bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Next-Generation Examination, Diagnosis, and Personalized Medicine in Periodontal Disease
Authors: Kikuchi Takeshi , Hayashi Jun-ichiro , Mitani Akio
Published: October 2022

Periodontal disease, a major cause of tooth loss, is an infectious disease caused by bacteria with the additional aspect of being a noncommunicable disease closely related to lifestyle. Tissue destruction based on chronic inflammation is influenced by host and environmental factors. The treatment of periodontal disease varies according to the condition of each individual patient. Although guidelines provide standardized treatment, optimization is difficult because of the wide range of treatment options and variations in the ideas and skills of the treating practitioner. The new medical concepts of “precision medicine” and “personalized medicine” can provide more predictive treatment than conventional methods by stratifying patients in detail and prescribing treatment methods accordingly. This requires a new diagnostic system that integrates information on individual patient backgrounds (biomarkers, genetics, environment, and lifestyle) with conventional medical examination information. Currently, various biomarkers and other new examination indices are being investigated, and studies on periodontal disease-related genes and the complexity of oral bacteria are underway. This review discusses the possibilities and future challenges of precision periodontics and describes the new generation of laboratory methods and advanced periodontal disease treatment approaches as the basis for this new field.
Influence of Renal Impairment on the Success of Reconstruction Using Microvascular Grafts—A Retrospective Study of 251 Free Flaps
Authors: Moellmann Henriette L. , Karnatz Nadia , Degirmenci Ilkan , Gyurova Antonina , Sellin Lorenz , Rana Majeed
Published: October 2022

Background: In head and neck surgery, reconstruction using microvascular grafts is a successful method for functional and aesthetic restoration. Due to technological advances and medical care, the number of patients with comorbidities and diseases requiring free tissue transfer has increased. To provide adequate treatment to these patients, preoperative identification of potential risk factors is essential. Methods: In this retrospective study, we investigated the impact of renal insufficiency on reconstruction in 251 microvascular grafts. Perioperative complications, failure rate, and outcomes serve as the basis for this evaluation. Results: Comparing pre- and postoperative values, there was a significant decrease in potassium and creatinine levels and a significant increase in GFR. The electrolyte changes in relation to the complication rate showed that complications were more likely to occur as potassium levels increased. As sodium levels increase, the complication rate decreases. Conclusion: A preoperative value indicative of impaired renal function, such as creatinine levels, GFR, or electrolytes, did not prove to be an individual risk factor for the occurrence of graft failure in this patient population. Nevertheless, increased renal parameters are associated with increased incidence of serious complications. Therefore, these should be considered in the indication and preoperative planning.
Integrating a Comprehensive Cancer Genome Profiling into Clinical Practice: A Blueprint in an Italian Referral Center
Authors: Nero Camilla , Duranti Simona , Giacomini Flavia , Minucci Angelo , Giacò Luciano , Piermattei Alessia , Genuardi Maurizio , Pasciuto Tina , Urbani Andrea , Daniele Gennaro , Lorusso Domenica , Pignataro Raffaele , Tortora Giampaolo , Normanno Nicola , Scambia Giovanni
Published: October 2022

The implementation of cancer molecular characterization in clinical practice has improved prognostic re-definition, extending the eligibility to a continuously increasing number of targeted treatments. Broad molecular profiling technologies better than organ-based approaches are believed to serve such dynamic purposes. We here present the workflow our institution adopted to run a comprehensive cancer genome profiling in clinical practice. This article describes the workflow designed to make a comprehensive cancer genome profiling program feasible and sustainable in a large-volume referral hospital.
Entry Point Variation in the Osseous Fixation Pathway of the Anterior Column of the Pelvis—A Three-Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Dupuis Lotte , van Ginkel Laura A. , Verhamme Luc M. , Maal Thomas J. J. , Hermans Erik , Stirler Vincent M. A.
Published: October 2022

Fractures of the superior pubic ramus can be treated with screw insertion into the osseous fixation pathway (OFP) of the anterior column (AC). The entry point determines whether the screw exits the OFP prematurely. This can be harmful when it enters the hip joint or damages soft tissues inside the lesser pelvis. The exact entry point varies between patients and can be difficult to ascertain on fluoroscopy during surgery. The aim of this study was to determine variation in the location of the entry point. A retrospective single center study was performed at a level 1 trauma center in the Netherlands. Nineteen adult patients were included with an undisplaced fracture of the superior pubic ramus on computer tomography (CT)-scan. Virtual three-dimensional (3D) models of the pelvises were created. Multiple screws were placed per AC and the models were superimposed. A total of 157 screws were placed, of which 109 did not exit the OFP prematurely. A universally reproducible entry point could not be identified. A typical crescent shaped region of entry points did exist and was located more laterally in females when compared to males. Three-dimensional virtual surgery planning can be helpful to identify the ideal entry points in each case.
Approaches to Enhance Integration and Monitoring for Social-Ecological Systems
Authors: Itzkin Adela , Clifford-Holmes Jai Kumar , Scholes Mary , Coetzer Kaera
Published: October 2022

Integration and monitoring are pressing conceptual and methodological challenges in social-ecological systems (SES) research. This paper follows a social learning process, called participatory self-observation, piloted by a group of action-researchers to improve SES integration and monitoring, using the Tsitsa River Catchment in South Africa as a case study. The participatory self-observation process reflected on lessons to enhance integration and integrated monitoring of biophysical, social, and social-ecological data in SES projects; for adaptive planning and management. Three focal points emerged for improving the challenges of SES integration: the need for participatory people-based processes, the importance of applied praxis tasks to catalyze meaningful integration, and the need for transdisciplinary teams to value non-biophysical research. Five focal areas emerged as major challenges for SES monitoring: the integration of qualitative and quantitative data, data overload, the scale of SES monitoring, the need to center SES monitoring around learning, and good working relationships to enable data flow. Recommendations to further develop integrated monitoring and management of SESs include (i) using people-based approaches that focus on applied work which includes rigorous collection of quantitative, biophysical data, (ii) identifying essential data needs through an essential variable approach, and (iii) combining quantitative monitoring with participatory people-based processes.
Current Practices and Prospects of Climate-Smart Agriculture in Democratic Republic of Congo: A Review
Authors: Karume Katcho , Mondo Jean M. , Chuma Géant B. , Ibanda Angele , Bagula Espoir M. , Aleke Alex Lina , Ndjadi Serge , Ndusha Bintu , Ciza Pascaline Azine , Cizungu Nadege Cirezi , Muhindo Daniel , Egeru Anthony , Nakayiwa Florence Mayega , Majaliwa Jackson-Gilbert M. , Mushagalusa Gustave N. , Ayagirwe Rodrigue B. Basengere
Published: October 2022

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is one of the innovative approaches for sustainably increasing the agricultural productivity, improving livelihoods and incomes of farmers, while at the same time improving resilience and contributing to climate change mitigation. In spite of the fact that there is neither explicit policy nor practices branded as CSA in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), farmers are utilizing an array of farming practices whose attributes meet the CSA criteria. However, the intensity, distribution, efficiency, and dynamics of use as well as the sources of these technologies are not sufficiently documented. Therefore, this review paper provides a comprehensive evidence of CSA-associated farming practices in DRC, public and private efforts to promote CSA practices, and the associated benefits accruing from the practices as deployed by farmers in the DRC. We find evidence of progress among farming communities in the use of practices that can be classified as CSA. Communities using these practices are building on the traditional knowledge systems and adaptation of introduced technologies to suit the local conditions. Reported returns on use of these practices are promising, pointing to their potential continued use into the future. While progressive returns on investment are reported, they are relatively lower than those reported from other areas in sub-Saharan Africa deploying similar approaches. We recommend for strategic support for capacity building at various levels, including public institutions for policy development and guidance, extension and community level to support uptake of technologies and higher education institutions for mainstreaming CSA into curricula and training a generation of CSA sensitive human resources.
Spatial–Temporal Change in Paddy Field and Dryland in Different Topographic Gradients: A Case Study of China during 1990–2020
Authors: Xie Shuai , Yin Guanyi , Wei Wei , Sun Qingzhi , Zhang Zhan
Published: October 2022

As a country with a vast area and complex terrain, the differentiation between paddy field and dryland under different topographic gradients in China is difficult. Based on a land-use grid data set with an accuracy of 1 km, this study applied the Topographic Potential Index and used land-use transition matrices and landscape analysis to compare the change in dryland and paddy field in China from 1990 to 2020 at different elevations, slopes, and slope aspects. The results indicate that paddy field and dryland were mostly distributed in areas with better photothermal conditions. However, in recent years, the paddy field and dryland on the “sunny” slope decreased. Specifically, the area of paddy field and dryland on the southeast, south, and southwest slopes decreased, while they increased on the northwest, north, and northeast slopes. From 1990 to 2020, land conversion among paddy field, dryland, and other land use was mostly concentrated in the third ladder (<500 m elevation) of China. However, the changes in paddy field and dryland have now become active on the second ladder of China. Moreover, the change from other land to dryland on the second ladder accounted for nearly 50% of the country’s change from other land to dryland. Paddy fields and drylands in areas with low elevation and low slopes were reduced, whereas those with higher elevation and higher slopes increased, indicating that the arable land in mountainous areas increased. This indicates that the topographic conditions of arable land that become worse may aggravate soil erosion in the planting process. The landscape fragmentation of paddy field and dryland increased. Compared with paddy field, the dryland was more aggregated, the shape was more complex, and the land plots were more fragmented. As a result, paddy field and dryland show significant differences in their spatial–temporal pattern, landscape characteristics, and land-use changes, and these results can provide an important reference for the sustainable utilization of arable land resources.
Identifying Driving Factors of Basin Ecosystem Service Value Based on Local Bivariate Spatial Correlation Patterns
Authors: Ding Xue , Shu Yuqin , Tang Xianzhe , Ma Jingwen
Published: October 2022

Ecosystem service value (ESV) is a crucial indicator for evaluating ecosystem health, and identifying its spatial driving factors will help to provide scientific decision support for ecological protection and restoration. This study took the Liuxi River Basin in China as the research object and used the value equivalent method to estimate regional ESV. In the process of using the Geodetector model (GDM), the study area was spatially stratified by using the local bivariate spatial correlation pattern to mine the potential driving factors of ESV. The results show that: (1) From 2005 to 2018, the total value of ecosystem services in the Liuxi River Basin showed a fluctuating and increasing trend. ESV had high-value aggregation in the northeastern mountainous areas with high green space coverage and high river distance accessibility and low-value aggregation in the central and southwestern urban areas with frequent human activities. Its spatial heterogeneity and aggregation patterns were of statistical significance. (2) The spatial distribution characteristics of ESV were affected by various driving factors to varying degrees. The order of their degree of influence on ESV was per capita green area > slope > the proportion of urban and rural human settlements > river distance accessibility > population. (3) Compared to the previous study, the stratification method employing the local bivariate spatial correlation pattern more fully considers spatial autocorrelation and spatial heterogeneity. It effectively captured the spatial explanatory power of driving factors. This study can provide new ideas for capturing the driving mechanisms of ESV and insights into the sustainable development of the ecological environment in other regions with similar characteristics worldwide.
Promoting Effect of Whole-Region Comprehensive Land Consolidation on Rural Revitalization from the Perspective of Farm Households: A China Study
Authors: Zhang Dongli , Yu Lihong , Wang Wenxiong
Published: October 2022

With the rapid advances in globalization, industrialization, urbanization, and informatization, rural space continues to be occupied by urban expansion, and numerous production elements are aggregated in cities, resulting in global rural decline. The long-standing Chinese urban-rural dual system and urban-first development strategy have exacerbated a downturn in rural areas during the socio-economic transition. Combined with land management systems and innovation policies, whole-region comprehensive land consolidation (WRCLC) has become a crucial tool and platform for rural revitalization, extensively implemented nationwide. From the perspective of farm households, this paper employs the element-structure-function framework in the system theory to theoretically reveal the mechanism by which different WRCLC modes promote rural revitalization. Based on the questionnaire survey data from 1080 farm households in Zhejiang Province, the propensity score matching-difference in difference (PSM-DID) method based on quasi-experiment was employed to explore the impact of different WRCLC modes on the overall rural revitalization and its five dimensions (thriving industry, ecological livability, rural civilization, effective governance, and affluent life). The results show that WRCLC can optimize the rural structure and enhance rural functions by integrating the core elements of rural development to achieve complete rural revitalization. The empirical results show that implementing all WRCLC modes has significantly increased overall and five-dimension rural revitalization levels, with the city-suburb integration mode having a better effect on promoting rural revitalization than the characteristic industry mode and small-town construction mode. Based on this, some relevant policy recommendations have been put forward to enhance the effectiveness of WRCLC in promoting rural revitalization. Our findings will provide a Chinese practice for other countries and regions to develop more effective WRCLC modes and policies for promoting rural revitalization.
Shedding Light on Agritourism in Iberian Cross-Border Regions from a Lodgings Perspective
Authors: Ferreira Dora Isabel Rodrigues , Sánchez-Martín José-Manuel
Published: October 2022

Agritourism has been widely discussed in the literature. As the range of options for its interpretation increased, studies have come to focus their objectives on its systematization, evaluated with respect to the nature of the interactions between tourists and agriculture, the level of contact with agricultural activities, and the authenticity of the experience. Adding to this complexity is the association of agritourism with experiences related to the agri-food sector, as well as the typologies of accommodation. This research contributes to an improved understanding of agritourism based on evidence from a cross-border region between Portugal and Spain. We identify the links between agriculture and tourism by identifying different categories of agritourism activities via the application of geostatistical analysis. The main results highlight that landscapes, agricultural activities, and agri-food products have a positive influence in creating tourism products and services. Despite this result, passive agritourism activities prevail, such as tasting experiences, contact with endogenous products, enjoyment of the agricultural landscape, or on-farm entertainment. This reality highlights a gap related to authentic agritourism, pointing to the absence of or weak links to agricultural activities and weaknesses in the local “farm-to-table” channel. The grouping analysis results led to the creation of six homogeneous groups, three of which correspond to lodging establishments capable of creating agritourism. However, these groups represent only 39% of the supply. Given this reality, it is of utmost importance to implement policies that encourage tour operators to create agritourism products.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) Capabilities in the Design and Planning of Rural Settlements in China: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cao Yu , Huang Liyan , Aziz Nur Mardhiyah , Kamaruzzaman Syahrul Nizam
Published: October 2022

With rural revitalization being established as the national policy in China, the environmental quality and residential comfort of rural settlements has received widespread attention from the whole society in China. However, due to the over-exploitation of resources and the uneven development between urban and rural in China, the environmental conditions and residential experience in rural settlements in China are still relatively backward. To prompt the environmental quality and residential comfort of rural settlements in China, it is necessary to optimize the planning and design of rural settlements in China. As a multi-function method, Building Information Modeling (BIM) can significantly contribute to the planning and design of rural settlements in China. To optimize the environmental quality and residential experience in rural settlements in China, this study is developed to perform a systematic literature review of the BIM capabilities in the design and planning phase of rural settlements in China. To achieve this aim, the PRISMA protocol was used to perform this systematic review. The review and discussion of this study were conducted between June 2022 and September 2022. In this study, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus were adopted as the main databases, and 189 articles were reviewed. Through this systematic review, it can be identified that BIM capabilities have significant advantages in the following aspects of the design and planning of rural settlements in China: Data storage and management; 3D modeling and visualization; Disaster prevention and environmental analysis; Cost estimation and optimization. Furthermore, through the discussion and analysis of research results, it can be concluded that BIM capabilities can perform their benefits in the rural settlements’ design and planning through their following characteristics: knowledge management, simulation, and modeling. Based on the research results, it can be identified that knowledge management capabilities in BIM can effectively provide information support and knowledge assistance throughout the design and planning phase of rural settlements in China. BIM’s simulation and modeling capabilities can simulate and demonstrate the rural environment and their internal structures in rural settlements’ design and planning phase to achieve their environmental optimization, residential comfort improvement, clash detection, disaster prevention, and expenditure reduction. Moreover, the challenge and future directions of BIM capabilities in the design and planning phase of rural settlements in China are discussed and analyzed. This study can effectively promote and optimize the BIM utilization in the design and planning phase of rural settlements in China, to better enhance their environmental quality and residential experience.
Spatial Distribution Changes in Nature-Based Recreation Service Supply from 2008 to 2018 in Shanghai, China
Authors: Liu Song , Shen Peiyu , Huang Yishan , Jiang Li , Feng Yongjiu
Published: October 2022

Nature-based recreation has become an important activity in contemporary society and a key component of cultural ecosystem services. Although the methods of mapping the outdoor recreation supply have been gradually improved, few studies have carried out multi-temporal evaluations. Based on land use/land cover (LULC), POI, and other web-open data, we mapped the recreational service supply in Shanghai in 2008 and 2018, combining recreation potential and recreation opportunities. We first selected the evaluation indicators, using LULC to measure recreational potential, and POI density and accessibility to measure recreational opportunities. Then, we used principal component analysis (PCA) to determine the weights of the 12 factors that measure recreational opportunities, and made RO and RP maps, respectively. Finally, we overlaid RO and RP maps to obtain the spatial distribution map of recreation service supply. Our results showed that the supply of recreation services in 2008 and 2018 presented a “V-shaped” gradient along the city center areas—the peri-urban areas—the rural areas. Compared with the year 2008, the average recreation value decreased in nine regions, but increased in Chongming District in 2018. The assessment and mapping of recreation service supply value provide a basis for the development of local recreational resources, land use decisions, and the management of recreational cultural ecosystem services.
Guanidine Derivatives of Quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-Dione as NHE-1 Inhibitors and Anti-Inflammatory Agents
Authors: Spasov Alexander , Ozerov Alexander , Kosolapov Vadim , Gurova Natalia , Kucheryavenko Aida , Naumenko Ludmila , Babkov Denis , Sirotenko Viktor , Taran Alena , Borisov Alexander , Sokolova Elena , Klochkov Vladlen , Merezhkina Darya , Miroshnikov Mikhail , Ovsyankina Nadezhda , Smirnov Alexey , Velikorodnaya Yulia
Published: October 2022

Quinazolines are a rich source of bioactive compounds. Previously, we showed NHE-1 inhibitory, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, intraocular pressure lowering, and antiglycating activity for a series of quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones and quinazoline-4(3H)-one guanidine derivatives. In the present work, novel N1,N3-bis-substituted quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione derivatives bearing two guanidine moieties were synthesized and pharmacologically profiled. The most potent NHE-1 inhibitor 3a also possesses antiplatelet and intraocular-pressure-reducing activity. Compound 4a inhibits NO synthesis and IL-6 secretion in murine macrophages without immunotoxicity and alleviates neutrophil infiltration, edema, and tissue lesions in a model of LPS-induced acute lung injury. Hence, we considered quinazoline derivative 4a as a potential agent for suppression of cytokine-mediated inflammatory response and acute lung injury.
MiR-134-5p/Stat3 Axis Modulates Proliferation and Migration of MSCs Co-Cultured with Glioma C6 Cells by Regulating Pvt1 Expression
Authors: Liu Dongrong , Liu Yan , Hu Yun , Ming Ye , Meng Xuehuan , Tan Hao , Zheng Leilei
Published: October 2022

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are critical in regenerating tissues because they can differentiate into various tissue cells. MSCs interact closely with cells in the tissue microenvironment during the repair of damaged tissue. Although regarded as non-healing wounds, tumors can be treated by MSCs, which showed satisfactory treatment outcomes in previous reports. However, it is largely unknown whether the biological behaviors of MSCs would be affected by the tumor microenvironment. Exploring the truth of tumor microenvironmental cues driving MSCs tumor “wound” regeneration would provide a deeper understanding of the biological behavior of MSCs. Therefore, we mimicked the tumor microenvironment using co-cultured glioma C6 cells and rat MSCs, aiming to assess the proliferation and migration of MSCs and the associated effects of Stat3 in this process. The results showed that co-cultured MSCs significantly exhibited enhanced tumorigenic, migratory, and proliferative abilities. Both up-regulation of Stat3 and down-regulation of miR-134-5p were detected in co-cultured MSCs. Furthermore, miR-134-5p directly regulated Stat3 by binding to the sequence complementary to microRNA response elements in the 3′-UTR of its mRNA. Functional studies showed that both the migration and proliferation abilities of co-cultured MSCs were inhibited by miR-134-5p, whereas Stat3 gain-of-function treatment reversed these effects. In addition, Pvt1 was confirmed to be regulated by miR-134-5p through Stat3 and the suppression of Pvt1 reduced the migration and proliferation abilities of co-cultured MSCs. To sum up, these results demonstrate a suppressive role of miR-134-5p in tumor-environment-driven malignant transformation of rat MSCs through directly targeting Stat3, highlighting a crucial role of loss-of-function of miR-134-5p/Stat3 axis in the malignant transformation, providing a reference to the potential clinic use of MSCs.
The Performance and Mechanism of Sludge Reduction by the Bioaugmentation Approach
Authors: Li Jiangwei , Yang Xiaoyong , Hu Anyi , Li Yan , Li Yeyun , Fu Lijun , Yu Chang-Ping
Published: October 2022

Millions of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) based on the activated sludge process have been established worldwide to help to purify wastewater. However, a vast amount of sludge is inevitably generated, and the cost of sludge disposal could reach over half of the total operation cost of a WWTP. Various sludge reduction techniques have been developed, including physicochemical, biological, and combinational methods. Micro-organisms that could reduce sludge by cryptic growth are vital to the biological approach. Currently, only limited functional bacteria have been isolated, and the lack of knowledge on the underlying mechanism hinders the technique development. Therefore, the present study is aimed at isolating sludge-reducing bacteria and optimizing the sludge reduction process through response surface methodology. Nineteen strains were obtained from sludge. The mix-cultures did not show a higher sludge reduction rate than the pure culture, which may be ascribed to the complicated interactions, such as competition and antagonistic effects. In total, 21.2% and 13.9% of total suspended and volatile suspended solids were reduced within 48 h after optimization. The three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectrum and hydrolases test results revealed that the sludge reduction might be promoted by the strain mainly through hydrolysis via proteinase and amylase. The results obtained from the study demonstrate the potential of using micro-organisms for sludge reduction through cryptic growth.
Nutraceuticals for Complementary Treatment of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: A Perspective from Their Use in COVID-19
Authors: Estrada-Luna Diego , Carreón-Torres Elizabeth , González-Reyes Susana , Martínez-Salazar María Fernanda , Ortiz-Rodríguez María Araceli , Ramírez-Moreno Esther , Arias-Rico José , Jiménez-Osorio Angélica Saraí
Published: October 2022

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) has been widely reported in some children diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2. Clinical signs of MIS-C are manifested at 2 to 4 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection, where elevated biomarkers of inflammation and cardiac dysfunction are the hallmark of this syndrome when infection or exposure to SARS-CoV-2 has been confirmed. However, after two years of acknowledgment, MIS-C treatment is still under research to reach safety and effectiveness in the acute phase in children. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the potential use of natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to reduce collateral damage caused by hyperinflammation in MIS-C pathology for new research in treatment and interventions.
Improving Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Rice for Sustainable Agriculture: Strategies and Future Perspectives
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhou Genyou , Guo Shiyang , Li Xiaohui , Yuan Jiaqi , Hu Anyong
Published: October 2022

Nitrogen (N) is an important nutrient for the growth and development of rice. The application of N fertilizer has become one of the inevitable ways to increase rice yield due to insufficient soil N content. However, in order to achieve stable and high yield, farmers usually increase N fertilizer input without hesitation, resulting in a series of problems such as environmental pollution, energy waste and low production efficiency. For sustainable agriculture, improving the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) to decrease N fertilizer input is imperative. In the present review, we firstly demonstrate the role of N in mediating root architecture, photosynthesis, metabolic balance, and yield components in rice. Furthermore, we further summarize the current agronomic practices for enhancing rice NUE, including balanced fertilization, the use of nitrification inhibitors and slow-release N fertilizers, the split application of N fertilizer, root zone fertilization, and so on. Finally, we discuss the recent advances of N efficiency-related genes with potential breeding value. These genes will contribute to improving the N uptake, maintain the N metabolism balance, and enhance the NUE, thereby breeding new varieties against low N tolerance to improve the rice yield and quality. Moreover, N-efficient varieties also need combine with precise N fertilizer management and advanced cultivation techniques to realize the maximum exploitation of their biological potential.
Safety and Efficacy of Rivaroxaban for Extended-Phase Anticoagulation of Patients with Unprovoked or Recurrent Venous Thromboembolism: Real-Life Data from the MAC Project
Authors: Bortoluzzi Cristiano , Bernardi Enrico , Camporese Giuseppe , Noventa Franco , Ceccato Davide , Tonello Chiara , Vo Hong Ngoc , Campello Elena , Simion Chiara , Imbalzano Egidio , Di Micco Pierpaolo , Callegari Elena , Simioni Paolo
Published: October 2022

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of death in the world. After the acute-phase treatment, the optimal duration of anticoagulation is still debatable. The latest guidelines suggest maintaining long-term anticoagulation in patients with cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) or with unprovoked VTE and a low bleeding risk. Methods: The MAC Project is an ongoing prospective-cohort, multi-center, observational study in Italy. The project aims to collect real-life clinical information in unselected patients given oral anticoagulants for VTE over a 5-year follow-up period. There were no exclusion criteria, except for life expectancy <6 months and refusal to sign the informed consent form or to attend the planned follow-up visit. All patients were followed-up prospectively with clinical controls scheduled at 3, 6, and 12 months after the index event, and then annually for up to 5 years. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were symptomatic recurrent VTE and major bleeding. Results: We analyzed 450 consecutive patients treated with rivaroxaban and referred them to the MAC Project database for unprovoked or recurrent VTE. Of these, 267 (55%) were unprovoked VTE, and 377 (87%) were symptomatic. We followed up with the patients for a mean of 22 months (Q1 10.7; Q3 37.4 months). Recurrent VTE occurred in 12 patients on rivaroxaban treatment (IR 1.7 per 100 person-years). Males had more recurrence than women. During the follow-up period, we recorded 13 (2.9%) major bleeding, 12 (2.7%) clinically relevant non-major bleeding, 8 minor bleeding, and no fatal bleeding events. Overall, bleeding events occurred in 33 (7.3%) patients, most occurring within the first 2 years of treatment. In addition, we observed a statistically significant higher incidence of bleeding in patients with a baseline HAS-BLED score of 3 to 4 compared with those with a score of 0 to 2, with most events occurring during the first 3 months of treatment (RR 5.9). Discussion: Rivaroxaban appears to be safe and effective for the long-term treatment of patients with recurrent or unprovoked VTE. Our results match previously published data, and we are confident that the continuation of the follow-up for up to 5 years will confirm these outcomes.
Novel Insights into Pathophysiology of Orbital Inflammatory Diseases and Progression to Orbital Lymphoma by Pathway Enrichment Analysis
Authors: Al-Ghazzawi Karim , Mairinger Fabian D. , Pförtner Roman , Horstmann Mareike , Bechrakis Nikolaos , Mohr Christopher , Eckstein Anja , Oeverhaus Michael
Published: October 2022

Non-specific orbital inflammation (NSOI) and IgG4-related orbital disease (IgG4-ROD) are currently treated with non-specific immunosuppressive agents based on non-randomized, uncontrolled studies. Therefore, relapses and prolongated courses are common and remain challenging. For a more specific therapy, a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology is crucial. Therefore, we aimed to analyze signaling pathways to expand the knowledge on the pathophysiology and possibly identify specific targets in the future, as occurred recently in Graves’ orbitopathy with the IGF-1 receptor. Furthermore, we analyzed potential mechanisms for the described potential progression to orbital MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma. The investigation cohort for this screening study comprised of 12 patients with either typical NSOI (n = 6), IgG4-ROD or MALT lymphoma (n = 3 each). Mean age was 56.4 ± 17 years. MALT samples, in contrast with IgG4-ROD and NSOI, showed overall upregulation for extracellular matrix receptor interaction (ECM) and adipocytokine signaling. Investigating signaling compounds for MALT samples, differentially expressed genes were re-identified as targets with relevant expression. Even though pathway analysis showed differentially altered products when comparing IgG4-ROD with MALT, main conductors of differentiation in B- and T-cell signaling were commonly altered when observing the microenvironment of examined tissues. Our data reveal the characteristic differences and similarities in genetic-expression-based pathway profiles between MALT lymphoma, IgG4-ROD and NSOI, which may be useful for elucidating the associated pathogenic mechanisms and developing specific treatments for these orbital diseases.
Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of ZnO Nanoparticles against Enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: El-Masry Reham M. , Talat Dalia , Hassoubah Shahira A. , Zabermawi Nidal M. , Eleiwa Nesreen Z. , Sherif Rasha M. , Abourehab Mohammed A. S. , Abdel-Sattar Randa M. , Gamal Mohammed , Ibrahim Madiha S. , Elbestawy Ahmed
Published: October 2022

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a Gram-positive bacteria considered one of the leading causes of community and hospital-acquired illnesses or public health concerns. Antibiotic resistance in this microorganism is one of the greatest issues in global health care. The use of metal nanoparticles and their oxides is one of the potential approaches to combating bacteria resistance to antibiotics. The antibacterial properties of ZnO NPs against enterotoxigenic S. aureus were studied. ZnO NPs were tested in vitro by agar diffusion test. They resulted in 26 and 22 mm zones of inhibition for a size of 20 nm and a concentration of 20 mM against 105 and 107 CFU/mL S. aureus, respectively. The MIC of ZnO NPs of various sizes, 20 and 50 nm, with 105 CFU/mL was 2.5 and 5 mM, respectively. MIC with 107 CFU/mL was five mM for 20 and 50 nm ZnO NPs. Further, the highest growth reduction percentage, 98.99% in the counts of S. aureus was achieved by ZnO NPs of size 20 nm and concentration of 10 mM. Moreover, the obtained ELISA results indicated a significantly decreased concentration of enterotoxin A with all concentrations and sizes of ZnO NPs. PCR analysis showed a significant effect on sea gene in response to ZnO NPs treatments leading to loss of the gene, unlike the unaffected nuc gene. Moreover, morphological changes and cell shape distortion were detected by scanning electron microscope for bacterial cells treated with ZnO NPs.
Prediction and Experimental Validation of Aviation Floating Involute Spline
Authors: Xue Xiangzhen , Liu Jian , Jia Jipeng , Yang Siwei , Li Yifan
Published: October 2022

Based on the research on the wear mechanism of floating involute spline coupling, combined with the traditional Archard wear equation, a wear prediction model of aviation floating involute spline coupling was established. The transient simulation of spline coupling with floating distances of 0 mm, 0.3 mm, and 0.6 mm was carried out using Abaqus, and the accuracy of the theoretical model was verified by analyzing the wear and failure parts of the spline coupling. The analysis results show that there is oxidation wear, adhesive wear, abrasive wear, and other wear forms on the tooth surface of the aviation floating involute spline coupling. Under the influence of the floating distance of the spline coupling, the calculation results are closer to the actual working situations. In addition, with increasing floating distance, the wear depth of the tooth surface increases significantly, and the wear depth becomes larger and larger along the floating end. The above study provides a theoretical basis for designing and maintaining aerospace involute spline couplings.
Wear Properties of Conventional and High-Translucent Zirconia-Based Materials
Authors: De Angelis Francesco , Buonvivere Matteo , Sorrentino Edoardo , Rondoni Giuseppe Daniele , D’Arcangelo Camillo
Published: October 2022

This study investigated the two-body wear resistance of a first generation 3 mol% yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (3Y-TZP), a second generation 3Y-TZP, a third generation 4 mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (4Y-PSZ), a 5 mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (5Y-PSZ), and a type III gold alloy (Aurocast 8), performed using opposing antagonistic cusps made out of the same material. Eight cylindrical specimens were prepared for each material (n = 8) for a total of forty specimens (N = 40). Conical cusps were fabricated for each material. Each cylinder–cusp pair was arranged inside a two-axis chewing simulator over up to 360,000 loading cycles. The wear resistance was analyzed by measuring the vertical substance loss (mm) and the volume loss (mm3). The antagonist wear (mm) was recorded before and after the wear test to evaluate the linear difference. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA); multiple comparisons were performed according to Tukey’s method. No statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) among the first generation 3Y-TZP, second generation 3Y-TZP, and 4Y-PSZ wear were found. 5Y-PSZ showed statistically significant higher wear compared to other the zirconias. Aurocast 8 displayed the highest values in terms of vertical wear, antagonist cusp wear, and volumetric loss. Although still not statistically comparable, the wear behavior of the latest 5Y-PSZ was the closest to the widely recognized gold standard represented by the type III gold alloy.
Effects of Cerium Doping on the Mechanical Properties and Energy-Releasing Behavior of High-Entropy Alloys
Authors: Ma Yusong , Zhou Liang , Zhang Kaichuang , Gai Xiqiang , He Jinyan , Zhang Xinggao
Published: October 2022

Energetic structural materials play an important role in improving the damage performance of future weapons. To improve the energy-releasing behavior, Al0.5NbZrTi1.5Ta0.8Cex high-entropy alloys were prepared by vacuum-arc melting. The results showed the presence of BCC and FCC phases in the alloy with dendritic-morphology-element segregation and there were significant dislocations in the alloys. The current study focused on the effects of cerium content on the dynamic compressive mechanical and energetic characteristics. Cerium doping enhanced the energy-releasing characteristics of high-entropy alloys. The severity of the reaction increased with the increase in the cerium content, while the dynamic compressive strength generally decreased with the increase in cerium content. The Al0.5NbZrTi1.5Ta0.8Ce0.25 showed excellent mechanical and energy-releasing characteristics. The ballistic experiments indicated that Al0.5NbZrTi1.5Ta0.8Ce0.25 can penetrate 6-millimeter A3 plates and ignite the cotton behind the target at a velocity of 729 m/s, making it an ideal energetic structural material.
Basalt Fibers Reinforced Concrete: Strength and Failure Modes
Authors: AL-Kharabsheh Buthainah Nawaf , Arbili Mohamed Moafak , Majdi Ali , Alogla Saleh M. , Hakamy A. , Ahmad Jawad , Deifalla Ahmed Farouk
Published: October 2022

The low tensile capacity of concrete often results in brittle failure without any warning. One way to cope with this issue is to add fibers and essentially improve the tensile strength (TS) behavior of concrete and offset its undesirable brittle failure. In recent investigations, basalt fibers (BFs), as compared to a variety of other kinds of fiber, have attracted the attention of researchers. In that respect, BFs exhibit several benefits, such as excellent elastic properties, great strength, high elastic modulus, higher thermal stability, and decent chemical stability. Although many researchers have reported that BFs can be embedded in concrete to improve the tensile capacity, a more profound understanding of its contribution is still needed. However, the information is scattered and it is difficult for the reader to identify the benefits of BFs. Therefore, a detailed assessment is essential to summarize all relevant information and provide an easy path for the reader. This review (part Ⅰ) summarizes all the relevant information, including flow properties, strength properties, and failure modes. Results reveal that BFs can greatly enhance the strength properties and change the brittle nature of concrete to one of ductility. However, it unfavorably impacts the flowability of concrete. Furthermore, the optimal proportion is shown to be important as a higher dose can adversely affect the strength of concrete, due to a deficiency of flowability. The typical range of the ideal incorporation of BFs varies from 0.5 to 1.5%. Finally, the review also indicates the research gap for future research studies that must be cautiously explored before being used in the real world.
The Effects of Alloying Elements Cr, Al, and Si on Oxidation Behaviors of Ni-Based Superalloys
Authors: Ma Suyu , Ding Qingqing , Wei Xiao , Zhang Ze , Bei Hongbin
Published: October 2022

Oxidation behaviors of three Ni-based model alloys and pure Ni in the temperature range of 700–1200 °C are investigated to reveal effects of Cr, Al, and Si on the oxidation resistance of Ni-based superalloys. The formation and integrity of consecutive chromia or alumina layers are important for excellent oxidation resistance. The addition of 20 at.% Cr can effectively improve the oxidation resistance of Ni-based alloys by forming a thin chromia film below 1000 °C, while adding 15 at.% Al has a beneficial effect on the oxidation resistance of Ni-based alloys at temperatures above 900 °C. The addition of 2 at.% Si to Ni-Al alloy is insufficient to form a protective SiO2 layer but can accelerate the formation of alumina, which enables Ni-Al alloy to form a consecutive inner alumina layer at a relatively low temperature of 800 °C and further improve the oxidation resistance above 800 °C.
The Flow Stress–Strain and Dynamic Recrystallization Kinetics Behavior of High-Grade Pipeline Steels
Authors: Wang Lei , Ji Lingkang , Yang Kun , Gao Xiongxiong , Chen Hongyuan , Chi Qiang
Published: October 2022

The hot deformation behavior of high-grade pipeline steels was studied in the strain rate range of 0.001~0.1 s−1 and the temperature range of 1050~1200 °C by using hot compression tests on a Gleeble 3500 thermomechanical simulator. The flow stress increases with the increase in strain rate and the decrease in deformation temperature, and the deformation activation energy is about 358 kJ/mol. The flows stress–strain behavior of the work-hardening and dynamic recovery (DRV) was calculated using the Estrin–Mecking equation, and the kinetics model of the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) was established based on the Avrami equation through characteristic strains. Furthermore, the flow stress–strain behavior of high-grade pipeline steels was predicted by the established model based on the coupling effects of DRV and DRX. The corresponding predicted results are in good agreement with the experimental results according to standard statistical parameters analysis. Finally, the economic strain (ε3) is proposed by the third derivative of the given kinetic model. Based on these calculation results, when the economic strain (ε3) is reached, uniform and refined DRX grains can be obtained, the energy consumption reduced, and the production costs controlled, which is of great significance to actual factory production.
Understanding Effects of Ultrasonic Vibration on Microstructure Evolution in Hot Forming Process via Cellular Automata Method
Authors: Zhang Yutong , Zhou Weihua , Tang Jinyuan , He Yuhui
Published: October 2022

Compared with traditional forming technology, ultrasonic vibration-assisted plastic forming technology can improve the forming conditions and obtain better surface quality of the workpiece. However, the mechanism and theory of ultrasonic action have not formed a unified understanding. In this paper, ultrasonic-assisted thermal forming technology is taken as the research object. Through experimental research combined with cellular automata methods, based on the dislocation density model, nucleation and growth model, and dynamic recrystallization growth rule, a theoretical model for microstructure simulation of the ultrasonic-assisted thermal forming process was established. By introducing the ultrasonic energy field into the thermal forming process and correcting thermal activation energy and dynamic recovery coefficient, the reasons for flow stress reduction of 9310 steel and the influence of temperature, strain rate, and vibration amplitude on recrystallization were analyzed from the microscopic scale. The results show that the introduction of ultrasonic vibration reduces the dislocation activation energy, promotes dynamic recrystallization behavior, and finally leads to the reduction of flow stress. With an increase in vibration amplitude, the average grain size decreases faster, the recrystallization volume fraction increases faster, the stress decreases larger, and the ultrasonic softening phenomenon becomes more obvious. Decreasing the strain rate will promote the occurrence of dynamic recrystallization, the volume fraction and average grain size of dynamic recrystallization will increase, and the true stress will decrease.