bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photooxidative Dehydrogenation of Chiral Ir (III) Amino Acid Complexes Based on [Λ-Ir(ppy)2(MeCN)2](PF6)
Authors: Yao Suyang , Pu Yanxi , Ren Lulu , Cao Manli , Ye Baohui
Published: September 2023

Octahedral chiral-at-metal Ir(III) complexes exhibit excellent structural stability and stereoselectivity in asymmetric synthesis. Selectively oxidative dehydrogenation of amino acids could be achieved by exploiting such complexes as chiral templates. The obtaining stable imine complexes can then be utilized in nucleophilic additions to generate corresponding chiral amine compounds. In this study, a conveniently synthesized [Λ-Ir(ppy)2(MeCN)2](PF6) chiral complex (ppy is 2-phenylpyridine) was utilized as a chiral template. A series of chiral amino acid complexes Λ-[Ir(ppy)2(D/L-AA)] (AA is amino acid) were prepared in high yield and optical purity. The above amino acid complexes were then oxidized to their corresponding imino acid complexes Λ-[Ir(ppy)2(AA-2H)] under visible light. All these complexes exhibited high selectivity during the dehydrogenation process without the formation of C-N bond coupling byproducts. The photooxidative dehydrogenation rates of these complexes were studied, which show that D-configured amino acids exhibited faster dehydrogenation rates when using the Λ-configured complex as a chiral template and the substitution of electron-donating or bulky groups in the N-α position of the amino acid decreased their dehydrogenation rates. The crystal structures of Λ-Ir(ppy)2(D-Thr) (Thr is threonine) and its dehydrogenated complex Λ-Ir(ppy)2(Thr-2H) indicate the process of photooxidative dehydrogenation and the configuration stability of metal center throughout the process.
Moving from Raman Spectroscopy Lab towards Analytical Applications: A Review of Interlaboratory Studies
Authors: Rusu Elena-Andreea , Baia Monica
Published: September 2023

Is Raman spectroscopy applicable for analytical purposes? Although Raman spectroscopy is a commonly used technique for analyzing sample characteristics and has numerous benefits, it still has several significant limitations that hinder the current tendency to produce the same results regardless of location, equipment, or operator. Overcoming these drawbacks may help to further the development of personalized medicine, diagnosis and treatment, the development of work protocols, and the pursuit of consistent and repeatable performance across all fields. Interlaboratory studies are currently the best way to do this. In this study, we reviewed the interlaboratory studies on Raman spectroscopy conducted to highlight the importance of moving to quantitative analysis in controlled environments. The advantages of Raman spectroscopy, including its high molecular specificity, short spectrum acquisition time, and excellent component identification capabilities, were clearly stated in all experiments. The Raman spectroscopy lab is taking small steps toward analytical applications by figuring out how to accurately predict concentrations in the relevant range of concentrations, developing and verifying the technology, and producing homogenous samples for those investigations.
Developments in the Use of Hinfinity Control and μ-Analysis for Reducing Vibration in Intelligent Structures
Authors: Moutsopoulou Amalia , Stavroulakis Georgios E. , Petousis Markos , Pouliezos Anastasios , Vidakis Nectarios
Published: September 2023

During the past few years, there has been a notable surge of interest in the field of smart structures. An intelligent structure is one that automatically responds to mechanical disturbances by minimizing oscillations after intelligently detecting them. In this study, a smart design that contains integrated actuators and sensors that can dampen oscillations is shown. A finite element analysis is used in conjunction with the application of dynamic loads such as wind force. The dynamic-loading-induced vibration of the intelligent piezoelectric structure is aimed to be mitigated using a μ-controller. The controller’s robustness against uncertainties in the parameters to address vibration-related concerns is showcased. This article offers a thorough depiction of the benefits stemming from μ-analysis and active vibration control in the behavior of intelligent structures. The gradual surmounting of these challenges is attributed to the increasing affordability and enhanced capability of electronic components used for control implementation. The advancement of μ-analysis and robust control for vibration reduction in intelligent structures is amply demonstrated in this study.
Orbital Exenteration in Recurrence Cancer: 5 Years Experience
Authors: Barbera Giorgio , Todaro Mattia , Saponaro Gianmarco , Gasparini Giulio , Moro Alessandro
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to assess the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of patients who underwent orbital exenteration for periorbital, conjunctival, and primary intraorbital carcinomas. Additionally, we assessed the outcomes of anterior retrograde temporalis muscle flap restoration. Methods: For all patients who had orbital exenteration in the previous five years, a non-comparative retrospective assessment of their medical records, histology, and radiographic imaging was carried out. We investigated the relationships between the various qualitative factors using Cramer’s V Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis. For each of the patient’s categorical factors that were of relevance, estimates of the survival distribution were displayed, and log-rank tests were used to determine whether the survival distributions were equal. Results: This study looks at 19 participants. The sample is made up of 13 men (68%) and 6 women (32%). The degree of relationship (Cramer’s V index) between lymph node metastases (N) and the existence of distant metastases (M) is high, at 64%, and is statistically significant because the p-value is 0.0034 < 0.005. Lymph node metastases had a statistically significant impact on overall survival (p = 0.04 < 0.05). Thirteen of the nineteen patients tested had no palsy (68%). There was no one presenting a CSF leak. Conclusion: Our findings show how crucial it is to identify any lymph node involvement that orbital neoplasms may have. In patients who have received many treatments, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) may be used to determine the stage and spread of the cancer. To determine whether additional tumor characteristics may be explored, more expertise in the SLNB field for patients with orbital cancer who have received many treatments may be helpful. To prevent additional scarring and to be comparable to previous techniques for facial nerve lesions, the anterior retrograde approach and the transorbital procedure for temporal muscle flap in-setting are both effective methods.
Sensitivity Analysis and Optimization of the Hydraulic Interconnected Suspension Damping System of a Small Rescue Craft
Authors: Wang Wenchao , Du Hongwang , Xiong Wei , Nie Yong
Published: September 2023

Component parameters directly affect the dynamic characteristics of suspension systems in small rescue craft. To study and improve the vibration reduction performance of a new suspension system, sensitivity analysis and genetic algorithm (GA) optimization were performed for a three-degree-of-freedom (3-DOF) vibration reduction suspension system. The system performance was analyzed using AMESim multi-condition simulations, and the sensitivity of the system to parameters that affect its dynamic characteristics was analyzed. Furthermore, the parameters were optimized using the GA. The simulation results indicated that the hydraulic cylinder inner diameter, the piston rod diameter, the accumulator volume, the accumulator pre-charge pressure, and the damper valve aperture size all influenced the working performance of a small salvage vessel. The optimization results showed that the stability of the ship was improved by 60% and that the main hull acceleration root mean square value decreased by 2.24% as a result of the optimization. The stability and riding comfort of the small salvage ship were improved, and there was an evident stability optimization effect. The comprehensive performance of the salvage ship was significantly improved.
Null Broadening Beamforming for Passive Sonar Based on Weighted Similarity Vector
Authors: Wang Yuhao , Zhang Zhenkai
Published: September 2023

Beamforming technology is very important for passive sonar to detect targets. However, the performance of a beamformer is seriously degraded in practical applications due to the complex and changeable underwater environment. In this paper, a null broadening algorithm for passive sonar based on a weighted similarity vector is proposed for underwater fast-moving strong interference signals. First, the covariance matrix was reconstructed through the correlation between the steering vector and the subspace eigenvector, which was used to calculate the similarity vector. Then, the maximum power in the interference angle sector was used as the virtual interference source power to broaden the null in the angle sector. Next, the difference between the optimal weight vector and the similar vector was minimized, the interference-plus-noise power constraints and norm constraints were added, and the equation was written as a quadratic constrained quadratic programming (QCQP) problem, which was converted into a convex optimization problem by using the semidefinite relaxation technique. Finally, the optimal solution was calculated by using eigen decomposition. The simulation results show that the algorithm can guarantee deep nulling and effectively suppress sidelobe height under various error conditions, which shows that the proposed algorithm has a good suppression effect and strong robustness for fast strong interference.
Biofilm Formation in Medically Important Candida Species
Authors: Malinovská Zuzana , Čonková Eva , Váczi Peter
Published: September 2023

Worldwide, the number of infections caused by biofilm-forming fungal pathogens is very high. In human medicine, there is an increasing proportion of immunocompromised patients with prolonged hospitalization, and patients with long-term inserted drains, cannulas, catheters, tubes, or other artificial devices, that exhibit a predisposition for colonization by biofilm-forming yeasts. A high percentage of mortality is due to candidemia caused by medically important Candida species. Species of major clinical significance include C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, and C. auris. The association of these pathogenic species in the biofilm structure is a serious therapeutic problem. Candida cells growing in the form of a biofilm are able to resist persistent therapy thanks to a combination of their protective mechanisms and their ability to disseminate to other parts of the body, thus representing a threat from the perspective of a permanent source of infection. The elucidation of the key mechanisms of biofilm formation is essential to progress in the understanding and treatment of invasive Candida infections.
Genetic and Molecular Evidence of a Tetrapolar Mating System in the Edible Mushroom Grifola frondosa
Authors: Zhang Shuang-Shuang , Li Xiao , Li Guo-Jie , Huang Qi , Tian Jing-Hua , Wang Jun-Ling , Li Ming , Li Shou-Mian
Published: September 2023

Grifola frondosa is a valuable edible fungus with high nutritional and medicinal values. The mating systems of fungi not only offer practical strategies for breeding, but also have far-reaching effects on genetic variability. Grifola frondosa has been considered as a sexual species with a tetrapolar mating system based on little experimental data. In the present study, one group of test crosses and six groups of three-round mating experiments from two parental strains were conducted to determine the mating system in G. frondosa. A chi-squared test of the results of the test-cross mating experiments indicated that they satisfied Mendelian segregation, while a series of three-round mating experiments showed that Mendelian segregation was not satisfied, implying a segregation distortion phenomenon in G. frondosa. A genomic map of the G. frondosa strain, y59, grown from an LMCZ basidiospore, with 40.54 Mb and 12 chromosomes, was generated using genome, transcriptome and Hi-C sequencing technology. Based on the genomic annotation of G. frondosa, the mating-type loci A and B were located on chromosomes 1 and 11, respectively. The mating-type locus A coded for the β-fg protein, HD1, HD2 and MIP, in that order. The mating-type locus B consisted of six pheromone receptors (PRs) and five pheromone precursors (PPs) in a crossed order. Moreover, both HD and PR loci may have only one sublocus that determines the mating type in G. frondosa. The nonsynonymous SNP and indel mutations between the A1B1 and A2B2 mating-type strains and the reference genome of y59 only occurred on genes HD2 and PR1/2, preliminarily confirming that the mating type of the y59 strain was A1B2 and not A1B1. Based on the genetic evidence and the more reliable molecular evidence, the results reveal that the mating system of G. frondosa is tetrapolar. This study has important implications for the genetics and hybrid breeding of G. frondosa.
The Extracellular Vesicles Containing Inorganic Polyphosphate of Candida Yeast upon Growth on Hexadecane
Authors: Zvonarev Anton N. , Trilisenko Ludmila V. , Farofonova Vasilina V. , Kulakovskaya Ekaterina V. , Abashina Tatiana N. , Dmitriev Vladimir V. , Kulakovskaya Tatiana
Published: September 2023

The cell wall of Candida yeast grown on presence of hexadecane as a sole carbon source undergoes structural and functional changes including the formation of specific supramolecular complexes—canals. The canals contain specific polysaccharides and enzymes that provide primary oxidization of alkanes. In addition, inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) was identified in Candida maltosa canals. The aim of the work was a comparative study of the features of cell walls and extracellular structures in yeast C. maltosa, C. albicans and C. tropicalis with special attention to inorganic polyphosphates as possible part of these structures when grown on the widely used xenobiotic hexadecane (diesel fuel). Fluorescence microscopy with DAPI has shown an unusual localization of polyP on the cell surface and in the exovesicles in the three yeast species, when growing on hexadecane. Electron-scanning microscopy showed that the exovesicles were associated with the cell wall and also presented in the external environment probably as biofilm components. Treatment of hexadecane-grown cells with purified Ppx1 polyphosphatase led to the release of phosphate into the incubation medium and the disappearance of polyP in vesicles and cell wall observed using microscopic methods. The results indicate the important role of polyP in the formation of extracellular structures in the Candida yeast when consuming hexadecane and are important for the design of xenobiotic destructors based on yeast or mixed cultures.
Analysis of Landscape Character Assessment and Cultural Ecosystem Services Evaluation Frameworks for Peri-Urban Landscape Planning: A Case Study of Harku Municipality, Estonia
Authors: Nevzati Fiona , Veldi Martti , Külvik Mart , Bell Simon
Published: September 2023

This study combined landscape character assessment (LCA) and cultural ecosystem services (CES) frameworks to evaluate human well-being in the peri-urban area of Harku Municipality, Estonia. Using geospatial data combined with expert opinions, the study investigated the interplay between landscape character types and environmental/contact types through the LCA method. In total, 21 distinct landscape types comprising 47 separate areas were identified, with CES values determined for each. Restorative, social, and cognitive values were associated with each landscape character type. The findings demonstrated the higher restorative potential of blue and green elements (water bodies, forests) with low settlement density and minimal agriculture. High-density settlements with good road access demonstrated significant social values, while mixed forests and wetlands tended to be associated with higher cognitive values. Coastal zones with semi-dense settlements and mixed forests earned favourable ratings, whereas industrial/agricultural landscapes were rated lowest for all values. These findings offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics of urban–rural interactions, resilience, and the impact of urbanisation on CES. They may inform future landscape management strategies, urban planning decisions, and policy considerations. Additionally, this study highlights the need for further research to explore the long-term trends and potential changes in CES in evolving peri-urban environments.
Carnap’s Problem for Intuitionistic Propositional Logic
Authors: Tong Haotian , Westerståhl Dag
Published: September 2023

We show that intuitionistic propositional logic is Carnap categorical: the only interpretation of the connectives consistent with the intuitionistic consequence relation is the standard interpretation. This holds with respect to the most well-known semantics relative to which intuitionistic logic is sound and complete; among them Kripke semantics, Beth semantics, Dragalin semantics, topological semantics, and algebraic semantics. These facts turn out to be consequences of an observation about interpretations in Heyting algebras.
Real-Time Selection System of Dispatching Rules for the Job Shop Scheduling Problem
Authors: Zhao Anran , Liu Peng , Li Yunfeng , Xie Zheyu , Hu Longhao , Li Haoyuan
Published: September 2023

Personalized market demands make the job shop scheduling problem (JSSP) increasingly complex, and the need for scheduling methods that can solve scheduling strategies quickly and easily has become very urgent. In this study, we utilized the variety and simplicity of dispatching rules (DRs) and constructed a DR real-time selection system with self-feedback characteristics by combining simulation techniques with decision tree algorithms using makespan and machine utilization as scheduling objectives, which are well adapted to the JSSP of different scales. The DR real-time selection system includes a simulation module, a learning module, and an application module. The function of the simulation module is to collect scheduling data in which is embedded a novel mathematical model describing the JSSP; the function of the learning module is to construct a DR assignment model to assign DR combinations to the job shop system, and the function of the application module is to apply the assigned DR combinations. Finally, a series of job shop systems are simulated to compare the DR assignment model with the NSGA-II and PSO algorithms. The aim is to verify the superiority of the DR assignment model and the rationality of the DR real-time selection system.
Data-Driven Predictive Maintenance Policy Based on Dynamic Probability Distribution Prediction of Remaining Useful Life
Authors: Xie Shulian , Xue Feng , Zhang Weimin , Zhu Jiawei
Published: September 2023

As the reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety of industrial equipment have become crucial in the context of intelligent manufacturing, there are increasing expectations and requirements for maintenance policies. Compared with traditional methods, data-driven Predictive Maintenance (PdM), a superior approach to equipment and system maintenance, has been paid considerable attention by scholars in this field due to its high applicability and accuracy with a highly reliable quantization basis provided by big data. However, current data-driven methods typically provide only point estimates of the state rather than quantification of uncertainty, impeding effective maintenance decision-making. In addition, few studies have conducted further research on maintenance decision-making based on state predictions to achieve the full functionality of PdM. A PdM policy is proposed in this work to obtain the continuous probability distribution of system states dynamically and make maintenance decisions. The policy utilizes the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network and Kernel Density Estimation with a Single Globally-optimized Bandwidth (KDE-SGB) method to dynamic predicting of the continuous probability distribution of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL). A comprehensive optimization target is introduced to establish the maintenance decision-making approach acquiring recommended maintenance time. Finally, the proposed policy is validated through a bearing case study, indicating that it allows for obtaining the continuous probability distribution of RUL centralized over a range of ±10 sampling cycles. In comparison to the other two policies, it could reduce the maintenance costs by 24.49~70.02%, raise the availability by 0.46~1.90%, heighten the reliability by 0.00~27.50%, and promote more stable performance with various maintenance cost and duration. The policy has offered a new approach without priori hypotheses for RUL prediction and its uncertainty quantification and provided a reference for constructing a complete PdM policy integrating RUL prediction with maintenance decision-making.
Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Guaiacol–Fatty Acid–Sulfur Composites
Authors: Maladeniya Charini P. , Kapuge Dona Nawoda L. , Smith Ashlyn D. , Smith Rhett C.
Published: September 2023

A series of six composites was prepared from the reaction of lignin-derived guaiacol, fatty acids, and sulfur. In this preparation, the organic comonomers undergo C–S bond-forming reactions to establish a highly crosslinked network material in which some non-covalently incorporated sulfur species are also entrapped. Both monounsaturated oleic acid and diunsaturated linoleic acid were used as fatty acid components to assess the influence of their unsaturation levels on composite properties. The ratio of organics and the proportion of sulfur (70 or 80 wt%) was also varied to assess the effect on thermal, morphological, and mechanical properties. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that composites exhibited good thermal stability up to ~220 °C. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed that the materials generally exhibit melting features for entrapped cyclo-S8, cold crystallization features for some materials, and a composition-dependent glass transition temperature. The flexural and compressive strengths of the composites revealed that some of the composites exhibit strengths significantly higher than those required of Portland cements used in residential housing fabrication and may be more sustainable structural materials. The thermal and mechanical properties could be tailored by changing the degree of unsaturation of the fatty acid comonomer or by altering the percentage of fatty acid in the monomer feed. The highest mechanical strength was achieved with greater amounts of monounsaturated oleic acid comonomer.
Mathematical Modeling and Analysis of Credit Scoring Using the LIME Explainer: A Comprehensive Approach
Authors: Aljadani Abdussalam , Alharthi Bshair , Farsi Mohammed A. , Balaha Hossam Magdy , Badawy Mahmoud , Elhosseini Mostafa A.
Published: September 2023

Credit scoring models serve as pivotal instruments for lenders and financial institutions, facilitating the assessment of creditworthiness. Traditional models, while instrumental, grapple with challenges related to efficiency and subjectivity. The advent of machine learning heralds a transformative era, offering data-driven solutions that transcend these limitations. This research delves into a comprehensive analysis of various machine learning algorithms, emphasizing their mathematical underpinnings and their applicability in credit score classification. A comprehensive evaluation is conducted on a range of algorithms, including logistic regression, decision trees, support vector machines, and neural networks, using publicly available credit datasets. Within the research, a unified mathematical framework is introduced, which encompasses preprocessing techniques and critical algorithms such as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), the Light Gradient Boosting Model, and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGB), among others. The focal point of the investigation is the LIME (Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations) explainer. This study offers a comprehensive mathematical model using the LIME explainer, shedding light on its pivotal role in elucidating the intricacies of complex machine learning models. This study’s empirical findings offer compelling evidence of the efficacy of these methodologies in credit scoring, with notable accuracies of 88.84%, 78.30%, and 77.80% for the Australian, German, and South German datasets, respectively. In summation, this research not only amplifies the significance of machine learning in credit scoring but also accentuates the importance of mathematical modeling and the LIME explainer, providing a roadmap for practitioners to navigate the evolving landscape of credit assessment.
Zeros of Convex Combinations of Elementary Families of Harmonic Functions
Authors: Brooks Jennifer , Dixon Megan , Dorff Michael , Lee Alexander , Ottinger Rebekah
Published: September 2023

Brilleslyper et al. investigated how the number of zeros of a one-parameter family of harmonic trinomials varies with a real parameter. Brooks and Lee obtained a similar theorem for an analogous family of harmonic trinomials with poles. In this paper, we investigate the number of zeros of convex combinations of members of these families and show that it is possible for a convex combination of two members of a family to have more zeros than either of its constituent parts. Our main tool to prove these results is the harmonic analog of Rouché’s theorem.
Deep Reinforcement Learning for the Agile Earth Observation Satellite Scheduling Problem
Authors: Chun Jie , Yang Wenyuan , Liu Xiaolu , Wu Guohua , He Lei , Xing Lining
Published: September 2023

The agile earth observation satellite scheduling problem (AEOSSP) is a combinatorial optimization problem with time-dependent constraints. Recently, many construction heuristics and meta-heuristics have been proposed; however, existing methods cannot balance the requirements of efficiency and timeliness. In this paper, we propose a graph attention network-based decision neural network (GDNN) to solve the AEOSSP. Specifically, we first represent the task and time-dependent attitude transition constraints by a graph. We then describe the problem as a Markov decision process and perform feature engineering. On this basis, we design a GDNN to guide the construction of the solution sequence and train it with proximal policy optimization (PPO). Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms construction heuristics at scheduling profit by at least 45%. The proposed method can also calculate the approximate profits of the state-of-the-art method with an error of less than 7% and reduce scheduling time markedly. Finally, we demonstrate the scalability of the proposed method.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome: A Prospective Study on Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Rus Marius , Crisan Simina , Andronie-Cioara Felicia Liana , Indries Mirela , Marian Paula , Pobirci Oana Lilliana , Ardelean Adriana Ioana
Published: September 2023

Background and objectives: This article highlights the relationship between metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, providing a comprehensive overview of its risk factors and prevalence. Metabolic syndrome, characterized by a cluster of interconnected risk factors, significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes. Materials and methods: This study, conducted over a one-year period, involved 117 patients aged between 30 and 79 years old. Various parameters were analyzed, such as gender, age, education level, provenance from urban or rural environment, smoking, alcohol consumption, dietary aspects, physical activity, and their contribution to the appearance of metabolic syndrome. Central adiposity and high blood pressure emerged as prominent elements of the condition. Results: The findings underscore the importance of a healthy lifestyle in the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome. Encouraging regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, rich in fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoiding harmful behaviors, such as smoking or alcohol consumption, are essential in reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiovascular complications. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for public health initiatives, as well as individualized preventive strategies to combat the rising prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Through promoting awareness of its risk factors and implementing effective interventions, healthcare professionals can contribute to better cardiovascular health worldwide. Further research in this area will continue to enhance our understanding of metabolic syndrome and refine preventive and therapeutic approaches for its management.
High-Resolution Computed Tomography in Middle Ear Cholesteatoma: How Much Do We Need It?
Authors: Stefanescu Eugen Horatiu , Balica Nicolae Constantin , Motoi Sorin Bogdan , Grigorita Laura , Georgescu Madalina , Iovanescu Gheorghe
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: The diagnosis of cholesteatoma is usually clinic, and the only efficient treatment is surgical. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is not considered absolutely necessary for the management of an uncomplicated cholesteatoma, but unsuspected situations from a clinical point of view can be discovered using the scans, warning the surgeon. Our objective is to compare HRCT scan information with intraoperative findings in patients with cholesteatoma and analyze the usefulness of a preoperative HRCT scan from a surgical point of view. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective descriptive study conducted in the Department of Otolaryngology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Romania, from May 2021 to April 2022. It was carried out on 46 patients with a clinical diagnosis of cholesteatoma who were consequently operated on in our department. All patients received full clinical and audiological examinations. In all cases, an HRCT scan was performed preoperatively as a mandatory investigation. Preoperative HRCT scans were analyzed, and their findings were compared to the intraoperative notes. The two sets of observations were analyzed using standard statistical methods. Results: Extensive cholesteatoma was the most common type of disease, involving 46% of the patients, followed by pars flaccida cholesteatoma (35%) and pars tensa cholesteatoma (19%). Eroded scutum was the most frequent lesion involving 70% of the patients, followed by incus erosion (67%). Comparison of the HRCT and intraoperative findings revealed a very good correlation for tegmen tympani erosion, sigmoid plate erosion, scutum and malleus erosion, and a moderate-to-good correlation for lateral semicircular canal erosion, incus and stapes erosion, and fallopian canal erosion. Conclusions: HRCT is a valuable tool in the preoperative assessment of cholesteatoma, helping in making surgical decisions. It can accurately predict the extent of disease and is helpful for detecting unapparent dangerous situations. However, it is not very accurate in detecting fallopian canal and stapes erosion.
Superwetting Stainless Steel Mesh Used for Both Immiscible Oil/Water and Surfactant-Stabilized Emulsion Separation
Authors: Zhang Yu-Ping , Wang Ya-Ning , Wan Li , Chen Xin-Xin , Zhao Chang-Hua
Published: September 2023

The design and fabrication of advanced membrane materials for versatile oil/water separation are major challenges. In this work, a superwetting stainless steel mesh (SSM) modified with in situ-grown TiO2 was successfully prepared via one-pot hydrothermal synthesis at 180 °C for 24 h. The modified SSM was characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy, energy spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The resultant SSM membrane was superhydrophilic/superoleophilic in air, superoleophobic underwater, with an oil contact angle (OCA) underwater of over 150°, and superhydrophobic under oil, with a water contact angle (WCA) as high as 158°. Facile separation of immiscible light oil/water and heavy oil/water was carried out using the prewetting method with water and oil, respectively. For both “oil-blocking” and “water-blocking” membranes, the separation efficiency was greater than 98%. Also, these SSMs wrapped in TiO2 nanoparticles broke emulsions well, separating oil-in-water and oil-in-water emulsions with an efficiency greater than 99.0%. The as-prepared superwetting materials provided a satisfactory solution for the complicated or versatile oil/water separation.
Isolation and Identification of Biocontrol Bacteria against Atractylodes Chinensis Root Rot and Their Effects
Authors: Luo Shouyang , Tian Chunjie , Zhang Hengfei , Yao Zongmu , Guan Zhihui , Li Yingxin , Zhang Jianfeng , Song Yanyu
Published: September 2023

Fusarium root rot (FRR) seriously affects the growth and productivity of A. chinensis. Therefore, protecting A. chinensis from FRR has become an important task, especially for increasing A. chinensis production. The purpose of this study was to screen FRR control strains from the A. chinensis rhizosphere soil. Eighty-four bacterial strains and seven fungal strains were isolated, and five strains were identified with high inhibitory effects against Fusarium oxysporum (FO): Trichoderma harzianum (MH), Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (CJ5, CJ7, and CJ8), and Bacillus subtilis (CJ9). All five strains had high antagonistic effects in vitro. Results showed that MH and CJ5, as biological control agents, had high control potential, with antagonistic rates of 86.01% and 82.78%, respectively. In the pot experiment, the growth levels of roots and stems of A. chinensis seedlings treated with MH+CJ were significantly higher than those of control plants. The total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, indoleacetic acid, and chlorophyll contents in A. chinensis leaves were also significantly increased. In the biocontrol test, the combined MH + CJ application significantly decreased the malondialdehyde content in A. chinensis roots and significantly increased the polyphenol oxidase, phenylalanine ammonolyase, and peroxidase ability, indicating a high biocontrol effect. In addition, the application of Bacillus spp. and T. harzianum increased the abundance and diversity of the soil fungal population, improved the soil microbial community structure, and significantly increased the abundance of beneficial strains, such as Holtermanniella and Metarhizium. The abundance of Fusarium, Volutella, and other pathogenic strains was significantly reduced, and the biocontrol potential of A. chinensis root rot was increased. Thus, Bacillus spp. and T. harzianum complex bacteria can be considered potential future biocontrol agents for FRR.
Characterization and Genomic Analysis of Fererhizobium litorale gen. nov., sp. nov., Isolated from the Sandy Sediments of the Sea of Japan Seashore
Authors: Romanenko Lyudmila , Otstavnykh Nadezhda , Tanaka Naoto , Kurilenko Valeriya , Svetashev Vasily , Tekutyeva Liudmila , Mikhailov Valery , Isaeva Marina
Published: September 2023

The taxonomic status of two gram-negative, whitish-pigmented motile bacteria KMM 9576T and KMM 9553 isolated from a sandy sediment sample from the Sea of Japan seashore was defined. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains KMM 9576T and KMM 9553 represent a distinct lineage within the family Rhizobiaceae, sharing 100% 16S rRNA sequence similarity and 99.5% average nucleotide identity (ANI) to each other. The strains showed the highest 16S rRNA sequence similarities of 97.4% to Sinorhizobium garamanticum LMG 24692T, 96.9% to Ensifer adhaerens NBRC 100388T, and 96.8% to Pararhizobium giardinii NBRC 107135T. The ANI values between strain KMM 9576T and Ensifer adhaerens NBRC 100388T, Sinorhizobium fredii USDA 205T, Pararhizobium giardinii NBRC 107135T, and Rhizobium leguminosarum NBRC 14778T were 79.9%, 79.6%, 79.4%, and 79.2%, respectively. The highest core-proteome average amino acid identity (cpAAI) values of 82.1% and 83.1% were estimated between strain KMM 9576T and Rhizobium leguminosarum NBRC 14778T and ‘Rhizobium album’ NS-104, respectively. The DNA GC contents were calculated from a genome sequence to be 61.5% (KMM 9576T) and 61.4% (KMM 9553). Both strains contained the major ubiquinone Q-10 and C18:1ω7c as the dominant fatty acid followed by 11-methyl C18:1ω7c and C19:0 cyclo, and polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified aminophospholipid, and two unidentified phospholipids. Based on phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses, and phenotypic characterization, strains KMM 9576T and KMM 9553 are concluded to represent a novel genus and species, for which the name Fererhizobium litorale gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is strain KMM 9576T (=NRIC 0957T).
Role of the Microbiota in Skin Neoplasms: New Therapeutic Horizons
Authors: Savoia Paola , Azzimonti Barbara , Rolla Roberta , Zavattaro Elisa
Published: September 2023

The skin and the gut are regularly colonized by a variety of microorganisms capable of interacting with the immune system through their metabolites and influencing the balance between immune tolerance and inflammation. Alterations in the composition and diversity of the skin microbiota have been described in various cutaneous diseases, including skin cancer, and the actual function of the human microbiota in skin carcinogenesis, such as in progression and metastasis, is currently an active area of research. The role of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in the pathogenesis of squamous cell carcinoma is well consolidated, especially in chronically immunosuppressed patients. Furthermore, an imbalance between Staphylococcus spp., such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and aureus, has been found to be strongly related to the progression from actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma and differently associated with various stages of the diseases in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma patients. Also, in melanoma patients, differences in microbiota have been related to dissimilar disease course and prognosis and may affect the effectiveness and tolerability of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which currently represent one of the best chances of a cure. From this point of view, acting on microbiota can be considered a possible therapeutic option for patients with advanced skin cancers, even if several issues are still open.
Sclerostin, Osteocytes, and Wnt Signaling in Pediatric Renal Osteodystrophy
Authors: Laster Marciana , Pereira Renata C. , Noche Kathleen , Gales Barbara , Salusky Isidro B. , Albrecht Lauren V.
Published: September 2023

The pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is not well understood. Specific factors secreted by osteocytes are elevated in the serum of adults and pediatric patients with CKD-MBD, including FGF-23 and sclerostin, a known inhibitor of the Wnt signaling pathway. The molecular mechanisms that promote bone disease during the progression of CKD are incompletely understood. In this study, we performed a cross-sectional analysis of 87 pediatric patients with pre-dialysis CKD and post-dialysis (CKD 5D). We assessed the associations between serum and bone sclerostin levels and biomarkers of bone turnover and bone histomorphometry. We report that serum sclerostin levels were elevated in both early and late CKD. Higher circulating and bone sclerostin levels were associated with histomorphometric parameters of bone turnover and mineralization. Immunofluorescence analyses of bone biopsies evaluated osteocyte staining of antibodies towards the canonical Wnt target, β-catenin, in the phosphorylated (inhibited) or unphosphorylated (active) forms. Bone sclerostin was found to be colocalized with phosphorylated β-catenin, which suggests that Wnt signaling was inhibited. In patients with low serum sclerostin levels, increased unphosphorylated “active” β-catenin staining was observed in osteocytes. These data provide new mechanistic insight into the pathogenesis of CKD-MBD and suggest that sclerostin may offer a potential biomarker or therapeutic target in pediatric renal osteodystrophy.
Sleep-Body Composition Relationship: Roles of Sleep Behaviors in General and Abdominal Obesity in Chinese Adolescents Aged 17–22 Years
Authors: Song Yalin , Gong Lu , Lou Xiaomin , Zhou Huijun , Hao Yudan , Chen Qiuyuan , Zhao Yize , Jiang Xili , Li Lijie , Wang Xian
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to investigate the association between sleep behaviors and body composition, which was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) among Chinese adolescents. Overall, 444 students (65.3% females, 19.12 ± 1.177 years) completed questionnaires describing sleep characteristics. Sleep characteristics were derived from subjective means. Body composition was obtained from BIA by InBody 720 (Biospace Co. Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea). Regression models tested relationships between sleep and body composition after adjustment for covariates. Students with weekday nap duration (>30 min/d) exerted higher waist-height ratio (WHtR) (B = 0.013, FDR-corrected p = 0.080). Average sleep duration (≤7 h/d) was linked to more WHtR (B = 0.016, FDR-corrected p = 0.080). People with high social jetlag showed gained visceral fat area (B = 7.475), WHtR (B = 0.015), waist to hip ratio (B = 0.012), fat mass index (B = 0.663) and body fat percentage (B = 1.703) (all FDR-corrected p < 0.1). Individuals with screen time before sleep (>0.5 h) exhibited higher visceral fat area (B = 7.934, FDR-corrected p = 0.064), WHtR (B = 0.017, FDR-corrected p = 0.080), waist to hip ratio (B = 0.016, FDR-corrected p = 0.090), fat mass index (B = 0.902, FDR-corrected p = 0.069) and body fat percentage (B = 2.892, FDR-corrected p = 0.018). We found poor sleep characteristics were closely related to general and abdominal obesity.
Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Improves Endothelial Progenitor Cell-Mediated Neovascularization in Mice with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Tang Shao-Yu , Lee Yi-Chin , Tseng Chien-Wei , Huang Po-Hsun , Kuo Ko-Lin , Tarng Der-Cherng
Published: September 2023

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a higher prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a pivotal role. We examined the impact of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) on EPC function in response to tissue ischemia. Eight-week-old male C57BL/6J male mice were divided into sham operation and subtotal nephrectomy (SNx) groups, received hindlimb ischemic operation after seven weeks, then randomly received G-CSF or PBS intervention for four weeks with weekly follow-ups. SNx mice had significantly reduced limb reperfusion, decreased plasma EPC mobilization, and impaired angiogenesis in ischemic hindlimbs compared to the control group. However, G-CSF increased IL-10 and reversed these adverse changes. Additionally, ischemia-associated protein expressions, including IL-10, phospho-STAT3, VEGF, and phospho-eNOS, were significantly downregulated in the ischemic hindlimbs of SNx mice versus control, but these trends were reversed by G-CSF. Furthermore, in cultured EPCs, G-CSF significantly attenuated the decrease in EPC function initiated by indoxyl sulfate through IL-10. Overall, we discovered that G-CSF can improve EPC angiogenic function through a hypoxia/IL-10 signaling cascade and impede neovascular growth in response to ischemia of SNx mice. Our results highlight G-CSF’s potential to restore angiogenesis in CKD patients with PAD via EPC-based methods.
Near-Infrared Laser Methane Remote Monitoring Based on Template Matching Algorithm of Harmonic Signals
Authors: Li Yushuang , Wang Di , Wang Mingji , Lv Yan , Pu Yu
Published: September 2023

Trustworthy technology for the monitoring of fugitive methane emissions is an indispensable component for low−carbon emission reduction and safe production in oil and gas infrastructure. A miniaturization and low-cost methane remote monitoring prototype based on near-infrared laser absorption spectroscopy is developed to retrieve the path−integral concentration by employing the harmonic conjoint analysis method for the backscattered echo signals from a distant non-cooperative target. A distorted harmonic template matching (DHTM) algorithm is proposed based on wavelength modulation spectroscopy with second harmonic normalized via the first harmonic (WMS−2f/1f) method, which suppresses the output concentration fluctuation caused by open path monitoring with non-cooperative target and avoids the issue of false alarms during the detection process without target gas. The reliability of the WMS−2f/1f−DHTM algorithm is verified by calibration and dynamic experiments. The results showed that this algorithm avoids the dilemma of false alarms in the absence of gas compared to the conventional WMS−2f/1f algorithm, while the root mean square error (RMSE) of the concentration inversion with a detection distance of 20 m is reduced by 57.6% compared to direct absorption spectroscopy (DAS) algorithm. And the minimum detection limit of system is 3.79 ppm·m. The methane telemetry sensor with the WMS−2f/1f−DHTM algorithm exhibits substantial application potential in carbon monitoring of oil and gas industry.
Extractives from Artemisia afra with Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal Properties
Authors: Molokoane Tumelo L. , Kemboi Douglas , Siwe-Noundou Xavier , Famuyide Ibukun M. , McGaw Lyndy J. , Tembu Vuyelwa J.
Published: September 2023

Secondary metabolites were isolated using chromatographic techniques after being extracted sequentially from the roots of Artemisia afra using organic solvents such as ethanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, and n-hexane. The isolated compounds were evaluated for anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and cytotoxicity activities. Spectroscopic techniques, including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), were used to elucidate the structures of the isolated compounds. The phytochemical investigation of A. afra led to the isolation of eight (A–H) compounds which were identified as 3β-taraxerol (A), 3β-taraxerol acetate (B), dodecyl-p-coumarate (C), ferulic acid (D), scopoletin (E), sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (F), 3,5-di-O-feruloylquinic acid (G) and Isofraxidin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (H) based on spectroscopic data. Compounds A, B, C, F, G, and H are known but were isolated for the first time from the roots of A. afra. The isolated compounds and extracts from A. afra exhibited good anti-fungal and anti-bacterial activity with dichloromethane and ethyl acetate crude extracts (0.078 mg/mL) and compound E (62.5 µg/mL) showed good activities against Escherichia coli. Compounds C and F also showed good activity against Enterococcus faecalis with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 62.5 and 31.25 µg/mL, respectively. Extracts and compounds (A–H) exhibited anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and showed no toxicity when tested on Vero monkey kidney (Vero) cells.