bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible Mechanisms of the Neuroprotective Actions of Date Palm Fruits Aqueous Extracts against Valproic Acid-Induced Autism in Rats
Authors: Hussein Abdelaziz M. , Mahmoud Seham Ahmed , Elazab Khalid Mohammed , Abouelnaga Ahmed F. , Abass Marwa , Mosa Ahmed A. H. , Hussein Mennatullah A. M. , Elsayed Mohamed E. G.
Published: February 2023

The current study aimed to determine how palm date aqueous fruit extracts (AFE) affected the autistic-like behaviors brought on by valproic acid (VPA) injection, as well as any potential contributions from Sirt-1, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy. The pregnant Sprague Dawley females were treated with VPA at 12.5th gestation day and pregnant females and their offspring were treated with AFE orally at doses of 4 mg/Kg by gastric gavage for 45 days after birth. The elevated plus-T maze, water maze, and rotarod tests were used to examine autism-like behaviors. At the end of the study, the expression of Nrf2, heme oxygenase (HO-1), Sirt-1, caspase-3 (a marker of apoptosis), LC3 (a marker of autophagy), and NFκB (inflammatory cytokines) were evaluated along with the oxidative stress in brain tissues and the histological changes in the cerebellum and hippocampus. The neurobehavioral assessments significantly declined due to VPA, which also significantly increased oxidative stress in the brain tissues and significantly decreased Nrf2 and HO-1 expression. Additionally, VPA administration caused significant increase in the expression of caspase-3 in the cerebellar cortex, not in the hippocampus; LC3 and NFκB in the hippocampus, not in the cerebellar cortex; and significant reduction in the expression of Sirt-1 in the hippocampus, not in the cerebellum. On the other hand, AFE treatment significantly improved the neurobehavioral changes as well as it improved significantly the oxidative stress and the expression of LC3, NFκB, NrF2, HO-1, and Sirt-1 in the cerebellum and hippocampus. Conclusions: AFE administration might improve the autistic-like symptoms induced by VPA in rats via attenuation of the oxidative stress, upregulation of Nrf2 and HO-1, Sirt-1 and LC3 expression with downregulation of caspase-3, and NFκB expression in the cerebellum and hippocampus.
Analyzing the Passenger Waiting Tolerance during Urban Rail Transit Service Interruption: Using Stated Preference Data in Chongqing, China
Authors: Li Binbin , Ye Zhefan , Li Jue , Shao Siyuan , Wang Chenlu
Published: February 2023

To reduce traffic congestion and pollution, urban rail transit in China has been in a stage of rapid development in recent years. As a result, rail transit service interruption events are becoming more common, seriously affecting the resilience of the transportation system and user satisfaction. Therefore, determining the changing mechanism of the passenger waiting tolerance, which helps establish a scientific and effective emergency plan, is urgent. First, the variables and levels of the urban rail service interruption scenarios were screened and determined, and the stated preference questionnaire was designed using the orthogonal design method. Further, the data of the waiting tolerance of passengers during service interruptions were obtained through questionnaires. Second, combined with the questionnaire data, an accelerated failure time model that obeys the exponential distribution was constructed. The results indicate that factors such as the service interruption duration, travel distance, bus bridging, information accuracy, attention to operation information, travel frequency and interruption experience affect the waiting tolerance of passengers during service interruptions. Finally, combined with the sensitivity analysis of the key influencing factors, the policy analysis and suggestions are summarized to provide theoretical support for the urban rail operation and management department to capture the passenger waiting tolerance accurately during service interruptions and formulate an efficient, high-quality emergency organization plan.
Biocompatible Triple-Helical Recombinant Collagen Dressings for Accelerated Wound Healing in Microneedle-Injured and Photodamaged Skin
Authors: Fu Caihong , Shi Shuangni , Wei Nannan , Fan Yirui , Gu Hong , Liu Peng , Xiao Jianxi
Published: February 2023

Skin rejuvenation procedures such as microneedling and laser resurfacing have gained global popularity in medical cosmetology, leading to acute skin wounds with persistent pain, erythema, and edema. A variety of dressings have been explored to repair these postoperative skin injuries; however, their inadequate biocompatibility and bioactivity may raise concerns about undesirable efficacy and complications. Herein, we developed biocompatible and nonirritating triple-helical recombinant collagen (THRC) dressings for accelerated healing of microneedle-injured and photodamaged acute skin wounds. Circular dichroism (CD) measurements of THRC from various batches exhibited triple-helical structure characteristics of collagen. Cell experiments using L929 fibroblasts revealed that THRC dressings possess superior biocompatibility and bioactivity, significantly elevating the proliferation and adhesion of fibroblasts. In vivo, skin irritation tests of New Zealand rabbits demonstrated that the THRC dressings are gentle, safe, and non-irritating. Histological analysis of the animal model studies in photodamaged skin wounds using H&E and Masson’s trichrome staining revealed that 4 days of treatment with the THRC dressings effectively healed the damaged dermis by accelerating re-epithelialization and enhancing collagen deposition. In vivo studies of microneedle-injured rat defects showed that THRC dressings of varying concentrations exhibit the same rapid epithelialization rates at 48 h as commercial bovine collagen dressings. The highly biocompatible and bioactive recombinant collagen dressings may provide an advanced treatment of acute skin wounds, indicating attractive applications in postoperative care of facial rejuvenation.
Mn-Ce Oxide Nanoparticles Supported on Nitrogen-Doped Graphene for Low-Temperature Catalytic Reduction of NOx: De-Nitration Characteristics and Kinetics
Authors: Tan Shangrong , Yao Zhuo , Huang Hong , Liu Feng , Liu Zechen , Wang Xuyuan
Published: February 2023

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NOx with NH3 as the reductant has been proven an efficient and cost-effective technology to remove NOx pollutants in industries. Traditional SCR catalysts usually operate above 300 °C and suffer from intoxication and limited lifetime. Nano-catalysts are attractive for their high catalytic activities at reduced operating temperatures. We have recently developed a series of nitrogen-doped graphene-supported Mn-Ce oxides (MnCeOx/NG). The influences of reaction temperature, space velocity, mole ratio of NH3/NO and O2 concentration on SCR de-nitration activity were assessed. The novel catalyst with optimal Mn/Ce ratio, at appropriate processing conditions, can achieve a NO conversion efficiency of 99.5% at a temperature of 180 °C, and 93.5% at 150 °C. The kinetics of the SCR reaction on this novel catalyst were also established, exhibiting first-order with respect to NO, zero-order to NH3, and nearly 0.5-order to O2 at low temperatures. In the presence of sufficient O2 content, the apparent activation energy of the NH3-SCR on MnCeOx/NG is 37.6 kJ/mol, which is promising for low-temperature applications.
A Study on the Role of Intraoperative Corticobulbar Motor Evoked Potentials for Improving Safety of Cerebellopontine Angle Surgery in Elderly Patients
Authors: D’Alessandris Quintino Giorgio , Menna Grazia , Stifano Vito , Della Pepa Giuseppe Maria , Burattini Benedetta , Di Domenico Michele , Izzo Alessandro , D’Ercole Manuela , Lauretti Liverana , Montano Nicola , Olivi Alessandro
Published: February 2023

Preservation of facial nerve function (FNF) during neurosurgery for cerebellopontine angle (CPA) tumors is paramount in elderly patients. Corticobulbar facial motor evoked potentials (FMEPs) allow assessment intraoperatively of the functional integrity of facial motor pathways, thus improving safety. We aimed to evaluate the significance of intraoperative FMEPs in patients 65 years and older. A retrospective cohort of 35 patients undergoing CPA tumors resection was reported; outcomes of patients aged 65–69 years vs. ≥70 years were compared. FMEPs were registered both from upper and lower face muscles, and amplitude ratios (minimum-to-baseline, MBR; final-to-baseline, FBR; and recovery value, FBR minus MBR) were calculated. Overall, 78.8% of patients had a good late (at 1 year) FNF, with no differences between age groups. In patients aged ≥70 years, MBR significantly correlated with late FNF. At receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis, in patients aged 65–69 years, FBR (with 50% cut-off value) could reliably predict late FNF. By contrast, in patients aged ≥70 years, the most accurate predictor of late FNF was MBR, with 12.5% cut-off. Thus, FMEPs are a valuable tool for improving safety in CPA surgery in elderly patients as well. Considering literature data, we noticed higher cut-off values for FBR and a role for MBR, which suggests an increased vulnerability of facial nerves in elderly patients compared to younger ones.
Accuracy of Dose-Saving Artificial-Intelligence-Based 3D Angiography (3DA) for Grading of Intracranial Artery Stenoses: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Lang Stefan , Hoelter Philip , Schmidt Manuel Alexander , Mrochen Anne , Kuramatsu Joji , Kaethner Christian , Roser Philipp , Kowarschik Markus , Doerfler Arnd
Published: February 2023

Background and purpose: Based on artificial intelligence (AI), 3D angiography (3DA) is a novel postprocessing algorithm for “DSA-like” 3D imaging of cerebral vasculature. Because 3DA requires neither mask runs nor digital subtraction as the current standard 3D-DSA does, it has the potential to cut the patient dose by 50%. The object was to evaluate 3DA’s diagnostic value for visualization of intracranial artery stenoses (IAS) compared to 3D-DSA. Materials and methods: 3D-DSA datasets of IAS (nIAS = 10) were postprocessed using conventional and prototype software (Siemens Healthineers AG, Erlangen, Germany). Matching reconstructions were assessed by two experienced neuroradiologists in consensus reading, considering image quality (IQ), vessel diameters (VD1/2), vessel-geometry index (VGI = VD1/VD2), and specific qualitative/quantitative parameters of IAS (e.g., location, visual IAS grading [low-/medium-/high-grade] and intra-/poststenotic diameters [dintra-/poststenotic in mm]). Using the NASCET criteria, the percentual degree of luminal restriction was calculated. Results: In total, 20 angiographic 3D volumes (n3DA = 10; n3D-DSA = 10) were successfully reconstructed with equivalent IQ. Assessment of the vessel geometry in 3DA datasets did not differ significantly from 3D-DSA (VD1: r = 0.994, p = 0.0001; VD2:r = 0.994, p = 0.0001; VGI: r = 0.899, p = 0.0001). Qualitative analysis of IAS location (3DA/3D-DSA:nICA/C4 = 1, nICA/C7 = 1, nMCA/M1 = 4, nVA/V4 = 2, nBA = 2) and the visual IAS grading (3DA/3D-DSA:nlow-grade = 3, nmedium-grade = 5, nhigh-grade = 2) revealed identical results for 3DA and 3D-DSA, respectively. Quantitative IAS assessment showed a strong correlation regarding intra-/poststenotic diameters (rdintrastenotic = 0.995, pdintrastenotic = 0.0001; rdpoststenotic = 0.995, pdpoststenotic = 0.0001) and the percentual degree of luminal restriction (rNASCET 3DA = 0.981; pNASCET 3DA = 0.0001). Conclusions: The AI-based 3DA is a resilient algorithm for the visualization of IAS and shows comparable results to 3D-DSA. Hence, 3DA is a promising new method that allows a considerable patient-dose reduction, and its clinical implementation would be highly desirable.
Production of Pigments under Submerged Culture through Repeated Batch Fermentation of Immobilized Talaromyces atroroseus GH2
Authors: Ruiz-Sánchez Juan Pablo , Morales-Oyervides Lourdes , Giuffrida Daniele , Dufossé Laurent , Montañez Julio César
Published: February 2023

Pigments of natural origin have become a research trend, and fungi provide a readily available alternative source. Moreover, developing novel processes that increase yields, reduce process time and simplify downstream processing is of increased interest. In this sense, this work proposes an alternative for Talaromyces atroroseus GH2 biomass re-utilization to produce pigments through consecutive batches using immobilized mycelium. Different support materials were evaluated for pigment production and immobilization capacity. Then, Taguchi’s method was applied to determine the effect of four factors related to fungal immobilization and pigment production (inoculum concentration, support density, working volume and support volume). Afterward, process kinetics for pigment production using immobilized cells of T. atroroseus GH2 in consecutive batches were evaluated. All evaluated factors were significant and affected pigment production and microorganism growth differently. At improved conditions, immobilization capacity reached 99.01 ± 0.37% and the pigment production was 30% higher than using free cells. Process kinetics showed that the production could continue for three batches and was limited by excessive microorganism growth. Indeed, more studies are still needed, but the immobilization of Talaromyces atroroseus GH2 represents a promising strategy for allowing downstream-processing intensification since immobilized biomass is easily removed from the fermentation media, thus paving the way for the further development of a continuous process.
Effects of Multiple Freeze-Thaw Cycles on Protein and Lipid Oxidation, Microstructure and Quality Characteristics of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Du Ningning , Sun Yanchun , Chen Zhongxiang , Huang Xiaoli , Li Chenhui , Gao Lei , Bai Shuyan , Wang Peng , Hao Qirui
Published: February 2023

Multiple freeze-thaw cycles due to temperature fluctuations irreversibly damage the muscle tissue of fish, thereby reducing their edibility. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the number of freeze-thaw (F–T) cycles on protein and lipid oxidation, microstructure, physical index, and nutritional quality of rainbow trout muscle. The results showed that F–T cycles accelerated protein carbonyl formation and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) generation (p < 0.05), as well as increased the loss of total sulfhydryl (SH) groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, transmission electron microscope (TEM) images illustrated that the microstructure of muscle fibers was loosed and disintegrated after the third F–T cycle, causing a reduction in water holding capacity (WHC). In addition, muscles lost the intrinsic color of fresh meat after the fifth cycle, with lightness L* and yellowness b* increasing, while redness a* declined (p < 0.05). The hardness, springiness, and chewiness of muscles decreased, and the shear force first increased and then decreased after the third cycle. Furthermore, the proximate components, essential amino acids (EAAs), and total amino acids (TAAs), decreased significantly after the third cycle (p < 0.05) due to the decrease of WHC as well as protein and lipid oxidation. The results indicated that the quality of rainbow trout muscle changed after the third cycle, deteriorated seriously after the fifth cycle, and was unacceptable after the seventh cycle. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the temperature fluctuation to less than three times during freezing. The results provided a reference for the identification and classification of frozen aquatic products.
Multivariate Analysis on the Properties of Intact Cereal Kernels and Their Association with Viscoelasticity at Different Moisture Contents
Authors: Escalante-Aburto Anayansi , Figueroa-Cárdenas Juan de Dios , Dominguez-Lopez Aurelio , García-Lara Silverio , Ponce-García Néstor
Published: February 2023

The viscoelastic properties of cereal kernels are strongly related to their quality, which can be applied to the development of a more selective and objective classification process. In this study, the association between the biophysical and viscoelastic properties of wheat, rye, and triticale kernels was investigated at different moisture contents (12% and 16%). A uniaxial compression test was performed under a small strain (5%), and the increase in viscoelasticity at 16% moisture content corresponded to proportional increases in biophysical properties such as the appearance and geometry. The biophysical and viscoelastic behaviors of triticale were between those of wheat and rye. A multivariate analysis showed that the appearance and geometric properties significantly influenced kernel features. The maximum force showed strong correlations with all viscoelastic properties, and it can be used to distinguish between cereal types and moisture contents. A principal component analysis was performed to discriminate the effect of the moisture content on different types of cereals and to evaluate the biophysical and viscoelastic properties. The uniaxial compression test under a small strain and the multivariate analysis can be considered a simple and non-destructive tool for assessing the quality of intact cereal kernels.
Effect of High Pressure Homogenization-Modified Soy 11S Globulin on the Gel and Rheological Properties of Pork Myofibrillar Protein
Authors: Ge Qingfeng , Wu Yuehao , Yuan Na , Jia Zhaoyang , Liu Rui , Lu Fei , Ma Hanjun , Kang Zhuangli
Published: February 2023

The changes in texture and rheological characteristics, water holding capacity, and microstructure of pork myofibrillar protein with high-pressure homogenization-modified (0–150 MPa) soy 11S globulin were studied. The cooking yield, whiteness values, texture properties, shear stress, initial apparent viscosity, storage modulus (G′), and loss modulus (G″) of pork myofibrillar protein with high-pressure homogenization-modified soy 11S globulin were significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared with the sample of 0 MPa, and centrifugal yield was significantly decreased, except for the sample of 150 MPa. Therein, the sample of 100 MPa had the largest values. Meanwhile, the water and proteins bonded more tightly because the initial relaxation times of T2b, T21 and T22 from pork myofibrillar protein with high-pressure homogenization-modified soy 11S globulin were shorter (p < 0.05). Overall, the water-holding capacity, gel texture and structure, and rheological properties of pork myofibrillar protein could improve when adding soy 11S globulin treated with 100 MPa.
Application of a Novel Au@ZIF-8 Composite in the Detection of Bisphenol A by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Xie Yunfei , Dong Xianghui , Cai Nifei , Yang Fangwei , Yao Weirong , Huang Lijun
Published: February 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor which is widely present in fish under the influence of environmental pollution. It is essential to establish a rapid detection method for BPA. Zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) is a typical metal-organic framework material (MOFs) with a strong adsorption capacity, which can effectively adsorb harmful substances in food. Combining MOFs and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) can achieve rapid and accurate screening of toxic substances. In this study, a rapid detection method for BPA was established by preparing a new reinforced substrate Au@ZIF-8. The SERS detection method was optimized by combining SERS technology with ZIF-8. The Raman peak at 1172 cm−1 was used as the characteristic quantitative peak, and the lowest detection concentration of BPA was as low as 0.1 mg/L. In the concentration range of 0.1~10 mg/L, the linear relationship between SERS peak intensity and the concentration of BPA was good, and R2 was 0.9954. This novel SERS substrate was proven to have great potential in rapidly detecting BPA in food.
Numerical Solutions of the (2+1)-Dimensional Nonlinear and Linear Time-Dependent Schrödinger Equations Using Three Efficient Approximate Schemes
Authors: Farag Neveen G. A. , Eltanboly Ahmed H. , El-Azab Magdi S. , Obayya Salah S. A.
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation (2D NLSE) abreast of the (2+1)-dimensional linear time-dependent Schrödinger equation (2D TDSE) are thoroughly investigated. For the first time, these two notable 2D equations are attempted to be solved using three compelling pseudo-spectral/finite difference approaches, namely the split-step Fourier transform (SSFT), Fourier pseudo-spectral method (FPSM), and the hopscotch method (HSM). A bright 1-soliton solution is considered for the 2D NLSE, whereas a Gaussian wave solution is determined for the 2D TDSE. Although the analytical solutions of these partial differential equations can sometimes be reached, they are either limited to a specific set of initial conditions or even perplexing to find. Therefore, our suggested approximate solutions are of tremendous significance, not only for our proposed equations, but also to apply to other equations. Finally, systematic comparisons of the three suggested approaches are conducted to corroborate the accuracy and reliability of these numerical techniques. In addition, each scheme’s error and convergence analysis is numerically exhibited. Based on the MATLAB findings, the novelty of this work is that the SSFT has proven to be an invaluable tool for the presented 2D simulations from the speed, accuracy, and convergence perspectives, especially when compared to the other suggested schemes.
Nanocomposite Hydrogels as Functional Extracellular Matrices
Authors: Jooken Stijn , Deschaume Olivier , Bartic Carmen
Published: February 2023

Over recent years, nano-engineered materials have become an important component of artificial extracellular matrices. On one hand, these materials enable static enhancement of the bulk properties of cell scaffolds, for instance, they can alter mechanical properties or electrical conductivity, in order to better mimic the in vivo cell environment. Yet, many nanomaterials also exhibit dynamic, remotely tunable optical, electrical, magnetic, or acoustic properties, and therefore, can be used to non-invasively deliver localized, dynamic stimuli to cells cultured in artificial ECMs in three dimensions. Vice versa, the same, functional nanomaterials, can also report changing environmental conditions—whether or not, as a result of a dynamically applied stimulus—and as such provide means for wireless, long-term monitoring of the cell status inside the culture. In this review article, we present an overview of the technological advances regarding the incorporation of functional nanomaterials in artificial extracellular matrices, highlighting both passive and dynamically tunable nano-engineered components.
Farmers’ Knowledge on Whitefly Populousness among Tomato Insect Pests and Their Management Options in Tomato in Tanzania
Authors: Mrosso Secilia E. , Ndakidemi Patrick Alois , Mbega Ernest R.
Published: February 2023

Whitefly is a populous insect pest among tomato insect pests, causing significant crop loss through direct and indirect attacks. The current study aimed to assess the knowledge of tomato farmers on the populousness of whiteflies compared to other tomato insect pests and explore the management options available in their farming context in three tomato-growing regions, Arusha, Morogoro, and Iringa, in Tanzania. The study used a questionnaire to collect the data with backup information obtained through key informants’ interviews and focus group discussions. The study findings indicated whitefly to be populous among tomato insect pests. However, tomato farmers showed varying knowledge of whitefly aspects, including differing control options for the pest. Such findings indicated a knowledge gap between farmers’ understandings of the pest and their practices in fighting it compared to the standard and required practices in controlling the pest.
A Scoping Review on Movement, Neurobiology and Functional Deficits in Dyslexia: Suggestions for a Three-Fold Integrated Perspective
Authors: Pellegrino Michele , Ben-Soussan Tal Dotan , Paoletti Patrizio
Published: February 2023

Developmental dyslexia is a common complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Many theories and models tried to explain its symptomatology and find ways to improve poor reading abilities. The aim of this scoping review is to summarize current findings and several approaches and theories, focusing on the interconnectedness between motion, emotion and cognition and their connection to dyslexia. Consequently, we present first a brief overview of the main theories and models regarding dyslexia and its proposed neural correlates, with a particular focus on cerebellar regions and their involvement in this disorder. After examining different types of intervention programs and remedial training, we highlight the effects of a specific structured sensorimotor intervention named Quadrato Motor Training (QMT). QMT utilizes several cognitive and motor functions known to be relevant in developmental dyslexia. We introduce its potential beneficial effects on reading skills, including working memory, coordination and attention. We sum its effects ranging from behavioral to functional, structural and neuroplastic, especially in relation to dyslexia. We report several recent studies that employed this training technique with dyslexic participants, discussing the specific features that distinguish it from other training within the specific framework of the Sphere Model of Consciousness. Finally, we advocate for a new perspective on developmental dyslexia integrating motion, emotion and cognition to fully encompass this complex disorder.
Climate Change Adaptation: The Role of Geospatial Data in Sustainable Infrastructures
Authors: Casiano Flores Cesar , Crompvoets Joep
Published: February 2023

Climate change is a challenging reality, making adaptation at local, national and international levels a crucial need [...]
Modeling Sociodynamic Processes Based on the Use of the Differential Diffusion Equation with Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Demidova Liliya A. , Zhukov Dmitry O. , Andrianova Elena G. , Sigov Alexander S.
Published: February 2023

This paper explores the social dynamics of processes in complex systems involving humans by focusing on user activity in online media outlets. The R/S analysis showed that the time series of the processes under consideration are fractal and anti-persistent (they have a short-term memory and a Hurst exponent significantly less than 0.5). Following statistical processing, the observed data showed that there is a small amount of asymmetry in the distribution of user activity change amplitudes in news comments; the amplitude distribution is almost symmetrical, but there is a heavy tail as the probability plots lie above the normal probability plot. The fractality of the time series for the observed processes could be due to the variables describing them (the time and level of a series), which are characterized by fractional variables of measurement. Therefore, when figuring out how to approximate functions to determine the probability density of their parameters, it is advisable to use fractional differential equations, such as those of the diffusion type. This paper describes the development of such a model and uses the observed data to analyze and compare the modeling results.
Development of Neovasculature in Axially Vascularized Calcium Phosphate Cement Scaffolds
Authors: Ouhaddi Yassine , Charbonnier Baptiste , Porge Juliette , Zhang Yu-Ling , Garcia Isadora , Gbureck Uwe , Grover Liam , Gilardino Mirko , Harvey Edward , Makhoul Nicholas , Barralet Jake
Published: February 2023

Augmenting the vascular supply to generate new tissues, a crucial aspect in regenerative medicine, has been challenging. Recently, our group showed that calcium phosphate can induce the formation of a functional neo-angiosome without the need for microsurgical arterial anastomosis. This was a preclinical proof of concept for biomaterial-induced luminal sprouting of large-diameter vessels. In this study, we investigated if sprouting was a general response to surgical injury or placement of an inorganic construct around the vessel. Cylindrical biocement scaffolds of differing chemistries were placed around the femoral vein. A contrast agent was used to visualize vessel ingrowth into the scaffolds. Cell populations in the scaffold were mapped using immunohistochemistry. Calcium phosphate scaffolds induced 2.7–3 times greater volume of blood vessels than calcium sulphate or magnesium phosphate scaffolds. Macrophage and vSMC populations were identified that changed spatially and temporally within the scaffold during implantation. NLRP3 inflammasome activation peaked at weeks 2 and 4 and then declined; however, IL-1β expression was sustained over the course of the experiment. IL-8, a promoter of angiogenesis, was also detected, and together, these responses suggest a role of sterile inflammation. Unexpectedly, the effect was distinct from an injury response as a result of surgical placement and also was not simply a foreign body reaction as a result of placing a rigid bioceramic next to a vein, since, while the materials tested had similar microstructures, only the calcium phosphates tested elicited an angiogenic response. This finding then reveals a potential path towards a new strategy for creating better pro-regenerative biomaterials.
Guidelines for Accurate Multi-Temporal Model Registration of 3D Scanned Objects
Authors: Benfield Kate J. , Burruel Dylan E. , Lujan Trevor J.
Published: February 2023

Changes in object morphology can be quantified using 3D optical scanning to generate 3D models of an object at different time points. This process requires registration techniques that align target and reference 3D models using mapping functions based on common object features that are unaltered over time. The goal of this study was to determine guidelines when selecting these localized features to ensure robust and accurate 3D model registration. For this study, an object of interest (tibia bone replica) was 3D scanned at multiple time points, and the acquired 3D models were aligned using a simple cubic registration block attached to the object. The size of the registration block and the number of planar block surfaces selected to calculate the mapping functions used for 3D model registration were varied. Registration error was then calculated as the average linear surface variation between the target and reference tibial plateau surfaces. We obtained very low target registration errors when selecting block features with an area equivalent to at least 4% of the scanning field of view. Additionally, we found that at least two orthogonal surfaces should be selected to minimize registration error. Therefore, when registering 3D models to measure multi-temporal morphological change (e.g., mechanical wear), we recommend selecting multiplanar features that account for at least 4% of the scanning field of view. For the first time, this study has provided guidelines for selecting localized object features that can provide accurate 3D model registration for 3D scanned objects.
Numerical Study and Geometrical Investigation of an Onshore Overtopping Device Wave Energy Converter with a Seabed Coupled Structure
Authors: de Barros Andréia S. , Fragassa Cristiano , Paiva Maycon da S. , Rocha Luiz A. O. , Machado Bianca N. , Isoldi Liércio A. , Gomes Mateus das N. , dos Santos Elizaldo D.
Published: February 2023

Studies regarding renewable energy sources have gained attention over recent years. One example is wave energy converters, which harvest energy from sea waves using different operational principles such as oscillating water columns, oscillating bodies, and overtopping devices. In the present paper, a numerical study is carried out, and a geometrical investigation of a full-scale overtopping device with a coupled structure mounted on the seabed is performed using the Constructal Design method. The main purpose is to investigate the influence of the design over the available power of the device. The areas of the overtopping ramp (Ar) and the trapezoidal seabed structure (At) are the problem constraints. Two degrees of freedom are studied, the ratio between the height and length of the ramp (H3/L3) and the ratio between the upper and lower basis of the trapezoidal obstacle (L1/L2). The device submersion is kept constant (H1 = 3.5 m). The equations of continuity, momentum, and the transport of volume fraction are solved with the Finite Volume Method, while the water–air mixture is treated with the multiphase model Volume of Fluid. Results showed that the ratio H3/L3 presented a higher sensibility than the ratio L1/L2 over the accumulated water in the reservoir. Despite that, the association of a structure coupled to the ramp of an overtopping device improved the performance of the converter by 30% compared to a conventional condition without the structure.
Cladosporium Species Associated with Fruit Trees in Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Yang Yuanqiao , Luo Wenmei , Zhang Wensong , Mridha Mohammed Amin Uddin , Wijesinghe Subodini Nuwanthika , McKenzie Eric H. C. , Wang Yong
Published: February 2023

During an investigation of fungal diversity on fruit trees in Guizhou Province, 23 Cladosporium strains were isolated from various locations in Guizhou Province. Culture characteristics, morphology and molecular phylogenetic analysis of three genetic markers, namely, the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) of the rDNA, partial fragments of actin (act), and the translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-ɑ) loci were used to characterize these isolates. Seven new Cladosporium species and new host records for five other species were introduced, with detailed descriptions and illustrations. This study showed that there is a rich diversity of Cladosporium spp. in fruit trees in Guizhou Province.
Yeast Hydrolysate and Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Hong Yang Hee , Jung Eun Young
Published: February 2023

We used an ovariectomy (OVX) rat model to test whether yeast hydrolysate (YH) has therapeutic effects on postmenopausal osteoporosis-induced bone loss. The rats were separated into five treatment groups: the sham group (sham operation); the control group (no treatment after OVX); the estrogen group (estrogen treatment after OVX); YH 0.5% group (drinking water supplementation with 0.5% YH after OVX); and the YH 1% group (drinking water supplementation with 1% YH after OVX). In addition, the YH treatment restored serum testosterone concentration in the OVX rats up to the normal level. Further, YH treatment affected bone markers; a significant increase in serum calcium concentration was observed after adding YH to the diet. The levels of serum alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and cross-linked telopeptides of type I collagen were reduced by YH supplementation, unlike those in the no-treatment control. Although not statistically significant, YH treatment in OVX rats improved trabecular bone microarchitecture parameters. These results show that YH may ameliorate the bone loss caused by postmenopausal osteoporosis because of the normalization of serum testosterone concentration.
Applying Multi-Metric Deformable Image Registration for Dose Accumulation in Combined Cervical Cancer Radiotherapy
Authors: Fu Qi , Xie Xin , Xu Yingjie , Zuo Jing , Yang Xi , Xia Wenlong , An Jusheng , Huang Manni , Yan Hui , Dai Jianrong
Published: February 2023

(1) Purpose: Challenges remain in dose accumulation for cervical cancer radiotherapy combined with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (BT) as there are many large and complex organ deformations between different treatments. This study aims to improve deformable image registration (DIR) accuracy with the introduction of multi-metric objectives for dose accumulation of EBRT and BT. (2) Materials and methods: Twenty cervical cancer patients treated with EBRT (45–50 Gy/25 fractions) and high-dose-rate BT (≥20 Gy in 4 fractions) were included for DIR. The multi-metric DIR algorithm included an intensity-based metric, three contour-based metrics, and a penalty term. Nonrigid B-spine transformation was used to transform the planning CT images from EBRT to the first BT, with a six-level resolution registration strategy. To evaluate its performance, the multi-metric DIR was compared with a hybrid DIR provided by commercial software. The DIR accuracy was measured by the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD) between deformed and reference organ contours. The accumulated maximum dose of 2 cc (D2cc) of the bladder and rectum was calculated and compared to simply addition of D2cc from EBRT and BT (ΔD2cc). (3) Results: The mean DSC of all organ contours for the multi-metric DIR were significantly higher than those for the hybrid DIR (p ≤ 0.011). In total, 70% of patients had DSC > 0.8 using the multi-metric DIR, while 15% of patients had DSC > 0.8 using the commercial hybrid DIR. The mean ΔD2cc of the bladder and rectum for the multi-metric DIR were 3.25 ± 2.29 and 3.54 ± 2.02 GyEQD2, respectively, whereas those for the hybrid DIR were 2.68 ± 2.56 and 2.32 ± 3.25 GyEQD2, respectively. The multi-metric DIR resulted in a much lower proportion of unrealistic D2cc than the hybrid DIR (2.5% vs. 17.5%). (4) Conclusions: Compared with the commercial hybrid DIR, the introduced multi-metric DIR significantly improved the registration accuracy and resulted in a more reasonable accumulated dose distribution.
Myopia Control with Low-Dose Atropine in European Children: Six-Month Results from a Randomized, Double-Masked, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study
Authors: Hvid-Hansen Anders , Jacobsen Nina , Møller Flemming , Bek Toke , Ozenne Brice , Kessel Line
Published: February 2023

The effect and safety of low-dose atropine in myopia control have not been studied in randomized, placebo-controlled trials outside Asia. We investigated the efficacy and safety of 0.1% atropine loading dose and 0.01% atropine compared with a placebo in a European population. Investigator-initiated, randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled, equal-allocation, multicenter study comparing 0.1% atropine loading dose (six months) followed by 0.01% atropine (18 months), 0.01% atropine (24 months), and placebo (24 months). Participants were monitored for a 12-months washout period. Outcome measures were axial length (AL), cycloplegic spherical equivalent (SE), photopic and mesopic pupil size, accommodation amplitude, visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and adverse reactions and events. We randomized 97 participants (mean [standard deviation] age, 9.4 [1.7] years; 55 girls (57%) and 42 boys (43%)). After six months, AL was 0.13 mm shorter (95% confidence interval [CI], −0.18 to −0.07 [adjusted p < 0.001]) with 0.1% atropine loading dose and 0.06 mm shorter (95% CI, −0.11 to −0.01 [adjusted p = 0.06]) with 0.01% atropine than in the placebo group. We observed similar dose-dependent changes in SE, pupil size, accommodation amplitude, and adverse reactions. No significant differences in visual acuity or IOP were found between groups, and no serious adverse reactions were reported. We found a dose-dependent effect of low-dose atropine in European children without adverse reactions requiring photochromatic or progressive spectacles. Our results are comparable to those observed in East Asia, indicating that results on myopia control with low-dose atropine are generalizable across populations with different racial backgrounds.
Effect of Reactivity of Hydrated Portland Cement on Hydrothermal Synthesis of Xonotlite
Authors: Wang Saixin , Niu Zheng , Jin Dongmei , He Jian , Mu Yuandong , Ye Guotian
Published: February 2023

Significant interest in waste-cement recycling has been stimulated because of the high contents of calcium and silicon in waste cement. The reactivity of calcium and silicon in the raw material is one of the important factors for the hydrothermal synthesis of xonotlite. Therefore, the effect of the reactivity of calcium and silicon in the waste cement on the hydrothermal synthesis of xonotlite was studied in this paper. Portland cement that was hydrated for 6 months, with the aim of simulating the waste cement, was used for the first time as the calcium and silicon source in the hydrothermal synthesis of xonotlite. As calcination would raise the reactivity of the hydrated cement, the effect of calcination of the Portland hydrated cement on the hydrothermal synthesis of xonotlite was investigated. The hydrated cement was calcined at 900 °C, and the hydrothermal synthesis was carried out at 220 °C for different times. The phases of the hydrothermal products were analyzed by XRD and TG-DSC, and it was noted that the calcination of hydrated cement affected the formation rate of xonotlite. The content of xonotlite increased from 18% (synthesized with hydrated cement without calcination) to 74% (synthesized from hydrated cement with calcination at 900 °C) during a reaction time of 24 h. Furthermore, the micromorphologies of xonotlite using calcined and hydrated cement were compared and discussed from the perspective of the reactivity of the starting materials.
Chitosan with Natural Additives as a Potential Food Packaging
Authors: Stefanowska Karolina , Woźniak Magdalena , Dobrucka Renata , Ratajczak Izabela
Published: February 2023

Recently, the development of materials based on natural polymers have been observed. This is the result of increasing environmental degradation, as well as increased awareness and consumer expectations. Many industries, especially the packaging industry, face challenges resulting from legal regulations. Chitin is the most common biopolymer right after cellulose and is used to produce chitosan. Due to the properties of chitosan, such as non-toxicity, biocompatibility, as well as antimicrobial properties, chitosan-based materials are used in many industries. Many studies have been conducted to determine the suitability of chitosan materials as food packaging, and their advantages and limitations have been identified. Thanks to the possibility of modifying the chitosan matrix by using natural additives, it is possible to strengthen the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of chitosan films, which means that, in the near future, chitosan-based materials will be a more environmentally friendly alternative to the plastic packaging used so far. The article presents literature data on the most commonly used natural additives, such as essential oils, plant extracts, or polysaccharides, and their effects on antimicrobial, antioxidant, mechanical, barrier, and optical properties. The application of chitosan as a natural biopolymer in food packaging extends the shelf-life of various food products while simultaneously reducing the use of synthetic plastics, which in turn will have a positive impact on the natural environment. However, further research on chitosan and its combinations with various materials is still needed to extent the application of chitosan in food packaging and bring its application to industrial levels.
Nano-Silicon@Exfoliated Graphite/Pyrolytic Polyaniline Composite of a High-Performance Cathode for Lithium Storage
Authors: Wu Qian , Zhu Yinghong , Duan Haojie , Zhu Lin , Zhang Yuting , Xu Hongqiang , Egun Ishioma Laurene , He Haiyong
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a Si@EG composite was prepared by liquid phase mixing and the elevated temperature solid phase method, while polyaniline was synthesized by the in situ chemical polymerization of aniline monomer to coat the surface of nano-silicon and exfoliated graphite composites (Si@EG). Pyrolytic polyaniline (p-PANI) coating prevents the agglomeration of silicon nanoparticles, forming a good conductive network that effectively alleviates the volume expansion effect of silicon electrodes. SEM, TEM, XRD, Raman, TGA and BET were used to observe the morphology and analyze the structure of the samples. The electrochemical properties of the materials were tested by the constant current charge discharge and cyclic voltammetry (CV) methods. The results show that Si@EG@p-PANI not only inhibits the agglomeration between silicon nanoparticles and forms a good conductive network but also uses the outermost layer of p-PANI carbon coating to effectively alleviate the volume expansion of silicon nanoparticles during cycling. Si@EG@p-PANI had a high initial specific capacity of 1491 mAh g−1 and still maintains 752 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g−1, which shows that it possesses excellent electrochemical stability and reversibility.
Flow Capacity Optimization of a Squirrel Cage Fan with a New Rounded Rectangle Volute under Size Limitation
Authors: Xiong Jin , Tang Jie , Guo Penghua , Li Jingyin
Published: February 2023

Squirrel cage fans (SCFs) are widely used in a variety of household appliances. Due to the restriction on installation size, the design of high-efficiency SCFs with high flow capacities is an important topic. In this study, we proposed a novel rounded rectangle volute profile (RRVP) for the design of compact high-flow SCFs. At first, we used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate the aerodynamic performances of three SCFs having the same impeller but different volutes, which were the common logarithmic-spiral volute profile, the cutting volute profile, and the RRVP volute at the maximum flow rate working condition. The CFD simulations indicate that the fan with RRVP volute has the highest flow rate at the maximum flow rate working condition. Then, we proposed a parameterization method for the RRVP with 16 control variables. The multiobjective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition (MOEA/D) and Kriging model was used to optimize the aerodynamic shape of the compact SCF with an RRVP volute. Twenty-three control variables were used in the multiobjective optimization process, including the optimization of the blade angles and the impeller position. Optimization results show that the maximum volumetric flow rate of the optimal SCF with an RRVP volute increases from 147.1 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to 191.1 CFM, and the fan efficiency also increases from 32.21% to 33.5%, compared with the original SCF with the common logarithmic-spiral volute. Two main factors were found to increase the flow capacity and efficiency of the optimal SCF under strict size constrains. First, the RRVP became smooth and large, which reduced the flow loss and increased the flow cross-section; second, the eccentrically mounted impeller of the optimal fan enlarged the flow section near the outlet of the volute.