bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Sensitivity Shortwave Infrared Photodetector Based on PbS QDs Using P3HT
Authors: Kwon Jin Beom , Han Maeum , Jung Dong Geon , Kong Seong Ho , Jung Daewoong
Published: October 2021

Shortwave infrared (SWIR) photodetectors are being actively researched for their application in autonomous vehicles, biometric sensors, and night vision. However, most of the SWIR photodetectors that have been studied so far are produced by complex semiconductor fabrication processes and have low sensitivity at room temperature because of thermal noise. In addition, the low wavelength band of the SWIR photodetectors currently used has a detrimental effect on the human eye. To overcome these disadvantages, we propose a solution-processed PbS SWIR photodetector that can minimize harmful effects on the human eye. In this study, we synthesized PbS quantum dots (QDs) that have high absorbance peaked at 1410 nm and fabricated SWIR photodetectors with a conductive polymer, poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT), using the synthesized PbS QDs. The characteristics of the synthesized PbS QDs and the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of the fabricated PbS SWIR photodetectors were measured. It was found that the maximum responsivity of the optimized PbS SWIR photodetector with P3HT was 2.26 times that of the PbS SWIR photodetector without P3HT. Moreover, due to the high hole mobility and an appropriate highest occupied molecular orbital level of P3HT, the former showed a lower operating voltage.
Comparing Internal and Interparticle Space Effects of Metal–Organic Frameworks on Polysulfide Migration in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Ryu UnJin , Choi Won Ho , Dong Panpan , Shin Jeeyoung , Song Min-Kyu , Choi Kyung Min
Published: October 2021

One of the critical issues hindering the commercialization of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries is the dissolution and migration of soluble polysulfides in electrolyte, which is called the ‘shuttle effect’. To address this issue, previous studies have focused on separators featuring specific chemical affinities or physical confinement by porous coating materials. However, there have been no studies on the complex effects of the simultaneous presence of the internal and interparticle spaces of porous materials in Li–S batteries. In this report, the stable Zr-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), UiO-66, have been used as a separator coating material to provide interparticle space via size-controlled MOF particles and thermodynamic internal space via amine functionality. The abundant interparticle space promoted mass transport, resulting in enhanced cycling performance. However, when amine functionalized UiO-66 was employed as the separator coating material, the initial specific capacity and capacity retention of Li–S batteries were superior to those materials based on the interparticle effect. Therefore, it is concluded that the thermodynamic interaction inside internal space is more important for preventing polysulfide migration than spatial condensation of the interparticle space.
The Emulsifier Carboxymethylcellulose Induces More Aggressive Colitis in Humanized Mice with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Microbiota Than Polysorbate-80
Authors: Rousta Esmat , Oka Akihiko , Liu Bo , Herzog Jeremy , Bhatt Aadra P. , Wang Jeremy , Habibi Najafi Mohammad B. , Sartor Ryan Balfour
Published: October 2021

Commonly used synthetic dietary emulsifiers, including carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and polysorbate-80 (P80), promote intestinal inflammation. We compared abilities of CMC vs. P80 to potentiate colitis and impact human microbiota in an inflammatory environment using a novel colitis model of ex-germ-free (GF) IL10−/− mice colonized by pooled fecal transplant from three patients with active inflammatory bowel diseases. After three days, mice received 1% CMC or P80 in drinking water or water alone for four weeks. Inflammation was quantified by serial fecal lipocalin 2 (Lcn-2) and after four weeks by blinded colonic histologic scores and colonic inflammatory cytokine gene expression. Microbiota profiles in cecal contents were determined by shotgun metagenomic sequencing. CMC treatment significantly increased fecal Lcn-2 levels compared to P80 and water treatment by one week and throughout the experiment. Likewise, CMC treatment increased histologic inflammatory scores and colonic inflammatory cytokine gene expression compared with P80 and water controls. The two emulsifiers differentially affected specific intestinal microbiota. CMC did not impact bacterial composition but significantly decreased Caudoviricetes (bacteriophages), while P80 exposure non-significantly increased the abundance of both Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. Commonly used dietary emulsifiers have different abilities to induce colitis in humanized mice. CMC promotes more aggressive inflammation without changing bacterial composition.
The Vessels-Bone Axis: Iliac Artery Calcifications, Vertebral Fractures and Vitamin K from VIKI Study
Authors: Fusaro Maria , Tripepi Giovanni , Plebani Mario , Politi Cristina , Aghi Andrea , Taddei Fulvia , Schileo Enrico , Zaninotto Martina , La Manna Gaetano , Cianciolo Giuseppe , Gallieni Maurizio , Cosmai Laura , Messa Piergiorgio , Ravera Maura , Nickolas Thomas L. , Ferrari Serge , Ketteler Markus , Iervasi Giorgio , Mereu Maria Cristina , Vettor Roberto , Giannini Sandro , Gasperoni Lorenzo , Sella Stefania , Brandi Maria Luisa , Cianferotti Luisella , De Caterina Raffaele
Published: October 2021

Vascular calcification and fragility fractures are associated with high morbidity and mortality, especially in end-stage renal disease. We evaluated the relationship of iliac arteries calcifications (IACs) and abdominal aortic calcifications (AACs) with the risk for vertebral fractures (VFs) in hemodialysis patients. The VIKI study was a multicenter cross-sectional study involving 387 hemodialysis patients. The biochemical data included bone health markers, such as vitamin K levels, vitamin K-dependent proteins, vitamin 25(OH)D, alkaline phosphatase, parathormone, calcium, and phosphate. VF, IACs and AACs was determined through standardized spine radiograms. VF was defined as >20% reduction of vertebral body height, and VC were quantified by measuring the length of calcium deposits along the arteries. The prevalence of IACs and AACs were 56.1% and 80.6%, respectively. After adjusting for confounding variables, the presence of IACs was associated with 73% higher odds of VF (p = 0.028), whereas we found no association (p = 0.294) for AACs. IACs were associated with VF irrespective of calcification severity. Patients with IACs had lower levels of vitamin K2 and menaquinone 7 (0.99 vs. 1.15 ng/mL; p = 0.003), and this deficiency became greater with adjustment for triglycerides (0.57 vs. 0.87 ng/mL; p < 0.001). IACs, regardless of their extent, are a clinically relevant risk factor for VFs. The association is enhanced by adjusting for vitamin K, a main player in bone and vascular health. To our knowledge these results are the first in the literature. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings both in chronic kidney disease and in the general population.
Reduction of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) after Bariatric Surgery in Patients with Obesity and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sutanto Andryanto , Wungu Citrawati Dyah Kencono , Susilo Hendri , Sutanto Henry
Published: October 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide and obesity is a major risk factor that increases the morbidity and mortality of CVDs. Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet control, physical exercise and behavioral changes) have been the first-line managements of obesity for decades. Nonetheless, when such interventions fail, pharmacotherapies and bariatric surgery are considered. Interestingly, a sudden weight loss (e.g., due to bariatric surgery) could also increase mortality. Thus, it remains unclear whether the bariatric surgery-associated weight reduction in patients with obesity and CVDs is beneficial for the reduction of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE). Here, we performed a systematic literature search and meta-analysis of published studies comparing MACE in patients with obesity and CVDs who underwent bariatric surgery with control patients (no surgery). Eleven studies, with a total of 1,772,305 patients, which consisted of 74,042 patients who underwent any form of bariatric surgery and 1,698,263 patients with no surgery, were included in the systematic review. Next, the studies’ data, including odds ratio (OR) and adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), were pooled and analyzed in a meta-analysis using a random effect model. The meta-analysis of ten studies showed that the bariatric surgery group had significantly lower odds of MACE as compared to no surgery (OR = 0.49; 95% CI 0.40–0.60; p < 0.00001; I2 = 93%) and the adjustment to confounding variables in nine studies revealed consistent results (aHR = 0.57; 95% CI 0.49–0.66; p < 0.00001; I2 = 73%), suggesting the benefit of bariatric surgery in reducing the occurrence of MACE in patients with obesity and CVDs (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021274343).
The Changes in Endogenous Metabolites in Hyperlipidemic Rats Treated with Herbal Mixture Containing Lemon, Apple Cider, Garlic, Ginger, and Honey
Authors: Abu Bakar Sajak Azliana , Azlan Azrina , Abas Faridah , Hamzah Hazilawati
Published: October 2021

An herbal mixture composed of lemon, apple cider, garlic, ginger and honey as a polyphenol-rich mixture (PRM) has been reported to contain hypolipidemic activity on human subjects and hyperlipidemic rats. However, the therapeutic effects of PRM on metabolites are not clearly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to provide new information on the causal impact of PRM on the endogenous metabolites, pathways and serum biochemistry. Serum samples of hyperlipidemic rats treated with PRM were subjected to biochemistry (lipid and liver profile) and hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA enzyme reductase (HMG-CoA reductase) analyses. In contrast, the urine samples were subjected to urine metabolomics using 1H NMR. The serum biochemistry revealed that PRM at 500 mg/kg (PRM-H) managed to lower the total cholesterol level and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) (p < 0.05) and reduce the HMG-CoA reductase activity. The pathway analysis from urine metabolomics reveals that PRM-H altered 17 pathways, with the TCA cycle having the highest impact (0.26). Results also showed the relationship between the serum biochemistry of LDL-C and HMG-CoA reductase and urine metabolites (trimethylamine-N-oxide, dimethylglycine, allantoin and succinate). The study’s findings demonstrated the potential of PRM at 500 mg/kg as an anti-hyperlipidemic by altering the TCA cycle, inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and lowering the LDL-C in high cholesterol rats.
Rickettsia lusitaniae in Ornithodoros Porcinus Ticks, Zambia
Authors: Chitanga Simbarashe , Chambaro Herman M. , Moonga Lavel C. , Hayashida Kyoko , Yamagishi Junya , Muleya Walter , Changula Katendi , Mubemba Benjamin , Simbotwe Manyando , Squarre David , Fandamu Paul , Nalubamba King S. , Qiu Yongjin , Hirofumi Sawa , Simulundu Edgar
Published: October 2021

Rickettsial pathogens are amongst the emerging and re-emerging vector-borne zoonoses of public health importance. Though traditionally considered to be transmitted by ixodid ticks, the role of argasid ticks as vectors of these pathogens is increasingly being recognized. While bat-feeding (Ornithodoros faini) and chicken-feeding (Argas walkerae) argasid ticks have been shown to harbor Rickettsia pathogens in Zambia, there are currently no reports of Rickettsia infection in southern Africa from warthog-feeding (Phacochoerus africanus) soft ticks, particularly Ornithodoros moubata and Ornithodoros porcinus. Our study sought to expand on the existing knowledge on the role of soft ticks in the epidemiology of Rickettsia species through screening for Rickettsia pathogens in warthog burrow-dwelling soft ticks from two national parks in Zambia. The tick species from which Rickettsia were detected in this study were identified as Ornithodoros porcinus, and an overall minimal Rickettsia infection rate of 19.8% (32/162) was observed. All of the sequenced Rickettsia were identified as Rickettsia lusitaniae based on nucleotide sequence similarity and phylogenetic analysis of the citrate synthase (gltA) and 17kDa common antigen (htrA) genes. Utilizing all of the gltA (n = 10) and htrA (n = 12) nucleotide sequences obtained in this study, BLAST analysis showed 100% nucleotide similarity to Rickettsia lusitaniae. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all of the Zambian gltA and htrA gene sequences could be grouped with those of Rickettsia lusitaniae obtained in various parts of the world. Our data suggest that Rickettsia lusitaniae has a wider geographic and vector range, enhancing to our understanding of Rickettsia lusitaniae epidemiology in sub-Saharan Africa.
Host EPAC1 Modulates Rickettsial Adhesion to Vascular Endothelial Cells via Regulation of ANXA2 Y23 Phosphorylation
Authors: Su Zhengchen , Shelite Thomas R. , Qiu Yuan , Chang Qing , Wakamiya Maki , Bei Jiani , He Xi , Zhou Changcheng , Liu Yakun , Nyong Emmanuel , Liang Yuejin , Gaitas Angelo , Saito Tais B. , Gong Bin
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Intracellular cAMP receptor exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP 1 (EPAC1) regulate obligate intracellular parasitic bacterium rickettsial adherence to and invasion into vascular endothelial cells (ECs). However, underlying precise mechanism(s) remain unclear. The aim of the study is to dissect the functional role of the EPAC1-ANXA2 signaling pathway during initial adhesion of rickettsiae to EC surfaces. Methods: In the present study, an established system that is anatomically based and quantifies bacterial adhesion to ECs in vivo was combined with novel fluidic force microscopy (FluidFM) to dissect the functional role of the EPAC1-ANXA2 signaling pathway in rickettsiae–EC adhesion. Results: The deletion of the EPAC1 gene impedes rickettsial binding to endothelium in vivo. Rickettsial OmpB shows a host EPAC1-dependent binding strength on the surface of a living brain microvascular EC (BMEC). Furthermore, ectopic expression of phosphodefective and phosphomimic mutants replacing tyrosine (Y) 23 of ANXA2 in ANXA2-knock out BMECs results in different binding force to reOmpB in response to the activation of EPAC1. Conclusions: EPAC1 modulates rickettsial adhesion, in association with Y23 phosphorylation of the binding receptor ANXA2. Underlying mechanism(s) should be further explored to delineate the accurate role of cAMP-EPAC system during rickettsial infection.
Bacterial Antibiotic Resistance: The Most Critical Pathogens
Authors: Mancuso Giuseppe , Midiri Angelina , Gerace Elisabetta , Biondo Carmelo
Published: October 2021

Antibiotics have made it possible to treat bacterial infections such as meningitis and bacteraemia that, prior to their introduction, were untreatable and consequently fatal. Unfortunately, in recent decades overuse and misuse of antibiotics as well as social and economic factors have accelerated the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making drug treatment ineffective. Currently, at least 700,000 people worldwide die each year due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Without new and better treatments, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that this number could rise to 10 million by 2050, highlighting a health concern not of secondary importance. In February 2017, in light of increasing antibiotic resistance, the WHO published a list of pathogens that includes the pathogens designated by the acronym ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) to which were given the highest “priority status” since they represent the great threat to humans. Understanding the resistance mechanisms of these bacteria is a key step in the development of new antimicrobial drugs to tackle drug-resistant bacteria. In this review, both the mode of action and the mechanisms of resistance of commonly used antimicrobials will be examined. It also discusses the current state of AMR in the most critical resistant bacteria as determined by the WHO’s global priority pathogens list.
Folium Sennae Increased the Bioavailability of Methotrexate through Modulation on MRP 2 and BCRP
Authors: Yu Chung-Ping , Peng Yu-Hsuan , Huang Ching-Ya , Hsieh Yow-Wen , Hou Yu-Chi , Lin Shiuan-Pey
Published: October 2021

Folium Sennae (FS), a popular laxative (Senna), contains polyphenolic anthranoids, whose conjugation metabolites are probable modulators of multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). We suspected that the combined use of FS might alter the pharmacokinetics of various medicines transported by MRPs or BCRP. This study investigated the effect of FS on the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate (MTX), an anticancer drug and a probe substrate of MRPs/BCRP. Rats were orally administered MTX alone and with two dosage regimens of FS in a parallel design. The results show that 5.0 g/kg of FS significantly increased the AUC0–2880, AUC720–2880 and MRT of MTX by 45%, 102% and 42%, and the seventh dose of 2.5 g/kg of FS significantly enhanced the AUC720–2880 and MRT by 78% and 42%, respectively. Mechanism studies indicated that the metabolites of FS (FSM) inhibited MRP 2 and BCRP. In conclusion, the combined use of FS increased the systemic exposure and MRT of MTX through inhibition on MRP 2 and BCRP.
Elucidating the Innate Immunological Effects of Mild Magnetic Hyperthermia on U87 Human Glioblastoma Cells: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Persano Stefano , Vicini Francesco , Poggi Alessandro , Fernandez Jordi Leonardo Castrillo , Rizzo Giusy Maria Rita , Gavilán Helena , Silvestri Niccolo , Pellegrino Teresa
Published: October 2021

Cancer immunotherapies have been approved as standard second-line or in some cases even as first-line treatment for a wide range of cancers. However, immunotherapy has not shown clinically relevant success in glioblastoma (GBM). This is principally due to the brain’s “immune-privileged” status and the peculiar tumor microenvironment (TME) of GBM characterized by a lack of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and the establishment of immunosuppressive mechanisms. Herein, we explore a local mild thermal treatment, generated via cubic-shaped iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (size ~17 nm) when exposed to an external alternating magnetic field (AMF), to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in U87 glioblastoma cells. In accordance with what has been observed with other tumor types, we found that mild magnetic hyperthermia (MHT) modulates the immunological profile of U87 glioblastoma cells by inducing stress-associated signals leading to enhanced phagocytosis and killing of U87 cells by macrophages. At the same time, we demonstrated that mild magnetic hyperthermia on U87 cells has a modulatory effect on the expression of inhibitory and activating NK cell ligands. Interestingly, this alteration in the expression of NK ligands in U87 cells upon MHT treatment increased their susceptibility to NK cell killing and enhanced NK cell functionality. The overall findings demonstrate that mild MHT stimulates ICD and sensitizes GBM cells to NK-mediated killing by inducing the upregulation of specific stress ligands, providing a novel immunotherapeutic approach for GBM treatment, with potential to synergize with existing NK cell-based therapies thus improving their therapeutic outcomes.
Dual-Modality Imaging Microfluidic Cytometer for Onsite Detection of Phytoplankton
Authors: Xiong Bo , Hong Tianqi , Schellhorn Herbert , Fang Qiyin
Published: October 2021

Phytoplankton monitoring is essential for better understanding and mitigation of phytoplankton bloom formation. We present a microfluidic cytometer with two imaging modalities for onsite detection and identification of phytoplankton: a lensless imaging mode for morphological features, and a fluorescence imaging mode for autofluorescence signal of phytoplankton. Both imaging modes are integrated in a microfluidic device with a field of view (FoV) of 3.7 mm × 2.4 mm and a depth of field (DoF) of 0.8 mm. The particles in the water flow channel can be detected and classified with automated image processing algorithms and machine learning models using their morphology and fluorescence features. The performance of the device was demonstrated by measuring Chlamydomonas, Euglena, and non-fluorescent beads in both separate and mixed flow samples. The recall rates for Chlamydomonas and Euglena ware 93.6% and 94.4%. The dual-modality imaging approach enabled observing both morphology and fluorescence features with a large DoF and FoV which contribute to high-throughput analysis. Moreover, this imaging flow cytometer platform is portable, low-cost, and shows potential in the onsite phytoplankton monitoring.
Preparation of Intercalated Organic Montmorillonite DOPO-MMT by Melting Method and Its Effect on Flame Retardancy to Epoxy Resin
Authors: Geng Junming , Qin Jianyu , He Jiyu
Published: October 2021

An intercalated organic montmorillonite DOPO-MMT was prepared through the melting method using 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) as a modifier. Epoxy resin (EP) composites were prepared with DOPO-MMT, DOPO, MMT, and the physical mixtures of DOPO+MMT as flame retardants. The microstructure of the flame retardants and EP samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The flame retardant properties, thermal stability, and residual char structure of the EPs were studied by the limited oxygen index (LOI) test, the UL-94 vertical burning test, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) test, the cone calorimeter (CONE) test as well as other characterization methods. The results showed that the intercalated organic montmorillonite DOPO-MMT can be successfully prepared by the melting method and that the MMT is evenly dispersed in the EP/DOPO-MMT composite in the form of nanosheets. The EP/DOPO-MMT nanocomposites showed the optimal flame retardancy (LOI, UL-94, PHRR, etc.) among the EPs with DOPO, MMT, and the physical mixture of DOPO+MMT. The flame-retardant grade of the material reached V-0.
Development of Photocurable Polyacrylate-Based PolyHIPEs and the Study of the Kinetics of Photopolymerization, and of Their Thermal, Mechanical and Hydrocarbon Absorption Properties
Authors: Acosta Ortiz Ricardo , Reinoza Dávila Jefferson Alberto , Guerrero Santos Ramiro
Published: October 2021

This article describes a comprehensive study to obtain polymeric porous materials via a photopolymerization technique, using acrylate-based high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs), as a template. The aim of obtaining these polymers was to use them as hydrocarbon absorbing materials. Kinetics of photopolymerization of the acrylate monomers and of the HIPEs were conducted to optimize the process. The obtained monoliths were characterized by thermal analysis such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The morphology and surface area were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. The compression properties of the materials were determined, as well as their absorption properties of hydrocarbons such as hexane, diesel, toluene and chloroform. The findings show that the acrylate-HIPEs displayed high reactivity photopolymerizing in 20 min. The glass transition temperature of the materials were in the range of 2 to 83 °C, depending on the ratio of acrylates in the photocurable formulation, displaying the characteristic morphology with voids and interconnecting windows. The polyHIPEs exhibited superior properties of absorption of the studied hydrocarbons. The order of capability of absorption was chloroform > toluene > hexane > diesel. The optimum absorbing material was that with trimethylolpropane triacrylate, ethylhexyl acrylate and isobornyl acrylate in a 1:0.9:2.1 ratio, which absorbed 778% of chloroform, 378% of toluene, 306 % of hexane and 236% of diesel.
Analysis of Ionic-Exchange of Selected Elements between Novel Nano-Hydroxyapatite-Silica Added Glass Ionomer Cement and Natural Teeth
Authors: Moheet Imran Alam , Luddin Norhayati , Ab Rahman Ismail , Masudi Sam’an Malik , Kannan Thirumulu Ponnuraj , Nik Abd Ghani Nik Rozainah
Published: October 2021

One of the foremost missions in restorative dentistry is to discover a suitable material that can substitute lost and damaged tooth structure. To this date, most of the restorative materials utilized in dentistry are bio-inert. It is predicted that the addition of nano-HA-SiO2 to GIC matrix could produce a material with better ion-exchange between the restorative material and natural teeth. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to synthesize and investigate the transfer of specific elements (calcium, phosphorus, fluoride, silica, strontium, and alumina) between nano-hydroxyapatite-silica added GIC (nano-HA-SiO2-GIC) and human enamel and dentine. The novel nano-hydroxyapatite-silica (nano-HA-SiO2) was synthesized using one-pot sol-gel method and added to cGIC. Semi-quantitative energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis was carried out to determine the elemental distribution of fluorine, silicon, phosphorus, calcium, strontium, and aluminum. Semi-quantitative energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis was performed by collecting line-scans and dot-scans. The results of the current study seem to confirm the ionic exchange between nano-HA-SiO2-GIC and natural teeth, leading to the conclusion that increased remineralization may be possible with nano-HA-SiO2-GIC as compared to cGIC (Fuji IX).
Demulsification Treatment of Spent Metalworking Fluids by Metal Cations: The Synergistic Effect and Efficiency Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Yanqing , Wu Lingxue , Zhang Xiaochen , Ge Baoxin , Qi Yuanfeng
Published: October 2021

In this paper, various metal ions were utilized for the demulsification of spent metalworking fluids discharged from an automobile parts workshop. Five types of metal ions, i.e., Fe3+, Al3+, Fe2+, Ca2+ and Mg2+, combined with coagulant were systematically evaluated, and the synergistic effect as well as the optimum operating conditions were studied. The results indicated that the Ca2+ as well Mg2+ possessed hardly efficiency for the demulsification, on the contrary, Fe2+ reduced the yield of the by-product sludge and lowered the SV30 ratio, and Al3+ boosted the CODCr removal. Furthermore, Fe3+ and Al3+ had a significant synergistic effect to achieve a better transmittance and a higher CODCr/SV30 ratio which revealed that more CODCr was removed, as well as less by-product sludge was generated. For a better demulsification of spent metalworking fluids, the optimum operating conditions were gathered as follows: the dosage of metal ions was 0.08 mol/L with Al3+:Fe3+ ratio was 1.5:1, the reaction pH was 6.00, the reaction time was 18.00 min and the temperature was 323.00 K. Based on this, the CODCr removal, the SV30 ratio and the transmittance and CODCr/SV30 ratio of the spent metalworking fluids were 80.21%, 40.00%, 95.20% and 128.33 mg/mL, respectively. This combined metal ion demulsification method possessed an advantageous minimization of spent metalworking fluids, which greatly benefited the automobile parts workshops in cutting down the operating cost in environmental protection.
Religious Minority Identity in the Work of the Advisory Committee of the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities: A Multifaceted Challenge in Evolution
Authors: Topidi Kyriaki
Published: October 2021

The Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (FCNM) of the Council of Europe counts more than 20 years of existence in the European human rights landscape. Normatively, the protection of minority religious identity is embedded in three main articles of the convention: first, under Articles 7 and 8, which outline a general right to freedom of religion, but also under Article 6, which considers religious minority rights for “new” minorities as related to tolerance. The analysis that follows here will unfold in three stages: the first stage will engage with the crucial issue of the scope of protection of the FCNM and how this relates to the protection of religious minority rights contained in the convention in today’s European societies. The second stage will focus on the main relevant articles of the FCNM that concern religious freedom. Starting with Articles 7 and 8 of the FCNM that focus on the religious rights of minorities stricto sensu, the discussion will then extend to Articles 5 and 6 of the FCNM due to their relevance to the exercise of religious rights by minorities in their cultural and diversity management dimensions. This extension is necessary to illustrate the current implications of religious identity for minority–majority relations. Methodologically, the study relies heavily on a detailed survey of the four completed cycles of monitoring, mapping the typology of issues pertaining to religious minorities as encountered by the Advisory Committee to the FCNM (ACFC) in the monitored states. The final stage of the analysis will provide some concluding thoughts on the general contribution of the ACFC towards standard setting on religious freedom in the European context.
Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of Green Development Cooperation Network among Belt and Road Initiative Regions and Countries
Authors: Wang Bin , Sun Ao , Zheng Qiuxia , Wu Dianting
Published: October 2021

There is a global need to jointly build the green Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in order to develop a philosophy of ecological civilisation and achieve sustainable development. This paper aims to analyse the temporal and spatial characteristics of the green development cooperation (GDC) network among BRI regions and countries and explore the reasons for its formation. To this end, the first step was to analyse the spatial and temporal characteristics of green development capability in six regions of 104 BRI countries from 2013 to 2019 using the synthetic evaluation model and entropy method. Next, social network analysis was used to analyse three characteristics of the GDC network: network structure, node structure, and community structure. Moreover, the indicators of network strength and network correlation were used to estimate the structural characteristics of the entire GDC network, while degree centrality, betweenness centrality, and closeness centrality were used to estimate the role and status of countries in the GDC network. In addition, modularity optimisation was used to analyse the community structure and regional effects of the GDC network. The results show that (1) the green development capability of the BRI countries has spatial and temporal heterogeneity. (2) The GDC network among the BRI countries has been initially formed, and has the characteristics of high connectedness, high efficiency, low density, and low hierarchy. (3) The GDC network has community structure and regional effect, showing polycentric and hierarchical characteristics. (4) China, Russia, and the European countries have stronger radiating and controlling power. Central Asian countries along the land Silk Road and Indian Ocean countries along the maritime Silk Road play a significant role as intermediaries and bridges, while the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) countries play a vital role as the central actors. Finally, some theoretical and practical implications are put forward to provide a blueprint for jointly achieving the sustainable development goals.
Comparison of Stress Fields near Longitudinal Construction Joints of Tied and Doweled Sections in Portland Cement Concrete Pavements
Authors: Hong Geuntae , Kim Jiyoung , Yeon Jung Heum , Won Moon , Choi Seongcheol
Published: October 2021

In Portland cement concrete (PCC) pavements, tie bars are commonly used at longitudinal construction joints (LCJs) to prevent the lanes from separating. Meanwhile, the increase in multiple lanes due to greater traffic volumes has raised concerns about potential longitudinal cracking; this has led to the use of dowel bars instead of tie bars at LCJs. However, there is a paucity of studies focused on the comparison between the behaviors of concrete pavement based on the restrained conditions provided by tie and dowel bars at LCJs. In this study, we investigated the effects of the placement of tie and dowel bars at LCJs on the potential for longitudinal cracking in response to the increase in concrete stress that may occur when the lanes are tied together in PCC pavements. Field testing verified that the variation in concrete strain was more restrained in the case of a tie bar than a dowel bar, whereas it resulted in higher stress in the concrete element in the tie bar section. However, the use of dowel bars caused more movement in the transverse direction at LCJs as compared with tie bars. Thus, our results indicate that using dowel bars reduces the potential for longitudinal cracking; however, it may increase the potential for lane separation.
An Assessment of Environmental Policy Implications under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: A Perspective of Environmental Laws and Sustainable Development
Authors: Khan Mehran Idris , Xu Qianxun
Published: October 2021

Environmental issues know no boundaries and are recognised as a matter of regional and/or global concern, and neighbouring countries have to face shared environmental effects. Environmental laws internationally, particularly in the last thirty years, have grown significantly and have contributed to environmental protection in a variety of national, regional and international management strategies. In recent years, environmental legislation has entered into a responsible and mature phase in several non-Western countries, particularly in Asia. The present study examines the shared environmental obligations of regional or neighbouring countries using China and Pakistan as a case study and provides references from international (environmental) laws as well as states’ best practices. This study adopts a well-defined analytical methodology to not only investigate the implications of environmental laws but also to define the gaps in the existing framework of environmental laws in the region and recommend appropriate grounds to systematically fill these gaps through much-needed legal cooperation before it is too late. The study provides a detailed analysis and pertinent knowledge horizons, and concludes that there is an abrupt need for China and Pakistan to revise their trade agreements and include the environment as an integral part of each mega-infrastructural activity, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Most of the potential outcomes are already known but there is little academic discussion available concerning the perspective of cross-boundary environmental laws, and the present study intends to fill this gap.
Environmental Sustainability Assessment of Pig Farms in Selected European Countries: Combining LCA and Key Performance Indicators for Biodiversity Assessment
Authors: Ruckli Antonia Katharina , Dippel Sabine , Durec Nora , Gebska Monika , Guy Jonathan , Helmerichs Juliane , Leeb Christine , Vermeer Herman , Hörtenhuber Stefan
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to combine Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) assessment focusing on biodiversity in order to examine the environmental impacts of different pig farm types (13 breeding, 23 finishing and 27 breeding-to-finishing farms) in seven European countries. In addition, the relationship between environmental impacts and selected farm management characteristics was explored. Fossil energy depletion (FED), global warming (GWP), acidification (AP) as well as marine (MEP) and fresh water (FEP) eutrophication potential were assessed by an attributional LCA and expressed per kilogram body mass net sold (BMNS). In addition, the potential biodiversity performance of all crop-livestock farms within the sample (n = 56) was evaluated with a KPI assessment of biodiversity-related field management characteristics. We found no relationship between LCA results and biodiversity scores (KPI). LCA and biodiversity performance varied more within than across farm types (breeding, finishing, breeding-to-finishing). For example, the GWP expressed per kg BMNS of the breeding unit of breeding-to-finishing farms was on average (median) 2.77 (range: 1.40–4.78) and of breeding farms 2.57 (range: 1.91–3.23) kg CO2-eq. The average (median) biodiversity theme score for breeding farms was 51% (range: 36–70%), for breeding-to-finishing farms 38% (range: 30–68%) and for finishing farms 43% (range: 28–67%). Several farm management characteristics (e.g., FCR, productivity, proportion of solid manure) correlated with all/some LCA results. Biodiversity performance depended especially on KPIs related to ecological focus areas, fertiliser management and GMO crops. The large range regarding environmental performance in both LCA and KPI assessment across farm types indicates that farm-specific improvement measures should be implemented to enhance overall environmental sustainability on farm. In conclusion, combining LCA with KPI assessment provides a more comprehensive environmental impact assessment of pig farms.
Greenways as Integrated Systems: A Proposal for Planning and Design Guidelines Based on Case Studies Evaluation
Authors: Pinna Francesco , Saiu Valeria
Published: October 2021

Greenways (GWs) can play a key role in the context of policies and strategies for sustainable territorial development because they contribute to the development of integrated plans and interventions for environmental safeguarding and socio-economic growth. As is generally understood, in their modern conception, GWs are not only develop soft mobility, but they also represent supporting elements of a new concept of development and use of territory, attentive to its particular characteristics and the needs of resident populations. Beginning with a critical analysis of the most significant case studies of greenways, the authors propose a system of design and evaluation guidelines useful in identifying specific GW-related actions. The identified actions are divided into two categories, which are tangible and intangible actions. The first category corresponds with concrete actions that are directly implemented through different design and construction phases; the second category corresponds with processes activated in the design phase and are concretized after the “commissioning” of the path and has repercussions on the sphere of place identity. These categories are often difficult to distinguish between because many actions can be considered to be both tangible and intangible.
Psychological support for the dementia patients and their family members
Authors: Shatalova Irina Viktorovna , Dergunova Natalya Petrovna
Published: October 2021

The aim of the study is to solve the questions that an unprepared relative faces about how to assess the condition of their sick relative and their possibilities in caring for him/her. Results. The study made it possible to determine that 60% of the respondents had a burnout syndrome formed at the time of the survey, and 39% were in the stage of its formation. Conclusion. Dementia affects not only the person who is ill, but the whole family. The greatest burden is borne by those caring for the patient. It is necessary to think how to deal with stress. Having sorted out one’s own emotions, one can more effectively cope with both the patient’s problems and the surrounding problems.
How dangerous Gilbert's syndrome is
Authors: Stepchenkov Roman Petrovich
Published: October 2021

Gilbert's syndrome is a benign (functional) hyperbilirubinemia, which is based on a hereditary disorder of bilirubin metabolism, as a result of which the concentration of unbound bilirubin can increase several times. Bilirubin, being a breakdown product of hemoglobin, circulates through the bloodstream, combining with albumin molecules. Such bilirubin is called indirect. In the endoplasmic reticulum, it is conjugated; the enzyme glucuronyltransferase is responsible for this process. In Gilbert's syndrome, as a result of insufficient production of this enzyme, the conjugation process is disrupted, and, as a result, the concentration of unconjugated bilirubin increases. According to statistics, this pathological condition is observed in about 5 % of Russians. This syndrome was first described in 1901 by the French physician Augustin Nicolas Gilbert, and was subsequently named after him. The literature also contains references to this syndrome, described as «constitutional hepatic dysfunction», «familial non-hemolytic hyperbilirubinemia», «idiopathic non-conjugated hyperbilirubinemia». Gilbert's syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner; men get ill 3–4 times more often than women. A number of scientists associate this with a possible inhibitory effect of testosterone on the enzyme UDP-GT1, which breaks down bilirubin. Clinically, Gilbert's syndrome is manifested by episodes of jaundice caused by an increase in the level of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood serum. Against the background of icterus of the sclera and skin, there is increased fatigue, the appearance of a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, loss of appetite, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. The association of Gilbert's syndrome with functional disorders of the biliary tract, in particular, with gallbladder dyskinesia, is often noted.
Clinical manifestations of pseudomembranous colitis
Authors: Klimov Vladimir Anatolievich
Published: October 2021

Pseudomembranous colitis is a pathological condition in which there is damage to the mucous membrane of the large intestine with focal or diffuse fibrin depositions resulting from exposure to factors of the pathogenicity of Clostridium difficile. This disease has become quite widespread in recent years. The widespread and not always properly controlled prescription of antibiotics can lead to the development of a serious complication caused by this pathogen. The pathological condition develops against the background or after the end of the ongoing antibiotic therapy; its initial manifestation is antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). Most often, this condition is diagnosed in postoperative patients against the background of a general decrease in immunity, as well as as a result of prolonged and uncontrolled intake of antibiotics. It has been proven that the frequency of Clostridium difficile colonization increases sharply during hospitalization, thus, this infection was referred to hospital ones. The main clinical manifestation of pseudomembranous colitis is diarrhea; stool can become more frequent, up to 5-7 times a day, while feces are scanty and not abundant. In addition to diarrhea, abdominal pain and flatulence may occur. The diagnosis is established on the basis of the fact of increased stool within two or more days for 8 weeks after taking antibiotics confirmed by the patient.
Healthcare in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Frolova Elena Vladimirovna
Published: October 2021

Saudi Arabia is a large state located on the Arabian Peninsula; this country is considered the birthplace of Islam. The population of Saudi Arabia is approaching 35 million. About 7% of GDP is allocated annually for the maintenance of the healthcare system, while about 1,500 US dollars is spent on medical care for each resident of the country (according to this indicator, the country ranks 41st in the world). The share of private spending on health care is 37.6%. The average life expectancy in Saudi Arabia was 74.4 years in 2019. According to Healthcare Index 2021, the assessment of the effectiveness of the healthcare system, Saudi Arabia was ranked 54th out of 93 countries, while gaining 60.7 points out of 100 possible. A feature of this country is the fact that it is here that the largest annual mass event in the world is held - the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, which puts a very serious burden on the healthcare system.
Influence of helminths on the development of allergic diseases (Literature review)
Authors: Rozenson R. I. , Tyo A. V.
Published: October 2021

Helminths has always been a global challenge to the humanity causing a range of serious illnesses. However, there is more and more evidence that the influence of helminths on the human body is inversely correlated with some allergic diseases mediated by the Th2 response. Accordingly, recently there has been an increased interest in a more detailed study of this issue as there is a possibility of the potential therapeutic use of helminths and their derivatives in allergic diseases.
Redundant laboratory testing on referral from general practice to the outpatient clinic: a post-hoc analysis
Authors: Vrijsen Bram EL , ten Berg Maarten J , van Solinge Wouter W , Westerink Jan
Published: October 2021

Background

Inappropriately repeated laboratory testing is a commonly occurring problem. However, this has not been studied extensively in the outpatient clinic after referral by GPs.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate how often laboratory tests ordered by the GP were repeated on referral to the outpatient clinic, and how many of the normal test results remained normal on repetition.

Design & setting

This is a post-hoc analysis of a study on laboratory testing strategies in patients newly referred to the outpatient clinic between April 2015 and April 2017.

Method

All patients who had a referral letter including laboratory test results ordered by the GP were included. These results were compared with the laboratory test results ordered in the outpatient clinic.

Results

Data were available for 295 patients, 191 of which had post-visit testing done. In this group, 56% of tests ordered by the GP were repeated. Tests with abnormal results were repeated more frequently than tests with normal results (65% versus 53%;P<0.001). A longer test interval was associated with slightly smaller odds of tests being repeated (odds ratio [OR] 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.95 to 0.99;P= 0.003). Of the tests with normal test results that were repeated, 90% remained normal. This was independent of testing interval or testing strategy.

Conclusion

Laboratory tests ordered by the GP are commonly repeated on referral to the outpatient clinic. The number of test results remaining normal on repetition suggests a high level of redundancy in laboratory test repetition.