bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Non-Invasive Quantification and Imaging of Eumelanin and DHICA Subunit in Skin Lesions by Raman Spectroscopy and MCR Algorithm: Improving Dysplastic Nevi Diagnosis
Authors: Ruiz José Javier , Marro Monica , Galván Ismael , Bernabeu-Wittel José , Conejo-Mir Julián , Zulueta-Dorado Teresa , Guisado-Gil Ana Belén , Loza-Álvarez Pablo
Published: February 2022

Malignant melanoma (MM) is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, and around 30% of them may develop from pre-existing dysplastic nevi (DN). Diagnosis of DN is a relevant clinical challenge, as these are intermediate lesions between benign and malignant tumors, and, up to date, few studies have focused on their diagnosis. In this study, the accuracy of Raman spectroscopy (RS) is assessed, together with multivariate analysis (MA), to classify 44 biopsies of MM, DN and compound nevus (CN) tumors. For this, we implement a novel methodology to non-invasively quantify and localize the eumelanin pigment, considered as a tumoral biomarker, by means of RS imaging coupled with the Multivariate Curve Resolution-Alternative Least Squares (MCR-ALS) algorithm. This represents a step forward with respect to the currently established technique for melanin analysis, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), which is invasive and cannot provide information about the spatial distribution of molecules. For the first time, we show that the 5, 6-dihydroxyindole (DHI) to 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid (DHICA) ratio is higher in DN than in MM and CN lesions. These differences in chemical composition are used by the Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) algorithm to identify DN lesions in an efficient, non-invasive, fast, objective and cost-effective method, with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 94.1%, respectively.
The Feasibility of Implementing Mainstream Germline Genetic Testing in Routine Cancer Care—A Systematic Review
Authors: Bokkers Kyra , Vlaming Michiel , Engelhardt Ellen G. , Zweemer Ronald P. , van Oort Inge M. , Kiemeney Lambertus A. L. M. , Bleiker Eveline M. A. , Ausems Margreet G. E. M.
Published: February 2022

Background: Non-genetic healthcare professionals can provide pre-test counseling and order germline genetic tests themselves, which is called mainstream genetic testing. In this systematic review, we determined whether mainstream genetic testing was feasible in daily practice while maintaining quality of genetic care. Methods: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsychINFO were searched for articles describing mainstream genetic testing initiatives in cancer care. Results: Seventeen articles, reporting on 15 studies, met the inclusion criteria. Non-genetic healthcare professionals concluded that mainstream genetic testing was possible within the timeframe of a routine consultation. In 14 studies, non-genetic healthcare professionals completed some form of training about genetics. When referral was coordinated by a genetics team, the majority of patients carrying a pathogenic variant were seen for post-test counseling by genetic healthcare professionals. The number of days between cancer diagnosis and test result disclosure was always lower in the mainstream genetic testing pathway than in the standard genetic testing pathway (e.g., pre-test counseling at genetics department). Conclusions: Mainstream genetic testing seems feasible in daily practice with no insurmountable barriers. A structured pathway with a training procedure is desirable, as well as a close collaboration between genetics and other clinical departments.
Particle Therapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Kowalchuk Roman O. , Corbin Kimberly S. , Jimenez Rachel B.
Published: February 2022

Particle therapy has received increasing attention in the treatment of breast cancer due to its unique physical properties that may enhance patient quality of life and reduce the late effects of therapy. In this review, we will examine the rationale for the use of proton and carbon therapy in the treatment of breast cancer and highlight their potential for sparing normal tissue injury. We will discuss the early dosimetric and clinical studies that have been pursued to date in this domain before focusing on the remaining open questions limiting the widespread adoption of particle therapy.
The Polymorphisms of Genes Encoding Catalytic Antioxidant Proteins Modulate the Susceptibility and Progression of Testicular Germ Cell Tumor
Authors: Bumbasirevic Uros , Bojanic Nebojsa , Pljesa-Ercegovac Marija , Zivkovic Marko , Djukic Tatjana , Zekovic Milica , Milojevic Bogomir , Kajmakovic Boris , Janicic Aleksandar , Simic Tatjana , Coric Vesna
Published: February 2022

The simultaneous analysis of redox biomarkers and polymorphisms encoding for regulatory and catalytic antioxidant proteins was performed in order to evaluate their potential role in the development of testicular germ cell tumor (GCT), as well as the progression of the disease. NRF2 (rs6721961), GSTM3 (rs1332018), SOD2 (rs4880) and GPX3 (rs8177412) polymorphisms were assessed in 88 patients with testicular GCT (52 with seminoma) and 88 age-matched controls. The plasma levels of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), thiol groups and the plasma activity of glutathione peroxidase were measured. A significant association between variant GPX3*TC+CC genotype and risk of overall testicular GCT, as well as seminoma development, was found. Moreover, carriers of variant SOD2*TT genotype were at almost 3-fold increased risk of seminoma development. Interestingly, combined SOD2*TT/GPX3*TC+CC genotype conferred a 7-fold higher risk for testicular GCT development. Finally, variant GSTM3*AC+CC genotype was associated with a higher risk for the development of advanced diseased. The presence of assessed genetic variants was not associated with significantly higher levels of redox biomarkers in both testicular GCT patients, as well as in those diagnosed with seminoma. In conclusion, the polymorphic expression of certain antioxidant enzymes might affect susceptibility toward testicular GCT development, as well as the progression of the disease.
Combination of Resminostat with Ruxolitinib Exerts Antitumor Effects in the Chick Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane Model for Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Karagianni Fani , Piperi Christina , Casar Berta , de la Fuente-Vivas Dalia , García-Gómez Rocío , Lampadaki Kyriaki , Pappa Vasiliki , Papadavid Evangelia
Published: February 2022

The combination of Resminostat (HDACi) and Ruxolitinib (JAKi) exerted cytotoxic effects and inhibited proliferation of CTCL cell lines (MyLa, SeAx) in previously published work. A xenograft tumor formation was produced by implanting the MyLa or SeAx cells on top of the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). The CAM assay protocol was developed to monitor the metastatic properties of CTCL cells and the effects of Resminostat and/or Ruxolitinib in vivo. In the spontaneous CAM assays, Resminostat and Ruxolitinib treatment inhibited the cell proliferation (p < 0.001) of MyLa and SeAx, and induced cell apoptosis (p < 0.005, p < 0.001, respectively). Although monotherapies reduced the size of primary tumors in the metastasis CAM assay, the drug combination exhibited a significant inhibition of primary tumor size (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the combined treatment inhibited the intravasation of MyLa (p < 0.005) and SeAx cells (p < 0.0001) in the organs, as well as their extravasation to the liver (p < 0.0001) and lung (p < 0.0001). The drug combination also exerted a stronger inhibitory effect in migration (p < 0.0001) rather in invasion (p < 0.005) of both MyLa and SeAx cells. It further reduced p-p38, p-ERK, p-AKT, and p-STAT in MyLa cells, while it decreased p-ERK and p-STAT in SeAx cells in CAM tumors. Our data demonstrated that the CAM assay could be employed as a preclinical in vivo model in CTCL for pharmacological testing. In agreement with previous in vitro data, the combination of Resminostat and Ruxolitinib was shown to exert antitumor effects in CTCL in vivo.
ADCK2 Knockdown Affects the Migration of Melanoma Cells via MYL6
Authors: Vierthaler Marlene , Sun Qian , Wang Yiman , Steinfass Tamara , Poelchen Juliane , Hielscher Thomas , Novak Daniel , Umansky Viktor , Utikal Jochen
Published: February 2022

Background: ADCK2 is a member of the AarF domain-containing kinase family, which consists of five members, and has been shown to play a role in CoQ metabolism. However, ADCKs have also been connected to cancer cell survival, proliferation and motility. In this study, we investigated the role of ADCK2 in melanoma. Methods: The effect of ADCK2 on melanoma cell motility was evaluated by a scratch assay and a transwell invasion assay upon siRNA-mediated knockdown or stable overexpression of ADCK2. Results: We found that high levels of intratumoral ADCK2 and MYL6 are associated with a higher survival rate in melanoma patients. Knocking down ADCK2 resulted in enhanced cell migration of melanoma cells. Moreover, ADCK2-knockdown cells adopted a more dedifferentiated phenotype. A gene expression array revealed that the expression of ADCK2 correlated with the expressions of MYL6 and RAB2A. Knocking down MYL6 in ADCK2-overexpressing cells could abrogate the effect of ADCK2 overexpression and thus confirm the functional connection between ADCK2 and MYL6. Conclusion: ADCK2 affects melanoma cell motility, most probably via MYL6. Our results allow the conclusion that ADCK2 could act as a tumor suppressor in melanoma.
The Merit and the Context of Hydrogen Production from Water and Its Effect on Global CO2 Emission
Authors: Idriss Hicham
Published: February 2022

For a green economy to be possible in the near future, hydrogen production from water is a sought-after alternative to fossil fuels [...]
Modes of Viroid Transmission
Authors: Hadidi Ahmed , Sun Liying , Randles John W.
Published: February 2022

Studies on the ways in which viroids are transmitted are important for understanding their epidemiology and for developing effective control measures for viroid diseases. Viroids may be spread via vegetative propagules, mechanical damage, seed, pollen, or biological vectors. Vegetative propagation is the most prevalent mode of spread at the global, national and local level while further dissemination can readily occur by mechanical transmission through crop handling with viroid-contaminated hands or pruning and harvesting tools. The current knowledge of seed and pollen transmission of viroids in different crops is described. Biological vectors shown to transmit viroids include certain insects, parasitic plants, and goats. Under laboratory conditions, viroids were also shown to replicate in and be transmitted by phytopathogenic ascomycete fungi; therefore, fungi possibly serve as biological vectors of viroids in nature. The term “mycoviroids or fungal viroids” has been introduced in order to denote these viroids. Experimentally, known sequence variants of viroids can be transmitted as recombinant infectious cDNA clones or transcripts. In this review, we endeavor to provide a comprehensive overview of the modes of viroid transmission under both natural and experimental situations. A special focus is the key findings which can be applied to the control of viroid diseases.
Transit Amplifying Progenitors in the Cerebellum: Similarities to and Differences from Transit Amplifying Cells in Other Brain Regions and between Species
Authors: Miyashita Satoshi , Hoshino Mikio
Published: February 2022

Transit amplification of neural progenitors/precursors is widely used in the development of the central nervous system and for tissue homeostasis. In most cases, stem cells, which are relatively less proliferative, first differentiate into transit amplifying cells, which are more proliferative, losing their stemness. Subsequently, transit amplifying cells undergo a limited number of mitoses and differentiation to expand the progeny of differentiated cells. This step-by-step proliferation is considered an efficient system for increasing the number of differentiated cells while maintaining the stem cells. Recently, we reported that cerebellar granule cell progenitors also undergo transit amplification in mice. In this review, we summarize our and others’ recent findings and the prospective contribution of transit amplification to neural development and evolution, as well as the molecular mechanisms regulating transit amplification.
The Modulatory Effects of DMF on Microglia in Aged Mice Are Sex-Specific
Authors: Mela Virginia , Sayd Gaban Aline , O’Neill Eoin , Bechet Sibylle , Walsh Aífe , Lynch Marina A.
Published: February 2022

There is a striking sex-related difference in the prevalence of many neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting the need to consider whether treatments may exert sex-specific effects. A change in microglial activation state is a common feature of several neurodegenerative diseases and is considered to be a key factor in driving the inflammation that characterizes these conditions. Among the changes that have been described is a switch in microglial metabolism towards glycolysis which is associated with production of inflammatory mediators and reduced function. Marked sex-related differences in microglial number, phenotype and function have been described in late embryonic and early postnatal life in rodents and some reports suggest that sexual dimorphism extends into adulthood and age and, in models of Alzheimer’s disease, the changes are more profound in microglia from female, compared with male, mice. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is a fumaric acid ester used in the treatment of psoriasis and relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis and, while its mechanism of action is unclear, it possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and also impacts on cell metabolism. Here we treated 16–18-month-old female and male mice with DMF for 1 month and assessed its effect on microglia. The evidence indicates that it exerted sex-specific effects on microglial morphology and metabolism, reducing glycolysis only in microglia from female mice. The data suggest that this may result from its ability to inactivate glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH).
High Throughput Screening Targeting the Dengue NS3-NS5 Interface Identifies Antivirals against Dengue, Zika and West Nile Viruses
Authors: Yang Sundy N. Y. , Maher Belinda , Wang Chunxiao , Wagstaff Kylie M. , Fraser Johanna E. , Jans David A.
Published: February 2022

Dengue virus (DENV) threatens almost 70% of the world’s population, with no effective therapeutic currently available and controversy surrounding the one approved vaccine. A key factor in dengue viral replication is the interaction between DENV nonstructural proteins (NS) 5 and 3 (NS3) in the infected cell. Here, we perform a proof-of-principle high-throughput screen to identify compounds targeting the NS5-NS3 binding interface. We use a range of approaches to show for the first time that two small molecules–repurposed drugs I-OMe tyrphostin AG538 (I-OMe-AG238) and suramin hexasodium (SHS)–inhibit NS5-NS3 binding at low μM concentration through direct binding to NS5 that impacts thermostability. Importantly, both have strong antiviral activity at low μM concentrations against not only DENV-2, but also Zika virus (ZIKV) and West Nile virus (WNV). This work highlights the NS5-NS3 binding interface as a viable target for the development of anti-flaviviral therapeutics.
Histone H3 Lysine 4 and 27 Trimethylation Landscape of Human Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Persico Giuseppe , Casciaro Francesca , Amatori Stefano , Rusin Martina , Cantatore Francesco , Perna Amalia , Auber Lavinia Alberi , Fanelli Mirco , Giorgio Marco
Published: February 2022

Background: Epigenetic remodeling is emerging as a critical process for both the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of neurodegenerative dementia. However, it is not clear to what extent the distribution of histone modifications is involved in AD. Methods: To investigate histone H3 modifications in AD, we compared the genome-wide distributions of H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 in entorhinal cortices from severe sporadic AD patients and from age-matched healthy individuals of both sexes. Results: AD samples were characterized by typical average levels and distributions of the H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 signals. However, AD patients showed a lower H3K4me3 and higher H3K27me3 signal, particularly in males. Interestingly, the genomic sites found differentially trimethylated at the H3K4 between healthy and AD samples involve promoter regions of genes belonging to AD-related pathways such as glutamate receptor signaling. Conclusions: The signatures of H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 identified in AD patients validate the role of epigenetic chromatin remodeling in neurodegenerative disease and shed light on the genomic adaptive mechanisms involved in AD.
A Transcriptional Link between HER2, JAM-A and FOXA1 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Cruz Rodrigo G. B. , Madden Stephen F. , Brennan Kieran , Hopkins Ann M.
Published: February 2022

Overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) is associated with aggressive disease in breast and certain other cancers. At a cellular level, the adhesion protein Junctional Adhesion Molecule-A (JAM-A) has been reported to regulate the expression of HER3 via a transcriptional pathway involving FOXA1. Since FOXA1 is also a suggested transcription factor for HER2, this study set out to determine if JAM-A regulates HER2 expression via a similar mechanism. An integrated tripartite approach was taken, involving cellular expression studies after targeted disruption of individual players in the putative pathway, in silico identification of relevant HER2 promoter regions and, finally, interrogation of cancer patient survival databases to deconstruct functionally important links between HER2, JAM-A and FOXA1 gene expression. The outcome of these investigations revealed a unidirectional pathway in which JAM-A expression transcriptionally regulates that of HER2 by influencing the binding of FOXA1 to a specific site in the HER2 gene promoter. Moreover, a correlation between JAM-A and HER2 gene expression was identified in 75% of a sample of 40 cancer types from The Cancer Genome Atlas, and coincident high mean mRNA expression of JAM-A, HER2 and FOXA1 was associated with poorer survival outcomes in HER2-positive (but not HER2-negative) patients with either breast or gastric tumors. These investigations provide the first evidence of a transcriptional pathway linking JAM-A, HER2 and FOXA1 in cancer settings, and support potential future pharmacological targeting of JAM-A as an upstream regulator of HER2.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation by Benzo[a]pyrene Prevents Development of Septic Shock and Fatal Outcome in a Mouse Model of Systemic Salmonella enterica Infection
Authors: Fueldner Christiane , Riemschneider Sina , Haupt Janine , Jungnickel Harald , Schulze Felix , Zoldan Katharina , Esser Charlotte , Hauschildt Sunna , Knauer Jens , Luch Andreas , Kalkhof Stefan , Lehmann Jörg
Published: February 2022

This study focused on immunomodulatory effects of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation through benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) during systemic bacterial infection. Using a well-established mouse model of systemic Salmonella enterica (S.E.) infection, we studied the influence of BaP on the cellular and humoral immune response and the outcome of disease. BaP exposure significantly reduced mortality, which is mainly caused by septic shock. Surprisingly, the bacterial burden in BaP-exposed surviving mice was significantly higher compared to non-exposed mice. During the early phase of infection (days 1–3 post-infection (p.i.)), the transcription of proinflammatory factors (i.e., IL-12, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18) was induced faster under BaP exposure. Moreover, BaP supported the activity of antigen-presenting cells (i.e., CD64 (FcγRI), MHC II, NO radicals, phagocytosis) at the site of infection. However, early in infection, the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-22 were also locally and systemically upregulated in BaP-exposed S.E.-infected mice. BaP-exposure resulted in long-term persistence of salmonellae up to day 90 p.i., which was accompanied by significantly elevated S.E.-specific antibody responses (i.e., IgG1, IgG2c). In summary, these data suggest that BaP-induced AhR activation is capable of preventing a fatal outcome of systemic S.E. infection, but may result in long-term bacterial persistence, which, in turn, may support the development of chronic inflammation.
Re-Discovery of Pyrimidine Salvage as Target in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Walter Melanie , Herr Patrick
Published: February 2022

Nucleotides are synthesized through two distinct pathways: de novo synthesis and nucleoside salvage. Whereas the de novo pathway synthesizes nucleotides from amino acids and glucose, the salvage pathway recovers nucleosides or bases formed during DNA or RNA degradation. In contrast to high proliferating non-malignant cells, which are highly dependent on the de novo synthesis, cancer cells can switch to the nucleoside salvage pathways to maintain efficient DNA replication. Pyrimidine de novo synthesis remains the target of interest in cancer therapy and several inhibitors showed promising results in cancer cells and in vivo models. In the 1980s and 1990s, poor responses were however observed in clinical trials with several of the currently existing pyrimidine synthesis inhibitors. To overcome the observed limitations in clinical trials, targeting pyrimidine salvage alone or in combination with pyrimidine de novo inhibitors was suggested. Even though this approach showed initially promising results, it received fresh attention only recently. Here we discuss the re-discovery of targeting pyrimidine salvage pathways for DNA replication alone or in combination with inhibitors of pyrimidine de novo synthesis to overcome limitations of commonly used antimetabolites in various preclinical cancer models and clinical trials. We also highlight newly emerged targets in pyrimidine synthesis as well as pyrimidine salvage as a promising target in immunotherapy.
The Surface Properties of an Aviation Aluminum Alloy after Laser Cleaning
Authors: Ren Yuan , Wang Liming , Li Jianfeng , Cheng Wei , Ma Xinqiang
Published: February 2022

In this study, we explored the effects of a laser cleaning process on the surface properties of an aerospace aluminum alloy. We performed surface cleaning on an AA2024 aluminum alloy. Through SEM and EDS analyses on the surface of the aluminum alloy samples after cleaning, the cleaning effect on the aluminum alloy under different laser energy densities was studied. After laser cleaning, residual stress, hardness, friction, and wear tests were performed on the aluminum alloy samples. The experimental results demonstrated that the oxides on the surface of AA2024 could be effectively removed when the laser energy density was 10.5 J/cm2. With an increase in the laser energy density, the friction and wear properties of the AA2024 surface could be improved. Laser cleaning could also generate a new hardened layer and residual tensile stress on the surface of AA2024. This article provides a reference for applying laser cleaning in the aerospace field by studying the structure and mechanical properties of an aluminum alloy after laser cleaning.
Tuning the Electrical Properties of Tungsten Oxide Thin Films Deposited by Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: N’Djoré Kouamé Boko Joël-Igor , Grafouté Moussa , Makoudi Younes , Hourani Waël , Rousselot Christophe
Published: February 2022

Tungsten oxide films are deposited onto glass and silicon substrates using reactive magnetron sputtering. Several studies have revealed difficulties in studying the electrical properties of resistive WOx films. The main objective of this work is to propose the capacitance meter as a method for studying the electrical properties of resistive WOx films. In addition, we aim to establish the correlation between the deposition process and WOx physico-chemical properties. The study of the W-Ar-O2 system hysteresis permitted us to gather the films into four zones, which were delimited by different oxygen flow rate intervals. The identification of these zones was confirmed by the deposition rate, target voltage, chemical composition and electrical properties of the films. A gradual evolution of the capacitance-voltage curves of the metal-oxide-semiconductor structures, with the WOx thin films as the oxide layer, was globally observed with increasing oxygen flow rate. Ion density (Nss) and flat band voltage (Vfb) evolved inversely to oxygen flow rate. The relationship between the evolution of Nss and Vfb and the increase in oxygen flow rate reflects the improvement in oxygen stoichiometry in the WOx films. The WOx-Si interface trap density distribution (Dit) was also studied using the Terman method. It was observed that the films closest to stoichiometry, i.e., WO2 or WO3, showed the lowest values of Dit and Nss.
Impact Analysis of Initial Cracks’ Angle on Fatigue Failure of Flange Shafts
Authors: Xu Zhiqiang , Cui Yunxian , Li Baoliang , Liu Ketong , Shi Feiting , Cao Peng
Published: February 2022

A fatigue test on the failure mode of flange shafts was conducted. The propagation characteristics of the initial crack at the junction between the shaft and the flange as well as its angle effect were studied. This study developed an analysis program of fatigue crack propagation, based on the APDL (ANSYS Parametric Design Language). It obtained the effective angle interval within which the initial crack is able to propagate. The fitting calculation formula was derived and the results showed that: (1) The initial crack at the junction between the shaft and the flange would propagate in the radial and axial directions; the unstable crack propagation would cause an abrupt fracture of the cross-section, failing connection; and the angle of initial crack was uncertain. (2) The crack followed the I-II-III mixed mode, which was dominated by mode I. An initial crack with a larger angle showed more noticeable II-III characteristics; KII and KIII affected the crack’s propagation angle in the radial and axial directions and they also affected the structure’s surface direction. (3) The deepest point A of the crack was located at the junction between the shaft and the flange. Its crack propagation can be divided into three stages: rapid growth (stage 1), steady decline (stage 2, buffer stage), and instability (stage 3). The initial crack angle not only affected the propagation rate at stage 1 but also influenced the fatigue life distribution of the structure during propagation. The larger the initial crack angle was, the smaller the proportion of buffer stage in the total fatigue life would be. Moreover, the propagation of crack with a larger initial angle reached instability faster after stage 1, which would cause an abrupt fracture of the cross-section. This was unfavorable for deciding the crack detection time or carrying out maintenance and reinforcement. (4) The crack propagation at the junction between the shaft and the flange was determined by the size relation between ΔKI and ΔKth, instead of the effective stress intensity factor. The effective stress intensity factor can partly reflect the law of crack propagation, but cannot serve as the only criterion for crack propagation; it must be combined with the effective angle interval, which was negatively correlated with the crack’s shape ratio, to determine whether the crack would propagate.
Electron Beam Sintering of Composite Al2O3-ZrO2 Ceramics in the Forevacuum Pressure Range
Authors: Klimov Aleksandr , Bakeev Ilya , Oks Efim , Zenin Aleksey
Published: February 2022

We describe our investigations of electron beam sintering of multilayer ZrO2-Al2O3 composite ceramics in the forevacuum pressure range (~30 Pa). To generate the electron beam, a plasma-cathode electron source operating in the forevacuum pressure range was used; this kind of source provides the capability of direct processing of non-conducting materials. We studied the effect of electron beam sintering on the temperature drop with sample depth for different layer thicknesses and determined the optimal layer thickness to ensure minimal temperature drop. We show that in order to minimize the temperature difference and improve the sintering, it is necessary to take into account the thermophysical parameters of the sintered materials. Forming a layered structure taking into account the coefficient of thermal conductivity of the layer materials allows a reduction in the temperature gradient by 150 °C for samples of 3 mm thickness.
An Overview of Augmented Reality
Authors: Arena Fabio , Collotta Mario , Pau Giovanni , Termine Francesco
Published: February 2022

Modern society is increasingly permeated by realities parallel to the real one. The so-called virtual reality is now part of both current habits and many activities carried out during the day. Virtual reality (VR) is, in turn, related to the concept of augmented reality (AR). It represents a technology still in solid expansion but which was created and imagined several decades ago. This paper presents an overview of augmented reality, starting from its conception, passing through its main applications, and providing essential information. Part of the article will be devoted to hardware and software components used in AR systems. The last part of the paper highlights the limitations related to the design of these systems, the shortcomings in this area, and the possible future fields of application of this extraordinary technological innovation.
Penetration Gain Study of a Tungsten-Fiber/Zr-Based Metallic Glass Matrix Composite
Authors: Zhou Feng , Du Chengxin , Du Zhonghua , Gao Guangfa , Cheng Chun , Wang Xiaodong
Published: February 2022

A tungsten fiber/Zr-based bulk metallic glass matrix composite (Wf/Zr-MG) is a potential penetrator material. To compare and analyze the penetration behavior of Wf/Zr-MG and a tungsten heavy alloy (WHA), a penetration experiment into the 30CrMnMo homogeneous armor target plate (RHA) is conducted in the present paper, by using a 37 mm smooth bore artillery with an impact velocity of 1550 ± 40 m/s. Unlike the penetrator made of WHA, the self-sharpening phenomenon was observed in the nose of the Wf/Zr-MG rod. The experimental results indicate that the penetration ability of Wf/Zr-MG rod is approximately 10% higher than that of the WHA rod when the impact velocity is 1550 ± 40 m/s. The combined findings on the microscopic morphology, composition, hardness distribution around the crater, and the macroscopic structure of the penetrator residual show that under this impact velocity, the Wf/Zr-MG material shows amorphous gasification. The Wfs outside the rod shows bending and backflow, resulting in the maintenance of the self-sharpening nose of the penetrator during the penetration process. Moreover, the hardness peak around the crater formed by the Wf/Zr-MG rod is lower, and the penetration crater is straighter, indicating that the Wf/Zr-MG rod has a stronger slag removal ability, lower penetration resistance, and higher penetration efficiency. It is an ideal penetrator material.
Effect of Gold Nanoparticles on the Crystallization and Optical Properties of Glass in ZnO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 System
Authors: Shakhgildyan Georgiy , Durymanov Veniamin , Ziyatdinova Mariam , Atroshchenko Grigoriy , Golubev Nikita , Trifonov Alexey , Chereuta Olga , Avakyan Leon , Bugaev Lusegen , Sigaev Vladimir
Published: February 2022

Gold nanoparticles precipitated in transparent glass-ceramics could pave the way for the development of multifunctional materials that are in demand in modern photonics and optics. In this work, we explored the effect of gold nanoparticles on the crystallization, microstructure, and optical properties of ZnO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 glass containing TiO2 and ZrO2 as nucleating agents. X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman, and optical spectroscopy were used for the study. We showed that gold nanoparticles have no effect on the formation of gahnite nanocrystals during the glass heat treatments, while optical properties of the glass-ceramics are strongly dependent on the gold addition. A computational model was developed to predict optical properties of glass during the crystallization, and the possibility for adjusting the localized surface plasmon resonance band position with the heat treatment temperature was shown.
Research on EDM Performance of Renewable Dielectrics under Different Electrodes for Machining SKD11
Authors: Ming Wuyi , Xie Zhuobin , Cao Chen , Liu Mei , Zhang Fei , Yang Yuan , Zhang Shengfei , Sun Peiyan , Guo Xudong
Published: February 2022

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is a non-traditional process, which can cut materials with a high melting point, high hardness, high strength, and low brittleness. However, the kerosene (dielectric of EDM) produces aerosols and toxic gases at high temperatures, which seriously affect the health of operators and air quality. This means that it is not conducive to the green manufacturing and sustainable development of EDM. In this study, thereafter, sunflower seed oil (SSO) and kerosene were used as dielectrics of EDM for machine SKD11, and the machining performance of the two dielectrics under different current, duty ratio, pulse duration and electrodes were comparatively analyzed, such as material remove rate (MRR), surface roughness (Ra), energy efficiency per volume (EEV) and exhaust emissions characteristics (EEC). This investigation found that the minimum value of EEV in SSO was 0.3879 kJ/mm3, which was about 25% lower than the minimum value of 0.4849 kJ/mm3 in kerosene. The emission rate of Cu electrode in SSO was 62.017 µg/min, which was lower than that in 78.857 µg/min, decreasing by about 21.36%, in kerosene. In addition, a super depth of field optical micro-scope was subsequently used in the experiments to observe the diameter of the debris. The results indicated that SSO has a larger proportion of debris of more than 35 µm in diameter. Therefore, SSO can be adopted as a substitute for kerosene dielectric to improve the sustainability of electrical discharge machining and realize green manufacturing.
A Comparative Analysis of the Tribological Behavior of Hard Layers Obtained by Three Different Hardened-Surface Processes on the Surface of AISI 4140 Steel
Authors: Ruiz-Trabolsi Pablo Alfredo , Chino-Ulloa Alexis , Miranda-Hernández José Guadalupe , Tadeo-Rosas Raúl , Carrera-Espinoza Rafael , Velázquez Julio César , Hernández-Sánchez Enrique
Published: February 2022

This work compares the tribological behavior of surface layers obtained by three different hardening processes. The layers were formed on the surface of AISI 4140 steel by applying three different thermochemical treatments. Wear resistance was evaluated using a standardized tribological machine for abrasive wear, according to the limits established by the ASTM G65 “Standard Test Method for Measuring Abrasion Using Dry Sand/Rubber Wheel Apparatus”. According to the results, the boride layers exhibited the highest wear resistance, as compared to nitrided and carburized layers. In contrast, the carburized layers presented the highest loss of volume. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the worn surfaces to examine the wear mechanisms. Abrasive wear was identified in all the samples, as the main abrasive wear mechanism. The mean values of the coefficient of friction (CoF) of the hardened surfaces were 0.39, 0.55, and 0.65 for carburizing, nitriding, and boriding samples, respectively, indicating that the wear process may not always be related to a low CoF. The results suggest that the highest hardness is normally associated with high wear resistance, but the coefficient of friction could be not directly related to the hardness of the materials. Finally, a statistical study demonstrates the random nature of the layers obtained by three different hardening processes.
Phylogenetic Evidence for the Lissorchiid Concept of the Genus Anarhichotrema Shimazu, 1973 (Trematoda, Digenea)
Authors: Sokolov Sergey G. , Shchenkov Sergei V. , Gordeev Ilya I.
Published: February 2022

Anarhichotrema Shimazu, 1973 is a monotypic digenean genus, with the type- and only species, Anarhichotrema ochotense Shimazu, 1973, known to infect North Pacific fishes. This genus was originally described as a member of the Lissorchiidae (Monorchioidea) and later moved to the Zoogonidae (Microphalloidea). Its exact phylogenetic position has remained unresolved due to the lack of molecular data. In this study, we isolated specimens of A. ochotense from the Bering wolffish, Anarhichas orientalis Pallas, 1814 caught in the Sea of Okhotsk, described them morphologically and performed a molecular phylogenetic analysis of their nuclear 18S and 28S rDNA regions. The specimens examined in our study generally corresponded to previous morphological descriptions of A. ochotense but were noticeably smaller, possibly due to the crowding effect. The phylogenetic analysis placed Anarhichotrema within the Lissorchiidae as a sister taxon to the group comprising freshwater lissorchiids. Thus, we restore Anarhichotrema to the Lissorchiidae, as originally assigned.
Correction: Ferraz-Amaro et al. SCORE2 Assessment in The Calculation of Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Diagnostics 2021, 11, 2363
Authors: Ferraz-Amaro Iván , Corrales Alfonso , Atienza-Mateo Belén , Vegas-Revenga Nuria , Prieto-Peña Diana , Sánchez-Martín Julio , Almeida Cristina , Quevedo-Abeledo Juan Carlos , Blanco Ricardo , González-Gay Miguel Á.
Published: February 2022

In the original article [...]
Specific Combinations of Inflammatory, Angiogenesis and Vascular Integrity Biomarkers Are Associated with Clinical Severity, Coma and Mortality in Beninese Children with Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria
Authors: Tornyigah Bernard , Blankson Samuel Odarkwei , Adamou Rafiou , Moussiliou Azizath , Rietmeyer Lauriane , Tettey Patrick , Dikroh Liliane , Addo Bernard , Lamptey Helena , Alao Maroufou J. , Amoussou Annick , Padounou Caroline , Roussilhon Christian , Pons Sylvie , Mensah Benedicta Ayiedu , Ndam Nicaise Tuikue , Tahar Rachida
Published: February 2022

Malaria-related deaths could be prevented if powerful diagnostic and reliable prognostic biomarkers were available to allow rapid prediction of the clinical severity allowing adequate treatment. Using quantitative ELISA, we assessed the plasma concentrations of Procalcitonin, Pentraxine-3, Ang-2, sTie-2, suPAR, sEPCR and sICAM-1 in a cohort of Beninese children with malaria to investigate their potential association with clinical manifestations of malaria. We found that all molecules showed higher levels in children with severe or cerebral malaria compared to those with uncomplicated malaria (p-value < 0.005). Plasma concentrations of Pentraxine-3, Procalcitonin, Ang-2 and the soluble receptors were significantly higher in children with coma as defined by a Blantyre Coma Score < 3 (p < 0.001 for Pentraxine-3, suPAR, and sTie-2, p = 0.004 for PCT, p = 0.005 for sICAM-1, p = 0.04 for Ang-2). Moreover, except for the PCT level, the concentrations of Pentraxine-3, suPAR, sEPCR, sICAM-1, sTie-2 and Ang-2 were higher among children who died from severe malaria compared to those who survived (p = 0.037, p = 0.035, p < 0.0001, p= 0.0008, p = 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively). These findings indicate the ability of these molecules to accurately discriminate among clinical manifestations of malaria, thus, they might be potentially useful for the early prognostic of severe and fatal malaria, and to improve management of severe cases.
Clinical Applications of Somatostatin Receptor (Agonist) PET Tracers beyond Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Helgebostad Rasmus , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth , Johnsrud Kjersti , Amlie Kristine , Alavi Abass , Connelly James Patrick
Published: February 2022

Somatostatin receptor (SSTR) agonist tracers used in nuclear medicine scans are classically used for neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis and staging. SSTR are however, expressed more widely in a variety of cells as seen in the distribution of physiological tracer uptake during whole body scans. This provides opportunities for using these tracers for applications other than NETs and meningiomas. In this qualitative systematic review, novel diagnostics in SSTR-PET imaging are reviewed. A total of 70 studies comprised of 543 patients were qualitatively reviewed. Sarcoidosis, atherosclerosis and phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors represent the most studied applications currently with promising results. Other applications remain in progress where there are many case reports but a relative dearth of cohort studies. [18F]FDG PET provides the main comparative method in many cases but represents a well-established general PET technique that may be difficult to replace, without prospective clinical studies.
Testosterone Therapy and Diaphragm Performance in a Male Patient with COVID-19: A Case Report
Authors: Martins Gloria , Verdeal Juan Carlos Rosso , Tostes Helio , da Silva Alice Ramos Oliveira , Tessarollo Bernardo , Rocha Nazareth Novaes , Rocco Patricia Rieken Macedo , Silva Pedro Leme
Published: February 2022

Low levels of testosterone may lead to reduced diaphragm excursion and inspiratory time during COVID-19 infection. We report the case of a 38-year-old man with a positive result on a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction test for SARS-CoV-2, admitted to the intensive care unit with acute respiratory failure. After several days on mechanical ventilation and use of rescue therapies, during the weaning phase, the patient presented dyspnea associated with low diaphragm performance (diaphragm thickness fraction, amplitude, and the excursion-time index during inspiration were 37%, 1.7 cm, and 2.6 cm/s, respectively) by ultrasonography and reduced testosterone levels (total testosterone, bioavailable testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels were 9.3 ng/dL, 5.8 ng/dL, and 10.5 nmol/L, respectively). Testosterone was administered three times 2 weeks apart (testosterone undecanoate 1000 mg/4 mL intramuscularly). Diaphragm performance improved significantly (diaphragm thickness fraction, amplitude, and the excursion-time index during inspiration were 70%, 2.4 cm, and 3.0 cm/s, respectively) 45 and 75 days after the first dose of testosterone. No adverse events were observed, although monitoring was required after testosterone administration. Testosterone replacement therapy led to good diaphragm performance in a male patient with COVID-19. This should be interpreted with caution due to the exploratory nature of the study.
Knee Injury Detection Using Deep Learning on MRI Studies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Siouras Athanasios , Moustakidis Serafeim , Giannakidis Archontis , Chalatsis Georgios , Liampas Ioannis , Vlychou Marianna , Hantes Michael , Tasoulis Sotiris , Tsaopoulos Dimitrios
Published: February 2022

The improved treatment of knee injuries critically relies on having an accurate and cost-effective detection. In recent years, deep-learning-based approaches have monopolized knee injury detection in MRI studies. The aim of this paper is to present the findings of a systematic literature review of knee (anterior cruciate ligament, meniscus, and cartilage) injury detection papers using deep learning. The systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines on several databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Appropriate metrics were chosen to interpret the results. The prediction accuracy of the deep-learning models for the identification of knee injuries ranged from 72.5–100%. Deep learning has the potential to act at par with human-level performance in decision-making tasks related to the MRI-based diagnosis of knee injuries. The limitations of the present deep-learning approaches include data imbalance, model generalizability across different centers, verification bias, lack of related classification studies with more than two classes, and ground-truth subjectivity. There are several possible avenues of further exploration of deep learning for improving MRI-based knee injury diagnosis. Explainability and lightweightness of the deployed deep-learning systems are expected to become crucial enablers for their widespread use in clinical practice.
The Role of Early Revascularization and Biomarkers in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Dinoto Ettore , Ferlito Francesca , La Marca Manfredi Agostino , Tortomasi Graziella , Urso Francesca , Evola Salvatore , Guercio Giovanni , Marcianò Marco , Pakeliani David , Bajardi Guido , Pecoraro Felice
Published: February 2022

Diabetic neuropathy and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) are the main etiological factors in foot ulceration. Herein, we report our experience of diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) management, with an analysis of the relationship between the rate of lower extremity amputation, in persons with infected DFU, after revascularization procedures performed to prevent major amputation. This study highlights the role of different biomarkers, showing their usefulness and potentiality in diabetic foot ulcer management, especially for the early diagnosis and therapy effectiveness monitoring. A retrospective analysis, from September 2016 to January 2021, of diabetic patients presenting diabetic foot with DFU, was performed. All patients were treated with at least one vascular procedure (endovascular, open, hybrid procedures) targeting PAD lesions. Outcomes measured were perioperative mortality and morbidity. Freedom from occlusion, primary and secondary patency, and amputation rate were registered. A total of 267 patients, with a mean age of 72.5 years, were included in the study. The major amputation rate was 6.2%, minor amputation rate was 17%. In our experience, extreme revascularization to obtain direct flow reduced the rate of amputations, with an increase in ulcer healing.
Strain Imaging for the Early Detection of Cardiac Remodeling and Dysfunction in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Chen Yilin , Xu Tingyan , Xu Jianzhong , Zhu Limin , Wang Dian , Li Yan , Wang Jiguang
Published: February 2022

Speckle tracking echocardiography is a novel technique to quantify cardiac function and deformation. It has been applied in a series of cardiovascular diseases for the evaluation of early cardiac impairment. We recently used this technique to investigate cardiac structure and function in patients with primary aldosteronism. Cardiac damage usually occurs earlier in patients with primary aldosteronism than those with primary hypertension, probably because aldosterone hypersecretion is more commonly observed in the former than the latter patients. In this article, we will review the imaging studies, especially with speckle tracking echocardiography, for the detection of early cardiac dysfunction in primary aldosteronism as a disease model.