bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rosenbrock Type Methods for Solving Non-Linear Second-Order in Time Problems
Authors: Moreta Maria Jesus
Published: September 2021

In this work, we develop a new class of methods which have been created in order to numerically solve non-linear second-order in time problems in an efficient way. These methods are of the Rosenbrock type, and they can be seen as a generalization of these methods when they are applied to second-order in time problems which have been previously transformed into first-order in time problems. As they also follow the ideas of Runge–Kutta–Nyström methods when solving second-order in time problems, we have called them Rosenbrock–Nyström methods. When solving non-linear problems, Rosenbrock–Nyström methods present less computational cost than implicit Runge–Kutta–Nyström ones, as the non-linear systems which arise at every intermediate stage when Runge–Kutta–Nyström methods are used are replaced with sequences of linear ones.
Square Integer Matrix with a Single Non-Integer Entry in Its Inverse
Authors: Mandangan Arif , Kamarulhaili Hailiza , Asbullah Muhammad Asyraf
Published: September 2021

Matrix inversion is one of the most significant operations on a matrix. For any non-singular matrix A∈Zn×n, the inverse of this matrix may contain countless numbers of non-integer entries. These entries could be endless floating-point numbers. Storing, transmitting, or operating such an inverse could be cumbersome, especially when the size n is large. The only square integer matrix that is guaranteed to have an integer matrix as its inverse is a unimodular matrix U∈Zn×n. With the property that det(U)=±1, then U−1∈Zn×n is guaranteed such that UU−1=I, where I∈Zn×n is an identity matrix. In this paper, we propose a new integer matrix G˜∈Zn×n, which is referred to as an almost-unimodular matrix. With det(G˜)≠±1, the inverse of this matrix, G˜−1∈Rn×n, is proven to consist of only a single non-integer entry. The almost-unimodular matrix could be useful in various areas, such as lattice-based cryptography, computer graphics, lattice-based computational problems, or any area where the inversion of a large integer matrix is necessary, especially when the determinant of the matrix is required not to equal ±1. Therefore, the almost-unimodular matrix could be an alternative to the unimodular matrix.
Genetic Hybrid Optimization of a Real Bike Sharing System
Authors: Aranda-Corral Gonzalo A. , Rodríguez Miguel A. , Fernández de Viana Iñaki , Arenas María Isabel G.
Published: September 2021

In recent years there has been a growing interest in resource sharing systems as one of the possible ways to support sustainability. The use of resource pools, where people can drop a resource to be used by others in a local context, is highly dependent on the distribution of those resources on a map or graph. The optimization of these systems is an NP-Hard problem given its combinatorial nature and the inherent computational load required to simulate the use of a system. Furthermore, it is difficult to determine system overhead or unused resources without building the real system and test it in real conditions. Nevertheless, algorithms based on a candidate solution allow measuring hypothetical situations without the inconvenience of a physical implementation. In particular, this work focuses on obtaining the past usage of bike loan network infrastructures to optimize the station’s capacity distribution. Bike sharing systems are a good model for resource sharing systems since they contain common characteristics, such as capacity, distance, and temporary restrictions, which are present in most geographically distributed resources systems. To achieve this target, we propose a new approach based on evolutionary algorithms whose evaluation function will consider the cost of non-used bike places as well as the additional kilometers users would have to travel in the new distribution. To estimate its value, we will consider the geographical proximity and the trend in the areas to infer the behavior of users. This approach, which improves user satisfaction considering the past usage of the former infrastructure, as far as we know, has not been applied to this type of problem and can be generalized to other resource sharing problems with usage data.
Antiaging Potential of Peptides from Underused Marine Bioresources
Authors: Xia Enqin , Zhu Xuan , Gao Xuebin , Ni Jindong , Guo Honghui
Published: September 2021

Aging is a biological process that occurs under normal conditions and in several chronic degenerative diseases. Bioactive natural peptides have been shown to improve the effects of aging in cell and animal models and in clinical trials. However, few reports delve into the enormous diversity of peptides from marine organisms. This review provides recent information on the antiaging potential of bioactive peptides from underused marine resources, including examples that scavenge free radicals in vitro, inhibit cell apoptosis, prolong the lifespan of fruit flies and Caenorhabditis elegans, suppress aging in mice, and exert protective roles in aging humans. The underlying molecular mechanisms involved, such as upregulation of oxidase activity, inhibition of cell apoptosis and MMP-1 expression, restoring mitochondrial function, and regulating intestinal homeostasis, are also summarized. This work will help highlight the antiaging potential of peptides from underused marine organisms which could be used as antiaging foods and cosmetic ingredients in the near future.
The Clamshell Osteotomy for Diaphyseal Malunion in Deformity Correction and Fracture Surgery
Authors: Purcell Kevin F. , Russell George V. , Graves Matthew L.
Published: September 2021

Diaphyseal malunion poses a great challenge for the orthopedic surgeon, and an inundation of morbidity for the patient. Diaphyseal malunion can cause altered gait, adjacent joint osteoarthritis and body dissatisfaction. This problem is fraught with complications without surgical intervention. There is a myriad of options for the management of a diaphyseal malunion. The clamshell osteotomy was engendered to ameliorate the difficulty in managing this issue. This technique is a viable option to correct diaphyseal malunion about the femur and tibia. Recently, the indications of a clamshell osteotomy have been expanded to function as a derotational or shortening osteotomy.
Towards Understanding the Cathode Process Mechanism and Kinetics in Molten LiF–AlF3 during the Treatment of Spent Pt/Al2O3 Catalysts
Authors: Yasinskiy Andrey , Padamata Sai Krishna , Stopic Srecko , Feldhaus Dominic , Varyukhin Dmitriy , Friedrich Bernd , Polyakov Peter
Published: September 2021

Electrochemical decomposition of spent catalyst dissolved in molten salts is a promising approach for the extraction of precious metals from them. This article reports the results of the study of aluminum electrowinning from the xLiF–(1-x)AlF3 melt (x = 0.64; 0.85) containing 0–5 wt.% of spent petroleum Pt/γ-Al2O3 catalyst on a tungsten electrode at 740–800 °C through cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The results evidence that the aluminum reduction in the LiF–AlF3 melts is a diffusion-controlled two-step process. Both one-electron and two-electron steps occur simultaneously at close (or same) potentials, which affect the cyclic voltammograms. The diffusion coefficients of electroactive species for the one-electron process were (2.20–6.50)∙10−6 cm2·s–1, and for the two-electron process, they were (0.15–2.20)−6 cm2·s−1. The numbers of electrons found from the chronoamperometry data were in the range from 1.06 to 1.90, indicating the variations of the partial current densities of the one- and two-electron processes. The 64LiF–36AlF3 melt with about 2.5 wt.% of the spent catalysts seems a better electrolyte for the catalyst treatment in terms of cathodic process and alumina solubility, and the range of temperatures from 780 to 800 °C is applicable. The mechanism of aluminum reduction from the studied melts seems complicated and deserves further study to find the optimal process parameters for aluminum reduction during the spent catalyst treatment and the primary metal production as well.
Effect of As-Built and Ground Surfaces on the Fatigue Properties of AlSi10Mg Alloy Produced by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Domfang Ngnekou Julius Noel , Nadot Yves , Henaff Gilbert , Nicolai Julien , Ridosz Lionel
Published: September 2021

The present work concerns the influence of surface (machined, as-built) on the fatigue resistance of AlSi10Mg produced by a powder-bed laser process. The competition between defects and surface roughness is assessed by using Kitagawa-type diagrams. Samples are printed along three directions: 0°, 45° and 90°. After axial fatigue tests with a load ratio of R = −1, all the fracture surfaces are carefully analysed. The initiation sites can be (i) a defect, (ii) the surface roughness, (iii) the surface ripple. The results indicate that ground surfaces lead to the same fatigue life as as-built surfaces. It is also shown that T6 treatment improves the fatigue resistance. However, when specimen surfaces are as-built or ground, it is difficult to correlate the fatigue results with ‘isolated defect size analysis’ neither roughness parameter for an as-built surface. Therefore, microstructure, residual stresses or multiple initiation should be further analysed to understand the results.
Method for QCM Resonator Device Equivalent Circuit Parameter Extraction and Electrode Quality Assessment
Authors: Liu Dong , Xiao Xiaoting , Tang Ziqiao , Chen Qiao , Li Haoran , Wang Xiaoxiong , Yan Yan
Published: September 2021

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) resonators are used in a wide range of sensors. Current QCM resonators achieve a simultaneous measurement of multiple physical quantities by analyzing lumped-element equivalent parameters, which are obtained via the introduction of external devices. This introduction of external devices will probably increase measurement error. To realize the measurement of multiple physical quantities while eliminating the measurement error caused by external devices, this paper proposes a measurement method for the lumped-element equivalent parameters of QCM resonators without the need for extra external devices. Accordingly, a numerical method for solving nonlinear equations with fewer data points required and a higher accuracy was adopted. A standard crystal resonator parameter extraction experiment is described. The extracted parameters were consistent with the nominal parameters, which confirms the accuracy of this method. Furthermore, six QCM resonator device samples with different electrode diameters and materials were produced and used in the parameter measurement experiment. The linear relationship between the electrode material conductivity and motional resistance R1 is discussed. The ability of this method to characterize the electrode material and to detect the rust status of the electrode is also demonstrated. These abilities support the potential utility of the proposed method for an electrode quality assessment of piezoelectric devices.
Sensitivity of Rapid Antigen Testing and RT-PCR Performed on Nasopharyngeal Swabs versus Saliva Samples in COVID-19 Hospitalized Patients: Results of a Prospective Comparative Trial (RESTART)
Authors: Kritikos Antonios , Caruana Giorgia , Brouillet René , Miroz John-Paul , Abed-Maillard Samia , Stieger Geraldine , Opota Onya , Croxatto Antony , Vollenweider Peter , Bart Pierre-Alexandre , Chiche Jean-Daniel , Greub Gilbert
Published: September 2021

Saliva sampling could serve as an alternative non-invasive sample for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis while rapid antigen tests (RATs) might help to mitigate the shortage of reagents sporadically encountered with RT-PCR. Thus, in the RESTART study we compared antigen and RT-PCR testing methods on nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs and salivary samples. We conducted a prospective observational study among COVID-19 hospitalized patients between 10 December 2020 and 1 February 2021. Paired saliva and NP samples were investigated by RT-PCR (Cobas 6800, Roche-Switzerland, Basel, Switzerland) and by two rapid antigen tests: One Step Immunoassay Exdia® COVID-19 Ag (Precision Biosensor, Daejeon, Korea) and Standard Q® COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test (Roche-Switzerland). A total of 58 paired NP-saliva specimens were collected. A total of 32 of 58 (55%) patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit, and the median duration of symptoms was 11 days (IQR 5-19). NP and salivary RT-PCR exhibited sensitivity of 98% and 69% respectively, whereas the specificity of these RT-PCRs assays was 100%. The NP RATs exhibited much lower diagnostic performance, with sensitivities of 35% and 41% for the Standard Q® and Exdia® assays, respectively, when a wet-swab approach was used (i.e., when the swab was diluted in the viral transport medium (VTM) before testing). The sensitivity of the dry-swab approach was slightly better (47%). These antigen tests exhibited very low sensitivity (4% and 8%) when applied to salivary swabs. Nasopharyngeal RT-PCR is the most accurate test for COVID-19 diagnosis in hospitalized patients. RT-PCR on salivary samples may be used when nasopharyngeal swabs are contraindicated. RATs are not appropriate for hospitalized patients.
Characterization of ESBL-Producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Clinical Samples in a Northern Portuguese Hospital: Predominance of CTX-M-15 and High Genetic Diversity
Authors: Carvalho Isabel , Carvalho José António , Martínez-Álvarez Sandra , Sadi Madjid , Capita Rosa , Alonso-Calleja Carlos , Rabbi Fazle , Dapkevicius Maria de Lurdes Nunes Enes , Igrejas Gilberto , Torres Carmen , Poeta Patrícia
Published: September 2021

Background: Enterobacteriaceae are major players in the spread of resistance to β-lactam antibiotics through the action of CTX-M β-lactamases. We aimed to analyze the diversity and genetic characteristics of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from patients in a Northern Portuguese hospital. Methods: A total of 62 cefotaxime/ceftazidime-resistant E. coli (n = 38) and K. pneumoniae (n = 24) clinical isolates were studied. Identification was performed by MALDI-TOF MS. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing against 13 antibiotics was performed. Detection of ESBL-encoding genes and other resistance genes, phylogenetic grouping, and molecular typing (for selected isolates) was carried out by PCR/sequencing. Results: ESBL activity was detected in all 62 E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates. Most of the ESBL-producing E. coli isolates carried a blaCTX-M gene (37/38 isolates), being blaCTX-M-15 predominant (n = 32), although blaCTX-M-27 (n = 1) and blaCTX-M-1 (n = 1) were also detected. Two E. coli isolates carried the blaKPC2/3 gene. The lineages ST131-B2 and ST410-A were detected among the ESBL-producing blood E. coli isolates. Regarding the 24 ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates, 18 carried a blaCTX-M gene (blaCTX-M-15, 16 isolates; blaCTX-M-55, 2 isolates). All K. pneumoniae isolates carried blaSHV genes, including ESBL-variants (blaSHV-12 and blaSHV-27, 14 isolates) or non-ESBL-variants (blaSHV-11 and blaSHV-28, 10 isolates); ten K. pneumoniae isolates also carried the blaKPC2/3 gene and showed imipenem-resistance. ESBL-positive E. coli isolates were ascribed to the B2 phylogenetic group (82%), mostly associated with ST131 lineage and, at a lower rate, to ST410/A. Regarding K. pneumoniae, the three international lineages ST15, ST147, and ST280 were detected among selected isolates. Conclusions: Different ESBL variants of CTX-M (especially CTX-M-15) and SHV-type (specially SHV-12) were detected among CTX/CAZRE. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates, in occasions associated with carbapenemase genes (blaKPC2/3 gene).
Current Scenario and Challenges in the Direct Identification of Microorganisms Using MALDI TOF MS
Authors: Han Sang-Soo , Jeong Young-Su , Choi Sun-Kyung
Published: September 2021

MALDI TOF MS-based microbial identification significantly lowers the operational costs because of minimal requirements of substrates and reagents for extraction. Therefore, it has been widely used in varied applications such as clinical, food, military, and ecological research. However, the MALDI TOF MS method is laced with many challenges including its limitation of the reference spectrum. This review briefly introduces the background of MALDI TOF MS technology, including sample preparation and workflow. We have primarily discussed the application of MALDI TOF MS in the identification of microorganisms. Furthermore, we have discussed the current trends for bioaerosol detection using MALDI TOF MS and the limitations and challenges involved, and finally the approaches to overcome these challenges.
Green Afterglow of Undoped SrAl2O4
Authors: Zhai Bao-Gai , Huang Yuan-Ming
Published: September 2021

Undoped SrAl2O4 nanocrystals were obtained via solution combustion using urea as fuel. The afterglow properties of undoped SrAl2O4 were investigated. Green afterglow from undoped SrAl2O4 is visible to the human eye when the 325 nm irradiation of a helium–cadmium laser (13 mW) is ceased. The afterglow spectrum of undoped SrAl2O4 is peaked at about 520 nm. From the peak temperature (321 K) of the broad thermoluminescence glow curve, the trap depth of trap levels in undoped SrAl2O4 is estimated to be 0.642 eV using Urbach’s formula. Based on first-principles density functional calculations, the bandstructures and densities of states are derived for oxygen-deficient SrAl2O4 and strontium-deficient SrAl2O4, respectively. Our results demonstrate that the green afterglow of undoped SrAl2O4 originates from the midgap states introduced by oxygen and strontium vacancies. The observation of green afterglow from undoped SrAl2O4 helps in gaining new insight in exploring the afterglow mechanisms of SrAl2O4-based afterglow materials.
Connecting Families to Food Resources amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Early Care and Education Providers in Two U.S. States
Authors: Stephens Lacy , Rains Caroline , Benjamin-Neelon Sara E.
Published: September 2021

Early care and education (ECE) settings are important avenues for reaching young children and their families with food and nutrition resources, including through the U.S. federally funded Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey of ECE providers in two U.S. states in November 2020 to identify approaches used to connect families with food and nutrition resources amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds of sites reporting no approaches and adjusted Poisson models were used to estimate the incidence rate ratio of the mean number of approaches, comparing sites that participate in CACFP to those that did not. A total of 589 ECE sites provided responses. Of those, 43% (n = 255) participated in CACFP. CACFP participating sites were more likely to report using any approaches to connecting families to food resources and significantly more likely to report offering “grab and go” meals, providing meal delivery, distributing food boxes to families, and recommending community food resources than non-CACFP sites. This study suggests that CACFP sites may have greater capacity to connect families to food resources amid emergencies than non-CACFP participating sites.
Improving Vitamin D Intake in Young Children—Can an Infographic Help Parents and Carers Understand the Recommendations?
Authors: Brogan-Hewitt Ailsa , Apekey Tanefa A , Christian Meaghan Sarah , Day Rhiannon Eleanor
Published: September 2021

Vitamin D deficiency is a serious public health issue in the United Kingdom. Those at increased risk, such as pregnant women, children under 5 years and people from ethnic groups with dark skin, are not all achieving their recommended vitamin D. Effective vitamin D education is warranted. A qualitative study was undertaken to evaluate the acceptability and understanding of a vitamin D infographic, developed using recommendations from previous research. Fifteen parents/carers, recruited through local playgroups and adverts on popular parent websites, participated in focus groups and telephone interviews. The majority were female, White British and educated to degree level. A thematic analysis methodology was applied. The findings indicated that understanding and acceptability of the infographic were satisfactory, but improvements were recommended to aid interpretation and create more accessible information. These included additional content (what vitamin D is; other sources; its health benefits; methods/doses for administration and scientific symbols used) and improved presentation (eye-catching, less text, simpler language, more images and a logo). Once finalized, the infographic could be a useful tool to educate families around vitamin D supplementation guidelines, support the UK Healthy Start vitamins scheme and help improve vitamin D status for pregnant and lactating women and young children.
The Effects of Aerobic-Resistance Training and Broccoli Supplementation on Plasma Dectin-1 and Insulin Resistance in Males with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Saeidi Ayoub , Soltani Mohammad , Daraei Ali , Nohbaradar Hanieh , Haghighi Marjan Mosalman , Khosravi Nikoo , Johnson Kelly E. , Laher Ismail , Hackney Anthony C. , VanDusseldorp Trisha A. , Zouhal Hassane
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a combination of aerobic-resistance training (CARET) and broccoli supplementation on dectin-1 levels and insulin resistance in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Methods: Forty-four males with T2D were randomly allocated to four groups (n = 11 each group): CARET + broccoli supplement (TS), CARET + placebo (TP), control + broccoli supplement (S), and control + placebo (CP). CARET was performed three days per week for 12 weeks. TS and S groups received 10 g of broccoli supplement per day for 12 weeks. All variables were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Results: Plasma dectin-1 levels were decreased in TS and TP groups compared with the CP group (p < 0.05). Cardiometabolic risk factors showed significant reductions in TP and TS groups compared to S and CP groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The combination of CARET and broccoli supplementation produced the largest improvements in insulin resistance and dectin-1 and other complications of T2D.
The Associations of Body Image Perception with Serum Resistin Levels in Highly Trained Adolescent Estonian Rhythmic Gymnasts
Authors: Remmel Liina , Jürimäe Jaak , Tamm Anna-Liisa , Purge Priit , Tillmann Vallo
Published: September 2021

Rhythmic gymnasts (RGs) are more likely to be dissatisfied with their body mass and shape compared to untrained controls (UCs). However, due to the lack of information, the aim of this study was to investigate the associations of body image perception (BIP) with body composition, daily energy consumption and different blood biochemical markers in adolescent RGs compared to UCs. Thirty-three highly trained RG girls and 20 UC girls aged 14–18 years participated in this cross-sectional study. Height, body mass, body composition, energy intake, resting energy expenditure, training volume and different blood biochemical markers were measured. The body attitude test (BAT) was used to evaluate the BIP of the participants. There were no differences in the total BAT scores between the groups. In RGs, the BAT score correlated positively with the serum resistin level (r = 0.35; p = 0.047). A stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that 40.8% of the variability in the BAT score was determined by resistin and BMI. The association of BIP with resistin values was observed only in RGs. In conclusion, our findings add to the increasing evidence that resistin may be a link between BIP and body composition, most likely through fat mass, in adolescent female RGs.
Pretreatment Adherence to a Priori-Defined Dietary Patterns Is Associated with Decreased Nutrition Impact Symptom Burden in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors
Authors: Maino Vieytes Christian A. , Mondul Alison M. , Crowder Sylvia L. , Zarins Katie R. , Edwards Caitlyn G. , Davis Erin C. , Wolf Gregory T. , Rozek Laura S. , Arthur Anna E. ,   on behalf of the University of Michigan Head and Neck SPORE Program
Published: September 2021

Dietary intake is understood to contribute to nutrition impact symptoms (NIS) in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of four a priori-defined diet quality indices on the presence of NIS 1 year following diagnosis using data on 323 participants from the University of Michigan Head and Neck Specialized Program of Research Excellence (UM-SPORE). Pretreatment dietary intake was measured before treatment initiation using a food frequency questionnaire. NIS were measured along seven subdomains. Multivariable binary logistic regression models were constructed to evaluate relationships between pretreatment scores on a priori-defined diet quality indices (AHEI-2010, aMED, DASH, and a low-carbohydrate score) and the presence of individual symptoms in addition to a composite “symptom summary score” 1-year postdiagnosis. There were several significant associations between different indices and individual NIS. For the symptom summary score, there were significant inverse associations observed for aMED (ORQ5-Q1: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.14–0.88, ptrend = 0.04) and DASH (ORQ5-Q1: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.15–0.91, ptrend = 0.02) and the presence of NIS 1-year postdiagnosis. Higher adherence to the aMED and DASH diet quality indices before treatment may reduce NIS burden at 1-year postdiagnosis.
Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Survival and Hospitalizations in Patients with Severe Obesity. A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Migliore Enrica , Brunani Amelia , Ciccone Giovannino , Pagano Eva , Arolfo Simone , Rosso Tiziana , Pellegrini Marianna , Capodaglio Paolo , Morino Mario , Ghigo Ezio , Bo Simona
Published: September 2021

Bariatric surgery (BS) confers a survival benefit in specific subsets of patients with severe obesity; otherwise, effects on hospital admissions are still uncertain. We assessed the long-term effect on mortality and on hospitalization of BS in patients with severe obesity. This was a retrospective cohort study, including all patients residing in Piedmont (age 18–60 years, BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) admitted during 2002–2018 to the Istituto Auxologico Italiano. Adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for BS were estimated for mortality and hospitalization, considering surgery as a time-varying variable. Out of 2285 patients, 331 (14.5%) underwent BS; 64.4% received sleeve gastrectomy (SG), 18.7% Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and 16.9% adjustable gastric banding (AGB). After 10-year follow-up, 10 (3%) and 233 (12%) patients from BS and non-BS groups died, respectively (HR = 0.52; 95% CI 0.27–0.98, by a multivariable Cox proportional-hazards regression model). In patients undergoing SG or RYGB, the hospitalization probability decreased significantly in the after-BS group (HR = 0.77; 0.68–0.88 and HR = 0.78; 0.63–0.98, respectively) compared to non-BS group. When comparing hospitalization risk in the BS group only, a marked reduction after surgery was found for all BS types. In conclusion, BS significantly reduced the risk of all-cause mortality and hospitalization after 10-year follow-up.
Nurses’ Perceptions of the Factors Contributing to the Development of the Love of the Profession: A Qualitative Content Analysis
Authors: Adib-Hajbaghery Mohsen , Bolandian-Bafghi Shahnaz , Zandi Mitra
Published: September 2021

As a professional value, the love of the profession can significantly affect nurses’ professional practice, behaviors and commitment. Many different factors can affect the love of the profession. The exploration of nurses’ experiences of these factors can provide valuable data for development of the love of the profession. The aim of this study was to explore nurses’ perceptions of the factors contributing to the development of the love of the profession. This qualitative study was conducted in 2020–2021 using the conventional content analysis approach. The participants were thirteen nurses with different organizational positions purposively recruited from different settings in Iran. The data were collected via semi-structured interviews, and were analyzed via the conventional content analysis approach proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. The factors contributing to the development of the love of the profession were categorized into four main categories, namely the public perception of the profession (with three subcategories), educational variables (with two subcategories), the characteristics of the profession (with four subcategories), and nurses’ self-evaluation (with three subcategories). The love of the profession is affected by a wide range of personal, educational, professional and social factors. The manipulation of these factors would help to develop nurses’ and nursing students’ love of the profession, and encourage people to choose nursing as a career.
Pott Disease: A Tale of Two Cases
Authors: Radcliffe Christopher , Grant Matthew
Published: September 2021

Tuberculosis is considered one of the great masqueraders alongside syphilis and vasculitis. Pott disease is recognized as a classic manifestation of tuberculosis, yet it stands as a rare infectious syndrome in regions with low tuberculosis disease burden. To illustrate the challenges of diagnosing Pott disease in these settings, we report two cases and offer a brief overview of management recommendations for vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Case one concerns an 81-year-old man with a remote history of incarceration who presented with altered mental status and new pleural effusions. Case two is a 49-year-old man with well-controlled HIV who was transferred to our institution after being found to have extensive destruction of L3–L5 vertebrae and bilateral iliopsoas abscesses on outpatient imaging. These stand as illustrative examples of low and high suspicion for tuberculosis, respectively, and both cases required complex diagnostic and management decisions.
Structure-Functional Analysis of Human Cytochrome P450 2C8 Using Directed Evolution
Authors: Lee Rowoon , Kim Vitchan , Chun Youngjin , Kim Donghak
Published: September 2021

The human genome includes four cytochrome P450 2C subfamily enzymes, and CYP2C8 has generated research interest because it is subject to drug–drug interactions and various polymorphic outcomes. To address the structure-functional complexity of CYP2C8, its catalytic activity was studied using a directed evolution analysis. Consecutive rounds of random mutagenesis and screening using 6-methoxy-luciferin produced two mutants, which displayed highly increased luciferase activity. Wild-type and selected mutants were expressed on a large scale and purified. The expression levels of the D349Y and D349Y/V237A mutants were ~310 and 460 nmol per liter of culture, respectively. The steady-state kinetic analysis of paclitaxel 6α-hydroxylation showed that the mutants exhibited a 5–7-fold increase in kcat values and a 3–5-fold increase in catalytic efficiencies (kcat/KM). In arachidonic acid epoxidation, two mutants exhibited a 30–150-fold increase in kcat values and a 40–110-fold increase in catalytic efficiencies. The binding titration analyses of paclitaxel and arachidonic acid showed that the V237A mutation had a lower Kd value, indicating a tighter substrate-binding affinity. The structural analysis of CYP2C8 indicated that the D349Y mutation was close enough to the putative binding domain of the redox partner; the increase in catalytic activity could be partially attributed to the enhancement of the P450 coupling efficiency or electron transfer.
Effects of Absorption Kinetics on the Catabolism of Melatonin Released from CAP-Coated Mesoporous Silica Drug Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Moroni Irene , Garcia-Bennett Alfonso E.
Published: September 2021

Melatonin (MLT) is a pineal hormone involved in the regulation of the sleep/wake cycle. The efficacy of exogenous MLT for the treatment of circadian and sleep disorders is variable due to a strong liver metabolism effect. In this work, MLT is encapsulated in mesoporous silica (AMS-6) with a loading capacity of 28.8 wt%, and the mesopores are blocked using a coating of cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) at 1:1 and 1:2 AMS-6/MLT:CAP ratios. The release kinetics of MLT from the formulations is studied in simulated gastrointestinal fluids. The permeability of the MLT released from the formulations and its 6-hydroxylation are studied in an in vitro model of the intestinal tract (Caco-2 cells monolayer). The release of MLT from AMS-6/MLT:CAP 1:2 is significantly delayed in acidic environments up to 40 min, while remaining unaffected in neutral environments. The presence of CAP decreases the absorption of melatonin and increases its catabolism into 6-hydroxylation by the cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP1A2. The simple confinement of melatonin into AMS-6 pores slightly affects the permeability and significantly decreases melatonin 6-hydroxylation. Measurable amounts of silicon in the basolateral side of the Caco-2 cell monolayer might suggest the dissolution of AMS-6 during the experiment.
Patterned Drug-Eluting Coatings for Tracheal Stents Based on PLA, PLGA, and PCL for the Granulation Formation Reduction: In Vivo Studies
Authors: Sindeeva Olga A. , Prikhozhdenko Ekaterina S. , Schurov Igor , Sedykh Nikolay , Goriainov Sergey , Karamyan Arfenya , Mordovina Ekaterina A. , Inozemtseva Olga A. , Kudryavtseva Valeriya , Shchesnyak Leonid E. , Abramovich Rimma A. , Mikhajlov Sergey , Sukhorukov Gleb B.
Published: September 2021

Expandable metallic stent placement is often the only way to treat airway obstructions. Such treatment with an uncoated stent causes granulation proliferation and subsequent restenosis, resulting in the procedure’s adverse complications. Systemic administration of steroids drugs in high dosages slows down granulation tissue overgrowth but leads to long-term side effects. Drug-eluting coatings have been used widely in cardiology for many years to suppress local granulation and reduce the organism’s systemic load. Still, so far, there are no available analogs for the trachea. Here, we demonstrate that PLA-, PCL- and PLGA-based films with arrays of microchambers to accommodate therapeutic substances can be used as a drug-eluting coating through securely fixing on the surface of an expandable nitinol stent. PCL and PLA were most resistant to mechanical damage associated with packing in delivery devices and making it possible to keep high-molecular-weight cargo. Low-molecular-weight methylprednisolone sodium succinate is poorly retained in PCL- and PLGA-based microchambers after immersion in deionized water (only 9.5% and 15.7% are left, respectively). In comparison, PLA-based microchambers retain 96.3% after the same procedure. In vivo studies on rabbits have shown that effective granulation tissue suppression is achieved when PLA and PLGA are used for coatings. PLGA-based microchamber coating almost completely degrades in 10 days in the trachea, while PLA-based microchamber films partially preserve their structure. The PCL-based film coating is most stable over time, which probably causes blocking the outflow of fluid from the tracheal mucosa and the aggravation of the inflammatory process against the background of low drug concentration. Combination and variability of polymers in the fabrication of films with microchambers to retain therapeutic compounds are suggested as a novel type of drug-eluting coating.
Convergence and Divergence: Signal Perception and Transduction Mechanisms of Cold Stress in Arabidopsis and Rice
Authors: Wei Xiaoshuang , Liu Shuang , Sun Cheng , Xie Guosheng , Wang Lingqiang
Published: September 2021

Cold stress, including freezing stress and chilling stress, is one of the major environmental factors that limit the growth and productivity of plants. As a temperate dicot model plant species, Arabidopsis develops a capability to freezing tolerance through cold acclimation. The past decades have witnessed a deep understanding of mechanisms underlying cold stress signal perception, transduction, and freezing tolerance in Arabidopsis. In contrast, a monocot cereal model plant species derived from tropical and subtropical origins, rice, is very sensitive to chilling stress and has evolved a different mechanism for chilling stress signaling and response. In this review, the authors summarized the recent progress in our understanding of cold stress response mechanisms, highlighted the convergent and divergent mechanisms between Arabidopsis and rice plasma membrane cold stress perceptions, calcium signaling, phospholipid signaling, MAPK cascade signaling, ROS signaling, and ICE-CBF regulatory network, as well as light-regulated signal transduction system. Genetic engineering approaches of developing freezing tolerant Arabidopsis and chilling tolerant rice were also reviewed. Finally, the future perspective of cold stress signaling and tolerance in rice was proposed.
Impact of Three Different Light Spectra on the Yield, Morphology and Growth Trajectory of Three Different Cannabis sativa L. Strains
Authors: Reichel Philipp , Munz Sebastian , Hartung Jens , Präger Achim , Kotiranta Stiina , Burgel Lisa , Schober Torsten , Graeff-Hönninger Simone
Published: September 2021

Cannabis is one of the oldest cultivated plants, but plant breeding and cultivation are restricted by country specific regulations. Plant growth, morphology and metabolism can be manipulated by changing light quality and intensity. Three morphologically different strains were grown under three different light spectra with three real light repetitions. Light dispersion was included into the statistical evaluation. The light spectra considered had an influence on the morphology of the plant, especially the height. Here, the shade avoidance induced by the lower R:FR ratio under the ceramic metal halide lamp (CHD) was of particular interest. The sugar leaves seemed to be of elementary importance in the last growth phase for yield composition. Furthermore, the last four weeks of flowering were crucial to influence the yield composition of Cannabis sativa L. through light spectra. The dry flower yield was significantly higher under both LED treatments compared to the conventional CHD light source. Our results indicate that the plant morphology can be artificially manipulated by the choice of light treatment to create shorter plants with more lateral branches which seem to be beneficial for yield development. Furthermore, the choice of cultivar has to be taken into account when interpreting results of light studies, as Cannabis sativa L. subspecies and thus bred strains highly differ in their phenotypic characteristics.
Simulation of Light Distribution in Gamma Irradiated UHMWPE Using Monte Carlo Model for Light (MCML) Transport in Turbid Media: Analysis for Industrial Scale Biomaterial Modifications
Authors: Rizwan Ali , Saleem Muhammad , Serbaya Suhail H. , Alsulami Hemaid , Ghazal Aqsa , Mehmood Malik Sajjad
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: This study investigated the miscibility of carbon-based fillers within industrial scale polymers for the preparation of superior quality polymer composites. It focuses on finding the light distribution in gamma irradiated ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). (2) Methods: The Kubleka–Munk model (KMM) was used to extract the optical properties, i.e., absorption coefficients (μa) and scattering coefficients (μs). Samples amounting to 30 kGy and 100 kGy of irradiated (in the open air) UHMWPE from 630 nm to 800 nm were used for this purpose. Moreover, theoretical validation of experimental results was performed while using extracted optical properties as inputs for the Monte Carlo model of light transport (MCML) code. (3) Conclusions: The investigations revealed that there was a significant decrease in absorption and scattering coefficient (μa & μs) values with irradiation, and 30 kGy irradiated samples suffered more compared to 100 kGy irradiated samples. Furthermore, the simulation of light transport for 800 nm showed an increase in penetration depth for UHMWPE after gamma irradiation. The decrease in dimensionless transport albedo  μs(μa+μs) from 0.95 to 0.93 was considered responsible for this increase in photon absorption per unit area with irradiation. The report results are of particular importance when considering the light radiation (from 600 nm to 899 nm) for polyethylene modification and/or stabilization via enhancing the polyethylene chain mobility.
The Relationship between Free Volume and Cooperative Rearrangement: From the Temperature-Dependent Neutron Total Scattering Experiment of Polystyrene
Authors: Han Zehua , Jiao Guisheng , Ma Changli , Zuo Taisen , Han Charles C. , Cheng He
Published: September 2021

Although many theories have been proposed to describe the nature of glass formation, its microscopic picture is still missing. Here, by a combination of neutron scattering and molecular dynamics simulation, we present the temperature-dependent atomic structure variation of polystyrene at the glass formation, free volume and cooperative rearrangement. When it is close to glass formation, the polymer is confined in tubes, whose diameter is the main chain–main chain distance, in a “static cage” from its neighbors. This definition can not only account for the kinetic pathway dependence of Williams-Landel-Ferry (WLF) free volume, but also be testified in a set of six polymers. However, the free volume which allows a monomer to move cannot be found in any frame of its real-space image. Monomers, thus, have to move cooperatively to be out of the cage. During glass formation, dynamic heterogeneity develops, and string-like cooperative rearrangement region (CRR) grows over a long range of time and length scales. All of these CRRs tend to walk through loose “static cages”. Our observation unifies the concepts of free volume and cooperative rearrangement. The former is a statistical average leading to a polydisperse “static cage” formation; while a loose “static cage” provides the way that CRRs move.
Unexpected Fluorescence Emission Behaviors of Tetraphenylethylene-Functionalized Polysiloxane and Highly Reversible Sensor for Nitrobenzene
Authors: Wu Lianfeng , Jiang Qin , Lu Haifeng , Feng Shengyu
Published: September 2021

Tetraphenylethylene (TPE), a typical luminogen with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) features, has been widely used to prepare AIE fluorescent materials. In this study, TPE-functionalized polydimethylsiloxane (n-TPE-AP-PDMS) was successfully synthesized by attaching TPE to polydimethylsiloxane via aza-Michael addition. The introduction of polydimethylsiloxane to TPE had no obvious effect on photophysical properties. Intriguingly, n-TPE-AP-PDMS exhibited two opposite fluorescence emission behaviors in different systems: aggregation-induced quenching (ACQ) behavior in a tetrahydrofuran/water mixture and typical AIE phenomenon in a tetrahydrofuran/hexane mixture. This unexpected transition from ACQ to AIE can be attributed to a twisted intramolecular charge-transfer effect and flexible aminopropyl polydimethylsiloxane. n-TPE-AP-PDMS was further used as a fluorescent probe to detect nitrobenzene and it showed high quenching efficiency. Moreover, the n-TPE-AP-PDMS film showed high reversibility so that the quenching efficiency remained constant after five cycles. This work can provide a deeper understanding of AIE behavior and guidance to develop a new AIE polymer for chemosensors with high performance.
Solar Architecture Integrated Bi-Facial Photovoltaic System as a Shade
Authors: Yoo Seung-Ho , Choi Hee-Jeong
Published: September 2021

Solar architecture is defined as a kind of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) in which the PV modules are deployed to passive solar concepts, to minimize the heating and cooling load, to upgrade the indoor environment, and to be adjustable for regional weather and to continuously succeed architectural culture. Solar architecture needs to consider the architectural culture and climate of the region through an ecological convergence. The ecological criteria lead to optimizing solar architecture through an ecological convergence of a passive intelligence and renewable energy system. The optimal angle of the bi-facial PV module as a shade is 23.5° considering the physical interaction and the traditional architecture in Korea according to the ecological criteria. The shading concept of the PV module reduces 27.5~34% of the building cooling load. Effective solar irradiance (ESR) is very important not only for PV efficiency but also for the system usage rate. This ESR should be controlled depending on the climate condition to maximize the total energy elimination factor and total energy transmittance factor for a window. The MB-BIPVS play an excellent role to maximize the total energy elimination factor and total energy transmittance factor for a window.
A Review on the Extraction and Processing of Natural Source-Derived Proteins through Eco-Innovative Approaches
Authors: Franca-Oliveira Giselle , Fornari Tiziana , Hernández-Ledesma Blanca
Published: September 2021

In addition to their nutritional and physiological role, proteins are recognized as the major compounds responsible for the rheological properties of food products and their stability during manufacture and storage. Furthermore, proteins have been shown to be source of bioactive peptides able to exert beneficial effects on human health. In recent years, scholarly interest has focused on the incorporation of high-quality proteins into the diet. This fact, together with the new trends of consumers directed to avoid the intake of animal proteins, has boosted the search for novel and sustainable protein sources and the development of suitable, cost-affordable, and environmentally friendly technologies to extract high concentrations of valuable proteins incorporated into food products and supplements. In this review, current data on emergent and promising methodologies applied for the extraction of proteins from natural sources are summarized. Moreover, the advantages and disadvantages of these novel methods, compared with conventional methods, are detailed. Additionally, this work describes the combination of these technologies with the enzymatic hydrolysis of extracted proteins as a powerful strategy for releasing bioactive peptides.
Potential for Lager Beer Production from Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains Isolated from the Vineyard Environment
Authors: Iorizzo Massimo , Letizia Francesco , Albanese Gianluca , Coppola Francesca , Gambuti Angelita , Testa Bruno , Aversano Riccardo , Forino Martino , Coppola Raffaele
Published: September 2021

Saccharomyces pastorianus, genetic hybrids of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the Saccharomyces eubayanus, is one of the most widely used lager yeasts in the brewing industry. In recent years, new strategies have been adopted and new lines of research have been outlined to create and expand the pool of lager brewing starters. The vineyard microbiome has received significant attention in the past few years due to many opportunities in terms of biotechnological applications in the winemaking processes. However, the characterization of S. cerevisiae strains isolated from winery environments as an approach to selecting starters for beer production has not been fully investigated, and little is currently available. Four wild cryotolerant S. cerevisiae strains isolated from vineyard environments were evaluated as potential starters for lager beer production at laboratory scale using a model beer wort (MBW). In all tests, the industrial lager brewing S. pastorianus Weihenstephan 34/70 was used as a reference strain. The results obtained, although preliminary, showed some good properties of these strains, such as antioxidant activity, flocculation capacity, efficient fermentation at 15 °C and low diacetyl production. Further studies will be carried out using these S. cerevisiae strains as starters for lager beer production on a pilot scale in order to verify the chemical and sensory characteristics of the beers produced.