is consistent with the whole. For patients who received intervention over 72 h of injury, there were no significant differences in perioperative HBL, ΔHb, ABT rate, FDP, and D-D between the 2 groups. There were no significant differences in APTT, PT, the rate of venous thromboembolism, wound complications, or 90-day mortality between the 2 groups. Conclusion: For elderly intertrochanteric fracture patients, early posttraumatic antifibrinolysis with multidose TXA is effective in reducing perioperative HBL, which mainly manifests as the reduction of preoperative HBL, especially for patients injured within 24 h. Application of TXA beyond 72 h of injury was ineffective.
Pars Plana Vitrectomy Alone or Combined with Phacoemulsification to Treat Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: A Systematic Review of the Recent Literature
Authors: Bellucci Carlo , Romano Alessandra , Ramanzini Francesca , Tedesco Salvatore Antonio , Gandolfi Stefano , Mora Paolo
Published: July 2023

Pars plana vitrectomy is today a common first-line procedure for treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Removal or preservation of the natural lens at the time of vitrectomy is associated with both advantages and disadvantages. The combination of cataract extraction (i.e., phacoemulsification) with pars plana vitrectomy (PPVc) enhances visualization of the peripheral retina and the surgical management of the vitreous base. However, PPVc prolongs the surgical time and is associated with iatrogenic loss of the accommodation function in younger patients, possible postoperative anisometropia, and unexpected refractive results. Performance of pars plana vitrectomy alone (PPVa) requires good technical skills to minimize the risk of lens damage, and quickens cataract development. We retrieved all recent papers that directly compared PPVc and PPVa using parameters that we consider essential when choosing between the two procedures (the success rate of anatomical RRD repair, postoperative refractive error, intra- and postoperative complications, and costs). PPVa and PPVc were generally comparable in terms of RRD anatomical repair. PPVc was associated with fewer intraoperative, but more postoperative, complications. Macula-off RRD PPVc treatment was often associated with undesirable myopic refractive error. PPVa followed by phacoemulsification was the most expensive procedure.
Frailty and Colorectal Surgery: Review and Concept of Cancer Frailty
Authors: Maeda Hiromichi , Takahashi Michiko , Seo Satoru , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: July 2023

Frailty is characterized by reduced physiological reserves across multiple systems. In patients with frailty, oncological surgery has been associated with a high rate of postoperative complications and worse overall survival. Further, given that cancer and frailty can co-exist in the same patient, cancer and cancer-related symptoms can rapidly accelerate the progression of baseline frailty, which we have termed “cancer frailty”. This distinction is clinically meaningful because the prioritization of interventions and the treatment outcomes may differ based on health conditions. Specifically, in patients with cancer frailty, improvements in frailty may be achieved via surgical removal of tumors, while prehabilitation may be less effective, which may in turn result in delayed treatment and cancer progression. In this review, we focused on challenges in the surgical treatment of non-metastatic colorectal cancers in patients with frailty, including those related to decision making, prehabilitation, and surgery. Potential recommendations for treating patients with cancer frailty are also discussed.
Effectiveness and Adverse Events of Gabapentinoids as Analgesics for Patients with Burn Injuries: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Chiang Liang-Jui , Lai Pei-Chun , Huang Yen-Ta
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Pain after a burn injury is difficult to endure, and emerging studies aim to ascertain the effects of gabapentin and pregabalin as non-opioid treatment options. (2) Methods: We searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in six databases. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2.0 tool. We performed meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis and used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology for judging the certainty of evidence (CoE). (3) Results: Five RCTs were included. Compared with placebo, gabapentinoids significantly decreased the pain intensity within 24 h (mean difference (MD) = −1.06, 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.47–−0.65) and from 72 h to 9 days (MD = −0.82, 95% CI: −1.16–−0.48), but not after 3 weeks (MD = −0.44, 95% CI: −1.31–0.42). Opioid consumption (mg/day) was reduced within 24 h (MD = −13.34, 95% CI: −22.16–−4.52) and from 72 h to 9 days (MD = −7.87, 95% CI: −14.82–−0.91). Increased risks of drowsiness (risk ratio (RR) = 3.255, 95% CI: 1.135–9.335) and dizziness (RR = 3.034, 95% CI: 1.006–9.147) were observed, but sensitivity analysis using the Bayesian method showed no increased risk. All endpoints were judged as low to very low CoE. (4) Conclusions: Gabapentinoids offer modest analgesic benefits as a component of multimodal pain management for burn injuries of less than 3 weeks. The adverse effects should be carefully monitored. Large-scale RCTs are warranted for the reinforcement of CoE in clinical use.
Kinetics of Depth Jumps Performed by Female and Male National Collegiate Athletics Association Basketball Athletes and Young Adults
Authors: Louder Talin , Thompson Brennan J. , Woster Alex , Bressel Eadric
Published: July 2023

The depth jump (DJ) is commonly used to evaluate athletic ability, and has further application in rehabilitation and injury prevention. There is limited research exploring sex-based differences in DJ ground reaction force (GRF) measures. This study aimed to evaluate for sex-based differences in DJ GRF measures and determine sample size thresholds for binary classification of sex. Forty-seven participants from mixed-sex samples of NCAA athletes and young adults performed DJs from various drop heights. Force platform dynamometry and 2-dimensional videography were used to estimate GRF measures. Three-way mixed analysis of variance was used to evaluate main effects and interactions. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the combined sensitivity and specificity of dependent measures to sex. Results revealed that reactive strength index scores and rebound jump heights were greater in males than females (p < 0.001). Additionally, young adult females showed greater peak force reduction than young adult males (p = 0.002). ROC curve analysis revealed mixed results that appeared to be influenced by population characteristics and drop height. In conclusion, sex-based differences in DJ performance were observed, and the results of this study provide direction for future DJ investigations.
Preschool Children’s Loose Parts Play and the Relationship to Cognitive Development: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Cankaya Ozlem , Rohatyn-Martin Natalia , Leach Jamie , Taylor Keirsten , Bulut Okan
Published: July 2023

Play is an integrative process, and the skills acquired in it—overcoming impulses, behavior control, exploration and discovery, problem-solving, reasoning, drawing conclusions, and attention to processes and outcomes are foundational cognitive structures that drive learning and motivation. Loose parts play is a prominent form of play that many scholars and educators explicitly endorse for cognitive development (e.g., divergent thinking, problem-solving). It is unique among play types because children can combine different play types and natural or manufactured materials in one occurrence. While educators and policymakers promote the benefits of loose parts play, no previous research has explored the direct relationship between preschool-age children’s indoor loose parts play experiences and cognitive development. We address this gap by bringing together the relevant literature and synthesizing the empirical studies on common play types with loose parts, namely object and exploratory, symbolic and pretend, and constructive play. We also focus on studies that examine children’s experiences through loose parts, highlighting the impact of different play types on learning through the reinforcement of cognitive skills, such as executive function, cognitive self-regulation, reasoning, and problem-solving. By examining the existing literature and synthesizing empirical evidence, we aim to deepen our understanding of the relationship between children’s play with loose parts and its impact on cognitive development. Ultimately, pointing out the gaps in the literature that would add to the body of knowledge surrounding the benefits of play for cognitive development and inform educators, policymakers, and researchers about the significance of incorporating loose parts play into early childhood education.
Autonomous Vehicle-Loading System Simulation and Cost Model Analysis of Roll-On, Roll-Off Port Operations
Authors: Park Sanghyung , Yun Sohyun , Kim Sihyun
Published: July 2023

The gradual commercialization of entirely autonomous vehicles is expected to bring numerous benefits, such as structural transformation in the industry. Specifically, in maritime transportation, automobile terminals that import and export finished autos are seen to transform their current loading system into a CAV (connected automated vehicle)-loading system to accommodate autonomous vehicles. In this study, the impact of introducing a CAV-loading system to a roll-on, roll-off (RORO) ports was investigated. Simulation models were developed to test the performance of the terminal with the CAV-loading system. Then, a cost model was developed to determine the economic benefits of the CAV-loading system. The results in this study revealed that operating costs were reduced by 90%, while terminal operations were significantly improved. In addition, the study revealed that using the CAV-loading system resulted in a 12% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to that using the current loading system. The originality of this study lies in its transformative potential for an industry that heavily relies on human labor and has limited mechanization and automation. This study provides significant implications for incorporating autonomous vehicles in planned automobile terminal operations.
Study on the Energy Loss Characteristics of Shaft Tubular Pump Device under Stall Conditions Based on the Entropy Production Method
Authors: Ji Dongtao , Lu Weigang , Xu Bo , Xu Lei , Jiang Tao
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to reveal the energy loss characteristics of each part of the shaft tubular pump device (STPD) under stall conditions. Numerical simulations were conducted by using the SST k-ω turbulence model with curvature correction, and the reliability of the simulation results was verified by a model test. The entropy production method was used to evaluate and visualize the energy loss. The results show that turbulent entropy production (TEP) is the main source of energy loss in each component of the STPD, and the TEP increases significantly with the deterioration of stall. The energy loss in the impeller is mainly concentrated near the shroud and hub, while in the guide vanes it is mainly concentrated near the shroud and suction surface of the blades. In addition, with the deterioration of stall, the energy loss in the inlet of the impeller and guide vanes increases significantly. Influenced by the backflow from the impeller, there is a significant amount of energy loss at the outlet segment of the inlet passage, and the location of the high-energy-loss region is consistent with the backflow region. Affected by the flow separation vortex at the tail of the guide vanes, the energy loss in the outlet passage is mainly concentrated at the inlet segment.
A Constrained Programming Model for the Optimization of Industrial-Scale Scheduling Problems in the Shipbuilding Industry
Authors: Pernas-Álvarez Javier , Crespo-Pereira Diego
Published: July 2023

This work presents an innovative constrained programming model for solving a flexible job-shop scheduling problem with assemblies and limited buffer capacity based on a real case from the shipbuilding industry. Unlike the existing literature, this problem incorporates the manufacturing and assembly of blocks from subblocks to the final ship erection, while considering the limited buffer capacity due to the size of blocks, which has been often overlooked. The objectives considered are the minimization of the makespan and tardiness based on ship erection due dates. To demonstrate the model’s effectiveness, it is initially validated using various scheduling problems from the literature. Then, the model is applied to progressively challenging instances of the shipbuilding problem presented in this work. Finally, the optimization results are validated and analyzed using a comprehensive simulation model. Overall, this work contributes to reducing the gap between academia and industry by providing evidence of the convenience of the application of constrained programming models combined with simulation models on industrial-size scheduling problems within reasonable computational time. Moreover, the paper emphasizes originality by addressing unexplored aspects of shipbuilding scheduling problems and highlights potential future research, providing a robust foundation for further advancements in the field.
Effects of Laying Depth and Pipe Arc Length on the Mechanical Performance of Large-Diameter Cold-Water Pipes during Float-and-Sink Installation
Authors: Wang Dongshi , Zheng Miaozi , Zhang Li , Mao Zhenyu , Tan Jian , Zhang Yulong , Duan Menglan
Published: July 2023

The successful operation of a large-diameter cold water pipeline installation is crucial for harnessing the potential of ocean thermal energy conversion. However, there is a shortage of research focused on mechanical performance analysis during installation. This study establishes a pipeline response analysis model based on a nonlinear beam theory to elucidate the underlying mechanical behaviour. Employing the method of singular perturbation, the general solution for the exterior region of the pipeline, the solution at the boundary layer, and the valid solution across the entire domain are derived. A comparison with numerical solutions is conducted to validate the accuracy and effectiveness of the theoretical model. Based on the theoretical analysis, the influence of installation depth and pipeline curvature on the pipeline’s shape, tension, curvature, and stress is discussed. The results indicate that increasing the installation depth leads to intensified pipeline bending and significant deformation, reaching a maximum bending moment of 3.92 MN∙m at a distance of 50~100 m from the bottom of the pipeline. The results also show that, as the pipeline’s arc length increases from 0 to 100 m, the bending curvature, Von Mises stress, and bending stress exhibit a trend of initial growth followed by a decline, peaking at 7.45 MPa, and 6.83 Mpa, respectively, while the actual tension and axial tension decrease initially and then increase, reaching −0.17 MN and −0.17 MPa, respectively, at the maximum arc length. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for practical cold-water pipe installation and laying.
The Transcriptome Response to Azole Compounds in Aspergillus fumigatus Shows Differential Gene Expression across Pathways Essential for Azole Resistance and Cell Survival
Authors: Hokken Margriet , Coolen Jordy , Steenbreker Hilbert , Zoll Jan , Baltussen Tim , Verweij Paul , Melchers Willem
Published: July 2023

The opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus is found on all continents and thrives in soil and agricultural environments. Its ability to readily adapt to novel environments and to produce billions of spores led to the spread of azole-resistant A. fumigatus across the globe, posing a threat to many immunocompromised patients, including critically ill patients with severe influenza or COVID-19. In our study, we sought to compare the adaptational response to azoles from A. fumigatus isolates that differ in azole susceptibility and genetic background. To gain more insight into how short-term adaptation to stressful azole compounds is managed through gene expression, we conducted an RNA-sequencing study on the response of A. fumigatus to itraconazole and the newest clinically approved azole, isavuconazole. We observed many similarities in ergosterol biosynthesis up-regulation across isolates, with the exception of the pan-azole-resistant isolate, which showed very little differential regulation in comparison to other isolates. Additionally, we found differential regulation of membrane efflux transporters, secondary metabolites, iron metabolism, and various stress response and cell signaling mechanisms.
Association of Delirium and Depression with Respiratory and Outcome Measures in COVID-19 Inpatients
Authors: Simonetti Alessio , Pais Cristina , Savoia Vezio , Cipriani Maria Camilla , Tosato Matteo , Janiri Delfina , Bernardi Evelina , Ferrara Ottavia Marianna , Margoni Stella , Kotzalidis Georgios D. , Chieffo Daniela , Fantoni Massimo , Liperoti Rosa , Landi Francesco , Bernabei Roberto , Sani Gabriele
Published: July 2023

Delirium (DEL) and depression (DEP) may impair the course and severity of acute respiratory illness. The impact of such syndromes on respiratory and outcome parameters in inpatients with COVID-19 needs clarification. To clarify the relationship between DEL and DEP and respiratory outcome measures, we enrolled 100 inpatients from COVID-19 units of the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS of Rome. Participants were divided into those with DEL, DEP, or absence of either delirium or depression (CONT). Delirium severity was assessed with the Neelson and Champagne Confusion Scale (NEECHAM). Psychopathology was assessed with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A), and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Dependent variables include: (a) respiratory parameters, i.e., partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2), oxygen saturation (SpO2), ratio between arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), and fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2); (b) outcome parameters, i.e., duration of hospitalization and number of pharmacological treatments used during the hospitalization. We investigated between-group differences and the relationships between severity of delirium/depression and the dependent variables. Duration of hospitalization was longer for DEL than for either DEP or CONT and for DEP compared to CONT. NEECHAM and HAM-D scores predicted lower PaO2 and PaO2/FiO2 levels in the DEL and DEP groups, respectively. In DEP, BPRS scores positively correlated with duration of hospitalization. Delirium impacted the course of COVID-19 more severely than depression. The mechanisms by which delirium and depression worsen respiratory parameters differ.
Designing and Managing Advanced, Intelligent and Ethical Health and Social Care Ecosystems
Authors: Blobel Bernd , Ruotsalainen Pekka , Brochhausen Mathias , Prestes Edson , Houghtaling Michael A.
Published: July 2023

The ongoing transformation of health systems around the world aims at personalized, preventive, predictive, participative precision medicine, supported by technology. It considers individual health status, conditions, and genetic and genomic dispositions in personal, social, occupational, environmental and behavioral contexts. In this way, it transforms health and social care from art to science by fully understanding the pathology of diseases and turning health and social care from reactive to proactive. The challenge is the understanding and the formal as well as consistent representation of the world of sciences and practices, i.e., of multidisciplinary and dynamic systems in variable context. This enables mapping between the different disciplines, methodologies, perspectives, intentions, languages, etc., as philosophy or cognitive sciences do. The approach requires the deployment of advanced technologies including autonomous systems and artificial intelligence. This poses important ethical and governance challenges. This paper describes the aforementioned transformation of health and social care ecosystems as well as the related challenges and solutions, resulting in a sophisticated, formal reference architecture. This reference architecture provides a system-theoretical, architecture-centric, ontology-based, policy-driven model and framework for designing and managing intelligent and ethical ecosystems in general and health ecosystems in particular.
Contemporary Biomarkers for Renal Transplantation: A Narrative Overview
Authors: Novacescu Dorin , Latcu Silviu Constantin , Bardan Razvan , Daminescu Liviu , Cumpanas Alin Adrian
Published: July 2023

Renal transplantation (RT) is the preferred treatment for end-stage renal disease. However, clinical challenges persist, i.e., early detection of graft dysfunction, timely identification of rejection episodes, personalization of immunosuppressive therapy, and prediction of long-term graft survival. Biomarkers have emerged as valuable tools to address these challenges and revolutionize RT patient care. Our review synthesizes the existing scientific literature to highlight promising biomarkers, their biological characteristics, and their potential roles in enhancing clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. Emerging non-invasive biomarkers seemingly provide valuable insights into the immunopathology of nephron injury and allograft rejection. Moreover, we analyzed biomarkers with intra-nephron specificities, i.e., glomerular vs. tubular (proximal vs. distal), which can localize an injury in different nephron areas. Additionally, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential clinical applications of biomarkers in the prediction, detection, differential diagnosis and assessment of post-RT non-surgical allograft complications. Lastly, we focus on the pursuit of immune tolerance biomarkers, which aims to reclassify transplant recipients based on immune risk thresholds, guide personalized immunosuppression strategies, and ultimately identify patients for whom immunosuppression may safely be reduced. Further research, validation, standardization, and prospective studies are necessary to fully harness the clinical utility of RT biomarkers and guide the development of targeted therapies.
The Effect of Sustainability Information Disclosure on the Cost of Equity Capital: An Empirical Analysis Based on Gartner Top 50 Supply Chain Rankings
Authors: Li Lingyu , Zheng Xianrong , Wang Shuxi
Published: July 2023

While disclosing financial information has been widely proved to reduce the financing cost of a company, the impact of non-financial information, such as sustainability information, disclosing on the financing cost of the company is still in debate. The goal of this paper is to explore the impact of disclosing sustainability-related information on the cost of equity for firms. The paper first introduces the concept of sustainability information disclosure, and then exhibits its benefit through exploring its impact on reducing a firm’s financing cost. It uses the Gartner supply chain top 50 rankings to construct the experiment environment to test for the effect of sustainability information disclosure on the cost of equity capital. The study uses the Gartner top 50 supply chain rankings from 2013 to 2017 to construct the experiment environment, and test for the sustainability information disclosure’s impact on reducing the cost of equity capital. The regressions, which are based on the 350 firm-year sample of the United States and the 604 global firm-year sample, indicate that sustainability information disclosure significantly reduced the cost of equity capital. This paper uses a fixed effect regression method to analyze the impact of sustainability information disclosure. According to the regression result, the sustainability information disclosure variable has a significant negative coefficient. The result is robust under many settings. Thus, the paper finds that sustainability information disclosure significantly diminishes the cost of equity capital, controlling for ESG information disclosure. It also discusses the implications of the findings and future research directions for sustainability information disclosure.
Spatial–Temporal Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Land-Use Carbon Emissions: An Empirical Analysis Based on the GTWR Model
Authors: He Jie , Yang Jun
Published: July 2023

An in-depth comprehension of the spatial–temporal characteristics of land-use carbon emissions (LUCE), along with their potential influencing factors, is of high scientific significance for the realization of low-carbon land use and sustainable urban development. Academic investigations pertaining to LUCE predominantly encompass three key dimensions: assessment, optimization, and characterization research. This study aimed to investigate the spatial and temporal variations in LUCE within Zhejiang Province by analyzing data from 11 cities and identifying the key factors influencing these emissions. This research work employed the geographically and temporally weighted regression (GTWR) model to explore the patterns of variation in these factors across each city. The results reveal that (1) the temporal changes in LUCE display two predominant trends, while the spatial distribution exhibits a distinct “high in the northeast and low in the southwest” divergence; (2) the average intensity of each factor follows the order of economic level > government intervention > urban compactness > public facilities level > urban greening level > industrial structure > population density; (3) and the influencing factors exhibit significant spatial and temporal heterogeneity, with varying direction and intensity of effects for different cities at different stages of development. This study integrated the dimensions of time and space, systematically examining the evolutionary trends of influencing factors on LUCE within each region. Consequently, it contributes to the comprehension of the spatiotemporal effects associated with the driving mechanisms of LUCE. Moreover, it offers a foundation for formulating customized patterns and strategies to mitigate such emissions, taking into account specific local contexts.
War and Deforestation: Using Remote Sensing and Machine Learning to Identify the War-Induced Deforestation in Syria 2010–2019
Authors: Daiyoub Angham , Gelabert Pere , Saura-Mas Sandra , Vega-Garcia Cristina
Published: July 2023

Armed conflicts and other types of violence are key drivers of human-induced landscape change. Since March 2011, Syria has been embroiled in a prolonged and devastating armed conflict causing immense human suffering and extensive destruction. As a result, over five million people have been forced to seek refuge outside the country’s borders, while more than six million have been internally displaced. This study focuses on examining the impact of this conflict on forest cover by identifying the drivers of forest change. To assess this change, Landsat and PALSAR imagery were used to differentiate between forested and non-forested areas. Spectral information was synthetized using the Tasseled Cap transformation and the time series data was simplified and despiked using the LandTrendr algorithm. Our results show that between 2010 and 2019 there was a substantial decrease of 19.3% in forest cover, predominantly concentrated in the northwestern region of Syria. This decline was induced by the armed conflict, with several key drivers contributing to the decline, such as illegal logging activities conducted by both locals and refugees living in nearby forest areas. Drivers such as proximity to refugee camps, roads, and settlements played an important role in producing this change by facilitating access to forests. In addition, the occurrence of explosive events such as bombings and shelling near forests also contributed to this decline by causing forest fires. To mitigate further deforestation and reduce dependence on forests for fuel, it is crucial for local governments in the post-conflict period to offer sustainable alternatives for heating and cooking to both the local populations and refugees. Additionally, governments are recommended to enforce strict laws and regulations to protect forests and combat illegal logging activities. These measures are essential for preserving and restoring forests, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring the well-being of both displaced populations and local communities.
What Is the State of Development of Eco-Wellbeing Performance in China? An Analysis from a Three-Stage Network Perspective
Authors: Zhang Yu , Cai Xi , Mao Yanying , Jiao Liudan , Wu Liu
Published: July 2023

After rapid development in recent decades, China has laid a strong economic foundation and established material conditions. Despite this, the country still confronts a range of challenges that impede higher-quality economic and social development. To measure high-quality regional development, eco-wellbeing performance (EWP) has become an important tool that seeks to strike a balance between economic development, human wellbeing, and environmental protection. This paper proposes a three-stage network efficiency evaluation model to decompose EWP into three stages, namely ecological economic efficiency (EEE), economic innovation efficiency (EIE), and innovation wellbeing efficiency (IWE). A directional distance function (DDF) model was utilized to assess the overall EWP efficiency and phase-in efficiency for 248 cities over the period from 2016 to 2020. The study results indicate that EWP in China is generally low. In terms of the three sub-stages of EWP, the first stage performs optimally, the third stage performs the second best, and the second stage is the worst. The research suggests that the principal reason for the generally low EWP may be linked to the efficiency of the transformation of economic investments into innovative outcomes in the second stage. From a regional viewpoint, EWP generally shows a gradually decreasing trend from the east, central, and west to the northeast, but the stage performance varies among regions. The eastern region has lower EEE, but both EIE and IWE perform better than the national average; the central region is well-balanced between the three stages; the western region leads the country in EEE, but lags in both EIE and IWE; and the northeast region has inferior performance in all stages. This study’s findings provide vital reference values for policy-makers to determine key points for enhancing EWP in different regions of China.