bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Survey on Eye Strain and Perceived Stress amid the COVID-19 Online Learning among Medical Science Students
Authors: Victor Virginia M. , Parsan Ameera , Dookran Aliyah , Lulkool Amisha , Ali Ammara , Mahabir Amethyst , Marchan Amanda , Monroe Ambernique , Ramharack Amir , Ekemiri Kingsley , Ezinne Ngozika , Daniel Esther
Published: May 2023

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions globally were forced to close, resulting in a transition to online learning. However, this transition increased screen time and made e-learners more vulnerable to biopsychosocial issues. This study aimed to assess the impact of online learning on the eyes and mental health of medical science students, including those pursuing MBBS, Nursing, Optometry, Pharmacy, and Veterinary degrees during the COVID-19 lockdown period. A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted, collecting online data from 182 samples using a socio-demographic data sheet (SDVS), Computer Vision Symptom Scale (CVSS 17), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS 10). Results revealed that most students spent between 2 and 4 h and >7 h on electronic devices before and during COVID-19, respectively, with many reporting moderate mental stress and eye strain. A weak positive correlation (r = 0.204 at p < 0.05) was found between perceived stress and eye strain, with the 24–29 age group reporting higher mean scores for eye strain. Female participants in the study reported higher mean scores for both eye strain and perceived stress. Additionally, the study found significant associations between eye strain and the electronic devices used, the program of study, and perceived stress levels. The participants’ ethnicity was also found to impact eye strain levels. The study concludes that the transition to online learning during COVID-19 caused moderate to severe levels of eye strain and mental stress, indicating the need for interventions for the student community.
Expression Profile, Regulatory Network, and Putative Role of microRNAs in the Developmental Process of Asian Honey Bee Larval Guts
Authors: Fan Xiaoxue , Zhang Wende , Guo Sijia , Zhu Leran , Zhang Yiqiong , Zhao Haodong , Gao Xuze , Jiang Haibin , Zhang Tianze , Chen Dafu , Guo Rui , Niu Qingsheng
Published: May 2023

MiRNAs, as a kind of key regulators in gene expression, play vital roles in numerous life activities from cellular proliferation and differentiation to development and immunity. However, little is known about the regulatory manner of miRNAs in the development of Asian honey bee (Apis cerana) guts. Here, on basis of our previously gained high-quality transcriptome data, transcriptome-wide identification of miRNAs in the larval guts of Apis cerana cerana was conducted, followed by investigation of the miRNAs’ differential expression profile during the gut development. In addition to the regulatory network, the potential function of differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) was further analyzed. In total, 330, 351, and 321 miRNAs were identified in the 4-, 5-, and 6-day-old larval guts, respectively; among these, 257 miRNAs were shared, while 38, 51, and 36 ones were specifically expressed. Sequences of six miRNAs were confirmed by stem-loop RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. Additionally, in the “Ac4 vs. Ac5” comparison group, there were seven up-regulated and eight down-regulated miRNAs; these DEmiRNAs could target 5041 mRNAs, involving a series of GO terms and KEGG pathways associated with growth and development, such as cellular process, cell part, Wnt, and Hippo. Comparatively, four up-regulated and six down-regulated miRNAs detected in the “Ac5 vs. Ac6” comparison group and the targets were associated with diverse development-related terms and pathways, including cell, organelle, Notch and Wnt. Intriguingly, it was noticed that miR-6001-y presented a continuous up-regulation trend across the developmental process of larval guts, implying that miR-6001-y may be a potential essential modulator in the development process of larval guts. Further investigation indicated that 43 targets in the “Ac4 vs. Ac5” comparison group and 31 targets in the “Ac5 vs. Ac6” comparison group were engaged in several crucial development-associated signaling pathways such as Wnt, Hippo, and Notch. Ultimately, the expression trends of five randomly selected DEmiRNAs were verified using RT-qPCR. These results demonstrated that dynamic expression and structural alteration of miRNAs were accompanied by the development of A. c. cerana larval guts, and DEmiRNAs were likely to participate in the modulation of growth as well as development of larval guts by affecting several critical pathways via regulation of the expression of target genes. Our data offer a basis for elucidating the developmental mechanism underlying Asian honey bee larval guts.
Identification of Terpenoid Compounds and Toxicity Assays of Essential Oil Microcapsules from Artemisia stechmanniana
Authors: Liu Chang , Liu Zhilong , Zhang Yihan , Song Xuan , Huang Wenguang , Zhang Rong
Published: May 2023

Plant essential oils, as biological pesticides, have been reviewed from several perspectives and play a key role in chemical ecology. However, plant essential oils show rapid degradation and vulnerability during actual usage. In this study, we conducted a detailed analysis of the compounds present in the essential oils of A. stechmanniana using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed seventeen terpenoid compounds in the A. stechmanniana oil, with four major terpenoid compounds, i.e., eucalyptol (15.84%), (+)-2-Bornanone (16.92%), 1-(1,2,3-Trimethyl-cyclopent-2-enyl)-ethanone (25.63%), and (-)-Spathulenol (16.38%), in addition to an amount of the other terpenoid compounds (25.26%). Indoor toxicity assays were used to evaluate the insecticidal activity of Artemisia stechmanniana essential oil against Aphis gossypii, Frankliniella occidentalis, and Bactericera gobica in Lycium barbarum. The LC50/LD50 values of A. stechmanniana essential oils against A. gossypii, F. occidentalis, and B. gobica were 5.39 mg/mL, 0.34 mg/L, and 1.40 μg/insect, respectively, all of which were highly efficient compared with azadirachtin essential oil. Interestingly, A. stechmanniana essential oil embedded in β-cyclodextrin (microencapsule) remained for only 21 days, whereas pure essential oils remained for only 5 days. A field efficacy assay with the A. stechmanniana microencapsule (AM) and doses at three concentrations was conducted in Lycium barbarum, revealing that the insecticidal activities of AM showed high efficiency, maintained a significant control efficacy at all concentrations tested, and remained for 21 days. Our study identified terpenoid compounds from untapped Artemisia plants and designed a novel method against pests using a new biopesticide on L. barbarum.
Insecticidal Properties of Erythritol on Four Tropical Tephritid Fruit Flies, Zeugodacus cucurbitae, Ceratitis capitata, Bactrocera dorsalis, and B. latifrons (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Cha Dong H. , Skabeikis Dominick , Kim Bong-Soo , Lee Jana C. , Choi Man-yeon
Published: May 2023

Tephritid fruit flies are among the most destructive agricultural pests of fruits and vegetables worldwide and can impose trade barriers against the movement of fresh tropical commodities. Primary pre-harvest control methods for these flies rely on the spraying of conventional chemical insecticides or bait sprays. However, resistance to these control methods has been reported in fruit flies. Erythritol is a non-nutritive sugar alternative for human consumption, which has been tested and confirmed for its insecticidal properties against various insect pest species. In this study, using laboratory bioassays, we evaluated the insecticidal effect of erythritol alone or various erythritol formulations containing sucrose and/or protein on four tropical fruit fly species established in Hawaii (e.g., melon fly, Mediterranean fruit fly, oriental fruit fly, and Malaysian fruit fly). In addition, the effects of other non-nutritive hexose and pentose sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol, were tested. Among the different standalone and combinatory treatments tested, 1M erythritol and a combinatory formulation of 2M erythritol + 0.5M sucrose appeared to be the most detrimental to the survival of all four species of tested flies, suggesting the potential of using erythritol as a non-toxic management tool for the control of tropical tephritid fruit flies.
Advancements in Sports Medicine
Authors: Sun Yaying , Chen Jiwu
Published: May 2023

Sports medicine has developed rapidly in recent years [...]
Primary Tumour Treatment in Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer with Unresectable Liver and Lung Metastases and No Peritoneal Carcinomatosis—Current Trends and Attitudes in the Absence of Clear Guidelines
Authors: Tebala Giovanni Domenico , Di Cintio Antonio , Ricci Francesco , Avenia Stefano , Cirocchi Roberto , Desiderio Jacopo , Di Nardo Domenico , Di Saverio Salomone , Gemini Alessandro , Ranucci Maria Chiara , Trastulli Stefano , Cianchi Fabio , Scatizzi Marco , Catena Fausto ,   the MeCC-4 International Collaborative
Published: May 2023

Background: The treatment of the primary tumour in colorectal cancer with unresectable liver and/or lung metastases but no peritoneal carcinomatosis is still a matter of debate. In the absence of clear evidence and guidelines, our survey was aimed at obtaining a snapshot of the current attitudes and the rationales for the choice of offering resection of the primary tumour (RPT) despite the presence of untreatable metastases. Methods: An online survey was administered to medical professionals worldwide. The survey had three sections: (1) demographics of the respondent, (2) case scenarios and (3) general questions. For each respondent, an “elective resection score” and an “emergency resection score” were calculated as a percentage of the times he or she would offer RPT in the elective and in the emergency case scenarios. They were correlated to independent variables such as age, type of affiliation and specific workload. Results: Most respondents would offer palliative chemotherapy as the first choice in elective scenarios, while a more aggressive approach with RPT would be reserved for younger patients with good performance status and in emergency situations. Respondents younger than 50 years old and those with a specific workload of fewer than 40 cases of colorectal cancer per year tend to be more conservative. Conclusions: In the absence of clear guidelines and evidence, there is a lack of consensus on the treatment of the primary tumour in case of colon cancer with unresectable liver and/or lung metastases and no peritoneal carcinomatosis. Palliative chemotherapy seems to be the first option, but more consistent evidence is needed to guide this choice.
Safety and Efficiency of Rotational Atherectomy in Chronic Total Coronary Occlusion—One-year Clinical Outcomes of an Observational Registry
Authors: Ayoub Mohamed , Corpataux Noé , Behnes Michael , Schupp Tobias , Forner Jan , Akin Ibrahim , Neumann Franz-Josef , Westermann Dirk , Rudolph Volker , Mashayekhi Kambis
Published: May 2023

The study sought to assess the procedural success of rotational atherectomy (RA) in coronary chronic total occlusion (CTO) and to investigate the in-hospital and one-year outcomes following RA. From 2015 to 2019, patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for CTO (CTO PCI) were retrospectively included into the hospital database. The primary endpoint was procedural success. Secondary endpoints were in-hospital and one-year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral event (MACCE) rates. During the study period of 5 years, 2.789 patients underwent CTO PCI. Patients treated with RA (n = 193, 6.92%) had a significantly higher procedural success (93.26% vs. 85.10%, p = 0.0002) compared to those treated without RA (n = 2.596, 93.08%). Despite a significantly higher rate of pericardiocentesis (3.11% vs. 0.50%, p = 0.0013) in the RA group, the in-hospital and one-year MACCE rate was similar in both groups (4.15% vs. 2.77%, p = 0.2612; 18.65% vs. 16.72%, p = 0.485). In conclusion, RA is associated with higher procedural success for CTO PCI, but has higher risks for pericardial tamponade than CTO PCI without the need for RA. Nevertheless, in-hospital and one-year MACCE rates did not differ in-between both groups.
Introducing Radiotherapy in Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma Patients with Limited Progression on Avelumab: An Effective Step against Primary and Secondary Immune Resistance?
Authors: Ferini Gianluca , Zagardo Valentina , Critelli Paola , Santacaterina Anna , Sava Serena , Harikar Mandara Muralidhar , Venkataram Tejas , Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Viola Anna , Valenti Vito , Forte Stefano
Published: May 2023

Purpose: To investigate the ability of radiotherapy (RT) to prolong progression-free survival (PFS) and to report treatment-related toxicities among oligoprogressive metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (mMCC) patients on avelumab. Methods: We retrospectively collected clinical data on mMCC patients who underwent radiotherapy for limited progression on avelumab. Patients were categorized as primary or secondary immune refractory depending on the time of onset of resistance to immunotherapy (at the first or subsequent follow-up visits after avelumab initiation). Pre- and post-RT PFS were calculated. Overall survival (OS) from the first progression treated with RT was also reported. Radiological responses and toxicities were evaluated according to the irRECIST criteria and RTOG scoring system, respectively. Results: Eight patients, including five females, with a median age of 75 years, met our inclusion criteria. The median gross tumor and clinical target volumes at first progression on avelumab were 29.85 cc and 236.7 cc, respectively. The treatment sites included lymph node, skin, brain, and spine metastases. Four patients received more than one course of RT. Most patients were treated with palliative radiation doses (mainly 30 Gy in 3 Gy/day fractions). Two patients were treated with stereotactic RT. Five/eight patients were primary immune refractory. The objective response rate at the first post-RT assessment was 75%, whereas no local failure was reported. The median pre-RT PFS was 3 months. The pre-RT PFS was 37.5% at 6 months and 12.5% at 1 year. The median post-RT PFS was not reached. The post-RT PFS was 60% at 6 months and 1 year. The post-RT OS was 85.7% at 1 year and 64.3% at 2 years. No relevant treatment-related toxicity was observed. After a median follow-up of 18.5 months, 6/8 patients are still alive and continuing on avelumab therapy. Conclusions: Adding radiotherapy to mMCC patients with limited progression on avelumab seems to be safe and effective in prolonging the successful use of immunotherapy, regardless of the type of immune refractoriness.
Depression and Anxiety in Heart Transplant Recipients: Prevalence and Impact on Post-Transplant Outcomes
Authors: Alyaydin Emyal , Sindermann Juergen Reinhard , Köppe Jeanette , Gerss Joachim , Dröge Patrik , Ruhnke Thomas , Günster Christian , Reinecke Holger , Feld Jannik
Published: May 2023

Background: Depression and anxiety (DA) are common mental disorders in patients with chronic diseases, but the research regarding their prevalence in heart transplantation (HTx) is still limited. Methods: We performed an analysis of the prevalence and prognostic relevance of DA in patients who underwent HTx between 2010 and 2018 in Germany. Data were obtained from Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse (AOK), which is the largest public health insurance provider. Results: Overall, 694 patients were identified. More than a third of them were diagnosed with DA before undergoing HTx (n = 260, 37.5%). Patients with DA more often had an ischaemic cardiomyopathy (p < 0.001) and a history of previous myocardial infarction (p = 0.001) or stroke (p = 0.002). The prevalence of hypertension (p < 0.001), diabetes (p = 0.004), dyslipidaemia (p < 0.001) and chronic kidney disease (p = 0.003) was higher amongst transplant recipients with DA. Patients with DA were more likely to suffer an ischaemic stroke (p < 0.001) or haemorrhagic stroke (p = 0.032), or develop septicaemia (p = 0.050) during hospitalisation for HTx. Our analysis found no significant differences between the groups with respect to in-hospital mortality. The female sex and mechanical circulatory support were associated with an inferior prognosis. Pretransplant non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy was related to a favourable outcome. Conclusions: DA affect up to a third of the population undergoing HTx, with a greater prevalence in patients with comorbidities. DA are associated with a higher incidence of stroke and septicaemia after HTx.
From Sensors to Safety: Internet of Emergency Services (IoES) for Emergency Response and Disaster Management
Authors: Damaševičius Robertas , Bacanin Nebojsa , Misra Sanjay
Published: May 2023

The advancement in technology has led to the integration of internet-connected devices and systems into emergency management and response, known as the Internet of Emergency Services (IoES). This integration has the potential to revolutionize the way in which emergency services are provided, by allowing for real-time data collection and analysis, and improving coordination among various agencies involved in emergency response. This paper aims to explore the use of IoES in emergency response and disaster management, with an emphasis on the role of sensors and IoT devices in providing real-time information to emergency responders. We will also examine the challenges and opportunities associated with the implementation of IoES, and discuss the potential impact of this technology on public safety and crisis management. The integration of IoES into emergency management holds great promise for improving the speed and efficiency of emergency response, as well as enhancing the overall safety and well-being of citizens in emergency situations. However, it is important to understand the possible limitations and potential risks associated with this technology, in order to ensure its effective and responsible use. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Internet of Emergency Services and its implications for emergency response and disaster management.
Effectiveness of Different Training Modalities on Static Balance in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Labata-Lezaun Noé , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Sergi , López-de-Celis Carlos , Rodríguez-Sanz Jacobo , Canet-Vintró Max , R.-Oviedo Guillermo , González-Rueda Vanessa , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: aging is associated with functional changes such as balance, which plays a critical role in older adults. Physical exercise has been established as a factor capable of modulating these age-related alterations. (2) Methods: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was conducted. The systematic search was performed in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, the SPORTDiscus and Cochrane Library databases. Articles were included if participants were 65 years or older, healthy and performing resistance training, aerobic training, balance training or multicomponent training. Studies were excluded if there was a combination of training with other types of intervention. The protocol of this systematic review was published in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the code CRD42021233252 (3) Results: the search strategy found a total of 1103 studies. After removing duplicates and the inclusion and exclusion criteria, eight articles were included in the meta-analysis, with a total of 335 healthy older adults analyzed. The results showed no significant differences between the intervention groups and the control groups after the exercise programs. (4) Conclusions: interventions based on different types of exercise improved static balance in elderly population, but without statistically significant difference in comparison with the control groups.
Functional Outcomes and Safety Profile of Trans-Foveal Subthreshold Micropulse Laser in Persistent Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Kiraly Peter , Habjan Maja Šuštar , Smrekar Jaka , Mekjavić Polona Jaki
Published: May 2023

Our study evaluated visual function changes after subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) treatment in persistent central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and SML safety profile. We conducted a prospective study including 31 fovea-involving CSC patients. The natural course was observed for the first 3 months, SML was performed at 3 months, and SML effectiveness was observed at 6 months. At all three clinical visits, optical coherence tomography (OCT), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity (CS) in five spatial frequencies (1.5, 3.0, 6.0, 12.0, and 18.0 cycles per degree (cpd)), microperimetry (MP), and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) were performed. The SML safety profile was evaluated with functional and morphological parameters. In the cohort of all CSC patients treated with SML, the statistically significant average improvement was observed in BCVA (p = 0.007), CS-1.5 (p = 0.020), CS-3.0 (p = 0.050), CS-12.0 (p < 0.001), CS-18.0 (p = 0.002), CS (CS-A) (p < 0.001), MP in the central ring (MP-C) (p = 0.020), peripheral ring (MP-P) (p = 0.042), and average retinal sensitivity (MP-A) (p = 0.010). After the SML treatment, mean changes in mfERG amplitudes and implicit times in our cohort were not statistically significant. No morphological or functional adverse effects of SML treatment were observed. SML treatment in persistent CSC episodes leads to significant functional improvement and has an excellent safety profile.
Wear Mechanisms in Press Hardening: An Analysis through Comparison of Tribological Tests and Industrial Tools
Authors: Pujante Jaume , Garcia-Llamas Eduard , Ramírez Giselle , Cuadrado Nuria , Ademaj Agim , Vilaseca Montserrat , Casellas Daniel
Published: May 2023

Press hardened components have become widespread in the automotive industry in structural and crash-resistant applications, thanks to the combination of the complex shapes and high mechanical properties obtained. However, the press hardening of coated boron steel results in severe adhesive-based wear, with tool maintenance being required in as few as 3000 cycles. The current industrial implementation of press hardening is defined to work around this phenomenon. While this aspect has been studied by different authors, most of the literature deals with laboratory-scale tribosimulators, leaving an open question into how this knowledge transfers to macroscopic effects on the industrial process. In this work, wear in press hardening is studied by comparing the results obtained in laboratory conditions with a pilot-scale line, and finally, with wear mechanisms observed on industrial tools. The aim of this study is to consolidate the current knowledge about the micro-mechanisms involved, and to understand to what extent the existing tests reproduce the actual mechanisms observed in the press floor. The results show how material transfer mainly happens as an accumulation of dust compacted into initial defects on the tool surface. Moreover, this mechanism is effectively reproduced in laboratory tribosimulators and pilot environments, showing a similar morphology to wear on industrial tools. The work sheds light on the underlying causes of wear, and its potential mitigation strategies.
Structural Elucidation of 2-(6-(Diethylamino)benzofuran-2-yl)-3-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one and Labelling of Mycobacterium aurum Cells
Authors: Richter Adrian , Goddard Richard , Siersleben Fabienne , Mann Lea , Seidel Rüdiger W.
Published: May 2023

Trehalose conjugates of 3-hydroxychromone (3HC) dyes have previously been utilized as fluorescence labels to detect metabolically active mycobacteria with a view to facilitating point-of-care detection of mycobacterial pathogens, especially Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We subjected the 3HC dye 2-(6-(diethylamino)benzofuran-2-yl)-3-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one (3HC-2) to a combined X-ray crystallography and density functional theory (DFT) study, and conducted preliminary fluorescence labelling experiments with the model organism Mycobacterium aurum. In the crystal, 3HC-2 exhibits an s-cis conformation of the chromone and the benzofuran moieties about the central C–C bond. According to DFT calculations, the s-cis conformer is about 1.8 kcal mol−1 lower in energy than the s-trans conformer. The solid-state supramolecular structure features hydrogen-bonded dimers and π…π stacking. Fluorescence microscopy revealed fluorescence of M. aurum cells treated with the dye trehalose conjugate 3HC-2-Tre in the GFP channel. It was concluded that s-cis is the preferred conformation of 3HC-2 and that the generally considered non-pathogenic M. aurum can be labelled with the fluorescence probe 3HC-2-Tre for convenient in vitro drug screening of new antimycobacterial agents.
Research on the Spring Creep Based on the Load Simulator of the Double Torsion Spring Steering Gear
Authors: Zhang Bo , Ren Peijie , Wang Zhuo , Ma Hongwen
Published: May 2023

In this paper, creep at room temperature is studied using a mechanical double−spring steering−gear load table, and the results are used to determine the accuracy of theoretical and simulated data. A creep equation at room temperature, based on the parameters obtained by a new macroscopic tensile experiment method, is used to analyze the creep strain and creep angle of a spring under force. The correctness of the theoretical analysis is verified by a finite−element method. Finally, a creep strain experiment of a torsion spring is carried out. The experimental results are 4.3% lower than the theoretical calculation results, which demonstrates the accuracy of the measurement, with an error of <5% achieved. The results shows that the equation used for the theoretical calculation is highly accurate and can meet the requirements of engineering measurement.
Sonochemical Deposition of Gentamicin Nanoparticles at the PCV Tracheostomy Tube Surface Limiting Bacterial Biofilm Formation
Authors: Ścibik Łukasz , Ochońska Dorota , Gołda-Cępa Monika , Kwiecień Konrad , Pamuła Elżbieta , Kotarba Andrzej , Brzychczy-Włoch Monika
Published: May 2023

Background: The use of nanotechnology in the production of medical equipment has opened new possibilities to fight bacterial biofilm developing on their surfaces, which can cause infectious complications. In this study, we decided to use gentamicin nanoparticles. An ultrasonic technique was used for their synthesis and immediate deposition onto the surface of tracheostomy tubes, and their effect on bacterial biofilm formation was evaluated. Methods: Polyvinyl chloride was functionalized using oxygen plasma followed by sonochemical formation and the embedment of gentamicin nanoparticles. The resulting surfaces were characterized with the use of AFM, WCA, NTA, FTIR and evaluated for cytotoxicity with the use of A549 cell line and for bacterial adhesion using reference strains of S. aureus (ATCC® 25923™) and E. coli (ATCC® 25922™). Results: The use of gentamicin nanoparticles significantly reduced the adhesion of bacterial colonies on the surface of the tracheostomy tube for S. aureus from 6 × 105 CFU/mL to 5 × 103 CFU/mL and for E. coli from 1.655 × 105 CFU/mL to 2 × 101 CFU/mL, and the functionalized surfaces did not show a cytotoxic effect on A549 cells (ATTC CCL 185). Conclusions: The use of gentamicin nanoparticles on the polyvinyl chloride surface may be an additional supporting method for patients after tracheostomy in order to prevent the colonization of the biomaterial by potentially pathogenic microorganisms.
Pulsed Laser Spot Welding Thermal-Shock-Induced Microcracking of Inconel 718 Thin Sheet Alloy
Authors: Shi Mingli , Ye Xin , Wang Yuanhao , Wu Di
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the change in solidification microcrack susceptibility under the influence of thermal-shock-induced effects for pulsed laser spot welding molten pools with different waveforms, powers, frequencies, and pulse widths. During the welding process, the temperature of the molten pool under the effect of thermal shock changes sharply, triggering pressure waves, creating cavities in the molten pool paste area, and forming crack sources during solidification. The microstructure near the cracks was analyzed using a SEM (scanning electron microscope) and EDS (electronic differential system), and it was found that bias precipitation occurred during the rapid solidification of the melt pool, and a large amount of Nb elements were enriched in the interdendritic and grain boundaries, which eventually formed a liquid film with a low melting point, known as a Laves phase. When cavities appear in the liquid film, the chance of crack source formation is further increased. Using a slow rise and slow fall waveform is good for reducing cracks; reducing the peak laser power to 1000 w is good for reducing cracks in the solder joint; increasing the pulse width to 20 ms reduces the degree of crack damage; reducing the pulse frequency to 10 hz reduces the degree of crack damage.
The Lubricating Effect of Eye Drops Containing Hyaluronic Acid and Mallow Extract in Patients with Dry Eye Disease—A Pilot Study
Authors: Basile Andrea Attilio , Mandelli Giulia , Cendali Magda , Hufnagel Rebecca
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: Mucilaginous substances from plants are known to be able to support the lubricating effect of hyaluronic acid (HA) in dry eye disease (DED). In this pilot study, the combined lubricating effect of HA and mallow extract (Malva sylvestris L.) in patients with DED was assessed. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients at five ophthalmological practices in Italy were treated with eye drops containing HA and mallow extract on the one hand, and with eye drops containing HA only, on the other hand, in a two-period crossover design. As primary endpoints, the tear film breakup time (TBUT), the reduction of lissamine green staining of the ocular surface (Oxford Scheme, OS), and the safety and efficacy assessment by the ophthalmologists were evaluated. As secondary variables, the patient symptom score, the ocular surface index (OSDI) and the satisfaction, preference and efficacy assessment by the patients were evaluated. All data were analysed descriptively in addition to an exploratory analysis being made of the target variables. Results: Both products were well-tolerated. There were no statistically significant differences with regard to the TBUT, OS and OSDI between the two treatments. Anyway, the efficacy and safety assessments by the ophthalmologists and the patients showed results in favour of the combined product. Conclusion: The addition of mallow extract to HA-containing eye drops enhances the treatment of DED, at least with respect to subjective measurements. Further assessments will have to be done to prove and explain this observation in terms of measurable parameters, e.g., markers for inflammatory cytokines.
Hydration and Mobility of Alkaline Metal Cations in Sulfonic Cation Exchange Membranes
Authors: Volkov Vitaly , Slesarenko Nikita , Chernyak Alexander , Avilova Irina , Tarasov Victor
Published: May 2023

The interconnection of ionogenic channel structure, cation hydration, water and ionic translational mobility was revealed in Nafion and MSC membranes based on polyethylene and grafted sulfonated polystyrene. A local mobility of Li+, Na+ and Cs+ cations and water molecules was estimated via the 1H, 7Li, 23Na and 133Cs spin relaxation technique. The calculated cation and water molecule self-diffusion coefficients were compared with experimental values measured using pulsed field gradient NMR. It was shown that macroscopic mass transfer is controlled by molecule and ion motion near sulfonate groups. Lithium and sodium cations whose hydrated energy is higher than water hydrogen bond energy move together with water molecules. Cesium cations in possession of low hydrated energy are directly jumping between neighboring sulfonate groups. Cation Li+, Na+ and Cs+ hydration numbers (h) in membranes were calculated from 1H chemical shift water molecule temperature dependences. The values calculated from the Nernst–Einstein equation and the experimental conductivity values were close to each other in Nafion membranes. In MSC membranes, calculated conductivities were one order of magnitude more compared to the experimental ones, which is explained by the heterogeneity of the membrane pore and channel system.
Copolymer of VDF/TFE as a Promising Polymer Additive for CsH2PO4-Based Composite Electrolytes
Authors: Kungurtsev Yuri , Bagryantseva Irina , Ponomareva Valentina
Published: May 2023

The composite polymer electrolytes (1-x)CsH2PO4-xF-2M (x = 0–0.3) have been first synthesized and their electrotransport, structural, and mechanical properties were investigated in detail by impedance, FTIR spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction methods. The structure of CsH2PO4 (P21/m) with salt dispersion is retained in the polymer electrolytes. The FTIR and PXRD data are consistent, showing no chemical interaction between the components in the polymer systems, but the salt dispersion is due to a weak interface interaction. The close to uniform distribution of the particles and their agglomerates is observed. The obtained polymer composites are suitable for making thin highly conductive films (60–100 μm) with high mechanical strength. The proton conductivity of the polymer membranes up to x = 0.05–0.1 is close to the pure salt. The further polymers addition up to x = 0.25 results in a significant decrease in the superproton conductivity due to the percolation effect. Despite a decrease, the conductivity values at 180–250 °C remain high enough to enable the use of (1-x)CsH2PO4-xF-2M as a proton membrane in the intermediate temperature range.
Corrosion Behavior of the AZ31 Mg Alloy in Neutral Aqueous Solutions Containing Various Anions
Authors: Kwon Duyoung , Pham Hien Van , Song Pungkeun , Moon Sungmo
Published: May 2023

This work demonstrates the corrosion behavior of the AZ31 Mg alloy as a function of an immersion time of 48 h in 0.1 M HCl, H2SO4, H3PO4 and HF solutions, in which pH was adjusted to 6 to exclude the contribution of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH−). In situ observations, open circuit potential (OCP), weight changes and AC impedance measurements were performed with an immersion time of 48 h and the morphologies and chemical compositions of the surface products after 48 h of immersion were analyzed by SEM, EDS and XPS. In the chloride ion (Cl−)-containing solution, the corrosion of the AZ31 Mg alloy initiated locally and propagated discontinuously over the surface with immersion time. The OCP value of the AZ31 Mg alloy showed an initial increase from −1.51 VAg/AgCl to −1.47 VAg/AgCl after about 5 h of immersion and then a decrease to −1.51 VAg/AgCl due to corrosion initiation. In the F−-containing solution, after 48 h of immersion, the OCP showed an extremely large value of −0.6 VAg/AgCl, while the relatively lower values of −1.52 VAg/AgCl, −1.59 VAg/AgCl were seen in the solutions containing SO42− and PO43, respectively. In the sulfate ion (SO42−)-containing neutral aqueous solution, needle-like surface films were formed and there were no changes in the weight of the AZ31 Mg alloy with immersion time. In the phosphate ion (PO43−)-containing neutral aqueous solution, a vigorous gas evolution occurred, together with the formation of black surface films with cracks, and a high corrosion rate of −13.8018 × 10−3 g·cm−2·day−1 was obtained. In the fluoride ion (F−)-containing neutral aqueous solution, a surface film with crystalline grains of MgF2 was formed and the weight of the AZ31 Mg alloy increased continuously with immersion time. In conclusion, the corrosion of the AZ31 Mg alloy occurred uniformly in neutral phosphate solution but locally in chloride solution. No corrosion was observed in either the neutral sulfate or fluoride solutions.
Bone Metabolite Profile Differs between Normal and Femur Head Necrosis (FHN/BCO)-Affected Broilers: Implications for Dysregulated Metabolic Cascades in FHN Pathophysiology
Authors: Ramser Alison , Hawken Rachel , Greene Elizabeth , Okimoto Ron , Flack Brenda , Christopher Courtney J. , Campagna Shawn R. , Dridi Sami
Published: May 2023

Femur head necrosis (FHN), also known as bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO), has remained an animal welfare and production concern for modern broilers regardless of efforts to select against it in primary breeder flocks. Characterized by the bacterial infection of weak bone, FHN has been found in birds without clinical lameness and remains only detectable via necropsy. This presents an opportunity to utilize untargeted metabolomics to elucidate potential non-invasive biomarkers and key causative pathways involved in FHN pathology. The current study used ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC–HRMS) and identified a total of 152 metabolites. Mean intensity differences at p < 0.05 were found in 44 metabolites, with 3 significantly down-regulated and 41 up-regulated in FHN-affected bone. Multivariate analysis and a partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) scores plot showed the distinct clustering of metabolite profiles from FHN-affected vs. normal bone. Biologically related molecular networks were predicted using an ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) knowledge base. Using a fold-change cut off of −1.5 and 1.5, top canonical pathways, networks, diseases, molecular functions, and upstream regulators were generated using the 44 differentially abundant metabolites. The results showed the metabolites NAD+, NADP+, and NADH to be downregulated, while 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) and histamine were significantly increased in FHN. Ascorbate recycling and purine nucleotides degradation were the top canonical pathways, indicating the potential dysregulation of redox homeostasis and osteogenesis. Lipid metabolism and cellular growth and proliferation were some of the top molecular functions predicted based on the metabolite profile in FHN-affected bone. Network analysis showed significant overlap across metabolites and predicted upstream and downstream complexes, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), insulin, collagen type IV, mitochondrial complex, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (Jnk), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β HSD). The qPCR analysis of relevant factors showed a significant decrease in AMPKα2 mRNA expression in FHN-affected bone, supporting the predicted downregulation found in the IPA network analysis. Taken as a whole, these results demonstrate a shift in energy production, bone homeostasis, and bone cell differentiation that is distinct in FHN-affected bone, with implications for how metabolites drive the pathology of FHN.
The Relationship between Maternal Antibodies to Fetal Brain and Prenatal Stress Exposure in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Costa Amy N. , Ferguson Bradley J. , Hawkins Emily , Coman Adriana , Schauer Joseph , Ramirez-Celis Alex , Hecht Patrick M. , Bruce Danielle , Tilley Michael , Talebizadeh Zohreh , Van de Water Judy , Beversdorf David Q.
Published: May 2023

Environmental and genetic factors contribute to the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but their interaction is less well understood. Mothers that are genetically more stress-susceptible have been found to be at increased risk of having a child with ASD after exposure to stress during pregnancy. Additionally, the presence of maternal antibodies for the fetal brain is associated with a diagnosis of ASD in children. However, the relationship between prenatal stress exposure and maternal antibodies in the mothers of children diagnosed with ASD has not yet been addressed. This exploratory study examined the association of maternal antibody response with prenatal stress and a diagnosis of ASD in children. Blood samples from 53 mothers with at least one child diagnosed with ASD were examined by ELISA. Maternal antibody presence, perceived stress levels during pregnancy (high or low), and maternal 5-HTTLPR polymorphisms were examined for their interrelationship in ASD. While high incidences of prenatal stress and maternal antibodies were found in the sample, they were not associated with each other (p = 0.709, Cramér’s V = 0.051). Furthermore, the results revealed no significant association between maternal antibody presence and the interaction between 5-HTTLPR genotype and stress (p = 0.729, Cramér’s V = 0.157). Prenatal stress was not found to be associated with the presence of maternal antibodies in the context of ASD, at least in this initial exploratory sample. Despite the known relationship between stress and changes in immune function, these results suggest that prenatal stress and immune dysregulation are independently associated with a diagnosis of ASD in this study population, rather than acting through a convergent mechanism. However, this would need to be confirmed in a larger sample.
Certain Tomato Root Exudates Induced by Pseudomonas stutzeri NRCB010 Enhance Its Rhizosphere Colonization Capability
Authors: Zhang Huanhuan , Zheng Donghui , Hu Chun , Cheng Wenwen , Lei Peng , Xu Hong , Gao Nan
Published: May 2023

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can colonize plant root surfaces or form biofilms to promote plant growth and enhance plant resistance to harsh external environments. However, plant–PGPR interactions, especially chemical signaling molecules, are poorly understood. This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the rhizosphere interaction mechanisms between PGPR and tomato plants. This study found that inoculation with a certain concentration of Pseudomonas stutzeri significantly promoted tomato growth and induced significant changes in tomato root exudates. Furthermore, the root exudates significantly induced NRCB010 growth, swarming motility, and biofilm formation. In addition, the composition of the root exudates was analyzed, and four metabolites (methyl hexadecanoate, methyl stearate, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, and n-hexadecanoic acid) significantly related to the chemotaxis and biofilm formation of NRCB010 were screened. Further assessment showed that these metabolites positively affected the growth, swarming motility, chemotaxis, or biofilm formation of strain NRCB010. Among these, n-hexadecanoic acid induced the most remarkable growth, chemotactic response, biofilm formation, and rhizosphere colonization. This study will help develop effective PGPR-based bioformulations to improve PGPR colonization and crop yields.
Instrumental Drift in Untargeted Metabolomics: Optimizing Data Quality with Intrastudy QC Samples
Authors: Märtens Andre , Holle Johannes , Mollenhauer Brit , Wegner Andre , Kirwan Jennifer , Hiller Karsten
Published: May 2023

Untargeted metabolomics is an important tool in studying health and disease and is employed in fields such as biomarker discovery and drug development, as well as precision medicine. Although significant technical advances were made in the field of mass-spectrometry driven metabolomics, instrumental drifts, such as fluctuations in retention time and signal intensity, remain a challenge, particularly in large untargeted metabolomics studies. Therefore, it is crucial to consider these variations during data processing to ensure high-quality data. Here, we will provide recommendations for an optimal data processing workflow using intrastudy quality control (QC) samples that identifies errors resulting from instrumental drifts, such as shifts in retention time and metabolite intensities. Furthermore, we provide an in-depth comparison of the performance of three popular batch-effect correction methods of different complexity. By using different evaluation metrics based on QC samples and a machine learning approach based on biological samples, the performance of the batch-effect correction methods were evaluated. Here, the method TIGER demonstrated the overall best performance by reducing the relative standard deviation of the QCs and dispersion-ratio the most, as well as demonstrating the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic with three different probabilistic classifiers (Logistic regression, Random Forest, and Support Vector Machine). In summary, our recommendations will help to generate high-quality data that are suitable for further downstream processing, leading to more accurate and meaningful insights into the underlying biological processes.
Thin Glass Micro Force Plate Supported by Planar Spiral Springs for Measuring Minute Forces
Authors: Kiriyama Taisei , Shimazaki Kenichiro , Nakashima Rihachiro , Takahashi Hidetoshi
Published: May 2023

Microforce plates are indispensable tools for quantitatively evaluating the behavior of small objects such as tiny insects or microdroplets. The two main measurement principles for microforce plates are: the formation of strain gauges on the beam that supports the plate and the measurement of the deformation of the plate using an external displacement meter. The latter method is characterized by its ease of fabrication and durability as strain concentration is not required. To enhance the sensitivity of the latter type of force plates with a planar structure, thinner plates are generally desired. However, brittle material force plates that are both thin and large and can be fabricated easily have not yet been developed. In this study, a force plate consisting of a thin glass plate with a planar spiral spring structure and a laser displacement meter placed under the plate center is proposed. The plate deforms downward when a force is exerted vertically on its surface, resulting in the determination of the applied force using Hooke’s law. The force plate structure is easily fabricated by laser processing combined with the microelectromechanical system (MEMS) process. The fabricated force plate has a radius and thickness of 10 mm and 25 µm, respectively, with four supporting spiral beams of sub-millimeter width. A fabricated force plate featuring a sub-N/m spring constant achieves a resolution of approximately 0.01 µN.
A Self-Oscillating Driving Circuit for Low-Q MEMS Vibratory Gyroscopes
Authors: Han Tian , Wang Guanshi , Dong Changchun , Jiang Xiaolin , Ren Mingyuan , Zhang Zhu
Published: May 2023

This article establishes a circuit model with which to analyze the difficulty of auto-gain control driving for low-Q micromechanical gyroscopes at room temperature and normal pressure. It also proposes a driving circuit based on frequency modulation to eliminate the same-frequency coupling between the drive signal and displacement signal using a second harmonic demodulation circuit. The results of the simulation indicate that a closed-loop driving circuit system based on the frequency modulation principle can be established within 200 ms with a stable average frequency of 4504 Hz and a frequency deviation of 1 Hz. After the system was stabilized, the root mean square of the simulation data was taken, and the frequency jitter was 0.0221 Hz.
Melting Behaviour under Pressure of Kaolinite Clay: A Nanoscale Study
Authors: Benazzouz Brahim Khalil , Zaoui Ali
Published: May 2023

In this study, the curves of variation of melting temperature as a function of pressure were determined for pressures up to 20 GPa using molecular dynamics (MD) calculations. The CLAYFF force field is used for the simulated PT curve of the clay kaolinite structure. For this purpose, we have adopted the Z-method to determine the melting point (Tm) and superheat limit temperature (TLS) for different densities in kaolinite clay. In addition, various quantities, such as the radial distribution function (RDF), the mean square displacement (MSD), and the diffusion coefficient were evaluated in order to ensure the solid behaviour at the superheat limit temperature and the liquid behaviour at the melting point for the equilibrated structure of kaolinite.