bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of the In-Plane Compression of Corrugated Paperboard Panels
Authors: Cillie Johan , Coetzee Corné
Published: December 2022

Finite element analysis (FEA) has been proven as a useful design tool to model corrugated paperboard boxes, and is capable of accurately predicting load capacity. The in-plane deformation, however, is usually significantly underpredicted. To investigate this discrepancy, a panel compression test jig, that implemented simply supported boundary conditions, was built to test individual panels. The panels were then modelled using non-linear FEA with a linear material model. The results show that the in-plane deformation was still underpredicted, but a general improvement was seen. Three discrepancies were identified. The first was that the panels showed an initial region of low stiffness that was not present in the FEA results. This was attributed to imperfections in the panels and jig. Secondly, the experimental results reported a lower stiffness than the FEA. Applying an initial imperfection in the shape of the first buckling mode shape was found to reduce the FEA stiffness. Thirdly, the panels showed a decrease in stiffness near failure, which was not seen in the FEA. A bi-linear material model was investigated and holds the potential to improve the results. Box compression tests were performed on a Regular Slotted Container (RSC) with the same dimensions as the tested panel. The box displaced 13.1 mm compared to 3.5 mm for the panel. There was an initial region of low stiffness, which accounted for 7 mm of displacement compared to 0.5 mm for the panels. Thus, box complexities such as horizontal creases should be included in finite element (FE) models to accurately predict the in-plane deformation, while a bi-linear (or any other non-linear) material model may be useful for panel compression.
Anticancer Activity of Mannose-Specific Lectin, BPL2, from Marine Green Alga Bryopsis plumosa
Authors: Lee Jei Ha , Lee Set Byul , Kim Heabin , Shin Jae Min , Yoon Moongeun , An Hye Suck , Han Jong Won
Published: December 2022

Lectin is a carbohydrate-binding protein that recognizes specific cells by binding to cell-surface polysaccharides. Tumor cells generally show various glycosylation patterns, making them distinguishable from non-cancerous cells. Consequently, lectin has been suggested as a good anticancer agent. Herein, the anticancer activity of Bryopsis plumosa lectins (BPL1, BPL2, and BPL3) was screened and tested against lung cancer cell lines (A549, H460, and H1299). BPL2 showed high anticancer activity compared to BPL1 and BPL3. Cell viability was dependent on BPL2 concentration and incubation time. The IC50 value for lung cancer cells was 50 μg/mL after 24 h of incubation in BPL2 containing medium; however, BPL2 (50 μg/mL) showed weak toxicity in non-cancerous cells (MRC5). BPL2 affected cancer cell growth while non-cancerous cells were less affected. Further, BPL2 (20 μg/mL) inhibited cancer cell invasion and migration (rates were ˂20%). BPL2 induced the downregulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-related genes (Zeb1, vimentin, and Twist). Co-treatment with BPL2 and gefitinib (10 μg/mL and 10 μM, respectively) showed a synergistic effect compared with monotherapy. BPL2 or gefitinib monotherapy resulted in approximately 90% and 70% cell viability, respectively, with concomitant treatment showing 40% cell viability. Overall, BPL2 can be considered a good candidate for development into an anticancer agent.
Clinical Phenotypes of Dual Kidney Transplant Recipients in the United States as Identified through Machine Learning Consensus Clustering
Authors: Tangpanithandee Supawit , Thongprayoon Charat , Jadlowiec Caroline C. , Mao Shennen A. , Mao Michael A. , Vaitla Pradeep , Leeaphorn Napat , Kaewput Wisit , Pattharanitima Pattharawin , Krisanapan Pajaree , Nissaisorakarn Pitchaphon , Cooper Matthew , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Our study aimed to cluster dual kidney transplant recipients using an unsupervised machine learning approach to characterize donors and recipients better and to compare the survival outcomes across these various clusters. Materials and Methods: We performed consensus cluster analysis based on recipient-, donor-, and transplant-related characteristics in 2821 dual kidney transplant recipients from 2010 to 2019 in the OPTN/UNOS database. We determined the important characteristics of each assigned cluster and compared the post-transplant outcomes between clusters. Results: Two clinically distinct clusters were identified by consensus cluster analysis. Cluster 1 patients was characterized by younger patients (mean recipient age 49 ± 13 years) who received dual kidney transplant from pediatric (mean donor age 3 ± 8 years) non-expanded criteria deceased donor (100% non-ECD). In contrast, Cluster 2 patients were characterized by older patients (mean recipient age 63 ± 9 years) who received dual kidney transplant from adult (mean donor age 59 ± 11 years) donor with high kidney donor profile index (KDPI) score (59% had KDPI ≥ 85). Cluster 1 had higher patient survival (98.0% vs. 94.6% at 1 year, and 92.1% vs. 76.3% at 5 years), and lower acute rejection (4.2% vs. 6.1% within 1 year), when compared to cluster 2. Death-censored graft survival was comparable between two groups (93.5% vs. 94.9% at 1 year, and 89.2% vs. 84.8% at 5 years). Conclusions: In summary, DKT in the United States remains uncommon. Two clusters, based on specific recipient and donor characteristics, were identified through an unsupervised machine learning approach. Despite varying differences in donor and recipient age between the two clusters, death-censored graft survival was excellent and comparable. Broader utilization of DKT from high KDPI kidneys and pediatric en bloc kidneys should be encouraged to better address the ongoing organ shortage.
Practical Relevance of Institutional Guidelines in Translational Large Animal Studies of Cartilage Repair—A Multidisciplinary Survey
Authors: Riedl Moritz , Rupp Markus , Walter Nike , Henssler Leopold , Kerschbaum Maximilian , Popp Daniel , Vadalà Gianluca , Alt Volker , Docheva Denitsa , Pfeifer Christian G.
Published: December 2022

Background and Objective: Translational large animal models are inevitable to transfer cartilage repair methods into clinical practice. Guidelines for these trials have been published by guiding agencies (FDA, ASTM, EMEA) including recommendations for study descriptors and study outcomes. However, practical adherence to these recommendations is not achieved in all aspects. This study includes an assessment of the recommended aspects regarding practical relevance in large animal models for cartilage repair by professionals in the field. Materials and Methods: In an online based survey, 11 aspects regarding study design and 13 aspects regarding study outcome from previously published guidelines were evaluated (0–10 points, with 10 being most important) by study participants. Additionally, the survey contained questions related to professional experience (years), professional focus (preclinical, clinical, veterinarian, industry) and the preferred translational large animal model for cartilage repair. Results: The total number of survey participants was 37. Rated as most important for study design parameters was lesion size (9.54 pts., SD 0.80) followed by study duration (9.43 pts., SD 1.21); and method of scaffold fixation (9.08 pts., SD 1.30) as well as depth of the lesion (9.03 pts., SD 1.77). The most important aspects of study outcome were considered histology (9.41 pts., SD 0.86) and defect filling (8.97 pts., SD 1.21), while gene expression was judged as the least important (6.11 pts., SD 2.46) outcome. A total of 62.2% of all participants were researchers, 18.9% clinicians, 13.5% veterinarians and 5.4% industry employees. Conclusions: In translational research, recommendations published by guiding agencies receive broad theoretical consensus within the community, including both clinically and preclinically orientated scientists. However, implementation into practical research lacks in major aspects. Ongoing re-evaluation of the guidelines under involvement of all stakeholders and approaches to overcome financial and infrastructural limitations could support the acceptance of the guidance documents and contribute to standardization in the field.
Concomitant Guillain–Barré Syndrome and COVID-19: A Meta-Analysis of Cases
Authors: Bentley Skylar A. , Ahmad Sarfraz , Kobeissy Firas H. , Toklu Hale Z.
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Recent findings demonstrate that the transmigration of severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to the nervous system implicates severe neurotropic pathologies, including the onset of the rare disease called Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) which is characterized by immune-mediated polyneuropathy. This study aimed to identify the predisposing factors and the clinical features of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-induced GBS. Materials and Methods: We have performed an analysis of 147 cases. A systematic review of the published research work was performed per the PRISMA statement to obtain individual participant data (IPD) for the meta-analysis. The search was conducted through PubMed, using the combined search terms “Guillain–Barré syndrome” and “COVID-19”. All case reports and series in the English language with accessed full text were included in the search. Results: A systematic database search led to the retrieval of 112 peer-reviewed articles published between 1 April 2020, and 8 February 2022. The articles comprised 16 case series and 96 case reports containing IPD for 147 patients. Our findings showed that 77.6% of all cases were 40 years or older. Males comprised most of the cases (65.3%; n = 96). The intensive care unit (ICU) admission was 44.9%, and the need for mechanical ventilation (MV) was 38.1%. The patients presented with hyporeflexia or areflexia (84.4%; n = 124), lower limb strength and sensation impairment (93.2%; n = 138), upper limb strength and sensation impairment (85.7; n = 126), and somatic sensation impairment (72.8%; n = 107). The patients presented with increased cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) protein levels (92%; n = 92) and the presence of CSF albuminocytological dissociation (83.5%; n = 71). The most common variant of GBS observed was acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP). We found that predisposing factors concomitant with COVID-19 and GBS were male gender and older age. Among the cases, patient mortality was 10.9%. Conclusions: A gap of knowledge exists regarding the complete spectrum of clinical characteristics of COVID-19-related GBS. Recent findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 triggers GBS, as it follows a similar para-infectious pattern as the other viral agents contributing to the onset of GBS.
Metallic Nanomaterials with Biomedical Applications
Authors: Wang Jiali , Zhao Guo , Feng Liya , Chen Shaowen
Published: December 2022

Metallic nanomaterials have attracted extensive attention in various fields due to their photocatalytic, photosensitive, thermal conducting, electrical conducting and semiconducting properties. Among all these fields, metallic nanomaterials are of particular importance in biomedical sensing for the detection of different analytes, such as proteins, toxins, metal ions, nucleotides, anions and saccharides. However, many problems remain to be solved, such as the synthesis method and modification of target metallic nanoparticles, inadequate sensitivity and stability in biomedical sensing and the biological toxicity brought by metallic nanomaterials. Thus, this Special Issue aims to collect research or review articles focused on electrochemical biosensing, such as metallic nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensors and biosensors, metallic oxide-modified electrodes, biological sensing based on metallic nanomaterials, metallic nanomaterial-based biological sensing devices and chemometrics for metallic nanomaterial-based biological sensing. Meanwhile, studies related to the synthesis and characterization of metallic nanomaterials are also welcome, and both experimental and theoretical studies are welcome for contribution as well.
Experimental Study on Titanium Coating Carbide Drill Cutting Nickel-Base Superalloy
Authors: Li Hui , Gao Feng , Li Yan , Bai Lijing
Published: December 2022

A nickel-base superalloy drilling comparison test was carried out with a carbide drill of the Chinese brand YG10, which was selected and coated with TiN coating, AlTiN coating and TiAlSiN coating. Analysis of drill life, drilling force, drilling temperature, drill wear and machined surface quality were carried out. It can be seen that both TiN coating and AlTiN coating can prolong the tool life of the carbide drill YG10 when drilling nickel-base superalloy GH4169. In contrast, the TiAlSiN-coated drill has poor hardness and is easy worn, which is not suitable for processing nickel-base superalloy which has high hardness and strength. Adhesive wear is the main form of coated drill wear. As the coated drill number of drilling holes increases, the adhesion increases. Coated drills can reduce the machined surface roughness of a workpiece and improve the machined quality.
Compact Wideband Four-Port MIMO Antenna for Sub-6 GHz and Internet of Things Applications
Authors: Sheriff Nathirulla , Kamal Sharul , Tariq Chattha Hassan , Kim Geok Tan , Khawaja Bilal A.
Published: December 2022

A compact four-port multi-input, multi-output (MIMO) antenna with good isolation is proposed for sub-6 GHz and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Four similar L-shaped antennae are placed orthogonally at 7.6 mm distance from the corner of the FR4 substrate. The wideband characteristics and the required frequency band are achieved through the L-shaped structure and with proper placement of the slots on the substrate. To obtain good isolation between the ports, rectangular slots are etched in the bottom layer and are interconnected. The proposed antenna has total dimensions of 40 mm × 40 mm × 1.6 mm. The interconnected ground plane provides good isolation of less than −17 dB between the ports, and the impedance bandwidth obtained by the proposed four-port antenna is about 54% between the frequency range of 3.2 GHz to 5.6 GHz, thus providing a wideband antenna characteristic covering sub-6 GHz 5G bands (from 3.4 to 3.6 GHz and 4.8 to 5 GHz) and the WLAN band (5.2 GHz). The proposed design antenna is fabricated and tested. Good experimental results are achieved when compared with the simulation results. As the proposed design is compact and low profile, this antenna could be a suitable candidate for 5G and IoT devices.
The Role of Gut Bacteriome in Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Authors: Bikov Andras , Dragonieri Silvano , Csoma Balazs , Mazzuca Carmen , Finamore Panaiotis , Rocchi Giulia , Putignani Lorenza , Guarino Michele , Scarlata Simone
Published: December 2022

The human body contains a very complex and dynamic ecosystem of bacteria. The bacteriome interacts with the host bi-directionally, and changes in either factor impact the entire system. It has long been known that chronic airway diseases are associated with disturbances in the lung bacteriome. However, less is known about the role of gut bacteriome in the most common respiratory diseases. Here, we aim to summarise the evidence concerning the role of the intestinal bacteriome in the pathogenesis and disease course of bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. Furthermore, we discuss the consequences of an altered gut bacteriome on the most common comorbidities of these lung diseases. Lastly, we also reflect on the therapeutic potential of influencing the gut microbiome to improve disease outcomes.
Surveillance of Legionella spp. in Open Fountains: Does It Pose a Risk?
Authors: Chatziprodromidou Ioanna P. , Savoglidou Ilektra , Stavrou Venia , Vantarakis George , Vantarakis Apostolos
Published: December 2022

Clusters of outbreaks or cases of legionellosis have been linked to fountains. The function of fountains, along with their inadequate design and poor sanitation, in combination with the warm Mediterranean climate, can favor the proliferation of Legionella in water systems. Public fountains in Mediterranean cities may pose a significant risk for public health due to the aerosolization of water. Nevertheless, few studies have been conducted on Legionella and the risk of infection in humans through fountains. In our study, the presence and quantity of Legionella spp. in fifteen external public fountains were investigated. Two samplings were performed in two different periods (dry and wet). Sixty samples were collected, quantified and analyzed with a culture ISO method. The operation of all fountains was evaluated twice using a standardized checklist. In accordance with their operation, a ranking factor (R factor) was suggested. Finally, based on these results, a quantitative microbial risk assessment was performed. Thirty water samples taken from the fountains (100%) during the dry sampling period were positive for Legionella (mean log concentration: 3.64 ± 0.45 cfu/L), whereas 24 water samples taken from the fountains during the wet period were Legionella-positive (mean log concentration: 2.36 ± 1.23 cfu/L). All fountains were classified as unsatisfactory according to the checklist for the evaluation of their function. A statistically significant correlation was found between Legionella concentration and the assessment score. The risk of Legionella infection was estimated in both periods, with higher risk in the dry period. The surveillance and risk assessment of Legionella spp. in the fountains of Patras confirmed a high prevalence and a high risk to public health.
Grid-Characteristic Method on Overlapping Curvilinear Meshes for Modeling Elastic Waves Scattering on Geological Fractures
Authors: Khokhlov Nikolay I. , Favorskaya Alena , Furgailo Vladislav
Published: December 2022

Interest in computational methods for calculating wave scattering from fractured geological clusters is due to their application in processing and interpreting the data obtained during seismic prospecting of hydrocarbon and other mineral deposits. In real calculations, numerical methods on structured, regular (Cartesian) computational grids are used to conserve computational resources though these methods do not correctly model the scattering of elastic waves from fractures that are not co-directed to the coordinate axes. The use of computational methods on other types of grids requires an increase in computational resources, which is unacceptable for the subsequent solution of inverse problems. This article is devoted to a possible solution to this problem. We suggest a novel modification of a computational grid-characteristic method on overlapping curvilinear grids. In the proposed approach, a small overlapping curvilinear grid is placed around a fracture that smoothly merges into the surrounding Cartesian background mesh, which helps to avoid interpolation between the background and overlapping meshes. This work presents the results of testing this method, which showed its high accuracy. The disadvantages of the developed method include the limited types of fractured clusters for which this method can be applied since the overlapping meshes should not intersect. However, clusters of subvertical fractures are usually found in nature; therefore, the developed method is applicable in most cases.
Resource Estimation in Multi-Unit Mineral Deposits Using a Multivariate Matérn Correlation Model: An Application in an Iron Ore Deposit of Nkout, Cameroon
Authors: Ekolle-Essoh Franklin , Meying Arsène , Zanga-Amougou Alain , Emery Xavier
Published: December 2022

Modeling the spatial dependence structure of metal grades in the presence of soft boundaries between geological domains is challenging in any mineral resource estimation strategy. The aim of this work was to propose a structural model adapted to this type of geological boundary, based on a multivariate Matérn model that fits the observed direct (within domain) and cross (between domains) correlation structures of metal grades. The methodology was applied to a case study of an iron deposit located in southern Cameroon. Cross-validation scores show that accounting for the grade correlation across domain boundaries improved the traditional workflow, where the grade was estimated in each domain separately. The scores were significantly better when we also ensured that the mean grade was locally invariant from one domain to another to reflect the grade continuity across the domain boundary.
Mineralogy of Particulate Suspended Matter of the Severnaya Dvina River (White Sea, Russia)
Authors: Gordeev Vyacheslav V. , Dara Olga M. , Filippov Aleksandr S. , Belorukov Sergey K. , Lokhov Aleksey S. , Kotova Ekaterina I. , Kochenkova Anastasya I.
Published: December 2022

This paper seeks to generalize the data obtained over 4 years of investigation of the suspended sediment mineral composition in Severnaya Dvina River. The sampling of the river water to isolate suspended particulate matter (SPM) using the method of sedimentation from large water volumes (200–800 L) was carried out at two points of the delta with different hydrological regimes every month for four years. SPM samples weighing 1 g and more allowed us to obtain and preserve for different analytical procedures the grain size fractions from 1.0–0.5 to <0.001 mm (from sands to pelit). The analyses of fractions revealed a sharp prevalence of pelitic fractions (<0.01 mm) (near 90% on average), while the share of silt was 4%–5%. Coarse fractions were found in the SPM of the main stream of the river but were absent in the samples taken at the point near the river–sea boundary. The determinations of clastic, clay, and some other minerals using the method of X-ray diffraction analysis have shown that in the group of clastic minerals, quartz and plagioclase prevail. Among the clay minerals, smectite and illite were present in high quantities, and chlorite and kaolinite were in lower quantitative. The distribution of minerals in the grain size fractions showed that the sum of clastic minerals reached its highest content of up to 84% in silt fractions (0.05–0.01 mm), while the sum of clay minerals in this fraction was minimal (about 15%). Investigations of seasonal variations of clastic and clay minerals during the whole period showed that the contents of minerals in the SPM of the Severnaya Dvina did not change much over the year. As a result of this work, the following trend was established on the behavior of all kinds of minerals: during the periods of high water in spring and autumn, a slightly increased quantity of clastic minerals was detected in comparison to winter and summer, while the variations in the quantities of clay minerals were insignificant.
The Crystal Structure and Crystal Chemistry of Mineral-like Cd5(VO4)2(OH)4, a Novel Isomorph of Arsenoclasite and Gatehouseite
Authors: Karanović Ljiljana , Ðorđević Tamara
Published: December 2022

The pentacadmium bis(vanadate(V)) tetrahydroxide Cd5(VO4)2(OH)4 was synthesized under hydrothermal conditions, and its crystal structure was determined with single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The investigated compound is the second known compound next to Cd(VO3)2·4H2O synthesized in the CdO–V2O5–H2O system and crystallizes isotypically to the minerals gatehouseite, Mn5(PO4)2(OH)4, and its As analog arsenoclasite, Mn5(AsO4)2(OH)4. Its symmetry is orthorhombic, with a space group of P212121 and unit cell parameters of a = 19.011(4), b = 6.0133(12), c = 9.5411(19) Å, V = 1090.7(4) Å3, and Z = 4. The structure consists of double ribbons of M(O,OH)6-octahedra (M = Cd2, Cd3, Cd4) extending along [010] interconnected by edge- and corner-shared M(O,OH)6-octahedra (M = Cd1, Cd5) and discrete, slightly distorted VO4 tetrahedra, which form double chains of coupled polyhedra [V1O4–Cd5O4(OH)2–Cd1O5(OH)–V2O4]n running along the same direction. The interesting feature is the existence of V–Cd distances (3.0934(7) and 3.1081(7) Å for V1–Cd5 and V2–Cd1, respectively), which are shorter than the sum of the van der Waals radii of 3.71 Å. The V1–V2 distances of 4.1214(9) Å are also shorter than the sum of the van der Waals radii of 4.26 Å. The O–H···O hydrogen bonds additionally link the two subunits, ribbons, and chains into a three-dimensional structure. Raman spectra confirmed the presence of the hydrogen bonds and mutually isolated VO4 groups.
Recent Trends in Multiclass Analysis of Emerging Endocrine Disrupting Contaminants (EDCs) in Drinking Water
Authors: Lazofsky Abigail , Buckley Brian
Published: December 2022

Ingestion of water is a major route of human exposure to environmental contaminants. There have been numerous studies exploring the different compounds present in drinking water, with recent attention drawn to a new class of emerging contaminants: endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs). EDCs encompass a broad range of physio-chemically diverse compounds; from naturally occurring to manmade. Environmentally, EDCs are found as mixtures containing multiple classes at trace amounts. Human exposure to EDCs, even at low concentrations, is known to lead to adverse health effects. Therefore, the ability to evaluate EDC contamination with a high degree of sensitivity and accuracy is of the utmost importance. This review includes (i) discussion on the perceived and actual risks associated with EDC exposure (ii) regulatory actions that look to limit EDC contamination (iii) analytical methods, including sample preparation, instrumentation and bioassays that have been advanced and employed for multiclass EDC identification and quantitation.
RE(III) 3-Furoate Complexes: Synthesis, Structure, and Corrosion Inhibiting Properties
Authors: Vithana Vidushi P. , Guo Zhifang , Deacon Glen B. , Somers Anthony E. , Junk Peter C.
Published: December 2022

In this study, two types of Rare Earth (RE) 3-furoate complexes were synthesized by metathesis reactions between RE chlorides or nitrates and preformed sodium 3-furoate. Two different structural motifs were identified as Type 1RE and Type 2RE. The Type 1RE monometallic complexes form 2D polymeric networks with the composition [RE(3fur)3(H2O)2]n (1RE = 1La, 1Ce, 1Pr, 1Nd, 1Gd, 1Dy, 1Ho, 1Y; 3furH = 3-furoic acid) while Type 2RE bimetallic complexes form 3D polymeric systems [NaRE(3fur)4]n (2RE = 2Ho, 2Y, 2Er, 2Yb, 2Lu). The stoichiometric mole ratio used (RE: Na(3fur) = 1:3 or 1:4) in the metathesis reaction determines whether 1RE or 2RE (RE = Ho or Y) is formed, but 2RE (RE = Er, Yb, Lu) were obtained regardless of the ratio. The corrosion inhibition behaviour of the compounds has been examined using immersion studies and electrochemical measurements on AS1020 mild steel surfaces by a 0.01 M NaCl medium. Immersion test results revealed that [Y(3fur)3(H2O)2]n has the highest corrosion inhibition capability with 90% resistance after 168 h of immersion. Potentiodynamic polarisation (PP) measurements also indicate the dominant behaviour of the 1Y compound, and the PP curves show that these rare earth carboxylate compounds act predominantly as anodic inhibitors.
Production of [11C]Carbon Labelled Flumazenil and L-Deprenyl Using the iMiDEV™ Automated Microfluidic Radiosynthesizer
Authors: Mallapura Hemantha , Tanguy Laurent , Långström Bengt , Meunier Ludovic Le , Halldin Christer , Nag Sangram
Published: December 2022

In the last decade, microfluidic techniques have been explored in radiochemistry, and some of them have been implemented in preclinical production. However, these are not suitable and reliable for preparing different types of radiotracers or dose-on-demand production. A fully automated iMiDEV™ microfluidic radiosynthesizer has been introduced and this study is aimed at using of the iMiDEV™ radiosynthesizer with a microfluidic cassette to produce [11C]flumazenil and [11C]L-deprenyl. These two are known PET radioligands for benzodiazepine receptors and monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B), respectively. Methods were successfully developed to produce [11C]flumazenil and [11C]L-deprenyl using [11C]methyl iodide and [11C]methyl triflate, respectively. The final products 1644 ± 504 MBq (n = 7) and 533 ± 20 MBq (n = 3) of [11C]flumazenil and [11C]L-deprenyl were produced with radiochemical purities were over 98% and the molar activity for [11C]flumazenil and [11C]L-deprenyl was 1912 ± 552 GBq/µmol, and 1463 ± 439 GBq/µmol, respectively, at the end of synthesis. All the QC tests complied with the European Pharmacopeia. Different parameters, such as solvents, bases, methylating agents, precursor concentration, and different batches of cassettes, were explored to increase the radiochemical yield. Synthesis methods were developed using 3–5 times less precursor than conventional methods. The fully automated iMiDEV™ microfluidic radiosynthesizer was successfully applied to prepare [11C]flumazenil and [11C]L-deprenyl.
The Construction of Phosphorus-Doped g-C3N4/Rh-Doped SrTiO3 with Type-II Band Alignment for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Bin , Li Peng , Hao Hanjing , He Huijie , Cai Hairui , Shang Fanfan , An Bei , Li Xiaoqian , Yang Shengchun
Published: December 2022

It is of great importance to promote charge separation in photocatalysts for enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. In this work, a type-II heterostructured photocatalyst was constructed by compositing phosphorus-doped g-C3N4 (P-CN) and Rh-doped SrTiO3 (Rh-STO) via a thermal calcination treatment. A series of characterizations were conducted to investigate the structure of heterostructured P-CN/Rh-STO. It was found that Rh-STO interacted with in situ generated P atoms from the decomposition of P-CN during the calcination process, thus leading to the formation of heterojunction of P-CN/Rh-STO. Compared with the single component, i.e., P-CN or Rh-STO, the obtained P-CN/Rh-STO showed superior photocatalytic activity to that of both P-CN and Rh-STO due to the effective charge separation across the heterojunction between P-CN and Rh-STO.
The Impact of Common Acne on the Well-Being of Young People Aged 15–35 Years and the Influence of Nutrition Knowledge and Diet on Acne Development
Authors: Kostecka Malgorzata , Kostecka Julianna , Szwed-Gułaga Ola , Jackowska Izabella , Kostecka-Jarecka Joanna
Published: December 2022

Acne is a disorder of sebaceous glands, and it most commonly develops on the face. The role of the diet in triggering and treating acne is controversial and has been widely debated in the literature. A knowledge of the environmental factors that contribute to acne could improve the patient’s physical and emotional well-being, increase the efficacy of treatment, and minimize the risk of anxiety and depressive disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of acne on the daily lives and well-being of people aged 15–30 years, to analyze young people’s knowledge about the influence of various foods and other dietary factors on the prevalence, severity, and treatment of acne, as well as their adherence to an anti-acne diet. The study was conducted between April 2021 and May 2022. A total of 1329 respondents, including 963 women and 366 men, participated in the study. In 99% of men and women respondents, acne breakouts were typically located on the face. An analysis of HADS scores revealed moderate anxiety in 57% of women (F) and 22.5% of men (M) respondents. Acne breakouts located on the face were problematic for 81% of the study population (regardless of sex). More than ¾ of women and 2/3 of men claimed that acne made them feel less attractive. The impact of acne on the participants’ emotional well-being and social life differed between genders. Women experienced psychological discomfort more frequently than men (p = 0.0023). More than 50% of the participants eliminated acne-triggering foods from their diets, and 2/3 of these respondents observed a marked improvement or disappearance of skin breakouts as a result. A significantly higher number of respondents with severe/moderate anxiety were convinced that acne breakouts were affected by diet (OR 1.56; 95% CI 1.23–1.87, p < 0.001) and foods with a high glycemic index (OR 1.56; 95% CI 1.23–1.94, p < 0.001). Acne affects the patients’ emotional well-being. It can act as a barrier to social interactions and lead to mood disorders of varied severity. Persons with moderate/severe mood disorders associated with anxiety significantly more often recognized the role of dietary factors in acne aggravation, and the severity of mood disorders was directly correlated with more frequent consumption of sweets, sweetened beverages, and foods with a high glycemic index.
The Risk of Sarcopenia among Adults with Normal-Weight Obesity in a Nutritional Management Setting
Authors: De Lorenzo Antonino , Pellegrini Massimo , Gualtieri Paola , Itani Leila , El Ghoch Marwan , Di Renzo Laura
Published: December 2022

Normal-weight obesity (NWO) is a phenotype characterized by excessive body fat (BF) despite normal body weight. We aimed to assess the association between NWO and the risk of sarcopenia. Two groups of patients with a normal body mass index [BMI (20–24.9 kg/m2)] were selected from a large cohort of participants. Body composition was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and 748 participants were categorized as NWO or normal-weight without obesity (NWNO) and were classed according to whether or not they were at risk of sarcopenia. The “NWO group” included 374 participants (cases), compared to 374 participants (controls) in the “NWNO group”, all of a similar BMI, age and gender. The participants in the “NWO group” displayed a higher prevalence of the risk of sarcopenia than the control group across both genders (0.6% vs. 14.1% in males; 1.4% vs. 36.5% in females). Regression analysis showed that being in the NWO category increased the risk of sarcopenia 22-fold in males (RR = 22.27; 95%CI: 3.35–147.98) and 25-fold in females (RR = 25.22; 95%CI: 8.12–78.36), compared to those in the NWNO category. In a “real-world” nutritional setting, the assessment of body composition to identify NWO syndrome is vital since it is also associated with a higher risk of sarcopenia.
Risk Factors Associated with the Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages among Czech Adults: The Kardiovize Study
Authors: Kunzova Monika , Neto Geraldo A. Maranhao , Infante-Garcia María M. , Nieto-Martinez Ramfis , González-Rivas Juan P.
Published: December 2022

High consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The last report on the prevalence of SSBs consumption in Czechia was 17 years ago, an updated analysis will enable the design of appropriate public health policies. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of SSBs consumption in a Czech city during 2020 and 2022, and its association with cardiometabolic biomarkers, behavioral risk factors, and socioeconomic determinants. A total of 730 participants (33 to 73 years) were assessed from a random population-based survey. SSBs consumption was evaluated using two methods: by calorie amount, with a 24 h dietary recall, and by frequency, with a food frequency questionnaire. By calorie amount, the prevalence of SSBs consumption was none: 52.5%, low: 30.0%, and moderate–high: 17.5%; by frequency was never: 16.0%, occasionally: 64.1%, and daily: 19.9%. SSBs intake was higher in men (p < 0.001) and younger participants (p = 0.001). Men consuming daily had higher waist circumference and visceral fat area compared to both occasional and never consumers. Higher SSBs consumption was associated with low household income, middle education level, and high total energy intake. In total, 20% drank SSBs daily and 17.5% of participants consumed moderate–high calorie amounts of SSBs. These results represent an increase in the prevalence of SSBs consumption in the last two decades. Public health policies should target men of younger age and people with low education and income.
Analysis of Structure and Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharides from Aralia continentalis
Authors: Hu Yan-bo , Hong Hui-li , Liu Li-yang , Zhou Jia-ning , Wang Yue , Li Yi-ming , Zhai Li-yuan , Shi Zeng-hui , Zhao Jun , Liu Duo
Published: December 2022

We extracted, purified, and characterized three neutral and three acidic polysaccharides from the roots, stems, and leaves of Aralia continentalis Kitigawa. The results of the analysis of monosaccharide composition indicated that the polysaccharides from the roots and stems were more similar to each other than they were to the polysaccharides from the leaves. The in vitro antioxidant results demonstrated that the acidic polysaccharides had stronger antioxidant activity than the neutral fractions. Therefore, we investigated the primary purified acidic polysaccharide fractions (WACP(R)-A-c, WACP(S)-A-c, and WACP(L)-A-d) by NMR and enzymatic analysis. The structural analytical results indicated that WACP(R)-A-c contained homogalacturonan (HG); WACP(S)-A-c contained HG and rhamnogalacturonan II (RG-II), and WACP(L)-A-d contained HG, RG-II, and rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I) domains. Our findings offer insights into the screening of natural polysaccharide-based antioxidants and provide a theoretical basis for the application of A. continentalis.
FDA-Approved Kinase Inhibitors in Preclinical and Clinical Trials for Neurological Disorders
Authors: Lui Austin , Vanleuven Jordan , Perekopskiy David , Liu Dewey , Xu Desiree , Alzayat Omar , Elgokhy Taiseer , Do Timothy , Gann Meghan , Martin Ryan , Liu Da-Zhi
Published: December 2022

Cancers and neurological disorders are two major types of diseases. We previously developed a new concept termed “Aberrant Cell Cycle Diseases” (ACCD), revealing that these two diseases share a common mechanism of aberrant cell cycle re-entry. The aberrant cell cycle re-entry is manifested as kinase/oncogene activation and tumor suppressor inactivation, which are hallmarks of both tumor growth in cancers and neuronal death in neurological disorders. Therefore, some cancer therapies (e.g., kinase inhibition, tumor suppressor elevation) can be leveraged for neurological treatments. The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has so far approved 74 kinase inhibitors, with numerous other kinase inhibitors in clinical trials, mostly for the treatment of cancers. In contrast, there are dire unmet needs of FDA-approved drugs for neurological treatments, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), ischemic stroke (IS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and others. In this review, we list these 74 FDA-approved kinase-targeted drugs and identify those that have been reported in preclinical and/or clinical trials for neurological disorders, with a purpose of discussing the feasibility and applicability of leveraging these cancer drugs (FDA-approved kinase inhibitors) for neurological treatments.
Polymeric Excipients in the Technology of Floating Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Blynskaya Evgenia V. , Tishkov Sergey V. , Vinogradov Vladimir P. , Alekseev Konstantin V. , Marakhova Anna I. , Vetcher Alexandre A.
Published: December 2022

The combination of targeted transport and improvement of the release profile of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) is a current trend in the development of oral medicinal products (MP). A well-known way to implement this concept is to obtain floating gastroretentive delivery systems that provide a long stay of the dosage form (DF) on the surface of the stomach contents. The nomenclature of excipients (Es) of a polymeric nature used in the technology of obtaining floating drug delivery systems (FDDS) is discussed. Based on the data presented in research papers, the most widely used groups of polymers, their properties, and their purpose in various technological approaches to achieving buoyancy have been determined. In addition, ways to modify the release of APIs in these systems and the Es used for this are described. The current trends in the use of polymers in the technology of floating dosage forms (FDF) and generalized conclusions about the prospects of this direction are outlined.
Correction: Andreadis et al. The Advent of a New Era in Digital Healthcare: A Role for 3D Printing Technologies in Drug Manufacturing? Pharmaceutics 2022, 14, 609
Authors: Andreadis Ioannis I. , Gioumouxouzis Christos I. , Eleftheriadis Georgios K. , Fatouros Dimitrios G.
Published: December 2022

In the original publication [...]
Protoplast-Based Transient Expression and Gene Editing in Shrub Willow (Salix purpurea L.)
Authors: Hyden Brennan , Yuan Guoliang , Liu Yang , Smart Lawrence B. , Tuskan Gerald A. , Yang Xiaohan
Published: December 2022

Shrub willows (Salix section Vetrix) are grown as a bioenergy crop in multiple countries and as ornamentals across the northern hemisphere. To facilitate the breeding and genetic advancement of shrub willow, there is a strong interest in the characterization and functional validation of genes involved in plant growth and biomass production. While protocols for shoot regeneration in tissue culture and production of stably transformed lines have greatly advanced this research in the closely related genus Populus, a lack of efficient methods for regeneration and transformation has stymied similar advancements in willow functional genomics. Moreover, transient expression assays in willow have been limited to callus tissue and hairy root systems. Here we report an efficient method for protoplast isolation from S. purpurea leaf tissue, along with transient overexpression and CRISPR-Cas9 mediated mutations. This is the first such report of transient gene expression in Salix protoplasts as well as the first application of CRISPR technology in this genus. These new capabilities pave the way for future functional genomics studies in this important bioenergy and ornamental crop.
Poly(glycidyl azide) as Photo-Crosslinker for Polymers
Authors: Zhou Xinyan , Wei Wei , Hou Xiaojian , Tang Gang , Luo Yunjun , Li Xiaoyu
Published: December 2022

Crosslinking polymers to form networks is a universal and routinely applied strategy to improve their stability and endow them with solvent resistance, adhesion properties, etc. However, the chemical crosslinking of common commercial polymers, especially for those without functional groups, cannot be achieved readily. In this study, we utilized low-molecular weight poly(glycidyl azide) (GAP) as polymeric crosslinkers to crosslink various commercial polymers via simple ultraviolet light irradiation. The azide groups were shown to decompose upon photo-irradiation and be converted to highly reactive nitrene species, which are able to insert into carbon-hydrogen bonds and thus crosslink the polymeric matrices. This strategy was demonstrated successfully in several commercial polymers. In particular, it was found that the crosslinking is highly localized, which could endow the polymeric matrices with a decent degree of crosslinking without significantly influencing other properties, suggesting a novel and robust method to crosslink polymeric materials.
Failure Mode Analysis of Intelligent Ship Positioning System Considering Correlations Based on Fixed-Weight FMECA
Authors: Luo Xiaofang , He Haolang , Zhang Xu , Ma Yong , Bai Xu
Published: December 2022

Currently, intelligent ships are still in the early stages of development in terms of autonomous navigation and autonomous berthing, so almost no source of fault data can be obtained. Conducting an in-depth analysis of the failure modes of intelligent ships is critical to optimizing the design of smart ships and ensuring their normal and safe navigation. In this paper, the fixed-weight Failure Mode Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) is combined with the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method to analyze the failure modes and effects of intelligent ship positioning systems. This combined method not only overcomes the failure of traditional FMECA methods to differentiate between severity, incidence, and detection rates but also allows the correlation of failure causes to be analyzed, bringing the results of the analysis closer to reality. Through the expert scoring of failure modes, the failure modes of this system are risk-ranked, and the key failure causes of this system are identified. Correlations between the critical failure causes are then considered. According to the analysis results, the high-accuracy attitude sensor was identified as the subsystem with the highest level of risk. Unavoidable, unknown failures and environmental factors were found to be key factors in causing positioning system failures. The conclusions can provide a reference for the design of equipment safety for intelligent ship positioning systems.
A Review on Pollution Treatment in Cement Industrial Areas: From Prevention Techniques to Python-Based Monitoring and Controlling Models
Authors: Zhu Xinghan , Yang Jinzhong , Huang Qifei , Liu Tao
Published: December 2022

Anthropogenic climate change, global warming, environmental pollution, and fossil fuel depletion have been identified as critical current scenarios and future challenges. Cement plants are one of the most impressive zones, emitting 15% of the worldwide contaminations into the environment among various industries. These contaminants adversely affect human well-being, flora, and fauna. Meanwhile, the use of cement-based substances in various fields, such as civil engineering, medical applications, etc., is inevitable due to the continuous increment of population and urbanization. To cope with this challenge, numerous filtering methods, recycling techniques, and modeling approaches have been introduced. Among the various statistical, mathematical, and computational modeling solutions, Python has received tremendous attention because of the benefit of smart libraries, heterogeneous data integration, and meta-models. The Python-based models are able to optimize the raw material contents and monitor the released pollutants in cement complex outputs with intelligent predictions. Correspondingly, this paper aims to summarize the performed studies to illuminate the resultant emissions from the cement complexes, their treatment methods, and the crucial role of Python modeling toward the high-efficient production of cement via a green and eco-friendly procedure. This comprehensive review sheds light on applying smart modeling techniques rather than experimental analysis for fundamental and applied research and developing future opportunities.
Assessment of In-Hospital Pain Control after Childbirth and Its Correlation with Anxiety in the Postpartum Period: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Single Center in the USA
Authors: Olson Clara G. , Soehl John R. , Stowe Zachary N. , Antony Kathleen M.
Published: December 2022

Anxiety is common during the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum period. While the relationship between obstetric pain and depression is well characterized, there are few publications examining the relationship between obstetric pain and anxiety. Our objective was to characterize the association, if any, between postpartum pain and anxiety. This was a survey-based cross-sectional study. The general anxiety disorder (GAD)-7 and American Pain Society patient outcome questionnaire (APS-POQ) were completed by 64 postpartum participants at hospital discharge. Associations between anxiety and pain control were assessed. Participants with moderate to severe scores (greater or equal to 10) on the GAD-7 had more maximum pain scores (0 to 10 scale) in the severe range (greater or equal to 7) in the first (p = 0.049) and second (p = 0.010) 24 h periods after delivery and were more likely to have spent more time in severe pain within these time frames (p = 0.007 and p = 0.010, respectively). Similar relationships were observed when classifying anxiety ordinally. In conclusion, higher postpartum pain scores were associated with greater anxiety in the postpartum period.