bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Influence of Different Flue Gas Components on Supersaturated Environment Characteristics in a Multisection Growth Tube
Authors: Yu Yan , Gu Shijie , Xu Chengwei , Fu Chao , Hou Meiling , Nie Tingting , Hu Yincui
Published: July 2023

In order to study the influence of typical coal-fired flue gas components on the supersaturation characteristics in a multisection growth tube, a two-dimensional heat and mass transfer model was used to predict the supersaturation profiles formed by the cool saturated flow into a warm-walled growth tube (Method 1) and the warm saturated flow into a cold-walled growth tube (Method 2). The calculated results show that the increase in the concentration of the three typical components CO2, SO2, and RH (relative humidity) of the flue gas is beneficial for the achievement of the supersaturated environment in Method 1. Additionally, having too many sections of the growth tube has a disadvantage in achieving the supersaturation profiles. When the content of the gas of lower Le is higher, having more sections of the growth tube is beneficial to achieving a supersaturated environment, while a lower number of sections is necessary when the gas content is lower in Method 2. In a word, the appropriate number of sections in a growth tube is significantly important for the achievement of a favorable supersaturated environment.
Outdoor Radon and Its Progeny in Relation to the Particulate Matter during Different Polluted Weather in Beijing
Authors: Yu Cong , Sun Yuan , Wang Nanping
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to investigate the differences in the relationship between radon and its progeny concentrations and particulate matter concentrations under varying pollution weather conditions. Outdoor radon and its progeny concentrations were measured by a radon/thoron- and radon/thoron progeny monitor (ERS-RDM-2S) during haze and dust storm weather in Beijing. Particulate matter concentrations and meteorological data were simultaneously recorded. Results showed that radon and its progeny concentrations exhibited a diurnal variation pattern, with a minimum in the late afternoon and a maximum in the early morning. The average radon concentrations were similar under both pollution weather conditions, but significantly higher than the reported average for Beijing. The equilibrium equivalent radon concentration during haze was about two times that during a dust storm. PM10 concentrations were similar in both pollution weather conditions, but PM2.5 concentrations during haze were approximately 2.6 times higher than that during dust storms. A positive correlation was observed between radon and its progeny concentrations and particulate matter concentrations, but the correlation was significantly higher during haze than during dust storms. The higher PM2.5 concentration during haze significantly increased the correlation between radon and its progeny concentrations and particulate matter concentrations. We recommended protecting against radon exposure during pollutant weather, especially haze.
A Novel Non-Ferrous Metals Price Forecast Model Based on LSTM and Multivariate Mode Decomposition
Authors: Li Zhanglong , Yang Yunlei , Chen Yinghao , Huang Jizhao
Published: July 2023

Non-ferrous metals are important bulk commodities and play a significant part in the development of society. Their price forecast is of great reference value for investors and policymakers. However, developing a robust price forecast model is tricky due to the price’s drastic fluctuations. In this work, a novel fusion model based on Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (CEEMDAN), Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) is constructed for non-ferrous metals price forecast. Considering the complexity of their price change, the dual-stage signal preprocessing which combines CEEMDAN and SSA is utilized. Firstly, we use the CEEMDAN algorithm to decompose the original nonlinear price sequence into multiple Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs) and a residual. Secondly, the component with maximum sample entropy is decomposed by SSA; this is the so-called Multivariate Mode Decomposition (MMD). A series of experimental results show that the proposed MMD-LSTM method is more stable and robust than the other seven benchmark models, providing a more reasonable scheme for the price forecast of non-ferrous metals.
Two-Dimensional Molecular Brush-Based Ultrahigh Edge-Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanosheets for Ultrafast Potassium-Ion Storage
Authors: Cen Zongheng , Tang Youchen , Huang Junlong , Chen Yongqi , Yang Haozhen , Miao Dongtian , Wu Dingcai , Liu Shaohong
Published: July 2023

Heteroatom doping, especially nitrogen doping, has been regarded as an efficient strategy to break through the capacity limitation of carbonaceous anode materials in potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Constructing edge-nitrogen-rich carbon skeleton with highly exposed active sites and efficient charge transfer is critical for the high performance of nitrogen-doped carbonaceous anode materials. Herein, a kind of ultrahigh edge-nitrogen (up to 16.2 at%) doped carbon nanosheets (ENCNS) has been developed by an efficient assembly of high-nitrogen-ratio melamine (MA) with polyacrylic acid grafted graphene oxide (GO-g-PAA) molecular brushes. The assembled PAA/MA structure facilitates the formation of an edge-nitrogen-rich carbon skeleton during heat treatment, while the highly conductive graphene backbone with a 2D nanomorphology enables shortened ion diffusion pathways and numerous exposed active surfaces. As a result, the ENCNS demonstrate excellent rate performance (up to 144 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1) and good cycle stability (136 and 100 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles at 5 and 10 A g−1, respectively).
The Modeling and SOC Estimation of a LiFePO4 Battery Considering the Relaxation and Overshoot of Polarization Voltage
Authors: Zhu Guorong , Wu Oukai , Wang Qian , Kang Jianqiang , Wang Jing V.
Published: July 2023

A triple polarization (TP) model is proposed based on the second-order RC hysteresis equivalent circuit model, in order to more precisely reflect the dynamic and static characteristics of a LiFePO4 (LFP) battery, considering the long relaxation time and overshoot of its polarization voltage. The TP model introduces an RC link, whose time constant varies with changes in the battery operating status to represent the fast build-up and slow relaxation of the polarization voltage. Specifically, such an RC link evolves into an RLC parallel link during charging to reveal the overshoot characteristic. In this way, the external characteristics of LFP batteries, considering the complex phase transition process, are simulated by a simple equivalent circuit. Constant-current pulse tests are performed to verify the proposed model. For application, a state-of-charge (SOC) estimation is implemented on the basis of the TP model, with the use of a transformed cubature Kalman Filter (TCKF). The experimental results show that the TP model is able to represent the dynamic and static characteristics, as well as estimate the SOC of an LFP battery with a good accuracy.
Deep Learning for Automated Measurement of Patellofemoral Anatomic Landmarks
Authors: Liu Zelong , Zhou Alexander , Fauveau Valentin , Lee Justine , Marcadis Philip , Fayad Zahi , Chan Jimmy , Gladstone James , Mei Xueyan , Huang Mingqian
Published: July 2023

Background: Patellofemoral anatomy has not been well characterized. Applying deep learning to automatically measure knee anatomy can provide a better understanding of anatomy, which can be a key factor in improving outcomes. Methods: 483 total patients with knee CT imaging (April 2017–May 2022) from 6 centers were selected from a cohort scheduled for knee arthroplasty and a cohort with healthy knee anatomy. A total of 7 patellofemoral landmarks were annotated on 14,652 images and approved by a senior musculoskeletal radiologist. A two-stage deep learning model was trained to predict landmark coordinates using a modified ResNet50 architecture initialized with self-supervised learning pretrained weights on RadImageNet. Landmark predictions were evaluated with mean absolute error, and derived patellofemoral measurements were analyzed with Bland–Altman plots. Statistical significance of measurements was assessed by paired t-tests. Results: Mean absolute error between predicted and ground truth landmark coordinates was 0.20/0.26 cm in the healthy/arthroplasty cohort. Four knee parameters were calculated, including transepicondylar axis length, transepicondylar-posterior femur axis angle, trochlear medial asymmetry, and sulcus angle. There were no statistically significant parameter differences (p > 0.05) between predicted and ground truth measurements in both cohorts, except for the healthy cohort sulcus angle. Conclusion: Our model accurately identifies key trochlear landmarks with ~0.20–0.26 cm accuracy and produces human-comparable measurements on both healthy and pathological knees. This work represents the first deep learning regression model for automated patellofemoral annotation trained on both physiologic and pathologic CT imaging at this scale. This novel model can enhance our ability to analyze the anatomy of the patellofemoral compartment at scale.
The Effectiveness of Hard Insoles for Plantar Pressure in Cycling: A Crossover Study
Authors: Casado-Hernández Israel , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo , Losa-Iglesias Marta Elena , Soriano-Medrano Alfredo , López-López Daniel , Navarro-Flores Emmanuel , Pérez-Boal Eduardo , Martínez-Jiménez Eva María
Published: July 2023

Background: Hard insoles have been proposed to decrease plantar pressure and prevent foot pain and paresthesia due to repetitive loading. The aim of this research was to analyze the effect of three different hard insoles in cycling on healthy subjects. Methods: A crossover randomized trial was carried out. The mean age of the subjects was 35 ± 3.19 years, and all of them were men. While the subjects were cycling on a stationary bicycle, their plantar pressure was recorded with nine in-shoe sensors placed in nine specific foot areas to test a standard ethylene-vinyl-acetate 52° Shore A hardness insole, a polypropylene 58° Shore D insole, and a polypropylene 580 Shore D insole with selective aluminum 60 HB Brinell hardness in the metatarsal head and hallux. Results: The maximum plantar pressure decreased significantly with the polypropylene insole containing selective aluminum in the metatarsal head and hallux areas. The maximum plantar data of the polypropylene aluminum insole in the M2 area (5.56 kgF/cm2), fifth metatarsal styloid process (6.48 kgF/cm2), M3–M4 area (4.97 kgF/cm2), and hallux (8.91 kgF/cm2) were of particular interest compared to the other insoles. Conclusions: The use of insoles made of polypropylene with aluminum in the metatarsal head and hallux areas decreases the maximum plantar pressure in cycling compared to standard EVA and polypropylene insoles.
Dental Restorations
Authors: Mandurino Mauro , Di Domenico Giovanna Laura , Baldani Sofia , Collivasone Giacomo , Gherlone Enrico Felice , Cantatore Giuseppe , Paolone Gaetano
Published: July 2023

Fulfilling a patient’s request for a healthy, functional and esthetic smile represents a daily challenge for dental practitioners [...]
Short Carbon Nanotube-Based Delivery of mRNA for HIV-1 Vaccines
Authors: Xu Yang , Ferguson Tammy , Masuda Kazuya , Siddiqui Mohammad Adnan , Smith Kelsi Poole , Vest Olivia , Brooks Brad , Zhou Ziyou , Obliosca Judy , Kong Xiang-Peng , Jiang Xunqing , Yamashita Masahiro , Moriya Tsuji , Tison Christopher
Published: July 2023

Developing a safe and effective preventive for HIV-1 remains the hope for controlling the global AIDS epidemic. Recently, mRNA vaccines have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional vaccine approaches, primarily due to their rapid development and potential for low-cost manufacture. Despite the advantages of mRNA vaccines, challenges remain, especially due to the adverse effects of the delivery vehicle and low delivery efficiency. As a result, Luna Labs is developing a short carbon nanotube-based delivery platform (NanoVac) that can co-deliver mRNA and HIV-1 glycoproteins to the immune system efficiently with negligible toxicity. Surface chemistries of NanoVac were optimized to guide antigen/mRNA loading density and presentation. Multiple formulations were engineered for compatibility with both intramuscular and intranasal administration. NanoVac candidates demonstrated immunogenicity in rabbits and generated human-derived humoral and cellular responses in humanized mice (HIS). Briefly, 33% of the HIV-1–infected HIS mice vaccinated with NanoVac–mRNA was cleared of virus infection by 8–weeks post-infection. Finally, NanoVac stabilized the loaded mRNA against degradation under refrigeration for at least three months, reducing the cold chain burden for vaccine deployment.
Metal-Based Nanoparticles in Food Packaging and Coating Technologies: A Review
Authors: Adeyemi Jerry O. , Fawole Olaniyi A.
Published: July 2023

Food security has continued to be a topic of interest in our world due to the increasing demand for food. Many technologies have been adopted to enhance food supply and narrow the demand gap. Thus, the attempt to use nanotechnology to improve food security and increase supply has emerged due to the severe shortcomings of conventional technologies, which have made them insufficient to cater to the continuous demand for food products. Hence, nanoparticles have been identified to play a major role in areas involving food production, protection, and shelf-life extensions. Specifically, metal-based nanoparticles have been singled out to play an important role in manufacturing materials with outstanding properties, which can help increase the shelf-life of different food materials. The physicochemical and biological properties of metal-based nanoparticles, such as the large surface area and antimicrobial properties, have made them suitable and adequately useful, not just as a regular packaging material but as a functional material upon incorporation into biopolymer matrices. These, amongst many other reasons, have led to their wide synthesis and applications, even though their methods of preparation and risk evaluation remain a topic of concern. This review, therefore, briefly explores the available synthetic methods, physicochemical properties, roles, and biological properties of metal-based nanoparticles for food packaging. Furthermore, the associated limitations, alongside quality and safety considerations, of these materials were summarily explored. Although this area of research continues to garner attention, this review showed that metal-based nanoparticles possess great potential to be a leading material for food packaging if the problem of migration and toxicity can be effectively modulated.
Significance of Diabetic Kidney Disease Biomarkers in Predicting Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Bae Jaehyun , Lee Byung-Wan
Published: July 2023

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) share various pathophysiological factors, and epidemiological evidence suggests that these two diseases are associated. Albuminuria and the estimated glomerular filtration rate, which are conventional biomarkers of DKD, are reportedly associated with the risk or severity of MAFLD. Recently, novel DKD biomarkers reflecting renal tubular injury have been introduced to complement conventional DKD markers. In this article, we looked at previous studies that showed an association between MAFLD and DKD, and also reviewed the significance of DKD biomarkers as predictive risk factors for MAFLD.
PCR Test Positivity and Viral Loads during Three SARS-CoV-2 Viral Waves in Mumbai, India
Authors: Nikam Chaitali , Suraweera Wilson , Fu Sze Hang (Hana) , Brown Patrick E. , Nagelkerke Nico , Jha Prabhat
Published: July 2023

SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests generally report only binary (positive or negative) outcomes. Quantitative PCR tests can provide epidemiological information on viral transmission patterns in populations. SARS-CoV-2 transmission patterns during India’s SARS-CoV-2 viral waves remain largely undocumented. We analyzed 2.7 million real-time PCR testing records collected in Mumbai, a bellwether for other Indian cities. We used the inverse of cycle threshold (Ct) values to determine the community-level viral load. We quantified wave-specific differences by age, sex, and slum population density. Overall, PCR positivity was 3.4% during non-outbreak periods, rising to 23.2% and 42.8% during the original (June–November 2020) and Omicron waves (January 2022), respectively, but was a surprisingly low 9.9% during the Delta wave (March–June 2021; which had the largest increase in COVID deaths). The community-level median Ct values fell and rose ~7–14 days prior to PCR positivity rates. Viral loads were four-fold higher during the Delta and Omicron waves than during non-outbreak months. The Delta wave had high viral loads at older ages, in women, and in areas of higher slum density. During the Omicron wave, differences in viral load by sex and slum density had disappeared, but older adults continued to show a higher viral load. Mumbai’s viral waves had markedly high viral loads representing an early signal of the pandemic trajectory. Ct values are practicable monitoring tools.
A Structure-Guided Designed Small Molecule Is an Anticancer Agent and Inhibits the Apoptosis-Related MCL-1 Protein
Authors: Machado Ingrid V. , Naves Luiz F. N. , Custodio Jean M. F. , Vidal Hérika D. A. , Queiroz Jaqueline E. , Oliver Allen G. , Borba Joyce V. B. , Neves Bruno J. , Brito Lucas M. , Pessoa Claudia , Napolitano Hamilton B. , Aquino Gilberto L. B. de
Published: July 2023

Cancer resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapies presents significant challenges, necessitating the exploration of alternative approaches. Targeting specific proteins at the molecular level, particularly their active sites, holds promise in addressing this issue. We investigated the potential of 4′-methoxy-2-nitrochalcone (MNC) as an MCL-1 inhibitor, examining its chemical and structural characteristics to elucidate its biological activity and guide the selection of potential candidates. We conducted a docking study, followed by synthesis, structural characterization, theoretical calculations, and in vitro experiments to comprehensively evaluate MNC. The docking results revealed MNC’s excellent binding within the active site of MCL-1. At 50 µM, MNC demonstrated 99% inhibition of HCT116 cell proliferation, with an IC50 value of 15.18 µM after 24 h. Treatment with MNC at 30.36 and 15.18 µM resulted in reduced cell density. Notably, MNC exhibited marked cytotoxicity at concentrations of 15.58 µM and 7.79 µM, inducing high frequencies of plasma membrane rupture and apoptosis, respectively. Our findings highlight the significant biological potential of MNC as an MCL-1 inhibitor. Furthermore, we propose exploring chalcones with hydrogen bond acceptor substituents as promising candidates for studying inhibitors targeting this protein. In conclusion, our study addresses the challenge of cancer resistance by investigating MNC as an MCL-1 inhibitor. Through detailed characterization and experimental validation, we establish the efficacof MNC in inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing cytotoxic effects. These results underscore the potential of MNC as a valuable therapeutic agent and suggest the use of chalcones with hydrogen bond acceptor substituents as a basis for developing novel MCL-1 inhibitors.
A Branched Rutile/Anatase Phase Structure Electrode with Enhanced Electron-Hole Separation for High-Performance Photoelectrochemical DNA Biosensor
Authors: Wang Bingrong , Yan Bingdong , Yuan Run , Qiao Bin , Zhao Guangyuan , Tu Jinchun , Wang Xiaohong , Pei Hua , Wu Qiang
Published: July 2023

A photoelectrochemical (PEC) detection platform was built based on the branched rutile/anatase titanium dioxide (RA-TiO2) electrode. Theoretical calculations proved that the type-II band alignment of rutile and anatase could facilitate charge separation in the electrode. The self-generated electric field at the interface of two phases can enhance the electron transfer efficiency of the electrode. Carboxylated CdTe quantum dots (QDs) were applied as signal amplification factors. Without the target DNA presence, the CdTe QDs were riveted to the surface of the electrode by the hairpin probe DNA. The sensitization of CdTe QDs increased the photocurrent of the electrode significantly. When the target DNA was present, the structural changes of the hairpin probe DNA resulted in the failure of the sensitized structure. Benefiting from excellent electrode structure design and CdTe QDs sensitization strategy, the PEC assays could achieve highly sensitive and specific detection of target DNA in the range of 1 fM to 1 nM, with a detection limit of 0.23 fM. The electrode construction method proposed in this article can open a new avenue for the preparation of more efficient PEC sensing devices.
Postoperative Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Following a Retrosigmoid Craniotomy—A Clinical and Radiological Analysis
Authors: Przepiorka Lukasz , Wójtowicz Katarzyna , Camlet Katarzyna , Jankowski Jan , Kujawski Sławomir , Grabowska-Derlatka Laretta , Marchel Andrzej , Kunert Przemysław
Published: July 2023

Postoperative cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare complication of the retrosigmoid approach. To address the lack of literature, we performed a retrospective analysis. The thromboses were divided into those demonstrating radiological (rCVST) and clinical (cCVST) features, the latter diagnosed during hospitalization. We identified the former by a lack of contrast in the sigmoid (SS) or transverse sinuses (TS), and evaluated the closest distance from the craniotomy to quantify sinus exposure. We included 130 patients (males: 52, females: 78) with a median age of 46.0. They had rCVST in 46.9% of cases, most often in the TS (65.6%), and cCVST in 3.1% of cases. Distances to the sinuses were not different regarding the presence of cCVST (p = 0.32 and p = 0.72). The distance to the SS was not different regarding rCVST (p = 0.13). However, lower exposure of the TS correlated with a lower incidence of rCVST (p = 0.009). When surgery was performed on the side of the dominant sinuses, rCVSTs were more frequent (p = 0.042). None of the other examined factors were related to rCVST or cCVST. Surgery on the side of the dominant sinus, and the exposing of them, seems to be related with rCVST. Further prospective studies are needed to identify the risk factors and determine the best management.
A Case of Primary Intracranial Sarcoma, DICER1-Mutant, in a Child with a Germline DICER1 Mutation
Authors: Kosteniuk Suzanne Elizabeth , Michaiel George , Dunham Christopher
Published: July 2023

DICER1 syndrome is a tumor predisposition syndrome caused by abnormal micro-RNA processing which leads to a variety of benign and malignant neoplasms in many organ systems, including the central nervous system. This paper reports the case of a primary intracranial sarcoma, DICER1-mutant, in a patient with a germline DICER1 variant thought most likely to be de novo. The patient is a ten-year-old boy who presented acutely with altered level of consciousness, emesis, and left-sided weakness. Imaging revealed a large right frontal hemorrhagic lesion, which was urgently debulked. Histology demonstrated a high-grade sarcomatous lesion. Molecular studies revealed compound heterozygous DICER1 variants (a frame shift insertion and a missense mutation), and a KRAS missense mutation. The final pathologic diagnosis was rendered to be “primary intracranial sarcoma, DICER1-mutant”. Germline genetic testing revealed that the patient possessed a germline DICER1 variant (parental testing was negative). A dramatic reduction in tumor size was precipitated via chemotherapy (ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide) and radiotherapy (focal proton beam therapy). There was no evidence of residual disease at the primary site at the end of the therapy.
Strength Properties of Various Types of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete for Production of Driven Piles
Authors: Isabai Bekbasarov , Nurzhan Shanshabayev , Yerlan Atenov
Published: July 2023

This paper presents the results of static and dynamic tests of fiber-reinforced and unreinforced concrete samples under laboratory conditions. Concrete samples reinforced with steel and non steel fibers were tested. The dynamic tests were carried out on the stand by applying falling weight impacts on the concrete samples. The impact testing of samples included two stages of deformation: until the first defects appeared in the samples and until their complete destruction. The impact resistance of the samples was evaluated according to the energy input of the hammer with registration of the type, size and volume of the defects. It was revealed that the type of fibers has a different effect on the static and impact resistance of fiber concrete. Correlational dependencies used for predicting the strength and energy parameters of fiber concrete in their comparative evaluation have been obtained. It has been determined that the static strength and impact resistance of fiber concrete may not be identical, i.e., a high static strength in fiber concrete does not always provide a high impact resistance. The impact resistance of fiber concrete when tested before the first defects appear is always lower than when tested before complete failure.
Nonlinear Stress-Free-State Forward Analysis Method of Long-Span Cable-Stayed Bridges Constructed in Stages
Authors: Wei Shaoyang , Gong Wenfeng , Wu Xiaoguang , Zhang Zhaohui
Published: July 2023

Structural analysis and construction control of staged-construction processes are major subjects in the context of modern long-span bridges. Although the forward and backward analysis methods are able to simulate situations, their main disadvantage is that they usually apply the stage superposition principle. In the actual construction process, due to changes made to the plan, the construction process needs to be adjusted at any time, and it is difficult to implement the construction process in complete accordance with the established plan. As a result, the existing simulation method based on the incremental structural analysis of each construction stage has poor adaptability to such adjustments. In this study, considering the strong geometric nonlinear behavior of the long-span cable-stayed bridge construction process, the geometrically nonlinear mechanical equations of the staged-construction bar system structure were derived. The minimum potential energy theorem was used by introducing the concept of the stress-free-state variable of the structural elements. The equation reflects the influence of the change in the stress-free-state variables of structural elements on the completion state of the structure. From the analysis of the geometrical condition that the equilibrium equation holds, the stress-free installation condition of the closing section of the planar beam element structure was obtained. A new simulation method for long-span cable-stayed bridge construction has been proposed, which is called the stress-free-state forward analysis. This method can directly obtain the intermediate process state of cable-stayed bridge construction without performing stage-by-stage demolition calculations, and causing the internal force and deformation of the completion state to reach the design target state. This method can realize the simulation of multi-process parallel operation in construction, and solves the problem of automatic filtering of temporary loads. To illustrate the application of the method, a long-span cable-stayed bridge was analyzed.
Synergistic Effect of Combined Polymorphs Anatase-Rutile Nano-Modified Lightweight Concrete on Photocatalytic Reduction of NOx, Self-Cleaning Performance, and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Kujawa Weronika , Didyk-Mucha Agnieszka , Olewnik-Kruszkowska Ewa , Gierszewska Magdalena , Rudawska Anna
Published: July 2023

Anatase, one of the polymorphs of titanium dioxide (TiO2), has become the most widely used semiconductor for photocatalytic materials due to its chemical and physical properties. However, researchers have been studying the use of alternative materials (e.g., ZnO, N-doped, and C-doped TiO2) to improve the photocatalytic activity of cementitious materials. In this paper, we propose a modification of lightweight concrete by introducing mixed phases of titanium dioxide—anatase and rutile—to enhance its photocatalytic performance. The efficiency of NOx degradation of nano TiO2-modified concrete, its self-cleaning performance, and its antimicrobial properties were studied. The photocatalytic activity of lightweight concrete without TiO2 and concrete with the addition of anatase, rutile, and anatase-rutile was compared. The results show that modifying the samples by adding a mixture of anatase and rutile (2.5 wt % A + 2.5 wt % R) significantly improved the photocatalytic performance of lightweight concrete.
Exploring the Process of Neutrophil Transendothelial Migration Using Scanning Ion-Conductance Microscopy
Authors: Pleskova Svetlana N. , Bezrukov Nikolay A. , Gorshkova Ekaterina N. , Bobyk Sergey Z. , Lazarenko Ekaterina V.
Published: July 2023

The dynamics of neutrophil transendothelial migration was investigated in a model of experimental septicopyemia. Scanning ion-conductance microscopy allowed us to determine changes in morphometric characteristics of endothelial cells during this process. In the presence of a pyogenic lesion simulated by Staphylococcus aureus, such migration was accompanied by both compensatory reactions and alteration of both neutrophils and endothelial cells. Neutrophils demonstrated crawling along the contact sites between endothelial cells, swarming phenomenon, as well as anergy and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) as a normergic state. Neutrophil swarming was accompanied by an increase in the intercellular spaces between endothelial cells. Endothelial cells decreased the area of adhesion to the substrate, which was determined by a decrease in the cell projection area, and the cell membrane was smoothed. However, endothelial cell rigidity was paradoxically unchanged compared to the control. Over time, neutrophil migration led to a more significant alteration of endothelial cells: first, shallow perforations in the membrane were formed, which were repaired rather quickly, then stress fibrils were formed, and finally, endothelial cells died and multiple perforations were formed on their membrane.
Cell Transitions Contribute to Glucocorticoid-Induced Bone Loss
Authors: Qiao Xiaojing , Wu Xiuju , Zhao Yan , Yang Yang , Zhang Li , Cai Xinjiang , Ma Jocelyn A. , Ji Jaden , Lyons Karen , Boström Kristina I. , Yao Yucheng
Published: July 2023

Glucocorticoid-induced bone loss is a toxic effect of long-term therapy with glucocorticoids resulting in a significant increase in the risk of fracture. Here, we find that glucocorticoids reciprocally convert osteoblast-lineage cells into endothelial-like cells. This is confirmed by lineage tracing showing the induction of endothelial markers in osteoblast-lineage cells following glucocorticoid treatment. Functional studies show that osteoblast-lineage cells isolated from glucocorticoid-treated mice lose their capacity for bone formation but simultaneously improve vascular repair. We find that the glucocorticoid receptor directly targets Foxc2 and Osterix, and the modulations of Foxc2 and Osterix drive the transition of osteoblast-lineage cells to endothelial-like cells. Together, the results suggest that glucocorticoids suppress osteogenic capacity and cause bone loss at least in part through previously unrecognized osteoblast–endothelial transitions.
CXCR2 Is Deregulated in ALS Spinal Cord and Its Activation Triggers Apoptosis in Motor Neuron-Like Cells Overexpressing hSOD1-G93A
Authors: La Cognata Valentina , D’Amico Agata Grazia , Maugeri Grazia , Morello Giovanna , Guarnaccia Maria , Magrì Benedetta , Aronica Eleonora , D’Agata Velia , Cavallaro Sebastiano
Published: July 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive depletion of motor neurons (MNs). Recent evidence suggests a role in ALS pathology for the C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2), whose expression was found increased at both mRNA and protein level in cortical neurons of sporadic ALS patients. Previous findings also showed that the receptor inhibition is able to prevent iPSC-derived MNs degeneration in vitro and improve neuromuscular function in SOD1-G93A mice. Here, by performing transcriptional analysis and immunofluorescence studies, we detailed the increased expression and localization of CXCR2 and its main ligand CXCL8 in the human lumbar spinal cord of sporadic ALS patients. We further investigated the functional role of CXCR2/ligands axis in NSC-34 motor neuron-like cells expressing human wild-type (WT) or mutant (G93A) SOD1. A significant expression of CXCR2 was found in doxycycline-induced G93A-SOD1-expressing cells, but not in WT cells. In vitro assays showed CXCR2 activation by GROα and MIP2α, two murine endogenous ligands and functional homologs of CXCL8, reduces cellular viability and triggers apoptosis in a dose dependent manner, while treatment with reparixin, a non-competitive allosteric CXCR2 inhibitor, effectively counteracts GROα and MIP2α toxicity, significantly inhibiting the chemokine-induced cell death. Altogether, data further support a role of CXCR2 axis in ALS etiopathogenesis and confirm its pharmacological modulation as a candidate therapeutic strategy.
Impaired Personality Functioning in Children and Adolescents Assessed with the LoPF-Q 6-18 PR in Parent-Report and Convergence with Maladaptive Personality Traits and Personality Structure in School and Clinic Samples
Authors: Mazreku Gresa , Birkhölzer Marc , Cosgun Sefa , Kerber André , Schmeck Klaus , Goth Kirstin
Published: July 2023

To investigate if the Personality Disorder (PD) severity concept (Criterion A) of the ICD-11 and DSM-5 AMPD is applicable to children and adolescents, following the ICD-11 lifespan perspective of mental disorders, age-specific and informant-adapted assessment tools are needed. The LoPF-Q 6-18 PR (Levels of Personality Functioning Questionnaire Parent Rating) was developed to assess Impaired Personality Functioning (IPF) in children aged 6–18 in parent-reported form. It is based on the established self-report questionnaire LoPF-Q 12-18. Psychometric properties were investigated in a German-speaking clinical and school sample containing 599 subjects. The final 36-item version of LoPF-Q 6-18 PR showed good scale reliabilities with 0.96 for the total scale IPF and 0.90-0.87 for the domain scales Identity, Self-direction, Empathy, and Intimacy/Attachment and an acceptable model fit in a hierarchical CFA with CFI = 0.936, RMSEA = 0.078, and SRMR = 0.068. The total score discriminated significantly and with large effect sizes between the school population and (a) adolescent PD patients (d = 2.7 standard deviations) and (b) the younger patients (6–11-year-olds) with internalizing and externalizing disorders (d = 2.2 standard deviations). Informant agreement between parent and self-report was good at 0.47. Good construct validity can be assumed given sound covariation with related measures of psychopathology (CBCL 4-18, STiP-5.1, OPD-CA2-SQ PR) and maladaptive traits (PID5BF+ M CA IRF) in line with theory and matching the result patterns obtained in older samples in self-report. The results suggest that parent-reported assessments of IPF and maladaptive traits are equivalent to self-reported measures for Criterion A and B. Assessing IPF as early as age six might be a valuable step to foster early detection of PD, or maladaptive personality development, respectively individuals at risk.
A Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic as Base Adherent in an Experimental Specimen Model to Test the Shear Bond Strength of CAD-CAM Monolithic Ceramics Used in Resin-Bonded Dental Bridges
Authors: Calheiros-Lobo Maria João , Calheiros-Lobo João Mário , Carbas Ricardo , da Silva Lucas F. M. , Pinho Teresa
Published: July 2023

Traditional load-to-failure tests fail to recreate clinical failures of all-ceramic restorations. Experimental fabrication, similar to prosthetic laboratory and clinical procedures, best predicts future clinical performance. A hybrid ceramic adherend, mechanically similar to a human tooth, was tested by comparing the shear bond strength (SBS) and fracture mode of four restorative materials adhered with a dual-cure adhesive cement. Surface energy, shear bond strength (SBS), and fracture mode were assessed. Vita Enamic (ENA), Vita Suprinity (SUP), Vita Y-TPZ (Y-ZT), and a nanohybrid composite (RES) (control group) cylinders, adhered with RelyX Ultimate to ENA blocks were assembled in experimental specimens simulating a 3-unit resin-bonded dental bridge. The ENA adherend was ground or treated with 5% hydrofluoric acid for 60 s. Monobond Plus was used as the coupling agent. Mean shear stress (MPa) was calculated for each group. Forest plots by material elaborated after calculating the difference in means and effect size (α = 0.05; 95% CI; Z-value = 1.96) revealed significant differences in the shear force behavior between materials (p < 0.01). RES (69.10 ± 24.58 MPa) > ENA (18.38 ± 8.51 MPa) > SUP (11.44 ± 4.04 MPa) > Y-ZT (18.48 ± 12.12 MPa). Y-ZT and SUP exhibited pre-test failures. SBS was not related to surface energy. The failure mode in the Y-ZT group was material-dependent and exclusively adhesive. ENA is a potential adherend for dental materials SBS tests. In this experimental design, it withstood 103 MPa of adhesive stress before cohesive failure.
Effect of Pre-Heat-Treatment on the Oxidation Resistance of MCrAlY Coatings: A Review
Authors: Zhang Bangyan , Zheng Shijie , Dong Jiajian , Yin Weiwei , Wu Hongbin , Tian Lixi , Liu Guangming
Published: July 2023

High-performance gas turbines and aircraft engines necessitate MCrAlY (M = Ni, Co, or Ni/Co) coatings with exceptional oxidation resistance. Pre-heat-treatment can enhance the performance of MCrAlY bond coatings in the following ways: First, it reduces the porosity of the bond coating and promotes the diffusion of elements within it. Second, pre-heat-treatment allows for the formation of a continuous, dense, and moderately thick layer of pure Al2O3 scale, which helps to delay the formation of mixed oxides. Lastly, proper pre-heat-treatment can increase the grain size of the Al2O3 scale, leading to a lower growth rate of the oxide scale. Additionally, this article proposes new directions for developing more reasonable and effective pre-heat-treatment methods, laying the foundation for the creation of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) with greater durability and higher performance.
Hyperstability of Linear Feed-Forward Time-Invariant Systems Subject to Internal and External Point Delays and Impulsive Nonlinear Time-Varying Feedback Controls
Authors: De la Sen Manuel
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the asymptotic hyperstability of a single-input–single-output closed-loop system whose controlled plant is time-invariant and possesses a strongly strictly positive real transfer function that is subject to internal and external point delays. There are, in general, two controls involved, namely, the internal one that stabilizes the system with linear state feedback independent of the delay sizes and the external one that belongs to an hyperstable class and satisfies a Popov’s-type time integral inequality. Such a class of hyperstable controllers under consideration combines, in general, a regular impulse-free part with an impulsive part.
Mathematical and Computer Modeling as a Novel Approach for the Accelerated Development of New Inhalation and Intranasal Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Menshutina Natalia , Abramov Andrey , Mokhova Elizaveta
Published: July 2023

This paper presents modern methods of mathematical modeling, which are widely used in the development of new inhalation and intranasal drugs, including those necessary for the treatment of socially significant diseases, which include: tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, and mental and behavioral disorders. Based on the conducted studies, it was revealed that the methods of mathematical modeling used in the development of drugs are fragmented, and there is no single approach that would combine the existing methods. The results presented in the work should contribute to the development of a unified multiscale model as a new approach in mathematical modeling that contributes to the accelerated development and introduction to the market of new drugs with high bioavailability and the required therapeutic efficacy.
Structural and Photoprotective Characteristics of Zn-Ti, Zn-Al, and Mg-Al Layered Double Hydroxides—A Comparative Study
Authors: Egambaram Orielia Pria , Kesavan Pillai Sreejarani , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Goosen Marlize
Published: July 2023

Organic UV filters have been known to generate harmful by-products and undergo photoreactive degradation, which ultimately poses a great threat to consumers using sunscreen products. Inorganic UV filters such as TiO2 and ZnO, although considered safer options, are not without threat considering their photocatalytic nature and ability to generate reactive oxygen species. A study was conducted to identify the influence of different metal ions on the photochemical properties of layered double hydroxides (LDH), Zinc-Titanium LDH (Zn-Ti LDH), Zinc-Aluminium LDH (Zn-Al LDH), and Magnesium- Aluminium LDH (Mg-Al LDH) and their prospects in photoprotection. The photocatalytic properties of the LDH were analyzed and compared to TiO2 and ZnO. The intermediate band gaps of Zn-Ti (3.72 eV) and Zn-Al LDH (3.3 eV) proved favorable and safer for the use of these LDH in cosmetic formulations as they offer lower photo-reactivity when compared to cosmetic grade ZnO and TiO2. The in vitro SPF values obtained for formulations containing 2 wt% Zn-Ti and 2 wt% Zn-Al LDH showed promise, with both samples claiming “broad spectrum” protection and valid claims of UVA protection.
A Mechanistic Insight into Beneficial Effects of Polyphenols in the Prevention and Treatment of Nephrolithiasis: Evidence from Recent In Vitro Studies
Authors: Hefer Marija , Huskic Ivana Mihin , Petrovic Ana , Raguz-Lucic Nikola , Kizivat Tomislav , Gjoni Dominik , Horvatic Elizabeta , Udiljak Zarko , Smolic Robert , Vcev Aleksandar , Smolic Martina
Published: July 2023

Nephrolithiasis is a pathological condition characterized by the formation of solid crystals in the kidneys or other parts of urinary tract. Kidney stones are a serious public health issue and financial burden for health care system, as well as a painful and uncomfortable condition for patients, resulting in renal tissue injury in severe cases. Dietary habits, low fluid and high salt intake predominantly, contribute to the development of kidney stones. Current research suggests that polyphenols have a protective effect in the pathogenesis of kidney stones. Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, tea, and coffee. In this review, we explore mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of polyphenols, such as oxidative stress reduction and modulation of inflammatory pathways, in various in vitro models of nephrolithiasis. Additionally, certain polyphenols, such as catechins found in green tea, have been shown to inhibit the formation and growth of kidney stones in animal studies. This review highlights the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as the inhibition of crystal formation, as results of polyphenol treatment in vitro. Further research is required to determine the specific effects of polyphenols on kidney stone formation in humans; however, current knowledge implicates that incorporating a variety of polyphenol-rich foods into the diet may be a beneficial strategy for individuals at risk of developing nephrolithiasis.
Growth of N-Polar (0001) GaN in Metal–Organic Vapour Phase Epitaxy on Sapphire
Authors: Pristovsek Markus , Furuhashi Itsuki , Pampili Pietro
Published: July 2023

We have systematically studied the growth of N-polar GaN on sapphire in metal–organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) on different misoriented (0001) sapphire substrates. The key parameter was the NH3 flow, which affects the roughness, growth rate, crystal quality, and impurities. Most parameters show a trend reversal at a V/III ratio around 500 and show either a maximum, such as the growth rate, the sizes of hexagonal hillocks on low misorientations, the yellow luminescence and the mobility, or show a minimum such as the FWHM in X-ray diffraction, the carrier concentration, the surface roughness of large misorientations, or the blue (430 nm) luminescence. This suggests that around a V/III ratio of 500, the surface changes from a Ga-terminated Ga-adlayer surface to a N-terminated 3N-H(2×2) surface. Using extremely low V/III ratios, a smooth N-polar GaN was obtained even on the standard 0.2° misorientation. However, good crystalline quality, low oxygen impurities and smooth surfaces together seem too challenging with low misorientation. The strain-dependent band edge shifted by 14 eV for strain along [0001], which is close to the values reported by Ga-polar GaN.
Is There a Potential Link between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections in Children?
Authors: Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Stefanescu Gabriela , Buga Ana Maria Laura , Forna Lorenza , Tarca Elena , Starcea Iuliana Magdalena , Mihai Cristina Maria , Florescu Laura , Cernomaz Andrei Tudor , Mocanu Adriana , Tarca Viorel , Thet Aye Aung , Lupu Ancuta
Published: July 2023

Background: The implications of gastroesophageal reflux disease in respiratory tract infections have been investigated over time. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between these two pathologic entities and the outcome after proper antireflux treatment. Methods: A group of 53 children with recurrent respiratory tract infections admitted in the gastroenterology clinic of a children’s hospital in North-East Romania was investigated for gastroesophageal reflux disease through 24 h pH-metry. Those with a Boix-Ochoa score higher than 11.99 received proton pump inhibitor treatment and were reevaluated after 2 months. Results: A total of 41 children were found with a positive Boix-Ochoa score. After 2 months of antireflux therapy, eight patients still had a positive Boix-Ochoa score. Conclusions: Recurrent respiratory tract infections with symptoms resistant to treatment should be considered a reason to investigate for gastroesophageal reflux, because the symptoms may be due to micro- or macro-aspiration of the gastric refluxate or to an esophageal-bronchial reflex mediated through the vagal nerve.
Hyperpolarized Carbon-13 MRI in Breast Cancer
Authors: Woitek Ramona , Brindle Kevin M.
Published: July 2023

One of the hallmarks of cancer is metabolic reprogramming, including high levels of aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect). Pyruvate is a product of glucose metabolism, and 13C-MR imaging of the metabolism of hyperpolarized (HP) [1-13C]pyruvate (HP 13C-MRI) has been shown to be a potentially versatile tool for the clinical evaluation of tumor metabolism. Hyperpolarization of the 13C nuclear spin can increase the sensitivity of detection by 4–5 orders of magnitude. Therefore, following intravenous injection, the location of hyperpolarized 13C-labeled pyruvate in the body and its subsequent metabolism can be tracked using 13C-MRI. Hyperpolarized [13C]urea and [1,4-13C2]fumarate are also likely to translate to the clinic in the near future as tools for imaging tissue perfusion and post-treatment tumor cell death, respectively. For clinical breast imaging, HP 13C-MRI can be combined with 1H-MRI to address the need for detailed anatomical imaging combined with improved functional tumor phenotyping and very early identification of patients not responding to standard and novel neoadjuvant treatments. If the technical complexity of the hyperpolarization process and the relatively high associated costs can be reduced, then hyperpolarized 13C-MRI has the potential to become more widely available for large-scale clinical trials.