bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcium–Permeable Channels and Endothelial Dysfunction in Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Hao Ying , Wang Zhuang , Frimpong Francis , Chen Xingjuan
Published: May 2022

The increased permeability of the lung microvascular endothelium is one critical initiation of acute lung injury (ALI). The disruption of vascular-endothelium integrity results in leakiness of the endothelial barrier and accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the alveoli. During ALI, increased endothelial-cell (EC) permeability is always companied by high frequency and amplitude of cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations. Mechanistically, cytosolic calcium oscillations include calcium release from internal stores and calcium entry via channels located in the cell membrane. Recently, numerous publications have shown substantial evidence that calcium-permeable channels play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the endothelium barrier function of the vessel wall in ALI. These novel endothelial signaling pathways are future targets for the treatment of lung injury. This short review focuses on the up-to-date research and provide insight into the contribution of calcium influx via ion channels to the disruption of lung microvascular endothelial-barrier function during ALI.
Low-Temperature CVD-Grown Graphene Thin Films as Transparent Electrode for Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Ali Alaa Y. , Holmes Natalie P. , Ameri Mohsen , Feron Krishna , Thameel Mahir N. , Barr Matthew G. , Fahy Adam , Holdsworth John , Belcher Warwick , Dastoor Paul , Zhou Xiaojing
Published: May 2022

Good conductivity, suitable transparency and uniform layers of graphene thin film can be produced by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) at low temperature and utilised as a transparent electrode in organic photovoltaics. Using chlorobenzene trapped in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymer as the carbon source, growth temperature (Tgrowth) of 600 °C at hydrogen (H2) flow of 75 standard cubic centimetres per minute (sccm) was used to prepare graphene by CVD catalytically on copper (Cu) foil substrates. Through the Tgrowth of 600 °C, we observed and identified the quality of the graphene films, as characterised by Raman spectroscopy. Finally, P3HT (poly (3-hexylthiophene-2, 5-diyl)): PCBM (phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester) bulk heterojunction solar cells were fabricated on graphene-based window electrodes and compared with indium tin oxide (ITO)-based devices. It is interesting to observe that the OPV performance is improved more than 5 fold with increasing illuminated areas, hinting that high resistance between graphene domains can be alleviated by photo generated charges.
Back to School in the Pandemic: Observations of the Influences of Prevention Measures on Relationships, Autonomy, and Learning of Preschool Children
Authors: Ozamiz-Etxbarria Naiara , Picaza Maitane , Jiménez-Etxebarria Eneritz , Cornelius-White Jeffrey H. D.
Published: May 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a global impact on societies, economies, and education. In Spain, one of the countries most affected by the COVID-19 in the initial year, the virus began to spread at the end of February 2020. When the Spanish government declared a state of emergency, the first restrictive measure was the closure of all educational centers on the 14th of March. All schools and universities were closed until September 2020, when students returned to classes with preventative health measures in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Methods: This study focuses on the observation of children in pre-school education. Specifically, it focuses on studying how preventative health measures that were taken in the pre-schools may have influenced children’s social relationships, basic autonomy, and learning. We used a mixed method in which field notes were taken and observational scores were assigned. Results: The following prevention measures appear to have influenced children’s relationships, autonomy, and learning: bubble groups, handwashing, teachers wearing masks, divided playgrounds so different classes cannot mix, and no toys from home or shared personal objects. Conclusions: The results of the study suggest that new health measures such as the use of masks and social distancing do appear to be affecting the communication and development of pre-school children. Continued research is needed to understand and minimize the potential negative impacts of pandemic measures on children’s development.
High-Rate Crystal/Polycrystal Dislocation Dynamics
Authors: Armstrong Ronald W.
Published: May 2022

The present report builds upon work recently published on crystal and polycrystal dislocation mechanics behaviors assessed, in part, in split-Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) and shock loading investigations. A connection between the flow stress dependencies on strain rate in the different tests had been established in the previous report, whereas additional results are assessed here for (1) relationship of the measurements to a nano-scale prismatic dislocation structure proposed to be generated at a propagating shock front and (2) further relationships between the modeled structure and corresponding thermal stress and strain rate sensitivity computations, including new evaluations of the engineering rate sensitivity parameter, m = [∆lnσ/∆ln(dε/dt)]T. A comparison is made of m values approaching 1.0 for simulated dislocation mechanics results computed for tantalum crystals. Other (lower) m value comparisons involve recently determined higher shock stress measurements made on copper material at higher temperatures.
Molecular Insights into the Centaurea Calocephala Complex (Compositae) from the Balkans—Does Phylogeny Match Systematics?
Authors: Novaković Jelica , Janaćković Pedja , Susanna Alfonso , Lazarević Maja , Boršić Igor , Milanovici Sretco , Lakušić Dmitar , Zlatković Bojan , Marin Petar D. , Garcia-Jacas Núria
Published: May 2022

Groups of recent speciation are characterized by high levels of introgression and gene flow, which often confounds delimitation of species on a DNA basis. We analyzed nuclear DNA sequences (ETS spacer and the AGT1 gene) obtained from a large sample of the C. calocephala complex from the Balkan clade of Centaurea sect. Acrocentron (Compositae, Cardueae-Centaureinae) together with a wide representation of other species from the section. Our main goals were to verify the monophyly of the complex as currently defined and to examine the possible presence of introgression and gene flow. Within the complex, species are well-delimited from a morphological point of view and probably originated by allopatric speciation in the Balkan Peninsula. Our results confirm that the Balkan–Eurasian complex is a natural group, but the Centaurea calocephala complex shows a very complicated pattern and its phylogeny is not resolved. Our hypothesis suggests that altitudinal shifts in the transits from glacial to interglacial periods caused successive hybridization events, which are very evident from the DNA networks, between taxa not currently sympatric. As a result, confirmation of interspecific boundaries using molecular markers is extremely complicated.
Coherence and Anticoherence Induced by Thermal Fields
Authors: Sun Lihui , Liu Ya , Li Chen , Zhang Kaikai , Yang Wenxing , Ficek Zbigniew
Published: May 2022

Interesting coherence and correlations appear between superpositions of two bosonic modes when the modes are parametrically coupled to a third intermediate mode and are also coupled to external modes which are in thermal states of unequal mean photon numbers. Under such conditions, it is found that one of linear superpositions of the modes, which is effectively decoupled from the other modes, can be perfectly coherent with the other orthogonal superposition of the modes and can simultaneously exhibit anticoherence with the intermediate mode, which can give rise to entanglement between the modes. It is shown that the coherence effects have a substantial effect on the population distribution between the modes, which may result in lowering the population of the intermediate mode. This shows that the system can be employed to cool modes to lower temperatures. Furthermore, for appropriate thermal photon numbers and coupling strengths between the modes, it is found that entanglement between the directly coupled superposition and the intermediate modes may occur in a less restricted range of the number of the thermal photons such that the modes could be strongly entangled, even at large numbers of the thermal photons.
Novel Mixed Reality Use Cases for Pilot Training
Authors: Schaffernak Harald , Moesl Birgit , Vorraber Wolfgang , Holy Michael , Herzog Eva-Maria , Novak Robert , Koglbauer Ioana Victoria
Published: May 2022

This study explored novel mixed reality (MR) use cases for pilot training using a mix of methods rooted in the general innovation theory of dynamic capabilities. The aim was to identify areas of improvement for various aspects of the flight training based on MR, in a socially and economically sustainable manner. Multiple surveys and workshops have been conducted with flight instructors, administrative staff, pilots and student pilots. The main result of this study is a systematic identification of the three most promising MR use cases: interactive theory training, cockpit procedure, and outside check training. These results are important because they inform the development of technical didactic tools for pilot training. The applicability of MR technologies to accommodate diverse user needs and preferences is addressed, while also considering aspects of economical sustainability.
Fast Connectivity Construction via Deep Channel Learning Cognition in Beyond 5G D2D Networks
Authors: Lee Sang-Hoon , Seo Sangwon , Park Soochang , Kim Tae-Sung
Published: May 2022

Along with the recent advance in wireless networking and data processing technologies, demands for low latency communication (LLC) are increasing in a wide variety of future-driven autonomous applications such as a smart factory, self-driving cars, and so on. The fifth generation of cellular mobile communications (5G) will cover this need as one of three key capacities in their usage scenarios: enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communication (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC). The 5G systems are composed of mobile devices and various internet of things (IoT) devices for sensing, acting, and information services; they configure diverse networking topologies such as direct mobile-to-mobile, also known as device-to-device (D2D). In the 5G D2D network systems, the network topologies are easily broken because of the mobile devices such as smartphones, IoT devices, and so on. Thus, for the highly flexible and extensible 5G D2D network systems, mobility support for the mobile devices is necessary. In this paper, we first explore the mobility issues in beyond 5G D2D. Since there are static and mobile elements in the 5G application domains such as the smart factory, overall mobility would lead to highly frequent topology reconfiguration or connectivity reconstruction. Thus, latency-related problems derived from topology changes and connectivity failures due to the mobility are addressed. To handle the problems, a fast connectivity construction scheme, denoted by LMK, is proposed with a deep neural network dealing with learning on radio signal information in order to achieve the LLC. Evaluation results demonstrate that the proposed framework can provide reliable connectivity for the MAC layer link with a low latency data transmission.
Analysis and Development of a Small-Scale Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (sCO2) Brayton Cycle
Authors: Patel Raj C. , Bass Diego C. , Dukuze Ganza Prince , Andrade Angelina , Combs Christopher S.
Published: May 2022

Carbon dioxide’s (CO2) ability to reach the supercritical phase (7.39 MPa and 304.15 K) with low thermal energy input is an advantageous feature in power generation design, allowing for the use of various heat sources in the cycle. A small-scale supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power cycle operating on the principle of a closed-loop Brayton cycle is currently under construction at The University of Texas at San Antonio, to design and develop a small-scale indirect-fired sCO2 Brayton cycle, acquire validation data of the cycle’s performance, and compare the cycle’s performance to other cycles operating in similar conditions. The power cycle consists of four principal components: A reciprocating piston compressor, a heating source, a reciprocating piston expander to produce power, and a heat exchanger to dissipate excess heat. The work explained in the present manuscript describes the theory and analysis conducted to design the piston expander, heating source, and heat exchanger in the cycle. Theoretical calculations indicate that using sCO2 for the Brayton cycle generates 4.5 kW of power with the inlet pressure and temperature of 17.23 MPa and 358.15 K to the piston expander. Based on the fully isentropic conditions, the thermal efficiency of the system is estimated to be 12.75%.
Experimental Investigation and RSM Modeling of the Effects of Injection Timing on the Performance and NOx Emissions of a Micro-Cogeneration Unit Fueled with Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Caligiuri Carlo , Bietresato Marco , Algieri Angelo , Baratieri Marco , Renzi Massimiliano
Published: May 2022

The (partial or total) substitution of petro-diesel with biodiesel in internal combustion engines (ICEs) could represent a crucial path towards the decarbonization of the energy sector. However, critical aspects are related to the controversial issue of the possible increase in Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions. In such a framework, the proposed study aims at investigating the effects of biodiesel share and injection timing on the performance and NOx emissions of a diesel micro combined heat and power (CHP) system. An experimental campaign has been conducted considering the following operating conditions: (i) a reference standard injection timing (17.2° BTDC), an early injection timing (20.8° BTDC), and a late injection timing (12.2° BTDC); (ii) low (0.90 kW), partial (2.45 kW), and full (3.90 kW) output power load; and (iii) four fuel blends with different biodiesel (B) shares (B0, B15, B30, and B100). Experimental data were also elaborated on thanks to the response surface modelling (RSM) technique, aiming at (i) quantifying the influences of the above-listed variables and their trends on the responses, and (ii) obtaining a set of predictive numerical models that represent the basis for model-based design and optimization procedures. The results show: (i) an overall improvement of the engine performance due to the biodiesel presence in the fuel blend —in particular, B30 and B100 blends have shown peak values in both electrical (29%) and thermal efficiency (42%); (ii) the effective benefits of late SOI strategies on NOx emissions, quantified in an overall average NOx reduction of 27% for the early-to-late injection, and of 16% for the standard-to-late injection strategy. Moreover, it has emerged that the NOx-reduction capabilities of the late injection strategy decrease with higher biodiesel substitution rates; through the discussion of high-prediction-capable, parametric, data-driven models, an extensive RSM analysis has shown how the biodiesel share promotes an increase of NOx whenever it overcomes a calculated threshold that is proportional to the engine load (from about 66.5% to 85.7% of the biodiesel share).
Simulation Modeling for Energy-Flexible Manufacturing: Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Authors: Köberlein Jana , Bank Lukas , Roth Stefan , Köse Ekrem , Kuhlmann Timm , Prell Bastian , Stange Maximilian , Münnich Marc , Flum Dominik , Moog Daniel , Ihlenfeldt Steffen , Sauer Alexander , Weigold Matthias , Schilp Johannes
Published: May 2022

Due to the high share of industry in total electricity consumption, industrial demand-side management can make a relevant contribution to the stability of power systems. At the same time, companies get the opportunity to reduce their electricity procurement costs by taking advantage of increasingly fluctuating prices on short-term electricity markets, the provision of system services on balancing power markets, or by increasing the share of their own consumption from on-site generated renewable energy. Demand-side management requires the ability to react flexibly to the power supply situation without negatively affecting production targets. It also means that the management and operation of production must consider not only production-related parameters but also parameters of energy availability, which further increase the complexity of decision-making. Although simulation studies are a recognized tool for supporting decision-making processes in production and logistics, the simultaneous simulation of material and energy flows has so far been limited mainly to issues of energy efficiency as opposed to energy flexibility, where application-oriented experience is still limited. We assume that the consideration of energy flexibility in the simulation of manufacturing systems will amplify already known pitfalls in conducting simulation studies. Based on five representative industrial use cases, this article provides practitioners with application-oriented experiences of the coupling of energy and material flows in simulation modeling of energy-flexible manufacturing, identifies challenges in the simulation of energy-flexible production systems, and proposes approaches to face these challenges. Seven pitfalls that pose a particular challenge in simulating energy-flexible manufacturing have been identified, and possible solutions and measures for avoiding them are shown. It has been found that, among other things, consistent management of all parties involved, early clarification of energy-related, logistical, and resulting technical requirements for models and software, as well as the application of suitable methods for validation and verification are central to avoiding these pitfalls. The identification and characterization of challenges and the derivation of recommendations for coping with them can raise awareness of typical pitfalls. This paper thus helps to ensure that simulation studies of energy-flexible production systems can be carried out more efficiently in the future.
Improved Method for Testing Integrity Loss of Wells with Sustained Casing Pressure
Authors: Kazemi Mohammad , Wojtanowicz Andrew K.
Published: May 2022

The pressure bleed-down/build-up (B/B) testing is enforced by the Bureau of Safty and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) regulations in the US for gas-leaking wells with recurrent casing head annular pressure dubbed “Sustained Casing Pressure” (SCP). The bleed down test involves bleeding the pressure with a needle valve. Once the pressure reached to zero or stabilized, the valve is closedand a 24-h pressure monitoring starts. Analysis of the tests mandated by regulations involves merely a qualitative assessment of the low or high level of environmental risk measured by leak size. A quantitative analysis—based on mathematical models—has been already proposed and used for sizing cement leaks but the models give ambiguous results due to oversimplifying assumptions of the cement leak system and disregard for the testing procedure. This work addresses shortcomings of the current B/B testing and analysis methods by approaching the testing procedure as a source of useful information about the system of annular well leakage. We demonstrate that using a mathematical model for globally matching all stages of the B/B test data would prioritize the pressure bleed-down stage over the buildup stage thus making the latter stage mostly irrelevant in providing information on the whole gas migration system. We verify the hypothesis that a stage-wise analysis would improve the results by separately considering three stages of the B/B test: pressure bleed down, constant flow (steady-state), and pressure buildup, and, then, comparatively reconciling values of the system parameters. The stage-by-stage approach is feasible because—as shown by the sensitivity analysis—each stage is controlled mostly by a single parameter. Also presented is the development of an improved procedure for performing the B-B test. The study shows that the operational parameters controlled by the test operator—duration and size of the needle valve opening, and pressure recording time step, might significantly change values of the test output—the minimum bleed down, and the maximum 24-h buildup pressures. It is also found that the zero bleed-down pressure does not necessarily indicate that the leak is small as it also depends upon the length and properties of the annular fluid column above the cement top.
Assessment of the Role of Nearshore Marine Ecosystems to Mitigate Beach Erosion: The Case of Negril (Jamaica)
Authors: Peduzzi Pascal , Velegrakis Adonis , Chatenoux Bruno , Estrella Marisol , Karambas Theofanis
Published: May 2022

Coastal and marine ecosystems are supplying a wide range of services. With accelerated Sea Level Rise, intensification of waves and storm surge severity and increasing anthropogenic pressures, these areas are under multiple threats and society may not receive the same level of ecosystems services. This study aims at measuring the trend of beach erosion and at identifying and quantifying the role of some coastal and marine ecosystems in mitigating beach erosion in the region of Negril (Jamaica). In this location, the tourism industry provides the main source of economic revenue. Even at the national level, the two beaches are important assets linked with 5% of the national revenue as 25% of the hotel rooms are located around Negril. In Jamaica, the tourism industry is a significant component of national GDP. 25% of hotel rooms are located around the two beaches of Negril, which have lost an average of 23.4 m of width since 1968. Given the importance of Negril’s beaches to their economy, the Government of Jamaica asked UNEP to conduct a study to identify causes of beach erosion in Negril and potential solutions to address trends of beach erosion, in the context of future sea level rise scenarios induced by climate change. This paper addresses the current beach erosion status and future trends under different climate scenarios. We explain how, by using remote sensing, GIS, wave modelling and multiple regressions analysis associated with national, local and community consultations, we were able to identify and quantify the role of ecosystems for mitigating beach erosion. We show that larger widths of coral and seagrass meadows reduce beach erosion.
Future Strategic Priorities of the Swiss Decentralized Healthcare System: A COVID-19 Case Study
Authors: Burger Miriam Mi-Rim Lee , Large Kaitlin Elizabeth , Liu Yiqi , Coyle Melissa Cigdem , Gamanya Cherish Tariro , Etter Jean-François
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed a multitude of vulnerabilities in Switzerland’s decentralized healthcare system and highlighted the urgent need to strengthen Switzerland’s capacity to respond to health crises and disease outbreaks. In this article, we draw on three distinct areas of analysis of the current functioning of the Swiss healthcare system to examine its strengths and weaknesses, which can serve as a basis for future considerations and strategic priorities. First, we analyze the different levels of nine non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), as defined by the ETH KOF Stringency Index and implemented in the Swiss cantons of Zurich, Vaud, and Ticino, compared with the rate of positive COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. We find that there was no strong correlation between the severity of the nine non-pharmaceutical interventions implemented and lower rates of positive COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. Second, we examine the challenges of Switzerland’s decentralized healthcare system through a literature review and with empirical data obtained from semi-structured interviews with health professionals in Switzerland. We conclude our analysis with the role of central authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results demonstrate that during a national emergency in Switzerland, taking into account other factors that influence the success of a pandemic strategy, there is an opportunity for a more unified, centralized response to reduce the social and economic toll of the pandemic without necessarily risking greater health damage. We recommend that the Swiss federal government use a combination of decentralized and centralized public health and policy approaches and promote greater private–public collaboration with direct communication channels among policymakers, public health stakeholders, and the public to improve pandemic preparedness and response.
Abandoned Wood Ant Nests as Sites for Seedling Germination
Authors: Sondej Izabela , Domisch Timo
Published: May 2022

We compared the species composition of seedlings germinated on ten recently abandoned Formica polyctena nests with the plant species on active nests and the plant species composition of the forest floor around the nests. Compared to no plants at all, when the nests were inhabited, seedlings of 12 different vascular plant species germinated on the nests after their abandonment. Four of them were myrmecochorous, of which two occurred only on the nests. After abandonment, ant activity ceases, the water content of the nests increases, and decomposition of the organic nest material is accelerated, resulting in faster nutrient mineralization. Consequently, more nutrients are available for plants. Our results suggest that abandoned nests can serve as “regeneration niches”, ensuring genetic diversity, especially in plant populations which rely mainly on vegetative propagation. However, more research on a larger scale is needed to assess the role of wood ants and their abandoned nests in forest vegetation development.
Establishing and Optimizing the Ecological Security Pattern in Shaanxi Province (China) for Ecological Restoration of Land Space
Authors: Li Han , Zhang Tian , Cao Xiao-Shu , Zhang Qian-Qian
Published: May 2022

Land space underpins an ecological civilization. A thorough grasp of regional natural resources and subsequent optimization of the ecological security pattern are both essential for the comprehensive development and overall planning of the management of natural resources. In this study, we established and optimized the ecological security pattern in Shaanxi Province, China. Landscape patches distinguished by high importance of ecosystem services (carbon fixation and oxygen release, water conservation, habitat maintenance, and soil conservation) and high sensitivity of ecological environment to human interference (ecological sensitivity index) were extracted as ecological sources. An ecological resistance surface was built based on the following resistance factors: land-use type, topographic position index, and soil erosion intensity. A minimum cumulative resistance model was used to identify ecological corridors. Our results showed that those ecological sources with high to extreme ecological importance and sensitivity together covered an area of 67,457 km2 (32.8% of the total land area of Shaanxi Province). A total of 32 ecological nodes were identified at the center of important ecological sources to serve as main areas for implementing ecological protection projects. In addition, 72 ecological corridors were identified, towards which efforts should be targeted to maintain their functions for the inter-connection and serial connection of ecological nodes and source patches. The ecological corridors create favorable habitats for wildlife and superior spaces for ecological migration based on the blue and green linear corridor system. According to these findings, we propose establishing an ecological security pattern featuring “two barriers, three belts, and multiple corridors” in Shaanxi Province and that the green ecological security barriers should be strengthened based on their natural background and resource endowments.
Effect of Ammoniated and/or Basidiomycete White-Rot Fungi Treatment on Rice Straw Proximate Composition, Cell Wall Component, and In Vitro Rumen Fermentation Characteristics
Authors: Datsomor Osmond , Yan Qi , Wang Kuopeng , Mohamed Shakib , Opoku-Mensah Louis , Zhao Guoqi , Miao Lin
Published: May 2022

Various pretreatments are employed to increase the utilization of rice straw as a ruminant feed ingredient to minimize its negative environmental impact. However, an efficient alternative is still needed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of ammonia and/or white-rot fungi (Pleurotus ostreatus) to degrade lignin, increase the nutritional value, and enhance the rumen fermentability of rice straw. Rice straw was treated with ammonia and/or basidiomycete white-rot fungi (P. ostreatus) with untreated straw as control under solid-state fermentation employing a completely randomized design. The crude protein increased from 2.05% in the control to 3.47% in ammoniated rice straw, 5.24% in basidiomycete white-rot fungi (P. ostreatus), and 6.58% in ammoniated-basidiomycete white-rot fungi-treated (P. ostreatus) rice straw. The ammoniated-basidiomycete white-rot fungi-treated (P. ostreatus) rice straw had the least lignin content (3.76%). Ammoniated-basidiomycete white-rot fungi-treated (P. ostreatus) rice straw had improved in vitro dry matter digestibility (65.52%), total volatile fatty acid (76.56 mM), and total gas production (56.78 mL/g) compared to ammoniated rice straw (56.16%, 67.71 mM, 44.30 mL/g) or basidiomycete white-rot fungi-treated (P. ostreatus) rice straw (61.12%, 75.36 mM, 49.31 mL/g), respectively. The ammoniated-basidiomycete white-rot fungi (P. ostreatus) treatment improved rice straw’s nutritional value, in vitro dry matter digestibility, volatile fatty acids, and gas production.
Speciation of Arsenic(III) and Arsenic(V) in Plant-Based Drinks
Authors: Ruzik Lena , Jakubowska Małgorzata
Published: May 2022

Recently, food products based only on plants have become increasingly popular and are often found on store shelves. It is a specific market response to the growing demand for, and interest in, plant foods. Cow’s milk has also gained its counterpart in the form of plant-based beverages, based on cereals, nuts or legumes. The emergence of an increasingly wide range of plant-based food products has also led to increased research on safe plant food consumption. This study was conducted to quantify total arsenic content and its species (arsenic(III) and (V)) in samples of plant-based beverages purchased at Polish markets. Speciation analysis of arsenic was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The presented study was conducted on six selected plant-based beverages, including almond, millet, soybean, rice, coconut and oat. An analysis using size exclusion chromatography was performed. In order to initially visualize the content of the observed elements and the particle size of the compounds in which they occur, at first the samples were subjected to the size-exclusion chromatography. Speciation analysis of arsenic was carried out using anion-exchange liquid chromatography, combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The presented method was validated with certified reference material (CRM rice flour).
Investigation on In Situ Carbon-Coated ZnFe2O4 as Advanced Anode Material for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Alam Mir Waqas , BaQais Amal , Rahman Mohammed M. , Aamir Muhammad , Abuzir Alaaedeen , Mushtaq Shehla , Amin Muhammad Nasir , Khan Muhammad Shuaib
Published: May 2022

ZnFe2O4 as an anode that is believed to attractive. Due to its large theoretical capacity, this electrode is ideal for Lithium-ion batteries. However, the performance of ZnFe2O4 while charging and discharging is limited by its volume growth. In the present study, carbon-coated ZnFe2O4 is synthesized by the sol–gel method. Carbon is coated on the spherical surface of ZnFe2O4 by in situ coating. In situ carbon coating alleviates volume expansion during electrochemical performance and Lithium-ion mobility is accelerated, and electron transit is accelerated; thus, carbon-coated ZnFe2O4 show good electrochemical performance. After 50 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A·g−1, the battery had a discharge capacity of 1312 mAh·g−1 and a capacity of roughly 1220 mAh·g−1. The performance of carbon-coated ZnFe2O4 as an improved anode is electrochemically used for Li-ion energy storage applications.
Wellbore Stability through Novel Catechol-Chitosan Biopolymer Encapsulator-Based Drilling Mud
Authors: Tang Zhichuan , Qiu Zhengsong , Zhong Hanyi , Kang Yujie , Guo Baoyu
Published: May 2022

The problem of wellbore stability has a marked impact on oil and gas exploration and development in the process of drilling. Marine mussel proteins can adhere and encapsulate firmly on deep-water rocks, providing inspiration for solving borehole stability problem and this ability comes from catechol groups. In this paper, a novel biopolymer was synthesized with chitosan and catechol (named “SDGB”) by Schiff base-reduction reaction, was developed as an encapsulator in water-based drilling fluids (WBDF). In addition, the chemical enhancing wellbore stability performance of different encapsulators were investigated and compared. The results showed that there were aromatic ring structure, amines, and catechol groups in catechol-chitosan biopolymer molecule. The high shale recovery rate demonstrated its strong shale inhibition performance. The rock treated by catechol-chitosan biopolymer had higher tension shear strength and uniaxial compression strength than others, which indicates that it can effectively strengthen the rock and bind loose minerals in micro-pore and micro-fracture of rock samples. The rheological and filtration property of the WBDF containing catechol-chitosan biopolymer is stable before and after 130 °C/16 h hot rolling, demonstrating its good compatibility with other WBDF agents. Moreover, SDGB could chelate with metal ions, forming a stable covalent bond, which plays an important role in adhesiveness, inhibition, and blockage.
Complex Presentation of Hao-Fountain Syndrome Solved by Exome Sequencing Highlighting Co-Occurring Genomic Variants
Authors: Priolo Manuela , Mancini Cecilia , Pizzi Simone , Chiriatti Luigi , Radio Francesca Clementina , Cordeddu Viviana , Pintomalli Letizia , Mammì Corrado , Dallapiccola Bruno , Tartaglia Marco
Published: May 2022

Objective: The co-occurrence of pathogenic variants has emerged as a relatively common finding underlying complex phenotypes. Here, we used whole-exome sequencing (WES) to solve an unclassified multisystem clinical presentation. Patients and Methods: A 20-year-old woman affected by moderate intellectual disability (ID), dysmorphic features, hypertrichosis, scoliosis, recurrent bronchitis, and pneumonia with bronchiectasis, colelithiasis, chronic severe constipation, and a family history suggestive of autosomal dominant recurrence of polycystic kidney disease was analyzed by WES to identify the genomic events underlying the condition. Results: Four co-occurring genomic events fully explaining the proband’s clinical features were identified. A de novo truncating USP7 variant was disclosed as the cause of Hao–Fountain syndrome, a disorder characterized by syndromic ID and distinctive behavior. Compound heterozygosity for a major cystic fibrosis-causing variant and the modulator allele, IVS8-5T, in CFTR explained the recurrent upper and lower respiratory way infections, bronchiectasis, cholelithiasis, and chronic constipation. Finally, a truncating PKD2 variant co-segregating with polycystic kidney disease in the family allowed presymptomatic disease diagnosis. Conclusions: The co-occurring variants in USP7 and CFTR variants explained the multisystem disorder of the patient. The comprehensive dissection of the phenotype and early diagnosis of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease allowed us to manage the CFTR-related disorder symptoms and monitor renal function and other complications associated with PKD2 haploinsufficiency, addressing proper care and surveillance.
Illicit Drug Use and Smell and Taste Dysfunction: A National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2014
Authors: Kao Hui-Han , Chen Hsi-Han , Chiang Kuan-Wei , To Sheng-Yin , Li I-Hsun , Huang Yu-Chieh , Kao Li-Ting
Published: May 2022

Taste and smell dysfunction are suspected to be associated with substance use. However, representative epidemiological studies remain insufficient. This cross-sectional study explored the relationship between drug use (including cannabis or hashish, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine) and olfactory/gustatory dysfunction using data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. In this study, participants who completed the smell examination with mean age of 59 were classified into four groups: cannabis users (n = 845), participants without cannabis use (n = 794), illicit drug users (n = 450), and participants without illicit drug use (n = 2000). Participants who completed the taste examination with mean age of 58 were also categorised into four groups: cannabis users (n = 810), participants without cannabis use (n = 714), illicit drug users (n = 428), and participants without illicit drug use (n = 1815). Logistic regression models investigated the association between cannabis or illicit drug use and smell or taste dysfunctions among study participants. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Finally, we did not find correlations between illicit drug use and dysfunction of taste or smell senses; our findings were consistent in many subgroup analyses. We recommend that further studies explore the mechanism and dose of illicit drug use that could have chemosensory impacts.
Genetic Diversity and Streptomycin Sensitivity in Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae Causing Oily Spot Disease in Pomegranates
Authors: Sharma Jyotsana , Manjunatha Nanjundappa , Pokhare Somnath S. , Patil Prakash G. , Agarrwal Ruchi , Chakranarayan Mansi G. , Aralimar Anita , Devagire Priya , Marathe Rajiv A.
Published: May 2022

Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae (Xap) causes bacterial blight disease in pomegranates, often leading to 60–80% economic loss. In absence of a suitable Xap-resistant variety, the near-monoculture of the susceptible variety, Bhagwa, has aggravated the problem further. In recent times, Xap has spread to different geographical regions, indicating the wide adaptability of the pathogen. Moreover, lower sensitivity of Xap towards streptocycline containing streptomycin sulphate and tetracycline sulphate (9:1) under field conditions is frequently reported. Therefore, the current study was undertaken to assess the genetic variability of Xap isolates using SSR markers, their in vitro sensitivity towards streptomycin was evaluated, and the probable molecular basis of acquired resistance was studied. Two highly diverse isolates showed extreme differences in their pathogenicity, indicating the highly evolving nature of the pathogen. Moreover, all the isolates showed less than 50% growth inhibition on media containing 1500 µg/mL streptomycin, indicating a lower level of antibiotic sensitivity. On the molecular level, 90% of the isolates showed the presence of strA-strB genes involved in streptomycin metabolism. Additionally, G to A transitions were observed in the rpsL gene in some of the isolates. The molecular data suggest that horizontal gene transfer (strAB) and/or spontaneous gene mutation (in rpsL) could be responsible for the observed lower sensitivity of Xap towards streptomycin.
Volatile Oil Components of Laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) Leaves Obtained from Plants Cultivated under Salinity Stress Conditions
Authors: Ben Ayed Amina , Zanin Giampaolo , Aissa Echrak , Haouala Faouzi
Published: May 2022

Laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) is a strict endemic species of natural vegetation of the Mediterranean region, which is known for its medicinal, aromatic, forestry, ornamental and culinary properties. This species produces valuable essential oil (EO). The content of EO and its composition depend on different factors, e.g., genetic, cultural practices and environmental conditions. Among these, salt stress is a major limiting factor, which affects almost all plant functions. Similar to essential oils (EOs), biotic and abiotic stresses may stimulate or inhibit the emission of volatile compounds (VCs) in plant materials, suggesting that these substances can be responsible on stress defense strategies. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different NaCl concentrations (0, 50, 100 and 150 mM) of the irrigation water on VCs of laurel leaves. Our results showed that salt stress affected the volatile metabolites compounds, mainly the major ones. For instance, 1,8-cineole and linalool were negatively affected by high salinity levels, while the opposite was observed for α-terpenyl acetate and methyl eugenol. The proportion of grouped compounds of laurel VCs also differed among the studied treatments. The relative content of oxygenated monoterpenes and monoterpene hydrocarbons, respectively the first and the second largest groups, decreased with increasing NaCl concentration. Differently, the relative amount of sesquiterpene hydrocarbon group increased, especially at 100 mM NaCl. These findings indicate that the cultivation of laurel in marginal lands, characterized by high salinity or low-quality water, must be carefully evaluated because it significantly varies the quality of its products.
Holistic Approach for Estimating Water Quality Ecosystem Services of Danube Floodplains: Field Measures, Remote Sensing, and Machine Learning
Authors: Hoyek Alain , Arias-Rodriguez Leonardo F. , Perosa Francesca
Published: May 2022

Human pressure has caused river ecosystems to be severely damaged. To improve river ecosystems, “working with nature”, i.e., nature-based Solutions (NbS), should be supported. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effects of a specific NbS, i.e., floodplain restoration, which provides, among others, the ecosystem service of nutrient retention. For these, an in-depth time series analysis of different nutrients’ concentrations and water physiochemical parameters was performed to obtain Water Quality Indices (WQI), which were calculated along the river. To estimate water quality from remote sensing data and to generate water quality maps along the river, Sentinel-2 water products were validated against in situ data, and linear regression (LR), random forest (RF), and support vector regression (SVR) were trained with atmospherically corrected data for chlorophyll-a and TSM. The results show different outcomes in diverse floodplains in terms of improvement of the water quality downstream of the floodplains. RF demonstrated higher performance to model Chl-a, and LR demonstrated higher performance to model TSM. Based on this, we provide an insightful discussion about the benefits of NbS. These methodologies contribute to the evaluation of already existing NbS on the Danube River based on a quantitative analysis of the effects of floodplain ecosystems to water quality.
Trends, Issues and Future Directions of Urban Health Impact Assessment Research: A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Luo Wenbing , Deng Zhongping , Zhong Shihu , Deng Mingjun
Published: May 2022

Health impact assessment (HIA) has been regarded as an important means and tool for urban planning to promote public health and further promote the integration of health concept. This paper aimed to help scientifically to understand the current situation of urban HIA research, analyze its discipline co-occurrence, publication characteristics, partnership, influence, keyword co-occurrence, co-citation, and structural variation. Based on the ISI Web database, this paper used a bibliometric method to analyze 2215 articles related to urban HIA published from 2012 to 2021. We found that the main research directions in the field were Environmental Sciences and Public Environmental Occupational Health; China contributed most articles, the Tehran University of Medical Sciences was the most influential institution, Science of the Total Environment was the most influential journal, Yousefi M was the most influential author. The main hotspots include health risk assessment, source appointment, contamination, exposure, particulate matter, heavy metals and urban soils in 2012–2021; road dust, source apposition, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, air pollution, urban topsoil and the north China plain were always hot research topics in 2012–2021, drinking water and water quality became research topics of great concern in 2017–2021. There were 25 articles with strong transformation potential during 2020–2021, but most papers carried out research on the health risk assessment of toxic elements in soil and dust. Finally, we also discussed the limitations of this paper and the direction of bibliometric analysis of urban HIA in the future.
Endocrine Disruptor Bisphenol a Affects the Neurochemical Profile of Nerve Fibers in the Aortic Arch Wall in the Domestic Pig
Authors: Rytel Liliana , Könyves László , Gonkowski Slawomir
Published: May 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound utilized in industry for the production of various plastics. BPA penetrates into the environment and adversely affects living organisms. Therefore, the influence of various BPA dosages on the neurochemical characteristics of nerve fibers located in the aortic branch wall was investigated in this study utilizing a double immunofluorescence method. It was found that BPA in concentration of 0.5 mg/kg body weight/day causes a clear increase in the density of nerves within aortic branch walls immunoreactive to cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neuronal isoform of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). Nerves containing galanin (GAL) and/or somatostatin (SOM) did not change when BPA was introduced into the system. Changes noted after administration of BPA at a dose of 0.05 mg/kg body weight/day were less visible and concerned fibers immunoreactive to CART, CGRP, and/or PACAP. The obtained results show that BPA affects the neurochemical coding of nerves in the aortic branch wall. These fluctuations may be the first signs of the influence of this substance on blood vessels and may also be at the root of the disturbances in the cardiovascular system.