bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gasification of Lignocellulosic Waste in Supercritical Water: Study of Thermodynamic Equilibrium as a Nonlinear Programming Problem
Authors: dos Santos Junior Julles Mitoura , Mariano Adriano Pinto
Published: June 2024

As one of the main industrial segments of the current geoeconomics scenario, agro-industrial activities generate excessive amounts of waste. The gasification of such waste using supercritical water (SCWG) has the potential to convert the waste and generate products with high added value, hydrogen being the product of greatest interest. Within this context, this article presents studies on the SCWG processes of lignocellulosic residues from cotton, rice, and mustard husks. The Gibbs energy minimization (minG) and entropy maximization (maxS) approaches were applied to evaluate the processes conditioned in isothermal and adiabatic reactors, respectively. The thermodynamic and phase equilibria were written as a nonlinear programming problem using the Peng–Robinson state solution for the prediction of fugacity coefficients. As an optimization tool, TeS (Thermodynamic Equilibrium Simulation) software v.10 was used with the help of the trust-constr algorithm to search for the optimal point. The simulated results were validated with experimental data presenting surface coefficients greater than 0.99, validating the use of the proposed modeling to evaluate reaction systems of interest. It was found that increases in temperature and amounts of biomass in the process feed tend to maximize hydrogen formation. In addition to these variables, the H2/CO ratio is of interest considering that these processes can be directed toward the production of synthesis gas (syngas). The results indicated that the selected processes can be directed to the production of synthesis gas, including the production of chemicals such as methanol, dimethyl ether, and ammonia. Using an entropy maximization approach, it was possible to verify the thermal behavior of reaction systems. The maxS results indicated that the selected processes have a predominantly exothermic character. The initial temperature and biomass composition had predominant effects on the equilibrium temperature of the system. In summary, this work applied advanced optimization and modeling methodologies to validate the feasibility of SCWG processes in producing hydrogen and other valuable chemicals from agro-industrial waste.
Discovery of Cloud Applications from Logs
Authors: Harutyunyan Ashot , Poghosyan Arnak , Bunarjyan Tigran , Haroyan Andranik , Harutyunyan Marine , Harutyunyan Lilit , Baloian Nelson
Published: June 2024

Continuous discovery and update of applications or their boundaries running in cloud environments in an automatic way is a highly required function of modern data center operation solutions. Prior attempts to address this problem within various products or projects were/are applying rule-driven approaches or machine learning techniques on specific types of data–network traffic as well as property/configuration data of infrastructure objects, which all have their drawbacks in effectively identifying roles of those resources. The current proposal (ADLog) leverages log data of sources, which contain incomparably richer contextual information, and demonstrates a reliable way of discriminating application objects. Specifically, using native constructs of VMware Aria Operations for Logs in terms of event types and their distributions, we group those entities, which then can be potentially enriched with indicative tags automatically and recommended for further management tasks and policies. Our methods differentiate not only diverse kinds of applications, but also their specific deployments, thus providing hierarchical representation of the applications in time and topology. For several applications under Aria Ops management in our experimental test bed, we discover those in terms of similarity behavior of their components with a high accuracy. The validation of the proposal paves the path for an AI-driven solution in cloud management scenarios.
Polymorphisms within the PRKG1 Gene of Gannan Yaks and Their Association with Milk Quality Characteristics
Authors: Feng Fen , Yang Guowu , Ma Xiaoyong , Zhang Juanxiang , Huang Chun , Ma Xiaoming , La Yongfu , Yan Ping , Zhandui Pingcuo , Liang Chunnian
Published: June 2024

Yak milk, known as the “liquid gold”, is a nutritious food with extensive consumption. Compared with cow milk, yak milk contains higher levels of nutrients such as dry matter, milk fat, and milk protein, which demonstrates great potential for exploitation and utilization. Protein kinase cGMP-dependent 1 (PRKG1) is an important functional molecule in the cGMP signaling pathway, and its significant influence on milk fatty acids has been discovered. The aim of this study is to explore the correlation between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the PRKG1 gene and the quality traits of Gannan yak milk in order to identify candidate molecular markers for Gannan yak breeding. In this study, genotyping was performed on 172 healthy, 4–5-year-old lactating Gannan yaks with similar body types, naturally grazed, and two to three parity. Three SNPs (g.404195C>T, g.404213C>T, and g.760138T>C) were detected in the PRKG1 gene of Gannan yaks, which were uniformly distributed in the yak population. Linkage disequilibrium analysis was conducted, revealing complete linkage disequilibrium between g.404195C>T and g.404213C>T. After conducting a correlation analysis between SNPs in the PRKG1 gene and milk quality in Gannan yaks, we found that PRKG1 SNPs significantly increased the content of casein, protein, and SNFs in yak milk. Among them, the TT homozygous genotype at the PRKG1 g.404195C>T loci exhibited higher casein and protein contents compared to the CC and CT genotypes (p < 0.05). The SNP g.760138T>C locus was associated with casein, protein, SNFs, and TS traits (p < 0.05). The CC genotype had higher casein and protein contents than the TT and TA genotypes (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in milk fat, lactose, and acidity among the three genotypes (p > 0.05). In summary, PRKG1 gene polymorphism can serve as a candidate molecular marker for improving milk quality in Gannan yaks.
Cliff Retreat Rates Associated with a Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Facility in Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Goehring Brent , Miller Elizabeth , Birdsell Kay , Schultz-Fellenz Emily S. , Kelley Richard , French Sean , Stauffer Philip H.
Published: June 2024

We present an analysis and interpretation of potential cliff stability at a low-level waste disposal facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico, using cliff morphologic and fracture characteristics coupled with carbon-14 surface exposure dating. Our study is important as it directly bears on the licensing criteria for low-level radioactive waste sites. We find that future characteristic cliff failures will likely not breach disposal pits and shafts over the 1000-year minimum regulatory period. Further, we find, using a multivariate regression model, that slope angle and cliff face aspect are sub-equal in importance to predict regions of high risk of failure when combined with surface exposure ages and assuming that old exposure ages are most indicative of stability (instability) and therefore can aid decision making in final design implementation.
Talaroacids A–D and Talaromarane A, Diterpenoids with Anti-Inflammatory Activities from Mangrove Endophytic Fungus Talaromyces sp. JNQQJ-4
Authors: Wang Guisheng , Wu Jianying , Li Zhaokun , Chen Tao , Liu Yufeng , Wang Bo , Chen Yan , She Zhigang
Published: June 2024

Five new diterpenes including four diterpenes with 1,2,3,4,4a,5,6,8a-octalin skeleton talaroacids A–D (1–4) and an isopimarane diterpenoid talaromarane A (5) were isolated from the mangrove endophytic fungus Talaromyces sp. JNQQJ-4. Their structures and absolute configurations were determined by analysis of high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HRESIMS), 1D/2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectra, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, quantum chemical calculation, and electronic circular dichroism (ECD). Talaromarane A (5) contains a rare 2-oxabicyclo [3.2.1] octan moiety in isopimarane diterpenoids. In bioassays, compounds 1, 2, 4, and 5 displayed significant anti-inflammatory activities with the IC50 value from 4.59 to 21.60 μM.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Health and Life Emergencies Resulting from Illness Cases and Injuries—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Mitura Krzysztof Marek , Celiński Daniel , Snarska Jadwiga , Szajda Sławomir Dariusz
Published: June 2024

Background: Despite organised efforts, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the health status of the population and health services including the emergency medical system. The objective of the study was to investigate, based on the Emergency Medical Teams’ (EMT) interventions, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health and life emergencies resulting from illness cases and injuries of Polish females and males. Material and Methods: The data under analysis concern EMT interventions carried out in central and eastern Poland from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2022 (n = 226,038). The study used descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U Test, and the Chi-square test. Results: A significant increase was observed in the proportion of EMT interventions (p < 0.001) to patients with illness cases (80.30% vs. 83.17%) and a decrease in interventions to patients with injuries (19.70% vs. 16.83%) during the pandemic as compared to the pre-pandemic period. As for illness cases, the patients’ ages during both periods were similar (Me = 66.00 vs. 66.00, p = 0.071). On the other hand, during the pandemic, injuries mainly affected elderly patients as compared to the pre-pandemic period (Me = 50.00 vs. 47.00, p < 0.001). The increase in the proportion of EMT interventions to patients with illness cases and the decrease in patients with injuries during the pandemic, as compared to the pre-pandemic period, concerned the area of intervention, patient’s sex, and age. During the pandemic period, a significantly lower proportion of patients transported to the hospital (p < 0.001) and an increase in the proportion of patients left at the place of call (p < 0.001) were noted. Conclusions: The restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus contributed to a reduced number of injuries without, however, reducing the number of illness cases. During the pandemic, the elderly were affected by injuries. The study indicates the need for further in-depth analyses to prepare the pre-hospital care system in Poland for the occurrence of other or similar emergencies.
Contemporary Use of Sodium Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors in Hospitalized Heart Failure Patients: A “Real-World” Experience
Authors: Xanthopoulos Andrew , Katsiadas Nikolaos , Giamouzis Grigorios , Vangelakou Kleoniki , Balaskas Dimitris , Papamichalis Michail , Bourazana Angeliki , Chrysakis Nikolaos , Kiokas Sotirios , Kourek Christos , Briasoulis Alexandros , Skopeliti Niki , Makaritsis Konstantinos P. , Parissis John , Stefanidis Ioannis , Magouliotis Dimitrios , Athanasiou Thanos , Triposkiadis Filippos , Skoularigis John
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the association between in-hospital initiation of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and outcomes in hospitalized heart failure (HHF) patients utilizing data from a Greek center. Methods: The present work was a single-center, retrospective, observational study of consecutive HF patients hospitalized in a tertiary center. The study endpoint was all-cause mortality or HF rehospitalization. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazard models were conducted to investigate the association between SGLT2i administration at discharge and the study endpoint. Results: Sample consisted of 171 patients, 55 of whom (32.2%) received SGLT2is at discharge. Overall, mean follow-up period was 6.1 months (SD = 4.8 months). Patients who received SGLT2is at discharge had a 43% lower probability of the study endpoint compared to those who did not receive SGLT2is at discharge (HR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.36–0.91; p = 0.018). After adjusting for age, gender, smoking, hemoglobin (Hgb), use of SGLT2is at admission, use of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEI-Is)/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) at discharge and Sacubitril/Valsartan at discharge, the aforementioned result remained significant (HR = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.19–0.73; p = 0.004). The 55 patients who received SGLT2is at discharge were propensity score matched with the 116 patients who did not receive SGLT2is at discharge. Receiving SGLT2is at discharge continued to be significantly associated with a lower probability of the study endpoint (HR= 0.43; 95% CI: 0.20–0.89; p = 0.024). Conclusions: Initiation of SGLT2is in HHF patients may be associated with better outcomes.
Assessing Nutritional Deficiencies in Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Comparative Study of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass versus Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Vieira de Sousa José P. , Santos-Sousa Hugo , Vieira Sofia , Nunes Rita , Nogueiro Jorge , Pereira André , Resende Fernando , Costa-Pinho André , Preto John , Sousa-Pinto Bernardo , Carneiro Silvestre , Lima-da-Costa Eduardo
Published: June 2024

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic, and bariatric surgery is considered the primary treatment for long-term weight loss and managing obesity-related health issues. Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are the most performed procedures. Nutritional deficiencies are a significant concern following bariatric surgery and can have serious consequences. This study aims to compare the incidence of nutritional deficiencies in patients undergoing RYGB and SG. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the nutritional status of 505 consecutive patients who underwent either RYGB or SG between January and December 2019. Data were collected regarding vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, PTH, magnesium, hemoglobin, iron, ferritin, and transferrin at preoperative, 6-month, and 12-month intervals post-surgery. The RYGB group showed significantly higher excess weight loss. Vitamin B12, hemoglobin, and ferritin levels were consistently higher in the SG group throughout the study. Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent, with no significant difference between the groups. Vitamin B12 deficiency was significantly more common in the RYGB group (6 months: 17.46% vs. 4.69%, p < 0.001; 12 months: 16.74% vs. 0.93%, p < 0.001). Despite differences in their mechanisms, bariatric surgeries were associated with nutritional deficiencies. It is crucial to efficiently assess, prevent, and manage these deficiencies tailored to each surgical procedure.
Mobile App for Enhanced Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Assessment in Conscious Subjects: “Pivot-Shift Meter”
Authors: Berumen-Nafarrate Edmundo , Ramos-Moctezuma Ivan Rene , Sigala-González Luis Raúl , Quintana-Trejo Fatima Norely , Tonche-Ramos Jesus Javier , Portillo-Ortiz Nadia Karina , Cañedo-Figueroa Carlos Eduardo , Aguirre-Madrid Arturo
Published: June 2024

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) instability poses a considerable challenge in traumatology and orthopedic medicine, demanding precise diagnostics for optimal treatment. The pivot-shift test, a pivotal assessment tool, relies on subjective interpretation, emphasizing the need for supplementary imaging. This study addresses this limitation by introducing a machine learning classification algorithm integrated into a mobile application, leveraging smartphones’ built-in inertial sensors for dynamic rotational stability assessment during knee examinations. Orthopedic specialists conducted knee evaluations on a cohort of 52 subjects, yielding valuable insights. Quantitative analyses, employing the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), demonstrated robust agreement in both intraobserver and interobserver assessments. Specifically, ICC values of 0.94 reflected strong concordance in the timing between maneuvers, while signal amplitude exhibited consistency, with the ICC ranging from 0.71 to 0.66. The introduced machine learning algorithms proved effective, accurately classifying 90% of cases exhibiting joint hypermobility. These quantifiable results underscore the algorithm’s reliability in assessing knee stability. This study emphasizes the practicality and effectiveness of implementing machine learning algorithms within a mobile application, showcasing its potential as a valuable tool for categorizing signals captured by smartphone inertial sensors during the pivot-shift test.
Technology and Innovation: Analyzing the Heterogeneity of the Hotel Guests’ Behavior
Authors: Bordian Mariia , Fuentes-Blasco María , Gil-Saura Irene , Moliner-Velázquez Beatriz
Published: June 2024

The study intends to identify and analyze different consumer segments. For this purpose, we examine why customers turn to electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) before making a purchase and how they perceive a hotel’s information and communication technology (ICT) and relational innovation after making a purchase. The objective was empirically tested with data from a panel of consumers who stayed at hotels during the post-pandemic recovery period in Spain. In total, 393 valid questionnaires were obtained. The estimation of a finite mix model was applied to identify guest profiles. Estimation identified three guest profiles where the perceptions of the hotel’s relational innovation and ICT present a high discriminant power in the first two segments. Moreover, compared to the second segment, the first group is characterized by the low impact level of these variables. On the other hand, the motivation to consult eWOM in the prebooking stage significantly influences all three groups; however, the guests of the third segment present less motivation than the rest. Hotel managers may consider ICT, relational innovation, and eWOM factors when segmenting consumers. Understanding this would enhance the company’s service delivery and the hotel’s competitiveness. The contribution of this study lies in considering ICT, relational innovation, and eWOM as novel factors that help identify different guest profiles.
Exploring the Differentiated Impact of Urban Spatial Form on Carbon Emissions: Evidence from Chinese Cities
Authors: Zeng Xiaoyue , Fan Deliang , Zheng Yunfei , Li Shijie
Published: June 2024

The role of spatial factors in reducing carbon emissions has been receiving increasing attention from researchers; however, these impacts may involve spatial heterogeneity. In this study, 337 prefecture-level cities in China were taken as the research object. Based on national-level urban data, the global impact of urban spatial form on carbon emissions was then investigated using ordinary least squares regression, the spatial error model, and the spatial lag model. The local effects of urban spatial form on carbon emissions in different cities were then investigated using geographically weighted regression. The findings are as follows. Overall, the larger the urban built-up area and the more fragmented and decentralized the urban land use, the greater the carbon emissions. Conversely, the more centralized the urban center of a city, the lower its carbon emissions. Locally, for some Chinese cities, the total area, landscape shape index, and mean Euclidean nearest-neighbor distance were found to have significant positive effects on carbon emissions, while the largest-patch index had a significant negative impact. For all Chinese cities, the patch density was found to have no significant effect on carbon emissions. In 29% of the cities in which the landscape division index was found to significantly affect carbon emissions, this effect was positive, while it was negative in the remaining 71%. The policy implications emerging from this study lie in the need for decision-makers and urban planners to guide the shaping of low-carbon urban spatial forms.
Landscape Ecological Risk and Drivers of Land-Use Transition under the Perspective of Differences in Topographic Gradient
Authors: Zhang Xuebin , Yu Jiale , Feng Haoyuan , Yao Litang , Li Xuehong , Du Hucheng , Liu Yanni
Published: June 2024

Human activities have caused different degrees of land-use change on different topographic gradients, with impacts on the landscape and ecosystem. Effectively preventing and addressing ecological risk (ER) and achieving harmonious coexistence between humans and nature are important aspects of sustainable development. In this study, we used Gansu Province as an example, adopted five periods of land-use data in 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020, and used the geoinformatic Tupu method and the terrain distribution index to study land-use changes under different topographic gradients, and then constructed the landscape ecological risk assessment (LERA) model based on the landscape pattern index to analyze landscape ecological risk (LER) spatiotemporal changes under different topographic gradients, and finally explored the LER driving factors using the geodetector model. The results showed that (1) the dominant land-use types were unused land and grassland, accounting for approximately 74% of the land. The situation of transferring and changing each type was more drastic. The distribution and changes in cropland and built-up land were easily found in low topographic gradient areas with low elevations and small slopes; the distribution and changes in woodland, grassland and water areas were easily found in high topographic gradient areas with high elevations and large slopes. (2) The landscape ecological risk index (LERI) was 0.018, 0.019, 0.019, 0.019 and 0.020, respectively, with spatial expressions of high in the northwest and low in the southeast. Low LER was concentrated in high topographic gradient ecological reserves; high LER was concentrated in low topographic gradient human interference areas and high topographic gradient natural environmental complex areas. (3) Natural factors mainly acted on the LER on moderate and high topographic position gradients; socioeconomic factors mainly acted on the LER on low topographic position gradients. Human interference interacted with natural factors more than human interference alone on LER. This study can provide a scientific basis for ensuring ecological security and sustainable development in areas with complex topography and geomorphology.
Preparation and Properties of Natural Bamboo Fiber-Reinforced Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Xu Binyu , Tian Rongxi , Wang Ying , Zhang Zhen-wen , Zhang Zihua
Published: June 2024

To promote resource reuse and the green, low-carbon transformation of the construction industry, this study uses recycled aggregate from crushed waste concrete and natural bamboo fibers to formulate bamboo fiber-reinforced recycled-aggregate concrete. This study investigates the effects of natural bamboo fiber (NBF) content, NBF length, and the water-to-cement ratio on the performance of concrete through an orthogonal experiment to determine the optimal mixing proportions of NBF-reinforced concrete. Additionally, recycled aggregate completely replaced natural aggregate. The mechanism by which NBF influences concrete was also analyzed. The results demonstrate that the NBF-reinforced specimens exhibited good integrity during compression failure, with NBFs effectively tying the concrete together. The optimized parameters for NBF-reinforced concrete were an NBF length of 20 mm, an NBF content of 0.4v%, and a water-to-cement ratio of 0.55. Almost no flaky Ca(OH)2 crystals were observed in the NBF-hardened cement–paste transition zone, indicating effective bonding at the interface.
Vat Photopolymerization of Sepiolite Fiber and 316L Stainless Steel-Reinforced Alumina with Functionally Graded Structures
Authors: Liu Chang , Wu Hailong , Guo Anfu , Kong Dekun , Zhao Zhengyu , Wang Lu , Yin Lvfa , Xia Guojun , Su Xiaofei , Hu Yingbin
Published: June 2024

Alumina (Al2O3) ceramics are widely used in electronics, machinery, healthcare, and other fields due to their excellent hardness and high temperature stability. However, their high brittleness limits further applications, such as artificial ceramic implants and highly flexible protective gear. To address the limitations of single-phase toughening in Al2O3 ceramics, some researchers have introduced a second phase to enhance these ceramics. However, introducing a single phase still limits the range of performance improvement. Therefore, this study explores the printing of Al2O3 ceramics by adding two different phases. Additionally, a new gradient printing technique is proposed to overcome the limitations of single material homogeneity, such as uniform performance and the presence of large residual stresses. Unlike traditional vat photopolymerization printing technology, this study stands out by generating green bodies with varying second-phase particle ratios across different layers. This study investigated the effects of different contents of sepiolite fiber (SF) and 316L stainless steel (SS) on various aspects of microstructure, phase composition, physical properties, and mechanical properties of gradient-printed Al2O3. The experimental results demonstrate that compared to Al2O3 parts without added SF and 316L SS, the inclusion of these materials can significantly reduce porosity and water absorption, resulting in a denser structure. In addition, the substantial improvements, with an increase of 394.4% in flexural strength and an increase of 316.7% in toughness, of the Al2O3 components enhanced by incorporating SF and 316L SS have been obtained.
Building a Layer-Structured Aluminum/Graphene Composite with Significant Improvement in Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Wang Zishun , Li Wenhui , Ma Junliang , Liu Baishan , Wang Wei , Liu Zhaoping
Published: June 2024

Aluminum (Al) and its alloys are widely used in various fields due to their excellent physical properties. Although many efforts have been made to fabricate an Al-based composite, they usually results in a significant decrease in electrical conductivity. Herein, a special layer-structured Al/graphene (Gr)/Al composite was successfully designed and fabricated through a facile method using the ultrasonic spraying of graphene powder with alumina removal and a subsequent vacuum hot-pressing process. The as-obtained Al/Gr/Al composite presents a significantly enhanced electrical conductivity of 66% IACS, which is much higher than that of other reported Al-based composites, while it still maintains similar mechanical properties. This work provides a new strategy for the development of highly conductive Al-based composites, which would be very useful and important for practical applications.
Effect of the CAD/CAM Milling Protocol on the Fracture Behavior of Zirconia Monolithic Crowns
Authors: Oliveira Andressa Restani , Ziglioli Natalia Ulmi , Marocho Susana M. Salazar , Satterthwaite Julian , Borba Marcia
Published: June 2024

Although advancements in CAD/CAM technology allow for more personalized treatments, it is not clear how modifications in the CAD/CAM milling process could affect the restoration surface conditions and their mechanical behavior. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different CAD/CAM milling protocols on the topography and fracture behavior of zirconia monolithic crowns (3Y-PSZ) subjected to a chewing simulation. Monolithic 3Y-PSZ premolar crowns were milled using three protocols (n = 13) (slow (S), normal (N), and fast (F)). Crowns were cemented on a dentin analog abutment and subjected to mechanical aging (200 N, 2 Hz, 1,500,000 cycles, 37 °C water). Surviving crowns were subjected to compressive load test and analyzed using fractography. Fracture load data were analyzed with two-parameter Weibull analysis. The surface topography of the crowns was examined with a stereomicroscope and a 3D non-contact profiler. All crowns survived the chewing simulation. Crowns milled using the F protocol had the greatest characteristic fracture load, while crowns produced with the S protocol showed high Weibull modulus. Groups N and S had a more uniform surface and detailed occlusal anatomy than group F. The CAD/CAM milling protocol affected the topography and mechanical behavior of 3Y-PSZ monolithic crowns.
Correction: Zatkova et al. Analysis of the Phenotype Differences in Siblings with Alkaptonuria. Metabolites 2022, 12, 990
Authors: Zatkova Andrea , Olsson Birgitta , Ranganath Lakshminarayan R. , Imrich Richard
Published: June 2024

In the original publication [...]
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Supplementation: Understanding Metabolic Variability and Clinical Implications
Authors: Benjamin Candace , Crews Rebecca
Published: June 2024

Recent years have seen a surge in research focused on NAD+ decline and potential interventions, and despite significant progress, new discoveries continue to highlight the complexity of NAD+ biology. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a well-established NAD+ precursor, has garnered considerable interest due to its capacity to elevate NAD+ levels and induce promising health benefits in preclinical models. Clinical trials investigating NMN supplementation have yielded variable outcomes while shedding light on the intricacies of NMN metabolism and revealing the critical roles played by gut microbiota and specific cellular uptake pathways. Individual variability in factors such as lifestyle, health conditions, genetics, and gut microbiome composition likely contributes to the observed discrepancies in clinical trial results. Preliminary evidence suggests that NMN’s effects may be context-dependent, varying based on a person’s physiological state. Understanding these nuances is critical for definitively assessing the impact of manipulating NAD+ levels through NMN supplementation. Here, we review NMN metabolism, focusing on current knowledge, pinpointing key areas where further research is needed, and outlining future directions to advance our understanding of its potential clinical significance.
Efficient Quasi-Two-Dimensional Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes Achieved through the Passivation of Multi-Fluorine Phosphate Molecules
Authors: Li Peiding , Wei Chunyu , Dong He , Zhan Zhuolin , Zhu Yanni , Hua Jie , Zhang Gang , Chen Chen , Chai Yuan , Wang Jin , Chao You
Published: June 2024

The surface morphology of perovskite films significantly influences the performance of perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs). However, the thin perovskite thickness (~10 nm) results in low surface coverage on the substrate, limiting the improvement of photoelectric performance. Here, we propose a molecular additive strategy that employs pentafluorophenyl diphenylphosphinate (FDPP) molecules as additives. P=O and Pentafluorophenyl (5F) on FDPP can coordinate with Pb2+ to slow the crystallization process of perovskite and enhance surface coverage. Moreover, FDPP reduces the defect density of perovskite and enhances the crystalline quality. The maximum brightness, power efficiency (PE), and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the optimal device reached 24,230 cd m−2, 82.73 lm W−1, and 21.06%, respectively. The device maintains an EQE of 19.79% at 1000 cd m−2 and the stability is further enhanced. This study further extends the applicability of P=O-based additives.
Gender, Immunological Response, and COVID-19: An Assessment of Vaccine Strategies in a Pandemic Region of Oaxaca, México
Authors: Rodríguez-Martínez Luis M. , Chavelas-Reyes José L. , Medina-Ramírez Carlo F. , Cabrera-Santos Francisco J. , Fernández-Santos Nadia A. , Aguilar-Durán Jesús A. , Pérez-Tapia Sonia M. , Rodríguez-González Josefina G. , Rodríguez Pérez Mario A.
Published: June 2024

COVID-19 is no longer a public health emergency of international concern, but long COVID’s effects are yet to be fully understood. Hence, globally, SARS-CoV-2 is still a profound threat to public health and of perilous nature as a zoonotic disease. Timely vaccination provided to individuals worldwide during the pandemic phase was under a certain degree of control; however, few studies have reported the effectiveness of vaccines administered in Mexico, and its surveillance is paramount. Furthermore, an unknown proportion of Mexican individuals have not yet received any vaccine, and the circulation of the Omicron, Pirola, and FLiRT variants is ongoing. A cross-sectional serology survey study design was employed, involving 150 individuals from Southern Mexico (Oaxaca) whose humoral immune responses after vaccination were tested by an ELISA; the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein served as a recombinant antigen in the ELISA. One hundred thirty-nine out of 150 individuals (92.6%; 95%-CI = 87–95%) examined were positive for the ELISA, but in 11 individuals, the vaccines did not induce any immune response. Interestingly, the immune responses (antibody prevalence and levels) of females (58%) were higher (T= −2.21; p-value = 0.02) than those of males (41%). However, in this sample population of Southern Mexico, age, vaccine type, comorbidity, and body mass index did not have any effect (p > 0.05) after COVID-19 vaccination. Taking all results together, here, we present factors that affected immune responses of individuals during the first vaccination campaign in Oaxaca, Mexico; however, vaccine surveillance during the post-pandemic phase needs further investigation.
Evaluating Fluorinated-Aniline Units with Functionalized Spiro[Fluorene-9,9′-Xanthene] as Hole-Transporting Materials in Perovskite Solar Cells and Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Liu Kuo , Sun Liang , Liu Qing-Lin , Ren Bao-Yi , Guo Run-Da , Wang Lei , Sun Ya-Guang , Wang You-Sheng
Published: June 2024

In the field of perovskite optoelectronics, developing hole-transporting materials (HTMs) on the spiro[fluorene-9,9′-xanthene] (SFX) platform is one of the current research focuses. The SFX inherits the merits of spirobifluorene in terms of the configuration and property, but it is more easily derivatized and regulated by virtue of its binary structure. In this work, we design and synthesize four isomeric SFX-based HTMs, namely m-SFX-mF, p-SFX-mF, m-SFX-oF, and p-SFX-oF, through varying the positions of fluorination on the peripheral aniline units and their substitutions on the SFX core, and the optoelectronic performance of the resulting HTMs is evaluated in both perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) by the vacuum thermal evaporating hole-transporting layers (HTLs). The HTM p-SFX-oF exhibits an improved power conversion efficiency of 15.21% in an inverted PSC using CH3NH3PbI3 as an absorber, benefiting from the deep HOMO level and good HTL/perovskite interface contact. Meanwhile, the HTM m-SFX-mF provides a maximum external quantum efficiency of 3.15% in CsPb(Br/Cl)3-based PeLEDs, which is attributed to its perched HOMO level and shrunken band-gap for facilitating charge carrier injection and then exciton combination. Through elucidating the synergistic position effect of fluorination on aniline units and their substitutions on the SFX core, this work lays the foundation for developing low-cost and efficient HTMs in the future.
Nailfold Capillaroscopy: A Comprehensive Review on Its Usefulness in Both Clinical Diagnosis and Improving Unhealthy Dietary Lifestyles
Authors: Komai Michio , Takeno Dan , Fujii Chiharu , Nakano Joe , Ohsaki Yusuke , Shirakawa Hitoshi
Published: June 2024

Since the 1970s, the utility of nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) in diagnosing rheumatological disorders such as systemic sclerosis has been well established. Further studies have also shown that NFC can detect non-rheumatic diseases such as diabetes, glaucoma, dermatitis, and Alzheimer disease. In the past decade, nailfold capillary morphological changes have also been reported as symptoms of unhealthy lifestyle habits such as poor diet, smoking, sleep deprivation, and even psychological stress, all of which contribute to slow blood flow. Therefore, studying the relationships between the morphology of nailfold capillaries and lifestyle habits has a high potential to indicate unhealthy states or even pre-disease conditions. Simple, inexpensive, and non-invasive methods such as NFC are important and useful for routine medical examinations. The present study began with a systematic literature search of the PubMed database followed by a summary of studies reporting the assessment of morphological changes detected by NFC, and a comprehensive review of NFC’s utility in clinical diagnosis and improving unhealthy dietary lifestyles. It culminates in a summary of dietary and lifestyle health promotion strategy, assessed based on NFC and other related measurements that indicate healthy microvascular blood flow and endothelial function.
Nutritional Strategies against Diabetic Nephropathy: Insights from Animal Studies and Human Trials
Authors: Zhou Jiayi , Franceschini Nora , Townley-Tilson W. H. Davin , Maeda-Smithies Nobuyo
Published: June 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), defined as continuously elevated urinary albumin and a diminished estimated glomerular filtration rate, is a serious complication of both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes and is the main cause of end-stage kidney disease. Patients with end-stage renal disease require chronic kidney dialysis and/or a kidney transplantation. Research highlights the role of diet in modulating specific signaling pathways that are instrumental in the progression of DN. Nutrient-sensitive pathways, affected by nutritional compounds and dietary components, offer a novel perspective on the management of DN by influencing inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient metabolism. Animal models have identified signaling pathways related to glucose metabolism, inflammation responses, autophagy, and lipid metabolism, while human population studies have contributed to the clinical significance of designing medical and nutritional therapies to attenuate DN progression. Here, we will update recent progress in research into the renoprotective or therapeutic effects of nutritional compounds, and potential nutrition-modulated pathways.
Effects of Cocoa Consumption on Cardiometabolic Risk Markers: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Arisi Tainah O. P. , da Silva Diego Silveira , Stein Elana , Weschenfelder Camila , de Oliveira Patrícia Caetano , Marcadenti Aline , Lehnen Alexandre Machado , Waclawovsky Gustavo
Published: June 2024

Background: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the effect of dietary intake of cocoa on anthropometric measurements, lipid and glycemic profiles, and blood pressure levels in adults, with and without comorbidities. Methods: The databases used were MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, LILACS, and SciELO. The eligible studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving adults undergoing cocoa consumption (cocoa extract or ≥70% cocoa dark chocolate) for ≥4 weeks that evaluated at least one of the following markers: body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist/abdominal circumference, total cholesterol, LDL-c, triglycerides, HDL-c, blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP). Results: Thirty-one studies were included, totaling 1986 participants. Cocoa consumption showed no effects on body weight, BMI, waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL-c and HbA1c. Yet, there was a reduction in total cholesterol (−8.35 mg/dL, 95% CI −14.01; −2.69 mg/dL), LDL-c (−9.47 mg/dL, 95% CI −13.75; −5.20 mg/dL), fasting blood glucose (−4.91 mg/dL, 95% CI −8.29; −1.52 mg/dL), SBP (−2.52 mmHg, 95% CI −4.17; −0.88 mmHg), and DBP (−1.58 mmHg, 95% CI −2.54; −0.62 mmHg). Conclusions: The consumption of cocoa showed protective effects on major cardiometabolic risk markers that have a clinical impact in terms of cardiovascular risk reduction.
Nursing Students’ Perceptions of a Novel Education Approach to Prevention and Control of Healthcare-Associated Infections: Insights from PrevInf Pilot Study
Authors: Santos-Costa Paulo , Paiva-Santos Filipe , Graveto João ,   PrevInf Group
Published: June 2024

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a significant global threat, particularly in developing regions such as Southeast Asia. International bodies emphasize the role of formal undergraduate training in the prevention and control of HAIs. To address this, we aimed to explore the perceptions of Southeast Asian nursing students regarding a novel educational approach developed by a European–Southeast Asian project consortium. Methods: A pilot study was conducted in four nursing higher education institutions from Cambodia and Vietnam. First, local nursing educators conducted a 2 h classroom-based training session. Then, students were invited to participate for the first time in one of twelve evidence-based simulation scenarios developed by the research team, covering a range of nursing care situations related to the prevention and control of HAIs. After attending both components, students were asked to complete a paper-based questionnaire and rate their agreement with a set of statements on the appropriateness and meaningfulness of both components. Results: A total of 430 nursing students enrolled in the pilot study; 77.4% were female, with an average age of 19.8 years. The PrevInf educational intervention received positive feedback from participating students across settings, with strong agreement on the importance of proactiveness in competency development (M = 5.9, SD = 1.4). Notable differences between Cambodian and Vietnamese students were observed in terms of their receptiveness to the pre-selected teaching materials (p = 0.001) and strategies (p = 0.01) used by the nursing educators during their experience with the simulation scenarios. Conclusions: The PrevInf educational intervention shows promise in engaging Southeast Asian nursing students and fostering a deeper understanding of the prevention and control of HAIs. Further studies are warranted to refine the learning content and standardize the pedagogical strategies used by nursing educators across settings. This study was not registered.
The Low Congruence between Plant and Animal Diversity in Field Ridges of Intensively Managed Paddy Landscapes, China
Authors: Peng Yicheng , Qiu Haoyu , Qian Yuyang , Chen Jiaxin , Qin Guoyu , Li Pengyao , Zhang Rongqian , Duan Meichun
Published: June 2024

Field ridges are commonly viewed as the stable semi-natural habitats for maintaining plant diversity in the agricultural landscape. The high plant diversity could further support higher animal diversity. But following the adoption of well-facilitated farmland construction measures in China, many field ridges have been disproportionately neglected or destroyed. Empirical studies delineating the relationships between plant and animal diversity in these field ridges in the paddy landscape remain scant, especially in China, which has the most rice production. A two-year field ridge evaluation was conducted in the Chengdu Plain area, covering 30 paddy landscapes. This investigation scrutinizes the shape attributes of field ridges, their plant diversity, and the associated animal α-diversity and community compositions, including spiders, carabids, birds, frogs, and rice planthoppers. In the results of Pearson’s correlation analysis, a significant inconsistent correlation was observed between plant diversity and animal diversity. The analysis of community structure heterogeneity also revealed no correspondence for species composition between plant and animal communities (i.e., spiders, carabids, and birds), while the non-metric multidimensional scale analysis indicated a substantial difference in the species composition of spiders or plants even within the same field ridge between 2020 and 2021. We argue that the implementation of intensive management practices in paddy landscapes, such as machine ploughing and harvesting and herbicide spraying with drones, leads to a scarcity of stable animal and plant communities in field ridges. Therefore, besides retaining these field ridges in paddy landscapes, maintaining the long-term stable ridges by refraining from herbicide spraying or artificial weeding, as well as avoiding winter wheat cultivating in field ridges, will contribute to protecting biodiversity of field ridges as semi-natural habitats.
Application of Multi-Dimensional Hill Chart in the Condition Monitoring and Cost Estimation of the Francis Turbine Unit
Authors: Jian Bin , Zhao Weiqiang , Guo Rongfu , Chen Shuping , Xia Ming , Wang Zhengwei
Published: June 2024

With a large-range-operation head, the Francis turbine unit is the most widely used type of hydraulic turbine in the world. The general range of the Francis turbine is 20–700 m. Because of this, the operating stability of the Francis turbine needs to be focused on. In this paper, a multi-dimensional hill chart is applied to a low-head Francis turbine unit to describe its vibration characteristics. Firstly, a field test was conducted on the unit in order to obtain vibration data under different operating conditions. Secondly, the condition indicators were calculated and extracted from the experimental data. Then, the condition indicators under different head values and outputs were fitted to form a multi-dimensional hill chart. In the end, the vibration characteristics of the researched low-head Francis turbine unit were analyzed based on the multi-dimensional hill chart.
Flow Properties of Coarse Powders Used in Food Extrusion as a Function of Moisture Content
Authors: McGuire Cameron , Siliveru Kaliramesh , Chakraborty Snehasis , Ambrose Kingsly , Alavi Sajid
Published: June 2024

The extrusion processing of food powder relies heavily on its moisture content to aid in flow and proper cooking, shaping, and/or puffing. This study focused on the impact of the moisture content on the dynamic flow and shear properties of coarse food powders (corn meal, wheat farina, and granulated sugar). The dynamic flow properties explored were the specific basic flowability energy (SBFE), specific energy, stability index, and flow rate index. The shear properties were the angle of internal friction, unconfined yield strength, major principal stress, wall friction angle, flow factor (FF), and compressibility. Corn meal exhibited an increase in SBFE as the moisture content increased (6.70 mJ/g at 13.13% to 9.14 mJ/g at 19.61%) but no change in FF (4.94 to 5.11); wheat farina also showed an increase in energy requirement as the moisture increased (5.81 mJ/g at 13.73% to 9.47 mJ/g 19.57%) but a marked decrease in FF ratings (18.47 to 6.1); granulated sugar showed a decrease in energy requirements as the moisture increased (51.73 mJ/g at 0.06% moisture content to 13.58 mJ/g at 0.78% moisture content) and a decrease in FF ratings (8.53 to 3.47). Overall, upon the addition of moisture, corn meal became cohesive yet free-flowing; wheat farina became less compressible and more cohesive; and granulated sugar became more cohesive and compressible and less free-flowing.