bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Spermine Oxidase Is Associated with Colorectal Carcinogenesis and Prognosis of Patients
Authors: Kim Sooyoun , Kim Doyeon , Roh Sanghyun , Hong Inpyo , Kim Hyeongjoo , Ahn Tae Sung , Kang Dong Hyun , Lee Moon Soo , Baek Moo-Jun , Kwak Hyoung Jong , Kim Chang-Jin , Jeong Dongjun
Published: March 2022

Uncovering tumor markers of colorectal cancer is important for the early detection and prognosis of the patients. Spermine oxidase (SMOX) is upregulated in various cancers. The present study aims to explore the biologic function and expression patterns of SMOX in colorectal cancer (CRC), the third most common type of cancer worldwide. We used quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, and in vitro functional studies in four CRC cell lines knocked down by SMOX siRNA and immunohistochemistry in 350 cases of CRC tissues. The results showed that SMOX was overexpressed in CRC cell lines and clinical samples. SMOX overexpression in tumor tissues was an independent prognostic factor, worsening overall survival (p = 0.001). The knock-down of SMOX inhibited CRC cell proliferation, invasion, and soft agar colony formation, uncovering its carcinogenic functions. This study indicated that SMOX overexpression could be an important oncogene in CRC and might serve as a valuable prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for CRC.
Predicting Childhood Obesity Using Machine Learning: Practical Considerations
Authors: Cheng Erika R. , Steinhardt Rai , Ben Miled Zina
Published: March 2022

Previous studies demonstrate the feasibility of predicting obesity using various machine learning techniques; however, these studies do not address the limitations of these methods in real-life settings where available data for children may vary. We investigated the medical history required for machine learning models to accurately predict body mass index (BMI) during early childhood. Within a longitudinal dataset of children ages 0–4 years, we developed predictive models based on long short-term memory (LSTM), a recurrent neural network architecture, using history EHR data from 2 to 8 clinical encounters to estimate child BMI. We developed separate, sex-stratified models using 80% of the data for training and 20% for external validation. We evaluated model performance using K-fold cross-validation, mean average error (MAE), and Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R2). Two history encounters and a 4-month prediction yielded a high prediction error and low correlation between predicted and actual BMI (MAE of 1.60 for girls and 1.49 for boys). Model performance improved with additional history encounters; improvement was not significant beyond five history encounters. The combined model outperformed the sex-stratified models, with a MAE = 0.98 (SD 0.03) and R2 = 0.72. Our models show that five history encounters are sufficient to predict BMI prior to age 4 for both boys and girls. Moreover, starting from an initial dataset with more than 269 exposure variables, we were able to identify a limited set of 24 variables that can facilitate BMI prediction in early childhood. Nine of these final variables are collected once, and the remaining 15 need to be updated during each visit.
An Empirical Investigation on Bubbles Contagion in Scandinavian Real Estate Markets
Authors: Bago Jean-Louis , Rherrad Imad , Akakpo Koffi , Ouédraogo Ernest
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates the presence of speculative bubbles in the Scandinavian countries namely Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden over the period from 1980Q1 to 2018Q4 and searches for evidence of bubble migration among those countries. First, we apply the GSADF test developed by Phillips et al. (2015) on quarterly housing price-to-rent ratios to test for exuberance and episodic bubbles. Subsequently, we examine bubble migration between these markets using the non-parametric model with time-varying coefficients (NPM-TVC) developed by Greenaway-McGrevy and Phillips (2016). We find evidence of episodic bubbles in all the Scandinavian real estate markets for the period 1980 to 2018. Our results also indicate that housing bubbles are contagious between these markets during several periods, and the market connection is stronger for geographically neighboring countries.
The Hodgkin Lymphoma Immune Microenvironment: Turning Bad News into Good
Authors: Menéndez Victoria , Solórzano José L. , Fernández Sara , Montalbán Carlos , García Juan F.
Published: March 2022

The classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) tumor microenvironment (TME) is by far the most abundant component of tumors and is responsible for most of their biological and clinical characteristics. Recent advances in our knowledge of these networks in cellular interactions allow us to understand that the neoplastic Hodgkin and Reed Sternberg (HRS) cells, although they are in the minority, are the main architects of this dysregulated immune milieu. Here, we review the major changes that have happened in recent years: from TME as a helpless bystander, reflecting an ineffective immune response, to a dynamic tumor-promoting and immunosuppressive element. The HRS cells promote survival through interconnected intrinsic and extrinsic alterations, boosting pro-tumoral signaling pathways through genetic aberrations and autocrine growth signals, in parallel with abnormal cytokine secretion for the recruitment and selection of the best cell partners for this immunosuppressive TME. In turn, cHL is already proving to be the perfect model with which to address an immune checkpoint blockade. Preliminary data demonstrate the utility of druggable key signaling pathways in this ensemble, such as JAK-STAT, NF-κB, and others. In addition, myriad biomarkers predicting a response await validation by new in situ multiplex analytical methods, single-cell gene expression, and other techniques. Together, these components will define the functional phenotypes with which we will elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of the disease and improve the survival of patients who are refractory to conventional therapies.
Machine Learning Applications for Differentiation of Glioma from Brain Metastasis—A Systematic Review
Authors: Jekel Leon , Brim Waverly R. , von Reppert Marc , Staib Lawrence , Cassinelli Petersen Gabriel , Merkaj Sara , Subramanian Harry , Zeevi Tal , Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Bousabarah Khaled , Lin MingDe , Cui Jin , Brackett Alexandria , Mahajan Amit , Omuro Antonio , Johnson Michele H. , Chiang Veronica L. , Malhotra Ajay , Scheffler Björn , Aboian Mariam S.
Published: March 2022

Glioma and brain metastasis can be difficult to distinguish on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to the similarity of imaging features in specific clinical circumstances. Multiple studies have investigated the use of machine learning (ML) models for non-invasive differentiation of glioma from brain metastasis. Many of the studies report promising classification results, however, to date, none have been implemented into clinical practice. After a screening of 12,470 studies, we included 29 eligible studies in our systematic review. From each study, we aggregated data on model design, development, and best classifiers, as well as quality of reporting according to the TRIPOD statement. In a subset of eligible studies, we conducted a meta-analysis of the reported AUC. It was found that data predominantly originated from single-center institutions (n = 25/29) and only two studies performed external validation. The median TRIPOD adherence was 0.48, indicating insufficient quality of reporting among surveyed studies. Our findings illustrate that despite promising classification results, reliable model assessment is limited by poor reporting of study design and lack of algorithm validation and generalizability. Therefore, adherence to quality guidelines and validation on outside datasets is critical for the clinical translation of ML for the differentiation of glioma and brain metastasis.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Lung Cancer
Authors: Chiu Hwa-Yen , Chao Heng-Sheng , Chen Yuh-Min
Published: March 2022

Lung cancer is the leading cause of malignancy-related mortality worldwide due to its heterogeneous features and diagnosis at a late stage. Artificial intelligence (AI) is good at handling a large volume of computational and repeated labor work and is suitable for assisting doctors in analyzing image-dominant diseases like lung cancer. Scientists have shown long-standing efforts to apply AI in lung cancer screening via CXR and chest CT since the 1960s. Several grand challenges were held to find the best AI model. Currently, the FDA have approved several AI programs in CXR and chest CT reading, which enables AI systems to take part in lung cancer detection. Following the success of AI application in the radiology field, AI was applied to digitalized whole slide imaging (WSI) annotation. Integrating with more information, like demographics and clinical data, the AI systems could play a role in decision-making by classifying EGFR mutations and PD-L1 expression. AI systems also help clinicians to estimate the patient’s prognosis by predicting drug response, the tumor recurrence rate after surgery, radiotherapy response, and side effects. Though there are still some obstacles, deploying AI systems in the clinical workflow is vital for the foreseeable future.
Next Generation of Cancer Drug Repurposing: Therapeutic Combination of Aspirin and Oseltamivir Phosphate Potentiates Gemcitabine to Disable Key Survival Pathways Critical for Pancreatic Cancer Progression
Authors: Qorri Bessi , Mokhtari Reza Bayat , Harless William W. , Szewczuk Myron R.
Published: March 2022

Resistance to chemotherapeutics and high metastatic rates contribute to the abysmal survival rate in patients with pancreatic cancer. An alternate approach for treating human pancreatic cancer involves repurposing the anti-inflammatory drug, aspirin (ASA), with oseltamivir phosphate (OP) in combination with the standard chemotherapeutic agent, gemcitabine (GEM). The question is whether treatment with ASA and OP can sensitize cancer cells to the cytotoxicity induced by GEM and limit the development of chemoresistance. To assess the key survival pathways critical for pancreatic cancer progression, we used the AlamarBlue cytotoxicity assay to determine the cell viability and combination index for the drug combinations, flow cytometric analysis of annexin V apoptosis assay to detect apoptotic and necrotic cells, fluorometric QCM™ chemotaxis migration assay to assess cellular migration, fluorometric extracellular matrix (ECM) cell adhesion array kit to assess the expression of the ECM proteins, scratch wound assay using the 96-well WoundMaker™, and the methylcellulose clonogenic assay to assess clonogenic potential. The combination of ASA and OP with GEM significantly upended MiaPaCa-2 and PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell viability, clonogenic potential, expression of critical extracellular matrix proteins, migration, and promoted apoptosis. ASA in combination with OP significantly improves the effectiveness of GEM in the treatment of pancreatic cancer and disables key survival pathways critical to disease progression.
Rintatolimod (Ampligen®) Enhances Numbers of Peripheral B Cells and Is Associated with Longer Survival in Patients with Locally Advanced and Metastasized Pancreatic Cancer Pre-Treated with FOLFIRINOX: A Single-Center Named Patient Program
Authors: el Haddaoui Hassana , Brood Rianne , Latifi Diba , Oostvogels Astrid A. , Klaver Yarne , Moskie Miranda , Mustafa Dana A. , Debets Reno , van Eijck Casper H. J.
Published: March 2022

Background: Treatment with the TLR-3 agonist rintatolimod may improve pancreatic cancer patients’ survival via immunomodulation, but the effect is unproven. Methods: In this single-center named patient program, patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) or metastatic disease were treated with rintatolimod (six weeks total, twice per week, with a maximum of 400 mg per infusion). The primary endpoints were the systemic immune-inflammation index (SIII), the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and the absolute counts of 18 different populations of circulating immune cells as measured by flow cytometry. Secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Subgroup analyses were performed in long-term survivors (>1-year overall survival after starting rintatolimod) and compared to short-term survivors (≤1 year). Results: Between January 2017 and February 2019, twenty-seven patients with stable LAPC or metastatic disease were pre-treated with FOLFIRINOX and treated with rintatolimod. Rintatolimod treatment was well-tolerated. The SIII and NLR values were significantly lower in the 11 long-term survivors, versus 16 short-term survivors. The numbers of B-cells were significantly increased in long-term survivors. Numbers of T cells and myeloid cells were not significantly increased after treatment with rintatolimod. Median PFS was 13 months with rintatolimod, versus 8.6 months in a subset of matched controls (n = 27, hazard ratio = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.28–0.90, p = 0.007). The median OS was 19 months with rintatolimod, versus 12.5 months in the matched control (hazard ratio = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.28–0.90, p = 0.016). Conclusions: Treatment with rintatolimod showed a favorable effect on the numbers of peripheral B cells in patients with pancreatic cancer and improved survival in pancreatic cancer, but additional evidence is required.
Synthesis of Novel Magnetic Carbon Microtube-Based Solid Acid and Its Catalytic Activities for Biodiesel Synthesis
Authors: Jiang Huijun , Dong Xiaoqiu , Shou Jianxin
Published: March 2022

Novel magnetic carbon microtube-based solid acid was synthesized via the carbonization of FeCl3-doped willow catkin and benzenediazoniumsulfonate acid-based sulfonation. The biomass willow catkin provided the special microtube structure and the high surface area of 215 m2/g for the novel solid acid. The microtube structure was well conserved during the mild carbonization (400 °C) and sulfonation process. The large number of acidic sites (2.3 mmol/g) on the microtube surface was quite accessible to reactants. Its magnetic properties offered a simple separation process. The novel solid acid showed very high activity for biodiesel synthesis, using cooking oils as raw material, which gave a total yield of 99% and free fatty acid conversion of 98.7% under mild conditions (70 °C). The facile synthetic process, high activity, high stability, and high recovery simplicity were the main properties of the novel magnetic solid acid, which is one of the best choices for biodiesel synthesis.
Palmitic and Stearic Acids Inhibit Chaperone-Mediated Autophagy (CMA) in POMC-like Neurons In Vitro
Authors: Espinosa Rodrigo , Gutiérrez Karla , Rios Javiera , Ormeño Fernando , Yantén Liliana , Galaz-Davison Pablo , Ramírez-Sarmiento César A. , Parra Valentina , Albornoz Amelina , Alfaro Iván E. , Burgos Patricia V. , Morselli Eugenia , Criollo Alfredo , Budini Mauricio
Published: March 2022

The intake of food with high levels of saturated fatty acids (SatFAs) is associated with the development of obesity and insulin resistance. SatFAs, such as palmitic (PA) and stearic (SA) acids, have been shown to accumulate in the hypothalamus, causing several pathological consequences. Autophagy is a lysosomal-degrading pathway that can be divided into macroautophagy, microautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA). Previous studies showed that PA impairs macroautophagy function and insulin response in hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons. Here, we show in vitro that the exposure of POMC neurons to PA or SA also inhibits CMA, possibly by decreasing the total and lysosomal LAMP2A protein levels. Proteomics of lysosomes from PA- and SA-treated cells showed that the inhibition of CMA could impact vesicle formation and trafficking, mitochondrial components, and insulin response, among others. Finally, we show that CMA activity is important for regulating the insulin response in POMC hypothalamic neurons. These in vitro results demonstrate that CMA is inhibited by PA and SA in POMC-like neurons, giving an overview of the CMA-dependent cellular pathways that could be affected by such inhibition and opening a door for in vivo studies of CMA in the context of the hypothalamus and obesity.
Microtubules as Regulators of Neural Network Shape and Function: Focus on Excitability, Plasticity and Memory
Authors: Peña-Ortega Fernando , Robles-Gómez Ángel Abdiel , Xolalpa-Cueva Lorena
Published: March 2022

Neuronal microtubules (MTs) are complex cytoskeletal protein arrays that undergo activity-dependent changes in their structure and function as a response to physiological demands throughout the lifespan of neurons. Many factors shape the allostatic dynamics of MTs and tubulin dimers in the cytosolic microenvironment, such as protein–protein interactions and activity-dependent shifts in these interactions that are responsible for their plastic capabilities. Recently, several findings have reinforced the role of MTs in behavioral and cognitive processes in normal and pathological conditions. In this review, we summarize the bidirectional relationships between MTs dynamics, neuronal processes, and brain and behavioral states. The outcomes of manipulating the dynamicity of MTs by genetic or pharmacological approaches on neuronal morphology, intrinsic and synaptic excitability, the state of the network, and behaviors are heterogeneous. We discuss the critical position of MTs as responders and adaptative elements of basic neuronal function whose impact on brain function is not fully understood, and we highlight the dilemma of artificially modulating MT dynamics for therapeutic purposes.
Viral Interference of Hepatitis C and E Virus Replication in Novel Experimental Co-Infection Systems
Authors: Burkard Thomas , Proske Nora , Resner Kathrin , Collignon Laura , Knegendorf Leonard , Friesland Martina , Verhoye Lieven , Sayed Ibrahim M. , Brüggemann Yannick , Nocke Maximilian K. , Behrendt Patrick , Wedemeyer Heiner , Meuleman Philip , Todt Daniel , Steinmann Eike
Published: March 2022

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) constitutes a global health problem, while hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the major cause of acute viral hepatitis globally. HCV/HEV co-infections have been poorly characterized, as they are hampered by the lack of robust HEV cell culture systems. This study developed experimental models to study HCV/HEV co-infections and investigate viral interference in cells and humanized mice. Methods: We used state-of-the art human hepatocytes tissue culture models to assess HEV and HCV replication in co- or super-transfection settings. Findings were confirmed by co- and super-infection experiments in human hepatocytes and in vivo in human liver chimeric mice. Results: HEV was inhibited by concurrent HCV replication in human hepatocytes. This exclusion phenotype was linked to the protease activity of HCV. These findings were corroborated by the fact that in HEV on HCV super-infected mice, HEV viral loads were reduced in individual mice. Similarly, HCV on HEV super-infected mice showed reduced HCV viral loads. Conclusion: Direct interference of both viruses with HCV NS3/4A as the determinant was observed. In vivo, we detected reduced replication of both viruses after super-infection in individual mice. These findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis of HCV-HEV co-infections and should contribute to its clinical management in the future.
Combined Use of Three-Dimensional Construction and Indocyanine Green-Fluorescent Imaging for Resection of Multiple Lung Metastases in Hepatoblastoma
Authors: Komatsu Shugo , Terui Keita , Nakata Mitsuyuki , Shibata Ryohei , Oita Satoru , Kawaguchi Yunosuke , Yoshizawa Hiroko , Hirokawa Tomoya , Nakatani Erika , Hishiki Tomoro
Published: March 2022

It is essential to accurately and safely resect all tumors during surgery for multiple lung metastases. Here, we report a case of hepatoblastoma (HB) with multiple pulmonary nodules that ultimately underwent complete resection using combined three-dimensional image reconstruction and indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence guidance. A 1-year-old boy was diagnosed with HB and multiple lung metastases. After intensive chemotherapy, complete resection with subsegmentectomy (S5 + 6) and partial resection (S3, S8) were performed. More than 100 pulmonary nodules, which remained visible on computed tomography (CT) despite additional postoperative chemotherapy, were subjected to pulmonary resection. We used the SYNAPSE VINCENT software (Fujifilm Medical, Tokyo, Japan) to obtain three-dimensional images of the nodules. We numbered each nodule, and 33 lesions of the right lung were resected by multiple wedge resections through a right thoracotomy, with the aid of palpation and ICG fluorescence guidance. One month after the right metastasectomy, resection of 64 lesions in the left lung was performed via left thoracotomy. Postoperative CT showed complete clearance of the lung lesions, and the patient remained disease-free for 15 months after the treatment. This case study confirms that the combination of three-dimensional localization and ICG fluorescence guidance allows for accurate and safe resection of nearly 100 lung metastases.
Repeated Home-Applied Dual-Light Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy Can Reduce Plaque Burden, Inflammation, and aMMP-8 in Peri-Implant Disease—A Pilot Study
Authors: Lähteenmäki Hanna , Pätilä Tommi , Räisänen Ismo T. , Kankuri Esko , Tervahartiala Taina , Sorsa Timo
Published: March 2022

Until now, in clinical dentistry, antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has been restricted to in-office treatments, which hampers repeated applications. This pilot study tested the benefit of a commercially available Lumoral® device designed for regular periodontal dual-light aPDT treatment at home. Seven patients with peri-implant disease applied dual-light aPDT daily in addition to their normal dental hygiene for four weeks. A single Lumoral® treatment includes an indocyanine green mouth rinse followed by 40 J/cm2 radiant exposure to a combination of 810 nm and 405 nm light. A point-of-care analysis of active-matrix metalloproteinase (aMMP-8), visible plaque index (VPI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and peri-implant pocket depth (PPD) measurements was performed on day 0, day 15, and day 30. Reductions in aMMP-8 (p = 0.047), VPI (p = 0.03), and BOP (p = 0.03) were observed, and PPD was measured as being 1 mm lower in the implant (p = ns). These results suggest a benefit of regular application of dual-light aPDT in peri-implantitis. Frequently repeated application can be a promising approach to diminishing the microbial burden and to lowering the tissue destructive proteolytic and inflammatory load around dental implants. Further studies in larger populations are warranted to show the long-term benefits.
Exercise Prescription and Progression Practices among US Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinics
Authors: Krieger Joesi , McCann Nicholas , Bluhm Markaela , Zuhl Micah
Published: March 2022

Background: Little is known about exercise prescription practices in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand how initial exercise is prescribed and how exercise intensity is progressed among cardiac patients enrolled in United States CR programs. Methods: A 22-question survey was sent out to US CR clinics. Results: Ninety-three clinics responded to the survey. RPE was the most commonly reported exercise intensity indicator used for prescribing exercise, followed by resting HR + 20–30 bpm. Exercise progression practices were also based on patient sustained RPE values. Conclusions. Exercise prescription practice has become reliant on subjective indicators of exercise intensity. This may limit patient outcomes, such as improvement in functional measures.
Preparation and Properties of Inkjet Waterborne Coatings
Authors: Chao Jilei , Shi Ruizhi , Guo Yanling , Chu Fuqiang , Deng Qian
Published: March 2022

As an environmentally friendly coating, waterborne coatings have broad application prospects in paper packaging products in food and medicine. In this paper, a waterborne coating is synthesized from epoxy resin, polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether, acrylic acid, trimellitic anhydride, maleic anhydride, and organic amine by three steps: ring opening reaction, esterification reaction, and neutralization reaction. Using viscosity, particle size, thermal stability, adhesion, and friction resistance as performance evaluation factors, the effects of the ratios of epoxy resin and polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether in the polymerization system on the performance of synthetic waterborne coatings were discussed. Taking water solubility, water absorption, and water resistance as performance evaluation factors, the effects of the amount of ratio of anhydride groups to hydroxyl groups in the epoxy acrylic resin, which were produced in the second step of the reaction, were considered on the performance of synthetic waterborne coatings. The experimental results showed that when the molar ratio of the epoxy group in the epoxy resin and polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether was about 1:1, and the molar ratio of anhydride in maleic anhydride to hydroxyl in the epoxy acrylic resin generated in the second step of reaction was about 0.9:1, the performance of the prepared waterborne coatings was comprehensively better. At the same time, the applicability of self-made waterborne coatings was tested. The results showed that when the coating amount was about 3.60 g/m2, the properties of the packaging base paper were greatly improved with respect to air resistance, oxygen resistance, oil resistance, and color reproducibility.
Scalable Traffic Signal Controls Using Fog-Cloud Based Multiagent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Ha Paul (Young Joun) , Chen Sikai , Du Runjia , Labi Samuel
Published: March 2022

Optimizing traffic signal control (TSC) at intersections continues to pose a challenging problem, particularly for large-scale traffic networks. It has been shown in past research that it is feasible to optimize the operations of individual TSC systems or a small collection of such systems. However, it has been computationally difficult to scale these solution approaches to large networks partly due to the curse of dimensionality that is encountered as the number of intersections increases. Fortunately, recent studies have recognized the potential of exploiting advancements in deep and reinforcement learning to address this problem, and some preliminary successes have been achieved in this regard. However, facilitating such intelligent solution approaches may require large amounts of infrastructure investments such as roadside units (RSUs) and drones, to ensure that connectivity is available across all intersections in the large network. This represents an investment that may be burdensome for the road agency. As such, this study builds on recent work to present a scalable TSC model that may reduce the number of enabling infrastructure that is required. This is achieved using graph attention networks (GATs) to serve as the neural network for deep reinforcement learning. GAT helps to maintain the graph topology of the traffic network while disregarding any irrelevant information. A case study is carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model, and the results show much promise. The overall research outcome suggests that by decomposing large networks using fog nodes, the proposed fog-based graphic RL (FG-RL) model can be easily applied to scale into larger traffic networks.
Basaltic Glass Fibers from Industrial Wastes: A Laboratory-Scale Technical Feasibility Study
Authors: Tiozzo Simone , Sanchetti Stefano , Picicco Martiniano , Zanforlin Maurizio , Bemporad Edoardo , Zacco Annalisa , Depero Laura E.
Published: March 2022

This study demonstrated the physical–chemical and technical feasibility of recycling EAF slag granulated by rapid cooling with gas to produce continuous glass fibers with a basalt-like composition. To adjust the chemical composition, a silica fume-based secondary raw material was used, together with other additives. Different compositions were tested: 50% EAF slag and 50% silica fume (sample C1); 40% EAF slag, 50% silica fume and 10% Na2O (sample C2); 40% EAF slag, 50% silica fume, 5% Na2O and 5% K2O (sample C3); 20% EAF slag, 57% silica fume, 10% Na2O and 13% alkali earth oxides (sample C4); 26% EAF slag, 35% silica fume, 7% CaO and 12% Na2O (sample C5); 26% EAF slag, 35% silica fume, 4% CaO and 15% Na2O (sample C6). The last composition allowed obtaining fibers up to 5–6 m long, with a diameter between 60 and 180 µm. The process involved using a refractory material crucible with a calibrated bottom orifice as a single nozzle bushing. The optimal temperature range for fiber forming was between 1115 and 1125 °C, with a linear drawing speed of about 2 m/s. Preliminary mechanical tests were performed. Based on these results, potential further recycling applications of granulated EAF slag in the production of basalt-like glass for noncontinuous fiber production for mechanical reinforcement or for thermal–acoustic insulation can also be foreseen.
Four New Species of Zosimeidae (Copepoda: Harpacticoida) from the Southwestern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Yeom Jisu , Rohal Lupher Melissa , Lee Wonchoel
Published: March 2022

As a part of ongoing efforts for monitoring benthic ecosystem in the Gulf of Mexico, Harpacticoid copepods were collected from the southwestern Gulf of Mexico. Among them we report three new species of Zosime, and a new species of Peresime for the study area. Zosime is the most specious-rich genus in the family. Three species of Zosime were morphologically similar to Z. paratypica Becker and Schriever, 1979, Z. atlantica Bodin, 1968, and Z. destituta Kim J.G., Jung and Yoon, 2016, respectively. However, all three species have unique characteristics that distinguish them from similar species such as setal formulae and shape of female P5 and caudal rami. The new species of Peresime has similar morphological characters with P. reducta (Becker and Schriever, 1979). These two species can be distinguished by differences in mouth parts and the length of the setae on P2. This is the first report on the genera Zosime and Peresime from the Gulf of Mexico. We also discuss the global diversity and distribution of Zosimeidae and provide a key to the genera of the family and species of each genus, including the four new species from the Gulf of Mexico.
The Non-Activated Thromboelastometry (NATEM) Assay’s Application among Adults and Neonatal/Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review
Authors: Georgiadou Petroula , Sokou Rozeta , Tsantes Andreas G. , Parastatidou Stavroula , Konstantinidi Aikaterini , Houhoula Dimitra , Kokoris Styliani , Iacovidou Nicoletta , Tsantes Argirios E.
Published: March 2022

The non-activated thromboelastometry (NATEM) assay is a point-of-care assay that can provide a comprehensive insight into the actual hemostatic mechanism. However, there are very limited data about its use in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for any data regarding the use of NATEM in several clinical settings. A systematic review of PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted through 20 January 2022 for studies evaluating the use of the NATEM assay in different clinical settings. The literature search yielded a total of 47 publications, 30 of which met the eligibility criteria for this review. Evaluation of NATEM’s detecting ability for hemostasis disorders is limited in the literature. The results of the included studies indicate that NATEM seems to be a sensitive method for the detection of hyperfibrinolysis and may have an advantage in the diagnosis of hemostatic disorders. It could be more informative than the other ROTEM assays for detecting changes in coagulation parameters in patients who receive anticoagulants. However, the reported outcomes are highly varying among the included studies. NATEM has a high sensitivity to detect hypo- or hypercoagulability and provides a detailed insight into the whole hemostatic process from clot formation to clot breakdown. It could be a useful technique in variable fields of medicine, not only in adults, but also in pediatric and neonatal populations, to guide different hemostatic treatments and predict coagulation disorders or mortality/morbidity; this issue remains to be further investigated.
Intention of Collaboration among Dental Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hadjichambi Kyriaki , Georgiadou Evie , Margaritis Vasileios , Antoniadou Maria
Published: March 2022

Interpersonal communication skills (ICS) are crucial for effective dental practice and interprofessional collaboration. The current study aimed to assess the attitudes of Greek dental undergraduate students towards team working and their cooperation abilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. One-hundred and twenty-seven fourth-semester dental students (N1 = 127) out of 145 (N0) filled in the online survey placed on Google forms. The “Dental Students Cooperation Questionnaire” (DSC) consisted of 49 questions and was available for completion for one week during April 2020. Bivariate (ANOVA) and linear regression analysis of data revealed that mean scores of the questionnaire increased as the parents’ educational level also increased. Data analysis showed that dental students had the required ICS and the intention to collaborate with each other. Many participants managed to achieve group goals, were willing to support other members to fulfill the project’s goals, and there was no competition among them. They acknowledged the importance of feedback, the reward at the end of a group project and social media as a tool for teamworking communication. The students reported that the most important characteristics of an academic teacher were patience, willingness to cooperate, friendliness, politeness, willingness to help, accessibility and availability. It is suggested that group work should be included in the curriculum of dental schools to enhance the integration and evolution of students’ ICS, and the DSC questionnaire can be an effective tool to assess these skills.
A Two-Branch CNN Fusing Temporal and Frequency Features for Motor Imagery EEG Decoding
Authors: Yang Jun , Gao Siheng , Shen Tao
Published: March 2022

With the development of technology and the rise of the meta-universe concept, the brain-computer interface (BCI) has become a hotspot in the research field, and the BCI based on motor imagery (MI) EEG has been widely concerned. However, in the process of MI-EEG decoding, the performance of the decoding model needs to be improved. At present, most MI-EEG decoding methods based on deep learning cannot make full use of the temporal and frequency features of EEG data, which leads to a low accuracy of MI-EEG decoding. To address this issue, this paper proposes a two-branch convolutional neural network (TBTF-CNN) that can simultaneously learn the temporal and frequency features of EEG data. The structure of EEG data is reconstructed to simplify the spatio-temporal convolution process of CNN, and continuous wavelet transform is used to express the time-frequency features of EEG data. TBTF-CNN fuses the features learned from the two branches and then inputs them into the classifier to decode the MI-EEG. The experimental results on the BCI competition IV 2b dataset show that the proposed model achieves an average classification accuracy of 81.3% and a kappa value of 0.63. Compared with other methods, TBTF-CNN achieves a better performance in MI-EEG decoding. The proposed method can make full use of the temporal and frequency features of EEG data and can improve the decoding accuracy of MI-EEG.
Special Issue “Complex Dynamic System Modelling, Identification and Control”
Authors: Zhu Quanmin , Fusco Giuseppe , Na Jing , Zhang Weicun , Azar Ahmad Taher
Published: March 2022

Systems are naturally or purposely formed with functional components and connection structures [...]
Entry into and Completion of Vocational Baccalaureate School in Switzerland: Do Differences in Regional Admission Regulations Matter?
Authors: Hänni Miriam , Kriesi Irene , Neumann Jörg
Published: March 2022

Upper secondary education in Switzerland is divided into a general and a vocational path. Approximately two thirds of adolescents attend the vocational path. The initial vocational education and training (IVET) can be combined with a federal vocational baccalaureate (FVB), which enables graduates to enter universities of applied sciences. The proportion of FVB holders varies considerably between Swiss regions. We study how admission regulations affect regional entry and graduation rates and how they interact with individual characteristics. We use longitudinal register data from the Federal Statistical Office to study individuals’ chances of pursuing and obtaining a vocational baccalaureate in combination with data about cantonal admission criteria to vocational baccalaureate schools. We find that higher admission barriers reduce individuals’ chances of pursuing a vocational baccalaureate, particularly among apprentices with low socio-economic status and those who pursue an FVB after their VET diploma. Against our expectations, high admission barriers are associated not only with lower entry rates but also with lower graduation rates.
Smoke Hazards of Tall Timber Buildings with New Products
Authors: Cheng Chi-Honn , Chow Cheuk-Lun , Yue Tsz-Kit , Ng Yiu-Wah , Chow Wan-Ki
Published: March 2022

Timber buildings can now stand very tall using new products. As timber materials are expected to be easily ignitable, the fire hazard of timber is a concern. Charring of the timber surface would maintain structural stability, but would also be accompanied by smoke. Although treating timber products with fire retardants would delay the ignition time under low radiative heat flux, toxic combustion products and unburnt fuel would be emitted immediately upon burning. More smoke and higher toxic gas concentrations such as carbon monoxide would be given off upon burning some fire retardants under high flashover heat fluxes. Due to the fast upward movement of smoke under stack effect, spreading of toxic smoke in tall timber buildings would lead to a hazardous environment. Engineered timber consists of derivative timber products. New engineered timber products are manufactured with advanced technology and design, including cross-laminated-timber (CLT), laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and glue-laminated timber (Glulam). The fire behaviour of timber products has been studied for several decades. However, the smoke hazards of using new timber products in building construction should be monitored. The objective of this study is to inspire stakeholders in fire safety of timber buildings, inter alia smoke hazards, to use new timber products to build tall buildings.
Effects of Fermented Vegetable Consumption on Human Gut Microbiome Diversity—A Pilot Study
Authors: Thriene Kerstin , Hansen Sina S. , Binder Nadine , Michels Karin B.
Published: March 2022

The interest in fermented food products has been increasing in recent years. Details about their microbial composition and the effects of their consumption on the human gut microbiome are of particular interest. However, evidence regarding their potential to increase gut microbial diversity, a measure likely associated with health, is lacking. To address this, we analyzed the microbial composition of commercially available fermented vegetables using 16S rRNA sequencing. We also conducted a pilot study to assess the feasibility of studying the effects of regular consumption of fermented vegetables on the gut microbiome. Six healthy male volunteers participated in a randomized crossover trial, with two two-week intervention phases. Volunteers consumed 150 g/d of either sauerkraut or a variety of six different commercially available fermented vegetables. This study is registered at the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00014840). Lactobacillales was the dominant family in all fermented vegetables studied. However, the alpha diversity, richness and evenness of the microbiota differed substantially among the different products. The number of species per product varied between 20 and 95. After consumption of both sauerkraut and the selection of fermented vegetables, we observed a slight increase in alpha diversity. Specifically, the amount of the genus Prevotella decreased while the amount of Bacteroides increased after both interventions. However, these initial observations need to be confirmed in larger studies. This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of this type of research.
Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Protein and Effect of Heat Treatment on Its In Vitro Digestion Characteristics
Authors: He Xingfen , Wang Bin , Zhao Baotang , Yang Fumin
Published: March 2022

To extract and utilise the protein in quinoa efficiently, we investigated the effect of rate of quinoa protein isolate (QPI) extraction by ultrasound-assisted alkaline extraction and traditional alkaline extraction methods using single-factor experiments and Box-Behnken design. The effect of different heat treatment temperature and time on QPI functional properties and in vitro digestion characteristics were also investigated. The results showed that the optimal conditions of ultrasound- assisted alkaline extraction process were: ultrasonic time 99 min, solid-liquid ratio 1:20 w:v, ultrasonic temperature 47 °C, and pH 10, and its extraction rate and purity were 74.67 ± 1.08% and 87.17 ± 0.58%, respectively. It was 10.18% and 5.49% higher than that of the alkali-soluble acid precipitation method, respectively. The isoelectric point (pI) of QPI obtained by this method was 4.5. The flexibility and turbidity of QPI had maximum values at 90 °C, 30 min, and 121 °C, 30 min, which were 0.42 and 0.94, respectively. In addition, heat treatment changed the 1.77–2.79 ppm protein characteristic region in QPI’s nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy (1H NMR). After heating at 90 °C and 121 °C for 30 min, the hydrolysis degree and total amino acid content at the end of digestion (121 °C, 30 min) were significantly lower than those of untreated QPI by 20.64% and 27.85%. Our study provides basic data for the efficient extraction and utilisation of QPI.
Almond Hull as a Functional Ingredient of Bread: Effects on Physico-Chemical, Nutritional, and Consumer Acceptability Properties
Authors: Kahlaoui Maher , Bertolino Marta , Barbosa-Pereira Letricia , Ben Haj Kbaier Hayet , Bouzouita Nabiha , Zeppa Giuseppe
Published: March 2022

Hulls are the principal almond by-products and are rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and fibre. Generally, hulls are used as animal feed; however, because of their valuable chemical composition, alternative applications as a natural food ingredient and dietary supplement should be evaluated. The aim of this study was to assess the physico-chemical and nutritional characteristics and the consumer acceptability of bread produced by replacing 4% and 8% of wheat flour with almond hulls (AHs) obtained from six almond varieties at two ripening stages (green and mature). The use of AHs in bread production increased fibre content, polyphenol content, and antioxidant activity. In particular, bread containing mature AHs showed the highest quantities of fibre and sugars, mainly glucose, whereas bread containing green AHs showed the highest polyphenol content. The polyphenol content and antioxidant activity in bread containing green AHs were 272.88 mg GAE/100 g dry weight and 1145.32 μmol TE/100 g dry weight, respectively, of which 60.5% and 52% were bioaccessible after in vitro digestion. Bread containing AH powder showed slightly lower specific volume, darker crumb colour, and lower hardness than those of the control. Consumer evaluation indicated that breads with 8% AH powder were those with the most overall liking.
Multi-Functional Development and Utilization of Rapeseed: Comprehensive Analysis of the Nutritional Value of Rapeseed Sprouts
Authors: Xiao Zelin , Pan Yuying , Wang Chao , Li Xiongcai , Lu Yiqing , Tian Ze , Kuang Lieqiong , Wang Xinfa , Dun Xiaoling , Wang Hanzhong
Published: March 2022

Rapeseed is the third largest oil crop in the world and the largest oil crop in China. The multi-functional development and utilization of rapeseed is an effective measure for the high-quality development of rapeseed industry in China. In this study, several basic nutrients of eight rapeseed sprouts and five bean sprouts (3–5 varieties each) were determined, including sugar, crude protein, crude fiber, vitamin E, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, and glucosinolates. Data analysis revealed that compared with bean sprouts, rapeseed sprouts were nutritionally balanced and were richer in active nutrients such as glucose, magnesium, selenium, vitamin E, and glucosinolate. Moreover, rapeseed sprouts exhibited reasonable amino acid composition and abundant unsaturated fatty acids (accounting for 90.32% of the total fatty acids). All these results indicated the potential of rapeseed sprout as a functional vegetable. Subsequently, three dominant nutrients including vitamin E, glucosinolate, and selenium were investigated in seeds and sprouts of 44 B. napus L. varieties. The results showed that germination raised the ratio of α-tocopherol/γ-tocopherol from 0.53 in seeds to 9.65 in sprouts, greatly increasing the content of α-tocopherol with the strongest antioxidant activity among the eight isomers of vitamin E. Furthermore, germination promoted the conversion and accumulation of glucosinolate components, especially, glucoraphanin with strong anti-cancer activity with its proportion increased from 1.06% in seeds to 1.62% in sprouts. In addition, the contents of selenium, vitamin E, and glucosinolate in rapeseed sprouts were highly correlated with those in seeds. Furthermore, these three dominant nutrients varied greatly within B. napus varieties, indicating the great potential of rapeseed sprouts to be further bio-enhanced. Our findings provide reference for the multi-purpose development and utilization of rapeseed, lay a theoretical foundation for the development of rapeseed sprout into a functional vegetable, and provide a novel breeding direction.
Pleurotus Genus as a Potential Ingredient for Meat Products
Authors: Torres-Martínez Brisa del Mar , Vargas-Sánchez Rey David , Torrescano-Urrutia Gastón Ramón , Esqueda Martin , Rodríguez-Carpena Javier Germán , Fernández-López Juana , Perez-Alvarez Jose Angel , Sánchez-Escalante Armida
Published: March 2022

Edible mushrooms are considered an important source of nutritional and bioactive compounds. In this review, the findings of macronutrients, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobials against foodborne pathogens of some Pleurotus spp., as well as their potential use as an ingredient in the meat industry are discussed. The results show that Pleurotus spp. are an important source of proteins and amino acids, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Additionally, the presence of some bioactive components, such as polysaccharides (α-glucans, β-glucans, and so on), proteins/enzymes and peptides (eryngin, pleurostrin, and others) phenolic acids (p-coumaric, chlorogenic, cinnamic, ferulic, gallic, protocatechuic, and others) and flavonoids (chrysin, naringenin, myricetin, quercetin, rutin, or the like) has been demonstrated. Several works evidenced the use of Pleurotus spp. in some meat and meat products (patties, sausages, paste, and suchlike) as a novel ingredient in order to improve their chemical composition and functional health promoting properties, as well as to increase their physicochemical and sensory attributes. In conclusion, the use of Pleurotus is a promissory strategy for the development of natural additives rich in nutritional and bioactive components for meat and meat product formulation.