bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The medicinal potential of bioactive metabolites from endophytic fungi in plants
Authors: Xingyuan Zhang , Linjun Ma , Fang Chen
Published: August 2022

Endophytic fungi microbiomes are a special group, living in various tissues of plants such as roots, stems, and leaves. They can be isolated from strictly sterilized interior surface of host plant tissues on culture medium. Research have shown that bioactive secondary metabolites from endophytic fungi have unexpected medicinal potential. Moreover, there are complex interactions between endophytic fungi and their host plants, which may explain the fact that endophytes can produce plant‐derived bioactive compounds. This manuscript briefly summarizes the relevant studies on bioactive compounds with biological medicinal value from endophytic fungi and the relationship with their host plant.
Design and optimization of air‐cored double‐sided linear permanent magnet generators for wave energy conversion
Authors: Niknafs Sabiyeh , Shiri Abbas , Bagheri Sajad
Published: August 2022

Recently, linear generators have been widely employed to convert oceanic wave energy into electricity. Among various linear generators, linear permanent magnet generators (LPMGs) have gained attention due to their special characteristics such as high power density and simple control structure. In this paper, flat double‐sided LPMG is investigated and designed. Considering all effective design variables, a particle swarm optimization algorithm‐based optimization method is employed to maximize efficiency and minimize weight. The optimization results show an increase in efficiency and a reduction in the weight of the generator. Finally, the design results are evaluated and validated using magnetic equivalent circuit and finite element analysis methods.
RETRACTED: Data location integration with stable routing: Stable and optimal data transmission in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Gayathri A. , Ruby D. , Manikandan N. , Gopalakrishnan T. , Anusha K. , Narayanasamy P.
Published: August 2022

While transmitting data over wireless sensor networks (WSN), energy conservation and stable routing are two major problems while transmitting data over the Internet. The main problem with data transmission is that it consumes high energy consumption and network overheads. Therefore, an effective routing protocol should ensure transmission stability in the dynamic sensor environment. Data location integration with stable routing (DLI‐SR) has been introduced to achieve this goal. The DLI‐SR approach first determines the cluster head according to the node location in which node energy consumption, node degree, and distance have been considered. Then the cluster members are selected, and information is transmitted to the sink node by ensuring the data transmission stability. Network stability is determined with the help of link quality, the number of hops, and residual energy. These characteristics are used to maintain the network's stability and minimize its high energy consumption. Here, the stable centrality concept is introduced for choosing the first stable nodes, and the stable path is selected from the source node. The hot spot is maintained to reduce the high energy consumption due to the stable nodes' changing. The effective utilization of node and network characteristics helps to improve the overall network performance. This system is implemented via the NS‐2 simulation tool, and its excellence is compared with existing methods.
Ethics Big and Small, Thinking Fast and Slow
Authors: Haupt Laura
Published: August 2022

In the Hastings Center Report's July‐August 2022 issue, articles by Jessica Amalraj and Kavita Shah Arora and by Inmaculada de Melo‐Martín take up very different concerns under the broad topic of reproductive ethics and public policy. Amalraj and Arora call for public deliberation and consensus building to revise a Medicaid sterilization policy, and de Melo‐Martín argues that social resources should not be used to support reproductive embryo editing but should instead be put toward pre‐ and postnatal interventions that, compared to embryonic genome editing, can help far more people have children who are healthy and genetically related to them. The third article, by Bryan Sisk and James M. DuBois, offers a framework to guide clinicians in their everyday communication with patients and their family members. Elsewhere in the issue are arguments about the responsibilities health care organizations have to address large societal problems affecting well‐being.
Health disparities in chronic liver disease
Authors: Kardashian Ani , Serper Marina , Terrault Norah , Nephew Lauren D.
Published: August 2022

The syndemic of hazardous alcohol consumption, opioid use, and obesity has led to important changes in liver disease epidemiology that have exacerbated health disparities. Health disparities occur when plausibly avoidable health differences are experienced by socially disadvantaged populations. Highlighting health disparities, their sources, and consequences in chronic liver disease is fundamental to improving liver health outcomes. There have been large increases in alcohol use disorder in women, racial and ethnic minorities, and those experiencing poverty in the context of poor access to alcohol treatment, leading to increasing rates of alcohol‐associated liver diseases. Rising rates of NAFLD and associated fibrosis have been observed in Hispanic persons, women aged > 50, and individuals experiencing food insecurity. Access to viral hepatitis screening and linkage to treatment are suboptimal for racial and ethnic minorities and individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, resulting in greater liver‐related mortality and later‐stage diagnoses of HCC. Data from more diverse cohorts on autoimmune and cholestatic liver diseases are lacking, supporting the need to study the contemporary epidemiology of these disorders in greater detail. Herein, we review the existing literature on racial and ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic disparities in chronic liver diseases using a social determinants of health framework to better understand how social and structural factors cause health disparities and affect chronic liver disease outcomes. We also propose potential solutions to eliminate disparities, outlining health‐policy, health‐system, community, and individual solutions to promote equity and improve health outcomes.
Using experiential learning and authentic assessments to support students to become competent health promotion practitioners
Authors: Anderson Karen , Gupta Sabrina , Nava Buenfil Fernanda , Verrinder Glenda
Published: August 2022

Title

Using experiential learning and authentic assessments to support students to become competent health promotion practitioners.

Issue Addressed

The aim of this article is to describe how experiential learning, authentic assessments, community development and ethical principles were consolidated in the design and delivery of a health promotion planning and evaluation subject (HPE) during 2019 to 2021. Experiential learning and authentic assessments were used to guide the development of health promotion competencies in line with the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) Core Competencies and Professional Standards for Health Promotion. Students were required to complete three sequential authentic assessments. Ethics approval was granted for students to undertake a needs/assets assessment with a local community group following which, students completed a literature review and planned a community development program.

Methods

The subject comprises 10 h of weekly engagement over a 12‐week semester with weekly topics following a program logic model. Working in teams and individually, students work with a local community group to assess their needs/assets and establish priority areas regarding health and wellbeing. This then informed the development of a health promotion program and evaluation plan. Students undertook three sequential authentic assessment tasks: (i) needs/assets report, (ii) a literature review and (iii) a program folio. Retrospective anonymous student feedback on subject (SFS) data from 2019 to 2021 was used to evaluate HPE.

Results and Discussion

HPE provides students with the opportunity to understand ethical principles and processes, engage with stakeholders in the community and develop qualitative research skills, to plan and evaluate health promotion programs. SFS scores have improved with an overall score of 3.7 (response rate 49.44%) in 2019 to 4.3 (response rate 39.58%) in 2020 and 4.04 (response rate 28.57%) in 2021.

Conclusion

Students acquire a broad range of knowledge and skills in line with IUHPE Core Competency and Professional Standards for Health Promotion preparing them for their future professional practice.

So what?

These teaching and learning experiences show that students can develop health promotion competencies through sound pedagogical approaches, both online and face‐to‐face and in challenging environments.
Influence of nonlinear radiation on MHD nanofluid flow over a cone with second‐order velocity and thermal slips: A numerical study
Authors: Sreelatha Karanam , Girish Kumar Jorige , Satyanarayana Panyam Venkata
Published: August 2022

This computational study discovered the influence of magnetohydrodynamics nanofluid flow over a vertical cone. The nonlinear form of thermal radiation and irregular heat generation/sink takes an active part in this study. The influences of chemical reactions and second‐order slip parameters (velocity and temperature) are taken into account. Copper nanoparticles were mixed with water as base fluid in the present investigation. The leading partial differential equations which model the flow are altered as a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by means of self‐similarity alterations and then a numerical solution is cultivated with the support of fourth order Runge–Kutta Fehlberg method with the shooting method. The influence of appropriate parameters such as nonlinear radiation, chemical reaction, and slip parameters (velocity and temperature) on common fields (concentration, temperature, and velocity) are visualized through graphs. Also, we have analyzed the effects of identical parameters on the coefficient of skin friction and rate of transfer (mass and heat) by means of tables. The skin friction coefficient is boosted when the magnetic parameter is incremented. For larger values of nonlinear radiation parameter , the rate of heat transfer was reduced.
Anxiety and depression prevalence and their risk factors in lupus nephritis patients: A case–control study
Authors: Hu Ying , Zhan Ge
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Anxiety and depression exhibit a high prevalence in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, while this issue is seldom explored in lupus nephritis (LN). Hence, the current study aimed to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression, and the risk factors for these mental disorders in LN patients.

Methods

Fifty LN patients, 50 non‐LN SLE patients, and 50 health control (HCs) were enrolled. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for anxiety (HADS‐A) score and HADS for depression (HADS‐D) score were evaluated.

Results

HADS‐A score was highest in LN patients (median 7.0, interquartile range [IQR]: 6.0–10.0), followed by non‐LN SLE patients (median 6.0, IQR: 5.0–8.0), and lowest in HCs (median 5.0, IQR: 3.0–7.0) (p < .001). Besides, the anxiety rate was most frequent in LN patients (38.0%), followed by non‐LN SLE patients (28.0%), least common in HCs (12.0%) (p = .011). HADS‐D score was highest in LN patients (median 7.5, IQR: 6.0–11.0), followed by non‐LN SLE patients (median 6.0, IQR: 5.0–8.3), and lowest in HCs (median 4.0, IQR: 2.0–6.3) (p < .001). Similarly, the depression rate was most prevalent in LN patients (50.0%), subsequently the non‐LN SLE patients (30.0%), and rarest in HCs (10.0%) (p < .001). Furthermore, in LN patients, age (p = .009), LN activity index (p = .020), alopecia (p = .023), 24 h proteinuria (p = .044), and C‐reactive protein (p = .049) were independently correlated with higher anxiety risk; meanwhile, age (p = .001) and LN activity index (p = .009) were independently correlated with higher depression risk.

Conclusion

Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent, which link to aging, alopecia, inflammation, and severe renal involvement in LN patients.
Algorithm‐based selection of automated red blood cell exchange procedure goals reduces blood utilization in chronically transfused adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Buban Kristen R. , Lawrence Courtney E. , Zhu Xianming Joshua , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Gehrie Eric Abraham , Vozniak Sonja , Shrestha Ruchee , Lokhandwala Parvez M. , Bloch Evan M.
Published: August 2022

Background

Automated red cell exchange (RCE) is a common treatment for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Two key parameters are used to determine the volume of blood for RCE to reduce sickle hemoglobin (eg, HbS): fraction of cells remaining (FCR) and target hematocrit. We evaluated how the calculated FCR—using the manufacturer's algorithm—impacted blood utilization and incidence of acute care encounters.

Study design and methods

Retrospective chart review was conducted of 15 adults with SCD who underwent chronic RCE from July 1, 2015 to August 31, 2019. Blood utilization and acute care encounters were compared across three time periods: (a) when a fixed FCR of 30% was used (12 months); (b) transition period during which physicians made ad hoc changes to the FCR (25 months); (c) algorithm phase when a procedural FCR between 30% and 50% was selected using an algorithm generated by the manufacturer's built‐in software to target a HbS fraction of 8% post‐procedure (12 months). Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to determine statistical significance.

Results

Median blood utilization per procedure decreased from 2398 mL (interquartile range [IQR]: 2271‐2759 mL) during the fixed FCR phase to 1887 mL (IQR: 1495‐2241 mL) during the algorithm phase (P < 0.001). Similarly, median number of units transfused decreased from 10 (9‐11) to 7 (5‐9) during the respective phases (P < 0.001). Visits to the emergency department were 1 (0‐4) in the fixed FCR phase and 0 (0‐3) in the algorithm phase.

Conclusion

Algorithm‐based selection of a procedural FCR significantly reduced blood utilization (~21%) without appearing to increase acute care encounters.
Evaluation of different DNA extraction methods based on steel‐bullet beating for molecular diagnosis of onychomycosis
Authors: Motamedi Marjan , Amini Abdulbaqi , Yazdanpanah Somayeh , Mahmoodi Mozhgan , Khodadadi Hossein , Zalpoor Hamidreza
Published: August 2022

Background

Considering increased trends toward molecular methods for detection/identification of fungi causing onychomycosis, the aim of this study is comparison three DNA extraction methods based on steel‐bullet beating to extract DNA from nail.

Methods

Ex ‐vivo onychomycosis model was developed using bovine hoof with Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus. For two models, total DNA was extracted using the three different methods. In method 1, the extraction and purification were performed by steel‐bullet beating and phenol chloroform protocol, respectively. In method 2, a freezing step were applied before beating. The purification step in method 3 was carried out using a commercial kit, although DNA extraction was done similarly to method 1 in that approach. To evaluate the efficacy of each method, the extracted genomic DNA was amplified with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions. Moreover, 50 nail samples were evaluated for onychomycosis using direct microscopy examination as well as PCR in order to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of the optimal DNA extraction method.

Results

Regarding the desirable quality of the extracted DNA, cost effectiveness, and simplicity, method 1 could be used to extract DNA effectively. Additionally, the obtained data showed that PCR had a higher detection rate of fungal agents in the nail samples than direct microscopic examination.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the mechanical disruption of the cell wall by steel‐bullet beating is a useful and practical method to improve the quantity and quality of fungal DNA thorough the extraction process.
Soil organic matter can delay—but not eliminate—leaching of neonicotinoid insecticides
Authors: Morrison Benjamin A. , Xia Kang , Stewart Ryan D.
Published: August 2022

Soil organic matter (SOM) retains and attenuates many contaminants; however, its interactions with neonicotinoid insecticides under field conditions remain poorly understood. The goal of this study was to determine if SOM influences the persistence or leaching of two neonicotinoid insecticides: thiamethoxam (TMX) and its transformation‐product clothianidin (CLO). Thiamethoxam‐coated soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] was planted into a clay soil containing different soil organic carbon (SOC) concentrations. Leachate and soil samples were collected for 10 wk after planting and were analyzed for insecticide concentrations using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Single and multiple linear regressions were performed between SOC, leaching volumes, and measured insecticide concentrations, focusing on rainfall events near the beginning, middle, and end of the study. Correlations were also tested between SOC and cumulative mass of leached insecticides. Neither SOC nor per‐event leachate volumes explained variability in TMX leaching or residual CLO concentrations in soils; however, by the conclusion of the study residual thiamethoxam concentrations in soil were negatively correlated with cumulative volume of leached water. Initially, the concentration and total mass of leached CLO were significantly and negatively correlated with SOC content; however, this effect faded with time. Leachate dynamics also affected CLO transport, with positive correlations between leachate volume and CLO concentration during the latter events. This analysis demonstrates that SOM can reduce peak loading of neonicotinoids but may not alter cumulative leaching over the entire growing season.
Influence of compost application rate on nutrient and heavy metal mobility: Implications for stormwater management
Authors: Kranz Christina N. , Rivers Erin N. , McLaughlin Richard A. , Heitman Joshua L.
Published: August 2022

Amending soils with compost has become increasingly common in stormwater management practices. Compost can be a source and sink for nutrients and heavy metals, and it is important to understand the effect of compost on pollutant leaching under different hydrologic conditions. The objectives of this study were (a) to quantify the distribution coefficient (Kd) of PO4–P and metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) for compost–soil blends and (b) to examine how compost rate alters leaching patterns of nutrients (NH4–N, NO3–N, PO4–P) and metals from compost–soil blends. Material consisted of a sandy loam subsoil, a yard‐waste compost, and compost–soil blends at 20 or 50% compost by volume. Materials were tested in sorption–desorption experiments using simulated stormwater (SW); columns with the materials were also leached with either SW or deionized (DI) water. As compost rate increased, the Kd decreased for PO4–P and Cr but increased for Cd, Cu, Ni, and Zn. The addition of compost reduced the sorption of PO4–P and Cr, potentially making it a source of these pollutants. Simulated stormwater did not increase the amount of pollutants retained compared with DI water for compost blends, except for 100% compost columns. Nitrate was the only constituent that had a negative removal efficiency, suggesting the compost was a source of NO3–N. Column media retained >70% of the metals from the added stormwater solution. These results suggest that yard‐waste compost blends at ≤50% have the potential to retain certain pollutants from infiltrating stormwater, but this effect may decline after several storm events.
A brain for all seasons: An in vivo MRI perspective on songbirds
Authors: Orije Jasmien Ellen Maria Jozef , Van der Linden Annemie
Published: August 2022

Seasonality in songbirds includes not only reproduction but also seasonal changes in singing behavior and its neural substrate, the song control system (SCS). Prior research mainly focused on the role of sex steroids on this seasonal SCS neuroplasticity in males. In this review, we summarize the advances made in the field of seasonal neuroplasticity by applying in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in male and female starlings, analyzing the entire brain, monitoring birds longitudinally and determining the neuronal correlates of seasonal variations in plasma hormone levels and song behavior. The first MRI studies in songbirds used manganese enhanced MRI to visualize the SCS in a living bird and validated previously described brain volume changes related to different seasons and testosterone. MRI studies with testosterone implantation established how the consequential boost in singing was correlated to structural changes in the SCS, indicating activity‐induced neuroplasticity as song proficiency increased. Next, diffusion tensor MRI explored seasonal neuroplasticity in the entire brain, focusing on networks beyond the SCS, revealing that other sensory systems and even the cerebellum, which is important for the integration of sensory perception and song behavior, experience neuroplasticity starting in the photosensitive period. Functional MRI showed that olfactory, and auditory processing was modulated by the seasons. The convergence of seasonal variations in so many sensory and sensorimotor systems resembles multisensory neuroplasticity during the critical period early in life. This sheds new light on seasonal songbirds as a model for unlocking the brain by recreating seasonally the permissive circumstances for heightened neuroplasticity.
Effect of maternal true combined endodontic‐periodontal lesion on insulin and inflammatory pathway in adult offspring
Authors: Belardi Bianca Elvira , Mattera Maria Sara de Lima Coutinho , Tsosura Thaís Verônica Saori , dos Santos Rodrigo Martins , Cantiga‐Silva Cristiane , Tavares Ângelo Cintra Luciano , Chiba Fernando Yamamoto , Bravo Lara Teschi , Carvalho Nubia Ramos , Carnevali Ana Carolina Nascimento , de Oliveira Renan Akira Fujii , Ervolino Edilson , Matsushita Doris Hissako
Published: August 2022

Background

Maternal periodontal disease (PED) and apical periodontitis (AP) are associated insulin resistance (IR), increased tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) levels, and alterations in insulin signaling (IS) in the gastrocnemius muscle (GM) of adult offspring. TNF‐α stimulates I kappa B kinase (IKK) and c‐Jun N‐terminal protein kinase (JNK), resulting in IS attenuation. However, studies that investigated the maternal true endodontic‐periodontal lesion (EPL) in offspring are scarce, and in this case, the impact could be even higher. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of EPL on the IR, IS, and inflammatory pathways on the offspring GM.

Methods

Female Wistar rats were distributed into control, AP, PED, and EPL groups. After 30 days of oral inflammation induction, rats from all groups were allowed to mate with healthy rats. The body weight of the offspring was assessed from birth to 75 days of age. After 75 days, the following measurements were performed: glycemia, insulinemia, IR, TNF‐α content, and IKKα/β, JNK, pp185 (Tyr), and IRS‐1 (Ser) phosphorylation status in the GM.

Results

Maternal PED and EPL were associated with low birth weights. All maternal oral inflammations promoted IR and IS impairment in the GM and only maternal PED and EPL caused an increase in TNF‐α content and IKKα/β phosphorylation status in the GM of offspring. The offspring of the rats with EPL group showed worsening of metabolic changes when compared with offspring of rats with AP or PED.

Conclusion

Association of maternal AP and PED promoted a more pronounced worsening in the health of the adult offspring.
Factors influencing pregnancy, litter size, and reproductive parameters of invasive wild pigs
Authors: Chinn Sarah M. , Schlichting Peter E. , Smyser Timothy J. , Bowden Courtney F. , Beasley James C.
Published: August 2022

Reproduction is the most energetically expensive life stage with the demands of productivity representing a balance between physiological requirements and environmental conditions. Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) throughout most of North America are genetic hybrids of feral domestic pigs and wild boar and have the highest reproductive potential of any wild ungulate. The phenology of reproduction, extent of multiple reproductive events per year, how individual and extrinsic factors contribute to variability in productivity, and impact of genetic lineage on these parameters is not well understood in wild pigs. We quantified reproductive parameters in wild pigs relative to a suite of individual and environmental attributes across seasons and multiple years in South Carolina, USA, from March 2017 and May 2020. We hypothesized that individual attributes (mass, age class, number of teats, rump fat, relative genetic association to wild boar vs. domestic pigs) and extrinsic factors (mast availability) would influence probability of pregnancy and fetal litter size. Wild pigs produced offspring throughout all months with peaks in conception corresponding to a seasonal pulse in food availability. The likelihood of pregnancy was influenced by female mass and nutritional condition and was greatest during years with abundant resources. Similarly, litter size increased with female mass and age, implying larger and older females represent the most important group for population recruitment. In evaluating the relationship between reproductive output and ancestral associations to domestic pigs versus wild boar, the proportion of wild boar ancestry was not an important influence on productivity in our population. We determined juveniles reach a physiological threshold of sexual maturity at approximately 30 kg. Average litter size was comparable to other populations, and wild pigs maintain an average fetal litter size of 5.43 offspring despite 13.6% embryonic mortality. A thorough understanding of biotic and extrinsic factors influencing reproduction are important for realistic population models, which are necessary for identifying areas to focus management needs and implementation.
Modifications decrease hepatic steatosis in Taiwanese with metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Liu Tso‐Tsai , Qiu He , Liu Shi‐Yu , Chien Chieh , Wang Jen‐Hung , Wong Ming‐Wun , Yi Chih‐Hsun , Lin Lin , Lei Wei‐Yi , Liang Shu‐Wei , Hung Jui‐Sheng , Huang Jee‐Fu , Chen Chien‐Lin , Han Ma Ai Thanda
Published: August 2022

Metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a growing global problem associated with increasing obesity prevalence. Lifestyle modifications are currently recommended, including weight reduction, exercise, and diet control. This study evaluated the short‐term effect of lifestyle modifications on transient elastography (TE) values in an obese population with MAFLD. Thirty‐two MAFLD patients were recruited for this prospective study and all subjects participated in a 3‐month program of lifestyle modification. Sequential demographic parameters and biochemical tests were compared before and after program completion. Liver fat and fibrosis changes were measured using TE with controlled attenuated parameter (CAP) and liver stiffness measurements (LSM). The mean age was 38.7 years old (10 males). The body weight (88.09 kg vs. 80.35 kg), body mass index (32.24 kg/m2 vs. 29.4 kg/m2), waist (103.19 cm vs. 95.75 cm), and hip circumference (111.67 cm vs. 104.75 cm), and blood pressure (128/78 mmHg vs. 119/71 mmHg) significantly improved before and after the intervention, respectively. Aspartate aminotransaminase (24.06 U/L vs. 18.91 U/L), alanine aminotransaminase (33 U/L vs. 23.72 U/L), creatinine (0.75 mg/dl vs. 0.70 mg/dl), cholesterol (176.41 mg/dl vs. 166.22 m/dl), gamma‐glutamyl transferase (26.59 IU/L vs. 19.81 IU/L), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (115.63 mg/dl vs. 103.19 mg/dl) also improved after the 3‐month intervention. The average CAP significantly decreased after intervention (297.5 dB/m vs. 255.0 dB/m), however, no significant difference in LSM was observed (5.24 kPa vs. 4.82 kPa). The current study suggests that short‐term lifestyle modification can effectively improve hepatic steatosis, and TE may serve as a monitoring tool for therapeutic intervention.
Validity of intraoperative voice monitoring undergoing type 2 thyroplasty with titanium bridges for adductor spasmodic dysphonia
Authors: Sanuki Tetsuji , Oridate Nobuhiko , Tateya Ichiro , Nito Takaharu , Mizoguchi Kenji , Tanabe Kenichiro
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The success of type 2 thyroplasty (TP2) for adductor spasmodic dysphonia (AdSD) depends on the selection of optimally sized titanium bridges, which requires accurate assessment of intraoperative vocal changes. While this procedure has traditionally been performed according to the laryngologist's experience, the most appropriate method for voice monitoring and selection of titanium bridge size remains to be determined. This study aimed to investigate evaluation parameters useful for voice monitoring, as these may allow less experienced surgeons to perform TP2 properly.

Methods

In this prospective study, voice monitoring was performed in 18 patients with AdSD patients undergoing TP2. Evaluations were performed preoperatively, intraoperatively, 13 weeks postoperatively, and 52 weeks postoperatively using GRBAS (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain), as well as perceptual judgment and acoustic analyses.

Results

Preoperative and intraoperative assessments of the G, R, B, and S parameters, perceptual judgment, and harmonic‐to‐noise ratio (HNR) were in moderate or better agreement. Intraoperative and 13‐ or 52‐week postoperative measurements of the R, B, and G parameters and strangulation, tremor, and HNR were also in high agreement. When two different sizes of titanium bridges were compared (unselected vs. selected), ratings for G, R, S, strangulation, tremor, jitter, shimmer, HNR, standard deviation of F0, and degree of voice breaks were better for the selected width than the unselected width.

Conclusion

The candidate items for intraoperative voice monitoring during TP2 for AdSD are G, R, strangulation, tremor, and HNR. The use of these items may help to ensure successful TP2 and contribute to the advancement of laryngeal framework surgery.

Level of evidence

Level 4.
Sol–Gel Synthesis, Thermal Characterization, Surface Interactions, and Release Kinetics of Silica/Drug Hybrid System
Authors: Catauro Michelina , Blanco Ignazio , Clarke Ronald J. , Fiorentino Marika , D'Angelo Antonio , Raffaini Giuseppina
Published: August 2022

Controlled and local drug delivery systems of anti‐inflammatory agents are attracting increasing attention thanks to their possible pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. These systems have extended therapeutic effects and reduced side effects.

The aim of this work is to synthesize a system composed of SiO2 glass and ketoprofen, an anti‐inflammatory drug, by the sol–gel process. Two different percentages (5 and 15 wt%) of drug are entrapped in the silica matrix via the sol–gel method and the dried material are analyzed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and simultaneous Differential Scanning Calorimetery/Thermogravimetric analysis (DSC/TGA). The drug release kinetics of the amorphous bioactive materials are investigated. Molecular Mechanics and Molecular Dynamics simulations are currently in progress to investigate possible interactions between the silica‐based surface and the ketoprofen molecules both at low and high concentration for comparison with experimental data.
Electrical Investigation by Tunneling Atomic Force Microscopy of Carbon Fiber‐Reinforced Panels Manufactured by Modified Resin Film Infusion
Authors: Raimondo Marialuigia , Catauro Michelina , Reverchon Ernesto , Scognamiglio Mariarosa , Guadagno Liberata
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this work is the detection of the electrical current map by tunneling atomic force microscopy (TUNA) of carbon fiber‐reinforced panels (CFRPs). The impregnation of the CFRPs is carried out through a multifunctional epoxy formulation containing glycidyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (GPOSS), for improving flame resistance, and multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNT) to contrast the electrical insulating properties of the epoxy resin. The multifunctional panels are manufactured by an appropriately modified resin film infusion (RFI) process. The effects of the different ply numbers (seven, 14, and 24) on the TUNA electrical performance are assessed. In particular, TUNA technique, which is able to detect ultralow currents ranging from 80 fA to 120 pA, allows to identify the conductive paths due to CNTs. The CNTs result firmly anchored to the carbon fibers of the fabric layers. The adopted manufacturing process allows the transit of the nanofilled resin avoiding filtration effects. TUNA's current images highlight the presence, in the interlayer space of carbon fibers, of conductive three‐dimensional networks of CNTs through the plies. This occurrence ensures good electrical properties of the multifunctional panels, which results suitable for advanced structural applications.
Structural and Morphological Characterization of Biopolymeric Samples Through AWJ Machining
Authors: Mărguță Daniel , Herghelegiu Eugen , Tâmpu Cătălin , Mazurchevici Simona‐Nicoleta , Petrescu Tudor , Nedelcu Dumitru
Published: August 2022

In order to identify the structure and morphology of the resulting surfaces from the abrasive water jet cutting, specialized analyses are performed. The biopolymers subjected to cold processing are Arboblend V2 Nature and Arbofill Fichte. According to the recorded data from the SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and EDX (Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy) analyses, uniformity as well as structural and morphological homogeneity of the samples is highlighted, together with the effect of the abrasive material, Garnet, on the structure and chemical composition of the cut surfaces. The abrasive outcome is found in the form of small streaks that has little influence on the roughness of the cut surfaces. Considering the obtained results, these biopolymers can be processed by cutting with an abrasive water jet in the conditions of obtaining a corresponding surface quality.
Complexation of pH‐Responsive Liposomal Nanocontainers with Polyanions for Manipulation with Release Properties and Adhesion to the Cell Surfaces
Authors: Tang Jian , Stepanova Darya , Sybachin Andrey
Published: August 2022

The impact of polyanions – sodium polystyrene sulfonate and sodium polyacrylate – on the rate of decapsulation of liposomal pH‐sensitive nanocontainers is investigated. The release properties are studied by means of laser microelectrophoresis and conductometery. Incorporation of capable to change its conformation after protonation trans‐4,5‐didodecyloxycarbonyl‐2‐morpholinocyclohexanol in electroneutral liposomes results in formation of pH‐sensitive nanocontainers (fliposomes) that release payload in slight acidic media. Pairing of this fliposomes with polyanions results in increase of rate of release of encapsulated water‐soluble compounds. Strong polyacid is found to induce release even at neutral pH. By means of fluorescence microscopy it is found that bare fliposomes being adsorbed on model cell membranes in acidic media while modified with polyanions nanocontainers provided release in intercellular environment.
Influence of Processing Methods on the Mechanical Behavior of Poly‐3‐hydroxybutyrate Nonwoven Scaffolds
Authors: Zykova Anna , Morokov Egor , Tyubaeva Polina
Published: August 2022

The theoretical prediction of the mechanical behavior of fibrous materials for medicine in different environments is of great scientific interest. The deformation mechanisms under loading of biopolymer electrospun fibrous materials differ significantly in dependence on the phase state of the medium, namely, liquid state, gaseous state, or at their interface. In this paper, the influence of various mediums on the mechanical behavior of fibrous materials based on poly‐3‐hydroxybutyrate under tension is examined. The oxidative stress (ozone treatment) and the incorporation of low concentrations of modifying additives (complexes of tetraphenyl‐porphyrin with Zn) are proposed as the most effective methods of directed control of stress‐related characteristics without a negative effect on the functional properties of medical materials.
Digital Modeling of the Characteristics of Biodegradable Polymers Using the Example of Compositions Based on Low Density Polyethylene with Natural Rubber
Authors: Varyan Ivetta , Bobkov Aleksandr
Published: August 2022

Due to the growing environmental threat associated with the accumulation of plastic waste, the development of biodegradable polymers based on low‐density polyethylene with the addition of natural fillers is of great importance. At the same time, the experimental studies of such materials require a huge amount of time: the production cycle from the development of a new formulation of a biopolymer to market launch can take up to 36 months. To reduce this time, a new approach based on mathematical modeling is proposed. Verification of this approach is carried out using the example of low‐density polyethylene composites with natural rubber filler. The high accuracy of the proposed mathematical models for predicting the properties of biodegradable polymers is shown.
Post Low Velocity Impact Vibration Response of Bio‐Composite Flax/Epoxy Plates: Validation of Experiment Setup
Authors: Srihi Khouloud , Massé Nadia , El‐Hafidi Ali , Rousseau Jérôme , Martin Bruno
Published: August 2022

Biocomposite materials are increasingly used in industrial transport structures (aerospace and automotive). They offer the ability to design complex parts, lightweight shapes that respond to high mechanical performance. Flax fibers are the most widely used because of their availability and mechanical properties, competitive to the properties of glass fibers. The detection of damage in these structures is essential to anticipate perilous consequences. Impacts induced damage is the most critical. The health control of a structure requires information about the severity and location of a damage through nondestructive methods. The aim of this study is to investigate vibratory behavior due to the impact on a biocomposite structure (flax/epoxy) to detect and evaluate the damage induced in noncontact method.
The Effect of Crosslink Density on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Bio‐Based Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Andersons Janis , Cabulis Peteris , Kirpluks Mikelis
Published: August 2022

Rigid low‐density closed‐cell polyurethane foams with different crosslink densities have been produced using biobased polyols derived from tall oil. Mechanical and dilatometric tests reveal that the transverse stiffness and tensile strength of the foams increased with growing crosslink density both at the room and cryogenic temperatures, while the coefficient of linear thermal expansion exhibited an opposite trend. Cryogenic safety factors, estimated based on the foam properties obtained, reveal no consistent trend with changing crosslink density of the polyurethane polymer.
Impact of Freezing Conditions on the Morphology and Mechanics of PVA‐Based Sponge‐Like Materials
Authors: Antipova Christina G. , Bazyleva Christina Y. , Krasheninnikov Sergey V. , Sharikov Roman V. , Malakhov Sergey N. , Patsaev Timofey D. , Chvalun Sergey N. , Grigoriev Timofei E.
Published: August 2022

Highly porous polymer materials have been studied a lot for applications in biotechnology and biomedicine, because of their high surface area and percolated pore structure. Varying processing conditions, in this study, can tune the morphology, mechanical, and physicochemical characteristics of the materials. In the present work, cross‐linked poly(vinyl alcohol)‐based freeze‐dried sponges linked by glutaraldehyde are studied. The current study analyzes the influence of cooling speed on the sponge's morphology and mechanical properties. Complex analysis of the tests carried out shows agreement in morphology, surface area, equilibrium degree of swelling, and mechanical properties of the sponges with dependence on the amount of cross‐linking agent and freezing conditions.
The Behavior of a 3D Printed Panel under Thermal Stress
Authors: Mihalache Andrei , Hriţuc Adelina , Slătineanu Laurentiu , Nagîț Gheorghe , Dodun Oana , Ermolai V. , Panaite E.
Published: August 2022

PLA‐based panels are widely used in many applications. Sometimes these panels can be subjected to uneven heating processes of their various areas. As the cooling process also has a nonuniform character, the appearance of residual stresses of thermal nature is expected, which can lead to the appearance of residual plastic deformations of the panel. Finite element modeling and images taken with the help of an infrared camera confirm the process of uneven panel heating under the action of heat generated by an infrared radiation lamp. The models made using the finite element method concluded that deviations are possible in the form of a concavity in that area of ​​the panel surface located closer to the heat source and in the form of convexity on the opposite surface. The experimental results obtained on polylactic acid panels with thicknesses of 2 and 4 mm confirm the generation by uneven cooling of shape deviations with sizes up to 3.39 mm.
Tensile Strength Analysis of the Ring‐Shape 3D Printed Polymer Parts
Authors: Hrițuc Adelina , Slătineanu Laurentiu , Rîpanu M. , Mihalache Andrei , Nagîț Gheorghe , Dodun Oana
Published: August 2022

The uses of polymers in various fields are no longer a novelty. The diversity of these uses started from the study of polymers' properties, which revealed the ability of these materials to meet the different requirements to which the polymer parts are subjected in real use. Tensile strength is one of the basic requirements that can highlight the strength and use properties. The polymer's choice and the way to generate certain stresses in the polymer parts highlight some interesting aspects of using 3D printing to make parts with a certain geometry. Thus, ring‐type parts made of polylactic acid and with a constant cross‐section suppose a certain distribution of efforts in the case of mechanical stresses, such as tensile stress. The finite element simulation method is used to highlight the tensile behavior of ring‐type parts made of the polymer by 3D printing. Experimental tests are also performed to highlight the influence of some input factors in the 3D printing process on tensile strength. An empirical mathematical model has been identified to illustrate the influence of input factors used on the tensile strength of the test piece material. The experimental research also allows a comparison of the results with those obtained by using the finite element method.
Numerical and Experimental Investigations of Thermal Conductivity of 3D Printed Polylactic Acid
Authors: Panaite Carmen Ema , Mihalache Andrei Marius , Slătineanu Laurențiu , Popescu Aristotel , Nagîț Gheorghe , Hrițuc Adelina , Dodun Oana
Published: August 2022

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a plastic material used occasionally for thermal insulation. Thus, information is required with respect to the thermal insulation property specific to various types of PLA. On the other hand, the development of 3D printing processes has led to ensuring the conditions for manufacturing PLA parts, with properties that can be modified by varying the input factors of printing process. The proposed experimental research method uses the measurement of temperature variation on one surface of PLA panel, while applying a cooling process on the opposite surface. Several panels with different characteristics are tested. The experimental results are processed using a specialized software and an empirical mathematical model is developed. The model highlights the influence of panel thickness, cooling duration, infill, and deposited layer thickness with respect to the temperature of the panel surface opposite to the cooled one.
A Degradation Study of Poly(3‐Hydroxybutyrate‐Co‐3‐Hydroxyvalerate) and Olive Husk Flour Biocomposites Under Marine Environment
Authors: Hassaini Leila , Kaci Mustapha , Dehouche Nadjet , Bruzaud Stéphane
Published: August 2022

In this work, the main objective is to investigate the effect of olive husk flour (OHF) used as a biofiller on the marine degradation of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) biocomposites up to 6 months of immersion in sea water at 25°C and 40°C. Film samples based on neat PHBV and PHBV are filled with 20 wt.% OHF is prepared by melt compounding. After 6 months of immersion in sea water, the study reveals a noticeable decrease in the absorption band intensity of ester groups of PHBV through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR‐ATR) spectroscopy, even more in the presence of OHF in PHBV biocomposite due to hydrolytic degradation. This phenomenon is, however, more pronounced at 40°C. This also agrees with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data, which indicates a large increase in crystallinity index (Xc) resulting from short chains reorganization. Moreover, scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis shows for both degraded samples, eroded and cracked surfaces, being however more pronounced for PHBV/OHF biocomposite at 40°C. This study highlights the role of OHF as a promotor of marine degradation of PHBV.
CAD Optimization of an Ankle Foot Orthosis Using Lattice Structures
Authors: Enache Vlad , Doicin Cristian‐Vasile , Ulmeanu Mihaela‐Elena
Published: August 2022

Additive manufacturing technologies have been extensively used in the development of medical products, mainly due to its’ complex geometry advantages. Orthoses are among the most common medical devices redesigned for additive manufacturing, as patient specific products. Currently, most of these orthoses are thermoformed from plastic. Advantages of custom and topologically optimized orthosis are mentioned by literature. The aim of this paper is to study the possibility of using lattice structures for the design and development of a functional ankle foot orthosis. The mechanical behavior of an ankle foot orthosis is studied, by optimization using lattice structures, for three different materials, to reduce its weight but also to keep its original resistance. The resulted ankle foot orthosis model is loaded with 500 N, to simulate the real‐life value of the force that is applied normally on an actual orthosis. Research results show that the optimum material is PET‐G for both 50% and 100% lattice values.
Low Temperature Laser Sintering with PA12 and PA6 on a Standard System
Authors: Menge Dennis , Schmid Hans‐Joachim
Published: August 2022

The laser sintering (LS) process has been a very established additive manufacturing (AM) process for many years. Disadvantages of LS are the low material variety and the thermal damage of the not processed material. The low temperature laser sintering attacks at this point and processes powder material at a build chamber temperature lower than the recrystallization temperature. This drastic reduction in temperature results in significantly less thermal damage to the material. This work deals with the low temperature laser sintering (LTLS) of polyamide 12 (PA12) on a commercial, unmodified laser sintering system to compare it to standardly laser sintered PA12 and to create the basis for low temperature laser sintering of high temperature materials on such a system. Initial results by changing the exposure parameters and by fixing parts on a build platform show a processing of PA12 on an EOS P396 at a build chamber temperature of 80°C instead of standard approx. 175°C, which prevents thermal damage of the material. An extensive study of exposure parameters is carried out and the mechanical properties are considered. Furthermore, a first transfer of the method and the results to PA6 is obtained.