bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soft-Tissue Material Properties and Mechanogenetics during Cardiovascular Development
Authors: Siddiqui Hummaira Banu , Dogru Sedat , Lashkarinia Seyedeh Samaneh , Pekkan Kerem
Published: February 2022

During embryonic development, changes in the cardiovascular microstructure and material properties are essential for an integrated biomechanical understanding. This knowledge also enables realistic predictive computational tools, specifically targeting the formation of congenital heart defects. Material characterization of cardiovascular embryonic tissue at consequent embryonic stages is critical to understand growth, remodeling, and hemodynamic functions. Two biomechanical loading modes, which are wall shear stress and blood pressure, are associated with distinct molecular pathways and govern vascular morphology through microstructural remodeling. Dynamic embryonic tissues have complex signaling networks integrated with mechanical factors such as stress, strain, and stiffness. While the multiscale interplay between the mechanical loading modes and microstructural changes has been studied in animal models, mechanical characterization of early embryonic cardiovascular tissue is challenging due to the miniature sample sizes and active/passive vascular components. Accordingly, this comparative review focuses on the embryonic material characterization of developing cardiovascular systems and attempts to classify it for different species and embryonic timepoints. Key cardiovascular components including the great vessels, ventricles, heart valves, and the umbilical cord arteries are covered. A state-of-the-art review of experimental techniques for embryonic material characterization is provided along with the two novel methods developed to measure the residual and von Mises stress distributions in avian embryonic vessels noninvasively, for the first time in the literature. As attempted in this review, the compilation of embryonic mechanical properties will also contribute to our understanding of the mature cardiovascular system and possibly lead to new microstructural and genetic interventions to correct abnormal development.
Edible Mushrooms as Novel Myco-Therapeutics: Effects on Lipid Level, Obesity and BMI
Authors: Mustafa Faheem , Chopra Hitesh , Baig Atif Amin , Avula Satya Kumar , Kumari Sony , Mohanta Tapan Kumar , Saravanan Muthupandian , Mishra Awdhesh Kumar , Sharma Nanaocha , Mohanta Yugal Kishore
Published: February 2022

Obesity, usually indicated by a body mass index of more than 30 kg/m2, is a worsening global health issue. It leads to chronic diseases, including type II diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Conventional treatments for obesity include physical activity and maintaining a negative energy balance. However, physical activity alone cannot determine body weight as several other factors play a role in the overall energy balance. Alternatively, weight loss may be achieved by medication and surgery. However, these options can be expensive or have side effects. Therefore, dietary factors, including dietary modifications, nutraceutical preparations, and functional foods have been investigated recently. For example, edible mushrooms have beneficial effects on human health. Polysaccharides (essentially β-D-glucans), chitinous substances, heteroglycans, proteoglycans, peptidoglycans, alkaloids, lactones, lectins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, terpenes, phenols, nucleotides, glycoproteins, proteins, amino acids, antimicrobials, and minerals are the major bioactive compounds in these mushrooms. These bioactive compounds have chemo-preventive, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. Consumption of edible mushrooms reduces plasma triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and plasma glucose levels. Polysaccharides from edible mushrooms suppress mRNA expression in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, contributing to their anti-obesity properties. Therefore, edible mushrooms or their active ingredients may help prevent obesity and other chronic ailments.
Land Use Change and Its Driving Factors in the Rural–Urban Fringe of Beijing: A Production–Living–Ecological Perspective
Authors: Feng Changchun , Zhang Hao , Xiao Liang , Guo Yongpei
Published: February 2022

Production–Living–Ecological Space (PLES) is a useful tool to identify land use status patterns and optimize land resource allocation. In this study, the spatial econometric model was chosen to analyze the driving factors of land use change in Chaoyang District, part of the rural–urban fringe in Beijing, from the perspective of PLES evolution, from 2005 to 2020. The results showed the following: (1) Production Space (PS) to Living-Non-Farm Production Space (LNPS) has been the most significant conversion process of PLES since 2005, making LNPS the PLES type with the highest proportion in the study area. (2) With the spatial order from near-to-far from the city center, the scale of PS was reduced and concentrated, Ecological Space (ES) was formed in a green belt at the periphery of Beijing, Eco-Agricultural Production Space (EAPS) and Living-Agricultural Production Space were rapidly reduced, and LNPS was rapidly expanded in the point-line-plane order. (3) The PS to LNPS conversion was mainly driven by economic development and industrial structure upgrades, while the PS to ES conversion was mainly due to the distribution of population density and also industrial structures. The conversion of EAPS to LNPS was driven by the increase of the urbanization rate and economic growth. This study confirmed the policy-driven effect of the conversion from PS to ES. Due to the “Concentric Circle” spatial structure of Beijing, the conversion of PLES is generally related to the distance from the city center.
Technical Language as Evidence of Expertise
Authors: Moldovan Andrei
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I focus on one argumentative strategy with which experts (or putative experts) in a particular field provide evidence of their expertise to a lay audience. The strategy consists in using technical vocabulary that the speaker knows the audience does not comprehend with the intention of getting the audience to infer that the speaker possesses expert knowledge in the target domain. This strategy has received little attention in argumentation theory and epistemology. For this reason, the aim of the present paper is not to reach any definitive conclusions, but mainly exploratory. After introducing the phenomenon, I discuss various examples. Next, I analyse the phenomenon from an argumentative perspective. I discuss the pragmatic mechanism that underlies it, the quality of the evidence offered, and its capacity to persuade.
Analysis of the Common Femoral Artery and Vein: Anatomical Morphology, Vessel Relationship, and Factors Affecting Vessel Size
Authors: Lee Sang-hun , Yu Dong uk , Kim Tae kwon , Jeon Jae-cheon , Jin Sang chan , Choi Woo ik , Lee Jae ho
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: We aimed to analyze the morphology of the common femoral artery (CFA) and common femoral vein (CFV) and the anatomical relationship between the two blood vessels, and to investigate the factors that influence the size of these blood vessels. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 584 patients who underwent abdominal and pelvic computed tomography from 1 February to 28 February 2021. We measured the vessels at three regions on both lower extremities (inguinal ligament, distal vessel bifurcation, midpoint) and analyzed and classified the degree of overlap between the CFA and CFV into three types, as well as the factors affecting vessel size. Results: After comparing the femoral vessels according to location, it was confirmed that the CFA and CFV were larger distally than proximally on both sides (p < 0.001). The degree of overlap increased distally (p < 0.001) but was less at the middle (p < 0.001) and distal (p = 0.011) regions on the right side. It was found that the size of CFA and CFV were related to age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) and that malignancy also affects the CFA size. Conclusions: The morphology of the CFA and CFV was conical and increased distally. The degree of overlap between the two blood vessels also increased distally but was less on the right than on the left. Age, sex, and BMI are significant factors affecting the sizes of the CFA and CFV, and malignancy is associated with the CFA size.
HELLP Syndrome—Holistic Insight into Pathophysiology
Authors: Petca Aida , Miron Bianca Corina , Pacu Irina , Dumitrașcu Mihai Cristian , Mehedințu Claudia , Șandru Florica , Petca Răzvan-Cosmin , Rotar Ioana Cristina
Published: February 2022

HELLP syndrome, also known as the syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets, represents a severe pregnancy complication typically associated with hypertension. It is associated with increased risks of adverse complications for both mother and fetus. HELLP occurs in 0.2–0.8% of pregnancies, and, in 70–80% of cases, it coexists with preeclampsia (PE). Both of these conditions show a familial tendency. A woman with a history of HELLP pregnancy is at high risk for developing this entity in subsequent pregnancies. We cannot nominate a single worldwide genetic cause for the increased risk of HELLP. Combinations of multiple gene variants, each with a moderate risk, with concurrent maternal and environmental factors are thought to be the etiological mechanisms. This review highlights the significant role of understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanism of HELLP syndrome. A better knowledge of the disease’s course supports early detection, an accurate diagnosis, and proper management of this life-threatening condition.
Coping Strategies of Healthcare Professionals with Burnout Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Maresca Giuseppa , Corallo Francesco , Catanese Giulia , Formica Caterina , Lo Buono Viviana
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of coping strategies used to reduce burnout syndrome in healthcare workers teams. Materials and Methods: We used PubMed and Web of Science, including scientific articles and other studies for additional citations. Only 7 of 906 publications have the appropriate inclusion criteria and were selected. A PRISMA 2020 flow diagram was used. Results: The most common coping strategies that the literature studies showed were efficient, in particular social and emotional support, physical activity, physical self-care, emotional and physical distancing from work. Coping mechanisms associated with less burnout were also physical well-being, clinical variety, setting boundaries, transcendental, passion for one’s work, realistic expectations, remembering patients and organizational activities. Furthermore, it was helpful to listen to the team’s needs and preferences about some types of training. Conclusion: We suppose that the appropriate coping strategies employed in the team could be useful also in the prevention of psychological suffering, especially in contexts where working conditions are stressful. Studies about coping strategies to face burnout syndrome in healthcare workers should be increased.
Early Time-Restricted Feeding Amends Circadian Clock Function and Improves Metabolic Health in Male and Female Nile Grass Rats
Authors: Ramanathan Chidambaram , Johnson Hayden , Sharma Suman , Son Wangkuk , Puppa Melissa , Rohani Saba Neyson , Tipirneni-Sajja Aaryani , Bloomer Richard J. , van der Merwe Marie
Published: February 2022

Lengthening the daily eating period contributes to the onset of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Dietary approaches, including energy restriction and time-restricted feeding, are promising methods to combat metabolic disorders. This study explored the effect of early and late time-restricted feeding (TRF) on weight and adiposity, food consumption, glycemic control, clock gene expression, and liver metabolite composition in diurnal Nile grass rats (NGRs). Adult male and female Nile grass rats were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) access to a 60% high-fat (HF) diet ad-libitum (HF-AD), (2) time-restricted access to the HF diet for the first 6 h of the 12 h light/active phase (HF-AM) or (3) the second 6 h of the 12 h light/active phase (HF-PM). Animals remained on their respective protocols for six weeks. TRF reduced total energy consumption and weight gain, and early TRF (HF-AM) reduced fasting blood glucose, restored Per1 expression, and reduced liver lipid levels. Although sex-dependent differences were observed for fat storage and lipid composition, TRF improved metabolic parameters in both male and female NGRs. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that early TRF protocol benefits weight management, improves lipid and glycemic control, and restores clock gene expression in NGRs.
Neurogenic Dysphagia and Nutrition in Disorder of Consciousness: An Overview with Practical Advices on an “Old” but Still Actual Clinical Problem
Authors: Raciti Loredana , Raciti Gianfranco , Pulejo Grazia , Conti-Nibali Valeria , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: February 2022

Neurogenic dysphagia is a difficulty in swallowing food caused by disease or impairment of the nervous system, including stroke and traumatic brain injury. The most clinically apparent complication of neurogenic dysphagia is pulmonary aspiration, which may manifest itself acutely as choking or coughing, respiratory distress, wheezing, gasping or gurgling, and tachycardia. However, chronic symptoms, including weight loss, production of excessive oral secretions and aspiration pneumonia, may be also present, especially in patients with a disorder of consciousness (DOC). Usually, patients with dysphagia after the acute phase need to be treated with enteral nutrition using a feeding tube. This avoids patient malnutrition and supports the rehabilitation program. This narrative review aims to investigate dysphagia and its complications and management in patients with DOC. Clinical indications and practical advice on how to assess and treat this complex problem are also provided.
Implications for Metallogenesis and Tectonic Evolution of Ore-Hosting Granodiorite Porphyry in the Tongkuangyu Cu Deposit, North China Craton: Evidence from Geochemistry, Zircon U-Pb Chronology, and Hf Isotopes
Authors: Sun Jungang , Liang Ting , Li Hongying , Yan Kun , Chao Yinyin , Wang Zhanbin
Published: February 2022

The Tongkuangyu copper deposit in Zhongtiaoshan at the southern margin of the North China Craton is one of the oldest porphyry Cu deposits in the world and its metallogenesis and tectonic evolution have been debated. Here, porphyritic intrusion geochemical and geochronological data are reported to identify the diagenetic age, mineralization, tectonic setting, and evolution of the deposit. Geochemical data show that granodiorite porphyry is a peraluminous rock, with low concentrations of Fe (~3.99%) and Ti (~0.29%) and high concentrations of alkali (~6.13%) and high Al (~15.42%) and Mg numbers (~51). The rocks show comparative enrichment of Na, K, and Mg; higher La/Yb ratios, no significant Eu anomaly, and obvious Nb–Ta–Ti negative anomaly, showing similar geochemical characteristics to Archean TTG and sanukitoid. ΣREE vary greatly, ranging from 33.47 × 10−6 to 277.81 × 10−6 (average 137.09 × 10−6). The characteristics of REE show obvious fractionation of LREE and HREE, enrichment of LREE, and depletion of HREE. Some of the LREE (La and Ce) and LILE (K, Rb, and Ba) are enriched, but some of the LILE (Th and U) are depleted. In addition, some of the HFSE (Nb, Ta, P, and Ti) are depleted while some (Zr and Hf) are enriched. High precision LA–MC–ICP MS zircon U–Pb dating yield concordant ages of 2159 ± 19 Ma, which is broadly coeval with ore formation (~2.1 Ga) in the area. Zircon εHf(t) values range from −3.8 to 1.13, with a model age of 2778 to 2959 Ma, indicating that the formation of porphyry is related to the partial melting of Archean crust (~2.7 Ga) with a minor amount of mantle material added. Tongkuangyu granodiorite porphyry formed in the tectonic setting of the post-orogenic extension in the Paleoproterozoic, and Tongkuangyu Cu deposit may be related to the extension of the North China Craton in the Paleoproterozoic.
Bruch’s-Mimetic Nanofibrous Membranes Functionalized with the Integrin-Binding Peptides as a Promising Approach for Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cell Transplantation
Authors: Wang Shaocheng , Lin Siyong , Xue Bo , Wang Chenyu , Yan Nana , Guan Yueyan , Hu Yuntao , Wen Xuejun
Published: February 2022

Background: This study aimed to develop an ultrathin nanofibrous membrane able to, firstly, mimic the natural fibrous architecture of human Bruch’s membrane (BM) and, secondly, promote survival of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells after surface functionalization of fibrous membranes. Methods: Integrin-binding peptides (IBPs) that specifically interact with appropriate adhesion receptors on RPEs were immobilized on Bruch’s-mimetic membranes to promote coverage of RPEs. Surface morphologies, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectra, contact angle analysis, Alamar Blue assay, live/dead assay, immunofluorescence staining, and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate the outcome. Results: Results showed that coated membranes maintained the original morphology of nanofibers. After coating with IBPs, the water contact angle of the membrane surfaces varied from 92.38 ± 0.67 degrees to 20.16 ± 0.81 degrees. RPE cells seeded on IBP-coated membranes showed the highest viability at all time points (Day 1, p < 0.05; Day 3, p < 0.01; Days 7 and 14, p < 0.001). The proliferation rate of RPE cells on uncoated poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) membranes was significantly lower than that of IBP-coated membranes (p < 0.001). SEM images showed a well-organized hexa/polygonal monolayer of RPE cells on IBP-coated membranes. RPE cells proliferated rapidly, contacted, and became confluent. RPE cells formed a tight adhesion with nanofibers under high-magnification SEM. Our findings confirmed that the IBP-coated PCL membrane improved the attachment, proliferation, and viability of RPE cells. In addition, in this study, we used serum-free culture for RPE cells and short IBPs without immunogenicity to prevent graft rejection and immunogenicity during transplantation. Conclusions: These results indicated that the biomimic BM-IBP-RPE nanofibrous graft might be a new, practicable approach to increase the success rate of RPE cell transplantation.
Preparation and Performance of Lignin-Based Multifunctional Superhydrophobic Coating
Authors: Liu Xue , Gao Chao , Fu Chenglong , Xi Yuebin , Fatehi Pedram , Zhao Joe R. , Wang Shoujuan , Gibril Magdi E. , Kong Fangong
Published: February 2022

Superhydrophobic coatings have drawn much attention in recent years for their widespread potential applications. However, there are challenges to find a simple and cost-effective approach to prepare superhydrophobic materials and coatings using natural polymer. Herein, we prepared a kraft lignin-based superhydrophobic powder via modifying kraft lignin through 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorodecyl-triethoxysilane (PFDTES) substitution reaction, and constructed superhydrophobic coatings by direct spraying the suspended PFDTES-Lignin powder on different substrates, including glass, wood, metal and paper. The prepared lignin-based coatings have excellent repellency to water, with a water contact angle of 164.7°, as well as good friction resistance, acid resistance, alkali resistance, salt resistance properties and quite good self-cleaning performance. After 30 cycles of sand friction or being stayed in 2 mol/L HCl, 0.25 mol/L NaOH and 2 mol/L NaCl solution for 30 min, the coatings still retain super hydrophobic capability, with contact angles higher than 150°. The superhydrophobic performance of PFDTES-Lignin coatings is mainly attributed to the constructed high surface roughness and the low surface energy afforded by modified lignin. This lignin-based polymer coating is low-cost, scalable, and has huge potential application in different fields, providing a simple way for the value-added utilization of kraft lignin.
Synthesis and Characterization of an α-Fe2O3-Decorated g-C3N4 Heterostructure for the Photocatalytic Removal of MO
Authors: Khurram Rooha , Nisa Zaib Un , Javed Aroosa , Wang Zhan , Hussien Mostafa A.
Published: February 2022

This study describes the preparation of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), hematite (α-Fe2O3), and their g-C3N4/α-Fe2O3 heterostructure for the photocatalytic removal of methyl orange (MO) under visible light illumination. The facile hydrothermal approach was utilized for the preparation of the nanomaterials. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) were carried out to study the physiochemical and optoelectronic properties of all the synthesized photocatalysts. Based on the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and UV-visible diffuse reflectance (DRS) results, an energy level diagram vs. SHE was established. The acquired results indicated that the nanocomposite exhibited a type-II heterojunction and degraded the MO dye by 97%. The degradation ability of the nanocomposite was higher than that of pristine g-C3N4 (41%) and α-Fe2O3 (30%) photocatalysts under 300 min of light irradiation. The formation of a type-II heterostructure with desirable band alignment and band edge positions for efficient interfacial charge carrier separation along with a larger specific surface area was collectively responsible for the higher photocatalytic efficiency of the g-C3N4/α-Fe2O3 nanocomposite. The mechanism of the nanocomposite was also studied through results obtained from UV-vis and XPS analyses. A reactive species trapping experiment confirmed the involvement of the superoxide radical anion (O2•−) as the key reactive oxygen species for MO removal. The degradation kinetics were also monitored, and the reaction was observed to be pseudo-first order. Moreover, the sustainability of the photocatalyst was also investigated.
Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis Revealed the Major Metabolites in the Seeds of four Polygonatum Species
Authors: Qi Jianjun , Wei Jianhe , Liao Dengqun , Ding Zimian , Yao Xia , Sun Peng , Li Xianen
Published: February 2022

Most Polygonatum species are widely used in China as a source of medicine and food. In this study, a UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS system was used to conduct an untargeted metabolomics analysis and compare the classes and relative contents of metabolites in the seeds of four Polygonatum species: P. sibiricum (Ps), P. cyrtonema (Pc), P. kingianum (Pk), and P. macropodium (Pm). The objectives of this study were to clarify the metabolic profiles of these seeds and to verify their medicinal and nutritional value via comparative analyses. A total of 873 metabolites were identified, including 185 flavonoids, 127 lipids, 105 phenolic acids, and 36 steroids. The comparative analysis of metabolites among Polygonatum seed samples indicated that flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids were the main differentially abundant compounds. The results of principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering were consistent indicating that the metabolites in Ps and Pm are similar, but differ greatly from Pc and Pk. The data generated in this study provide additional evidence of the utility of Polygonatum seeds for producing food and medicine.
Polysaccharide-Rich Red Algae (Gelidium amansii) Hot-Water Extracts Alleviate Abnormal Hepatic Lipid Metabolism without Suppression of Glucose Intolerance in a Streptozotocin/Nicotinamide-Induced Diabetic Rat Model
Authors: Liu Shing-Hwa , Ku Chia-Yu , Chiang Meng-Tsan
Published: February 2022

This study was designed to investigate the effects of polysaccharide-rich red algae (Gelidium amansii) hot-water extracts (GHE) on lipid and glucose metabolism in rats with streptozotocin (STZ)/nicotinamide (NA)-induced diabetes. Rats were divided into three groups: NC—normal control group), DM—diabetic group, and DG—diabetic group supplemented with GHE (5%). The experimental diet and drinking water were available ad libitum for 10 weeks. After the 10-week feeding duration, the body weight, liver weight, total adipose tissue weight, and hepatic TBARS and cholesterol levels were significantly increased, and hepatic glycogen content and adipose lipolysis rate were significantly decreased in the DM group, which could be effectively reversed by supplementation of GHE. However, GHE supplementation could not improve the glucose intolerance in DM rats. It was interesting to note that GHE supplementation could decrease the liver glucose-6-phosphotase activity, which was increased in DM rats. Taken together, these results suggested that GHE feeding may ameliorate abnormal hepatic lipid metabolism, but not glucose intolerance, in diabetic rats induced by STZ/NA.
Development and Application of Liquid Crystals as Stimuli-Responsive Sensors
Authors: Oladepo Sulayman A.
Published: February 2022

This focused review presents various approaches or formats in which liquid crystals (LCs) have been used as stimuli-responsive sensors. In these sensors, the LC molecules adopt some well-defined arrangement based on the sensor composition and the chemistry of the system. The sensor usually consists of a molecule or functionality in the system that engages in some form of specific interaction with the analyte of interest. The presence of analyte brings about the specific interaction, which then triggers an orientational transition of the LC molecules, which is optically discernible via a polarized optical image that shows up as dark or bright, depending on the orientation of the LC molecules in the system (usually a homeotropic or planar arrangement). The various applications of LCs as biosensors for glucose, protein and peptide detection, biomarkers, drug molecules and metabolites are extensively reviewed. The review also presents applications of LC-based sensors in the detection of heavy metals, anionic species, gases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic substances and in pH monitoring. Additionally discussed are the various ways in which LCs have been used in the field of material science. Specific attention has been given to the sensing mechanism of each sensor and it is important to note that in all cases, LC-based sensing involves some form of orientational transition of the LC molecules in the presence of a given analyte. Finally, the review concludes by giving future perspectives on LC-based sensors.
Virtual Screening, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Streptococcus mutans Mediated Biofilm Inhibitors
Authors: Atta Lubna , Khalil Ruqaiya , Khan Khalid Mohammed , Zehra Moatter , Saleem Faiza , Nur-e-Alam Mohammad , Ul-Haq Zaheer
Published: February 2022

Dental caries, a global oral health concern, is a biofilm-mediated disease. Streptococcus mutans, the most prevalent oral microbiota, produces extracellular enzymes, including glycosyltransferases responsible for sucrose polymerization. In bacterial communities, the biofilm matrix confers resistance to host immune responses and antibiotics. Thus, in cases of chronic dental caries, inhibiting bacterial biofilm assembly should prevent demineralization of tooth enamel, thereby preventing tooth decay. A high throughput screening was performed in the present study to identify small molecule inhibitors of S. mutans glycosyltransferases. Multiple pharmacophore models were developed, validated with multiple datasets, and used for virtual screening against large chemical databases. Over 3000 drug-like hits were obtained that were analyzed to explore their binding mode. Finally, six compounds that showed good binding affinities were further analyzed for ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) properties. The obtained in silico hits were evaluated for in vitro biofilm formation. The compounds displayed excellent antibiofilm activities with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 15.26–250 µg/mL.
Long Term Follow-Up of Sarcopenia and Malnutrition after Hospitalization for COVID-19 in Conventional or Intensive Care Units
Authors: Levy Dan , Giannini Margherita , Oulehri Walid , Riou Marianne , Marcot Christophe , Pizzimenti Megane , Debrut Lea , Charloux Anne , Geny Bernard , Meyer Alain
Published: February 2022

Background: The post-COVID-19 condition, defined as COVID-19-related signs and symptoms lasting at least 2 months and persisting more than 3 months after infection, appears now as a public health issue in terms of frequency and quality of life alterations. Nevertheless, few data are available concerning long term evolution of malnutrition and sarcopenia, which deserve further attention. Method: Sarcopenia was investigated prospectively, together with weight evolution, at admission and at 3 and 6 months after hospital discharge in 139 COVID-19 patients, using the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) criteria, associating both decreased muscle strength and muscle mass, assessed, respectively, with hand dynamometer and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: Of the 139 patients, 22 presented with sarcopenia at 3 months; intensive care units (ICU) length of stay was the sole factor associated with sarcopenia after multivariate analysis. Although the entire group did not demonstrate significant weight change, weight decreased significantly in the sarcopenia group (Five and eight patients, showing, respectively, >5 or >10% weight decrease). Interestingly, at 6 months, 16 of the 22 patients recovered from sarcopenia and their weight returned toward baseline values. Conclusions: Sarcopenia and malnutrition are frequently observed in patients hospitalized for COVID-19, even 3 months after infection occurrence, but can largely be reversed at 6 months after discharge. Enhanced patient care is needed in sarcopenic patients, particularly during long stays in an ICU.
The Ontological Role of Applied Mathematics in Virtual Worlds
Authors: Hoffmann Miklós
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I will argue that with the emergence of digital virtual worlds (in video games, animation movies, etc.) by the animation industry, we need to rethink the role and authority of mathematics, also from an ontological point of view. First I will demonstrate that the application of mathematics to the creation and description of the digital, virtual worlds behaves in many respects analogously to the application of mathematics to the description of real-world phenomena from the viewpoint of the history of science. However, from other aspects, the application of mathematics significantly differs in this virtual world from the application to real-world fields. The main thesis of my paper is that the role of mathematics in the digital animation industry can be ontologically different from its usual role. In the application of mathematics to digital virtual worlds, mathematical concepts are no longer just modelling tools, forming a subordinated, computational basis, but they can direct and organise, and even create non-mathematical theory, something that we can call, for example, digital physics and biology. I will study this new, creative role of mathematics through some concrete phenomena, specifically through gravity. Our conclusion is that the animation industry opens an entirely new chapter in the relationship between (digital) sciences and mathematics.
Implicit Equation for Photovoltaic Module Temperature and Efficiency via Heat Transfer Computational Model
Authors: Hassanian Reza , Riedel Morris , Helgadottir Asdis , Yeganeh Nashmin , Unnthorsson Runar
Published: February 2022

This paper evaluates the photovoltaic (PV) module operating temperature’s relation to efficiency via a numerical heat transfer model. The literature reports that higher PV module operating temperatures impact PV module efficiency. There are dozens of explicit and implicit equations used to determine the PV module operating temperature. However, they are not universal, and for each application, it is necessary to insert a correction coefficient based on the environment and boundary conditions. Using a numerical method covering a more comprehensive range of PV module operation conditions to estimate a global equation, this study considers the solar radiation flux, Gt, solar ray direction with respect to the ground level, γ, convective heat transfer coefficient, h, tilt angle, β, ambient temperature, Ta, PV power output, Ppv, PV panel efficiency, η, and environmental properties. The results match the extant empirical work and related literature. PV module efficiency is found to have a linear relationship to the PV module operating temperature via a numerical heat transfer model corresponding to the well-known PV module. It specifies that heat transfer convection changes with PV module tilt angle, causing PV module operating temperature effects. It also represents the PV module operating temperature variations with ambient temperature and solar flux, like those reported in the literature.
Rapid Regression of Carotid Artery Stenosis Shortly after Intensive Medical Therapy
Authors: Park Suh Yeon , Rhi Sang Hun , Chung Ji Yeon , Lee Chan-Hyuk , Shin Byoung-Soo , Kang Hyun Goo
Published: February 2022

Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) is mainly caused by atherosclerosis. Intensive medical therapy is effective in preventing stroke in CAS. To date, there has been no published report of rapid regression of CAS. A woman with untreated hyperlipidemia visited our emergency room with left hemiparesis. She exhibited facial palsy, left hemiparesis, and dysarthria immediately after the visit. Brain magnetic resonance (MR) diffusion-weighted imaging confirmed acute infarction in the right middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory due to severe stenosis of the right internal carotid artery (ICA), which was revealed by MR angiography and carotid duplex ultrasonography. The patient started intensive statin therapy and dual antiplatelet agent therapy. Carotid artery stenting was not performed until hospitalization day 16 due to pleural effusion. On day 16, digital subtraction angiography was performed, and spontaneous regression of severe stenosis was observed. Only mild stenosis with ulcerative plaque was evident. The rapid CAS regression in this case may be caused by M2 macrophage polarization as a result of intensive statin therapy. This rapid regression may also result from reduced foam cell formation by statin and aspirin and thereby increased endogenous thrombolysis. Our patient demonstrated the efficacy of short-term intensive statin and aspirin therapy on atherosclerosis with untreated hyperlipidemia.
Black Hole Surface Gravity in Doubly Special Relativity Geometries
Authors: Relancio José Javier , Liberati Stefano
Published: February 2022

In a quantum gravity theory, spacetime at mesoscopic scales can acquire a novel structure very different from the classical concept of general relativity. A way to effectively characterize the quantum nature of spacetime is through a momentum dependent space-time metric. There is a vast literature showing that this geometry is related to relativistic deformed kinematics, which is precisely a way to capture residual effects of a quantum gravity theory. In this work, we study the notion of surface gravity in a momentum dependent Schwarzschild black hole geometry. We show that using the two main notions of surface gravity in general relativity we obtain a momentum independent result. However, there are several definitions of surface gravity, all of them equivalent in general relativity when there is a Killing horizon. We show that in our scheme, despite the persistence of a Killing horizon, these alternative notions only agree in a very particular momentum basis, obtained in a previous work, so further supporting its physical relevance.
Conflicts and their influence on the quality of professional activities
Authors:   Institute of Nursing Education, «Samara State Medical University» Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Bondarovich Svetlana Viktorovna , Karaseva Larisa Arkadyevna ,   Institute of Nursing Education, Head of the Department of Nursing, FSBEI of HE «Samara State Medical University» of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation
Published: February 2022

The aim of the study is to study the influence of conflict situations on the quality of professional activity of paramedical workers. Results. In the course of the research work, special literature was studied, the opinion of patients about the level of quality of medical services provided was determined, indicators of the quality of working life of nursing personnel and the impact of conflicts on them were analyzed, the reasons for the occurrence of conflict situations in the studied departments were identified. Conclusion. Research work has made it possible to prove that conflict situations affect the quality of professional activity, and the development of a conflict in a team is associated with its moral and psychological climate.
The role of practical exercises in the training of middle level specialists in studying general professional disciplines
Authors:   Togliatti Medical College, Sattarov Valisher Yakubovich
Published: February 2022

The article discusses issues related to the role of practical training in the training of mid-level specialists. Practical lessons are an important form of control over the mastering of educational material by students and play an important role in developing students’ skills to apply the knowledge gained to solve practical problems in their further work.
Teaching feedback skills to veterinary students by peer-assisted learning
Authors: ÜNSAL ADACA Aytaç
Published: February 2022

Feedback is considered an essential element of effective learning. Students who receive feedback from peers can improve their clinical and communication skills. This paper aims to testify for whether peer-assisted learning (PAL) is successful in teaching students with the ability to give feedback. The study was design as tutors (n=20), tutees (n=20) and control group (n=20). Tutors were educated to provide constructive feedback, and this group trained tutees in PAL to increase their skills in providing feedback. After the training, tutors and tutees used role play about veterinarian-client consultation. At the end of the consultations, each tutee provided feedback to the tutor about his/her communication skills. As findings, there was a statistically significant change between the mean scores of both “tutor and control groups” (P<0.004) and “tutors and tutees” (P<0.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference in terms of the academic year and gender between groups. Tutees benefited from being trained by peers, and tutors also improved their feedback skills by training peers. Conspicuously, PAL was found to be effective for not only tutors but also tutees. With this argument, it is predicted that other veterinary fields can also benefit from PAL throughout veterinary training.
Pathological and molecular findings of visceral gout caused by Israel variant 2 (IS/1494/06) genotype of infectious bronchitis virus in chickens
Authors: TİMURKAAN Necati , ÖNGÖR Hasan , KALENDER Hakan , KARABULUT Burak , ÇÖVEN Fethiye , ÇEVİK Aydın , ERÖKSÜZ Hatice , ÇETİNKAYA Burhan
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate pathological lesions and the presence of of Israel variant 2 (IS /1494/06) genotype of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chickens with visceral gout. Sudden deaths were observed in broiler breeders and layer hens belonging to two different flocks located in eastern Türkiye. Broiler chickens were previously vaccinated with a vaccine containing strains of IBV Massachusetts serotype, but no information was available about the vaccination history of laying hens. At necropsy, there was accumulation of white chalk-like material on the serosal surface of the heart, liver, spleen and air sacs. The kidneys were unilaterally or bilaterally enlarged and pale in color and, ureters were also enlarged. Pooled organ samples from diseased chickens and kidneys alone were examined by virus isolation, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR), nucleotide sequencing analysis and histological methods. Israel variant 2 genotype of IBV was detected in the samples of both flocks as a result of virus isolation, rRT-PCR and DNA sequencing analysis. Histological examination revealed multifocal and randomly distributed crystal deposits in the renal tubulus and adjacent interstitium. Mild to moderate crystalline deposits surrounded by heterophils and macrophages were detected in the serosal layers of the heart, spleen, liver, and air sacs. The findings of this study indicated that IBV should be taken into consideration in visceral gout cases of chickens, and detection of IBV genotypes in the field will enable us to use vaccines compatible with these genotypes in order to control the disease more efficiently.
Map Matching Algorithm: Empirical Review Based on Indian Open Street Map Road Network Data
Authors: Singh Saravjeet , Singh Jaiteg
Published: February 2022

Locating devices on the road network is crucial for any location-based system. Accuracy of map matching algorithms may highly affect the accuracy of any location-based service. This paper includes an empirical review of five major map matching algorithms for locating a device on a digital road network. A standard dataset was used to simulate the working of map matching algorithms. After ascertaining the accuracy of map matching algorithms, it was tested on a real road network. Six different routes varying from 0.6 kilometers to 32 kilometers, covering a total distance of 82.2 kilometers were included in the experiment. Performance of map matching algorithms was evaluated on a total of 2094 road nodes with 1271070 Global Positioning System (GPS) points on the basis of matched, unmatched nodes with root mean square error. It was concluded that Hidden-Markov Model based map matching algorithms has reasonably good accuracy (96% using global data and 89% using Indian dataset) and execution time in comparison to geometric, topological, Kalman filter and Frechet distance based algorithms.
An Efficient Intrusion Detection Framework Based on Embedding Feature Selection and Ensemble Learning Technique
Authors: Mokbal Fawaz , Dan Wang , Osman Musa , Ping Yang , Alsamhi Saeed
Published: February 2022

Network security has emerged as a crucial universal issue that affects enterprises, governments, and individuals. The strategies utilized by the attackers are continuing to evolve, and therefore the rate of attacks targeting the network system has expanded dramatically. An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is one of the significant defense solutions against sophisticated cyberattacks. However, the challenge of improving the accuracy, detection rate, and minimal false alarms of the IDS continues. This paper proposes a robust and effective intrusion detection framework based on the ensemble learning technique using eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and an embedded feature selection method. Further, the best uniform feature subset is extracted using the up-to-date real-world intrusion dataset Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity Intrusion Detection (CICIDS2017) for all attacks. The proposed IDS framework has successfully exceeded several evaluations on a big test dataset over both multi and binary classification. The achieved results are promising on various measurements with an accuracy overall, precision, detection rate, specificity, F-score, false-negative rate, false-positive rate, error rate, and The Area Under the Curve (AUC) scores of 99.86%, 99.69%, 99.75%, 99.69%, 99.72%, 0.17%, 0.2%, 0.14%, and 99.72 respectively for abnormal class. Moreover, the achieved results of multi-classification are also remarkable and impressively great on all performance metrics.
Compact Tree Structures for Mining High Utility Itemsets
Authors: Bhat Anup , Venkatarama Harish , Maiya Geetha
Published: February 2022

High Utility Item set Mining (HUIM) from large transaction databases has garnered significant attention as it accounts for the revenue of the items purchased in a transaction. Existing tree-based HUIM algorithms discard unpromising items and require at most two database scans for their construction. Hence, whenever utility threshold is changed, the trees have to be reconstructed from scratch. In this regard, the current study proposes to not only incorporate all the items in the tree structure but compactly represent transaction information. The proposed trees namely- Utility Prime Tree (UPT), Prime Cantor Function Tree (PCFT), and String based Utility Prime Tree (SUPT) store transaction-level information in a node unlike item-based prefix trees. Experiments conducted on both real and synthetic datasets compare the execution time and memory of these tree structures with a proposed Utility Count Tree (UCT) and existing IHUP, UP-Growth trees. Due to transaction-level encoding, these structures consume significantly less memory when compared to the tree structures in the literature.
Comparative performance of isolated and fixed-base reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Adjou Naima , Haddadou Naima
Published: February 2022

The earthquake transmits to the structure a large quantity of energy that causes damage to structures. The seismic isolation technique can absorb a large quantity of the seismic energy. The seismic isolation concept is a new technique in earthquake engineering, its principle is quite simple, and it consists to create a discontinuity between the foundation and the superstructure, so that seismic energy cannot be completely transmitted into the structure.Therefore, this article includes a numerical application of the nonlinear static method, the capacity spectrum method (CSM), on two types of structures, fixed base structure and isolated base structure. The CSM is one of the methods used for the evaluation of seismic performance. Its principle consists in superimposing a curve which represents the capacity of the structure originated from a non-linear static analysis (Pushover), with a curve representing the solicitation brought by the earthquake. The intersection of these two curves represents the point performance, which evaluates the maximum displacement of the structure in the plastic domain.
Performance of coconut shell ash and palm kernel shell ash as partial replacement for cement in concrete
Authors: Oyedepo Olugbenga Joseph , Olanitori Lekan Makanju , Akande Sumbo Philip
Published: February 2022

High cost of cement used as binder in the production of concrete has led to a search for alternative. Using a mix design ratio of 1:2:4 and water binder ratio of 0.63, concrete cubes were casted using varying ordinary Portland cement (OPC): palm kernel shell ash (PKSA) and ordinary Portland cement (OPC): coconut shell ash (CSA) ratios of 100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30 , 60:40 and 50:50 respectively. This research reveal that partial replacement of cement with 20% PKSA and CSA in concrete gives an average optimum compressive strength of 15.4 N/mm2 and 17.26 N/mm2 respectively at 28 days. While, the optimum value of compressive strength obtained at 28 days is 20.58 N/mm2 at 10% replacement with CSA. The value obtained is suitable for both light weight and heavy weight concrete respectively. Thus, the research show that the use of PKSA and CSA as a partial replacement for cement in concrete, at lower volume of replacement, will enhance the reduction of cement usage in concretes, thereby reducing the production cost and the environmental pollution caused by the dumping of the agricultural waste.