bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Level Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Ischaemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Qianyun , Zhao Lingyun , Chan Ching Long , Zhang Yilin , Tong See Wai , Zhang Xiaodan , Ho Joshua Wing Kei , Jiao Yaqing , Rainer Timothy Hudson
Published: September 2023

Blood biomarkers hold potential for the early diagnosis of ischaemic stroke (IS). We aimed to evaluate the current weight of evidence and identify potential biomarkers and biological pathways for further investigation. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science, used R package meta4diag for diagnostic meta-analysis and applied Gene Ontology (GO) analysis to identify vital biological processes (BPs). Among 8544 studies, we included 182 articles with a total of 30,446 participants: 15675 IS, 2317 haemorrhagic stroke (HS), 1798 stroke mimics, 846 transient ischaemic attack and 9810 control subjects. There were 518 pooled biomarkers including 203 proteins, 114 genes, 108 metabolites and 88 transcripts. Our study generated two shortlists of biomarkers for future research: one with optimal diagnostic performance and another with low selection bias. Glial fibrillary acidic protein was eligible for diagnostic meta-analysis, with summary sensitivities and specificities for differentiating HS from IS between 3 h and 24 h after stroke onset ranging from 73% to 80% and 77% to 97%, respectively. GO analysis revealed the top five BPs associated with IS. This study provides a holistic view of early diagnostic biomarkers in IS. Two shortlists of biomarkers and five BPs warrant future investigation.
Exploring the Effects of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mononuclear Cells on Angiogenesis In Vitro
Authors: Peeters Judith A. H. M. , Peters Hendrika A. B. , Videler Anique J. , Hamming Jaap F. , Schepers Abbey , Quax Paul H. A.
Published: September 2023

Cell therapies involving the administration of bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) for patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) have shown promise; however, their overall effectiveness lacks evidence, and the exact mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, we examined the angiogenic effects of well-controlled human bone marrow cell isolates on endothelial cells. The responses of endothelial cell proliferation, migration, tube formation, and aortic ring sprouting were analyzed in vitro, considering both the direct and paracrine effects of BM cell isolates. Furthermore, we conducted these investigations under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions to simulate the ischemic environment. Interestingly, no significant effect on the angiogenic response of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) following treatment with BM-MNCs was observed. This study fails to provide significant evidence for angiogenic effects from human bone marrow cell isolates on human endothelial cells. These in vitro experiments suggest that the potential benefits of BM-MNC therapy for CLTI patients may not involve endothelial cell angiogenesis.
Large HBV Surface Protein-Induced Unfolded Protein Response Dynamically Regulates p27 Degradation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Guo Yixiao , Shao Jie , Zhang Renyu , Han Mingwei , Kong Lingmin , Liu Zekun , Li Hao , Wei Ding , Lu Meng , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Cong , Wei Haolin , Chen Zhinan , Bian Huijie
Published: September 2023

Up to 50% of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and the surface protein of HBV is essential for the progression of HBV-related HCC. The expression of large HBV surface antigen (LHB) is presented in HBV-associated HCC tissues and is significantly associated with the development of HCC. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that LHB overexpression regulates the cell cycle process. Excess LHB in HCC cells induced chronic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and was significantly correlated with tumor growth in vivo. Cell cycle analysis showed that cell cycle progression from G1 to S phase was greatly enhanced in vitro. We identified intensive crosstalk between ER stress and cell cycle progression in HCC. As an important regulator of the G1/S checkpoint, p27 was transcriptionally upregulated by transcription factors ATF4 and XBP1s, downstream of the unfolded protein response pathway. Moreover, LHB-induced ER stress promoted internal ribosome-entry-site-mediated selective translation of p27, and E3 ubiquitin ligase HRD1-mediated p27 ubiquitination and degradation. Ultimately, the decrease in p27 protein levels reduced G1/S arrest and promoted the progress of HCC by regulating the cell cycle.
Droplet Digital PCR Is a Novel Screening Method Identifying Potential Cardiac G-Protein-Coupled Receptors as Candidate Pharmacological Targets in a Rat Model of Pressure-Overload-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Sayour Nabil V. , Tóth Viktória É. , Nagy Regina N. , Vörös Imre , Gergely Tamás G. , Onódi Zsófia , Nagy Noémi , Bödör Csaba , Váradi Barnabás , Ruppert Mihály , Radovits Tamás , Bleckwedel Federico , Zelarayán Laura C. , Pacher Pal , Ágg Bence , Görbe Anikó , Ferdinandy Péter , Varga Zoltán V.
Published: September 2023

The identification of novel drug targets is needed to improve the outcomes of heart failure (HF). G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent the largest family of targets for already approved drugs, thus providing an opportunity for drug repurposing. Here, we aimed (i) to investigate the differential expressions of 288 cardiac GPCRs via droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and bulk RNA sequencing (RNAseq) in a rat model of left ventricular pressure-overload; (ii) to compare RNAseq findings with those of ddPCR; and (iii) to screen and test for novel, translatable GPCR drug targets in HF. Male Wistar rats subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC, n = 5) showed significant systolic dysfunction vs. sham operated animals (SHAM, n = 5) via echocardiography. In TAC vs. SHAM hearts, RNAseq identified 69, and ddPCR identified 27 significantly differentially expressed GPCR mRNAs, 8 of which were identified using both methods, thus showing a correlation between the two methods. Of these, Prostaglandin-F2α-receptor (Ptgfr) was further investigated and localized on cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts in murine hearts via RNA-Scope. Antagonizing Ptgfr via AL-8810 reverted angiotensin-II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro. In conclusion, using ddPCR as a novel screening method, we were able to identify GPCR targets in HF. We also show that the antagonism of Ptgfr could be a novel target in HF by alleviating cardiomyocyte hypertrophy.
Two-Dimensional Thomson Scattering in Laser-Produced Plasmas
Authors: Zhang Haiping , Pilgram Jessica J. , Constantin Carmen G. , Rovige Lucas , Heuer Peter V. , Ghazaryan Sofiya , Kaloyan Marietta , Dorst Robert S. , Schaeffer Derek B. , Niemann Christoph
Published: September 2023

We present two-dimensional (2D) optical Thomson scattering measurements of electron density and temperature in laser-produced plasmas. The novel instrument directly measures ne(x,y) and Te(x,y) in two dimensions over large spatial regions (cm2) with sub-mm spatial resolution, by automatically translating the scattering volume while the plasma is produced repeatedly by irradiating a solid target with a high-repetition-rate laser beam (10 J, ∼1012 W/cm2, 1 Hz). In this paper, we describe the design and motorized auto-alignment of the instrument and the computerized algorithm that autonomously fits the spectral distribution function to the tens-of-thousands of measured scattering spectra, and captures the transition from the collective to the non-collective regime with distance from the target. As an example, we present the first 2D scattering measurements in laser-driven shock waves in ambient nitrogen gas at a pressure of 0.13 mbar.
Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome Caused by NUP93 Pathogenic Variants
Authors: Wasilewska Anna , Rybi-Szuminska Agnieszka , Dubiela Pawel
Published: September 2023

Background: Although steroid therapy is a standard of care for nephrotic syndrome treatment, 15–20% of patients do not respond to it. Finding the genetic background is possible in >10% of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) cases. Variants in genes encoding nuclear pore complex proteins are a novel cause of paediatric steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Recent studies suggest NUP93 variants to be a significant cause of paediatric onset SRNS. The clinical data on certain variants and disease history are still very limited. Methods and results: We report the SRNS case of a 12-year-old boy with two detected NUP93 variants, which are pathogenic and possibly pathogenic. The onset of the disease was early and severe. The patient was admitted to the paediatric nephrology department due to nephrotic-range proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia with a long medical history of steroid and non-steroid immunosuppressive treatment. The genetic panel targeting 50 genes, clinically relevant for nephrotic syndrome, was performed. The only gene which was found to be affected by mutations, namely c.2326C>T and c.1162C>T, respectively, was NUP93. Conclusions: NUP93 variants are rarely identified as causes of SRNS. Clinical data are of utmost importance to establish the standard of care for SRNS patients suffering from this genetic disfunction. This is the first case of a heterozygous patient with the c.2326C>T and c.1162C>T variants and confirmed clinical history of the SRNS described so far. Our data suggest the clinical relevance of the c.1162C>T variant.
Molecular Background and Clinical Implications of Glucose Disorders in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Grygiel-Górniak Bogna , Skoczek Weronika
Published: September 2023

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory musculoskeletal disease characterized by joint and entheses involvement. This condition is often associated with an increased prevalence of obesity, encompassing more than one-third of all patients. Given the presence of metabolic disorders, it becomes crucial to enhance clinical oversight of metabolic parameters. An early diagnosis of glucose irregularities in PsA allows for the assessment of an effective treatment strategy. The approach proves valuable in preventing the development of insulin resistance (IR) or diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMt2). Similar pathways characterize the pathomechanism of PsA and DMt2, offering an innovative perspective on treatment management. The cytokines and adipokines synthesized in the course of PsA significantly impact the development process of IR and DMt2 in different mechanisms of action. Conversely, glucose disorders influence the activity of PsA and therapy outcomes. Given the chronic inflammatory background shared by PsA, obesity, and DMt2, it is evident that inadequate management of any of the mentioned conditions can exacerbate the others. Thus, when PsA coincides with DMt2, a comprehensive multidimensional approach is necessary. This includes an effective immunosuppressive regimen complemented by appropriate anti-diabetic and insulin therapies. Moreover, often overlooked recommendations concerning overall well-being and lifestyle adjustments hold significance. This manuscript explores the connections and the relationship between the molecular background of PsA and glucose disorders. It provides a detailed exposition of specific therapeutic approaches for both conditions.
The Impact of Non-Pharmacological Interventions on Delirium in Neurological Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Single-Center Interrupted Time Series Trial
Authors: Rood Paul J. T. , Ramnarain Dharmanand , Oldenbeuving Annemarie W. , den Oudsten Brenda L. , Pouwels Sjaak , van Loon Lex M. , Teerenstra Steven , Pickkers Peter , de Vries Jolanda , van den Boogaard Mark
Published: September 2023

Background: Delirium is a pathobiological brain process that is frequently observed in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients, and is associated with longer hospitalization as well as long-term cognitive impairment. In neurological ICU patients, delirium may be more treatment-resistant due to the initial brain injury. This study examined the effects of a multicomponent non-pharmacological nursing intervention program on delirium in neurological ICU patients. Methods: A single-center interrupted time series trial was conducted in adult neurological ICU patients at high risk for developing delirium who were non-delirious at admission. A multicomponent nursing intervention program focusing on modifiable risk factors for delirium, including the optimalization of vision, hearing, orientation and cognition, sleep and mobilization, was implemented as the standard of care, and its effects were studied. The primary outcome was the number of delirium-free and coma-free days alive at 28 days after ICU admission. The secondary outcomes included delirium incidence and duration, ICU and hospital length-of-stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. Results: Of 289 eligible patients admitted to the ICU, 130 patients were included, with a mean age of 68 ± 11 years, a mean APACHE-IV score of 79 ± 25 and a median predicted delirium risk (E-PRE-DELIRIC) score of 42 [IQR 38–50]). Of these, 73 were included in the intervention period and 57 in the control period. The median delirium- and coma-free days alive were 15 days [IQR 0–26] in the intervention group and 10 days [IQR 0–24] in the control group (level change −0.48 days, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) −7 to 6 days, p = 0.87; slope change −0.95 days, 95%CI −2.41 to 0.52 days, p = 0.18). Conclusions: In neurological ICU patients, our multicomponent non-pharmacological nursing intervention program did not change the number of delirium-free and coma-free days alive after 28 days.
A Predominant Cause of Recurrence of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in Patients with COVID-19 Are Relapses
Authors: van Duijnhoven Mirella , Fleuren-Janssen Manon , van Osch Frits , LeNoble Jos L. M. L.
Published: September 2023

The diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) recurrence in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia is challenging, and the incidence of recurrence is high. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and recurrence of VAP. Furthermore, we investigated the causative microorganisms of VAP and recurrent VAPs in patients with COVID-19. This retrospective, single-centre case series study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic from October 2020 to June 2021 at VieCuri MC Venlo. VAP and recurrent VAP were defined based on three criteria (clinical, radiological, and microbiological). During the study period, 128 mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 were included. The incidence ranged from 9.2 to 14 VAP/1000 ventilator days, which was higher than that in the non-COVID-19 controls. The most commonly cultured microorganisms in VAP were Pseudomonas (9/28; 32%), Klebsiella (8/28; 29%), Escherichia coli (5/28; 18%), and Staphylococcus aureus (5/28; 18%). VAP recurred often (5/19, 26%). The overall VAP rate confirmed previous findings of an increased incidence of VAP in critically ill patients with severe COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation. VAP recurrences occur often and are mainly relapses. A duration of antibiotic therapy longer than 7 days and therapeutic drug monitoring should be considered for VAP caused by Gram-negative microorganisms.
Adenotonsillectomy in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Clinical and Functional Outcomes
Authors: Locci Cristian , Cenere Caterina , Sotgiu Giovanni , Puci Mariangela Valentina , Saderi Laura , Rizzo Davide , Bussu Francesco , Antonucci Roberto
Published: September 2023

Adenotonsillectomy (AT) is the first-line treatment for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Relatively few studies have evaluated the clinical and functional outcomes of AT in children with OSAS, but these studies show that surgery improves behavior and quality of life (QOL). However, residual OSAS after AT is reported in severe cases. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes of AT in a cohort of children with OSAS. We consecutively enrolled children with OSAS who underwent AT and were admitted to our clinic from 1 July 2020 to 31 December 2022. For each participant, medical history and physical examinations were performed. Before and after surgery, all patients underwent a standard polygraphic evaluation, and caregivers completed the OSA-18 questionnaire. A total of 65 children with OSAS, aged 2–9 years, were included. After AT, 64 (98.4%) children showed a reduction in AHI, with median (IQR) values decreasing from 13.4/h (8.3–18.5/h) to 2.4/h (1.8–3.1/h) (p-value < 0.0001). Conversely, median (IQR) SpO2 nadir increased after surgery from 89% (84–92%) to 94% (93–95%) (p-value < 0.0001). Moreover, 27 children (18%) showed residual OSAS. The OSA-18 score decreased after AT from median (IQR) values of 84 (76–91) to values of 33 (26–44) (p-value < 0.0001). A positive significant correlation was found between OSA-18 post-operative scores and AHI post-operative scores (rho 0.31; p-value = 0.01). Our findings indicate that, in children with OSAS, AT is associated with significant improvements in behavior, QOL, and polygraphic parameters. However, long-term post-surgical follow-up to monitor for residual OSAS is highly recommended, especially in more severe cases.
Oncological and Reproductive Outcomes after Fertility-Sparing Surgery in Patients with Advanced-Stage Serous Borderline Ovarian Tumor: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Cang Wei , Liang Chao , Wang Dan , Xue Xiaowei , Cao Dongyan , Yang Jiaxin , Pan Lingya , Wu Ming , Yang Junjun , Xiang Yang
Published: September 2023

Our study aimed to analyze the prognosis and reproductive outcomes of patients with advanced-stage serous borderline ovarian tumors (SBOTs) who underwent fertility-sparing surgery (FSS). This study included patients aged ≤ 45 years diagnosed with advanced-stage (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics II and III) SBOTs who were treated with FSS. Conservative surgeries were performed in 65 patients with advanced-stage SBOT with a median age of 28 years (range, 16–44 years). Nine patients had invasive implants. The median follow-up was 81.7 months. Forty-six patients (70.8%) had a relapse (median time to first recurrence, 22.8 months). Thirteen patients subsequently developed recurrence as an invasive disease, and two died due to disease progression. After multivariate analysis, age < 30 years and incomplete cytoreduction were independent risk factors for recurrence. Invasive implants and postoperative residual tumors were significantly associated with shorter disease-free survival. Of 35 patients attempting to conceive, 12 underwent assisted reproductive technology. Additionally, 19 pregnancies, including 15 full-term births, were documented. FSS provides a good chance of reproductive success in women with advanced-stage SBOT who desire fertility preservation, but it has a high recurrence rate and risk of malignancy transformation. Patients with invasive implants should be strictly selected for FSS.
A Private and Efficient Triple-Entry Accounting Protocol on Bitcoin
Authors: Pan Liuxuan , Vaughan Owen , Wright Craig Steven
Published: September 2023

The ‘Big Four’ accountancy firms dominate the auditing market, auditing almost all the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 100 companies. This leads to people having to accept auditing results even if they may be poor quality and/or for inadequate purposes. In addition, accountants may provide different auditing results with the same financial data. These issues are hard for regulators such as the Financial Reporting Council to identify because of insufficient resources or inconsistent compliance. In this paper, we proposed a triple-entry accounting protocol to allow users to report Bitcoin transactions to a third-party auditor to comply with regulations such as the travel rule. It allows the auditor to easily detect anomalies and identify the non-compliant parties, whilst the blockchain itself provides a transparent and immutable record of these anomalies. Despite building on a public ledger, our solution preserves privacy and offers an interoperability layer for information exchange. Merkle proofs were used to record non-compliant transactions whilst allowing compliant transactions to be pruned from an auditor’s active database.
Improving the Surface Integrity and Tribological Behavior of a High-Temperature Friction Surface via the Synergy of Laser Cladding and Ultrasonic Burnishing
Authors: Xu Nan , Jiang Xiaochen , Shen Xuehui , Peng Hao
Published: September 2023

Quite a lot of engineering friction components serve at high temperatures, and are thus required to have excellent friction and wear resistance. The said study aims to fabricate high-wear-resistance coating on ordinary low-cost materials, achieving the low-cost manufacturing of some high-end friction components that are usually made with expensive solid alloys. The coating was prepared via laser cladding with a sort of widely used Fe-based self-fluxing alloy powder. The chosen substrate material was forged 42CrMo, which is popular in high-temperature friction engineering applications. In order to achieve the best possible high-temperature friction and wear properties, the prepared coating was turned and then ultrasonic burnished. Three samples, i.e., the substrate sample, the cladded sample without burnishing, and the cladded sample with burnishing, were prepared. For the three samples, the surface characteristics and friction properties at a 200 °C temperature were compared and investigated. According to the results, the cladded sample with burnishing exhibited the best surface finishing and friction behavior. Ultrasonic burnishing after cladding led to a further hardness improvement of 15.24% when compared with the cladded sample without burnishing. Therefore, ultrasonic burnishing is an effective low-cost post-treatment method for a wearable coating serving at a high temperature.
Influence of Dispersed Phase Content on the Mechanical Properties of Electroless Nanocomposite Ni-P/Si3N4 and Hybrid Ni-P/Si3N4/Graphite Layers Deposited on the AW-7075 Alloy
Authors: Czapczyk Kazimierz , Zawadzki Paweł , Wierzbicka Natalia
Published: September 2023

The article presents the results of mechanical testing of Ni-P/Si3N4 nanocomposite and hybrid Ni-P/Si3N4/graphite coatings deposited on AW-7075 aluminum alloy using the chemical reduction method. In terms of mechanical testing, microhardness was measured, and surface roughness and adhesion of the coatings to the aluminum substrate were determined using the “scratch test” method. The surface morphology of the deposited layers was also analyzed using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Samples made of AW-7075 aluminum alloy with electroless deposited Ni-P/Si3N4 nanocomposite, Ni-P/graphite composite and hybrid Ni-P/Si3N4/graphite coatings with different content of dispersed phases were tested, and also, for comparison purposes, the Ni-P layer that constituted the matrix of the tested materials. Reinforcing phases in the form of silicon nitride nanoparticles and graphite particles were used in the layers. The purpose of the research was a thorough characterization of the coating materials used on aluminum alloys in terms of mechanical properties. Graphite is considered in this paper as it enables the reduction of the coefficient of friction through its lubricating properties. Unfortunately, graphite is difficult to use in selected layers as the only dispersion phase, because it has much lower hardness than the Ni-P coating. For this reason, a layer with a single dispersion phase in the form of graphite will be characterized by worse mechanical properties. It is necessary to add particles or nanoparticles with hardness higher than the base Ni-P coating, e.g., Si3N4, which improve the mechanical properties of the coating. The presented analyses of the results of the conducted research complement the previous studies on selected properties of nanocomposite layers with an amorphous structure and supplement the knowledge regarding their suitability for application to aluminum machine parts.
Analysis of the Synergistic Effect on the Strength Characteristics of Modified Red Mud-Based Stabilized Soil
Authors: Chen Shengjin , Jiang Jie , Ou Xiaoduo , Tan Zhijie
Published: September 2023

Based on the existing research results, this research team developed roadbed stabilized soil materials using nano-SiO2 synergistically modified red mud in order to study whether the strength of the stabilized soil materials meets the strength requirements of the roadbed materials, and at the same time, analyze its strength characteristics to make the feasibility of it being used as a roadbed material clear. Through different combination schemes, the effects of different nano-SiO2 and cement contents on the strength of the stabilized materials were explored. The test results show the following: In the synergistic modification of nano-SiO2 and cement, nano-SiO2 can significantly improve the early unconfined compressive strength of red mud-based stabilized soil. In the synergistic modification of nano-SiO2, gypsum, and cement, the 7 d unconfined compressive strength of red mud-based stabilized soil is greater than 2 MPa, which meets the strength requirements of road base materials and shows the superiority of synergism. The nominal stress–strain curves are divided into five stages: compressed and compacted stage, elastic deformation stage, plastic deformation stage, damage deformation stage, and residual deformation stage. The macroscopic compressive damage pattern of the specimens shows that the modified red mud-based stabilized soil mostly exhibits brittle damage. Tests have shown that the strength of modified terracotta-based stabilized soil meets the requirements of roadbed strength.
Assessment of Wood Bio-Concrete Properties Modified with Silane–Siloxane
Authors: de Aguiar Amanda L. D. , da Silva Nathalia A. , Gomes Bruno M. C. , da Gloria M’hamed Y. R. , Hasparyk Nicole P. , Toledo Filho Romildo D.
Published: September 2023

Bio-based materials, such as wood bio-concrete (WBC), hold promise in reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint of the construction industry. However, the durability of these materials is not well understood and can be negatively affected by the high water absorption capacity of wood bio-aggregates. In the field of cement composites, for example, silane–siloxane-based water repellent has been used to protect such materials from natural environmental attack. Nevertheless, there is still a limited understanding of various aspects related to this type of treatment, including its performance when applied to the bio-concrete substrate. This research aimed to investigate the influence of silane–siloxane on the rheology and hydration of cementitious paste through isothermal calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. Additionally, the impact of silane–siloxane on the physical and mechanical properties of WBCs was examined by conducting tests at fresh state (flow table and entrained air content) and hardened state (compressive strength and capillary water absorption). The composites were produced with a volumetric fraction of 45% of wood shavings while the cement matrix consisted of a combination of cement, rice husk ash, and fly ash. Silane–siloxane was applied in three ways: as coating, incorporated as an admixture, and in a combination of both methods. The results indicated that by incorporating silane in the cementitious pastethe viscosity increased by 40% and the hydration was delayed by approximately 6 h when compared to the reference. In addition, silane improved the compressive strength of WBCs by 24% when incorporated into the mixture, expressively reduced the water sorptivity of WBCs (93%), and was more effective if used as coating.
Four-Layer Surface Plasmon Resonance Structures with Amorphous As2S3 Chalcogenide Films: A Review
Authors: Popescu Aurelian , Savastru Dan , Stafe Mihai , Puscas Nicolae
Published: September 2023

The paper is a review of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structures containing amorphous chalcogenide (ChG) films as plasmonic waveguides. The calculation method and specific characteristics obtained for four-layer SPR structures containing films made of amorphous As2S3 and As2Se3 are presented. The paper is mainly based on our previously obtained and published scattered results, to which a generalized point of view was applied. In our analysis, we demonstrate that, through proper choice of the SPR structure layer parameters, we can control the resonance angle, the sharpness of the SPR resonance curve, the penetration depth, and the sensitivity to changes in the refractive index of the analyte. These results are obtained by operating with the thickness of the ChG film and the parameters of the coupling prism. Aspects regarding the realization of the coupling prism are discussed. Two distinct cases are analyzed: first, when the prism is made of material with a refractive index higher than that of the waveguide material; second, when the prism is made of material with a lower refractive index. We demonstrated experimentally that the change in reflectance self-induced by the modification in As2S3 refractive index exhibits a hysteresis loop. We present specific results regarding the identification of alcohols, hydrocarbons, and the marker of E. coli bacteria.
Experimental Investigation on Microstructure Alteration and Surface Morphology While Grinding 20Cr2Ni4A Gears with Different Grinding Allowance Allocation
Authors: Wang Rong , Peng Size , Zhou Bowen , Jiang Xiaoyang , Li Maojun , Gong Pan
Published: September 2023

Transmission gear is a key component of vehicles and its surface integrity affects the safety of the transmission system as well as the entire mechanical system. The design and optimization of allowances in form grinding are important for improving dimensional accuracy and machining efficiency during the manufacturing of heavy-duty gears. This work aims to investigate the effects of grinding allowance allocation on surface morphology, grinding temperature, microstructure, surface roughness, and microhardness fluctuation during the form grinding of 20Cr2Ni4A gears. Results indicated that grinding temperature was primarily influenced by rough grinding involving significant grinding depths exceeding 0.02 mm. The ground surface exhibited slight work hardening, while thermal softening led to a reduction in microhardness of around 40 HV. Ground surface roughness Ra varied from 0.930 μm to 1.636 μm, with an allowance allocation of the last two passes exerting the most significant influence. Analysis of surface and subsurface microstructures indicated that a removal thickness of 0.02 mm during fine grinding was insufficient to eliminate the roughness obtained from rough grinding. Evident ridges, gullies, and surface defects such as material extraction, adhesion, and plastic deformation were also observed. The proposed grinding strategy was validated in practical manufacturing with good surface quality and geometrical accuracy.
Prediction Model for the Evolution of Residual Stresses and Machining Deformation of Uneven Milling Plate Blanks
Authors: Zheng Yaohui , Hu Pengcheng , Wang Minghai , Huang Xiaoyue
Published: September 2023

During aerospace thin-walled component processing, the prediction and control of machining deformation have gained increasing attention. The initial residual stress in the blank is a major factor leading to the occurrence of machining deformation. This paper proposes the concept of uneven milling during the workpiece machining process, which is caused by the variation in local cutting depth resulting in uneven material removal thickness. Based on the elasticity theory, an analytical model is established to predict the evolution of overall residual stress and machining deformation in beam-like aluminum alloy components under uneven milling conditions. The effectiveness of the model is verified through finite element simulations and experiments. The results are as follows: (1) Under uneven milling conditions, the analytical model can accurately predict the distribution of residual stress and the machining deformation within the ZX section of the workpiece. (2) The uneven distribution of bending stress arises from the different curvature radii of various positions after workpiece deformation, leading to a 1 MPa to 3 MPa difference in stress between the middle and both ends of the workpiece. (3) During the layer-by-layer milling process, the magnitude of workpiece deformation is related to the stress state of the material removed, and there is a deformation superposition effect on the lower surface of the workpiece, further exacerbating the overall machining deformation.
Micro-Scale Numerical Simulation of Fatigue Failure for CFRP Subjected to Multiple-Amplitude Cyclic Loadings Based on Entropy Damage Criterion
Authors: Deng Huachao , Toda Keitaro , Sato Mio , Koyanagi Jun
Published: September 2023

Fatigue failure of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) under cyclic loadings has attracted the attention of researchers recently. In this study, the entropy-based failure criterion is proposed to investigate the fatigue lifetime of unidirectional CFRPs subjected to multiple-amplitude cyclic loadings. Due to the heterogeneity of CFRPs, a micro-finite element model considering matrix resin and fibers independently is developed, and the entropy-based damage criterion is implemented into a user-subroutine of Abaqus to model the progressive damage of matrix resin. The fatigue lifetime of CFRPs under typical loading sequences consisting of two stages, such as varying from low to high (L-H) or from high to low (H-L) loading sequence, is estimated with the proposed failure criterion. Numerical results show that the initial damage occurs near the area between two fibers, and a transverse crack propagates progressively under the cyclic loading. The difference in predicted lifetime to final failure in L-H and H-L stress levels is 6.3%. Thus, the effect of loading sequence on the fatigue lifetime can be revealed via the proposed entropy-based damage criterion. Comparisons with the conventional linear cumulative damage (LCD) and kinetic crack growth (KCG) theories are also conducted to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method. The entropy-based failure criterion is a promising method to predict the residual strength and fatigue lifetime of CFRP components.
Adaptive Control for an Aircraft Wing System with Hysteresis Nonlinearity
Authors: Qin Yi , Guo Fang , Wang Fujie , Li Xing , Hu Yaohua
Published: September 2023

This paper involves a novel adaptive control approach of a flexible wing system with hysteresis nonlinearity. The usual control design strategies based on the ordinary differential equations (ODEs) are inapplicable due to the flexible wing system described in the partial differential equations (PDEs), and the design of the control algorithm becomes highly intricate. Firstly, the inverse dynamic model of hysteresis is introduced to compensate for the hysteresis nonlinearity. Considering the unknown external disturbances, an adaptive technique is utilized for compensation. Then, the direct Lyapunov approach is employed to prove the bounded stability of the system. Lastly, the effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated via simulation results.
Flurona: The First Autopsied Case
Authors: Jeican Ionuț Isaia , Gheban Dan , Mariș Alexandra , Albu Silviu , Aluaș Maria , Siserman Costel Vasile , Gheban Bogdan Alexandru
Published: September 2023

COVID-19-associated coinfections increase the patient’s risk of developing a severe form of the disease and, consequently, the risk of death. The term “flurona” was proposed to describe the coinfection of the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. This report is about a case of a 7-month-old female infant who died due to flurona coinfection. A histopathological exam showed activation of microglia (becoming CD45 positive), bronchial inflammation, diffuse alveolar damage in proliferative phase with vasculitis, a peribronchial infiltrate that was predominantly CD20-positive, and a vascular wall infiltrate that was predominantly CD3-positive. The aggressiveness of the two respiratory viruses added up and they caused extensive lung inflammation, which led to respiratory failure, multiple organ failure, and death. Tissues injuries caused by both the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 could be observed, without the ability to certify the dominance of the aggression of one of the two viruses.
Comparing Long-Term Prognosis in Chronic Critically Ill Patients: A Case Series Study of Medical versus Surgical Sepsis
Authors: Mancini Benjamin , Liu Jiabin , Samuelsen Abigail , Howrylak Judie A. , Schultz Lisa , Bonavia Anthony S.
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Chronic critical illness (CCI) is a syndrome characterized by persistent organ dysfunction that requires critical care therapy for ≥14 days. Sepsis and respiratory failure constitute the two primary causes of CCI. A better understanding of this patient population and their clinical course may help to risk-stratify them early during hospitalization. Our objective was to identify whether the source of sepsis (medical versus surgical) affected clinical trajectory and prognosis in patients developing CCI. Materials and Methods: We describe a cohort of patients having acute respiratory failure and sepsis and requiring critical care therapy in the medical (MICU) or surgical (SICU) critical care units for ≥14 days. Given the relative infrequency of CCI, we use a case series design to examine mortality, functional status, and place of residence (home versus non-home) at one year following their index hospitalization. Results: In medical patients developing CCI (n = 31), the severity of initial organ dysfunction, by SOFA score, was significantly associated with the development of CCI (p = 0.002). Surgical patients with CCI (n = 7) experienced significantly more ventilator-free days within the first 30 days following sepsis onset (p = 0.004), as well as less organ dysfunction at day 14 post-sepsis (p < 0.0001). However, one-year mortality, one-year functional status, and residency at home were not statistically different between cohorts. Moreover, 57% of surgical patients and 26% of medical patients who developed CCI were living at home for one year following their index hospitalization (p = 0.11). Conclusions: While surgical patients who develop sepsis-related CCI experience more favorable 30-day outcomes as compared with medical patients, long-term outcomes do not differ significantly between groups. This suggests that reversing established organ dysfunction and functional disability, regardless of etiology, is more challenging compared to preventing these complications at an earlier stage.
Synthesis of Trimetallic Nanoparticle (NiCoPd)-Supported Carbon Nanofibers as a Catalyst for NaBH4 Hydrolysis
Authors: Abutaleb Ahmed , Maafa Ibrahim M. , Zouli Nasser , Yousef Ayman , El-Halwany M. M.
Published: September 2023

The generation of H2 via the catalytic hydrolysis of sodium borohydride (SBH) has promise as a practical and secure approach to produce H2, a secure and environmentally friendly energy source for the foreseeable future. In this study, distinctive trimetallic NiCoPd nanoparticle-supported carbon nanofibers (NiCoPd tri-NPs@CNFs) is synthesized via sol-gel and electrospinning approaches. The fabricated trimetallic catalysts show an excellent catalytic performance for the generation of H2 from the hydrolysis of SBH. Standard physicochemical techniques were used to characterize the as-prepared NiCoPd tri-NPs@CNFs. The results show that NiCoPd tri-NPs@CNFs is formed, with an average particle size of about 21 nm. When compared to NiCo bimetallic NP @CNFS, all NiCoPd tri-NPs@CNFs formulations demonstrated greater catalytic activates for the hydrolysis of SBH. The improved catalytic activity may be due in the majority to the synergistic interaction between the three metals in the trimetallic architecture. Furthermore, the activation energy for the catalytic hydrolysis of SBH by the NiCoPd tri-NPs@CNFs was determined to be 16.30 kJ mol−1. The kinetics studies show that the reaction is of a first order with respect to the catalyst loading amount and a half order with respect to the SBH concentration [SBH].
Effect of Multiple Structural Parameters on the Performance of a Micromixer with Baffles, Obstacles, and Gaps
Authors: Nai Jiacheng , Zhang Feng , Dong Peng , Bai Fan , Fu Ting , Wang Jiangbo , Ge Anle
Published: September 2023

As an essential component of chip laboratories and microfluidic systems, micromixers are widely used in fields such as chemical and biological analysis. In this work, a square cavity micromixer with multiple structural parameters (baffles, obstacles, and gaps) has been proposed to further improve the mixing performance of micromixers. This study examines the comprehensive effects of various structural parameters on mixing performance. The impact of baffle length, obstacle length-to-width ratio, gap width, and obstacle shape on the mixing index and pressure drop were numerically studied at different Reynolds numbers (Re). The results show that the mixing index increases with baffle length and obstacle length-to-width ratio and decreases with gap width at Re = 0.1, 1, 10, 20, 40, and 60. The mixing index can reach more than 0.98 in the range of Re ≥ 20 when the baffle length is 150 μm, the obstacle length-to-width ratio is 600/100, and the gap width is 200 μm. The pressure drop of the microchannel is proportional to baffle length and obstacle length-to-width ratio. Combining baffles and obstacles can further improve the mixing performance of square cavity micromixers. A longer baffle length, larger obstacle length-to-width ratio, narrower gap width, and a more symmetrical structure are conducive to improving the mixing index. However, the impact of pressure drop must also be considered comprehensively. The research results provide references and new ideas for passive micromixer structural design.
Epidemiological and Molecular Investigation of the Heater–Cooler Unit (HCU)-Related Outbreak of Invasive Mycobacterium chimaera Infection Occurred in Italy
Authors: Cannas Angela , Campanale Antonella , Minella Daniela , Messina Francesco , Butera Ornella , Nisii Carla , Mazzarelli Antonio , Fontana Carla , Lispi Lucia , Maraglino Francesco , Di Caro Antonino , Sabbatucci Michela
Published: September 2023

Background: From 2013 onwards, a large outbreak of Mycobacterium chimaera (MC) invasive infection, which was correlated with the use of contaminated heater–cooler units (HCUs) during open chest surgery, was reported from all over the world. Here, we report the results of the epidemiological and molecular investigations conducted in Italy after the alarm raised about this epidemic event. Methods: MC strains isolated from patients or from HCU devices were characterized by genomic sequencing and molecular epidemiological analysis. Results: Through retrospective epidemiological analysis conducted between January 2010 and December 2022, 40 possible cases of patients infected with MC were identified. Thirty-six strains isolated from these patients were analysed by whole genome sequencing (WGS) and were found to belong to the genotypes 1.1 or 1.8, which are the genotypes correlated with the outbreak. Most of the cases presented with prosthetic valve endocarditis, vascular graft infection or disseminated infection. Among the cases found, there were 21 deaths. The same analysis was carried out on HCU devices. A total of 251 HCUs were found to be contaminated by MC; genotypes 1.1 or 1.8 were identified in 28 of those HCUs. Conclusions: To ensure patients’ safety and adequate follow-up, clinicians and general practitioners were made aware of the results and public health measures, and recommendations were issued to prevent further cases in the healthcare settings. The Italian Society of Cardiac Surgery performed a national survey to assess the incidence of HCU-related MC prosthetic infections in cardiac surgery. No cases were reported after HCU replacement or structural modification and disinfection and possibly safe allocation outside surgical rooms.
Application of Quinoline Ring in Structural Modification of Natural Products
Authors: Zhao Yu-Qing , Li Xiaoting , Guo Hong-Yan , Shen Qing-Kun , Quan Zhe-Shan , Luan Tian
Published: September 2023

Natural compounds are rich in pharmacological properties that are a hot topic in pharmaceutical research. The quinoline ring plays important roles in many biological processes in heterocycles. Many pharmacological compounds, including saquinavir and chloroquine, have been marketed as quinoline molecules with good anti-viral and anti-parasitic properties. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the medicinal chemistry of quinoline-modified natural product quinoline derivatives that were developed by several research teams in the past 10 years and find that these compounds have inhibitory effects on bacteria, viruses, parasites, inflammation, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and others.
Morphoanatomical, Histochemical, and Essential Oil Composition of the Plectranthus ornatus Codd. (Lamiaceae)
Authors: da Silva Luiz Renan Ramos , Correia Zelina Ataíde , Gurgel Ely Simone Cajueiro , Ribeiro Olívia , Silva Sebastião Gomes , Ferreira Oberdan Oliveira , Andrade Eloisa Helena de Aguiar , de Oliveira Mozaniel Santana
Published: September 2023

Plectranthus ornatus is a medicinal and aromatic plant used in traditional and alternative medicine. In this study, leaves of P. ornatus were collected in two cities of the state of Pará, “Quatipuru” and “Barcarena”, and were used with the objective of analyzing, through morphoanatomical data and histochemical and phytochemical studies of essential oil, the samples present structural differences and differences in their chemical composition. Anatomical and histochemical analyses were performed by transverse, using longitudinal sections of 8 μm to 10 μm to perform epidermal dissociation, diaphonization, and tests to identify classes of secondary metabolites. The essential oils were isolated by hydrodistillation, and the identification of the chemical composition was performed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The anatomical study shows that there is no difference between specimens collected in different locations, and stellate trichomes were identified. The histochemical study detected total lipids and acids, terpenes, polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids, and calcium oxalate. The low essential oil yield may be related to the low density of secretory cells (glandular trichomes), the unidentified compounds in the highest concentration in the essential oil were in relation to the chemical composition of the essential oils, and the major compounds were α-pinene, sabinene, (E)-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, and oct-1-en-3-ol. The results provide new information about the anatomy and histochemistry of P. ornatus.