bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospitalisations related to administration errors of psychotropic drugs: a nationwide retrospective study between 1998 and 2019 in Australia
Authors: Alsaleh Fatemah M. , Naser Abdallah Y. , Alsairafi Zahra K. , Ofori-Asenso Richard
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Medication administration error occurs when there is a discrepancy between what the patient received or was planned to receive and what the doctor originally intended. The aim of this study was to examine the trends in hospitalisation related to administration errors of psychotropic drugs in Australia.

Materials and Methods: This was a secular trend analysis study that examined the hospitalisation pattern for medication administration errors of psychotropic drugs in Australia between 1998 and 2019. Data on medication administration errors of psychotropic drugs was obtained from The National Hospital Morbidity Database. We analysed the variation in hospitalisation rates using the Pearson chi-square test for independence.

Results: Hospitalisation rates related to administration errors of psychotropic drugs increased by 8.3% [from 36.22 (95% CI 35.36—37.08) in 1998 to 39.21 (95% CI 38.44—39.98) in 2019 per 100,000 persons, p < 0.05]. Overnight-stay hospital admission patients accounted for 70.3% of the total number of episodes. Rates of same-day hospitalisation increased by 12.3% [from 10.35 (95% CI 9.90—10.81) in 1998 to 11.63 (95% CI 11.21—12.05) in 2019 per 100,000 persons]. Rates of overnight-stay hospital admission increased by 1.8% [from 25.86 (95% CI 25.13—26.59) in 1998 to 26.34 (95% CI 25.71—26.97) in 2019 per 100,000 persons]. Other and unspecified antidepressants (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) were the most common reason for hospitalisation accounting for 36.6% of the total number of hospitalisation episodes. Females accounted for 111,029 hospitalisation episodes, representing 63.2% of all hospitalisation episodes. The age group 20–39 years accounted for nearly half (48.6%) of the total number of episodes.

Conclusion: Psychotropic drug administration error is a regular cause of hospitalization in Australia. Hospitalizations usually required overnight stays. The majority of hospitalizations were in persons aged 20–39 years, which is concerning and warrants further investigation. Future studies should examine the risk factors for hospitalization related to psychiatric drug administration errors.
Current state of molecular and metabolic strategies for the improvement of L-asparaginase expression in heterologous systems
Authors: Lefin Nicolás , Miranda Javiera , Beltrán Jorge F. , Belén Lisandra Herrera , Effer Brian , Pessoa Adalberto , Farias Jorge G. , Zamorano Mauricio
Published: June 2023

Heterologous expression of L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) has become an important area of research due to its clinical and food industry applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular and metabolic strategies that can be used to optimize the expression of L-ASNase in heterologous systems. This article describes various approaches that have been employed to increase enzyme production, including the use of molecular tools, strain engineering, and in silico optimization. The review article highlights the critical role that rational design plays in achieving successful heterologous expression and underscores the challenges of large-scale production of L-ASNase, such as inadequate protein folding and the metabolic burden on host cells. Improved gene expression is shown to be achievable through the optimization of codon usage, synthetic promoters, transcription and translation regulation, and host strain improvement, among others. Additionally, this review provides a deep understanding of the enzymatic properties of L-ASNase and how this knowledge has been employed to enhance its properties and production. Finally, future trends in L-ASNase production, including the integration of CRISPR and machine learning tools are discussed. This work serves as a valuable resource for researchers looking to design effective heterologous expression systems for L-ASNase production as well as for enzymes production in general.
The developmental and structural uniqueness of the embryo of the extremophile viviparous nematode, Tokorhabditis tufae
Authors: Yamashita Tatsuya , Ekino Taisuke , Kanzaki Natsumi , Shinya Ryoji
Published: June 2023

Viviparity, a reproductive form that supplies nutrients to the embryo during gestation, has repeatedly and independently occurred in multiple lineages of animals. During the convergent evolution of viviparity, various modifications of development, structure, and physiology emerged. A new species of nematode, Tokorhabditis tufae, was discovered in the alkaline, hypersaline, and arsenic-rich environment of Mono lake. Its reproductive form is viviparity because it is obligately live-bearing and the embryo increases in size during development. However, the magnitude of the increase in size and nutrient provisioning are unclear. We measured egg and embryo sizes at three developmental stages in T. tufae. Eggs and embryos of T. tufae at the threefold stage were respectively 2.6- and 3.6-fold larger than at the single-cell stage. We then obtained T. tufae embryos at the single-cell, lima bean, and threefold developmental stages and investigated the egg hatching frequency at three different concentrations of egg salt buffer. Removal of embryos from the uterus halted embryonic development at the single-cell and lima bean stages in T. tufae irrespective of the solution used for incubation, indicating the provision of nutrients within the uterus. Ultrastructural and permeability evaluation showed that the permeability barrier did not form during embryonic development, resulting in increased molecular permeability. This high permeability caused by the absence of the permeability barrier likely enables supply of nutrients from the mother. The structural and physiological modifications in T. tufae are like those in other viviparous animals. We conclude that T. tufae is a viviparous rather than an ovoviviparous nematode. T. tufae will facilitate investigation of the evolution of viviparity in animals.
The job demands-resource model and performance: the mediating role of employee engagement
Authors: Lee Da Ye , Jo Yunseong
Published: June 2023

In case of a major social crisis, such as the coronavirus pandemic, the most important measure is to identify the determinants influencing employee health and well-being, which are directly linked to workplace job performance. Many studies have explored the role of employee engagement in the relationship between job resources, psychological capital, and job performance; however, only a few have investigated the relationships reflecting rapid changes in the work environment represented by digital transformation and a major social crisis. Considering this, this study examines how job autonomy and psychological well-being, which lower employee anxiety about health and welfare, influence in-role performance in the form of proactive employee characteristics as well as extra-role performance in the form of prosocial behavior, as mediated by employee engagement. The results of the data analysis of 1,092 corporate employees in Korea supported this model. Specifically, job autonomy and psychological well-being influence job performance (i.e., personal initiative and prosocial behavior) through improvements in employee engagement. Based on these findings, the study also discusses the implications of the results, future directions, and limitations.
Emotional control and factors differentiating it in the adult population of Poland during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Głogowska-Gruszka Anna , Wypych-Ślusarska Agata
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The public health crisis related to the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the mental health of both individuals and entire populations. The source of stress was not only the fear of getting sick, but also the restrictions introduced, such as: mass lockdown, the need to maintain social distance, quarantine or the mandatory use of personal protective equipment. Their introduction and maintenance caused various emotional reactions which often resulted in undesirable behavior leading to infections spreading.

The aim of the study

The aim of the study was to analyze the level of emotional control depending on selected factors related to the pandemic and the introduced restrictions.

Materials and methods

The study covered 594 adult Poles. To evaluate knowledge about COVID-19 and attitudes toward the implemented restrictions, the questionnaire prepared by the authors was used. To determine the level of control of anger, depression and anxiety the Courtauld Emotional Control Scale (CECS) was used, and to estimate the level of perceived stress the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was applied.

Results

In the entire analyzed group, the general level of emotional control was 51.82 ± 12.26, with anxiety being the most suppressed emotion (17.95 ± 4.99), whereas the least suppressed emotion was anger (16.35 ± 5.15). The average stress level in the studied group was 20.5 ± 5.3. The level of perceived stress did not differentiate the level of emotional control. It was found that the higher level of the knowledge about the pandemic and methods of prevention, the higher emotional control, especially in the anxiety subscale (high level of knowledge – 18.26 ± 5.36 vs. low level of knowledge - 15.09 ± 3.6; p = 0.02). People reporting difficulties in reconciling remote work with home duties were less able to control anger (14.63 ± 4.98) than people without such problems (16.71 ± 4.12; p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Proper education improving knowledge about COVID-19 and methods of prevention may enhance the control of emotions in the population. Possible future preventive measures aimed at limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections or other infectious diseases should also take into account possible excessive mental burden caused by private and professional duties.
Epidemic history investigation: a new method of finding close contacts
Authors: Li Xin , Li Yalan , Liu Tianjiao , Ding Rui , Hou Qiannan , Xiong Liling , Du Na , Gong Zhaolin , Cheng Linbo , Luo Dan , Wei Sumei , Yang Xiao
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 has become a major global public health concern in December 2019. However, finding and excluding close contacts of COVID-19 infectors is a critical but difficult issue. This study aimed to introduce a new method of epidemiological investigation named space–time companions, which was adopted in Chengdu, China, in November 2021.

Methods

An observational investigation was conducted during a small outbreak of COVID-19 in Chengdu, China in November 2021. A new method of epidemiological investigation called space–time companion was adopted in this outbreak, which was defined as the one who stayed in the same spatiotemporal grid (range: 800 m * 800 m) with the confirmed COVID-19 infector for more than 10 min in the last 14 days. A flow chart was used to describe the screening process of space–time companions in detail and illustrate the space–time companion epidemic management method.

Results

The COVID-19 epidemic outbreak in Chengdu was effectively controlled for approximately one incubation period (14 days). After four rounds of space–time companions screening, more than 450,000 space–time companions were screened, including 27 COVID-19 infectors. Moreover, in the subsequent rounds of nucleic acid testing for all people in the city, no infected person were found proving the end of this epidemic outbreak.

Conclusion

The space–time companion provides a new idea for screening close contacts of the COVID-19 infector and other similar infectious diseases, which can serve as a supplement to traditional epidemiological history surveys to verify and avoid missing close contacts.
Wear Study of Straw Chopper Knives in Combine Harvesters
Authors: Jankauskas Vytenis , Abrutis Robertas , Žunda Audrius , Gargasas Justinas
Published: June 2023

Cereal straw is a biomaterial with great potential: about 144 million tons of biomass are grown annually in Europe. For any use of straw (fertilizer, biofuel, etc.), efficient chopping technology, i.e., the reliable and efficient operation of mobile or stationary choppers, is the key factor for further success. Since most of the straw is chopped at harvest time, the subject of the study is the wear of the combine’s chopping knives. Six blades of different materials and designs were tested under realistic conditions during wheat and rapeseed harvesting on 180 ha. The influence of hardness, composition, cutting edge angle, and position in the chopper on knife wear was analyzed. The study showed that the blades with the highest cutting edge hardness (568 ± 11 HV) and the lowest cutting edge angle (20.9°) had the lowest wear. The highest hardness of the induction hardened knives was due to the 0.42% carbon content of the steel. The study confirmed that wear was inversely proportional to the hardness of the cutting edge (the harder the cutting edge, the lower the wear) and directly proportional to the angle of the cutting edge (the higher the angle, the greater the wear). The SEM study showed that part of the tooth surface of the blades was covered by permanent deposits of the material to be shredded. This wear was not caused by the interaction between straw and blade but by microabrasive particles that contaminated the straw.
Fabrication of Segments for ZnO-Based Tube Ceramic Targets by the Spark Plasma Sintering Method
Authors: Akhmedov Akhmed K. , Asvarov Abil Sh. , Makhmudov Soslan Sh. , Kanevsky Vladimir M.
Published: June 2023

In this article, problems associated with the fabrication of ZnO-based ceramics in the form of large-diameter hollow cylinders with a large ratio of height h to wall thickness ∆r (h/∆r ≥ 3) by the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method were studied. The design of the press-form is proposed, which ensures the reduction in temperature gradients along the inner and outer surfaces of the hollow cylindrical sintered body and, as a result, the achievement of a high-density uniformity of the sintered body over its volume. A hollow cylindrical ZnO-based ceramic sample considered as segments of TCO tube targets with outer diameter D = 72 mm, inner diameter d = 47 mm, and height h = 36 mm were fabricated. The sample had a relative density of more than 98.5% of the theoretical density for a given composition with a minimal density inhomogeneity along the height of the sample. The microstructure of the obtained ceramics was studied using the SEM and XRD methods.
Impact of Cancer-Related Virtual Visits on Travel Distance, Travel Time, and Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emissions during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Lambert Pascal , Musto Grace , Thiessen Maclean , Czaykowski Piotr , Decker Kathleen
Published: June 2023

CancerCare Manitoba (CCMB) introduced virtual visits at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic to replace many in-person visits. This study examines the impact of virtual visits for cancer care on travel distance, travel time, and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. We included all visits to CCMB for invasive and in situ cancers from 1 April 2020 to 31 December 2022. Data were extracted from CCMB’s electronic health record. The percentage of visits done virtually by month was reported by age, gender, cancer diagnosis, and regional health authority of residence. Postal codes for patients’ residences and clinic locations were converted into latitude and longitude values. Travel distance, travel time, and CO2 emissions associated with travel were estimated. The percentage of virtual visits was highest during the months when COVID-19 restrictions were present in Manitoba and represent more than 50% of such monthly visits. Virtual visits increased with age, were highest among men with urogenital cancer, and were lowest among northern Manitoba residents. The median travel time per visit ranged from 30 min in Winnipeg to 15 h in the Northern Region. The estimated travel distance saved varied from 420,000 to 750,000 km per month. Estimated travel time saved varied from 5500 to 9600 h per month. Estimated CO2 emissions prevented varied from 87 to 155 metric tons per month. Virtual care is an important tool for better supporting those living with cancer by substantially decreasing travel distance and time. Virtual care also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Placement Planning for Sound Source Tracking in Active Drone Audition
Authors: Yamada Taiki , Itoyama Katsutoshi , Nishida Kenji , Nakadai Kazuhiro
Published: June 2023

This paper addresses a placement planning method for drones to improve the performance of source tracking by multiple drones equipped with microphone arrays. By equipping the drone with a microphone array, the drone will be able to locate the person in need of rescue, and by deploying multiple drones, the 3D location of the sound source can be estimated. However, effective drone placement for sound source tracking has not been well explored. Therefore, this paper proposes a new drone placement planning method to improve the performance of sound source tracking. By placing multiple drones close to the sound source with multiple angles, it is expected that tracking will be performed with small variance. The placement planning algorithm is also extended to be applicable to multiple sound sources. Through numerical simulations, it is confirmed that the proposed method reduces the sound source tracking error. In conclusion, the contribution of this research is to extend the field of drone audition to active drone audition that allows drones to move by themselves to achieve better tracking results.
Channel Modeling and Quantization Design for 3D NAND Flash Memory
Authors: Wang Cheng , Mei Zhen , Li Jun , Shu Feng , He Xuan , Kong Lingjun
Published: June 2023

As the technology scales down, two-dimensional (2D) NAND flash memory has reached its bottleneck. Three-dimensional (3D) NAND flash memory was proposed to further increase the storage capacity by vertically stacking multiple layers. However, the new architecture of 3D flash memory leads to new sources of errors, which severely affects the reliability of the system. In this paper, for the first time, we derive the channel probability density function of 3D NAND flash memory by taking major sources of errors. Based on the derived channel probability density function, the mutual information (MI) for 3D flash memory with multiple layers is derived and used as a metric to design the quantization. Specifically, we propose a dynamic programming algorithm to jointly optimize read-voltage thresholds for all layers by maximizing the MI (MMI). To further reduce the complexity, we develop an MI derivative (MID)-based method to obtain read-voltage thresholds for hard-decision decoding (HDD) of error correction codes (ECCs). Simulation results show that the performance with jointly optimized read-voltage thresholds can closely approach that with read-voltage thresholds optimized for each layer, with much less read latency. Moreover, the MID-based MMI quantizer almost achieves the optimal performance for HDD of ECCs.
Research on the Reliability Test and Life Assessment Methods of Relays Used in Circuit Breaker Operating Mechanism
Authors: Ma Hongming , Zhou Sijia , Gao Chao , Zhou Fusheng , Yang Yun , Yang Hao
Published: June 2023

As one of the key components of the circuit breaker operating mechanism, the relay can experience performance degradation due to harsh environmental factors, such as salt spray, during operation, which can ultimately affect the normal operation of the circuit breaker and threaten the safe and stable operation of the power system. To effectively evaluate the condition of the relay operating in salt spray environments over the long term, this study conducted accelerated aging experiments on a certain model of auxiliary switch under salt spray conditions using an existing test platform. The relay’s pull-in voltage, release voltage, pull-in time, and release time were analyzed as characteristic parameters affected by salt spray. The results showed that the intrusion of salt spray caused a decline in the coil performance of the relay, which required higher voltage to provide the electromagnetic force needed for operation, leading to an increase in operating voltage. On the other hand, coil degradation also caused a decrease in the electromagnetic force generated by the step voltage, resulting in a slower operating time. Subsequently, a Genetic Algorithm_Back Propagation Neural Network GA_BP) algorithm model suitable for identifying the relay status in this study was established. After optimization by a Genetic Algorithm Neural Network (GA), the recognition accuracy increased from 78.6% to 91.8%, which showed significant improvement. By clarifying the changes in the characteristic parameters of the relay in a salt spray environment and relying on experimental data, this study established a relevant state recognition model. The research results have important engineering application value for understanding the relay operating status of the circuit breaker operating mechanism in salt spray environments, conducting circuit breaker operating mechanism relay life prediction, and preventing circuit breaker operating mechanism failures.
A Study on the Viability of Adopting Battery Electric Vehicles in Bus Rapid Transit in Brazil Using the AHP Method
Authors: Rodrigues Gabriel Santos , Reis João Gilberto Mendes dos , Orynycz Olga , Tucki Karol , Machado Sivanilza Teixeira , Raymundo Helcio
Published: June 2023

Public transport is essential to provide urban mobility, and cities need to offer a fast, comfortable, secure, and low-pollutant public transport mode to attract passengers and reduce private car use. Despite metros, trains, and light rail systems being desirable, the cost of implementation and low flexibility make bus services the best option for many cities. One solution for improving bus service systems is the implementation of bus rapid transit systems that are composed of buses running in segregated lines with pre-payment fares and level boarding platforms in stations. However, the main challenge of bus systems is the use of engines fueled by diesel, which is extremely polluted. One possible solution is the use of battery buses; but are they really feasible regarding daily operation cost? In this paper, we investigate the adoption of battery buses in comparison to diesel engines in a BRT system using municipal data from São Paulo, Brazil, as a reference. We collected operational data from the Sao Paulo city government transport agency and data from the literature to produce an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model, which allowed us to compare both systems. The AHP model considered a triple-bottom-line perspective using social, economic, and environmental impact criteria. The result showed that the initial costs of acquisition can be a barrier, but in the long run, cities adopting battery buses in their BRT system can benefit from the effects of reduction in gas emissions and longer lifetimes of electric bus components. Moreover, the results showed that the adoption of battery buses in BRT systems depends on local government subsidies being implemented.
Asphaltene Precipitation/Deposition Estimation and Inhibition through Nanotechnology: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Guerrero-Martin Camilo Andrés , Montes-Pinzon Daniel , Meneses Motta da Silva Mariana , Montes-Paez Erik , Guerrero-Martin Laura Estefanía , Salinas-Silva Raúl , Camacho-Galindo Stefanny , Fernandes Lucas Elizabete , Szklo Alexandre
Published: June 2023

Asphaltene precipitation/deposition is considered a problem of formation damage, which can reduce the oil recovery factor. In addition, asphaltenes can be deposited in pipelines and surface installations, causing serious complications in guaranteeing runoff, decreasing the production of oil wells. The precipitation of asphaltenes can be minimized by reducing the oil production flowrate or by using chemical inhibitors. Analyzing the stability and precipitation trend of asphaltenes in petroleum is vital for the guarantee of flow. For this purpose, several experimental and numerical methods have been proposed. Once the risk of precipitation is established, strategies can be formulated for the prevention and diagnosis of deposition problems in production or production training. The tests can be performed with dead oil, available in the wellhead, and help in understanding the behavior of the asphaltenes. This review aims to present (i) the problem related to the precipitation of asphaltenes; (ii) thermodynamic models of asphaltene precipitation; and (iii) asphaltene inhibition, control, and removal techniques using nanoparticles.
Key Modes of Ignition and Maintenance of Corona Discharge in Air
Authors: Kozhevnikov Vasily Yu. , Kozyrev Andrey V. , Tarasenko Victor F. , Kokovin Aleksandr O. , Baksht Evgeni Kh. , Vinogradov Nikita P.
Published: June 2023

Theoretical and experimental studies of various modes of corona discharge operation in atmospheric pressure air are presented in this short review. The original results of modeling negative corona discharges are presented, taking into account the non-stationary plasma-chemical kinetics of charged particles in air plasma. The space–time evolution of the discharge in needle-to-plane geometry is investigated and analyzed. Several stages of discharge development are revealed from the moment of initiation of a low-negative current corona to the quasi-stationary mode of a glow discharge. Experimental data of the authors are presented. Modern technology and diagnostic equipment with a wide variation of the main parameters (the shape and polarity of the applied voltage, the type of gap, etc.) was used. The measurement of the optical characteristics of the plasma glow was carried out with high spatial resolution. Corona discharge current pulse profiles in the air at atmospheric pressure have been recorded with subnanosecond time resolution. With a positive polarity of the pin electrode and high voltage, a transition from a spherical streamer initiating a corona discharge to a cylindrical streamer is shown. The author’s results are rigorously evaluated through a critical comparison with findings from other research groups.
The Long-Term Efficiency and Compatibility of Hydrophobic Treatments in Protecting Vulnerable Sandstone at Arbroath Abbey (Scotland)
Authors: de Jongh Marli , Benavente David , Young Maureen , Graham Callum , Lee Martin
Published: June 2023

The application of hydrophobic treatments as a means of protecting vulnerable stone heritage has been a topic of research for decades. The findings of previous research have shown that there are a number of factors that influence the efficiency of a treatment and that sometimes, if used incorrectly, such treatments can even accelerate stone weathering and decay. In this study, we revisit a hydrophobic treatment test area at Arbroath Abbey where the product was applied over 40 years ago, thus providing a rare opportunity to investigate the long-term efficiency of hydrophobic treatments. As well as assessing the condition of the treated area in situ by means of moisture analyses, lab-based accelerated salt weathering experiments are conducted to better understand the impact of silane-based treatments on sandstone durability. Moreover, the petrography and petrophysical properties of weathered sandstone (open porosity, capillary absorption, and vapour diffusion) before and after treatment are also characterised to provide a better understanding of how stone properties may influence the compatibility of the treatment. The field-based results show that the treated area has maintained a degree of hydrophobicity since its application over 40 years ago. Both field-based and lab-based analyses suggest that silane-based treatments can be used successfully in protecting sandstone when applied correctly, both in reducing the rate of decay and functioning over long periods of time. However, sandstone heterogeneity may mean that some individual stones are less compatible with the hydrophobic treatment tested than others. Further field-based analyses (including methods such as XRF and in situ vp) of the treated area is required in order to determine the state of conservation more accurately. These results highlight the complexity in selecting a suitable hydrophobic treatment, especially at built sites where the mineralogy and petrophysical properties of the stone may vary between blocks. However, such treatments may still be important to consider as many climates, including Scotland’s, are becoming progressively wetter, increasing the vulnerability of stone heritage to moisture ingress, accelerated decay, and eventual ruin.
The Recruitment and Activation of Plasminogen by Bacteria—The Involvement in Chronic Infection Development
Authors: Satala Dorota , Bednarek Aneta , Kozik Andrzej , Rapala-Kozik Maria , Karkowska-Kuleta Justyna
Published: June 2023

The development of infections caused by pathogenic bacteria is largely related to the specific properties of the bacterial cell surface and extracellular hydrolytic activity. Furthermore, a significant role of hijacking of host proteolytic cascades by pathogens during invasion should not be disregarded during consideration of the mechanisms of bacterial virulence. This is the key factor for the pathogen evasion of the host immune response, tissue damage, and pathogen invasiveness at secondary infection sites after initial penetration through tissue barriers. In this review, the mechanisms of bacterial impact on host plasminogen—the precursor of the important plasma serine proteinase, plasmin—are characterized, principally focusing on cell surface exposition of various proteins, responsible for binding of this host (pro)enzyme and its activators or inhibitors, as well as the fibrinolytic system activation tactics exploited by different bacterial species, not only pathogenic, but also selected harmless residents of the human microbiome. Additionally, the involvement of bacterial factors that modulate the process of plasminogen activation and fibrinolysis during periodontitis is also described, providing a remarkable example of a dual use of this host system in the development of chronic diseases.
Beneficial Effects of Tacrolimus on Brain-Death-Associated Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Pigs
Authors: Belhaj Asmae , Dewachter Laurence , Monier Astrid , Vegh Gregory , Rorive Sandrine , Remmelink Myriam , Closset Mélanie , Melot Christian , Creteur Jacques , Salmon Isabelle , Rondelet Benoît
Published: June 2023

Background: Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction remains a major problem after heart transplantation and may be associated with brain death (BD) in a donor. A calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus was recently found to have beneficial effects on heart function. Here, we examined whether tacrolimus might prevent BD-induced RV dysfunction and the associated pathobiological changes. Methods: After randomized tacrolimus (n = 8; 0.05 mg·kg−1·day−1) or placebo (n = 9) pretreatment, pigs were assigned to a BD procedure and hemodynamically investigated 1, 3, 5, and 7 h after the Cushing reflex. After euthanasia, myocardial tissue was sampled for pathobiological evaluation. Seven pigs were used as controls. Results: Calcineurin inhibition prevented increases in pulmonary vascular resistance and RV-arterial decoupling induced by BD. BD was associated with an increased RV pro-apoptotic Bax-to-Bcl2 ratio and RV and LV apoptotic rates, which were prevented by tacrolimus. BD induced increased expression of the pro-inflammatory IL-6-to-IL-10 ratio, their related receptors, and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 in both the RV and LV. These changes were prevented by tacrolimus. RV and LV neutrophil infiltration induced by BD was partly prevented by tacrolimus. BD was associated with decreased RV expression of the β-1 adrenergic receptor and sarcomere (myosin heavy chain [MYH]7-to-MYH6 ratio) components, while β-3 adrenergic receptor, nitric oxide-synthase 3, and glucose transporter 1 expression increased. These changes were prevented by tacrolimus. Conclusions: Brain death was associated with isolated RV dysfunction. Tacrolimus prevented RV dysfunction induced by BD through the inhibition of apoptosis and inflammation activation.
The Effectiveness of Cyrene as a Solvent in Exfoliating 2D TMDs Nanosheets
Authors: Adam Jaber , Singh Manjot , Abduvakhidov Avazbek , Del Sorbo Maria Rosaria , Feoli Chiara , Hussain Fida , Kaur Jasneet , Mirabella Antonia , Rossi Manuela , Sasso Antonio , Valadan Mohammadhassan , Varra Michela , Rusciano Giulia , Altucci Carlo
Published: June 2023

The pursuit of environmentally friendly solvents has become an essential research topic in sustainable chemistry and nanomaterial science. With the need to substitute toxic solvents in nanofabrication processes becoming more pressing, the search for alternative solvents has taken on a crucial role in this field. Additionally, the use of toxic, non-economical organic solvents, such as N-methyl-2 pyrrolidone and dimethylformamide, is not suitable for all biomedical applications, even though these solvents are often considered as the best exfoliating agents for nanomaterial fabrication. In this context, the success of producing two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs), such as MoS2 and WS2, with excellent captivating properties is due to the ease of synthesis based on environment-friendly, benign methods with fewer toxic chemicals involved. Herein, we report for the first time on the use of cyrene as an exfoliating agent to fabricate monolayer and few-layered 2D TMDs with a versatile, less time-consuming liquid-phase exfoliation technique. This bio-derived, aprotic, green and eco-friendly solvent produced a stable, surfactant-free, concentrated 2D TMD dispersion with very interesting features, as characterized by UV–visible and Raman spectroscopies. The surface charge and morphology of the fabricated nanoflakes were analyzed using ς-potential and scanning electron microscopy. The study demonstrates that cyrene is a promising green solvent for the exfoliation of 2D TMD nanosheets with potential advantages over traditional organic solvents. The ability to produce smaller-sized—especially in the case of WS2 as compared to MoS2—and mono/few-layered nanostructures with higher negative surface charge values makes cyrene a promising candidate for various biomedical and electronic applications. Overall, the study contributes to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly methods for the production of 2D nanomaterials for various applications.
Atherosclerosis and Other Related-Arterial Diseases
Authors: Blanco-Colio Luis M. , Martín-Ventura Jose L.
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for more than 17 million deaths each year [...]
Iridium Complexes with BIAN-Type Ligands: Synthesis, Structure and Redox Chemistry
Authors: Romashev Nikolai F. , Bakaev Ivan V. , Komlyagina Veronika I. , Abramov Pavel A. , Mirzaeva Irina V. , Nadolinny Vladimir A. , Lavrov Alexander N. , Kompan’kov Nikolai B. , Mikhailov Artem A. , Fomenko Iakov S. , Novikov Alexander S. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Gushchin Artem L.
Published: June 2023

A series of iridium complexes with bis(diisopropylphenyl)iminoacenaphtene (dpp-bian) ligands, [Ir(cod)(dpp-bian)Cl] (1), [Ir(cod)(NO)(dpp-bian)](BF4)2 (2) and [Ir(cod)(dpp-bian)](BF4) (3), were prepared and characterized by spectroscopic techniques, elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The structures of 1–3 feature a square planar backbone consisting of two C = C π-bonds of 1,5-cyclooctadiene (cod) and two nitrogen atoms of dpp-bian supplemented with a chloride ion (for 1) or a NO group (for 2) to complete a square-pyramidal geometry. In the nitrosyl complex 2, the Ir-N-O group has a bent geometry (the angle is 125°). The CV data for 1 and 3 show two reversible waves between 0 and -1.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). Reversible oxidation was also found at E1/2 = 0.60 V for 1. Magnetochemical measurements for 2 in a range from 1.77 to 300 K revealed an increase in the magnetic moment with increasing temperature up to 1.2 μB (at 300 K). Nitrosyl complex 2 is unstable in solution and loses its NO group to yield [Ir(cod)(dpp-bian)](BF4) (3). A paramagnetic complex, [Ir(cod)(dpp-bian)](BF4)2 (4), was also detected in the solution of 2 as a result of its decomposition. The EPR spectrum of 4 in CH2Cl2 is described by the spin Hamiltonian Ĥ = gβHŜ with S = 1/2 and gxx = gyy = 2.393 and gzz = 1.88, which are characteristic of the low-spin 5d7-Ir(II) state. DFT calculations were carried out in order to rationalize the experimental results.
Enhancing Cementitious Composites with Functionalized Graphene Oxide-Based Materials: Surface Chemistry and Mechanisms
Authors: Huang Chien-Yu , Lin Yu-Chien , Chung Johnson H. Y. , Chiu Hsien-Yi , Yeh Nai-Lun , Chang Shing-Jyh , Chan Chia-Hao , Shih Chuan-Chi , Chen Guan-Yu
Published: June 2023

Graphene oxide-based materials (GOBMs) have been widely explored as nano-reinforcements in cementitious composites due to their unique properties. Oxygen-containing functional groups in GOBMs are crucial for enhancing the microstructure of cementitious composites. A better comprehension of their surface chemistry and mechanisms is required to advance the potential applications in cementitious composites of functionalized GOBMs. However, the mechanism by which the oxygen-containing functional groups enhance the response of cementitious composites is still unclear, and controlling the surface chemistry of GOBMs is currently constrained. This review aims to investigate the reactions and mechanisms for functionalized GOBMs as additives incorporated in cement composites. A variety of GOBMs, including graphene oxide (GO), hydroxylated graphene (HO-G), edge-carboxylated graphene (ECG), edge-oxidized graphene oxide (EOGO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and GO/silane composite, are discussed with regard to their oxygen functional groups and interactions with the cement microstructure. This review provides insight into the potential benefits of using GOBMs as nano-reinforcements in cementitious composites. A better understanding of the surface chemistry and mechanisms of GOBMs will enable the development of more effective functionalization strategies and open up new possibilities for the design of high-performance cementitious composites.
Immunomodulation of Skin Cancer
Authors: Yusuf Nabiha
Published: June 2023

Skin cancer represents a major public health issue with a tremendous cost to healthcare systems in the United States and worldwide [...]
Molecular Mapping of Allergen Exposome among Different Atopic Phenotypes
Authors: González-Pérez Ruperto , Poza-Guedes Paloma , Pineda Fernando , Galán Tania , Mederos-Luis Elena , Abel-Fernández Eva , Martínez María José , Sánchez-Machín Inmaculada
Published: June 2023

Climate change and exposure to environmental pollutants play a key role in the onset and aggravation of allergic diseases. As different climate-dependent patterns of molecular immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity have been regionally described, we sought to investigate the evolving allergen exposome in distinctive allergic phenotypes and subtropical weather conditions through a Precision Allergy Molecular Diagnosis (PAMD@) model. Concurrent sensitization to several house dust mites (HDM) and storage mite molecules were broadly dominant in the investigated cohort, followed by the major cat allergen Fel d 1, and regardless of the basal allergic disease. Although a complex repertoire of allergens was recognized, a steadily increasing number of IgE binding molecules was associated with the complexity of the underlying atopic disease. Besides the highly prevalent IgE responses to major HDM allergens, Der p 21, Der p 5, and Der p 7 also showed up as serodominant molecules, especially in subjects bothered by asthma and atopic dermatitis. The accurate characterization of the external exposome at the molecular level and their putative role as clinically relevant allergens is essential to elucidate the phenotypic diversity of atopic disease in terms of personalized diagnosis and therapy.
Diseases from the Spectrum of Dermatitis and Eczema: Can “Omics” Sciences Help with Better Systematics and More Accurate Differential Diagnosis?
Authors: Spiewak Radoslaw
Published: June 2023

Researchers active in the field of inflammatory skin diseases from the spectrum of dermatitis and eczema are well aware of a considerable overlap in the clinical pictures and proposed sets of diagnostic criteria for these diseases, which can hardly be overcome through the clinical or epidemiological research. In effect, patients are included in studies based on vague and overlapping criteria, while heterogeneous study populations may, in turn, lead to non-representative outcomes and continued confusion. In this narrative review, a systematics of diseases from the spectrum of dermatitis and eczema is proposed based on the origins of causative factors and the pathomechanisms involved. Difficulties in differentiating between these diseases are discussed, and the extent to which advances in the “omics” sciences might help to overcome them is considered. Of all the “omics” research in this field, more than 90% of the published papers were devoted to atopic dermatitis, with a striking underrepresentation of other diseases from the spectrum of dermatitis and eczema, conditions which collectively exceed the rates of atopic dermatitis by far. A greater “omics” research effort is urgently needed to tackle other dermatitides, like allergic, irritant and protein contact dermatitis, as well as radiation, seborrheic, stasis or autoimmune dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis findings should be validated not only against healthy donors but also other dermatitides. A clinic-oriented approach is proposed for future “omics” studies in the field of dermatitis and eczema.
The Relationship between All-Cause Natural Mortality and Copy Number of Mitochondrial DNA in a 15-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Malyutina Sofia , Maximov Vladimir , Chervova Olga , Orlov Pavel , Ivanova Anastasiya , Mazdorova Ekaterina , Ryabikov Andrew , Simonova Galina , Voevoda Mikhail
Published: June 2023

We explored the relationship between the copy number of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA-CN) and all-cause natural mortality. We examined a random population sample in 2003/2005 (n = 9360, men/women, 45–69, the HAPIEE project) and followed up for 15 years. Using a nested case–control design, we selected non-external deaths among those free from baseline cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancer (n = 371), and a sex- and age-stratified control (n = 785). The odds ratios (ORs) of death were 1.06 (95%CI 1.01–1.11) per one-decile decrease in mtDNA-CN independent of age, sex, metabolic factors, smoking, alcohol intake and education. The age–sex-adjusted ORs of death in the second and first tertiles of mtDNA-CN vs. the top tertile were 2.35 (95% CI 1.70–3.26) and 1.59 (1.16–2.17); an increased risk was confined to the second tertile after controlling for smoking and metabolic factors. The multivariable-adjusted OR of CVD death was 1.92 (95% CI 1.18–3.15) in tertile 2 vs. the top tertile of mtDNA-CN, and for cancer-related death the ORs were 3.66 (95% CI 2.21–6.05) and 2.29 (95% CI 1.43–3.68) in tertiles 2 and 1 vs. the top tertile. In the Siberian population cohort, the mtDNA-CN was an inverse predictor of the 15-year risk of natural mortality, due to the greatest impact of CVD and cancer-related death. The findings merit attention for exploring further the role of mtDNA in human ageing and the diversity of mortality.
Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of MCM3 in ThinPrep Samples of Patients with Cervical Preinvasive Cancer
Authors: Köse Büşra , Laar Ralf van de , Beekhuizen Heleen van , Kemenade Folkert van , Baykal Ahmet Tarik , Luider Theo , Güzel Coşkun
Published: June 2023

Triage methods for cervical cancer detection show moderate accuracy and present considerable false-negative and false-positive result rates. A complementary diagnostic parameter could help improve the accuracy of identifying patients who need treatment. A pilot study was performed using a targeted proteomics approach with opportunistic ThinPrep samples obtained from women collected at the hospital’s outpatient clinic to determine the concentration levels of minichromosome maintenance-3 (MCM3) and envoplakin (EVPL) proteins. Forty samples with ‘negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy’ (NILM), 21 samples with ‘atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance’ (ASC-US), and 33 samples with ‘low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and worse’ (≥LSIL) were analyzed, using cytology and the patients’ histology reports. Highly accurate concordance was obtained for gold-standard-confirmed samples, demonstrating that the MCM3/EVPL ratio can discriminate between non-dysplastic and dysplastic samples. On that account, we propose that MCM3 and EVPL are promising candidate protein biomarkers for population-based cervical cancer screening.
Fast Reservoir Characterization with AI-Based Lithology Prediction Using Drill Cuttings Images and Noisy Labels
Authors: Tolstaya Ekaterina , Shakirov Anuar , Mezghani Mokhles , Safonov Sergey
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we considered one of the problems that arise during drilling automation, namely the automation of lithology identification from drill cuttings images. Usually, this work is performed by experienced geologists, but this is a tedious and subjective process. Drill cuttings are the cheapest source of rock formation samples; therefore, reliable lithology prediction can greatly reduce the cost of analysis during drilling. To predict the lithology content from images of cuttings samples, we used a convolutional neural network (CNN). For training a model with an acceptable generalization ability, we applied dataset-cleaning techniques, which help to reveal bad samples, as well as samples with uncertain labels. It was shown that the model trained on a cleaned dataset performs better in terms of accuracy. Data cleaning was performed using a cross-validation technique, as well as a clustering analysis of embeddings, where it is possible to identify clusters with distinctive visual characteristics and clusters where visually similar samples of rocks are attributed to different lithologies during the labeling process.
Construction of a Real-Time Forecast Model for Coastal Engineering and Processes Nested in a Basin Scale Model
Authors: Habib Md Ahsan , Zarillo Gary A
Published: June 2023

A numerical model was developed using Delft3D to simulate the circulation dynamics in Port Everglades, FL, and the adjacent coastal area. The model was nested within the HYCOM (Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model), while meteorological data were obtained from the NARR (North American Regional Reanalysis) model. To evaluate the model, model outputs were compared with observed data from the NOAA. Calibration experiments were conducted on the model parameters, including the bottom friction, wind forcings, and vertical layer specification. These experiments revealed that implementing a 10-layer model slightly improved the vertical stratification, while the utilization of 2-D wind data resulted in more pronounced surface layer characteristics in temperature and velocity profiles and employing moderate values of the Chezy coefficient produced optimal outcomes for the bottom roughness parameter. The model demonstrated satisfactory performance across major parameters, including water level, salinity, temperature, and currents. A real-time forecast system has been constructed with this nested model, providing up to 3-day forecasts that are updated daily. To facilitate automated forecasting without manual intervention, an automation system has been developed using a combination of bash, MATLAB, and Python scripts. This study provides a comprehensive documentation of the concepts and detailed methods involved in developing a real-time forecast model for estuarine and coastal regions.