bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Behavioral Cultural-Based Development Analysis of Entrepreneurship in China
Authors: Dai Yue
Published: September 2021

This paper deals with local cultural capital as a motivator for entrepreneurial behavior in China. Following the Culture-Based Development paradigm (CBD), the current study approaches local cultural capital as an entity that can be temporarily segmented into living culture and cultural heritage and can be further differentiated type-wise into material cultural capital and immaterial cultural capital. The main hypothesis of this paper is that living culture and cultural heritage have different roles in the direction of effect on entrepreneurial behavior in China. To test this hypothesis, a quantitative research method is utilized and data is collected from China Statistical Yearbooks, the website of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage as well as the third and fourth China Economic Census Yearbooks, covering the period from 2010 to 2019 and regarding all 31 provinces of mainland China. This dataset provides indicators for both material and immaterial living culture, respectively represented by the total book circulations in public libraries and performances at art venues, while historical cultural heritage is approximated by intangible cultural heritage (such as the number of folk literature, traditional music, traditional dance and so on) and historical sites. For data analysis, an OLS regression is used to assess the roles of each kind of cultural capital on regional entrepreneurship development. Findings suggest CBD is applicable for analyzing entrepreneurship behavior and the result of the application of model shows a notable impact of culture on entrepreneurship activities in China.
A Review of Computational Methods and Reduced Order Models for Flutter Prediction in Turbomachinery
Authors: Casoni Marco , Benini Ernesto
Published: September 2021

Aeroelastic phenomena in turbomachinery are one of the most challenging problems to model using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) due to their inherent nonlinear nature, the difficulties in simulating fluid–structure interactions and the considerable computational requirements. Nonetheless, accurate modelling of self-sustained flow-induced vibrations, known as flutter, has proved to be crucial in assessing stability boundaries and extending the operative life of turbomachinery. Flutter avoidance and control is becoming more relevant in compressors and fans due to a well-established trend towards lightweight and thinner designs that enhance aerodynamic efficiency. In this paper, an overview of computational techniques adopted over the years is first presented. The principal methods for flutter modelling are then reviewed; a classification is made to distinguish between classical methods, where the fluid flow does not interact with the structure, and coupled methods, where this interaction is modelled. The most used coupling algorithms along with their benefits and drawbacks are then described. Finally, an insight is presented on model order reduction techniques applied to structure and aerodynamic calculations in turbomachinery flutter simulations, with the aim of reducing computational cost and permitting treatment of complex phenomena in a reasonable time.
Syzygium aromaticum Extracts as a Potential Antibacterial Inhibitors against Clinical Isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii: An In-Silico-Supported In-Vitro Study
Authors: Mahmoud Abdelhamed , Afifi Magdy M. , El Shenawy Fareed , Salem Wesam , Elesawy Basem H.
Published: September 2021

Imipenem is the most efficient antibiotic against Acinetobacter baumannii infection, but new research has shown that the organism has also developed resistance to this agent. A. baumannii isolates from a total of 110 clinical samples were identified by multiplex PCR. The antibacterial activity of Syzygium aromaticum multiple extracts was assessed following the GC-Mass spectra analysis. The molecular docking study was performed to investigate the binding mode of interactions of guanosine (Ethanolic extract compound) against Penicillin- binding proteins 1 and 3 of A. baumannii. Ten isolates of A. baumannii were confirmed to carry recA and iutA genes. Isolates were multidrug-resistant containing blaTEM and BlaSHV. The concentrations (0.04 to 0.125 mg mL−1) of S. aromaticum ethanolic extract were very promising against A. baumannii isolates. Even though imipenem (0.02 mg mL−1) individually showed a great bactericidal efficacy against all isolates, the in-silico study of guanosine, apioline, eugenol, and elemicin showed acceptable fitting to the binding site of the A. baumannii PBP1 and/or PBP3 with highest binding energy for guanosine between −7.1 and −8.1 kcal/mol respectively. Moreover, it formed π-stacked interactions with the residue ARG76 at 4.14 and 5.6, Å respectively. These findings might support the in vitro study and show a substantial increase in binding affinity and enhanced physicochemical characteristics compared to imipenem.
Compound Prioritization through Meta-Analysis Enhances the Discovery of Antimicrobial Hits against Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Deblais Loic , Rajashekara Gireesh
Published: September 2021

The development of informatic tools to improve the identification of novel antimicrobials would significantly reduce the cost and time of drug discovery. We previously screened several plant (Xanthomonas sp., Clavibacter sp., Acidovorax sp., and Erwinia sp.), animal (Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli and Mycoplasma sp.), and human (Salmonella sp. and Campylobacter sp.) pathogens against a pre-selected small molecule library (n = 4182 SM) to identify novel SM (hits) that completely inhibited the bacterial growth or attenuated at least 75% of the virulence (quorum sensing or biofilm). Our meta-analysis of the primary screens (n = 11) using the pre-selected library (approx. 10.2 ± 9.3% hit rate per screen) demonstrated that the antimicrobial activity and spectrum of activity, and type of inhibition (growth versus virulence inhibitors) correlated with several physico-chemical properties (PCP; e.g., molecular weight, molar refraction, Zagreb group indexes, Kiers shape, lipophilicity, and hydrogen bond donors and acceptors). Based on these correlations, we build an in silico model that accurately classified 80.8% of the hits (n = 1676/2073). Therefore, the pre-selected SM library of 4182 SM was narrowed down to 1676 active SM with predictable PCP. Further, 926 hits affected only one species and 1254 hits were active against specific type of pathogens; however, no correlation was detected between PCP and the type of pathogen (29%, 34%, and 46% were specific for animal, human foodborne and plant pathogens, respectively). In conclusion, our in silico model allowed rational identification of SM with potential antimicrobial activity against bacterial pathogens. Therefore, the model developed in this study may facilitate future drug discovery efforts by accelerating the identification of uncharacterized antimicrobial molecules and predict their spectrum of activity.
Stemness of Human Pluripotent Cells: Hypoxia-Like Response Induced by Low Nitric Oxide
Authors: Caballano-Infantes Estefanía , Díaz Irene , Hitos Ana Belén , Cahuana Gladys Margot , Martínez-Ruiz Antonio , Soria-Juan Bárbara , Rodríguez-Griñolo Rosario , Hmadcha Abdelkrim , Martín Franz , Soria Bernat , Tejedo Juan R. , Bedoya Francisco Javier
Published: September 2021

The optimization of conditions to promote the stemness of pluripotent cells in vitro is instrumental for their use in advanced therapies. We show here that exposure of human iPSCs and human ESCs to low concentrations of the chemical NO donor DETA/NO leads to stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF-1α and HIF-2α) under normoxia, with this effect being dependent on diminished Pro 402 hydroxylation and decreased degradation by the proteasome. Moreover, the master genes of pluripotency, NANOG and OCT-4, were upregulated. NO also induces a shift in the metabolic profile of PSCs, with an increased expression of hypoxia response genes in glycolysis. Furthermore, a reduction in the mitochondrial membrane potential with lower oxygen consumption and increased expression of mitochondrial fusion regulators, such as DRP1, was observed. The results reported here indicate that NO mimics hypoxia response in human PSCs and enhances their stemness properties when cultured under normoxic conditions.
Application and Future Prospective of Lactic Acid Bacteria as Natural Additives for Silage Production—A Review
Authors: Soundharrajan Ilavenil , Park Hyung Soo , Rengasamy Sathya , Sivanesan Ravikumar , Choi Ki Choon
Published: September 2021

Ensiling is one of the essential processes to preserve fodder with high nutrients and microbiological quality. The forages before ensiling have a limited number of bacteria associated with the controlled fermentation process. Undesirable microbes can grow in silages when there is not efficient fermentation. Such kinds of microbes might cause pathogenic or toxic compounds that affect animal and human health. Therefore, it is necessary to inoculate potent starter cultures. Lactic acid bacteria’s (LABs) have been considered the most prominent microbial additives used to improve the quality of silage. Currently, LABs have been used in modern and sustainable agriculture systems due to their biological potential. Recently, many scientists have increased their focus on developing nutrient-rich animal feed from forages with LAB. This current review focuses on issues related to forage preservation in the form of silages, how undesirable microbes affect the fermentation process, the critical role of LAB in silage production, and the selection of potent LABs to effectively control unwanted microbial growth and promote those which favor animal growth.
Short-Term Load Forecasting Based on Deep Learning Bidirectional LSTM Neural Network
Authors: Cai Changchun , Tao Yuan , Zhu Tianqi , Deng Zhixiang
Published: September 2021

Accurate load forecasting guarantees the stable and economic operation of power systems. With the increasing integration of distributed generations and electrical vehicles, the variability and randomness characteristics of individual loads and the distributed generation has increased the complexity of power loads in power systems. Hence, accurate and robust load forecasting results are becoming increasingly important in modern power systems. The paper presents a multi-layer stacked bidirectional long short-term memory (LSTM)-based short-term load forecasting framework; the method includes neural network architecture, model training, and bootstrapping. In the proposed method, reverse computing is combined with forward computing, and a feedback calculation mechanism is designed to solve the coupling of before and after time-series information of the power load. In order to improve the convergence of the algorithm, deep learning training is introduced to mine the correlation between historical loads, and the multi-layer stacked style of the network is established to manage the power load information. Finally, actual data are applied to test the proposed method, and a comparison of the results of the proposed method with different methods shows that the proposed method can extract dynamic features from the data as well as make accurate predictions, and the availability of the proposed method is verified with real operational data.
Modelling and Dynamic Analysis of an Unbalanced and Cracked Cardan Shaft for Vehicle Propeller Shaft Systems
Authors: Tchomeni Bernard Xavier , Alugongo Alfayo
Published: September 2021

The vibrational behaviour of misaligned rotating machinery is described and analysed in this paper. The model, constructed based on the equations of vehicle dynamics, considered the dynamic excitation of a single Hooke’s joint. The system adopted the breathing functions from a recent publication to approximate the actual breathing mechanism of a cracked driveshaft. The study aimed to understand the transmission of a nonlinear signal from the unbalanced and cracked driveshaft to an unbalanced driven shaft via a Hooke’s joint. The governing equation of the system was established based on the energy principle and the Lagrangian approach. The instantaneous frequency (IF) identification of the cracked driveshaft was extracted based on the synchrosqueezing wavelet technique. To correlate the results, the nonlinear synchrosqueezing wavelet transforms combined with the classical waves techniques were experimentally used in various scenarios for dynamic analysis of the Cardan shaft system. The variations in the dynamic response in the form of a rising trend of higher harmonics of rotational frequency and increased level of sub-harmonic peaks in both shafts were presented as significant crack indicators. The synchrosqueezing response showed breathing crack excitation played a crucial role in the mixed faults response and caused divergence of the vibration amplitudes in the rotor’s deflections. The simulation and test results demonstrated that the driveshaft damage features impacted the transfer motion to the driven shaft and the Hooke’s joint coupling was the principal source of instability in the system. The proposed model offers new perspectives on vibration monitoring and enhancement analysis to cover complex Cardan shaft systems.
In Vitro Simulation of Human Colonic Fermentation: A Practical Approach towards Models’ Design and Analytical Tools
Authors: Veintimilla-Gozalbo Elena , Asensio-Grau Andrea , Calvo-Lerma Joaquim , Heredia Ana , Andrés Ana
Published: September 2021

The human colonic microbiota plays an important role in the food digestion process and has a key role in maintaining health status. This community of microbes is inter-individually different due to several factors that modulate its composition. Among them, diet is one of the most relevant, which, in turn, is affected by environmental, economic, and cultural considerations. These pieces of evidence have promoted the study of the influence of diet on gut microbiota and the development of in vitro models that simulate the colonic digestion of foods. This narrative review aims to present a technical approach of the in vitro gut models available to evaluate the impact of diet on human colonic microbiota. A description and comments on the main characteristics, parameters, applicability, faecal inoculum preparation, and analytical tools are made. Despite the progress of in vitro colonic digestion models and metaomic applicability in this research field, there are still some challenges to face due to the lack of a consensus on the methodologies to conduct in vitro colonic digestions and the need to integrate the metaomic data to fully understand the influence of food in human colonic microbiota.
Improved Anti-Washout Property of Calcium Sulfate/Tri-Calcium Phosphate Premixed Bone Substitute with Glycerin and Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Authors: Chiang Hsiao-Hung , Su Chen-Ying , Hsu Ling-Hsiang , Yang Min-Hsuan , Fang Hsu-Wei
Published: September 2021

Calcium sulfate/calcium phosphate (CS-CP)-based bone substitutes have been developed in premixed putty for usage in clinical applications. However, it is difficult to completely stop the bleeding during an operation because premixed putty can come into contact with blood or body fluids leading to disintegration. Under certain conditions depending on particle size and morphology, collapsed (washed) particles can cause inflammation and delay bone healing. In this context, anti-washout premixed putty CS-CP was prepared by mixing glycerin with 1, 2, and 4 wt% of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and the resultant anti-washout properties were evaluated. The results showed that more than 70% of the premixed putty without HPMC was disintegrated after being immersed into simulated body fluid (SBF) for 15 min. The results demonstrated that the more HPMC was contained in the premixed putty, the less disintegration occurred. We conclude that CS-CP pre-mixed putty with glycerin and HPMC is a potential bone substitute that has good anti-washout properties for clinical applications.
The Influence of Permeability on the Propagation Characteristics of the Waves in Different Saturated Soils
Authors: Song Jia , Xu Chengshun , Li Liang
Published: September 2021

The permeability of saturated soils has great influence on the velocities and attenuation characteristics of fast compressional wave P1, low compressional wave P2, and shear wave S in saturated soils, respectively. In three different cases, namely zero, finite, and infinite permeability, the wave equations and theoretical velocities of P1, P2, and S wave in saturated soils are given based on the u-w-p equation, respectively. According to the solutions of the wave equations, the real velocities and attenuation coefficients of three waves are redefined, respectively. In different saturated soils, the influences of the permeability and the loading frequency on the wave velocities and attenuation are discussed, respectively. Moreover, the suitable application scope of the u-p equation is discussed based on different permeabilities and loading frequencies.
Accuracy of Different Head Movements of Intraoral Scanner in Full Arch of Both Maxilla and Mandible
Authors: Feng Chun-Wei , Hung Chun-Cheng , Wang Jen-Chyan , Lan Ting-Hsun
Published: September 2021

This in vitro study aimed to compare the accuracy of maxilla and mandible full-arch scans from an intraoral scanner via one scan path with six different head movements. Standard maxilla and mandible models via holder were set in a dental chair to simulate position and posture. The reference models’ standard tessellation language (STL) files were formatted via desktop scanner, and operative models’ files were obtained via IOS TRIOS 3 Pod as superimposed by Exocad CAD software. The same scan path with six head movements (Linear, Circle, Wave, 8-figure, S-figure, and A-P) were designed to scan 10 times per jaw, and a total of 120 scan files were then compared with reference files. The data were recorded and deviations of both occlusal and B-L sides were compared, with statistical analysis being performed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc comparisons with Tukey test. The trueness of optical impression for full-arch via one path with six head movements differed from maxilla and mandible and depended on the different movements (p < 0.05). In the same path, peak deviation was found at the turning points for left central incisor, left first premolar, left second molar, and right second molar in maxilla, and for right first premolar, second molar, and left second molar in the mandible. The 8-figure movement showed the highest deviation (0.128 ± 0.086 mm) in the maxilla and (0.105 ± 0.069 mm) in the mandible. The Linear movement presented the lowest deviation (0.096 ± 0.07 mm) in the maxilla while the Circle movement presented the lowest deviation (0.073 ± 0.041 mm) in the mandible, with the 8-figure movement showing the worst precision among six movements. In the maxilla, the S- and 8-figure movements were not recommended, while the Linear and Circle movements showed high trueness. In the mandible, the 8-figure movement was not recommended, while the other five presented similar lower deviations.
APTM: A Model for Pervasive Traceability of Agrochemicals
Authors: Monteiro Emiliano Soares , da Rosa Righi Rodrigo , Barbosa Jorge Luis Victória , Alberti Antônio Marcos
Published: September 2021

As the world population increases and the need for food monoculture farms are using more and more agrochemicals, there is also an increase in the possibility of theft, misuse, environmental damage, piracy of products, and health problems. This article addresses these issues by introducing the agrochemical pervasive traceability model (APTM), which integrates machine learning, sensors, microcontrollers, gamification, and two blockchains. It contributes in two dimensions: (I) the study of the environmental, product piracy and regulatory of agrochemical control; (II) the technological dimension: application of an adequate set of sensors collecting multiple data; modeling and implementation of a system via machine learning for analyzing and predicting the behavior and use of agrochemicals; development of a scoring system via gamification for reverse use of agrochemicals; and presenting a record of transactions in a consortium of two blockchains, simultaneously. Its main advantage is to be a flexible, adaptable, and expansive model. Results indicated that the model has positive aspects, from detecting the agrochemical, its handling, and disposal, recording of transactions, and data visualization along the reverse supply chain. This study obtained a round trip time of 0.510 ms on average; data transfers between layer one and its persistence in the database were between 4 to 5 s. Thus, blockchain nodes consumed only 34 to 38% of CPU and recorded transactions between 2 to 4 s. These results point to a horizon of applicability in real situations within agricultural farms.
Predictive Ability of Fahrenheit, a Hand Motion Recording System for Assessing Hand Motor Function in Patients with Hemiplegia Post-Cerebrovascular Disease—A Pilot Study
Authors: Saito Takeshi , Ishioka Toshiyuki , Yoshimura Sho , Hamaguchi Toyohiro
Published: September 2021

The Brunnstrom recovery stage (BRS) assessment is a frequently used clinical instrument, but does not allow temporal or spatial analysis owing to its use of binary assessments. We developed a kinematic analysis system (Fahrenheit) that employs three-dimensional motor analysis using the Leap Motion Controller as an infrared camera to assess hand motor function in patients post- cerebrovascular disease (CeVD)/stroke, according to the BRS assessment criteria. We investigated whether Fahrenheit could predict the outcome of the BRS assessment of hand motor function in post-CeVD patients with hemiplegia. Thirty-two inpatients with CeVD were recruited in this pilot study. Participants’ hand motor function after CeVD was assessed through their performance of nine tasks according to the BRS assessment. We constructed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve based on each participants’ performance, and compared the results of the BRS assessment and computed the area under the curve (AUC) for each ROC curve. All task values showed significant differences between sufficient and insufficient movements. AUC analyses showed that the nine tasks assessed using Fahrenheit had high predictability (all AUC values ≥ 0.7), which were comparable to those of the therapists’ assessment. Measurements with Fahrenheit showed high predictability with respect to the BRS criteria, indicating that Fahrenheit may have clinical application for assessing post-CeVD finger movement and motor functions. Further verification involving more patients is required to ensure that Fahrenheit becomes a more reliable evaluation tool.
Metabolomic Investigation of Synergistic Mechanism for Fangfeng Extract Preventing LPS Induced Neuroinflammation in BV-2 Microglia Cells
Authors: Zhu Xinliang , Wang Xueqi , Zhang Shunbin , Li Xu , Li Zhengdou , Chen Xia , Liu Xiaoxiao , Li Huixia , Zhang Ji
Published: September 2021

The root of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Fangfeng) is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for headache and neuroinflammation-related disease treatment. The mRNA expression of IL-6 and IL-1β were significantly inhibited after Fangfeng extract (FFE) treatment in LPS-induced BV-2 cells. Metatolome profiling indicated that dopamine, palmitic acid, corticosterone, and eicosapentaenoic acid metabolites could be regulated by FFE for LPS stimulated inflammation responses in BV-2 cells. The disturbed metabolic pathways include caffeine metabolism, mannose type O-glycan biosynthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, and steroid biosynthesis. This study will enable us to identify potential protein targets and metabolite intermediates for FFE exerting its protective function in BV-2 cells, and it also provided a potential application of Fangfeng in neuroinflammation-related disease treatment.
Addition of Bee Products in Diverse Food Sources: Functional and Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Camacho-Bernal Gloria Isabel , Cruz-Cansino Nelly del Socorro , Ramírez-Moreno Esther , Delgado-Olivares Luis , Zafra-Rojas Quinatzin Yadira , Castañeda-Ovando Araceli , Suárez-Jacobo Ángela
Published: September 2021

The growing interest of consumers to find products with greater health benefits has led to multiple research works focused on product developments with antioxidant-rich foods by creating safe, acceptable, and high-value nutrition, even in those foods susceptible to deterioration, in order to replace synthetic preservatives with natural ones. Bee products are an alternative addition for food products (dairy and meat products, coating fruits, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), which can improve the final quality of the food for the benefit of the consumer. The aim of this review was to provide detailed information on the main findings of innovative food products based on the addition of bee products by highlighting their physicochemical and functional properties and their behavior throughout storage.
Blockchain-Based Information Management for Supply Chain Data-Platforms
Authors: Della Valle Fabio , Oliver Miquel
Published: September 2021

Performance measurement and information management are vital assets for supply chain management. In this study, we analyzed the effective combination between blockchain technologies and supply chain management processes. We conducted eighteen interviews with international experts from different areas and analyzed the collected data following a grounded theory approach. We have identified five main categories in this area including accounting and administration, trust, data platform, interoperability, and disintermediation. The main findings concluded with a set of seven statements as key elements to summarize how blockchain-based supply chains fit in with supplier relationship management processes and financial business units for international trade. The seven statements also recommend future research activities and trajectories.
Quality Control in Dental Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Huang Jin-Feng , Chen Xiao-Zhao , Wang Hong
Published: September 2021

Poor medical equipment may lead to misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis by doctors, leading to medical accidents. Given the differences in imaging methods, the performance determination method for conventional computed tomography (CT) does not apply to dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Therefore, a detection method that is more suitable for the characteristics of dental CBCT and more convenient for on-site operation in hospitals needs to be urgently developed. Hence, this study aimed to design a robust and convenient detection method to control the quality of dental CBCT, grasp the safety information of the equipment in a timely and effective manner, discover and evaluate equipment risks, and take reasonable and necessary countermeasures, thereby, reducing the risk of medical malpractice. This study adopted dose-area product to measure dose parameters and used objective quantitative evaluation methods instead of subjective evaluation methods for spatial resolution, contrast-to-noise ratio index, and uniformity. The dental CBCT of 10 dental hospitals and clinics were tested, and the findings revealed that the testing methods used had good accuracy and applicability.
Characterization of PM-Bound Heavy Metal at Road Environment in Tianjin: Size Distribution and Source Identification
Authors: Zhang Qijun , Mao Hongjun , Zhang Yanjie , Wu Lin
Published: September 2021

To determine the size distribution and source identification of PM-bound heavy metals in roadside environments, four different particle size (<0.2 μm, 0.2–0.5 μm, 0.5–1.0 μm and 1.0–2.5 μm) samples were collected and analyzed from four different types of roads during the summer of 2015 in Tianjin. The results showed that the concentrations of PM-bound heavy metal from the roadside environment sampling sites were 597 ± 251 ng/m3 (BD), 546 ± 316 ng/m3 (FK), 518 ± 310 ng/m3 (JY) and 640 ± 237 ng/m3 (WH). There were differences in the concentrations of the heavy metal elements in the four different particle size fractions. The concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cd, Sn and Pb were the highest in the larger particle size fraction (0.5–2.5 μm). Cd, Cu, Zn and Pb were the elements that indicated emissions from tire wear and brake pad wear. The concentrations of Cr, Co and Ni were the highest in the smallest particle size fraction (<0.5 μm), indicating that motor vehicle exhaust was their main source. The correlation analysis results showed that there are differences in the concentration, distribution and correlation of different PM-bound heavy metals in different particle size fractions. The PCA results show that the accumulative interpretation variances of PM0.2, PM0.2–0.5, PM0.5–1.0 and PM1.0–2.5 reached 80.29%, 79.56%, 79.57% and 71.42%, respectively. Vehicle exhaust was the primary source of PM-bound heavy metal collected from the roadside sampling sites, while brake pad wear and tire wear were the second most common sources of the heavy metal.
Benchmark Angle-Differential Cross-Section Ratios for Excitation of the 4p5s Configuration in Krypton
Authors: Sakaamini Ahmad , Faure Jean-Baptiste , Khakoo Murtadha , Zatsarinny Oleg , Bartschat Klaus
Published: September 2021

Benchmark intensity ratio measurements of the energy loss lines of krypton for excitation of the 4p61S0→4p55s[3/2]2, 4p55s[3/2]1, 4p55s′[1/2]0, and 4p55s′[1/2]1 transitions are reported, these being the lowest electronic excitations for krypton. The importance of these ratios as stringent tests of theoretical electron scattering models for the noble gases is discussed, as well as the role of spin-exchange and direct processes regarding the angular dependence of these ratios. The experimental data are compared with predictions from fully-relativistic B-spline R-matrix (close-coupling) calculations.
Autotransplantation of the Third Molar: A Therapeutic Alternative to the Rehabilitation of a Missing Tooth: A Scoping Review
Authors: Dioguardi Mario , Quarta Cristian , Sovereto Diego , Troiano Giuseppe , Melillo Michele , Di Cosola Michele , Cazzolla Angela Pia , Laino Luigi , Lo Muzio Lorenzo
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Tooth autotransplantation is the repositioning of an erupted, partially erupted, or non-erupted autologous tooth from one site to another within the same individual. Several factors influence the success rate of the autotransplant, such as the stage of root development, the morphology of the tooth, the surgical procedure selected, the extraoral time, the shape of the recipient socket, the vascularity of the recipient bed, and the vitality of the cells of the periodontal ligament. The aim of this scoping review was to provide the most up-to-date information and data on the clinical principles of the third-molar autograft and thus provide clinical considerations for its success. Materials and methods: This review was conducted based on PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). The research was conducted by searching for keywords in three databases—PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar—by two independent reviewers following the PRISMA protocol, from which 599 records were identified. Conclusions: Third-molar autotransplantation is a valid solution to replace missing teeth. The key to the success of this technique is the surgical procedure, which must be as atraumatic as possible to preserve the periodontal ligament of the tooth to be transplanted. The success rate is also linked to the stage of development of the root, with a worse prognosis in the case of a complete root.
Determination of Butyrate Synthesis Capacity in Gut Microbiota: Quantification of but Gene Abundance by qPCR in Fecal Samples
Authors: Daskova Nikola , Heczkova Marie , Modos Istvan , Videnska Petra , Splichalova Petra , Pelantova Helena , Kuzma Marek , Gojda Jan , Cahova Monika
Published: September 2021

Butyrate is formed in the gut during bacterial fermentation of dietary fiber and is attributed numerous beneficial effects on the host metabolism. We aimed to develop a method for the assessment of functional capacity of gut microbiota butyrate synthesis based on the qPCR quantification of bacterial gene coding butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase, the key enzyme of butyrate synthesis. In silico, we identified bacteria possessing but gene among human gut microbiota by searching but coding sequences in available databases. We designed and validated six sets of degenerate primers covering all selected bacteria, based on their phylogenetic nearness and sequence similarity, and developed a method for gene abundance normalization in human fecal DNA. We determined but gene abundance in fecal DNA of subjects with opposing dietary patterns and metabolic phenotypes—lean vegans (VG) and healthy obese omnivores (OB) with known fecal microbiota and metabolome composition. We found higher but gene copy number in VG compared with OB, in line with higher fecal butyrate content in VG group. We further found a positive correlation between the relative abundance of target bacterial genera identified by next-generation sequencing and groups of but gene-containing bacteria determined by specific primers. In conclusion, this approach represents a simple and feasible tool for estimation of microbial functional capacity.
An Experimental Method to Determine the Interstitial Splitting Forces and Thermal Load Input Induced by Self-Tapping and Self-Drilling Bone Screws: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ben Achour Anas , Petto Carola , Meißner Heike , Mostofa Anita , Teicher Uwe , Haim Dominik , Ihlenfeldt Steffen , Lauer Günter
Published: September 2021

Background: The aim is to evaluate methods to quantify the interstitial splitting force and thermal load input of self-tapping and self-drilling osteosynthesis screws. Methods: A specialized modular test bench was developed to measure the induced splitting force of self-drilling and self-tapping osteosynthesis screws using porcine mandibular bone. In addition, a fundamentally new approach to measure the temperature near the contact zone of osteosynthesis screws (fiber-optic sensor in the axis of the screw) was established. Results: The self-drilling screw type induces a splitting force of about 200 N in the surrounding tissue, so that microdamage of the bone and increased resorption can be assumed. Even pre-drilling induces a short-time force into the tissue, which is comparable to the splitting force of the self-tapping screw. The temperature increase in the screw is clearly higher compared to the temperature increase in the surrounding tissue, but no significant difference in temperature between the two screw types could be measured. Based on the measured temperatures of both screw types, the temperature increase in the contact zone is considered critical. Complications during the screwing process caused by the manual tool guidance resulted in numerous breakages of the fiber-optic sensors. Conclusions: The developed methods provide additional insight regarding the thermomechanical load input of self-drilling and self-tapping screws. However, based upon the optical fiber breakages, additional refinement of this technique may still be required.
Collagen Bioinks for Bioprinting: A Systematic Review of Hydrogel Properties, Bioprinting Parameters, Protocols, and Bioprinted Structure Characteristics
Authors: Stepanovska Jana , Supova Monika , Hanzalek Karel , Broz Antonin , Matejka Roman
Published: September 2021

Bioprinting is a modern tool suitable for creating cell scaffolds and tissue or organ carriers from polymers that mimic tissue properties and create a natural environment for cell development. A wide range of polymers, both natural and synthetic, are used, including extracellular matrix and collagen-based polymers. Bioprinting technologies, based on syringe deposition or laser technologies, are optimal tools for creating precise constructs precisely from the combination of collagen hydrogel and cells. This review describes the different stages of bioprinting, from the extraction of collagen hydrogels and bioink preparation, over the parameters of the printing itself, to the final testing of the constructs. This study mainly focuses on the use of physically crosslinked high-concentrated collagen hydrogels, which represents the optimal way to create a biocompatible 3D construct with sufficient stiffness. The cell viability in these gels is mainly influenced by the composition of the bioink and the parameters of the bioprinting process itself (temperature, pressure, cell density, etc.). In addition, a detailed table is included that lists the bioprinting parameters and composition of custom bioinks from current studies focusing on printing collagen gels without the addition of other polymers. Last but not least, our work also tries to refute the often-mentioned fact that highly concentrated collagen hydrogel is not suitable for 3D bioprinting and cell growth and development.
Normalizing HIF-1α Signaling Improves Cellular Glucose Metabolism and Blocks the Pathological Pathways of Hyperglycemic Damage
Authors: Iacobini Carla , Vitale Martina , Pugliese Giuseppe , Menini Stefano
Published: September 2021

Intracellular metabolism of excess glucose induces mitochondrial dysfunction and diversion of glycolytic intermediates into branch pathways, leading to cell injury and inflammation. Hyperglycemia-driven overproduction of mitochondrial superoxide was thought to be the initiator of these biochemical changes, but accumulating evidence indicates that mitochondrial superoxide generation is dispensable for diabetic complications development. Here we tested the hypothesis that hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α and related bioenergetic changes (Warburg effect) play an initiating role in glucotoxicity. By using human endothelial cells and macrophages, we demonstrate that high glucose (HG) induces HIF-1α activity and a switch from oxidative metabolism to glycolysis and its principal branches. HIF1-α silencing, the carbonyl-trapping and anti-glycating agent ʟ-carnosine, and the glyoxalase-1 inducer trans-resveratrol reversed HG-induced bioenergetics/biochemical changes and endothelial-monocyte cell inflammation, pointing to methylglyoxal (MGO) as the non-hypoxic stimulus for HIF1-α induction. Consistently, MGO mimicked the effects of HG on HIF-1α induction and was able to induce a switch from oxidative metabolism to glycolysis. Mechanistically, methylglyoxal causes HIF1-α stabilization by inhibiting prolyl 4-hydroxylase domain 2 enzyme activity through post-translational glycation. These findings introduce a paradigm shift in the pathogenesis and prevention of diabetic complications by identifying HIF-1α as essential mediator of glucotoxicity, targetable with carbonyl-trapping agents and glyoxalase-1 inducers.
Glycomacropeptide for Management of Insulin Resistance and Liver Metabolic Perturbations
Authors: Sauvé Mathilde Foisy , Feldman Francis , Koudoufio Mireille , Ould-Chikh Nour-El-Houda , Ahmarani Lena , Sane Alain , N’Timbane Thierry , El-Jalbout Ramy , Patey Nathalie , Spahis Schohraya , Stintzi Alain , Delvin Edgard , Levy Emile
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims: The increasing prevalence and absence of effective global treatment for metabolic syndrome (MetS) are alarming given the potential progression to severe non-communicable disorders such as type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate the regulatory role of glycomacropeptide (GMP), a powerful milk peptide, in insulin resistance and liver dysmetabolism, two central MetS conditions. Materials and Methods: C57BL/6 male mice were fed a chow (Ctrl), high-fat, high-sucrose (HFHS) diet or HFHS diet along with GMP (200 mg/kg/day) administered by gavage for 12 weeks. Results: GMP lowered plasma insulin levels (in response to oral glucose tolerance test) and HOMA-IR index, indicating a more elevated systemic insulin sensitivity. GMP was also able to decrease oxidative stress and inflammation in the circulation as reflected by the decline of malondialdehyde, F2 isoprostanes and lipopolysaccharide. In the liver, GMP raised the protein expression of the endogenous anti-oxidative enzyme GPx involving the NRF2 signaling pathway. Moreover, the administration of GMP reduced the gene expression of hepatic pro-inflammatory COX-2, TNF-α and IL-6 via inactivation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Finally, GMP improved hepatic insulin sensitization given the modulation of AKT, p38 MAPK and SAPK/JNK activities, thereby restoring liver homeostasis as revealed by enhanced fatty acid β-oxidation, reduced lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis. Conclusions: Our study provides evidence that GMP represents a promising dietary nutraceutical in view of its beneficial regulation of systemic insulin resistance and hepatic insulin signaling pathway, likely via its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cannabidiol Selectively Binds to the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Nav1.4 in Its Slow-Inactivated State and Inhibits Sodium Current
Authors: Huang Chiung-Wei , Lin Pi-Chen , Chen Jian-Lin , Lee Ming-Jen
Published: September 2021

Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, can relieve the myotonia resulting from sodium channelopathy, which manifests as repetitive discharges of muscle membrane. We investigated the binding kinetics of CBD to Nav1.4 channels on the muscle membrane. The binding affinity of CBD to the channel was evaluated using whole-cell recording. The CDOCKER program was employed to model CBD docking onto the Nav1.4 channel to determine its binding sites. Our results revealed no differential inhibition of sodium current by CBD when the channels were in activation or fast inactivation status. However, differential inhibition was observed with a dose-dependent manner after a prolonged period of depolarization, leaving the channel in a slow-inactivated state. Moreover, CBD binds selectively to the slow-inactivated state with a significantly faster binding kinetics (>64,000 M−1 s−1) and a higher affinity (Kd of fast inactivation vs. slow-inactivation: >117.42 μM vs. 51.48 μM), compared to the fast inactivation state. Five proposed CBD binding sites in a bundle crossing region of the Nav1.4 channels pore was identified as Val793, Leu794, Phe797, and Cys759 in domain I/S6, and Ile1279 in domain II/S6. Our findings imply that CBD favorably binds to the Nav1.4 channel in its slow-inactivated state.
Photoelectrochemical Degradation of Organic Pollutants on a La3+ Doped BiFeO3 Perovskite
Authors: Nkwachukwu Oluchi V. , Muzenda Charles , Ojo Babatope O. , Zwane Busisiwe N. , Koiki Babatunde A. , Orimolade Benjamin O. , Nkosi Duduzile , Mabuba Nonhlangabezo , Arotiba Omotayo A.
Published: September 2021

Towards nonconventional wastewater treatment methods for the degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater, a perovskite-based photoelectrochemical system was developed. Bismuth ferrite doped with lanthanum (La-BiFeO3, La-BFO) perovskite was synthesised through a hydrothermal method with low calcination temperature for the photoelectrochemical degradation of orange II dye and other cocktails of dyes. Photoanodes were prepared by the deposition of the perovskites on a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate. The photoanodes were characterised using XRD, FESEM, FTIR and UV-vis diffuse reflectance. The photoelectrochemical properties of the synthesised photoanodes were investigated with chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (including Mott–Schottky analysis). The results show that all La3+-doped BFO photoanodes exhibited a higher absorption edge in the visible light region than the undoped BFO. The photocurrent response of 10% La-BFO (the best performing electrode) exhibited a three times higher current response than the pure BFO. In addition, the electrode exhibited a good degradation efficiency of 84.2% within 120 min with applied bias potential of 2 V at a pH of 7. EIS studies showed a significant enhancement of the interfacial electron transfer of the charge carriers. The enhancements in electrode performances were attributed to the synergistic effect of the applied bias potential and the introduction of La3+ into the BFO matrix. This study therefore shows that the photoelectrocatalytic performance of BFO for water treatment can be improved by the introduction of perovskites-doping ions such as La3+.
Insights about CO Gas-Sensing Mechanism with NiO-Based Gas Sensors—The Influence of Humidity
Authors: Simion Cristian E. , Ghica Corneliu , Mihalcea Catalina G. , Ghica Daniela , Mercioniu Ionel , Somacescu Simona , Florea Ovidiu G. , Stanoiu Adelina
Published: September 2021

Polycrystalline NiO thick film-based gas sensors have been exposed to different test gas atmospheres at 250 °C and measured via simultaneous electrical resistance and work function investigations. Accordingly, we decoupled different features manifested toward the potential changes, i.e., work function, band-bending, and electron affinity. The experimental results have shown that the presence of moisture induces an unusual behavior toward carbon monoxide (CO) detection by considering different surface adsorption sites. On this basis, we derived an appropriate detection mechanism capable of explaining the lack of moisture influence over the CO detection with NiO-sensitive materials. As such, CO might have both chemical and dipolar interactions with pre-adsorbed or lattice oxygen species, thus canceling out the effect of moisture. Additionally, morphology, structure, and surface chemistry were addressed, and the results have been linked to the sensing properties envisaging the role played by the porous quasispherical–hollow structures and surface hydration.
Chemiresistors Based on Li-Doped CuO–TiO2 Films
Authors: Torrisi Alfio , Vacík Jiří , Ceccio Giovanni , Cannavò Antonino , Lavrentiev Vasily , Horák Pavel , Yatskiv Roman , Vaniš Jan , Grym Jan , Fišer Ladislav , Hruška Martin , Fitl Přemysl , Otta Jaroslav , Vrňata Martin
Published: September 2021

Chemiresistors based on thin films of the Li-doped CuO–TiO2 heterojunctions were synthesized by a 2-step method: (i) repeated ion beam sputtering of the building elements (on the Si substrates and multisensor platforms); and (ii) thermal annealing in flowing air. The structure and composition of the films were analyzed by several methods: Rutherford Backscattering (RBS), Neutron Depth Profiling (NDP), Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS), and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and their sensitivity to gaseous analytes was evaluated using a specific lab-made device operating in a continuous gas flow mode. The obtained results showed that the Li doping significantly increased the sensitivity of the sensors to oxidizing gases, such as NO2, O3, and Cl2, but not to reducing H2. The sensing response of the CuO–TiO2–Li chemiresistors improved with increasing Li content. For the best sensors with about 15% Li atoms, the detection limits were as follows: NO2 → 0.5 ppm, O3 → 10 ppb, and Cl2 → 0.1 ppm. The Li-doped sensors showed excellent sensing performance at a lower operating temperature (200 °C); however, even though their response time was only a few minutes, their recovery was slow (up to a few hours) and incomplete.