bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Screen Viewing Time on Sleep Duration and Bedtime in Children Aged 1 and 3 Years: Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Nishioka Takafumi , Hasunuma Hideki , Okuda Masumi , Taniguchi Naoko , Fujino Tetsuro , Shimomura Hideki , Tanaka Yasuhiko , Shima Masayuki , Takeshima Yasuhiro ,   Japan Environment and Children’s Study Group
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to clarify the effects of television/digital versatile disc (TV/DVD) viewing time and portable electronic device (PED) usage time on sleep duration and bedtime and the difference between the effects of TV/DVD and PED on sleep. The effect of TV/DVD viewing time or PED usage time on sleep duration and bedtime was analyzed using a multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for covariates. A total of 74,525 participants were included in the analysis, using data from Japan Environment and Children’s Study. TV/DVD viewing was not associated with short sleep duration, but PED usage was associated with short sleep duration. In addition, the risk of short sleep duration increased as PED usage time increased. We also investigated the effects of sleep habits at age 1 year on sleep at age 3 years. This study showed that late bedtime at age 1 year posed a significant risk of late bedtime at age 3 years. In summary, particular caution should be paid to PED use from a child’s health perspective, and sleep habits should be focused on bedtime from the age of 1 year.
Telephone-Based Structured Communication Simulation Program for the Follow-Up of COVID-19 Cases and Contacts in Primary Care
Authors: Adánez-Martínez María Gracia , Jiménez-Ruiz Ismael , Carrillo-García César , Díaz-Agea José Luis , Ramos-Morcillo Antonio Jesús , Molina-Rodríguez Alonso , Ruzafa-Martínez María , Leal-Costa César
Published: March 2022

(1) The COVID-19 pandemic has had many consequences on health systems worldwide. In the Spanish health system, telephone-based consultations were coupled to in-person consultations. This type of consultation was mainly a challenge for the primary care teams, who had to assume the greatest load of care provision. The objective of the present study was to discover the satisfaction and perception of health professionals related to a training program on efficient communication based on high-fidelity simulation. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study based on a convergent and parallel mixed method. The satisfaction and perception of 275 health professionals associated with COVID-19 training based on the structured communication model CERCAR© was analyzed. (3) Results: The assessment of the satisfaction with the training and methodology was high. With respect to the transfer of information, the participants gave a high score to the categories of consolidation of learning, applicability to their work, and benefits for the institution. The qualitative results supported these findings. (4) Conclusions: The training program and its virtual modality were well received, and had a high degree of transference. The application of active, online learning methodologies is a relevant format for continuous education.
Impacts of Indoor Radon on Health: A Comprehensive Review on Causes, Assessment and Remediation Strategies
Authors: Nunes Leonel J. R. , Curado António , Graça Luís C. C. da , Soares Salete , Lopes Sérgio Ivan
Published: March 2022

Indoor radon exposure is raising concerns due to its impact on health, namely its known relationship with lung cancer. Consequently, there is an urgent need to understand the risk factors associated with radon exposure, and how this can be harmful to the health of exposed populations. This article presents a comprehensive review of studies indicating a correlation between indoor radon exposure and the higher probability of occurrence of health problems in exposed populations. The analyzed studies statistically justify this correlation between exposure to indoor radon and the incidence of lung diseases in regions where concentrations are particularly high. However, some studies also showed that even in situations where indoor radon concentrations are lower, can be found a tendency, albeit smaller, for the occurrence of negative impacts on lung cancer incidence. Lastly, regarding risk remediation, an analysis has been conducted and presented in two core perspectives: (i) focusing on the identification and application of corrective measures in pre-existing buildings, and (ii) focusing on the implementation of preventive measures during the project design and before construction, both focusing on mitigating negative impacts of indoor radon exposure on the health of populations.
Examining the Impact of Race on Motivational Interviewing Implementation and Outcomes with HIV+ Heavy Drinking Men Who Have Sex with Men
Authors: Surace Anthony , Zelaya David G. , Guy Arryn A. , Mastroleo Nadine R. , Durst Ayla , Pantalone David W. , Monti Peter M. , Mayer Kenneth H. , Kahler Christopher W.
Published: March 2022

Motivational interviewing (MI)-based interventions focus on changing behavior through building client motivation. It is unknown how racial mismatch between clients and providers may impact MI implementation and subsequent behavior. We used a mixed methods approach to examine differences in Motivational Interviewing Skill Code (MISC) coded sessions and post-session outcomes between a sample of HIV-positive cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) participants of an MI-based intervention to reduce heavy drinking who identified as persons of color (POC; n = 19) and a matched sample of White participants (n = 19). We used quantitative methods to analyze how providers implemented the intervention (i.e., MISC codes) and post-session drinking. We used qualitative analyses of session transcripts to examine content not captured by MISC coding. Quantitative analyses showed that providers asked fewer open-ended questions and had a lower ratio of complex reflections to simple reflections when working with POC participants, but no significant differences were observed in drinking post-intervention between participants. Qualitative analyses revealed that participants discussed how racial and sexual orientation discrimination impacted their drinking. Allowing clients to share their experiences and to explore individually meaningful reasons for behavioral change may be more important than strict adherence to MI techniques.
Evaluating Olympic Pictograms Using Fuzzy TOPSIS—Focus on Judo, Taekwondo, Boxing, and Wrestling
Authors: Choi Kyoungho , Kim Bongseok , Choi Jinhee
Published: March 2022

It is necessary to evaluate whether Olympic pictograms are designed accurately and are easy to understand, so that they fulfill their intended functions and roles. Olympic pictograms are used to facilitate smooth communication at this large sporting event. However, viewers often find it challenging to understand the actual sport represented by the pictogram. This study evaluates the ranking of comprehensibility of the pictograms for judo, taekwondo, boxing, and wrestling used in six games, from the 27th Sydney Olympics in 2000 to the 32nd Tokyo Olympics in 2021. The evaluation was done using the fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method, a multi-criteria decision-making methodology commonly used in economics and other fields. Data collection was conducted from 10 May to 30 June 2021 for 44 general public and seven experts. The results are as follows. First, the pictograms from the 2008 Beijing Olympics ranked first in three sports: taekwondo, boxing, and wrestling, but there were no pictograms that consistently ranked first or sixth in all sports. Second, the sensitivity analysis result shows the possibility that the ranking would be reversed if the weight of the evaluation factors were changed. This study is expected to contribute to developing pictograms that can adequately convey the appropriate information regarding Olympic sports in the future.
Improving Access to Sexual Health Services in General Practice Using a Hub-and-Spoke Model: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation
Authors: Ong Jason J. , Fairley Christopher K. , Fortune Ria , Bissessor Melanie , Maloney Chantal , Williams Henrietta , Castro Adrian , Castro Lea , Wu Jason , Lee Pei Sue , Chow Eric P. F. , Chen Marcus Y.
Published: March 2022

Improving access to sexual health services is critical in light of rising sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We evaluated a hub-and-spoke model for improving access to sexual health services in three general practices in Victoria, Australia. The primary outcome was the impact on HIV and STI (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis) testing. Segmented linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the trends in the total HIV/STI tests pre- (from January 2019 to June 2020) and post-implementation (from July 2020 to July 2021). We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of integrating this model into the general practices using semi-structured individual interviews. There was a statistically significant rise in testing for HIV and STIs in all general practices: post-implementation, there was an increase of an average of 11.2 chlamydia tests per month (p = 0.026), 10.5 gonorrhoea tests per month (p = 0.001), 4.3 syphilis tests per month (p = 0.010), and 5.6 HIV tests per month (p = 0.010). Participants reported increases in knowledge level and confidence in offering STI testing and managing a greater variety of sexual health cases. This study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a hub-and-spoke model to enable GPs to deliver sexual health care with support from a sexual health specialist service.
A Qualitative Study Exploring the Lives and Caring Practices of Young Carers of Stroke Survivors
Authors: Cameron Trudi M. , Walker Marion F. , Fisher Rebecca J.
Published: March 2022

This study investigated the life transformation of children when a parent returned home from hospital after a stroke. The study explored children’s experiences of taking on caring roles in partnership with their well parent and stroke survivors’ perceptions of the young carer roles. The study aimed to identify unmet support needs in order to inform future service provision. Semi-structured interviews were conducted separately with stroke survivors (n = 7) (age range 41–60 years, mean 50.6) and their young carers (n = 11) (age range 11–20 years, mean 16). Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three overarching themes were identified: the lives of young carers, impact of stroke, and insulating the family. All the children were providing some level of care. None were in receipt of any formal support. Children moved in and out of the caring role in the absence of an adult, to act as primary carer. Young carers valued the life skills they were gaining but reported gaps in their knowledge and understanding of stroke. The well parent and young carers worked together in a bi-directional partnership to ameliorate the impact of stroke on the family. The study concluded that age appropriate and stroke specific information for children of stroke survivors could enhance agency and optimise positive outcomes of caring.
Utilizing Geospatial Data for Assessing Energy Security: Mapping Small Solar Home Systems Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Deep Learning
Authors: Ren Simiao , Malof Jordan , Fetter Rob , Beach Robert , Rineer Jay , Bradbury Kyle
Published: March 2022

Solar home systems (SHS), a cost-effective solution for rural communities far from the grid in developing countries, are small solar panels and associated equipment that provides power to a single household. A crucial resource for targeting further investment of public and private resources, as well as tracking the progress of universal electrification goals, is shared access to high-quality data on individual SHS installations including information such as location and power capacity. Though recent studies utilizing satellite imagery and machine learning to detect solar panels have emerged, they struggle to accurately locate many SHS due to limited image resolution (some small solar panels only occupy several pixels in satellite imagery). In this work, we explore the viability and cost-performance tradeoff of using automatic SHS detection on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery as an alternative to satellite imagery. More specifically, we explore three questions: (i) what is the detection performance of SHS using drone imagery; (ii) how expensive is the drone data collection, compared to satellite imagery; and (iii) how well does drone-based SHS detection perform in real-world scenarios? To examine these questions, we collect and publicly-release a dataset of high-resolution drone imagery encompassing SHS imaged under a variety of real-world conditions and use this dataset and a dataset of imagery from Rwanda to evaluate the capabilities of deep learning models to recognize SHS, including those that are too small to be reliably recognized in satellite imagery. The results suggest that UAV imagery may be a viable alternative to identify very small SHS from perspectives of both detection accuracy and financial costs of data collection. UAV-based data collection may be a practical option for supporting electricity access planning strategies for achieving sustainable development goals and for monitoring the progress towards those goals.
Epigenetics of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas
Authors: Hara Natsumi , Sawada Yu
Published: March 2022

Epigenetic modifications rarely occur in isolation (as single “epigenetic modifications”). They usually appear together and form a network to control the epigenetic system. Cutaneous malignancies are usually affected by epigenetic changes. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the epigenetic changes associated with cutaneous lymphomas. In this review, we focused on cutaneous T-cell lymphomas such as mycosis fungoides, Sézary syndrome, and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. With regard to epigenetic changes, we summarize the detailed chemical modifications categorized into DNA methylation and histone acetylation and methylation. We also summarize the epigenetic modifications and characteristics of the drug for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Furthermore, we discuss current research on epigenetic-targeted therapy against cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Although the current method of treatment with histone deacetylase inhibitors does not exhibit sufficient therapeutic benefits in all cases of CTCL, epigenetic-targeted combination therapy might overcome this limitation for patients with CTCL.
Challenges of Systemic Therapy Investigations for Bone Sarcomas
Authors: Nakano Kenji
Published: March 2022

Bone sarcoma is a rare component of malignant solid tumors that accounts for only ~0.2% of malignancies. Bone sarcomas present various histological types, and genomic mutations differ markedly by the histological types. Although there are vast mutations in various bone sarcomas, most of them are non-actionable, and even potential targetable mutations that are actionable targets in other malignancies have not shown the appropriate responses in clinical trials for bone sarcomas. Investigations of new systemic therapy, including molecular targeted therapies for bone sarcomas, have thus not progressed like those for other solid tumors. Another problem is that high rates of pediatric/adolescent and young adult patients have bone sarcomas such as osteosarcoma, and patient recruitment for clinical trials (especially randomized trials) is challenging. For pediatric patients, evaluations of tolerability and appropriate dose modifications of new drugs are needed, as their findings could provide the threshold for investigating new drugs for bone sarcomas. To solve these problems, improvements in registry systems, real world data, and pediatric extrapolation have been attempted. We review the issues regarding targeted drug investigations for bone sarcomas, focusing on the current clinical evidence and efforts to resolve these issues.
TKTL1 Knockdown Impairs Hypoxia-Induced Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase and Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate Dehydrogenase Overexpression
Authors: Baptista Inês , Karakitsou Effrosyni , Cazier Jean-Baptiste , Günther Ulrich L. , Marin Silvia , Cascante Marta
Published: March 2022

Increased expression of transketolase (TKT) and its isoform transketolase-like-1 (TKTL1) has been related to the malignant leukemia phenotype through promoting an increase in the non-oxidative branch of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). Recently, it has also been described that TKTL1 can have a role in survival under hypoxic conditions and in the acquisition of radio resistance. However, TKTL1’s role in triggering metabolic reprogramming under hypoxia in leukemia cells has never been characterized. Using THP-1 AML cells, and by combining metabolomics and transcriptomics techniques, we characterized the impact of TKTL1 knockdown on the metabolic reprogramming triggered by hypoxia. Results demonstrated that TKTL1 knockdown results in a decrease in TKT, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) activities and impairs the hypoxia-induced overexpression of G6PD and GAPDH, all having significant impacts on the redox capacity of NADPH- and NADH-related cells. Moreover, TKTL1 knockdown impedes hypoxia-induced transcription of genes encoding key enzymes and transporters involved in glucose, PPP and amino acid metabolism, rendering cells unable to switch to enhanced glycolysis under hypoxia. Altogether, our results show that TKTL1 plays a key role in the metabolic adaptation to hypoxia in THP-1 AML cells through modulation of G6PD and GAPDH activities, both regulating glucose/glutamine consumption and the transcriptomic overexpression of key players of PPP, glucose and amino acids metabolism.
Analysis of 16O/18O and H/D Exchange Reactions between Carbohydrates and Heavy Water Using High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Rumiantseva Lidiia , Osipenko Sergey , Zharikov Artem , Kireev Albert , Nikolaev Evgeny N. , Kostyukevich Yury
Published: March 2022

Mono- and polysaccharides are an essential part of every biological system. Identifying underivatized carbohydrates using mass spectrometry is still a challenge because carbohydrates have a low capacity for ionization. Normally, the intensities of protonated carbohydrates are relatively low, and in order to increase the corresponding peak height, researchers add Na+, K+, or NH4+to the solution. However, the fragmentation spectra of the corresponding ions are very poor. Based on this, reliably identifying carbohydrates in complex natural and biological objects can benefit frommeasuring additional molecular descriptors, especially those directly connected to the molecular structure. Previously, we reported that the application of the isotope exchange approach (H/D and 16O/18O) to high-resolution mass spectrometry can increase the reliability of identifying drug-like compounds. Carbohydrates possess many –OH and –COOH groups, making it reasonable to expect that the isotope exchange approach would have considerable potential for detecting carbohydrates. Here, we used a collection of standard carbohydrates to investigate the isotope exchange reaction (H/D and 16O/18O) in carbohydrates and estimate its analytical applications.
Pathophysiology and Treatment of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nakamura Kazufumi , Miyoshi Toru , Yoshida Masashi , Akagi Satoshi , Saito Yukihiro , Ejiri Kentaro , Matsuo Naoaki , Ichikawa Keishi , Iwasaki Keiichiro , Naito Takanori , Namba Yusuke , Yoshida Masatoki , Sugiyama Hiroki , Ito Hiroshi
Published: March 2022

There is a close relationship between diabetes mellitus and heart failure, and diabetes is an independent risk factor for heart failure. Diabetes and heart failure are linked by not only the complication of ischemic heart disease, but also by metabolic disorders such as glucose toxicity and lipotoxicity based on insulin resistance. Cardiac dysfunction in the absence of coronary artery disease, hypertension, and valvular disease is called diabetic cardiomyopathy. Diabetes-induced hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia lead to capillary damage, myocardial fibrosis, and myocardial hypertrophy with mitochondrial dysfunction. Lipotoxicity with extensive fat deposits or lipid droplets is observed on cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, increased oxidative stress and inflammation cause cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy. Treatment with a sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor is currently one of the most effective treatments for heart failure associated with diabetes. However, an effective treatment for lipotoxicity of the myocardium has not yet been established, and the establishment of an effective treatment is needed in the future. This review provides an overview of heart failure in diabetic patients for the clinical practice of clinicians.
Effect of Temperature and Photoperiod on Development, Survival, and Growth Rate of Mealworms, Tenebrio molitor
Authors: Eberle Stephan , Schaden Lisa-Marie , Tintner Johannes , Stauffer Christian , Schebeck Martin
Published: March 2022

Insects are a potential substitute for conventional meat and can be part of a sustainable human diet due to their valuable nutrients and relatively low environmental production impact. One species that is already produced for human consumption and livestock feed is the mealworm, i.e., larvae of Tenebrio molitor. Knowledge of the effects of temperature, and particularly photoperiod, on mealworm development is scarce, but crucial for the improvement of rearing. Therefore, the effects of three temperatures (20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C), in combination with three photoperiods (long-day—16 h:8 h light:dark; short-day—8 h:16 h light:dark, and constant darkness) on mealworm survival, developmental time, and growth rate were tested. We describe a significant effect of temperature on survival rate, developmental time, and growth rate. Furthermore, significant effects of photoperiod on developmental time and growth rate were found. At 25 and 30 °C and constant darkness, the highest survival and growth rate, along with the shortest developmental time, were observed. Our data can be used to improve the mass rearing of mealworms for an efficient production of food and feed.
Impact of the Genotype and Phenotype of CYP3A and P-gp on the Apixaban and Rivaroxaban Exposure in a Real-World Setting
Authors: Lenoir Camille , Terrier Jean , Gloor Yvonne , Gosselin Pauline , Daali Youssef , Combescure Christophe , Desmeules Jules Alexandre , Samer Caroline Flora , Reny Jean-Luc , Rollason Victoria
Published: March 2022

Apixaban and rivaroxaban are the two most prescribed direct factor Xa inhibitors. With the increased use of DOACs in real-world settings, safety and efficacy concerns have emerged, particularly regarding their concomitant use with other drugs. Increasing evidence highlights drug–drug interactions with CYP3A/P-gp modulators leading to adverse events. However, current recommendations for dose adjustment do not consider CYP3A/P-gp genotype and phenotype. We aimed to determine their impact on apixaban and rivaroxaban blood exposure. Three-hundred hospitalized patients were included. CYP3A and P-gp phenotypic activities were assessed by the metabolic ratio of midazolam and AUC0–6h of fexofenadine, respectively. Relevant CYP3A and ABCB1 genetic polymorphisms were also tested. Capillary blood samples collected at four time-points after apixaban or rivaroxaban administration allowed the calculation of pharmacokinetic parameters. According to the developed multivariable linear regression models, P-gp activity (p < 0.001) and creatinine clearance (CrCl) (p = 0.01) significantly affected apixaban AUC0–6h. P-gp activity (p < 0.001) also significantly impacted rivaroxaban AUC0–6h. The phenotypic switch (from normal to poor metabolizer) of P-gp led to an increase of apixaban and rivaroxaban AUC0–6h by 16% and 25%, respectively, equivalent to a decrease of 38 mL/min in CrCl according to the apixaban model. CYP3A phenotype and tested SNPs of CYP3A/P-gp had no significant impact. In conclusion, P-gp phenotypic activity, rather than known CYP3A/P-gp polymorphisms, could be relevant for dose adjustment.
Block Copolymer Membranes—Progress and Challenges
Authors: Clodt Juliana Isabel
Published: March 2022

Block copolymers are capable of providing more than one advantageous property due to their selected repeating units, which make them an outstanding candidate for polymer-based membranes [...]
Wearable Crop Sensor Based on Nano-Graphene Oxide for Noninvasive Real-Time Monitoring of Plant Water
Authors: Li Denghua , Li Ganqiong , Li Jianzheng , Xu Shiwei
Published: March 2022

Real-time noninvasive monitoring of crop water information is an important basis for water-saving irrigation and precise management. Nano-electronic technology has the potential to enable smart plant sensors to communicate with electronic devices and promote the automatic and accurate distribution of water, fertilizer, and medicine to improve crop productivity. In this work, we present a new flexible graphene oxide (GO)-based noninvasive crop water sensor with high sensitivity, fast responsibility and good bio-interface compatibility. The humidity monitoring sensitivity of the sensor reached 7945 Ω/% RH, and the response time was 20.3 s. We first present the correlation monitoring of crop physiological characteristics by using flexible wearable sensors and photosynthesis systems, and have studied the response and synergistic effect of net photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate of maize plants under different light environments. Results show that in situ real-time sensing of plant transpiration was realized, and the internal water transportation within plants could be monitored dynamically. The synergistic effect of net photosynthetic rate and transpiration of maize plants can be jointly tested. This study provides a new technical method to carry out quantitative monitoring of crop water in the entire life cycle and build smart irrigation systems. Moreover, it holds great potential in studying individual plant biology and could provide basic support to carry out precise monitoring of crop physiological information.
Effect of Diffusion on Dissimilar Welded Joint between Al0.8CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy and S235JR Structural Steel
Authors: Voiculescu Ionelia , Geanta Victor , Stefanescu Elena Violeta , Simion George , Scutelnicu Elena
Published: March 2022

This research focused on the investigation of the metallurgical behavior of the Al0.8CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy and S235JR structural steel, welded with (Ni, Fe)-rich filler metal, by the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) method. The electric arc and the welding pool were protected against the contamination with gases from the environment, by employing high-purity Ar 4.8 inert gas that plays an important role in reducing the oxidation effects and the development of cracks in the weld and the adjacent areas. The microstructure and microhardness analysis did not reveal the existence of fragile phases, cracks, inadequate penetration, or other imperfections, showing an appropriate adhesion between the deposited metal and the substrates. At the interface between the Ni-rich weld metal and the high-entropy alloy, a higher hardness (448 HV0.2) than in the base material (358 HV0.2) was measured. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS), performed at the interface between the weld metal and the base materials, did not show significant modifications of Co, Fe, and Cr percentages. However, during the investigation, significant variations in Al and Ni concentrations were observed, caused by the fast diffusion of chemical elements, and the development of hard (Ni, Al)-rich compounds. In some areas of the deposited metal, located at a distance of about 10 µm from the interface, the percentages of Ni and Al were higher than in the high-entropy alloy base material, being around 41% by weight Ni and over 13% by weight Al, while the concentrations of the Co, Cr, and Fe elements proportionally decreased (i.e., approximately 14% by weight Co, 12% by weight Cr, and 17% by weight Fe). The development of Ni3Al and NiAl compounds was also noticed, whose formation was determined by the local chemical concentration and the temperature reached in the vicinity of the diffusion zone. The XRD analysis showed a group of X-ray peaks in the Al0.8CrFeCoNi alloy that corresponded to both α-type—BCC and FCC phases. The crystallite size of the high-entropy alloy investigated was found to be 22.05 nm. Despite the diffusion phenomenon, if filler materials and process parameters are appropriately selected, quality joints of high-entropy alloys and structural steels can be carried out under good welding conditions.
Craniofacial Reconstruction with Personalized Lightweight Scaffold Fabricated Using Electron-Beam Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Moiduddin Khaja , Mian Syed Hammad , Elseufy Sherif Mohammed , Abdo Basem Motea Abdullah , Aboudaif Mohamed Kamaleldin , Alkhalefah Hisham
Published: March 2022

Implants are the most popular option for restoring the facial anatomy in the event of a mishap. The commercially available craniofacial implants are of standard shapes, which need to be tailored and shaped to accurately fit the patient’s anatomy. The manual shaping of the implant to match the bone contours is conducted during surgical operation, and is a cumbersome and inaccurate process. Recent breakthroughs in computer-aided design, analysis, and additive manufacturing (AM) have allowed the precise and rapid manufacture of bespoke scaffolds for difficult anatomical restoration. The goal of this research is to investigate the use of scaffolds for craniofacial reconstruction and their fabrication using electron-beam additive manufacturing (EBAM). Personalized cheekbone scaffolds are additively fabricated using Ti6Al4V and subjected to compression testing. Finally, the scaffold design with the highest compressive strength is subjected to biomechanical analysis. The biomechanical analysis results indicate that the maximum Von Mises stress (40 MPa) and equivalent strain (0.4 µm) are significantly low in magnitude, thus providing a desirable implant that is both flexible and stable. The custom-designed cheekbone scaffold manufactured with AM technology not only aids in bone-implant ingrowth but also helps in reducing implant weight and ensuring implant stability and long-term effectiveness.
Metabolomic Effects of the Dietary Inclusion of Hermetia illucens Larva Meal in Tilapia
Authors: Ye Bo , Li Jian , Xu Lijun , Liu Hui , Yang Manjun
Published: March 2022

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal have been used as feed protein supplements in fish feed, but few researches have investigated the metabolomic effects of Hermetia illucens larvae meal supplements. Therefore, the metabolic effects on Nile tilapia were investigated by replacing 5%, 10%, and 20% of the dietary soybean meal in the basal diet with Hermetia illucens larvae meal, respectively. This study shows that 20% H. illucens larvae meal feed could promote tilapia average daily gain of upto 5.03 ± 0.18 g (mean ± SEM). It was found that the tricarboxylic acid cycle efficiency was improved by activating the enzymes of mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase, NAD-malate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, which then increased the output of ATP and NADH. Furthermore, amino acid and protein biosynthesis was boosted by enhanced glutamine synthetase and glutamate synthase. In particular, GSH increased with increased H. illucens larvae meal. Unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis was stimulated by higher levels of fatty acid synthase and acetyl CoA carboxylase. Additionally, there was no significant change in lipase levels. Thus, the higher acetyl Co-A content was primarily involved in fatty acid biosynthesis and energy metabolism. Flavor substances, such as nonanal and 2-methyl-3-furanthiol, also accumulated with the addition of H. illucens larvae meal, which increased the umami taste and meat flavor. Additionally, the flavor of tilapia was improved owing to a decrease in trimethylamine content, which causes an earthy and fishy taste. This study uncovers a previously unknown metabolic effect of dietary H. illucens larvae meal on Nile tilapia.
Humidity Sensor Based on rGO-SDS Composite Film
Authors: Lei Cheng , Zhang Junna , Liang Ting , Liu Ruifang , Zhao Zhujie , Xiong Jijun , Yin Kai
Published: March 2022

Based on the humidity testing requirements in different environments, this paper investigates the humidity sensitivity of reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) composite film humidity sensor. In the experiments, rGO-SDS dispersions with a concentration of 5 mg/mL were prepared, and a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) process was used to prepare the interdigital electrodes. The dispersions were then drop-coated on the interdigital electrodes and dried on a heated plate at 100 °C. The surface characteristics of the rGO-SDS films transferred onto SiO2-Si substrates were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and tested by a correlation system, which showed a linear relationship between humidity variation and the resistance variation of the sensor in the ambient humidity range of 25–95% RH. At room temperature, the linearity of the sensor is about 0.98431 and the sensitivity is about 11.41432 Ω/% RH. At 100 °C, the correlation of the sensor is about 0.95046 and the sensitivity is about 1.0145 Ω/% RH; with a response time of only 9 s at ambient humidity from 25% RH to 95% RH, the sensor has very good repeatability and stability.
An Experimental Study: Variation Law of Magnetic Field around Concrete during Loading
Authors: Qiu Liming , Tong Yongjun , Li Jie , Song Dazhao , Wang Man , Yin Shan
Published: March 2022

In order to reveal the magnetic field response law and mechanism of concrete under load, the variation law of magnetic field intensity (MFI) of concrete samples under uniaxial loading, graded loading and cyclic loading was tested, and the field application scenarios of magnetic field monitoring technology are proposed. The results showed that a magnetic field signal would be generated during the loading failure process of the concrete sample, which was accompanied by the whole loading process. In the uniaxial compression process, MFI showed a steady increase trend, but it would increase rapidly when the load drop occurred in the sample. The stronger the rupture, the more significant the change of MFI. MFI was not linearly proportional to the amount of change in the load drop. MFI around the concrete sample was positively correlated with the load. When the concrete was in the constant load stage, MFI around the concrete remained basically stable. When the main rupture of the concrete sample occurred, MFI reached a peak value, it did not keep at a high level all the time, but decreased rapidly. There are two mechanisms for the generation of the magnetic field in the process of concrete failure under load, namely the piezomagnetic effect and the friction effect, which correspond to the action of the load and the excitation of the fracture, respectively. The former causes the stable increase of MFI, and the effect is related to the influence of the content of the piezoelectric magnetic material in the material composition; the latter leads to a sudden increase of MFI, and the effect is related to the triboelectric effect of the micro-particles of the material. The research results are conducive to the accurate prediction of the concrete magnetic field monitoring, and help promote the development of mine dynamic disaster monitoring and early warning technology.
Metallogenic Evolution of Northeast Asia Related to the Cretaceous Turn of Geological Evolution
Authors: Nechaev Victor P. , Sutherland Frederick L. , Nechaeva Eugenia V.
Published: March 2022

This study tests the hypothesis of Cretaceous Turn of Geological Evolution (CTGE). It uses the large dataset on mineral deposits of NE Asia compiled by the US Geological Survey in collaboration with Russian, Mongolian, Korean, and Japanese geological institutions. As predicted, the Triassic–Early Jurassic and Late Cretaceous–Paleogene geodynamic activities in NE Asia were simple, producing a relatively small amount of mineral deposits (94 and 132, respectively). In contrast, the greatly increased geodynamic activity around CTGE produced a huge amount of mineral deposits (288). The Jurassic–Early Cretaceous superplume-related melts were injected into accretionary wedges that formed along the Pacific–Eurasian margins, whereas adakitic and granitic magmas derived from the shallow slab and lower crust were intruded into the huge intracontinental region. The characteristic mineral deposits are represented by the unique Jurassic–Early Cretaceous plume-related Ti-Fe-V (+P + Cr-PGE + Au + diamond) ores. Other CTGE representatives are the porphyry Cu-Mo and Au (+Ag)-vein deposits, which formation, however, continued into the Late Cretaceous–Paleogene epoch. These deposits were generated by the slab- and crust-derived adakitic and granitic melts formed under influence of the expiring superplume and intensifying subduction. The Late Cretaceous–Paleogene epoch is indicated by a decreasing metallogenic activity in general, and an increasing role of subduction-related deposits in particular.
Classification of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Kuterbekov Kairat A. , Nikonov Alexey V. , Bekmyrza Kenzhebatyr Zh. , Pavzderin Nikita B. , Kabyshev Asset M. , Kubenova Marzhan M. , Kabdrakhimova Gaukhar D. , Aidarbekov Nursultan
Published: March 2022

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) are promising, environmentally friendly energy sources. Many works are devoted to the study of materials, individual aspects of SOFC operation, and the development of devices based on them. However, there is no work covering the entire spectrum of SOFC concepts and designs. In the present review, an attempt is made to collect and structure all types of SOFC that exist today. Structural features of each type of SOFC have been described, and their advantages and disadvantages have been identified. A comparison of the designs showed that among the well-studied dual-chamber SOFC with oxygen-ion conducting electrolyte, the anode-supported design is the most suitable for operation at temperatures below 800 °C. Other SOFC types that are promising for low-temperature operation are SOFC with proton-conducting electrolyte and electrolyte-free fuel cells. However, these recently developed technologies are still far from commercialization and require further research and development.
The Photocatalytic Performance of Nd2O3 Doped CuO Nanoparticles with Enhanced Methylene Blue Degradation: Synthesis, Characterization and Comparative Study
Authors: El-Sayed Fatma , Hussien Mai S. A. , Mohammed Mervat I. , Ganesh Vanga , AlAbdulaal Thekrayat H. , Zahran Heba Y. , Yahia Ibrahim S. , Hegazy Hosam H. , Abdel-wahab Mohamed Sh. , Shkir Mohd. , Valarasu Santiyagu , Ibrahim Medhat A.
Published: March 2022

The growth of the textile industry results in a massive accumulation of dyes on water. This enormous rise in pigments is the primary source of water pollution, affecting the aquatic lives and our ecosystem balance. This study aims to notify the fabrication of neodymium incorporated copper oxide (Nd2O3 doped CuO) nanoparticles by combustion method for effective degradation of dye, methylene blue (MB). X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission Scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Zeta potential have been applied for characterization. Photocatalyst validity has been evaluated for methylene blue degradation (MB). Test conditions such as time of contact, H2O2, pH, and photo-Fenton have been modified to identify optimal degradation conditions. Noticeably, 7.5% Nd2O3 doped CuO nanoparticle demonstrated the highest photocatalytic efficiency, up to 90.8% in 80 min, with a 0.0227 min−1 degradation rate. However, the photocatalytic efficiency at pH 10 becomes 99% with a rate constant of 0.082 min−1. Cyclic experiments showed the Nd2O3 doped CuO nanoparticle’s stability over repeated use. Scavenge hydroxyl radical species responsible for degradation using 7.5% Nd2O3 doped CuO nanoparticles have been investigated under visible irradiation.
Physical Operations of a Self-Powered IZTO/β-Ga2O3 Schottky Barrier Diode Photodetector
Authors: Labed Madani , Kim Hojoong , Park Joon Hui , Labed Mohamed , Meftah Afak , Sengouga Nouredine , Rim You Seung
Published: March 2022

In this work, a self-powered, solar-blind photodetector, based on InZnSnO (IZTO) as a Schottky contact, was deposited on the top of Si-doped β-Ga2O3 by the sputtering of two-faced targets with InSnO (ITO) as an ohmic contact. A detailed numerical simulation was performed by using the measured J–V characteristics of IZTO/β-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) in the dark. Good agreement between the simulation and the measurement was achieved by studying the effect of the IZTO workfunction, β-Ga2O3 interfacial layer (IL) electron affinity, and the concentrations of interfacial traps. The IZTO/β-Ga2O3 (SBDs) was tested at a wavelength of 255 nm with the photo power density of 1 mW/cm2. A high photo-to-dark current ratio of 3.70×105 and a photoresponsivity of 0.64 mA/W were obtained at 0 V as self-powered operation. Finally, with increasing power density the photocurrent increased, and a 17.80 mA/W responsivity under 10 mW/cm2 was obtained.
A Green and Facile Microvia Filling Method via Printing and Sintering of Cu-Ag Core-Shell Nano-Microparticles
Authors: Yang Guannan , Luo Shaogen , Lai Tao , Lai Haiqi , Luo Bo , Li Zebo , Zhang Yu , Cui Chengqiang
Published: March 2022

In this work, we developed an eco-friendly and facile microvia filling method by using printing and sintering of Cu-Ag core-shell nano-microparticles (Cu@Ag NMPs). Through a chemical reduction reaction in a modified silver ammonia solution with L-His complexing agent, Cu@Ag NMPs with compact and uniform Ag shells, excellent sphericity and oxidation resistance were synthesized. The as-synthesized Cu@Ag NMPs show superior microvia filling properties to Cu nanoparticles (NPs), Ag NPs, and Cu NMPs. By developing a dense refill method, the porosity of the sintered particles within the microvias was significantly reduced from ~30% to ~10%, and the electrical conductivity is increased about twenty-fold. Combing the Cu@Ag NMPs and the dense refill method, the microvias could obtain resistivities as low as 7.0 and 6.3 μΩ·cm under the sintering temperatures of 220 °C and 260 °C, respectively. The material and method in this study possess great potentials in advanced electronic applications.
Bell Shape Curves of Hemolysis Induced by Silver Nanoparticles: Review and Experimental Assay
Authors: Luna-Vázquez-Gómez Roberto , Arellano-García María Evarista , Toledano-Magaña Yanis , García-Ramos Juan Carlos , Radilla-Chávez Patricia , Salas-Vargas David Sergio , Casillas-Figueroa Francisco , Ruiz-Ruiz Balam , Pestryakov Alexey , Bogdanchikova Nina
Published: March 2022

The hemolytic activity assay is a versatile tool for fast primary toxicity studies. This work presents a systematic study of the hemolytic properties of ArgovitTM silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) extensively studied for biomedical applications. The results revealed an unusual and unexpected bell-shaped hemolysis curve for human healthy and diabetic donor erythrocytes. With the decrease of pH from 7.4 and 6.8 to 5.6, the hemolysis profiles for AgNPs and AgNO3 changed dramatically. For AgNPs, the bell shape changed to a step shape with a subsequent sharp increase, and for AgNO3 it changed to a gradual increase. Explanations of these changes based on the aggregation of AgNPs due to the increase of proton concentration were suggested. Hemolysis of diabetic donor erythrocytes was slightly higher than that of healthy donor erythrocytes. The meta-analysis revealed that for only one AgNPs formulation (out of 48), a bell-shaped hemolysis profile was reported, but not discussed. This scarcity of data was explained by the dominant goal of studies consisting in achieving clinically significant hemolysis of 5–10%. Considering that hemolysis profiles may be bell-shaped, it is recommended to avoid extrapolations and to perform measurements in a wide concentration interval in hemolysis assays.
Implementing the Reactor Geometry in the Modeling of Chemical Bath Deposition of ZnO Nanowires
Authors: Lausecker Clément , Salem Bassem , Baillin Xavier , Consonni Vincent
Published: March 2022

The formation of nanowires by chemical bath deposition is of great interest for a wide variety of optoelectronic, piezoelectric, and sensing devices, from which the theoretical description of their elongation process has emerged as a critical issue. Despite its strong influence on the nanowire growth kinetics, reactor size has typically not been taken into account in the theoretical modeling developed so far. We report a new theoretical description of the axial growth rate of nanowires in dynamic conditions based on the solution of Fick’s diffusion equations, implementing a sealed reactor of finite height as a varying parameter. The theoretical model is applied in various chemical bath deposition conditions in the case of the growth of ZnO nanowires, from which the influence of the reactor height is investigated and compared to experimental data. In particular, it is found that the use of reactor heights smaller than 2 cm significantly decreases the ZnO nanowires’ axial growth rate in typical experimental conditions due to the faster depletion of reactants. The present approach is further used predictively, showing its high potential for the design of batch reactors for a wide variety of chemical precursors and semiconductor materials in applied research and industrial production.
Multi-Bit Biomemristic Behavior for Neutral Polysaccharide Dextran Blended with Chitosan
Authors: Li Lei
Published: March 2022

Natural biomaterials applicable for biomemristors have drawn prominent attention and are of benefit to sustainability, biodegradability, biocompatibility, and metabolism. In this work, multi-bit biomemristors based on the neutral polysaccharide dextran were built using the spin-casting method, which was also employed to explore the effect of dextran on the ternary biomemristic behaviors of dextran–chitosan nanocomposites. The doping of 50 wt% dextran onto the bio-nanocomposite optimized the ratio of biomemristance in high-, intermediate-, and low-resistance states (105:104:1). The interaction between dextran and chitosan (hydrogen-bond network) was verified by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy analysis; through this interaction, protons derived from the self-dissociation of water may migrate under the electric field, and so proton conduction may be the reason for the ternary biomemristic behaviors. Observations from X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis displayed that the 50 wt% dextran/50 wt% chitosan nanocomposite had the greatest amorphous ratio as well as the highest decomposition and peak transition temperatures in comparison with the other three dextran–chitosan nanocomposites. This work lays the foundation for neutral biomaterials applied to green ultra-high-density data-storage systems.