bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance of Bi2O2CO3 Loaded Activated Carbon for Toluene Removal in Air
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Chen Lu , Li Changfu , Xiao Yongchao , Gao Yuchen , Liu Yaochun , Lin Yuanhua , Ding Junping
Published: December 2022

Activated carbon (AC) is one of the most used air purification materials with excellent adsorption capacity for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this work, Bi2O2CO3 (BOC) nanomaterials, as a photocatalysis component, are grown on the surface of the AC to construct BOC/AC composites. The as-synthesized composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and N2 adsorption/desorption measurements. The results demonstrate that flower-like BOC can be grown in situ on the surface of AC. The photocatalytic properties for the removal of gaseous toluene (50.0 ppm) in air over the BOC/AC composites were investigated under simulated sunlight illumination. The results show that the BOC/AC photocatalyst can effectively degrade toluene to CO2 and H2O, with more than 90% degradation in 3 h. The excellent photocatalytic performance of the BOC/AC composite catalyst can be ascribed to the synergistic effect of the adsorption ability of AC and photocatalytic activity of both BOC nanosheets and AC. This work may provide useful guidance for indoor air purification, particularly for harmful trace gases such as VOCs.
Greenhouse Gas Emission Scenarios and Vehicle Engine Performance in a Main Urban Road in Northwestern Mexico
Authors: Ibañez-Acevedo Yidanes Alejandra , Cruz-Sotelo Samantha E. , Flores-Jiménez David E. , Santillán-Soto Néstor , Santos-Gómez Ma. de los Ángeles , Ojeda-Benitez Sara
Published: December 2022

Transport is one of the sectors with the highest greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) that is imperative to reduce in order to decrease global warming. Although modern vehicles and arterial roads have adopted technological and structural improvements to enhance fuel use efficiency, the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere by the transport sector has been increasing in different Mexican cities. In generating mitigation strategies, modeling scenarios of decreased equivalent carbon dioxide, CO2e emissions, may be useful as an evaluation tool. In this study, the aim was to model a trend scenario and a scenario, including improvements with a projection to the year 2039 on one of the main urban roads of the border city of Mexicali, Mexico. In order to create a dynamic emission model of GHG, including emission factors, the main variables for the simulation were vehicle volume, travels, motor performance, and fuel consumption. These last two parameters were the most important for vehicular emissions estimations and for the projection of them in this period. As a result of the projections, CO2e was observed to increase in a trend scenario, while modeled improvement actions resulted in emission reductions of up to 5%. The model showed that the key variable to achieve this reduction is vehicle engine performance (Pf), whose increase factor was 1.1% per year. Replicating this methodology to evaluate and mitigate the GHG emissions on different city roads or in other cities, can be a contribution for the urban designers, authorities, and involved institutions.
Technology, Computation and Artificial Intelligence to Improve the Web Ecosystem
Authors: Ruipérez-Valiente José A. , Parra-Arnau Javier , Forné Jordi
Published: December 2022

Since the appearance of the Internet, many traditional businesses have been transformed, across the areas of shopping, advertising, education, entertainment, and more [...]
Recommendations for Advancing the Resistance Exercise Overtraining Research
Authors: Bell Lee , Ruddock Alan , Maden-Wilkinson Tom , Rogerson David
Published: December 2022

Short-term periods of increased resistance exercise training are often used by athletes to enhance performance, and can induce functional overreaching (FOR), resulting in improved physical capabilities. Non-functional overreaching (NFOR) or overtraining syndrome (OTS), occur when training demand is applied for prolonged periods without sufficient recovery. Overtraining (OT) describes the imbalance between training demand and recovery, resulting in diminished performance. While research into the effects of resistance exercise OT has gathered attention from sports scientists in recent years, the current research landscape is heterogeneous, disparate, and underrepresented in the literature. To date, no studies have determined a reliable physiological or psychological marker to assist in the early detection of NFOR or OTS following periods of resistance exercise OT. The purpose of this work is to highlight the conceptual and methodological limitations within some of the current literature, and to propose directions for future research to enhance current understanding.
Holostereosynthesis: An Improvement to Louis Lumière’s Photostereosynthesis Technique
Authors: Gentet Philippe , Gentet Yves , Lee Seunghyun
Published: December 2022

In 1920, Louis Lumière, one of the fathers of Cinématograph, invented photostereosynthesis, a photography technique that could recreate three-dimensional images without a specific artifice. This method involved stacking six to eight photographs of the same subject, usually a portrait, recorded with a progressive shift in focus and observed together through transparency. This invention remained at the laboratory experiment stage, and only a dozen portraits of famous people from the time of Lumière are known. The final device is a complex assembly of glass plates mounted on a wooden frame, and it is fragile, bulky, heavy, and difficult to build and observe. Here, we demonstrate that we can replace the stack of photographic plates with a single reflection hologram. Experiments were successfully conducted using the digital CHIMERA holographic stereogram printing technique. This new method of holostereosynthesis will facilitate the restoration and dissemination of the historical portraits originally recorded by Louis Lumière and may also allow the creation of brand new images.
Evaluation of Lipid Peroxidation in the Saliva of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Patients with Periodontal Disease
Authors: Mirnic Jelena , Djuric Milanko , Veljovic Tanja , Gusic Ivana , Katanic Jasmina , Vukoje Karolina , Ramic Bojana , Tadic Ana , Brkic Snezana
Published: December 2022

As oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and periodontitis, it may serve as a link between these conditions. Therefore, as a part of the present study, salivary lipid peroxidation (LP) in periodontitis patients with and without diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) was evaluated, along with the periodontal therapy effectiveness. The study sample comprised of 71 DM2 patients with periodontitis and 31 systemically healthy controls suffering from periodontitis of comparable severity. In all participants, periodontal indices—plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), papilla bleeding index (PBI), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL)—were recorded, and salivary LP was measured using a spectrophotometric method prior to treatment initiation and three months post-treatment. At baseline, mean salivary LP in DM2 patients was higher than that measured for the control group, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.05), whereas a positive significant correlation was found between PPD and LP in both groups. Three months after nonsurgical periodontal therapy, clinical periodontal parameters and salivary LP levels were significantly reduced in both groups (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that the improvement in clinical periodontal status following nonsurgical periodontal therapy is accompanied by a significant decrease in salivary LP in DM2 patients, suggesting that periodontitis, rather than diabetes, is the primary driver of the elevated salivary LP in this group.
Levosimendan Increases Survival in a D-Galactosamine and Lipopolysaccharide Rat Model
Authors: Sakaguchi Tatsuma , Sumiyama Fusao , Kotsuka Masaya , Hatta Masahiko , Yoshida Terufumi , Hayashi Mikio , Kaibori Masaki , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: December 2022

Levosimendan, a calcium sensitizer, has an organ protective profile through the inhibition of inflammatory mediators and cytokines in critical conditions, such as heart failure, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and sepsis. The survival effect of levosimendan for acute liver failure has not been examined yet. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were examined in the D-galactosamine hydrochloride and lipopolysaccharide (GalN/LPS) model. Levosimendan was injected intraperitoneally before GalN/LPS treatment. Survival was monitored for 7 days. For biochemical analyses, liver and blood samples were collected from the rats at 1 and 8 h after GaIN/LPS treatment. The pretreatment of levosimendan at 4 mg/kg significantly increased survival in GalN/LPS rats. In the liver specimen, levosimendan significantly inhibited the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) at 1 h, and significantly decreased the mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators, including inducible nitric oxide synthase and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), at 8 h. In serum, levosimendan decreased the levels of nitrite, a metabolite of nitric oxide, and TNF-α protein, as well as aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. These results indicated that Levosimendan ameliorated liver dysfunction and survival in acute liver failure model rats through the suppression of NF-κB activation.
Overcoming Barriers to Preventing and Treating P. aeruginosa Infections Using AAV Vectored Immunoprophylaxis
Authors: Lopes Jordyn A. , Rghei Amira D. , Thompson Brad , Susta Leonardo , Khursigara Cezar M. , Wootton Sarah K.
Published: December 2022

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterial pathogen of global concern and is responsible for 10–15% of nosocomial infections worldwide. This opportunistic bacterial pathogen is known to cause serious complications in immunocompromised patients and is notably the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis. Currently, the only line of defense against P. aeruginosa infections is antibiotic treatment. Due to the acquired and adaptive resistance mechanisms of this pathogen, the prevalence of multidrug resistant P. aeruginosa strains has increased, presenting a major problem in healthcare settings. To date, there are no approved licensed vaccines to protect against P. aeruginosa infections, prompting the urgent need alternative treatment options. An alternative to traditional vaccines is vectored immunoprophylaxis (VIP), which utilizes a safe and effective adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy vector to produce sustained levels of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in vivo from a single intramuscular injection. In this review, we will provide an overview of P. aeruginosa biology and key mechanisms of pathogenesis, discuss current and emerging treatment strategies for P. aeruginosa infections and highlight AAV-VIP as a promising novel therapeutic platform.
Machine Learning Based on Event-Related EEG of Sustained Attention Differentiates Adults with Chronic High-Altitude Exposure from Healthy Controls
Authors: Liu Haining , Shi Ruijuan , Liao Runchao , Liu Yanli , Che Jiajun , Bai Ziyu , Cheng Nan , Ma Hailin
Published: December 2022

(1) Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of high altitude on inhibitory control processes that underlie sustained attention in the neural correlates of EEG data, and explore whether the EEG data reflecting inhibitory control contain valuable information to classify high-altitude chronic hypoxia and plain controls. (2) Methods: 35 chronic high-altitude hypoxic adults and 32 matched controls were recruited. They were required to perform the go/no-go sustained attention task (GSAT) using event-related potentials. Three machine learning algorithms, namely a support vector machine (SVM), logistic regression (LR), and a decision tree (DT), were trained based on the related ERP components and neural oscillations to build a dichotomous classification model. (3) Results: Behaviorally, we found that the high altitude (HA) group had lower omission error rates during all observation periods than the low altitude (LA) group. Meanwhile, the ERP results showed that the HA participants had significantly shorter latency than the LAs for sustained potential (SP), indicating vigilance to response-related conflict. Meanwhile, event-related spectral perturbation (ERSP) analysis suggested that lowlander immigrants exposed to high altitudes may have compensatory activated prefrontal cortexes (PFC), as reflected by slow alpha, beta, and theta frequency-band neural oscillations. Finally, the machine learning results showed that the SVM achieved the optimal classification F1 score in the later stage of sustained attention, with an F1 score of 0.93, accuracy of 92.54%, sensitivity of 91.43%, specificity of 93.75%, and area under ROC curve (AUC) of 0.97. The results proved that SVM classification algorithms could be applied to identify chronic high-altitude hypoxia. (4) Conclusions: Compared with other methods, the SVM leads to a good overall performance that increases with the time spent on task, illustrating that the ERPs and neural oscillations may provide neuroelectrophysiological markers for identifying chronic plateau hypoxia.
Exploring the Missing Link between Life Cycle Assessment and Circularity Assessment in the Built Environment
Authors: Lam Wai Chung , Claes Steven , Ritzen Michiel
Published: December 2022

The built environment—with its significant environmental impact and long lifespan—is a key sector in which to implement circular economy principles. So far, however, a coherent framework with circularity indicators has not yet been established. While Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is commonly practiced to quantify the total environmental impact, it is designed and intended to assess linear life cycles, making it unsuitable for circularity assessment. Thus this paper explores an objective method to link LCA to a semi-quantified circularity indicator. Four variants of external wall designs of two case studies are analyzed. The explored possibilities of linking LCA results or mass input flows to the circularity indicator show differences in outcome. Furthermore, the analysis shows that decision-making can be affected by choice of assessing only a circularity indicator, an environmental impact indicator, or mass input flows, as opposed to a scenario in which a linked approach of these parameters is applied.
177Lu-DOTATATE Efficacy and Safety in Functioning Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Joint Analysis of Phase II Prospective Clinical Trials
Authors: Bongiovanni Alberto , Nicolini Silvia , Ibrahim Toni , Foca Flavia , Sansovini Maddalena , Di Paolo Arianna , Grassi Ilaria , Liverani Chiara , Calabrese Chiara , Ranallo Nicoletta , Matteucci Federica , Paganelli Giovanni , Severi Stefano
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare malignancies with different prognoses. At least 25% of metastatic patients have functioning neuroendocrine tumors (F-NETs) that secrete bioactive peptides, causing specific debilitating and occasionally life-threatening symptoms such as diarrhea and flushing. Somatostatin analogs (SSAs) are usually effective but beyond them few treatment options are available. We evaluated the clinical efficacy of 177 Lu-DOTATATE in patients with progressive metastatic F-NETs and SSA-refractory syndrome. Patients and Methods: A non-pre-planned joint analysis was conducted in patients enrolled in phase II clinical trials on metastatic NETs. We extrapolated data from F-NET patients with ≥1 refractory sign/symptom to octreotide, and ≥1 measurable lesion. Syndrome response (SR), overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), tolerance and disease response were analyzed. Results: Sixty-eight patients were enrolled, the majority (88.1%) with a SR. According to RECIST criteria, 1 (1.5%) patient showed a CR, 21 (32.3%) had a PR and 40 (61.5%) SD. At a median follow-up of 28.9 months (range 2.2–63.2) median PFS was 33.0 months (95%CI: 27.1–48.2). Median OS (mOS) had not been reached at the time of the analysis; the 2-year OS was 87.8% (95%CI: 76.1–94.1). Syndromic responders showed better survival than non-responders, with a 2-year OS of 93.9% (95%CI: 92.2–98.0) vs. 40.0% (95%CI: 6.6–73.4), respectively. A total of 233 adverse events were recorded. Grade 1–2 hematological toxicity was the most frequent. Conclusion: The 177 Lu-DOTATATE improved symptoms and disease control in patients with F-NETs. Treatment was well tolerated. The syndrome had an impact on both quality of life and OS.
Palladium-Catalyzed Synthesis of Novel Quinazolinylphenyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole Conjugates
Authors: Wołek Barbara , Świątkowski Marcin , Kudelko Agnieszka
Published: December 2022

Two novel series of symmetrical and unsymmetrical conjugates, in which 1,3,4-thiadiazole and 4-N,N-dimethylaminoquinazoline scaffolds were connected via 1,4-phenylene linker, were synthetized in high yields by Suzuki cross-coupling reactions. The elaborated protocol makes use of bromo-substituted quinazolines, boronic acid pinacol ester or diboronic acid bis(pinacol)ester of 2,5-diphenyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole, catalytic amounts of [1,10-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene]dichloropalladium(II) Pd(dppf)Cl2, sodium carbonate, and tetrabutylammonium bromide, which plays the role of a phase-transfer catalyst. The structures of prepared compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, UV-VIS, IR and HRMS. For the target compounds, the fluorescence spectra were measured to determine their quantum yields and Stokes shifts. The study revealed that among the tested compounds, two highly-conjugated derivatives (8a, 9a), in which 1,3,4-thiadiazole core is connected to 4-(N,N-dimethylamino)quinazoline via a double 1,4-phenylene linker, exhibit high quantum yields of fluorescence and strong fluorescence emission.
Checking the Efficiency of a Magnetic Graphene Oxide–Titania Material for Catalytic and Photocatalytic Ozonation Reactions in Water
Authors: Checa Manuel , Montes Vicente , Rivas Javier , Beltrán Fernando J.
Published: December 2022

An easily recoverable photo-catalyst in solid form has been synthesized and applied in catalytic ozonation in the presence of primidone. Maghemite, graphene oxide and titania (FeGOTi) constituted the solid. Additionally, titania (TiO2) and graphene oxide–titania (GOTi) catalysts were also tested for comparative reasons. The main characteristics of FeGOTi were 144 m2/g of surface area; a 1.29 Raman D and G band intensity ratio; a 26-emu g−1 magnetic moment; maghemite, anatase and brookite main crystalline forms; and a 1.83 eV band gap so the catalyst can absorb up to the visible red region (677 nm). Single ozonation, photolysis, photolytic ozonation (PhOz), catalytic ozonation (CatOz) and photocatalytic ozonation (PhCatOz) were applied to remove primidone. In the presence of ozone, the complete removal of primidone was experienced in less than 15 min. In terms of mineralization, the best catalyst was GOTi in the PhCatOz processes (100% mineralization in 2 h). Meanwhile, the FeGOTi catalyst was the most efficient in CatOz. FeGOTi led, in all cases, to the highest formation of HO radicals and the lowest ozone demand. The reuse of the FeGOTi catalyst led to some loss of mineralization efficacy after four runs, likely due to C deposition, the small lixiviation of graphene oxide and Fe oxidation.
Synthesis of Transparent ZnO–TiO2 and Its Nanocomposites for Ultraviolet Protection of a Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Film
Authors: Yang Daejeong , Ramu Adam Gopal , Choi Dongjin
Published: December 2022

The goal of this research was to investigate the effects of ZnO–TiO2 and its nanocomposites, on the physical, mechanical, and ultraviolet protection of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is a major cause of the degradation of the quality and optical properties of materials in addition to skin cancer; therefore, research on UV-blocking materials that are safe and have fewer side effects than currently available products is being actively conducted. In this study, a material with UV-blocking capability was synthesized while ensuring the transparency of ZnO and TiO2. ZnO–TiO2 and its various composites were successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method followed by ball milling and their properties were systematically analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and water contact angle measurements. Furthermore, a simple dip-coating method was employed to prepare transparent polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films coated with the composites, which were subsequently investigated for UV-blocking properties by exposing them to UV irradiation. The hydroxyl groups of ZnO and TiO2, as representative inorganic sunblock components, were removed by using 3-chloropropyl trimethoxy silane as a coupling agent to improve their wettability in an organic solvent as well as their dispersibility and stability. The addition of a small amount of Tinuvin® allowed the hybrid organic and inorganic components to exhibit transparent UV-blocking characteristics, with a UV transmittance of ≤20% and 90% visible transmittance. These results, thus, serve as a basis for contributing to applications in the field of packaging, health, and hygiene industries.
Fast and Complete Destruction of the Anti-Cancer Drug Cytarabine from Water by Electrocatalytic Oxidation Using Electro-Fenton Process
Authors: Camcioglu Sule , Özyurt Baran , Oturan Nihal , Trellu Clément , Oturan Mehmet A.
Published: December 2022

The fast and complete removal of the anti-cancer drug cytarabine (CYT) from water was studied, for the first time, by the electro-Fenton process using a BDD anode and carbon felt cathode. A catalytic amount (10−4 M) of ferrous iron was initially added to the solution as catalyst and it was electrochemically regenerated in the process. Complete degradation of 0.1 mM (24.3 mg L−1) CYT was achieved quickly in 15 min at 300 mA constant current electrolysis by hydroxyl radicals (●OH) electrocatalytically generated in the system. Almost complete mineralization (91.14% TOC removal) of the solution was obtained after 4 h of treatment. The mineralization current efficiency (MCE) and energy consumption (EC) during the mineralization process were evaluated. The absolute (second order) rate constant for the hydroxylation reaction of CYT by hydroxyl radicals was assessed by applying the competition kinetics method and found to be 5.35 × 109 M−1 s−1. The formation and evolution of oxidation reaction intermediates, short-chain carboxylic acids and inorganic ions were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, high performance liquid chromatography and ion chromatography analyses, respectively. Based on the identified intermediate and end-products, a plausible mineralization pathway for the oxidation of CYT by hydroxyl radicals is proposed.
Mushroom Natural Products in Neurodegenerative Disease Drug Discovery
Authors: Abitbol Arjuna , Mallard Brody , Tiralongo Evelin , Tiralongo Joe
Published: December 2022

The variety of drugs available to treat neurodegenerative diseases is limited. Most of these drug’s efficacy is restricted by individual genetics and disease stages and usually do not prevent neurodegeneration acting long after irreversible damage has already occurred. Thus, drugs targeting the molecular mechanisms underlying subsequent neurodegeneration have the potential to negate symptom manifestation and subsequent neurodegeneration. Neuroinflammation is a common feature of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, and is associated with the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which in turn leads to neurodegeneration. Inflammasome activation and oligomerisation is suggested to be a major driver of disease progression occurring in microglia. With several natural products and natural product derivatives currently in clinical trials, mushrooms have been highlighted as a rich and largely untapped source of biologically active compounds in both in vitro and in vivo neurodegenerative disease models, partially supported by successful clinical trial evaluations. Additionally, novel high-throughput methods for the screening of natural product compound libraries are being developed to help accelerate the neurodegenerative disease drug discovery process, targeting neuroinflammation. However, the breadth of research relating to mushroom natural product high-throughput screening is limited, providing an exciting opportunity for further detailed investigations.
Role of S100A8/A9 in Platelet–Neutrophil Complex Formation during Acute Inflammation
Authors: Revenstorff Julian , Ludwig Nadine , Hilger Annika , Mersmann Sina , Lehmann Martin , Grenzheuser Julia Chiara , Kardell Marina , Bone Julia , Kötting Niklas Martin , Marx Nina Christine , Roth Johannes , Vogl Thomas , Rossaint Jan
Published: December 2022

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to pulmonary infections is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Upon inflammation, the alarmin S100A8/A9 is released and stimulates neutrophil recruitment mainly via binding to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). TLR4 is also expressed on platelets, which modulate the immune response through direct interaction with leukocytes. In a murine model of Klebsiella pneumoniae-induced pulmonary inflammation, global S100A9 deficiency resulted in diminished neutrophil recruitment into the lung alveoli and neutrophil accumulation in the intravascular space, indicating an impaired neutrophil migration. A lack of TLR4 on platelets resulted in reduced neutrophil counts in the whole lung, emphasising the impact of TLR4-mediated platelet activity on neutrophil behaviour. Flow cytometry-based analysis indicated elevated numbers of platelet–neutrophil complexes in the blood of S100A9−/− mice. Intravital microscopy of the murine cremaster muscle confirmed these findings and further indicated a significant increase in neutrophil–platelet complex formation in S100A9−/− mice, which was reversed by administration of the S100A8/A9 tetramer. An in vitro bilayer assay simulated the murine alveolar capillary barrier during inflammation and validated significant differences in transmigration behaviour between wild-type and S100A9−/− neutrophils. This study demonstrates the role of S100A8/A9 during platelet–neutrophil interactions and neutrophil recruitment during pulmonary inflammation.
Development of Rigid Polyurethane Foams Based on Kraft Lignin Polyol Obtained by Oxyalkylation Using Propylene Carbonate
Authors: Vieira Fernanda R. , Gama Nuno V. , Barros-Timmons Ana , Evtuguin Dmitry V. , Pinto Paula C. O. R.
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to develop new rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) for thermal insulation based on kraft lignin, the main by-product of the pulp and paper industry. Crude lignin-based polyol (LBP) was obtained via the oxyalkylation of kraft lignin using propylene carbonate (PC). A design of experiments (DoE) was used to evaluate the effect of the isocyanate (NCO)-to-hydroxyl (OH)-group’s ratio, the content of crude LBP, the blowing agent (BA), and catalyst on the thermal conductivity and density of RPUFs. Statistical analysis revealed that the increase in crude LBP and BA content in the formulation decreases the thermal conductivity and density of the foams. In addition, the fact that LBP is a viscous polyol containing PC-oligomers appears to affect the cellular structure of RPUFs, and consequently reduces their mechanical and thermal properties. The main novelty of this study consisted in the careful optimization of the formulation, namely, with regard to the type of blowing agent and with the high content of crude LBP obtained from the oxyalkylation of LignoBoost kraft lignin without purification to obtain good quality RPUF that meets market requirements for insulation materials.
Voltammetric Detection of Irbesartan by Molecularly Imprinted Polymer (MIP)-Modified Screen-Printed Electrodes
Authors: Zanoni Camilla , Rovida Riccardo , Magnaghi Lisa Rita , Biesuz Raffaela , Alberti Giancarla
Published: December 2022

Irbesartan is a drug used to treat hypertension and high blood pressure. Recent studies associated sartans with several forms of cancer, making removing this class of substances from the environment a high priority. The EU has categorized drugs as emerging pollutants, and they can be more potent than other substances because they were designed to operate at low concentrations. Thus, effective and sensitive methods of determining Irbesartan selectively and accurately in environmental samples are necessary. MIPs have already been used to remove pollutants from complex matrixes, so they were also chosen for this work. In particular, a polyacrylate-based MIP was used to functionalize the graphite working electrode of screen-printed cells (SPCs), aiming to develop a voltammetric method for Irbesartan sensing. The MIP composition and the experimental conditions for the electrochemical determination were optimized through a Design of Experiments (DoE) approach. The whole analysis was replicated with different SPCs obtaining similar results, which highlight the good reproducibility potential. MIP-based electrodes were also applied to determine Irbesartan in fortified tap water samples, obtaining high recovery percentages. Given the good results, the electrochemical method based on MIP-modified screen-printed electrodes is promising for quantifying Irbesartan at a trace level.
The Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Effects of Hypericum perforatum Oil on Common Pathogens of Periodontitis: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Bagheri Reza , Bohlouli Sepideh , Maleki Dizaj Solmaz , Shahi Shahriar , Memar Mohammad Yousef , Salatin Sara
Published: December 2022

The antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects of Hypericum perforatum oil against the common pathogens of periodontitis (Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Porphyromonas gingivalis) was investigated. Disk diffusion (DD), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) approaches were applied to test the antimicrobial effects. In order to determine the anti-biofilm effects, the amount of bacterial biofilm formation was assessed using the microtiter plate technique. The anti-biofilm effects were then confirmed by determining the minimum biofilm inhibitor concentration (MBIC). The MIC, MBC, MBIC, and DD values were 64, 256, 512 μg/mL, and 14 mm for Staphylococcus aureus; 128, 256, 512 μg/mL, and 16 mm for Streptococcus mutans; 256, 512, 256 μg/mL, and 20 mm for Escherichia coli; 32, 128, 512 µg/mL, and 16 mm for Enterococcus faecalis; and 64, 128, 256 µg/mL, and 15 mm for Porphyromonas gingivalis, respectively. According to our results, Hypericum perforatum oil has antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties against the common bacteria associated with periodontitis.
Parallelization of Runge–Kutta Methods for Hardware Implementation
Authors: Fedoseev Petr , Zhukov Konstantin , Kaplun Dmitry , Vybornov Nikita , Andreev Valery
Published: December 2022

Parallel numerical integration is a valuable tool used in many applications requiring high-performance numerical solvers, which is of great interest nowadays due to the increasing difficulty and complexity in differential problems. One of the possible approaches to increase the efficiency of ODE solvers is to parallelize recurrent numerical methods, making them more suitable for execution in hardware with natural parallelism, e.g., field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or graphical processing units (GPUs). Some of the simplest and most popular ODE solvers are explicit Runge–Kutta methods. Despite the high implementability and overall simplicity of the Runge–Kutta schemes, recurrent algorithms remain weakly suitable for execution in parallel computers. In this paper, we propose an approach for parallelizing classical explicit Runge–Kutta methods to construct efficient ODE solvers with pipeline architecture. A novel technique to obtain parallel finite-difference models based on Runge–Kutta integration is described. Three test initial value problems are considered to evaluate the properties of the obtained solvers. It is shown that the truncation error of the parallelized Runge–Kutta method does not significantly change after its known recurrent version. A possible speed up in calculations is estimated using Amdahl’s law and is approximately 2.5–3-times. Block diagrams of fixed-point parallel ODE solvers suitable for hardware implementation on FPGA are given.
Progress and Perspectives of Spectroscopic Studies on Carbon K-Edge Using Novel Soft X-ray Pulsed Sources
Authors: Ebrahimpour Zeinab , Coreno Marcello , Giannessi Luca , Ferrario Massimo , Marcelli Augusto , Nguyen Federico , Rezvani Seyed Javad , Stellato Francesco , Villa Fabio
Published: December 2022

The development of novel coherent and brilliant sources, such as soft X-ray free electron laser (FEL) and high harmonic generation (HHG), enables new ultrafast analysis of the electronic and structural dynamics of a wide variety of materials. Soft X-ray FEL delivers high-brilliance beams with a short pulse duration, high spatial coherence and photon energy tunability. In comparison with FELs, HHG X-ray sources are characterized by a wide spectral bandwidth and few- to sub-femtosecond pulses. The approach will lead to the time-resolved reconstruction of molecular dynamics, shedding light on different photochemical pathways. The high peak brilliance of soft X-ray FELs facilitates investigations in a nonlinear regime, while the broader spectral bandwidth of the HHG sources may provide the simultaneous probing of multiple components. Significant technical breakthroughs in these novel sources are under way to improve brilliance, pulse duration, and to control spectral bandwidth, spot size, and energy resolution. Therefore, in the next few years, the new generation of soft X-ray sources combined with novel experimental techniques, new detectors, and computing capabilities will allow for the study of several extremely fast dynamics, such as vibronic dynamics. In the present review, we discuss recent developments in experiments, performed with soft X-ray FELs and HHG sources, operating near the carbon K-absorption edge, being a key atomic component in biosystems and soft materials. Different spectroscopy methods such as time-resolved pump-probe techniques, nonlinear spectroscopies and photoelectron spectroscopy studies have been addressed in an attempt to better understand fundamental physico-chemical processes.
Common Buckthorn Engineered Biochar (Rhamnus Cathartica), Calcined Quagga Mussel Shells (Dreissena Rostriformis), Pickled Steel, and Steel Slag as Filter Media for the Sorption of Phosphorus from Agricultural Runoff
Authors: Holly Michael A. , Sanford Joseph R. , Forsythe Patrick S. , Silva Marcia R. , Lakich Daniel D. , Swan Camryn K. , Leonard Keenan A.
Published: December 2022

The reuse of waste residuals as reactive media is a sustainable solution to remove phosphorus (P) from wastewater and reduce eutrophication. Large reactive waste media filters incorporated in edge-of-field treatment systems could reduce P loading from agricultural fields. We measured the treatment potential of regionally available waste residuals (i.e., calcined quagga mussel shells (CSHELL), magnesium activated biochar (MGBC), pickled steel (PSTEEL), and steel slag (SLAG)) for dissolved P removal. CSHELL and MGBC had elevated sorption capacities (64,419 and 50,642 mg kg−1, respectively) in comparison to SLAG and PSTEEL (14,541 mg kg−1 and 736 mg kg−1, respectively). However, CSHELL requires long reaction times for removal (22% removal after 1.5 h) and P sorbed to MGBC is removed with DI, reducing treatment potential. SLAG and PSTEEL were the only media with significant reductions of agricultural runoff and had the greatest overall treatment potential. SLAG is recommended for removal and replacement systems while PSTEEL is suitable for larger systems designed for regeneration on site.
Plasma and Colostrum Selenium Statuses of Properly Supplemented Belgian Blue Cows on Commercial Farms and Their Relationship with Sources of Dietary Selenium and Blood Biomarkers
Authors: Delhez Pauline , Knapp Émilie , Pirard Barbara , Gauthier Marceau , Rao Anne-Sophie , Hanzen Christian , Theron Léonard
Published: December 2022

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for the health and immunity of cattle. Double-muscled Belgian Blue cows are well known to be prone to nutritional deficiencies. Colostrum Se level is also a key factor to promote immunoglobulin intake in young calves. The main objectives of this study were to assess (1) the plasma and colostrum Se statuses of properly supplemented Belgian Blue cows on commercial farms and (2) the relationship between Se concentrations in plasma and colostrum. The secondary objectives were to assess relationships between plasma or colostrum Se concentrations and dietary Se supplementation as well as blood biomarkers. Blood and colostrum samples were collected from 49 Belgian Blue cows on five commercial farms in Belgium. They received five different rations with Se supplementation ranging from 0.5 to 2 ppm, including 20% to 83% in organic form. Results showed that the average Se concentration was 90 ± 15 µg/L in plasma and 79 ± 26 µg/L in colostrum, consistent with previous studies on well-supplemented cows. No relationship was observed between Se concentrations in plasma and colostrum, suggesting that colostrum Se testing would be a complementary indicator for improving calf Se supplementation. Relationships between plasma or colostrum Se concentrations and dietary Se or blood biomarkers emphasized the complexity of Se metabolism in observational studies under field conditions.
Determination of Soil Behavior during Evaporation Using Geotechnical Datasets
Authors: Suchan Jared , Azam Shahid
Published: December 2022

Evaporation from soils is critical for agricultural water management. This requires a clear understanding of the water retention and soil shrinkage behavior of soils during water escape and due to fertilizers usage. Based on laboratory testing, this paper provides a comprehensive dataset generated for the determination of the geotechnical properties of inert silty sand and active lean clay using distilled water and saline pore fluid under ambient conditions. The tests include fluid-independent general soil properties, fluid-dependent specific soil properties, low-demand evaporation as a baseline, and high-demand evaporation to capture summer.
The Feasibility of Using the “Artery Sign” for Pre-Procedural Planning in Navigational Bronchoscopy for Parenchymal Pulmonary Lesion Sampling
Authors: Ho Elliot , Cho Roy Joseph , Keenan Joseph C. , Murgu Septimiu
Published: December 2022

Background: Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) and robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) systems are used for pulmonary lesion sampling, and utilize a pre-procedural CT scan where an airway, or “bronchus sign”, is used to map a pathway to the target lesion. However, up to 40% of pre-procedural CT’s lack a “bronchus sign” partially due to surrounding emphysema or limitation in CT resolution. Recognizing that the branches of the pulmonary artery, lymphatics, and airways are often present together as the bronchovascular bundle, we postulate that a branch of the pulmonary artery (“artery sign”) could be used for pathway mapping during navigation bronchoscopy when a “bronchus sign” is absent. Herein we describe the navigation success and safety of using the “artery sign” to create a pathway for pulmonary lesion sampling. Methods: We reviewed data on consecutive cases in which the “artery sign” was used for pre-procedural planning for conventional ENB (superDimension™, Medtronic) and RAB (Monarch™, Johnson & Johnson). Patients who underwent these procedures from July 2020 until July 2021 at the University of Minnesota Medical Center and from June 2018 until December 2019 at the University of Chicago Medical Center were included in this analysis (IRB #19-0011 for the University of Chicago and IRB #00013135 for the University of Minnesota). The primary outcome was navigation success, defined as successfully maneuvering the bronchoscope to the target lesion based on feedback from the navigation system. Secondary outcomes included navigation success based on radial EBUS imaging, pneumothorax, and bleeding rates. Results: A total of 30 patients were enrolled in this analysis. The median diameter of the lesions was 17 mm. The median distance of the lesion from the pleura was 5 mm. Eleven lesions were solid, 15 were pure ground glass, and 4 were mixed. All cases were planned successfully using the “artery sign” on either the superDimension™ ENB (n = 15) or the Monarch™ RAB (n = 15). Navigation to the target was successful for 29 lesions (96.7%) based on feedback from the navigation system (virtual target). Radial EBUS image was acquired in 27 cases (90%) [eccentric view in 13 (43.33%) and concentric view in 14 patients (46.66%)], while in 3 cases (10%) no r-EBUS view was obtained. Pneumothorax occurred in one case (3%). Significant airway bleeding was reported in one case (3%). Conclusions: We describe the concept of using the “artery sign” as an alternative for planning EMN and RAB procedures when “bronchus sign” is absent. The navigation success based on virtual target or r-EBUS imaging is high and safety of sampling of such lesions compares favorably with prior reports. Prospective studies are needed to assess the impact of the “artery sign” on diagnostic yield.
Review of Semantic Segmentation of Medical Images Using Modified Architectures of UNET
Authors: Krithika alias AnbuDevi M. , Suganthi K.
Published: December 2022

In biomedical image analysis, information about the location and appearance of tumors and lesions is indispensable to aid doctors in treating and identifying the severity of diseases. Therefore, it is essential to segment the tumors and lesions. MRI, CT, PET, ultrasound, and X-ray are the different imaging systems to obtain this information. The well-known semantic segmentation technique is used in medical image analysis to identify and label regions of images. The semantic segmentation aims to divide the images into regions with comparable characteristics, including intensity, homogeneity, and texture. UNET is the deep learning network that segments the critical features. However, UNETs basic architecture cannot accurately segment complex MRI images. This review introduces the modified and improved models of UNET suitable for increasing segmentation accuracy.
Lung Ultrasound in Coronary Care Unit, an Important Diagnostic Tool for Concomitant Pneumonia
Authors: Mancusi Costantino , Fucile Ilaria , Gargiulo Paola , Mosca Mariangela , Migliaccio Biagio , Basile Christian , Gargiulo Giuseppe , Santoro Ciro , Morisco Carmine , De Luca Nicola , Esposito Giovanni
Published: December 2022

Background: In the setting of a coronary care unit (CCU), the early detection of pneumonia is of paramount important to prevent severe complications. This study was designed aiming to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of lung ultrasound (LUS) in the detection of pneumonia and compared with chest X-ray (CXR). Method: We enrolled 110 consecutive patients admitted to the CCU of Federico II University Hospital. Each patient underwent CXR and bedside LUS on admission. The final diagnosis (pneumonia vs. no pneumonia) was established by another clinician reviewing clinical and laboratory data independent of LUS results and possibly prescribing chest contrast-enhanced CT (n = 34). Results: The mean age was 70 ± 11 years old, and 68% were males. Pneumonia was clinically diagnosed in 26 (23%) patients. LUS was positive for pneumonia in 24 patients (sensitivity 92%, specificity 81%). Chest radiography was positive for pneumonia in nine patients (sensitivity 43%, specificity 95%). Using CT scan as a reference, LUS exhibited 92% sensitivity and a specificity of 96%. In ROC curve analysis, the diagnostic accuracy of CXR and LUS for the diagnosis of pneumonia was 0.86 (95% CI 0.77–0.94), which was higher than CXR 0.68 (95% CI 0.55–0.84), p < 0.05. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, the accuracy of LUS in the detection of pneumonia was significantly higher than chest X-ray with comparable sensibility to CT scan.
Fetal Neurology: From Prenatal Counseling to Postnatal Follow-Up
Authors: Scelsa Barbara
Published: December 2022

Brain abnormalities detected in fetal life are being increasingly recognized. Child neurologists are often involved in fetal consultations, and specific fetal neurology training has been implemented in many countries. Pediatric neurologists are asked to examine the data available and to contribute to the definition of the long-term outcomes. Ventriculomegaly, posterior fossa malformations, and agenesis/dysgenesis of corpus callosum are among the most common reasons for antenatal neurological consultations. Fetuses with central nervous system and extra-CNS anomalies should ideally be managed in secondary/tertiary hospitals where obstetricians who are experts in fetal medicine and pediatric specialists are available. Obstetricians play a critical role in screening, performing detailed neurosonography, and referring to other specialists for additional investigations. Clinical geneticists are frequently asked to propose diagnostic tests and counsel complex fetal malformations whose phenotypes may differ from those during postnatal life. Advances in fetal MRI and genetic investigations can support the specialists involved in counseling. Nevertheless, data interpretation can be challenging, and it requires a high level of expertise in a multidisciplinary setting. Postnatally, child neurologists should be part of an integrated multidisciplinary follow-up, together with neonatologists and pediatricians. The neurodevelopmental outcomes should be assessed at least up to school age. Children should be evaluated with formal tests of their gross motor, cognitive, language, fine motor/visuo-perceptual skills, and their behavior. In this perspective, fetal neurology can be regarded as the beginning of a long journey which continues with a prolonged, structured follow-up, support to the families, and transition to adult life. A review of the most common conditions is presented, along with the long-term outcomes and a proposal of the neurodevelopmental follow-up of children with CNS malformation which are diagnosed in uterus.
Increased Oral Dryness and Negative Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Older People with Overweight or Obesity
Authors: Khongsirisombat Nattapat , Kiattavorncharoen Sirichai , Thanakun Supanee
Published: December 2022

This cross-sectional study was to evaluate the association between the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of older Thai people with obesity and oral health indicators. General and oral conditions were assessed. Oral dryness was determined using the Xerostomia Inventory-11 (XI-11) and clinical oral dryness score (CODS). OHRQoL was evaluated by the oral health impact profile (OHIP-14). Participants were aged 60–86 years; 73 (59.3%) were overweight or obese, and 50 (40.7%) were normal weight. Older patients with obesity had almost four times the rate of hypertension (OR = 3.59; 95%CI:1.34–9.60; p = 0.002), more missing teeth (p = 0.025), and higher CODS (p = 0.014) than those without obesity. The total XI-11 scores were positively associated with the total CODS, after adjusting for BMI (r = 0.267, p = 0.003). Those with obesity had almost three times the tendency for a negative OHRQoL compared with the non-obese (OR = 2.73; 95%CI:1.12–6.71; p = 0.04). After adjusting for all related factors, the chances of predicting an OHIP-14 score of four based on obesity and total XI-11 score were 4.42 (95%CI:1.57–12.47; p = 0.005) and 1.11 (95%CI:1.02–1.20; p = 0.013), respectively. Obesity had an increasingly undesirable negative impact on the OHRQoL of older Thai people and was influenced by BMI and oral dryness.