bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burnout and Health Issues among Prehospital Personnel in Taiwan Fire Departments during a Sudden Spike in Community COVID-19 Cases: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chang Yu-Tung , Hu Yih-Jin
Published: February 2022

A spike in COVID-19 cases in Taiwan’s communities caused a significant increase in workload and infection concerns among prehospital personnel working in Taiwan fire departments. The present study was aimed at investigating their health status during this period. The target population was prehospital personnel who are from Taiwan fire departments, and who responded to COVID-19 patients during the community outbreak period. A questionnaire was employed to assess their physical and mental health status. The results showed that prehospital personnel suffered from moderate to severe degrees of burnout. Workload, body burden, and perceived pressure increased significantly during this period. Participants received more support from friends, family, and colleagues than they did from authorities. The paramedics reported higher scores for personal burnout than the emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Compared to non-COVID-19 response units, special COVID-19 response units reported higher scores for workload, body burden, and supportive environment. The results suggested that personal and work-related burnout were associated with higher perceived pressure. This study is the first investigation of physical and mental health burdens among prehospital personnel in Taiwan fire departments during the COVID-19 pandemic. The physical and mental health status of these personnel should be continuously monitored, and intervention provided as necessary.
The Association of Cholesterol Uptake and Synthesis with Histology and Genotype in Cortisol-Producing Adenoma (CPA)
Authors: Motomura Naoki , Yamazaki Yuto , Koga Daiki , Harashima Shogo , Gao Xin , Tezuka Yuta , Omata Kei , Ono Yoshikiyo , Morimoto Ryo , Satoh Fumitoshi , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Kwon Go Eun , Choi Man Ho , Ito Akihiro , Sasano Hironobu
Published: February 2022

Cortisol-producing adenoma (CPA) is composed of clear and compact cells. Clear cells are lipid abundant, and compact ones lipid poor but associated with higher production of steroid hormones. PRKACA mutation (PRKACA mt) in CPA patients was reported to be associated with more pronounced clinical manifestation of Cushing’s syndrome. In this study, we examined the association of histological features and genotypes with cholesterol uptake receptors and synthetic enzymes in 40 CPA cases, and with the quantitative results obtained by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis in 33 cases to explore their biological and clinical significance. Both cholesterol uptake receptors and synthetic enzymes were more abundant in compact cells. GC-MS analysis demonstrated that the percentage of compact cells was inversely correlated with the concentrations of cholesterol and cholesterol esters, and positively with the activity of cholesterol biosynthesis from cholesterol esters. In addition, hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), which catalyzes cholesterol biosynthesis from cholesterol esters, tended to be more abundant in compact cells of PRKACA mt CPAs. These results demonstrated that both cholesterol uptake and biosynthesis were more pronounced in compact cells in CPA. In addition, more pronounced HSL expression in compact cells of PRKACA mt CPA could contribute to their more pronounced clinical manifestation.
Nanoarchitectonics of Electrically Activable Phosphonium Self-Assembled Monolayers to Efficiently Kill and Tackle Bacterial Infections on Demand
Authors: Carrara Serena , Rouvier Florent , Auditto Sanjana , Brunel Frédéric , Jeanneau Charlotte , Camplo Michel , Sergent Michelle , About Imad , Bolla Jean-Michel , Raimundo Jean-Manuel
Published: February 2022

Prosthetic implants are widely used in dentistry and orthopedics and, as a result, infections can occur which cause their removal. Therefore, it is essential to propose methods of eradicating the bacteria that remain on the prosthesis during treatment. For this purpose, it is necessary to develop surfaces whose antibacterial activity can be controlled. Herein, we designed innovative and smart phosphonium self-assembled monolayer (SAM) interfaces that can be electrically activated on demand for controlling bacterial contaminations on solid surfaces. Upon electroactivation with a low potential (0.2 V for 60 min., conditions determined through a DOE), a successful stamping out of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains was obtained with SAM-modified titanium surfaces, effectively killing 95% of Staphylococcus aureus and 90% Klebsiellapneumoniae. More importantly, no toxicity towards eukaryotic cells was observed which further enhances the biocompatible character of these novel surfaces for further implementation.
Review of Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomic Analyses of Body Fluids to Diagnose Infectious Diseases
Authors: Lee Hayoung , Kim Seung Il
Published: February 2022

Rapid and precise diagnostic methods are required to control emerging infectious diseases effectively. Human body fluids are attractive clinical samples for discovering diagnostic targets because they reflect the clinical statuses of patients and most of them can be obtained with minimally invasive sampling processes. Body fluids are good reservoirs for infectious parasites, bacteria, and viruses. Therefore, recent clinical proteomics methods have focused on body fluids when aiming to discover human- or pathogen-originated diagnostic markers. Cutting-edge liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based proteomics has been applied in this regard; it is considered one of the most sensitive and specific proteomics approaches. Here, the clinical characteristics of each body fluid, recent tandem mass spectroscopy (MS/MS) data-acquisition methods, and applications of body fluids for proteomics regarding infectious diseases (including the coronavirus disease of 2019 [COVID-19]), are summarized and discussed.
HuNAC20 and HuNAC25, Two Novel NAC Genes from Pitaya, Confer Cold Tolerance in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Hu Xinglong , Xie Fangfang , Liang Wenwei , Liang Yinhao , Zhang Zhike , Zhao Jietang , Hu Guibing , Qin Yonghua
Published: February 2022

NAC transcription factors are one of the largest families of transcriptional regulators in plants, and members of the gene family play vital roles in regulating plant growth and development processes including biotic/abiotic stress responses. However, little information is available about the NAC family in pitaya. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis and a total of 64 NACs (named HuNAC1-HuNAC64) were identified in pitaya (Hylocereus). These genes were grouped into fifteen subgroups with diversities in gene proportions, exon–intron structures, and conserved motifs. Genome mapping analysis revealed that HuNAC genes were unevenly scattered on all eleven chromosomes. Synteny analysis indicated that the segmental duplication events played key roles in the expansion of the pitaya NAC gene family. Expression levels of these HuNAC genes were analyzed under cold treatments using qRT-PCR. Four HuNAC genes, i.e., HuNAC7, HuNAC20, HuNAC25, and HuNAC30, were highly induced by cold stress. HuNAC7, HuNAC20, HuNAC25, and HuNAC30 were localized exclusively in the nucleus. HuNAC20, HuNAC25, and HuNAC30 were transcriptional activators while HuNAC7 was a transcriptional repressor. Overexpression of HuNAC20 and HuNAC25 in Arabidopsis thaliana significantly enhanced tolerance to cold stress through decreasing ion leakage, malondialdehyde (MDA), and H2O2 and O2− accumulation, accompanied by upregulating the expression of cold-responsive genes (AtRD29A, AtCOR15A, AtCOR47, and AtKIN1). This study presents comprehensive information on the understanding of the NAC gene family and provides candidate genes to breed new pitaya cultivars with tolerance to cold conditions through genetic transformation.
Population Analysis of Diospyros lotus in the Northwestern Caucasus Based on Leaf Morphology and Multilocus DNA Markers
Authors: Samarina Lidia S. , Malyarovskaya Valentina I. , Rakhmangulov Ruslan S. , Koninskaya Natalia G. , Matskiv Alexandra O. , Shkhalakhova Ruset M. , Orlov Yuriy L. , Tsaturyan Gregory A. , Shurkina Ekaterina S. , Gvasaliya Maya V. , Kuleshov Alexandr S. , Ryndin Alexey V.
Published: February 2022

Diospyros lotus is the one of the most frost-tolerant species in the Diospyros genera, used as a rootstock for colder regions. Natural populations of D. lotus have a fragmented character of distribution in the Northwestern Caucasus, one of the coldest regions of Diospyros cultivation. To predict the behavior of D. lotus populations in an extreme environment, it is necessary to investigate the intraspecific genetic diversity and phenotypic variability of populations in the colder regions. In this study, we analyzed five geographically distant populations of D. lotus according to 33 morphological leaf traits, and the most informative traits were established, namely, leaf length, leaf width, leaf index (leaf to length ratio) and the length of the fourth veins. Additionally, we evaluated the intraspecific genetic diversity of D. lotus using ISSR and SCoT markers and proposed a new parameter for the evaluation of genetic polymorphism among populations, in order to eliminate the effect of sample number. This new parameter is the relative genetic polymorphism, which is the ratio of polymorphism to the number of samples. Based on morphological and genetic data, the northernmost population from Shkhafit was phenotypically and genetically distant from the other populations. The correspondence between several morphological traits (leaf width, leaf length and first to fifth right vein angles) and several marker bands (SCoT5, SCoT7, SCoT30: 800–1500 bp; ISSR13, ISSR14, ISSR880: 500–1000 bp) were observed for the Shkhafit population. Unique SCoT and ISSR fragments can be used as markers for breeding purposes. The results provide a better understanding of adaptive mechanisms in D. lotus in extreme environments and will be important for the further expansion of the cultivation area for persimmon in colder regions.
Quality Control Method for the Service Life and Reliability of Concrete Structures
Authors: Strauss Alfred , Spyridis Panagiotis , Zambon Ivan , Sattler Fabian , Apostolidi Eftychia
Published: February 2022

In the past few years, there has been an increasing societal and industrial demand for the reliable assessment and design of structural systems with service-life criteria of at least several decades. The life cycle characterisation of engineering structures in terms of an anticipated service life remains a significant aspect of sustainability in the construction industry. This requires special attention to the definition of structural performance under various actions, and to the implemented engineering materials and methods as well as to the inverse identification and monitoring of structural conditions. Subsequently, the focus remains on the development of a holistic performance-based design approach for new and existing structures and infrastructures. This paper presents the fundamental reliability concepts of performance-based design, with a focus on lifetime assessment. Case studies from actual structural components’ design are used to verify the proposed methodology and indicate the significance of quality assurance in the lifetime assessment of engineering structures. We also confirmed that reliability and quality assurance criteria are strongly connected. Therefore, a methodology for quality-based service life assessment is presented and elaborated in the case studies.
DNA Barcoding versus Morphological Variability of Pterostichus brevicornis brevicornis (Kirby, 1837) (Coleoptera, Carabidae) in the Arctic and Subarctic
Authors: Zubrii Natalia Andreevna , Filippov Boris Yurevich , Kondakov Alexander Vasilevich , Khruleva Olga Arturovna , Rybalov Leonid Borisovich , Vikhreva Darya Vitalievna
Published: February 2022

The geographic patterns of genetic and morphological variability in ground beetles were examined throughout Northern Eurasia and North America using the most abundant circumpolar tundra subspecies, Pterostichus (Cryobius) brevicornis brevicornis (Kirby, 1837), as a model. Phylogenetic structure was assessed on the basis of a Bayesian approach using two DNA markers (partial sequences of the COI and 28S rRNA genes), while phylogeographic patterns and population genetic diversity were estimated using the COI gene only. Morphological patterns were analysed using elliptical Fourier coefficients that were calculated based on the pronotum and male genitalia shape outlines. The subspecies shares 23 COI haplotypes throughout its entire circumpolar range, while eight haplotypes of 28S rRNA were detected in Northern Eurasia. Phylogenetic analysis did not reveal subdivided species lineages with strict geographical imprint. The network, FST and uncorrected pairwise divergence analyses showed that the genetic distances between populations increase by longitude from Northeastern Asia to Europe. The genetic variability among the five studied geographical population groups of P. b. brevicornis was relatively high. The MANOVA showed significant regional divergence between local populations in Northern Eurasia based on both morphological markers, but only male genitalia variability was geographically structured. Neither the pronotum shape nor the male genitalia shape aligned with the phylogeographic patterns discovered on the basis of COI sequences. The genetic (COI) marker had more variation within, rather than among, population groups in addition to morphology of pronotum but not male genitalia.
Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis Homozygous for the F508del Mutation and Advanced Lung Disease: A 48-Week Observational Study
Authors: Carnovale Vincenzo , Iacotucci Paola , Terlizzi Vito , Colangelo Carmela , Ferrillo Lorenza , Pepe Angela , Francalanci Michela , Taccetti Giovanni , Buonaurio Serena , Celardo Assunta , Salvadori Laura , Marsicovetere Giovanni , D’Andria Michele , Ferrara Nicola , Salvatore Donatello
Published: February 2022

Background: Elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) is the newest cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator drug approved for the treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) aged ≥6 years with at least one copy of the F508del mutation (F) in the CFTR gene or another mutation that is responsive to treatment with ETI. This study determined the effectiveness and safety of ETI in a cohort of severely affected pwCF with an F/F genotype. Methods: Retrospective observational study in F/F pwCF treated for 48 weeks, enrolled in an ETI managed access program available to subjects with advanced lung disease (ppFEV1 < 40). Twenty-six patients from three centres were included. The main outcomes included lung function, sweat chloride concentration (SCC), nutrition, frequency of pulmonary exacerbations (PEx), CFQ-R, and safety. Results: ppFEV1 improved by 12.06 (95%CI 8.54, 15.57) from baseline after 4 weeks of treatment with ETI, 15.32 (11.3, 19.34) after 24 weeks, and 14.48 (10.64, 18.32) after 48 weeks. The increase in FEV1 was accompanied by a decrease in SCC, improvement of BMI, and noticeable reduction in PEx. An overall good safety profile was observed. Conclusions: In F/F pwCF with advanced lung disease with an F/F genotype, ETI was safe and associated with clinical improvement.
Special Issue “The Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis”
Authors: Kabłak-Ziembicka Anna
Published: February 2022

This editorial summarizes the 10 scientific papers that contributed to the Special Issue of the Journal of Clinical Medicine: ‘The Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis’ [...]
Direct Transport to Cardiac Arrest Center and Survival Outcomes after Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest by Urbanization Level
Authors: Jung Eujene , Ro Young Sun , Park Jeong Ho , Ryu Hyun Ho , Shin Sang Do
Published: February 2022

Current guidelines for post-resuscitation care recommend regionalized care at a cardiac arrest center (CAC). Our objectives were to evaluate the effect of direct transport to a CAC on survival outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs), and to assess interaction effects between CAC and urbanization levels. Adult EMS-treated OHCAs with presumed cardiac etiology between 2015 and 2019 were enrolled. The main exposure was the hospital where OHCA patients were transported by EMS (CAC or non-CAC). The outcomes were good neurological recovery and survival to discharge. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. Interaction analysis between the urbanization level of the location of arrest (metropolitan or urban/rural area) and the exposure variable was performed. Among the 95,931 study population, 23,292 (24.3%) OHCA patients were transported directly to CACs. Patients in the CAC group had significantly higher likelihood of good neurological recovery and survival to discharge than the non-CAC group (both p < 0.01, aORs (95% CIs): 1.75 (1.63–1.89) and 1.70 (1.60–1.80), respectively). There were interaction effects between CAC and the urbanization level for good neurological recovery and survival to discharge. Direct transport to CAC was associated with significantly better clinical outcomes compared to non-CAC, and the findings were strengthened in OHCAs occurring in nonmetropolitan areas.
Meridionalization as a Possible Resource for Fisheries: The Case Study of Caranx rhonchus Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1817, in Southern Italian Waters
Authors: Coco Salvatore , Roncarati Alessandra , Tiralongo Francesco , Felici Alberto
Published: February 2022

Climate change affects the shift range distribution of species, especially among mobile species, and this phenomenon can alter ecosystems and impacts human activities. Fishing is an anthropic activity that undergoes the effect not only of the introduction and increase of non-native species but also of native thermophilic ones. Some of these species can become a commercially exploitable resource. However, this information is often obscured by the negative effects these species can cause to the environment. We investigated how the thermophilic species Caranx rhonchus, neglected in Italy, could become a relevant resource. We studied the nutritional profile and the presence of heavy metal contamination and compared these traits with those of a similar common Mediterranean species, namely Trachurus trachurus. The proximate composition was determined following the AOAC procedure, while the fatty acid profile was determined by GC/MS, and the mineral component was obtained by mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). Caranx rhonchus is a nutritionally good species, although it is little consumed and exploited. Increasing the market supply with new commercially exploitable emerging species would benefit local communities and the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate how a shift of the range caused by climate change can provide benefits within the human dimension.
Trans-Media Kinematic Stability Analysis for Hybrid Unmanned Aerial Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Wei Tongjin , Lu Di , Zeng Zheng , Lian Lian
Published: February 2022

In recent years, hybrid unmanned aerial underwater vehicles (HAUVs), which are capable of air–water trans-media motion, have been increasingly developed. For most HAUVs, air–water trans–media motion is a relatively dangerous and difficult process. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the particular process. This paper presents the first study on the kinematic stability of the air–water trans–media motion of HAUVs. First, a simplified dynamic model of HAUVs is proposed, including the hydrodynamic forces and the time–varying buoyancy. Then, based on the proposed model and the Hurwitz method, this paper derives the air–water trans–media kinematic stability criterion for HAUVs. This criterion can be applied to most air–water trans–media motions that satisfy the assumptions in this paper. Finally, this paper takes “Nezha”, a novel HAUV, as an example to analyze its air–water trans–media kinematic stability. The results show that the proposed criterion is effective in judging the vehicle’s design, including the geometry and thruster power, which are important factors in the performance of the trans–media process.
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis-Mimicking Advanced Gynecological Cancer: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Pereira Augusto , Magrina Javier F. , Magtibay Paul M. , Stamps Beatriz G. , Muñoz-Nuñez Elena , Perez-Medina Tirso
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a necrotizing vasculitis that mimics gynecologic cancer. In GPA patients, the genitourinary system is affected in <1%. The objective of the study was to provide a systematic review of the literature of GPA patients with gynecological involvement. (2) Methods: PubMed and Embase were searched from inception to July 2021 for GPA patients with gynecological involvement Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and free-text terms. Exclusion criteria were other language, review articles, pregnancy, fertility, or male patients. Data were extracted on clinical evolution, symptoms, examinations findings, diagnosis delay, treatment, outcome, patient status, and follow-up. (3) Results: Seventeen studies included data from patients with GPA and primary or relapsed gynecological involvement. 68% of the authors of this review thought the patient had cancer. The main gynecological symptom is bleeding, but exclusive gynecologic symptomatology is rare (ENT: 63%, lungs: 44%, kidneys-urinary tract: 53%). GPA could affect all areas of the genital tract, but the most frequent location is the uterine cervix. Medical treatment for GPA is effective. (4) Conclusions: GPA of the female genital tract must be considered when biopsies of an ulcerated malignant-appearing cervical or vaginal mass are negative for malignancy even when they are unspecific. Rheumatology consultation is indicated.
The Nexus between Cultural Heritage Management and the Mental Health of Urban Communities
Authors: Spennemann Dirk H. R.
Published: February 2022

In authorized cultural heritage management discourse, heritage sites can be included in local government heritage registers if their aesthetic, scientific, historic or social values are deemed significant. While notionally providing protection from major alterations and destruction for the benefit of future generations, such listings primarily serve the present generation whose values they reflect. This paper considers the role that cultural heritage places play in terms of community identity and their contribution to a sense of place, to place attachment and, by implication, to personal and community mental health.
Comparative Performance Evaluation of Multiconfiguration Touch-Trigger Probes for Closed-Loop Machining of Large Jet Engine Cases
Authors: Szyszka Grzegorz , Sęp Jarosław
Published: February 2022

This article presents advances in the methodology of rapid various probe configurations comparison for the five-axis, tilting-head machine tools in conjunction with master artifacts. The research was performed in a direct context of automated machining of large, complex jet engine cases made from 17-4PH and 321 stainless steel materials. The aim of the study was to investigate whether all probe configurations have comparable measurement capability for use in manufacturing environment conditions. Based on the preliminary stage of the study, the T1 main straight probe achieved acceptable results of repeatability and reproducibility, lower than 10%, except for the reference diameter measurement of MT#2, where 15.4% R&R was achieved, conditionally accepted. For the straight probe configuration, error lower than 10 μm was achieved for the true position measurement and error ±10 μm for the reference diameter measurement, in relation to the vertical and horizontal head position, with the exception of the T9 and T5 MT#2 probe configuration, where higher error was noticed. The obtained results of the T5 MT#2 and T9 probes were supplemented with additional tests, which are also included. For the custom styli probes, the T4 and T6 configurations, unacceptable error, higher than 0.30 mm, was observed for the Y axis position. Depending on the shop floor and machine tool condition, variability of the results was also observed. Hence, the collected data and research helped to determine the mutual measurement errors and determine the application limitations of probes for an adaptive process flow.
Accuracy of Computer-Assisted Flapless Implant Placement by Means of Mucosa-Supported Templates in Complete-Arch Restorations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Carosi Paolo , Lorenzi Claudia , Lio Fabrizio , Cardelli Pierluigi , Pinto Alessandro , Laureti Andrea , Pozzi Alessandro
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to systematically review the current scientific literature regarding the accuracy of fully guided flapless implant positioning for complete-arch rehabilitations in edentulous patients and to assess if there was any statistically significant correlation between linear deviation at shoulder point, at apex point and angular deviation. The electronic and manual literature search of clinical studies was carried out using specified indexing terms. A total of 13 studies were eligible for qualitative analysis and 277 edentulous patients were rehabilitated with 1556 implants patients by means of fully guided mucosa-supported template-assisted flapless surgery. Angular deviation was 3.42° (95% CI 2.82–4.03), linear deviation at shoulder point 1.23 mm (95% CI 0.97–1.49) and linear deviation at apex point 1.46 mm (95% CI 1.17–1.74). No statistically significant correlations were found between the linear and angular deviations. A statistically significant correlation was found between the two linear deviations (correlation coefficient 0.91) that can be summarized by the regression equation y = 0.03080 + 0.8254x. Computer-assisted flapless implant placement by means of mucosa-supported templates in complete arch restorations can be considered a reliable and predictable treatment choice despite the potential effects that flapless approach could bring to the overall treatment.
Synthesis and Characterization of TiO2 Nanotubes (TiO2-NTs) with Ag Silver Nanoparticles (Ag-NPs): Photocatalytic Performance for Wastewater Treatment under Visible Light
Authors: Assadi Achraf Amir , Karoui Sarra , Trabelsi Khaled , Hajjaji Anouar , Elfalleh Walid , Ghorbal Achraf , Maghzaoui Mounir , Assadi Aymen Amin
Published: February 2022

In this work, we present the influence of the decoration of TiO2 nanotubes (TiO2-NTs) with Ag silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on the photocatalysis of emerging pollutants such as the antibiotic diclofenac sodium. The Ag-NPs were loaded onto the TiO2-NTs by the anodization of metallic titanium foils. Diclofenac sodium is an emerging pollutant target of the pharmaceutical industry because of its negative environmental impact (high toxicity and confirmed carcinogenicity). The obtained Ag-NP/TiO2-NT nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission spectroscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). In order to study the photocatalytic behavior of Ag-NPs/TiO2-NTs with visible cold LEDs, the possible photocatalytic mechanism of antibiotic degradation with reactive species (O2°− and OH°) was detailed. Moreover, the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model was used to correlate the experimental results with the optimized catalyst. Likewise, reuse tests showed the chemical stability of the catalyst.
Computational Modelling of VIG Plates Using FEM: Static and Dynamic Analysis
Authors: Kowalczyk Izabela , Kozanecki Damian , Krasoń Sylwia , Rabenda Martyna
Published: February 2022

Vacuum insulated glass (VIG) panels are becoming more and more popular due to their good thermal performance. Little information about the mechanical or strength parameters, which are crucial for the durability of a window, might be found in the published papers. The purpose of this work was to analyse the impact of different parameters on VIG panels’ mechanical properties. Parameter diversity refers to both geometrical and material characteristics. Static and dynamic analyses using the finite element method (ABAQUS program) were conducted. In addition, 101 various numerical models, created with the use of Python language, were tested. The changes of geometrical parameters were made with constant material parameters and the reverse. It has been concluded that pillars’ material and geometrical properties are crucial considering not only the static response of the VIG plates, but also the dynamic one. Moreover, it was proven that getting rid of the first row of pillars near every edge seal led to an increase in deflection of the glass panes. Additionally, considering results for dynamic response associated with out-of-phase vibrations, spacing between support pillars should be large enough in order to avoid possible damage to the glass pane due to rapidly decreasing distance between them. Further research opportunities have been described.
Towards N–N-Doped Carbon Dots: A Combined Computational and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Olla Chiara , Porcu Stefania , Secci Francesco , Ricci Pier Carlo , Carbonaro Carlo Maria
Published: February 2022

The introduction of N doping atoms in the carbon network of Carbon Dots is known to increase their quantum yield and broaden the emission spectrum, depending on the kind of N bonding introduced. N doping is usually achieved by exploiting amine molecules in the synthesis. In this work, we studied the possibility of introducing a N–N bonding in the carbon network by means of hydrothermal synthesis of citric acid and hydrazine molecules, including hydrated hydrazine, di-methylhydrazine and phenylhydrazine. The experimental optical features show the typical fingerprints of Carbon Dots formation, such as nanometric size, excitation dependent emission, non-single exponential decay of photoluminescence and G and D vibrational bands in the Raman spectra. To explain the reported data, we performed a detailed computational investigation of the possible products of the synthesis, comparing the simulated absorbance spectra with the experimental optical excitation pattern. The computed Raman spectra corroborate the hypothesis of the formation of pyridinone derivatives, among which the formation of small polymeric chains allowed the broad excitation spectra to be experimentally observed.
“Sticky Bone” Preparation Device: A Pilot Study on the Release of Cytokines and Growth Factors
Authors: Gheno Ezio , Alves Gutemberg Gomes , Ghiretti Roberto , Mello-Machado Rafael Coutinho , Signore Antonio , Lourenço Emanuelle Stellet , Leite Paulo Emílio Correa , Mourão Carlos Fernando de Almeida Barros , Sohn Dong-Seok , Calasans-Maia Mônica Diuana
Published: February 2022

Sticky bone, a growth factor-enriched bone graft matrix, is a promising autologous material for bone tissue regeneration. However, its production is strongly dependent on manual handling steps. In this sense, a new device was developed to simplify the confection of the sticky bone, named Sticky Bone Preparation Device (SBPD®). The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the suitability of the SBPD® to prepare biomaterials for bone regeneration with autologous platelet concentrates. The SBPD® allows the blending of particulate samples from synthetic, xenograft, or autogenous bone with autologous platelet concentrates, making it easy to use and avoiding the need of further manipulations for the combination of the materials. The protocol for the preparation of sticky bone samples using the SBPD® is described, and the resulting product is compared with hand-mixed SB preparations regarding in vitro parameters such as cell content and the ability to release growth factors and cytokines relevant to tissue regeneration. The entrapped cell content was estimated, and the ability to release biological mediators was assessed after 7 days of incubation in culture medium. Both preparations increased the leukocyte and platelet concentrations compared to whole-blood samples (p < 0.05), without significant differences between SB and SBPD®. SBPD® samples released several growth factors, including VEGF, FGFb, and PDGF, at concentrations physiologically equivalent to those released by SB preparations. Therefore, the use of SBPD® results in a similar product to the standard protocol, but with more straightforward and shorter preparation times and less manipulation. These preliminary results suggest this device as a suitable alternative for combining bone substitute materials with platelet concentrates for bone tissue regeneration.
Humus Acids in the Digested Sludge and Their Properties
Authors: Anielak Anna M. , Kłeczek Aneta
Published: February 2022

Fulvic acids, alpha (α) humic acids and hymatomelanic acids were extracted digested sludge in two Cracow sewage treatment plants: Kujawy and Płaszów. Their elemental composition was examined and micropollution and ash content were determined. Based on the IR and UV-VIS spectrum, their similarities were determined with the occurring interactions with micropollution. Strong correlations between the acids coming from different sources depend on acid type and micropollution accompanying them, depending on concentration, influences to a specific extent their IR and UV-VIS spectra. Absorption analysis in infrared constitutes a simple method for characterizing fulvic and humic acids from wastewater treatment plants. The extracted fulvic acids were characterized by moderate maturity, while humus acids were well developed. In the fermentation process, the N bond increases together with the level of humification of the humus acid. The characteristics of the extracted humus acids comply with other humic substances presented in the literature. Quantitative analysis showed that digested sludge contains, on average: FA from 5.07 to 5.30 g/kg dry matter, αHA from 59.22 to 74.72 g/kg dry matter, HMA from 20.31 to 43.66 g/kg dry matter. It was thus demonstrated that wastewater treatment, in particular digested sludge, constitutes an attractive source of humus acids with a wide range of applications in numerous areas, such as agriculture, ecological rehabilitation, environmental protection, animal breeding, aquaculture, veterinary as well as medicine and is a precious source of soil fertilizers.
Gas–Liquid Mass Transfer Behavior of Upstream Pumping Mechanical Face Seals
Authors: Bai Shaoxian , Hao Jialin , Yang Jing , Song Yuansen
Published: February 2022

For gas–liquid medium isolation seals in aero-engines, the upstream pumping function of directional grooves provides an effective way to realize the design of longer service life and lower leakage rate. However, this produces a new problem for gas–liquid mass transfer in the sealing clearance. This study establishes an analytical model to investigate the gas–liquid mass transfer behavior and the change rule for the opening force of mechanical face seals with elliptical grooves. Compared with traditional studies, this model considers not only the gas–liquid transfer but also the cavitation effect. The results obtained show that with the increase of rotational speed, the gas medium transferred from the inner low-pressure side to the outer high-pressure side. In addition, the leakage rate of the liquid medium from the outer high-pressure side to the inner low-pressure side increased with the growth of sealing clearance, rotational speed and seal pressure. The upstream pumping effect of the gas medium with elliptical grooves not only led to a state of gas–liquid mixed lubrication in the sealing surfaces, but also significantly increased the opening capacity of the seal face. This research may provide a reasonable basis for the design of upstream pumping mechanical face seals.
A Twisted and Coiled Polymer Artificial Muscles Driven Soft Crawling Robot Based on Enhanced Antagonistic Configuration
Authors: Wu Chunbing , Zhang Zhuang , Zheng Wen
Published: February 2022

Twisted and coiled polymer (TCP) actuators are becoming increasingly prevalent in soft robotic fields due to their powerful and hysteresis-free stroke, large specific work density, and ease of fabrication. This paper presents a soft crawling robot with spike-inspired robot feet which can deform and crawl like an inchworm. The robot mainly consists of two leaf springs, connection part, robot feet, and two TCP actuators. A system level model of a soft crawling robot is presented for flexible and effective locomotion. Such a model can offer high-efficiency design and flexible locomotion of the crawling robot. Results show that the soft crawling robot can move at a speed of 0.275 mm/s when TCP is powered at 24 V.
Calcination Temperature Reflected Structural, Optical and Magnetic Properties of Nickel Oxide
Authors: Dwivedi Sonam , Nayak Hari Chandra , Parmar Shivendra Singh , Kumhar Rajendra Prasad , Rajput Shailendra
Published: February 2022

Stoichiometric compositions of NiO were prepared by the standard chemical co-precipitation method to inspect the effect of the calcination temperature on structures, morphology, and physical properties. The samples were calcined at three different temperatures viz. 350 °C, 550 °C, and 650 °C for 5 h. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the cubic (Fm-3m) structure of the prepared samples. The average crystalline size increases from 41 nm to above 100 nm as the calcination temperature increases in the same time period. In Fourier transform infrared spectra, the spectral absorption bands were observed at ~413, 434, and 444 cm–1. The bandgap energy of NiO particles is decreased from 3.6 eV to 3.41 eV as the calcination temperature increases. The magnetic analysis confirms that the magnetization value of NiO is invariably decreased with a rise in the calcination temperature.
Simplifying Implications with Positive and Negative Attributes: A Logic-Based Approach
Authors: Pérez-Gámez Francisco , López-Rodríguez Domingo , Cordero Pablo , Mora  Ángel , Ojeda-Aciego Manuel
Published: February 2022

Concepts and implications are two facets of the knowledge contained within a binary relation between objects and attributes. Simplification logic (SL) has proved to be valuable for the study of attribute implications in a concept lattice, a topic of interest in the more general framework of formal concept analysis (FCA). Specifically, SL has become the kernel of automated methods to remove redundancy or obtain different types of bases of implications. Although originally FCA used only the positive information contained in the dataset, negative information (explicitly stating that an attribute does not hold) has been proposed by several authors, but without an adequate set of equivalence-preserving rules for simplification. In this work, we propose a mixed simplification logic and a method to automatically remove redundancy in implications, which will serve as a foundational standpoint for the automated reasoning methods for this extended framework.
Multiple Comparison Procedures for Exponential Mean Lifetimes Compared with Several Controls
Authors: Wu Shu-Fei
Published: February 2022

Under heteroscedasticity, we propose one-stage multiple comparison procedures for several treatment groups compared with several control groups in terms of exponential mean lifetimes. The simultaneous confidence intervals including one-sided and two-sided confidence intervals for the difference between the mean lifetime from the i-th treatment group and the mean lifetime from the j-th control group are developed in this research. The required critical values are obtained and tabulated for the practical use of users. The experimenters can use these simultaneous confidence intervals to determine whether the treatment mean lifetimes are better than several controls or worse than several controls under a specified confidence level. Finally, one example of comparing the mean duration of remission using four drugs for treating leukemia is used for the aims of illustrations.
Comparison of Core Muscle Asymmetry Using Spine Balance 3D in Patients with Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: A STROBE-Compliant Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Hyunjoong , Lee Seungwon
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: Joint immobilization after shoulder surgery can cause an imbalance in the periscapular muscles and affect the kinetic chain throughout the body. There is a difference in core muscle stability because of the asymmetry of the lower extremity muscles. However, the difference due to the asymmetry of the upper-extremity muscles has not been studied extensively. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of joint immobilization on the symmetry of the core muscles involved in proximal stability for distal mobility. Materials and Methods: Fifty-five patients who underwent arthroscopic shoulder surgery participated in this study. Core muscle asymmetry (CMA) was measured using a body tilt device. The evaluation variables were analyzed according to the surgical site based on the direction of the core muscle ratio and core muscle state ratio. Results: No differences in CMA were found based on the surgical site (p > 0.05). As a result of the additional subanalysis, significant differences in sex and postoperative day were established (p < 0.05). CMA was low during the intensive postoperative rehabilitation period. However, sex-related differences were greater in males than in females. Conclusions: The clinical results suggest that core muscle training is necessary to reduce CMA during rehabilitation after the immobilization period has elapsed.
Hypoxia-Preconditioned Extracellular Vesicles from Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improve Cartilage Repair in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Bocheng , Tian Xiaoyuan , Qu Zhenan , Hao Jun , Zhang Weiguo
Published: February 2022

In the past decade, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA), and extracellular vesicles (EVs) may play a major role in the efficacy of this treatment. Hypoxia can change the cargo and biological functions of MSC-derived EVs (MSC-EVs). The aim of the present study was to determine whether the effects of hypoxia-preconditioned MSC-EVs on OA cartilage repair are superior to normoxia-preconditioned MSC-EVs. By using in vitro and in vivo OA models, we verified that hypoxia-preconditioned MSC-EVs improved chondrocyte proliferation and migration and suppressed chondrocyte apoptosis to a greater extent than normoxia-preconditioned MSC-EVs. Furthermore, we found that hypoxia altered the microRNA expression in MSC-EVs and identified four differentially expressed microRNAs: hsa-miR-181c-5p, hsa-miR-18a-3p, hsa-miR-376a-5p, and hsa-miR-337-5p. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that hypoxic pretreatment may promote cartilage repair by stimulating chondrocyte proliferation and migration and suppressing chondrocyte apoptosis through the miRNA-18-3P/JAK/STAT or miRNA-181c-5p/MAPK signaling pathway. Therefore, hypoxia-preconditioned EVs may be a novel treatment for OA.
New Horizons in Structural Biology of Membrane Proteins: Experimental Evaluation of the Role of Conformational Dynamics and Intrinsic Flexibility
Authors: Puthenveetil Robbins , Christenson Eric T. , Vinogradova Olga
Published: February 2022

A plethora of membrane proteins are found along the cell surface and on the convoluted labyrinth of membranes surrounding organelles. Since the advent of various structural biology techniques, a sub-population of these proteins has become accessible to investigation at near-atomic resolutions. The predominant bona fide methods for structure solution, X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM, provide high resolution in three-dimensional space at the cost of neglecting protein motions through time. Though structures provide various rigid snapshots, only an amorphous mechanistic understanding can be inferred from interpolations between these different static states. In this review, we discuss various techniques that have been utilized in observing dynamic conformational intermediaries that remain elusive from rigid structures. More specifically we discuss the application of structural techniques such as NMR, cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography in studying protein dynamics along with complementation by conformational trapping by specific binders such as antibodies. We finally showcase the strength of various biophysical techniques including FRET, EPR and computational approaches using a multitude of succinct examples from GPCRs, transporters and ion channels.
Building a Social Sustainable Society: Influence of Interventions and Training Programs on Organisational Climate
Authors: Morando Martina , Platania Silvia
Published: February 2022

Even though the constructs of climate and organisational culture were developed and described for the first time decades ago [...]
Investigation of Spatter Trajectories in an SLM Build Chamber under Argon Gas Flow
Authors: Alquaity Awad B. S. , Yilbas Bekir S.
Published: February 2022

Spatter particles ejected from the melt pool during selective laser melting processes can get redeposited on the build plate region and impact final part quality. Although an inert gas flow is used to purge the spattered particles away from the build plate region, some of the spatter particles get redeposited on the plate region leading to increased porosity and surface roughness. In this regard, the current study focuses on the numerical modeling of the interactions between the inert gas flow and spatter particles by using the discrete phase model. A Renishaw AM250 build chamber is used as the base geometry and the flow field within the build chamber is evaluated for various inert gas flow rates and nozzle diameters of 6 mm and 12 mm. For the first time, spatter trajectories are tracked at specific spatter diameters and ejection angles to pinpoint the influence of drag and gravitational forces on the evolution of spatter trajectories. The findings reveal that the spatter particles between 120 and 180 μm diameter travel beyond the build plate only at specific gas ejection angles and gas flow rates (≥750 L/min). Reducing the nozzle diameter to 6 mm increases the inert gas flow velocity in the build region and enhances the range of spatter particles. New correlations are proposed to relate the range of particles and inert gas flow rates, which can be used to identify the spatter diameters, ejection angles, and inert gas flow rates required to transport the particles beyond the sensitive build plate region.
Actinomycetes from Caves: An Overview of Their Diversity, Biotechnological Properties, and Insights for Their Use in Soil Environments
Authors: Farda Beatrice , Djebaili Rihab , Vaccarelli Ilaria , Del Gallo Maddalena , Pellegrini Marika
Published: February 2022

The environmental conditions of caves shape microbiota. Within caves’ microbial communities, actinomycetes are among the most abundant bacteria. Cave actinomycetes have gained increasing attention during the last decades due to novel bioactive compounds with antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer activities. However, their potential role in soil environments is still unknown. This review summarises the literature dealing with actinomycetes from caves, underlining for the first time their potential roles in soil environments. We provide an overview of their diversity and biotechnological properties, underling their potential role in soil environments applications. The contribution of caves’ actinomycetes in soil fertility and bioremediation and crops biostimulation and biocontrol are discussed. The survey on the literature show that several actinomycetes genera are present in cave ecosystems, mainly Streptomyces, Micromonospora, and Nocardiopsis. Among caves’ actinomycetes, Streptomyces is the most studied genus due to its ubiquity, survival capabilities, and metabolic versatility. Despite actinomycetes’ outstanding capabilities and versatility, we still have inadequate information regarding cave actinomycetes distribution, population dynamics, biogeochemical processes, and metabolisms. Research on cave actinomycetes needs to be encouraged, especially concerning environmental soil applications to improve soil fertility and health and to antagonise phytopathogens.