bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Preparation and Properties of Impervious and Breathable Sand Based on Hydrophobic Theory
Authors: Li Xiao , Zhang Xiong , Ren Hao
Published: September 2021

Land desertification, a severe global ecological and environmental problem, brings challenges to the sustainable utilization of land resources in the world. The purpose of this research is to use hydrophobic theory to prepare impervious and breathable sand, and to solve the problems of sandy soil that seeps easily and makes it difficult for vegetation to survive in desertified areas. The influences of coating material content, first-level and second-level rough structure on the impermeability and air permeability of impervious and breathable sand were studied. The research showed that, with the increase in coating material content, the impervious performance of the sample increased firstly and then decreased, and the air permeability rose continuously. The hydrostatic pressure resistance of the sample can reach an extreme value of 53 mm. The first-level rough structure of micron structure can greatly improve the hydrophobic performance, thus improving the impervious performance. The addition of micron calcium carbonate would improve the hydrostatic pressure resistance height of the sample to 190 mm. The sample would reach a superhydrophobic state in the condition of a first-level rough structure of a nano structure built by nano silica, and the contact angle was up to 152.0°, so that the hydrostatic pressure resistance height can rise to 205 mm. The best performance would be achieved under the condition of relatively less raw material with a second-level rough structure of micro–nano. At this point, the contact angle of the sample reached 152.8° and the hydrostatic pressure resistance height was up to 205 mm. At the same time, the air permeability index of the above four kinds of impervious and breathable sand met all planting requirements. The sample prepared can satisfy the demands of different degrees of impermeability and air permeability, and can be widely used in desertification control.
Flexural Behaviour and Internal Forces Redistribution in LWAC Double-Span Beams
Authors: Kołodziejczyk Ewelina , Waśniewski Tomasz
Published: September 2021

This research study aimed to investigate the effect of the lightweight aggregate concrete and steel reinforcement interaction on the behaviour of continuous beams compared to the normal concrete of the same strength. This paper presents six full-scale, double-span beams with a rectangular cross-section made of both lightweight and normal concrete. The study confirmed that beams made of lightweight aggregate concrete achieve comparable flexural capacities to those made of NWC but their deformability and ductility are lower. Although the redistribution of internal forces depends mainly on the longitudinal reinforcement ratio, the influence of ultimate compressive strains of concrete is also noticeable. The ultimate compressive strains in LWAC are generally lower than in NWC. The lower rotational capacity of LWAC results in smaller degrees of moment redistribution in beams made of this concrete compared to normal concrete beams.
Aggregate Formation of Boron-Containing Molecules in Thermal Vacuum Deposited Films
Authors: Navozenko Oleksandr , Yashchuk Valeriy , Kachkovsky Oleksiy , Gudeika Dalius , Butkute Rita , Slominskii Yuriy , Azovskyi Volodymyr
Published: September 2021

The spectral properties of new boron-containing dyes were studied. One-component (pure dyes) and composite “Alq3+dye” thin films were fabricated using the thermal vacuum deposition method. The positions of the transmission spectra maxima in a one-component film are different for different film thicknesses. The best correlation of the maxima positions of the dye transmission spectra in solid and liquid solutions was observed for thicknesses of films close to a few (up to 10) monolayers. On the other hand, the absorption spectra maxima positions of one-component dye films (upper 10 nm) and composite films with high concentration, did not match the corresponding positions of absorption spectra maxima recorded in solutions. Comparison of the absorption spectra in one-component dye films and in solutions indicates the presence of both monomers and their aggregates in one-component films (contrary to solutions where such processes of aggregation do not take place, even at very high concentrations). Simultaneously with aggregation manifestation in the absorption spectra, the intensity of fluorescence of one-component dye films dramatically decreases. A quantum chemical simulation of the possible relative arrangement of two dye molecules indicates that the most possible of the simplest types of aggregates are physical dimers. Films of practical importance (due to efficient energy transfer from host to guest molecules when all singlet excitons are captured) possess a high quantum yield of fluorescence when reaching an impurity concentration of a few percent (aggregation does not take place yet).
Rigid Polyurethane Foams Modified with Biochar
Authors: Uram Katarzyna , Kurańska Maria , Andrzejewski Jacek , Prociak Aleksander
Published: September 2021

This paper presents results of research on the preparation of biochar-modified rigid polyurethane foams that could be successfully used as thermal insulation materials. The biochar was introduced into polyurethane systems in an amount of up to 20 wt.%. As a result, foam cells became elongated in the direction of foam growth and their cross-sectional areas decreased. The filler-containing systems exhibited a reduction in their apparent densities of up to 20% compared to the unfilled system while maintaining a thermal conductivity of 25 mW/m·K. Biochar in rigid polyurethane foams improved their dimensional and thermal stability.
Distinct Advantages of Circumferential Notch Tensile (CNT) Testing in the Determination of a Threshold for Stress Corrosion Cracking (KISCC)
Authors: Singh Raman R. K. , Jones Rhys
Published: September 2021

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a vexing problem for load-bearing equipment operating in a corrosive environment in various industries, such as aerospace, chemical and mineral processing, civil structures, bioimplants, energy generation etc. For safe operation, effective maintenance and life prediction of such equipment, reliable design data on SCC (such as threshold stress intensity for SCC, i.e., KISCC) are invaluable. Generating reliable KISCC data invariably requires a large number of tests. Traditional techniques can be prohibitively expensive. This article reviews the determination of KISCC using the circumferential notch tensile (CNT) technique, the validation of the technique and its application to a few industrially relevant scenarios. The CNT technique is a relatively recent and considerably inexpensive approach for the determination of KISCC when compared to traditional techniques, viz., double-cantilever beam (DCB) and compact tension (CT) that may be fraught with prohibitive complexities. As established through this article, the CNT technique circumvents some critical limitations of the traditional techniques.
Stain Susceptibility of 3D-Printed Nanohybrid Composite Restorative Material and the Efficacy of Different Stain Removal Techniques: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Alharbi Nawal , Alharbi Amal , Osman Reham
Published: September 2021

Recent burgeoning development in material science has introduced a 3D-printable, nanohybrid composite resin restorative material. However, its performance has not yet been investigated. This study evaluates the stain susceptibility and efficacy of different stain removal techniques. A total of 120 labial veneers were fabricated using milling (n = 60) and SLA 3D-printing (n = 60). Based on the immersion media: coffee, tea and artificial saliva, each group was divided into three sub-groups (n = 20). Stain susceptibility was evaluated by calculating color difference (∆E00) at 12 and 24 days using a spectrophotometer against black and white backgrounds. Collected data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05). A significant interaction effect was found between the staining mediums and fabrication methods in both black and white backgrounds (p < 0.001). 3D-printed restorations showed significantly higher stain susceptibility than milled restorations (p < 0.001). Prolonged immersion time increased the color difference in both groups. In-office bleaching was more effective in stain removal in both 3D-printed and milled restoration groups. The susceptibility of the presented novel 3D-printed restorative material to color changes in different immersion mediums was clinically not-acceptable. The clinicians might expect the need to replace the restoration after 1–2 years and thus, recommendation for the use of such a material as a permanent restoration cannot be made but rather as a long-term temporary restoration.
Electrodeposition and Corrosion Properties of Nickel–Graphene Oxide Composite Coatings
Authors: Tseluikin Vitaly , Dzhumieva Asel , Yakovlev Andrey , Mostovoy Anton , Zakirova Svetlana , Strilets Anastasia , Lopukhova Marina
Published: September 2021

Nickel-based composite electrochemical coatings (CEC) modified with multilayer graphene oxide (GO) were obtained from a sulfate-chloride electrolyte in the reverse electrolysis mode. The microstructure of these CECs was investigated by X-ray phase analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The corrosion-electrochemical behavior of nickel–GO composite coatings in a 0.5 M solution of H2SO4was studied. Tests in a 3.5% NaCl solution showed that the inclusion of GO particles into the composition of electrolytic nickel deposits makes their corrosion rate 1.40–1.50 times less.
Anti-Inflammatory Azaphilones from the Edible Alga-Derived Fungus Penicillium sclerotiorum
Authors: Wang Hui-Chun , Ke Tzu-Yi , Ko Ya-Chen , Lin Jue-Jun , Chang Jui-Sheng , Cheng Yuan-Bin
Published: September 2021

To discover the new medical entity from edible marine algae, our continuously natural product investigation focused on endophytes from marine macroalgae Grateloupia sp. Two new azaphilones, 8a-epi-hypocrellone A (1), 8a-epi-eupenicilazaphilone C (2), together with five known azaphilones, hypocrellone A (3), eupenicilazaphilone C (4), ((1E,3E)-3,5-dimethylhepta-1,3-dien-1-yl)-2,4-dihydroxy-3-methylbenzaldehyde (5), sclerotiorin (6), and isochromophilone IV (7) were isolated from the alga-derived fungus Penicillium sclerotiorum. The structures of isolated azaphilones (1–7) were elucidated by spectrometric identification, especially HRESIMS, CD, and NMR data analyses. Concerning bioactivity, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrosis activities of those isolates were evaluated. As a result, compound 1 showed selective toxicity toward neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y among seven cancer and one fibroblast cell lines. 20 μM of compounds 1, 3, and 7 inhibited the TNF-α-induced NFκB phosphorylation but did not change the NFκB activity. Compounds 2 and 6 respectively promoted and inhibited SMAD-mediated transcriptional activities stimulated by TGF-β.
Purification and Identification of Novel Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Peptides Derived from Round Scad (Decapterus maruadsi) Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Hu Xiao , Zhou Ya , Zhou Shaobo , Chen Shengjun , Wu Yanyan , Li Laihao , Yang Xianqing
Published: September 2021

The objective of the present study was to investigate the xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory effects of peptides purified and identified from round scad (Decapterus maruadsi) hydrolysates (RSHs). In this study, RSHs were obtained by using three proteases (neutrase, protamex and alcalase). Among them, the RSHs of 6-h hydrolysis by neutrase displayed the strongest XO inhibitory activity and had an abundance of small peptides (<500 Da). Four novel peptides were purified by immobilized metal affinity chromatography and identified by nano-high-performance liquid chromatography mass/mass spectrometry. Their amino acid sequences were KGFP (447.53 Da), FPSV (448.51 Da), FPFP (506.59 Da) and WPDGR (629.66 Da), respectively. Then the peptides were synthesized to evaluate their XO inhibitory activity. The results indicated that the peptides of both FPSV (5 mM) and FPFP (5 mM) exhibited higher XO inhibitory activity (22.61 ± 1.81% and 20.09 ± 2.41% respectively). Fluorescence spectra assay demonstrated that the fluorescence quenching mechanism of XO by these inhibitors (FPSV and FPFP) was a static quenching procedure. The study of inhibition kinetics suggested that the inhibition of both FPSV and FPFP was reversible, and the type of their inhibition was a mixed one. Molecular docking revealed the importance of π-π stacking between Phe residue (contained in peptides) and Phe914 (contained in the XO) in the XO inhibitory activity of the peptides.
Combined Anticancer Effect of Sulfated Laminaran from the Brown Alga Alaria angusta and Polyhydroxysteroid Glycosides from the Starfish Protoreaster lincki on 3D Colorectal Carcinoma HCT 116 Cell Line
Authors: Malyarenko Olesya S. , Malyarenko Timofey V. , Usoltseva Roza V. , Surits Valerii V. , Kicha Alla A. , Ivanchina Natalia V. , Ermakova Svetlana P.
Published: September 2021

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequent types of malignancy in the world. The search for new approaches of increasing the efficacy of cancer therapy is relevant. This work was aimed to study individual, combined anticancer effects, and molecular mechanism of action of sulfated laminaran AaLs of the brown alga Alaria angusta and protolinckiosides A (PL1), B (PL2), and linckoside L1 (L1) of the starfish Protoreaster lincki using a 3D cell culture model. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS), soft agar, 3D spheroids invasion, and Western blotting assays were performed to determine the effect and mechanism of the action of investigated compounds or their combinations on proliferation, colony formation, and the invasion of 3D HCT 116 spheroids. AaLs, PL1, PL2, and L1 individually inhibited viability, colony growth, and the invasion of 3D HCT 116 spheroids in a variable degree with greater activity of linckoside L1. AaLs in combination with L1 exerted synergism of a combined anticancer effect through the inactivation of protein kinase B (AKT) kinase and, consequently, the induction of apoptosis via the regulation of proapoptotic/antiapoptotic proteins balance. The obtained data about the efficacy of the combined anticancer effect of a laminaran derivative of brown algae and polyhydroxysteroid glycosides of starfish open up prospects for the development of new therapeutic approaches for colorectal cancer treatment.
Fucosterol of Marine Macroalgae: Bioactivity, Safety and Toxicity on Organism
Authors: Meinita Maria Dyah Nur , Harwanto Dicky , Tirtawijaya Gabriel , Negara Bertoka Fajar Surya Perwira , Sohn Jae-Hak , Kim Jin-Soo , Choi Jae-Suk
Published: September 2021

Fucosterol (24-ethylidene cholesterol) is a bioactive compound belonging to the sterol group that can be isolated from marine algae. Fucosterol of marine algae exhibits various biological activities including anti-osteoarthritic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-photoaging, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, anti-neurological, antioxidant, algicidal, anti-obesity, and antimicrobial. Numerous studies on fucosterol, mainly focusing on the quantification and characterization of the chemical structure, bioactivities, and health benefits of fucosterol, have been published. However, there is no comprehensive review on safety and toxicity levels of fucosterol of marine algae. This review aims to discuss the bioactivities, safety, and toxicity of fucosterol comprehensively, which is important for the application and development of fucosterol as a bioactive compound in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. We used four online databases to search for literature on fucosterol published between 2002 and 2020. We identified, screened, selected, and analyzed the literature using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method and identified 43 studies for review. Despite the potential applications of fucosterol, we identified the need to fill certain related research gaps. Fucosterol exhibited low toxicity in animal cell lines, human cell lines, and animals. However, studies on the safety and toxicity of fucosterol at the clinical stage, which are required before fucosterol is developed for the industry, are lacking.
Pathophysiology of Vaccine-Induced Prothrombotic Immune Thrombocytopenia (VIPIT) and Vaccine-Induced Thrombocytopenic Thrombosis (VITT) and Their Diagnostic Approach in Emergency
Authors: Di Micco Pierpaolo , Camporese Giuseppe , Cardillo Giuseppe , Lodigiani Corrado , Carannante Novella , Annunziata Anna , Fiorentino Giuseppe , Russo Vincenzo , Imbalzano Egidio
Published: September 2021

SARS-CoV-2 induced a pandemic that is reported to have started in Asia and was then extended to other countries in the world. Main clinical aspects of this viral infection have been lung injuries with severe pneumonia requiring prolonged hospitalization and associated morbidities such as venous thromboembolism and/or superinfection by bacteria, fungus or other pests. Immediately there was a need to develop a sustainable therapeutic strategy, such as vaccination. Vaccines against Covid-19, in fact, exert a protective action for common people and reduce viral diffusion. Yet, vaccination of a large number of people raises the question of a well-known complication of several types of vaccines; this complication is immune thrombocytopenia, which is sometimes associated with thrombosis as well. In this short review, we summarized mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of vaccine-induced prothrombotic immune thrombocytopenia and vaccine-induced thrombocytopenic thrombosis.
Chronic and Recurrent Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus
Authors: Lee Soo Min , Han Jisang , Yang Chan Min , Choi Chul Young , Khoramnia Ramin , Chung Tae-Young , Lim Dong Hui
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: This study sought to investigate the natural course, the chronicity and recurrence rate, and the risk factors of chronic and recurrent herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). We also evaluated the effects of long-term treatment for HZO. Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed and treated for HZO were included in the retrospective medical chart review. Multivariable-adjusted logistic and Cox regression models were used to show risk factors for chronic and recurrent HZO along with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Among a total 130 of HZO patients, 31 patients (23.85%) had chronic disease and 19 patients (14.62%) had recurrent disease. The rate of chronic disease was higher in HZO with conjunctivitis, epithelial keratitis, and stromal keratitis. The recurrence rate increased in patients with chronic HZO (HR: 34.4, 95% CI: 3.6–324.6), epithelial keratitis (HR: 5.5, 95% CI: 1.3–30.0), stromal keratitis (HR: 18.8, 95% CI: 3.0–120.8), and increased intraocular pressure (IOP) (HR: 7.3, 95% CI: 1.6–33.2). Length of systemic antiviral therapy and anti-inflammatory eyedrop treatment were not associated with recurrent HZO (p = 0.847 and p = 0.660, respectively). The most common ocular manifestation for recurrent HZO was stromal keratitis. Conclusions: This study demonstrated a considerable frequency of chronic and recurrent HZO. Chronic HZO in the form of epithelial or stromal keratitis with increased IOP provoked a significant rise in the risk of recurrence.
Salvage External Beam Radiotherapy after Incomplete Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Yang Dae , Park Sunmin , Rim Chai , Yoon Won , Shin In-Soo , Lee Han
Published: September 2021

Background and objective: Although transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been the commonest local modality for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), incomplete repsonse occurs especially for tumors with a large size or difficult tumor accessment. The present meta-analysis assessed the efficacy and feasibility of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) as a salvage modality after incomplete TACE. Materials and Methods: We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane databases. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and the secondary endpoints included the response ratem toxicity of grade 3, and local control. Results: Twelve studies involving 757 patients were included; the median of portal vein thrombosis rate was 25%, and the pooled median of tumor size was 5.8 cm. The median prescribed dose ranged from 37.3 to 150 Gy (pooled median: 54 Gy in *EQD2). The pooled one- and two-year OS rates were 72.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 60.2–81.9%) and 50.5% (95% CI: 35.6–65.4%), respectively; the pooled response and local control rates were 72.2% (95% CI: 65.4–78.1%) and 86.6 (95% CI: 80.1–91.2%) respectively. The pooled rates of grade ≥3 gastrointestinal toxicity, radiation-induced liver disease, hepatotoxicity, and hematotoxicity were 4.1%, 3.5%, 5.7%, and 4.9%, respectively. Local control was not correlated with intrahepatic (p = 0.6341) or extrahepatic recurrences (p = 0.8529) on meta-regression analyses. Conclusion: EBRT was feasible and efficient in regard to tumor response and control; after incomplete TACE. Out-field recurrence, despite favorable local control, necessitates the combination of EBRT with systemic treatments. *Equivalent dose in 2 Gy per fraction scheme.
Improvement in Vascular Endothelial Function following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Tanaka Shuhei , Imamura Teruhiko , Ushijima Ryuichi , Sobajima Mitsuo , Fukuda Nobuyuki , Ueno Hiroshi , Hirai Tadakazu , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: Endothelial dysfunction is associated with exercise intolerance and adverse cardiovascular events. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is applied to treat elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis, but less is known about the impact of TAVI on endothelial dysfunction, which can be assessed by measuring flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD). In this parameter, a low value indicates impaired endothelial function. Materials and Methods: Vascular endothelial function was evaluated by FMD of the brachial artery just before and one week after TAVI. Factors associated with the normalization of FMD and their prognostic impact were investigated. Results: Fifty-one patients who underwent TAVI procedure (median 86 years old, 12 men) were included. FMD improved significantly from baseline to one week following TAVI (from 5.3% [3.7%, 6.7%] to 6.3% [4.7%, 8.1%], p < 0.001). Among 33 patients with baseline low FMD (≤6.0%), FMD normalized up to >6.0% following TAVI in 15 patients. Baseline higher cardiac index was independently associated with normalization of FMD following TAVI (odds ratio 11.8, 95% confidence interval 1.12–124; p < 0.04). Conclusions: Endothelial dysfunction improved following TAVI in many patients with severe aortic stenosis. The implication of this finding is the next concern.
Radiofrequency vs. Cryoballoon vs. Thoracoscopic Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Kwon Hee-Jin , Choi Ji Hoon , Kim Hye Ree , Park Seung-Jung , Jeong Dong Seop , On Young Keun , Kim June Soo , Park Kyoung-Min
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) and totally thoracoscopic surgical ablation (TTA) have emerged as alternatives to radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation. In this study, we describe our experience comparing patient characteristics and outcomes of RFCA, CBA, and TTA. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients who underwent RFCA, CBA, or TTA. Both atrial fibrillation (AF)- and atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa)-free survival rates were compared using time to recurrence after a 3-month blanking period (defined by a duration of more than 30 s). All patients were regularly followed using 12-lead ECGs or Holter ECG monitoring. Results: Of 354 patients in this study, 125 underwent RFCA, 97 underwent CBA and 131 underwent TTA. The TTA group had more patients with persistent AF, a larger LA diameter, and a history of stroke. The CBA group showed the shortest procedure time (p < 0.001). The CBA group showed significantly lower AF-free survival at 12 months than the RFCA and TTA groups (RFCA 84%, CBA 74% and TTA 85%, p = 0.071; p = 0.859 for TTA vs. RFCA, p = 0.038 for RFCA vs. CBA and p = 0.046 for TTA vs. CBA). There were no significant differences in ATa-free survival among the three groups (p = 0.270). There were no procedure-related adverse events in the RFCA group, but some complications occurred in the CBA group and the TTA group (6% and 5%, respectively). Conclusions: RFCA and CBA are effective and safe as first-line treatments for paroxysmal and persistent AF. In some high-risk stroke patients, TTA may be a viable option. It is important to consider patient characteristics when selecting an ablation method for AF.
IL-6 597A/G (rs1800797) and 174G/C (rs1800795) Gene Polymorphisms in the Development of Cervical Cancer in Lithuanian Women
Authors: Vitkauskaite Agne , Celiesiute Joana , Juseviciute Vijoleta , Jariene Kristina , Skrodeniene Erika , Samuolyte Gabriele , Nadisauskiene Ruta Jolanta , Vaitkiene Daiva
Published: September 2021

Our study aimed to evaluate the distribution of genotypes and allele frequencies of IL-6 597A/G (rs1800797) and 174G/C (rs1800795) polymorphisms in HPV infected and uninfected healthy women and cervical cancer patients. A PCR based Multiplex HPV genotyping test kit was used for in vitro detection and differentiation of high risk HPV genotypes. Genotyping of two polymorphisms, IL-6 597A/G (rs1800797) and 174G/C (rs1800795), was performed using the KASP genotyping assay kit. Cervical cancer patients were more likely to be HPV positive than control patients. Allele C of IL-6 rs1800795 was associated with a higher risk of cervical cancer by 2.26-fold and genotype CC by 5.37-fold. Genotype CC of IL-6 rs1800795 was more frequent in the HPV positive group compared with the HPV negative group (p = 0.002). Allele G of IL-6 rs1800797 was more frequently found in women with HPV16/HPV18 compared to other HPV types (p = 0.045). Women with AA genotypes of IL-6 rs1800797 were less frequently infected with HPV16/HPV18 compared to other HPV types (p = 0.045). The major finding of the study is the significant association of C allele and CC genotype of IL-6 1800795 gene with cervical cancer in the Lithuanian population. Genotype CC of IL-6 rs1800795 has a significant association with HPV infection as well.
Evaluation of the Relapse Risk and Survival Rate in Patients with Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Monocentric Experience
Authors: Potre Ovidiu , Pescaru Monica , Sima Alexandra , Ionita Ioana , Tudor Raluca , Borsi Ema , Samfireag Miruna , Potre Cristina
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is characterized by the presence of malignant Reed Sternberg cells. Although the current curability rate in patients with HL has increased, up to 30% of those in the advanced stages and 5% to 10% of those in limited stages of the disease, relapse. According to the studies, the relapse risk in HL decreases after 2 years. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relapse risk and event free survival (EFS) in patients with HL treated with Doxorubicin, Bleomycin, Vinblastine and Dacarbazine (ABVD), or treated with Bleomycin, Etoposide, Doxorubicin, Cyclophosphamide, Vincristine, Procarbazine, and Prednisone (BEACOPP) regimens. Material and methods: In an observational, consecutive-case scenario, 71 patients (median age 32 years; range 16 to 80 years) diagnosed within a 4-year timeframe were enrolled; all patients were treated according to standards of care. The average follow-up duration was 26 months. Results: The risk of relapse, in patients older than 40 years, decreased after 1 year, OR = 0.707 (95% CI 0.506 to 0.988), and 2 years, OR = 0.771 (95% CI 0.459 to 1.295), respectively. Patients in the advanced stages had a higher International Prognostic Score (IPS) (score ≥ 4). The overall survival at 2 years was 57.74% and the disease-specific survival at 2 years was 71.83%. Regardless, the chemotherapy regimen and the EFS time, advanced stage, high IPS and bulky disease were still associated with an increased relapse risk in patients with HL. Conclusions: The use of ABVD chemotherapy regimen followed by 2 years EFS was associated with a reduced relapse risk.
Effect of Genistein Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Mice Liver and Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Wu Cong , Zhou Siyi , Ma Sihui , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influences of oral high-dose genistein (GE) administration on exercise-induced oxidative stress, inflammatory response and tissue damage. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two mice were randomly divided into control group (Con; sedentary/0.5% CMC-Na), GE administrated group (GE; sedentary/GE dosed), exercise group (Ex; exercise/0.5% CMC-Na), or GE administrated plus exercise group (GE + Ex; exercise/GE dosed), mice in the GE and GE + Ex group were given GE orally at the dose of 200 mg/kg weight. Results: Plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, liver interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase (CAT), hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene expression levels and skeletal muscle IL-6, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), and HO-1 gene expression levels increased immediately after exhaustive exercise. GE supplementation increased liver protein carbonyl concentrations. On the other hand, GE supplementation significantly decreased SOD1, CAT gene expression levels in the liver and Nrf2, and HO-1 gene expression levels in the skeletal muscles. Conclusions: Acute exercise induced organ damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress in skeletal muscles and the liver. However, a single dose of GE supplementation before exercise did not lead to favorable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in this study.
The Influence of Different Operation Conditions on the Treatment of Mariculture Wastewater by the Combined System of Anoxic Filter and Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Ding Yi , Guo Zhansheng , Ma Binyu , Wang Fang , You Hong , Mei Junxue , Hou Xuguang , Liang Zhenlin , Li Zhipeng , Jin Chao
Published: September 2021

The mariculture wastewater treatment performance for the combined system of anoxic filter and membrane bioreactor (AF-MBR) was investigated under different hydraulic retention times (HRTs), influent alkalinity, and influent ammonia nitrogen load. The results showed that the removal efficiencies of TOC and total nitrogen were slightly better at the HRT of 8 h than at other HRTs, and the phosphate removal efficiency decreased with the increase of HRT. With the increase of influent alkalinity, the removal of TOC and phosphate did not change significantly. With the increase of influent alkalinity from 300 mg/L to 500 mg/L, the total nitrogen removal efficiency of AF-MBR was improved, but the change of the removal efficiency was not obvious when the alkalinity increased from 500 mg/L to 600 mg/L. When the influent concentration of ammonia nitrogen varied from 20 mg/L to 50 mg/L, the removal efficiencies of TOC, phosphate, and total nitrogen by AF-MBR were stable. An interesting finding was that in all the different operation conditions examined, the treatment efficiency of AF-MBR was always better than that of the control MBR. The concentrations of NO3−-N in AF-MBR were relatively low, whereas NO3−-N accumulated in the control MBR. The reason was that the microorganisms attached to the carrier and remained fixed in the aerobic and anoxic spaces, so that there was a gradual enrichment of bacteria characterized by slow growth in a high-salt environment. In addition, the microorganisms could gather and grow on the carrier forming a biofilm with higher activity, a richer and more stable population, and enhanced ability to resist a load impact.
Evaluating Protein Fouling on Membranes Patterned by Woven Mesh Fabrics
Authors: Malakian Anna , Husson Scott M.
Published: September 2021

Membrane surface patterning is one approach used to mitigate fouling. This study used a combination of flux decline measurements and visualization experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of a microscale herringbone pattern for reducing protein fouling on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration membranes. Thermal embossing with woven mesh stamps was used for the first time to pattern membranes. Embossing process parameters were studied to identify conditions replicating the mesh patterns with high fidelity and to determine their effect on membrane permeability. Permeability increased or remained constant when patterning at low pressure (≤4.4 MPa) as a result of increased effective surface area; whereas permeability decreased at higher pressures due to surface pore-sealing of the membrane active layer upon compression. Flux decline measurements with dilute protein solutions showed monotonic decreases over time, with lower rates for patterned membranes than as-received membranes. These data were analyzed by the Hermia model to follow the transient nature of fouling. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) provided complementary, quantitative, spatiotemporal information about protein deposition on as-received and patterned membrane surfaces. CLSM provided a greater level of detail for the early (pre-monolayer) stage of fouling than could be deduced from flux decline measurements. Images show that the protein immediately started to accumulate rapidly on the membranes, likely due to favorable hydrophobic interactions between the PVDF and protein, followed by decreasing rates of fouling with time as protein accumulated on the membrane surface. The knowledge generated in this study can be used to design membranes that inhibit fouling or otherwise direct foulants to deposit selectively in regions that minimize loss of flux.
Response Surface Methodology for Boron Removal by Donnan Dialysis: Doehlert Experimental Design
Authors: Trifi Ikhlass Marzouk , Chaabane Lobna , Dammak Lasâad , Baklouti Lassaad , Hamrouni Béchir
Published: September 2021

The removal of boron by Donnan dialysis from aqueous solutions has been studied according to response surface methodology (RSM). First, a preliminary study was performed with two membranes (AFN and ACS) in order to determine the experimental field based on different parameters, such as the pH of the feed compartment, the concentration of counter-ions in the receiver compartment, and the concentration of boron in the feed compartment. The best removal rate of boron was 75% with the AFN membrane, but only 48% with the ACS membrane. Then, a full-factor design was developed to determine the influence of these parameters and their interactions on the removal of boron by Donnan dialysis. The pH of the feed compartment was found to be the most important parameter. The RSM was applied according to the Doehlert model to determine the optimum conditions ([B] = 66 mg/L, pH = 11.6 and [Cl−] = 0.5 mol/L) leading to 88.8% of boron removal with an AFN membrane. The use of the RSM can be considered a good solution to determine the optimum condition for 13.8% compared to the traditional “one-at-a-time” method.
Study on the Hot Cracking Law of Inconel 690/52M Welding Material on F304LN Base Metal by Multi-Layer Cladding
Authors: Lu Li , Cai Zhipeng , Yang Jia , Liang Zhenxin , Sun Qian , Pan Jiluan
Published: September 2021

During the welding of 690 nickel-based alloy, solidification cracking (SFC) and ductility-dip cracking (DDC) easily forms, which has a negative effect on the quality of welded joints and service life. The present study examined the effects of welding heat input and cladding layers on the SFC and DDC, as well as their formation mechanism. The microstructure observation, elemental distribution, and Varestraint test were carried out. The results show that SFC and DDC were formed for the Inconel filler metal 52M, and SFC is more prone to form than DDC. The alloy elements such as Fe, Si, C, and P from base metal can expand the solidification temperature range, such that the SFC sensitivity increases. With the increase of welding heat input, the grain size of cladding metal is increased with a great SFC sensitivity. The increasing welding heat input also makes DDC possible due to the formation of a large angle grain boundary.
Comparison of Kit-Based Metabolomics with Other Methodologies in a Large Cohort, towards Establishing Reference Values
Authors: Saigusa Daisuke , Hishinuma Eiji , Matsukawa Naomi , Takahashi Masatomo , Inoue Jin , Tadaka Shu , Motoike Ikuko N. , Hozawa Atsushi , Izumi Yoshihiro , Bamba Takeshi , Kinoshita Kengo , Ekroos Kim , Koshiba Seizo , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: September 2021

Metabolic profiling is an omics approach that can be used to observe phenotypic changes, making it particularly attractive for biomarker discovery. Although several candidate metabolites biomarkers for disease expression have been identified in recent clinical studies, the reference values of healthy subjects have not been established. In particular, the accuracy of concentrations measured by mass spectrometry (MS) is unclear. Therefore, comprehensive metabolic profiling in large-scale cohorts by MS to create a database with reference ranges is essential for evaluating the quality of the discovered biomarkers. In this study, we tested 8700 plasma samples by commercial kit-based metabolomics and separated them into two groups of 6159 and 2541 analyses based on the different ultra-high-performance tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) systems. We evaluated the quality of the quantified values of the detected metabolites from the reference materials in the group of 2541 compared with the quantified values from other platforms, such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (SFC-MS/MS) and UHPLC-Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FTMS). The values of the amino acids were highly correlated with the NMR results, and lipid species such as phosphatidylcholines and ceramides showed good correlation, while the values of triglycerides and cholesterol esters correlated less to the lipidomics analyses performed using SFC-MS/MS and UHPLC-FTMS. The evaluation of the quantified values by MS-based techniques is essential for metabolic profiling in a large-scale cohort.
Dynamics in Anemia Development and Dysregulation of Iron Homeostasis in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Lanser Lukas , Burkert Francesco Robert , Bellmann-Weiler Rosa , Schroll Andrea , Wildner Sophie , Fritsche Gernot , Weiss Günter
Published: September 2021

Anemia and disturbances of iron metabolism are frequently encountered in patients with COVID-19 and associated with an adverse clinical course. We retrospectively analyzed 645 consecutive COVID-19 patients hospitalized at the Innsbruck University Hospital. Pre-existing anemia was associated with increased risk for in-hospital death. We further found that the decline in hemoglobin levels during hospital stay is more pronounced in patients with signs of hyperinflammation upon admission, the latter being associated with a nearly two-fold higher risk for new onset anemia within one week. Anemia prevalence increased from 44.3% upon admission to 87.8% in patients who were still hospitalized after two weeks. A more distinct decrease in hemoglobin levels was observed in subjects with severe disease, and new-onset anemia was associated with a higher risk for ICU admission. Transferrin levels decreased within the first week of hospitalization in all patients, however, a continuous decline was observed in subjects who died. Hemoglobin, ferritin, and transferrin levels normalized in a median of 122 days after discharge from hospital. This study uncovers pre-existing anemia as well as low transferrin concentrations as risk factors for mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, whereas new-onset anemia during hospitalization is a risk factor for ICU admission. Anemia and iron disturbances are mainly driven by COVID-19 associated inflammation, and cure from infection results in resolution of anemia and normalization of dysregulated iron homeostasis.
Are Fecal Metabolome and Microbiota Profiles Correlated with Autism Severity? A Cross-Sectional Study on ASD Preschoolers
Authors: Laghi Luca , Mastromarino Paola , Prosperi Margherita , Morales Maria Aurora , Calderoni Sara , Santocchi Elisa , Muratori Filippo , Guiducci Letizia
Published: September 2021

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) make up a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social and communication difficulties associated with repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Besides core features, metabolic imbalances, inflammation, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, and altered gut microbiota composition were often described in association with ASD, but their connection with the severity of autism (SA) remains unexplored. In this study, fecal metabolome, microbiota, and calprotectin levels of 80 ASD preschoolers were quantified and correlated with SA. Twelve of the fifty-nine molecules that were quantified by fecal metabolome analysis were significantly associated with SA. No links between SA or GI symptoms and microorganisms’ relative abundance were highlighted. Significant correlations between bifidobacteria, Sutterella, lactobacilli relative abundance, and metabolomics profiles were found. These results suggest that fecal metabolome discriminates the SA and intestinal microorganisms mediate the link between metabolome and SA regardless of GI symptomatology. The study raises the possibility that grouping ASD populations through metabolomics and fecal microbiota could aid the identification of specific ASD endophenotypes, on the basis of the SA. Mechanistic studies focusing on detected biomarkers might be an option for future studies.
Characterizing Marathon-Induced Metabolic Changes Using 1H-NMR Metabolomics
Authors: Bester Rachelle , Stander Zinandré , Mason Shayne , Keane Karen M. , Howatson Glyn , Clifford Tom , Stevenson Emma J. , Loots Du Toit
Published: September 2021

Although physical activity is a health-promoting, popular global pastime, regular engagement in strenuous exercises, such as long-distance endurance running races, has been associated with a variety of detrimental physiological and immunological health effects. The resulting altered physiological state has previously been associated with fluctuations in various key metabolite concentrations; however, limited literature exists pertaining to the global/holistic metabolic changes that are induced by such. This investigation subsequently aims at elucidating the metabolic changes induced by a marathon by employing an untargeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectrometry metabolomics approach. A principal component analysis (PCA) plot revealed a natural differentiation between pre- and post-marathon metabolic profiles of the 30-athlete cohort, where 17 metabolite fluctuations were deemed to be statistically significant. These included reduced concentrations of various amino acids (AA) along with elevated concentrations of ketone bodies, glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and AA catabolism intermediates. Moreover, elevated concentrations of creatinine and creatine in the post-marathon group supports previous findings of marathon-induced muscle damage. Collectively, the results of this investigation characterize the strenuous metabolic load induced by a marathon and the consequential regulation of main energy-producing pathways to accommodate this, and a better description of the cause of the physiological changes seen after the completion of a marathon.
Efficiency Enhancement of Electro-Adsorption Desalination Using Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Incorporated Activated Carbon Nanocomposite
Authors: Yasin Ahmed , Mohamed Ahmed , Kim Donghyun , Yoon Sungmin , Ra Howon , Lee Kyubock
Published: September 2021

Capacitive deionization (CDI) technology is currently considered a potential candidate for brackish water desalination. In this study, we designed iron oxide nanoparticle-incorporated activated carbon (AC/Fe2O3) via a facile and cost-effective hydrothermal process. The as-synthesized material was characterized using several techniques and tested as electrodes in CDI applications. We found that the distinctive properties of the AC/Fe2O3 electrode, i.e., high wettability, high surface area, unique structural morphology, and high conductivity, resulted in promising CDI performance. The electrosorptive capacity of the AC/Fe2O3 nanocomposite reached 6.76 mg g−1 in the CDI process, with a high specific capacitance of 1157.5 F g−1 at 10 mV s−1 in a 1 M NaCl electrolyte. This study confirms the potential use of AC/Fe2O3 nanocomposites as viable electrode materials in CDI and other electrochemical applications.
A Time Division Multiplexing Inspired Lightweight Soft Exoskeleton for Hip and Ankle Joint Assistance
Authors: Ye Xin , Chen Chunjie , Shi Yanguo , Chen Lingxing , Wang Zhuo , Zhang Zhewen , Liu Yida , Wu Xinyu
Published: September 2021

Exoskeleton robots are frequently applied to augment or assist the user’s natural motion. Generally, each assisted joint corresponds to at least one specific motor to ensure the independence of movement between joints. This means that as there are more joints to be assisted, more motors are required, resulting in increasing robot weight, decreasing motor utilization, and weakening exoskeleton robot assistance efficiency. To solve this problem, the design and control of a lightweight soft exoskeleton that assists hip-plantar flexion of both legs in different phases during a gait cycle with only one motor is presented in this paper. Inspired by time-division multiplexing and the symmetry of walking motion, an actuation scheme that uses different time-periods of the same motor to transfer different forces to different joints is formulated. An automatic winding device is designed to dynamically change the loading path of the assistive force at different phases of the gait cycle. The system is designed to assist hip flexion and plantar flexion of both legs with only one motor, since there is no overlap between the hip flexion movement and the toe-offs movement of the separate legs during walking. The weight of the whole system is only 2.24 kg. PD iterative control is accomplished by an algorithm that utilizes IMUs attached on the thigh recognizing the maximum hip extension angle to characterize toe-offs indirectly, and two load cells to monitor the cable tension. In the study of six subjects, muscle fatigue of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius and soleus decreased by an average of 14.69%, 6.66%, 17.71%, and 8.15%, respectively, compared to scenarios without an exoskeleton.