bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Biorthogonal Hermite Cubic Spline Galerkin Method for Solving Fractional Riccati Equation
Authors: Bin Jebreen Haifa , Dassios Ioannis
Published: April 2022

This paper is devoted to the wavelet Galerkin method to solve the Fractional Riccati equation. To this end, biorthogonal Hermite cubic Spline scaling bases and their properties are introduced, and the fractional integral is represented based on these bases as an operational matrix. Firstly, we obtain the Volterra integral equation with a weakly singular kernel corresponding to the desired equation. Then, using the operational matrix of fractional integration and the Galerkin method, the corresponding integral equation is reduced to a system of algebraic equations. Solving this system via Newton’s iterative method gives the unknown solution. The convergence analysis is investigated and shows that the convergence rate is O(2−s). To demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the method, some numerical simulations are provided.
The Optical Solutions of the Stochastic Fractional Kundu–Mukherjee–Naskar Model by Two Different Methods
Authors: Mohammed Wael W. , Al-Askar Farah M. , Cesarano Clemente , El-Morshedy M.
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we focus on the stochastic fractional Kundu–Mukherjee–Naskar equation perturbed in the Stratonovich sense by the multiplicative Wiener process. To gain new elliptic, rational, hyperbolic and trigonometric stochastic solutions, we use two different methods: the Jacobi elliptic function method and the (G′/G)-expansion method. Because of the significance of the Kundu-Mukherjee equation in a magnetized plasma, the obtained solutions are useful in understanding many remarkable physical phenomena. Furthermore, we show the effect of the multiplicative Wiener process on the obtained solutions of the Kundu–Mukherjee–Naskar equation.
Machinery Lean Manufacturing Tools for Improved Sustainability: The Mexican Maquiladora Industry Experience
Authors: García Alcaraz Jorge Luis , Morales García Adrián Salvador , Díaz Reza José Roberto , Blanco Fernández Julio , Jiménez Macías Emilio , Puig i Vidal Rita
Published: April 2022

This paper reports a structural equation model (SEM) to quantify the relationship between Lean Manufacturing (LM) tools associated with machinery and sustainability. The LM tools are independent variables and include Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), Jidoka, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), whereas dependent sustainability variables comprise environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The SEM proposes ten hypotheses, tested statistically using information from 239 responses to a questionnaire applied to the Mexican maquiladora industry and the Partial Least Squares (PLS) technique for quantifying relationships among variables. Additionally, we discuss conditional probabilities to explain how low and high levels of TPM, Jidoka, and OEE impact sustainability. Findings reveal that TPM, Jidoka, and OEE directly impact social, environmental, and economic sustainability, thus indicating that safe workplaces improve employee commitment, safety, delivery time, and morale.
Quasi-Linear Parameter Varying Modeling and Control of an Electromechanical Clutch Actuator
Authors: Bécsi Tamás
Published: April 2022

The paper presents the modeling and control design of an electromechanical heavy-duty clutch actuator using gain-scheduled MPC and grid-based Linear Parameter Varying approaches. First, the nonlinear model of the electromechanical actuator is presented, then a third order quasi-Linear Parameter Varying representation of the system is derived, which takes the nonlinear characteristic of the diaphragm spring into account. Using the control-oriented model, a Linear Parameter Varying controller and a gain-scheduled Model Predictive Controller are designed, the latter of which serves as benchmark. The controllers have been implemented and tested in a model in the loop environment, where their performances have been compared concerning their rise-time, steady-state error, over-and undershoots, and robustness to the changes of the touch-point. The validation results show that the difference between the model predictive controllers is negligible in most cases, and they surpass the linear parameter varying controller regarding the rise-time. On the other hand, the linear parameter varying approach has proven to be much more robust to the load force and the touch-point changes while also performing better concerning the under- and overshoots. Therefore, it is more suitable to achieve the position control of the actuator.
Spotting Error Patterns in Input–Output Projections Using Location Quotients
Authors: Pereira-López Xesús , Sánchez-Chóez Napoleón Guillermo , Fernández-Fernández Melchor
Published: April 2022

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stated by the United Nations (UN) constitute a universal agenda committed to human rights. In this context, mathematics can perform a fundamental role. Exploring possible contributions to these goals could be considered an interesting approach. Input–output (IO) tables provide detailed information for socio-economic quantifications. Thus, they allow for more precise policy decision-making and application in the SDG strategy. However, the smaller the subnational unit to be considered, the less statistical information that is available. Survey-based IO tables with large product/industry disaggregation are seldom published. Therefore, non-survey methods to estimate subnational IO tables based on the national are needed. These methodologies should yield optimal results. In the present investigation, different formulations for these non-survey regionalization methods are analyzed. The work focuses on the methodologies based on location quotients (LQ). As a result, some error patterns associated with current formulations present in literature are described. A slight refinement of these methodologies is proposed in order to improve the estimation’s accuracy.
Extraction and Identification of Three New Urechis unicinctus Visceral Peptides and Their Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Li Jingjing , Lu Jiajun , Asakiya Charles , Huang Kunlun , Zhou Xiuzhi , Liu Qingliang , He Xiaoyun
Published: April 2022

The viscera of Urechis unicinctus with polypeptides, fatty acids, and amino acids are usually discarded during processing to food. In order to improve the utilization value of the viscera of Urechis unicinctus and avoid resource waste, antioxidant polypeptides were isolated from the viscera of Urechis unicinctus. First, a protein hydrolysate of Urechis unicinctus (UUPH) was prepared by ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic hydrolysis, and the degree of hydrolysis was as high as 79.32%. Subsequently, three new antioxidant peptides (P1, P2, and P3) were purified from UUPH using ultrafiltration and chromatography, and their amino acid sequences were identified as VTSALVGPR, IGLGDEGLRR, TKIRNEISDLNER, respectively. Then, the antioxidant activity of the polypeptide was predicted by the structure–activity relationship and finally verified by experiments on eukaryotic cells. The P1 peptide exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity among these three antioxidant peptides. Furthermore, P1, P2, and P3 have no toxic effect on RAW264.7 cells at the concentration of 0.01~2 mg/mL and can protect RAW264.7 cells from H2O2-induced oxidative damage in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggested that these three new antioxidant peptides were isolated from the viscera of Urechis unicinctus, especially the P1 peptide, which might serve as potential antioxidants applied in health-derived food or beverages. This study further developed a new use of the by-product of Urechis unicinctus, which improved the comprehensive utilization of marine biological resources.
Evaluation of Antiviral Effect against SARS-CoV-2 Propagation by Crude Polysaccharides from Seaweed and Abalone Viscera In Vitro
Authors: Kang Sang-Min , Tark Dongseob , Song Byeong-Min , Lee Gun-Hee , Yang Ju-Hee , Han Hee-Jeong , Yim Sung-Kun
Published: April 2022

Crude polysaccharides, extracted from two seaweed species (Hizikia fusiforme and Sargassum horneri) and Haliotis discus hannai (abalone) viscera, were evaluated for their inhibitory effect against SARS-CoV-2 propagation. Plaque titration revealed that these crude polysaccharides efficiently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 propagation with IC50 values ranging from 0.35 to 4.37 μg/mL. The crude polysaccharide of H. fusiforme showed the strongest antiviral effect, with IC50 of 0.35 μg/mL, followed by S. horneri and abalone viscera with IC50 of 0.56 and 4.37 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, immunofluorescence assay, western blot, and quantitative RT-PCR analysis verified that these polysaccharides could inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. In Vero E6 cells, treatment with these crude polysaccharides before or after viral infection strongly inhibited the expression level of SARS-CoV-2 spikes, nucleocapsid proteins, and RNA copies of RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase and nucleocapsid. These results show that these crude marine polysaccharides effectively inhibit SARS-CoV-2 propagation by interference with viral entry.
Computationally Assisted Structural Elucidation of Cembranoids from the Soft Coral Sarcophyton tortuosum
Authors: Chao Chih-Hua , Lin Kuan-Hua , Huang Chiung-Yao , Hwang Tsong-Long , Dai Chang-Feng , Huang Hui-Chi , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: April 2022

A persistent study on soft coral Sarcophyton tortuosum resulted in the characterization of two new cembranolides, tortuolides A and B (1 and 2), and a new related diterpene, epi-sarcophytonolide Q. Their structures were determined not only by extensive spectroscopic analysis but also by DFT calculations of ECD and NMR data, the latter of which was combined with statistical analysis methods, e.g., DP4+ and J-DP4 approaches. Anti-inflammatory and cytotoxicity activities were evaluated in this study.
Long-Term Results of Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Severe Thoracolumbar Kyphosis with Achondroplastic Patients: A Case Series
Authors: Tanaka Masato , Chan Tsang-Tung , Misawa Haruo , Uotani Koji , Arataki Shinaya , Takigawa Tomoyuki , Mazaki Tetsuro , Sugimoto Yoshihisa
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: Thoracolumbar kyphosis is one of the most frequent skeletal manifestations in patients with achondroplasia. Few papers have been published on the surgical treatment of this condition, especially in skeletally mature patients. With this study, we presented a retrospective case series of long-term surgical results for achondroplastic patients with severe thoracolumbar kyphosis. This study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment for thoracolumbar kyphosis in patients associated with achondroplasia presenting with paraparesis. Materials and Methods: Three patients with achondroplasia who developed neurologic deficits due to severe thoracolumbar kyphosis and underwent surgical treatment were evaluated (mean age 22.3 years; mean follow-up 9.3 years). All patients were treated with posterior vertebral column resection (p-VCR) of hypoplastic apical vertebrae with a cage and segmental instrumentation. Neurologic outcomes (JOA scores), correction of kyphosis, and operative complications were assessed. Results: All patients had back pain, neurological deficits, and urinary disturbance before surgery. The average preoperative JOA score was 8.3/11 points, which was improved to 10.7/11 points at the final follow-up (mean recovery rate 83%). All patients obtained neurologic improvement after surgery. The mean preoperative kyphotic angle was 117° (range 103°–126°). The postoperative angles averaged 37° (range 14°–57°), resulting in a mean correction rate of 67%. All patients had postoperative complications such as rod breakage and/or surgical site infection. Conclusions: The long-term results of p-VCR were acceptable for treating thoracolumbar kyphosis in patients with achondroplasia. To perform this p-VCR safely, spinal navigation and neuromonitoring are inevitable when resecting non anatomical fused vertebrae and ensuring correct pedicle screw insertion. However, surgical complications such as rod breakage and surgical site infection may occur at a high rate, making informed consent very important when surgery is indicated.
Bevacizumab with Chemotherapy as a First-Line Treatment for Advanced Ovarian Cancer in a Serbian Cohort
Authors: Conic Irena , Nedovic Bojan , Stojnev Slavica , Todorovska Ilinka , Dimitrijevic Aleksandra , Krstic Miljan , Djordjevic Ivana , Djordjevic Biljana
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives: For stage IIIb–IV ovarian cancer, bevacizumab-containing treatment is considered the standard of care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of bevacizumab in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel as a first-line treatment for advanced ovarian cancer. Materials and Methods: Eligible patients had stage IIIc–IV ovarian cancer according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics with no clinical signs or symptoms of gastrointestinal obstruction or a history of abdominal fistulae, gastrointestinal perforation, or intra-abdominal abscess or evidence of rectosigmoid involvement by pelvic examination, bowel involvement on computed tomography, or clinical symptoms of bowel obstruction in the previous 6 months. After debulking surgery, the patients received 175 mg/m2 paclitaxel and carboplatin (AUC 6) for the first six cycles and 7.5 mg/kg bevacizumab every three weeks up to 17 cycles until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or consent withdrawal. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival. The secondary endpoint was overall survival. Results: Between April 2017 and March 2020, 35 patients began study treatment. Bevacizumab was administered at 7.5 mg/kg in all the patients and for more than 7.5 months in 70% of them. The median progression-free survival was 20 months (95% CI: 16–23). The median overall survival was not reached. Conclusions: This was, to our knowledge, the first trial in Serbia to show progression-free survival and overall survival of combination regimens in advanced ovarian cancer. Based on the observed progression-free survival, bevacizumab combined with chemotherapy should be considered as a standard option in advanced ovarian cancer.
Investigating Structural Dynamics of KCNE3 in Different Membrane Environments Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Asare Isaac K. , Galende Alberto Perez , Garcia Andres Bastidas , Cruz Mateo Fernandez , Moura Anna Clara Miranda , Campbell Conner C. , Scheyer Matthew , Alao John Paul , Alston Steve , Kravats Andrea N. , Sanders Charles R. , Lorigan Gary A. , Sahu Indra D.
Published: April 2022

KCNE3 is a potassium channel accessory transmembrane protein that regulates the function of various voltage-gated potassium channels such as KCNQ1. KCNE3 plays an important role in the recycling of potassium ion by binding with KCNQ1. KCNE3 can be found in the small intestine, colon, and in the human heart. Despite its biological significance, there is little information on the structural dynamics of KCNE3 in native-like membrane environments. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are a widely used as a tool to study the conformational dynamics and interactions of proteins with lipid membranes. In this study, we have utilized all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to characterize the molecular motions and the interactions of KCNE3 in a bilayer composed of: a mixture of POPC and POPG lipids (3:1), POPC alone, and DMPC alone. Our MD simulation results suggested that the transmembrane domain (TMD) of KCNE3 is less flexible and more stable when compared to the N- and C-termini of KCNE3 in all three membrane environments. The conformational flexibility of N- and C-termini varies across these three lipid environments. The MD simulation results further suggested that the TMD of KCNE3 spans the membrane width, having residue A69 close to the center of the lipid bilayers and residues S57 and S82 close to the lipid bilayer membrane surfaces. These results are consistent with previous biophysical studies of KCNE3. The outcomes of these MD simulations will help design biophysical experiments and complement the experimental data obtained on KCNE3 to obtain a more detailed understanding of its structural dynamics in the native membrane environment.
Removal of MS2 and fr Bacteriophages Using MgAl2O4-Modified, Al2O3-Stabilized Porous Ceramic Granules for Drinking Water Treatment
Authors: Yüzbasi Nur Sena , Krawczyk Paweł A. , Domagała Kamila W. , Englert Alexander , Burkhardt Michael , Stuer Michael , Graule Thomas
Published: April 2022

Point-of-use ceramic filters are one of the strategies to address problems associated with waterborne diseases to remove harmful microorganisms in water sources prior to its consumption. In this study, development of adsorption-based ceramic depth filters composed of alumina platelets was achieved using spray granulation (calcined at 800 °C). Their virus retention performance was assessed using cartridges containing granular material (4 g) with two virus surrogates: MS2 and fr bacteriophages. Both materials showed complete removal, with a 7 log10 reduction value (LRV) of MS2 up to 1 L. MgAl2O4-modified Al2O3 granules possessed a higher MS2 retention capacity, contrary to the shortcomings of retention limits in pure Al2O3 granules. No significant decline in the retention of fr occurred during filtration tests up to 2 L. The phase composition and morphology of the materials were preserved during filtration, with no magnesium or aluminum leakage during filtration, as confirmed by X-ray diffractograms, electron micrographs, and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. The proposed MgAl2O4-modified Al2O3 granular ceramic filter materials offer high virus retention, achieving the criterion for virus filtration as required by the World Health Organization (LRV ≥ 4). Owing to their high thermal and chemical stability, the developed materials are thus suitable for thermal and chemical-free regeneration treatments.
Computational Methods for Fatigue and Fracture
Authors: Branco Ricardo , Berto Filippo , Wu Shengchuan
Published: April 2022

Fatigue and fracture are pivotal issues in structural integrity [...]
Optimization of Iron Recovery from BOF Slag by Oxidation and Magnetic Separation
Authors: Lan Mo , He Zhanwei , Hu Xiaojun
Published: April 2022

In order to solve the problem of solid waste pollution of basic oxygen furnace (BOF) slag in the metallurgical process, this paper took BOF slag as the research object, and carried out oxidation reconstruction of BOF slag and alcohol wet magnetic separation recovery of iron phase, so as to efficiently recover and utilize BOF slag. In the early stages, the research group realized the transformation from weak magnetic iron oxide to strong magnetic magnesia-iron spinel phase in BOF slag through oxidation reconstruction experiments under different technological parameters. On this basis, different conditions in the magnetic separation process were adjusted to achieve the optimal iron recovery rate and grade in this paper. The experimental results show that, under the appropriate reconstruction temperature, with the increase of reaction time, gas flow rate and magnetic field intensity, the iron recovery will increase and the iron grade will decrease. The most suitable magnetic field intensity is 75 mT, the magnetic material yield is 46.00%, the iron grade is 29.10%, and the iron recovery is 64.12%. Compared with the initial steel slag, the iron grade increased by 8.22%, and the iron recovery increased by 46.38% compared with the direct magnetic separation without oxidation.
Characterization of the Microstructure Changes Induced by a Rolling Contact Bench Reproducing Wheel/Rail Contact on a Pearlitic Steel
Authors: Lafilé Vincent , Marteau Julie , Risbet Marion , Bouvier Salima , Merino Pierrick , Saulot Aurélien
Published: April 2022

Understanding the effects of wheel-rail contact on the microstructure of rails is an important issue for railway management. The impact of wheel-rail contact and surface preparation on the microstructure of rails is studied using a rolling contact bench. Microstructure changes are characterized by coupling microhardness measurements and scanning electron microscopy combined with electron backscattering diffraction. This analysis led to a complete description of the sub-surface microstructure in link with the contact conditions. It was found that the use of a corroded layer on the material surface led to a considerable strain-hardening decrease. Lower surface strain-hardening was also found for sliding conditions compared to pure rolling conditions. EBSD characterizations using different indicators highlighted the importance of the scale of investigation: the use of Kernel Average Misorientation led to the identification of larger impacted depths than the Inverse Pole Figures.
Advancements and Prospects in Electro-Sinter-Forging
Authors: Fais Alessandro
Published: April 2022

A summary of the recent advancements, future prospects and open issues in the materials, methods and machines for the technology known as electro-sinter-forging is presented here. After a background introduction, the key characteristics of the procedure are explained. Metal systems that have been processed based on iron, copper and aluminium are discussed as single elements, and as alloys and composites. Intermetallic materials such as gamma titanium aluminide, Nd2Fe14B and Bi2Te3 are finally presented before discussing the experimental evidence of the atomic diffusion mechanisms involved, and a critical assessment of the limitations of the technique is performed.
Influence of Laser Polishing on the Material Properties of Aluminium L-PBF Components
Authors: Hofele Markus , Roth André , Hegele Patrick , Schubert Tim , Schanz Jochen , Harrison David K. , De Silva Anjali K. M. , Riegel Harald
Published: April 2022

In this study, the influence of laser polishing on the microstructural and mechanical properties of additively manufactured aluminium AlSi10Mg Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) parts is analysed. The investigation is carried out on a 5-axis laser cell equipped with 1D Scanner optics driven by a solid-state disc laser at a wavelength of 1030 nm. Laser polishing is performed with pulsed or continuous laser radiation on samples in the initial L-PBF state or after stress relief treatment in a furnace. The metallurgical investigation of the remelting zone with a depth of 101–237 µm revealed an unchanged and homogeneous chemical composition, with a coarsened α-phase and a changed grain structure. The hardness within the remelting zone is reduced to 102–104 HV 0.1 compared to 146 HV 0.1 at the L-PBF initial state. Below the remelting zone, within the heat affected zone, a reduced microhardness, which can reach a thickness up to 1.5 mm, occurs. Laser polishing results in a reduction in residual stresses and resulting distortions compared to the L-PBF initial state. Nevertheless, the re-solidification shrinkage of the polished surface layer introduces additional tensions, resulting in sample distortions well above ones remaining after a stress relieve heat treatment of the initial state. The mechanical properties, analysed on laser polished flat tensile specimens, revealed an increase in the ultimate elongation from 4.5% to 5.4–10.7% and a reduction in the tensile strength from 346 N/mm2 to 247–271 N/mm2 through laser polishing. Hence, the strength resulting from this is comparable to the initial L-PBF specimens after stress relieve heat treatment.
Study on Mass Transfer of Phosphorus Based on New Hot-Metal Dephosphorization Kinetic Model
Authors: Sun Guobin , Xiang Xiaodong
Published: April 2022

To investigate mass transfer of phosphorus in hot-metal dephosphorization process, it is necessary to reduce the deviation of traditional dephosphorization models in fitting accuracy. According to the change in hot-metal phosphorus content during dephosphorization, a new dephosphorization model was established by introducing the concept of “dynamic relative area”. With the help of literature data and comparative analysis of the new and old models, the rationality of the new model was verified. On this basis, in order to reveal the effects of CaO and its derivatives on mass transfer of phosphorus, based on the dephosphorization effect of FetO–CaO–SiO2–CaCl2 slags on high-phosphorus hot metal at 1673 K (1400 °C), the mass transfer process of phosphorus was investigated by calculating, analyzing, and discussing the overall mass transfer coefficients of phosphorus using CaO, Ca(OH)2, and CaCO3 with equal molar amount as fixatives (slag formers) in dephosphorizer respectively. The results show that the overall mass transfer coefficients of phosphorus under the action of Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3 are 0.0216 cm/s and 0.0363 cm/s, respectively, which are significantly lower than 0.0840 cm/s under the action of CaO.
A Review of Metabolomic Profiling in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Bringing New Insights in Disease Pathogenesis, Treatment and Comorbidities
Authors: Bartikoski Bárbara Jonson , De Oliveira Marianne Schrader , Do Espírito Santo Rafaela Cavalheiro , Dos Santos Leonardo Peterson , Dos Santos Natália Garcia , Xavier Ricardo Machado
Published: April 2022

Metabolomic analysis provides a wealth of information that can be predictive of distinctive phenotypes of pathogenic processes and has been applied to better understand disease development. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease with the establishment of chronic synovial inflammation that affects joints and peripheral tissues such as skeletal muscle and bone. There is a lack of useful disease biomarkers to track disease activity, drug response and follow-up in RA. In this review, we describe potential metabolic biomarkers that might be helpful in the study of RA pathogenesis, drug response and risk of comorbidities. TMAO (choline and trimethylamine oxide) and TCA (tricarboxylic acid) cycle products have been suggested to modulate metabolic profiles during the early stages of RA and are present systemically, which is a relevant characteristic for biomarkers. Moreover, the analysis of lipids such as cholesterol, FFAs and PUFAs may provide important information before disease onset to predict disease activity and treatment response. Regarding therapeutics, TNF inhibitors may increase the levels of tryptophan, valine, lysine, creatinine and alanine, whereas JAK/STAT inhibitors may modulate exclusively fatty acids. These observations indicate that different disease modifying antirheumatic drugs have specific metabolic profiles and can reveal differences between responders and non-responders. In terms of comorbidities, physical impairment represented by higher fatigue scores and muscle wasting has been associated with an increase in urea cycle, FFAs, tocopherols and BCAAs. In conclusion, synovial fluid, blood and urine samples from RA patients seem to provide critical information about the metabolic profile related to drug response, disease activity and comorbidities.
Framework of Methodology to Assess the Link between A Posteriori Dietary Patterns and Nutritional Adequacy: Application to Pregnancy
Authors: Tsakoumaki Foteini , Kyrkou Charikleia , Fotiou Maria , Dimitropoulou Aristea , Biliaderis Costas G. , Athanasiadis Apostolos P. , Menexes Georgios , Michaelidou Alexandra-Maria
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to explore the nutritional profile of 608 women during the second trimester of pregnancy, in terms of nutrient patterns, dietary quality and nutritional adequacy. Dietary data were collected using a validated Mediterranean-oriented, culture-specific FFQ. Principal component analysis was performed on 18 energy-adjusted nutrients. Two main nutrient patterns, “plant-origin” (PLO) and “animal-origin” (ANO), were extracted. Six homogenous clusters (C) relative to nutrient patterns were obtained and analyzed through a multidimensional methodological approach. C1, C5 and C6 scored positively on PLO, while C1, C2 and C3 scored positively on ANO. When dietary quality was mapped on food choices and dietary indexes, C6 unveiled a group with a distinct image resembling the Mediterranean-type diet (MedDiet Score = 33.8). Although C1–C5 shared common dietary characteristics, their diet quality differed as reflected in the HEI-2010 (C1:79.7; C2:73.3; C3:70.9; C4:63.2; C5:76.6). The appraisal of nutritional adequacy mirrored a “nutritional-quality gradient”. A total of 50% of participants in C6 had almost 100% adequate magnesium intake, while 50% of participants in C4 had a probability of adequacy of ≤10%. Our methodological framework is efficient for assessing the link between a posteriori dietary patterns and nutritional adequacy during pregnancy. Given that macro- and micronutrient distributions may induce metabolic modifications of potential relevance to offspring’s health, public health strategies should be implemented.
Biosynthesis, Molecular Regulation, and Application of Bacilysin Produced by Bacillus Species
Authors: Islam Tarequl , Rabbee Muhammad Fazle , Choi Jinhee , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: April 2022

Microbes produce a diverse range of secondary metabolites in response to various environmental factors and interspecies competition. This enables them to become superior in a particular environment. Bacilysin, a dipeptide antibiotic produced by Bacillus species, is active against a broad range of microorganisms. Because of its simple structure and excellent mode of action, i.e., through the inhibition of glucosamine 6-phosphate synthase, it has drawn the attention of researchers. In addition, it acts as a pleiotropic signaling molecule that affects different cellular activities. However, all Bacillus species are not capable of producing bacilysin. The biosynthesis of bacilysin by Bacillus species is not uniform throughout the population; specificity and heterogeneity at both the strain and species levels has been observed. This review discusses how bacilysin is biosynthesized by Bacillus species, the regulators of its biosynthesis, its importance in the host, and the abiotic factors affecting bacilysin production.
Preparation of a Vertical Graphene-Based Pressure Sensor Using PECVD at a Low Temperature
Authors: Cao Xin , Zhang Kunpeng , Feng Guang , Wang Quan , Fu Peihong , Li Fengping
Published: April 2022

Flexible pressure sensors have received much attention due to their widespread potential applications in electronic skins, health monitoring, and human–machine interfaces. Graphene and its derivatives hold great promise for two-dimensional sensing materials, owing to their superior properties, such as atomically thin, transparent, and flexible structure. The high performance of most graphene-based pressure piezoresistive sensors relies excessively on the preparation of complex, post-growth transfer processes. However, the majority of dielectric substrates cannot hold in high temperatures, which can induce contamination and structural defects. Herein, a credibility strategy is reported for directly growing high-quality vertical graphene (VG) on a flexible and stretchable mica paper dielectric substrate with individual interdigital electrodes in plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), which assists in inducing electric field, resulting in a flexible, touchable pressure sensor with low power consumption and portability. Benefitting from its vertically directed graphene microstructure, the graphene-based sensor shows superior properties of high sensitivity (4.84 KPa−1) and a maximum pressure range of 120 KPa, as well as strong stability (5000 cycles), which makes it possible to detect small pulse pressure and provide options for preparation of pressure sensors in the future.
Correction: Hashish et al. Development and Validation of a New TaqMan Real-Time PCR for the Detection of Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale. Microorganisms 2022, 10, 341
Authors: Hashish Amro , Sinha Avanti , Sato Yuko , Macedo Nubia R. , El-Gazzar Mohamed
Published: April 2022

The authors would like to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Validation of an In-House ELISA Method in the Diagnosis of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania donovani in Hambantota District, Sri Lanka
Authors: De Silva Nirmitha Lalindi , De Silva Viraji Nefertiti Hiromel , Deerasinghe Arachchige Theja Hemapala , Rathnapala Upeksha Lakmini , Kato Hirotomo , Itoh Makoto , Takagi Hidekazu , Weerasooriya Mirani Vasanthamala , Yahathugoda Thishan Channa
Published: April 2022

Clinical diagnosis has become a challenge amidst a surge of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Southern Sri Lanka. The routine diagnostic method, slit-skin smear (SSS), has variable sensitivity, leading to undiagnosed cases. Improved diagnostics are urgently needed. We assessed a new in-house ELISA method for its diagnostic capabilities against ITS-1 nested PCR (gold standard—Gs). A cohort of 190 clinical CL cases was examined by SSS microscopy, anti-rKRP42 IgG ELISA (serum- and urine-based), and rK39-Immunochromatographic strip test. Validation was done using non-endemic sera, and cutoffs were developed using the receiver operating curve. The sensitivity of SSS for case detection was 77.9% (authors) and 76.3% (technicians). ELISA vs. Gs demonstrated sensitivity (Sn) = 94.4%; specificity (Sp) = 50.0%; positive predictive value (PPV) = 97.1%; negative predictive value (NPV) = 33.3%; Kappa agreement (Kp) = 0.39/p < 0.01. Comparison of the combination method (SSS by technicians and ELISA) vs. Gs showed: Sn = 98.9%; Sp = 30.0; PPV = 96.2; NPV 60.0%; Kp = 0.378/p < 0.01. All methods performed better compared to SSS (29.4%) where the clinical diagnosis was doubtful (PCR = 94.15%; serum ELISA = 88.2%; combination = 94.1%; p < 0.01 for all). High serum anti-rKRP42 titers were seen in those with multiple lesions. Anti-rKRP42 urine ELISA was suboptimal as a diagnostic test. A 9% rate of positivity was seen for rk39-ICT, and positives recorded high anti-rKRP42 titers. The diagnostic accuracy can be increased above the level of the Gs by combining SSS and ELISA. Advanced studies are required to understand the association between rk39-ICT positivity and high anti-rKRP42 titers.
Comparison of Geometric Properties of Regular and Irregular Mineral Grains by Dynamic Image Analysis (2D) and Optoelectronic Analysis (3D) Methods
Authors: Krawczykowski Damian , Krawczykowska Aldona , Gawenda Tomasz
Published: April 2022

The properties of bulk materials are influenced by geometrical features of grains such as size, size distribution and shape. However, size is an ambiguous parameter for non-spherical particles. Therefore, the influence of the shape of a particle on its size, as described by various measuring methods and estimators using the main particle dimensions, was studied here. Granulometric analyses of mineral raw material samples containing regular and irregular grains were performed as part of the research. The measurements were made using two methods: the dynamic image analysis and the optoelectronic analysis. The main dimensions of the particles in 2D and 3D space were measured. Particle shape descriptors were determined based on the measurements: circularity and sphericity. Particle size distributions were also determined as a function of the minimum and maximum Feret diameters (for the 2D method) and the shortest and longest dimensions of particles recorded by the 3D method. The distribution of grain shapes according to Zingg classification was used for the 3D method. The results of the study were discussed in the context of comparing both of the measuring methods and selecting the most appropriate one to assess particle (ir)regularity.
Characterization of Overburden Deformation and Subsidence Behavior in a Kilometer Deep Longwall Mine
Authors: Khanal Manoj , Qu Qingdong , Zhu Yiran , Xie Jianlin , Zhu Weibing , Hou Tao , Song Shikang
Published: April 2022

A thorough understanding of mining-induced overburden deformation characteristics and the associated stress redistributions are essential to effectively manage complex safety and environmental issues that arise from underground mining. This is particular for mining in deep environments. This paper presents a numerical modelling study on a kilometer-deep longwall coal mine where a thick sandstone aquifer is situated approximately 200 m above the working seam. The mine adopts a special mine layout with narrow and wide pillars between longwalls and areas to manage water inrush and coal burst risks. The modelling results show that overburden deformation stops at a certain height, above which the displacement profile over multiple longwall panels become nearly flat. Increasing panel width and extraction height lead to a greater extent of the fractured zone and a larger magnitude of surface subsidence. An extraction height of more than 7 m may breach the thick aquifer. Stress concentration on the wide pillar can undergo up to 5 times increase in the in-situ stress, posing high risks of coal burst. Adjusting mining parameters such as panel width and extraction height can facilitate an effective strategy to minimize water inrush and coal burst risks in such a mining condition.
Lithology Identification of Uranium-Bearing Sand Bodies Using Logging Data Based on a BP Neural Network
Authors: Sun Yuanqiang , Chen Jianping , Yan Pengbing , Zhong Jun , Sun Yuxin , Jin Xinyu
Published: April 2022

Lithology identification is an essential fact for delineating uranium-bearing sandstone bodies. A new method is provided to delineate sandstone bodies by a lithological automatic classification model using machine learning techniques, which could also improve the efficiency of borehole core logging. In this contribution, the BP neural network model for automatic lithology identification was established using an optimized gradient descent algorithm based on the neural network training of 4578 sets of well logging data (including lithology, density, resistivity, natural gamma, well-diameter, natural potential, etc.) from 8 boreholes of the Tarangaole uranium deposit in Inner Mongolia. The softmax activation function and the cross-entropy loss function are used for lithology classification and weight adjustment. The lithology identification prediction was carried out for 599 samples, with a prediction accuracy of 88.31%. The prediction results suggest that the model is efficient and effective, and that it could be directly applied for automatic lithology identification in sandstone bodies for uranium exploration.
Mining and Metallurgical Waste as Potential Secondary Sources of Metals—A Case Study for the West Balkan Region
Authors: Šajn Robert , Ristović Ivica , Čeplak Barbara
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper is to present a chemical composition and quantities of mining and processing waste landfills material developed during historical mining and smelting. After detailed inspection, it was found that approximately 2.6 gigatons of the waste had been deposited at 1650 sites, covering almost 65 km2. More than half of this material, 55%, is characterized as conventional mining waste, 37% belongs to the processing tailings, and 8% to metallurgical waste. Most of these tailing sites are unclaimed, presenting a source of contamination for nearby communities. According to the literature data collected and additional chemical analyses, in accordance with zero-waste philosophy, about 42 promising locations (c. 270 million tons) could be selected, where various advanced eco-innovative methods of recovery could possibly apply. The areas with the highest prospective recovery are Serbia and Kosovo. In accordance with the metal prices achieved in March 2022, it is estimated that the recovery of tailings could bring up to 18,100 million USD, which is much more compared to the prices of March 2020—10,600 million USD—when the commodity market was governed by the COVID-19 restrictions. In addition to the commercial value of the metals, the environmental aspect should not be forgotten after the application of reuse and recycling concepts.
Controlled Decoration of [60]Fullerene with Polymannan Analogues and Amino Acid Derivatives through Malondiamide-Based Linkers
Authors: Tanzi Lisa , Rubes Davide , Bavaro Teodora , Sollogoub Matthieu , Serra Massimo , Zhang Yongmin , Terreni Marco
Published: April 2022

In the last few years, nanomaterials based on fullerene have begun to be considered promising tools in the development of efficient adjuvant/delivery systems for vaccination, thanks to their several advantages such as biocompatibility, size, and easy preparation and modification. In this work we reported the chemoenzymatic synthesis of natural polymannan analogues (di- and tri-mannan oligosaccharides characterized by α1,6man and/or α1,2man motifs) endowed with an anomeric propargyl group. These sugar derivatives were submitted to 1,3 Huisgen dipolar cycloaddition with a malondiamide-based chain equipped with two azido terminal groups. The obtained sugar-modified malondiamide derivatives were used to functionalize the surface of Buckminster fullerene (C60) in a highly controlled fashion, and yields (11–41%) higher than those so far reported by employing analogue linkers. The same strategy has been exploited to obtain C60 endowed with natural and unnatural amino acid derivatives. Finally, the first double functionalization of fullerene with both sugar- and amino acid-modified malondiamide chains was successfully performed, paving the way to the possible derivatization of fullerenes with immunogenic sugars and more complex antigenic peptides.
The Potential Role of Nigella sativa Seed Oil as Epigenetic Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Alsanosi Safialdin , Sheikh Ryan A. , Sonbul Sultan , Altayb Hisham N. , Batubara Afnan S. , Hosawi Salman , Al-Sakkaf Kaltoom , Abdullah Omeima , Omran Ziad , Alhosin Mahmoud
Published: April 2022

Nigella sativa oil, commonly known as black seed oil (BSO), is a well-known Mediterranean food, and its consumption is associated with beneficial effects on human health. A large number of BSO’s therapeutic properties is attributed to its pharmacologically active compound, thymoquinone (TQ), which inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis by targeting several epigenetic players, including the ubiquitin-like, containing plant homeodomain (PHD) and an interesting new gene, RING finger domains 1 (UHRF1), and its partners, DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1). This study was designed to compare the effects of locally sourced BSO with those of pure TQ on the expression of the epigenetic complex UHRF1/DNMT1/HDAC1 and the related events in several cancer cells. The gas chromatographs obtained from GC-MS analyses of extracted BSO showed that TQ was the major volatile compound. BSO significantly inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7, HeLa and Jurkat cells in a dose-dependent manner, and it induced apoptosis in these cell lines. BSO-induced inhibitory effects were associated with a significant decrease in mRNA expression of UHRF1, DNMT1 and HDAC1. Molecular docking and MD simulation showed that TQ had good binding affinity to UHRF1 and HDAC1. Of note, TQ formed a stable metal coordinate bond with zinc tom, found in the active site of the HDAC1 protein. These findings suggest that the use of TQ-rich BSO represents a promising strategy for epigenetic therapy for both solid and blood tumors through direct targeting of the trimeric epigenetic complex UHRF1/DNMT1/ HDAC1.
Identification of p-Coumaric Acid and Ethyl p-Coumarate as the Main Phenolic Components of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Roots
Authors: Oh Chang Min , Choi Joon Yong , Bae In Ah , Kim Hong Taek , Hong Seong Su , Noah Jay Kyun , Boo Yong Chool
Published: April 2022

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) contains a variety of secondary metabolites, including cannabinoids, such as psychoactive (−)-trans-Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol. The present study was conducted to identify the major phenolic components contained in hemp root, which has been relatively under-researched compared to other parts of hemp. The aqueous ethanol extract of hemp roots was fractionated into methylene chloride (MC), ethyl acetate (EA), and water (WT) fractions, and high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis was performed. The main ultraviolet (UV)-absorbing phenolic compound contained in the EA fraction was identified as p-coumaric acid by comparing the retention time and UV absorption spectrum with a standard. Silica gel column chromatography was performed to isolate a hydrophobic derivative of p-coumaric acid contained in the MC fraction. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis identified the isolated compound as ethyl p-coumarate. For comparative purposes, ethyl p-coumarate was also chemically synthesized by the esterification reaction of p-coumaric acid. The content of p-coumaric acid and ethyl p-coumarate in the total extract of hemp root was estimated to be 2.61 mg g−1 and 6.47 mg g−1, respectively, by HPLC-DAD analysis. These values correspond to 84 mg Kg−1 dry root and 216 mg Kg−1 dry root, respectively. In conclusion, this study identified p-coumaric acid and ethyl p-coumarate as the main phenolic compounds contained in the hemp roots.
Beneficial Effect of Kidney Bean Resistant Starch on Hyperlipidemia—Induced Acute Pancreatitis and Related Intestinal Barrier Damage in Rats
Authors: Zuo Zhaohang , Liu Shuting , Pang Weiqiao , Lu Baoxin , Sun Wei , Zhang Naidan , Zhou Xinyu , Zhang Dongjie , Wang Ying
Published: April 2022

Accumulating attention has been focused on resistant starch (RS) due to its blood-lipid-lowering activities. However, reports on the potential bioactivities of RS for preventing hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis (HLAP) are limited. Therefore, in this study, an acute pancreatitis model was set up by feeding a hyperlipidemia diet to rats, and subsequently evaluating the anti-HLAP effect of RS in kidney beans. The results show that the IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α of serum in each RS group were decreased by 18.67–50.00%, 7.92–22.89%, and 8.06–34.04%, respectively, compared with the model group (MOD). In addition, the mRNA expression of tight junction protein ZO-1, occludin, and antibacterial peptides CRAMP and DEFB1 of rats in each RS group increased by 26.43–60.07%, 229.98–279.90%, 75.80–111.20%, and 77.86–109.07%, respectively. The height of the villi in the small intestine and the thickness of the muscle layer of rats were also increased, while the depth of the crypt decreased. The present study indicates that RS relieves intestinal inflammation, inhibits oxidative stress, and prevents related intestinal barrier damage. These results support the supplementation of RS as an effective nutritional intervention for HLAP and associated intestinal injury.
Additive Manufacturing Strategies for Personalized Drug Delivery Systems and Medical Devices: Fused Filament Fabrication and Semi Solid Extrusion
Authors: Auriemma Giulia , Tommasino Carmela , Falcone Giovanni , Esposito Tiziana , Sardo Carla , Aquino Rita Patrizia
Published: April 2022

Novel additive manufacturing (AM) techniques and particularly 3D printing (3DP) have achieved a decade of success in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields. Highly innovative personalized therapeutical solutions may be designed and manufactured through a layer-by-layer approach starting from a digital model realized according to the needs of a specific patient or a patient group. The combination of patient-tailored drug dose, dosage, or diagnostic form (shape and size) and drug release adjustment has the potential to ensure the optimal patient therapy. Among the different 3D printing techniques, extrusion-based technologies, such as fused filament fabrication (FFF) and semi solid extrusion (SSE), are the most investigated for their high versatility, precision, feasibility, and cheapness. This review provides an overview on different 3DP techniques to produce personalized drug delivery systems and medical devices, highlighting, for each method, the critical printing process parameters, the main starting materials, as well as advantages and limitations. Furthermore, the recent developments of fused filament fabrication and semi solid extrusion 3DP are discussed. In this regard, the current state of the art, based on a detailed literature survey of the different 3D products printed via extrusion-based techniques, envisioning future directions in the clinical applications and diffusion of such systems, is summarized.