bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-Time Evaluation of Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter (ONSD) in Awake, Spontaneously Breathing Patients
Authors: Weidner Nick , Kretschmann Jessica , Bomberg Hagen , Antes Sebastian , Leonhardt Steffen , Tschan Christoph , Oertel Joachim , Volk Thomas , Meiser Andreas , Groesdonk Heinrich V.
Published: August 2021

(1) Background: Reliable ultrasonographic measurements of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) to detect increased intracerebral pressure (ICP) has not been established in awake patients with continuous invasive ICP monitoring. Therefore, in this study, we included fully awake patients with and without raised ICP and correlated ONSD with continuously measured ICP values. (2) Methods: In a prospective study, intracranial pressure (ICP) was continuously measured in 25 patients with an intraparenchymatic P-tel probe. Ultrasonic measurements were carried out three times for each optic nerve in vertical and horizontal directions. ONSD measurements and ICP were correlated. Patients with ICP of 2.0–10.0 mmHg were compared with patients suffering from an ICP of 10.1–24.2 mmHg. (3) Results: In all patients, the ONSD vertical and horizontal measurement for both eyes correlated well with the ICP (Pearson R = 0.68–0.80). Both measurements yielded similar results (Bland-Altman: vertical bias: −0.09 mm, accuracy: ±0.66 mm; horizontal bias: −0.06 mm, accuracy: ±0.48 mm). For patients with an ICP of 2.0–10.0 mmHg compared to an ICP of 10.1–24.2, ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analyses showed that ONSD measurement accurately predicts elevated ICP (optimal cut-off value 5.05 mm, AUC of 0.91, sensitivity 92% and specificity 90%, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: Ultrasonographic measurement of ONSD in awake, spontaneously breathing patients provides a valuable method to evaluate patients with suspected increased ICP. Additionally, it provides a potential tool for rapid assessment of ICP at the bedside and to identify patients at risk for a poor neurological outcome.
Infectious Pneumonia and Lower Airway Microorganisms in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Ideguchi Shuhei , Yamamoto Kazuko , Tahara Masahiro , Koga Tomohiro , Ide Shotaro , Hirayama Tatsuro , Takazono Takahiro , Imamura Yoshifumi , Miyazaki Taiga , Sakamoto Noriho , Morimoto Shimpei , Izumikawa Koichi , Yanagihara Katsunori , Ashizawa Kazuto , Aoki Takatoshi , Kawakami Atsushi , Yatera Kazuhiro , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: August 2021

The relationship between microorganisms present in the lower respiratory tract and the subsequent incidence of pneumonia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis is unclear. A retrospective cohort study was designed to include a total of 121 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent bronchoscopy at three hospitals between January 2008 and December 2017. Data on patient characteristics, microorganisms detected by bronchoscopy, and subsequent incidences of pneumonia were obtained from electronic medical records. Patients were divided into groups based on the microorganisms isolated from the lower respiratory tract. The cumulative incidence of pneumonia was assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method, and decision tree analysis was performed to analyze the relation between the presence of microorganisms and the occurrence of pneumonia. The most frequently isolated microbes were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae. Patients whose samples tested negative for bacteria or positive for normal oral flora were included in the control group. The rate of the subsequent incidence of pneumonia was higher in the P. aeruginosa group than in the control group (p = 0.026), and decision tree analysis suggested that P. aeruginosa and patient performance status were two important factors for predicting the incidence of pneumonia. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the presence of P. aeruginosa in the lower respiratory tract was associated with the subsequent incidence of pneumonia.
A Divide between the Western European and the Central and Eastern European Countries in the Peripheral Vascular Field: A Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Kolossváry Endre , Björck Martin , Behrendt Christian-Alexander
Published: August 2021

Thirty years after the transition period, starting from 1989, Central and Eastern European countries (CEECs), representing one-fifth of the entire European population, share many historical, societal, political, economic, and cultural characteristics. Although accumulating data on coronary heart diseases and cerebrovascular diseases support these observations, in the case of peripheral arterial disease, data are scarce. The present review attempts to summarise the shreds of data that may highlight a divide in this field between CEECs and Western European countries. Disparities in risk factors and peripheral vascular care across Europe seem to be tangible and can be seen as a signal of existing differences. Improvements in research and development and the collection and cross-border share of scientific data are essential to initiate and facilitate convergence in this field.
Insights into the Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms That Govern the Fracture-Healing Process: A Narrative Review
Authors: Papachristou Dionysios J. , Georgopoulos Stavros , Giannoudis Peter V. , Panagiotopoulos Elias
Published: August 2021

Fracture-healing is a complex multi-stage process that usually progresses flawlessly, resulting in restoration of bone architecture and function. Regrettably, however, a considerable number of fractures fail to heal, resulting in delayed unions or non-unions. This may significantly impact several aspects of a patient’s life. Not surprisingly, in the past few years, a substantial amount of research and number of clinical studies have been designed, aiming at shedding light into the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate fracture-healing. Herein, we present the current knowledge on the pathobiology of the fracture-healing process. In addition, the role of skeletal cells and the impact of marrow adipose tissue on bone repair is discussed. Unveiling the pathogenetic mechanisms that govern the fracture-healing process may lead to the development of novel, smarter, and more effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of fractures, especially of those with large bone defects.
Thermal/Electrical Properties and Texture of Carbon Black PC Polymer Composites near the Electrical Percolation Threshold
Authors: Brunella Valentina , Rossatto Beatrice Gaia , Mastropasqua Chiara , Cesano Federico , Scarano Domenica
Published: August 2021

Polycarbonate (PC), a thermoplastic polymer with excellent properties, is used in many advanced technological applications. When PC is blended with other polymers or additives, new properties, such as electrical properties, can be available. In this study, carbon black (CB) was melt-compounded with PC to produce polymer compounds with compositions (10–16 wt.% of CB), which are close to or above the electrical percolation threshold (13.5–14 wt.% of CB). Effects due to nanofiller dispersion/aggregation in the polymer matrix, together with phase composition, glass transition temperature, morphology and textural properties, were studied by using thermal analysis methods (thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry) and scanning electron microscopy. The DC electrical properties of these materials were also investigated by means of electrical conductivity measurements and correlated with the “structure” of the CB, to better explain the behaviour of the composites close to the percolation threshold.
Numerical and Physical Modelling of Wave Overtopping on a Smooth Impermeable Dike with Promenade under Strong Incident Waves
Authors: Neves Maria Graça , Didier Eric , Brito Moisés , Clavero María
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a study of run-up/overtopping over a smooth impermeable dike with promenade using 2D and 3D mesh-based and mesh-free numerical models and results from 2D physical modelling for strong energetic incident waves. These waves induce plunging wave breaking and a complex water/air mixture turbulent flow before overtopped the dike, a challenging configuration for numerical models. The analysis is structured in two phases: (i) evaluates the results of 2D numerical and physical models for run-up and overtopping; (ii) compares qualitatively the results of 3D numerical models for overtopping over a dike with promenade between groins located in front of a slope beach. The results indicate that the main differences obtained in run-up and overtopping are due to differences in wave generation and active absorption systems used in physical and numerical models and in turbulent models used by the numerical models. These differences lead to changes on incident wave height and on wave breaking and, consequently, on reflection, run-up and overtopping over the structure. For 3D simulation, even if larger discrepancies were found on overtopping along the dike, mean wave overtopping discharge and water flow height at the crest of the groin head show a similar order of magnitude.
Prescribed Performance Control of Marine Surface Vessel Trajectory Tracking in Finite-Time with Full-State Constraints and Input Saturation
Authors: Jiang Xiyun , Wang Yuanhui
Published: August 2021

This manuscript mainly solves a fully actuated marine surface vessel prescribed performance trajectory tracking control problem with full-state constraints and input saturation. The entire control design process is based on a backstepping technique. The prescribed performance control is introduced to embody the analytical relationship between the transient performance and steady-state performance of the system and the parameters. Meanwhile, a new finite time performance function is introduced to ensure that the performance of the system tracking error is constrained within the preset constraints in finite time, and the full-state constraints problem of the system can be solved simultaneously in the entire control design, at the same time without introducing additional theory and parameters. To solve the non-smooth input saturation function matrix is not differentiable, the smooth function matrix is introduced to replace the non-smooth characteristics. Combining the Moore-Penrose generalized inverse matrix to design the virtual control law, the dynamic surface control is introduced to avoid the complicated virtual control derivation process, and finally the actual control law is designed using the properties of Nussbaum function. In addition, in view of the uncertainties in the system, a fractional disturbance observer is designed to estimate it. With the proposed control, the full-state will never be violated constraints, and the system tracking error satisfies transient and steady-state performance. Compared with other methods, the simulation results show the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method.
Research on the Blade Motion of a Bidirectional Energy-Generating Turbine under Integrated Wave and Tidal Current Action
Authors: Li Yamei , Li Zeyu , Liu Andong , Zhu Yutian , Wang Shiming , Liu Zhao
Published: August 2021

An integrated wave-tidal current power turbine is affected by both wave and tidal current forces, and its energy efficiency is closely related to the velocity and direction of the two forces. To improve the probability of the horizontal axis turbine reaching maximum energy efficiency under real-time changing sea conditions, we performed the following investigations in this study. Based on the actual application scenario of Lianyungang port, a time series prediction model of tidal current (velocity and flow direction) and wave (mean wave direction, mean wave period, and significant wave height) data for the past year was established. The changes in waves and tidal currents within 24 h after the cutoff point of the existing data were predicted. The integrated wave-tidal current mechanism was studied, and the superposition of wave energy and tidal current energy was transformed into the equivalent velocity vector of wave-tidal current integration. The conversion coefficient between waves and equivalent flows was determined by a numerical wave flume simulation. According to the historical wave and tidal current data, the equivalent velocity range of the integrated action of waves and tidal currents in Lianyungang was determined. The influence of different blade motions on the energy harvesting efficiency of the turbine under the corresponding flow conditions was studied using the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method to determine the blade motion law of the turbine. The blade motion law of the prototype was verified in a sea trial experiment. The experimental results were basically consistent with the simulation results for the blade motion law designed according to the wave and tidal current prediction law. This design scheme can provide a reference for engineering design for the development and utilization of new marine energy.
Progression-Free Survival Prediction in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma after Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy: Machine Learning vs. Traditional Statistics
Authors: Oei Ronald Wihal , Lyu Yingchen , Ye Lulu , Kong Fangfang , Du Chengrun , Zhai Ruiping , Xu Tingting , Shen Chunying , He Xiayun , Kong Lin , Hu Chaosu , Ying Hongmei
Published: August 2021

Background: The Cox proportional hazards (CPH) model is the most commonly used statistical method for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) prognostication. Recently, machine learning (ML) models are increasingly adopted for this purpose. However, only a few studies have compared the performances between CPH and ML models. This study aimed at comparing CPH with two state-of-the-art ML algorithms, namely, conditional survival forest (CSF) and DeepSurv for disease progression prediction in NPC. Methods: From January 2010 to March 2013, 412 eligible NPC patients were reviewed. The entire dataset was split into training cohort and testing cohort in a ratio of 90%:10%. Ten features from patient-related, disease-related, and treatment-related data were used to train the models for progression-free survival (PFS) prediction. The model performance was compared using the concordance index (c-index), Brier score, and log-rank test based on the risk stratification results. Results: DeepSurv (c-index = 0.68, Brier score = 0.13, log-rank test p = 0.02) achieved the best performance compared to CSF (c-index = 0.63, Brier score = 0.14, log-rank test p = 0.38) and CPH (c-index = 0.57, Brier score = 0.15, log-rank test p = 0.81). Conclusions: Both CSF and DeepSurv outperformed CPH in our relatively small dataset. ML-based survival prediction may guide physicians in choosing the most suitable treatment strategy for NPC patients.
COVID-19 Vaccines in Patients with Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Yen Cheng-Chieh , Lin Shang-Yi , Chen Szu-Chia , Chiu Yi-Wen , Chang Jer-Ming , Hwang Shang-Jyh
Published: August 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has infected more than 180 million people and caused more than 3.95 million deaths worldwide. In addition to personal hygiene, augmented cleaning, social distancing, and isolation, vaccine development and immunization are essential for this highly contagious disease. Patients with maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) have a greater risk of COVID-19 infection owing to their comorbidities, defective immunity, and repeated crowded in-center dialysis settings. However, many patients hesitate to get vaccinated because of their misunderstandings. The Efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination has been intensively discussed in the general population, whereas the data concerning the effectiveness of vaccination in MHD patients are relatively scanty. Nevertheless, those limited publications can provide some valuable information. Overall, lower and more delayed antibody responses following COVID-19 vaccination were observed in patients with MHD than in healthy controls in the settings of different populations, vaccines and dosage, definitions of the immune response, and antibody detection timepoints. Younger age, previous COVID-19 infection, and higher serum albumin level were positively associated with antibody formation, whereas older age and receiving immunosuppressive therapy were unfavorable factors. However, it remains uncertain between the elicited antibodies following vaccination and the genuine protection against COVID-19 infection. Patients with MHD should make their COVID-19 vaccination a priority in addition to other protective measures. More studies focusing on different vaccines, non-humoral immune responses, and risk-benefit analyses are warranted.
Personalizing Medicine and Technologies to Address the Experiences and Needs of People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Henschke Adam , Desborough Jane , Parkinson Anne , Brunoro Crystal , Fanning Vanessa , Lueck Christian , Brew-Sam Nicola , Brüstle Anne , Drew Janet , Chisholm Katrina , Elisha Mark , Suominen Hanna , Tricoli Antonio , Phillips Christine , Cook Matthew
Published: August 2021

There is enormous variation in the manifestations of disease experienced by people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). While this variation makes personalized medicine an attractive goal, there are many challenges to be overcome before this opportunity can be realized. Personalized medicine often focuses on targeted therapies and detailed monitoring, but we also need to recognize that there will be variation in acceptance of these approaches by different PwMS. In other words, deep personalization of medicine will encompass targeted therapy, precision monitoring, tailored to variation in personal attitudes to these transformations in health care. In order to meet the promise of personalized medicine for MS, understanding the experiences of PwMS is necessary both to aid in the uptake of personalized medicine, and to ensure that personalized approaches to monitoring disease and treatment provide a net benefit to PwMS rather than placing additional burdens and stressors on them. Here, we describe recent research that identified five experiential themes for PwMS, and then interpret these themes according to the foundations of personalized medicine to provide a road map for implementation of personalized medicine solutions for PwMS.
Transfer Entropy Approach for Portfolio Optimization: An Empirical Approach for CESEE Markets
Authors: Škrinjarić Tihana , Quintino Derick , Ferreira Paulo
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we deal with the possibility of using econophysics concepts in dynamic portfolio optimization. The main idea of the research is that combining different methodological aspects in portfolio selection can enhance portfolio performance over time. Using data on CESEE stock market indices, we model the dynamics of entropy transfers from one return series to others. In the second step, the results are utilized in simulating the portfolio strategies that take into account the previous results. Here, the main results indicate that using entropy transfers in portfolio construction and rebalancing has the potential to achieve better portfolio value over time when compared to benchmark strategies.
Spatial Inequality in China’s Housing Market and the Driving Mechanism
Authors: Zhao Sidong , Zhao Kaixu , Zhang Ping
Published: August 2021

Housing inequality is a widespread phenomenon around the world, and it varies widely across countries and regions. The housing market is naturally spatial in its attributes, and with the transformation of China’s urbanization, industrialization, and globalization, the spatial inequality in the housing market is increasingly severe. According to the geospatial differences in the housing market supply, demand, and price, and by integrating the influencing factors of economic, social, innovation, facility environment, and structural adjustment, this paper constructs a “spatial–supply–demand–price” integrated housing market inequality research framework based on the methods of CV, GI, and Geodetector, and it empirically studies the spatial inequality of provincial housing markets in China. The findings show that the spatial inequality in China’s housing market is significant and becomes increasingly serious. According to the study, we have confirmed the following. (1) Different factors vary greatly in influence, and they can be classified into three types, that is, “Key factors”, “Important factors”, and “Auxiliary factors”. (2) The spatial inequalities in housing supply, demand, and price vary widely in their driving mechanisms, but factors such as the added value of the tertiary industry, number of patents granted, and revenue affect all these three at the same time and have a comprehensive influence on the development and evolution of spatial inequalities in the housing market. (3) All the factors are bifactor-enhanced or non-linearly enhanced in relationships between every pair, and they are classified into three categories of high, medium, and low according to the mean of interacting forces; in particular, the factors of GDP, expenditure, permanent resident population, number of medical beds, and full-time equivalent of R&D personnel are in a stronger interaction with other factors. (4) Based on housing supply, demand, price, and their coordination, 31 provinces are classified into four types of policy zones, and the driving mechanisms of spatial inequalities in the housing market are further applied to put forward suggestions on policy design, which provides useful references for China and other countries to deal with housing spatial inequality.
Linking Ecosystem Service Supply–Demand Risks and Regional Spatial Management in the Yihe River Basin, Central China
Authors: Meng Qingxiang , Zhang Likun , Wei Hejie , Cai Enxiang , Xue Dong , Liu Mengxue
Published: August 2021

The continuous supply of ecosystem services is the foundation of the sustainable development of human society. The identification of the supply–demand relationships and risks of ecosystem services is of considerable importance to the management of regional ecosystems and the effective allocation of resources. This paper took the Yihe River Basin as the research area and selected water yield, carbon sequestration, food production, and soil conservation to assess changes in the supply and demand of ecosystem services and their matching status from 2000 to 2018. Risk identification and management zoning were also conducted. Results show the following: (1) The spatial distribution of the four ecosystems service supply and demand in the Yihe River Basin was mismatched. The food production supply levels in the middle and lower reaches and the upstream water yield, carbon sequestration, and soil conservation supply levels were high. However, most of the areas with high demand for ecosystem services were concentrated downstream. (2) From 2000 to 2018, the supply of water yield and carbon sequestration in the Yihe River Basin decreased, while that of food production and soil conservation increased. The demand for the four ecosystem services also increased. (3) Water yield faced considerable supply–demand risks. Fifty percent of the sub-basins were at a high-risk level, and the risk areas were concentrated in the middle and lower reaches. The three remaining services were mainly at low-risk levels. The Yihe River Basin was divided into eight types of supply–demand risk spatial management zones based on the ecosystem service supply and demand levels, which will help promote refined regional ecosystem management and sustainable development. The supply and demand assessment of ecosystem services from a risk perspective can integrate the information of natural ecosystems and socio-economic systems and provide scientific support for watershed spatial management.
Land Economic Efficiency and Improvement of Environmental Pollution in the Process of Sustainable Urbanization: Case of Eastern China
Authors: Chang Binbin , Chen Lei
Published: August 2021

Economic development, environmental protection and land resources are important components in sustainable cities. According to the environmental Kuznets curve, developing countries are prone to environmental pollution problems while developing their economies. At the same time, as urbanization progresses, the problem of inadequate land resources and land use efficiency in China is coming to the fore. Although China is a developing country, it began to actively implement environmental protection measures years ago in an effort to transform itself into an innovative country. Therefore, as an economic and policy pioneer region, can eastern China benefit from all three aspects of land–economy–environment at the same time? Or will the increase in land economic efficiency (Land_EcoE) and the improvement of environmental pollution occur simultaneously? With the characteristics of land use efficiency and other concepts, this study combines economic factors and land factors to establish a Land_EcoE evaluation system. On the basis of mapping the spatio-temporal evolution of carbon emissions and Land_EcoE, and discussing the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics and correlation between them initially and visually by means of geographic data visualization, this study uses the data of 84 prefecture-level cities and municipalities directly under the central government in eastern China from 2011 to 2017 to test the research hypotheses from a quantitative perspective. Specifically, this study analyzes the correlation between Land_EcoE and environmental pollution by constructing a panel regression model. The conclusions show that, in general, the increase in Land_EcoE in eastern China is associated with the increase in carbon emissions. For a group of prefecture-level cities with the most developed economies in eastern China, the increase in Land_EcoE is correlated with the decrease in carbon emissions. Based on this research, this study proposes a series of policy implications on how to promote simultaneous economic–land–environmental benefits.
Feasibility Study on the Use of Fly Maggots (Musca domestica) as Carriers to Inhibit Shrimp White Spot Syndrome
Authors: Huang Po-Yu , Huang Yi-Hsuan , Leu Jiann-Horng , Chen Li-Li
Published: August 2021

The shrimp aquaculture industry has encountered many diseases that have caused significant losses, with the most serious being white spot syndrome (WSS). Until now, no cures, vaccines, or drugs have been found to counteract the WSS virus (WSSV). The purpose of this study was to develop an oral delivery system to transport recombinant proteinaceous antigens into shrimp. To evaluate the feasibility of the oral delivery system, we used white shrimp as the test species and maggots as protein carriers. The results indicated that the target protein was successfully preserved in the maggot, and the protein was detected in the gastrointestinal tract of the shrimp, showing that this oral delivery system could deliver the target protein to the shrimp intestine, where it was absorbed. In addition, the maggots were found to increase the total haemocyte count and phenoloxidase activity of the shrimp, and feeding shrimp rVP24-fed maggots significantly induced the expression of penaeidins 2. In the WSSV challenge, the survival rate of rVP24-fed maggots was approximately 43%. This study showed that maggots can be used as effective oral delivery systems for aquatic products and may provide a new method for aquatic vaccine delivery systems.
Targeting Metabolic Dysfunction for the Treatment of Mood Disorders: Review of the Evidence
Authors: Jones Brett D. M. , Farooqui Salman , Kloiber Stefan , Husain Muhammad Omair , Mulsant Benoit H. , Husain Muhammad Ishrat
Published: August 2021

Major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) are often chronic with many patients not responding to available treatments. As these mood disorders are frequently associated with metabolic dysfunction, there has been increased interest in novel treatments that would target metabolic pathways. The objectives of this scoping review were to synthesize evidence on the impact on mood symptoms of lipid lowering agents and anti-diabetics drugs, while also reviewing current knowledge on the association between mood disorders and dyslipidemia or hyperglycemia. We propose that metabolic dysfunction is prevalent in both MDD and BD and it may contribute to the development of these disorders through a variety of pathophysiological processes including inflammation, brain structural changes, hormonal alterations, neurotransmitter disruptions, alteration on brain cholesterol, central insulin resistance, and changes in gut microbiota. Current evidence is conflicting on the use of statins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, thiazolidinediones, glucagon-like peptide agonists, metformin, or insulin for the treatment of MDD and BD. Given the paucity of high-quality randomized controlled trials, additional studies are needed before any of these medications can be repurposed in routine clinical practice. Future trials need to enrich patient recruitment, include evaluations of mechanism of action, and explore differential effects on specific symptom domains such as anhedonia, suicidality, and cognition.
Update on the Phylodynamics of SADS-CoV
Authors: Scarpa Fabio , Sanna Daria , Azzena Ilenia , Cossu Piero , Giovanetti Marta , Benvenuto Domenico , Coradduzza Elisabetta , Alexiev Ivailo , Casu Marco , Fiori Pier Luigi , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: August 2021

Coronaviruses are known to be harmful and heterogeneous viruses, able to infect a large number of hosts. Among them, SADS-CoV (Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus), also known as PEAV (Porcine Enteric Alphacoronavirus), or SeA-CoV (Swine Enteric Alphacoronavirus), is the most recent Alphacoronavirus discovered, and caused several outbreaks reported in Chinese swine herds between late 2016 and 2019. We performed an upgraded phylodinamic reconstruction of SADS-CoV based on all whole genomes available on 21 June 2021. Results showed a very close relationship between SADS-CoV and HKU2-like CoV, which may represent the evolutionary intermediate step towards the present SADS-CoV. The direct progenitor of SADS-CoV is so far unknown and, although it is well known that horseshoe bats are reservoirs for Rhinolophus bat coronavirus HKU2-like (HKU2-like CoVs), the transmission path from bats to pigs is still unclear. The discrepancies in the phylogenetic position of rodent CoV, when different molecular markers were considered, corroborate the recombination hypothesis, suggesting that wild rats, which are frequent in farms, may have played a key role. The failure of the attempt at molecular dating, due to the lack of a clock signal, also corroborates the occurrence of a recombination event hypothesis. Zoonotic infections originating in wildlife can easily become a significant threat for human health. In such a context, due to the high recombination and cross-species capabilities of Coronavirus, SADS-CoV represents a possible high-risk pathogen for humans which needs a constant molecular monitoring.
Structure, Activity and Function of the MLL2 (KMT2B) Protein Lysine Methyltransferase
Authors: Klonou Alexia , Chlamydas Sarantis , Piperi Christina
Published: August 2021

The Mixed Lineage Leukemia 2 (MLL2) protein, also known as KMT2B, belongs to the family of mammalian histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methyltransferases. It is a large protein of 2715 amino acids, widely expressed in adult human tissues and a paralog of the MLL1 protein. MLL2 contains a characteristic C-terminal SET domain responsible for methyltransferase activity and forms a protein complex with WRAD (WDR5, RbBP5, ASH2L and DPY30), host cell factors 1/2 (HCF 1/2) and Menin. The MLL2 complex is responsible for H3K4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) on specific gene promoters and nearby cis-regulatory sites, regulating bivalent developmental genes as well as stem cell and germinal cell differentiation gene sets. Moreover, MLL2 plays a critical role in development and germ line deletions of Mll2 have been associated with early growth retardation, neural tube defects and apoptosis that leads to embryonic death. It has also been involved in the control of voluntary movement and the pathogenesis of early stage childhood dystonia. Additionally, tumor-promoting functions of MLL2 have been detected in several cancer types, including colorectal, hepatocellular, follicular cancer and gliomas. In this review, we discuss the main structural and functional aspects of the MLL2 methyltransferase with particular emphasis on transcriptional mechanisms, gene regulation and association with diseases.
Isolation, Characterization and Neuroprotective Activity of Folecitin: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Farooq Umar , Khan Taous , Shah Shahid Ali , Hossain Md. Sanower , Ali Yousaf , Ullah Rahim , Raziq Naila , Shahid Muhammad , Capasso Raffaele
Published: August 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) extend the global health burden. Consumption of alcohol as well as maternal exposure to ethanol can damage several neuronal functions and cause cognition and behavioral abnormalities. Ethanol induces oxidative stress that is linked to the development of NDs. Treatment options for NDs are yet scarce, and natural product-based treatments could facilitate ND management since plants possess plenty of bioactive metabolites, including flavonoids, which typically demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hypericum oblongifolium is an important traditional medicinal plant used for hepatitis, gastric ulcer, external wounds, and other gastrointestinal disorders. However, it also possesses multiple bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties, but the evaluation of isolated pure compounds for neuroprotective efficacy has not been done yet. Therefore, in the current study, we aim to isolate and characterize the bioactive flavonoid folecitin and evaluate its neuroprotective activity against ethanol-induced oxidative-stress-mediated neurodegeneration in the hippocampus of postnatal day 7 (PND-7) rat pups. A single dose of ethanol (5 g/kg body weight) was intraperitoneally administered after the birth of rat pups on PND-7. This caused oxidative stress accompanied by the activation of phosphorylated-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), and cysteine-aspartic acid protease-1 (caspase-1) proteins to form a complex called the NLRP3-inflammasome, which converts pro-interleukin 1 beta (IL-1B) to activate IL-1B and induce widespread neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. In contrast, co-administration of folecitin (30 mg/kg body weight) reduced ethanol-induced oxidative stress, inhibited p-JNK, and deactivated the NLRP3-inflammasome complex. Furthermore, folecitin administration reduced neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative protein markers, including decreased caspase-3, BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX), B cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL-2), and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) expression in the immature rat brain. These findings conclude that folecitin is a flavone compound, and it might be a novel, natural and safe agent to curb oxidative stress and its downstream harmful effects, including inflammasome activation, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. Further evaluation in a dose-dependent manner would be worth it in order to find a suitable dose regimen for NDs.
Analyzing the Compressive Strength of Ceramic Waste-Based Concrete Using Experiment and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Approach
Authors: Song Hongwei , Ahmad Ayaz , Ostrowski Krzysztof Adam , Dudek Marta
Published: August 2021

In a fast-growing population of the world and regarding meeting consumer’s requirements, solid waste landfills will continue receiving a substantial amount of waste. The utilization of solid waste materials in concrete has gained the attention of the researchers. Ceramic waste powder (CWP) is considered to be one of the most harmful wastes for the environment, which may cause water, soil, and air pollution. The aim of this study was comprised of two phases. Phase one was based on the characterization of CWP with respect to its composition, material testing (coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, cement,) and evaluation of concrete properties both in fresh and hardened states (slump, 28 days compressive strength, and dry density). Concrete mixes were prepared in order to evaluate the compressive strength (CS) of the control mix, with partial replacement of the cement with CWP of 10 and 20% by mass of cement and 60 prepared mixes. However, phase two was based on the application of the artificial neural network (ANN) and decision tree (DT) approaches, which were used to predict the CS of concrete. The linear coefficient correlation (R2) value from the ANN model indicates better performance of the model. Moreover, the statistical check and k-fold cross validation methods were also applied for the performance confirmation of the model. The mean absolute error (MAE), mean square error (MSE), and root mean square error (RMSE) were evaluated to confirm the model’s precision.
Recent Trends and Innovation in Additive Manufacturing of Soft Functional Materials
Authors: Regis Jaime Eduardo , Renteria Anabel , Hall Samuel Ernesto , Hassan Md Sahid , Marquez Cory , Lin Yirong
Published: August 2021

The growing demand for wearable devices, soft robotics, and tissue engineering in recent years has led to an increased effort in the field of soft materials. With the advent of personalized devices, the one-shape-fits-all manufacturing methods may soon no longer be the standard for the rapidly increasing market of soft devices. Recent findings have pushed technology and materials in the area of additive manufacturing (AM) as an alternative fabrication method for soft functional devices, taking geometrical designs and functionality to greater heights. For this reason, this review aims to highlights recent development and advances in AM processable soft materials with self-healing, shape memory, electronic, chromic or any combination of these functional properties. Furthermore, the influence of AM on the mechanical and physical properties on the functionality of these materials is expanded upon. Additionally, advances in soft devices in the fields of soft robotics, biomaterials, sensors, energy harvesters, and optoelectronics are discussed. Lastly, current challenges in AM for soft functional materials and future trends are discussed.
An Overview on Thermosensitive Oral Gel Based on Poloxamer 407
Authors: Chen Yabing , Lee Jeong-Ho , Meng Mingyue , Cui Naiyu , Dai Chun-Yu , Jia Qi , Lee Eui-Seok , Jiang Heng-Bo
Published: August 2021

In this review, we describe the application of thermosensitive hydrogels composed of poloxamer in medicine, especially for oral cavities. Thermosensitive hydrogels remain fluid at room temperature; at body temperature, they become more viscous gels. In this manner, the gelling system can remain localized for considerable durations and control and prolong drug release. The chemical structure of the poloxamer triblock copolymer leads to an amphiphilic aqueous solution and an active surface. Moreover, the poloxamer can gel by forming micelles in an aqueous solution, depending on its critical micelle concentration and critical micelle temperature. Owing to its controlled-release effect, a thermosensitive gel based on poloxamer 407 (P407) is used to deliver drugs with different characteristics. As demonstrated in studies on poloxamer formulations, an increase in gelling viscosity decreases the drug release rate and gel dissolution time to the extent that it prolongs the drug’s duration of action in disease treatment. This property is used for drug delivery and different therapeutic applications. Its unique route of administration, for many oral diseases, is advantageous over traditional routes of administration, such as direct application and systemic treatment. In conclusion, thermosensitive gels based on poloxamers are suitable and have great potential for oral disease treatment.
Analysis of the Influence of Thickness and Density on Acoustic Absorption of Materials Made from Used Cigarette Butts
Authors: Gómez Escobar Valentín , Moreno González Celia , Rey Gozalo Guillermo
Published: August 2021

The effects of the density and thickness of samples made from used cigarette butts on acoustic characteristics were analyzed in this study. All the analyzed samples showed high acoustic performance, indicating that the fabrication of acoustic absorbing material may be a good use for this problematic waste (due to its toxicity, continuous generation, lack of recycling method, etc.). An increase in either density or thickness shifted the absorption characteristics of the samples to lower frequencies and increased the overall absorption. The relationships of the frequency and value of the maximum absorption coefficient with thickness and/or density were analyzed. The shift of the maximum absorption coefficient value due to varying thickness is in good agreement with previous studies.
Multiphase Model for Predicting the Thermal Conductivity of Cement Paste and Its Applications
Authors: Du Yuanbo , Ge Yong
Published: August 2021

Thermal conductivity plays a significant role in controlling thermal cracking of cement-based materials. In this study, the thermal conductivity of cement paste at an early age was measured by the hot plate method. The test results showed that the thermal conductivity of cement paste decreased with the increase of water/cement ratio and curing age. Meanwhile, a multiphase model for the thermal conductivity of cement paste was proposed and used to study the influence of saturation and curing temperature on the thermal conductivity of cement paste. To determine the parameters involved in this model, the thermal conductivity of each phase in cement paste was calculated by the molecular dynamic simulation method, and the hydration of cement was simulated by the Virtual Cement and Concrete Testing Laboratory. The inversion results showed that the relative error between experimental and simulation results lay between 1.1% and 6.5%. The thermal conductivity of paste in the saturated condition was 14.9–32.3% higher than that in the dry state. With the curing temperature increasing from 10 °C to 60 °C, the thermal conductivity of cement paste decreased by 3.9–4.9% depending on the water/cement ratio.
Consistent Thermo-Capillarity and Thermal Boundary Conditions for Single-Phase Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics
Authors: Bierwisch Claas
Published: August 2021

A model for capillary phenomena including temperature-dependency and thermal boundary conditions is presented in the numerical framework of smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). The model requires only a single fluid phase and is therefore computationally more efficient than surface tension schemes which need an explicit fluid-fluid or fluid-gas interface. The model makes use of a surface identification mechanism based on the SPH renormalization tensor. All relevant properties of the continuum surface force (CSF) based approach, i.e., the delta function, normal vector and curvature, are calculated in a consistent manner. The model is parametrized by physical material properties and is successfully validated by means of a large set of analytical test cases. The applicability of the proposed model to more complex scenarios is demonstrated.
Composite Carbon Foams as an Alternative to the Conventional Biomass-Derived Activated Carbon in Catalytic Application
Authors: Udayakumar Mahitha , Boros Renáta Zsanett , Farkas László , Simon Andrea , Koós Tamás , Leskó Máté , Leskó Anett Katalin , Hernadi Klara , Németh Zoltán
Published: August 2021

The suitability of a new type of polyurethane-based composite carbon foam for several possible usages is evaluated and reported. A comparison of the properties of the as-prepared carbon foams was performed with widely available commercial biomass-derived activated carbon. Carbon foams were synthesized from polyurethane foams with different graphite contents through one-step activation using CO2. In this work, a carbon catalyst was synthesized with a moderately active surface (SBET = 554 m2/g), a thermal conductivity of 0.09 W/mK, and a minimum metal ion content of 0.2 wt%, which can be recommended for phosgene production. The composite carbon foams exhibited better thermal stability, as there is a very little weight loss at temperatures below 500 °C, and weight loss is slower at temperatures above 500 °C (phosgene synthesis: 550–700 °C). Owing to the good surface and thermal properties and the negligible metallic impurities, composite carbon foam produced from polyurethane foams are the best alternative to the conventional coconut-based activated carbon catalyst used in phosgene gas production.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Stenocereus queretaroensis Fruit Peel Extract: Study of Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Padilla-Camberos Eduardo , Sanchez-Hernandez Ivan Moises , Torres-Gonzalez Omar Ricardo , Ramirez-Rodriguez Patricia , Diaz Emmanuel , Wille Holger , Flores-Fernandez Jose Miguel
Published: August 2021

The synthesis and application of nanomaterials as antioxidants and cytotoxic agents has increased in recent years. Biological methods go beyond the chemical and physical synthesis that is expensive and not friendly to the environment. Foodborne pathogens and microorganisms causing candidiasis are responsible of 5–10% hospitalized patients. The nutritional properties of the fruit called pitaya, from the Stenocereus queretaroensis species, have been little explored. Therefore, in this study the phytochemical composition of S. queretaroensis peel was evaluated and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized biologically in an environmentally friendly way by S. queretaroensis peel aqueous extract that contains phytochemicals capable of reducing silver nitrate. The antimicrobial activity of the AgNPs was tested by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) and time-kill kinetics. AgNPs were characterized visually, by UV-visible spectroscopy and TEM. FTIR spectroscopy identified metabolites responsible for the AgNPs formation. AgNPs showed potent antimicrobial activity against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, against fungi, and a methicillin-resistant strain of S. aureus. MIC and MBC values were as low as 0.078 and 0.156 μg/mL using AgNPs biosynthesized by S. queretaroensis fruit peel and the time kill assay started a log reduction in CFU/mL at 1 × MIC and 2 × MIC. S. queretaroensis-mediated AgNPs could be the basis for the formulation of biofilms for packaging products or as disinfectants for use on different surfaces.
Cost-Effectively 3D-Printed Rigid and Versatile Interpenetrating Polymer Networks
Authors: Konuray Osman , Sola Arnau , Bonada Jordi , Tercjak Agnieszka , Fabregat-Sanjuan Albert , Fernández-Francos Xavier , Ramis Xavier
Published: August 2021

Versatile acrylate–epoxy hybrid formulations are becoming widespread in photo/thermal dual-processing scenarios, especially in 3D printing applications. Usually, parts are printed in a stereolithography or digital light processing (DLP) 3D printer, after which a thermal treatment would bestow the final material with superior mechanical properties. We report the successful formulation of such a hybrid system, consisting of a commercial 3D printing acrylate resin modified by an epoxy–anhydride mixture. In the final polymeric network, we observed segregation of an epoxy-rich phase as nano-domains, similar to what was observed in a previous work. However, in the current work, we show the effectiveness of a coupling agent added to the formulation to mitigate this segregation for when such phase separation is undesired. The hybrid materials showed significant improvement of Young’s modulus over the neat acrylate. Once the flexible, partially-cured material was printed with a minimal number of layers, it could be molded into a complex form and thermally cured. Temporary shapes were readily programmable on this final material, with easy shape recovery under mild temperatures. Inspired by repairable 3D printed materials described recently, we manufactured a large object by printing its two halves, and then joined them covalently at the thermal cure stage with an apparently seamless union.