bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personality and Age of Male National Team of Ukraine in Kyokushin Karate—Pilot Study
Authors: Piepiora Paweł , Kindzer Bogdan , Bagińska Justyna , Cynarski Wojciech J.
Published: June 2022

This article is a continuation of the research on personality in combat sports in karate. The authors’ goal was to verify the relationship between personality and age of kyokushin karate practitioners. The male national team of Ukraine in karate kyokushin (N = 7) participated in the personality study with the use of the Big Five model. The NEO-FFI (NEO Five-Factor Inventory) Personality Questionnaire was applied as a research tool and the package of statistical methods IBM SPSS Statistics 27.0 (IBM Polska, Warszawa, Poland) was used to compute the research results. The study showed that there were differences in the intensity of openness to experiences between individual samples only at the level of the statistical trend. Masters showed a higher level of openness to experiences in relation to juniors (p = 0.081) and seniors (p = 0.097). Also, a negative and strong correlation between the intensity of neuroticism and conscientiousness among the respondents was noted. A conclusion was drawn that, with age, karatekas probably manifest greater openness to experience, which is the result of their sports experience, high sports level and pro-health values of karate. On the other hand, good emotional adaptation of karatekas is strictly related to conscientiousness.
An-m-Health Intervention Using Smartphone App to Improve Physical Activity in College Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Al-Nawaiseh Hala K. , McIntosh William A. , McKyer Lisako J.
Published: June 2022

Using m-Health apps can provide researchers and others with an effective way for improving physical activity (PA) and healthy lifestyle behaviors. The promotion of health should move from a model focused on the physical and biological basis of illness and towards a focus on the behavioral changes that support health. Therefore, the aims of the current study were to improve PA (step-counts) and body weight using a theory-based m-Health app. A 12-week randomized treatment trial was carried out at Texas A&M University, Texas, college station. College students (n = 130) were recruited. They were randomized in an equal ratio of 1:1 to intervention (m-Health app) (n = 65) and control (n = 65) conditions. The response rate was (87.6%). Both groups utilized a Smartphone app. The intervention group received PA goals of (10,000 steps/day), using an m-Health app. The control group was provided with information related to daily recommended PA levels. The primary change was daily step count between the baseline and follow-up. The secondary outcome was the body mass index (BMI). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the baseline differences between the control and intervention groups. Independent sample t-test were used for comparison between the intervention and control groups. Post-intervention PAs were higher for the intervention group (mean = 54,896.) vs. control group (mean = 45,530.12; p < 0.05). The intervention group’s step-counts increased significantly (pre-mean = 40,320.38 steps per week; post-mean = 54,896.27 steps per week, p < 0.05). The body-weight changes were significant among the intervention group (p < 0.05). m-Health apps can increase PA and improve body weight, with goal setting and feedback as key intervention components. Future studies should personalize PA goals and feedback.
Validity and Reliability of the Korean Version of the Holistic Nursing Competence Scale
Authors: Seo Kawoun , Jang Taejeong , Kim Taehui
Published: June 2022

This methodological study aimed to verify the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the Holistic Nursing Competence Scale (HNCS), which comprises five dimensions and 36 items. The English version of the HNCS was forward and backward translated and administered to 251 participants with more than a year of work experience in a general hospital. Data were analyzed using SPSS WIN 24.0(Chicago, IL, USA), and AMOS program was used for confirmatory factor analysis. Additionally, the “Task Performance Evaluation Instrument for Clinical Nurses” was used for concurrent validity. Reliability assessed using Cronbach’s α was 0.969. Convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity were good. Average variance extracted and construct reliability ranged from 0.845 to 0.932 and 0.980 to 0.987, respectively. The model was suitable with the chi-square value being 1216.563 (df = 584, p < 0.001), and Q value being less than three. Goodness-of-fit index, root mean square residual, and root mean square error of approximation were 0.784, 0.066, and 0.066, respectively. Moreover, comparative fit index, Tucker–Lewis index, and incremental fit index were 0.913, 0.906, and 0.913, respectively. Thus, this study verified the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the HNCS. Our findings suggest that the scale is helpful in measuring and developing the holistic nursing competence of clinical nurses.
Impact of Dietary Patterns on Plaque Acidogenicity and Dental Caries in Early Childhood: A Retrospective Analysis in Japan
Authors: Nakai Yukie , Mori-Suzuki Yukako
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to assess the relationship of dietary patterns, such as frequency, timing, and cariogenicity of food/beverage consumption, with plaque acidogenicity and early childhood caries (ECC) in Japan. A total of 118 children aged 1–4 years who had visited the pediatric dental clinic were enrolled. We retrospectively reviewed their records to collect data including age, sex, medical history, medication, caries status, and plaque acidogenicity level at the first dental visit. The plaque acidogenicity level was measured using Cariostat®. Dietary data were collected from 3-day dietary records, and the dietary cariogenicity score was calculated from these data. Children with ECC or high plaque acidogenicity consumed between-meal sugars more frequently than did their counterparts (p = 0.002 and p = 0.006, respectively). Children with ECC or high plaque acidogenicity drank juices between meals more frequently than at mealtimes (p = 0.02). Frequent consumption of between-meal sugars was associated with higher plaque acidogenicity and ECC, and frequent breast/bottle feeding was associated with ECC. No differences were found in the dietary cariogenicity scores between these groups. Therefore, the frequency and timing of sugar consumption, might affect plaque acidogenicity and ECC, and reducing the frequency of sugar intake could prevent ECC.
How to Evaluate Investment Efficiency of Environmental Pollution Control: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhao Xiaochun , Long Laichun , Sun Qun , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2022

Clarifying the efficiency of investment in environmental pollution control is conducive to better control of environmental pollution. Based on panel data of 30 provinces and cities in China from 2008 to 2017, this study combines the three-stage super-efficient SBM-DEA model and the Global-Malmquist-Luenberger index to measure the efficiency of investment in environmental pollution control in China and analyze regional differences. The results show that: First, the investment efficiency of environmental pollution control in China shows a rising trend year by year, but there are significant differences among provinces and regions; the presence of random factors and environmental variables makes the control efficiency underestimated. Second, excluding the effects of both, the national investment efficiency of environmental pollution control has improved significantly, but still has not reached the optimal effect; the gap between provinces and regions has narrowed while the investment efficiency of environmental pollution control has improved, and there is still an unbalanced situation. Third, the main driver of the year-on-year improvement in China’s environmental pollution control efficiency is technological progress; compared with northeastern China, technological progress has a more significant role in promoting eastern, central, and western China. Finally, based on the results, this paper focuses on making suggestions to promote environmental pollution control in China in terms of making regional cooperation, making good environmental protection investment and strengthening environmental protection technology research and development.
Psychological Counseling during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Clinical Thoughts and Implications Arisen from an Experience in Italian Schools
Authors: Loscalzo Yura
Published: June 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a psychologist in two schools: a comprehensive school (an institution including three school levels: kindergarten, primary school, and secondary school of first grade) and a Provincial Center for the Education of Adults (CPIA). This paper provides some clinical considerations that arose from this personal experience, focusing on practical implications for school psychological counseling. Among the main points, I noticed that students were eager to disclose information about themselves in a professional space, were not afraid of being ridiculed by classmates for attending the service, and spontaneously used artistic media. Using English (a non-native language for both the Italian psychologist and the CPIA student) emerged as an added value for immigrant students who were not fluent in Italian. This allowed them to attend the psychology service and share their thoughts and feelings despite their difficulties with Italian. In conclusion, psychological counseling services should be implemented in all schools and across all school levels worldwide to favor psychological well-being and spread a culture prone to asking for psychological help. Moreover, using a non-native language might be helpful when working with international students. Finally, sandplay therapy (and art) might be an additional option to verbal counseling in school settings.
Evasion of Antimicrobial Activity in Acinetobacter baumannii by Target Site Modifications: An Effective Resistance Mechanism
Authors: Martínez-Trejo Arturo , Ruiz-Ruiz Juan Manuel , Gonzalez-Avila Luis Uriel , Saldaña-Padilla Andrés , Hernández-Cortez Cecilia , Loyola-Cruz Miguel Angel , Bello-López Juan Manuel , Castro-Escarpulli Graciela
Published: June 2022

Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative bacillus that causes multiple infections that can become severe, mainly in hospitalized patients. Its high ability to persist on abiotic surfaces and to resist stressors, together with its high genomic plasticity, make it a remarkable pathogen. Currently, the isolation of strains with high antimicrobial resistance profiles has gained relevance, which complicates patient treatment and prognosis. This resistance capacity is generated by various mechanisms, including the modification of the target site where antimicrobial action is directed. This mechanism is mainly generated by genetic mutations and contributes to resistance against a wide variety of antimicrobials, such as β-lactams, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, among others, including polymyxin resistance, which includes colistin, a rescue antimicrobial used in the treatment of multidrug-resistant strains of A. baumannii and other Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide a detailed and up-to-date description of antimicrobial resistance mediated by the target site modification in A. baumannii, as well as to detail the therapeutic options available to fight infections caused by this bacterium.
Human Superantibodies to 3CLpro Inhibit Replication of SARS-CoV-2 across Variants
Authors: Glab-ampai Kittirat , Kaewchim Kanasap , Saenlom Thanatsaran , Thepsawat Watayagorn , Mahasongkram Kodchakorn , Sookrung Nitat , Chaicumpa Wanpen , Chulanetra Monrat
Published: June 2022

Broadly effective and safe anti-coronavirus agent is existentially needed. Major protease (3CLpro) is a highly conserved enzyme of betacoronaviruses. The enzyme plays pivotal role in the virus replication cycle. Thus, it is a good target of a broadly effective anti-Betacoronavirus agent. In this study, human single-chain antibodies (HuscFvs) of the SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro were generated using phage display technology. The 3CLpro-bound phages were used to infect Escherichia coli host for the production the 3CLpro-bound HuscFvs. Computerized simulation was used to guide the selection of the phage infected-E. coli clones that produced HuscFvs with the 3CLpro inhibitory potential. HuscFvs of three phage infected-E. coli clones were predicted to form contact interface with residues for 3CLpro catalytic activity, substrate binding, and homodimerization. These HuscFvs were linked to a cell-penetrating peptide to make them cell-penetrable, i.e., became superantibodies. The superantibodies blocked the 3CLpro activity in vitro, were not toxic to human cells, traversed across membrane of 3CLpro-expressing cells to co-localize with the intracellular 3CLpro and most of all, they inhibited replication of authentic SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan wild type and α, β, δ, and Omicron variants that were tested. The superantibodies should be investigated further towards clinical application as a safe and broadly effective anti-Betacoronavirus agent.
Cis-Element Engineering Promotes the Expression of Bacillus subtilis Type I L-Asparaginase and Its Application in Food
Authors: Niu Jiafeng , Yan Ruxue , Shen Juan , Zhu Xiaoyu , Meng Fanqiang , Lu Zhaoxin , Lu Fengxia
Published: June 2022

Type I L-asparaginase from Bacillus licheniformis Z-1 (BlAase) was efficiently produced and secreted in Bacillus subtilis RIK 1285, but its low yield made it unsuitable for industrial use. Thus, a combined method was used in this study to boost BlAase synthesis in B. subtilis. First, fifteen single strong promoters were chosen to replace the original promoter P43, with PyvyD achieving the greatest BlAase activity (436.28 U/mL). Second, dual-promoter systems were built using four promoters (PyvyD, P43, PaprE, and PspoVG) with relatively high BlAase expression levels to boost BlAase output, with the engine of promoter PaprE-PyvyD reaching 502.11 U/mL. The activity of BlAase was also increased (568.59 U/mL) by modifying key portions of the PaprE-PyvyD promoter. Third, when the ribosome binding site (RBS) sequence of promoter PyvyD was replaced, BlAase activity reached 790.1 U/mL, which was 2.27 times greater than the original promoter P43 strain. After 36 h of cultivation, the BlAase expression level in a 10 L fermenter reached 2163.09 U/mL, which was 6.2 times greater than the initial strain using promoter P43. Moreover, the application potential of BlAase on acrylamide migration in potato chips was evaluated. Results showed that 89.50% of acrylamide in fried potato chips could be removed when combined with blanching and BlAase treatment. These findings revealed that combining transcription and translation techniques are effective strategies to boost recombinant protein output, and BlAase can be a great candidate for controlling acrylamide in food processing.
Intestinal Epithelial Cells Modulate the Production of Enterotoxins by Porcine Enterotoxigenic E. coli Strains
Authors: Wang Haixiu , Cox Eric , Devriendt Bert
Published: June 2022

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) strains are one of the most common etiological agents of diarrhea in both human and farm animals. In addition to encoding toxins that cause diarrhea, ETEC have evolved numerous strategies to interfere with host defenses. These strategies most likely depend on the sensing of host factors, such as molecules secreted by gut epithelial cells. The present study tested whether the exposure of ETEC to factors secreted by polarized IPEC-J2 cells resulted in transcriptional changes of ETEC-derived virulence factors. Following the addition of host-derived epithelial factors, genes encoding enterotoxins, secretion-system-associated proteins, and the key regulatory molecule cyclic AMP (cAMP) receptor protein (CRP) were substantially modulated, suggesting that ETEC recognize and respond to factors produced by gut epithelial cells. To determine whether these factors were heat sensitive, the IEC-conditioned medium was incubated at 56 °C for 30 min. In most ETEC strains, heat treatment of the IEC-conditioned medium resulted in a loss of transcriptional modulation. Taken together, these data suggest that secreted epithelial factors play a role in bacterial pathogenesis by modulating the transcription of genes encoding key ETEC virulence factors. Further research is warranted to identify these secreted epithelial factors and how ETEC sense these molecules to gain a competitive advantage in the early engagement of the gut epithelium.
Large Benefit from Simple Things: High-Dose Vitamin A Improves RBP4-Related Retinal Dystrophy
Authors: Smirnov Vasily M. , Wilmet Baptiste , Nassisi Marco , Condroyer Christel , Antonio Aline , Andrieu Camille , Devisme Céline , Sancho Serge , Sahel José-Alain , Zeitz Christina , Audo Isabelle
Published: June 2022

Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are a group of heterogeneous disorders, most of which lead to blindness with limited therapeutic options. Pathogenic variants in RBP4, coding for a major blood carrier of retinol, retinol-binding protein 4, are responsible for a peculiar form of IRD. The aim of this study was to investigate if retinal function of an RBP4-related IRD patient can be improved by retinol administration. Our patient presented a peculiar white-dot retinopathy, reminiscent of vitamin A deficient retinopathy. Using a customized next generation sequencing (NGS) IRD panel we discovered a novel loss-of-function homozygous pathogenic variant in RBP4: c.255G >A, p.(Trp85*). Western blotting revealed the absence of RBP4 protein in the patient’s serum. Blood retinol levels were undetectable. The patient was put on a high-dose oral retinol regimen (50,000 UI twice a week). Subjective symptoms and retinal function markedly and sustainably improved at 5-months and 1-year follow-up. Here we show that this novel IRD case can be treated by oral retinol administration.
Allicin as a Volatile or Nebulisable Antimycotic for the Treatment of Pulmonary Mycoses: In Vitro Studies Using a Lung Flow Test Rig
Authors: Schier Christina , Foerster (née Reiter) Jana , Heupel Monika , Dörner Philipp , Klaas Michael , Schröder Wolfgang , Rink Lothar , Slusarenko Alan J. , Gruhlke Martin C. H.
Published: June 2022

Fungal infections of the lung are an increasing problem worldwide and the search for novel therapeutic agents is a current challenge due to emerging resistance to current antimycotics. The volatile defence substance allicin is formed naturally by freshly injured garlic plants and exhibits broad antimicrobial potency. Chemically synthesised allicin was active against selected fungi upon direct contact and via the gas phase at comparable concentrations to the pharmaceutically used antimycotic amphotericin B. We investigated the suppression of fungal growth by allicin vapour and aerosols in vitro in a test rig at air flow conditions mimicking the human lung. The effect of allicin via the gas phase was enhanced by ethanol. Our results suggest that allicin is a potential candidate for development for use in antifungal therapy for lung and upper respiratory tract infections.
Enhancing the Performance of Ceramic-Rich Polymer Composite Electrolytes Using Polymer Grafted LLZO
Authors: Ranque Pierre , Zagórski Jakub , Accardo Grazia , Orue Mendizabal Ander , López del Amo Juan Miguel , Boaretto Nicola , Martinez-Ibañez Maria , Arrou-Vignod Hugo , Aguesse Frederic , Armand Michel , Devaraj Shanmukaraj
Published: June 2022

Solid-state batteries are the holy grail for the next generation of automotive batteries. The development of solid-state batteries requires efficient electrolytes to improve the performance of the cells in terms of ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability, interfacial compatibility, and so on. These requirements call for the combined properties of ceramic and polymer electrolytes, making ceramic-rich polymer electrolytes a promising solution to be developed. Aligned with this aim, we have shown a surface modification of Ga substituted Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO), to be an essential strategy for the preparation of ceramic-rich electrolytes. Ceramic-rich polymer membranes with surface-modified LLZO show marked improvements in the performance, in terms of electrolyte physical and electrochemical properties, as well as coulombic efficiency, interfacial compatibility, and cyclability of solid-state cells.
Population Genetic Structure of the Bean Leaf Beetle Ootheca mutabilis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in Uganda
Authors: Kanyesigye Dalton , Alibu Vincent Pius , Tay Wee Tek , Nalela Polycarp , Paparu Pamela , Olaboro Samuel , Nkalubo Stanley Tamusange , Kayondo Ismail Siraj , Silva Gonçalo , Seal Susan E. , Otim Michael Hilary
Published: June 2022

Bean leaf beetle (BLB) (Ootheca mutabilis) has emerged as an important bean pest in Uganda, leading to devastating crop losses. There is limited information on the population genetic structure of BLB despite its importance. In this study, novel microsatellite DNA markers and the partial mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) gene sequences were used to analyze the spatial population genetic structure, genetic differentiation and haplotype diversity of 86 O. mutabilis samples from 16 (districts) populations. We identified 19,356 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) (mono, di-, tri-, tetra-, penta-, and hexa-nucleotides) of which 81 di, tri and tetra-nucleotides were selected for primer synthesis. Five highly polymorphic SSR markers (4–21 alleles, heterozygosity 0.59–0.84, polymorphic information content (PIC) 50.13–83.14%) were used for this study. Analyses of the 16 O. mutabilis populations with these five novel SSRs found nearly all the genetic variation occurring within populations and there was no evidence of genetic differentiation detected for both types of markers. Also, there was no evidence of isolation by distance between geographical and genetic distances for SSR data and mtCOI data except in one agro-ecological zone for mtCOI data. Bayesian clustering identified a signature of admixture that suggests genetic contributions from two hypothetical ancestral genetic lineages for both types of markers, and the minimum-spanning haplotype network showed low differentiation in minor haplotypes from the most common haplotype with the most common haplotype occurring in all the 16 districts. A lack of genetic differentiation indicates unrestricted migrations between populations. This information will contribute to the design of BLB control strategies.
Sulfur-Containing Compounds from Endophytic Fungi: Sources, Structures and Bioactivities
Authors: Fan Yaqin , Ma Zhiheng , Zhang Yan , Wang Yufei , Ding Yousong , Wang Cong , Cao Shugeng
Published: June 2022

Endophytic fungi have attracted increasing attention as an under-explored source for the discovery and development of structurally and functionally diverse secondary metabolites. These microorganisms colonize their hosts, primarily plants, and demonstrate diverse ecological distribution. Among endophytic fungal natural products, sulfur-containing compounds feature one or more sulfur atoms and possess a range of bioactivities, e.g., cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activities. These natural products mainly belong to the classes of polyketides, nonribosomal peptides, terpenoids, and hybrids. Here, we reviewed the fungal producers, plant sources, chemical structures, and bioactivities of 143 new sulfur-containing compounds that were reported from 1985 to March 2022.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Mortality Risk Factors Comparison in Dialysis and Non-Dialysis CKD Patients with COVID-19—A Single Center Experience
Authors: Niculae Andrei , Peride Ileana , Nechita Ana-Maria , Petcu Lucian Cristian , Tiglis Mirela , Checherita Ionel Alexandru
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: Despite some controversies between studies, chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a negative impact on COVID-19 outcomes, with patients presenting a higher mortality risk than in the general population. Studies have shown an association between COVID-19 severe cases and different inflammatory biomarkers. The aim of this study was to emphasize the epidemiological characteristics of CKD patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and to determine if the risk of mortality, and the severity of this infection might be influenced by different parameters. (2) Methods: Our retrospective study included CKD patients with COVID-19—362 in the non-dialysis group and 132 in the dialysis group. (3) Results: There were significant statistical differences between our groups regarding age (p < 0.001), hemoglobin (p < 0.001), interleukin-6 (p < 0.001), serum albumin (p = 0.016), procalcitonin (p = 0.002), ferritin (p < 0.001), and of course serum creatinine (p < 0.001). Even if the risk of death was higher in the dialysis group (Exp(b) = 1.839), the survival proportions were similar in both groups. (4) Conclusions: High values of hemoglobin, serum creatinine, and LDH at admission, age, length of hospital stay ≤ 10 days, and a pulmonary impairment > 25% are responsible for an adverse outcome in non-dialysis and dialysis patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
Correction: Saratale et al. Significance of Immune Status of SARS-CoV-2 Infected Patients in Determining the Efficacy of Therapeutic Interventions. J. Pers. Med. 2022, 12, 349
Authors: Saratale Ganesh Dattatraya , Shin Han-Seung , Shinde Surendra Krushna , Kim Dae-Young , Saratale Rijuta Ganesh , Kadam Avinash Ashok , Kumar Manu , Bahkali Ali Hassan , Syed Asad , Ghodake Gajanan Sampatrao
Published: June 2022

In the original publication [...]
Choosing a Dialysate Sodium Concentration for Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Davenport Andrew
Published: June 2022

One of the key goals of hemodialysis is to control sodium balance and volume status. The traditional view is that inter-dialytic sodium gains can be adequately controlled by ultrafiltration with the convective removal of sodium. However, dialyzing all patients using the same dialysate sodium concentration may potentially lead to excessive losses on the one hand and sodium gains on the other depending on dietary sodium intake, resulting in increased intra-dialytic hypotension and cramps, or greater inter-dialytic weight gains and hypertension.
Changes and Characteristics of Green Infrastructure Network Based on Spatio-Temporal Priority
Authors: Chen Xifan , Xu Lihua , Zhu Rusong , Ma Qiwei , Shi Yijun , Lu Zhangwei
Published: June 2022

With advancements in urbanization, natural lands are constantly being encroached upon by artificial impervious surfaces, leading to serious ecosystem damage. Calls for Green Infrastructure to address urban environmental issues and resource reallocation are growing. How to optimize Green Infrastructure networks are becoming increasingly important under rapid urbanization. In this study, we used the main city zone in Hangzhou as the study area, and we extracted 2000, 2010 and 2020 land-use data. We used morphological spatial pattern analysis to identify Green Infrastructure landscape types and further extract Green Infrastructure elements. We identified the spatial priority of Green Infrastructure network elements through landscape connectivity evaluation according to ecological importance and development vulnerability. After the construction of a Green Infrastructure network, we analyzed its spatio-temporal characteristics to determine the Green Infrastructure network’s spatial priority. Through spatial prioritization, the gradual construction and optimization of Green Infrastructure networks will help to improve urban green spaces in stages. Smartly coordinating urban growth and ecological protection based on Green Infrastructure spatial prioritization may help improve urban living environments and enhance sustainable urban development capabilities. In conclusion, sources dominate corridors and codes are changing. If sources are fragmented, the integration degree decreases and the first-level source advantage is weakened. The corridor morphology continuously develops, and the corridor structure stabilizes. Second-level corridors gradually replace third-level corridors to guide Green Infrastructure network structure development. Codes present a scatter distribution and tend to average, closely following corridor change.
Application of Artificial Intelligence Methods for Predicting the Compressive Strength of Self-Compacting Concrete with Class F Fly Ash
Authors: Kovačević Miljan , Lozančić Silva , Nyarko Emmanuel Karlo , Hadzima-Nyarko Marijana
Published: June 2022

Replacing a specified quantity of cement with Class F fly ash contributes to sustainable development and reducing the greenhouse effect. In order to use Class F fly ash in self-compacting concrete (SCC), a prediction model that will give a satisfactory accuracy value for the compressive strength of such concrete is required. This paper considers a number of machine learning models created on a dataset of 327 experimentally tested samples in order to create an optimal predictive model. The set of input variables for all models consists of seven input variables, among which six are constituent components of SCC, and the seventh model variable represents the age of the sample. Models based on regression trees (RTs), Gaussian process regression (GPR), support vector regression (SVR) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) are considered. The accuracy of individual models and ensemble models are analyzed. The research shows that the model with the highest accuracy is an ensemble of ANNs. This accuracy expressed through the mean absolute error (MAE) and correlation coefficient (R) criteria is 4.37 MPa and 0.96, respectively. This paper also compares the accuracy of individual prediction models and determines their accuracy. Compared to theindividual ANN model, the more transparent multi-gene genetic programming (MGPP) model and the individual regression tree (RT) model have comparable or better prediction accuracy. The accuracy of the MGGP and RT models expressed through the MAE and R criteria is 5.70 MPa and 0.93, and 6.64 MPa and 0.89, respectively.
Sulfate Freeze–Thaw Resistance of Magnesium Potassium Phosphate Cement Mortar according to Hydration Age
Authors: Ji Rong-Jian , Li Tao , Yang Jian-Ming , Xu Jun
Published: June 2022

Concrete structures can be degraded by exposure to environmental stressors such as freeze–thaw cycling and salt corrosion. Magnesium potassium phosphate cement (MKPC) mortar is useful for the rapid repair of such structures but must acquire environmental resistance rapidly. In this study, the freeze–thaw resistance of MKPC mortar specimens of different hydration ages was tested in water and a 5% Na2SO4 solution. The strength, volume deformation, and water absorption rates were compared with those of full-age MKPC mortar specimens (28 d). The phase composition and microscopic morphology of the MKPC mortar specimens before and after corrosion were observed, and the corrosion-resistance mechanism was analyzed. After 225 freeze–thaw cycles in water and sulfate solution, the strength residual rates of the early-age specimen (1 d) were higher than those of the full-age specimen (28 d). The degree of strength attenuation in the 1 d specimen was lower in the sulfate environment than in the water environment. After 225 freeze–thaw cycles, the volume expansion rates of 1 d specimens in water or sulfate were 0.487% and 0.518%, respectively, while those of 28 d specimens were 0.963% and 1.308%. The comparison shows that the 1 d specimen had significantly better deformation resistance under freeze–thaw than the 28 d specimen. After 225 freeze–thaw cycles, the water absorption rates of 1 d specimens were 1.95% and 1.64% in water and sulfate solution, respectively, while those of 28 d specimens were 2.20% and 1.83%. This indicates that freeze–thaw cycling has a greater effect on the pore structure of fully aged mortar than on early-age mortar (1 d). Therefore, MKPC mortar is suitable for the rapid repair of concrete structures in harsh environments. The results form a theoretical basis for winter emergency repair projects. They also further the understanding of the application of MKPC-based materials in extreme environments.
Predicting the Compressive Strength of the Cement-Fly Ash–Slag Ternary Concrete Using the Firefly Algorithm (FA) and Random Forest (RF) Hybrid Machine-Learning Method
Authors: Huang Jiandong , Sabri Mohanad Muayad Sabri , Ulrikh Dmitrii Vladimirovich , Ahmad Mahmood , Alsaffar Kifayah Abood Mohammed
Published: June 2022

Concrete is the most widely used material in construction. It has the characteristics of strong plasticity, good economy, high safety, and good durability. As a kind of structural material, concrete must have sufficient strength to resist various loads. At the same time, due to the brittleness of concrete, compressive strength is the most important mechanical property of concrete. To solve the disadvantages of the low efficiency of the traditional concrete compressive strength prediction methods, this study proposes a firefly algorithm (FA) and random forest (RF) hybrid machine-learning method to predict the compressive strength of concrete. First, a database is built based on the data of published articles. The dataset in the database contains eight input variables (cement, blast furnace slag, fly ash, water, superplasticizer, coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, and age) and one output variable (concrete compressive strength). Then, the correlation of the eight input variables was analyzed, and the results showed that there was no high correlation between the input variables; thus, they could be used as input variables to predict the compressive strength of concrete. Next, this study used the FA algorithm to optimize the hyperparameters of RF to obtain better hyperparameters. Finally, we verified that the FA and RF hybrid machine-learning model proposed in this study can predict the compressive strength of concrete with high accuracy by analyzing the R values and RSME values of the training set and test set and comparing the predicted value and actual value of the training set and test machine.
Use of Artificial Intelligence Methods for Predicting the Strength of Recycled Aggregate Concrete and the Influence of Raw Ingredients
Authors: Pan Xinchen , Xiao Yixuan , Suhail Salman Ali , Ahmad Waqas , Murali Gunasekaran , Salmi Abdelatif , Mohamed Abdullah
Published: June 2022

Cracking is one of the main problems in concrete structures and is affected by various parameters. The step-by-step laboratory method, which includes casting specimens, curing for a certain period, and testing, remains a source of worry in terms of cost and time. Novel machine learning methods for anticipating the behavior of raw materials on the ultimate output of concrete are being introduced to address the difficulties outlined above such as the excessive consumption of time and money. This work estimates the splitting-tensile strength of concrete containing recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) using artificial intelligence methods considering nine input parameters and 154 mixes. One individual machine learning algorithm (support vector machine) and three ensembled machine learning algorithms (AdaBoost, Bagging, and random forest) are considered. Additionally, a post hoc model-agnostic method named SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) was performed to study the influence of raw ingredients on the splitting-tensile strength. The model’s performance was assessed using the coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE). Then, the model’s performance was validated using k-fold cross-validation. The random forest model, with an R2 of 0.96, outperformed the AdaBoost models. The random forest models with greater R2 and lower error (RMSE = 0.49) had superior performance. It was revealed from the SHAP analysis that the cement content had the highest positive influence on the splitting-tensile strength of the recycled aggregate concrete and the primary contact of cement is with water. The feature interaction plot shows that high water content has a negative impact on the recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) splitting-tensile strength, but the increased cement content had a beneficial effect.
The Preforming of an Interlaminar Toughened Carbon Fiber/Bismaleimide Resin Composite by a Benzoxazine-Based Tackifier
Authors: Zi Yaxian , Zhang Yulian , Li Weidong , Liu Gang , Zhou Yujing , Bai Hua , Hu Xiaolan
Published: June 2022

When thermoplastic resin-toughened carbon fiber (CF) composites are formed by liquid resin transfer molding (RTM), the conventional methods cannot be used to set the fabric preform, which affects the overall mechanical properties of the composites. To address this challenge, the benzoxazine-based tackifier BT5501A was designed, a preforming–toughening bifunctional CF fabric was fabricated by employing thermoplastic polyaryletherketone (PEK-C), and an aviation RTM-grade bismaleimide (BMI) resin was used as the matrix to study the effect of the benzoxazine-based tackifier on the thermal curing property and heat resistance of the resin matrix. Furthermore, the preforming and toughening effects on the bifunctional CF fabric reinforced the BMI resin composites. The tackifier BT5501A has good process operability. The application of this tackifier can advance the thermal curing temperature of the BMI resin matrix and decrease the glass transition temperature of the resin, compared to that of the pure BMI resin. Furthermore, when the tackifier was added into the CF/PEK-C/BMI composites, the obtained CF/BT5501A/PEK-C/BMI composites had comparable compression strength after impact, pit depth, and damage area, compared to the CF/PEK-C/BMI composites, while the tackifier endowed the fabric preform with an excellent preforming effect.
Numerical Study on the Laser Annealing of Silicon Used in Advanced V-NAND Device
Authors: Son Yeong-Il , Shin Joonghan
Published: June 2022

Laser melt annealing of amorphous silicon (a-Si) and subsequent recrystallization of a-Si are essential processes for successfully implementing vertical NAND (V-NAND) flash memory devices developed based on the cell-over-periphery (COP) structure. The aim of this study was to develop the numerical model for the laser melting process of a-Si used in V-NAND COP structure. In this study, the numerical simulation predicting the temperature distribution induced by multipath laser scanning and beam overlapping was conducted. In particular, the temperature uniformity and melt duration issues, which are critical in practical laser melt annealing applications in semiconductor fabrication, were discussed based on the simulated temperature distribution results. According to the simulation results, it was found that the annealed surface was subjected to rapid heating and cooling. The heating and cooling rates after temperature stabilization were 4.7 × 107 K/s and 2.04 × 107 K/s, respectively. The surface temperature increased with time and beam overlap ratio owing to the preheating effect and increasing heat accumulation per unit area. Under the process conditions used in the simulation, the temperature in a-Si was far above its melting point (1440 K), which numerically indicated full melting of the a-Si layer. Temperature uniformity within the annealed area was significantly improved when an overlap ratio of 50% was used. It was also found that using an overlap ratio of 50% increased the melt duration by 29.8% compared with an overlap ratio of 25%.
Clinical Management of Acromegaly: Therapeutic Frontiers and New Perspectives for Somatostatin Receptor Ligands (SRLs)
Authors: Brunetti Alessandro , Antonini Simone , Saladino Andrea , Lavezzi Elisabetta , Zampetti Benedetta , Cozzi Renato
Published: June 2022

Somatostatin receptor ligands (SRLs) represent a true milestone in the medical therapy for acromegaly. The first-generation SRLs (FG-SRLs), octreotide and lanreotide, have demonstrated good efficacy in disease control and tumor shrinkage, and are still considered first-line medical therapies. The development of long-acting release (LAR) formulations has certainly improved the therapeutic tolerability of these drugs, although many patients still experience therapy-related burden. As such, new formulations have recently been developed to improve adherence and therapeutic efficacy and more solutions are on the way. In the case of FG-SRL-resistant disease, pasireotide, the only second generation SRL currently available, demonstrated superiority in disease control and tumor shrinkage compared to FG-SRLs. However, its use in clinical practice is still limited due to concern for impairment in glucose homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the news about the present and future role of SRLs in acromegaly, exploring the therapeutical frontiers of this drug class. Moreover, we provide practical guidance on the use of pasireotide, based on the data in the literature and our clinical experience.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Improve Chronic Kidney Disease—Associated Pruritus and Inflammation
Authors: Lin Ya-Ling , Wang Chia-Liang , Liu Kai-Li , Yeh Cheng-Nan , Chiang Tsay-I
Published: June 2022

Background and Objectives: Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus (CKD-aP) is a common symptom in hemodialysis patients. A frequent and intense itching sensation largely torments patients, impacts quality of life outcomes, and it has an independent association with mortality. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of oral supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (omega-3 PUFA) on circulating interleukin-6 (IL-6), cardiometabolic parameters, skin moisturization, and the consequent symptoms of pruritus in hemodialysis patients. Materials and Methods: Volunteers on maintenance hemodialysis with very severe pruritus symptoms were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Subjects were instructed to consume 1000 mg fish oil once daily for 3 months. Pruritus scoring, skin moisture, plasma IL-6, and cardiometabolic parameters were measured at baseline, and at the first, second, and third month post-supplementation with fish oil for assessment of the clinical significance. Results: A total of 27 patients who had a mean age of 67.33 ± 11.06 years and 3.98 ± 3.23 years on hemodialysis completed the study. Supplementation with omega-3 PUFA significantly decreased IL-6 levels (p < 0.001), but increased the levels of c-reactive protein (CRP) (p < 0.05). Evaluation of the cardiovascular risk showed significant (all p < 0.001) decreases in the total cholesterol (CHO), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TG) levels, and an increase in the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level. A significant decrease in plasma creatinine (CR) was observed (p < 0.001), but the decrease was limited. Supplementation with omega-3 PUFA significantly improved (all p < 0.001) skin hydration on both the face and arms, as well as disease-related symptoms of pruritus. Conclusion: Omega-3 PUFA supplementation improved inflammation, renal function, cardiovascular parameters, dry skin conditions, and the consequent symptoms of pruritus in hemodialysis patients.
The Physical Activity and Exercise as Key Role Topic in Sports Medicine for Old People Quality of Life
Authors: Forte Pedro , Monteiro António M.
Published: June 2022

The body composition varies with ageing [...]
Characterization and Interaction with Biomembrane Model of Benzo[k,l]xanthene Lignan Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Torrisi Cristina , Cardullo Nunzio , Muccilli Vera , Tringali Corrado , Castelli Francesco , Sarpietro Maria Grazia
Published: June 2022

Benzo[k,l]xanthene lignans are a group of rare natural products belonging to the class of polyphenols with promising biological activities and are studied as potential chemotherapeutic agents. The lipophilic character of a xanthene core makes these molecules difficult to be used in an aqueous medium, limiting their employment in studies for pharmaceutical applications. To overcome this problem, a drug-delivery system which is able to improve the stability and bioavailability of the compound can be used. In this study, a bioactive benzoxanthene lignan (BXL) has been included in SLN. Unloaded and BXL-loaded SLN have been prepared using the Phase Inversion Temperature method and characterized in terms of size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency and stability. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to evaluate the thermotropic behavior and ability of SLN to act as carriers for BXL. A biomembrane model, represented by multilamellar vesicles, was used to simulate the interaction of the SLN with the cellular membrane. Unloaded and loaded SLN were incubated with the MLV, and their interactions were evaluated through variations in their calorimetric curves. The results obtained suggest that SLN could be used as a delivery system for BXL.
The Mechanism of Dynamic Interaction between Doxorubicin and Calf Thymus DNA at the Single-Molecule Level Based on Confocal Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Ruihong , Zhu Jie , Sun Dan , Li Jie , Yao Lina , Meng Shuangshuang , Li Yan , Dang Yang , Wang Kaige
Published: June 2022

It is of great fundamental significance and practical application to understand the binding sites and dynamic process of the interaction between doxorubicin (DOX) and DNA molecules. Based on the Confocal Raman spectroscopy, the interaction between DOX and calf thymus DNA has been systemically investigated, and some meaningful findings have been found. DOX molecules can not only interact with all four bases of DNA molecules, i.e., adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine, and phosphate, but also affect the DNA conformation. Meanwhile, the binding site of DOX and its derivatives such as daunorubicin and epirubicin is certain. Furthermore, the interaction between DOX and DNA molecules is a dynamic process since the intensities of each characteristic peaks of the base, e.g., adenine, cytosine, and phosphate, are all regularly changed with the interaction time. Finally, a dynamic mechanism model of the interaction between DOX and DNA molecules is proposed; that is, there are two kinds of interaction between DOX and DNA molecules: DOX-DNA acts to form a complex, and DOX-DOX acts to form a multimer. The two effects are competitive, as the former compresses DNA molecules, and the latter decompresses these DNA molecules. This work is helpful for accurately understanding and developing new drugs and pathways to improve and treat DOX-induced cytotoxicity and cardiotoxicity.
Selective Leaching of Valuable Metals from Spent Fluid Catalytic Cracking Catalyst with Oxalic Acid
Authors: Zheng Dalong , Zhang Yimin , Liu Tao , Huang Jing , Cai Zhenlei , Zhang Ruobing
Published: June 2022

The problem of spent fluid catalytic cracking (SFCC) catalyst resource utilization, draws more and more attention to system analysis. SFCC was leached in an oxalic solution for comprehensive utilization. The results showed that for a D50 ≤ 17.34 μm, the catalyst leached for 240 min at 95 °C in the presence of a 2 mol/L oxalic acid solution, and the extent of leaching of V, Ni, Fe, and Al was 73.4%, 32.4%, 48.2%, and 36.8%, respectively. Studies on the occurrence state of the main ions (V, Ni, Fe, and Al) in the leaching solution were presented. Additionally, the separation of the main ions from such a solution by the “solvent extraction-stripping-hydrothermal precipitation-comprehensive recovery of valuable metal” process was studied. The immobilization rates of vanadium and nickel in geopolymers can be obtained using the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) test, and the geopolymers prepared by SFCC leaching residues can be considered a non-hazardous material. A process diagram of the comprehensive utilization of SFCC catalysts is presented.