bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy based multi‐criteria based cluster head selection for enhancing network lifetime and efficient energy consumption
Authors: Srivastava Ankita , Mishra Pramod Kumar
Published: October 2023

Sensors plays an important role in day‐to‐day life as they sense and transfer data on the cloud and servers. These sensors have limited battery power due to which their optimized use is preferred with efficient energy consumption. As sensors were deployed almost everywhere under‐earth, underwater, electronic devices, and mobiles thus their enhanced performance is really important. In WSN, clustering is considered to be an essential approach that gives various advantages such as efficient energy, stability period, network lifetime, less delay, and scalability but has an issue of hot‐spot or energy‐hole problems. For this Un‐Equal Clustering is proposed where the size of clusters varies directly to the distance of the B.S. (Base Station). The main objective of Un‐Equal clustering is energy consumption, hot‐spot problem, and load balance among the cluster heads. In this paper, we have proposed an improved fuzzy‐based multi‐attributes un‐equal clustering to overcome the problem of hot‐spot problem. Earlier, researchers considered two attributes for selecting cluster heads (CHs), but later some of the MADM approaches were used that considered multiple attributes for optimal cluster head selection. In this paper, we have applied the fuzzy‐based TOPSIS method for optimized Un‐Equal clustering where the optimal node deployments with load balance among sensor nodes having optimal coverage and connectivity is considered. The results of the proposed method validate that it is one of the effective ways for selecting optimal cluster heads using fuzzy‐based multi‐attributes. Fuzzy‐based TOPSIS for cluster heads selection method shows 37% enhanced network performance with other compared existing algorithms. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated in terms of network stability, packet delivery, energy consumption, and network lifetime and F‐MAUC (Fuzzy based multi‐attributes un‐equal clustering) outperforms all other compared algorithms.
Investigating the effect of obsessive‐compulsive disorder on clinical symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders
Authors: Sadrzadeh‐Afshar Maryam‐Sadat , Salari Behzad , shobeiri Ali , HafeziMotlagh Kimia
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are a group of clinical conditions involving muscles of mastication, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and related structures or both. TMD is characterized by facial pain in TMJ and muscles of mastication, limitation or deviation of jaw movement, and TMJ sounds during jaw movement and function. The highest risk of TMD prevalence is between 18 and 24 years, and a relationship is between chronic TMD and psychological disorders such as stress and depression.

The knowledge of the function of this joint and those with TMD symptoms when visiting the dentist will help to provide an ideal treatment plan for the patient. Therefore, if the therapist is familiar with the various etiological factors of this disorder, he will provide better treatment, especially if the simultaneous effect of psychological factors such as stress and obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) along with occlusal factors such as posterior cross‐bite, overjet, and overbite is measured, it can be a valuable guide for clinicians.

Methods and Materials

In this study, 385 patients were examined by DASS42 and Maudsley's test and classified into normal, with stress, and stress plus OCD groups. TMJ was examined for each of them by the TMD‐RDC test. The presence or absence of TMD was noted in their file.

Results

The prevalence of TMD was 20.7% in the normal group, 30.70% in the stress group, and 44.68% in the stress and OCD group. After analyzing the data by SPSS 24 and performing analysis of variance and Duncan tests, no significant difference was found between the probability of TMD in normal and stressed groups, but the stress and OCD group has a higher chance of TMD.

Conclusion

Although the co‐occurrence of stress and OCD is associated with the prevalence of TMD, it cannot be considered a cause of TMD.
Virtues of Cold Isostatic Pressing for Preparation of All‐Solid‐State‐Batteries with Poly(Ethylene Oxide)
Authors: Campéon Benoît D. L. , Rajendra Hongahally B. , Yabuuchi Naoaki
Published: October 2023

All‐solid‐state‐batteries (ASSBs) necessitate the preparation of a solid electrolyte and an electrode couple with individually dense and compact structures with superior interfacial contact to minimize overall cell resistance. A conventional preparation method of solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) with polyethylene‐oxide (PEO) generally consists in employing uni‐axial hot press (HP) to densify SPE. However, while uni‐axial press with moderate pressure effectively densifies PEO with Li salts, excessive pressure also unavoidably results in perpendicular elongation and deformation for polymer matrix. In this research, to overcome this limitation for the uni‐axial press technique, a cold isostatic press (CIP) is applied to the fabrication of ASSB with PEO and LiFePO4. CIP effectively and uniformly applies pressure as high as 500 MPa without deformation. Characterizations confirm that CIP treated SPE has enhanced mechanical puncture strength, increasing from 499.3±22.6 to 539.3±22.6 g, and ionic conductivity, increasing from 1.04×10−4 to 1.91×10−4 S cm−1 at 50 °C. ASSB treated by CIP demonstrates remarkably enhanced rate capability and cyclability compared with the cell processed by HP, which is further evidenced by improvement of the apparent Li ion diffusion constant based on Sand equation analysis. The improvement enabled by CIP treatment originates from the superior interface uniformity between electrodes and SPE and from the densification of the LiFePO4 and SPE composite electrode.
Genomic analysis of the rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) and the cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) uncover polygenic signatures of reinforcement speciation
Authors: Bailey Nick , Ruiz Cody , Tosi Anthony , Stevison Laurie
Published: October 2023

Speciation can involve phases of divergent adaptation in allopatry and ecological/reproductive character displacement in sympatry or parapatry. Reproductive character displacement can result as a means of preventing hybridization, a process known as reinforcement speciation. In this study, we use whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) of two closely related primate species that have experienced introgression in their history, the rhesus (Macaca mulatta) and cynomolgus (M. fascicularis) macaques, to identify genes exhibiting reproductive character displacement and other patterns consistent with reinforcement speciation. Using windowed scans of various population genetic statistics to identify signatures of reinforcement, we find 184 candidate genes associated with a variety of functions, including an overrepresentation of multiple neurological functions and several genes involved in sexual development and gametogenesis. These results are consistent with a variety of genes acting in a reinforcement process between these species. We also find signatures of introgression of the Y‐chromosome that confirm previous studies suggesting male‐driven introgression ofM. mulattaintoM. fascicularispopulations. This study uses WGS to find evidence of the process of reinforcement in primates that have medical and conservation relevance.
Synthesis of Donor Substituted Chlorophyll Derivatives for Applications in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Conrad‐Fletemeyer Ulf , Dononelli Wilke , Müller‐Bork Caroline , Stelten Johannes , Montforts Franz‐Peter
Published: October 2023

Organic dyes based on chlorophyll derivatives were synthesized and investigated with respect to applications in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC). Cyanobacterium Spirulina platensis cultivated on large scales in tropical areas around the Pacific Ocean is an attractive source for production and isolation of pure chlorophyll a. Direct transformation of chlorophyll a into very robust chlorin e6 trimethylester 3 affords an ideal platform for synthesis of dyes for artificial photosynthesis. A series of molecules 24–32 with donor‐π‐acceptor structures and functional groups for immobilization on TiO2 were achieved by subsequent synthetic modifications of 3. Photochemical, theoretical and electrochemical properties of dyes were investigated and their sensitized solar cells performances studied after immobilization on TiO2.
Benefits of increasing surface to volume ratio for improving electrochemical performance of poly(3‐hexylthiophene): Electrospun fibers vs. films
Authors: Jelińska Aldona , Kalisz Justyna , Pociecha Damian , Maksymiuk Krzysztof , Michalska Agata
Published: October 2023

We report on successful preparation of conducting polymer nanofibers from regiorandom poly(3‐hexylthiophene). It is shown that the electrochemical properties of obtained structures are significantly improved in course of electrochemical doping process performed in the aqueous phase, moreover this process is accompanied with change of optical properties and water contact angle. These effects are not observed for polymer films. Moreover, doping of nanofibers results in pronounced, irreversible changes in the polymer structure – increased crystallinity due to incorporation of doping ions is confirmed by optical and X‐ray crystallographic studies. Ultimately, these changes lead to decreased resistance and improved electrochemical performance of nanofibers mat. As this effect is solely observed for nanofibers of conducting polymer, it can be ascribed to high surface to volume ratio of electrospun fibers mat. Therefore, it is shown for the first time that polythiophene electrochemical doping process effect is dependent on the format of the polymer applied, for nanofibers it can be regarded as attractive method of improving electrochemical properties of polymers.
A method for predicting fracture conductivity based on three‐dimensional spatial morphology features
Authors: Fei Gao , Junhai Chen , Yishan Lou
Published: October 2023

The distribution of fracture clearance is an important factor that determines the conductivity of carbonate fractures. In this paper, the morphological analysis of acid fractures and the evaluation of acid fracture conductivity were carried out to test the characteristics of acid fracture clearance and the conductivity of acid fractures under the conditions of different acid rock reaction rates. Combined with the distribution rule of fracture clearance and the calculation formula of acid fracture conductivity under closure stress, the calculation formula of acid fracture conductivity of carbonate rocks is established and verified, and the influence rule of the distribution of fracture clearance on the conductivity of acid fractures is simulated and calculated. The results show that with the increase of the closure pressure, the conductivity of the fracture with a closure pressure of 60 MPa is about 94% lower than that of the fracture with a closure pressure of 10 MPa. The increase in acid dissolution rate is beneficial to improve the fracture conductivity under various closure stresses, and the acid dissolution is beneficial to reduce the influence of the closure stress on the fracture conductivity of acid dissolution. When the confining pressure is 10 MPa, the acid corrosion rate increases from 0.0001 to 0.0004 g/cm2 s, and the conductivity of the acid corrosion fracture increases from 27 to 420 μm2 cm. As the dissolution rate of acid solution increases, the proportion of large clearance on the fracture surface increases, the average value of total clearance increases, and the proportion of contact on the fracture surface decreases.
In a Survivor's Voice
Authors: Fins Joseph J.
Published: October 2023

Confronting Traumatic Brain Injury: Devastation, Hope and Healing. William J. Winslade. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1998. 220 pp. $27.50.
Cytomegalovirus Colitis After 5‐Fluorouracil and Interferon‐α Therapy
Authors: Baker James L. , Gosland Michael P. , Herrington Jon D. , Record Kenneth E.
Published: October 2023

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is an opportunistic viral infection primarily affecting immunocompromised patients. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease have an increased risk for developing CMV infections of the gastrointestinal tract. While receiving continuous infusion of 5‐fluorouracil and interferon‐α, a 72‐year‐old woman with stage IV pancreatic carcinoma developed severe colitis with diarrhea that was refractory to conventional antidiarrheals. A biopsy specimen from the colon revealed CMV inclusions, which were confirmed by immunofluorescence. The patient was given ganciclovir 210 mg (5 mg/kg) every 12 hours for 14 days, and the diarrhea resolved after approximately 8 days of therapy. This is the first reported case of CMV colitis associated with combination 5‐fluorouracil and interferon‐α therapy.
Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Finasteride, a 5α‐Reductase Inhibitor
Authors: Ko Hui C. , Jusko William J.
Published: October 2023

Finasteride is a 4‐azasteroid inhibitor of one isoenzyme of 5α‐reductases that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). We characterized the time course of DHT concentrations. The following model was used to assess DHT pharmacodynamics:

where joint fitting of three dose levels yielded koin = 28% change/hour, kout = 0.28 hour1, IC50 = 0.012 ng/ml, and Emax = 0.7. The modification of a previous model with the maximum partial effect factor, Emax, may be useful in characterizing the pharmacodynamics of drugs with similar indirect mechanisms.
Computer‐Assisted Continuous Infusion for the Delivery of Target‐Controlled Infusions of Propofol During Outpatient Surgery
Authors: Arndt George A. , Reiss William G. , Bathke Kris A. , Springman Scott R. , Kenny Gavin
Published: October 2023

Propofol was administered intravenously using a first‐order, three‐compartment, computer‐controlled infusion pump (CCIP) based on the Ohmeda 9000 syringe pump. The CCIP system produced a target‐controlled infusion (TCI) based on the estimated blood concentration (EBC). Twenty‐five patients undergoing ambulatory surgery completed the study. The induction EBC was 4.72 ± 0.28 μg/ml, and was achieved rapidly with minimal hemodynamic changes. The emergence EBC was 1.55 ± 0.21 μg/ml, and the discharge EBC was 1.06 ± 0.22 μg/ml. The EBC, together with clinical signs, allowed for predictable inductance and emergence from anesthesia using propofol.
Acetazolamide Toxicity and Pharmacokinetics in Patients Receiving Hemodialysis
Authors: Schwenk Michael H. , Peter Wendy L. St. , Meese Martin G. , Singhal Pravin C.
Published: October 2023

Acetazolamide‐induced central nervous system toxicity occurred in two patients undergoing hemodialysis. Symptoms of toxicity included fatigue, lethargy, and confusion, which resolved several days after discontinuing acetazolamide. Pharmacokinetic studies showed markedly elevated serum concentrations of the drug during the period of toxicity, which decreased at a slower rate compared with that reported in patients with normal renal function. The effect of hemodialysis on acetazolamide clearance was quantified. The agent should be avoided in patients receiving dialysis unless the dosage is reduced and serum concentration monitoring can be performed in a timely manner. These patients should be monitored closely for central nervous system toxicity if acetazolamide is given.
Treatment of Vancomycin‐Resistant Enterococci, with a Focus on Quinupristin‐Dalfopristin
Authors: Fuller Robert E. , Drew Richard H. , Perfect John R.
Published: October 2023

Enterococci are the second most common cause of hospital‐acquired infections, and drug resistance among these organisms is a growing problem. Vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE) now account for 7.9% of the nosocomial enterococcal infections. There is no standard therapy for VRE. Although some agents have shown in vitro activity alone or in combination, including ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, novobiocin, teicoplanin, chloramphenicol, and rifampin, treatment options are limited to combinations of drugs with marginal efficacy against the pathogens. Quinupristin‐dalfopristin is a new investigational agent with activity against gram‐positive cocci, including VRE.
Formation of Platinum‐DNA Adducts in Pediatric Patients Receiving Carboplatin
Authors: Tonda Margaret E. , Murry Daryl J. , Rodman John H.
Published: October 2023

Study Objective. To determine the extent of platinum‐DNA (Pt‐DNA) adduct formation in peripheral white blood cells of children with cancer.

Design. Prospective study.

Setting. Pediatric research hospital.

Patients. Twenty‐seven children receiving carboplatin as part of therapy as defined by clinical research protocols.

Interventions. Patients received various dosages of carboplatin over 1, 3, or 24 hours as a primary component of combination chemotherapy for pediatric solid tumors, brain tumors, or large cell lymphoma.

Measurements and Main Results. The Pt‐DNA adducts were detectable in 10 (37%) of 27 patients. The median value was 3.4 fmol Pt/μg DNA (range 1.7–31.2 fmol) in patients with measurable values.

Conclusion. The Pt‐DNA adducts were detected less frequently in pediatric patients than reported in adults. Variables that influenced their detection were higher carboplatin dosages or systemic exposure and short (1–3 hrs) versus prolonged (24 hrs) infusions.
Prolonged Ciprofloxacin Administration Does Not Accelerate Neutrophil Recovery after Autologous Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Hsu Jane , Prince H. Miles , Imrie Kevin R.
Published: October 2023

Study Objective. To determine whether prolonged ciprofloxacin administration following autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT) accelerates neutrophil recovery.

Design. Retrospective analysis of 40 consecutive patients undergoing ABMT.

Setting. Tertiary care bone marrow transplant program.

Patients. Two sequential arms of 20 consecutive patients with Hodgkin's disease or non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma undergoing ABMT.

Interventions. The first arm received ciprofloxacin from the day of transplantation until initiation of broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy (median 5 days) while the second arm continued ciprofloxacin until recovery of the neutrophil count (median 15 days).

Measurements and Main Results. Neutrophil recovery was similar in the two groups (16 vs 14 days; p=0.41). There were no differences in platelet recovery, bacteremia, or treatment‐related mortality.

Conclusion. Prolonged ciprofloxacin administration does not significantly accelerate neutrophil recovery following ABMT.
Delayed Onset of Angioedema with Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: O'Mara Neeta Bahal , O'Mara Edward M.
Published: October 2023

The angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors have gained widespread application in the management of hypertension and congestive heart failure, and after myocardial infarction. They are generally considered safe drugs, but there are a number of reports of angioedema associated with their use. In general, angioedema occurs within hours to days after initiation of therapy, and only a limited number of reports document a delayed onset. Our patient experienced angioedema after 14 months of therapy with benazepril.
Clinical Pharmacokinetic Pearls: Bolus versus Infusion Equations
Authors: Murphy John E. , Winter Michael E.
Published: October 2023

Using a nonprogrammed calculator to solve lengthy pharmacokinetic equations is time consuming and carries the potential for entry error. Shorter equations reduce both the time and the risk. The aminoglycosides and vancomycin are usually administered as short infusions. The pharmacokinetic equation describing multiple‐dose administration of short infusions is much longer than the corresponding equation for bolus dosing. This study examined the percentage errors that would occur using the bolus equation instead of the infusion equation at various drug half‐lives. When the half‐life is 5 or more times the duration of infusion, the error in predicting concentration is 6.8% or less. Although clinicians should make their own decisions on how much error is acceptable and whether introducing guaranteed error is appropriate to save time and reduce risk of potential error, it appears that the simpler bolus equation may be used safely when the half‐life is at least 5 times the duration of the infusion.
The Impact of Clinical Pharmacists on Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Jenkins Mary Hisrich , Bond C.A.
Published: October 2023

To review the contributions of clinical pharmacists to the care of psychiatric patients, we conducted a thorough MEDLINE review of the literature from January 1966 through January 1995. We recorded information regarding the number of patients, study designs, types of interventions, results, and cost savings. A substantial number of studies documented the positive effects of clinical pharmacists on patient outcomes, including improved care, improved level of functioning, and reduced medical and pharmaceutical care costs. Although more comprehensive studies have to be performed, a body of knowledge supports the pharmacist's role in the care of psychiatric patients.
Relation between microRNA‐155 and inflammatory mediators in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Elsayed Rania , Fayez Salwa , Rashed Laila Ahmed , Farghali Marwa , AbdelHamid Marwa , Alkaffas Marwa
Published: October 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system characterized by axonal damage, demyelination, and chronic inflammation. Multiple molecular and cellular components mediate neuroinflammation in MS. In human macrophages and microglia, miRNA‐155 is an essential proinflammatory noncoding RNA that regulates phenotypic and functional polarization properties. This study was conducted to detect the plasma level of miRNA‐155 in RRMS and assess its relationship with inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory mediators. The study included 60 MS patients and 30 healthy controls. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was utilized to detect miRNA‐155, iNOS, and SMAD2, whereas ELISA was used to determine TNF‐α, IFN‐ɣ, TGF‐β, and IL‐10 levels. There was no significant difference in miRNA‐155, SMAD2, and iNOS expression in MS patients compared to control subjects. In addition, there was a statistically significant increase in TNF‐α, INF‐ɣ, and TGF‐β levels. IL‐10 levels did not differ significantly between MS patients and healthy controls. There was a positive correlation between miRNA‐155 and TNF‐α (p < 0.000, r = 0.922), INF‐ɣ (p < 0.000, r = 0.81), and iNOS (p < 0.000, r = 0.916) and inverse correlation between miRNA‐155 and IL‐10 (p < 0.000, r = −0.928), TGF‐β (p < 0.000, r = −0.904) and SMAD2 (p < 0.000, r = −0.848). We conclude that expression of miRNA‐155 in MS may modulate macrophage/microglia polarization by increasing the secretion of TNF‐α, IFN‐ɣ & iNOS and decreasing anti‐inflammatory mediators IL10 and TGF‐β.
Betaine alleviates doxorubicin‐induced nephrotoxicity by preventing oxidative insults, inflammation, and fibrosis through the modulation of Nrf2/HO−1/NLRP3 and TGF‐β expression
Authors: Patel Dhaneshvaree , Yadav Poonam , Singh Sumeet K. , Tanwar Sampat S. , Sehrawat Abhishek , Khurana Amit , Bhatti Jasvinder S. , Navik Umashanker
Published: October 2023

Doxorubicin (Dox) is an anthracycline antibiotic used to treat various cancers and shows severe toxicity in multiple organ systems, including kidneys. Evidence shows that betaine's antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties could prevent the onset of several disorders. Hence, the present study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of betaine on Dox‐induced nephrotoxicity (DIN). Nephrotoxicity was induced in male Sprague Dawley rats using Dox at a dose of 4 mg/kg (cumulative dose: 20 mg/kg) by the intraperitoneal route and cotreated with betaine through oral gavage (200 and 400 mg/kg) for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, biochemical, oxidative stress parameters, histopathology, and qRT‐PCR were performed. DIN was indicated by elevated serum creatinine, urea, and decreased albumin levels representing kidney damage; the histopathological lesions (increased capsular space, renal tubule damage, and fibrosis) in renal tissues supported these biochemical findings. Interestingly, betaine treatment improves these alterations in Dox‐treated rats. Further, betaine treatment decreases the lipid peroxidation and nitrite concentration and increases the superoxide dismutases and catalase enzyme concentration in Dox‐treated rats. Fascinatingly, at the molecular level, DIN in rats shows upregulation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 gene, while betaine treatment attenuated its expression along with the downregulation of inflammatory genes (NLRP3, TLR‐4, TNF‐α, and IL‐6) and fibrosis‐related genes (TGF‐β and Acta2) expression in Dox‐treated rats. These results showed that betaine has reno‐protective properties by reducing inflammatory and fibrotic mediators and enhancing antioxidant capacity in the renal tissue of rats treated with Dox. We believe betaine can be exploited as a dietary supplement to attenuate DIN.
Porphyromonas gingivalis outer membrane vesicles shape trophoblast cell metabolism impairing functions associated to adverse pregnancy outcome
Authors: Lara Brenda , Loureiro Iñaki , Gliosca Laura , Castagnola Lara , Merech Fátima , Gallino Lucila , Calo Guillermina , Sassot Matías , Ramhorst Rosanna , Vota Daiana , Pérez Leirós Claudia , Hauk Vanesa
Published: October 2023

Periodontitis is proposed as a risk factor for preterm delivery, fetal growth restriction, and preeclampsia with severe consequences for maternal and neonatal health, but the biological mechanisms involved are elusive. Porphyromonas gingivalis gain access to the placental bed and impair trophoblast cell function, as assessed in murine and human pregnancy, suggesting a pathogenic role in adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. P. gingivalis releases outer membrane vesicles (P. gingivalis OMV) during growth that spread to distant tissues and are internalized in host cells as described in metabolic, neurological, and vascular systemic diseases. Here we tested the hypothesis that P. gingivalis OMV internalized in trophoblast cells disrupt their metabolism leading to trophoblast and placenta dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes. An in vitro design with human trophoblast cells incubated with P. gingivalis OMV was used together with ex vivo and in vivo approaches in pregnant mice treated with P. gingivalis OMV. P. gingivalis OMV modulated human trophoblast cell metabolism by reducing glycolytic pathways and decreasing total reactive oxygen species with sustained mitochondrial activity. Metabolic changes induced by P. gingivalis OMV did not compromise cell viability; instead, it turned trophoblast cells into a metabolic resting state where central functions such as migration and invasion were reduced. The effects of P. gingivalis OMV on human trophoblast cells were corroborated ex vivo in mouse whole placenta and in vivo in pregnant mice: P. gingivalis OMV reduced glycolytic pathways in the placenta and led to lower placental and fetal weight gain in vivo with reduced placental expression of the glucose transporter GLUT1. The present results point to OMV as a key component of P. gingivalis involved in adverse pregnancy outcomes, and even more, unveil a metabolic cue in the deleterious effect of P. gingivalis OMV on trophoblast cells and mouse pregnancy, providing new clues to understand pathogenic mechanisms in pregnancy complications and other systemic diseases.
Appraisal of the capacity of natural oils for partitioning of itaconic acid via reactive extraction
Authors: Raghuwanshi Shourabh Singh , Wasewar Kailas L. , Athankar Kanti Kumar
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Owing to the continuous growth of petroleum prices over the last few decades, there has been a renaissance in interest in the large‐scale manufacturing of platform chemicals via the fermentation route. The present work emphasizes the extraction of itaconic acid from an aqueous solution by dissolving reactive tri‐n‐butyl phosphate (TBP) in natural, non‐toxic diluents such as sunflower oil, rice bran oil, and sesame oil.

RESULTS

The experimental results were explained in terms of distribution coefficient (Ɗ), extraction efficiency (η%), equilibrium complexation constant (Ke), and loading ratio (ϕ). At the highest concentration of itaconic acid 0.250 mol L−1 and TBP 1.099 mol L−1, the maximum extraction efficiency and distribution coefficient for sunflower oil were obtained, at 88.72% and 7.94%, respectively. The diffusivity () of itaconic acid towards the interface of organic and aqueous phases was obtained as 1.11 × 10−6 cm2 s−1 with the Wilke–Chang equation and 4.40 × 10−7 cm2 s−1 using the Reddy–Doraiswamy relation. The lowest value of solvent‐to‐feed (S/F) proportion was estimated as 6.66, with the minimum number of stages required for counter‐current extraction being ~4.

CONCLUSION

In reactive extraction of itaconic acid with TBP, the highest extraction efficiency and distribution coefficient was attained with sunflower oil, followed by rice bran oil and sesame oil. Higher concentrations of itaconic acid (0.250 mol L−1) and TBP (1.099 mol L−1) are suitable combinations for all the natural diluents. Diffusivity values revealed the extent of diffusion of itaconic acid in the solvent phase and strongly depended on the density and viscosity of the solvent. The experimental results could be utilized to design a continuous extraction column. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Laparoscopic versus robotic lateral transabdominal adrenalectomy
Authors: Isiktas Gizem , Akgun Ege , Berber Eren
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives

Despite an increased adaptation of robotic adrenalectomy, its advantages over laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) have not been defined. The aim of the study was to compare perioperative outcomes of robotic versus laparoscopic lateral transabdominal adrenalectomy using a large single‐center experience.

Methods

This was a retrospective single center study. Within 22 years, patients who underwent laparoscopic and robotic transabdominal lateral adrenalectomy were identified from a prospective institutional review board‐approved database. Clinical and perioperative outcomes were compared using Mann−Whitney U and χ2 tests.

Results

There were 190 patients who underwent laparoscopic and 281 patients who underwent robotic transabdominal lateral adrenalectomy. The groups were comparable except for a higher percentage of female patients in the robotic group. For robotic versus LA, operative time and hospital stay were shorter, in addition to less blood loss, conversion to open and margin positivity, for pheochromocytoma and malignant tumors. Morbidity rates were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Despite the limitations of a retrospective design, this large study demonstrates significant advantages of robotic versus laparoscopic transabdominal lateral adrenalectomy in terms of perioperative outcomes and margin clearance.
Kinetics of esterification of acetic acid with n‐butanol over different homogeneous acid catalysts
Authors: Soni Rakhi , Jyoti Ghoshna
Published: October 2023

The esterification reaction of n‐butanol and acetic acid has been performed in batch reactor in the presence of different homogeneous acid catalyst, namely sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and para toluene sulfonic acid (p‐TSA). The objective of present research work is to investigate kinetic behavior of esterification reaction over the temperature range of 60°C–80°C. The effect of reaction parameter such as catalyst loading varied from 1% to 5% v/v and acid to alcohol molar ratio of 1:1, 1:3, and 1:5 has been observed. A pseudo homogeneous kinetic model has been applied. Kinetic parameters such as equilibrium constant, reaction rate constant, enthalpy, activation energy, and entropy were calculated by the experimental data for different acid catalyst system. It was observed that sulfuric acid gives higher conversion 73% than p‐TSA 68.5% and nitric acid 66.25% at temperature of 80°C, 1:1 molar ratio and 3% catalyst concentration. The activation energy was estimated 36448.49, 23324.31 and 19060.156 J/mol K for three different catalyst sulfuric acid, nitric acid and p‐TSA respectively. The enthalpy and entropy of the esterification reaction of acetic acid with n‐butanol over three different catalysts has been calculated (Enthalpy: 25.788 KJ/mol, 12.256 KJ/mol, 28.320 KJ/mol, Entropy: 88.1 J/mol K, 45.298 J/mol K, 91.44 J/mol K) and found enthalpy is having positive value that shows reaction is endothermic.
Well‐controlled viremia reduces the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic viral hepatitis patients treated with lenvatinib
Authors: Hsiao Ya‐Wen , Sou Fai‐Meng , Wang Jing‐Houng , Chen Yen‐Hao , Tsai Ming‐Chao , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Hung Chao‐Hung , Chen Chien‐Hung , Kuo Yuan‐Hung
Published: October 2023

Lenvatinib has been approved as one of the first‐line treatments for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to its high treatment efficacy being non‐inferior to sorafenib. Previous studies have shown well‐controlled viremia contributes to the prognosis of HCC patients receiving first‐line sorafenib; hence, we postulated this association might also exist in HCC patients with lenvatinib treatment. From April 2018 to December 2021, 201 unresectable HCC patients with first‐line lenvatinib treatment in our institute were assessed. High‐effect nucleoside analogues were administered for hepatitis B virus (HBV) control, while direct‐acting antivirals were used for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination. Based on our previous study, well‐controlled viremia was defined as patients who had undetectable viremia, or who had been receiving antivirals at least 6 months before lenvatinib. This study enrolled 129 patients, including 85 patients with HBV‐related HCC (HBV‐HCC) and 44 patients with HCV‐related HCC (HCV‐HCC), respectively. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates between the two groups were not different. Before administration of lenvatinib, 57.1% of the HBV‐HCC patients and 88.4% of the HCV‐HCC patients had well‐controlled viremia, and their PFS (8.8 vs. 3.1 months, p < 0.001) and OS (30.2 vs. 12.8 months, p = 0.041) were better than those who had uncontrolled viremia; moreover, well‐controlled viremia reduced tumor progression in multivariate analysis (Hazard ratio: 0.41, 95% confidence interval: 0.25–0.68, p = 0.001) after adjusting for albumin–bilirubin grade and concurrent treatment. HBV or HCV infection was not associated with tumor progression of HCC patients receiving lenvatinib, but viremia, controlled or not, was.
Postoperative Morbidity of Different Tonsillectomy Techniques: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Russo Elena , Festa Bianca Maria , Costantino Andrea , Bernardocchi Alice , Spriano Giuseppe , De Virgilio Armando
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare different tonsillectomy techniques in terms of postoperative bleeding incidence and postoperative pain.

Methods

An arm‐based network analysis was conducted using a Bayesian hierarchical model. The primary and secondary outcomes were postoperative bleeding incidence and mean postoperative pain score.

Results

A total of 6464 patients were included for five different interventions (cold dissection tonsillectomy; extracapsular coblation tonsillectomy; intracapsular coblation tonsillectomy [ICT]; bipolar diathermy tonsillectomy [BDT]; monopolar diathermy tonsillectomy). ICT showed the lowest absolute risk (4.44%) of postoperative bleeding incidence (73.31% chance of ranking first) and the lowest mean postoperative pain score (1.74 ± 0.68) with a 94.0% chance of ranking first, whereas BDT showed both the highest absolute risk of bleeding incidence (10.75%) and the highest mean postoperative pain score (5.67 ± 1.43).

Conclusions

ICT seems to offer better postoperative outcomes, in terms of reduced risk of bleeding and reduced pain. Further prospective studies are advised to confirm these findings.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:1696–1704, 2024
Soft Injectable Sutures for Dose‐Controlled and Continuous Drug Delivery
Authors: Alsaedi Mossab K. , Lone Omar , Nejad Hojatollah Rezaei , Das Riddha , Owyeung Rachel E. , Del‐Rio‐Ruiz Ruben , Sonkusale Sameer
Published: October 2023

Transdermal drug delivery offers a promising alternative to traditional methods such as oral ingestion and hypodermic injection. Hypodermic injections are painful, while oral ingestion requires higher doses due to enzymatic degradation and poor absorption. While microneedles address the pain issue, they are limited to delivering small amounts of drugs and can be impractical due to peeling off with motion and sweat. Herein, this work proposes soft injectables using drug‐carrying sutures for painless and localized sustained delivery in the dermis. These sutures can remain in place during delivery and are suitable for all skin types. Surgical sutures can also serve as open capillary microfluidic channels carrying drug from a wearable drug reservoir to enable long‐term (weeks to months) transdermal drug delivery. The experiments focus on delivering 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), a cancer drug, and rhodamine B, a drug model. A fixed‐length suture of 60 cm delivers 0.43 mg of 5‐flurouracil in 15 min. The experiments also demonstrate a continuous drug delivery of rhodamine B for over 8 weeks at a rate of 0.0195 mL h−1. The results highlight that soft injectable sutures are promising candidates for long‐term sustained delivery of varying quantities of drugs over weeks period compared to hypodermic injection, oral ingestion, or microneedles.
Adsorption of Albumin Fragments on Crystalline SWCNTs: How Surface Curvature Can Affect Protein Secondary Structure
Authors: Raffaini Giuseppina , Ganazzoli Fabio
Published: October 2023

Protein adsorption on biomaterial surfaces is a crucial step for biocompatibility. Albumin is the most abundant blood protein, and then this protein is important for biomaterials that will come into contact with blood. In previous work a theoretical study based on molecular mechanics (MM) and molecular dynamics (MD) methods is carried out at atomistic level to investigate the adsorption process of albumin A‐subdomain on graphite surface and single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) having different curvature. The aim of this work is to study the adsorption process of the albumin A‐subdomain on four (10,10) SWCNTs in a crystalline arrangement in order to understand how the curvature of ordered nanotubes affects the adsorption process, providing also a simplified model of a rough surface at the nanometer level of a small crystalline domain. Interestingly, this soft albumin fragment having three α‐helices in the native state, yields a short β‐sheets arrangement during the MD run. This finding suggests the importance not only of the rigidity of protein but also the curvature of the surface which can induce a secondary structure other than the native one. This theoretical work can be useful for investigating aspects that influence the conformation, then both the functionality of proteins adsorbed on CNT surfaces and their biocompatibility, and the favorable interactions interesting for NT solubilization to prepare reinforced composite materials.
PANI/Ferrous Oxide Based Hybrid Material for Ammonia Sensing Applications
Authors: Bora Manisha , Chabukswar Vasant , Lamanna Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

In the present study, polyaniline (PANI) and ferrous oxide (α‐Fe2O3) are amalgamated for ammonia sensing purpose. The hybrid nanocomposite is prepared by a single step in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline in presence of hydrothermally prepared α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles. The structural and compositional analyses of the hybrid material are fully executed by FTIR, PXRD, and SEM techniques. A naive, exceedingly selective, quickly restorable, and ambient temperature functioning ammonia detecting device is established by using PANI/α‐Fe2O3. The investigation results indicate that the PANI/α‐Fe2O3 hybrid nanocomposite exhibits selective sensing ability towards ammonia vapors. The PANI/α‐Fe2O3 displays excellent response for 5 ppm and maximum response for 100 ppm of ammonia. The response time of the PANI/α‐Fe2O3 sensor is found to be quick with reasonably short recovery time. Due to excellent reusability, good environmental stability, and highly economical synthesis the PANI/α‐Fe2O3 delivers a capable, simple, and efficient sensor system for ammonia detection at ambient temperature.
Functional Prototype Design for a Programmable Equipment in Personalized Football Training
Authors: Tunsoiu Nicolae , Doicin Cristian‐Vasile , Ulmeanu Mihaela‐Elena , Pârvu Gabriela‐Marina , Zaharia Cristin
Published: October 2023

Assembly and testing are the last stages in the design phase to obtain proof of concept for a certain product. Although it is time and cost consuming, assembly fit and test are crucial for the future development of any complex product, unveiling potential consequences in the future product life cycle. The current paper addresses the main assembly stages, testing strategies, feedback implementation, and redesign decisions involved in the development of a programmable equipment in personalized football training. Demountable subassemblies are used for the manufacture of the final prototype, encouraging interchangeability of parts, and modularity of the final product. Coupling, gear, key, and bearing assemblies are mainly used to physically obtain the programmable equipment prototype. Since some components are bespoke and are 3D printed specifically for this product, fit tests are undertaken to ensure proper functioning of all mechanical and electronic components. Software and electronic testing are also done to both calibrate and ensure proper code functioning. Optimization of the prototype is implemented in all three main systems that make up the personalized football training equipment: mechanical, electronic, and software. The optimized functional prototype of the equipment will be subjected to endurance tests in order to evaluate the life expectancy of individual components, subassemblies, and, finally, of the general product.
Design and Fabrication of a Customized and Fully‐Recyclable Carbon Fibers/Epoxy Composites Prostheses via a Functional Additive Manufacturing Approach
Authors: Saitta Lorena , Tosto Claudio , Pergolizzi Eugenio , Rizzo Giuliana , Cicala Gianluca
Published: October 2023

This study presents an innovative approach based on the combination of two different techniques for fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites manufacturing, i.e., additive manufacturing (AM) and hand lay‐up‐assisted vacuum bagging. It represents a proof of concepts for the manufacturing of a customized and lightweight lower‐limb prostheses having built‐in functional elements, such as sensors. In particular, a soluble tool for fabricating a complex‐shaped carbon reinforced epoxy composite is produced by AM. The 3D printed model is properly designed to integrate a functional element, in a customized way, within the composite structure itself. Moreover, a fully‐recyclable epoxy resin system is used as matrix for the fabricated composite part to recover the expensive functional part and carbon fibers as soon as the prostheses has reached the end of its life (EoL). The prostheses recycle is carried out through a chemical recycling process that relies on the presence of acid‐cleavable groups within the epoxy‐cured network that allows for the cleavage of the crosslink under certain conditions. A similar approach is proposed in the state of art, but by using the traditional autoclave prepreg process and without considering the handling of the part at its EoL.
FE Analyses of a CFRP–Aluminum Single‐Lap Hybrid Bonded/Bolted Joint at Different Tensile Loads
Authors: Perfetto Donato , Polverino Antonio , Aversano Antonio , De Luca Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Joints are often unavoidable and can be critical points in a complex structure made up of different sub‐elements and materials, e.g., a lightweight aircraft structure. Joining can be performed with different techniques as mechanical fasteners, bonding, or hybrid bonded/bolted (HBB) solutions. HBB solutions are effectively used to join different materials, as metals and composites, leading to composite–metal HBB joint. In this paper, the structural behavior of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)–aluminum single‐lap HBB joint is numerically investigated. Specifically, a detailed finite element model (FEM) is developed to study the joint subjected to an external tensile load. Analyses are conducted by considering two different bolt preloads and three external tensile loads (six tests in total). Results are compared with the aim to highlight the behavior of the joint, and in particular the stress–strain state in each component as a consequence of the applied load pair.
Numerical Analysis on the Propagation of Ultrasonic Guided Wave in Damaged Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Laminate
Authors: Polverino Antonio , Aversano Antonio , Rezazadeh Nima , Beneduce Stefano
Published: October 2023

In recent years, the propagation of ultrasonic guided waves (UGW) along the structure to inspect has amply proven to be an excellent strategy for the health monitoring of isotropic and composite structures (SHM—structural health monitoring). For the proper development of the SHM system, the finite element method (FEM) must be mentioned, since the possibility to study the UGW in very complex structures, even characterized by different materials. Successfully locating any possible damage and identifying its severity are key factors in SHM, thus allowing to reduce the design costs. Numerically, the damage can be modeled with several approaches but it is still not clear which is the best solution to accurately reproduce the UGW mechanisms in a faulty structure. The objective of this paper is to study the various effects that different severities of damage can have on UGW propagation. For the scope, various numerical approaches are considered and the results are compared.
A Methodology for Determining the Design Variables of a Metal Beam to Minimize Economic and Environmental Costs
Authors: Beneduce Stefano , De Luca Alessandro , Caputo Francesco , Perfetto Donato
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, the minimization of energy, costs, and resource consumption of industrial products through their lifecycle is at the center of the industry and research community attention. Ideally, all these factors should be considered during the design phase of the component. Although there are many efforts to formulate indicators that can establish the ecological and economic performance of an artifact, less frequent are the attempts to formalize methods that allow for the identification of design variables as the output of an optimization process that previously includes environmental, energy, and cost requirements. This work is an attempt to formulate a methodology that allows the determination of design variables to be obtained downstream of the analysis, which, bound to the fulfilment of predefined structural requirements, are such as to optimize certain objectives of minimizing monetary and environmental costs. The proposed approach has been specified for a case of study dealing with metal section beams, on which a database has been collected about the environmental and economic characteristics of the sources of supply, the usable materials, and the technological processes. This method allows an accurate modeling of the possible production cycles and, on the basis of this, to formulate functional links between the mechanical properties of the structure and the most representative quantities related to environmental impact and costs.