bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A Critical Narrative Review
Authors: Lorenzo-Pouso Alejandro I. , Bagán José , Bagán Leticia , Gándara-Vila Pilar , Chamorro-Petronacci Cintia M. , Castelo-Baz Pablo , Blanco-Carrión Andrés , Blanco-Fernández María Ángeles , Álvarez-Calderón Óscar , Carballo Javier , Pérez-Sayáns Mario
Published: September 2021

Background: Nearly two decades have passed since a paradoxical reaction in the orofacial region to some bone modifying agents and other drugs was recognized, namely medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Purpose: The aim of this manuscript was to critically review published data on MRONJ to provide an update on key terminology, concepts, and current trends in terms of prevention and diagnosis. In addition, our objective was to examine and evaluate the therapeutic options available for MRONJ. Methods: The authors perused the most relevant literature relating to MRONJ through a search in textbooks and published articles included in several databases for the years 2003–2021. Results and conclusions: A comprehensive update of the current understanding of these matters was elaborated, addressing these topics and identifying relevant gaps of knowledge. This review describes our updated view of the previous thematic blocks, highlights our current clinical directions, and emphasizes controversial aspects and barriers that may lead to extending the accumulating body of evidence related to this severe treatment sequela.
Clinical Prognostic Factors Associated with Good Outcomes in Pediatric Bell’s Palsy
Authors: Yoo Myung Chul , Park Dong Choon , Byun Jae Yong , Yeo Seung Geun
Published: September 2021

The prognosis of children with Bell’s palsy remains unclear due to its relatively low incidence, and thus, the small number of patients included in individual studies. To evaluate the prognosis of children with Bell’s palsy and identify the predictive value of specific factors that contribute to complete recovery, a retrospective cohort study was conducted of all patients with Bell’s palsy who visited the outpatient clinic of our university hospital between January 2005 and December 2020. We identified the parameters associated with a favorable recovery after 6 months in pediatric patients with Bell’s palsy. Factors recorded for each patient included age, sex, side affected by palsy, time between symptom onset and start of treatment, treatment methods, and the House–Brackmann grade (H–B) grade. The results of the multivariable analysis revealed that the lower degree of initial facial nerve paralysis presented as H–B grade II–IV was a significant favorable prognostic factor (OR: 3.86; 95% CI: 1.27–11.70; p < 0.05). Our results showed that the most important factor influencing the complete recovery of Bell’s palsy in children was the lower initial H–B grade at initial presentation.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Clinical Case on the Potential Role of the Dystrophin in Autism Neurobiology
Authors: Simone Marta , Margari Lucia , Pompamea Francesco , De Giacomo Andrea , Gabellone Alessandra , Marzulli Lucia , Palumbi Roberto
Published: September 2021

A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is reported in up to 19% of dystrophinopathies. However, over the last ten years, only a few papers have been published on this topic. Therefore, further studies are required to analyze this association in depth and ultimately to understand the role of the brain dystrophin isoform in the pathogenesis of ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. In this paper, we report a clinical case of a patient affected by ASD and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, who carries a large deletion of the dystrophin gene. Then we present a brief overview of the literature about similar cases and about the potential role of the dystrophin protein in the neurobiology of autism spectrum disorder.
Optimal Ways of Unloading and Loading Operations under Arctic Conditions
Authors: Eseev Marat , Makarov Dmitry
Published: September 2021

Usually, loading and unloading of cargo ships takes place in ports that are equipped with the infrastructure necessary to carry out such operations. In the Arctic, often a helicopter is the only way to get the cargo to the right place. Finding the optimal geographic location for unloading a ship using helicopters is an important task. It is necessary to create a support system for making the right decisions in such situations. Mathematical modeling has been used to find the geographical location that ensures the most favorable and quickest delivery of cargo from a vessel to its destination, using a helicopter. A criterion has also been found in which the search for the optimum point is a more rational way of unloading the vessel compared to other discharge options. The maps of the economic benefits of loading and unloading operations in this model have been developed. Using the example of the developed model, it is shown that during the transportation of goods in Ob Bay, significant economic and temporary advantages can be obtained. The developed model can be extended to the case of cargo delivery not only in the Arctic conditions, but also where the transport infrastructure is insufficiently developed.
A New Cross-Platform Instrument for Microstructure Turbulence Measurements
Authors: Nie Yunli , Yang Hua , Song Dalei , Huang Yan , Liu Xiuyan , Hui Xianghua
Published: September 2021

This study developed a new cross-platform instrument for microstructure turbulence measurement (CPMTM) and evaluated its performance. The CPMTM is designed as an “all-in-one” payload that can be easily integrated with a variety of marine instrumentation platforms. The sensors in the CPMTM include two shear probes, a fast-response temperature probe, and an accelerometer for monitoring vibrations. In addition, a custom-designed flexible connection vibration-damping device is used to isolate platform vibrations. To validate the CPMTM performance, a direct comparison was carried out with a reference acoustic Doppler velocimeter in a controlled flume for four background turbulence levels. The results of the comparison show that the velocity spectra measured by the CPMTM and ADV w components are in agreement, which demonstrates the ability of the CPMTM to acquire accurate turbulence data. Furthermore, the CPMTM was integrated into the long-range Sea-Whale 2000 AUV and tested in the northern South China Sea in September 2020. The data collected by the CPMTM show that the measured shear spectrum of the noise reduction agrees well with the empirical Nasmyth spectrum. Turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates as low as 7 × 10−10 W kg−1 can be resolved. Laboratory and field experiments illustrate that the CPMTM has an extraordinarily low noise level and is validated for turbulence measurements.
Assessing Extreme Environmental Loads on Offshore Structures in the North Sea from High-Resolution Ocean Currents, Waves and Wind Forecasting
Authors: Skliris Nikolaos , Marsh Robert , Srokosz Meric , Aksenov Yevgeny , Rynders Stefanie , Fournier Nicolas
Published: September 2021

The fast development of the offshore energy industry becomes an essential component of resilient economies in most of the countries around the North Sea, addressing an increasing demand for cost-efficient and environmentally safe energy sources. Offshore wind farms are planned to be installed further away from the coasts to ensure stronger and more stable wind resources in this region. Oil and gas extraction infrastructures are also planned to move into deeper areas of the continental shelf and continental shelf slopes to explore new fields. These deeper areas of the ocean are characterised by harsh environmental conditions: stronger winds, larger waves and strong shelf slope currents, inducing considerably larger loads on offshore structures. This study brings together operational physical oceanography and the mathematics of fluid-structure interactions to estimate the likelihood of extreme environmental loads on offshore structures in the North Sea. We use the state-of-the-art Met Office high resolution ocean forecasting system, which provides high-frequency data on ocean and tidal currents, wave heights and periods and winds at a ~7 km horizontal resolution grid, spanning the North–West European Shelf. The Morison equation framework is used to calculate environmental loads on various types of offshore structures that are typically employed by the offshore industries in the North Sea. We use hourly data for a 2-year period to analyse the spatio-temporal variability of mean and extreme hydrodynamic loads and derive the relative contributions of currents, waves and winds in the region. The results indicate that waves dominate extreme hydrodynamic forces on the shallow shelf, whereas the current contribution is important at the shelf break and in the English Channel.
Morphology and Phylogeny of Gnomoniopsis (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales) from Fagaceae Leaves in China
Authors: Jiang Ning , Voglmayr Hermann , Bian Dan-Ran , Piao Chun-Gen , Wang Sheng-Kun , Li Yong
Published: September 2021

Gnomoniopsis (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales) is a well-classified genus inhabiting leaves, branches and fruits of the hosts in three plant families, namely Fagaceae, Onagraceae and Rosaceae. In the present study, eighteen Gnomoniopsis isolates were obtained from diseased leaves of Fagaceae hosts collected from Fujian, Guangdong, Hainan, Henan, Jiangxi and Shaanxi provinces in China. Morphology from the cultures and phylogeny based on the 5.8S nuclear ribosomal DNA gene with the two flanking internally transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and the beta-tubulin (tub2) genes were employed to identify these isolates. As a result, seven species were revealed, viz. Gnomoniopsis castanopsidis, G. fagacearum, G. guangdongensis, G. hainanensis, G. rossmaniae and G. silvicola spp. nov, as well as a known species G. daii. In addition, G. daii was firstly reported on the host Quercus aliena.
Lack of Phylogenetic Differences in Ectomycorrhizal Fungi among Distinct Mediterranean Pine Forest Habitats
Authors: Adamo Irene , Castaño Carles , Bonet José Antonio , Colinas Carlos , Martínez de Aragón Juan , Alday Josu G.
Published: September 2021

Understanding whether the occurrences of ectomycorrhizal species in a given tree host are phylogenetically determined can help in assessing different conservational needs for each fungal species. In this study, we characterized ectomycorrhizal phylogenetic composition and phylogenetic structure in 42 plots with five different Mediterranean pine forests: i.e., pure forests dominated by P. nigra, P. halepensis, and P. sylvestris, and mixed forests of P. nigra-P. halepensis and P. nigra-P. sylvestris, and tested whether the phylogenetic structure of ectomycorrhizal communities differs among these. We found that ectomycorrhizal communities were not different among pine tree hosts neither in phylogenetic composition nor in structure and phylogenetic diversity. Moreover, we detected a weak abiotic filtering effect (4%), with pH being the only significant variable influencing the phylogenetic ectomycorrhizal community, while the phylogenetic structure was slightly influenced by the shared effect of stand structure, soil, and geographic distance. However, the phylogenetic community similarity increased at lower pH values, supporting that fewer, closely related species were found at lower pH values. Also, no phylogenetic signal was detected among exploration types, although short and contact were the most abundant types in these forest ecosystems. Our results demonstrate that pH but not tree host, acts as a strong abiotic filter on ectomycorrhizal phylogenetic communities in Mediterranean pine forests at a local scale. Finally, our study shed light on dominant ectomycorrhizal foraging strategies in drought-prone ecosystems such as Mediterranean forests.
Biological Control of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 Using Natively Isolated Bacillus spp. YN0904 and YN1419
Authors: Fan Huacai , Li Shu , Zeng Li , He Ping , Xu Shengtao , Bai Tingting , Huang Yuling , Guo Zhixiang , Zheng Si-Jun
Published: September 2021

Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB) is the main threatening factor for banana production worldwide. To explore bacterial biocontrol resources for FWB, the antagonistic effective strains were isolated from banana-producing areas in Yunnan Province, China. Two isolates (YN0904 and YN1419) displaying strong antagonism against Tropical Race 4 (TR4) were identified from a total of 813 strains of endophytic bacteria. TR4 inhibition rates of YN0904 and YN1419 were 79.6% and 81.3%, respectively. By looking at morphological, molecular, physiological and biochemical characteristics, YN0904 was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, while YN1419 was identified as B. subtillis. The control effects of YN0904 and YN1419 on TR4 in greenhouse experiments were 82.6% and 85.6%, respectively. Furthermore, YN0904 obviously promoted the growth of banana plantlets. In addition, biocontrol marker genes related to the biosynthesis of antibiotics synthesized and auxin key synthetase genes could be detected in YN0904. Surprisingly, the marker gene sboA could be exclusively detected in YN1419, while other marker genes were all absent. Molecular characterization results could provide a theoretical basis for expounding the biocontrol mechanisms of these two strains. We concluded that natively antagonistic strains derived from local banana plantations could provide new biological control resources for FWB.
Role of acuK in Control of Iron Acquisition and Gluconeogenesis in Talaromyces marneffei
Authors: Amsri Artid , Jeenkeawpieam Juthatip , Sukantamala Panwarit , Pongpom Monsicha
Published: September 2021

Talaromyces marneffei is a dimorphic pathogenic fungus causing opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients. It is a facultative intracellular pathogen and is usually found inside the host macrophages during infection. Alternative carbons and iron are the important nutrients associated with intracellular survival and pathogenesis of T. marneffei. This study reported the importance of the transcription factor AcuK in control of gluconeogenesis and iron acquisition in T. marneffei. Deletion of acuK gene in T. marneffei resulted in retardation of growth and germination in both mold and yeast phases. Microscopically, ΔacuK showed double nuclei hyphae. However, the yeast cells showed normal morphology. The ΔacuK failed to grow in iron-limiting conditions. Additionally, it could not grow in a medium containing gluconeogenic carbon sources. Moreover, ΔacuK showed higher susceptibility to macrophage killing than the wild type. These results demonstrated that AcuK controlled both iron acquisition and gluconeogenesis, and it could contribute to the pathogenicity of this fungus.
Programmed Cell Death in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Short Review
Authors: Deshpande Rushikesh , Zou Chunbin
Published: September 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the latest variant in the coronavirus family, causing COVID-19, has resulted in global pandemic since early 2020 leading to severe public health concern. So far, the pandemic has caused more than 200 million infections and 4 million deaths worldwide. Most of the studies are focused on developing prevention, intervention, and therapeutic strategies. However, underlying pathophysiology of the disease is important as well, which needs further attention. Cell death is one of the major causative mechanisms that leads to severe inflammation, and it is also an a posteriori consequence of the hyperinflammatory storm that renders poor prognosis of the disease. Substantial cell death has been reported in biopsy samples from post mortem patients. Among the distinct cell death pathways, apoptosis, the regulated programmed cell death plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Understanding the role of SARS-CoV-2 infection in apoptosis is critical to linearize the pathogenesis of the virus as well as the resultant disease, that may uncover novel therapeutic targets in treatment of COVID-19 patients. Here, we review the current progress on the underlying molecular mechanism(s) of SARS-CoV-2-induced apoptosis, not only at the level of the virus but also at its individual proteins.
Measured Glomerular Filtration Rate: The Query for a Workable Golden Standard Technique
Authors: Speeckaert Marijn M. , Seegmiller Jesse , Glorieux Griet , Lameire Norbert , Van Biesen Wim , Vanholder Raymond , Delanghe Joris R.
Published: September 2021

Inulin clearance has, for a long time, been considered as the reference method to determine measured glomerular filtration rates (mGFRs). However, given the known limitations of the standard marker, serum creatinine, and of inulin itself, and the frequent need for accurate GFR estimations, several other non-radioactive (iohexol and iothalamate) and radioactive (51Cr-EDTA, 99mTc-DTPA, 125I iothalamate) exogenous mGFR filtration markers are nowadays considered the most accurate options to evaluate GFR. The availability of 51Cr-EDTA is limited, and all methods using radioactive tracers necessitate specific safety precautions. Serum- or plasma-based certified reference materials for iohexol and iothalamate and evidence-based protocols to accurately and robustly measure GFR (plasma vs. urinary clearance, single-sample vs. multiple-sample strategy, effect of sampling time delay) are lacking. This leads to substantial variation in reported mGFR results across studies and questions the scientific reliability of the alternative mGFR methods as the gold standard to evaluate kidney function. On top of the scientific discussion, regulatory issues are further narrowing the clinical use of mGFR methods. Therefore, this review is a call for standardization of mGFR in terms of three aspects: the marker, the analytical method to assess concentrations of that marker, and the procedure to determine GFR in practice. Moreover, there is also a need for an endogenous filtration marker or a panel of filtration markers from a single blood draw that would allow estimation of GFR as accurately as mGFR, and without the need for application of anthropometric, clinical, and demographic characteristics.
Protein Hydration in a Bioprotecting Mixture
Authors: Corezzi Silvia , Bracco Brenda , Sassi Paola , Paolantoni Marco , Comez Lucia
Published: September 2021

We combined broad-band depolarized light scattering and infrared spectroscopies to study the properties of hydration water in a lysozyme-trehalose aqueous solution, where trehalose is present above the concentration threshold (30% in weight) relevant for biopreservation. The joint use of the two different techniques, which were sensitive to inter-and intra-molecular degrees of freedom, shed new light on the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction between the three species in the mixture. Thanks to the comparison with the binary solution cases, we were able to show that, under the investigated conditions, the protein, through preferential hydration, remains strongly hydrated even in the ternary mixture. This supported the water entrapment scenario, for which a certain amount of water between protein and sugar protects the biomolecule from damage caused by external agents.
Raman Stable Isotope Probing of Bacteria in Visible and Deep UV-Ranges
Authors: Azemtsop Matanfack Georgette , Pistiki Aikaterini , Rösch Petra , Popp Jürgen
Published: September 2021

Raman stable isotope probing (Raman-SIP) is an excellent technique that can be used to access the overall metabolism of microorganisms. Recent studies have mainly used an excitation wavelength in the visible range to characterize isotopically labeled bacteria. In this work, we used UV resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) to evaluate the spectral red-shifts caused by the uptake of isotopes (13C, 15N, 2H(D) and 18O) in E. coli cells. Moreover, we present a new approach based on the extraction of labeled DNA in combination with UVRR to identify metabolically active cells. The proof-of-principle study on E. coli revealed heterogeneities in the Raman features of both the bacterial cells and the extracted DNA after labeling with 13C, 15N, and D. The wavelength of choice for studying 18O- and deuterium-labeled cells is 532 nm is, while 13C-labeled cells can be investigated with visible and deep UV wavelengths. However, 15N-labeled cells are best studied at the excitation wavelength of 244 nm since nucleic acids are in resonance at this wavelength. These results highlight the potential of the presented approach to identify active bacterial cells. This work can serve as a basis for the development of new techniques for the rapid and efficient detection of active bacteria cells without the need for a cultivation step.
Platelet-Based Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Prognosis in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Alberca Ricardo Wesley , Solis-Castro Rosa Liliana , Solis-Castro Maria Edith , Cardoso Fernanda , Duarte Alberto Jose da Silva , Oliveira Luana de Mendonça , Pereira Nátalli Zanete , Gozzi-Silva Sarah Cristina , Oliveira Emily Araujo de , Aoki Valeria , Orfali Raquel Leao , Beserra Danielle Rosa , Andrade Milena Mary de Souza , Sato Maria Notomi
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused millions of deaths worldwide. COVID-19’s clinical manifestations range from no symptoms to a severe acute respiratory syndrome, which can result in multiple organ failure, sepsis, and death. Severe COVID-19 patients develop pulmonary and extrapulmonary infections, with a hypercoagulable state. Several inflammatory or coagulatory biomarkers are currently used with predictive values for COVID-19 severity and prognosis. In this manuscript, we investigate if a combination of coagulatory and inflammatory biomarkers could provide a better biomarker with predictive value for COVID-19 patients, being able to distinguish between patients that would develop a moderate or severe COVID-19 and predict the disease outcome. We investigated 306 patients with COVID-19, confirmed by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 RNA detected in the nasopharyngeal swab, and retrospectively analyzed the laboratory data from the first day of hospitalization. In our cohort, biomarkers such as neutrophil count and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio from the day of hospitalization could predict if the patient would need to be transferred to the intensive care unit but failed to identify the patients´ outcomes. The ratio between platelets and inflammatory markers such as creatinine, C-reactive protein, and urea levels is associated with patient outcomes. Finally, the platelet/neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on the first day of hospitalization can be used with predictive value as a novel severity and lethality biomarker in COVID-19. These new biomarkers with predictive value could be used routinely to stratify the risk in COVID-19 patients since the first day of hospitalization.
Serum Cytokine Profile, Beta-Hexosaminidase A Enzymatic Activity and GM2 Ganglioside Levels in the Plasma of a Tay-Sachs Disease Patient after Cord Blood Cell Transplantation and Curcumin Administration: A Case Report
Authors: Shaimardanova Alisa A. , Chulpanova Daria S. , Solovyeva Valeriya V. , Garanina Ekaterina E. , Salafutdinov Ilnur I. , Laikov Alexander Vladimirovich , Kursenko Vadim V. , Chakrabarti Lisa , Zakharova Ekaterina Yu. , Bukina Tatiana M. , Baydakova Galina V. , Rizvanov Albert Anatolyevich
Published: September 2021

Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that occurs due to a deficiency of a β hexosaminidase A (HexA) enzyme, resulting in the accumulation of GM2 gangliosides. In this work, we analyzed the effect of umbilical cord blood cell transplantation (UCBCT) and curcumin administration on the course of the disease in a patient with adult TSD. The patient’s serum cytokine profile was determined using multiplex analysis. The level of GM2 gangliosides in plasma was determined using mass spectrometry. The enzymatic activity of HexA in the plasma of the patient was assessed using a fluorescent substrate assay. The HexA α-subunit (HexA) concentration was determined using ELISA. It was shown that both UCBCT and curcumin administration led to a change in the patient’s cytokine profile. The UCBCT resulted in an increase in the concentration of HexA in the patient’s serum and in an improvement in the patient’s neurological status. However, neither UCBCT nor curcumin were able to alter HexA activity and the level of GM2 in patient’s plasma. The data obtained indicate that UCBCT and curcumin administration can alter the immunity of a patient with TSD, reduce the level of inflammatory cytokines and thereby improve the patient’s condition.
Natural Aging of Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Rubber under Actual Operation Conditions of Electrical Submersible Pump Cables
Authors: Rojas Rodríguez Freddy Ignacio , d’Almeida Moraes José Roberto , Marinkovic Bojan A.
Published: September 2021

Ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubbers used in electric submersible pump (ESP) cables were analyzed after being aged in actual operation conditions in oil wellbores. These rubbers constitute the insulation and jacket layers of the ESP cables. EPDM rubbers from four different cables operating during different time intervals (2 and 4.8 years) at different depths (from 760 to 2170 m) below sea level were studied. To verify the effects of the long exposure on the rubber performance, thermal analysis was performed to determine the thermal stability and activation energy of degradation. In addition, structural analysis, through vibrational spectroscopy and crosslinking fraction assessment, was carried out. The mechanical properties of the aged rubbers were inferred through the measurement of hardness, while the absorption of a service fluid was studied by gravimetry. The results showed only minor changes in the thermal, structural, mechanical and barrier properties of the EPDM-based ESP cable layers. It is suggested that the thermo-oxidation mechanism followed by chain scission does not have a role in the degradation of EPDM within the aged ESP cables, and no sign of variation of crosslink fractions has been encountered. Therefore, it was concluded that EPDM-based layers seem not to be weak links in the configuration of modern ESP systems.
Failure Mechanisms of Cu–Cu Bumps under Thermal Cycling
Authors: Shie Kai-Cheng , Hsu Po-Ning , Li Yu-Jin , Tran Dinh-Phuc , Chen Chih
Published: September 2021

The failure mechanisms of Cu–Cu bumps under thermal cycling test (TCT) were investigated. The resistance change of Cu–Cu bumps in chip corners was less than 20% after 1000 thermal cycles. Many cracks were found at the center of the bonding interface, assumed to be a result of weak grain boundaries. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to simulate the stress distribution under thermal cycling. The results show that the maximum stress was located close to the Cu redistribution lines (RDLs). With the TiW adhesion layer between the Cu–Cu bumps and RDLs, the bonding strength was strong enough to sustain the thermal stress. Additionally, the middle of the Cu–Cu bumps was subjected to tension. Some triple junctions with zig-zag grain boundaries after TCT were observed. From the pre-existing tiny voids at the bonding interface, cracks might initiate and propagate along the weak bonding interface. In order to avoid such failures, a postannealing bonding process was adopted to completely eliminate the bonding interface of Cu–Cu bumps. This study delivers a deep understanding of the thermal cycling reliability of Cu–Cu hybrid joints.
Assessment of the Functional Properties of 316L Steel Alloy Subjected to Ion Implantation Used in Biotribological Systems
Authors: Piotrowska Katarzyna , Madej Monika , Ozimina Dariusz
Published: September 2021

Clinical trials conducted in many centres worldwide indicate that, despite advances made in the use of biomaterials for medical applications, tribocorrosive wear remains a significant issue. The release of wear residue into body fluids can cause inflammation and, as a result, implant failure. Surface modification is one of the methods used to improve the mechanical, tribological, and fatigue properties of biomaterials. In this article, the authors investigated the impact of ion implantation on improving the functional properties of implant surfaces. This paper presents morphology, geometric surface structure, hardness, and tribological test results for layers obtained by ion implantation with nitrogen and oxygen ions on alloy 316L. The surface morphology and thickness of the implanted layer were examined using scanning microscopy. Atomic force microscopy was used to evaluate the geometric structure of the surface. Instrumented indentation was used to measure nanohardness. Model tribo tests were carried out for reciprocating motion under conditions of dry friction and lubricated friction with Ringer’s solution. The tribological tests showed that the implanted samples had a lower wear than the reference samples. Nitrogen ion implantation increased the hardness of 316L steel by about 45% and increased it by about 15% when oxygen ions were used.
Cr-Based Sputtered Decorative Coatings for Automotive Industry
Authors: Carneiro Edgar , Parreira Nuno M. G. , Vuchkov Todor , Cavaleiro Albano , Ferreira Jorge , Andritschky Martin , Carvalho Sandra
Published: September 2021

The present work aims to study the impact of O and N addition on Cr-sputtered coatings on plastic (polycarbonate, PC) used in automobile parts, as a promisor alternative for auto part metallization, while eliminating the usage of toxic hexavalent chromium. The coatings were deposited using DC magnetron sputtering from a single pure Cr target in a reactive atmosphere (N2 and/or O2). The deposition of the coatings was performed maintaining the total pressure constant and close to 1 Pa by tuning Ar pressure while reactive gases were added. The target current density was kept at JW = 20 mA·cm−2. Structural characterization revealed a mixture of α-Cr, δ-Cr, β-Cr2N, and CrN crystalline structures as well as amorphous oxides. The coating hardness ranged from 9 GPa for the CrON coating to 15 GPa for the CrN coating. All deposited coatings showed a particularly good interface adhesion; adjusting the amount of O and N made it possible to tune the optical properties of the Cr-based coatings as desired. The promising results open future industrialization of sputtered Cr-based coatings for automotive industries.
Probabilistic Approach to Limit States of a Steel Dome
Authors: Zabojszcza Paweł , Radoń Urszula , Szaniec Waldemar
Published: September 2021

In this paper, Numpress Explore software, developed at the Institute of Fundamental Technological Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IPPT PAN), was used to conduct reliability analyses. For static-strength calculations, the MES3D module, designed by the authors, was employed. Ultimate limit state was defined as condition of non-exceedance of the capacity value, resulting from the stability criterion of the bent and compressed element. The serviceability limit state was defined as the condition of non-exceedance of allowable vertical displacement. The above conditions constitute implicit forms of random variable functions; therefore, it was necessary to build an interface between the Numpress Explore and MES3D programs. In the study, a comparative analysis of two cases was carried out. As regards the first case, all adopted random variables had a normal distribution. The second case involved a more accurate description of the quantities mentioned. A normal distribution can be adopted for the description of, e.g., the randomness in the location of the structure nodes, and also the randomness of the multiplier of permanent loads. In actual systems, the distribution of certain loads deviates substantially from the Gaussian distribution. Consequently, adopting the assumption that the loads have a normal distribution can lead to gross errors in the assessment of structural safety. The distribution of loads resulting from atmospheric conditions is decidedly non-Gaussian in character. The Gumbel distribution was used in this study to describe snow and wind loads. The modulus of elasticity and cross-sectional area were described by means of a log-normal distribution. The adopted random variables were independent. Additionally, based on an analysis of the elasticity index, the random variables most affect the failure probability in the ultimate limit state and serviceability limit state were estimated.
Differences in Wear and Material Integrity of NAO and Low-Steel Brake Pads under Severe Conditions
Authors: Davin Edouard A. T. , Cristol Anne-Lise , Beaurain Arnaud , Dufrénoy Philippe , Zaquen Neomy
Published: September 2021

In this study, through severe reduced-scale braking tests, we investigate the wear and integrity of organic matrix brake pads against gray cast iron (GCI) discs. Two prototype pad materials are designed with the aim of representing a typical non-metal NAO and a low-steel (LS) formulation. The worn surfaces are observed with SEM. The toughness of the pad materials is tested at the raw state and after a heat treatment. During braking, the LS-GCI disc configuration produces heavy wear. The friction parts both keep their macroscopic integrity and wear appears to be homogeneous. The LS pad is mostly covered by a layer of solid oxidized steel. The NAO-GCI disc configuration wears dramatically and cannot reach the end of the test program. The NAO pad suffers many deep cracks. Compacted third body plateaus are scarce and the corresponding disc surface appears to be very heterogeneous. The pad materials both show similar strength at the raw state and similar weakening after heat treatment. However, the NAO material is much more brittle than the LS material in both states, which seems to favor the growth of cracks. The observations of crack faces suggest that long steel fibers in the LS material palliate the brittleness of the matrix, even after heat damage.
Development and Implementation of an Anthropomorphic Underactuated Prosthesis with Adaptive Grip
Authors: Estay Danilo , Basoalto Alvaro , Ardila Jorge , Cerda Matías , Barraza Rodrigo
Published: September 2021

This paper describes the design of a prosthetic hand for wrist amputations. The mechanism considers the use of three actuators: one each for the movement of the little finger, annular finger, and middle finger. The second actuator controls the index finger, and the third controls the thumb. The prototype is considered relevant as it is able to move the distal phalanx in all fingers; the little, annular, and middle fingers are able to adapt to the shape of the object being gripped (adaptive grip). The sequence of movements achieved with the thumb emulate the opposition/reposition and flexion/extension movements, commanded by a single actuator. The proposed design was built by additive manufacturing and effortlessly achieves a large number of grips. Additionally, the prosthesis could perform specific movements, such as holding a needle, although this grip demands higher precision in the control of the fingers. Due to the manufacturing method, the prosthesis weighs only 200 g, increasing to 450 g when the actuators are included, therefore weighing less than an average adult’s hand.
A Multi-Model-Particle Filtering-Based Prognostic Approach to Consider Uncertainties in RUL Predictions
Authors: Bender Amelie
Published: September 2021

While increasing digitalization enables multiple advantages for a reliable operation of technical systems, a remaining challenge in the context of condition monitoring is seen in suitable consideration of uncertainties affecting the monitored system. Therefore, a suitable prognostic approach to predict the remaining useful lifetime of complex technical systems is required. To handle different kinds of uncertainties, a novel Multi-Model-Particle Filtering-based prognostic approach is developed and evaluated by the use case of rubber-metal-elements. These elements are maintained preventively due to the strong influence of uncertainties on their behavior. In this paper, two measurement quantities are compared concerning their ability to establish a prediction of the remaining useful lifetime of the monitored elements and the influence of present uncertainties. Based on three performance indices, the results are evaluated. A comparison with predictions of a classical Particle Filter underlines the superiority of the developed Multi-Model-Particle Filter. Finally, the value of the developed method for enabling condition monitoring of technical systems related to uncertainties is given exemplary by a comparison between the preventive and the predictive maintenance strategy for the use case.
Dual Targeting of PTP1B and Aldose Reductase with Marine Drug Phosphoeleganin: A Promising Strategy for Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Genovese Massimo , Imperatore Concetta , Casertano Marcello , Aiello Anna , Balestri Francesco , Piazza Lucia , Menna Marialuisa , Del Corso Antonella , Paoli Paolo
Published: September 2021

An in-depth study on the inhibitory mechanism on protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and aldose reductase (AR) enzymes, including analysis of the insulin signalling pathway, of phosphoeleganin, a marine-derived phosphorylated polyketide, was achieved. Phosphoeleganin was demonstrated to inhibit both enzymes, acting respectively as a pure non-competitive inhibitor of PTP1B and a mixed-type inhibitor of AR. In addition, in silico docking analyses to evaluate the interaction mode of phosphoeleganin with both enzymes were performed. Interestingly, this study showed that phosphoeleganin is the first example of a dual inhibitor polyketide extracted from a marine invertebrate, and it could be used as a versatile scaffold structure for the synthesis of new designed multiple ligands.
Cyclopeptide Derivatives from the Sponge-Derived Fungus Acremonium persicinum F10
Authors: Li Yingxin , Li Zhiyong
Published: September 2021

Cyclopeptides usually play a pivotal role, either in the viability or virulence of fungi. Two types of cyclopeptides, six new hydroxamate siderophore cyclohexapeptides (1–6), including acremonpeptides E and F, and their complexes with aluminum and ferric ions; one new cyclic pentapeptolide, aselacin D (9); together with a known compound, aselacin C (10), were isolated and characterized from the sponge-derived fungus Acremonium persicinum F10. In addition, two new siderophore analogues chelating gallium ions (Ga3+), Ga (III)-acremonpeptide E (7) and Ga (III)-acremonpeptide F (8), using isolated acremonpeptides E and F, were prepared. The planar structures of 1–10 were elucidated by HRESIMS and (1D and 2D) NMR. The absolute configurations of amino acids were determined by means of the advanced Marfey’s method and X-ray single-crystal diffraction analysis. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer was performed to disclose the elements of compound 1, indicating the existence of aluminum (Al). Al (III)-acremonpeptides E (1), Ga (III)-acremonpeptides E (5), Al (III)-acremonpeptide F (7), and Ga (III)-acremonpeptide F (8) displayed high in vitro anti-fungal activities, which are comparable to amphotericin B, against Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger.
The Association between Disordered Eating Behavior and Body Image Biological Maturation and Levels of Adipocytokines in Preadolescent Girls: The Healthy Growth Study
Authors: Vassilopoulou Emilia , Tsironis Vasilios , Karaglani Eva , Sarapis Katerina , Vasileiadi Emmanouela , Mavrogianni Christina , Chouliaras Giorgos , Manios Yannis , Moschonis George
Published: September 2021

During puberty, rapid, complex hormonal, physical and cognitive changes occur that affect body image and eating behavior. The aim of this cross-sectional study, a secondary analysis of data from the Greek Healthy Growth Study, was to explore associations of disordered eating behaviors and body image in 1206 10–12-year-old girls during pubertal maturation, with serum leptin and adiponectin levels, according to body mass index (BMI). Eating behavior and disordered eating were assessed with the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ) and the Children Eating Attitudes Test Questionnaire (ChEAT), respectively. Associations of components of DEBQ and ChEAT with maturation according to Tanner Stage (TS) and levels of leptin and adiponectin were explored by univariate and multivariate regression analysis. Adiponectin levels in girls at TS 1 were positively associated with the “social pressure to eat” score of ChEAT. Leptin levels in girls at TS 4 were positively correlated with the “restraint eating” score of DEBQ, and the “dieting”, “body image” and “food awareness” scores of ChEAT. After adjustment for TS and BMI, only “body image” and leptin remained significant. Further research may shed light on how these hormonal changes affect eating behaviors at various pubertal stages, contributing to “TS-specific” preventive strategies for eating disorders in girls.
Küresel Sağlık Sorunu ‘Obezite’: Güncel Bir Gözden Geçirme
Authors: BERBEROĞLU Ziya , HOCAOGLU Cicek
Published: September 2021

Obezite günümüzde tüm dünyada en önemli halk sağlığı sorunlarından biri olarak kabul edilmektedir. Görülme oranları her geçen gün artan obezite, fiziksel, psikolojik ve sosyal pek çok soruna yol açarak yaşam kalitesini olumsuz etkilemektedir. Dengesiz beslenme ve fiziksel egzersiz eksikliği sonucu diyabet, hipertansiyon ve kardiyovasküler hastalıklara neden olabilmektedir. Bu nedenle obezite ülkelerin sağlık sitemlerine getirdiği yük, sağlık harcamalarında önemli bir yer tutmasının yanı sıra en önemli morbidite ve mortalite nedenlerin başında gelmektedir. Obezitenin gelişiminde genetik yatkınlıklar, çevresel ve psikolojik faktörler arasında karmaşık bir etkileşim söz konusudur. Obezite ile mücadelede yaşamı daha sağlıklı ve kaliteli hale getirmek için yeterli ve dengeli beslenme alışkanlıklarının kazanılması ile fiziksel egzersizin arttırılması gerekmektedir. Obezitenin tedavisinde kişiye özgü tedavi uygulamalarının yanı sıra psikolojik değişkenlerin etkisi dikkate alınmalıdır. Obezitenin tedavisinde kullanılan cerrahi ve cerrahi dışı geleneksel yöntemlerin başarısızlıkları da göz önüne alındığında, psikolojik değişkenlerin anlaşılması ve multidisipliner bir tedavi gerekliliği çok açıktır. Bu derlemede obezitenin etiyolojisi, tanı ve tedavisi güncel literatür bulguları eşliğinde ele alınmıştır.
Presepsin: Sepsis tespiti için umut verici yeni bir biyobelirteç
Authors: MALKOÇ Meltem , KURAL Birgül
Published: September 2021

Sistemik inflamatuar yanıt sendromu (SİYS) olarak da tanımlanan sepsis, hayatı tehdit eder boyutta seyreden çoklu organ fonksiyon bozukluğu olarak tanımlanmaktadır. Sepsis gibi ciddi bakteriyel enfeksiyonlarda erken teşhis, bulaşıcı hastalıkların tedavisi ve kontrolü için oldukça önem arz etmektedir. Ancak, bakteriyel enfeksiyonların tanınmasındaki ana problem, belirti ve semptomların klinik görünümünün sıklıkla diğer enflamatuvar bozukluklarla örtüşmesidir. Enfeksiyonların teşhisinde mikrobiyolojik, biyokimyasal ve moleküler yöntemler yaygın kullanılmasına rağmen, duyarlılık ve özgüllük açısından bazı sınırlamaları mevcuttur. Bu nedenle henüz altın standart bir belirteç ortaya konulamamıştır. Önerilen biyobelirteçlerin, uygun maliyetli, hızlı, basit, güvenilir, spesifik ve hassas yöntemlerle belirlenebilmesi gerekmektedir.

Presepsin, çözünür farklılaşma kümesi 14 (SCD14-ST) alt tipi olarak da bilinen bir proteindir. T ve B hücreleri ile direkt etkileşime girerek hücresel ve humoral bağışıklık sistemini düzenler. Bakteriyel enfeksiyonlara yanıt olarak artmakta ve antibiyotik tedavisinden sonra azalmaktadır. Bu nedenle de, istilacı bir patojene karşı immün hücre yanıtının aktivasyonunun bir göstergesi olarak düşünülmektedir. Ayrıca sepsis için erken bir biyobelirteç olabileceği ileri sürülmektedir.

Presepsin, genel dolaşımda kararlı olması ve sistemik enfeksiyonun ilk aşamasının aday bir biyobelirteç olması nedeniyle son yıllardaki çalışmalarda önemli yer edinmiştir. Literatürde presepsin hakkında araştırma makalesi ve derleme sayısı her geçen gün artmaktadır. Bu derlemenin amacı, klinisyenlere rehber olması açısından büyük yararlar sağlayacak presepsin ölçümünün sepsisdeki yeri ve önemi diğer sepsis biyobelirteçleri göz önüne alınarak değerlendirmektir.
Kadavra Donörden Organ Nakli Oranlarını Arttırmada Hemşirenin Sorumlukları: Sahada Neler Yapabiliriz?
Authors: ÖDEN Tuğba Nur , DEMİR KORKMAZ Fatma
Published: September 2021

Solid organ nakli, son dönem organ yetmezliklerinde hayat kurtarıcı bir tedavi yöntemidir. Her ne kadar teknoloji, cerrahi ve immünolojik alanlarda büyük gelişmeler yaşanmış olsa da kadavradan organ temini hala büyük bir sorun teşkil etmeye devam etmektedir. Türkiye, canlı donörden yapılan nakillerde dünyada ilk sıralarda olmasına rağmen kadavra donörden organ naklinde aynı başarıyı elde edememiştir. Önümüzdeki yıllarda amaç, kadavradan yapılan organ nakil sayılarının arttırılması olmalıdır. Kadavra donörden organ nakillerinin arttırılmasında toplumun bilgi ve tutumunun rolü kadar sağlık profesyonellerinin de rolü önem taşımaktadır. Ulusal ve uluslararası literatürde sağlık profesyonellerinin organ bağışına yönelik bilgi, tutum ve farkındalıkları incelendiğinde, organ bağışını arttırmada bilgi sahibi olmanın ve eğitim programlarının önemi ortaya çıkmaktadır. Organ bağış sürecinde aktif görev alan hemşireler, toplum farkındalığını arttıracak uygulamaların yanı sıra hastane ortamında da kadavra donör oranlarının artmasına katkıda bulunabilirler. Bu makalede, organ nakli sürecinin her adımında yer alan hemşirelerin olası donör saptanmasında, bakımında, koordinasyonunda ve donör ailesine yaklaşımda organ nakli sürecine sağlayabilecekleri olumlu katkılar ele alınacaktır.
Mavi Işık Maruziyetinin Sirkadiyen Ritim ve Beslenme Üzerindeki Etkisi
Authors: AMANPOUR Armin , KAHRAMAN Sevde , ÇINAR Büşra , ÇELİK Fatma
Published: September 2021

Latin dilinde circa: yaklaşık, dies: bir gün karşılığındadır. Sirkadiyen ritim, 24 saatte bir kendini tekrar eden periyodik kalıplardır. Sirkadiyen ritimler günlük ritimlerden farklı olarak endojen olarak üretilir ve dış zaman işaretleri olmasa bile kendilerini devam ettirir. Bu sistemin yürütücüsü, ön hipotalamusun suprakiazmatik nükleusta (SCN) bulunan ana saattir. Mavi renk olarak algılanan kısa dalga boyları, çoğu biyolojik ve psikolojik ritim dahil olmak üzere sirkadiyen sistem için en güçlü senkronize edici ajandır. Diğer uyarıcılar; sıcaklık, yemek yeme/açlık, dinlenme/aktivite ve sosyal ipuçlarıdır fakat bu uyarıcıların etkileri ışık ile karşılaştırıldığında çok daha zayıftır. Sirkadiyen ritim organizmaların ideal fonksiyonu için önemlidir. Sirkadiyen uyku-uyanıklık bozuklukları veya kronik yanlış hizalanma sıklıkla psikiyatrik ve nörodejeneratif hastalıklara yol açabilmektedir. Nispeten yakın tarihli teknolojik, beslenme ve yaşam tarzı gibi çevresel değişiklikler, birçok bireyi sirkadiyen sistem bozukluklarına yatkın kılmaktadır. Yapay aydınlatma, yüksek hızlı trans-meridyen hareketi ile indüklenen jet-lag, vardiyalı çalışma ve enerji içeriği yüksek yiyeceklere yirmi dört saat erişim, sirkadiyen sistemi düzensiz hale getirerek modern toplumların sağlığını olumsuz yönde etkileyebilecek birkaç faktördür. Mavi ışığa maruz kalma ise gün içinde organizmanın refahını, uyanıklığını ve bilişsel performansını korumak için önemli olsa da, yatmadan hemen önce düşük yoğunluklu mavi ışığa kronik maruziyetin uyku kalitesi, sirkadiyen faz ve döngü süreleri üzerinde ciddi etkileri olabilmektedir. Modern toplumda sosyal jet-lag ve gece mavi ışığa maruz kalma artışı, sirkadiyen yanlış hizalama ve uyku bozukluklarının önemli sağlık sorunları olarak ortaya çıktığını göstermektedir.