bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Label-Free Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy with Machine Learning for the Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer by Using Fine-Needle Aspiration Liquid Samples
Authors: Gao Lili , Wu Siyi , Wongwasuratthakul Puwasit , Chen Zhou , Cai Wei , Li Qinyu , Lin Linley Li
Published: July 2024

The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing worldwide. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology is widely applied with the use of extracted biological cell samples, but current FNA cytology is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and can lead to the risk of false-negative results. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) combined with machine learning algorithms holds promise for cancer diagnosis. In this study, we develop a label-free SERS liquid biopsy method with machine learning for the rapid and accurate diagnosis of thyroid cancer by using thyroid FNA washout fluids. These liquid supernatants are mixed with silver nanoparticle colloids, and dispersed in quartz capillary for SERS measurements to discriminate between healthy and malignant samples. We collect Raman spectra of 36 thyroid FNA samples (18 malignant and 18 benign) and compare four classification models: Principal Component Analysis–Linear Discriminant Analysis (PCA-LDA), Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). The results show that the CNN algorithm is the most precise, with a high accuracy of 88.1%, sensitivity of 87.8%, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.953. Our approach is simple, convenient, and cost-effective. This study indicates that label-free SERS liquid biopsy assisted by deep learning models holds great promise for the early detection and screening of thyroid cancer.
Fire up Biosensor Technology to Assess the Vitality of Trees after Wildfires
Authors: Touloupakis Eleftherios , Calegari Moia Isabela , Zampieri Raffaella Margherita , Cocozza Claudia , Frassinelli Niccolò , Marchi Enrico , Foderi Cristiano , Di Lorenzo Tiziana , Rezaie Negar , Muzzini Valerio Giorgio , Traversi Maria Laura , Giovannelli Alessio
Published: July 2024

The development of tools to quickly identify the fate of damaged trees after a stress event such as a wildfire is of great importance. In this context, an innovative approach to assess irreversible physiological damage in trees could help to support the planning of management decisions for disturbed sites to restore biodiversity, protect the environment and understand the adaptations of ecosystem functionality. The vitality of trees can be estimated by several physiological indicators, such as cambium activity and the amount of starch and soluble sugars, while the accumulation of ethanol in the cambial cells and phloem is considered an alarm sign of cell death. However, their determination requires time-consuming laboratory protocols, making the approach impractical in the field. Biosensors hold considerable promise for substantially advancing this field. The general objective of this review is to define a system for quantifying the plant vitality in forest areas exposed to fire. This review describes recent electrochemical biosensors that can detect plant molecules, focusing on biosensors for glucose, fructose, and ethanol as indicators of tree vitality.
Predicting Response to Neuropsychological Intervention in Developmental Dyslexia: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lorusso Maria Luisa , Borasio Francesca , Travellini Simona , Molteni Massimo
Published: July 2024

Identifying the patients who are likely to be non-responders to a certain treatment may allow clinicians to provide alternative strategies and avoid frustration and unrealistic expectations for the patients and their families. A retrospective study on 145 children treated with visual hemisphere-specific stimulation examined the specific profiles (reading, writing, metaphonology, memory, callosal functions) of non-responders, and identified predictors of response to intervention (reading, reading and writing) through linear regression models. The effects of additional variables such as rapid automatized naming (RAN) and Visual Search were investigated in a subsample of 48 participants. Subgroups related to gender and dyslexia subtype were considered in the analyses. The results highlight an Intervention Differential Effect (IDE) not depending on regression to the mean and mathematical coupling effects. The characteristics of non-responders for reading seem to correspond children with mild reading and severe writing impairments; non-responders for reading and writing are those with impaired callosal transfer. Predictors of overall response to intervention were pre-test reading and writing scores; phoneme blending, accuracy in visual search and speed in rapid automatized naming contributed to explaining response variance. Specific predictors for female vs. male participants and dyslexia subtypes were identified.
Checkpoint for Considering Interleukin-6 as a Potential Target to Mitigate Secondary Brain Injury after Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Yoon Jung A , You Yeonho , Park Jung Soo , Min Jin Hong , Jeong Wonjoon , Ahn Hong Joon , Jeon So Young , Kim Dongha , Kang Changshin
Published: July 2024

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was suggested as a potential target for intervention to mitigate brain injury. However, its neuro-protective effect in post-resuscitation care has not been proven. We investigated the time-course of changes in IL-6 and its association with other markers (systemic inflammation and myocardial and neuronal injury), according to the injury severity of the cardiac arrest. This retrospective study analyzed IL-6 and other markers at baseline and 24, 48, and 72 h after the return of spontaneous circulation. The primary outcome was the association of IL-6 with injury severity as assessed using the revised Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome for Therapeutic Hypothermia scoring system (low, moderate, and high severity). Of 111 patients, 22 (19.8%), 61 (55.0%), and 28 (25.2%) had low-, moderate-, and high-severity scores, respectively. IL-6 levels were significantly lower in the low-severity group than in the moderate- and high-severity groups at baseline and at 24 h and 72 h (p < 0.005). While IL-6 was not independently associated with neuronal injury markers in the low-severity group, it was demonstrated to be associated with it in the moderate-severity (β [95% CI] = 4.3 [0.1–8.6], R2 = 0.11) and high-severity (β [95% CI] = 7.9 [3.4–12.5], R2 = 0.14) groups. IL-6 exhibits distinct patterns across severity and shows differential associations with systemic inflammation or neuronal injury.
A Three-Step Computer Vision-Based Framework for Concrete Crack Detection and Dimensions Identification
Authors: Qi Yanzhi , Ding Zhi , Luo Yaozhi , Ma Zhi
Published: July 2024

Crack detection is significant to building repair and maintenance; however, conventional inspection is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process for field engineers. This paper proposes a three-step computer vision-based framework to quickly recognize concrete cracks and automatically identify their length, maximum width, and area in damage images. In step one, a region-based convolutional neural network (YOLOv8) is applied to train the crack localizing model. In step two, Gaussian filtering, Canny, and FindContours are integrated to extract the reference contour (a pre-designed seal) to obtain the conversion scale between pixels and millimeter-wise sizes. In step three, the recognized crack bounding box is cropped, and the ApproxPolyDP function and Hough transform are performed to quantify crack dimensions based on the conversion ratio. The developed framework was validated on a dataset of 4630 crack images, and the model training took 150 epochs. Results show that the average crack detection accuracy reaches 95.7%, and the precision of quantified dimensions is over 90%, while the error increases as the crack size grows smaller (increasing to 8% when the crack width is within 1 mm). The proposed method can help engineers to efficiently achieve crack information at building inspection sites, while the reference frame must be pre-marked near the crack, which may limit the scope of application scenarios. In addition, the robustness and accuracy of the developed image processing techniques-based crack quantification algorithm need to be further improved to meet the requirements in real cases when the crack is located within a complex background.
Circulatory Agrin Serves as a Prognostic Indicator for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kapoor Ankita , Bayat Mokhtari Reza , Sonti Sahithi Savithri , Patel Riya , George Anthony , Attwood Kristopher , Iyer Renuka , Chakraborty Sayan
Published: July 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the predominant form of liver cancer, is associated with high mortality rates both in the United States and globally. Despite current advances in immunotherapy regimens, there is a scarcity of biomarkers to guide therapy selection. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and glypican-3 have been proposed as biomarkers for HCC, but they do not provide any prognostic benefit for modeling disease progression. Agrin, a secreted proteoglycan, is frequently overexpressed in HCC and plays prominent role(s) in the liver tumor microenvironment (TME) to promote hepatocarcinogenesis. Here we employed a pilot single-center retrospective investigation to assess the prognostic value of agrin in HCC. Our evidence suggests that elevated serum agrin levels are associated with poor prognosis and performance among HCC patients. Multivariate Cox regression models indicate that secreted agrin serves as a better prognostic indicator compared to AFP that is significantly correlated with other secreted biomarkers (e.g., IL6). Cumulatively, this work demonstrates a promising clinical value of agrin in the detection and prognosis of HCC.
Arid1a Loss Enhances Disease Progression in a Murine Model of Osteosarcoma
Authors: Fatema Kaniz , Wang Yanliang , Pavek Adriene , Larson Zachary , Nartker Christopher , Plyler Shawn , Jeppesen Amanda , Mehling Breanna , Capecchi Mario R. , Jones Kevin B. , Barrott Jared J.
Published: July 2024

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone malignancy, molecularly characterized by acquired genome complexity and frequent loss of TP53 and RB1. Obtaining a molecular understanding of the initiating mutations of osteosarcomagenesis has been challenged by the difficulty of parsing between passenger and driver mutations in genes. Here, a forward genetic screen in a genetic mouse model of osteosarcomagenesis initiated by Trp53 and Rb1 conditional loss in pre-osteoblasts identified that Arid1a loss contributes to OS progression. Arid1a is a member of the canonical BAF (SWI/SNF) complex and a known tumor suppressor gene in other cancers. We hypothesized that the loss of Arid1a increases the rate of tumor progression and metastasis. Phenotypic evaluation upon in vitro and in vivo deletion of Arid1a validated this hypothesis. Gene expression and pathway analysis revealed a correlation between Arid1a loss and genomic instability, and the subsequent dysregulation of genes involved in DNA DSB or SSB repair pathways. The most significant of these transcriptional changes was a concomitant decrease in DCLRE1C. Our findings suggest that Arid1a plays a role in genomic instability in aggressive osteosarcoma and a better understanding of this correlation can help with clinical prognoses and personalized patient care.
Pt/Nb2O5-Al2O3 Catalysts for the Hydrogenation and Reductive Amination of Furfural
Authors: Brijaldo Maria H. , Rojas Hugo A. , Xing Yutao , Passos Fabio B. , Martínez José J.
Published: July 2024

Furfural is a well-recognized biomass platform. Hydrogenation and reductive amination of furfural are two principal routes in the valorization of this compound. In both reactions, the presence of reducible species (SMSI effect) and acid sites could favor the selectivity toward some interesting products. Both conditions could be obtained using metal particles supported on reducible mixed oxides. In this work, we investigate the use of Pt/Nb2O5-Al2O3 catalysts for the hydrogenation and reductive amination of furfural at distinct Nb2O5 contents. A decaniobate salt was used as a precursor of Nb2O5. The solids were reduced at 500 °C to assure the migration of reducible NbOx species. The solids were characterized by XRD, Raman spectroscopy, HR-TEM, N2-physisorption, NH3-TPD and Pyr-DRIFTS. The results showed that higher Nb2O5 loadings led to a lower distribution of Al2O3 and Pt, favoring the catalysts’ acidity. This fact implies that large particle size and the presence of Nb2O5 islands favor the formation of furfuryl alcohol but have a detrimental effect on the amine formation in the reductive amination of furfural.
Regulatory B Cells Expressing Granzyme B from Tolerant Renal Transplant Patients: Highly Differentiated B Cells with a Unique Pathway with a Specific Regulatory Profile and Strong Interactions with Immune System Cells
Authors: Sailliet Nicolas , Dupuy Amandine , Brinas François , Renaudin Karine , Colas Luc , Kerleau Clarisse , Nguyen Thi-Van-Ha , Fourgeux Cynthia , Poschmann Jérémie , Gosset Clément , Giral Magali , Degauque Nicolas , Mai Hoa Le , Danger Richard , Brouard Sophie
Published: July 2024

The aim of our study was to determine whether granzyme B-expressing regulatory B cells (GZMB+ B cells) are enriched in the blood of transplant patients with renal graft tolerance. To achieve this goal, we analysed two single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) datasets: (1) peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), including GZMB+ B cells from renal transplant patients, i.e., patients with stable graft function on conventional immunosuppressive treatment (STA, n = 3), drug-free tolerant patients (TOL, n = 3), and patients with antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR, n = 3), and (2) ex-vivo-induced GZMB+ B cells from these groups. In the patient PBMCs, we first showed that natural GZMB+ B cells were enriched in genes specific to Natural Killer (NK) cells (such as NKG7 and KLRD1) and regulatory B cells (such as GZMB, IL10, and CCL4). We performed a pseudotemporal trajectory analysis of natural GZMB+ B cells and showed that they were highly differentiated B cells with a trajectory that is very different from that of conventional memory B cells and linked to the transcription factor KLF13. By specifically analysing GZMB+ natural B cells in TOLs, we found that these cells had a very specific transcriptomic profile associated with a reduction in the expression of HLA molecules, apoptosis, and the inflammatory response (in general) in the blood and that this signature was conserved after ex vivo induction, with the induction of genes associated with migration processes, such as CCR7, CCL3, or CCL4. An analysis of receptor/ligand interactions between these GZMB+/− natural B cells and all of the immune cells present in PBMCs also demonstrated that GZMB+ B cells were the B cells that carried the most ligands and had the most interactions with other immune cells, particularly in tolerant patients. Finally, we showed that these GZMB+ B cells were able to infiltrate the graft under inflammatory conditions, thus suggesting that they can act in locations where immune events occur.
Culture and Immunomodulation of Equine Muscle-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: A Comparative Study of Innovative 2D versus 3D Models Using Equine Platelet Lysate
Authors: Duysens J. , Graide H. , Niesten A. , Mouithys-Mickalad A. , Deby-Dupont G. , Franck T. , Ceusters J. , Serteyn D.
Published: July 2024

Muscle-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (mdMSCs) hold great promise in regenerative medicine due to their immunomodulatory properties, multipotent differentiation capacity and ease of collection. However, traditional in vitro expansion methods use fetal bovine serum (FBS) and have numerous limitations including ethical concerns, batch-to-batch variability, immunogenicity, xenogenic contamination and regulatory compliance issues. This study investigates the use of 10% equine platelet lysate (ePL) obtained by plasmapheresis as a substitute for FBS in the culture of mdMSCs in innovative 2D and 3D models. Using muscle microbiopsies as the primary cell source in both models showed promising results. Initial investigations indicated that small variations in heparin concentration in 2D cultures strongly influenced medium coagulation with an optimal proliferation observed at final heparin concentrations of 1.44 IU/mL. The two novel models investigated showed that expansion of mdMSCs is achievable. At the end of expansion, the 3D model revealed a higher total number of cells harvested (64.60 ± 5.32 million) compared to the 2D culture (57.20 ± 7.66 million). Trilineage differentiation assays confirmed the multipotency (osteoblasts, chondroblasts and adipocytes) of the mdMSCs generated in both models with no significant difference observed. Immunophenotyping confirmed the expression of the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) markers CD-90 and CD-44, with low expression of CD-45 and MHCII markers for mdMSCs derived from the two models. The generated mdMSCs also had great immunomodulatory properties. Specific immunological extraction followed by enzymatic detection (SIEFED) analysis demonstrated that mdMSCs from both models inhibited myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in a strong dose-dependent manner. Moreover, they were also able to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity, with mdMSCs from the 3D model showing significantly higher dose-dependent inhibition compared to the 2D model. These results highlighted for the first time the feasibility and efficacy of using 10% ePL for mdMSC expansion in novel 2D and 3D approaches and also that mdMSCs have strong immunomodulatory properties that can be exploited to advance the field of regenerative medicine and cell therapy instead of using FBS with all its drawbacks.
Lake Champlain Zooplankton Community Dynamics Following an Extreme Flood Event
Authors: Mihuc Timothy , Hayes-Pontius Erin , Arnwine Marshall , Cutter Zachary , Myers Luke
Published: July 2024

Lake Champlain, the sixth largest freshwater lake in the U.S., is a deep thermally stratified temperate zone lake system. Recently, flood events have impacted the Northeastern U.S. more frequently than in past decades, resulting in increased turbidity and other impacts in northern temperate lakes. This study represents an unprecedented analysis of the impacts of major spring and summer flooding in 2011 on Lake Champlain zooplankton communities. Few studies exist on flood impacts on lake systems, especially in natural un-impounded lakes. Our results illustrate the impacts of large-scale flooding on planktonic communities in deep stratified temperate lakes and the differential responses among species based on autecological traits. Community responses include flood-adapted increase during the flood event (Ceriodaphnia reticulata and Eubosmina coregoni), a flood-intolerant decline (Asplanchna spp. and Keratella cochlearis) or a delayed flood intolerance (Daphnia retrocurva, Mesocyclops edax, and Polyarthra spp.). Our results suggest that large, temperate lakes such as Lake Champlain will experience community shifts in zooplankton composition during future extreme flood events associated with climate change-related weather patterns in the Northeastern U.S.
Relationship between Volpara Density Grade and Compressed Breast Thickness in Japanese Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Adachi Mio , Ishiba Toshiyuki , Maruya Sakiko , Hayashi Kumiko , Kumaki Yuichi , Oda Goshi , Aruga Tomoyuki
Published: July 2024

Background: High breast density found using mammographs (MGs) reduces positivity rates and is considered a risk factor for breast cancer. Research on the relationship between Volpara density grade (VDG) and compressed breast thickness (CBT) in the Japanese population is still lacking. Moreover, little attention has been paid to pseudo-dense breasts with CBT < 30 mm among high-density breasts. We investigated VDG, CBT, and apparent high breast density in patients with breast cancer. Methods: Women who underwent MG and breast cancer surgery at our institution were included. VDG and CBT were measured. VDG was divided into a non-dense group (NDG) and a dense group (DG). Results: This study included 419 patients. VDG was negatively correlated with CBT. The DG included younger patients with lower body mass index (BMI) and thinner CBT. In the DG, patients with CBT < 30 mm had lower BMI and higher VDG; however, no significant difference was noted in the positivity rate of the two groups. Conclusions: Younger women tend to have higher breast density, resulting in thinner CBT, which may pose challenges in detecting breast cancer on MGs. However, there was no significant difference in the breast cancer detection rate between CBT < 30 mm and CBT ≥ 30 mm.
Detection of Hepatic Metastasis from Early Delayed Images of Modified Dual-Time-Point F-18 FDG PET/CT Images in a Patient with Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Song Hee-Sung
Published: July 2024

We present a rare case of focal F-18-2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) uptake in the liver observed during a modified dual-time-point F-18 FDG positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT), so-called early delayed scanning, in a 53-year-old woman diagnosed with breast cancer. This metastatic lesion was revealed in 80 min delayed images after FDG injection, but not in the usual one-hour images after injection. Modified dual-time-point F-18 FDG PET/CT is convenient because compared to the 2 h delayed images of dual-time-point PET/CT, it has a shorter scanning time and avoids additional radiation exposure.
Building Bridges in STEM Education: Minoritized Secondary School Student Computer Science Pathways and Experiences
Authors: Banwo Bodunrin O. , Navarrete-Burks Lizette , McGee Steven , McGee-Tekula Randi
Published: July 2024

The experiences of underrepresented women and ethnic minorities in computer science (CS) fields are at the heart of understanding the factors that impact the critical transitions students face when entering into Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) careers. The research, conducted using a grounded theory approach, gauges student and teacher perspectives, specifically investigating minoritized student perspectives that influence their entrance and continuation into an educational pathway. The study’s outcomes underscore the crucial roles of (1) Student Family Encouragement, (2) School and Community Engagement, and (3) Professional/Teacher Mentorship as critical junctions that school districts should be aware of when creating student pathways into college and career, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Noncontact Rotational Speed Measurement with Near-Field Microwave of Open-Ended Waveguide
Authors: Bai Yongjiang , Ye Ming , Yang Fang , Wang Chun , Dong Yingdi , Yang Jiye , Zhou Guisheng , Xie Yongjun
Published: July 2024

Rotational speed measurement is important for many applications. Here, a noncontact rotational speed test method based on the detection of the periodically perturbed near-field microwave of an open-ended waveguide is proposed. Both simulations and experiments were conducted to verify the near-field microwave rotational speed sensor. The constructed rotation speed sensing system was composed of a standard open-ended WR-42 waveguide (in our measurements, a waveguide-to-coaxial adapter was used to represent an open-ended waveguide) working at ~18 GHz, a radio frequency (RF) circulator, a signal generator, a, RF detector and an oscilloscope. A rotating fan to be measured was placed close to the waveguide’s mouth and, thus, the waveguide’s reflection coefficient was periodically modulated by the rotating fan blades. Then, the RF detector converted this varying reflection coefficient into a direct current (DC) voltage, namely, a periodical waveform. Finally, the rotational speed of the fan could be extracted from this waveform. Measurements using both the proposed near-field microwave method and conventional optical transmission/reflection methods were conducted for verification. The effect of the rotating fan’s location relative to the waveguide’s mouth was also studied. The results show the following: 1. The proposed method works well with a rotational speed of up to ~5000 RPM (rounds per minute), and an accuracy of 1.7% can be achieved. 2. Metallic or non-metallic fan blades are all suitable for this method. Compared with the existing radar method, the proposed method may be advantageous for rotation detection in a constrained space.
A Cooperative Operation Strategy for Multi-Energy Systems Based on the Power Dispatch Meta-Universe Platform
Authors: Liu Jinbo , Duan Lijuan , Chen Jian , Shang Jingan , Wang Bin , Pan Zhaoguang
Published: July 2024

To meet the challenges of renewable energy consumption and improve the efficiency of energy systems, we propose an intelligent distributed energy dispatch strategy for multi-energy systems based on Nash bargaining by utilizing the power dispatch meta-universe platform. First, the operational framework of the multi-energy system, including wind park (WP), photovoltaic power plant (PVPP), and energy storage (ES), is described. Using the power dispatch meta-universe platform, the models of WP, PVPP, and ES are constructed and analyzed. Then, a Nash bargaining model of the multi-energy system is built and transformed into a coalition profit maximization problem, which is solved using the alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM). Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed strategy is verified. The results show that the strategy greatly improves the consumption of renewable energy sources and the profit of the overall system.
Design of High-Reliability Low-Dropout Regulator Combined with Silicon Controlled Rectifier-Based Electrostatic Discharge Protection Circuit Using Dynamic Dual Buffer
Authors: Seo U-Yeol , Kwon Sang-Wook , Kim Dong-Hyeon , Oh Jae-Yoon , Kim Min-Seo , Koo Yong-Seo
Published: July 2024

Overshoot and undershoot caused by the current load impact the accuracy of the required output voltage and circuit performance. The transient response issue in existing low-dropout (LDO) regulators is a dynamic specification that must be addressed at the design stage. This transient response is influenced by system parameters such as stability and gain. The LDO regulator suggested in this study is designed to minimize the change in output voltage by considerably enhancing the gain using a dynamic dual buffer structure. A dynamic dual buffer is utilized to effectively control undershoot and overshoot. Under the conditions that the input voltage range is from 3.3 to 4.5 V, the maximum load current is 300 mA, the output voltage is 3 V, and the output of the proposed LDO regulator with the dynamic dual buffer structure has undershoot and overshoot voltages of 41 mV and 31 mV, respectively. That is, the output voltage of the proposed LDO regulator effectively provided and discharged an additional current suited for the undershoot/overshoot conditions to enhance the transient response characteristics. Furthermore, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) robustness characteristics of the proposed LDO regulator improved because of the silicon-controlled rectifier underlying the ESD protection device embedded in the output node and power line.
Solid Biofuel from the Amazon: A Circular Economy Approach to Briquette Production from Wood Waste
Authors: Vilas Boas Mariana , Zanuncio Antonio Jose Vinha , Neiva Duarte , Carneiro Angélica de Cássia Oliveira , de Castro Vinicius Resende , Vital Benedito Rocha , Surdi Paula Gabriella , Carvalho Amélia Guimarães , de Morais Junior Vicente Toledo Machado , Araújo Solange de Oliveira
Published: July 2024

The Amazon region contains numerous areas dedicated to sustainable timber extraction. This operation has low yields and generates a large amount of waste. However, this waste can be repurposed for energy generation, providing income for locals and reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources prevalent in the region. This study aimed to assess the impact of torrefaction on various wood residues for briquette production. Wood residues from Mimosa scabrella Benth (Bracatinga), Dipteryx odorata (Aubl.) Willd. (Cumaru), and Aspidosperma populifolium A.DC. (Peroba mica) were torrefied at temperatures ranging from 180 to 220 °C for sixty minutes under a nitrogen atmosphere. Briquettes were produced using laboratory equipment with loading pressures between 7 and 14 MPa. Torrefied particle properties were evaluated based on proximate composition and calorific value tests, while briquette quality was assessed for physical and mechanical properties. The results demonstrated the briquetting potential of different wood species before and after torrefaction, with optimal outcomes achieved by torrefaction at 220 °C due to its enhancement of energy density. Briquettes showed optimal characteristics at compression pressures of 14 MPa, resulting in increased density (between 1.10 and 1.24 g·cm−3) and compression strength (between 7.20 and 21.02 MPa). The ash values were low and met the requirements. The utilization of waste for briquette production offers a significant alternative for energy generation in economically disadvantaged communities, while also enabling the replacement of non-renewable energy sources.
Responses of Soil Organic Carbon Fractions and Stability to Forest Conversion in the Nanling Nature Reserve, China
Authors: Li Yifan , Huang Fangfang , Huang Yuhui , Li Wenjuan , Liu Mengyun
Published: July 2024

Studying the impact of typical vegetation types in forest conversion zones on soil organic carbon (SOC) structure and stability is crucial for developing terrestrial ecosystem carbon sequestration strategies. In this study, we selected three typical forest stands in the Nanling National Nature Reserve: a primary evergreen broad-leaved forest (BL), a secondary mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest (ML), and a Chinese fir plantation (CL). Soil samples were collected to examine the SOC fractions and carbon pool management index (CPMI) in three forest stands. The influence of soil property factors on SOC fractions was also analyzed. The results showed that the transformation process from a BL to an ML or a CL changed the structure and stability of organic carbon by reducing the labile SOC fractions and increasing the recalcitrant carbon fraction in the soil. The higher lability index (LI) and CPMI of soils in the BL indicated better carbon accumulation and activity, making this treatment more advantageous for management strategies aimed at promoting natural forest renewal and ecological restoration. Correlation and RDA analysis revealed that the availability of soil P was a key factor limiting the variation in organic C fractions in the acidic soils of tropical forests in South China.
Dual-Parameter Prediction of Downhole Supercritical CO2 with Associated Gas Using Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) Neural Network
Authors: Xue Dedong , Kou Lei , Zheng Chunfeng , Wang Sheng , Jia Shijiao , Yuan Chao
Published: July 2024

This research investigates the application of supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) within carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies to enhance oil-well production efficiency and facilitate carbon storage, thereby promoting a low-carbon circular economy. We simulate the flow of supercritical CO2 mixed with associated gas (flow rates 3–13 × 104 Nm3/d) in a miniature venturi tube under high temperature and high-pressure conditions (30–50 MPa, 120–150 °C). Accurate fluid property calculations, essential for simulation fidelity, were performed using the R. Span and W. Wagner and GERG-2008 equations. A dual-parameter prediction model was developed based on the simulation data. However, actual measurements only provide fluid types and measurement data, such as pressure, temperature, and venturi differential pressure, to determine the liquid mass fraction (LMF) and total mass flow rate (m), presenting challenges due to complex nonlinear relationships. Traditional formula-fitting methods proved inadequate for these conditions. Consequently, we employed a Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) based neural network algorithm to address this issue. The LM optimizer excels in handling complex nonlinear problems with faster convergence, making it suitable for our small dataset. Through this approach, we formulated dual-parameter model equations to elucidate fluid flow factors, analyzing the impact of multiple parameters on the LMF and the discharge coefficient (C). The resulting model predicted dual parameters with a relative error for LMF of ±1% (Pc = 95.5%) and for m of ±1% (Pc = 95.5%), demonstrating high accuracy. This study highlights the potential of neural networks to predict the behavior of complex fluids with high supercritical CO2 content, offering a novel solution where traditional methods fail.
Exploring the Genotype–Phenotype Correlations in a Child with Inherited Seizure and Thrombocytopenia by Digenic Network Analysis
Authors: Lu Shuanglong , Niu Zhixiao , Qiao Xiaohong
Published: July 2024

Understanding the correlation between genotype and phenotype remains challenging for modern genetics. Digenic network analysis may provide useful models for understanding complex phenotypes that traditional Mendelian monogenic models cannot explain. Clinical data, whole exome sequencing data, in silico, and machine learning analysis were combined to construct a digenic network that may help unveil the complex genotype–phenotype correlations in a child presenting with inherited seizures and thrombocytopenia. The proband inherited a maternal heterozygous missense variant in SCN1A (NM_001165963.4:c.2722G>A) and a paternal heterozygous missense variant in MYH9 (NM_002473.6:c.3323A>C). In silico analysis showed that these two variants may be pathogenic for inherited seizures and thrombocytopenia in the proband. Moreover, focusing on 230 epilepsy-associated genes and 35 thrombopoiesis genes, variant call format data of the proband were analyzed using machine learning tools (VarCoPP 2.0) and Digenic Effect predictor. A digenic network was constructed, and SCN1A and MYH9 were found to be core genes in the network. Further analysis showed that MYH9 might be a modifier of SCN1A, and the variant in MYH9 might not only influence the severity of SCN1A-related seizure but also lead to thrombocytopenia in the bone marrow. In addition, another eight variants might also be co-factors that account for the proband’s complex phenotypes. Our data show that as a supplement to the traditional Mendelian monogenic model, digenic network analysis may provide reasonable models for the explanation of complex genotype–phenotype correlations.
Morphology, Internal Architecture, Facies Model, and Emplacement Mechanisms of Lava Flows from the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP) of the Hartford and Deerfield Basins (USA)
Authors: Moumou Abdelhak , Youbi Nasrrddine , El Hachimi Hind , El Kadiri Khalil , Madeira José , Mata João , Amri Isma , Ait Baha Abdelkarim
Published: July 2024

The morphology, internal architecture, and emplacement mechanisms of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP) lava flows of the Hartford and Deerfield basins (USA) are presented. The Talcott, Holyoke, and Hampden formations within the Hartford basin constitute distinct basaltic units, each exhibiting chemical, mineralogical, and structural differences corresponding to flow fields. Each flow field was the result of several sustained eruptions that produced both inflated pahoehoe flows and subaquatic extrusions: 1–5 eruptions in the Talcott formation and 1–2 in Holyoke and Hampden basalts, where simple flows are dominant. The Deerfield basin displays the Deerfield basalt unit, characterized by pillow lavas and sheet lobes, aligning chemically and mineralogically with the Holyoke basalt unit. Overall, the studied flow fields are composed of thick, simple pahoehoe flows that display the entire range of pahoehoe morphology, including inflated lobes. The three-partite structure of sheet lobes, vertical distribution of vesicles, and segregation structures are typical. The characteristics of the volcanic pile suggest slow emplacement during sustained eruptive episodes and are compatible with a continental basaltic succession facies model. The studied CAMP basalts of the eastern United States are correlated with the well-exposed examples on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean (Canada, Portugal, and Morocco).
A Novel Technique for the Optimization of Energy Cost Management and Operation of Microgrids Inspired from the Behavior of Egyptian Stray Dogs
Authors: Diab Hatem Y. , Abdelsalam Mahmoud
Published: July 2024

Managing costs in microgrids presents a formidable challenge due to the intricate blend of renewable and non-renewable energy sources that underpin their power generation. Ensuring seamless integration of microgrids with the national grid is pivotal for continuous load demand satisfaction and adherence to liberalized energy market mandates. To address this challenge, this paper introduces a new optimization technique for the Cost Management and Operation System (CMOS) of multi-source microgrids through a smart management unit. The cornerstone of this unit is the Egyptian Stray Dog Optimization (ESDO) algorithm, meticulously designed to optimize operational costs in line with load demands, energy cost dynamics, and generation proficiencies. Rigorous testing of the proposed system was conducted on a multi-resource microgrid using MATLAB, encompassing various operational scenarios. The simulation outcomes consistently highlighted the unit’s capability to achieve optimal cost-efficiency. Comparative analysis with other optimization techniques, particularly Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), demonstrated the superior performance of the Egyptian Stray Dog algorithm, underscoring its potential as a leading solution in this domain.
Current Concepts in the Treatment of Early Onset Scoliosis
Authors: Johnson Alexandra N. , Lark Robert K.
Published: July 2024

Despite many surgical advances in the treatment of early onset scoliosis (EOS) over the past two decades, this condition remains a challenge to address. While otherwise healthy children can have EOS, many of these patients have complicated comorbidities making proper treatment algorithms extraordinarily difficult. Non-operative measures can be successful when initiated early, but are many times utilized as a delay tactic until growth-friendly operative procedures can be safely performed. This article will summarize the current concepts in the treatment of EOS with a focus on the surgical advances that have recently been made.
Provisional Circulatory Support with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation during Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation in Intermediate Risk Patients: A Case Series
Authors: Mascia Giuseppe , Barca Luca , Sartori Paolo , Bianco Daniele , Della Bona Roberta , Di Donna Paolo , Porto Italo
Published: July 2024

Background: Cardiogenic shock with acute hemodynamic decompensation may be one of the most serious risks in patients affected by ventricular tachycardia (VT). Its proper identification may have important implications in terms of pharmacological management, as might procedural planning in case of patients undergoing catheter ablation. Methods: We describe a case series of patients with provisional strategies for circulatory support in VT ablation, including the use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) and vascular accesses in the electrophysiology lab but no initial ECMO activation due to an estimated intermediate pre-procedural risk from the case-series population. Results: In total, 10 patients (mean age 70 ± 11 years old, 9 males) with severe cardiomyopathy were admitted for incessant ventricular arrhythmia episodes, further diagnosis, and therapy planning; 1/10 patients (10%), documenting a PAINESD score of 14, underwent VA-ECMO cannulation due to electromechanical dissociation. All 10 patients were discharged alive. Conclusions: A pre-defined strategy before VT ablation is crucial. In our case series, the use of provisional circulatory support with VA-ECMO during incessant ablation of ventricular arrhythmia was a safe and winning alternative to upfront strategies.
Effects of a Resistance Exercise Program in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study Protocol
Authors: Martin-Sanchez Carlos , Fernández-Rodríguez Eduardo José , Lopez-Mateos Yolanda , Garcia-Martin Alberto , Fonseca-Sanchez Emilio , Sánchez-González Juan Luis
Published: July 2024

Background: Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with chemotherapy being a crucial treatment despite its significant side effects, such as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Physical exercise has shown potential benefits in mitigating these side effects and improving patients’ overall well-being. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a strength exercise program in reducing CIPN in patients with colorectal cancer undergoing chemotherapy, along with secondary objectives including impacts on quality of life, body mass index, oxygen consumption, anxiety and depression, fatigue, sleep quality, and various analytical parameters. Methods: A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted with 44 participants, divided into an intervention group (supervised resistance training twice a week and home exercises) and a control group (home exercises only). The primary outcome measure was CIPN, assessed using the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20 questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included assessments using the EORTC QLQ-C30, the 6-minute walk test, HADS, FACT-F, and MISS, along with various blood parameters. Results and Conclusions: The study will provide insights into the effectiveness of physical exercise in managing CIPN and improving various health parameters in colorectal cancer patients. By developing tailored exercise protocols, this research aims to enhance patient quality of life, optimize treatment outcomes, and reduce the incidence of debilitating side effects, thereby supporting the integration of physical exercise into standard oncological care.
CFTR Modulators Therapy Efficacy in Reducing Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Exacerbation and Improving Selected Spirometry Parameters: A Real-Life Study in a Single-Centre Polish Population
Authors: Winiarska Hanna M. , Springer Daria , Wojtaś Filip , Wysocka Ewa , Cofta Szczepan
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives: Cystic fibrosis is a genetically determined disease that significantly influences and shortens life. Treatment with CFTR modulators (CFTR-T) is a new hope for patients. It can change the predictive values of a poor prognosis (e.g., exacerbation rate and FEV1 value). The aim of the study was to analyse exacerbation incidence and spirometry data before and after one year (+/− 2 weeks) of CFTR-T in 85 CF patients at the CF Centre in Poznań. To our knowledge, this is the first analysis of CFTR-T efficiency in the Central–Eastern Europe population. Methods: We retrospectively analysed the spirometry and exacerbation data of 85 CF adult patients (both men and women), who in the middle of 2022 began treatment with CFTR modulators. Results: The one-year ratio of hospitalisation caused by severe exacerbations lowered from 1.25 to 0.21 per patient per year. We also saw a 66% decline in ambulatory exacerbations. The median FEV1% increased by 9.60% in absolute values and by 460 mL. Even in the group with very severe obstruction (FEV1 < 35%), there was an increase in median FEV1% of 5.9 in absolute values. We also proved the increase in FVC% (median 17.10% in absolute value and 600 mL) in the study group. Conclusions: After one year of treatment, an impressive improvement was observed in two important predictive values of poor prognosis: exacerbation rate and FEV1 values. Further observation is needed to determine how long the improvement will be present and its influence on quality of life and life expectancy.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Structure Evolution and Mechanical Property Strengthening of Low-Cobalt Nickel-Based Superalloy
Authors: Ju Jia , Ma Yunfei , Chen Jiayin , Shuai Liguo , Zhang Yue
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the microstructure of an alloy was regulated by means of strengthening solution aging, and microstructure observation and composition analysis were carried out by means of an optical microscope and X-ray diffractometer. Combined with the Vickers hardness tester, electronic universal testing machine and high-temperature persistent creep testing machine, the mechanical properties and high-temperature properties of the alloy were tested, and the strengthening mechanism of the alloy was explored. The results showed that the dendritic morphology and structure of the alloy decreased with an increase in temperature during the solution process, and the γ′ phase morphology also changed with the solution temperature: oval → cross → cubic. The γ′ phase after solid solution at 1295 °C was closest to the cubic form. Therefore, it is believed that the 1295 °C solution treatment had the best effect. In the aging process, the uniform cubic degree of γ′ phase distribution was the highest at 1090 °C. On the basis of fixed aging temperature (1090 °C), it was found that the volume fraction of the γ′ phase increased significantly after 8 h. The γ′ phase, which was closest to the cubic form, had the largest proportion of precipitation, and the volume fraction increased to 70.3%. The minimum carbide volume was 1.0%. The hardness of the alloy reached 435.8 HV; the yield strength increased to 280.1 MPa; and the durability of the alloy under the conditions of 1000 °C/230 MPa and 870 °C/655 MPa was 99.7 h and 42.7 h, respectively, which achieved the purpose of alloy design.
Joining of Copper and Aluminum Alloy A6061 Plates at Edges by High-Speed Sliding with Compression
Authors: Yamashita Minoru , Nishimura Yuya , Imayoshi Aisuke , Nikawa Makoto
Published: July 2024

By using the joined or welded materials of dissimilar metals, the characteristics and performance of products and parts can be improved. The combination of copper and aluminum is difficult to weld. In this study, the impact joining of copper C1100 and aluminum alloy A6061-T6 plates at the edges was investigated to explore the appropriate joining conditions. The plates are joined with newly created surfaces generated by the high-speed compressive deformation with sliding motion. The shape near the interface was a tapered trapezoid with a flat top. The joining length in the plate thickness direction was shorter than the plate thickness, and notches were observed near both plate surfaces. The length became slightly longer by setting a larger top width of the C1100 plate than that of A6061-T6. The joint efficiency increased by approximately 10%. Applying the emery paper finish to the surface of the plate eliminated the non-joining result in multiple experiments. The finishing direction is effective only in the longitudinal direction of the plate. In the tensile test on the dumbbell-type specimen with reduced thickness to eliminate notches, most results showed a fracture at the C1100 portion. The estimated temperature rise of the C1100 is more than about 250 K during the impact deformation. Hence, the strength of the A6061-T6 becomes lower than that of C1100 during the process, and the softened layer of aluminum comes out under pressure, resulting in good joining performance.
Magnetocaloric Properties of Melt-Extracted Medium Entropy Gd33Co33Al34 Microfibers
Authors: Zhang Ning , Shen Hongxian , Luo Lin , Liu Jingshun , Zhao Zijian , Zhang Lunyong , Sun Jianfei , Phan Manh-Huong
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a new medium entropy alloy with nominal composition of Gd33Co33Al34 was designed and fabricated into microfibers by a melt-extraction method. The microstructure, thermophysical parameters, and magnetocaloric properties of the obtained fibers were systematically analyzed. The results showed that the as-cast fibers show an amorphous matrix with embedded in situ nano crystals. The fibers show a good magnetocaloric effect with the maximum magnetic entropy change of ~6 J/kg·K for a field change of 5 T. Notably, the fibers show excellent cooling efficiencies with an RCP and RC of ~611.72 and ~487.38 J/kg, respectively. Though the as-cast fibers possess an amorphous/nanocrystal bi-phase structure, they still exhibit a second-order transition near a Curie temperature of ~96 K. Our findings provide a promising pathway towards developing new magnetocaloric materials with good magnetocaloric performances.