bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Reliability of Modeling of Thermocouple Response and Sprinkler Activation during Compartment Fires
Authors: Król Aleksander , Jahn Wolfram , Krajewski Grzegorz , Król Małgorzata , Węgrzyński Wojciech
Published: January 2022

Real and numerical fire experiments involve temperature measurements with thermocouples, and thus some considerations on numerical modeling of this process are presented and a new approach to thermocouple modeling is introduced. Using ANSYS Fluent software a well-recognized analytical thermocouple model was implemented in each cell of the computational domain, which allows for determination of thermocouple responses as a continuous field. Similarly, sprinklers are key elements of fire-protection systems. Sprinklers activation is one of the breakthrough moments during the course of a compartment fire. Therefore, assumptions on sprinkler activation time are of crucial importance when designing a fire safety system. Just as for thermocouple modeling, virtual sprinklers based on a commonly admitted response time index (RTI) model were placed in all cells. The proposed approach provides data on sprinklers activation or thermocouple response for the whole domain instead of retrieving data point by point only for predefined locations. In this study, experimental data available in the literature were used for the validation of the proposed approach. In addition, the results were compared with those obtained with the commonly used Fire Dynamic Simulator (FDS) software. The outcomes might be of a significant importance for practitioners, who deal with fire experiments and fire protection. Furthermore, some issues on accurate modeling of fire gases flow are discussed extensively. It was found that commonly applied k-ε and k-ω turbulence models might fail in the case of modeling of fire plumes in confined spaces.
Two Decades of Active Surveillance for Prostate Cancer in a Single-Center Cohort: Favorable Outcomes after Transurethral Resection of the Prostate
Authors: Hagmann Sarah , Ramakrishnan Venkat , Tamalunas Alexander , Hofmann Marc , Vandenhirtz Moritz , Vollmer Silvan , Hug Jsmea , Niggli Philipp , Nocito Antonio , Kubik-Huch Rahel A. , Lehmann Kurt , Hefermehl Lukas John
Published: January 2022

Objective: To report the outcomes of active surveillance (AS) for low-risk prostate cancer (PCa) in a single-center cohort. Patients and Methods: This is a prospective, single-center, observational study. The cohort included all patients who underwent AS for PCa between December 1999 and December 2020 at our institution. Follow-up appointments (FU) ended in February 2021. Results: A total of 413 men were enrolled in the study, and 391 had at least one FU. Of those who followed up, 267 had PCa diagnosed by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided biopsy (T1c: 68.3%), while 124 were diagnosed after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) (T1a/b: 31.7%). Median FU was 46 months (IQR 25–90). Cancer specific survival was 99.7% and overall survival was 92.3%. Median reclassification time was 11.2 years. After 20 years, 25% of patients were reclassified within 4.58 years, 6.6% opted to switch to watchful waiting, 4.1% died, 17.4% were lost to FU, and 46.8% remained on AS. Those diagnosed by TRUS had a significantly higher reclassification rate than those diagnosed by TURP (p < 0.0001). Men diagnosed by targeted MRI/TRUS fusion biopsy tended to have a higher reclassification probability than those diagnosed by conventional template biopsies (p = 0.083). Conclusions: Our single-center cohort spanning over two decades revealed that AS remains a safe option for low-risk PCa even in the long term. Approximately half of AS enrollees will eventually require definitive treatment due to disease progression. Men with incidental prostate cancer were significantly less likely to have disease progression.
A Model to Predict Upstaging to Invasive Carcinoma in Patients Preoperatively Diagnosed with Low-Grade Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast
Authors: Nicosia Luca , Bozzini Anna Carla , Penco Silvia , Trentin Chiara , Pizzamiglio Maria , Lazzeroni Matteo , Lissidini Germana , Veronesi Paolo , Farante Gabriel , Frassoni Samuele , Bagnardi Vincenzo , Fodor Cristiana , Fusco Nicola , Sajjadi Elham , Cassano Enrico , Pesapane Filippo
Published: January 2022

Background: We aimed to create a model of radiological and pathological criteria able to predict the upgrade rate of low-grade ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) to invasive carcinoma, in patients undergoing vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB) and subsequent surgical excision. Methods: A total of 3100 VABBs were retrospectively reviewed, among which we reported 295 low-grade DCIS who subsequently underwent surgery. The association between patients’ features and the upgrade rate to invasive breast cancer (IBC) was evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Finally, we developed a nomogram for predicting the upstage at surgery, according to the multivariate logistic regression model. Results: The overall upgrade rate to invasive carcinoma was 10.8%. At univariate analysis, the risk of upgrade was significantly lower in patients with greater age (p = 0.018), without post-biopsy residual lesion (p < 0.001), with a smaller post-biopsy residual lesion size (p < 0.001), and in the presence of low-grade DCIS only in specimens with microcalcifications (p = 0.002). According to the final multivariable model, the predicted probability of upstage at surgery was lower than 2% in 58 patients; among these 58 patients, only one (1.7%) upstage was observed, showing a good calibration of the model. Conclusions: An easy-to-use nomogram for predicting the upstage at surgery based on radiological and pathological criteria is able to identify patients with low-grade carcinoma in situ with low risk of upstaging to infiltrating carcinomas.
Diagnostic Value of Bronchoscopy for Peripheral Metastatic Lung Tumors
Authors: Tsujimoto Yoshie , Matsumoto Yuji , Tanaka Midori , Imabayashi Tatsuya , Uchimura Keigo , Tsuchida Takaaki
Published: January 2022

Although lungs are one of the most frequent sites of metastasis for malignant tumors, little has been reported about the value of bronchoscopy for lung metastases presenting with peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs). This retrospective cohort study investigated the diagnostic value of bronchoscopy for peripheral metastatic lung tumors. Consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic bronchoscopy with radial endobronchial ultrasound for PPLs and were finally diagnosed with metastatic lung tumors from April 2012 to March 2019 were included. We analyzed 235 PPLs, with a median size of 18.8 mm. The overall diagnostic yield was 76.6%. In a multivariable analysis, large lesion size (>20.0 mm vs. <20.0 mm: 87.6% vs. 67.7%, p = 0.043, OR = 2.26), inner location (inner 2/3 vs. outer 1/3: 84.8% vs. 69.1%, p = 0.004, OR = 2.79), and visibility on radiography (visible vs. invisible: 83.2% vs. 56.1%, p = 0.015, OR = 3.29) significantly affected the diagnostic yield. Although a positive bronchus sign tended to have a higher yield, no significant difference was observed (81.8% vs. 70.6%, p = 0.063). Only one case of lung abscess was observed, with no serious complications. In conclusion, bronchoscopy is a valuable technique for peripheral metastatic lung tumors, with good diagnostic accuracy and safety.
Environmental Risk Factors for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Onyije Felix M. , Olsson Ann , Baaken Dan , Erdmann Friederike , Stanulla Martin , Wollschläger Daniel , Schüz Joachim
Published: January 2022

Leukemia is the most common type of cancer among children and adolescents worldwide. The aim of this umbrella review was (1) to provide a synthesis of the environmental risk factors for the onset of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) by exposure window, (2) evaluate their strength of evidence and magnitude of risk, and as an example (3) estimate the prevalence in the German population, which determines the relevance at the population level. Relevant systematic reviews and pooled analyses were identified and retrieved through PubMed, Web of Science databases and lists of references. Only two risk factors (low doses of ionizing radiation in early childhood and general pesticide exposure during maternal preconception/pregnancy) were convincingly associated with childhood ALL. Other risk factors including extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-MF), living in proximity to nuclear facilities, petroleum, benzene, solvent, and domestic paint exposure during early childhood, all showed some level of evidence of association. Maternal consumption of coffee (high consumption/>2 cups/day) and cola (high consumption) during pregnancy, paternal smoking during the pregnancy of the index child, maternal intake of fertility treatment, high birth weight (≥4000 g) and caesarean delivery were also found to have some level of evidence of association. Maternal folic acid and vitamins intake, breastfeeding (≥6 months) and day-care attendance, were inversely associated with childhood ALL with some evidence. The results of this umbrella review should be interpreted with caution; as the evidence stems almost exclusively from case-control studies, where selection and recall bias are potential concerns, and whether the empirically observed association reflect causal relationships remains an open question. Hence, improved exposure assessment methods including accurate and reliable measurement, probing questions and better interview techniques are required to establish causative risk factors of childhood leukemia, which is needed for the ultimate goal of primary prevention.
Transarterial Radioembolization for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Real-Life Efficacy and Safety Analysis of Korean Patients
Authors: Yim Sun Young , Chun Ho Soo , Lee Jae Seung , Lim Ji-Hwan , Kim Tae Hyung , Kim Beom Kyung , Kim Seung Up , Park Jun Yong , Ahn Sang Hoon , Kim Gyoung Min , Won Jong Yun , Seo Yeon Seok , Kim Yun Hwan , Um Soon Ho , Kim Do Young
Published: January 2022

Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) has become widely used in the treatment of HCC, one of the most common causes of cancer mortality worldwide. Here we investigated the long-term clinical outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with TARE in a multi-medical center in Korea. A total of 149 patients treated with TARE from 2008–2014 were recruited. The pre-treatment HCC stage was classified according to the BCLC stage, of which C and D were defined as advanced HCC. Advanced HCC stage and Child–Turcotte–Pugh (CTP) score A were identified in 62 (42%) and 134 (90%) patients, respectively. Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) was identified in 58 patients (38.9%). The median time to progression (TTP) was 14 months, and the median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 18.6 and 8.9 months, respectively. The overall tumor response was 47%, and the disease control rate was 78%. OS and PFS differed significantly according to the presence of liver cirrhosis, extrahepatic metastasis, tumor response and curative treatment after TARE (all, p < 0.05). Multiple tumors and major PVT were other independent factors related to OS, while the des-gamma carboxy protein level predicted PFS (all, p < 0.05). Tumor size was an independent predictor of tumor response. TTP, OS and PFS all differed among BCLC stages. The serious adverse effect after TARE was clinically not significant. Therefore, TARE is safe and effective in treating early to advanced HCCs.
New Insights into the Epidemiology of Vulvar Cancer: Systematic Literature Review for an Update of Incidence and Risk Factors
Authors: Bucchi Lauro , Pizzato Margherita , Rosso Stefano , Ferretti Stefano
Published: January 2022

The aim of this review was an update of vulvar cancer incidence rates and trends and of all known and putative risk factors for the disease. The most recent incidence data were sought from official sources (WHO Cancer Incidence in Five Continents). To obtain an estimate of time trends in some areas, we compared data from Cancer Incidence in Five Continents with the few available studies that measured incidence using comparable methods. With respect to risk factors, a systematic PubMed search identified 1585 relevant articles published between 1980 and 2021. Abstracts and full texts were screened. Sixty-nine eligible original cohort and case-control studies were selected. Information was extracted using a PRISMA predesigned form. Nineteen risk factors, or risk factor categories, were investigated by two or more original studies. Solitary, unreplicated studies addressed the putative role of eight more factors. Recent advances have provided further evidence supporting the carcinogenic model centred on human papillomavirus infection with different defects of the immune function. Conversely, the model centred on the role of vulvar lichen sclerosus and the often associated differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia has continued to be epidemiologically understudied. More research on the association between these two conditions and vulvar cancer is a priority.
A Small Molecule–Drug Conjugate (SMDC) Consisting of a Modified Camptothecin Payload Linked to an αVß3 Binder for the Treatment of Multiple Cancer Types
Authors: Lerchen Hans-Georg , Stelte-Ludwig Beatrix , Kopitz Charlotte , Heroult Melanie , Zubov Dmitry , Willuda Joerg , Schlange Thomas , Kahnert Antje , Wong Harvey , Izumi Raquel , Hamdy Ahmed
Published: January 2022

To improve tumor selectivity of cytotoxic agents, we designed VIP236, a small molecule–drug conjugate consisting of an αVβ3 integrin binder linked to a modified camptothecin payload (VIP126), which is released by the enzyme neutrophil elastase (NE) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The tumor targeting and pharmacokinetics of VIP236 were studied in tumor-bearing mice by in vivo near-infrared imaging and by analyzing tumor and plasma samples. The efficacy of VIP236 was investigated in a panel of cancer cell lines in vitro, and in MX-1, NCI-H69, and SW480 murine xenograft models. Imaging studies with the αVβ3 binder demonstrated efficient tumor targeting. Administration of VIP126 via VIP236 resulted in a 10-fold improvement in the tumor/plasma ratio of VIP126 compared with VIP126 administered alone. Unlike SN38, VIP126 is not a substrate of P-gp and BCRP drug transporters. VIP236 presented strong cytotoxic activity in the presence of NE. VIP236 treatment resulted in tumor regressions and very good tolerability in all in vivo models tested. VIP236 represents a novel approach for delivering a potent cytotoxic agent by utilizing αVβ3 as a targeting moiety and NE in the TME to release the VIP126 payload—designed for high permeability and low efflux—directly into the tumor stroma.
Role of Pretransplant Treatments for Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Waiting for Liver Transplantation
Authors: Ogawa Kohei , Takada Yasutsugu
Published: January 2022

Recently, there have been many reports of the usefulness of locoregional therapy such as transarterial chemoembolization and radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as pretreatment before liver transplantation (LT). Locoregional therapy is performed with curative intent in Japan, where living donor LT constitutes the majority of LT due to the critical shortage of deceased donors. However, in Western countries, where deceased donor LT is the main procedure, LT is indicated for early-stage HCC regardless of liver functional reserve, and locoregional therapy is used for bridging until transplantation to prevent drop-outs from the waiting list or for downstaging to treat patients with advanced HCC who initially exceed the criteria for LT. There are many reports of the effect of bridging and downstaging locoregional therapy before LT, and its indications and efficacy are becoming clear. Responses to locoregional therapy, such as changes in tumor markers, the avidity of FDG-PET, etc., are considered useful for successful bridging and downstaging. In this review, the effects of bridging and downstaging locoregional therapy as a pretransplant treatment on the results of transplantation are clarified, focusing on recent reports.
VOCs Photothermo-Catalytic Removal on MnOx-ZrO2 Catalysts
Authors: Fiorenza Roberto , Farina Roberta Agata , Malannata Enrica Maria , Lo Presti Francesca , Balsamo Stefano Andrea
Published: January 2022

Solar photothermo-catalysis is a fascinating multi-catalytic approach for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) removal. In this work, we have explored the performance and the chemico-physical features of non-critical, noble, metal-free MnOx-ZrO2 mixed oxides. The structural, morphological, and optical characterizations of these materials pointed to as a low amount of ZrO2 favoured a good interaction and the ionic exchange between the Mn and the Zr ions. This favoured the redox properties of MnOx increasing the mobility of its oxygens that can participate in the VOCs oxidation through a Mars-van Krevelen mechanism. The further application of solar irradiation sped up the oxidation reactions promoting the VOCs total oxidation to CO2. The MnOx-5 wt.%ZrO2 sample showed, in the photothermo-catalytic tests, a toluene T90 (temperature of 90% of conversion) of 180 °C and an ethanol T90 conversion to CO2 of 156 °C, 36 °C, and 205 °C lower compared to the thermocatalytic tests, respectively. Finally, the same sample exhibited 84% toluene conversion and the best selectivity to CO2 in the ethanol removal after 5 h of solar irradiation at room temperature, a photoactivity similar to the most employed TiO2-based materials. The as-synthetized mixed oxide is promising for an improved sustainability in both catalyst design and environmental applications.
Bulk Co3O4 for Methane Oxidation: Effect of the Synthesis Route on Physico-Chemical Properties and Catalytic Performance
Authors: Choya Andoni , de Rivas Beatriz , Gutiérrez-Ortiz Jose Ignacio , López-Fonseca Rubén
Published: January 2022

The synthesis of bulk pure Co3O4 catalysts by different routes has been examined in order to obtain highly active catalysts for lean methane combustion. Thus, eight synthesis methodologies, which were selected based on their relatively low complexity and easiness for scale-up, were evaluated. The investigated procedures were direct calcination of two different cobalt precursors (cobalt nitrate and cobalt hydroxycarbonate), basic grinding route, two basic precipitation routes with ammonium carbonate and sodium carbonate, precipitation-oxidation, solution combustion synthesis and sol-gel complexation. A commercial Co3O4 was also used as a reference. Among the several examined methodologies, direct calcination of cobalt hydroxycarbonate (HC sample), basic grinding (GB sample) and basic precipitation employing sodium carbonate as the precipitating agent (CC sample) produced bulk catalysts with fairly good textural and structural properties, and remarkable redox properties, which were found to be crucial for their good performance in the oxidation of methane. All catalysts attained full conversion and 100% selectivity towards CO2 formation at a temperature of 600 °C while operating at 60,000 h−1. Among these, the CC catalyst was the only one that achieved a specific reaction rate higher than that of the reference commercial Co3O4 catalyst.
Catalytic Hydrofunctionalization Reactions of 1,3-Diynes
Authors: Cadierno Victorio
Published: January 2022

Metal-catalyzed hydrofunctionalization reactions of alkynes, i.e., the addition of Y–H units (Y = heteroatom or carbon) across the carbon–carbon triple bond, have attracted enormous attention for decades since they allow the straightforward and atom-economic access to a wide variety of functionalized olefins and, in its intramolecular version, to relevant heterocyclic and carbocyclic compounds. Despite conjugated 1,3-diynes being considered key building blocks in synthetic organic chemistry, this particular class of alkynes has been much less employed in hydrofunctionalization reactions when compared to terminal or internal monoynes. The presence of two C≡C bonds in conjugated 1,3-diynes adds to the classical regio- and stereocontrol issues associated with the alkyne hydrofunctionalization processes’ other problems, such as the possibility to undergo 1,2-, 3,4-, or 1,4-monoadditions as well as double addition reactions, thus increasing the number of potential products that can be formed. In this review article, metal-catalyzed hydrofunctionalization reactions of these challenging substrates are comprehensively discussed.
Sodium Binding Stabilizes the Outward-Open State of SERT by Limiting Bundle Domain Motions
Authors: Szöllősi Dániel , Stockner Thomas
Published: January 2022

The human serotonin transporter (hSERT) removes the neurotransmitter serotonin from the synaptic cleft by reuptake into the presynaptic nerve terminal. A number of neurologic diseases are associated with dysfunction of the hSERT, and several medications for their treatment are hSERT blockers, including citalopram, fluoxetine, and paroxetine. The substrate transport is energized by the high concentration of external NaCl. We showed through molecular dynamics simulations that the binding of NaCl stabilized the hSERT in the substrate-binding competent conformation, which was characterized by an open access path to the substrate-binding site through the outer vestibule. Importantly, the binding of NaCl reduced the dynamics of the hSERT by decreasing the internal fluctuations of the bundle domain as well as the movement of the bundle domain relative to the scaffold domain. In contrast, the presence of only the bound chloride ion did not reduce the high domain mobility of the apo state.
Mechanical Compression of Human Airway Epithelial Cells Induces Release of Extracellular Vesicles Containing Tenascin C
Authors: Mwase Chimwemwe , Phung Thien-Khoi N. , O’Sullivan Michael J. , Mitchel Jennifer A. , De Marzio Margherita , Kılıç Ayşe , Weiss Scott T. , Fredberg Jeffrey J. , Park Jin-Ah
Published: January 2022

Aberrant remodeling of the asthmatic airway is not well understood but is thought to be attributable in part to mechanical compression of airway epithelial cells. Here, we examine compression-induced expression and secretion of the extracellular matrix protein tenascin C (TNC) from well-differentiated primary human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells grown in an air–liquid interface culture. We measured TNC mRNA expression using RT-qPCR and secreted TNC protein using Western blotting and ELISA. To determine intracellular signaling pathways, we used specific inhibitors for either ERK or TGF-β receptor, and to assess the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) we used a commercially available kit and Western blotting. At baseline, secreted TNC protein was significantly higher in asthmatic compared to non-asthmatic cells. In response to mechanical compression, both TNC mRNA expression and secreted TNC protein was significantly increased in both non-asthmatic and asthmatic cells. TNC production depended on both the ERK and TGF-β receptor pathways. Moreover, mechanically compressed HBE cells released EVs that contain TNC. These data reveal a novel mechanism by which mechanical compression, as is caused by bronchospasm, is sufficient to induce the production of ECM protein in the airway and potentially contribute to airway remodeling.
Role of Bioactive Compounds in the Regulation of Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Brain and Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Kessas Khadidja , Chouari Zhor , Ghzaiel Imen , Zarrouk Amira , Ksila Mohamed , Ghrairi Taoufik , El Midaoui Adil , Lizard Gérard , Kharoubi Omar
Published: January 2022

Mitochondria are multifunctional organelles that participate in a wide range of metabolic processes, including energy production and biomolecule synthesis. The morphology and distribution of intracellular mitochondria change dynamically, reflecting a cell’s metabolic activity. Oxidative stress is defined as a mismatch between the body’s ability to neutralise and eliminate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS). A determination of mitochondria failure in increasing oxidative stress, as well as its implications in neurodegenerative illnesses and apoptosis, is a significant developmental process of focus in this review. The neuroprotective effects of bioactive compounds linked to neuronal regulation, as well as related neuronal development abnormalities, will be investigated. In conclusion, the study of secondary components and the use of mitochondrial features in the analysis of various neurodevelopmental diseases has enabled the development of a new class of mitochondrial-targeted pharmaceuticals capable of alleviating neurodegenerative disease states and enabling longevity and healthy ageing for the vast majority of people.
Belimumab Decreases Autophagy and Citrullination in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Colasanti Tania , Spinelli Francesca Romana , Barbati Cristiana , Ceccarelli Fulvia , Scarpa Susanna , Vomero Marta , Alessandri Cristiano , Valesini Guido , Conti Fabrizio
Published: January 2022

Belimumab (BLM) is a B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) inhibitor approved for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Autophagy is a cell survival mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of SLE. Citrullination is a post-translational modification catalyzed by peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD) enzymes. Autophagy and citrullination may generate neoepitopes, evoking an autoimmune response. No previous studies have investigated the connection of these processes, and how BLM could affect them, in SLE. Ex vivo autophagy and protein citrullination were analyzed by western blot in lysates from 26 SLE patients’ PBMCs at baseline and after 2, 4, and 12 weeks of BLM administration, and from 16 healthy donors’ PBMCs. Autophagic PBMCs were identified by the immunofluorescent detection of the autophagy-associated proteins LC3B (LC3 puncta) and LAMP-1. Autophagosome accumulation was evaluated in CD14− (PBLs) and CD14+ (monocytes) SLE cells. The presence of the BLyS receptors BAFF-R, BCMA, and TACI on SLE CD4+, CD8+ T cells and monocytes, as well as serum IL-18 levels, was also assessed. Following BLM administration, we observed a decrease in autophagy and citrullination, with a lowering of LC3-II, citrullinated vimentin, and PAD4 expression levels in PBMCs from SLE patients. LC3-II levels showed a correlation with the SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) after 12 weeks of therapy. The LC3B/LAMP-1 analysis confirmed the reduction in autophagy. A lesser autophagosome accumulation occurred in PBLs and monocytes which, in turn, seemed to be the main cellular populations contributing to autophagy. A reduction in patients’ serum IL-18 concentrations occurred. CD4+ and CD8+ cells weakly expressed BAFF receptors; monocytes expressed only BAFF-R. BLM could impact on autophagy and citrullination, offering an opportunity for a deeper understanding of these mechanisms in SLE, and a possible tool for the clinical management of SLE.
Circulating miR-499a and miR-125b as Potential Predictors of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Improvement after Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Moscoso Isabel , Cebro-Márquez María , Martínez-Gómez Álvaro , Abou-Jokh Charigan , Martínez-Monzonís María Amparo , Martínez-Sande José Luis , González-Melchor Laila , García-Seara Javier , Fernández-López Xesús Alberte , Moraña-Fernández Sandra , González-Juanatey José R. , Rodríguez-Mañero Moisés , Lage Ricardo
Published: January 2022

Cardiac resynchronization therapy represents a therapeutic option for heart failure drug-refractory patients. However, due to the lack of success in 30% of the cases, there is a demand for an in-depth analysis of individual heterogeneity. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of circulating miRNA differences. Responder patients were defined by a composite endpoint of the presence of left ventricular reverse remodelling (a reduction ≥15% in telesystolic volume and an increment ≥10% in left ventricular ejection fraction). Circulating miRNAs signature was analysed at the time of the procedure and at a 6-month follow-up. An expression analysis showed, both at baseline and at follow-up, differences between responders and non-responders. Responders presented lower baseline expressions of miR-499, and at follow-up, downregulation of miR-125b-5p, both associated with a significant improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction. The miRNA profile differences showed a marked sensitivity to distinguish between responders and non-responders. Our data suggest that miRNA differences might contribute to prognostic stratification of patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy and suggest that preimplant cardiac context as well as remodelling response are key to therapeutic success.
Process Simulation and Abrasion Behavior of Jet Electrodeposited Ni–TiN Nanocoatings
Authors: Yang Zhongguo , Yi Shujuan , Cao Longkui , Tang Songhao , Li Qiang
Published: January 2022

In this work, we study jet-electrodeposited Ni–TiN composite nanocoatings (CNCs) for improving abrasion resistance as a function of various nozzle diameters. In addition, COMSOL software is utilized to simulate the process of jet electrodeposition, particularly the influence of spraying speed and pressure of the electrolyte on the abrasion resistance of coatings. Optimization of the nozzle diameter to obtain uniform and high-performance coatings showed that a Φ7 mm nozzle diameter generated the optimum spraying speed and spraying pressure, which results in good micro-hardness and abrasion resistance of the Ni–TiN CNCs. Under these conditions, the 45 steel substrates are coated with a compact layer of uniform and nano-sized TiN particles, which are responsible for the high abrasion resistance of our Ni–TiN CNCs. Our study may motivate researchers to study jet electrodeposition in order to obtain abrasion-resistant coatings.
Fabrication of an Immobilized Polyelectrolite Complex (PEC) Membrane from Pectin-Chitosan and Chromoionophore ETH 5294 for pH-Based Fish Freshness Monitoring
Authors: Safitri Eka , Omaira Zatul , Nazaruddin Nazaruddin , Mustafa Irfan , Saleha Sitti , Idroes Rinaldi , Ginting Binawati , Iqhrammullah Muhammad , Alva Sagir , Paristiowati Maria
Published: January 2022

Considering the significance of its demand around the world, the accurate determination of fish freshness with a simple and rapid procedure has become an interesting issue for the fishing industry. Hence, we aimed to fabricate a new optical pH sensor based on a polyelectrolyte (PEC) membrane of pectin–chitosan and the active material chromoionophore ETH 5294. A trial-and-error investigation of the polymer compositions revealed that the optimum ratio of pectin to chitosan was 3:7. With an optimum wavelength region (λ) at 610 nm, the constructed sensor was capable of stable responses after 5 min exposure to phosphate-buffered solution. Furthermore, the obtained sensor achieved optimum sensitivity when the PBS concentration was 0.1 M, while the relative standard deviation values ranged from 2.07 to 2.34%, suggesting good reproducibility. Further investigation revealed that the sensor experienced decreased absorbance of 16.67–18.68% after 25 days of storage. Employing the optimum conditions stated previously, the sensor was tested to monitor fish freshness in samples that were stored at 4 °C and ambient temperature. The results suggested that the newly fabricated optical sensor could measure pH changes on fish skin after 25 h storage at room temperature (pH 6.37, 8.91 and 11.02, respectively) and 4 °C (pH 6.8, 7.31 and 7.92, respectively).
Synthesis of Spinel-Hydroxyapatite Composite Utilizing Bovine Bone and Beverage Can
Authors: Pramono Agus , Timuda Gerald , Rifai Ganang , Khaerudini Deni
Published: January 2022

Spinel-based hydroxyapatite composite (SHC) has been synthesized utilizing bovine bones as the source of the hydroxyapatite (HAp) and beverage cans as the aluminum (Al) source. The bovine bones were defatted and calcined in the air atmosphere to transform them into hydroxyapatite. The beverage cans were cut and milled to obtain fine Al powder and then sieved to obtain three different particle mesh size fractions: +100#, −140# + 170#, and −170#, or Al particle size of >150, 90–150, and <90 µm, respectively. The SHC was synthesized using the self-propagating intermediate-temperature synthesis (SIS) method at 900 °C for 2 h with (HAp:Al:Mg) ratio of (87:10:3 wt.%) and various compaction pressure of 100, 171, and 200 MPa. It was found that the mechanical properties of the SHC are influenced by the Al particle size and the compaction pressure. Smaller particle size produces the tendency of increasing the hardness and reducing the porosity of the composite. Meanwhile, increasing compaction pressure produces a reduction of the SHC porosity. The increase in the hardness is also observed by increasing the compaction pressure except for the smallest Al particle size (<90 µm), where the hardness instead becomes smaller.
A Review on Precision Polishing Technology of Single-Crystal SiC
Authors: Ma Gaoling , Li Shujuan , Liu Feilong , Zhang Chen , Jia Zhen , Yin Xincheng
Published: January 2022

Single-crystal SiC is a typical third-generation semiconductor power-device material because of its excellent electronic and thermal properties. An ultrasmooth surface with atomic surface roughness that is scratch free and subsurface damage (SSD) free is indispensable before its application. As the last process to reduce the surface roughness and remove surface defects, precision polishing of single-crystal SiC is essential. In this paper, precision polishing technologies for 4H-SiC and 6H-SiC, which are the most commonly used polytypes of single-crystal SiC, such as chemical mechanical polishing (CMP), photocatalytic chemical mechanical polishing (PCMP), plasma-assisted polishing (PAP), electrochemical mechanical polishing (ECMP), and catalyst-referred etching (CARE), were reviewed and compared with emphasis on the experimental setup, polishing mechanism, material removal rate (MRR), and surface roughness. An atomically smooth surface without SSD can be obtained by CMP, PCMP, PAP, and CARE for single-crystal SiC. However, their MRRs are meager, and the waste treatment after CMP is difficult and expensive. Moreover, PAP’s operation is poor due to the complex polishing system, plasma generation, and irradiation devices. A high MRR can be achieved by ECMP. In addition, it is an environmentally friendly precision polishing process for single-crystal SiC since the neutral salt solution is generally used as the electrolyte in ECMP. However, the formation of the egglike protrusions at the oxide/SiC interface during anodic oxidation would lead to a bigger surface roughness after ECMP than that after PAP is processed. The HF solution used in CARE was toxic, and Pt was particularly expensive. Ultrasonic vibration-assisted single-crystal SiC polishing and electrolyte plasma polishing (EPP) were discussed; furthermore, the research direction of further improving the surface quality and MRR of single-crystal SiC was prospected.
A Discrepancy in Thermal Conductivity Measurement Data of Quantum Spin Liquid β′-EtMe3Sb[Pd(dmit)2]2 (dmit = 1,3-Dithiol-2-thione-4,5-dithiolate)
Authors: Kato Reizo , Uebe Masashi , Fujiyama Shigeki , Cui Hengbo
Published: January 2022

A molecular Mott insulator β′-EtMe3Sb[Pd(dmit)2]2 is a quantum spin liquid candidate. In 2010, it was reported that thermal conductivity of β′-EtMe3Sb[Pd(dmit)2]2 is characterized by its large value and gapless behavior (a finite temperature-linear term). In 2019, however, two other research groups reported opposite data (much smaller value and a vanishingly small temperature-linear term) and the discrepancy in the thermal conductivity measurement data emerges as a serious problem concerning the ground state of the quantum spin liquid. Recently, the cooling rate was proposed to be an origin of the discrepancy. We examined effects of the cooling rate on electrical resistivity, low-temperature crystal structure, and 13C-NMR measurements and could not find any significant cooling rate dependence.
Correlations between Garnet Species and Vibration Spectroscopy: Isomorphous Substitution Implications
Authors: Li Weiwei , Zheng Jinyu , Pei Jingcheng , Xu Xing , Chen Tao
Published: January 2022

Garnet has many species because of its common isomorphism. In this study, a suite of 25 natural gem-quality garnets, including pyrope, almandine, spessartine, grossular, and andradite, were examined by standard gemological testing, LA-ICP-MS, FTIR, and Raman analysis. Internal stretching and bending vibrations of the SiO4-tetrahedra of garnet exhibit correlate with the type of cations in garnet’s dodecahedral position (A site) and octahedral position (B site). FTIR and Raman spectra showed that with the increase of the radius of Mg2+, Fe2+, Mn2+, and Ca2+ in A site, or the unit cell volumes of pyrope, almandine, spessartine, and grossular, the spectral peaks of Si–Ostr and Si–Obend modes shift to low wavenumber. Because of the largest cations both in A site (Ca2+) and in B site (Fe3+), andradite exhibited the lowest wavenumber of Si–Ostr and Si–Obend modes of the five garnet species. Therefore, garnet has correlations between chemical composition and vibration spectroscopy, and Raman or IR spectroscopy can be used to precisely identify garnet species.
Impact of Body Composition on Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Robotic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy with Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Moon Jiae , Lee Jeea , Lee Dong Won , Shin Hye Jung , Lee Sumin , Kang Yhenseung , Kim Na Young , Park Hyung Seok
Published: January 2022

Nipple-areolar complex (NAC)-related complications are common during nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM), with obesity as a risk factor. Although the incidence of NAC-related complications after robotic NSM (RNSM) with immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) is lower than that after conventional NSM, it remains one of the most unwanted complications. We aimed to evaluate body composition-based risk factors for NAC-related complications after RNSM with IBR. Data of 92 patients with breast cancer who underwent RNSM with IBR using direct-to-implant or tissue expander from November 2017 to September 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Risk factors for NAC-related complications were identified with a focus on body composition using preoperative transverse computed tomography at the third lumbar vertebra level. Postoperative complications were assessed for 6 months. The most common complication was NAC ischemia, occurring in 15 patients (16%). Multivariate analysis revealed a low skeletal muscle index/total adipose tissue index (SMI/TATI) ratio as an independent NAC ischemia risk factor. An increase in the SMI/TATI ratio by one decreased the incidence of NAC ischemia by 0.940-fold (p = 0.030). A low SMI/TATI ratio is a risk factor for postoperative NAC ischemia in patients undergoing RNSM with IBR for breast cancer. Preoperative body composition-focused evaluation is more valuable than simple body mass index assessment.
The Pathophysiology and the Management of Radiocontrast-Induced Nephropathy
Authors: Cho Eunjung , Ko Gang-Jee
Published: January 2022

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is an impairment of renal function that occurs after the administration of an iodinated contrast medium (CM). Kidney dysfunction in CIN is considered transient and reversible in most cases. However, it is the third most common cause of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, especially in high-risk patients. Diagnostic and interventional procedures that require intravascular CM are being used with increasing frequency, especially among the elderly, who can be particularly susceptible to CIN due to multiple comorbidities. Therefore, identifying the exact mechanisms of CIN and its associated risk factors is crucial not only to provide optimal preventive management for at-risk patients, but also to increase the feasibility of diagnostic and interventional procedure that use CM. CM induces kidney injury by impairing renal hemodynamics and increasing the generation of reactive oxygen species, in addition to direct cytotoxicity. Periprocedural hydration is the most widely accepted preventive strategy to date. Here, we review the latest research results on the pathophysiology and management of CIN.
Applied Machine Learning in Spiral Breast-CT: Can We Train a Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Automatic, Standardized and Observer Independent Classification of Breast Density?
Authors: Landsmann Anna , Wieler Jann , Hejduk Patryk , Ciritsis Alexander , Borkowski Karol , Rossi Cristina , Boss Andreas
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of a machine learning algorithm to accurately classify parenchymal density in spiral breast-CT (BCT), using a deep convolutional neural network (dCNN). In this retrospectively designed study, 634 examinations of 317 patients were included. After image selection and preparation, 5589 images from 634 different BCT examinations were sorted by a four-level density scale, ranging from A to D, using ACR BI-RADS-like criteria. Subsequently four different dCNN models (differences in optimizer and spatial resolution) were trained (70% of data), validated (20%) and tested on a “real-world” dataset (10%). Moreover, dCNN accuracy was compared to a human readout. The overall performance of the model with lowest resolution of input data was highest, reaching an accuracy on the “real-world” dataset of 85.8%. The intra-class correlation of the dCNN and the two readers was almost perfect (0.92) and kappa values between both readers and the dCNN were substantial (0.71–0.76). Moreover, the diagnostic performance between the readers and the dCNN showed very good correspondence with an AUC of 0.89. Artificial Intelligence in the form of a dCNN can be used for standardized, observer-independent and reliable classification of parenchymal density in a BCT examination.
Generalization Challenges in Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Detection from Chest X-rays
Authors: Karki Manohar , Kantipudi Karthik , Yang Feng , Yu Hang , Wang Yi Xiang J. , Yaniv Ziv , Jaeger Stefan
Published: January 2022

Classification of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) and drug-sensitive tuberculosis (DS-TB) from chest radiographs remains an open problem. Our previous cross validation performance on publicly available chest X-ray (CXR) data combined with image augmentation, the addition of synthetically generated and publicly available images achieved a performance of 85% AUC with a deep convolutional neural network (CNN). However, when we evaluated the CNN model trained to classify DR-TB and DS-TB on unseen data, significant performance degradation was observed (65% AUC). Hence, in this paper, we investigate the generalizability of our models on images from a held out country’s dataset. We explore the extent of the problem and the possible reasons behind the lack of good generalization. A comparison of radiologist-annotated lesion locations in the lung and the trained model’s localization of areas of interest, using GradCAM, did not show much overlap. Using the same network architecture, a multi-country classifier was able to identify the country of origin of the X-ray with high accuracy (86%), suggesting that image acquisition differences and the distribution of non-pathological and non-anatomical aspects of the images are affecting the generalization and localization of the drug resistance classification model as well. When CXR images were severely corrupted, the performance on the validation set was still better than 60% AUC. The model overfitted to the data from countries in the cross validation set but did not generalize to the held out country. Finally, we applied a multi-task based approach that uses prior TB lesions location information to guide the classifier network to focus its attention on improving the generalization performance on the held out set from another country to 68% AUC.
Clinical Relevance of Soluble Forms of Immune Checkpoint Molecules sPD-1, sPD-L1, and sCTLA-4 in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Świderska Janina , Kozłowski Mateusz , Nowak Katarzyna , Rychlicka Małgorzata , Branecka-Woźniak Dorota , Kwiatkowski Sebastian , Pius-Sadowska Ewa , Machaliński Bogusław , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta
Published: January 2022

It is crucial to find new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. A total of 80 patients were enrolled in the study. The study group consisted of 37 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, and the control group consisted of 43 patients with benign ovarian cystic lesions. Three proteins involved in the immune response were studied: PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4. The study material was serum and peritoneal fluid. The ROC curve was plotted, and the area under the curve was calculated to characterize the sensitivity and specificity of the studied parameters. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed simultaneously using the Cox regression model. The cut-off level of CTLA-4 was 0.595 pg/mL, with the sensitivity and specificity of 70.3% and 90.7% (p = 0.000004). Unfavorable prognostic factors determined in serum were: PD-L1 (for PFS: HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.11–1.21, p = 0.016; for OS: HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.14–1.19, p = 0.048) and PD-1 (for PFS: HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.91–1.06, p = 0.035). Unfavorable prognostic factors determined in peritoneal fluid were: PD-L1 (for PFS: HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01–1.11, p = 0.049; for OS: HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.10–1.17, p = 0.045) and PD-1 (for PFS: HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.19–1.26, p = 0.044). We conclude that CTLA-4 should be considered as a potential biomarker in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. PD-L1 and PD-1 concentrations are unfavorable prognostic factors for ovarian cancer.
GAINESIS: Generative Artificial Intelligence NEtlists SynthesIS
Authors: Liakos Konstantinos G. , Georgakilas Georgios K. , Plessas Fotis C. , Kitsos Paris
Published: January 2022

A significant problem in the field of hardware security consists of hardware trojan (HT) viruses. The insertion of HTs into a circuit can be applied for each phase of the circuit chain of production. HTs degrade the infected circuit, destroy it or leak encrypted data. Nowadays, efforts are being made to address HTs through machine learning (ML) techniques, mainly for the gate-level netlist (GLN) phase, but there are some restrictions. Specifically, the number and variety of normal and infected circuits that exist through the free public libraries, such as Trust-HUB, are based on the few samples of benchmarks that have been created from circuits large in size. Thus, it is difficult, based on these data, to develop robust ML-based models against HTs. In this paper, we propose a new deep learning (DL) tool named Generative Artificial Intelligence Netlists SynthesIS (GAINESIS). GAINESIS is based on the Wasserstein Conditional Generative Adversarial Network (WCGAN) algorithm and area–power analysis features from the GLN phase and synthesizes new normal and infected circuit samples for this phase. Based on our GAINESIS tool, we synthesized new data sets, different in size, and developed and compared seven ML classifiers. The results demonstrate that our new generated data sets significantly enhance the performance of ML classifiers compared with the initial data set of Trust-HUB.