bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Immune Associated Co-Expression Networks Reveals Immune-Related Long Non-Coding RNAs during MI in the Presence and Absence of HDC
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Ding Suling , Yang Xiangdong , Ge Junbo
Published: July 2021

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases. Although previous studies have shown that histidine decarboxylase (HDC), a histamine-synthesizing enzyme, is involved in the stress response and heart remodeling after MI, the mechanism underlying it remains unclear. In this study, using Hdc-deficient mice (Hdc−/− mice), we established an acute myocardial infarction mouse model to explore the potential roles of Hdc/histamine in cardiac immune responses. Comprehensive analysis was performed on the transcriptomes of infarcted hearts. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis identified 2126 DEGs in Hdc-deficient groups and 1013 in histamine-treated groups. Immune related pathways were enriched in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Then we used the ssGSEA algorithm to evaluate 22 kinds of infiltrated immunocytes, which indicated that myeloid cells and T memory/follicular helper cells were tightly regulated by Hdc/histamine post MI. The relationships of lncRNAs and the Gene Ontology (GO) functions of protein-coding RNAs and immunocytes were dissected in networks to unveil immune-associated lncRNAs and their roles in immune modulation after MI. Finally, we screened out and verified four lncRNAs, which were closely implicated in tuning the immune responses after MI, including ENSMUST00000191157, ENSMUST00000180693 (PTPRE-AS1), and ENSMUST-00000182785. Our study highlighted the HDC-regulated myeloid cells as a driving force contributing to the government of transmission from innate immunocytes to adaptive immunocytes in the progression of the injury response after MI. We identified the potential role of the Hdc/histamine-lncRNAs network in regulating cardiac immune responses, which may provide novel promising therapeutic targets for further promoting the treatment of ischemic heart disease.
Validation of a Prospective Urinalysis-Based Prediction Model for ICU Resources and Outcome of COVID-19 Disease: A Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Gross Oliver , Moerer Onnen , Rauen Thomas , Böckhaus Jan , Hoxha Elion , Jörres Achim , Kamm Matthias , Elfanish Amin , Windisch Wolfram , Dreher Michael , Floege Juergen , Kluge Stefan , Schmidt-Lauber Christian , Turner Jan-Eric , Huber Samuel , Addo Marylyn M. , Scheithauer Simone , Friede Tim , Braun Gerald S. , Huber Tobias B. , Blaschke Sabine
Published: July 2021

In COVID-19, guidelines recommend a urinalysis on hospital admission as SARS-CoV-2 renal tropism, post-mortem, was associated with disease severity and mortality. Following the hypothesis from our pilot study, we now validate an algorithm harnessing urinalysis to predict the outcome and the need for ICU resources on admission to hospital. Patients were screened for urinalysis, serum albumin (SA) and antithrombin III activity (AT-III) obtained prospectively on admission. The risk for an unfavorable course was categorized as (1) “low”, (2) “intermediate” or (3) “high”, depending on (1) normal urinalysis, (2) abnormal urinalysis with SA ≥ 2 g/dL and AT-III ≥ 70%, or (3) abnormal urinalysis with SA or AT-III abnormality. Time to ICU admission or death served as the primary endpoint. Among 223 screened patients, 145 were eligible for enrollment, 43 falling into the low, 84 intermediate, and 18 into high-risk categories. An abnormal urinalysis significantly elevated the risk for ICU admission or death (63.7% vs. 27.9%; HR 2.6; 95%-CI 1.4 to 4.9; p = 0.0020) and was 100% in the high-risk group. Having an abnormal urinalysis was associated with mortality, a need for mechanical ventilation, extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation or renal replacement therapy. In conclusion, our data confirm that COVID-19-associated urine abnormalities on admission predict disease aggravation and the need for ICU (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04347824).
Early Bronchoscopy Improves Extubation Rates after Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Zimmermann Gregor S. , Palm Jana , Lahmann Anna Lena , Peltz Friedhelm , Okrojek Rainer , Weis Florian , Müller Arne , Ziegler Tilman , Steger Alexander , Haller Bernhard , Hoppmann Petra , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Hautmann Hubert
Published: July 2021

Background: Patients suffering from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) frequently receive a bronchoscopy after being admitted to the ICU. We investigated the optimal timing and the outcome in these patients. Methods: All patients who suffered from OHCA and were treated in our ICU from January 2013 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The data were collected from the patients’ medical files, and included duration of mechanical ventilation, antibiotics, microbiological test results and neurological outcome. The outcome was the effect of early bronchoscopy (≤48 h after administration) on the rate of intubated patients on day five and day seven. Results: From January 2013 to December 2018, 190 patients were admitted with OHCA. Bronchoscopy was performed in 111 patients out of the 164 patients who survived the first day. Late bronchoscopy >48 h was associated with higher rates of intubation on day five (OR 4.94; 95% CI 1.2–36.72, 86.7% vs. 55.0%, p = 0.036) and day seven (OR 4.96; 95% CI 1.38–24.69; 80.0% vs. 43.3%, p = 0.019). Conclusion: This study shows that patients who suffered from OHCA might have a better outcome if they receive a bronchoscopy early after hospital admission. Our data suggests an association of early bronchoscopy with a shorter intubation period.
Graphene, Graphene-Derivatives and Composites: Fundamentals, Synthesis Approaches to Applications
Authors: Sahu Dibyani , Sutar Harekrushna , Senapati Pragyan , Murmu Rabiranjan , Roy Debashis
Published: July 2021

Graphene has accomplished huge notoriety and interest from the universe of science considering its exceptional mechanical physical and thermal properties. Graphene is an allotrope of carbon having one atom thick size and planar sheets thickly stuffed in a lattice structure resembling a honeycomb structure. Numerous methods to prepare graphene have been created throughout a limited span of time. Due to its fascinating properties, it has found some extensive applications to a wide variety of fields. So, we believe there is a necessity to produce a document of the outstanding methods and some of the novel applications of graphene. This article centres around the strategies to orchestrate graphene and its applications in an attempt to sum up the advancements that has taken place in the research of graphene.
Economic Education and Household Financial Outcomes during the Financial Crisis
Authors: Grimes Paul W. , Rogers Kevin E. , Bosshardt William D.
Published: July 2021

Using cross-sectional data from a nation-wide survey of American head-of-households conducted in the spring of 2010, we examined the ameliorating effects of economic literacy on the probability of specific household financial outcomes resulting from the 2008 financial crisis and the associated Great Recession. A series of probit regressions were estimated to capture the impact of economic literacy on the probability that households experienced job loss, delinquent mortgage payments, delinquent credit card payments, delinquent auto loan payments, loss of home, and personal bankruptcy. The head-of-household’s economic literacy was measured by the level of formal education received in economics and by the score achieved on an in-survey quiz of basic economic concepts and principles. The results indicate that realized quiz scores were correlated with the mitigation of job loss, late payment behavior, and personal bankruptcy, ceteris paribus. However, the results for the impact of formal economic coursework in school were mixed.
High Nature Value Farming Systems and Protected Areas: Conservation Opportunities or Land Abandonment? A Study Case in the Madrid Region (Spain)
Authors: Schmitz María , Arnaiz-Schmitz Cecilia , Sarmiento-Mateos Patricio
Published: July 2021

European rural landscapes contain high nature value farmlands that, in addition to being the main economic activity in many rural areas, host habitats and species of great conservation value. The maintenance of these farming systems largely depends on traditional ecological knowledge and the rural lifestyles of the local populations. However, they have not been sufficiently appreciated and protected, and as a result, they are currently threatened. In this study, which was performed in the Madrid region (central Spain), we analyse the social-ecological changes of the rural landscape after the establishment of a protected natural area network. The obtained results highlight a significant loss of these high nature value farming systems and a marked increase in the rewilding processes characterised by scrub–forest transition and the development of forest systems. These processes are linked to the disruption of the transmission of traditional ecological knowledge, which may imply negative consequences for both the high biocultural diversity that these systems host and the cultural identity and the socioeconomics of the rural populations that live there. A useful methodological tool is provided for social–ecological land planning and the design of effective management strategies for the conservation of rural cultural landscapes.
The Role of Regional Ecological Assessment in Quantifying Ecosystem Services for Forest Management
Authors: Pomara Lars Y. , Lee Danny C.
Published: July 2021

Regional ecological assessments evaluate sustainability as an interaction among ecosystem services and stressors across changing landscapes. Using ecological assessments to inform ecosystem management activities relies on assessing functional linkages between ecosystem processes and ecosystem services, because ecosystem processes are the primary targets of ecosystem management. We undertook a review of regional ecological assessments in the Appalachian region of the United States to examine how forest-based ecosystem services, forest ecosystem processes, and their linkages are quantified. To provide context, we first give an overview of common ecological assessment frameworks, including risk, vulnerability, resilience, and indicator-based approaches. Assessments tended to target either ecosystem-level properties thought to be important for ecosystem service sustainability, or else to target specific ecosystem services or stressors. Forest ecosystem-level assessment most often relied on specific indicators for system properties such as integrity or health, but how those properties or their indicators were related to ecosystem services was typically not quantified. Individual ecosystem services were frequently assessed in terms of risk and vulnerability to specific external stressors, but linkages to ecosystem processes, and potential tradeoffs among ecosystem services, were infrequently quantified. Integrated system-level assessment and ecosystem service assessment can improve support for ecosystem management by advancing our understanding of dependencies on the ecosystem processes that are modified through management. Models that evaluate ecosystem services and underlying processes in a systems context offer one approach to do so.
Cryptocurrencies and Fraudulent Transactions: Risks, Practices, and Legislation for Their Prevention in Europe and Spain
Authors: Sanz-Bas David , del Rosal Carlos , Náñez Alonso Sergio Luis , Echarte Fernández Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2021

Cryptocurrencies have been developing very rapidly in recent years, and their use is becoming more and more widespread in different areas. The use of digital currencies for legal uses is advancing along with technological development, but, at the same time, criminal activities are also emerging to take advantage of this boom. The aim of this paper has been, first, to analyze the various ways in which individuals and criminal organizations have taken advantage of the phenomenon of cryptocurrencies to carry out fraudulent activities such as laundering money of illicit origin and, second, to provide an overview of the legal tools that have been developed in this regard in Europe and, more specifically, in Spain to combat these activities. Undoubtedly, cryptocurrencies bring great benefits to the economy, but it is also necessary to know the risks and abuses that have been developed to prevent them.
Optimization of Trepanning Patterns for Holes Ablated Using Nanosecond Pulse Laser in Al2O3 Ceramics Substrate
Authors: Zhao Wanqin , Mei Xuesong
Published: July 2021

Trepanning pattern is an important factor in laser hole machining, affecting both the hole quality and process efficiency. The influence of laser trepanning patterns on the hole ablating using nanosecond pulse laser in Al2O3 ceramics substrate was studied. Two laser trepanning patterns were evaluated, filled spiral trepanning and multiple rings trepanning, with the optimized laser machining parameters. In conjunction with the studies, the hole saturated taper and the saturated processing time were taken as the primary criteria for evaluation of the hole quality and the machining efficiency, respectively. Finally, the trepanning patterns were optimized aiming for the high hole quality; the process was based on the saturated hole tapers. The hole high qualities and machining efficiencies were obtained based on the saturated processing time, which was proven to have a great significance when using the nanosecond pulse laser to machine Al2O3 ceramics substrate.
Peening Techniques for Surface Modification: Processes, Properties, and Applications
Authors: John Merbin , Kalvala Prasad Rao , Misra Manoranjan , Menezes Pradeep L.
Published: July 2021

Surface modification methods have been applied to metals and alloys to change the surface integrity, obtain superior mechanical properties, and improve service life irrespective of the field of application. In this review paper, current state-of-the-art of peening techniques are demonstrated. More specifically, classical and advanced shot peening (SP), ultrasonic impact peening (UIP), and laser shock peening (LSP) have been discussed. The effect of these techniques on mechanical properties, such as hardness, wear resistance, fatigue life, surface roughness, and corrosion resistance of various metals and alloys, are discussed. This study also reports the comparisons, advantages, challenges, and potential applications of these processes.
Modeling and Solution of Large Amplitude Vibration Problem of Construction Elements Made of Nanocomposites Using Shear Deformation Theory
Authors: Deniz Ali , Fantuzzi Nicholas , Sofiyev Abdullah Heydaroglu , Kuruoglu Nuri
Published: July 2021

The main purpose of the study is to investigate the vibration behaviors of carbon nanotube (CNT) patterned double-curved construction elements using the shear deformation theory (SDT). After the visual and mathematical models of CNT patterned double-curved construction elements are created, the large amplitude stress–strain relationships and basic dynamic equations are derived using the first order shear deformation theory (FSDT). Then, using the Galerkin method, the problem is reduced to the nonlinear vibration of nanocomposite continuous systems with quadratic and cubic nonlinearities. Applying the Grigolyuk method to the obtained nonlinear differential equation, large-amplitude frequency-amplitude dependence is obtained. The expressions for nonlinear frequencies of homogenous and inhomogeneous nanocomposite construction members such as plates, panels, spherical and hyperbolic-paraboloid (hypar) shells in the framework of FSDT are found in special cases. The accuracy of the results of the current study has been confirmed by comparing them with the reliable results reported in the literature. Original analyses are carried out to examine the effects of nonlinearity, CNT patterns and volume fraction changes on frequencies in the framework of shear deformation and classical shell theories.
Advances in 3D-Printed Surface-Modified Ca-Si Bioceramic Structures and Their Potential for Bone Tumor Therapy
Authors: Truong Linh B. , Medina Cruz David , Mostafavi Ebrahim , O’Connell Catherine P. , Webster Thomas J.
Published: July 2021

Bioceramics such as calcium silicate (Ca-Si), have gained a lot of interest in the biomedical field due to their strength, osteogenesis capability, mechanical stability, and biocompatibility. As such, these materials are excellent candidates to promote bone and tissue regeneration along with treating bone cancer. Bioceramic scaffolds, functionalized with appropriate materials, can achieve desirable photothermal effects, opening up a bifunctional approach to osteosarcoma treatments—simultaneously killing cancerous cells while expediting healthy bone tissue regeneration. At the same time, they can also be used as vehicles and cargo structures to deliver anticancer drugs and molecules in a targeted manner to tumorous tissue. However, the traditional synthesis routes for these bioceramic scaffolds limit the macro-, micro-, and nanostructures necessary for maximal benefits for photothermal therapy and drug delivery. Therefore, a different approach to formulate bioceramic scaffolds has emerged in the form of 3D printing, which offers a sustainable, highly reproducible, and scalable method for the production of valuable biomedical materials. Here, calcium silicate (Ca-Si) is reviewed as a novel 3D printing base material, functionalized with highly photothermal materials for osteosarcoma therapy and drug delivery platforms. Consequently, this review aims to detail advances made towards functionalizing 3D-printed Ca-Si and similar bioceramic scaffold structures as well as their resulting applications for various aspects of tumor therapy, with a focus on the external surface and internal dispersion functionalization of the scaffolds.
Characteristics of Graphite Felt Electrodes Treated by Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets for an All-Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Jirabovornwisut Tossaporn , Singh Bhupendra , Chutimasakul Apisada , Chang Jung-Hsien , Chen Jian-Zhang , Arpornwichanop Amornchai , Chen Yong-Song
Published: July 2021

In an all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB), redox reaction occurs on the fiber surface of the graphite felts. Therefore, the VRFB performance highly depends on the characteristics of the graphite felts. Although atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) have been applied for surface modification of graphite felt electrode in VRFBs for the enhancement of electrochemical reactivity, the influence of APPJ plasma reactivity and working temperature (by changing the flow rate) on the VRFB performance is still unknown. In this work, the performance of the graphite felts with different APPJ plasma reactivity and working temperatures, changed by varying the flow rates (the conditions are denoted as APPJ temperatures hereafter), was analyzed and compared with those treated with sulfuric acid. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicated that the APPJ treatment led to an increase in O-/N-containing functional groups on the GF surface to ~21.0% as compared to ~15.0% for untreated GF and 18.0% for H2SO4-treated GF. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated that the surface morphology of graphite felt electrodes was still smooth, and no visible changes were detected after oxidation in the sulfuric acid or after APPJ treatment. The polarization measurements indicated that the APPJ treatment increased the limiting current densities from 0.56 A·cm−2 for the GFs treated by H2SO4 to 0.64, 0.68, and 0.64 A·cm−2, respectively, for the GFs APPJ-treated at 450, 550, and 650 °C, as well as reduced the activation overpotential when compared with the H2SO4-treated electrode. The electrochemical charge/discharge measurements showed that the APPJ treatment temperature of 550 °C gave the highest energy efficiency of 83.5% as compared to 72.0% with the H2SO4 treatment.
Mineralization of 3D Osteogenic Model Based on Gelatin-Dextran Hybrid Hydrogel Scaffold Bioengineered with Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: A Multiparametric Evaluation
Authors: Re Federica , Sartore Luciana , Borsani Elisa , Ferroni Matteo , Baratto Camilla , Mahajneh Allia , Smith Andrew , Dey Kamol , Almici Camillo , Guizzi Pierangelo , Bernardi Simona , Faglia Guido , Magni Fulvio , Russo Domenico
Published: July 2021

Gelatin–dextran hydrogel scaffolds (G-PEG-Dx) were evaluated for their ability to activate the bone marrow human mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-hMSCs) towards mineralization. G-PEG-Dx1 and G-PEG-Dx2, with identical composition but different architecture, were seeded with BM-hMSCs in presence of fetal bovine serum or human platelet lysate (hPL) with or without osteogenic medium. G-PEG-Dx1, characterized by a lower degree of crosslinking and larger pores, was able to induce a better cell colonization than G-PEG-Dx2. At day 28, G-PEG-Dx2, with hPL and osteogenic factors, was more efficient than G-PEG-Dx1 in inducing mineralization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy showed that extracellular matrix produced by BM-hMSCs and calcium-positive mineralization were present along the backbone of the G-PEG-Dx2, even though it was colonized to a lesser degree by hMSCs than G-PEG-Dx1. These findings were confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI), detecting distinct lipidomic signatures that were associated with the different degree of scaffold mineralization. Our data show that the architecture and morphology of G-PEG-Dx2 is determinant and better than that of G-PEG-Dx1 in promoting a faster mineralization, suggesting a more favorable and active role for improving bone repair.
Cure Kinetics and Inverse Analysis of Epoxy-Amine Based Adhesive Used for Fastening Systems
Authors: Abali Bilen Emek , Zecchini Michele , Daissè Gilda , Czabany Ivana , Gindl-Altmutter Wolfgang , Wan-Wendner Roman
Published: July 2021

Thermosetting polymers are used in building materials, for example adhesives in fastening systems. They harden in environmental conditions with a daily temperature depending on the season and location. This curing process takes hours or even days effected by the relatively low ambient temperature necessary for a fast and complete curing. As material properties depend on the degree of cure, its accurate estimation is of paramount interest and the main objective in this work. Thus, we develop an approach for modeling the curing process for epoxy based thermosetting polymers. Specifically, we perform experiments and demonstrate an inverse analysis for determining parameters in the curing model. By using calorimetry measurements and implementing an inverse analysis algorithm by using open-source packages, we obtain 10 material parameters describing the curing process. We present the methodology for two commercial, epoxy based products, where a statistical analysis provides independence of material parameters leading to the conclusion that the material equation is adequately describing the material response.
Physicochemical, Mineralogical, and Mechanical Properties of Calcium Aluminate Cement Concrete Exposed to Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Abolhasani Amirmohamad , Samali Bijan , Aslani Fatemeh
Published: July 2021

One commonly used cement type for thermal applications is CAC containing 38–40% alumina, although the postheated behavior of this cement subjected to elevated temperature has not been studied yet. Here, through extensive experimentation, the postheated mineralogical and physicochemical features of calcium aluminate cement concrete (CACC) were examined via DTA/TGA, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and the variation in the concrete physical features and the compressive strength deterioration with temperature rise were examined through ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) values. In addition, other mechanical features that were addressed were the residual tensile strength and elastic modulus. According to the XRD test results, with the temperature rise, the dehydration of the C3AH6 structure occurred, which, in turn, led to the crystallization of the monocalcium dialuminate (CA2) and alumina (Al2O3) structures. The SEM images indicated specific variations in morphology that corresponded to concrete deterioration due to heat.
Some Families of Apéry-Like Fibonacci and Lucas Series
Authors: Frontczak Robert , Srivastava Hari Mohan , Tomovski Živorad
Published: July 2021

In this paper, the authors investigate two special families of series involving the reciprocal central binomial coefficients and Lucas numbers. Connections with several familiar sums representing the integer-valued Riemann zeta function are also pointed out.
Personalized Metabolic Profile by Synergic Use of NMR and HRMS
Authors: Petrella Greta , Montesano Camilla , Lentini Sara , Ciufolini Giorgia , Vanni Domitilla , Speziale Roberto , Salonia Andrea , Montorsi Francesco , Summa Vincenzo , Vago Riccardo , Orsatti Laura , Monteagudo Edith , Cicero Daniel Oscar
Published: July 2021

A new strategy that takes advantage of the synergism between NMR and UHPLC–HRMS yields accurate concentrations of a high number of compounds in biofluids to delineate a personalized metabolic profile (SYNHMET). Metabolite identification and quantification by this method result in a higher accuracy compared to the use of the two techniques separately, even in urine, one of the most challenging biofluids to characterize due to its complexity and variability. We quantified a total of 165 metabolites in the urine of healthy subjects, patients with chronic cystitis, and patients with bladder cancer, with a minimum number of missing values. This result was achieved without the use of analytical standards and calibration curves. A patient’s personalized profile can be mapped out from the final dataset’s concentrations by comparing them with known normal ranges. This detailed picture has potential applications in clinical practice to monitor a patient’s health status and disease progression.
Chemical Analysis, Toxicity Study, and Free-Radical Scavenging and Iron-Binding Assays Involving Coffee (Coffea arabica) Extracts
Authors: Hutachok Nuntouchaporn , Koonyosying Pimpisid , Pankasemsuk Tanachai , Angkasith Pongsak , Chumpun Chaiwat , Fucharoen Suthat , Srichairatanakool Somdet
Published: July 2021

We aimed to analyze the chemical compositions in Arabica coffee bean extracts, assess the relevant antioxidant and iron-chelating activities in coffee extracts and instant coffee, and evaluate the toxicity in roasted coffee. Coffee beans were extracted using boiling, drip-filtered and espresso brewing methods. Certain phenolics were investigated including trigonelline, caffeic acid and their derivatives, gallic acid, epicatechin, chlorogenic acid (CGA) and their derivatives, p-coumaroylquinic acid, p-coumaroyl glucoside, the rutin and syringic acid that exist in green and roasted coffee extracts, along with dimethoxycinnamic acid, caffeoylarbutin and cymaroside that may be present in green coffee bean extracts. Different phytochemicals were also detected in all of the coffee extracts. Roasted coffee extracts and instant coffees exhibited free-radical scavenging properties in a dose-dependent manner, for which drip coffee was observed to be the most effective (p < 0.05). All coffee extracts, instant coffee varieties and CGA could effectively bind ferric ion in a concentration-dependent manner resulting in an iron-bound complex. Roasted coffee extracts were neither toxic to normal mononuclear cells nor breast cancer cells. The findings indicate that phenolics, particularly CGA, could effectively contribute to the iron-chelating and free-radical scavenging properties observed in coffee brews. Thus, coffee may possess high pharmacological value and could be utilized as a health beverage.
Thermochemical and Toxic Element Behavior during Co-Combustion of Coal and Municipal Sludge
Authors: Chen Yongchun , Gui Herong , Xia Ziwei , Chen Xing , Zheng Liugen
Published: July 2021

The thermochemical and kinetic behavior of co-combustion of coal, municipal sludge (MS) and their blends at different ratios were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. Simulation experiments were performed in a vacuum tube furnace to determine the conversion behavior of toxic elements. The results show that the combustion processes of the blends of coal and municipal sludge are divided into three stages and the combustion curves of the blends are located between those of individual coal and municipal sludge samples. The DTGmax of the sample with 10% sludge addition reaches a maximum at the heating rate of 20 °C/min, indicating that the combustion characteristics of coal can be improved during co-combustion. Strong interactions were observed between coal and municipal sludge during the co-combustion. The volatilization rates of toxic elements decrease with an increasing proportion of sludge in the blends during co-combustion, which indicates that the co-combustion of coal and sludge can effectively reduce the volatilization rate of toxic elements. The study reflects the potential of municipal sludge as a blended fuel and the environmental effects of co-combustion of coal and municipal sludge.
Pretreatment, Anaerobic Codigestion, or Both? Which Is More Suitable for the Enhancement of Methane Production from Agricultural Waste?
Authors: Dumlu Lütfiye , Ciggin Asli Seyhan , Ručman Stefan , Perendeci N. Altınay
Published: July 2021

Pretreatment and codigestion are proven to be effective strategies for the enhancement of the anaerobic digestion of lignocellulosic residues. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of pretreatment and codigestion on methane production and the hydrolysis rate in the anaerobic digestion of agricultural wastes (AWs). Thermal and different thermochemical pretreatments were applied on AWs. Sewage sludge (SS) was selected as a cosubstrate. Biochemical methane potential tests were performed by mixing SS with raw and pretreated AWs at different mixing ratios. Hydrolysis rates were estimated by the best fit obtained with the first-order kinetic model. As a result of the experimental and kinetic studies, the best strategy was determined to be thermochemical pretreatment with sodium hydroxide (NaOH). This strategy resulted in a maximum enhancement in the anaerobic digestion of AWs, a 56% increase in methane production, an 81.90% increase in the hydrolysis rate and a 79.63% decrease in the technical digestion time compared to raw AWs. On the other hand, anaerobic codigestion (AcoD) with SS was determined to be ineffective when it came to the enhancement of methane production and the hydrolysis rate. The most suitable mixing ratio was determined to be 80:20 (Aws/SS) for the AcoD of the studied AWs with SS in order to obtain the highest possible methane production without any antagonistic effect.
Zinc (II) and AIEgens: The “Clip Approach” for a Novel Fluorophore Family. A Review
Authors: Diana Rosita , Panunzi Barbara
Published: July 2021

Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) compounds display a photophysical phenomenon in which the aggregate state exhibits stronger emission than the isolated units. The common term of “AIEgens” was coined to describe compounds undergoing the AIE effect. Due to the recent interest in AIEgens, the search for novel hybrid organic–inorganic compounds with unique luminescence properties in the aggregate phase is a relevant goal. In this perspective, the abundant, inexpensive, and nontoxic d10 zinc cation offers unique opportunities for building AIE active fluorophores, sensing probes, and bioimaging tools. Considering the novelty of the topic, relevant examples collected in the last 5 years (2016–2021) through scientific production can be considered fully representative of the state-of-the-art. Starting from the simple phenomenological approach and considering different typological and chemical units and structures, we focused on zinc-based AIEgens offering synthetic novelty, research completeness, and relevant applications. A special section was devoted to Zn(II)-based AIEgens for living cell imaging as the novel technological frontier in biology and medicine.
New Broth Macrodilution Volatilization Method for Antibacterial Susceptibility Testing of Volatile Agents and Evaluation of Their Toxicity Using Modified MTT Assay In Vitro
Authors: Houdkova Marketa , Chaure Aishwarya , Doskocil Ivo , Havlik Jaroslav , Kokoska Ladislav
Published: July 2021

In this study, a new broth macrodilution volatilization method for the simple and rapid determination of the antibacterial effect of volatile agents simultaneously in the liquid and vapor phase was designed with the aim to assess their therapeutic potential for the development of new inhalation preparations. The antibacterial activity of plant volatiles (β-thujaplicin, thymohydroquinone, thymoquinone) was evaluated against bacteria associated with respiratory infections (Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes) and their cytotoxicity was determined using a modified thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay against normal lung fibroblasts. Thymohydroquinone and thymoquinone possessed the highest antibacterial activity against H. influenzae, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 4 and 8 µg/mL in the liquid and vapor phases, respectively. Although all compounds exhibited cytotoxic effects on lung cells, therapeutic indices (TIs) suggested their potential use in the treatment of respiratory infections, which was especially evident for thymohydroquinone (TI > 34.13). The results demonstrate the applicability of the broth macrodilution volatilization assay, which combines the principles of broth microdilution volatilization and standard broth macrodilution methods. This assay enables rapid, simple, cost- and labor-effective screening of volatile compounds and overcomes the limitations of assays currently used for screening of antimicrobial activity in the vapor phase.
Chelidoniummajus L. Incorporated Emulsion Electrospun PCL/PVA_PEC Nanofibrous Meshes for Antibacterial Wound Dressing Applications
Authors: Mouro Cláudia , Gomes Ana P. , Ahonen Merja , Fangueiro Raul , Gouveia Isabel C.
Published: July 2021

Presently, there are many different types of wound dressings available on the market. Nonetheless, there is still a great interest to improve the performance and efficiency of these materials. Concerning that, new dressing materials containing natural products, such as medicinal plants that protect the wound from infections but also enhance skin regeneration have been or are being developed. Herein, we used for the first time a needleless emulsion electrospinning technique for incorporating Chelidoniummajus L. (C. majus), a medicinal plant widely known for its traditional therapeutic properties, in Polycaprolactone (PCL)/Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)_Pectin (PEC) nanofibrous meshes. Moreover, the potential use of these electrospun nanofibers as a carrier for C. majus was also explored. The results obtained revealed that the produced PCL/PVA_PEC nanofibrous meshes containing C. majus extract displayed morphological characteristics similar to the natural extracellular matrix of the skin (ECM). Furthermore, the produced meshes showed beneficial properties to support the healing process. Additionally, the C. majus-loaded PCL/PVA_PEC nanofibrous meshes inhibited Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) growth, reaching a 3.82 Log reduction, and showed to be useful for controlled release, without causing any cytotoxic effect on the normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) cells. Hence, these findings suggest the promising suitability of this novel wound dressing material for prevention and treatment of bacterial wound infections.
Rapid Formation of Nanoclusters for Detection of Drugs in Urine Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Chen Yun-Chu , Hong Shang-Wen , Wu Huang-Hesin , Wang Yuh-Lin , Chen Yih-Fan
Published: July 2021

We developed a method based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and a sample pretreatment process for rapid, sensitive, reproducible, multiplexed, and low-cost detection of illegal drugs in urine. The abuse of new psychoactive substances (NPS) has become an increasingly serious problem in many countries. However, immunoassay-based screening kits for NPS are usually not available because of the lack of corresponding antibodies. SERS has a great potential for rapid detection of NPS because it can simultaneously detect multiple kinds of drugs without the use of antibodies. To achieve highly sensitive SERS detection of drugs, sodium bromide was first employed to induce the rapid formation of Ag nanoclusters by aggregating silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in the extracted sample solution. SERS measurements were performed immediately after the sample pretreatment without incubation. The three-dimensional SERS hot spots were believed to form significantly within the nanoclusters, providing strong SERS enhancement effects. The displacement of citrate molecules on the surfaces of the AgNPs by bromide ions helped increase the adsorption of drug molecules, increasing their areal density. We demonstrated the simultaneous detection of two kinds of NPS, methcathinone and 4-methylmethcathinone, in urine at a concentration as low as 0.01 ppm.
Toward Enhanced Humidity Stability of Triboelectric Mechanical Sensors via Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Kim Wook , Yasmeen Sumaira , Nguyen Chi Thang , Lee Han-Bo-Ram , Choi Dukhyun
Published: July 2021

Humid conditions can disrupt the triboelectric signal generation and reduce the accuracy of triboelectric mechanical sensors. This study demonstrates a novel design approach using atomic layer deposition (ALD) to enhance the humidity resistance of triboelectric mechanical sensors. Titanium oxide (TiOx) was deposited on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film as a moisture passivation layer. To determine the effective ALD process cycle, the TiOx layer was deposited with 100 to 2000 process cycles. The triboelectric behavior and surface chemical bonding states were analyzed before and after moisture exposure. The ALD-TiOx-deposited PTFE showed three times greater humidity stability than pristine PTFE film. Based on the characterization of TiOx on PTFE film, the passivation mechanism was proposed, and it was related to the role of the oxygen-deficient sites in the TiOx layer. This study could provide a novel way to design stable triboelectric mechanical sensors in highly humid environments.
Replacing a Palatable High-Fat Diet with a Low-Fat Alternative Heightens κ-Opioid Receptor Control over Nucleus Accumbens Dopamine
Authors: Wallace Conner W. , Beatty Nari S. , Hutcherson Sarah A. , Emmons Heather A. , Loudermilt Madison C. , Fordahl Steve C.
Published: July 2021

Diet-induced obesity reduces dopaminergic neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), and stressful weight loss interventions could promote cravings for palatable foods high in fat and sugar that stimulate dopamine. Activation of κ-opioid receptors (KORs) reduces synaptic dopamine, but contribution of KORs to lower dopamine tone after dietary changes is unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the function of KORs in C57BL/6 mice that consumed a 60% high-fat diet (HFD) for six weeks followed by replacement of HFD with a control 10% fat diet for one day or one week. HFD replacement induced voluntary caloric restriction and weight loss. However, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry revealed no differences in baseline dopamine parameters, whereas sex effects were revealed during KOR stimulation. NAc core dopamine release was reduced by KOR agonism after one day of HFD replacement in females but after one week of HFD replacement in males. Further, elevated plus-maze testing revealed no diet effects during HFD replacement on overt anxiety. These results suggest that KORs reduce NAc dopamine tone and increase food-related anxiety during dietary weight loss interventions that could subsequently promote palatable food cravings and inhibit weight loss.
Association of Body Mass Index with Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke
Authors: Shiozawa Masahiro , Kaneko Hidehiro , Itoh Hidetaka , Morita Kojiro , Okada Akira , Matsuoka Satoshi , Kiriyama Hiroyuki , Kamon Tatsuya , Fujiu Katsuhito , Michihata Nobuaki , Jo Taisuke , Takeda Norifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Nakamura Sunao , Node Koichi , Yasunaga Hideo , Komuro Issei
Published: July 2021

Data on the association between body mass index (BMI) and stroke are scarce. We aimed to examine the association between BMI and incident stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and to clarify the relationship between underweight, overweight, and obesity and stroke risk stratified by sex. We analyzed the JMDC Claims Database between January 2005 and April 2020 including 2,740,778 healthy individuals (Median (interquartile) age, 45 (38–53) years; 56.2% men; median (interquartile) BMI, 22.3 (20.2–24.8) kg/m2). None of the participants had a history of cardiovascular disease. Each participant was categorized as underweight (BMI <18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25.0–29.9 kg/m2), or obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). We investigated the association of BMI with incidence stroke in men and women using the Cox regression model. We used restricted cubic spline (RCS) functions to identify the association of BMI as a continuous parameter with incident stroke. The incidence (95% confidence interval) of total stroke, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke was 32.5 (32.0–32.9), 28.1 (27.6–28.5), and 5.5 (5.3–5.7) per 10,000 person-years in men, whereas 25.7 (25.1–26.2), 22.5 (22.0–23.0), and 4.0 (3.8–4.2) per 10,000 person-years in women, respectively. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that overweight and obesity were associated with a higher incidence of total and ischemic stroke in both men and women. Underweight, overweight, and obesity were associated with a higher hemorrhagic stroke incidence in men, but not in women. Restricted cubic spline showed that the risk of ischemic stroke increased in a BMI dose-dependent manner in both men and women, whereas there was a U-shaped relationship between BMI and the hemorrhagic stroke risk in men. In conclusion, overweight and obesity were associated with a greater incidence of stroke and ischemic stroke in both men and women. Furthermore, underweight, overweight, and obesity were associated with a higher hemorrhagic stroke risk in men. Our results would help in the risk stratification of future stroke based on BMI.
Circulating Insulin and IGF-1 and Frequency of Food Consumption during Pregnancy as Predictors of Birth Weight and Length
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Dominika , Bronkowska Monika
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study was to assess the relationships between maternal insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentration and food consumption frequency and the birth parameters of the newborn. A total of 157 mother-newborn pairs participated in the study. The study showed that more frequent consumption of sweet and salty snacks as well as fruit and fruit or vegetable juices may promote greater weight gain in pregnancy and higher newborn birth weight. A significantly higher insulin concentration was found among overweight women according to body mass index (BMI), and a significantly lower concentration of IGF-1 was demonstrated among women ≥35 years of age. There was no significant correlation between the concentration of insulin and IGF-1 in the mother’s blood plasma and the birth weight and length of the newborn. A significant relationship was only found between the concentration of IGF-1 in the mother’s blood and the Ponderal index of the newborn. A woman’s eating habits during pregnancy have a significant impact on the mother’s health and on the proper growth and development of the foetus.
Nutrition and Frailty: Opportunities for Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Ni Lochlainn Mary , Cox Natalie J. , Wilson Thomas , Hayhoe Richard P. G. , Ramsay Sheena E. , Granic Antoneta , Isanejad Masoud , Roberts Helen C. , Wilson Daisy , Welch Carly , Hurst Christopher , Atkins Janice L. , Mendonça Nuno , Horner Katy , Tuttiett Esme R. , Morgan Yvie , Heslop Phil , Williams Elizabeth A. , Steves Claire J. , Greig Carolyn , Draper John , Corish Clare A. , Welch Ailsa , Witham Miles D. , Sayer Avan A. , Robinson Sian
Published: July 2021

Frailty is a syndrome of growing importance given the global ageing population. While frailty is a multifactorial process, poor nutritional status is considered a key contributor to its pathophysiology. As nutrition is a modifiable risk factor for frailty, strategies to prevent and treat frailty should consider dietary change. Observational evidence linking nutrition with frailty appears most robust for dietary quality: for example, dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet appear to be protective. In addition, research on specific foods, such as a higher consumption of fruit and vegetables and lower consumption of ultra-processed foods are consistent, with healthier profiles linked to lower frailty risk. Few dietary intervention studies have been conducted to date, although a growing number of trials that combine supplementation with exercise training suggest a multi-domain approach may be more effective. This review is based on an interdisciplinary workshop, held in November 2020, and synthesises current understanding of dietary influences on frailty, focusing on opportunities for prevention and treatment. Longer term prospective studies and well-designed trials are needed to determine the causal effects of nutrition on frailty risk and progression and how dietary change can be used to prevent and/or treat frailty in the future.