bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Traceability of Honey by Means of Lanthanide Distribution
Authors: Gulino Federica , Calà Elisa , Cozzani Christian , Vaccari Lorenzo , Oddone Matteo , Aceto Maurizio
Published: April 2023

Honey is a natural food appreciated all over the world since antiquity due to its well-recognised beneficial properties. However, it is also considered among the most counterfeited foods. Therefore, analytical methods are currently being developed to allow the verifying of its geographic provenance and its botanical origin. Trace- and ultra-trace elements are usually exploited as chemical descriptors in authentication studies, as they allow the properties declared in the label to be verified. A different matter is to trace a food by means of traceability, that is, to find the link between a food and the soil in which this food originates. For traceability, it has been demonstrated in several studies that the lanthanides are particularly useful to find this link. In the present study, the traceability of the honey chain has been studied by means of ICP-MS and ICP-OES analysis, by comparing the lanthanide distributions of 17 different monofloral honey chains, each one composed of honey, flowers and soil in which such flowers grew. The results show that, while the fingerprint of soil, described by the lanthanide distribution, is transmitted unaltered from soil to flowers, a slight fractionation on the heavier lanthanides (from Dy to Lu) occurs in the passage from flowers to honey.
Factors Affecting the Public Intention to Repeat the COVID-19 Vaccination: Implications for Vaccine Communication
Authors: Lee Yubin , Park Kunhee , Shin Jeonghoon , Oh Jeonghyeon , Jang Yeongeun , You Myoungsoon
Published: April 2023

Although most of the pandemic-related mandatory restrictions have been lifted or eased, vaccination is still recommended as an effective measure to minimize the damage from COVID-19 infection. Since COVID-19 eradication is unlikely, it is necessary to understand the factors affecting the public’s vaccination intention when COVID-19 vaccination is continuously recommended. This study aims to explore the factors that affect the intention to repeat the COVID-19 vaccination in South Korea. An online survey was conducted in January 2022 with adults living in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. In a hierarchical logistic regression analysis, sociodemographic factors, COVID-19 infection-related factors, COVID-19 vaccination-related factors, sociocultural factors, and communication factors were taken into account. In this study, more than three-quarters (78.1%) of Koreans were willing to repeat the COVID-19 vaccination. People who had high-risk perceptions, had been vaccinated against COVID-19 at least once, had more authoritarian attitudes, regarded the vaccination as a social responsibility, and had positive attitudes toward health authorities’ regular briefings were more likely to repeat the vaccination. In contrast, those who directly or indirectly experienced COVID-19 vaccine side effects and who showed psychological reactance against the government’s vaccination recommendation were less likely to repeat the vaccination. Our research indicates that empathetic communication, promotion of the prosocial aspect of vaccination, and regular and transparent provision of vaccine information are essential for promoting the intention to repeat the COVID-19 vaccination.
The Link between HRM Practices and Performance in Healthcare: The Mediating Role of the Organizational Change Process
Authors: Rotea Cristina Claudia , Ploscaru Andra-Nicoleta , Bocean Claudiu George , Vărzaru Anca Antoaneta , Mangra Mădălina Giorgiana , Mangra Gabriel Ioan
Published: April 2023

The role of human resources as a change agent in the organizational change process holds great importance. Hence, it is crucial to identify ways human resources can support change. This paper investigates the direct and indirect relationships between human resource management (HRM) practices and organizational performance, as well as the mediating role of the organizational change process in these relationships. The proposed model integrates primary HRM practices, organizational change components, organizational performance, employee retention, and organizational abandonment. We collected data to evaluate the relationships between the model variables through a survey questionnaire applied to 441 Romanian employees in the healthcare industry. The paper used structural equation modeling to test the model’s validity and hypotheses. The results show that HRM practices directly impact organizational performance and have a mediated impact through the organizational change process. Additionally, the direct and mediating effects are consistent, and healthcare employers consider appropriate HRM practices and effective management of the organizational change process as essential drivers to achieve superior performance. The empirical findings provide valuable insights for government policymakers, stakeholders, and health managers on how suitable HRM practices can influence organizational performance.
Effect of Types of Dementia Care on Quality of Life and Mental Health Factors in Caregivers of Patients with Dementia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Cho Seung-Hyun , Choi Hyun-Se
Published: April 2023

In Eastern cultures, particularly in South Korea, caregiving for dementia patients at home is common, yet even after facility placement, families may experience ongoing burden due to cultural factors. The aim of this study was to examine the burden experienced by caregivers of dementia patients, considering cultural factors influencing in-home care and facility-based care. Using a cross-sectional study design, we compared the quality of life, depression, subjective happiness, and subjective health of family caregivers providing in-home care (FCHC) and informal family caregivers (IFCGs). Data from the 2019 Community Health Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) that met the study criteria were selected and statistically analyzed. The results showed that psychological/emotional and economic burdens were the primary burden factors for both FCHC and IFCGs. Statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of quality of life, depression, subjective happiness, and subjective health. Specifically, FCHC demonstrated a lower quality of life, and both groups experienced moderate to severe depression, indicating the need for mental health management for caregivers of individuals with dementia. As not all FCHC can be transitioned to IFCGs, interventions tailored to specific caregiving types should be developed to improve the quality of life, depression, subjective happiness, and subjective health of caregivers of individuals with dementia.
Digital Documentation in Narrow Burial Spaces Using a 360° Borescope Prototype
Authors: Valente Riccardo , Barazzetti Luigi , Previtali Mattia , Roncoroni Fabio
Published: April 2023

This paper illustrates and discusses a novel method for the digital documentation of human remains in narrow spaces. A 360° borescope prototype made up of a panoramic camera and a lighting LED system was designed and assembled to acquire data in confined spaces for photogrammetric processing. A series of laboratory experiments were planned to assess the method’s validity. A modern concrete tunnel and a mock grave were surveyed using surveying instruments and a laser scanner, comparing the results with the borescope prototype. Then, data acquisition was moved to the field, i.e., in a real case study. Two burial vaults in a church containing human remains were selected and surveyed. The remains were accessible only from small breaches. The results show that using the 360° borescope is suitable for documenting narrow/confined spaces with minimum alteration of the scene. This result can be of interest for archaeological and forensic purposes, especially when the context is hardly accessible, with minimal intervention on the scene.
A Case Study Approach: Summary of Some Results on the Effects of Hydrogen Exposure on the Mechanical Properties of Palladium and the Alloy Systems Pd1−xMx, M = Ag, Cu, Mn; x = 5 − 0.25
Authors: Craft Andrew
Published: April 2023

Selected results of investigations focused on the changes to some mechanical properties of palladium and several palladium-based alloys caused by exposure to hydrogen have been collected and presented. The findings indicate that the mechanical properties of pure palladium are highly susceptible to alteration upon exposure to hydrogen. In the cases of alloying palladium with silver and copper, the alloys, as compared to palladium, appear to resist changes to mechanical properties. In the case of alloying palladium with manganese, the interesting order–disorder phenomenon plays an important role on the effects of hydrogen exposure on their mechanical properties.
Estrogenic Modulation of Ionic Channels, Pumps and Exchangers in Airway Smooth Muscle
Authors: Romero-Martínez Bianca S. , Sommer Bettina , Solís-Chagoyán Héctor , Calixto Eduardo , Aquino-Gálvez Arnoldo , Jaimez Ruth , Gomez-Verjan Juan C. , González-Avila Georgina , Flores-Soto Edgar , Montaño Luis M.
Published: April 2023

To preserve ionic homeostasis (primarily Ca2+, K+, Na+, and Cl−), in the airway smooth muscle (ASM) numerous transporters (channels, exchangers, and pumps) regulate the influx and efflux of these ions. Many of intracellular processes depend on continuous ionic permeation, including exocytosis, contraction, metabolism, transcription, fecundation, proliferation, and apoptosis. These mechanisms are precisely regulated, for instance, through hormonal activity. The lipophilic nature of steroidal hormones allows their free transit into the cell where, in most cases, they occupy their cognate receptor to generate genomic actions. In the sense, estrogens can stimulate development, proliferation, migration, and survival of target cells, including in lung physiology. Non-genomic actions on the other hand do not imply estrogen’s intracellular receptor occupation, nor do they initiate transcription and are mostly immediate to the stimulus. Among estrogen’s non genomic responses regulation of calcium homeostasis and contraction and relaxation processes play paramount roles in ASM. On the other hand, disruption of calcium homeostasis has been closely associated with some ASM pathological mechanism. Thus, this paper intends to summarize the effects of estrogen on ionic handling proteins in ASM. The considerable diversity, range and power of estrogens regulates ionic homeostasis through genomic and non-genomic mechanisms.
Targeting Nociceptive Neurons and Transient Receptor Potential Channels for the Treatment of Migraine
Authors: Cohen Cinder Faith , Roh Jueun , Lee Sang Hoon , Park Chul-Kyu , Berta Temugin
Published: April 2023

Migraine is a neurovascular disorder that affects approximately 12% of the global population. While its exact causes are still being studied, researchers believe that nociceptive neurons in the trigeminal ganglia play a key role in the pain signals of migraine. These nociceptive neurons innervate the intracranial meninges and convey pain signals from the meninges to the thalamus. Targeting nociceptive neurons is considered promising due to their accessibility and distinct molecular profile, which includes the expression of several transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. These channels have been linked to various pain conditions, including migraine. This review discusses the role and mechanisms of nociceptive neurons in migraine, the challenges of current anti-migraine drugs, and the evidence for well-studied and emerging TRP channels, particularly TRPC4, as novel targets for migraine prevention and treatment.
Analysis of Volatile Aroma Components and Regulatory Genes in Different Kinds and Development Stages of Pepper Fruits Based on Non-Targeted Metabolome Combined with Transcriptome
Authors: Huang Chuang , Sun Peixia , Yu Shuang , Fu Genying , Deng Qin , Wang Zhiwei , Cheng Shanhan
Published: April 2023

Aroma is a crucial attribute affecting the quality of pepper and its processed products, which has significant commercial value. However, little is known about the composition of volatile aroma compounds (VACs) in pepper fruits and their potential molecular regulatory mechanisms. In this study, HS-SPME-GC-MS combined with transcriptome sequencing is used to analyze the composition and formation mechanism of VACs in different kinds and development stages of pepper fruits. The results showed that 149 VACs, such as esters, alcohols, aldehydes, and terpenoids, were identified from 4 varieties and 3 development stages, and there were significant quantitative differences among different samples. Volatile esters were the most important aroma components in pepper fruits. PCA analysis showed that pepper fruits of different developmental stages had significantly different marker aroma compounds, which may be an important provider of pepper’s characteristic aroma. Transcriptome analysis showed that many differential genes (DEGs) were enriched in the metabolic pathways related to the synthesis of VACs, such as fatty acids, amino acids, MVA, and MEP in pepper fruits. In addition, we identified a large number of differential transcription factors (TFs) that may regulate the synthesis of VACs. Combined analysis of differential aroma metabolites and DEGs identified two co-expression network modules highly correlated with the relative content of VACs in pepper fruit. This study confirmed the basic information on the changes of VACs in the fruits of several Chinese spicy peppers at different stages of development, screened out the characteristic aroma components of different varieties, and revealed the molecular mechanism of aroma formation, providing a valuable reference for the quality breeding of pepper.
RAD51 Inhibition Shows Antitumor Activity in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Pan Mingang , Sha Yu , Qiu Jianguo , Chen Yunmeng , Liu Lele , Luo Muyu , Huang Ailong , Xia Jie
Published: April 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the major type of liver cancer, causes a high annual mortality worldwide. RAD51 is the critical recombinase responsible for homologous recombination (HR) repair in DNA damage. In this study, we identified that RAD51 was upregulated in HCC and that RAD51 silencing or inhibition reduced the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells and enhanced cell apoptosis and DNA damage. HCC cells with the combinatorial treatments of RAD51 siRNA or inhibitor and sorafenib demonstrated a synergistic effect in inhibiting HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as inducing cell apoptosis and DNA damage. Single RAD51 silencing or sorafenib reduced RAD51 protein expression and weakened HR efficiency, and their combination almost eliminated RAD51 protein expression and inhibited HR efficiency further. An in vivo tumor model confirmed the RAD51 inhibitor’s antitumor activity and synergistic antitumor activity with sorafenib in HCC. RNA-Seq and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) in RAD51-inactivated Huh7 cells indicated that RAD51 knockdown upregulated cell apoptosis and G1/S DNA damage checkpoint pathways while downregulating mitotic spindle and homologous recombination pathways. Our findings suggest that RAD51 inhibition exhibits antitumor activities in HCC and synergizes with sorafenib. Targeting RAD51 may provide a novel therapeutic approach in HCC.
Ultrastructural and Molecular Investigation on Peripheral Leukocytes in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Giannelli Roberta , Canale Paola , Del Carratore Renata , Falleni Alessandra , Bernardeschi Margherita , Forini Francesca , Biagi Elisa , Curzio Olivia , Bongioanni Paolo
Published: April 2023

Thriving literature underlines white blood cell involvement in the inflammatory processes of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Among leukocytes, lymphocytes have been considered sentinels of neuroinflammation for years, but recent findings highlighted the pivotal role of neutrophils. Since neutrophils that infiltrate the brain through the brain vascular vessels may affect the immune function of microglia in the brain, a close investigation of the interaction between these cells is important in understanding neuroinflammatory phenomena and the immunological aftermaths that follow. This study aimed to observe how peripheral leukocyte features change at different stages of AD to identify potential molecular markers when the first features of pathological neurodegeneration arise. For this purpose, the examined patients were divided into Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and severely impaired patients (DAT) based on their Cognitive Dementia Rating (CDR). The evaluation of the neutrophil-to-lymphocytes ratio and the morphology and function of leukocytes showed a close relationship between the ultrastructural and the molecular features in AD progression and suggested putative markers for the early stages of the disease.
Characterization of A-to-I Editing in Pigs under a Long-Term High-Energy Diet
Authors: Yang Liu , Huang Lei , Mu Yulian , Li Kui
Published: April 2023

Long-term high-energy intake has detrimental effects on pig health and elevates the risk of metabolic disease. RNA editing modifying RNA bases in a post-transcriptional process has been extensively studied for model animals. However, less evidence is available that RNA editing plays a role in the development of metabolic disorders. Here, we profiled the A-to-I editing in three tissues and six gut segments and characterized the functional aspect of editing sites in model pigs for metabolic disorders. We detected 64,367 non-redundant A-to-I editing sites across the pig genome, and 20.1% correlated with their located genes’ expression. The largest number of A-to-I sites was found in the abdominal aorta with the highest editing levels. The significant difference in editing levels between high-energy induced and control pigs was detected in the abdominal aorta, testis, duodenum, ileum, colon, and cecum. We next focused on 6041 functional A-to-I sites that detected differences or specificity between treatments. We found functional A-to-I sites specifically involved in a tissue-specific manner. Two of them, located in gene SLA-DQB1 and near gene B4GALT5 were found to be shared by three tissues and six gut segments. Although we did not find them enriched in each of the gene features, in correlation analysis, we noticed that functional A-to-I sites were significantly enriched in gene 3′-UTRs. This result indicates, in general, A-to-I editing has the largest potential in the regulation of gene expression through changing the 3′-UTRs’ sequence, which is functionally involved in pigs under a long-term high-energy diet. Our work provides valuable knowledge of A-to-I editing sites functionally involved in the development of the metabolic disorder.
Theranostics Nanomedicine Applications for Colorectal Cancer and Metastasis: Recent Advances
Authors: Kasi Phanindra Babu , Mallela Venkata Ramana , Ambrozkiewicz Filip , Trailin Andriy , Liška Václav , Hemminki Kari
Published: April 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide, and metastatic CRC is a fatal disease. The CRC-affected tissues show several molecular markers that could be used as a fresh strategy to create newer methods of treating the condition. The liver and the peritoneum are where metastasis occurs most frequently. Once the tumor has metastasized to the liver, peritoneal carcinomatosis is frequently regarded as the disease’s final stage. However, nearly 50% of CRC patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis do not have liver metastases. New diagnostic and therapeutic approaches must be developed due to the disease’s poor response to present treatment choices in advanced stages and the necessity of an accurate diagnosis in the early stages. Many unique and amazing nanomaterials with promise for both diagnosis and treatment may be found in nanotechnology. Numerous nanomaterials and nanoformulations, including carbon nanotubes, dendrimers, liposomes, silica nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, metal-organic frameworks, core-shell polymeric nano-formulations, and nano-emulsion systems, among others, can be used for targeted anticancer drug delivery and diagnostic purposes in CRC. Theranostic approaches combined with nanomedicine have been proposed as a revolutionary approach to improve CRC detection and treatment. This review highlights recent studies, potential, and challenges for the development of nanoplatforms for the detection and treatment of CRC.
Topical Alginate Protection against Pepsin-Mediated Esophageal Damage: E-Cadherin Proteolysis and Matrix Metalloproteinase Induction
Authors: Samuels Tina L. , Blaine-Sauer Simon , Yan Ke , Plehhova Kate , Coyle Cathal , Johnston Nikki
Published: April 2023

Epithelial barrier dysfunction is a hallmark of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) related to symptom origination, inflammatory remodeling and carcinogenesis. Alginate-based antireflux medications were previously shown to topically protect against peptic barrier disruption, yet the molecular mechanisms of injury and protection were unclear. Herein, Barrett’s esophageal (BAR-T) cells were pretreated with buffered saline (HBSS; control), dilute alginate medications (Gaviscon Advance or Gaviscon Double Action, Reckitt Benckiser), a viscosity-matched placebo, or ADAM10 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors before exposure to HBSS pH7.4 or pH4 ± 1 mg/mL pepsin for 10–60 min. Cell viability was assessed by ATP assay; mediators of epithelial integrity, E-cadherin, ADAM10, and MMPs were examined by Western blot and qPCR. Alginate rescued peptic reduction of cell viability (p < 0.0001). Pepsin-pH4 yielded E-cadherin fragments indicative of regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) which was not rescued by inhibitors of known E-cadherin sheddases. Transcriptional targets of E-cadherin RIP fragments were elevated at 24 h (MMP-1,2,9,14; p < 0.01). Alginate rescued E-cadherin cleavage, ADAM10 maturation, and MMP induction (p < 0.01). Results support RIP as a novel mechanism of peptic injury during GERD. Alginate residue after wash-out to mimic physiologic esophageal clearance conferred lasting protection against pepsin-induced molecular mechanisms that may exacerbate GERD severity and promote carcinogenesis in the context of weakly acidic reflux.
Five-Year Changes in Inflammatory, Metabolic, and Oxidative Biomarkers and 10-Year Cardiovascular Disease Incidence: The REGICOR Cohort Study
Authors: Camps-Vilaro Anna , Subirana Isaac , Ramos Rafel , Cainzos-Achirica Miguel , Tizon-Marcos Helena , Fito Montse , Degano Irene R. , Marrugat Jaume
Published: April 2023

Ischemic cardiovascular diseases (CVD) originate from an imbalance between atherosclerotic plaque formation, instability, and endothelial healing dynamics. Our aim was to examine the relationship between 5-year changes in inflammatory, metabolic, and oxidative biomarkers and 10-year CVD incidence in a population without previous CVD. This was a prospective cohort study of individuals aged 35–74 years (n = 419) randomly selected from 5263 REGICOR participants without CVD recruited in 2005. Biomarkers were measured at baseline and in 2010. Participants were followed up until 2020 for a composite CVD endpoint including coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. We used Cox regression to analyze the effect of biomarker levels on the occurrence of the composite endpoint, adjusted for traditional CVD risk factors and baseline levels of each biomarker. Individuals with elevated IL-6 or insulin after 5 years had a higher independent risk of CVD at 10 years, compared to those with lower levels. Each rise of 1 pg/mL of IL-6 or 10 pg/mL of insulin increased the 10-year risk of a CVD event by 32% and 2%, respectively. Compared to a model with traditional CVD risk factors only, the inclusion of IL-6 and insulin improved continuous reclassification by 51%. Elevated serum levels of IL-6 and insulin were associated with a higher risk of CVD at 10 years, independently of traditional CVD risk factors.
sST2 and Heart Failure—Clinical Utility and Prognosis
Authors: Dudek Magdalena , Kałużna-Oleksy Marta , Migaj Jacek , Sawczak Filip , Krysztofiak Helena , Lesiak Maciej , Straburzyńska-Migaj Ewa
Published: April 2023

New parameters and markers are constantly being sought to help better assess patients with heart failure (HF). ST2 protein has gained interest as a potential biomarker in cardiovascular disease. It is known that the IL-33/ST2L system belongs to the cardioprotective pathway, which prevents the fibrosis, hypertrophy, and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and also inhibits the inflammatory response. Soluble ST2 (sST2) is involved in the immune response and secreted in response to the mechanical overload of the myocardium, thus providing information on the processes of myocardial remodeling and fibrosis. A total of 110 hospitalized patients diagnosed with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) were included in the study. Clinical and biochemical parameters were studied. During the follow-up, 30.9% patients died and 57.3% patients reached the composite endpoint. Using ROC curves, the reference cut-off point for sST2 was determined to be 45.818 pg/mL for all-cause deaths. Significantly higher concentrations of inflammatory parameters and natriuretic peptides were found in the group of patients with higher sST2 concentrations. sST2 protein is an independent risk factor for all-cause deaths of patients with HFrEF.
Clinical Acuity in the Emergency Department and Injury Severity Determine Hospital Admission of Older Patients with Low Energy Falls: Outcomes from a Prospective Feasibility Study
Authors: Clemens Valentin , Saller Maximilian M. , Meller Rupert , Neuerburg Carl , Kammerlander Christian , Boecker Wolfgang , Klein Matthias , Pedersen Vera
Published: April 2023

Background: Low energy falls (LEF) in older adults constitute a relevant cause for emergency department (ED) visits, hospital admission and in-hospital mortality. Patient-reported outcome measures containing information about patients’ medical, mental and social health problems might support disposition and therapy decisions. We investigated the value of a tablet-based (self-)assessment in predicting hospital admission and in-hospital mortality. Methods: Patients 65 years or older, consecutively presenting with LEF to our level I trauma center ED (from November 2020 to March 2021), were eligible for inclusion in this prospective observational study. The primary endpoint was hospital admission; secondary endpoints were in-hospital mortality and the use of the tablet for self-reported assessment. Multivariate logistic regression models were calculated to measure the association between clinical findings and endpoints. Results: Of 618 eligible patients, 201 patients were included. The median age was 82 years (62.7% women). The hospital admission rate was 45.3% (110/201), with an in-hospital mortality rate of 3.6% (4/110). Polypharmacy (odds ratio (OR): 8.48; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.21–59.37, p = 0.03), lower emergency severity index (ESI) scores (OR: 0.33; 95%CI 0.17–0.64, p = 0.001) and increasing injury severity score (ISS) (OR: 1.54; 95%CI 1.32–1.79, p < 0.001) were associated with hospital admission. The Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) was significantly associated with in-hospital mortality (OR: 2.60; 95%CI: 1.17–5.81, p = 0.03). Increasing age (OR: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.89–0.99, p = 0.03) and frailty (OR: 0.71; 95%CI: 0.51–0.99, p = 0.04) were associated with the incapability of tablet use. Conclusions: The severity of fall-related injuries and the clinical acuity are easily accessible, relevant predictors for hospital admission. Tablet-based (self-)assessment may be feasible and acceptable during ED visits and might help facilitate comprehensive geriatric assessments during ED stay.
Interphase Mechanical Energy Transfer of Gas-Liquid Flow in Variable Cross-Section Tubes
Authors: Feng Bingren , Yang Lijun , Qin Lizi , Li Jingxuan
Published: April 2023

The use of gas energy includes a wide range of applications to directly accelerate the liquid in a pipeline without the aid of mechanical equipment, such as marine gas-liquid jet propulsion. To clarify the characteristics of energy transfer by interphase forces for gas-liquid flows in variable cross-section tubes, two-fluid models of annular flow, bubbly flow and homogeneous flow were adopted, respectively, along with four newly elaborated coefficients, which are the work factor of gas fg, reflecting the relative ability of gas to power liquid, the interface work transfer coefficient kg (representing the relative magnitude of mechanical work received by liquid from gas), the interphase work-to-energy conversion coefficient kl (denoting the capability of energy transfer through work performed by interphase forces) and the interphase mechanical efficiency ηw. The results reveal the interphase work transfer is strongly influenced by the structural parameters of the tubes (or nozzles), and an optimized design is necessary to improve the performance. The higher the degree of gas dispersion in the liquid, the more advantageous the conversion of gas work into the liquid’s mechanical energy. Of these three flow patterns, annular flow has the lowest kl and ηw (kl = 0.0797, ηw = 0.9885 in present example), while homogeneous flow displays the limit of interphase mechanical energy conversion because the gas-liquid momentum coupling reaches the maximum (kl = 0.9979, ηw = 1).
Robust Model Predictive Control Based on Active Disturbance Rejection Control for a Robotic Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Arcos-Legarda Jaime , Gutiérrez Álvaro
Published: April 2023

This work aims to develop a robust model predictive control (MPC) based on the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) approach by using a discrete extended disturbance observer (ESO). The proposed technique uses the ADRC approach to lump disturbances and uncertainties into a total disturbance, which is estimated with a discrete ESO and rejected through feedback control. Thus, the effects of the disturbances are attenuated, and a model predictive control is designed based on a canonical model free of uncertainties and disturbances. The proposed control technique is tested through simulation into a robotic autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The AUV’s dynamic model is used to compare the performance of a classical MPC and the combined MPC-ADRC. The evaluation results show evidence of the superiority of the MPC-ADRC over the classical MPC under tests of reference tracking, external disturbances rejection, and model uncertainties attenuation.
An Absolute Displacement Measurement Method and Its Application in Ship Motion Measurement
Authors: Han Chongyang , Hu Xiong
Published: April 2023

Due to the fact that there is no static reference point in ocean space, relative measurement sensors such as laser sensors cannot be applied to the measurement of ship motion. In order to collect the motion signal of a ship in the ocean more accurately, an absolute measurement method for the motion of a ship is proposed. Firstly, the acceleration signal in the heave direction of the ship is obtained by using an acceleration sensor; secondly, the time–frequency domain integration algorithm is used to avoid the problem of the quadratic trend item and the influence of the low-frequency signal, and the ship’s heave displacement value is obtained by integration; finally, the displacement signal measured by the laser sensor and the integrated displacement signal of the acceleration sensor are compared with each other to verify the effectiveness of the absolute measurement of the heave displacement of the ship based on the acceleration sensor. At the same time, an angle sensor is used to measure the roll angle and pitch angle in the motion of the ship, form an absolute measurement system for the motion of the ship, and verify that the measurement points are arranged on the ship, which proves that the system can collect data from the ship in sea areas far from the coast. Motion signals are more advantageous.
Recent Advances in Noble Metal Nanoparticles for Cancer Nanotheranostics
Authors: Kumar Dhiraj , Mutreja Isha , Kaushik Ajeet
Published: April 2023

The limitations of current treatment strategies for cancer management have prompted a significant shift in the research and development of new effective strategies exhibiting higher efficacy and acceptable side effects. In this direction, nanotheranostics has gained significant interest in recent years, combining the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities of nanostructures for efficient disease diagnosis, treatment, and management. Such nano-assisted platforms permit the site-specific release of bioactive cargo in a controlled fashion while permitting non-invasive real-time in situ monitoring. A plethora of materials has been developed as pharmacologically relevant nanoformulations for theranostic applications ranging from metallic to lipid and polymer-based composite systems, with each offering potential opportunities and its own limitations. To improve advancements with better clarity, the main focus of this review is to highlight the recent developments focusing on using different noble metal nanoparticles (noble MNPs) as cancer nanotheranostic agents, highlighting their properties, advantages, and potential modifications for their successful utilization in personalized medicine. The advantage of using noble metals (not all, but those with an atomic number ≥76) over metal NPs is their tendency to provide additional properties, such as X-ray attenuation and near-infrared activity. The combination of these properties translates to noble MNPs for therapeutic and diagnostic applications, independent of the need for additional active molecules. Through this review, we highlighted the potential application of all noble MNPs and the limited use of osmium, iridium, palladium, rhodium, and ruthenium metal NSs, even though they express similar physicochemical characteristics. The literature search was limited by PubMed, full-text availability, and studies including both in vitro and in vivo models.
Whole-Genome Sequence Analysis of Candida glabrata Isolates from a Patient with Persistent Fungemia and Determination of the Molecular Mechanisms of Multidrug Resistance
Authors: Lim Ha Jin , Choi Min Ji , Byun Seung A. , Won Eun Jeong , Park Joo Heon , Choi Yong Jun , Choi Hyun-Jung , Choi Hyun-Woo , Kee Seung-Jung , Kim Soo Hyun , Shin Myung Geun , Lee Seung Yeob , Kim Mi-Na , Shin Jong Hee
Published: April 2023

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to determine the molecular mechanisms of multidrug resistance for 10 serial Candida glabrata bloodstream isolates obtained from a neutropenic patient during 82 days of amphotericin B (AMB) or echinocandin therapy. For WGS, a library was prepared and sequenced using a Nextera DNA Flex Kit (Illumina) and the MiseqDx (Illumina) instrument. All isolates harbored the same Msh2p substitution, V239L, associated with multilocus sequence type 7 and a Pdr1p substitution, L825P, that caused azole resistance. Of six isolates with increased AMB MICs (≥2 mg/L), three harboring the Erg6p A158fs mutation had AMB MICs ≥ 8 mg/L, and three harboring the Erg6p R314K, Erg3p G236D, or Erg3p F226fs mutation had AMB MICs of 2–3 mg/L. Four isolates harboring the Erg6p A158fs or R314K mutation had fluconazole MICs of 4–8 mg/L while the remaining six had fluconazole MICs ≥ 256 mg/L. Two isolates with micafungin MICs > 8 mg/L harbored Fks2p (I661_L662insF) and Fks1p (C499fs) mutations, while six isolates with micafungin MICs of 0.25–2 mg/L harbored an Fks2p K1357E substitution. Using WGS, we detected novel mechanisms of AMB and echinocandin resistance; we explored mechanisms that may explain the complex relationship between AMB and azole resistance.
Synchrospora gen. nov., a New Peronosporaceae Genus with Aerial Lifestyle from a Natural Cloud Forest in Panama
Authors: Jung Thomas , Balci Yilmaz , Broders Kirk D. , Milenković Ivan , Janoušek Josef , Kudláček Tomáš , Đorđević Biljana , Horta Jung Marilia
Published: April 2023

During a survey of Phytophthora diversity in Panama, fast-growing oomycete isolates were obtained from naturally fallen leaves of an unidentified tree species in a tropical cloud forest. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences from the nuclear ITS, LSU and ßtub loci and the mitochondrial cox1 and cox2 genes revealed that they belong to a new species of a new genus, officially described here as Synchrospora gen. nov., which resided as a basal genus within the Peronosporaceae. The type species S. medusiformis has unique morphological characteristics. The sporangiophores show determinate growth, multifurcating at the end, forming a stunted, candelabra-like apex from which multiple (8 to >100) long, curved pedicels are growing simultaneously in a medusa-like way. The caducous papillate sporangia mature and are shed synchronously. The breeding system is homothallic, hence more inbreeding than outcrossing, with smooth-walled oogonia, plerotic oospores and paragynous antheridia. Optimum and maximum temperatures for growth are 22.5 and 25–27.5 °C, consistent with its natural cloud forest habitat. It is concluded that S. medusiformis as adapted to a lifestyle as a canopy-dwelling leaf pathogen in tropical cloud forests. More oomycete explorations in the canopies of tropical rainforests and cloud forests are needed to elucidate the diversity, host associations and ecological roles of oomycetes and, in particular, S. medusiformis and possibly other Synchrospora taxa in this as yet under-explored habitat.
The Sinus Tract in Bone and Joint Infection: Minimally Invasive Salvation or Prolonged Suffering? A Multicenter Study
Authors: Klim Sebastian Martin , Amerstorfer Florian , McNally Martin A. , Trebse Rihard , Slokar Urban , Sigmund Irene Katharina , Hecker Andrzej , Reinbacher Patrick , Leitner Lukas , Bernhardt Gerwin Alexander , Leithner Andreas , Wanko Sophie , Glehr Mathias
Published: April 2023

This study assessed the quality of life (QOL) and the functional outcome in daily living in patients with a chronic, treatment-resistant periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) or osteomyelitis, living with a natural or iatrogenic sinus tract. Methods: A follow-up examination in three national reference centers for septic bone and joint surgery was performed utilizing the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-D/A), the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) score, including patients with a chronic sinus tract due to treatment-resistant PJI or osteomyelitis. Results: In total, 48 patients were included, with a mean follow-up time of 43.1 ± 23.9 months. The mean SF-36 Mental Component Summary (MCS) was 50.2 (±12.3) and the Physical Component Summary (PCS) was 33.9 (±11.3). The mean HADS-D was 6.6 (±4.4) and HADS-A was 6.2 (±4.6), and the VAS was 3.4 (±2.6). The SF-36 MCS showed no significant differences between the study group and the standard population (47.0, p = 0.10), as well as the HADS-A. The PCS in the study population was significantly worse (50.0, p < 0.001), as was the HADS-D. Conclusions: A sinus tract represents a treatment option in selected cases with an acceptable QOL. The treatment should be considered for multimorbid patients with a high perioperative risk or if the bone or soft tissue quality prevents surgery.
Shortened Daily Photoperiod Alleviates Anxiety-like Behaviour by Antioxidant Effect and Changes Serum Fatty Acid Profile in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Vasović Dolika D. , Vesković Milena , Šutulović Nikola , Hrnčić Dragan , Takić Marija , Jerotić Đurđa , Matić Marija , Stanojlović Olivera , Ivković Sanja , Jovanović Macura Irena , Mladenović Dušan
Published: April 2023

The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of a shortened daily photoperiod on anxiety-like behaviour, brain oxidative stress, lipid status and fatty acid composition of serum lipids in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced model of diabetes mellitus in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into the following groups: first group—control group (C12/12); second group—diabetic group (DM12/12; 100 mg/kg STZ); third group—control group exposed to a light/dark cycle 6/18 h (C6/18); fourth group—diabetic group exposed to a light/dark cycle 6/18 h (DM6/18). Anxiety-like behaviour was tested three weeks following STZ injection by elevated plus maze (EPM) and open-field test (OFT). Oxidative stress parameters were measured in the cortex, hippocampus and thalamus, while lipid status and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) were measured in the serum. Both EPM and OFT showed a lower degree of anxiety-like behaviour in the DM6/18 vs. DM12/12 group. Lipid peroxidation in the cortex, hippocampus and thalamus was significantly lower in the DM6/18 vs. DM12/12 group (p < 0.05), associated with an increased level of antioxidant enzymes and protein thiols in the cortex and thalamus. In the DM6/18 group, oleic, vaccenic, dihomo-γ-linolenic and docosahexaenoic acid concentrations were significantly higher in comparison to the DM12/12 group. A shortened daily photoperiod alleviates anxiety-like behaviour in diabetic rats by reduced lipid peroxidation and changes in the serum fatty acids profile.
Evaluation of the Contribution of Farmland Attributes to the Total Benefit from Its Contamination Remediation: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Wu Pei-Ing , Su Ching-En , Liou Je-Liang , Huang Ta-Ken
Published: April 2023

This study fills the gap in the existing literature by developing a two-stage quantile spatial Durbin model to evaluate the benefit from the cancellation of controlled contaminated farmlands. The results of monetary benefit are to identify the contribution of farmland attributed to the change in the total benefit resulting from the cancellation of contaminated farmlands. The results show that the significant impacts are the attributes resulting from the size of the transacted farmland, the distance between the transacted farmland and the main traffic artery, and the price of the construction site where the transacted farmlands are located. The results indicate that for every 1000 square meter increase in farmland size, the farmland price increases by about 45–105% in the non-agricultural planning zone, the Taoyuan Aerotropolis life circle, and decreases by about 81–131% in the agricultural planning zones. Moreover, for the price quantiles of 50% and above, the total benefit from the announcement of contamination cancellation to the ensuing transaction is reflected by an increase in the transaction price of 1.67–12.98% of the total benefit for non-agricultural Taoyuan Aerotropolis life circle zoning. By contrast, the total benefit from the same action taken for the other three agricultural development life circles is reflected by a reduction in the transaction price of 1.89–134.89%. These results indicate that the cancellation of highly priced contaminated farmlands is not anticipated if they are planned for agricultural purposes.
Assessing the per Capita Food Supply Trends of 38 OECD Countries between 2000 and 2019—A Joinpoint Regression Analysis
Authors: Csákvári Tímea , Elmer Diána , Németh Noémi , Komáromy Márk , Kajos Luca Fanni , Kovács Bettina , Boncz Imre
Published: April 2023

Food supply has an impact on the prevalence of diet-related non-communicable diseases. We aimed to analyze the protein, fat (g/capita/day) and calorie (kcal/capita/day) supply from 2000 to 2019 as derived from the OECD Health Statistics database. A joinpoint regression was used to examine the number and location of breakpoints in the time series. The annual percent change (APC) was calculated using Joinpoint 4.9.0.0. The per capita daily kcal per nutrient was calculated for each country and the resulting percentage distributions were compared to the acceptable macronutrient distribution ranges. Protein, fat and calorie supplies have increased significantly between 2000 and 2019. Each started to show a much steeper, positive change between 2012 and 2014 (APCfat: 1.0; 95%CI: 0.8–1.1; APCprotein: 0.5; 95%CI: 0.3–0.6; APCkcal: 0.4; 95%CI: 0.3–0.5). In terms of the composition of the daily calorie intake per capita, the overall share of fat (+4.9%) and protein (+1.0%) increased between 2000 and 2019. We found significant differences among countries and also an increasing and optimal proportion of consumed protein per total calorie in all countries over the last two decades. We concluded that several countries have access to fat availability above the optimal level, which deserves particular attention from health policy makers in the fight against obesity and diet-related diseases.
Detection of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and Clostridia in the Aetiology of Neonatal Piglet Diarrhoea: Important Factors for Their Prevention
Authors: Tsekouras Nikolaos , Meletis Eleftherios , Kostoulas Polychronis , Labronikou Georgia , Athanasakopoulou Zoi , Christodoulopoulos Georgios , Billinis Charalambos , Papatsiros Vasileios G.
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to research the involvement of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and C. difficile or C. perfringens type C in the aetiology of neonatal piglet diarrhoea in Greece and to identify preventive factors for them. A total of 78 pooled faecal samples were collected randomly from 234 suckling piglets (1–4 days of age) with diarrhoea from 26 pig farms (3 piglets × 3 litters × 26 farms = 234 piglets = 78 faecal pool samples). The collected samples were initially screened for the presence of E. coli and C. difficile or C. perfringens via cultivation on MacConkey and anaerobic blood agar, respectively. Subsequently, the samples were pooled on ELUTE cards. From samples tested, 69.23% of those in the farms were ETEC F4-positive, 30.77% were ETEC F5-positive, 61.54% ETEC were F6-positive, 42.31% were ETEC F4- and E. coli enterotoxin LT-positive, 19.23% were ETEC F5- and LT-positive, 42.31% were ETEC F6- and LT-positive, while LT was found in 57.69% of those in the farms. C. difficile was involved in many cases and identified as an emerging neonatal diarrhoea etiological agent. Specifically, Toxin A of C. difficile was found in 84.62% and Toxin B in 88.46% of those in the farms. Antibiotic administration to sows in combination with probiotics or acidifiers was revealed to reduce the detection of antigens of ETEC and the enterotoxin LT of E. coli.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Polishing Properties of a Lanthanum Cerium Fluoride Abrasive
Authors: Mei Yan , Chen Wenjuan , Chen Xuean
Published: April 2023

One kind of lanthanum cerium fluoride abrasive was prepared using the raw materials Ce2(CO3)3, La·Ce(CO3)3, and NH4F at temperatures of 400–1050 °C. The combined techniques of X-ray diffraction with Rietveld refinements, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to characterize the products. It was found that the materials are all made up of agglomerated irregular block-shaped particles with particle sizes in micrometer ranges. Below 850 °C, the product is a mixture of cubic CeO2 and trigonal LaF3, while above 900 °C, it is a mixture of cubic CeO2 and tetragonal LaOF. A higher calcination temperature suppresses the formation of the LaF3 phase but enhances the LaOF phase. The Ce in the prepared material is present in mixed states of Ce3+ and Ce4+, and the Ce4+/Ce3+ ratio increases with increasing calcination temperature. When the material prepared at 900 °C was used in the polishing test on K9 glass, the obtained polishing surface is very clean and flat, and the thickness difference before and after grinding is moderate, indicating its potential as an abrasive for polishing the surface of optical glass.