bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Ultrastructural Imaging of Chromosomes Using Serial Block-Face Scanning Electron Microscopy (SBFSEM)
Authors: Yusuf Mohammed , Sajid Atiqa , Robinson Ian K. , Lalani El-Nasir
Published: February 2022

To date, our understanding of how DNA is packaged in the cell nucleus, condensed from chromatin into chromosomes, and organized throughout the cell cycle remains sparse. Three dimensional (3D) ultrastructural imaging is an important tool for unravelling the organizational structure of chromosomes. For large volume 3D imaging of biological samples, serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBFSEM) has been applied, whereby ultrastructural information is achieved by analyzing 3D reconstructions acquired from measured data sets. In this review, we summarize the contribution of SBFSEM for obtaining 3D images of chromosomes to investigate their ultrastructure and organization in the cell and its nucleus. Furthermore, this review highlights the potential of SBFSEM for advancing 3D chromosome research.
Towards Integration of Two-Dimensional Hexagonal Boron Nitride (2D h-BN) in Energy Conversion and Storage Devices
Authors: Angizi Shayan , Alem Sayed Ali Ahmad , Pakdel Amir
Published: February 2022

The prominence of two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride (2D h-BN) nanomaterials in the energy industry has recently grown rapidly due to their broad applications in newly developed energy systems. This was necessitated as a response to the demand for mechanically and chemically stable platforms with superior thermal conductivity for incorporation in next-generation energy devices. Conventionally, the electrical insulation and surface inertness of 2D h-BN limited their large integration in the energy industry. However, progress on surface modification, doping, tailoring the edge chemistry, and hybridization with other nanomaterials paved the way to go beyond those conventional characteristics. The current application range, from various energy conversion methods (e.g., thermoelectrics) to energy storage (e.g., batteries), demonstrates the versatility of 2D h-BN nanomaterials for the future energy industry. In this review, the most recent research breakthroughs on 2D h-BN nanomaterials used in energy-based applications are discussed, and future opportunities and challenges are assessed.
Subsalt Rotliegend Sediments—A New Challenge for Geothermal Systems in Poland
Authors: Kudrewicz Rafał , Papiernik Bartosz , Hajto Marek , Machowski Grzegorz
Published: February 2022

New seismic data and the completion of the K-1 petroleum exploratory well, located close to the axial zone of the Mogilno-Łódź Trough (Polish Lowlands) delivered new insight into local structural, tectonic, facial and thermal variability of this geological unit. In this paper, the two variants of 3D models (SMV1 and SMV2) of Permian-Mesozoic strata are presented for the salt pillow related Kłecko Anticline, while resources assessment was confined to the Rotliegend Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) type reservoir, that is divided into Playa, Eolian and Fluvial facies-based complexes. Using very conservative assumptions on the methods of the EGS reservoir development, authors assessed that heat in place and technical potential for eolian sandstones are about 386 PJ and ca. 2814 kW, respectively, and for Fluvial 367 PJ and ca. 2850 kW in relation to the volume of 1 km3 at depths of about 5000 m b.s.l. The authors recommend for the further development of the Eolian complex because of its low shale content, influencing the high susceptibility to fracking. The presented research is the first Polish local resources assessment for an EGS reservoir in sedimentary Rotliegend, within thermal anomaly below the salt pillow, which is one of over 100 salt structures mapped in Poland.
Improved Linear Active Disturbance Rejection Control for IPMSM Drives Considering Load Inertia Mismatch
Authors: Jiang Feng , Yang Fan , Sun Songjun , Yang Kai
Published: February 2022

This article presents an improved linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC) method for interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) drives. The proposed method adopts a dual LADRC structure. The outer LADRC-based speed regulator adopts position feedback instead of speed feedback so that the low-pass filter for speed calculation can be eliminated. The inner LADRC-based current regulator incorporates a maximum torque per ampere (MTPA) operation scheme to improve the torque output capacity and the efficiency of the motor. In addition, considering the variation of load inertia in real applications, a systematic modelling and analysis on the effect of inertia mismatch is presented. To enhance the robustness of the drive system to inertia mismatch, an inertia identification method is proposed, in which the inertia information is extracted from the estimated disturbance of speed loop LESO. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified on a 1.0-kW IPMSM drive platform.
Study on the Synergistic Effects between Petroleum Sulfonate and a Nonionic–Anionic Surfactant for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Luan Huoxin , Zhou Zhaohui , Xu Chongjun , Bai Lei , Wang Xiaoguang , Han Lu , Zhang Qun , Li Gen
Published: February 2022

Nonionic–anionic surfactants are expected to be applied in chemical flooding due to their important properties such as ultralow IFT values, good salt tolerance, and no chromatographic separation in porous media. In this study, a new type of nonionic–anionic–hydrophobic group structure surfactant N, N-dihydroxyethylalkylamide carboxylate (EAMC) was synthesized. The synergistic effects between petroleum sulfonate (KPS) and EAMC in reducing interfacial tension (IFT) and emulsification properties were studied. The influences of salt, alkali and Ca2+ on the IFTs of surfactant solutions were also investigated. One-dimensional core flooding experiments were used to characterize the enhanced oil recovery capability of the KPS and EAMC mixed system. The experimental results show that both EAMC and KPS have high interfacial activity and can reduce IFTs to about 0.01 mN/m order of magnitude against decane at optimized concentrations. The area occupied by the hydrophilic group of EAMC on the interface is smaller than that of its own hydrophobic group. The interfacial film formed by EAMC alone is relatively loose. The IFTs of KPS containing different structure petroleum sulfonates is affected by the difference in the adsorption rate of petroleum sulfonates on the interface, which shows that both the dynamic and equilibrium interfacial tensions can have the lowest values. However, the IFTs of the EAMC solutions against crude oil can be reduced to ultralow values because the mixed tight adsorption film is formed by EAMC and crude oil fraction molecules with synergistic effect. On the other hand, the KPS molecule has a hydrophobic part with large size and no synergism with crude oil fractions can be observed in the solutions containing only KPS. The combination of EAMC and KPS shows synergistic effect, namely ultralow IFT values, good emulsification properties, high alkali tolerance, and good salt and Ca2+ tolerance during a wide percentage range of EAMC. The best formula of EAMC and KPS system can be applied for EOR after polymer flooding. The studies in this paper are helpful for the design and application of a chemical flooding formula with nonionic–anionic–hydrophobic group structure surfactants.
Exhaust Emissions Measurement of a Vehicle with Retrofitted LPG System
Authors: Šarkan Branislav , Jaśkiewicz Marek , Kubiak Przemysław , Tarnapowicz Dariusz , Loman Michal
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the production of exhaust emissions from a vehicle with a petrol engine with the Euro 4 emission standard and powered by petrol and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). The paper presents new possibilities for monitoring exhaust emissions using an exhaust gas analyzer. At the same time, it points out the topicality and significance of the issue in the monitored area. It examines the impact of a change in fuel on emissions. This change is monitored in various areas of vehicle operation. Measurements were performed during real operation, which means that the results are fully usable and applicable in practice. The driving simulation as well as the test conditions correspond to the RDE (Real Driving Emissions) test standard. A commercially available car was first selected to perform the tests, which was first measured in the original configuration (petrol drive). Based on real-time RDE driving tests, it is possible to determine the number of exhaust emissions. Subsequently, the same measurements were performed with the same vehicle, but the vehicle’s propulsion was changed to LPG. The vehicle was equipped with an additional system that allowed the vehicle to be powered by LPG. The results from the individual driving tests allowed the determination of the exhaust emissions. Emissions of CO (carbon monoxide), CO2 (carbon dioxide), HC (hydrocarbons), and NOx (nitrogen oxides) were monitored as a matter of priority. Through the driving tests, it was found that the gasoline combustion produced higher CO (1.926 g/km) and CO2 (217.693 g/km) emissions compared to the combustion of liquefied gas, where the concentration of the CO emissions was 1.892 g/km and that of the CO2 emissions was 213.966 g/km. In contrast, the HC (0.00397 g/km) and NOx (0.03107 g/km) emissions were lower when petrol was burned. During LPG combustion, the HC emissions reached 0.00430 g/km, and the NOx emissions reached 0.05134 g/km. At the end of the research, the authors compared the emissions determined by real driving (in g/km) with the emission values produced by the emission standard EURO 4 and the certificate of conformity (COC). Practical measurements showed that the vehicle produced excessive amounts of CO when burning gasoline. This production is 0.926 g/km higher and 0.892 g/km higher when burning LPG compared to the limit set by the Euro 4 Emission Standard. The difference is even greater than the limit value stated in the COC document. For other substances, the monitored values are in the norm and are even far below the permitted value
Design and Implementation of a Dual-Band Filtering Wilkinson Power Divider Using Coupled T-Shaped Dual-Band Resonators
Authors: Roshani Sobhan , Koziel Slawomir , Roshani Saeed , Hashemi Mehr Faezeh Sadat , Szczepanski Stanislaw
Published: February 2022

The paper introduces a novel structure of a dual-band filtering Wilkinson power divider (WPD). Its essential component is a dual-band bandpass filter (BPF), implemented using coupling lines and two T-shaped resonators. The BPF is incorporated into the divider structure to suppress the unwanted harmonics within the circuit. The latter is achieved owing to a wide stopband of the filter. The designed dual-band WPD can suppress third unwanted harmonics in both channels with high levels of attenuation. The designed dual-band WPD operates at 2.6 GHz and 3.3 GHz with a return loss of 22.1 dB and 22.3 dB at the operating frequencies. Furthermore, the insertion loss and isolation are 0.3 dB and 20.2 dB at 2.6 GHz and 0.9 dB and 24.5 dB at 3.3 GHz. The analysis and simulation results are corroborated by the measurements of the fabricated divider prototype. The competitive performance of the proposed circuit is also demonstrated through comparisons with state-of-the-art divider circuits from the literature.
Machine Learning to Rate and Predict the Efficiency of Waterflooding for Oil Production
Authors: Makhotin Ivan , Orlov Denis , Koroteev Dmitry
Published: February 2022

Waterflooding is a widely used secondary oil recovery technique. The oil and gas industry uses a complex reservoir numerical simulation and reservoir engineering analysis to forecast production curves from waterflooding projects. The application of such standard methods at the stage of assessing the potential of a huge number of projects could be computationally inefficient and requires a lot of effort. This paper demonstrates the applicability of machine learning to rate the outcome of waterflooding applied to an oil reservoir. We also explore the relationship of project evaluations by operators at the final stages with several performance metrics for forecasting. Real data about several thousand waterflooding projects in Texas are used in the current study. We compare the ML models rankings of the waterflooding efficiency and the expert rankings. Linear regression models along with neural networks and gradient boosting on decision threes are considered. We show that machine learning models allow reducing computational complexity and can be useful for rating the reservoirs, with respect to the effectiveness of waterflooding.
Application of Fourier Sine Transform to Carbon Nanotubes Suspended in Ethylene Glycol for the Enhancement of Heat Transfer
Authors: Souayeh Basma , Ali Abro Kashif , Alfannakh Huda , Al Nuwairan Muneerah , Yasin Amina
Published: February 2022

There is no denying fact that nanoparticles of carbon nanotubes are employed to improve the performance of thermal stability in comparison with traditional nanoparticles, this is because nanoparticles of carbon nanotubes possess outstanding material properties. In this manuscript, a mathematical model of mixed convective flow based on carbon nanotubes suspended in ethylene glycol has been developed and derived by means of Fourier Sine transform. In order to analyze the thermophysical properties of nanofluid, the temperature and velocity profiles have been investigated through fractional derivative and integral transforms. The comparative analysis of single and multi-walled carbon nanotubes has been presented for the sake of enhancement of heat transfer. It is worth mentioning that embedded rheological parameters have shown the sensitivity for the enhancement of heat transfer with and without fractional techniques through graphical illustration.
Evaluation of Deadwood Characteristics and Carbon Storage under Different Silvicultural Treatments in a Mixed Broadleaves Mountain Forest
Authors: Tavankar Farzam , Kivi Aezam Rezaee , Taheri-Abkenari Kambiz , Lo Monaco Angela , Venanzi Rachele , Picchio Rodolfo
Published: February 2022

The deadwood (DW) of the forest is in the following two forms: standing (snag) and fallen (log). The DW categories and decay stage are important functional and structural components of forest ecosystems. We used a field-based assessment to quantify how the relative contribution of deadwood to total above-ground carbon stock changes across a silvicultural method and stand altitude gradient in mixed broadleaves stands. The characteristics of DW and carbon stock in selection-cutting managed stands (Sc), shelter-wood managed stands (Sh) and protected stands (Pr) were examined in three altitude ranges (low, <600; medium, 600–1200; and high, >1200 m a.s.l.) in a mixed broadleaves high forest. The results showed that with increasing altitude, the volume of DW increased. The volume of DW in Pr stands was about three times higher than Sh stands and twice higher than Sc stands. The volume of the standing DW was greater than that of the fallen DW in all stands. The highest volume ratio of fallen DW to standing DW was found in the medium altitude in the Sc stand. The amount of carbon stock by DW in the Sh, Sc, and Pr stands was 1.53–2.22, 2.29–3.19, and 5.03–6.80 t ha−1, respectively. The DW share of C-stock of above ground biomass was 4%–4.6% in Sh stand, 4.3%–4.8% in Sc stand, and 7.4%–7.9% in the Pr stand. Deadwood assessment and management, in terms of volume, type, species composition, diameter distribution, spatial allocation and decay stage, is one of the new challenges for a proper sustainable forest management.
On Fractional Lyapunov Functions of Nonlinear Dynamic Systems and Mittag-Leffler Stability Thereof
Authors: Rehman Attiq ul , Singh Ram , Agarwal Praveen
Published: February 2022

In this paper, fractional Lyapunov functions for epidemic models are introduced and the concept of Mittag-Leffler stability is applied. The global stability of the epidemic model at an equilibrium state is established.
A Review on CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and CYP19A1 Polymorphism Studies: Candidate Susceptibility Genes for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Infertility
Authors: Heidarzadehpilehrood Roozbeh , Pirhoushiaran Maryam , Abdollahzadeh Rasoul , Binti Osman Malina , Sakinah Maryam , Nordin Norshariza , Abdul Hamid Habibah
Published: February 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a multifactorial condition associated with reproductive and endocrine organs and might cause infertility and metabolic abnormalities in childbearing age. PCOS seems to be a multifactorial disorder resulting from the combination of several genetic and environmental factors. Little research has been conducted to date on the impact of polymorphisms in infertility. We aim to review the appearance of polymorphisms in females of diverse ethnicities and their effect on infertility in the population with polycystic ovary syndrome. There have been numerous reports of the importance of the steroidogenesis pathway and genetic variants in PCOS pathogenesis. The most important genes that play a role in the aetiology of PCOS are CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and CYP19A1. We evaluated the occurrence of polymorphisms in various ethnicities in the CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and CYP19A1 genes and their efficacy on increasing PCOS risk with infertility. Our findings revealed that polymorphisms in various ethnicities are associated with the risk of PCOS with infertility. Although conflicting results regarding CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and CYP19A1 polymorphisms and their influence on PCOS with infertility have been reported in a small number of papers, the authors feel this may be attributable to the sample size and ethnic composition of the examined populations. In conclusion, our study strongly suggests that the CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and CYP19A1 genes might significantly enhance the probability of developing PCOS with infertility.
A Case of Severe Left-Ventricular Noncompaction Associated with Splicing Altering Variant in the FHOD3 Gene
Authors: Myasnikov Roman , Bukaeva Anna , Kulikova Olga , Meshkov Alexey , Kiseleva Anna , Ershova Alexandra , Petukhova Anna , Divashuk Mikhail , Zotova Evgenia , Sotnikova Evgeniia , Kharlap Maria , Zharikova Anastasia , Vyatkin Yuri , Ramensky Vasily , Abisheva Alexandra , Muraveva Alisa , Koretskiy Sergey , Kudryavtseva Maria , Popov Sergey , Utkina Marina , Mershina Elena , Sinitsyn Valentin , Kogan Evgeniya , Blagova Olga , Drapkina Oxana
Published: February 2022

Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a highly heterogeneous primary disorder of the myocardium. Its clinical features and genetic spectrum strongly overlap with other types of primary cardiomyopathies, in particular, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Study and the accumulation of genotype–phenotype correlations are the way to improve the precision of our diagnostics. We present a familial case of LVNC with arrhythmic and thrombotic complications, myocardial fibrosis and heart failure, cosegregating with the splicing variant in the FHOD3 gene. This is the first description of FHOD3-dependent LVNC to our knowledge. We also revise the assumed mechanism of pathogenesis in the case of FHOD3 splicing alterations.
How Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect Migrant Populations in Lisbon, Portugal? A Study on Perceived Effects on Health and Economic Condition
Authors: Gama Ana , Rocha João Victor , Marques Maria J. , Azeredo-Lopes Sofia , Pedro Ana Rita , Dias Sónia
Published: February 2022

Increasing evidence on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic suggests that its social and health impacts are being disproportionately shouldered by socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, including migrants. Knowledge of how these populations are experiencing the COVID-19 crisis is scarce. We examined the effects of the pandemic on the perceived individual financial situation and health condition of migrants in Lisbon, Portugal, and described the most affected subgroups. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a diverse community-based sample of 1126 migrants. A worsening of their financial situation since the pandemic was reported by 55.6% of the participants and a worsening of their health condition by 19.9%. A worsened financial situation was most often reported by those ≥45 years old and with a lower income (<EUR 650). Likewise, a worsened health condition was most often reported by older and lower-income migrants, as well as by women and those with a lower level of education. Migration-related factors such as length of stay and migration status were not associated with worsened health conditions. Socioeconomic characteristics appear to be more important when assessing differences in perceived effects of the pandemic among migrants. The social impact of the pandemic both exacerbates economic and gender inequalities and may lead to worse health conditions within the population in the medium and long terms.
Internet Use and Quality of Life: The Multiple Mediating Effects of Risk Perception and Internet Addiction
Authors: Qian Bo , Huang Mengmeng , Xu Mengyi , Hong Yuxiang
Published: February 2022

The impact of internet use on quality of life (QoL) has become an increasing focus of academic research. This paper aims to explore the internal influencing mechanisms of internet use (i.e., leisure-oriented internet use (LIU); work-oriented internet use (WIU)) on QoL, with a focus on the multiple mediating effects of risk perception and internet addiction. We constructed a theoretical framework from a psychological perspective and tested the hypotheses using hierarchical regression analysis with a sample of 1535 participants. The results showed that: (1) LIU had a positive effect on QoL, while WIU did not have a significant impact on QoL; (2) both risk perception and internet addiction had a negative influence on QoL; (3) risk perception positively impacted internet addiction; (4) risk perception and internet addiction had multiple mediating effects on the relationship between internet use and QoL.
A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study Assessing the Psycho-Emotional State of Intensive Care Units’ Physicians and Nurses of COVID-19 Hospitals of a Russian Metropolis
Authors: Kashtanov Artem , Molotok Ekaterina , Yavorovskiy Andrey , Boyarkov Alexander , Vasil’ev Yuriy , Alsaegh Ali , Dydykin Sergey , Kytko Olesya , Meylanova Renata , Enina Yulianna , Troitskiy Vasiliy , Kapitonova Marina , Vaits Sergey , Vaits Tat’yana , Saleev Rinat , Saleeva Gulshat , Saleev Nail
Published: February 2022

Working in intensive care units (ICUs) is stressful and potentially leads to various psycho-emotional disorders. Today, this issue represents a serious concern to the healthcare sector and affects the quality of healthcare provided. This study aimed to assess and compare the psycho-emotional state in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 hospitals’ ICU healthcare workers (HCWs). From January to July 2021, we conducted an anonymous cross-sectional web survey of ICU physicians and nurses (N = 1259) of various hospitals in a metropolis with a population of over 10 million people. The statistical distributions of non-COVID-19 ICU HCWs showed the following results: emotional exhaustion levels (low 14.6%, average 30.8%, and high 54.6%); depersonalization levels (low 11.6%, average 16.5%, and high 71.9%); and reduced personal accomplishment levels (low 23.5%, average 40.3%, and high 36.2%). The statistical distributions of COVID-19 ICU HCWs showed the following results: emotional exhaustion levels (low 16.5%, average 31.5%, and high 52%); depersonalization levels (low 7.4%, average 9.4%, and high 83.1%); and reduced personal accomplishment levels (low 25.4%, average 45.4%, and high 29.1%). This study found a strong correlation between emotional exhaustion, aggression, and depersonalization in non-COVID-19 ICU HCWs and also found a correlation between their age, aggression, emotional exhaustion, and occupational stress.
Capillary Zone Electrophoresis in Tandem with Flow Cytometry in Viability Study of Various ATCC Bacterial Strains under Antibiotic Treatment
Authors: Kupczyk Wojciech , Maślak Ewelina , Railean-Plugaru Viorica , Pomastowski Paweł , Jackowski Marek , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to develop an innovative method of examining bacterial survival using capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and flow cytometry (FC) as a reference method. For this purpose, standard strains of bacteria from the ATCC collection were used: Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 14506, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 11632, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 10031, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, as well as seven antibiotics with different antimicrobial mechanisms of action. The ratio of live and dead cells in the tested sample in CZE measurements were calculated using our algorithm that takes into account the detection time. Results showed a high agreement between CZE and FC in the assessment of the percentage of live cells exposed to the stress factor in both antibiotic susceptibility and time-dependent assays. The applied measuring system to assess the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy in in vitro conditions is a method with great potential, and the data obtained with the use of CZE mostly correspond to the expected drug sensitivity according to EUCAST and CLSI guidelines.
Oncological Outcomes of Primary vs. Salvage OPHL Type II: A Systematic Review
Authors: Saraniti Carmelo , Verro Barbara , Ciodaro Francesco , Galletti Francesco
Published: February 2022

Background: Open partial horizontal laryngectomy type II (OPHL type II) has two main aims: oncological radicality and laryngeal preservation. The aim of this review is to define and emphasize the oncological efficacy of OPHL type II, both as primary and salvage surgery, by analyzing the latest literature. Methods: The research was carried out on Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science databases, by using strict keywords. Oncological outcomes were evaluated by the following parameters: overall survival, disease-specific survival, disease-free survival, local control, laryngeal preservation, local recurrence. Results: The review included 19 articles divided into three groups: (1) primary OPHL type II, (2) salvage OPHL type II, (3) adjuvant radiotherapy after primary OPHL type II. The articles showed excellent results as far as oncological radicality and organ preservation. Conclusions: This review demonstrated that OPHL type II is useful to obtain oncological radicality both as primary surgery and salvage surgery. Nevertheless, the only criterion that determined the positive outcome and efficacy of this technique is the strict selection of patient and tumor.
Spatial Co-Morbidity of Childhood Acute Respiratory Infection, Diarrhoea and Stunting in Nigeria
Authors: Orunmoluyi Olamide , Gayawan Ezra , Manda Samuel
Published: February 2022

In low- and middle-income countries, children aged below 5 years frequently suffer from disease co-occurrence. This study assessed whether the co-occurrence of acute respiratory infection (ARI), diarrhoea and stunting observed at the child level could also be reflected ecologically. We considered disease data on 69,579 children (0–59 months) from the 2008, 2013, and 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys using a hierarchical Bayesian spatial shared component model to separate the state-specific risk of each disease into an underlying disease-overall spatial pattern, common to the three diseases and a disease-specific spatial pattern. We found that ARI and stunting were more concentrated in the north-eastern and southern parts of the country, while diarrhoea was much higher in the northern parts. The disease-general spatial component was greater in the north-eastern and southern parts of the country. Identifying and reducing common risk factors to the three conditions could result in improved child health, particularly in the northeast and south of Nigeria.
Simultaneous Heterotrophic Nitrification and Aerobic Denitrification of Water after Sludge Dewatering in Two Sequential Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBR)
Authors: Janka Eshetu , Pathak Sabin , Rasti Alireza , Gyawali Sandeep , Wang Shuai
Published: February 2022

Water after sludge dewatering, also known as reject water from anaerobic digestion, is recycled back to the main wastewater treatment inlet in the wastewater treatment plant Porsgrunn, Norway, causing periodic process disturbance due to high ammonium of 568 (±76.7) mg/L and total chemical oxygen demand (tCOD) of 2825 (±526) mg/L. The main aim of this study was the simultaneous treatment of reject water ammonium and COD using two pilot-scale sequential moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR) implemented in the main wastewater treatment stream. The two pilot MBBRs each had a working volume of 67.4 L. The biofilm carriers used had a protected surface area of 650 m2/m3 with a 60% filling ratio. The results indicate that the combined ammonia removal efficiency (ARE) in both reactors was 65.9%, while the nitrite accumulation rate (NAR) and nitrate production rate (NPR) were 80.2 and 19.8%, respectively. Over 28% of the reject water’s tCOD was removed in both reactors. The heterotrophic nitrification and oxygen tolerant aerobic denitrification were the key biological mechanisms found for the ammonium removal in both reactors. The dominant bacterial family in both reactors was Alcaligenaceae, capable of simultaneous heterotrophic nitrification and denitrification. Moreover, microbial families that were found with equal potential for application of simultaneous heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification including Cloacamonaceae, Alcaligenaceae, Comamonadaceae, Microbacteriaceae, and Anaerolinaceae.
Has Being Lost While High-Altitude Mountaineering Become Less Frequent? A Retrospective Analysis from the Swiss Alps
Authors: Gasser Benedikt Andreas , Schwendinger Fabian
Published: February 2022

Background: High-altitude mountaineering is becoming more popular. Despite technical developments such as global positioning systems, mountaineers still lose their way. This study aimed to analyze characteristics of alpinists that lost their way while high-altitude mountaineering in Switzerland. Material and Methods: Data from the central registry of the Swiss Alpine Club between 2009 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Changes in the number of cases and severity of injuries over time were examined using simple linear regression models. Descriptive analyses were performed for age, time of emergency occurrence, and factors associated with being lost. The Mann–Whitney U test assessed between-sex comparisons. Results: Of the 4596 emergency cases during the observation period, 275 cases (5.9%) were due to being lost (76.4% male). A mean of 22.9 ± 9.6 cases per year was detected. The number of cases did not change significantly over time. Similarly, this was the case for the NACA-Score (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics Score) with the majority of mountaineers remaining uninjured (77.8%). The median age was 42 (35–54) years for the full sample and 45 (35–56) years and 40 (33–48) years for males and females, respectively. Fog or weather changes, exhaustion, and inadequate tour planning (time and darkness) were frequently documented by rescuers as perceived reasons for being lost. Regarding the time of emergency occurrence, three peaks were detected, around 10 am, 5 pm, and 8 pm. Conclusions: Our findings show that the number of emergencies due to being lost was stable during the 12-year period. Furthermore, we presented factors that might be associated with losing one’s way during mountaineering. These results may form an important basis for future studies determining risk factors for being lost and the prevention of such emergencies.
Light Pollution and Circadian Misalignment: A Healthy, Blue-Free, White Light-Emitting Diode to Avoid Chronodisruption
Authors: Menéndez-Velázquez Amador , Morales Dolores , García-Delgado Ana Belén
Published: February 2022

Sunlight has participated in the development of all life forms on Earth. The micro-world and the daily rhythms of plants and animals are strongly regulated by the light–dark rhythm. Human beings have followed this pattern for thousands of years. The discovery and development of artificial light sources eliminated the workings of this physiological clock. The world’s current external environment is full of light pollution. In many electrical light bulbs used today and considered “environmentally friendly,” such as LED devices, electrical energy is converted into short-wavelength illumination that we have not experienced in the past. Such illumination effectively becomes “biological light pollution” and disrupts our pineal melatonin production. The suppression of melatonin at night alters our circadian rhythms (biological rhythms with a periodicity of 24 h). This alteration is known as chronodisruption and is associated with numerous diseases. In this article, we present a blue-free WLED (white light-emitting diode) that can avoid chronodisruption and preserve circadian rhythms. This WLED also maintains the spectral quality of light measured through parameters such as CRI (color reproduction index).
Perceived Stress, Social Support, Emotional Intelligence, and Post-Stress Growth among Chinese Left-Behind Children: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Zhang Lyuci , Roslan Samsilah , Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab , Jiang Yuqin , Wu Sumei , Chen Ye
Published: February 2022

Background: Several previous studies have revealed a negative impact of perceived stress on post-stress growth. Nevertheless, the potential mediating and moderating mechanisms are unclear, particularly for left-behind children in China. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the negative relationship between perceived stress and post-stress growth, the mediating effect of social support, as well as the moderating effect of emotional intelligence in a sample of Chinese left-behind children. Methods: A sample of 837 Chinese students in elementary and middle school was collected for this study. The Perceived Stress Scale, the Social Support Scale, the Emotional Intelligence Scale, and the Post-Stress Growth Scale were employed to examine them. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 software. Results: The results indicate a significant negative association between perceived stress and post-stress growth. Among perceived stress and social support, the former acted as a mediator, while the latter as a moderator. This study sheds light on the post-stress growth of Chinese left-behind children. The findings validated a model of moderated mediation that shows the relationship between perceived stress, emotional intelligence, social support, and post-stress growth. Conclusion: This study confirmed that social support is one of the most important factors among left-behind children, from perceived stress to post-stress growth. Furthermore, the study reveals that emotional intelligence can adjust the relationship between perceived stress and social support to post-stress growth. Therefore, for both family education and school education, the result provides a new direction.
The Prediction of Influenza-like Illness and Respiratory Disease Using LSTM and ARIMA
Authors: Tsan Yu-Tse , Chen Der-Yuan , Liu Po-Yu , Kristiani Endah , Nguyen Kieu Lan Phuong , Yang Chao-Tung
Published: February 2022

This paper proposed the forecasting model of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and respiratory disease. The dataset was extracted from the Taiwan Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) for air pollutants data and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for disease cases from 2009 to 2018. First, this paper applied the ARIMA method, which trained based on the weekly number of disease cases in time series. Second, we implemented the Long short-term memory (LSTM) method, which trained based on the correlation between the weekly number of diseases and air pollutants. The models were also trained and evaluated based on five and ten years of historical data. Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) has an excellent model in the five-year dataset of ILI at 2564.9 compared to ten years at 8173.6 of RMSE value. This accuracy is similar to the Respiratory dataset, which gets 15,656.7 in the five-year dataset and 22,680.4 of RMSE value in the ten-year dataset. On the contrary, LSTM has better accuracy in the ten-year dataset than the five-year dataset. For example, on average of RMSE in the ILI dataset, LSTM has 720.2 RMSE value in five years and 517.0 in ten years dataset. Also, in the Respiratory disease dataset, LSTM gets 4768.6 of five years of data and 3254.3 of the ten-year dataset. These experiments revealed that the LSTM model generally outperforms ARIMA by three to seven times higher model performance.
Radiolysis Studies of Oxidation and Nitration of Tyrosine and Some Other Biological Targets by Peroxynitrite-Derived Radicals
Authors: Folkes Lisa K. , Bartesaghi Silvina , Trujillo Madia , Wardman Peter , Radi Rafael
Published: February 2022

The widespread interest in free radicals in biology extends far beyond the effects of ionizing radiation, with recent attention largely focusing on reactions of free radicals derived from peroxynitrite (i.e., hydroxyl, nitrogen dioxide, and carbonate radicals). These radicals can easily be generated individually by reactions of radiolytically-produced radicals in aqueous solutions and their reactions can be monitored either in real time or by analysis of products. This review first describes the general principles of selective radical generation by radiolysis, the yields of individual species, the advantages and limitations of either pulsed or continuous radiolysis, and the quantitation of oxidizing power of radicals by electrode potentials. Some key reactions of peroxynitrite-derived radicals with potential biological targets are then discussed, including the characterization of reactions of tyrosine with a model alkoxyl radical, reactions of tyrosyl radicals with nitric oxide, and routes to nitrotyrosine formation. This is followed by a brief outline of studies involving the reactions of peroxynitrite-derived radicals with lipoic acid/dihydrolipoic acid, hydrogen sulphide, and the metal chelator desferrioxamine. For biological diagnostic probes such as ‘spin traps’ to be used with confidence, their reactivities with radical species have to be characterized, and the application of radiolysis methods in this context is also illustrated.
Gemini and Bicephalous Surfactants: A Review on Their Synthesis, Micelle Formation, and Uses
Authors: Guerrero-Hernández Lluvia , Meléndez-Ortiz Héctor Iván , Cortez-Mazatan Gladis Y. , Vaillant-Sánchez Sandra , Peralta-Rodríguez René D.
Published: February 2022

The use of surfactants in polymerization reactions is particularly important, mainly in emulsion polymerizations. Further, micelles from biocompatible surfactants find use in pharmaceutical dosage forms. This paper reviews recent developments in the synthesis of novel gemini and bicephalous surfactants, micelle formation, and their applications in polymer and nanoparticle synthesis, oil recovery, catalysis, corrosion, protein binding, and biomedical area, particularly in drug delivery.
Hidden Information Revealed Using the Orthogonal System of Nucleic Acids
Authors: Víglaský Viktor
Published: February 2022

In this study, the organization of genetic information in nucleic acids is defined using a novel orthogonal representation. Clearly defined base pairing in DNA allows the linear base chain and sequence to be mathematically transformed into an orthogonal representation where the G–C and A–T pairs are displayed in different planes that are perpendicular to each other. This form of base allocation enables the evaluation of any nucleic acid and predicts the likelihood of a particular region to form non-canonical motifs. The G4Hunter algorithm is currently a popular method of identifying G-quadruplex forming sequences in nucleic acids, and offers promising scores despite its lack of a substantial rational basis. The orthogonal representation described here is an effort to address this incongruity. In addition, the orthogonal display facilitates the search for other sequences that are capable of adopting non-canonical motifs, such as direct and palindromic repeats. The technique can also be used for various RNAs, including any aptamers. This powerful tool based on an orthogonal system offers considerable potential for a wide range of applications.
Influenza A Virus NS1 Protein Structural Flexibility Analysis According to Its Structural Polymorphism Using Computational Approaches
Authors: Naceri Sarah , Marc Daniel , Camproux Anne-Claude , Flatters Delphine
Published: February 2022

Influenza A viruses are highly contagious RNA viruses that cause respiratory tract infections in humans and animals. Their non-structural protein NS1, a homodimer of two 230-residue chains, is the main viral factor in counteracting the antiviral defenses of the host cell. Its RNA-binding domain is an obligate dimer that is connected to each of the two effector domains by a highly flexible unstructured linker region of ten amino acids. The flexibility of NS1 is a key property that allows its effector domains and its RNA binding domain to interact with several protein partners or RNAs. The three-dimensional structures of full-length NS1 dimers revealed that the effector domains could adopt three distinct conformations as regards their mutual interactions and their orientation relative to the RNA binding domain (closed, semi-open and open). The origin of this structural polymorphism is currently being investigated and several hypotheses are proposed, among which one posits that it is a strain-specific property. In the present study, we explored through computational molecular modeling the dynamic and flexibility properties of NS1 from three important influenza virus A strains belonging to three distinct subtypes (H1N1, H6N6, H5N1), for which at least one conformation is available in the Protein Data Bank. In order to verify whether NS1 is stable in three forms for the three strains, we constructed homology models if the corresponding forms were not available in the Protein Data Bank. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed in order to predict the stability over time of the three distinct sequence variants of NS1, in each of their three distinct conformations. Our results favor the co-existence of three stable structural forms, regardless of the strain, but also suggest that the length of the linker, along with the presence of specific amino acids, modulate the dynamic properties and the flexibility of NS1.
SPDL1 Is an Independent Predictor of Patient Outcome in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Klimaszewska-Wiśniewska Anna , Buchholz Karolina , Durślewicz Justyna , Villodre Emilly Schlee , Gagat Maciej , Grzanka Dariusz
Published: February 2022

Spindle Apparatus Coiled-Coil Protein 1 (SPDL1) is a relatively recently identified coiled-coil domain containing protein and an important determinant of DNA fidelity by ensuring faithful mitosis. Hence, SPDL1 is suspected to underlie genomic (in-)stability in human cancers, yet its exact roles in these diseases remain largely underexplored. Given that genomic instability (GIN) is a crucial feature in colorectal cancer (CRC), we primarily asked whether the expression of this protein may account for differences in clinicopathological features and survival rates of CRC patients. Protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in the institutional tissue microarray (TMA), and gene expression by the analysis of publicly available datasets. To place the prognostic relevance in a predicted biological context, gene co-expression set around SPDL1 identified by public data mining was annotated and assessed for enrichment in gene ontology (GO) categories, BRITE hierarchies, and Reactome pathways. The comparison with adjacent normal tissue revealed a high expression of SPDL1 protein in a subset of tumor cases (48.84%), and these had better prognosis than the SPDL1-low expression counterpart even after adjustment for multiple confounders. SPDL1-high expression within tumors was associated with a median 56-month survival advantage, but not with any clinicopathological characteristics of our cohort. In the TCGA cohort, SPDL1 was overexpressed in tumor tissue and positively associated with improved survival, chromosome instability phenotype, and various GIN markers. In addition to the genes critically involved in the cell cycle and mitosis, a gene set co-expressed with SPDL1 contained checkpoint members of both chromosome segregation and DNA replication, as well as those associated with defective DNA repair, and retrograde vesicle-mediated transport. In conclusion, SPDL1 is an independent predictor of CRC patient survival in a possible connection with chromosomal instability.
Combined Impact of Magnetic Force and Spaceflight Conditions on Escherichia coli Physiology
Authors: Domnin Pavel A. , Parfenov Vladislav A. , Kononikhin Alexey S. , Petrov Stanislav V. , Shevlyagina Nataliya V. , Arkhipova Anastasia Yu. , Koudan Elizaveta V. , Nezhurina Elizaveta K. , Brzhozovskiy Alexander G. , Bugrova Anna E. , Moysenovich Anastasia M. , Levin Alexandr A. , Karalkin Pavel A. , Pereira Frederico D. A. S. , Zhukhovitsky Vladimir G. , Lobakova Elena S. , Mironov Vladimir A. , Nikolaev Evgeny N. , Khesuani Yusef D. , Ermolaeva Svetlana A.
Published: February 2022

Changes in bacterial physiology caused by the combined action of the magnetic force and microgravity were studied in Escherichia coli grown using a specially developed device aboard the International Space Station. The morphology and metabolism of E. coli grown under spaceflight (SF) or combined spaceflight and magnetic force (SF + MF) conditions were compared with ground cultivated bacteria grown under standard (control) or magnetic force (MF) conditions. SF, SF + MF, and MF conditions provided the up-regulation of Ag43 auto-transporter and cell auto-aggregation. The magnetic force caused visible clustering of non-sedimenting bacteria that formed matrix-containing aggregates under SF + MF and MF conditions. Cell auto-aggregation was accompanied by up-regulation of glyoxylate shunt enzymes and Vitamin B12 transporter BtuB. Under SF and SF + MF but not MF conditions nutrition and oxygen limitations were manifested by the down-regulation of glycolysis and TCA enzymes and the up-regulation of methylglyoxal bypass. Bacteria grown under combined SF + MF conditions demonstrated superior up-regulation of enzymes of the methylglyoxal bypass and down-regulation of glycolysis and TCA enzymes compared to SF conditions, suggesting that the magnetic force strengthened the effects of microgravity on the bacterial metabolism. This strengthening appeared to be due to magnetic force-dependent bacterial clustering within a small volume that reinforced the effects of the microgravity-driven absence of convectional flows.
The Role of the Neutrophilic Network in the Pathogenesis of Psoriasis
Authors: Czerwińska Joanna , Owczarczyk-Saczonek Agnieszka
Published: February 2022

One role of neutrophils, the most abundant innate immune sentinels, is neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, which plays a significant role in immune surveillance. However, NET operation is bidirectional. Recent studies report that NETs may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis. The participation of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of that disease is dependent on an autoinflammatory feedback loop between neutrophils, lymphocytes, dendritic cells and keratinocytes. Our aim was to clarify the field of NET research in psoriasis and highlight the main factors required for NET generation, which may be a target of new therapies. This article presents a comphrehensive review concerning studies addressing the participation of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Based on the available English-language literature, we discuss original papers presenting significant research findings which may help to understand and interpret the NET formation process in psoriasis, as well as the newest systematic reviews on PubMed. Next, the comparison, synthesis and summary of reported results were performed to clearly indicate the specific component of the NET which participates in the development of psoriasis.