bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Tai Chi Chuan Exercise Training on the Lower Extremities of Middle-Aged and Elderly
Authors: Ko Bo-Jen , Lee Ting-Ting , Hsu Tai-Yen , Huang Chen-Fu
Published: April 2022

Background: It is known that lower-limb muscle strength is easily maintained in elderly people who practice Tai Chi, although it is necessary to maintain lower-limb muscle strength even as age increases in order to prevent falls. However, the effect of long-term Tai Chi practice and age on lower-limb ability is unclear in middle-aged and elderly people. This research was designed to compare lower-extremity parameters during a countermovement jump between middle-aged and elderly individuals who frequently practice Tai Chi Chuan and individuals in the general population who constituted the healthy group. Methods: There were four groups, and each group included 12 participants. Ten Vicon motion system infrared cameras and two Kistler force plates were used. The data were standardized and analysed using independent-measure two-way ANOVA. Results: The statistical results showed that there was no interaction between the age factor and exercise type factor. The statistics of age factor also showed that age may decrease the jump height (36.36%), peak knee power (24.74%) and peak ankle power (21%) during the take-off phase. In the exercise type factor, long-term Tai Chi training significantly increased the jump height (60%), peak knee moment (19.80%), peak ankle moment (8.06%), peak hip power (29.80%), peak knee power (31.23%) and peak ankle power (16.88%) during the take-off phase. Conclusion: This study shows that long-term Tai Chi training can slow ageing-related functional decline. According to the results of this study, middle-aged and elderly people are encouraged to regularly perform Tai Chi exercises to increase the strength of various muscle groups in the lower limbs and slow the lower-limb muscle changes caused by ageing.
One-Jaw versus Two-Jaw Orthognathic Surgery for Patients with Cleft: A Comparative Study Using 3D Imaging Virtual Surgical Planning
Authors: Tsai Yu-Hung , Pai Betty C. J. , Lin Hsiu-Hsia , Ho Cheng-Ting , Lo Lun-Jou
Published: April 2022

Whether a one-jaw or two-jaw design is used in orthognathic surgery for patients with cleft remains varied and controversial. This study aimed to compare the two approaches using 3-dimensional imaging surgical simulation. This study was conducted on 41 consecutive patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate treated in the craniofacial center. All patients had original two-jaw virtual planning and orthognathic surgery. Simulation of one-jaw LeFort I surgery was performed using the same final dental occlusion on 3-dimensional images. Cephalometric data and asymmetry index were collected and compared among the designs. Average advancement of the maxilla was 7.46 mm in one-jaw and 4.80 mm in two-jaw design. SNA, SNB, and A-N perpendicular were significantly greater and close to normative data in the one-jaw design. ANB angles were similar in both designs. The anterior and posterior occlusal plane cants, the deviation of midline landmarks, and the asymmetry index were more improved in the two-jaw approach. It is concluded that the two-jaw cleft orthognathic surgery could significantly improve facial midline and symmetry compared with the one-jaw approach. However, the two-jaw surgery with mandibular setback produced less protrusive facial contour although a harmonious relationship between the maxilla and mandible was achieved.
Comparison of Feedforward Perceptron Network with LSTM for Solar Cell Radiation Prediction
Authors: Ozdemir Tugba , Taher Fatma , Ayinde Babajide O. , Zurada Jacek M. , Tuzun Ozmen Ozge
Published: April 2022

Intermittency of electrical power in developing countries, as well as some European countries such as Turkey, can be eluded by taking advantage of solar energy. Correct prediction of solar radiation constitutes a very important step to take advantage of PV solar panels. We propose an experimental study to predict the amount of solar radiation using a classical artificial neural network (ANN) and deep learning methods. PV panel and solar radiation data were collected at Duzce University in Turkey. Moreover, we included meteorological data collected from the Meteorological Ministry of Turkey in Duzce. Data were collected on a daily basis with a 5-min interval. Data were cleaned and preprocessed to train long-short-term memory (LSTM) and ANN models to predict the solar radiation amount of one day ahead. Models were evaluated using coefficient of determination (R2), mean square error (MSE), root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean biased error (MBE). LSTM outperformed ANN with R2, MSE, RMSE, MAE, and MBE of 0.93, 0.008, 0.089, 0.17, and 0.09, respectively. Moreover, we compared our results with two similar studies in the literature. The proposed study paves the way for utilizing renewable energy by leveraging the usage of PV panels.
Trait Energy and Fatigue Modify Acute Ingestion of an Adaptogenic-Rich Beverage on Neurocognitive Performance
Authors: Boolani Ali , Fuller Daniel , Mondal Sumona , Gumpricht Eric
Published: April 2022

Background: Psychological research considers traits as a long-standing pre-disposition to an individual’s mood, whereas short-term feelings are categorized as states. We previously reported similar overall acute mental performance benefits between an adaptogen-rich, caffeine-containing energy shot (e+Energy Shot–e+Shot; Isagenix International, LLC) and a caffeine-matched placebo Since the publication of that study, multiple studies have reported that trait mental and physical energy (TME/TPE), and trait mental and physical fatigue (TMF/TPF) status modify the effect of various interventions on neurocognitive performance. Therefore, we reevaluated our previously published work and accounted for the four traits. Methods: Participants (n = 30) completed a series of questionnaires to determine baseline trait energy and fatigue measures. Then, participants performed a 27 min battery of neurocognitive tasks before and three times after consuming the study beverages with 10 min breaks between each post-consumption battery of tests. Data from the previous study were re-analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Results: We now report that the adaptogen product significantly improved mood and cognitive test responses in individuals stratified by initial TME, TPE, TMF, and TPF status. Moreover, this reevaluation also indicated that the caffeine placebo significantly increased heart rate and blood pressure in those subjects initially characterized by low physical and mental energy. Conclusions: In summary, a post-hoc re-analysis of our initial study suggests that consumption of the adaptogen-rich, caffeine-containing product preferentially benefited individuals with initial low TME/TPE and high TMF status when compared to caffeine alone. These findings also support our previous study suggesting that adaptogens may promote mental and physical performance benefits while modulating potentially negatively associated responses to caffeine.
Ability of 2-Chloro-N-(1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)propan-2-yl)-2-phenylacetamide to Stimulate Endogenous Nitric Oxide Synthesis
Authors: Gledacheva Vera , Pencheva Mina , Nikolova Stoyanka , Stefanova Iliyana
Published: April 2022

Papaverine is one of the isoquinoline alkaloids derived from opium which is a vasodilator and smooth muscle relaxant. Using its chemical structure as a basic model, we synthesized 2-chloro-N-(1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)propan-2-yl)-2-phenylacetamide as an isoquinoline precursor (IQP). Aim: Clarifying the nature of the relationship between IQP as a new biologically active molecule and the neurotransmitters acetylcholine (ACh) and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), as well as with the nitric oxide (NO). Materials and methods: The IQP compound was tested on the isolated gastric smooth muscle preparations (SMPs) from rats to determine its effects on spontaneous contractile activity. NO concentration in tissue homogenates was determined, and immunohistochemistry was used to visualize the expression of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in smooth muscle (SM) cells. Results: The data from the isometric measurements suggest that IQP has an additional specific action affecting the intracellular signaling pathways of 5-HT. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that the combination of 5-HT and IQP affected the density and intensity of nNOS-positive cells, which increase significantly in the myenteric plexus and SM cells. Conclusions: In conclusion, IQP is involved in the regulation of intestinal neurons expressing nNOS, affects the function of nNOS/NO, and, by this mechanism, probably regulates the spontaneous contractile activity of gastric SM.
Effect of Selected Physical Parameters of Lignite Substrate on Morphological Attributes, Yield and Quality of Cucumber Fruits Fertigated with High EC Nutrient Solution in Hydroponic Cultivation
Authors: Łaźny Radosław , Nowak Jacek S. , Mirgos Małgorzata , Przybył Jarosław L. , Niedzińska Monika , Kunka Małgorzata , Gajc-Wolska Janina , Kowalczyk Waldemar , Kowalczyk Katarzyna
Published: April 2022

Environmentally friendly substrates that are biodegradable may provide an alternative to mineral wool, which is commonly used in hydroponic growing technology. Little is known about the relationship between the physical characteristics of lignite substrate and cucumber yield. The study analyzed the effect of bulk density and water holding capacity of lignite substrate in comparison to mineral wool and EC of nutrient solution on plant morphological parameters, yield and fruit quality of greenhouse cucumber. A positive relation was found between the bulk density of lignite mats and the increase in the number of leaves per week, shoot diameter as well as leaf length and leaf area (calculated as the product of leaf length × width) in cucumbers grown in this medium. Bulk density of lignite growing mats also affected the macro- and micro-nutrient content of cucumber leaves. The physical properties of the substrate and the high EC of the medium had a significant effect on the hardness, color and lutein content of cucumber fruits. The content of biologically active compounds in cucumber fruits depended on the water holding capacity of the medium and the water readily available to plants; these parameters were lower in the lignite medium compared to mineral wool. However, when the lignite substrate was used in hydroponic cucumber cultivation, for a period of 51 days after planting (DAP) there was an increase of more than 23% in the bulk density of the substrate and an increase of nearly 55% in the water readily available compared to the new lignite mats.
Identifying Crop and Orchard Growing Stages Using Conventional Temperature and Humidity Reports
Authors: Lalić Branislava , Fitzjarrald David R. , Firanj Sremac Ana , Marčić Milena , Petrić Mina
Published: April 2022

Vegetation is a climate modifier: It is a primary modifier, such as the Amazon rain forest, or secondary modifier, such as the agricultural fields of Pannonian lowlands in Central Europe. At periods of winter crop spring renewal and the start of the orchard growing season, enhanced evapotranspiration shifts energy balance partitions from sensible toward latent heat flux. This surface flux alteration converges into the boundary layer, and it can be detected in the daily variations of air temperature and humidity as well as daily temperature range records. The time series of micrometeorological measurements and phenological observations in dominant plant canopies conducted by Forecasting and Reporting Service for Plant Protection of the Republic of Serbia (PIS) are explored to select indices that best record the signatures of plant growth stages in temperature and humidity daily variations. From the timing of extreme values and inflection points of relative humidity (R1 and R2) and normalized daily temperature range (DTR/Td), we identified the following stages: (a) start of flowering (orchard)/spring start of the growing season (crop), (b) full bloom (orchard)/development (crop), (c) maximum LAI reached/yield formation (orchard and crop), and (d) start of dormancy (orchard)/leaf drying (crop). The average day of year (DOY) for dominant plants corresponds to the timing obtained from climatological time series recorded on a representative climate station.
Short-Term Intensive Rainfall Forecasting Model Based on a Hierarchical Dynamic Graph Network
Authors: Xie Huosheng , Zheng Rongyao , Lin Qing
Published: April 2022

Accurate short-term forecasting of intensive rainfall has high practical value but remains difficult to achieve. Based on deep learning and spatial–temporal sequence predictions, this paper proposes a hierarchical dynamic graph network. To fully model the correlations among data, the model uses a dynamically constructed graph convolution operator to model the spatial correlation, a recurrent structure to model the time correlation, and a hierarchical architecture built with graph pooling to extract and fuse multi-level feature spaces. Experiments on two datasets, based on the measured cumulative rainfall data at a ground station in Fujian Province, China, and the corresponding numerical weather grid product, show that this method can model various correlations among data more effectively than the baseline methods, achieving further improvements owing to reversed sequence enhancement and low-rainfall sequence removal.
Multiscale Characterization of Type I Collagen Fibril Stress–Strain Behavior under Tensile Load: Analytical vs. MD Approaches
Authors: Gouissem Afif , Mbarki Raouf , Al Khatib Fadi , Adouni Malek
Published: April 2022

Type I collagen is one of the most important proteins in the human body because of its role in providing structural support to the extracellular matrix of the connective tissues. Understanding its mechanical properties was widely investigated using experimental testing as well as molecular and finite element simulations. In this work, we present a new approach for defining the properties of the type I collagen fibrils by analytically formulating its response when subjected to a tensile load and investigating the effects of enzymatic crosslinks on the behavioral response. We reveal some of the shortcomings of the molecular dynamics (MD) method and how they affect the obtained stress–strain behavior of the fibril, and we prove that not only does MD underestimate the Young’s modulus and the ultimate tensile strength of the collagen fibrils, but also fails to detect the mechanics of some stretching phases of the fibril. We prove that non-crosslinked fibrils have three tension phases: (i) an initial elastic deformation corresponding to the collagen molecule uncoiling, (ii) a linear regime related to the stretching of the backbone of the tropocollagen molecules, and (iii) a plastic regime dominated by molecular sliding. We also show that for crosslinked fibrils, the second regime can be subdivided into three sub-regimes, and we define the properties of each regime. We also prove, analytically, the alleged MD quadratic relation between the ultimate tensile strength of the fibril and the concentration of enzymatic crosslinks (β).
Recent Methods of Kidney Storage and Therapeutic Possibilities of Transplant Kidney
Authors: Radajewska Anna , Krzywonos-Zawadzka Anna , Bil-Lula Iwona
Published: April 2022

Kidney transplantation is the standard procedure for the treatment of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). During kidney storage and before implantation, the organ is exposed to damaging factors which affect the decline in condition. The arrest of blood circulation results in oxygen and nutrient deficiency that lead to changes in the cell metabolism from aerobic to anaerobic, damaging organelles and cell structures. Currently, most kidney grafts are kept in a cold preservation solution to preserve low metabolism. However, there are numerous reports that machine perfusion is a better solution for organ preservation before surgery. The superiority of machine perfusion was proved in the case of marginal donor grafts, such as extended criteria donors (ECD) and donation after circulatory death (DCD). Different variant of kidney machine perfusions are evaluated. Investigators look for optimal conditions to protect kidneys from ischemia-reperfusion damage consequences by examining the best temperature conditions and comparing systems with constant or pulsatile flow. Moreover, machine perfusion brings additional advantages in clinical practice. Unlike cold static storage, machine perfusion allows the monitoring of the parameters of organ function, which gives a real possibility to make a decision prior to transplantation concerning whether the kidney is suitable for implantation. Moreover, new pharmacological therapies are sought to minimize organ damage. New components or cellular therapies can be applied, since perfusion solution flows through the organ. This review outlines the pros and cons of each machine perfusion technique and summarizes the latest achievements in the context of kidney transplantation using machine perfusion systems.
Influence of Type 2 Diabetes in the Association of PNPLA3 rs738409 and TM6SF2 rs58542926 Polymorphisms in NASH Advanced Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Gabriel-Medina Pablo , Ferrer-Costa Roser , Rodriguez-Frias Francisco , Ciudin Andreea , Augustin Salvador , Rivera-Esteban Jesus , Pericàs Juan M. , Selva David Martinez
Published: April 2022

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a leading cause of cirrhosis in western countries. Insulin resistance (IR), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and the polymorphisms patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 and transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2) rs58542926 are independent risk factors of NASH. Nevertheless, little is known about the interaction between IR and T2D with these polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of NASH and the development of advanced fibrosis. Thus, our study aimed to investigate this relationship. This is a cross-sectional study including NASH patients diagnosed by liver biopsy, at the Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. A total of 140 patients were included (93 T2D, 47 non-T2D). T2D (OR = 4.67; 95%CI 2.13–10.20; p < 0.001), PNPLA3 rs738409 and TM6SF2 rs58542926 polymorphisms (OR = 3.94; 95%CI 1.63–9.54; p = 0.002) were independently related with advanced liver fibrosis. T2D increased the risk of advance fibrosis on top of the two polymorphisms (OR = 14.69; 95%CI 3.03–77.35; p = 0.001 for PNPLA3 rs738409 and OR = 11.45; 95%CI 3.16–41.55; p < 0.001 for TM6SF2 rs58542926). In non-T2D patients, the IR (HOMA-IR ≥ 5.2, OR = 14.33; 95%CI 2.14–18.66; p = 0.014) increased the risk of advanced fibrosis when the polymorphisms were present (OR = 19.04; 95%CI 1.71–650.84; p = 0.042). The T2D and IR status increase the risk of advanced fibrosis in patients with NASH carrying the PNPLA3 rs738409 and/or TM6SF2 rs58542926 polymorphisms, respectively.
FIB-4 and APRI as Predictive Factors for Short- and Long-Term Survival in Patients with Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Stent Shunts
Authors: Keimburg Simone Anna , Theysohn Jens , Buechter Matthias , Rashidi-Alavijeh Jassin , Willuweit Katharina , Schneider Hannah , Wetter Axel , Maasoumy Benjamin , Lange Christian , Wedemeyer Heiner , Markova Antoaneta Angelova
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a standard therapy for portal hypertension. We aimed to explore the association of established baseline scores with TIPS outcomes. (2) Methods: In total, 136 liver cirrhosis patients underwent TIPS insertion, mainly to treat refractory ascites (86%), between January 2016 and December 2019. An external validation cohort of 187 patients was chosen. (3) Results: The majority of the patients were male (62%); the median follow-up was 715 days. The baseline Child—Turcotte–Pugh stage was A in 14%, B in 75% and C in 11%. The patients’ liver-transplant-free (LTF) survival rates after 3, 12 and 24 months were 87%, 72% and 61%, respectively. In the univariate analysis, neither bilirubin, nor the international normalized ratio (INR), nor liver enzymes were associated with survival. However, both the APRI (AST-to-platelet ratio index) and the FIB-4 (fibrosis-4 score) were associated with LTF survival. For patients with FIB-4 > 3.25, the hazard ratio for mortality after 2 years was 3.952 (p < 0.0001). Liver-related clinical events were monitored for 24 months. High FIB-4 scores were predictive of liver-related events (HR = 2.404, p = 0.001). Similarly, in our validation cohort, LTF survival was correlated with the APRI and FIB-4 scores. (4) Conclusions: Well-established scores that reflect portal hypertension and biochemical disease activity predict long-term outcomes after TIPS and support clinical decisions over TIPS insertion.
The Role of Process-Directing Agents on Enamel Lesion Remineralization: Fluoride Boosters
Authors: Nurrohman Hamid , Carter Logan , Barnes Noah , Zehra Syeda , Singh Vineet , Tao Jinhui , Marshall Sally J. , Marshall Grayson W.
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two process-directing agents (polyaspartic acid and osteopontin) used in a polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process on the remineralization of bacteria-induced enamel demineralization. Enamel demineralization lesions (depths of about 180–200 µm) were created and exposed to Streptococcus mutans, cultured with a 10% sucrose solution for 21 days, and remineralized using a PILP process (pH = 7.4, 14 days) with a calcium phosphate solution containing either polyaspartic acid or osteopontin in the presence or absence of fluoride (0.5 ppm). The specimens were examined under scanning electron microscopy. The fluoride was successfully incorporated into the PILP remineralization process for both polyaspartic acid and osteopontin. When the fluoride was added to the PILP remineralization solution, there was more uniform remineralization throughout the lesion than with either polyaspartic acid or osteopontin alone. However, in the absence of these process-directing agents, fluoride alone showed less remineralization with the formation of a predominantly surface-only layer. The PILP remineralization process relies on the ability of process-directing agents to stabilize calcium phosphate ions and holds promise for enamel lesion remineralization, and these agents, in the presence of fluoride, seem to play an important role as a booster or supplement in the continuation of remineralization by reducing the mineral gains at the surface layer.
Combined Experimental and Theoretical Investigation on Formation of Size-Controlled Silver Nanoclusters under Gas Phase
Authors: Zhang Chuhang
Published: April 2022

Metallic nanoclusters (NCs) have been predicted to achieve the best Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) due to the controllable amount of atoms and structures in NCs. The Local Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) effect on silver metal NCs (Agn) enables it to be a promising candidate for manipulating the LSPR peak by controlling the size of NCs, which in turn demands a full understanding of the formation mechanism of Agn. Here, we apply an extended Smoluchowski rate equation coupled with a fragmentation scheme to investigate the growth of size-selected silver NCs generated via a modulated pulsed power magnetron sputtering (MPP-MSP). A temperature-dependent fragmentation coefficient D is proposed and integrated into the rate equations. The consistency between the computational and experimental results shows that in relative low peak power (Pp≤800 W), the recombination of cation and anion species are the dominant mechanism for NC growth. However, in the higher Pp region (≥800 W), the fragmentation mechanism becomes more impactful, leading to the formation of smaller NCs. The scanning electron microscopy observation shows the Ag36 is successfully soft-landed and immobilized on a strontium titanate crystal, which facilitates the application of the Agn/STO to the SERS research.
Field and Remote Sensors for Environmental Health and Food Safety Diagnostics: An Open Challenge
Authors: Grasso Gerardo , Zane Daniela , Dragone Roberto
Published: April 2022

Major foodborne disease outbreaks have clarified the close interconnection and interdependence between the health of humans, animals, and the environment [...]
Water-Based Electrophoretic Deposition of Ternary Cobalt-Nickel-Iron Oxides on AISI304 Stainless Steel for Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Barauskienė Ieva , Valatka Eugenijus
Published: April 2022

Coatings consisting of cobalt, nickel and iron (Co-Ni-Fe) oxides were electrophoretically deposited on AISI 304-type stainless steel using aqueous suspensions without any binder. The synthesis of Co-Ni-Fe oxides was carried out by the thermal decomposition of metal nitrates with various molar ratios at 673 K. Structural and morphological analysis confirmed that the deposited coatings were mainly composed of spinel-type oxides with predominantly round-shaped particles. The prepared electrodes were examined for their electrocatalytic performance in oxygen generation under alkaline conditions. Various electrochemical techniques indicated the influence of iron content on the electrochemical activity of Co-Ni-Fe oxides, with the calculated values of the Tafel constant being in the range of 52–59 mV dec−1. Long-term oxygen generation for 24 h at 1.0 V revealed very good mechanical and electrocatalytic stability of the prepared electrodes, since they were able to maintain up to 98% of their initial activity.
Efficient Synthesis of 3-Sulfonyl-2-sulfonylmethyl-2H-chromenes via Tandem Knoevenagel Condensation/Oxa-Michael Addition Protocol
Authors: Jiang Lin , Peng Peiying , Li Min , Li Lu , Zhao Menglin , Yuan Minglong , Yuan Mingwei
Published: April 2022

An organocatalytic [4 + 2] cascade annulation of salicylaldehydes and 1,3-bisarylsulfonylpropenes has been developed. This protocol enables the efficient and straightforward synthesis of a new series of 3-sulfonyl-2-sulfonylmethyl-2H-chromenes that are useful for exploring pharmacologically valued compounds. Further reductive modifications result in 3-desulfonylated chromene or chromane derivatives. This protocol can be expanded to the synthesis of 3-sulfonyl-2-sulfonylmethyl 1,2-dihydroquinoline.
Inorganic Salt Catalysed Hydrothermal Carbonisation (HTC) of Cellulose
Authors: Hammerton James M. , Ross Andrew B.
Published: April 2022

The presence of inorganic salts either as part of the substrate or added to the reaction medium are known to significantly affect the reaction pathways during hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) of biomass. This work aims to understand the influence of salts on hydrothermal carbonisation by processing cellulose in the presence of one or more inorganic salts with different valency. Batch experiments and Differential Scanning Calorimetry were used to investigate the change in reaction pathways during hydrothermal conversion. The effect of salts on the rate of HTC of cellulose can be correlated with the Lewis acidity of the cation and the basicity of the anion. The effect of the anion was more pH-dependent than the cation because it can protonate during the HTC process as organic acids are produced. The introduction of salts with Lewis acidity increases the concentration of low molecular weight compounds in the process water. The addition of a second salt can influence the catalytic effect of the first salt resulting in greater levulinic acid yields at the expense of hydrochar formation. Salts also play an important role in cellulose dissolution and can be used to modify the yield and composition of the hydrochars.
Hydrogen-Rich Gas Production with the Ni-La/Al2O3-CaO-C Catalyst from Co-Pyrolysis of Straw and Polyethylene
Authors: Li Jianfen , Gao Rongyi , Zhu Longkai , Zhang Yiran , Li Zeshan , Li Bolin , Wang Jiaxiang , He Ji , He Yun , Qin Zhenhua , Laghari Mahmood , Guo Dabin
Published: April 2022

Ni-based catalysts have been extensively investigated because of their superior catalytic performance. In this study, the Ni-La/Al2O3-CaO-C catalyst was prepared by homogeneous precipitation, employed in the co-pyrolysis of soybean straw with polyethylene to produce hydrogen. The optimal experimental conditions were identified by discussing the carrier synthesis ratio, feedstock ratio, and addition of La. Additionally, the stability of the catalyst was evaluated. It was established that the carrier was produced using a molar ratio, the raw ingredients ratio of 5:5, and that the optimum catalytic action was obtained when La was added. Co-pyrolysis of soybean straw with polyethylene (PE) that was catalyzed by Ni-La/Al2O3-CaO-C generated 55.45 vol% of H2 under ideal experimental circumstances. After six applications, the H2 yield was 33.89 vol%, compared to 27.5 vol% for the Ni/Al2O3-CaO-C catalyst. The experimental results indicate that Ni-La/Al2O3-CaO-C exhibits superior catalytic activity and stability than Ni/Al2O3-CaO-C.
Molecular Dissection of DAAM Function during Axon Growth in Drosophila Embryonic Neurons
Authors: Földi István , Tóth Krisztina , Gombos Rita , Gaszler Péter , Görög Péter , Zygouras Ioannis , Bugyi Beáta , Mihály József
Published: April 2022

Axonal growth is mediated by coordinated changes of the actin and microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton. Ample evidence suggests that members of the formin protein family are involved in the coordination of these cytoskeletal rearrangements, but the molecular mechanisms of the formin-dependent actin–microtubule crosstalk remains largely elusive. Of the six Drosophila formins, DAAM was shown to play a pivotal role during axonal growth in all stages of nervous system development, while FRL was implicated in axonal development in the adult brain. Here, we aimed to investigate the potentially redundant function of these two formins, and we attempted to clarify which molecular activities are important for axonal growth. We used a combination of genetic analyses, cellular assays and biochemical approaches to demonstrate that the actin-processing activity of DAAM is indispensable for axonal growth in every developmental condition. In addition, we identified a novel MT-binding motif within the FH2 domain of DAAM, which is required for proper growth and guidance of the mushroom body axons, while being dispensable during embryonic axon development. Together, these data suggest that DAAM is the predominant formin during axonal growth in Drosophila, and highlight the contribution of multiple formin-mediated mechanisms in cytoskeleton coordination during axonal growth.
Detection of Cellular Senescence in Human Primary Melanocytes and Malignant Melanoma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Zimmermann Tom , Pommer Michaela , Kluge Viola , Chiheb Chafia , Muehlich Susanne , Bosserhoff Anja-Katrin
Published: April 2022

Detection and quantification of senescent cells remain difficult due to variable phenotypes and the absence of highly specific and reliable biomarkers. It is therefore widely accepted to use a combination of multiple markers and cellular characteristics to define senescent cells in vitro. The exact choice of these markers is a subject of ongoing discussion and usually depends on objective reasons such as cell type and treatment conditions, as well as subjective considerations including feasibility and personal experience. This study aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of biomarkers and cellular characteristics used to detect senescence in melanocytic systems. Each marker was assessed in primary human melanocytes that overexpress mutant BRAFV600E, as it is commonly found in melanocytic nevi, and melanoma cells after treatment with the chemotherapeutic agent etoposide. The combined use of these two experimental settings is thought to allow profound conclusions on the choice of senescence biomarkers when working with melanocytic systems. Further, this study supports the development of standardized senescence detection and quantification by providing a comparative analysis that might also be helpful for other cell types and experimental conditions.
Elucidation of Response Mechanism of a Potentiometric Sweetness Sensor with a Lipid/Polymer Membrane for Uncharged Sweeteners
Authors: Ye Zihong , Ai Tianci , Wu Xiao , Onodera Takeshi , Ikezaki Hidekazu , Toko Kiyoshi
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, the utilization of a taste sensor with lipid/polymer membranes is one of the most accurate and objective ways to evaluate the tastes of solutions. However, it has been difficult to evaluate uncharged sweet substances, such as sucrose, because the conventional taste sensor uses the potentiometric measurement, which is mainly based on changes in the surface electric charge density of the membrane. Previous studies have reported that a sweetness sensor called GL1 can evaluate the sweetness of sugars and sugar alcohols, and is commercially available for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. However, the response mechanism of GL1 has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we focus on clarifying the effect of concentrations and types of metal ions in the conditioning solution on the response mechanism of the sweetness sensor GL1. Moreover, according to the different concentrations and types of metal ions in conditioning solutions, the complex formation and the hydrated radius were considered to influence the membrane potential measured in a reference solution and the sensor responses. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the response mechanism and improve the selectivity and sensitivity of the sweetness sensor.
Autism Children and English Vocabulary Learning: A Qualitative Inquiry of the Challenges They Face in Their English Vocabulary Learning Journey
Authors: Hashim Haida Umiera , Yunus Melor Md , Norman Helmi
Published: April 2022

Language learning is one of the most important aspects of an individual’s life development and growth. Normal learners’ English language acquisition differs depending on their preferences and learning styles. Children with autism, on the other hand, appear to have different learning methods and routines. There has been a lot of previous work on the language learning styles of normal learners, but not much on the language learning path of children with autism. Due to that, this study aims at investigating the challenges children with autism face in their English vocabulary learning. Observations and focus group discussions were conducted with 45 children with autism, 4 autism education teachers, 2 occupational therapists and a parent of children with mild autism children to investigate the challenges autism children face in their vocabulary learning. The findings have gathered that autistic children encounter a few challenges occasionally in their English vocabulary learning journey. The data were gathered and arranged thematically. Further recommendations and suggestions are discussed in this study.
Antibiogram of Urinary Tract Infections and Sepsis among Infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Bazaid Abdulrahman S. , Aldarhami Abdu , Gattan Hattan , Barnawi Heba , Qanash Husam , Alsaif Ghaida , Alharbi Bandar , Alrashidi Abdulaziz , Eldrehmy Essam Hassan
Published: April 2022

Neonatal infections including sepsis and urinary tract infections are considered among the leading causes of mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). Thus, use of empiric antibiotics is very important in infected neonates and the success of this practice is mainly reliant on the availability of an up-to-date antibiogram for currently used antibiotic drugs. In this study, we aim to determine the bacteriological profile and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated from blood or/and urine cultures belonging to patients at the NICU. A total of 54 urine samples were collected in the period between January 2015 and December 2019. Data of infants with positive urine and blood bacterial isolates were gathered retrospectively. The most commonly isolated bacteria from urine observed were K. pneumoniae (44%) and E. coli (39%), while Acinetobacter baumannii (33%) and K. pneumoniae (22%) predominated in neonatal blood samples. The majority of uropathogens and blood isolates exhibited low resistance to imipenem and tigecycline, respectively. These antibiotics would be recommended for future use as empirical treatment in neonates with urinary tract infections and/or sepsis. This investigation highlights the importance of surveillance studies to manage and ensure the effectiveness of treatment plan for critically ill infants.
Association of Parental Factors and Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Polymorphism with Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Hăşmăşanu Monica G. , Bolboacă Sorana D. , Procopciuc Lucia Maria , Matyas Melinda , Blaga Ligia , Mureșan Daniel , Zaharie Gabriela C.
Published: April 2022

Polymorphism of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is known to play a role in cell development. Only the paternal IGF2 copy is active, while the copy inherited from the mother is inactive. This study aimed to explore whether maternal and paternal factors influence IGF2 polymorphism in newborns with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) compared to appropriate for gestational age (AGA). A cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted from June 2014 to November 2015 at the Neonatology, Gynecology 1 Clinic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The ApaI IGF2 genotypes and allele frequencies were similar in the IUGR and AGA groups (p-value > 0.10). The IUGR babies with a protective IGF2 genetic profile had significantly younger parents (a difference in the median age of 8 years for mothers and 9 years for fathers; p-value < 0.009). The IUGR babies had parents with lower birth weights than AGA babies (mothers’ medians: 2800 g vs. 3100 g; fathers’ medians: 3000 g vs. 3400 g; p-value < 0.02). In univariable regression analysis, the mother’s and father’s birth weight proved to be associated with IUGR. The father’s birth weight proved to be the only factor significantly associated with IUGR, independent of the mother’s birth weight or the presence of a protective IGF2 genetic profile (odd ratio = 0.998 [0.996 to 1.000], p-value = 0.032).
Effects of Internal Relaxation of Biaxial Strain on Structural and Electronic Properties of In0.5Al0.5N Thin Film
Authors: Zhang Guanglei , Qin Guoqiang , Zhang Feipeng
Published: April 2022

Ternary wurtzite In0.5Al0.5N films and coatings are promising candidates for microelectronic or optoelectronic devices due to their excellent physical and chemical properties. However, as a universal and non-negligible phenomenon, in-plane strain and its effects on the structure and properties of In0.5Al0.5N still need systematic research. In particular, the deformation mechanism of In0.5Al0.5N under biaxial strain is not clearly understood currently. To reveal the role of the internal relaxation effect in lattice deformation, the lattice variation, thermal stability, and the electronic properties of ternary wurtzite compound In0.5Al0.5N under different biaxial strains are systematically investigated, using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. The results indicate that, compared with the classic elastic deformation mechanism with constrained atomic coordinates, atom relaxation results in a much smaller Poisson ratio. Moreover, the plastic relaxation In0.5Al0.5N phase, generated by free atom relaxation, exhibits higher thermal stability than the elastic relaxation phase, so it is the most likely phase in reality when biaxial strain is imposed. Meanwhile, the biaxial strain has a remarkable influence on the electronic structure of In0.5Al0.5N films, where a non-linear variety of energy band gaps can be seen between the valance band and conduction band.
Sliding Friction and Wear Properties of 40CrNiMo Steel after Laser Hardening against GCr15 Steel under Oil Lubrication
Authors: Li Jia , Yan Hongzhi , Li Songbai , Zhang Yin , Wu Shunxing
Published: April 2022

40CrNiMo steel, which is a commonly used material for sprag clutch wedges, is widely used in practice, and the surface wear will seriously affect the performance of the product. In this study, the surface of 40CrNiMo steel was strengthened at two scanning speeds by laser hardening. After laser hardening, the surface hardness can reach the use requirement of the clutch wedge. By changing the speed and temperature, the friction and wear testing machine was used to study the wear behavior of 40CrNiMo steel after laser hardening against GCr15 steel under oil lubrication, the friction coefficient, wear amount and wear morphology under different conditions were analyzed. The results show that, at the normal temperature, with the increase in the sliding speed, the friction coefficient showed a gradually decreasing trend, the width of the wear surface of the steel increased, and the wear amount increased. The increase in temperature led to an increase in the friction coefficient and the fluctuation, wear width and wear amount of the hardened layer. At the temperature of 20 °C, abrasive wear was the main form of wear, and the furrow formed special channels for the lubricating oil to help reduce the friction coefficient under oil lubrication. At high temperatures, the depth of the furrow further increased, and the degree of adhesive wear and oxidative wear gradually increased. The research provides a reference for the application of material in the sprag clutch.
Humic Acids Aggregates as Microheterogeneous Reaction Media: Alkaline Hydrolysis Reactions
Authors: Cid-Samamed Antonio , García-Río Luis , Mejuto Juan C. , Saavedra Alejandro
Published: April 2022

The influence of humic aggregates in a water solution upon the chemical stability under basic conditions of different substrates was reviewed. The kinetic behavior of each substrate was modeled in terms of a micellar pseudophase model.
Influence of Fly Ash Denitrification on Properties of Hybrid Alkali-Activated Composites
Authors: Procházka Lukáš , Boháčová Jana , Vojvodíková Barbara
Published: April 2022

This article deals with the possibility of partial replacement of blast furnace slag (GGBFS) with fly ash after denitrification (FAD) in alkali-activated materials. Physical-mechanical and durability properties were tested, hydration reaction was monitored, and infrared spectroscopy was performed. Results were compared between mixtures prepared with fly ash without denitrification (FA), and also with a mixture based only on GGBFS. The basic result is that hybrid alkali-systems with FAD show similar trends to FA. The significant effect of fly ash is manifested in terms of its resistance to freeze-thaw processes. Reactions in a calorimeter show a slower development of reactions with increasing replacement of GGBFS due to the lower reactivity of the fly ash. Through testing the leaching resistance, a decrease in flexural strength was found. This may be due to the descaling of the main hydration product, C–(A)–S–H gel. After 28 days of maturation, compressive strengths of all monitored mixtures ranged from 96 to 102 MPa. The flexural strengths ranged from 6.8 to 8.0 MPa. After 28 days of maturation, the higher strengths reached mixtures without replacing GGBFS. In terms of resistance to freeze-thaw processes, the largest decrease (almost 20%) of flexural strength was achieved by a mixture with 30% of GGBFS replacement by FA. No fundamental differences were found for the mixtures in the FTIR analysis.
Clinical Features and Immunophenotypes of Double-Hit Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Wu Cheng-Han , Gau Jyh-Pyng , Teng Chieh-Lin Jerry , Shih Yu-Hsuan , Su Yu-Chen , Wang Ren-Ching , Chen Tsung-Chih
Published: April 2022

Double-hit (DH) genetics induces a reduction in the complete remission (CR) and, consequently, in poor overall survival (OS) in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients. Unfortunately, DH identification is time-consuming. Here, we retrospectively reviewed 92 newly diagnosed DLBCL patients, stratified them into the DH (n = 14) and non-DH groups (n = 78), and compared their clinical features and outcomes. The results revealed that the DH group had a higher percentage of bulky disease than the non-DH group (64.3% vs. 28.2%; p = 0.013). More patients in the DH group tested positive for double expresser (DE) (50.0% vs. 21.8%; p = 0.044). The three-year OS rates of patients with and without DH were 33.3% and 52.2%, respectively (p = 0.016). Importantly, advance stage and multiple comorbidities were correlated with a high mortality rate in multivariate analysis. Furthermore, by combining DE and the bulky disease, a specificity of 89.7% for DH prediction was achieved. In summary, DH genetics, not DE immunopositivity, could be a factor for an inferior OS in DLBCL. A combination of bulky disease and a positive DE immunophenotype could facilitate DH genetics prediction in newly diagnosed DLBCL patients.
Clinicopathological Impact of the Spread through Air Space in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pyo Jung-Soo , Kim Nae Yu
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to elucidate the clinicopathological significance of spread through air space (STAS) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) through a meta-analysis. Using 47 eligible studies, we obtained the estimated rates of STAS in various histological subtypes of NSCLC and compared the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis between NSCLC with and without STAS. The estimated STAS rate was 0.368 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.336–0.0.401) in patients with NSCLC. Furthermore, the STAS rates for squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma were 0.338 (95% CI, 0.273–0.411) and 0.374 (95% CI, 0.340–0.409), respectively. Among the histological subtypes of adenocarcinoma, micropapillary-predominant tumors had the highest rate of STAS (0.719; 95% CI, 0.652–0.778). The STAS rates of solid- and papillary-predominant adenocarcinoma were 0.567 (95% CI, 0.478–0.652) and 0.446 (95% CI, 0.392–0.501), respectively. NSCLCs with STAS showed a higher visceral pleural, venous, and lymphatic invasion than those without STAS. In addition, anaplastic lymphoma kinase mutations and ROS1 rearrangements were significantly more frequent in NSCLCs with STAS than in those without STAS. The presence of STAS was significantly correlated with worse overall and recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio, 2.119; 95% CI, 1.811–2.480 and 2.372; 95% CI, 2.018–2.788, respectively). Taken together, the presence of STAS is useful in predicting the clinicopathological significance and prognosis of patients with NSCLC.
India–Republic of Korea CEPA: Assessment and Future Path
Authors: Banik Nilanjan , Kim Misu
Published: April 2022

India and the Republic of Korea (ROK) are on the path to forging deeper economic cooperation. Both countries signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership in 2009, which was in effect in 2010, and agreed to reduce and/or eliminate tariffs on goods. In this paper, we examine the sectors—both merchandise goods and services—where India and the ROK have a comparative advantage. We analyze the tariffs and non-tariff measures in the context of India–ROK trade and the gains from trade that can result from a reduction in tariff barriers. Our results suggest that India has a comparative advantage in services and the ROK in merchandise goods. Therefore, future negotiations must focus on India offering market access to the ROK’s merchandise goods and the ROK providing access to India’s services.