bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maggot Therapy as a Part of a Holistic Approach in the Treatment of Multimorbid Patients with Chronic Ulcer
Authors: Romeyke Tobias
Published: June 2021

Patients with chronic wounds (leg ulcers, decubitus, and diabetic foot ulcers) suffer from marked restrictions in their quality of life and can often no longer adequately carry out their everyday tasks. The need for nursing and medical care increases when other illnesses and complaints are present at the same time. Qualified wound care and the treatment of comorbidities are therefore of particular importance. The treatment of this disease, which is increasing in number, requires a holistic, multimodal treatment approach which, in addition to professional wound care, also includes comorbidities in the treatment. This case study describes an old treatment method for refractory wounds, the so-called “maggot therapy”, and shows how this is integrated into a holistic, multimodal therapeutic approach.
Feature Selection Combining Information Theory View and Algebraic View in the Neighborhood Decision System
Authors: Xu Jiucheng , Qu Kanglin , Yuan Meng , Yang Jie
Published: June 2021

Feature selection is one of the core contents of rough set theory and application. Since the reduction ability and classification performance of many feature selection algorithms based on rough set theory and its extensions are not ideal, this paper proposes a feature selection algorithm that combines the information theory view and algebraic view in the neighborhood decision system. First, the neighborhood relationship in the neighborhood rough set model is used to retain the classification information of continuous data, to study some uncertainty measures of neighborhood information entropy. Second, to fully reflect the decision ability and classification performance of the neighborhood system, the neighborhood credibility and neighborhood coverage are defined and introduced into the neighborhood joint entropy. Third, a feature selection algorithm based on neighborhood joint entropy is designed, which improves the disadvantage that most feature selection algorithms only consider information theory definition or algebraic definition. Finally, experiments and statistical analyses on nine data sets prove that the algorithm can effectively select the optimal feature subset, and the selection result can maintain or improve the classification performance of the data set.
Voltage and Frequency Control of Balanced/Unbalanced Distribution System Using the SMES System in the Presence of Wind Energy
Authors: Salama Hossam S. , Vokony Istvan
Published: June 2021

This paper presents an effective solution to overcome the problem caused by intermittent energy sources that are connected to a balanced/unbalanced distribution system using a superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) system by mitigating the voltage and frequency fluctuations during wind gusts. The fuzzy logic control technique (FLC) is used with SMES to improve the voltage and frequency. A squirrel cage induction generator (SCIG) is applied as the wind energy generator. The IEEE 33-bus distribution system is used to validate the proposed method. Buses 18 33 are the weakest points in this system; thus, the wind and SMES systems are connected to the system at these buses. We used MATLAB/Simulink to simulate the performance of the IEEE 33-bus system (balanced/unbalanced) considering the SMES, wind system, and fuzzy logic control (FLC). The simulation results show the high performance of the proposed control method to alleviate the voltage and frequency fluctuation and achieve the power leveling strategy of the studied system.
Geothermal Boreholes in Poland—Overview of the Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Sliwa Tomasz , Sapińska-Śliwa Aneta , Gonet Andrzej , Kowalski Tomasz , Sojczyńska Anna
Published: June 2021

Geothermal energy can be useful after extraction from geothermal wells, borehole heat exchangers and/or natural sources. Types of geothermal boreholes are geothermal wells (for geothermal water production and injection) and borehole heat exchangers (for heat exchange with the ground without mass transfer). The purpose of geothermal production wells is to harvest the geothermal water present in the aquifer. They often involve a pumping chamber. Geothermal injection wells are used for injecting back the produced geothermal water into the aquifer, having harvested the energy contained within. The paper presents the parameters of geothermal boreholes in Poland (geothermal wells and borehole heat exchangers). The definitions of geothermal boreholes, geothermal wells and borehole heat exchangers were ordered. The dates of construction, depth, purposes, spatial orientation, materials used in the construction of geothermal boreholes for casing pipes, method of water production and type of closure for the boreholes are presented. Additionally, production boreholes are presented along with their efficiency and the temperature of produced water measured at the head. Borehole heat exchangers of different designs are presented in the paper. Only 19 boreholes were created at the Laboratory of Geoenergetics at the Faculty of Drilling, Oil and Gas, AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow; however, it is a globally unique collection of borehole heat exchangers, each of which has a different design for identical geological conditions: heat exchanger pipe configuration, seal/filling and shank spacing are variable. Using these boreholes, the operating parameters for different designs are tested. The laboratory system is also used to provide heat and cold for two university buildings. Two coefficients, which separately characterize geothermal boreholes (wells and borehole heat exchangers) are described in the paper.
Impact of the Gut Microbiota Balance on the Health–Disease Relationship: The Importance of Consuming Probiotics and Prebiotics
Authors: Olvera-Rosales Laura-Berenice , Cruz-Guerrero Alma-Elizabeth , Ramírez-Moreno Esther , Quintero-Lira Aurora , Contreras-López Elizabeth , Jaimez-Ordaz Judith , Castañeda-Ovando Araceli , Añorve-Morga Javier , Calderón-Ramos Zuli-Guadalupe , Arias-Rico José , González-Olivares Luis-Guillermo
Published: June 2021

Gut microbiota is a group of microorganisms that are deposited throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract. Currently, thanks to genomic tools, studies of gut microbiota have pointed towards the understanding of the metabolism of important bacteria that are not cultivable and their relationship with human homeostasis. Alterations in the composition of gut microbiota could explain, at least in part, some epidemics, such as diabetes and obesity. Likewise, dysbiosis has been associated with gastrointestinal disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and even cancer. That is why several studies have recently been focused on the direct relationship that these types of conditions have with the specific composition of gut microbiota, as in the case of the microbiota–intestine–brain axis. In the same way, the control of microbiota is related to the diet. Therefore, this review highlights the importance of gut microbiota, from its composition to its relationship with the human health–disease condition, as well as emphasizes the effect of probiotic and prebiotic consumption on the balance of its composition.
Carotenoids in Milk and the Potential for Dairy Based Functional Foods
Authors: Conboy Stephenson Ruth , Ross R. Paul , Stanton Catherine
Published: June 2021

Carotenoids are a family of over 1100 known natural pigments synthesized by plants, algae, fungi and bacteria. Dietary intake of carotenoids is necessary for mammals as they cannot be synthesized in the body. In cows, the nature of the diet consumed strongly influences the composition of milk produced and this includes carotenoid concentration and profile. Fresh forage is the richest source of carotenoids for cows. The main carotenoids identified in forages are lutein, β-carotene, zeaxanthin and epilutein. Manipulating cow feed via carotenoid supplementation increases the carotenoid content of bovine milk. In humans, carotenoids have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and provitamin A activity. Lutein is a major carotenoid in human milk and the brain tissue of adults and infants. Lutein and zeaxanthin are linked to improved eye health and cognitive function. Traditionally for humans, fruit and vegetables have been the main source of carotenoid intake. Functional foods present an opportunity to incorporate these naturally occurring compounds into milk products for added health benefits, widening the range of dietary sources of carotenoids. We offer an overview of the literature to date on carotenoid-fortified dairy products and infant formula. This review will describe and summarize the key mechanisms by which the carotenoid profile of bovine milk can be manipulated. We present findings on the origin and role of carotenoids in bovine and human milk, outline factors that impact the carotenoid content of milk, evaluate carotenoid-fortified milk products and discuss the associated challenges, such as bioaccessibility and stability.
Vine-Shoots as Enological Additives. A Study of Acute Toxicity and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Cebrián-Tarancón Cristina , Fernández-Roldán Francisco , Sánchez-Gómez Rosario , Salinas Rosario , Llorens Silvia
Published: June 2021

Toasted vine-shoots have been recently proposed as enological additives that can be used to improve the sensorial profile of wines. However, the possible toxicity of this new winery practice has not been studied so far. The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxicity of Tempranillo, Cencibel, and Cabernet Sauvignon toasted vine-shoots when used in winemaking. First, vine-shoots were characterized in terms of minerals and phenolic and furan compounds, and then their acute toxicity and cytotoxicity were studied using Microtox® and the metabolic reduction of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. High EC50 values were obtained when the Microtox® assay was applied to vine-shoot aqueous extracts, similar to the case of herbal infusions. When the MTT assay was used, a cell viability above 70% was observed in all the wines made with those vine-shoots, and an even greater viability was observed in the case of Cabernet Sauvignon. Therefore, it was concluded that those vine-shoots have no cytotoxic potential.
Is Voting for a Cartel a Sign of Cooperativeness?
Authors: Gillet Joris
Published: June 2021

This paper tests the hypothesis that a (partial) reason why cartels—collective but costly and non-binding price agreements—lead to higher prices in a Bertrand oligopoly could be because of a selection effect: decision-makers who are willing to form price agreements are more likely to be less competitive and pick higher prices in general. To test this hypothesis we run an experiment where participants play two consecutive Bertrand pricing games: first a standard version without the opportunity to form agreements; followed by a version where participants can vote whether to have a (costly) non-binding agreement as a group to pick the highest number. We find no statistically significant difference between the numbers picked in the first game by participants who vote for and against an agreement in the second game. We do confirm that having a non-binding agreement to cooperate leads to higher numbers being picked on average. Both participants who voted for and against the agreement increase the number they pick in situations with an agreement. However, this effect is bigger for participants who voted in favour.
A Sparse and Low-Rank Regression Model for Identifying the Relationships Between DNA Methylation and Gene Expression Levels in Gastric Cancer and the Prediction of Prognosis
Authors: Wang Yishu , Xu Lingyun , Ai Dongmei
Published: June 2021

DNA methylation is an important regulator of gene expression that can influence tumor heterogeneity and shows weak and varying expression levels among different genes. Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly heterogeneous cancer of the digestive system with a high mortality rate worldwide. The heterogeneous subtypes of GC lead to different prognoses. In this study, we explored the relationships between DNA methylation and gene expression levels by introducing a sparse low-rank regression model based on a GC dataset with 375 tumor samples and 32 normal samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Differences in the DNA methylation levels and sites were found to be associated with differences in the expressed genes related to GC development. Overall, 29 methylation-driven genes were found to be related to the GC subtypes, and in the prognostic model, we explored five prognoses related to the methylation sites. Finally, based on a low-rank matrix, seven subgroups were identified with different methylation statuses. These specific classifications based on DNA methylation levels may help to account for heterogeneity and aid in personalized treatments.
Subcellular Localization of miRNAs and Implications in Cellular Homeostasis
Authors: Jie Minwen , Feng Tong , Huang Wei , Zhang Moran , Feng Yuliang , Jiang Hao , Wen Zhili
Published: June 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are thought to act as post-transcriptional regulators in the cytoplasm by either dampening translation or stimulating degradation of target mRNAs. With the increasing resolution and scope of RNA mapping, recent studies have revealed novel insights into the subcellular localization of miRNAs. Based on miRNA subcellular localization, unconventional functions and mechanisms at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels have been identified. This minireview provides an overview of the subcellular localization of miRNAs and the mechanisms by which they regulate transcription and cellular homeostasis in mammals, with a particular focus on the roles of phase-separated biomolecular condensates.
Messages in Bottles: An Archive of Black Iraqi Identity in Diaa Jubaili’s al-Biṭrīq al-Aswad
Authors: Rossetti Chip
Published: June 2021

The novel al-Biṭrīq al-Aswad [The Black Penguin] by the Iraqi author Diaa Jubaili is a rare example of a contemporary Arabic novel that centers the experiences of Iraq’s Black population, most of whom live near Basra in Iraq’s south. The novel’s mixed-race narrator recounts his life story in the form of letters addressed to international figures, highlighting the life of his family on the margins of Iraqi society and his later involvement with the real-life civil rights group, the Movement of Free Iraqis. This article draws on Stuart Hall’s dual conception of cultural identity in diaspora to frame the characters’ search for a Black Iraqi identity as a dynamic engagement with memory, one that represents a counternarrative in the face of legacies of African slavery and legal discrimination.
Cardiac Involvement in COVID-19 Patients: A Contemporary Review
Authors: Carretta Domenico Maria , Silva Aline Maria , D’Agostino Donato , Topi Skender , Lovero Roberto , Charitos Ioannis Alexandros , Wegierska Angelika Elzbieta , Montagnani Monica , Santacroce Luigi
Published: June 2021

Background: The widely variable clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV2 disease (COVID-19) range from asymptomatic infections to multiple organ failure and death. Among the organs affected is the heart. This does not only affect people who already have previous cardiovascular problems, but also healthy people. This is a reason not to overlook any symptoms or to perform targeted examinations, even if apparently unrelated to the heart, for quick recognition and timely therapy. Aim of the study: This review recapitulates the current state of knowledge on the potential mechanisms and manifestation of myocarditis in patients with COVID-19 infection. Methods: A web-based search of published data was performed for all relevant studies on patients diagnosed with a COVID-19-induced acute myocarditis, and a total of 50 reports were included. The analysis of the studies evaluated highlights a male predominance, with the average age of patients being 55 years. The most common presenting symptoms included fever, shortness of breath, cough, and chest pain. Among ECG changes, non-specific ST-segment and T-wave amplitude alterations and ventricular tachycardia episodes were reported. Finally, we wanted to use a general evaluation without distinguishing between various countries, taking into consideration only the peer or reviewer, regardless of the declared value of the journals that have been published. Results and critical findings: The most common presenting symptoms included fever, shortness of breath, cough, and chest pain. Among ECG changes, non-specific ST-segment and T-wave amplitude alterations and ventricular tachycardia episodes were reported. In most patients, elevated levels of cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers were measured. Left ventricular dysfunction and hypokinesis were commonly exhibited symptoms. Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMRI) confirmed the diagnosis of myocarditis with features of cardiac edema and cardiac injury. Nine patients underwent histopathological examination. Treatment with corticosteroids and immunoglobulins was the most applied strategy following the administration of antivirals. Discussion: Despite the exponentially growing knowledge on the management of COVID-19 infection, current available data on SARS-CoV2-correlated myocarditis are still limited, and several difficulties may be encountered in the differential diagnosis of acute myocarditis in the context of COVID-19 disease. Conclusions: While diagnostic criteria and evaluation strategies for myocarditis are well described, no guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of myocarditis in COVID-19 patients have yet been established. Therefore, further research is needed to advance the understanding of this disease process and define the most appropriate strategic approach in these patients.
Associations between Suboptimal Sleep and Smoking, Poor Nutrition, Harmful Alcohol Consumption and Inadequate Physical Activity (‘SNAP Risks’): A Comparison of People with and without a Mental Health Condition in an Australian Community Survey
Authors: Metse Alexandra P. , Clinton-McHarg Tara , Skinner Elise , Yogaraj Yogayashwanthi , Colyvas Kim , Bowman Jenny
Published: June 2021

Introduction: People with a mental health condition experience disproportionate morbidity and mortality compared to the general population. This inequity has been largely attributed to a higher prevalence of chronic disease risk behaviours including smoking, poor nutrition, harmful alcohol consumption and inadequate physical activity (‘SNAP risks’). Suboptimal sleep is highly prevalent among people with a mental health condition and, as an identified risk behaviour for several chronic diseases, has been implicated as an additional contributor to this health inequity. Research involving people without a mental health condition suggests associations between poor sleep and each SNAP risk; however, interactions with mental health status have not been reported in an Australian population. This study explored associations between suboptimal sleep and all four SNAP risks, and assessed whether they vary by mental health status. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study (n = 1265) was undertaken using self-report data from a cross-sectional telephone survey of Australian adults. Based on national guidelines and recommendations that indicate when someone might be at risk of adverse health effects, SNAP risks and sleep variables were reduced to two levels: ‘at risk’ or ‘not at risk’; and ‘appropriate’ or ‘suboptimal’, respectively. Chi square tests and multivariable logistic regression models explored associations between suboptimal sleep, SNAP risks and mental health status. Results: Fifteen per cent (n = 184) of participants identified as having a mental health condition in the past 12 months. Being at risk of adverse health effects due to smoking had the strongest association with several measures of suboptimal sleep (ps < 0.05). Two-way interactions revealed that being at risk of adverse health effects due to alcohol use and physical inactivity resulted in a significantly greater likelihood of suboptimal sleep duration (OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.41 to 6.64; OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.41 to 6.69) and nap duration (OR 7.96, 95% CI 1.90 to 33.22), respectively, for people with a mental health condition compared to those without. Conclusions: The findings suggest associations between suboptimal sleep and smoking, risky alcohol consumption and physical inactivity, with the latter two perhaps being stronger among people with a mental health condition compared to those without such a condition. Poor sleep should be considered in interventions to address smoking, alcohol and physical activity; and vice versa. This study lends further support for the value of multirisk lifestyle interventions to promote physical and mental health for people with mental health conditions.
Where and How Extensive Are the Living Areas of the Elderly? An Empirical Study on ‘Ageing in Place’ in Three Small and Medium-Sized Japanese Cities
Authors: Nishino Tatsuya
Published: June 2021

The policies regarding the elderly in advanced countries are based on the notion of ‘ageing in place’. The question arises, where and how extensive can the ‘place’ be? Is there a method of estimating a senior’s living area? The purpose of this study was to determine the common characteristics of the living areas of seniors in three small and medium-sized Japanese cities. The basic methodology involved a comparative analysis involving these cities. We used case studies to cross tabulate interviews regarding the daily outings of participants, some of whom needed long-term care while others did not. The data covered a total of 727 participants, 307 of whom needed long-term care and 420 requiring none. Comparative analysis revealed the common characteristics of living areas for seniors in these cities, i.e., two-layered living areas of healthy seniors; fewer outings on foot due to frailty; the average moving time via transportation is approximately 12 min; and living areas overlap districts where hospitals and stores are located. The results indicate that we can roughly estimate the living areas of seniors in any neighborhood to investigate accessibility to nearby hospitals and stores.
Ecological, Social, and Other Environmental Determinants of Dengue Vector Abundance in Urban and Rural Areas of Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Rahman Md. Siddikur , Ekalaksananan Tipaya , Zafar Sumaira , Poolphol Petchaboon , Shipin Oleg , Haque Ubydul , Paul Richard , Rocklöv Joacim , Pientong Chamsai , Overgaard Hans J.
Published: June 2021

Aedes aegypti is the main vector of dengue globally. The variables that influence the abundance of dengue vectors are numerous and complex. This has generated a need to focus on areas at risk of disease transmission, the spatial-temporal distribution of vectors, and the factors that modulate vector abundance. To help guide and improve vector-control efforts, this study identified the ecological, social, and other environmental risk factors that affect the abundance of adult female and immature Ae. aegypti in households in urban and rural areas of northeastern Thailand. A one-year entomological study was conducted in four villages of northeastern Thailand between January and December 2019. Socio-demographic; self-reported prior dengue infections; housing conditions; durable asset ownership; water management; characteristics of water containers; knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding climate change and dengue; and climate data were collected. Household crowding index (HCI), premise condition index (PCI), socio-economic status (SES), and entomological indices (HI, CI, BI, and PI) were calculated. Negative binomial generalized linear models (GLMs) were fitted to identify the risk factors associated with the abundance of adult females and immature Ae. aegypti. Urban sites had higher entomological indices and numbers of adult Ae. aegypti mosquitoes than rural sites. Overall, participants’ KAP about climate change and dengue were low in both settings. The fitted GLM showed that a higher abundance of adult female Ae. aegypti was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with many factors, such as a low education level of household respondents, crowded households, poor premise conditions, surrounding house density, bathrooms located indoors, unscreened windows, high numbers of wet containers, a lack of adult control, prior dengue infections, poor climate change adaptation, dengue, and vector-related practices. Many of the above were also significantly associated with a high abundance of immature mosquito stages. The GLM model also showed that maximum and mean temperature with four-and one-to-two weeks of lag were significant predictors (p < 0.05) of the abundance of adult and immature mosquitoes, respectively, in northeastern Thailand. The low KAP regarding climate change and dengue highlights the engagement needs for vector-borne disease prevention in this region. The identified risk factors are important for the critical first step toward developing routine Aedes surveillance and reliable early warning systems for effective dengue and other mosquito-borne disease prevention and control strategies at the household and community levels in this region and similar settings elsewhere.
Nurses and Pharmaceutical Care: Interprofessional, Evidence-Based Working to Improve Patient Care and Outcomes
Authors: Dilles Tinne , Heczkova Jana , Tziaferi Styliani , Helgesen Ann Karin , Grøndahl Vigdis Abrahamsen , Van Rompaey Bart , Sino Carolien G. , Jordan Sue
Published: June 2021

Pharmaceutical care necessitates significant efforts from patients, informal caregivers, the interprofessional team of health care professionals and health care system administrators. Collaboration, mutual respect and agreement amongst all stakeholders regarding responsibilities throughout the complex process of pharmaceutical care is needed before patients can take full advantage of modern medicine. Based on the literature and policy documents, in this position paper, we reflect on opportunities for integrated evidence-based pharmaceutical care to improve care quality and patient outcomes from a nursing perspective. Despite the consensus that interprofessional collaboration is essential, in clinical practice, research, education and policy-making challenges are often not addressed interprofessionally. This paper concludes with specific advises to move towards the implementation of more interprofessional, evidence-based pharmaceutical care.
Recent Trends in Nanofluids
Authors: Bhatti Muhammad Mubashir
Published: June 2021

In various industrial technologies, ultrahigh-performance cooling is an essential requirement [...]
Pricing of Complementary Products in Online Purchasing under Return Policy
Authors: Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Beydokhti Shima Rezvan , Cárdenas-Barrón Leopoldo Eduardo , Najafi-Ghobadi Somayeh
Published: June 2021

In online purchasing, customers may return products due to dissatisfaction with the quality of the product, and receive a refund based on the return policy, which is determined by online distributors. Online distributors can offer generous policies to attract more customers, but at the cost of reducing total profits. In this paper, the effect of the pricing and quality of complementary products (products sold together with other items) in online selling under the return policy is investigated. For this purpose, a mathematical model is developed to obtain optimal values for selling price, refund amount, and quality of products. Based on analytical results, a solution algorithm is proposed to solve the numerical examples and perform sensitivity analysis. Findings reveal that, while increasing the sensitivity of demand with respect to the refund amount, the price, quality, and refund on returned products should be increased. In addition, the online distributor should increase the quality of products when customers are more sensitive to the quality of products. Among other results, the selling price is shown to be negatively affected by demand elasticity with respect to price. In this situation, the online distributor should reduce the quality level and the refund amount for returned products to avoid a sharp decline in profit. In addition, when the quality cost is high, the price and quality should be decreased and the refund amount unchanged.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Potential of 3-Oxo-19β-trifluoroacetoxy-18αH-oleane-28-oic Acid
Authors: Khusnutdinova Elmira , Poptsov Alexander , Kazakova Oxana
Published: June 2021

Trifluoroacetic acid-promoted Wagner-Meerwein rearrangement of betulonic acid carboxamide led to the formation of the expected 19β,28-lactam along with a new germanicane-type 3-oxo-19β-trifluoroacetoxy-18αH-oleane-28-oic acid. The structure of this triterpenoid was confirmed by 2D NMR analyses. A primary evaluation of biological potency revealed an anticancer activity with GI50 < 5 μM against leukemia, colon cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer cell lines, while the parent compounds were not active.
Cancellation of Auxetic Properties in F.C.C. Hard Sphere Crystals by Hybrid Layer-Channel Nanoinclusions Filled by Hard Spheres of Another Diameter
Authors: Narojczyk Jakub W. , Wojciechowski Krzysztof W. , Smardzewski Jerzy , Imre Attila R. , Grima Joseph N. , Bilski Mikołaj
Published: June 2021

The elastic properties of f.c.c. hard sphere crystals with periodic arrays of nanoinclusions filled by hard spheres of another diameter are the subject of this paper. It has been shown that a simple modification of the model structure is sufficient to cause very significant changes in its elastic properties. The use of inclusions in the form of joined (mutually orthogonal) layers and channels showed that the resulting tetragonal system exhibited a complete lack of auxetic properties when the inclusion spheres reached sufficiently large diameter. Moreover, it was very surprising that this hybrid inclusion, which can completely eliminate auxeticity, was composed of components that, alone, in these conditions, enhanced the auxeticity either slightly (layer) or strongly (channel). The study was performed with computer simulations using the Monte Carlo method in the isothermal-isobaric (NpT) ensemble with a variable box shape.
Boron-Rich Boron Carbide Nanoparticles as a Carrier in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy: Their Influence on Tumor and Immune Phagocytic Cells
Authors: Kozień Dawid , Szermer-Olearnik Bożena , Rapak Andrzej , Szczygieł Agnieszka , Anger-Góra Natalia , Boratyński Janusz , Pajtasz-Piasecka Elżbieta , Bućko Mirosław M. , Pędzich Zbigniew
Published: June 2021

The aim of the work was to study the interaction between boron-rich boron carbide nanoparticles and selected tumor and immune phagocytic cells. Experiments were performed to investigate the feasibility of the application of boron carbide nanoparticles as a boron carrier in boron neutron capture therapy. Boron carbide powder was prepared by the direct reaction between boron and soot using the transport of reagents through the gas phase. The powder was ground, and a population of nanoparticles with an average particle size about 80 nm was selected by centrifugation. The aqueous suspension of the nanoparticles was functionalized with human immunoglobulins or FITC-labeled human immunoglobulins and was then added to the MC38 murine colon carcinoma and to the RAW 264.7 cell line of mouse macrophages. Flow cytometry analysis was used to determine interactions between the functionalized boron carbide nanoparticles and respective cells. It was shown that B4C–IgG nanoconjugates may bind to phagocytic cells to be internalized by them, at least partially, whereas such nanoconjugates can only slightly interact with molecules on the cancer cells’ surface.
Non-Destructive Diagnostics of Concrete Beams Strengthened with Steel Plates Using Modal Analysis and Wavelet Transform
Authors: Knak Magdalena , Wojtczak Erwin , Rucka Magdalena
Published: June 2021

Externally bonded reinforcements are commonly and widely used in civil engineering objects made of concrete to increase the structure load capacity or to minimize the negative effects of long-term operation and possible defects. The quality of adhesive bonding between a strengthened structure and steel or composite elements is essential for effective reinforcement; therefore, there is a need for non-destructive diagnostics of adhesive joints. The aim of this paper is the detection of debonding defects in adhesive joints between concrete beams and steel plates using the modal analysis approach. The inspection was based on modal shapes and their further processing with the use of continuous wavelet transform (CWT) for precise debonding localization and imaging. The influence of the number of wavelet vanishing moments and the mode shape interpolation on damage imaging maps was studied. The results showed that the integrated modal analysis and wavelet transform could be successfully applied to determine the exact shape and position of the debonding in the adhesive joints of composite beams.
Application of Additively Manufactured Pentamode Metamaterials in Sodium/Inconel 718 Heat Pipes
Authors: Hu Longfei , Shi Ketian , Luo Xiaoguang , Yu Jijun , Ai Bangcheng , Liu Chao
Published: June 2021

In this study, pentamode metamaterials were proposed for thermal stress accommodation of alkali metal heat pipes. Sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes with and without pentamode metamaterial reinforcement were designed and fabricated. Then, these heat pipes were characterized by startup tests and thermal response simulations. It was found that pentamode metamaterial reinforcement did not affect the startup properties of sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes. At 650–950 °C heating, there was a successful startup of heat pipes with and without pentamode metamaterial reinforcement, displaying uniform temperature distributions. A further simulation indicated that pentamode metamaterials could accommodate thermal stresses in sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes. With pentamode metamaterial reinforcement, stresses in the heat pipes decreased from 12.9–62.1 to 10.2–52.4 MPa. As a result, sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes could be used more confidently. This work was instructive for the engineering application of alkali metal heat pipes.
Topical 5% Imiquimod Sequential to Surgery for HPV-Related Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lip
Authors: Pentangelo Giovanni , Nisticò Steven Paul , Provenzano Eugenio , Cisale Giusy Ylenia , Bennardo Luigi
Published: June 2021

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most common neoplasms affecting the oral cavity and the face. Its more differentiated forms may be associated with human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Case report: In this paper, we report the case of an 86-year-old patient with a well-differentiated SCC of the lower lip associated with HPV treated with surgery with a non-complete histological resolution. Imiquimod 5% cream was applied on the surgical scar once a day for two weeks and then once a week. Two years after SCC removal, no relapse has occurred. Conclusions: Topical imiquimod may be a safe and effective treatment after surgery in SCC of the oral area to reduce the risk of relapses.
Discrimination of Bacillus cereus Group Members by MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Manzulli Viviana , Rondinone Valeria , Buchicchio Alessandro , Serrecchia Luigina , Cipolletta Dora , Fasanella Antonio , Parisi Antonio , Difato Laura , Iatarola Michela , Aceti Angela , Poppa Elena , Tolve Francesco , Pace Lorenzo , Petruzzi Fiorenza , Rovere Ines Della , Raele Donato Antonio , Del Sambro Laura , Giangrossi Luigi , Galante Domenico
Published: June 2021

Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time Of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) technology is currently increasingly used in diagnostic laboratories as a cost effective, rapid and reliable routine technique for the identification and typing of microorganisms. In this study, we used MALDI-TOF MS to analyze a collection of 160 strains belonging to the Bacillus cereus group (57 B. anthracis, 49 B. cereus, 1 B. mycoides, 18 B. wiedmannii, 27 B. thuringiensis, 7 B. toyonensis and 1 B. weihenstephanensis) and to detect specific biomarkers which would allow an unequivocal identification. The Main Spectra Profiles (MSPs) were added to an in-house reference library, expanding the current commercial library which does not include B. toyonensis and B. wiedmannii mass spectra. The obtained mass spectra were statistically compared by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) that revealed seven different clusters. Moreover, for the identification purpose, were generated dedicate algorithms for a rapid and automatic detection of characteristic ion peaks after the mass spectra acquisition. The presence of specific biomarkers can be used to differentiate strains within the B. cereus group and to make a reliable identification of Bacillus anthracis, etiologic agent of anthrax, which is the most pathogenic and feared bacterium of the group. This could offer a critical time advantage for the diagnosis and for the clinical management of human anthrax even in case of bioterror attacks.
Detecting and Quantifying Polyhaloaromatic Environmental Pollutants by Chemiluminescence-Based Analytical Method
Authors: Zhu Ben-Zhan , Tang Miao , Huang Chun-Hua , Mao Li
Published: June 2021

Polyhaloaromatic compounds (XAr) are ubiquitous and recalcitrant in the environment. They are potentially carcinogenic to organisms and may induce serious risks to the ecosystem, raising increasing public concern. Therefore, it is important to detect and quantify these ubiquitous XAr in the environment, and to monitor their degradation kinetics during the treatment of these recalcitrant pollutants. We have previously found that unprecedented intrinsic chemiluminescence (CL) can be produced by a haloquinones/H2O2 system, a newly-found ●OH-generating system different from the classic Fenton system. Recently, we found that the degradation of priority pollutant pentachlorophenol by the classic Fe(II)-Fenton system could produce intrinsic CL, which was mainly dependent on the generation of chloroquinone intermediates. Analogous effects were observed for all nineteen chlorophenols, other halophenols and several classes of XAr, and a novel, rapid and sensitive CL-based analytical method was developed to detect these XAr and monitor their degradation kinetics. Interestingly, for those XAr with halohydroxyl quinoid structure, a Co(II)-mediated Fenton-like system could induce a stronger CL emission and higher degradation, probably due to site-specific generation of highly-effective ●OH. These findings may have broad chemical and environmental implications for future studies, which would be helpful for developing new analytical methods and technologies to investigate those ubiquitous XAr.
Recent Advances in the Label-Free Characterization of Exosomes for Cancer Liquid Biopsy: From Scattering and Spectroscopy to Nanoindentation and Nanodevices
Authors: Di Santo Riccardo , Romanò Sabrina , Mazzini Alberto , Jovanović Svetlana , Nocca Giuseppina , Campi Gaetano , Papi Massimiliano , De Spirito Marco , Di Giacinto Flavio , Ciasca Gabriele
Published: June 2021

Exosomes (EXOs) are nano-sized vesicles secreted by most cell types. They are abundant in bio-fluids and harbor specific molecular constituents from their parental cells. Due to these characteristics, EXOs have a great potential in cancer diagnostics for liquid biopsy and personalized medicine. Despite this unique potential, EXOs are not yet widely applied in clinical settings, with two main factors hindering their translational process in diagnostics. Firstly, conventional extraction methods are time-consuming, require large sample volumes and expensive equipment, and often do not provide high-purity samples. Secondly, characterization methods have some limitations, because they are often qualitative, need extensive labeling or complex sampling procedures that can induce artifacts. In this context, novel label-free approaches are rapidly emerging, and are holding potential to revolutionize EXO diagnostics. These methods include the use of nanodevices for EXO purification, and vibrational spectroscopies, scattering, and nanoindentation for characterization. In this progress report, we summarize recent key advances in label-free techniques for EXO purification and characterization. We point out that these methods contribute to reducing costs and processing times, provide complementary information compared to the conventional characterization techniques, and enhance flexibility, thus favoring the discovery of novel and unexplored EXO-based biomarkers. In this process, the impact of nanotechnology is systematically highlighted, showing how the effectiveness of these techniques can be enhanced using nanomaterials, such as plasmonic nanoparticles and nanostructured surfaces, which enable the exploitation of advanced physical phenomena occurring at the nanoscale level.
Tungsten-Modulated Molybdenum Selenide/Graphene Heterostructure as an Advanced Electrode for All-Solid-State Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Qixian , Ning Jing , Guo Haibin , Xia Maoyang , Wang Boyu , Feng Xin , Wang Dong , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: June 2021

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have attracted widespread attention due to their excellent electrochemical and catalytic properties. In this work, a tungsten (W)-modulated molybdenum selenide (MoSe2)/graphene heterostructure was investigated for application in electrochemistry. MoSe2/graphene heterojunctions with low-doped W compositions were synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal catalysis approach. Based on the conducted density functional theory (DFT) calculations, it was determined that inserting a small amount of W (≈5%) into the MoSe2/graphene heterostructure resulted in the modification of its lattice structure. Additionally, an increase in the distance between layers (≈8%) and a decrease in the adsorption energy of the potassium ions (K+) (≈−1.08 eV) were observed following W doping. Overall, the electrochemical performance of the MoSe2/graphene hybrid was enhanced by the presence of W. An all-solid-state supercapacitor device prepared using electrodes based on the W-doped MoSe2/graphene composite achieved excellent capacitance of 444.4 mF cm−2 at 1 mV s−1. The results obtained herein revealed that the MoSe2/graphene hybrid exhibiting low W composition could be valuable in the field of energy storage and isoelectronic doping of TMDs.
The Perceived Impact of COVID-19 on Comfort Food Consumption over Time: The Mediational Role of Emotional Distress
Authors: Salazar-Fernández Camila , Palet Daniela , Haeger Paola A. , Román Mella Francisca
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on populations at an economic, health, and on an interpersonal level, it is still unclear how it has affected health-risk behaviors, such as comfort food consumption over time. This study longitudinally examines the effect of the perceived impact of COVID-19 on comfort food consumption and whether this effect is mediated by emotional distress. A convenience sample of 1048 students and university staff (academic and non-academic) from two universities completed monthly online surveys during the COVID-19 pandemic across six waves (W; W1 to W6). Participants reported their perceived impact of COVID-19 (economic, interpersonal, and health), comfort food consumption, and emotional distress (DASS-21). Using structural equation models, we found an indirect longitudinal effect of the perceived impact of COVID-19 (W1) on comfort food consumption (W3 to W6) through increased emotional distress (W2). The perceived negative impact of COVID-19 on comfort food consumption was fully mediated by the emotional distress during the first waves (W3 and W4), ending in a partial mediation in the last waves (W5 and W6). These findings contribute to disentangling the mechanisms by which the perceived impact of COVID-19 affects comfort food consumption over time, and highlight the role of emotional distress. Future interventions should address comfort food consumption by focusing on handling emotional distress during a crisis.
Study of Physical Fitness, Bone Quality, and Mediterranean Diet Adherence in Professional Female Beach Handball Players: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Martínez-Rodríguez Alejandro , Sánchez-Sánchez Javier , Martínez-Olcina María , Vicente-Martínez Manuel , Miralles-Amorós Laura , Sánchez-Sáez Juan Antonio
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Beach handball is a relatively new type of sport, derived from team handball. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the physical fitness of elite players of this sport by studying some variables of sports performance, including strength, endurance and power, and dietary habits, and to assess bone ultrasonographic variables. (2) Methods: 33 beach handball players have participated in this research; 18 juniors (age: 16.7 ± 0.50) and 15 seniors (age: 24.8 ± 4.71). The athletes’ strength was evaluated using the Handgrip Test on the dominant hand, the height of jump was evaluated by a counter-jump on a contact platform, and velocity, agility, and resistance by the Yo-Yo test. The broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and the sound of speed (SOS) through the calcaneus were also measured. The Mediterranean diet adherence (KIDMED) was the questionnaire used to evaluate eating habits. In the statistical analysis, descriptions and correlations were made between the study variables. (3) Results: Both in the case of the dynamometric hand strength test (p < 0.05) and in the lower extremity power test (p < 0.01), senior players presented significantly higher values compared to junior players (35.1 ± 3.84 vs. 31.8 ± 3.37 and 35.1 ± 6.89 vs. 28.5 ± 5.69 with the dynamometry and Abalakov tests, respectively). However, no differences were observed in the variables by playing position. Significant correlations between different variables have been established, highlighting negative correlations between BMI and weight with the Abalakov Jump Test and positive correlations between Yo-Yo and BUA, and, between BMI and BUA. (4) Conclusions: Older and trained players are in better physical fitness; high weight and BMI have a negative influence on power, agility, speed, and endurance. In general, adherence to the Mediterranean diet is moderate and it seems evident that there is a beneficial influence of beach handball on bone condition, as measured by ultrasound. However future research should be carried on, including dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry assessments and food intake registers for a whole week.
Ultrasound-Triggered Release of 5-Fluorouracil from Soy Lecithin Echogenic Liposomes
Authors: Ezekiel Charles Izuchukwu , Bapolisi Alain Murhimalika , Walker Roderick Bryan , Krause Rui Werner Maçedo
Published: June 2021

Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of death. The use of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) has been the major chemotherapeutic treatment for colorectal cancer patients. However, the efficacy of 5-FU is limited by drug resistance, and bone marrow toxicity through high-level expression of thymidylate synthase, justifying the need for improvement of the therapeutic index. In this study, the effects of ultrasound on echogenic 5-FU encapsulated crude soy liposomes were investigated for their potential to address these challenges. Liposomes were prepared by thin-film hydration using crude soy lecithin and cholesterol. Argon gas was entrapped in the liposomes for sonosensitivity (that is, responsiveness to ultrasound). The nanoparticles were characterized for particle size and morphology. The physicochemical properties were also evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared and X-ray diffraction. The release profile of 5-FU was assessed with and without 20 kHz low-frequency ultrasound waves at various amplitudes and exposure times. The result reveal that 5-FU-loaded liposomes were spherical with an encapsulation efficiency of approximately 60%. Approximately 65% of 5-FU was released at the highest amplitude and exposure time was investigated. The results are encouraging for the stimulated and controlled release of 5-FU for the management of colorectal cancer.