bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in the Treatment of Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Castañeda Santos , Prieto-Peña Diana , Vicente-Rabaneda Esther F. , Triguero-Martínez Ana , Roy-Vallejo Emilia , Atienza-Mateo Belén , Blanco Ricardo , González-Gay Miguel A.
Published: March 2022

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis among elderly people. The clinical spectrum of the disease is heterogeneous, with a classic/cranial phenotype, and another extracranial or large vessel phenotype as the two more characteristic patterns. Permanent visual loss is the main short-term complication. Glucocorticoids (GC) remain the cornerstone of treatment. However, the percentage of relapses with GC alone is high, and the rate of adverse events affects more than 80% of patients, so it is necessary to have alternative therapeutic options, especially in patients with worse prognostic factors or high comorbidity. MTX is the only DMARD that has shown to reduce the cumulative dose of GC, while tocilizumab is the first biologic agent approved due to its ability to decrease the relapse rate and lower the cumulative GC doses. However, apart from the IL-6 pathway, there are other pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors involved in the typical intima hyperplasia and vascular remodeling of GCA. Among them, the more promising targets in GCA treatment are the IL12/IL23 axis antagonists, IL17 inhibitors, modulators of T lymphocytes, and inhibitors of either the JAK/STAT pathway, the granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, or the endothelin, all of which are updated in this review.
Optimisation of Operator Support Systems through Artificial Intelligence for the Cast Steel Industry: A Case for Optimisation of the Oxygen Blowing Process Based on Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Ojeda Roldán Álvaro , Gassner Gert , Schlautmann Martin , Acevedo Galicia Luis Enrique , Andreiana Doru Stefan , Heiskanen Mikko , Leyva Guerrero Carlos , Dorado Navas Fernando , del Real Torres Alejandro
Published: March 2022

The processes involved in the metallurgical industry consume significant amounts of energy and materials, so improving their control would result in considerable improvements in the efficient use of these resources. This study is part of the MORSE H2020 Project, and it aims to implement an operator support system that improves the efficiency of the oxygen blowing process of a real cast steel foundry. For this purpose, a machine learning agent is developed according to a reinforcement learning method suitable for the dynamics of the oxygen blowing process in the cast steel factory. This reinforcement learning agent is trained with both historical data provided by the company and data generated by an external model. The trained agent will be the basis of the operator support system that will be integrated into the factory, allowing the agent to continue improving with new and real experience. The results show that the suggestions of the agent improve as it gains experience, and consequently the efficiency of the process also improves. As a result, the success rate of the process increases by 12%.
Effect of the Laser Processing Parameters on the Selective Laser Melting of TiC–Fe-Based Cermets
Authors: Maurya Himanshu S. , Kollo Lauri , Tarraste Marek , Juhani Kristjan , Sergejev Fjodor , Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss
Published: March 2022

The influence of laser pulse shaping on the formation of TiC-Fe-based cermets with different laser process parameters is investigated. The impact of pulse shaping and laser melting peak power on the microstructural development and mechanical properties of SLM-built parts is addressed. This research focuses primarily on the process parameters required to produce crack-free components and includes investigations of mechanical properties such as microhardness and fracture toughness. To acquire optimal process parameters, samples were manufactured using pulse shaping technology with varying laser melting peak power and exposure time. The influence of laser melting peak power and pulse shape on microstructure development and phases was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction.
Operational Modeling of North Aegean Oil Spills Forced by Real-Time Met-Ocean Forecasts
Authors: Keramea Panagiota , Kokkos Nikolaos , Gikas Georgios , Sylaios Georgios
Published: March 2022

Over the latest decades, oil marine pollution has posed a vital threat for global ocean health, since spillages of any scale are related to environmental, social and financial impacts. The worldwide increase in oil and gas demand, and the parallel rise in oil and gas production, exploiting particularly coastal and offshore marine deposits, have significantly increased the risk of accidental oil release to the sea. In the present study, an operational oil spill model was applied to test the oil dispersive properties and to reveal the relative magnitude of weathering processes, after an accidental oil spill release along the main tanker transportation route in the North Aegean Sea. Numerical simulations were implemented using the OpenOil transport and fate numerical model, a subclass of the OpenDrift open-source trajectory framework. This model integrates algorithms with several physical processes, such as oil entrainment, vertical mixing, oil resurfacing and oil emulsification. The oil dispersion model was coupled to real-time met-ocean forecasts received from NOAA-GFS and CMEMS. Present simulation results have focused on the impact of turbulent kinetic energy, induced by the background flow field, on the horizontal spreading of particles, as well as on the evolution of oil mass balance and oil mass properties.
Water Circulation Driven by Cold Fronts in the Wax Lake Delta (Louisiana, USA)
Authors: Zhang Qian , Li Chunyan , Huang Wei , Lin Jun , Hiatt Matthew , Rivera-Monroy Victor H.
Published: March 2022

Atmospheric cold fronts can periodically generate storm surges and affect sediment transport in the Northern Gulf of Mexico (NGOM). In this paper, we evaluate water circulation spatiotemporal patterns induced by six atmospheric cold front events in the Wax Lake Delta (WLD) in coastal Louisiana using the 3-D hydrodynamic model ECOM-si. Model simulations show that channelized and inter-distributary water flow is significantly impacted by cold fronts. Water volume transport throughout the deltaic channel network is not just constrained to the main channels but also occurs laterally across channels accounting for about a quarter of the total flow. Results show that a significant landward flow occurs across the delta prior to the frontal passage, resulting in a positive storm surge on the coast. The along-channel current velocity dominates while cross-channel water transport occurs at the southwest lobe during the post-frontal stage. Depending on local weather conditions, the cold-front-induced flushing event lasts for 1.7 to 7 days and can flush 32–76% of the total water mass out of the system, a greater range of variability than previous reports. The magnitude of water flushed out of the system is not necessarily dependent on the duration of the frontal events. An energy partitioning analysis shows that the relative importance of subtidal energy (10–45% of the total) and tidal energy (20–70%) varies substantially from station to station and is linked to the weather impact. It is important to note that within the WLD region, the weather-induced subtidal energy (46–66% of the total) is much greater than the diurnal tidal energy (13–25% of the total). The wind associated with cold fronts in winter is the main factor controlling water circulation in the WLD and is a major driver in the spatial configuration of the channel network and delta progradation rates.
Lightweight Structural Concepts in Bearing Quasi-Static Ice Hull Interaction Loads
Authors: Cheemakurthy Harsha , Barsoum Zuheir , Burman Magnus , Garme Karl
Published: March 2022

Lightweight ice-class vessels offer the possibility of increasing the payload capacity while making them comparable in energy consumption with non-ice-class vessels during ice-free periods. We approach the development of a lightweight hull by dividing ice–hull interactions into quasi-static loading and impact loading phases. Then, investigative outcomes of lightweight concepts for each loading phase may be combined to develop a lightweight ice-going hull. In this study, we focus on the quasi-static loading phase characteristic of thin first-year ice in inland waterways. We investigate metal grillages, sandwich structures and stiffened sandwich structures parametrically using the finite element method. The model is validated using previous experimental studies. In total over 2000 cases are investigated for strength and stiffness with respect to mass. The stiffened sandwich was found to be the most favorable concept that offered both a light weight as well as high gross tonnage. Further, significant parameters and their interactions and material differences for the three structural concepts were investigated and their trends discussed. The outcomes result in the creation of a viable pool of lightweight variants that fulfill the quasi-static loading phase. Together with outcomes from the impact loading phase, a lightweight ice-going hull may be developed.
The Occurrence of Microplastics in Sediment Cores from Two Mangrove Areas in Southern Thailand
Authors: Pradit Siriporn , Noppradit Prakrit , Loh Pei-Sun , Nitiratsuwan Thongchai , Le Thi Phuong Quynh , Oeurng Chantha , Mohamed Che Abd Rahim , Lee Choon Weng , Lu Xixi , Anshari Gusti Z. , Kandasamy Selvaraj , Wang Jianjun
Published: March 2022

Mangroves are areas that connect the land and sea, and are important to the ecosystem. They are important places for food sources and the habitat of aquatic fauna in the tidal areas. However, the existence of plastic debris poses a risk to the aquatic environment. This study aimed to investigate the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in sediment cores from two mangrove areas. The first mangrove area is in the outer section of the Songkhla lagoon (SK), while the second is in the coastal area of Pattani province (PN). Sediment core sampling was performed from SK = 8 stations and PN = 5 stations. Surface enrichment of MP was observed, especially in sediments of 0–4 cm. MPs were found throughout the depth in both areas, while fewer MPs were found in deeper sediment core layers (p < 0.05) at some stations inside the mangrove zone. Simple linear regression of the observed MPs and distance in the horizontal were found to be significant at SK within the mangrove zone with r2 = 0.79 (p < 0.05). MP fibers were the most commonly found MP type in both areas and were less than 1 mm. Blue and black MPs were the most abundant colors found in both areas. The six polymer types reported in this study comprised polyethylene, rayon, rubber, styrene, Poly (vinyl acetate), and paint. The findings of the present study suggest that long-term monitoring of marine debris along coastlines is necessary to help improve national policies and measures related to marine plastic debris.
Sulfur Metabolism as a Promising Source of New Antifungal Targets
Authors: Amich Jorge
Published: March 2022

Fungal infections are a growing threat to human health. Despite their clinical relevance, there is a surprisingly limited availability of clinically approved antifungal agents, which is seriously aggravated by the recent appearance and fast spread of drug resistance. It is therefore clear that there is an urgent need for novel and efficient antifungals. In this context, metabolism is recognized as a promising source for new antifungal targets and, indeed, there are new drugs in development that target metabolic pathways. Fungal sulfur metabolism is particularly interesting, as many of its processes are essential for viability and/or pathogenicity and it shows substantial differences with human metabolism. This short-review will summarize our current knowledge of sulfur-related genes and routes that are important for Aspergillus fumigatus virulence, which consequently could be pursued for drug development.
Fever, Tachypnea, and Monocyte Distribution Width Predicts Length of Stay for Patients with COVID-19: A Pioneer Study
Authors: Lin Sheng-Feng , Lin Hui-An , Chuang Han-Chuan , Tsai Hung-Wei , Kuo Ning , Chen Shao-Chun , Hou Sen-Kuang
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: Our study investigated whether monocyte distribution width (MDW) could be used in emergency department (ED) settings as a predictor of prolonged length of stay (LOS) for patients with COVID-19. (2) Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted; patients presenting to the ED of an academic hospital with confirmed COVID-19 were enrolled. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to obtain the odds ratios (ORs) for predictors of an LOS of >14 days. A validation study for the association between MDW and cycle of threshold (Ct) value was performed. (3) Results: Fever > 38 °C (OR: 2.82, 95% CI, 1.13–7.02, p = 0.0259), tachypnea (OR: 4.76, 95% CI, 1.67–13.55, p = 0.0034), and MDW ≥ 21 (OR: 5.67, 95% CI, 1.19–27.10, p = 0.0269) were robust significant predictors of an LOS of >14 days. We developed a new scoring system in which patients were assigned 1 point for fever > 38 °C, 2 points for tachypnea > 20 breath/min, and 3 points for MDW ≥ 21. The optimal cutoff was a score of ≥2. MDW was negatively associated with Ct value (β: −0.32 per day, standard error = 0.12, p = 0.0099). (4) Conclusions: Elevated MDW was associated with a prolonged LOS.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Motor Imagery Combined with Virtual Reality Techniques in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kashif Muhammad , Ahmad Ashfaq , Bandpei Muhammad Ali Mohseni , Syed Hafiza Aroosa , Raza Ali , Sana Vishal
Published: March 2022

Background: Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurological disease, affecting balance, motor function, and activities of daily living. Virtual reality and motor imagery are two emerging approaches for the rehabilitation of patients with Parkinson’s disease. This study aimed to determine the combined effects of virtual reality and motor imagery techniques with routine physical therapy on the motor function components of individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Methods: The study was a prospective, two-arm, parallel-design randomized controlled trial. Forty-four patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Virtual reality and motor imagery were given together with physical therapy in the experimental group (N: 20), while physical therapy treatment alone was given in the control group (N: 21). Both groups received allocated treatment for 12 weeks, 3 days a week, on alternate days. Motor function was assessed at baseline, six weeks, twelve weeks, and sixteen weeks after discontinuing treatment with the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III. SPSS 24 was used to analyze the data. Results: Study results indicate that the experimental group showed significant improvements in the motor function components: tremor at rest at the 6th week (p = 0.028), 12th week (p = 0.05), and 16th week (p = 0.001), rigidity at the 6th week (p = 0.03), 12th week (p = 0.000), and 16th week (p = 0.001), posture at the 12th week (p = 0.005) and 16th week (p = 0.004), and gait at the 6th week with a p-value of (p = 0.034). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that virtual reality and motor imagery training in combination with routine physical therapy can significantly improve resting tremors, rigidity, posture, gait, and body bradykinesia in individuals with PD in comparison to patients receiving only routine physical therapy.
High SUVmax Is an Independent Predictor of Higher Diagnostic Accuracy of ROSE in EBUS-TBNA for Patients with NSCLC
Authors: Chen Ying-Yi , Huang Hsin-Ya , Lin Chi-Yi , Chen Kuan-Liang , Huang Tsai-Wang
Published: March 2022

Introduction: This study aimed to verify the predictors of the diagnostic accuracy of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) in endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) among patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with NSCLC who underwent EBUS-TBNA for staging or diagnosis at our hospital from June 2016 to June 2018. The patients were divided into two groups—those with a correct diagnosis and an incorrect diagnosis after ROSE. Kaplan–Meier plots and log-rank tests were used to estimate outcomes. Results: A total of 84 patients underwent EBUS-TBNA for staging and diagnosis. Sixty patients with demonstrated malignant mediastinal lymph nodes were enrolled. In the univariate analysis, lymph nodes < 1.5 cm (HR = 3.667, p = 0.031) and a SUVmax > 5 (HR = 41, p = 0.001) were statistically significant for diagnostic accuracy of ROSE. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, only a SUVmax > 5 (HR = 20.258, p = 0.016) was statistically significant. Conclusions: A SUVmax > 5 is an independent predictor of higher diagnostic accuracy of ROSE in EBUS-TBNA in patients with NSCLC with malignant mediastinal lymph nodes. Therefore, ROSE in patients with a SUVmax < 5 might not be reliable and requires further prudent assessment (more shots or repeated biopsies at mediastinal LNs) in clinical practice.
Acceptance and Factors Influencing Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccine in a Romanian Population
Authors: Ionescu Tiberiu Constantin , Fetecau Bogdana Ioana , Giurgiuca Ana , Tudose Catalina
Published: March 2022

COVID-19 vaccination has been recognized as one of the most effective ways to overcome the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, the success of this effort relies on national vaccination programmes. In May 2021, we surveyed 1552 people from Romania to determine acceptance rates and factors influencing acceptance of a COVID-19 vaccine. Of these, 39.2% of participants reported that they were vaccinated and 25.6% desired vaccination; nonetheless, 29.5% expressed opposition to vaccination. Concerning vaccination refusal, the top justification given by respondents is that the vaccine is insufficiently safe and there is a risk of serious side effects (84.4%). A higher rate of vaccination refusal was observed among female gender, younger age, and lower educational level. Refusal was also associated with unemployment, being in a relationship, and having a decrease in income during the pandemic. People who are constantly informed by specialized medical staff have a statistically significant higher vaccination rate, while people who choose to get information from friends, family, and co-workers have the strongest intention of avoiding the vaccine. Current levels of vaccine are insufficient to achieve herd immunity of 67%. It is mandatory to understand the aspects that define and establish confidence and to craft nationwide interventions appropriately.
Sex Differences in Response to Treatment with Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists: Opportunities for a Tailored Approach to Diabetes and Obesity Care
Authors: Rentzeperi Elpiniki , Pegiou Stavroula , Koufakis Theocharis , Grammatiki Maria , Kotsa Kalliopi
Published: March 2022

The available data suggest differences in the course of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) between men and women, influenced by the distinguishing features of the sex. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are a relatively new class of antidiabetic drugs that act by mimicking the function of endogenous glucagon-like peptide 1. They constitute valuable agents for the management of T2DM as, in addition to exerting a strong hypoglycemic action, they present cardiorenal protective properties, promote weight loss, and have a good safety profile, particularly with respect to the risk of hypoglycemia. Due to the precedent of studies having identified sexual dimorphic elements regarding the action of other antidiabetic agents, ongoing research has attempted to examine whether this is also the case for GLP-1 RAs. Until now, sex differences have been observed in the impact of GLP1-RAs on glycemic control, weight reduction, and frequency of adverse events. On the contrary, the question of whether these drugs differentially affect the two sexes with respect to cardiovascular risk and incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events remains under investigation. Knowledge of the potential sex-specific effects of these medications is extremely useful for the implementation of individualized therapeutic plans in the treatment of T2DM. This narrative review aims to present the available data regarding the sex-specific action of GLP-1 RAs as well as to discuss the potential pathophysiologic mechanisms explaining these dissimilarities.
Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Electrocardiography Predicts Left Ventricular Dysfunction and Future Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Chen Hung-Yi , Lin Chin-Sheng , Fang Wen-Hui , Lou Yu-Sheng , Cheng Cheng-Chung , Lee Chia-Cheng , Lin Chin
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND: The ejection fraction (EF) provides critical information about heart failure (HF) and its management. Electrocardiography (ECG) is a noninvasive screening tool for cardiac electrophysiological activities that has been used to detect patients with low EF based on a deep learning model (DLM) trained via large amounts of data. However, no studies have widely investigated its clinical impacts. OBJECTIVE: This study developed a DLM to estimate EF via ECG (ECG-EF). We further investigated the relationship between ECG-EF and echo-based EF (ECHO-EF) and explored their contributions to future cardiovascular adverse events. METHODS: There were 57,206 ECGs with corresponding echocardiograms used to train our DLM. We compared a series of training strategies and selected the best DLM. The architecture of the DLM was based on ECG12Net, developed previously. Next, 10,762 ECGs were used for validation, and another 20,629 ECGs were employed to conduct the accuracy test. The changes between ECG-EF and ECHO-EF were evaluated. The primary follow-up adverse events included future ECHO-EF changes and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). RESULTS: The sex-/age-matching strategy-trained DLM achieved the best area under the curve (AUC) of 0.9472 with a sensitivity of 86.9% and specificity of 89.6% in the follow-up cohort, with a correlation of 0.603 and a mean absolute error of 7.436. In patients with accurate prediction (initial difference < 10%), the change traces of ECG-EF and ECHO-EF were more consistent (R-square = 0.351) than in all patients (R-square = 0.115). Patients with lower ECG-EF (≤35%) exhibited a greater risk of cardiovascular (CV) complications, delayed ECHO-EF recovery, and earlier ECHO-EF deterioration than patients with normal ECG-EF (>50%). Importantly, ECG-EF demonstrated an independent impact on MACEs and all CV adverse outcomes, with better prediction of CV outcomes than ECHO-EF. CONCLUSIONS: The ECG-EF could be used to initially screen asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) and it could also independently contribute to the predictions of future CV adverse events. Although further large-scale studies are warranted, DLM-based ECG-EF could serve as a promising diagnostic supportive and management-guided tool for CV disease prediction and the care of patients with LVD.
Impacts of Socialization on Bull Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) Stereotypical Behavior
Authors: Readyhough Taylor S. , Joseph Sharon , Davis Maura , Moresco Anneke , Schreier Amy L.
Published: March 2022

There is a growing need for animal care institutions to house multiple bull elephants as the population increases due to transfers from private ownership and the births of male offspring in managed care. Elephants in North American, European, and Latin American zoos exhibit stereotypies—repetitive, fixed behaviors. Previous research demonstrated that housing Asian elephants alone increased stereotypic behavior. Therefore, for animals in managed care, social restriction can contribute to stereotypy and, by extension, reduce welfare. In this study, we examine how being alone affects stereotypic behavior by monitoring pacing and head-bobbing in individual bull Asian elephants at Denver Zoo when housed alone as well as with other bulls. Two young males arrived at Denver Zoo in September 2018 and joined an existing all-male group of three elephants that were previously socialized and housed together. From July 2018 to December 2019, we used instantaneous scan sampling to collect data on stereotypic behavior of focal bulls when they were housed alone and socially. The frequency of pacing and head-bobbing significantly decreased when the elephants were housed socially compared to when they were housed alone; these stereotypies were lower when elephants were housed with at least one other bull and were in close proximity to a conspecific. Additionally, pacing decreased as the proportion of affiliative behaviors increased, and the amount of agonistic behavior did not significantly affect stereotypic behavior. When housed alone, bulls in musth engaged in significantly more pacing behavior than when they were out of musth. Our results indicate that housing bull Asian elephants in all-male groups substantially improves their welfare by reducing stereotypies and provides a basis for future evidence-based management.
Extraperitoneal Laparoscopic Prostatectomy in a Prostate Cancer Patient Undergoing Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Widz Damian , Kuliniec Iga , Yadlos Andriy , Sudoł Damian , Godzisz Michał , Wisz Agata , Płaza Paweł , Mitura Przemysław , Cabanek Michał , Bar Krzysztof
Published: March 2022

Radical prostatectomy (RP) in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is a challenging procedure. The following key points need to be considered: the peritoneal cavity integrity, adjustment of the trocar positions to the peritoneal dialysis (PD) tube location, and the oncological and functional outcomes. We present a clinical case of a patient on CAPD, incidentally diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa) during the pre-transplant evaluation. The patient suffered from LUTS, due to bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). A transurethral bladder neck incision (TUNI), with median lobe resection, was performed. A PCa Gleason score of six (3 + 3) was found in the histopathological specimen. The primary procedure was complicated by bladder neck sclerosis and acute urinary retention (AUR), resolved by suprapubic cystostomy. After proper staging determination, the patient was qualified for laparoscopic extraperitoneal RP. The standard trocar placement was modified to align with the route of the PD tube, and Retzius’ space scarring was released to allow extraperitoneal prostatectomy. There were no signs of peritoneal wall damage or dialysis tube displacement. Peritoneal dialysis was resumed after 4 weeks. Laparoscopic extraperitoneal RP should be considered as an acceptable treatment method for selected patients with localized prostate cancer, allowing CAPD resumption. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of retroperitoneal laparoscopic RP being used in the PD population.
The Enhancing Effects of 10% PBS Washout of Holocene Minerals on HuIFN-αN3 Inducing Capacity of NDV ZG1999HDS or Sendai virus (Cantell Strain)
Authors: Filipič Bratko , Gradišnik Lidija , Pereyra Adriana , Mršić Gordan , Andrašec Marjan , Mazija Hrvoje
Published: March 2022

Different strains of Newcastle disease viruses (NDV) or Sendai viruses (SV) are used to induce the production of human leukocyte multi subtype interferon-alpha (HuIFN-αN3). Their inducing capacity can be enhanced in different ways. One includes 10% PBS washout of Holocene minerals (HM). The presented study aims to compare the HuIFN-αN3 inducing capacity of NDV ZG1999HDS or SV (Cantell strain) strain in vitro, and to evaluate the enhancing effect of 10% PBS washouts of HM on both viruses. The NDV strains’ ZG1999HDS interferon inducing capacity (483.23 ± 4.5 pg/mL) was similar to that of the SV (Cantell strain) (584.16 ± 5.9 pg/mL). It was shown that the HuIFN-αN3 inducing capacity of the strain of NDV ZG1999HDS can be strongly enhanced with 10% PBS washout of HM to 3818.21 ± 41.9 pg/mL and 4790.34 ± 33.5 pg/mL with SV (Cantell strain), u. The RP-HPLC analyses of such HuIFN-αN3 induced with the strain of NDV ZG1999HDS show the difference to SV (Cantell strain) induced HuIFN-αN3 in the absence of subtype α14 and the lower level of the subtype α1. The possible ways of such enhancement were also studied and it was postulated that the Fe2+ ions from 10% PBS washouts of HM, while stimulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) formation, activate the transcription factor NF- κB and consequently the production of HuIFN-αN3.
Overview of (f)MRI Studies of Cognitive Aging for Non-Experts: Looking through the Lens of Neuroimaging
Authors: Kawagoe Toshikazu
Published: March 2022

This special issue concerning Brain Functional and Structural Connectivity and Cognition aims to expand our understanding of brain connectivity. Herein, I review related topics including the principle and concepts of functional MRI, brain activation, and functional/structural connectivity in aging for uninitiated readers. Visuospatial attention, one of the well-studied functions in aging, is discussed from the perspective of neuroimaging.
SI: Advances in Density Functional Theory (DFT) Studies of Solids
Authors: Oreshonkov Aleksandr S.
Published: March 2022

This summary is a review on articles published in the Special Issue “Advances in Density Functional Theory (DFT) Studies of Solids” from the section “Materials Simulation and Design” of the MDPI journal Materials [...]
Accelerated Curing for Glass-Based Mortars Using Water at 80 °C
Authors: Ye Taohua , Lu Jianxin , Duan Zhenhua , Li Lei , Zhu Dayu
Published: March 2022

The substitution of river sand with glass aggregate (GA) and cement with glass powder (GP) is a mainstream method to recycle waste glass. Traditionally, standard curing was widely used for glass-based mortars. However, it is time-consuming and cannot address low mechanical strengths of the early-age mortars. Therefore, the effect of water curing at 80 °C on the properties of GA mortars is investigated. Furthermore, the effect of the GP size is also considered. Results show that compared with the expansion of alkali-silica reaction (ASR), water curing at 80 °C has a negligible effect on the volume change. Moreover, the compressive strength of GA mortars under 1-day water curing at 80 °C is comparable with that under 28-day water curing at 20 °C. Therefore, the 1-day water curing at 80 °C is proposed as an accelerated curing method for GA mortars. On the other hand, the addition of GP with the mean size of 28.3 and 47.9 μm can effectively mitigate the ASR expansion of GA mortars. Compared with the size of 28.3 μm, GA mortars containing GP (47.9 μm) always obtain higher compressive strength. In particular, when applying the 1-day water curing at 80 °C, GA mortars containing GP (47.9 μm) can even gain higher strength than those containing fly ash.
Research on Performance of SBS-PPA and SBR-PPA Compound Modified Asphalts
Authors: Wei Jianguo , Shi Song , Zhou Yuming , Chen Zhiyuan , Yu Fan , Peng Zhuyi , Duan Xurui
Published: March 2022

Although several studies indicated that the addition of Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) and Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) bring a lot of benefits on properties of asphalt binders, high production costs and poor storage stability confine the manufacture of better modified asphalt. To reduce the production costs, polyphosphoric acid (PPA) was applied to prepare better compound modified asphalt binders. In this research, five PPA (0.5%, 0.75%, 1.0%, 1.25% and 1.5%) and two SBR/SBS (4% and 6%) concentrations were selected. Dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) and Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR) tests were performed to evaluate the rheological properties of the compound modified asphalt. Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO) test was performed to evaluate the aging properties of the compound modified asphalts. The results indicate that SBS/SBR modified asphalts with the addition of PPA show better high-temperature properties significantly, the ability of asphalt to resist rutting is improved, and the elastic recovery is increased. However, the low-temperature properties of the compound modified asphalts are degraded by increasing the creep stiffness (S) and decreasing the creep rate (m). At the same time, RTFO tests results show that PPA was less prone to oxidation to improve the anti-aging ability of modified asphalts. Overall, the combination of 4% SBS and 0.75–1.0% PPA, the combination of 4% SBR and 0.5–0.75% PPA is recommended based on a comprehensive analysis of the performance of compound modified asphalt, respectively, which can be equivalent to 6% SBS/SBR modified asphalt with high-temperature properties, low-temperature properties, temperature sensitivity and aging properties.
An Efficient Electric Charged Particles Optimization Algorithm for Numerical Optimization and Optimal Estimation of Photovoltaic Models
Authors: Kamel Salah , Houssein Essam H. , Hassan Mohamed H. , Shouran Mokhtar , Hashim Fatma A.
Published: March 2022

The electric charged particles optimization (ECPO) technique is inspired by the interaction (exerted forces) between electrically charged particles. A developed version of ECPO called MECPO is suggested in this article to enhance the capability of searching and balancing the exploitation and exploration phases of the conventional ECPO. To let the search agent jumps out from the local optimum and avoid stagnation in the local optimum in the proposed MECPO, three different strategies in the interaction between ECPs are modified in conjunction with the conventional ECPO. Therefore, the convergence rate is enhanced and reaches rapidly to the optimal solution. To evaluate the effectiveness of the MECPO, it is executed on the test functions of the CEC’17. Furthermore, the MECPO technique is suggested to estimate the parameters of different photovoltaic models, such as the single-diode model (SDM), the double-diode model (DDM), and the triple-diode model (TDM). The simulation results illustrate the validation and effectiveness of MECPO in extracting parameters from photovoltaic models.
Supervised Learning Perspective in Logic Mining
Authors: Kasihmuddin Mohd Shareduwan Mohd , Jamaludin Siti Zulaikha Mohd , Mansor Mohd. Asyraf , Wahab Habibah A. , Ghadzi Siti Maisharah Sheikh
Published: March 2022

Creating optimal logic mining is strongly dependent on how the learning data are structured. Without optimal data structure, intelligence systems integrated into logic mining, such as an artificial neural network, tend to converge to suboptimal solution. This paper proposed a novel logic mining that integrates supervised learning via association analysis to identify the most optimal arrangement with respect to the given logical rule. By utilizing Hopfield neural network as an associative memory to store information of the logical rule, the optimal logical rule from the correlation analysis will be learned and the corresponding optimal induced logical rule can be obtained. In other words, the optimal logical rule increases the chances for the logic mining to locate the optimal induced logic that generalize the datasets. The proposed work is extensively tested on a variety of benchmark datasets with various performance metrics. Based on the experimental results, the proposed supervised logic mining demonstrated superiority and the least competitiveness compared to the existing method.
Total Phenolic Levels, In Vitro Antioxidant Properties, and Fatty Acid Profile of Two Microalgae, Tetraselmis marina Strain IMA043 and Naviculoid Diatom Strain IMA053, Isolated from the North Adriatic Sea
Authors: Trentin Riccardo , Custódio Luísa , Rodrigues Maria João , Moschin Emanuela , Sciuto Katia , da Silva José Paulo , Moro Isabella
Published: March 2022

This work studied the potential biotechnological applications of a naviculoid diatom (IMA053) and a green microalga (Tetraselmis marina IMA043) isolated from the North Adriatic Sea. Water, methanol, and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts were prepared from microalgae biomass and evaluated for total phenolic content (TPC) and in vitro antioxidant properties. Biomass was profiled for fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) composition. The DCM extracts had the highest levels of total phenolics, with values of 40.58 and 86.14 mg GAE/g dry weight (DW in IMA053 and IMA043, respectively). The DCM extracts had a higher radical scavenging activity (RSA) than the water and methanol ones, especially those from IMA043, with RSAs of 99.65% toward 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)diammonium salt (ABTS) at 10 mg/mL, and of 103.43% against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) at 5 mg/mL. The DCM extract of IMA053 displayed relevant copper chelating properties (67.48% at 10 mg/mL), while the highest iron chelating activity was observed in the water extract of the same species (92.05% at 10 mg/mL). Both strains presented a high proportion of saturated (SFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) fatty acids. The results suggested that these microalgae could be further explored as sources of natural antioxidants for the pharmaceutical and food industry and as feedstock for biofuel production.
Strategies to Reduce Post-Hemorrhoidectomy Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lohsiriwat Varut , Jitmungngan Romyen
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives: Excisional hemorrhoidectomy is considered as a mainstay operation for high-grade hemorrhoids and complicated hemorrhoids. However, postoperative pain remains a challenging problem after hemorrhoidectomy. This systematic review aims to identify pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for reducing post-hemorrhoidectomy pain. Materials and Methods: The databases of Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE were systematically searched for randomized controlled trails (published in English language with full-text from 1981 to 30 September 2021) to include comparative studies examining post-hemorrhoidectomy pain as their primary outcomes between an intervention and another intervention (or a sham or placebo). Results: Some 157 studies were included in this review with additional information from 15 meta-analyses. Fundamentally, strategies to reduce post-hemorrhoidectomy pain were categorized into four groups: anesthetic methods, surgical techniques, intraoperative adjuncts, and postoperative interventions. In brief, local anesthesia-alone or combined with intravenous sedation was the most effective anesthetic method for excisional hemorrhoidectomy. Regarding surgical techniques, closed (Ferguson) hemorrhoidectomy performed with a vascular sealing device or an ultrasonic scalpel was recommended. Lateral internal anal sphincterotomy may be performed as a surgical adjunct to reduce post-hemorrhoidectomy pain, although it increased risks of anal incontinence. Chemical sphincterotomy (botulinum toxin, topical calcium channel blockers, and topical glyceryl trinitrate) was also efficacious in reducing postoperative pain. So were other topical agents such as anesthetic cream, 10% metronidazole ointment, and 10% sucralfate ointment. Postoperative administration of oral metronidazole, flavonoids, and laxatives was associated with a significant reduction in post-hemorrhoidectomy pain. Conclusions: This systematic review comprehensively covers evidence-based strategies to reduce pain after excisional hemorrhoidectomy. Areas for future research on this topic are also addressed at the end of this article.
Lignocellulosic Biomass-Derived Nanocellulose Crystals as Fillers in Membranes for Water and Wastewater Treatment: A Review
Authors: Sadare Olawumi O. , Yoro Kelvin O. , Moothi Kapil , Daramola Michael O.
Published: March 2022

The improvement of membrane applications for wastewater treatment has been a focal point of research in recent times, with a wide variety of efforts being made to enhance the performance, integrity and environmental friendliness of the existing membrane materials. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are sustainable nanomaterials derived from microorganisms and plants with promising potential in wastewater treatment. Cellulose nanomaterials offer a satisfactory alternative to other environmentally harmful nanomaterials. However, only a few review articles on this important field are available in the open literature, especially in membrane applications for wastewater treatment. This review briefly highlights the circular economy of waste lignocellulosic biomass and the isolation of CNCs from waste lignocellulosic biomass for membrane applications. The surface chemical functionalization technique for the preparation of CNC-based materials with the desired functional groups and properties is outlined. Recent uses of CNC-based materials in membrane applications for wastewater treatment are presented. In addition, the assessment of the environmental impacts of CNCs, cellulose extraction, the production techniques of cellulose products, cellulose product utilization, and their end-of-life disposal are briefly discussed. Furthermore, the challenges and prospects for the development of CNC from waste biomass for application in wastewater treatment are discussed extensively. Finally, this review unraveled some important perceptions on the prospects of CNC-based materials, especially in membrane applications for the treatment of wastewater.
Silver-Doped Anodic Alumina with Antimicrobial Properties—Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Kiradzhiyska Denitsa , Milcheva Nikolina , Batsalova Tsvetelina , Dzhambazov Balik , Zahariev Nikolay , Mancheva Rositsa
Published: March 2022

The incessant need for the elimination of pathogenic viruses and multi-drug resistant bacteria has been a critical issue during recent decades, and requires the creation of new antimicrobial materials. Our study describes the production of silver-modified anodic alumina substrates by two methods, and estimation of their bactericidal activity. Aluminum oxide coatings were obtained via an anodization process of low-purity aluminum in an acidic bath for different time periods. The realization of silver infiltration into the pores of the alumina layers was carried out employing two different routes—electrochemical deposition, and in situ thermal reduction. The obtained films were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Changes in the surface morphology and thickness of the initial oxide structures after hot water sealing procedure were observed. The presence of silver inside the pores of the alumina layers was also assessed. It was found that silver electrodeposition resulted in greater surface saturation. Large silver accumulations were observed on the thinner anodic films which experienced electroplating for longer time periods. Finally, the antibacterial activity of the modified alumina structures against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus) bacteria was evaluated. The results demonstrate that silver deposits acquired by the electrochemical technique improve the bactericidal efficiency of the anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) layers. On the contrary, alumina structures with chemically embedded Ag particles did not show significant antibacterial properties. Overall, the present studies demonstrate that biological activity of silver-doped AAO films depends on the techniques used for their modification.
Synthesis of Ti–Al Bimodal Powder for High Flowability Feedstock by Electrical Explosion of Wires
Authors: Lerner Marat , Pervikov Alexander , Glazkova Elena , Rodkevich Nikolay , Suliz Konstantin , Kazantsev Sergey , Toropkov Nikita , Bakina Olga
Published: March 2022

In this research, Ti–Al bimodal powders were produced by simultaneous electrical explosion of titanium and aluminum wires. The resulting powders were used to prepare powder–polymer feedstocks. Material characterization involving X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and melt flow index (MFI) determination were carried out to characterize bimodal powders obtained and evaluate the influence of the powder composition on the feedstock flowability. The bimodal distribution of particles in powders has been found to be achieved at a current density of 1.2 × 107 A/cm2 (the rate of energy input is 56.5 J/μs). An increase in the current density to 1.6 × 107 A/cm2 leads to a decrease in the content of micron particles and turning into a monomodal particle size distribution. The use of bimodal powders for powder–polymer feedstocks allows to achieve higher MFI values compared with monomodal powders. In addition, the use of electroexplosive synthesis of bimodal powders makes it possible to achieve a homogeneous distribution of micro- and nanoparticles in the feedstock.
Characterization of a Medium Mn-Ni Steel Q&P Treated by a High Partitioning Temperature Cycle
Authors: Arribas Maribel , Del Molino Eider , Gutiérrez Teresa , Arlazarov Artem , Martin David , De Caro Daniele , Ayenampudi Sudhindra , Santofimia Maria J.
Published: March 2022

In this work, a medium Mn-Ni steel was treated through Quenching and Partitioning (Q&P) with a partitioning temperature (PT) of 650 °C, which corresponded to the start of the austenite reverse transformation (ART) phenomenon. The influence of the quenching temperature (QT) and partitioning time (Pt) on austenite stabilization and mechanical properties was investigated. A strong influence of the quenching temperature was observed. Results were compared with those obtained after a Q&P treatment with 400 °C partitioning temperature. The Q&P cycle with quenching to room temperature and a high partitioning temperature produced a steel with a high retained austenite (RA) volume fraction and exceptional strength–ductility balance. The analysis of the mechanical stability of the retained austenite revealed a significant stress-induced transformation. Nevertheless, the austenite, which was stable at stresses above the yield stress, provided significant TRIP-assisted ductility. Bending, hole expansion and post-stamping properties were also evaluated for the most promising conditions.
Unveiling Liquation and Segregation Induced Failure Mechanism in Thick Dissimilar Aluminum Alloy Electron-Beam Welds
Authors: Mastanaiah P. , Reddy G. Madhusudan , Bhattacharya Anirban , Kapil Angshuman , Sharma Abhay
Published: March 2022

This study presents new findings on the underlying failure mechanism of thick dissimilar electron-beam (EB) welds through a study on the AA 2219-AA 5083 pair. Contrary to the prior studies on EB welding of thin Al alloys, where liquation in the grain boundaries (GBs) in the partially melted zone (PMZ) was not observed, the present investigation for thick EB welds reports both liquation and increased segregation of Cu in the PMZ. The work is thus directed towards understanding the unusual observation in the PMZ of thick EB weld through investigation of the microstructural variation across the various regions of the produced weld. The microstructural results are correlated with the mechanical properties of the weld, i.e., hardness variation and tensile response. Results of this investigation suggest that unlike the convention that EB welding produces sound dissimilar Al welds, the weld performance for thick EB Al welds is affected by the heat input, the associated cooling rates, and most importantly by the base material thickness. Extensive liquation and Cu segregation induced failure in the PMZ on the AA 2219 side of the dissimilar weld. The underlying failure mechanism is explained through a heat-transfer analysis. Beyond a certain plate thickness, the heat transfer changes from two to three-dimensional. As a result, retarded cooling promotes liquation and Cu segregation in thick EB welds.