bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CXCR4-CXCL12-CXCR7 and PD-1/PD-L1 in Pancreatic Cancer: CXCL12 Predicts Survival of Radically Resected Patients
Authors: D’Alterio Crescenzo , Giardino Alessandro , Scognamiglio Giosuè , Butturini Giovanni , Portella Luigi , Guardascione Giuseppe , Frigerio Isabella , Montella Marco , Gobbo Stefano , Martignoni Guido , Napolitano Vincenzo , De Vita Ferdinando , Tatangelo Fabiana , Franco Renato , Scala Stefania
Published: October 2022

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is currently the most deadly cancer. Although characterized by 5–20% of neoplastic cells in the highly fibrotic stroma, immunotherapy is not a valid option in PDAC treatment. As CXCR4-CXCL12 regulates tumor invasion and T-cell access and PD-1/PD-L1 controls immune tolerance, 76 PDACs were evaluated for CXCR4-CXCL12-CXCR7 and PD-1/PD-L1 in the epithelial and stromal component. Neoplastic CXCR4 and CXCL12 discriminated PDACs for recurrence-free survival (RFS), while CXCL12 and CXCR7 discriminated patients for cancer-specific survival (CSS). Interestingly, among patients with radical resection (R0), high tumor CXCR4 clustered patients with worse RFS, high CXCL12 identified poor prognostic patients for both RFS and CSS, while stromal lymphocytic-monocytic PD-L1 associated with improved RFS and CSS. PD-1 was only sporadically expressed (<1%) in focal lymphocyte infiltrate and does not impact prognosis. In multivariate analysis, tumoral CXCL12, perineural invasion, and AJCC lymph node status were independent prognostic factors for RFS; tumoral CXCL12, AJCC Stage, and vascular invasion were independent prognostic factors for CSS. CXCL12’s poor prognostic meaning was confirmed in an additional perspective-independent 13 fine-needle aspiration cytology advanced stage-PDACs. Thus, CXCR4-CXCL12 evaluation in PDAC identifies prognostic categories and could orient therapeutic approaches.
Single Cell Analysis of Gastric Cancer Reveals Non-Defined Telomere Maintenance Mechanism
Authors: Sung Ji-Yong , Cheong Jae-Ho
Published: October 2022

Telomere maintenance mechanisms (TMMs) are important for cell survival and homeostasis. However, most related cancer research studies have used heterogenous bulk tumor tissue, which consists of various single cells, and the cell type properties cannot be precisely recognized. In particular, cells exhibiting non-defined TMM (NDTMM) indicate a poorer prognosis than those exhibiting alternative lengthening of telomere (ALT)-like mechanisms. In this study, we used bioinformatics to classify TMMs by cell type in gastric cancer (GC) in single cells and compared the biological processes of each TMM. We elucidated the pharmacological vulnerabilities of NDTMM type cells, which are associated with poor prognosis, based on molecular mechanisms. We analyzed differentially expressed genes in cells exhibiting different TMMs in two single-cell GC cohorts and the pathways enriched in single cells. NDTMM type cells showed high stemness, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, cancer hallmark activity, and metabolic reprogramming with mitochondrial abnormalities. Nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1 (NR4A1) activated parkin-dependent mitophagy in association with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFA) to maintain cellular homeostasis without TMM. NR4A1 overexpression affected TNFA-induced GC cell apoptosis by inhibiting Jun N-terminal kinase/parkin-dependent mitophagy. Our findings also revealed that NR4A1 is involved in cell cycle mediation, inflammation, and apoptosis to maintain cell homeostasis, and is a novel potential therapeutic target in recalcitrant GC.
Efficient Methane Production from Anaerobic Digestion of Cow Dung: An Optimization Approach
Authors: Obileke KeChrist , Makaka Golden , Nwokolo Nwabunwanne
Published: October 2022

In the context of addressing the global challenge of facilitating a decision-making process based on methane production using a predictive model, the study seeks to evaluate the performance of a biogas digester in varying operating conditions for optimization purposes. One of the techniques for doing this is the application of constrained linear least-square optimization. This has been employed to optimize the input parameter with the corresponding measured desired response. The developed model was built from 430 measured data set points of all the predictors over an 18-day monitoring period with an interval of 30 min. The result showed that the difference between the optimized model and the general model output for methane production in the biogas digester was less than 4%. Hence, the performance of the model demonstrated a strong validity as the determination coefficient (R2) between the modeled, and optimized output was 0.968 for the volume of methane produced in the biogas digester. The obtained determination coefficient of the developed and optimized model suggests that the modeled value of the methane fits well with the measured value of methane for validation. Thus, from the test dataset, the optimized and modeled methane volume was reported as 28%. In this scenario, under the various operational parameters, an increase of 26.5% in methane was obtained when comparing the maximum volume of methane from the optimization process with the maximum methane volume (54.5%) produced in the real biogas digester. Interestingly, the biogas digester produced a maximum methane yield of 0.24 m3 and a methane composition of 60%. Evidently, methane yield was influenced by temperature as well as other meteorological factors in the developed model hence, these factors should be widely considered for sustainable biogas production.
Facet-Dependent Gas Adsorption Selectivity on ZnO: A DFT Study
Authors: Jiang Weile , Xia Yong , Pan Aifei , Luo Yunyun , Su Yaqiong , Zhao Sikai , Wang Tao , Zhao Libo
Published: October 2022

Semiconductor-based gas sensors are of great interest in both industrial and research settings, but poor selectivity has hindered their further development. Current efforts including doping, surface modifications and facet controlling have been proved effective. However, the “methods-selectivity” correlation is ambiguous because of uncontrollable defects and surface states during the experiments. Here, as a case study, using a DFT method, we studied the adsorption features of commonly tested gases—CH2O, H2, C2H5OH, CH3COCH3, and NH3—on facets of ZnO(0001¯), ZnO(101¯0) and ZnO(101¯1). The adsorption energies and charge transfers were calculated, and adsorption selectivity was analyzed. The results show ZnO(0001¯) has obvious CH2O adsorption selectivity; ZnO(101¯0) has a slight selectivity to C2H5OH and NH3; and ZnO(101¯1) has a slight selectivity to H2, which agrees with the experimental results. The mechanism of the selective adsorption features was studied in terms of polarity, geometric matching and electronic structure matching. The results show the adsorption selectivity is attributed to a joint effort of electronic structure matching and geometric matching: the former allows for specific gas/slab interactions, the latter decides the strength of the interactions. As the sensing mechanism is probably dominated by gas–lattice interactions, this work is envisioned to be helpful in designing new sensing material with high selectivity.
Preparation of Thermo-Sensitive Molecular Imprinted SERS Substrate with Robust Recyclability for Detection of Ofloxacin
Authors: Jiang Caiyun , Wu Ting , He Xin , Wang Yuping , Lian Hong-zhen
Published: October 2022

To this day, the preparation of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates with high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability has been the bottleneck to realizing SERS-based quantitative analysis in practical applications. In this paper, a thermo-sensitive imprinting SERS substrate material (TM@TiO2@Ag) is developed with a uniform structure and morphology, a controllable “hot spot” and photocatalytic regeneration. The as-prepared TM@TiO2@Ag nanocomposite is characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, etc. After the effects of its thermo-sensitive property on localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and SERS signals are investigated, this nanomaterial is used as the Raman-enhanced substrate for rapid and trace detection of ofloxacin (OFL) in water. It is found that, with the aid of unique structure and composition, temperature sensitivity, and molecule imprinting, the SERS sensor possesses considerably strong anti-interference ability not only to structure-unlike but also to structure-like co-existing substances, extremely low detectable concentration of 1.1 × 10−11 M for OFL at 1397 cm−1, as well as excellent reusability due to its photocatalytic degradation to target analytes.
Effectiveness of Group CBT on Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms in Children with Mixed Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Barron-Linnankoski Sarianna , Raaska Hanna , Bergman Paula , Närvänen Eija , Elovainio Marko , Laasonen Marja
Published: October 2022

Background: Our study addressed the gap in research on the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating children with mixed psychiatric disorders. We examined the immediate and long-term effects of group CBT (GCBT), delivered in naturalistic clinical settings, on reducing internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children with mixed psychiatric disorders. Further, we compared the effectiveness of cost-effective, manualized GCBT to treatment as usual (TAU) consisting of individually tailored psychiatric outpatient services delivered by mental health care specialists. Methods: Children aged 6–12 years (n = 103) diagnosed with psychiatric disorders, more than 70% with psychiatric comorbidity, were assigned either directly to GCBT (GCBT group; n = 52) or TAU for approximately 3 months, after which they received GCBT (TAU + GCBT group; n = 51). Internalizing and externalizing symptoms were assessed using parent- and teacher-report questionnaires (Child Behavior Checklist and Teacher Report Form) at referral to treatment, pre-treatment, post-treatment, and six-month follow-up. Results: Parent- and teacher-rated internalizing symptoms and parent-rated externalizing symptoms were reduced immediately after GCBT. Long-term GCBT gains were prominent for parent-rated externalizing symptoms. No differences were observed between the effectiveness of GCBT and TAU. Conclusions: Our results suggest that GCBT and TAU services are equally effective in treating internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children with mixed psychiatric disorders, providing support for the broader use of cost-effective manualized GCBT. Manualized GCBT, which requires relatively short training, can also be delivered at primary healthcare levels. Our results are of relevance to cost-effectiveness and global mental health staff shortages.
The Incidence of Bracing Treatment on Static and Dynamic Baropodometric Parameters in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Pavone Vito , Caldaci Alessia , Mangano Giulia , Maria Fabrizio , Panvini Flora , Sapienza Marco , Vescio Andrea , Roggio Federico , Musumeci Giuseppe , Testa Gianluca
Published: October 2022

Postural balance is an important but not well-studied concept in the treatment of adolescent scoliosis. The aim of this study was to assess whether conservative treatment with Sforzesco bracing induced negative perturbations on postural stability, as related to static, postural, and dynamic baropodometric indicators. Twelve subjects (12 females, aged 11–16) with moderate AIS, were selected among a group of 97 patients. Inclusion criteria were: (1) confirmed diagnosis of moderate AIS (Cobb angle of 21° to 35° for the primary curve); (2) thoracic or thoracolumbar primary curve; (3) skeletal immaturity with growth cartilage visible on pretreatment radiographs (Risser < 5); (4) chronological age between 11 and 16 years; and (5) Sforzesco bracing treatment. All patients underwent a physical examination and radiological measurements with anteroposterior and lateral scans. Static, postural, and dynamic assessments were performed twice by barefoot patients, with and without Sforzesco bracing. Comparison between demographic, anthropometric, and clinical data highlighted a homogeneity of the sample. We evaluated the point of maximum pressure with and without bracing and found no statistically significant differences (p value = 0.22). In postural measurements, the laterolateral oscillations, anteroposterior oscillations, and average speed of oscillations were evaluated, comparing measurements with and without bracing. There were no statistically significant differences, except for the mean rate of oscillation, which was slightly increased in the recordings with a brace compared to those without a brace, p value = 0.045. Our findings show no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in static, postural, and dynamic baropodometric indicators.
The Aspiration for Happy Train Journey: Commuters’ Perception of the Quality of Intercity Rail Services
Authors: Islam Md Rakibul , Ahmed Md Tawkir , Anwari Nafis , Hadiuzzaman Md , Amin Shohel
Published: October 2022

This paper assesses the perception of intercity rail passengers on station facilities at Joydebpur Railway Station in Bangladesh. The ordinal logistic regression (OLR) tool was applied to analyze 1000 responses of rail passengers on 24 selected service and 5 demographic parameters. Critical consideration from the perspective of a developing country revealed six unique factors, namely Level crossing facility, Illegal establishments, Illegal shops, Floating people, Arrival performance, and Departure performance, which have never been explored in any previous studies. The regression analysis identified that 13 service quality factors significantly affected commuters’ satisfaction level, particularly the Food and drinks, Road connectivity, Sanitation, and Waiting room facility at the station. Among the five demographic factors, age, occupation, and travel frequency significantly influenced overall passenger satisfaction (OPS). The model results have also been validated through a second survey at Kamalapur Railway Station, Bangladesh. The results suggest that policymakers should focus on the elderly, financially solvent people, and frequent travelers. Additionally, refreshment facilities, road connectivity, sanitation, and waiting room facilities should be given priority, as these will heavily impact passenger satisfaction according to this study. Subsequent attributes can then be prioritized as per the attributes ranked and according to budget considerations of the authority.
Bond Strength between Different Zirconia-Based Ceramics and Resin Cement before and after Aging
Authors: Silveira Marcos Paulo Motta , Ramos Nathália de Carvalho , Lopes Guilherme da Rocha Scalzer , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Bottino Marco Antonio
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the bond strength of different stabilized zirconias with resin cement and evaluate the susceptibility to thermal aging of the adhesive interface. Zirconia discs (Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany) were obtained: 3Y-TZP first generation (translucent), 3Y-TZP third generation (high-translucent), 4Y-PSZ (super-translucent), and 5Y-PSZ (extra-translucent). Each disc had its surface polished with a standardized protocol. The specimens were cleaned and sintered according to the manufacturer’s recommendation (conventionally: ~12 h). However, 3Y-TZP groups were subdivided into subgroups and sintered following the speed sintering process (~80 min). After their sintering shrinkage, the dimensions of the final discs were 12 mm × 2 mm. The specimens were blasted with 50 μm aluminum oxide (1 cm distance, 2 bar pressure, and 2 s/cm²), cleaned, and silanized with an MDP primer. After the surface treatment, a resin cement cylinder was built on the ceramic surface (Ø = 1 mm; h = 2 mm). Half of the specimens of each group were subjected to a microshear bond strength test in a universal testing machine after 24 h of cementation, while the other half were subjected to thermocycling prior to the bond strength test (6000 cycles; 5 °C–55 °C, 30 s for each bath). Bond strength data were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (95%), as well as Weibull analysis, to determine adhesive reliability. Bond strength was statistically different among the materials, and only 3Y-TZP third generation and 4Y-PSZ were not affected by thermal aging. The speed sintering method was statistically similar to the conventional process for 3Y-TZP first generation. However, 3Y-TZP third generation showed higher immediate bond strength when speed sintered. The Weibull modulus was superior for conventional 3Y-TZP third generation and 4Y-PSZ. In this study, thermal aging caused a degradation of the adhesive interfaces of 3Y-TZP first generation and 5Y-PSZ with the resin cement; however, it did not affect the interfaces of 3Y-TZP third generation and 4Y-PSZ. The speed sintering method did not affect the long-term bond strength with the resin cement. Adhesive reliability was superior for 3Y-TZP third generation and 4Y-PSZ.
Femtosecond Laser Texturization on Coated Steel
Authors: Baldi-Boleda Tomás , Colominas Carles , García-Granada Andrés
Published: October 2022

Surface textures such as laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are of great interest to obtain industrial nanopatterns. In this work, plain uncoated 1.2344 steel with and without Chromium Nitride (CrN) and CrN plus diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings were used in experiments. The laser texturing variables studied were the laser speed (3000–4000 mm/s) and the distance between laser lines (1–10 microns). These structures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to obtain an overview of the roughness and to analyze the heights of the obtained structures. A two-dimension fast Fourier transform (2D-FFT) of the SEM images and its characteristic frequencies was used to assess the periodicity of the textured surfaces and thus quantify the far-range order. The speed of laser depth ablation is related to the laser energy density for each coating and textures are qualified using the FFT approach.
Individual Layer Thickness Dependence of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Magnetron Sputtering Mo-W-Doped Ni/Ni3Al Multilayers
Authors: Zhang Chao , Shao Lijun , Dai Yuming , Li Duo , Chen Yuan
Published: October 2022

The mechanical properties of nanocrystalline pure Ni films are degraded due to grain coarsening with exposure for a long time in ambient. In order to further improve the mechanical properties of Ni-based thin films, as-sputtered Mo-W co-doped Ni/Ni3Al multilayered structures were constructed. When the individual layer thickness (h) is lower than 40 nm, both the average grain sizes and the crystallinity degrees are degraded, showing a tendency for the formation of the amorphous phase. With h = 40 nm, nano-twins were observed as (111) twining interfaces for the multilayers due to the reduction of the stacking fault energy by the co-doping of Mo-W, whereas the nucleation and growth of the nano-twins were limited, without observations for the Mo-W co-doped Ni/Ni3Al multilayer with h = 10 nm. The hardness of the multilayers was enhanced, and the elastic modulus was reduced at a lower h, owing to the grain refinements and layer interface barriers for strengthening, and the existence of the amorphous phase with the inferior modulus, respectively. The resistance against the fracture was enhanced due to toughening by the lamellar structure for the Mo-W doped Ni/Ni3Al multilayer at h ≤ 40 nm. Comprehensively, the Mo-W-doped Ni/Ni3Al multilayer with 10 nm displays a superior mechanical performance.
Deposition of Colloidal Magnetite on Stainless Steel in Simulated Steam Generator Conditions—Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Betova Iva , Bojinov Martin , Karastoyanov Vasil
Published: October 2022

Sludge formation via colloidal magnetite deposition in steam generators is an important phenomenon that significantly influences the thermohydraulic properties and corrosion of structural materials. This paper aims to verify a model of sludge deposition and consolidation with emphasis on its most significant parameters and their experimental estimation. In-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) measurements are employed for quantitative evaluation of magnetite deposition kinetics on stainless steel in ammonia-ethanolamine (AMETA) secondary coolant at different temperatures. Parameterization of the model by quantitative comparison of the mixed-conduction model (MCM) with experimental data is discussed. Model predictions are compared with literature data from laboratory experiments and plant operation. Conclusions are drawn about the applicability of the model for quantitative assessment of sludge deposition and consolidation rates.
Anomalous Ca Content Dependence of Dielectric Properties of Charge-Ordered Pr1−xCaxMnO3 as a Signature of Charge-Ordered Phase Modulation
Authors: Singh Ankit Kumar , Mondal Partha Sarathi
Published: October 2022

Low-temperature dielectric properties of charge/orbital-ordered manganite, Pr1−xCaxMnO3 for 0.40 ≤ x ≤ 0.50, was investigated systematically as a function of Ca content, x. The Ca content dependence of dielectric permittivity and dissipation factor exhibited distinct maxima near x~0.45. The overall dielectric response of charge-ordered Pr1−xCaxMnO3 was dominated by dielectric polarization induced by polaron hopping and exhibited thermally activated relaxation behaviour. The thermally activated dielectric relaxation behaviour over the investigated temperature range was further analysed with the help of two models: the small polaron hopping model and the Mott three-dimensional variable range hopping model. The estimated polaron transport parameters also displayed non-monotonic variation with x and exhibited a broad minima between x = 0.425 and 0.45. Considering the previous work reported so far, the charge order pattern of Pr1−xCaxMnO3 below x = 0.425 was most likely to be of Zener-polaron type, while near x = 0.50 was checker-board type and for in-between compositions; neither pure checker-board type nor pure Zener-polaron type can be considered a ground state. The observed results suggest that a modulation of the checkerboard-type charge/orbital ordering pattern in Pr1−xCaxMnO3 possibly takes place in the Ca content range of investigation, 0.40 ≤ x ≤ 0.50.
The Influence of Internal Stress on the Nanocrystal Formation of Amorphous Fe73.8Si13B9.1Cu1Nb3.1 Microwires and Ribbons
Authors: Fuks Artem , Abrosimova Galina , Aksenov Oleg , Churyukanova Margarita , Aronin Alexandr
Published: October 2022

The early stages of nanocrystallization in amorphous Fe73.8Si13B9.1Cu1Nb3.1 ribbons and microwires were compared in terms of their internal stress effects. The microstructure was investigated by the X-ray diffraction method. Classical expressions of crystal nucleation and growth were modified for microwires while accounting for the internal stress distribution, in order to justify the XRD data. It was assumed that, due to the strong compressive stresses on the surface part and tensile stresses on the central part, crystallization on the surface part of the microwire proceeded faster than in the central part. The results revealed more rapid nanocrystallization in microwires compared to that in ribbons. During the initial period of annealing, the compressive surface stress of a microwire caused the formation of a predominantly crystallized surface layer. The results obtained open up new possibilities for varying the high-frequency properties of microwires and their application in modern sensorics.
Structure and Properties of Cubic PuH2 and PuH3: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Smith Thomas , Moxon Samuel , Cooke David J. , Gillie Lisa J. , Harker Robert M. , Storr Mark T. , da Silva Estelina Lora , Molinari Marco
Published: October 2022

The presence of cubic PuH2 and PuH3, the products of hydrogen corrosion of Pu, during long-term storage is of concern because of the materials’ pyrophoricity and ability to catalyse the oxidation reaction of Pu to form PuO2. Here, we modelled cubic PuH2 and PuH3 using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and assessed the performance of the PBEsol+U+SOC (0 ≤ U ≤ 7 eV) including van der Waals dispersion using the Grimme D3 method and the hybrid HSE06sol+SOC. We investigated the structural, magnetic and electronic properties of the cubic hydride phases. We considered spin–orbit coupling (SOC) and non-collinear magnetism to study ferromagnetic (FM), longitudinal and transverse antiferromagnetic (AFM) orders aligned in the <100>, <110> and <111> directions. The hybrid DFT confirmed that FM orders in the <110> and <111> directions were the most stable for cubic PuH2 and PuH3, respectively. For the standard DFT, the most stable magnetic order is dependent on the value of U used, with transitions in the magnetic order at higher U values (U > 5 eV) seen for both PuH2 and PuH3.
Research on Microstructure and Cracking Behavior of Al-6.2Zn-2Mg-xSc-xZr Alloy Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Pan Wei , Zhai Ziyu , Liu Yantao , Liang Bo , Liang Zhuoheng , Zhang Yongzhong
Published: October 2022

Selective laser melting (SLM) offers obvious advantages in the production of complex parts. However, the traditional 7xxx series aluminum alloy has a serious cracking tendency in the SLM process. Therefore, in order to analyze the microstructure and cracking mechanism, and obtain crack-free aluminum alloy fabricated by SLM, this paper studied the microstructure characteristics of as-deposited Al-6.2Zn-2Mg-xSc-xZr alloy with different Sc, Zr content, as well as the influence mechanism of Sc, Zr on cracking. The results show that with the increase of Sc and Zr content, the crack tendency and grain size decrease. When Sc and Zr content reach 0.6% and 0.36% respectively, cracks can no longer be observed in the as deposited alloy. The microstructure of the as deposited Al-6.2Zn-2Mg-0.6Sc-0.36Zr alloy consists of fine equiaxed and columnar crystals, in which Sc and Zr mainly exist in the aluminum matrix as solid solutions, and some exist in the form of Al3(Sc, Zr). The immediate reason for the absence of cracks is that the microstructure changes from coarse columnar grains to fine equiaxed-columnar grains when the content of Sc and Zr increases. The refined grain size may have the following beneficial effects: It helps with reducing the thickness of the liquid films. This will increase the tear sensitivity of the liquid film and the cracking tendency and therefore lowers the hot cracking tendency; And a refined grain size improves fracture roughness, leading to an enhanced cracking resistance. At the same time, the refinement of the grains will make the feeding channel of the grain boundary shorter and easy to feed, and the fine equiaxed grains can coordinate stress-strain during solidification more effectively than coarse columnar grains, which will decrease the cracking tendency.
In Situ Synchrotron Radiation Diffraction Study of Compression of AZ91 Composites Reinforced with Recycled Carbon Fibres
Authors: Mance Sophie , Dieringa Hajo , Bohlen Jan , Gavras Sarkis , Stark Andreas , Schell Norbert , Pereira da Silva João , Tolnai Domonkos
Published: October 2022

Lightweight structural materials are increasingly sought after in the automotive and aerospace industries for their potential to improve fuel efficiency. Magnesium-based metal-matrix composites are potential candidates for these kinds of applications. The use of recycled carbon fibres offers further energy and cost savings. The recycled carbon fibre composites were manufactured by stir casting with high-dispersion shearing, then were extruded and subsequently heat treated. The compressive deformation mechanisms of the composites compared to AZ91 were investigated using in situ synchrotron radiation diffraction. An increase in ultimate compressive strength was achieved in the composites compared to AZ91. The deformation mechanisms active in the composites were similar to those in AZ91. Magnesium alloys in compression typically show extensive twinning; this was observed in AZ91 and the AZ91 composites. The stress required for twinning onset was increased in the composites, and the twin volume fraction at failure was decreased compared to AZ91.
Genetic Assessment of Remnant Sub-Populations of Sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus Linnaeus, 1758) in the Upper Danube
Authors: Friedrich Thomas , Lieckfeldt Dietmar , Ludwig Arne
Published: October 2022

While the potamodromous sterlet was common in the past throughout the Upper Danube in Germany and Austria, it nearly vanished in the second half of the 20th century. Until recently, only one small and isolated reproductive sub-population is known from the German–Austrian border. However, isolated remnants in another section downstream of Vienna, near the Austrian–Slovakian border, were discovered in 2014. An assessment of the population size is one of the most important prerequisites for conservation management. This study aims to assess the population sizes at both sites, using genetic pedigrees and comparison to mark–recapture data. A total of 193 samples collected from these populations between 2011 and 2021 have been investigated. In addition, 59 samples from captive stocks, 38 wild fish from downstream, and 247 genetic profiles from previous studies were used for comparison. Results show close relationships and intermittent reproduction on one site. Estimated populations based upon genetic pedigree are very small, and are consistent with mark–recapture results. Small population sizes of remnant populations have only limited, sporadic reproduction, as well as continual losses to outmigration support conservation actions for sturgeons in the Upper Danube, including the restoration of functional migration corridors.
Checklist, Red List, and Distribution Pattern of Charophytes (Charophyceae, Charales) in Slovakia Based on Critical Revision of Herbarium Specimens
Authors: Hindáková Alica , Gąbka Maciej , Hrivnák Richard
Published: October 2022

A critical revision of charophytes collected in Slovakia from 1887 up to present, based on herbaria specimens, provided us with the opportunity to compile an updated checklist and to revaluate their threat status in order to obtain the current red list of charophytes of Slovakia. The data obtained will fill the gap in knowledge about these macroscopic algae in Central Europe. The revised list of charophytes includes 19 representatives of three genera: Chara (11), Nitella (7), and Nitellopsis (1). Following the latest IUCN red-list categories and criteria (version 3.1) and using the modified category regionally extinct (RE), derived from the category extinct (EX), 36.8% of charophytes are classified as RE (Chara connivens, C. subspinosa (=rudis), Nitella capillaris, N. confervacea, N. flexilis, N. gracilis, and N. opaca); 21% as EN (endangered; Chara braunii, Nitella mucronata, N. syncarpa, and Nitellopsis obtusa); 21% as VU (vulnerable; Chara contraria, C. gymnophylla, C. hispida, and C. virgata); 10.6% as NT (near-threatened; Chara globularis, C. vulgaris); and 5.3% as CR (critically endangered; Chara canescens) species; finally, 5.3% species could not be assessed (DD; Chara aspera).
Is the Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus Funneliformis mosseae a Suitable Agent to Control Criconematid Populations?
Authors: Manteghi Amir , Danesh Younes Rezaee , Hesar Abbas Mokaram , Demir Semra , Boyno Gökhan , Catani Linda , Semprucci Federica
Published: October 2022

Several studies have shown the potential of using mycorrhizal fungi in increasing the plant yield by simultaneously reducing damages caused by pathogens. Plant parasitic nematodes (PPNs) are among the most feared pathogens for crops. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Funneliformis mosseae as a mycorrhizal fungus on the population abundance of three world widespread species of nematodes from the family Criconematidae: Mesocriconema xenoplax, Mesocriconema antipolitanum, and Criconemides informis. Pure and highly abundant populations of each species were collected from Urmia city in Northwestern Iran, after the identification morphological and morphometric characteristics. The experiments were carried out in greenhouse conditions on three different rhizospheres of alfalfa, sugar beet, and wheat. After five months, the final population of nematodes and fungus, and the root surface on host plants inoculated and non-inoculated with the fungus F. mosseae, were evaluated. The results showed that the population of nematodes was increased in the presence of the fungus. It could be assumed that the extension of the host surface level of roots by the fungus resulted in more feeding sites for nematode activity and, consequently, higher population densities. In this study, the fungus did not seem to play a suitable role in controlling ectoparasitic nematode growth. However, since there are still many open questions about mycorrhizal fungi’s role in agriculture, more research should be conducted.
A Demonstration of DNA Barcoding-Based Identification of Blade-Form Ulva (Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta) Species from Three Site in the San Juan Islands, Washington, USA
Authors: Kuba Gabrielle M. , Carpio-Aguilar Brenda , Eklund Jason , Freshwater D. Wilson
Published: October 2022

Marine macroalgae are foundation species that play a critical ecological role in coastal communities as primary producers. The macroalgal genus Ulva is vital in intertidal communities, serving as a food source and shelter for organisms, but these species also form environment-damaging nuisance blooms. This project aimed to demonstrate the utility of DNA barcoding for determining the diversity of Ulva species in the San Juan Islands (Washington, DC, USA). Blade-form Ulva (Ulvophyceae) specimens were collected from the lower, mid, and upper intertidal zones at three sites experiencing different levels of wave exposure. Sequences of plastid-encoded tufA were generated for each specimen and cluster analyses revealed the presence of four species at the collection sites. Two species were positively identified as Ulva expansa and Ulva fenestrata based on their sharing identical tufA sequences with those of the holotype specimens. Sequences of plastid-encoded rbcL and the nuclear-encoded ribosomal ITS regions of representative specimens were used to identify the other two species as Ulva prolifera and Ulva californica based on their similarity to epitype and topotype specimen sequences, respectively. Additional types of specimen sequencing efforts are needed to increase the number of Ulva species that can be accurately identified and realize their true biodiversity.
Glucocorticoid Receptor Blockers Pretreatment Did Not Improve Infarct Volume in Type-2 Diabetic Mouse Model of Stroke
Authors: Kumari Rashmi , Willing Lisa
Published: October 2022

Impaired glucocorticoid signaling in diabetes mellitus and its relation to suppressed immune function and hyperglycemia during acute stroke has been shown to be detrimental. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of glucocorticoid receptor (GCR) blockers in a type-2 diabetic mouse model following hypoxia–ischemia (HI). We induced stroke in diabetic db/db and non-diabetic db/+ mice by unilateral common carotid artery ligation followed by 20 min of HI. Mice were pretreated with RU-486, GCRII blocker (40 mg/kg), intraperitoneally, the day before, during stroke and post-HI. Blood and brain samples were collected at 24 h post-HI to measure blood glucose, corticosterone and infarct size. Similarly, another set of mice was pretreated with RU-486 + spironolactone, GCR1 blocker (25 mg/kg) subcutaneously for a week before inducing stroke and during recovery. Samples were collected at 48 h post-HI for various analyses. RU-486 treatment did not lower the blood glucose significantly, but RU-486 + spironolactone decreased the blood glucose in db/db mice post-HI. However, none of the treatment groups decreased the ischemia-induced serum corticosterone level or infarct size. This study suggests that even though GCR blockers improve hyperglycemia, they did not improve the infarct volume.
Construction and Validation of Mortality Risk Nomograph Model for Severe/Critical Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Cheng Li , Bai Wen-Hui , Yang Jing-Jing , Chou Peng , Ning Wan-Shan , Cai Qiang , Zhou Chen-Liang
Published: October 2022

Objective: A nomograph model of mortality risk for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was established and validated. Methods: We collected the clinical medical records of patients with severe/critical COVID-19 admitted to the eastern campus of Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2020 to May 2020 and to the north campus of Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, from April 2022 to June 2022. We assigned 254 patients to the former group, which served as the training set, and 113 patients were assigned to the latter group, which served as the validation set. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariable logistic regression were used to select the variables and build the mortality risk prediction model. Results: The nomogram model was constructed with four risk factors for patient mortality following severe/critical COVID-19 (≥3 basic diseases, APACHE II score, urea nitrogen (Urea), and lactic acid (Lac)) and two protective factors (percentage of lymphocyte (L%) and neutrophil-to-platelets ratio (NPR)). The area under the curve (AUC) of the training set was 0.880 (95% confidence interval (95%CI), 0.837~0.923) and the AUC of the validation set was 0.814 (95%CI, 0.705~0.923). The decision curve analysis (DCA) showed that the nomogram model had high clinical value. Conclusion: The nomogram model for predicting the death risk of patients with severe/critical COVID-19 showed good prediction performance, and may be helpful in making appropriate clinical decisions for high-risk patients.
Rupture of an Aneurysmal Arteriovenous Fistula in an In Situ Vein Bypass
Authors: Daly Hafedh , Horchani Amira
Published: October 2022

We report a case of rupture of an aneurysm on a residual arteriovenous fistula, five years after a femoral to posterior tibial artery bypass for critical ischemia of the right lower limb. This is a 48-year-old patient admitted to the emergency room for hemorrhagic shock following a rupture of a varicose bundle at the level of the posterior surface of the right thigh. The CT angiography confirmed the presence of multiple residual arteriovenous fistulas, which became aneurysmal. The exclusion of the latter by ligature-section made it possible to stop the hemorrhage while preserving the bypass.
EVAE-Net: An Ensemble Variational Autoencoder Deep Learning Network for COVID-19 Classification Based on Chest X-ray Images
Authors: Addo Daniel , Zhou Shijie , Jackson Jehoiada Kofi , Nneji Grace Ugochi , Monday Happy Nkanta , Sarpong Kwabena , Patamia Rutherford Agbeshi , Ekong Favour , Owusu-Agyei Christyn Akosua
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on many lives and the economies of many countries since late December 2019. Early detection with high accuracy is essential to help break the chain of transmission. Several radiological methodologies, such as CT scan and chest X-ray, have been employed in diagnosing and monitoring COVID-19 disease. Still, these methodologies are time-consuming and require trial and error. Machine learning techniques are currently being applied by several studies to deal with COVID-19. This study exploits the latent embeddings of variational autoencoders combined with ensemble techniques to propose three effective EVAE-Net models to detect COVID-19 disease. Two encoders are trained on chest X-ray images to generate two feature maps. The feature maps are concatenated and passed to either a combined or individual reparameterization phase to generate latent embeddings by sampling from a distribution. The latent embeddings are concatenated and passed to a classification head for classification. The COVID-19 Radiography Dataset from Kaggle is the source of chest X-ray images. The performances of the three models are evaluated. The proposed model shows satisfactory performance, with the best model achieving 99.19% and 98.66% accuracy on four classes and three classes, respectively.
Low Levels of Vitamin D and Silent Myocardial Ischemia in Type 2 Diabetes: Clinical Correlations and Prognostic Significance
Authors: Rossi Rosario , Talarico Marisa , Pascale Alessandra , Pascale Vittorio , Minici Roberto , Boriani Giuseppe
Published: October 2022

Vitamin D deficiency has a pathogenetic and prognostic role in coronary artery disease and a key role in pain transmission. Diabetic patients have a higher risk of silent myocardial ischemia (SMI) due to diabetic neuropathy. We evaluated the correlation between SMI and Vitamin D serum levels in type 2 diabetic patients and assessed whether SMI patients had a worse survival rate than their symptomatic counterpart. We enrolled 253 patients admitted in our Cardiology Unit and compared them with 50 healthy volunteers. We created three sub-groups: symptomatic MI group (125, 32.4%); SMI group (78, 25.7%), and no-MI group (50, 41.9%). 25(OH)D levels (nmol/L) were lower in the SMI group (34.9 ± 5.8) compared to those in the symptomatic MI (49.6 ± 6.1; p = 0.01), no MI (53.1 ± 6.2; p = 0.001), and control groups (62.1 ± 6.7; p = 0.0001). 25(OH)D levels predicted SMI in diabetic patients, with an inverted odds ratio of 1.11 (p = 0.01). Symptomatic MI group survival was higher than the SMI one (6-year survival rate: 83 vs. 69%; p = 0.01). Diabetic patients with SMI had a higher mortality risk and showed lower 25(OH)D levels than the symptomatic group. This suggests the crucial role that vitamin D has in the pathogenesis of SMI.
In Vivo Oral Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping by Near-Infrared Fluorescent Methylene Blue in Rats
Authors: Wu Yu-Xiao , Mao Qian-Ying , Kang Yi-Fan , Xie Shang , Shan Xiao-Feng , Cai Zhi-Gang
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging using methylene blue (MB) for detecting oral sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in rats and compared MB’s tracer effects with those of indocyanine green (ICG) in SLN mapping. Different concentrations of MB were injected into the rats’ left lingual submucosa to determine the optimal concentration by using a continuous (1 h) MI-1 fluorescence imaging system. To compare the tracer effects of the optimal MB concentration with ICG in oral SLN mapping, MI-1 imaging was continuously monitored for 12 h. The mean signal-to-background ratio (SBR) of the SLNs and SLN fluorescence area fraction were analyzed. SLNs and lymphatic vessels were clearly visible in all rats. The optimal injection dose of MB infected into lingual submucosa for NIR fluorescence imaging was 0.2 mL of 6.68 mM MB. During continuous monitoring for 12 h, the mean SBR of the SLNs was significantly higher in the ICG groups than in the MB groups (p < 0.001). However, the area fraction of SLN fluorescence in the ICG groups increased continuously, owing to strong fluorescent contamination. This study examined the feasibility of detection of draining lymph nodes in the oral cavity of rats using MB NIR fluorescence imaging. MB causes less fluorescent contamination than does ICG, which shows promise for clinical research and application.
Utility of Superb Microvascular Imaging in the Assessment of Foot Perfusion in Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Suto Yuta , Sato Wakana , Yamanaka Takayuki , Unuma Mayu , Kobayashi Yuki , Aokawa Mako , Watanabe Hiroyuki
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Although the ankle–brachial index (ABI) and skin perfusion pressure (SPP) are commonly used to evaluate the peripheral circulation in critical limb ischemia (CLI), they often cannot be performed on sore areas. We investigated the utility of superb microvascular imaging (SMI) for assessing foot perfusion in CLI patients. (2) Methods: We measured the SMI-based vascular index (SMI-VI) at six sites in the foot before and after endovascular treatment (EVT) in 50 patients with CLI who underwent EVT of the superficial femoral artery and compared the results with SPP values and the ABI. (3) Results: SMI visualized foot perfusion in all subjects in accordance with the angiosome, including the toe areas, while the ABI was unmeasurable in three patients on hemodialysis and SPP failed in four patients. SMI-VI values were significantly lower in the CLI group than in controls, and the plantar SMI-VI had the highest diagnostic performance for CLI (sensitivity 88.6%, specificity 95.6%). After EVT, the increase in the SMI-VI was positively correlated with the increase in SPP but not that in the ABI, implying that the SMI-VI reflects foot microcirculation. (4) Conclusions: SMI enables the visualization and quantification of foot microcirculation based on the angiosome. SMI has high utility as a tool for assessing foot perfusion in CLI.
Pre-Conceptual Guidelines for Men: A Review of Male Infertility Experience, including Nutrition and Lifestyle Factors
Authors: Bold Justine , Swinburne David
Published: October 2022

Male fertility is declining and affects approximately one in seven couples. Reasons for this are multi-factorial and the subject of on-going research, though environmental contaminants (such xenoestrogens) are believed to be contributory factors. Semen parameters can be improved through a healthy diet and nutritional supplementation has also been shown to improve semen parameters, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates significantly. Despite this, in medical care dietary modification beyond alcohol reduction is rarely recommended. The aim of this review was to consider the psychosocial impacts of infertility in males whilst assessing other nutritional and lifestyle interventions that can be used in personalized nutrition care. More tailored nutrition care needs to consider this and the taboo surrounding the male infertility experience. A systematic approach was used. Three electronic databases (CINAHL, Medline and Academic Search Complete) were searched using predetermined Boolean search terms and identified 125 papers for review. Hand searches were undertaken to ensure recent evidence was included. Duplicates were removed and predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Narrative synthesis was used for review and to develop preconceptual guidelines. Review data indicates dietary modification or supplementation with antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, selenium, carnitine and zinc have been shown to improve markers of male fertility and reduce markers of seminal oxidative damage. Also, a Mediterranean style diet is also associated with higher quality sperm counts. Weight loss is beneficial in terms of normalizing endocrine profiles but at present it is not possible to determine if this is the effect of weight loss alone, or the combined effect of weight loss alongside other dietary improvement. Further research is therefore needed to understand the role of the many potential confounding factors. Despite this, infertility is emotionally challenging for men and nutrition, and personalised nutrition and lifestyle therapies have potential to support men trying to conceive. Pre-conceptual nutrition and lifestyle guidelines for men have been developed from this review and the use should be considered as the basis for more tailored nutrition care in practice.