bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Droplet Microfluidics Enables Tracing of Target Cells at the Single-Cell Transcriptome Resolution
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Shiyu , Lyu Menghua , Xie Run , Guo Weijin , He Ying , Shi Xuyang , Wang Yang , Qi Jingyu , Zhu Qianqian , Zhang Hui , Luo Tao , Chen Huaying , Zhu Yonggang , Dong Xuan , Li Zida , Gu Ying , Liu Longqi , Xu Xun , Liu Ya
Published: November 2022

The rapid promotion of single-cell omics in various fields has begun to help solve many problems encountered in research, including precision medicine, prenatal diagnosis, and embryo development. Meanwhile, single-cell techniques are also constantly updated with increasing demand. For some specific target cells, the workflow from droplet screening to single-cell sequencing is a preferred option and should reduce the impact of operation steps, such as demulsification and cell recovery. We developed an all-in-droplet method integrating cell encapsulation, target sorting, droplet picoinjection, and single-cell transcriptome profiling on chips to achieve labor-saving monitoring of TCR-T cells. As a proof of concept, in this research, TCR-T cells were encapsulated, sorted, and performed single-cell transcriptome sequencing (scRNA-seq) by injecting reagents into droplets. It avoided the tedious operation of droplet breakage and re-encapsulation between droplet sorting and scRNA-seq. Moreover, convenient device operation will accelerate the progress of chip marketization. The strategy achieved an excellent recovery performance of single-cell transcriptome with a median gene number over 4000 and a cross-contamination rate of 8.2 ± 2%. Furthermore, this strategy allows us to develop a device with high integrability to monitor infused TCR-T cells, which will promote the development of adoptive T cell immunotherapy and their clinical application.
Mitochondrial Transplantation Moderately Ameliorates Retinal Degeneration in Royal College of Surgeons Rats
Authors: Wu Shih-Fang , Lin Chih-Yao , Tsai Rong-Kung , Wen Yao-Tseng , Lin Feng-Huei , Chang Chia-Yu , Shen Ching-I , Lin Shinn-Zong , Harn Horng-Jyh , Chiou Tzyy-Wen , Liu Chin-San , Chen Yan-Ting , Su Hong-Lin
Published: November 2022

Retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells possess high mitochondria content for energy production, which is required for phagocytosis and vision cycle metabolism. The mitochondrial integrity in RPE cells helps the homeostasis of photoreceptor turnover and prevents retina aging and degeneration. Mitochondrial transplantation benefits the recovery of several acute inflammatory diseases, leading us to investigate the effects of mitochondrial transplantation on retina degeneration. Allogeneic mitochondria were isolated and delivered into the vitreous chamber in the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats, which exhibit inherited and early-onset retina degeneration. The progress of retina degeneration was examined with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual evoked potential (VEP) to determine the retina thickness and integrity of afferent electrical signals from affected eyes, respectively. We found that mitochondria engraftment moderately attenuated the degeneration of retinal layers in RCS rats by histological examination. This result was consistent with the OCT measurement of retina thickness around the optic disc. The VEP analysis revealed that the peak one (N1) latency, representing the arriving time of electrical impulse from the retina to cortex, was substantially maintained as the normal value after the mitochondrial transplantation. This result suggests that the intra-vitreous transplanted mitochondria ameliorate the degeneration of photoreceptors in RCS rats and might be potential for clinical application.
Sulfur-Doped Organosilica Nanodots as a Universal Sensor for Ultrafast Live/Dead Cell Discrimination
Authors: Li Yan-Hong , Zeng Jia , Wang Zihao , Wang Tian-Yu , Wu Shun-Yu , Zhu Xiao-Yu , Zhang Xinping , Shan Bai-Hui , Gao Cheng-Zhe , Wang Shi-Hao , Wu Fu-Gen
Published: November 2022

Rapid and accurate differentiation between live and dead cells is highly desirable for the evaluation of cell viability. Here, we report the application of the orange-emitting sulfur-doped organosilica nanodots (S-OSiNDs) for ultrafast (30 s), ultrasensitive (1 μg/mL), and universal staining of the dead bacterial, fungal, and mammalian cells but not the live ones, which satisfies the requirements of a fluorescent probe that can specifically stain the dead cells. We further verify that the fluorescence distribution range of S-OSiNDs (which are distributed in cytoplasm and nucleus) is much larger than that of the commercial dead/fixed cell/tissue staining dye RedDot2 (which is distributed in the nucleus) in terms of dead mammalian cell staining, indicating that S-OSiNDs possess a better staining effect of dead cells than RedDot2. Overall, S-OSiNDs can be used as a robust fluorescent probe for ultrafast and accurate discrimination between dead and live cells at a single cell level, which may find a variety of applications in the biomedical field.
Writing Blindly in Incomplete Locked-In Syndrome with A Custom-Made Switch-Operated Voice-Scanning Communicator—A Case Report
Authors: Caligari Marco , Giardini Marica , Guenzi Marco
Published: November 2022

Background: Locked-In Syndrome (LIS) is a rare neurological condition in which patients’ ability to move, interact, and communicate is impaired despite their being conscious and awake. After assessing the patient’s needs, we developed a customized device for an LIS patient, as the commercial augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices could not be used. Methods: A 51-year-old woman with incomplete LIS for 15 years came to our laboratory seeking a communication tool. After excluding the available AAC devices, a careful evaluation led to the creation of a customized device (hardware + software). Two years later, we assessed the patient’s satisfaction with the device. Results: A switch-operated voice-scanning communicator, which the patient could control by residual movement of her thumb without seeing the computer screen, was implemented, together with postural strategies. The user and her family were generally satisfied with the customized device, with a top rating for its effectiveness: it fit well the patient’s communication needs. Conclusions: Using customized AAC and strategies provides greater opportunities for patients with LIS to resolve their communication problems. Moreover, listening to the patient’s and family’s needs can help increase the AAC’s potential. The presented switch-operated voice-scanning communicator is available for free on request to the authors.
Flow Diverter Devices in the Treatment of Anterior Communicating Artery Region Aneurysms: Would the Regional Anatomy and the Aneurysm Location Affect the Outcomes?
Authors: Piano Mariangela , Trombatore Pietro , Lozupone Emilio , Pero Guglielmo , Cervo Amedeo , Macera Antonio , Quilici Luca , Peschillo Simone , Valvassori Luca , Boccardi Edoardo
Published: November 2022

Background: In this study, the authors evaluated the efficacy and the safety of flow diverter devices (FDD) in anterior communicating artery (ACoA) region aneurysms, focusing on anatomical factors that could affect the outcome, such as the location of the aneurysm along the ACoA (centered on ACoA or decentered on the A1–A2 junction) and the anatomy of the ACoA region. Methods: Clinical, procedural and follow-up data were analyzed. Aneurysms were classified according to the location along the ACoA (centered or decentered on the A1–A2 junction) and on the basis of the anatomical configuration of the ACoA region. Safety was assessed by recording intraprocedural, periprocedural and delayed complications to determine the morbidity and mortality rates. The functional outcome was evaluated with the modified Rankin scale (mRS) prior to and after the endovascular procedure. To assess the efficacy, midterm and long-term clinical, angiographic and cross-sectional imaging follow-ups were recorded. Subgroup analysis according to the different ACoA regional anatomical configurations and the ACoA aneurysm locations were performed. Results: 33 patients (17 males; 16 females) with ACoA region aneurysms were treated with FDDs. 27 aneurysms were located at the A1–A2 junction (82%) while the remaining six aneurysms were centered on the ACoA. No mortality was recorded. The overall morbidity rate was 6% (2/33 procedures). Major complications occurred in 33% (2/6) of ACoA aneurysms and in the 0% of A1–A2 junction aneurysms. Mid-term and long-term neuroimaging follow-ups showed the occlusion of the aneurysm in 28/33 cases (85%). Complete occlusion rates were 93% in the A1–A2 junction aneurysms and 50% in ACoA aneurysms. Conclusions: The FDD is a safe and effective tool that can be used in the treatment of selected cases of ACoA region aneurysms. The location of the aneurysm along the ACoA and the regional anatomy of the ACoA complex could affect the efficacy and safety.
Different Dynamic Nodal Properties Contribute to Cognitive Impairment in Patients with White Matter Hyperintensities
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Cao Shanshan , Du Baogen , Zhang Jun , Chen Chen , Hu Panpan , Tian Yanghua , Wang Kai , Ji Gong-Jun , Wei Qiang
Published: November 2022

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are commonly observed in older adults and are associated with cognitive impairment. Although previous studies have found abnormal functional connectivities in patients with WMHs based on static functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the topological properties in the context of brain dynamics remain relatively unexplored. Herein, we explored disrupted dynamic topological properties of functional network connectivity in patients with WMHs and its relationship with cognitive impairment. We included 36 healthy controls (HC) and 104 patients with mild WMHs (n = 39), moderate WMHs (n = 37), and severe (n = 28) WMHs. The fMRI data of all participants were analyzed using Anatomical Automatic Labeling (AAL) and a sliding-window approach to generate dynamic functional connectivity matrics. Then, graph theory methods were applied to calculate the topological properties. Comprehensive neuropsychological scales were used to assess cognitive functions. Relationships between cognitive functions and abnormal dynamic topological properties were evaluated by Pearson’s correlation. We found that the patients with WMHs had higher temporal variability in regional properties, including betweenness centrality, nodal efficiencies, and nodal clustering coefficient. Furthermore, we found that the degree of centrality was related to executive function and memory, and the local coefficient correlated to executive function. Our results indicate that patients with WMHs have higher temporal variabilities in regional properties and are associated with executive and memory function.
Investigation on Load Path of a Latticed Shell Structure under Localized Fire Based on Member Sensitivity
Authors: Cui Jing , Hu Gang , Zhan Yang , Pang Rui
Published: November 2022

Thermal expansion of a member can affect structural bearing capacity when one or more members are subjected to fire. To explore the developmental rule of member internal force in latticed shell structure, a computation method of member sensitivity is presented based on the alternate path method. Taking a K8 single-layer latticed shell structure as the analysis object, finite element models are established by ANSYS, applying temperature loads on radial and circumferent ribs, calculating the sensitivity of each member during heating, and exploring the rule of member sensitivity at different temperatures. It is revealed from the numerical results that when one member is in fire, member sensitivity is proportional to temperature and inversely proportional to the distance from the member subjected to fire. Taking the member sensitivity coefficient as an index, the internal force will be transmitted along the member with high sensitivity, the rule of load path and internal force redistribution is given when the latticed shell structure is under elevated temperature.
An Automatic Generation Method of Finite Element Model Based on BIM and Ontology
Authors: Jia Jing , Gao Jieya , Wang Weixin , Ma Ling , Li Junda , Zhang Zijing
Published: November 2022

For the mechanical analysis work in the structural design phase, data conversion and information transfer between BIM model and finite element model have become the main factors limiting its efficiency and quality, with the development of BIM (building information modeling) technology application in the whole life cycle. The combined application of BIM and ontology technology has promoted the automation of compliance checking, cost management, green building evaluation, and many other fields. Based on OpenBIM, this study combines IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) and the ontology system and proposes an automatic generation method for converting BIM to the finite element model. Firstly, the elements contained in the finite element model are generalized and the information set requirement, to be extracted or inferred from BIM for the generation of the finite element model, is obtained accordingly. Secondly, the information extraction technical route is constructed to satisfy the acquisition of the information set, including three main aspects, i.e., IFC-based material information, spatial information, and other basic information; ontology-based finite element cell selection method; and APDL statement generation methods based on JAVA, C#, etc. Finally, a complete technical route and a software architecture, designed for converting BIM to the finite element model, are derived. To assess the feasibility of the method, a simple structure is tested in this paper, and the result indicates that the automatic decision-making reasoning mechanism of constructing element type and meshing method can be explored by ontology and IFC. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing an efficient method for automatic generation of the BIM structure model and a reference for future applications using BIM in structural analysis.
Profiling the Adrenergic System in Breast Cancer and the Development of Metastasis
Authors: Sousa Daniela M. , Fernandes Veronica , Lourenço Catarina , Carvalho-Maia Carina , Estevão-Pereira Helena , Lobo João , Cantante Mariana , Couto Marina , Conceição Francisco , Jerónimo Carmen , Pereira Luisa , Lamghari Meriem
Published: November 2022

Epidemiological studies and preclinical models suggest that chronic stress might accelerate breast cancer (BC) growth and the development of metastasis via sympathetic neural mechanisms. Nevertheless, the role of each adrenergic pathway (α1, α2, and β) in human samples remains poorly depicted. Herein, we propose to characterize the profile of the sympathetic system (e.g., release of catecholamines, expression of catecholamine metabolic enzymes and adrenoreceptors) in BC patients, and ascertain its relevance in the development of distant metastasis. Our results demonstrated that BC patients exhibited increased plasma levels of catecholamines when compared with healthy donors, and this increase was more evident in BC patients with distant metastasis. Our analysis using the BC-TCGA database revealed that the genes coding the most expressed adrenoreceptors in breast tissues (ADRA2A, ADRA2C, and ADRB2, by order of expression) as well as the catecholamine synthesizing (PNMT) and degrading enzyme (MAO-A and MAO-B) genes were downregulated in BC tissues. Importantly, the expression of ADRA2A, ADRA2C, and ADRB2 was correlated with metastatic BC and BC subtypes, and thus the prognosis of the disease. Overall, we gathered evidence that under stressful conditions, both the α2- and β2-signaling pathways might work on a synergetic matter, thus paving the way for the development of new therapeutic approaches.
CLEFMA Induces the Apoptosis of Oral Squamous Carcinoma Cells through the Regulation of the P38/HO-1 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Chen Pei-Ni , Lin Chiao-Wen , Yang Shun-Fa , Chang Yu-Chao
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact and the underlying molecular mechanism of CLEFMA-induced cell death in human OSCC. The anti-tumour properties of CLEFMA in oral cancer were explored using colony formation, flow cytometry, human apoptosis array, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry assays. The in vivo anti-tumour effect of CLEFMA administered by oral gavage was evaluated using SCC-9-derived xenograft-bearing nude mouse models. CLEFMA significantly suppressed colony formation and elicited cellular apoptosis in oral cancer cells. CLEFMA treatment remarkably increased phosphorylated p38 and HO-1 along with cleavage of poly ADP-ribose polymerase and activation of caspase-8, -9, and -3 in HSC-3 and SCC-9 cells. Administration of HO-1 small interfering RNA significantly protected the cells from CLEFMA-induced caspase-3, -8, and -9 activation. Attenuation of p38 activity by the pharmacologic inhibitor SB203580 dramatically reduced CLEFMA-induced caspase-3, -8, and -9 activation and HO-1 expression in OSCC. The subcutaneous murine xenograft models showed that CLEFMA in vivo suppressed tumour growth in implanted SCC-9 cells. All of these findings indicated that CLEFMA induced apoptosis through the p38-dependent rise in HO-1 signal transduction cascades in OSCC.
A Rapid Late Enhancement MRI Protocol Improves Differentiation between Brain Tumor Recurrence and Treatment-Related Contrast Enhancement of Brain Parenchyma
Authors: Satvat Neda , Korczynski Oliver , Müller-Eschner Matthias , Othman Ahmed E. , Schöffling Vanessa , Keric Naureen , Ringel Florian , Sommer Clemens , Brockmann Marc A. , Reder Sebastian
Published: November 2022

Purpose: Differentiation between tumor recurrence and treatment-related contrast enhancement in MRI can be difficult. Late enhancement MRI up to 75 min after contrast agent application has been shown to improve differentiation between tumor recurrence and treatment-related changes. We investigated the diagnostic performance of late enhancement using a rapid MRI protocol optimized for clinical workflow. Methods: Twenty-three patients with 28 lesions suspected for glioma recurrence underwent MRI including T1-MPRAGE-series acquired 2 and 20 min after contrast agent administration. Early contrast series were subtracted from late contrast series using motion correction. Contrast enhancing lesions were retrospectively and independently evaluated by two readers blinded to the patients’ later clinical course and histology with or without the use of late enhancement series. Sensitivity, specificity, NPV, and PPV were calculated for both readers by comparing results of MRI with histological samples. Results: Using standard MR sequences, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 0.84, 0, 0.875, and 0 (reader 1) and 0.92, 0, 0.885, and 0 (reader 2), respectively. Early late enhancement increased sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV to 1 for each value and for both readers. Inter-reader reliability increased from 0.632 (standard MRI sequences) to 1.0 (with early late enhancement). Conclusion: The described rapid late enhancement MRI protocol improves MRI-based discrimination between tumor tissue and treatment-related changes of the brain parenchyma.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes with Isolated del(5q): Value of Molecular Alterations for Diagnostic and Prognostic Assessment
Authors: Acha Pamela , Mallo Mar , Solé Francesc
Published: November 2022

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of clonal hematological neoplasms characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis in one or more bone marrow cell lineages. Consequently, patients present with variable degrees of cytopenia and dysplasia. These characteristics constitute the basis for the World Health Organization (WHO) classification criteria of MDS, among other parameters, for the current prognostic scoring system. Although nearly half of newly diagnosed patients present a cytogenetic alteration, and almost 90% of them harbor at least one somatic mutation, MDS with isolated del(5q) constitutes the only subtype clearly defined by a cytogenetic alteration. The results of several clinical studies and the advances of new technologies have allowed a better understanding of the biological basis of this disease. Therefore, since the first report of the “5q- syndrome” in 1974, changes and refinements have been made in the definition and the characteristics of the patients with MDS and del(5q). Moreover, specific genetic alterations have been found to be associated with the prognosis and response to treatments. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of the molecular background of MDS with isolated del(5q), focusing on the clinical and prognostic relevance of cytogenetic alterations and somatic mutations.
Small Tweaks, Major Changes: Post-Translational Modifications That Occur within M2 Macrophages in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Zheng Shutao , Liang Yan , Tan Yiyi , Li Lu , Liu Qing , Liu Tao , Lu Xiaomei
Published: November 2022

The majority of proteins are subjected to post-translational modifications (PTMs), regardless of whether they occur in or after biosynthesis of the protein. Capable of altering the physical and chemical properties and functions of proteins, PTMs are thus crucial. By fostering the proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells with which they communicate in the tumor microenvironment (TME), M2 macrophages have emerged as key cellular players in the TME. Furthermore, growing evidence illustrates that PTMs can occur in M2 macrophages as well, possibly participating in molding the multifaceted characteristics and physiological behaviors in the TME. Hence, there is a need to review the PTMs that have been reported to occur within M2 macrophages. Although there are several reviews available regarding the roles of M2 macrophages, the majority of these reviews overlooked PTMs occurring within M2 macrophages. Considering this, in this review, we provide a review focusing on the advancement of PTMs that have been reported to take place within M2 macrophages, mainly in the TME, to better understand the performance of M2 macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. Incidentally, we also briefly cover the advances in developing inhibitors that target PTMs and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the prediction and analysis of PTMs at the end of the review.
Identification of Potential Biomarkers for Cancer Cachexia and Anti-Fn14 Therapy
Authors: Cao Zhipeng , Burvenich Ingrid J. , Zhao Kening , Senko Clare , Glab Jason , Fogliaro Renee , Liu Zhanqi , Jose Irvin , Puthalakath Hamsa , Hoogenraad Nick J. , Osellame Laura D. , Scott Andrew M.
Published: November 2022

Background: Developing therapies for cancer cachexia has not been successful to date, in part due to the challenges of achieving robust quantitative measures as a readout of patient treatment. Hence, identifying biomarkers to assess the outcomes of treatments for cancer cachexia is of great interest and important for accelerating future clinical trials. Methods: We established a novel xenograft model for cancer cachexia with a cachectic human PC3* cell line, which was responsive to anti-Fn14 mAb treatment. Using RNA-seq and secretomic analysis, genes differentially expressed in cachectic and non-cachectic tumors were identified and validated by digital droplet PCR (ddPCR). Correlation analysis was performed to investigate their impact on survival in cancer patients. Results: A total of 46 genes were highly expressed in cachectic PC3* tumors, which were downregulated by anti-Fn14 mAb treatment. High expression of the top 10 candidates was correlated with low survival and high cachexia risk in different cancer types. Elevated levels of LCN2 were observed in serum samples from cachectic patients compared with non-cachectic cancer patients. Conclusion: The top 10 candidates identified in this study are candidates as potential biomarkers for cancer cachexia. The diagnostic value of LCN2 in detecting cancer cachexia is confirmed in patient samples.
The Role of a Natural Amphibian Skin-Based Peptide, Ranatensin, in Pancreatic Cancers Expressing Dopamine D2 Receptors
Authors: Laskowska Anna K. , Szudzik Mateusz , Ścieżyńska Aneta , Komorowski Michał , Szűcs Edina , Gombos Dávid , Bączek Bartłomiej , Lipka-Miciuk Jowita , Benyhe Sandor , Kleczkowska Patrycja
Published: November 2022

Despite the progress in early diagnostic and available treatments, pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers. Therefore, there is an urgent need for novel anticancer agents with a good safety profile, particularly in terms of possible side-effects. Recently dopaminergic receptors have been widely studied as they were proven to play an important role in cancer progression. Although various synthetic compounds are known for their interactions with the dopaminergic system, peptides have recently made a great comeback. This is because peptides are relatively safe, easy to correct in terms of the improvement of their physicochemical and biological properties, and easy to predict. This paper aims to evaluate the anticancer activity of a naturally existing peptide—ranatensin, toward three different pancreatic cancer cell lines. Additionally, since there is no sufficient information confirming the exact character of the interaction between ranatensin and dopaminergic receptors, we provide, for the first time, binding properties of the compound to such receptors.
Different Expression of Thyroid-Specific Proteins in Thyroid Cancer Cells between 2-Dimensional (2D) and 3-Dimensional (3D) Culture Environment
Authors: Oh Ji Min , Gangadaran Prakash , Rajendran Ramya Lakshmi , Hong Chae Moon , Lee Jaetae , Ahn Byeong-Cheol
Published: November 2022

The two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture as a conventional method has been widely applied in molecular biology fields, but it has limited capability to recapitulate real cell environments, being prone to misinterpretation with poor prediction of in vivo behavior. Recently, the three-dimensional (3D) spheroid culture has been studied extensively. Spheroids are self-assembled cell aggregates that have biomimicry capabilities. The behavior of thyroid cancer under the 3D spheroid culture environment has been studied; however, there are no reports regarding differences in the degree of thyroid cancer cell differentiation under 2D and 3D culture conditions. This study investigated the expression of thyroid differentiation proteins related to iodide-metabolizing mechanisms in thyroid cancer cells under different culture conditions. Four thyroid cancer cell lines and one thyroid follicular epithelial cell line were grown in adherent 2D cell culture and 3D spheroid culture with agarose-coated plates. We observed changes in proliferation, hypoxia, extracellular matrix (ECM), cytoskeleton, thyroid-specific proteins, and thyroid transcription factors. All cell lines were successfully established in the spheroid following cell aggregation. Proliferation considerably decreased, while hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α(HIF1-α) was promoted in 3D spheroids; moreover, 3D spheroids with thyroid cancers showed diminished thyroid differentiation markers, but thyroid follicular epithelial cells revealed either a maintenance or weak decline of protein expression. We verified that the 3D spheroid culture environment can be similar to in vivo conditions because of its alterations in numerous cellular and functional activities, including morphology, cellular proliferation, viability, hypoxia, ECM, cytoskeleton, and thyroid differentiation, compared to the conventional 2D monolayer culture environment. An in vitro experimental study using 3D spheroid culture is ideal for the faster discovery of new drugs.
Organic-Inorganic Semiconductor Heterojunction P3HT@Ag2NCN Composite Film as a Recyclable SERS Substrate for Molecule Detection Application
Authors: Xu Lin , Wang Tao , Li Xuan , Chen Zhengjian
Published: November 2022

Semiconductor composite materials have attracted interest from surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate research. Here, we investigate an organic-inorganic semiconductor heterojunction P3HT@Ag2NCN composite film as a recyclable SERS substrate for molecule detection application. Our study shows that the SERS substrate of the composite P3HT@Ag2NCN composite film has high sensitivity, excellent signal reproducibility, and is reusable. Significant π-stacking of the probe molecules with the thiophene π-cores molecules from P3HT plays an important role in the large SERS enhancement by the charge transfer mechanism. Due to physical interaction between P3HT and Ag2NCN, the organic-inorganic semiconductor heterojunction structure further improves charge transfer efficiency and the SERS property. Our results show that the enhancement factor (EF) of P3HT@Ag2NCN composite films (EF = 6147 ± 300) for the probe molecule methylene blue is more than 7 times that of P3HT substrate (EF = 848 ± 85) and is about 75 times that of Ag2NCN nanorods (EF = 82 ± 8). In addition, the SERS substrates of the P3HT@Ag2NCN composite film also display excellent reusability and signal reproducibility (RSD < 4.8%). Our study opens up a new opportunity for designing an ideal SERS substrate with high sensitivity, selectivity, long-term stability, low cost, and reusability.
Neonatal Mortality and Associated Factors in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Gadarif Hospital, Eastern Sudan
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed A. , Mahgoub Hyder M. , Al-Nafeesah Abdullah , Al-Wutayd Osama , Adam Ishag
Published: November 2022

Background: Neonatal mortality is a serious public-health issue, especially in Sub-Saharan African countries. There are limited studies on neonatal mortality in Sudan; particularly, there are none on eastern Sudan. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the incidence, causes and associated factors for mortality among neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Gadarif Hospital, eastern Sudan. Methods: This retrospective study included 543 neonates admitted to the NICU of Gadarif Hospital, eastern Sudan, between January and August 2019. Data were obtained from the hospital record using a questionnaire composed of sociodemographic data, neonatal and maternal information and neonatal outcomes. Logistic regression analyses were performed and the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Results: Of the 543 neonates, 50.8% were female, 46.4% were low birth weight (LBW), 43.5% were preterm babies and 27% were newborns admitted after caesarean delivery. The neonatal mortality before discharge was 21.9% (119/543) of live-born babies at the hospital. Preterm birth and its complications (48.7%), respiratory distress syndrome (33.6%), birth asphyxia (21.0%) and infection (9.0%) were the most common causes of neonatal mortality. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, preterm birth (AOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.17–3.74), LBW (AOR 2.47, 95% CI 1.38–4.41), low 5 min APGAR score (AOR 2.59, 95% CI 1.35–4.99) and length of hospital stay <3 days (AOR 5.49, 95% CI 3.44–8.77) were associated with neonatal mortality. Conclusion: There is an increased burden of neonatal mortality in the NICU of Gadarif Hospital, eastern Sudan, predominantly among preterm and LBW babies.
Adolescents’ Perceived Barriers to Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mata Carlos , Onofre Marcos , Martins João
Published: November 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, adolescents’ routines were deeply affected, which negatively impacted their level of PA. Knowing the barriers to PA in adolescence is relevant, because the perception of more barriers is one of the most consistent negative correlates of PA participation. The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare the barriers perceived by adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic by sex, education level, PA level, and BMI. A total of 1369 students (621 boys and 748 girls; mean age: 14.4 years; SD: 1.74) participated in the study. The chi-square test was used to analyze the differences between groups. Only 3.1% of the adolescents complied with the international guidelines for PA. In general, the barriers with the highest prevalence were the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of time, and taking time away from study. The number of perceived barriers to PA was higher among girls, younger, and inactive participants. Boys selected more the barriers due to COVID-19 than girls, and students with normal weight chose more barriers than those with overweight. This study provides information on adolescents’ PA barriers during the COVID-19 pandemic and draws attention to the negative effects that restrictive measures have had on adolescents’ PA levels.
Mixed-Methods Systematic Review to Identify Facilitators and Barriers for Parents/Carers to Engage Pre-School Children in Community-Based Opportunities to Be Physically Active
Authors: Knight Rachel L. , Sharp Catherine A. , Hallingberg Britt , Mackintosh Kelly A. , McNarry Melitta A.
Published: November 2022

Background: Low physical activity levels in young children is a major concern. For children aged 0–5 years, engagement with opportunities to be physically active are often driven by the adults responsible for the child’s care. This systematic review explores the barriers and facilitators to parents/caregivers engaging pre-school children in community-based opportunities for physical activity, within real-world settings, or as part of an intervention study. Methods: EBSCOhost Medline, CINHAL plus, EBSCOhost SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and ASSIA were systematically searched for quantitative and qualitative studies published in English between 2015 and 16 May 2022. Data extracted from 16 articles (485 parents/carers; four countries) were quality-assessed using the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool and coded and themed via thematic analysis. Results: Nine themes (eight core, one minor) were identified and conceptualised into a socio-ecological model, illustrating factors over four levels: Individual—beliefs and knowledge (and parental parameters); Interpersonal—social benefits, social network, and family dynamic; Community—organisational factors and affordability; and Built and Physical Environment—infrastructure. Discussion: The findings provide valuable insights for practitioners and policy makers who commission, design, and deliver community-based physical activity opportunities for pre-school children. Developing strategies and opportunities that seek to address the barriers identified, as well as build on the facilitators highlighted by parents, particularly factors related to infrastructure and affordability, are imperative for physical activity promotion in pre-school children. The perspectives of fathers, socioeconomic and geographical differences, and the importance parents place on physical activity promotion all need to be explored further.
Assessment of Cardiovascular Function in Childhood Leukemia Survivors: The Role of the Right Heart
Authors: Muggeo Paola , Scicchitano Pietro , Muggeo Vito Michele Rosario , Novielli Chiara , Giordano Paola , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Faienza Maria Felicia , Santoro Nicola
Published: November 2022

Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors who underwent chemotherapy with anthracyclines have an increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of the study was to evaluate left and right cardiac chamber performances and vascular endothelial function in childhood ALL survivors. Fifty-four ALL survivors and 37 healthy controls were enrolled. All patients underwent auxological evaluation, blood pressure measurements, biochemical parameters of endothelial dysfunction, flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery, mean common carotid intima-media thickness (c-IMT), antero-posterior diameter of the infra-renal abdominal aorta (APAO), and echocardiographic assessment. The ALL subjects had significantly lower FMD (p = 0.0041), higher left (p = 0.0057) and right (p = 0.0021) echocardiographic/Doppler Tei index (the non-invasive index for combined systolic and diastolic ventricular function) as compared to controls. Tricuspid annular plane excursion (TAPSE) was 16.9 ± 1.2 mm vs. 24.5 ± 3.7 mm, p < 0.0001. Cumulative anthracycline doses were related to TAPSE (p < 0.001). The ALL survivors treated with anthracyclines demonstrated systo/diastolic alterations of the right ventricle and reduced endothelial function compared with healthy controls. The early recognition of subclinical cardiac and vascular impairment during follow up is of utmost importance for the cardiologist to implement strategies preventing overt cardiovascular disease considering the growing number of young adults cured after childhood ALL.
Degradation of Steel Wires in Bimetallic Aluminum–Steel Conductors Exposed to Severe Corrosion Conditions
Authors: Rondineau Alan , Gaillet Laurent , Dieng Lamine , Langlois Sébastien
Published: November 2022

High-voltage electrical cables are prone to saline corrosion, mostly in coastal environments. Steel wires are a crucial element in withstanding the mechanical solicitations of commonly used aluminum conductor steel reinforced (ACSR) cables. An experimental accelerated corrosion test was made, using salt spray tests on greased and ungreased ACSR cables and individual galvanized steel wires. The corrosion mechanism occurring on the specimens was observed by optical microscopy for several durations of corrosion, to determine the evolution of the galvanic layer and steel substrate degradation. This study was completed by an SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and Raman spectroscopy analysis to characterize the corrosion products occurring on the galvanized steel wires. An estimation of the evolution of the mean zinc thickness loss is also given, for each type of specimen. It is shown that the loss rate of the zinc layer is significantly reduced by the presence of aluminum layers around the steel wires and by the effect of the grease. Tensile tests were made on the exposed galvanized steel wires which led to fracture surface observations to assess the effect of corrosion on the evolution of mechanical properties.
Influence of Interface Temperature on the Electric Contact Characteristics of a C-Cu Sliding System
Authors: Wang Hong , Gao Guoqiang , Lei Deng , Wang Qingsong , Xiao Song , Xie Yunlong , Xu Zhilei , Ma Yaguang , Dong Keliang , Chen Qichen , Wu Guangning
Published: November 2022

Electrical contact resistance (ECR) and discharge are the key parameters of electrical contact performance for carbon-copper (C-Cu) contacts in the pantograph-contact line system. The change in physical and chemical properties of the C-Cu interface caused by interface temperature is the main reason for the variation in ECR and discharge. In this paper, an electric contact test platform based on interface temperature control was established. The influence of interface temperature on ECR and the discharge characteristics under different current amplitudes were studied. There are opposite trends in the change in ECR and the discharge characteristics with interface temperature under different currents, which results from the competition between interface oxidation and a softening of the contact spots caused by high temperature. The trend of interface oxidation with temperature was analyzed via the quantitative analysis of the composition and content of the oxides at the C-Cu contact interface and is discussed here. The relationship between interface oxidation, ECR, and discharge characteristics was studied. Furthermore, a finite element simulation model was established for estimating the temperature distribution throughout the C-Cu contact spots. The competitive process of the softening and oxidation of the contact spots at different temperatures and currents was analyzed, and the variation mechanism of the ECR and discharge characteristics with interface temperature was studied.
Surface Potentials of Mixtures Containing Oddly Charged Colloids
Authors: La Mesa Camillo
Published: November 2022

Charged surfaces and particles of the same sign never attract, but oppositely oppositely charged ones do. If the surface potentials of two colloids, namely ψA and ψB, differ in sign, the difference among representative exponentials, i.e., (exp+(zεΨA//kT) − exp−(zeψB/kT)), is solved by the Poisson–Boltzmann, P–B, equation. The procedure is simple to handle when |ψA| ≈ |ψB|. It is troublesome to address the problem when potentials largely differ from each other in modulus. To overcome these difficulties, the P–B equation was reformulated so that drawbacks inherent to its classical form are bypassed. The above relation was rewritten in a promptly readable mode. The similarities and differences met when |ψA| ≠ |ψB| are discussed. It is shown in which conditions the revised form of the P–B equation overlaps with the classical one. From the re-formulation, it is also possible to determine the electrostatic energy occurring among interacting colloid particles dispersed in a given medium.
Microstructure and Stress of Ni/C Multilayer Films Prepared by Reactive Sputtering
Authors: Peng Jichang , Ouyang Zhen
Published: November 2022

Magnetron-sputtered Ni/C multilayers with a periodic thickness below 4 nm are difficult to produce, and reactive sputtering with nitrogen is a feasible method. The effects of nitrogen on the reflectivities of Ni/C multilayers were investigated. Pure argon and three mixing ratios of 4%, 8%, and 15% nitrogen-argon gas mixture were used as the working gas. For all Ni/C multilayer samples, each contains 40 bilayers. The nominal structure has a periodic thickness of 3.8 nm, with a ratio of the thickness of the Ni layer to the periodic thickness of Г = 0.39. The results of grazing incidence X-ray reflectivity (GIXRR) measurements indicate that reactively-sputtered Ni/C multilayers have a lower interface width and higher specular reflectance. It was shown in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) measurements that a periodic layered structure can still be clearly observed in Ni/C multilayers with pure argon, but with quite rough interfaces between the adjacent layers. For Ni/C multilayers with the mixing ratio of 4% nitrogen-argon gas mixture, it is found that the interfaces between Ni and C layers become smoother and sharper. Additionally, nitrogen incorporation can reduce the mobility of Ni atoms, which decreases the threshold thickness that Ni layers would become continuous. This may be also a reason which accounts for the better interface quality of reactively-sputtered Ni/C multilayers. Meanwhile, Ni/C multilayers deposited with a nitrogen-argon gas mixture have lower stress due to the reduction in Ni adatom mobility.
Design and Performance Evaluation of Flame Retardant and Thermally Insulated Material-Integrated Multi-Functional Thermoplastic Corrugated Sandwich Panels
Authors: Sun Yiliang , Li Jingwen , Zhang Boming , Song Yixuan , Li Hongfu
Published: November 2022

Multifunctional composite panels for flame retardant and thermal insulation have not yet been studied. In the current study, we prepared sandwich sheets by using continuous glass fiber flame retardant polypropylene prepreg tape and compared the thermal insulation properties of different fillings. Corrugated sandwich panels, featuring a corrugated space filled with different materials, were prepared and their thermal and mechanical properties are tested and verified. Determining the two structural parameters that have the greatest influence on the heat transfer performance of corrugated sandwich panels has important guiding significance for the structural design of corrugated panels.
Deep Neural Network Algorithms for Parabolic PIDEs and Applications in Insurance and Finance
Authors: Frey Rüdiger , Köck Verena
Published: November 2022

In this paper we study deep neural network algorithms for solving linear and semilinear parabolic partial integro-differential equations with boundary conditions in high dimension. Our method can be considered as an extension of the deep splitting method for PDEs to equations with non-local terms. To show the viability of our approach, we discuss several case studies from insurance and finance.
Teleoncology: A Solution for Everyone? A Single-Center Experience with Telemedicine during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic
Authors: Ribera Paula , Soriano Sandra , Climent Carla , Vilà Laia , Macias Ismael , Fernández-Morales Luis Antonio , Giner Julia , Gallardo Enrique , Palmer Miquel Angel Segui , Pericay Carles
Published: November 2022

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telehealth was rapidly implemented without previous evidence. The ONCOTELEMD study aimed to evaluate the opinion of patients attended via telemedicine during this period and to study factors that condition patient preferences on its use. Included patients had a confirmed cancer diagnosis and were contacted by telephone between 13 March and 30 April 2020, in the Medical Oncology Service of Hospital Parc Taulí, Sabadell. A 12-question survey was presented to them between 4 February and 19 April 2021. Statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square and multivariable logistic regression tests. Six hundred forty-six patients were included; 487 responded to the survey. The median age was 68 years (27–90), 55.2% were female. Most patients had a surveillance visit (65.3%) and were diagnosed with colorectal or breast cancer (43% and 26.5%, respectively); 91.8% of patients were satisfied, and 60% would accept the use of telemedicine beyond the pandemic. Patients aged more than 50 years (OR 0.40; 95% CI, 0.19–0.81; p = 0.01) and diagnosed with breast cancer (OR 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26–0.69; p < 0.001) were less predisposed to adopt telehealth in the future. Patients agreed to be informed via telehealth of scan or lab results (62% and 84%, respectively) but not of new oral or endovenous treatments (52% and 33.5%, respectively). Additionally, 75% of patients had a medium or low-null technologic ability, and 51.3% would only use the telephone or video call to contact health professionals. However, differences were found according to age groups (p < 0.0001). In total, patients surveyed were satisfied with telemedicine and believed telehealth could have a role following the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, our results remark on the importance of individualizing the use of telehealth, showing relevant data on patient preferences and digital literacy.
Composition and Structural Characteristics of Rhizosphere Microorganisms of Polygonum sibiricum (Laxm.) Tzvelev in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Zhao Liping , Shang Shuai , Shi Dongli , Xu Hui , Wang Jun
Published: November 2022

The Polygonum sibiricum (Laxm.) Tzvelev, an important herbal species used to protect seawalls, has a solid resistance to salinity and alkali and can grow on alkali spots in saline–alkali soils. So far, the composition, population, and characteristics of its rhizosphere biological community related to the adaptation salt–alkali environment were still unknown. In the present study, rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from the P. sibiricum on Chenier Island were collected. High-throughput sequencing was conducted to obtain the structural diversity of rhizosphere microbial communities. Our results showed that the dominant bacteria groups in the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, Gemmatimonadota, and Actinobacteriota. The dominant fungi groups in the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples were Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Chytridiomycota, and Mortierellomycota. The results of the ASVs (amplicon sequence variants) showed that fungi have more ASVs in common. The PERMANOVA analysis showed that the bacteria among different groups were significantly different. The PCoA (principal coordinates analysis) study also showed that the structures of the bacterial and fungal communities between the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere were distinct. Function results showed that the relative abundance in COG (Clusters of Orthologous Groups of proteins) functional annotation was significantly different between the two groups. In addition to the general function prediction and carbohydrate transport and metabolism, the COG of the non-rhizosphere was higher than that of the rhizosphere. Our findings benefited the knowledge for studying and conserving the molecule-level adaptive mechanisms of P. sibiricum.