bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Praeruptorin A inhibits the activation of NF‐κB pathway and the expressions of inflammatory factors in poly (I:C)‐induced RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Hu Jiayan , Liu Roujun , Yang Zhouxin , Pan Xinyu , Li Yuanjing , Gong Yanghui , Guo Dongyang
Published: July 2023

Praeruptorin A (PA), a natural coumarin compound, has significant anti‐inflammatory effects. In this study, we evaluate the anti‐inflammatory effect of PA on RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages induced by Polyinosinic acid‐polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)). RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages induced by poly (I:C) were treated with or without PA, the viability of which was determined to screen working solution of PA. RNA‐sequencing was applied to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were carried out. The expressions of interleukin (IL)‐1β, heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1), prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), ATP binding cassette subfamily A member 1 (Abca1) and NF‐κB‐related proteins were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot. As a result, PA at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 μM slightly affected cell viability, while PA at 6 and 7 μM significantly inhibited cell viability. GO and KEGG analysis results revealed that DEGs were mainly enriched in the pathways related to inflammatory signaling. Through further analysis, we obtained five possible targets of PA, and verified that PA inhibited the expressions of IL‐1β, HMOX1, PTGS2 and Abca1 as well as the activation of NF‐κB pathway in poly (I:C)‐induced RAW264.7 cells. To summarize, PA may inhibit expressions of the inflammation‐related genes in poly (I:C)‐induced RAW264.7 cells, which demonstrates its potential as a drug against virus related diseases.
Genetic and phenotypic diversities of nevus spilus phenotypes: Case series and a proposed diagnostic algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jia , Xu Qianyue , Deng Dan
Published: July 2023

Nevus spilus (NS) is composed of multiple types that characterized by a congenital hyperpigmented patch within variable even superimposed lesions originating from melanocytic lineage cells. The molecular mechanism and classification of diverse NS phenotypes remain unclear. Five children with a phenotype of NS were genotyped by the panel based on next‐generation sequencing in this study. DNA from biopsies, blood samples and hair follicle were sequenced to confirm the presence of a somatic mutation. Sequencing results indicated somatic mutation in the gene of NRAS or HRAS in all biopsies from the nevi, and the pathogenic variants were not detected in the samples of blood and hair follicle. This study successfully identified the somatic mutation in five unrelated children with diverse NS phenotypes. Moreover, it provided typical images and differential diagnoses between variable NS phenotypes in clinical, pathological, and genetic features, and first proposed a clinical diagnostic algorithm that contributed to simplifying and optimizing the diagnoses and management of these overlapped diseases.
Clinical covariates that improve the description of high dose methotrexate pharmacokinetics in a diverse population to inform MTXPK.org
Authors: Taylor Zachary L. , Miller Tamara P. , Poweleit Ethan A. , DeGroote Nicholas P. , Pommert Lauren , Awoniyi Oluwafunbi , Board Sarah G. , Ugboh Ngozi , Joshi Vivek , Ambrosino Nick , Chavana Ashley , Bernhardt Melanie B. , Schafer Eric S. , O'Brien Maureen M. , Castellino Sharon M. , Ramsey Laura B.
Published: July 2023

The MTXPK.org webtool was launched in December 2019 and was developed to facilitate model‐informed supportive care and optimal use of glucarpidase following the administration of high‐dose methotrexate (HDMTX). One limitation identified during the original development of the MTXPK.org tool was the perceived generalizability because the modeled population comprised solely of Nordic pediatric patients receiving 24‐h infusions for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The goal of our study is to describe the pharmacokinetics of HDMTX from a diverse patient population (e.g., races, ethnicity, indications for methotrexate, and variable infusion durations) and identify meaningful factors that account for methotrexate variability and improve the model's performance. To do this, retrospectively analyzed pharmacokinetic and toxicity data from pediatric and adolescent young adult patients who were receiving HDMTX (>0.5 g/m2) for the treatment of a cancer diagnosis from three pediatric medical centers. We performed population pharmacokinetic modeling referencing the original MTXPK.org NONMEM model (includes body surface area and serum creatinine as covariates) on 1668 patients, 7506 administrations of HDMTX, and 30,250 concentrations. Our results support the parameterizations of short infusion duration (<8 h) and the presence of Down syndrome on methotrexate clearance, the parameterization of severe hypoalbuminemia (<2.5 g/dL) on the intercompartmental clearance (Q2 and Q3), and the parameterization of pleural effusion on the volume of distribution (V1 and V2). These novel parameterizations will increase the generalizability of the MTXPK.org model once they are added to the webtool.
Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in skin surgery – Position paper of the Antibiotic Stewardship working group of the German Society for Dermatologic Surgery (DGDC), Part 2: Special indications and situations
Authors: Balakirski Galina , Becker Sören L. , Hartmann Daniela , Kofler Lukas , Kunte Christian , Müller Cornelia S. L. , Volz Thomas , Kendziora Benjamin , Schlager Justin Gabriel , Löser Christoph R.
Published: July 2023

In addition to prevention of surgical site infections after skin surgery, perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) aims to prevent the occurrence of other postoperative infectious complications, especially bacterial endocarditis and hematogenous joint prosthesis infections. This article discusses specific indications for the use of PAP. For example, patients who have undergone any type of heart valve replacement, including transcatheter valve replacement or use of prosthetic material to correct the heart valve, or patients who have experienced bacterial endocarditis, require PAP during skin surgery on mucosal membranes or ulcerated tumors.

The use of PAP in special situations such as secondary wound healing, septic dermatosurgery or ulcer surgery is also presented and discussed in detail in this paper based on the current scientific literature. This paper represents the second part of the position paper of the Antibiotic Stewardship Working Group of the German Society for Dermatologic Surgery (DGDC) and summarizes evidence‐based recommendations for the administration of PAP during skin surgery for special indications and situations. This is particularly important because, as detailed in Part 1 of this position paper, PAP can and usually should be avoided in skin surgery.
Spatial bias in anti‐saccade endpoints following bilateral dorsal posterior parietal lesions
Authors: Ouerfelli‐Ethier Julie , Fournet Romain , Khan Aarlenne Z. , Pisella Laure
Published: July 2023

Anti‐saccades are eye movements in which the saccade is executed in the opposite direction of a visual target and are often hypometric. Because the visual target and saccade goal are decoupled, it has been suggested that competition between the two locations occurs and needs to be resolved. It has been hypothesized that the hypometria of anti‐saccades reflects this spatial competition by revealing a bias towards the visual target. To confirm that this hypometria is not simply due to reduced gain, we tested 10 healthy subjects on three different anti‐saccade spatial configuration tasks: 90° away across hemifields, 90° away within the same hemifield and 180° away (classic, diagonally opposite). Specifically, we examined whether saccade endpoints showed evidence for the visual target location's interference with anti‐saccade programming and execution processes. Among other neural substrates involved in anti‐saccades production, the dorsal posterior parietal cortex (PPC) has been implicated in the spatial inhibition of contralateral visual target. To gain insight into the neural processes involved in spatial competition during anti‐saccades, we also tested one patient with a bilateral dorsal PPC lesion. In all spatial configurations, we observed that anti‐saccade endpoints demonstrated a spatial bias towards the visual target for all participants, likely due to an incomplete inhibition of the visual target location. This spatial bias was exacerbated in our patient, which suggests that the dorsal PPC contributes to the amalgamation of the two competing spatial representations.
Roles of Korean mothers' child‐based self‐worth and psychological control in child outcomes
Authors: Kyeong Yena , Seol Kyoung Ok , Park Ji‐Eun , Varghese Agnes M.
Published: July 2023

Objective

We investigated the implications of Korean mothers' tendency to gain self‐worth from their children's achievements (i.e., child‐based self‐worth) for child outcomes.

Background

We tested the role of psychological control in mediating the link between mothers' child‐based self‐worth and child outcomes. The moderating roles of contextual (i.e., school levels) and child characteristics (i.e., perceived maternal sacrifice) in this process were examined.

Method

Mothers and their children in elementary (n = 162) and in middle and high school (n = 172) were recruited. Mothers reported on their child‐based self‐worth and psychological control, and children reported on their perception of maternal sacrifice and their depression and hyperactivity.

Results

Mothers' child‐based self‐worth predicted psychological control, which in turn, related to children's depression and hyperactivity. The link between maternal child‐based self‐worth and psychological control was stronger in the middle and high school sample. Children's perceived sacrifice attenuated the effects of psychological control on child outcomes.

Conclusion

Middle and high school (vs. elementary) mothers with high child‐based self‐worth may be more vulnerable to exhibiting controlling parenting. The relationship between maternal child‐based self‐worth and child outcomes may vary by contextual and child characteristics.

Implications

Findings denote the implications of parenting behaviors derived from parents' self‐concerns in child outcomes, as well as the role of children in parenting processes.
The behavior of anisotropic fatigue short crack initiation and propagation for a directionally solidified superalloy CM247LC at room temperature
Authors: Tan Yuanguo , Octaviani Sari , Gao Nong , Reed Philippa A. S.
Published: July 2023

The effects of mechanical and microstructural anisotropy on short fatigue crack initiation and propagation behaviors of a directionally solidified superalloy have been studied. An unusual result was found where the fatigue lives of specimens with grains longitudinally aligned along the loading direction fail at lower lifetimes than specimens with transversely loaded grains when the applied stress is close to the yield stress. This is mainly attributed to the lower Young's modulus of the longitudinal specimen, which induces more local plastic strain (at stress concentration features) leading to earlier crack initiation and faster crack propagation under the applied test stress.
Physical characteristics, acceptability and biochemical properties of biscuits using Decalepis hamiltonii tuber extract as a natural flavouring agent
Authors: ML Sudha , K Umashankar , K Ashwath Kumar , P Giridhar , P Prabhasankar
Published: July 2023

Decalepis hamiltonii natural flavour extract, an endemic flavour was first time used in food processing in biscuit formulation. 2‐hydroxy 4‐methoxybenzaldehyde (2H4MB), a structural isomer of vanillin is the major flavour‐attributing compound used. During the study, aqueous (6%–12%), and ethanolic (0.5%–2%) extracts, which are reported to be rich in flavour metabolites, and having antioxidan activity were used.  These extracts were added at different concentrations and the physical, sensory, and biochemical properties of biscuits were evaluated along with bioactive retention. The breaking force required to break the +ve Control biscuit was 873 g force and was in the range between 916 and 988 g force for the biscuits with either of the tuber extracts. The biscuits made of ethanol extract have shown lighter colour with a low L value (61.84–58.36) compared to aqueous extract (63.67–56.87). Biscuit samples made with both aqueous and ethanol extracts showed good retention of bioactive compounds. However, the biscuit formulation with 1% ethanol extract showed good sensory (mouthfeel (8.7), flavour (8.6), and taste (8.6)) and in vitroantioxidant potential (11.6 ± 0.1 mg−1 100 g AAE) among formulations. The flavour metabolite in biscuits made of both extracts was quantified using HPLC and determined in range between 1 and 3 μg/g and compound presence is confirmed with mass spectrosocpy. With the present observations, we can infer that D. hamiltonii natural flavour extract can be used as an alternative to synthetic flavour in biscuit formulation.
Comparison of immune responses in children with infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein–Barr virus at different infection stages
Authors: Chen Bing , Han Ning , Gao Ling‐yu , Zhou Ting‐dong , Zhang Hao , He Pei , Zhou Qiang
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Infectious mononucleosis (IM) is a common infectious disease in children mainly caused by Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, followed by abnormal immune response, and resulting in serious complications. However, there are few clinical analyses of immune responses in children with IM at different stages.

Methods

This study combined EBV serological test and EBV DNA test to diagnose the infection status of children with IM, and the infection status was divided into primary acute IM infection (AIM), primary late IM infection (LIM) and reactivation IM infection (RIM).

Results

The results revealed that the absolute numbers of leukocytes and CD8+ T lymphocytes in primary IM infection were significantly higher than those in reactivation infection, while the frequencies of CD4+ T lymphocytes and B cells were significantly lower than those in reactivation infection. In addition, the activities of ALT, AST, α‐HBDH and LDH in liver function indicators in primary infection were significantly increased compared with reactivation infection. Similarly, the EBV DNA levels of the primary infection were significantly higher than that of the reactivation infection.

Conclusion

There are differences in immune response at different stages of infection, which can provide guidance for effective treatment in children with IM infection.
Toward non‐invasive collection methods for sampling the microbiome of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Travis Dorothy Jeanette , Bradbury Joanne , Benkendorff Kirsten
Published: July 2023

Identifying the microbiome within chronic diabetic foot ulcers is essential if effective antimicrobial therapies are to be administered. Using culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the aim of this study was to compare the microbiome of paired tissue scraping samples with swab samples, collected from participants during attendance at a high‐risk foot clinic. The mean richness of cultured swab and tissue scraping samples was consistent, with anaerobes infrequently isolated from both sample types. Comparing percentage frequencies of detection of selected genera of known and potential pathogens namely Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Corynebacterium, Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas from cultured and sequenced swab and tissue scrapings indicated that both collection methods captured varying percentages of all the selected genera. The mean abundance of sequenced samples was not significantly different between swabs and tissue scrapings. The mean richness or number of distinct operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and Shannon's H diversity index were not significantly different between the two collection methods. The mean relative abundance of the selected genera of known and potential pathogens, including anaerobes Anaerococcus and Finegoldia, was higher in swabs compared with tissue scrapings and significantly so in Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas genera. Multivariate analyses confirmed no significant differences between the bacterial community compositions of the paired samples. These results suggest that tissue scrapings and swabs can effectively capture the microbiome of chronic DFUs using culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
The environmental performance of plastic packaging waste management in Germany: Current and future key factors
Authors: Schmidt Sarah , Laner David
Published: July 2023

Plastic is a popular packaging material, but also criticized as a symbol for the make‐use‐dispose economy because of its short lifespan, its dependency on fossil fuels, and its potential contribution to marine litter. To identify current and potential future key factors for the environmental performance of plastic packaging waste (PPW) management in Germany, a life cycle assessment considering five different pathways of PPW (including deposit‐refund systems, separately collected lightweight packaging waste, and treatment of non‐source‐separated residual waste) was performed. The analysis related to the year 2017 and also considered prospective changes in the background system until 2050 by adapting inventories to shared socioeconomic pathways in line with the Paris Agreement. Key factors for the environmental performance were determined by perturbation analysis. Source separation, quality and quantity of recycled plastics, and emissions from the thermal utilization of residues were identified as key factors for the environmental performance of PPW management. While benefits of PPW management are expected to decrease due to prospective system changes, source separation and the separation of plastics from residual waste gain in importance. Potential measures for improving the environmental performance should focus on long‐term key factors, especially separating PPW from the residual waste (in households or in waste treatment facilities) as well as increasing the quantities and qualities of recycled plastics. The present study showed that the evaluation of system performance in view of changing boundary conditions is key to identify optimal configurations of future PPW management.
Transforming existing local ecosystems to circular economy ecosystems for plastics: The case of the PlastiCity ecosystem
Authors: Litaudon Virginie , Chen Yiran
Published: July 2023

This paper discusses the transition toward a circular economy ecosystem (CEE) for plastics by assessing and mapping existing ecosystems and coordinating efforts among ecosystem actors. The PlastiCity ecosystem is used as a case study. The study employs ecosystem analysis and mapping to identify the new activities and actors needed to transition toward a CEE. These include local and eco‐friendly transportation, plastic recycling knowledge management, and upgrading the existing recycling infrastructure. The findings emphasize the significance of the joint orchestration of ecosystem actors facilitated by an ecosystem coordinator and knowledge team to achieve a CEE. It presents a tangible and feasible approach to achieving a local plastic CEE. The policymakers are encouraged to support collaborative orchestration efforts among ecosystem actors and establish knowledge management practices that facilitate ecosystem transitions.
Reexamining health messages in the political age: The politicization of the COVID‐19 pandemic and its detrimental effects on vaccine hesitancy
Authors: Kareklas Ioannis , Bhattacharya Devipsita , Muehling Darrel D. , Kisekka Victoria
Published: July 2023

Our work investigates the extent to which the politicization of health science may have impacted consumers' vaccine hesitancy during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This inter‐disciplinary, multi‐method manuscript reports the results of three empirical investigations designed to examine how the consumers' political leanings and the sources they rely on for information might influence their decisions to receive a COVID‐19 vaccine. We explore how radically opposing viewpoints regarding the pandemic may have eroded public trust in government institutions and health science during the months leading up to the 2020 U.S. presidential election. In addition, we examine how consumers with opposing political leanings may be differentially influenced by promotional messages that represent the two dominant contrasting viewpoints regarding the COVID‐19 pandemic. Importantly, we find that low vaccine‐hesitant Trump voters can be successfully targeted for pro‐vaccination interventions using highly credible spokespeople, perceived to have high levels of expertise and trustworthiness.
The Association between Religious Discrimination and Health: Disaggregating by Types of Discrimination Experiences, Religious Tradition, and Forms of Health
Authors: Scheitle Christopher P. , Frost Jacqui , Ecklund Elaine Howard
Published: July 2023

Research finds that experiences of religious discrimination are often associated with poorer health outcomes. However, there remain important questions to consider gaps, including whether religious discrimination has similar health impacts on religious minority groups and religious majority groups, whether religious discrimination is equally harmful for both mental and physical health, and whether specific types of discrimination have different impacts on health. Using survey data from a probability sample of U.S. adults and measures representing a variety of discrimination experience types, our analyses suggest that religious discrimination is indeed harmful for health, but that experiences of religious discrimination do not universally affect mental and physical health in the same ways. Rather than significant differences in the health impacts of religious discrimination across different religious groups, we find more variation in the health impacts of different types of experiences with discrimination. Further, we find that mental health is negatively impacted by a wider range of experiences with religious discrimination than physical health. These findings are in line with social psychological research on the differential health impacts of discrimination, and they highlight the importance of context in studies of the health effects of religious discrimination.
A threshold for mitotic activity and post‐surgical residual volume defines distinct prognostic groups for astrocytoma IDH‐mutant
Authors: Tran Suzanne , Thomas Alice , Aliouat Ilyes , Karachi Carine , Lozano Fernando , Mokhtari Karima , Dehais Caroline , Feuvret Loïc , Carpentier Catherine , Giry Marine , Doukani Abiba , Lerond Julie , Marie Yannick , Sanson Marc , Idbaih Ahmed , Carpentier Alexandre , Hoang‐Xuan Khê , Touat Mehdi , Capelle Laurent , Bielle Franck
Published: July 2023

Aims

The distinction between CNS WHO grade 2 and grade 3 is instrumental in choosing between observational follow‐up and adjuvant treatment for resected astrocytomas IDH‐mutant. However, the criteria of CNS WHO grade 2 vs 3 have not been updated since the pre‐IDH era.

Methods

Maximal mitotic activity in consecutive high‐power fields corresponding to 3 mm2 was examined for 118 lower‐grade astrocytomas IDH‐mutant. The prognostic value for time‐to‐treatment (TTT) and overall survival (OS) of mitotic activity and other putative prognostic factors (including age, performance status, pre‐surgical tumour volume, multilobar involvement, post‐surgical residual tumour volume and midline involvement) was assessed for tumours with ATRX loss and the absence of CDKN2A homozygous deletion or CDK4 amplification, contrast enhancement, histological necrosis and microvascular proliferation.

Results

Seventy‐one per cent of the samples had <6 mitoses per 3 mm2. Mitotic activity, residual volume and multilobar involvement were independent prognostic factors of TTT. The threshold of ≥6 mitoses per 3 mm2 identified patients with a shorter TTT (median 18.5 months). A residual volume ≥1 cm3 also identified patients with a shorter TTT (median 24.5 months). The group defined by <6 mitoses per 3 mm2 and a residual volume <1 cm3 had the longest TTT (median 73 months) and OS (100% survival at 7 years). These findings were confirmed in a validation cohort of 52 tumours.

Conclusions

Mitotic activity and post‐surgical residual volume can be combined to evaluate the prognosis for patients with resected astrocytomas IDH‐mutant. Patients with <6 mitoses per 3 mm2 and a residual volume <1 cm3 were the best candidates for observational follow‐up.
Characterization of Xanthomonas hortorum isolates causing leaf spot on Primula vulgaris
Authors: Shenavar Omid , Rahimian Heshmatolah , Barzegar Ali
Published: July 2023

The bacterial leaf spot of Primula vulgaris was reported from forest locations in Mazandaran province, Iran in 1995. The causative bacterium was initially identified as Xanthomonas campestris based on sequences of ITS and 16S rRNA regions. On the basis of sequences of gyrB and dnaK housekeeping genes, the isolates resembled strains of Xanthomonas hortorum. The present study was performed to clarify the taxonomic status of the incitant bacterium. Samples of P. vulgaris with leaf spot symptoms were collected from the Darabkola forest (Mazandaran province) and the bacterial strains were isolated on plates of glucose nutrient agar. Some isolates only induced hypersensitive reaction on geranium (Pelargonium × hortorum) leaves but a few isolates incited leaf spot symptoms when inoculated on P. vulgaris, P. heterochroma and P. × polyantha plants. The isolates were Gram stain, oxidase and urease negative but positive in tests for catalase and hydrolysis of gelatin, aesculin and Tween 80. Several unique nonpathogenic isolates were recovered with varying carbon source utilization profiles and different molecular features, including distinct ERIC‐PCR profiles. Representative gyrB, rpoD, dnaK and fyuA housekeeping genes were amplified by PCR and sequenced for comparison with Xanthomonas species in the GenBank database using maximum‐likelihood, maximum‐parsimony and Bayesian algorithms to construct phylogenetic trees. The pathogenic and nonpathogenic strains were closely related to X. hortorum pathovars. Therefore, it is likely that these isolates belong to a new pathovar of X. hortorum. Based on previous studies and our findings, we propose naming the strain causing primrose leaf spot as X. hortorum pv. primulicola.
Canine prostatic serum esterase and strain and 2D‐shear wave sonoelastography for evaluation of normal prostate in dogs: Preliminary results
Authors: Bucci Roberta , Del Signore Francesca , Vignoli Massimo , Felici Andrea , Russo Marco , Maresca Carmen , Carluccio Augusto
Published: July 2023

Canine prostatic serum esterase (CPSE) is considered a useful tool to identify prostate disorders in dogs, with increasing interest in ultrasound (US)‐based sonoelastography to non‐invasively detect prostate disorders. Since no report is available about a possible correlation between these diagnostic tools, we aimed to investigate a possible correlation between strain elastography (SE) and 2D‐shear wave elastography (SWE) and CPSE. Twenty‐one dogs were included and, on each animal, CPSE was evaluated followed by a complete US examination and SE and 2D‐SWE application. Healthy dogs were identified based on the CPSE results. All the dogs included were characterized by normal CPSE values (<52.3 ng/mL) and normal US prostate appearance. The prostate was characterized by intermediate stiffness with SE (pattern III – 84.7% for the left lobe and 79.27% for the right lobe) and softer than the abdominal wall (SR 0.6 for the left lobe and 0.56 for the right lobe), with low values for both m/s and kilopascals (kPa) for 2D‐SWE, pointing that the healthy tissue is not hard. 2D‐SWE results were, respectively, 13.51 ± 5.55 kPa and 2.31 ± 0.42 m/s for the left lobe and 18.05 ± 6.47 kPa and 2.39 ± 0.43 m/s for the right lobe. The significant difference between the right and left measurements expressed with kPa, not evidenced with m/s, can be considered indicative of m/s as the most reliable measurement to be considered regarding the prostate parenchyma. Even though no linear correlation was detected between CPSE and elastography values, these preliminary results evidence that the healthy prostates were characterized by a similar elastographic pattern, thus pointing that these techniques can be potentially useful to be applied in case of prostatic disorders to improve the accuracy of the final diagnosis in a non‐invasive way.
Comparing the efficacy of plasma exeresis and cryotherapy for the treatment of seborrheic keratosis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Noorbakhsh Maryam , Kalantari Yasamin , Ghasemi Erfan , Shokri Babak , Mahmoudi Hamidreza , Daneshpazhooh Maryam , Etesami Ifa , Khani Mohammadreza
Published: July 2023

Background

Seborrheic keratoses (SK) is a benign epithelial skin tumor and plasma exeresis is a new technique.

Aims

To compare the efficacy and safety of plasma exeresis and cryotherapy for treating SK.

Methods

This study is a randomized controlled trial (RCT). One side of each patient was randomly treated with plasma exeresis (peak‐to‐peak voltage of 3.44 kV and a frequency of 62.5 kHz) and the other side with cryotherapy.

Results

Thirty‐five males were enrolled. At week 3, 37.1 % (N = 13) of lesions treated by plasma exeresis were clear, which was higher than those treated by cryotherapy 17.1% (N = 6). However, this difference was not significant (p‐value: 0.06). At week 6, 16 (57.1 %) out of 28 remaining lesions, treated by plasma exeresis were clear, which was significantly higher (p‐value: 0.005) than those completely cleared by cryotherapy in 6 out of 29 remaining lesions (20.7%).

The mean physician assessment scale score was significantly reduced in both groups in the second follow‐up (plasma group first follow‐up 0.91 ± 0.89 vs. second follow‐up 0.5 ± 0.64 and p‐value: 0.0031; cryo group first follow‐up 1.4 ± 0.84 vs. second follow‐up 1.1 ± 0.72 and p‐value: 0.0002).

Regarding side effects, no significant difference was seen (p = 0.438). The most common complications in the plasma and cryotherapy groups were erythema (10/19, 52.63%) and hypo pigmentation (5/13, 38.46%).

Conclusions

Both cryotherapy and plasma exeresis are effective. We observed a significantly higher cleared lesions treated with plasma exeresis in 6 weeks and after two sessions.
Parametric Analysis and Multi-Objective Optimization for Energy-Efficient and High-Performance HVAC Air Filter Design and Selection
Authors: Al-Azba Mohammed , Mahgoub Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are notorious for their high energy consumption in buildings, particularly in regions with extreme cooling or heating demands. Air filters play a vital role in these systems, affecting both energy efficiency and indoor air quality. However, high-efficiency filters, due to their significant increase in airflow resistance, require excessive energy compared to low-efficiency filters. This poses a challenge in finding the optimal compromise between reducing energy consumption and enhancing indoor air quality. To address this challenge, a meticulous selection process is crucial in achieving a middle ground that satisfies both objectives. Proper sizing and design of air filters are therefore essential for successful HVAC projects. This paper introduces the utilization of optimization techniques as decision-support tools to determine the optimal design parameters of commonly used HVAC air filters under various scenarios. The developed model incorporates multiple objectives and design criteria, including life-cycle cost (LCC), filter size, and efficiency. By leveraging the differential evolution optimization technique, an algorithm is developed to forecast a range of optimal solutions (Pareto front) based on predefined system criteria and boundary conditions. The model is extensively tested and demonstrates exceptional performance in returning optimal solutions, in addition to the capability of narrowing down and converging to a single value. This methodology holds significant potential in assisting investment decisions concerning HVAC air filters, providing valuable insights for optimizing energy efficiency while ensuring satisfactory indoor air quality.
Implementation of Fracture and Flow Stress Models for AA5052-H32 Sheet Deformed Through Shock Tube–Based Forming Technique
Authors: Barik Saibal Kanchan , Ganesh Narayanan R. , Sahoo Niranjan
Published: July 2023

Selection of flow stress models and fracture models to model sheet deformation at high strain rates is of great concern. The same is attempted in the present work during shock tube impact forming of 1-mm-thick AA 5052-H32 sheet using a rigid nylon striker. Lab scale experiments and finite element simulations using DEFORM 3D are conducted for the purpose. Johnson–Cook flow stress model and Modified Johnson–Cook flow stress model along with fracture models like normalized Cockcroft and Latham model, Rice and Tracey model, Oyane model, and McClintock model are tested for their accuracy and consistency. The fracture strain and fracture pattern evaluation suggest that the modified Johnson–Cook flow stress model and Rice and Tracey fracture model are suitable for fracture prediction, and it is better to use these together for fracture evaluation. An alternate method of evaluating rate-dependent tensile properties of sheet at higher strain rates is proposed and delivered acceptable fracture prediction results. Finite element simulations using Hollomon power law predict a strain rate of 1925/s at a striker velocity of 49.79 m/s, which is in the range of values in literature for explosive forming. Systematic shock tube forming experiments for calibrating the fracture models are acceptable.
Semi-Analytical Model for 3D Multilayered Rolling Contact Problems With Different Creepage Combinations
Authors: Xi Yinhu , Li Bo , Almqvist Andreas
Published: July 2023

In this work, a semi-analytical model replicating 3D rolling contact problems with elastic coating layers has been proposed. The dimension reduced boundary element-based model rests on the conventional half-space assumptions, with influence coefficients describing the relationship between the stress and the displacement. In this model, the influence coefficient describes the stress–strain relationship for multilayered materials, which is derived from the corresponding frequency–response functions. The governing equations for 3D rolling contact problems are solved efficiently using the conjugate gradient method with the classical fast Fourier transformation (FFT)-based technique to accelerate the calculation of the integral equation relating the stresses to the strains, and all the possible creepages, i.e., the longitudinal, lateral, and spin creepages, are considered. The results obtained with the present numerical model are compared with existing results, and good agreement is found. Some selected results are presented to show the effect of the material elasticity and the thickness of the coating, and the layering, on the traction distribution and the traction coefficient under different creepage combinations. In this way, this work provides important information related to the composition of layered coatings in rolling contact applications.
A Practical Approach to Design for Quality
Authors: Abdou George H. , Basaly Nadia A. , Billatos Samir B.
Published: July 2023

To be successful in a competitive business environment, it is important to deliver products that meet customer’s requirements with respect to quality, cost, and delivery schedule. But to continue to be successful in a global competitive environment, it is important to improve product quality continuously. To improve product quality, product development cycle must be examined thoroughly and continuously and methods of shortening this cycle must be developed.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Friction Oscillator
Authors: Hinrichs Nikolaus , Oestreich Markus , Popp Karl
Published: July 2023

Friction induced self-sustained oscillations, also known as stick-slip vibrations, occur in mechanical systems as well as in everyday life. Examples are stick-slip motions which lead to squealing railway wheels, grating brakes, rattling machine tools or the cozy sound of a violin. The robust limit cycles of stick-slip motions can be broken up by an additional harmonic external excitation. The extended nonsmooth system of a friction oscillator including a nonsmooth friction law and an additional external excitation shows rich bifurcational behaviour. On the basis of a one-dimensional map stability analysis and the determination of Lyapunov exponents has been carried out similar to the logistic map (Oestreich et al., 1996a).

The present paper focuses on the comparison of the dynamical behaviour of a simple mechanical model and the dynamics observed in experiments. Since in engineering systems the friction characteristic is often not known or is varying for different test parameters, first the friction characteristic is determined from experiments with different test conditions. In the next step the results of the simulations using the identified friction characteristics will be compared with measurements of the dynamics of the friction oscillator with pure external excitation, pure self-excitation and simultaneous self- and external excitation. An additional verification of the identified friction characteristic can be done by means of a comparison of phase curves, trajectories in the three dimensional state space and bifurcation diagrams.
Stability Analysis of Thermocapillary Convection in Rectangular Cavities
Authors: Xu Jieyong , Zebib Abdelfattah
Published: July 2023

This paper presents stability analysis on thermo-capillary convection of acetone (Pr = 4.4) in rectangular cavities using direct numerical simulation. Influence of the Reynolds number (Re) and cavity aspect ratio (Ar) on motion is investigated. Results are exhibited for streamline and isotherm patterns at different values of Re and Ar. Neutral stability curves for transition to time-dependent convection are delineated for this Pr = 4.4 fluid in the Re - Ar plane, and compared with our results for fluids with Pr = 10.0, 6.78 and 1.0. Several interesting features of these diagrams are discussed. One important conclusion we have from the comparison is that Arcr increases as Pr decreases. Thus, it appears that large values of both Ar and Re are necessary to induce thermocapillary oscillations for small Pr fluids such as liquid metals. On the other hand, energy analysis is performed for the oscillatory flow in the neighborhood of critical points in order to gain insight of mechanisms leading to instability. Results are provided for flows near both critical points with Ar = 3.0.
Thermocapillary Driven Turbulent Heat Transfer
Authors: Arpacı Vedat S. , Kao Shu-Hsin
Published: July 2023

A thermal Kolmogorov scale for thermocapillary driven turbulent flows, ηθ∼(1+1Pr)1/4(να2Ps)1/4, Pr≥1 or,ηθ∼(1+Pr)1/4(α3Ps)1/4, Pr≤1ν, α respectively being kinematic and thermal diffusivities, Pr the Prandtl number and Ps the production rate of thermocapillary energy, is proposed.

A model for thermocapillary-driven turbulent heat transfer,Nu∼ΠS1/3, is developed in terms of these scales. HereΠs∼Ma1+Pr-1=MaPr1+Pr,Ma = ℓΔσ/μα (Marangoni number), ℓ, Δσ and μ respectively being a characteristic length, surface tension difference and dynamic viscosity.
Transient Radiative Transfer Through Scattering Absorbing Media
Authors: Mitra Kunal , Kumar Sunil
Published: July 2023

This paper outlines the formulation of the different methods for determining transient radiative transfer through scattering absorbing media. A boundary driven radiative problem is considered in a one-dimensional plane-parallel slab. The different methods of solving the transient radiative transfer equation include the P1, P3, and P5 approximations, two-flux method, and eight, twelve and sixteen discrete ordinates methods. In addition, the general transient radiative transfer equation is also solved by direct numerical integration without any simplifying assumptions. Different orders of approximation for the phase function are considered as is a parametric analysis of the different parameters such as the scattering albedo and optical depth is performed. The propagation speed obtained and the magnitude of the transmitted and back-scattered fluxes for different models obtained are a function of the approximation used to represent the intensity distribution.
Feasibility of Far-Infrared Radiation Modulators Using High-TC Superconductors
Authors: Zhang Z. M.
Published: July 2023

The potential of using high-Tc superconductors as intensity modulators for far-infrared radiation is investigated in this work. Reflectance and transmittance for several design structures are computed using the published optical constants of the superconductor YBa2Cu3O7 and substrate materials. Notable differences in the reflectance and transmittance between the superconducting state and the normal state are illustrated. The best results are obtained based on the reflectance of thin films (10 nm – 50 nm thick) on thin substrates (less than 100 μm thick) and for radiation incident on the substrate. This study demonstrates that high-Tc superconductive thin films can be used to build far-infrared radiation modulators. Future experimental study is recommended in order to materialize this promising thermo-optical device.
Turbulent Heat Transfer in Rotating Flows
Authors: Arpaci Vedat S. , Kao Shu-Hsin
Published: July 2023

A Kolmogorov scale for rotative turbulent flowsη∼(ν3T)1/4,T being the production rate of centrifugal energy, is introduced. A torque-coefficient for turbulent flow between rotating cylinders leads, in terms of this scale, to CT∼Ta1/3,Ta = Ω2R1d3/ν2, d, R1 and Ω, respectively being Taylor number, the gap between cylinders, inner cylinder radius and angular velocity.

Two thermal Kolmogorov scales for rotating turbulent flows,ηθ∼(α3Tθ)1/4, Pr≪1ηθ∼(να2Tθ)1/4, Pr≫1Tθ, ν and α respectively being the thermal production rate of centrifugal energy, the kinematic and thermal diffusivities, are proposed.

Two heat transfer models for turbulent flow between rotating cylinders, in terms of these scales, are shown to beNu∼(TaPr2)1/3, Pr≪1Nu∼(TaPr)1/3, Pr≫1.
A Review of Correlations for Turbulent Flow Characteristics in Enhanced Tubes
Authors: Ravigururajan T. S.
Published: July 2023

The pressure drop and heat transfer correlations needed for the performance prediction of the enhanced tubes can be developed using either an analogy approach or an empirical technique. These two methods are explained along with the many correlations which have been developed based on them. The numerous studies pose a dilemma for the designer on selecting the most appropriate correlation. The paper outlines the various correlations that are available for predicting the thermal performance of turbulent flows in enhanced tubes. Specific correlations that are valid for particular enhancement types as well as general correlations are presented. The correlations were applied to a comprehensive data base and the predictions were analyzed. A parametric analysis that was carried out using the different correlations indicate interesting features caused by the influence of enhancement design parameters. In particular, the design variables affected the heat transfer/friction factor characteristics differently for various tube types.
Jet Impingement Boiling From Circular Free-Surface Jets During Quenching Experiments
Authors: Hall David E. , Incropera Frank P. , Viskanta Raymond
Published: July 2023

This paper reports results from an experimental study of boiling heat transfer during quenching of a cylindrical copper test piece by a subcooled, circular, free-surface water jet. The disk was heated to approximately 650 °C, and as quenching occurred, transient temperature measurements were taken at discrete locations near the surface and applied as boundary conditions in a conduction model to deduce transient heat flux distributions at the surface. Results are presented in the form of heat flux distributions and boiling curves for radial locations varying from the stagnation point to ten nozzle diameters for jet velocities between 2.0 and 4.0 m/s (11,300 ≤ Red ≤ 22,600). Data for nucleate boiling in the stagnation region and spatial distributions of maximum heat flux are presented and are in good agreement with correlations developed from steady-state experiments. Spatial distributions of minimum film boiling temperatures and minimum film boiling heat fluxes are also reported and reveal a fundamental dependence on jet splashing and streamwise location.
An Experimental Study of Heat Transfer in an Internally Finned Tube
Authors: Huq Mafizul , Huq A. M. Aziz-ul , Rahman Muhammad M.
Published: July 2023

This paper reports new experimental data for turbulent fluid flow and heat transfer in a tube having internal fins. An experimental set-up was designed to study the heat transfer performance in the entrance region as well as in the fully-developed region. The tube and the fin assembly was cast from aluminum to avoid any thermal contact resistance. The length of the test section was 15.2 m. The inner diameter of the tube was 70 mm. The tube contained six equally spaced fins of height 15 mm. Air was used as the working fluid in all experiments. The Reynolds number based on hydraulic diameter ranged from 2.6 × 104 to 7.9 × 104. Heat was supplied from an electrical heating system providing an uniform heat flux around the tube periphery over the entire length of the test section. Results exhibited high pressure gradients and high heat transfer coefficients in the entrance region, approaching the fully developed values away from the entrance section. Nusselt numbers of the finned tube were compared with those for an unfinned (smooth) tube for both constant Reynolds number and constant pumping power. The enhancement of heat transfer rate due to integral fins was found to be very significant over the entire range of flow rates studied in this experiment. Heat transfer coefficient, based on inside diameter and nominal area of finned tube exceeded unfinned tube values by as much as 112%. When compared at constant pumping power, an improvement as high as 52% was observed for the overall heat transfer rate. The results of this study indicates that significant enhancement of heat transfer is possible by using internal fins without sacrificing any additional pumping power. The experimental results are expected to be very useful for the design of pipelines and heat exchanger tubes.