bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Hyperosmolar Blood–Brain Barrier Opening in Glioblastoma via Histology with Evans Blue and DCE-MRI
Authors: Conq Jérôme , Joudiou Nicolas , Ucakar Bernard , Vanvarenberg Kevin , Préat Véronique , Gallez Bernard
Published: July 2023

Background: While the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is often compromised in glioblastoma (GB), the perfusion and consequent delivery of drugs are highly heterogeneous. Moreover, the accessibility of drugs is largely impaired in the margins of the tumor and for infiltrating cells at the origin of tumor recurrence. In this work, we evaluate the value of methods to assess hemodynamic changes induced by a hyperosmolar shock in the core and the margins of a tumor in a GB model. Methods: Osmotic shock was induced with an intracarotid infusion of a hypertonic solution of mannitol in mice grafted with U87-MG cells. The distribution of fluorescent dye (Evans blue) within the brain was assessed via histology. Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI with an injection of Gadolinium-DOTA as the contrast agent was also used to evaluate the effect on hemodynamic parameters and the diffusion of the contrast agent outside of the tumor area. Results: The histological study revealed that the fluorescent dye diffused much more largely outside of the tumor area after osmotic shock than in control tumors. However, the study of tumor hemodynamic parameters via DCE-MRI did not reveal any change in the permeability of the BBB, whatever the studied MRI parameter. Conclusions: The use of hypertonic mannitol infusion seems to be a promising method to increase the delivery of compounds in the margins of GB. Nevertheless, the DCE-MRI analysis method using gadolinium-DOTA as a contrast agent seems of limited value for determining the efficacy of opening the BBB in GB after osmotic shock.
Alteration of Postural Reactions in Rats with Different Levels of Dopamine Depletion
Authors: Kalinina Daria S. , Lyakhovetskii Vsevolod A. , Gorskii Oleg V. , Shkorbatova Polina Yu. , Pavlova Natalia V. , Bazhenova Elena Yu. , Sysoev Yurii I. , Gainetdinov Raul R. , Musienko Pavel E.
Published: July 2023

Dopamine (DA) is the critical neurotransmitter involved in the unconscious control of muscle tone and body posture. We evaluated the general motor capacities and muscle responses to postural disturbance in three conditions: normal DA level (wild-type rats, WT), mild DA deficiency (WT after administration of α-methyl-p-tyrosine—AMPT, that blocks DA synthesis), and severe DA depletion (DAT-KO rats after AMPT). The horizontal displacements in WT rats elicited a multi-component EMG corrective response in the flexor and extensor muscles. Similar to the gradual progression of DA-related diseases, we observed different degrees of bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability after AMPT. The mild DA deficiency impaired the initiation pattern of corrective responses, specifically delaying the extensor muscles’ activity ipsilaterally to displacement direction and earlier extensor activity from the opposite side. DA depletion in DAT-KO rats after AMPT elicited tremors, general stiffness, and akinesia, and caused earlier response to horizontal displacements in the coactivated flexor and extensor muscles bilaterally. The data obtained show the specific role of DA in postural reactions and suggest that this experimental approach can be used to investigate sensorimotor control in different dopamine-deficient states and to model DA-related diseases.
Sodium Alginate-Based MgO Nanoparticles Coupled Antibiotics as Safe and Effective Antimicrobial Candidates against Staphylococcus aureus of Houbara Bustard Birds
Authors: Murtaza Maheen , Aqib Amjad Islam , Khan Shanza Rauf , Muneer Afshan , Ali Muhammad Muddassir , Waseem Ahmad , Zaheer Tean , Al-Keridis Lamya Ahmed , Alshammari Nawaf , Saeed Mohd
Published: July 2023

Alternative and modified therapeutic approaches are key elements in culminating antibiotic resistance. To this end, an experimental trial was conducted to determine the cytotoxicity and antibacterial potential of composites of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles and antibiotics stabilized in sodium alginate gel against multi-drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from a houbara bustard. The characterization of preparations was carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning transmissible electron microscopy (STEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The preparations used in this trial consisted of gel-stabilized MgO nanoparticles (MG), gel-stabilized tylosin (GT), gel-stabilized ampicillin (GA), gel-stabilized cefoxitin (GC), gel-stabilized MgO and tylosin (GMT), gel-stabilized MgO and cefoxitin (GMC), and gel-stabilized MgO and ampicillin (GMA). The study presents composites that cause a lesser extent of damage to DNA while significantly enhancing mitotic indices/phases compared to the other single component preparations with respect to the positive control (methyl methanesulphonate). It was also noted that there was a non-significant difference (p > 0.05) between the concentrations of composites and the negative control in the toxicity trial. Studying in parallel trials showed an increased prevalence, potential risk factors, and antibiotic resistance in S. aureus. The composites in a well diffusion trial showed the highest percentage increase in the zone of inhibition in the case of GT (58.42%), followed by GMT (46.15%), GC (40.65%), GMC (40%), GMA (28.72%), and GA (21.75%) compared to the antibiotics alone. A broth microdilution assay showed the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in the case of GMA (9.766 ± 00 µg/mL), followed by that of GT (13.02 ± 5.64 µg/mL), GMC (19.53 ± 0.00 µg/mL), GA (26.04 ± 11.28 µg/mL), GMT (26.04 ± 11.28 µg/mL), MG (39.06 ± 0.00 µg/mL), and GC (39.06 ± 0.00 µg/mL). The study thus concludes the effective tackling of multiple-drug-resistant S. aureus with sodium-alginate-stabilized MgO nanoparticles and antibiotics, whereas toxicity proved to be negligible for these composites.
Evolved Eugenics and Reinforcement of “Othering”: Renewed Ethico-Legal Perspectives of Genome Editing in Reproduction
Authors: Lau Pin Lean
Published: July 2023

This article extends an exploration into renewed ethico-legal perspectives of genome editing technologies, examined from an evolved conceptualization of eugenics in contemporary human reproduction. Whilst the ethico-legal conundrums presented by genome-editing technologies in various aspects of modern medicine have thus far inspired a comprehensive trove of academic scholarship—and notwithstanding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) publication of guidelines on human genome editing in 2021—the legislative landscape for these technologies remain relatively unchanged. Accordingly, this paper presents the unresolved problematic questions that still require significant reflection. First, the paper highlights these questions, which primarily center around the tension between reproductive autonomy and the legal governance of reproductive/genome editing technologies by a democratic state. Secondly, the paper interrogates the evolved conceptualization of eugenics, exercised on the part of prospective parents as part of reproductive autonomy. By this, the paper predicates that it indirectly reinforces societal and systemic problems of discrimination and “othering”, increasing reproductive inequalities in excluded communities. Thirdly, the paper attempts to offer narratives of intersectionality as a facilitating tool in a continuing dialogue to build belonging, foster a healthy and balanced exercise of reproductive autonomy, and increase reproductive equalities.
Effects of Repetitive-Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: An Umbrella and Mapping Review
Authors: Cuenca-Martínez Ferran , Sempere-Rubio Núria , Mollà-Casanova Sara , Muñoz-Gómez Elena , Fernández-Carnero Josué , Sánchez-Sabater Alberto , Suso-Martí Luis
Published: July 2023

Background: The main aim of this study was to assess the effects of repetitive-transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in patients with fibromyalgia (FMS). Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, PEDro, EMBASE, and CINAHL. Methodological quality was analyzed using the AMSTAR and ROBIS scales, and the strength of evidence was established according to the guidelines advisory committee grading criteria. A total of 11 systematic reviews were included. The assessed variables were pain intensity, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and general health. Results: Regarding pain intensity, it seems that high-frequency rTMS significantly reduces pain intensity at a 1-month follow-up when the primary motor cortex (M1) is stimulated. However, we cannot robustly conclude the same for low-frequency protocols. When we look at the combination of high and low-frequency rTMS, there seems to be a significant effect on pain intensity up to 1-week post-intervention, but after that point of follow-up, the results are controversial. Regarding depressive symptoms and anxiety, results showed that the effects of rTMS are almost non-existent. Finally, in regard to general health, results showed that rTMS caused significant post-intervention effects in a robust way. However, the results of the follow-ups are contradictory. Conclusions: The results obtained showed that high-frequency rTMS applied on the M1 showed some effect on the variable of pain intensity with a limited quality of evidence. Overall, rTMS was shown to be effective in improving general health with moderate quality of evidence. Finally, rTMS was not shown to be effective in managing depressive symptoms and anxiety with a limited to moderate quality of evidence. PROSPERO number: This review was previously registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023391032).
The Impact of Work-Related Problems on Burnout Syndrome and Job Satisfaction Levels among Emergency Department Staff
Authors: Moscu Cosmina-Alina , Marina Virginia , Anghele Aurelian-Dumitrache , Anghele Mihaela , Dragomir Liliana , Ciubară Anamaria
Published: July 2023

Burnout syndrome is caused by a number of factors, including personal, organizational, and professional problems. The purpose of this study was to investigate burnout and satisfaction levels among emergency department staff in the context of professional activity issues. We studied a sample of 184 participants working in the emergency department. Participants signed an informed consent form, completed a socio-demographic questionnaire and the MBI-HSS (MP) questionnaire to assess burnout, a JSS (Job Satisfaction Survey) to assess their professional satisfaction, and the AWS (AWS of work survey) questionnaire on work aspects. The questionnaires were completed between November 2022 and March 2023. The study group was aged between 24–64 years old, most of the subjects being female. The study found that 30.2% of emergency medical staff are at high risk of burnout. Emotional exhaustion is indirectly proportional to workload, interpersonal relationships, and rewards. Emotional exhaustion is a direct result of work experience. While participants expressed ambivalence and dissatisfaction with the work environment, they were satisfied with the nature of their work. This study found that job-related factors such as social support and feedback are significant predictors of employee well-being and reducing the risk of burnout. Emotional exhaustion was negatively correlated with job satisfaction, while personal accomplishment was positively correlated with job satisfaction. Depersonalization was associated with job dissatisfaction with operating conditions and coworkers. The study also identified differences in burnout and related constructs among healthcare professionals, with resident physicians reporting higher levels of personal accomplishments and paramedics reporting relatively low levels of emotional exhaustion. The findings suggest that tailored interventions addressing job demands and resources are critical in improving employee well-being and reducing burnout.
Appraisals of Social Trauma and Their Role in the Development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Hardarson Johann P. , Gudmundsdottir Berglind , Valdimarsdottir Audur G. , Gudmundsdottir Karen , Tryggvadottir Arnrun , Thorarinsdottir Kristjana , Wessman Inga , Davidsdottir Soley , Tomasson Gunnar , Holmes Emily A. , Thorisdottir Audur S. , Bjornsson Andri S.
Published: July 2023

Cognitive theories of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) feature appraisal of trauma as a critical factor in the development and maintenance of the disorder. Here we explored appraisals of social trauma (severe rejection or humiliation). Participants were outpatients with social anxiety disorder (SAD) and clinically significant PTSD symptoms (PTSS) after social trauma (n = 15); two clinical control groups of either SAD (n = 32) or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD; n = 13); and a control group with no diagnoses (n = 38). Measures included a clinical interview to assess social trauma and related open-ended appraisals and the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI). Raters blind to group assignment performed content analyses of appraisals. Results showed that the PTSS group scored significantly higher than either clinical group on the PTCI SELF subscale. Only the SELF subscale predicted a diagnosis of both PTSS and SAD. All but one PTSS participant reported primarily negative beliefs about their social trauma, and the most common categories were flawed self and others are critical or cruel. Post-traumatic appraisals implicated in the course of PTSD are significant in how individuals respond to social trauma, with negative self-cognitions linked to both PTSS and SAD.
Evaluation of Community Commercial Space Design Experience and Optimization Strategy Based on KANO Model
Authors: Hu Linhui , Fan Jie , Li Congcong , Luo Shengjing
Published: July 2023

This paper takes a community commercial space as the research object, analyzes the demand preferences of community consumers and adopts the KANO model as the analysis framework to obtain the satisfaction and importance indexes of different demands of community residents. According to the content and characteristics of varying levels of the request, we propose ideas and suggestions for the optimization of community commercial spaces. The study found that consumers pay more attention to the need for service facilities category. The diversity of business types and the comfort of space are important factors affecting satisfaction with community commercial spaces. Finally, two optimization proposals are made for the space environment, such as optimizing the physical environment of retail spaces and improving support facilities. Two optimization proposals are made for space services, such as the product of “warm” community services and the product of diversified and intelligent business formats. Ultimately, this provides a reference for improving the quality of residents’ consumption experience and perfecting the optimal design of community commercial spaces.
Analysis of the Seismic Performance of Rectangular Recycled Aggregate Concrete Columns with Different Parameters
Authors: Ma Haoran , Peng Sheng , Xu Chengxiang , Zhu Yide , Sun Jie , Luo Siyu , Deng Nianchun , He Li , Han Yunfei , Wu Cai
Published: July 2023

The influence of various seismic parameters on the seismic performance of rectangular reinforced recycled concrete columns was comprehensively revealed through collecting and screening experimental data from 53 rectangular recycled aggregate concrete columns. The research results showed that the bearing capacity of the specimens decreased and the ductility performance increased, which were attributed to the following factors. a. The increase in the replacement ratio and slenderness ratio of recycled coarse aggregate, and b. the reduction in the axial compression ratio and the strength of recycled aggregate concrete. The seismic design limitations and boundary conditions of this study are γ ∈ [0, 100%], n0 ∈ [0, 0.9], λ0 ∈ [5.06, 18.479], λ ∈ [1.09, 3.93], ρsl ∈ [1.01%, 2.45%], ρsv ∈ [1.4%, 5.33%], and f ∈ [C30, C50]. Thus, it is recommended that for the seismic design value of rectangular recycled aggregate concrete columns, the optimal longitudinal reinforcement rate be set at 1.59%.
Trends and Interdisciplinarity Integration in the Development of the Research in the Fields of Sustainable, Healthy and Digital Buildings and Cities
Authors: Seduikyte Lina , Gražulevičiūtė-Vileniškė Indrė , Povilaitienė Ingrida , Fokaides Paris A. , Lingė Domantas
Published: July 2023

This article provides a thorough bibliometric analysis of significant research trends in sustainability from 1988 until now, focusing on sustainable, healthy and digital buildings and cities. It exemplifies how research emphasis has shifted from explicit ecological investigations to nature-based solutions and city greening programs, with a rising interest in the many responsibilities of urban stakeholders in attaining sustainability. Despite weak integration at the literature and author cooperation levels, the “healthy buildings and cities” topic indicates promise for multidisciplinary integration. The “digital buildings and cities” topic, on the other hand, presents a more particular concern with strong cross-cluster collaboration and significant integration possibilities. Global relevance has been demonstrated through research on “sustainable buildings and cities,” mainly in journal papers. This topic’s study clusters show remarkable synergy across management, transportation, ecology, remote sensing and environmental engineering domains. In comparison to “healthy buildings and cities” and “digital buildings and cities” topics, the study of “sustainable buildings and cities” demonstrates a deeper level of interdisciplinary integration, highlighting the significant potential for further exploration within sustainability science research. This study emphasizes the ongoing worldwide relevance of sustainability science research and identifies significant opportunities for multidisciplinary integration across the investigated subjects.
Peak Inelastic Displacement of Bilinear Systems in Support of Performance-Based Wind Design
Authors: Judd Johnn , Niedens James
Published: July 2023

A fundamental notion in building engineering is the equal displacement rule, which posits that the peak inelastic displacement of a system subjected to a ground motion excitation is approximately equal to the displacement of the same system responding elastically. The purpose of this study is to determine if the equal displacement rule can additionally be applied to wind excitations. To achieve this purpose, bilinear single-degree-of-freedom systems were subjected to B-spline wavelet excitations, Fejér–Korovkin wavelet excitations, and wind excitations derived from wind tunnel tests. The results showed the equal displacement rule generally held for excitations with neutral polarity. The frequency content of the excitation had a significant effect on the response because it shifted the location of the displacement-controlled region of the response spectrum. Duration had a mild effect for excitations with neutral polarity. The effect of stiffness and strength degradation due to gravity loads on the response was more pronounced for short-period structures. For regularly shaped buildings subjected to wind forces, the findings suggest that the equal displacement rule applies in the cross-wind direction however not in the along-wind direction.
Novel Approach-Based Sparsity for Damage Localization in Functionally Graded Material
Authors: Ghandourah Emad , Bendine Kouider , Khatir Samir , Benaissa Brahim , Banoqitah Essam Mohammed , Alhawsawi Abdulsalam Mohammed , Moustafa Essam B.
Published: July 2023

Model-based approaches have been widely employed in damage detection and localization studies. However, alternative techniques, such as built-in online detection methods, hold promise for future advancements in structural health monitoring technologies. In this research paper, we present a dynamic algorithm specifically designed for accurate damage localization in functionally graded plates. The suggested method involves the creation of a grid matrix that captures the dynamic response of the structure over time. Subsequently, an optimization process is performed using a linear equation that incorporates the information contained within the grid, enabling the precise localization of damage. To address the inherent sparsity of the localization nature, we utilize the FISTA (fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm) as a problem solver. The effectiveness of our approach is evaluated through experimental tests on a functionally graded plate with clamped free boundary conditions. Multiple damage scenarios are investigated, including cases with damage signals on and off-the-grid. The results demonstrate that our proposed approach is capable of accurately predicting the position of damage, indicating its suitability for application in low-size data systems.
Concrete Additive Manufacturing in Construction: Integration Based on Component-Related Fabrication Strategies
Authors: Placzek Gerrit , Schwerdtner Patrick
Published: July 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) with concrete, also known as concrete 3D printing, is one of the most interesting approaches for disrupting the construction industry and is currently subject to numerous research activities worldwide. AM has great potential to decrease labour costs and increase the material efficiency and geometric complexity of non-standardised building components. Although prior investigations have shown various fields of application for AM with concrete, the full potential with respect to different structural component types has not been covered yet. With this paper, an up-to-date review of fabrication strategies for the main structural components, (1) walls, (2) columns, (3) slabs, and (4) beams, is provided to identify trends and existing challenges. Therefore, firstly, AM methods and their underlying principles and characteristics for concrete components are presented, and secondly, fabrication strategies for each AM method are shown. The investigation uncovers different AM strategies (direct part vs. indirect “permanent formwork”; in situ, on-site, or off-site), which are currently being used. As a result, future applications of AM will require a hybrid manufacturing strategy combining conventional and additive manufacturing to fully explore its potential.
A Novel Ochratoxin A Aptasensor Based on Three-Dimensionally Ordered Macroporous RGO-AuNPs-MoS2 Enhanced Electrocatalysis of Methylene Blue and AuNPs-Fe3O4@C Composite as Signal Probe Carrier
Authors: Peng Gang , Zhang Xu , Zhang Kaiwen , Chen Xiaojun , Huang He
Published: July 2023

In this work, a novel electrochemical aptasensor for the detection of ochratoxin A (OTA) was developed using a three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) reduced graphene oxide–Au nanoparticles–molybdenum disulfide (RGO-AuNPs-MoS2) composite material as the sensing interface and Au nanoparticles–carbon-coated ferroferric oxide (AuNPs-Fe3O4@C) composite as the signal amplifier. The 3DOM RGO-AuNPs-MoS2 composite exhibited excellent conductivity and catalytic activity. The 3DOM RGO-AuNPs-MoS2 film was electrodeposited onto the Au electrode surface to immobilize DNA capture probe (CP), which was then hybridized with DNA helper strands (HS) and OTA aptamer (OPT) to form a Y-shaped structure. In the presence of OTA, the OPT was released from the electrode and then combined with AuNPs-Fe3O4@C containing the signal DNA1-metheylene blue (S1-MB) and DNA2-metheylene blue (S2-MB). The current response coming from MB was proportional with the OTA concentration. Under optimal conditions, the linear range of the aptasensor was 1 fg/mL to 0.1 μg/mL, with a detection limit as low as 0.56 fg/mL. The aptasensor was also used to detect OTA in rice and wheat samples, and the results were in agreement with those obtained by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS).
Oral Delivery of mRNA Vaccine by Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicle Carriers
Authors: Pomatto Margherita A. C. , Gai Chiara , Negro Federica , Massari Lucia , Deregibus Maria Chiara , De Rosa Francesco Giuseppe , Camussi Giovanni
Published: July 2023

mRNA-based vaccines were effective in contrasting SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, they presented several limitations of storage and supply chain, and their parenteral administration elicited a limited mucosal IgA immune response. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as a mechanism of cell-to-cell communication well-preserved in all life kingdoms, including plants. Their membrane confers protection from enzyme degradation to encapsulated nucleic acids favoring their transfer between cells. In the present study, EVs derived from the juice of an edible plant (Citrus sinensis) (oEVs) were investigated as carriers of an orally administered mRNA vaccine coding for the S1 protein subunit of SARS-CoV-2 with gastro-resistant oral capsule formulation. The mRNA loaded into oEVs was protected and was stable at room temperature for one year after lyophilization and encapsulation. Rats immunized via gavage administration developed a humoral immune response with the production of specific IgM, IgG, and IgA, which represent the first mucosal barrier in the adaptive immune response. The vaccination also triggered the generation of blocking antibodies and specific lymphocyte activation. In conclusion, the formulation of lyophilized mRNA-containing oEVs represents an efficient delivery strategy for oral vaccines due to their stability at room temperature, optimal mucosal absorption, and the ability to trigger an immune response.
Magnesium Oxide Powder Synthesis in Cathodic Arc Discharge Plasma in an Argon Environment at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Sorokin Dmitry , Savkin Konstantin , Beloplotov Dmitry , Semin Viktor , Kazakov Andrey , Nikonenko Alisa , Cherkasov Alexander , Shcheglov Konstantin
Published: July 2023

Discharges with cathode spots can operate in a wide range of gas pressures. Erosion of the cathode material is an inherent property of such discharges. The erosion products are considered to be ionized atoms and electrically neutral microdroplets. In accordance with this concept, a plasma source based on a pulsed cathodic arc discharge in atmospheric-pressure argon with a current of up to 200 A, a pulse duration of 250 μs, and a pulse repetition rate of 10 Hz was implemented. Using this source, the synthesis of magnesium oxide powder was performed. The chemical composition of the erosion products was determined using the TEM/EDS method and the composition of the gas mixture in which the discharge system operated was evaluated by optical spectrometry. It was shown that particles of the synthesized powder have different morphological features, depending on the nature of the electrical erosion of the cathode material. Micron-sized particles are formed due to the removal of microdroplets from liquid–metal craters on the cathode surface at certain plasma pressures. Submicron particles are produced during the agglomeration of atoms originating from the plasma jets flowing out from cathode spots. These atoms are magnesium ions that are neutralized by collisions with gas particles. The advantages and disadvantages of this synthesis method are discussed in this paper. The reference methods for the powder synthesis of magnesium oxide are compared. The prospects of the studied method from the point of view of its application for obtaining ceramic materials are also evaluated.
Exploring the Potential Energy Surface of Medium-Sized Aromatic Polycyclic Systems with Embedded Planar Tetracoordinate Carbons: A Guided Approach
Authors: Inostroza Diego , Leyva-Parra Luis , Yañez Osvaldo , Cooksy Andrew L. , Thimmakondu Venkatesan S. , Tiznado William
Published: July 2023

This study scrutinizes the complexities of designing and exploring the potential energy surfaces of systems containing more than twenty atoms with planar tetracoordinate carbons (ptCs). To tackle this issue, we utilized an established design rule to design a Naphtho [1,2-b:3,4-b′:5,6-b″:7,8-b′′′]tetrathiophene derivative computationally. This process began with substituting S atoms with CH− units, then replacing three sequential protons with two Si2+ units in the resultant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon polyanion. Despite not representing the global minimum, the newly designed Si8C22 system with four ptCs provided valuable insights into strategic design and potential energy surface exploration. Our results underscore the importance of employing adequate methodologies to confirm the stability of newly designed molecular structures containing planar hypercoordinate carbons.
Inherited Metabolic Diseases from Past to Present: A Bibliometric Analysis (1968–2023)
Authors: Kadıoğlu Yılmaz Banu , Akgül Ayşe Hümeyra
Published: July 2023

Bibliometric studies on inherited metabolic diseases (IMDs) do not exist in the literature. Therefore, our research aims to conduct a bibliometric study to determine the current status, trending topics, and missing points of publications on IMDs. Between 1968 and 2023, we conducted a literature search with the keyword “inherited metabolic disease” in the SCOPUS database. We included research articles in medicine written in English and published in the final section. We created our data pool using VOSviewer, SciMAT, and Rstudio software programs for the bibliometric parameters of the articles that met the inclusion criteria. We performed a bibliometric analysis of the data with the R package “bibliometrix” and BibExcel programs. We included 2702 research articles published on IMDs. The top three countries that have written the most articles in this field are the USA (n = 501), the United Kingdom (n = 182), and China (n = 172). The most preferred keywords by the authors were: newborn screening (n = 54), mutation (n = 43), phenylketonuria (n = 42), children (n = 35), genetics (n = 34), and maple syrup urine disease (n = 32). Trending topics were osteoporosis, computed tomography, bone marrow transplantation in the early years of the study, chronic kidney disease, urea cycle disorders, next-generation sequencing, newborn screening, and familial hypercholesterolemia in the final years of the study. This study provides clinicians with a new perspective, showing that molecular and genetic studies of inherited metabolic diseases will play an essential role in diagnosis and treatment in the future.
Microstructure and Properties of Monolayer Ta and Multilayer Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta Coatings Deposited on Biomedical Ti-6Al-4V Alloy by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Zhao Suli , Liu Shuguang , Xue Yongjie , Li Ning , Xu Kuixue , Qiu Weiwei , Li Xuexian , Wang Jinbo , Wu Qian , Shi Chunbao
Published: July 2023

Two types of coatings, i.e., monolayer Ta and multilayer Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta coatings, were deposited on biomedical Ti6Al4V (TC4) alloy by magnetron sputtering to improve its performance. To evaluate the effect of the two coatings on the alloy properties, the microstructure, composition, mechanical and tribological properties, in vitro biocompatibility, and corrosion resistance were investigated. The results showed that α-Ta exists in the monolayer Ta coating, while α-Ta and β-Ta phases coexist in the multilayer Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta coating. The multilayer Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta coating possessed the highest hardness and the monolayer Ta coating had the lowest friction coefficient compared to the Ti6Al4V alloy. The friction and wear tests revealed that the anti-wear performance of the Ta coating is the best, followed by that of the Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta coating, while the anti-wear performance of TC4 alloy is relatively poor in comparison with the Ta and Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta coatings. The wear resistance of the multilayer Ta/Ti/Zr/Ta coating under low normal load is better than that under high load normal load. Finally, the in vitro and electrochemical corrosion tests showed that the Ta coating modification provides better biocompatibility and corrosion resistance than those of the uncoated Ti6Al4V alloy.
Photonic Applications for Restoration and Conservation of 19th Century Polychrome Religious Wooden Artworks
Authors: Atanassova Victoria , Dinu Monica , Polizu Sultana-Ruxandra , Radvan Roxana
Published: July 2023

The present paper reports the multi-analytical approach for the removal of thick layers of metallic overpaints from a Brancovan iconostasis of the “Holy Trinity” church in Măgureni, România, which was built in 1694. After a restoration procedure at the beginning of the 20th century, the polychrome sculpture of the frame, which was initially gilded with a thin silver foil, was covered with a thick metallic overpaint layer imitating silver and gold. Currently, the conservation project of the church is focused on restoring the original aspect; thus, the overpainting that presented strong oxidation and soiling was removed. The adopted conservation methodology involved physicochemical characterization of the pictorial layers via optical microscopy, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, followed by the removal of the overpaints. The cleaning tests were performed by evaluating several methods in order to find the proper regime that would help preserve as much of the underlying polychrome layers as possible. Based on the tests, it was decided that the best solution was to use laser cleaning for the rough removal of the metallic paint overlayers and finalizing with chemical cleaning.
Influence of KHCO3 Activation on Characteristics of Biomass-Derived Carbons for Supercapacitor
Authors: Yuan Yudan , Sun Yi , Liu Chenguang , Yang Li , Zhao Cezhou
Published: July 2023

Biomass materials with representative morphologies and compositions were employed to study the activation effect of KHCO3. As the activation time increased from 1 to 3 h, the products derived from puffed rice and pleurotus eryngii achieved a hierarchical porous structure, while the products derived from cotton still presented a microporous structure. In the electrochemical test of a three-electrode system, the specific capacitance of these products was 352, 319, and 216 F g−1, respectively. In the two-electrode system, the PR-2-based symmetric supercapacitor presented with a specific capacitance of 280.7 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, and the energy density of 14.03 Wh kg−1 at 150.04 W kg−1 and an energy density retention of 73.7% was at an even higher power density of 8380.4 W kg−1. After 10,000 cycles of charging and discharging at 5 A g−1, the specific capacitance retention of the supercapacitor reached 108.8%. Based on the experimental analysis, a likely mechanism for the formation of pores was proposed. The results indicate that biomass materials with soft layered or a network structure are the best candidates to obtain a hierarchical porous structure by KHCO3 activation.
A New Coated Proppant for Packing Fractures in Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Haidong , Kang Haodong , Liu Jiaxin , Wang Fei , Wang Chunyao , Yang Fengyuan , Zhang Yunfeng
Published: July 2023

The method of packing conventional proppant into fractures is used to maintain high liquid permeability. In this study, by coating a hydrophobic material on the surface of a proppant, the layer packed with this coated proppant was endowed with water-plugging and oil-permeability capacities. Moreover, several research experiments were carried out to verify the proposed method: a water plugging capacity (WPC) test of the coated proppant layer, compression and temperature resistance tests of the coated proppant (temperature range from 90 to 210 °C; pressure range from 5.9 to 91.4 MPa), and a 3D test of the oil recovery enhancement. The results show that the proppant coating has good compression resistance, and the proppant begins to break at 27.3 MPa. The upper limit of the temperature resistance of the coating is 170 °C. The WPC of the layer packed with coated proppant was still reliable during fracture, which was enhanced by at least 20% compared with that of the layer packed with a conventional proppant. The fracture packed with the coated proppant had superior working performance compared with that packed with a conventional proppant. It can reduce the flow capacity of the water phase breaking into the dominant flow passage so as to delay the rise in the water production of the oil well and prolong the duration of oil production. In this way, oil recovery could be increased by about 7.7%. In conclusion, the technology proposed in this paper has particular water-plugging and oil-permeating characteristics, with remarkable technical advantages, thus providing a new idea for the development of water control in fracture reservoirs.
Porous-Spherical Cr2O3-Cr(OH)3-Polypyrrole/Polypyrrole Nanocomposite Thin-Film Photodetector and Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Rabia Mohamed , Trabelsi Amira Ben Gouider , Elsayed Asmaa M. , Alkallas Fatemah H.
Published: July 2023

This study utilized the exceptional optical and electrical properties of polypyrrole (Ppy) to fabricate high-performance optoelectronic devices. The synthesis of the porous-spherical Cr2O3-Cr(OH)3-Ppy/Ppy nanocomposite thin film was achieved by preparing a second thin film of Cr2O3-Cr(OH)3-Ppy on the initial Ppy film using K2Cr2O7 as an oxidant. The nanocomposite’s properties were thoroughly characterized, including XRD and optical absorbance analyses. The XRD analysis showed that the crystalline size of the nanocomposite was 20 nm, while optical absorbance analysis demonstrated that the nanocomposite had a higher absorbance in a wide optical range compared to Ppy nanomaterials, as evidenced by the enhancement in bandgap (Eg) value from 3.33 eV for Ppy to 1.89 eV for Cr2O3-Cr(OH)3-Ppy. The fabricated nanocomposite thin film exhibited excellent light-sensing behavior, as evidenced by the evaluation of Jph values under different light conditions and various monochromatic lights with a detectivity (D) of 3.6 × 106 Jones (at 340 nm). The device demonstrated its potential as a solar cell, with a short circuit current (JSC) of 13 µA and an open circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.91 V. Given the nanocomposite’s low cost, high technical production, and superior optoelectronic properties, it has significant potential for use in commercially available high-tech devices.
Exploring Regio- and Stereoselectivity in [3+2] Cycloaddition: Molecular Electron Density Theory Approach for Novel Spirooxindole-Based Benzimidazole with Pyridine Spacer
Authors: Alshahrani Saeed , Al-Majid Abdullah , Alamary Abdullah , Ríos-Gutiérrez Mar , Barakat Assem
Published: July 2023

A new ethylene derivative was synthesized as a precursor for the [3+2] cycloaddition (32CA) reaction to access a novel spirooxindole embodied with benzimidazole with a pyridine spacer. The chalcone derivatives 3a–j is obtained with condensation of the acetyl derivative with aryl aldehydes. The one-pot multi-component reaction of the ethylene derivative, 5-Cl-isatin, and octahydroindole-2-carboxylic acid enables the construction of a highly functionalized quaternary center spirooxindole scaffold in a high chemical yield. A study using the Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT) explains the complete regio- and stereoselectivity of the reaction, resulting in the exclusive formation of the ortho/endo-cycloadduct under kinetic control. The low activation Gibbs free energy is the result of the supernucleophilic character of the in situ-generated azomethine ylide and the strong electrophilic character of the ethylene derivatives.
Assessment of Various Risk Factors for Biological and Mechanical/Technical Complications in Fixed Implant Prosthetic Therapy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Bardis Dimitrios , Agop-Forna Doriana , Pelekanos Stavros , Chele Nicolae , Dascălu Cristina , Török Roland , Török Bianca , Cristea Ioana , Bardi Panagiota Moulavasili , Forna Norina
Published: July 2023

The goals of this research were to determine the influence of several factors on implants’ biological and technical complications in posterior fixed implant prosthetic therapy. Materials and methods: The study group consisted of 67 edentulous patients (mean age: 63.88 ± 11.709 yrs; 20 males, 47 females) with implant prosthetic therapy for posterior edentulism. A total of 76 implant-supported fixed partial dentures (IP-FPDs) and 178 implants were assessed using clinical and paraclinical assessments. Risk factors for biological complications (peri-implantitis) and technical complications were determined by using the Pearson Chi-squared test and multivariate analysis. Results: The implant success (the absence of biological and mechanical/technical complications) was 66.30%. The prevalence of biological complications was 13.5%. The prevalence of technical complications was 28.70%. Variables that were associated with a higher risk of peri-implantitis were poor oral hygiene and bruxism. In univariate analysis, poor oral hygiene increased the risk of peri-implantitis 5.778 times and bruxism 5.875 times. Variables that were associated with a higher risk of mechanical/technical complications were age group > 60 yrs, smoking, history of periodontal disease, and bruxism. In univariate analysis, the risk of technical complications increased 4.14 times for patients in the age group > 60 years (vs. age group 40–60 years) and 20.5 times for patients with bruxism. Bruxism and smoking were significant predictors of mechanical/technical complications in the multivariate model. Conclusions: In univariate models, patients with poor oral hygiene and bruxism have an increased risk of peri-implantitis. In multivariate models, we did not identify significant predictors of peri-implantitis. Age group > 60 yrs, smoking, history of periodontal disease, bone grafting, and bruxism are risk factors for the increase in the mechanical/technical complication rate. In the multivariate model, smoking and bruxism are significant predictors of the mechanical/technical complications.
The Accuracy of Sex Identification Using CBCT Morphometric Measurements of the Mandible, with Different Machine-Learning Algorithms—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Baban Mohammed Taha Ahmed , Mohammad Dena Nadhim
Published: July 2023

In forensics, predicting the sex is a crucial step in identification. Many studies have aimed to find an accurate and fast technique to estimate the sex. This study was conducted to determine the accuracy of volumetric and linear measurements of three-dimensional (3D) images of the mandible obtained from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs, using different machine-learning (ML) models for sex identification. The CBCTs of 104 males and 104 females were included in this study. The radiographs were converted to 3D images, and the volume, surface area, and ten linear measurements of the mandible were obtained. The data were evaluated using statistical analysis and five different ML algorithms. All results were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05, and the precision, recall, f1-score, training accuracy, and testing accuracy were used to evaluate the performance of the ML models. All the studied parameters showed statistically significant differences between sexes p < 0.05. The right coronoid-to-gonion linear distance had the highest discriminative power of all the parameters. Meanwhile, Gaussian Naive Bayes (GNB) showed the best performance among all the ML models. The results of this study revealed promising outcomes; the sex can be easily determined, with high accuracy (90%).
Higher Preoperative Maximum Standardised Uptake Values (SUVmax) Are Associated with Higher Biochemical Recurrence Rates after Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and [18F]DCFPyL Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Authors: de Bie Katelijne C. C. , Veerman Hans , Bodar Yves J. L. , Meijer Dennie , van Leeuwen Pim J. , van der Poel Henk G. , Donswijk Maarten L. , Vis André N. , Oprea-Lager Daniela E.
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to investigate the association between the 68Ga- or 18F-radiolabeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) tracer expression, represented by the maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax) of the dominant intraprostatic lesion, and biochemical recurrence (BCR) in primary prostate cancer (PCa) patients prior to robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). This was a retrospective, multi-centre cohort study of 446 patients who underwent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 (n = 238) or [18F]DCFPyL (n = 206) Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) imaging prior to RARP. SUVmax was measured in the dominant intraprostatic PCa lesions. [18F]DCFPyL patients were scanned 60 ([18F]DCFPyL-60; n = 106) or 120 ([18F]DCFPyL-120; n = 120) minutes post-injection of a radiotracer and were analysed separately. To normalise the data, SUVmax was log transformed for further analyses. During a median follow-up of 24 months, 141 (30.4%) patients experienced BCR. Log2SUVmax was a significant predictor for BCR (p < 0.001). In the multivariable analysis accounting for these preoperative variables: initial prostate-specific antigen (PSA), radiologic tumour stage (mT), the biopsy International Society of Urological Pathology grade group (bISUP) and the prostate imaging and reporting data system (PI-RADS), Log2SUVmax was found to be an independent predictor for BCR in [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 (HR 1.32, p = 0.04) and [18F]DCFPyL-120 PET/CT scans (HR 1.55, p = 0.04), but not in [18F]DCFPyL-60 ones (HR 0.92, p = 0.72). The PSMA expression of the dominant intraprostatic lesion proved to be an independent predictor for BCR in patients with primary PCa who underwent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 or [18F]DCFPyL-120 PET/CT scans, but not in those who underwent [18F]DCFPyL-60 PET/CT scans.
Usefulness of Heat Map Explanations for Deep-Learning-Based Electrocardiogram Analysis
Authors: Storås Andrea M. , Andersen Ole Emil , Lockhart Sam , Thielemann Roman , Gnesin Filip , Thambawita Vajira , Hicks Steven A. , Kanters Jørgen K. , Strümke Inga , Halvorsen Pål , Riegler Michael A.
Published: July 2023

Deep neural networks are complex machine learning models that have shown promising results in analyzing high-dimensional data such as those collected from medical examinations. Such models have the potential to provide fast and accurate medical diagnoses. However, the high complexity makes deep neural networks and their predictions difficult to understand. Providing model explanations can be a way of increasing the understanding of “black box” models and building trust. In this work, we applied transfer learning to develop a deep neural network to predict sex from electrocardiograms. Using the visual explanation method Grad-CAM, heat maps were generated from the model in order to understand how it makes predictions. To evaluate the usefulness of the heat maps and determine if the heat maps identified electrocardiogram features that could be recognized to discriminate sex, medical doctors provided feedback. Based on the feedback, we concluded that, in our setting, this mode of explainable artificial intelligence does not provide meaningful information to medical doctors and is not useful in the clinic. Our results indicate that improved explanation techniques that are tailored to medical data should be developed before deep neural networks can be applied in the clinic for diagnostic purposes.