bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Physiotherapy Process of a Plegic Patient Who Communicates with Foot Movement—A Case Report
Authors: Głowacki Krzysztof , Malczewski Daniel , Krzysztoń Karolina , Jasińska Aniela , Domitrz Izabela
Published: May 2022

There are no official recommendations regarding physiotherapy for encephalitis patients. However, such patients, depending on their condition, have to undergo rehabilitation preceded by a detailed functional examination. The paper describes the physiotherapy treatment of a 28-year-old female after acute encephalitis. She suffered three-limb palsy with preserved movement in the right ankle joint. The patient was admitted to a clinic that offers respiratory therapy, where she underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation process. The initial and final functional assessment was conducted based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. The therapy aimed to enable social contacts by learning to communicate with the environment, taking advantage of learned motor skills and adapting the body to maintain a sitting position. The goals were implemented with gradual upright standing, electrostimulation of paralyzed muscles, orofacial therapy, methods of respiratory acceleration and the use of communication technologies. As a result of the physiotherapy, the patient can communicate with the environment more efficiently and showed a more assertive attitude towards the disease and greater motivation to exercise and socialize. This paper supports the importance of a rehabilitation program adapted to the needs of a patient with severe disabilities and encourages more studies in this area.
The Effect of Propofol versus Sevoflurane on Postoperative Delirium in Parkinson’s Disease Patients Undergoing Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery: An Observational Study
Authors: Zhou Yongde , Li Zhengqian , Ma Yu , Yu Cuiping , Chen Yao , Ding Jian , Yu Jianfeng , Zhou Rongsong , Wang Xiaoxiao , Liu Taotao , Guo Xiangyang , Fan Ting , Shi Chengmei
Published: May 2022

Background: The selection of the maintenance of general anesthesia may affect the development of postoperative delirium (POD), notably for Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients, due to their lower cognitive reserve. The present study was designed to compare the potential impact of propofol vs. sevoflurane based general anesthesia maintenance methods on the development of POD in PD patients following deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. Methods: A total of 125 PD patients who were scheduled to undergo DBS surgery were randomly divided into the propofol (n = 63) and the sevoflurane groups (n = 62). The patients in the two groups randomly received propofol- or sevoflurane-based general anesthesia. The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) was employed by an investigator who was blinded to the anesthesia regimen and was administered twice per day from postoperative day 1 until discharge. Results: The incidence of POD was 22.22% (14/63) with propofol anesthesia and 20.97% (13/62) with sevoflurane anesthesia (p = 0.865). In addition, no difference was noted in the duration and severity of delirium between the propofol and sevoflurane groups. Conclusions: In the present study, propofol- and sevoflurane-based general anesthesia exhibited comparable results with regard to the POD incidence in PD patients undergoing deep brain stimulation surgery.
Fatigue Performance of Rib Beam Bridge Slabs Reinforced with Polyurethane Concrete Based on the Damage Theory
Authors: Wang Yifan , Yu Tianlai , Zhang Linlin , Yin Lihui , Wu Yuxuan , Chen Binglin
Published: May 2022

In this paper, the rib beam bridge slabs were taken as the research object. Static load and fatigue tests were carried out on the benchmark bridge slabs to determine the ultimate load capacity and fatigue life of the bridge slabs. Then, the bridge slab was pre-damaged and reinforced with polyurethane concrete. A fatigue test was carried out on the reinforced bridge slab to study the fatigue performance. Based on the damage theory, the fatigue damage reinforcement finite element models of the bridge slabs under different damage degrees were established. The fatigue performance of the reinforced bridge slabs was systematically studied. The results show that the fatigue damage of the reinforced bridge slab developed in stages. Compared to the unreinforced bridge slab, the fatigue damage of the reinforced bridge slab was significantly reduced at each stage. According to the least square method and numerical analysis results, a residual-bearing-capacity model including damage degree and fatigue cycles of the reinforced bridge slabs is proposed, which can be used as a reference in bridge slab reinforcement design.
Insurance Policies for Condition-Based Maintenance Plans of ETICS
Authors: Dias Ilídio S. , Silva Ana , Cruz Carlos Oliveira , Ferreira Cláudia , Flores-Colen Inês , de Brito Jorge
Published: May 2022

Currently, insurance companies exclude the buildings’ envelope of their policies since they lack reliable information about the risks and degradation models and are unable to estimate the probabilities of intervention and corresponding costs. This study intends to overcome the existing gap, proposing property maintenance insurance policies developed based on condition-based maintenance plans, using stochastic information regarding the degradation process of the buildings’ envelope elements in the definition of insurance policies. To perform this work, external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) are used as case study, for the definition of an insurance policy. This approach allows reducing the uncertainty associated with the degradation of ETICS even when subject to scheduled maintenance actions. Several insurance policies are analysed, with different insurance premiums, evaluating different risks accepted by the owners when adopting a certain maintenance plan. For owners, the main advantages of acquiring this insurance product are: (i) changing the nature of the risk, transferring the risk to the insurer; and (ii) increasing the asset’s equity value, reducing the risk associated with the degradation of ETICS and the uncertainty of maintenance costs over time.
How Private Enterprises’ Participation Behaviors Evolve with Incentive Modes in PPPs: An Evolutionary Game View
Authors: Zhang Yunhua , Yi Hongyang , Xie Hongtao , Zheng Junwei , Wang Yan
Published: May 2022

The high risk of financing, building, and operating Public–private partnerships (PPPs) often results from the event that participants can barely obtain expected economic returns, thus inhibiting private enterprises’ willingness to participate in PPPs. To increase private enterprises’ desire to participate, this study constructed an evolutionary game model of private enterprises’ participation in PPPs, focusing on the perspective of the mode of incentive. This model revealed the evolutionary law of private enterprises’ participation behavior under different modes of incentive. The results indicate that: First, there is a positive correlation between the intensity of government incentive, the investment return rate, and the probability of private enterprises choosing to participate in PPPs. Specifically, the impact of the investment return rate is more sensitive than the other factors. Second, the cost rate of financing and the risk cost of project uncertainty are negatively correlated with the probability of private enterprises choosing to participate in PPPs, and the impact of the project risk cost is more sensitive than the other factors in this case.
The Influence of Physical Activation of Portland Cement in the Electromagnetic Vortex Layer on the Structure Formation of Cement Stone: The Effect of Extended Storage Period and Carbon Nanotubes Modification
Authors: Ruslan Ibragimov , Evgenij Korolev , Ludmila Potapova , Timur Deberdeev , Azat Khasanov
Published: May 2022

The article presents research of the influence of the electromagnetic vortex layer on the structure formation of cement stone during the activation of portland cement, both without additives and with carbon nanotubes modification. It has been shown that the storage of portland cement powders in open air for 60 days after activation in the electromagnetic mill leads to partial carbonization, wherein the role in absorption reducing of the super plasticizer additive is increased since there is more uniformly localization of the additive on the surface of the portland cement particles. The processing of portland cement in the electromagnetic mill leads to the physical activation of portland cement, which is accompanied by an increase in the amount of heat generated by the hydration of portland cement and the rate of hydration. Thus, the rate of hydration of compositions activated in the electromagnetic mill isincreased 1.615 times at the temperature of the thermostat 22 °C; 1.85 times at 40 °C; 2.71 times at 60 °C; 2.3 times at 80 °C. The modification of cement stonewith carbon nanotubes, which was obtained from portland cement activated in an electromagnetic mill, leads to a higher quantity of silicate phase of portland cement (by 12–39%), as confirmed by a decrease in the number of portlandite in these compositions by 8% in comparison with control composition.
Critical Stress Determination of Local and Distortional Buckling of Lipped Angle Columns under Axial Compression
Authors: Zhang Junfeng , Li Bo , Li Anqi , Pang Shiyun
Published: May 2022

In recent years, cold-formed steel has been widely used in prefabricated steel structures, and the common cross-section forms are mainly complex lipped angle sections. However, there is a lack of design guidance for such a cross-section due to the complex geometric property. The restraint between adjacent plates cannot be considered proper for the traditional analytical method. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the stability bearing capacity of angle sections with complex edges under axial compression. In this paper, the finite strip software (CUFSM5) was used to analyze the critical stress of 1296 different angle sections under axial compression. The deformation diagram and the critical stress of elastic buckling were obtained. Considering the restraint between adjacent plates, the formula for predicting the critical stress of elastic local buckling of complex lipped angle sections was proposed and verified. Further, the critical stress of elastic distortional buckling of 918 complex lipped angle sections was analyzed by CUFSM. It was found that the cross-sections can be divided into two categories: cross-section without distortional point and cross-section with distortional point. It was found that the critical stress of elastic local buckling of the angle steel section can be significantly improved by the complex edge. Additionally, the critical stress of elastic local buckling of the section is less affected by the edge size for the complex edge section. The accuracy of the Hancock method for calculating the critical stress of elastic distortional buckling of complex lipped angle sections with distortional points was verified. The presented research can provide useful guidelines for designing cold-formed steel angle columns.
Utilization of BIM in Steel Building Projects: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Avendaño José Ignacio , Zlatanova Sisi , Domingo Alberto , Pérez Pedro , Correa Christian
Published: May 2022

This research aims to bridge the information gap pertaining to the utilization of building information modeling (BIM) in steel building projects. Therefore, a systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to synthesize the available uses. This research involved three phases—planning, execution, and reporting—according to the PRISMA guide, which includes the main aspects of identification, screening, and eligibility. As a result of the SLR, it is evident how and where BIM facilitates steel building projects, which were grouped into three different categories according to their main BIM topics. One of the uses that stands out as a common denominator across the different processes is “early integration”. Early integration allows for optimization of the design based on existing resources, directly affecting the cost and time of steel building projects in a positive manner.
The Role of Sports Facilities in the Regeneration of Green Areas of Cities in Historial View: The Case Study of Great Forest Stadium in Debrecen, Hungary
Authors: Kozma Gábor , Radics Zsolt , Teperics Károly
Published: May 2022

Within the framework of the increasing importance of sports in the last few decades, researchers are focusing more and more on the role of sports facilities in the regeneration of urban areas. The existing studies, however, mainly concentrate on the effects of the investments on the built-up areas, and less attention is paid to the analysis of the relationship between these facilities and the green areas. The primary objective of our—in this context pioneer—research is to analyse the role of the new stadium in the regeneration of one of the most important green areas in Debrecen (Hungary), in Central Europe. We explore the historical influences, the need to foster development and the most significant effects of the investment. Finally, we point out the relationship between the theoretical approaches and our case study in Debrecen.
Added Value of Viscoelasticity for MRI-Based Prediction of Ki-67 Expression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using a Deep Learning Combined Radiomics (DLCR) Model
Authors: Hu Xumei , Zhou Jiahao , Li Yan , Wang Yikun , Guo Jing , Sack Ingolf , Chen Weibo , Yan Fuhua , Li Ruokun , Wang Chengyan
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to explore the added value of viscoelasticity measured by magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) in the prediction of Ki-67 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using a deep learning combined radiomics (DLCR) model. This retrospective study included 108 histopathology-proven HCC patients (93 males; age, 59.6 ± 11.0 years) who underwent preoperative MRI and MR elastography. They were divided into training (n = 87; 61.0 ± 9.8 years) and testing (n = 21; 60.6 ± 10.1 years) cohorts. An independent validation cohort including 43 patients (60.1 ± 11.3 years) was included for testing. A DLCR model was proposed to predict the expression of Ki-67 with cMRI, including T2W, DW, and dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) images as inputs. The images of the shear wave speed (c-map) and phase angle (φ-map) derived from MRE were also fed into the DLCR model. The Ki-67 expression was classified into low and high groups with a threshold of 20%. Both c and φ values were ranked within the top six features for Ki-67 prediction with random forest selection, which revealed the value of MRE-based viscosity for the assessment of tumor proliferation status in HCC. When comparing the six CNN models, Xception showed the best performance for classifying the Ki-67 expression, with an AUC of 0.80 ± 0.03 (CI: 0.79–0.81) and accuracy of 0.77 ± 0.04 (CI: 0.76–0.78) when cMRI were fed into the model. The model with all modalities (MRE, AFP, and cMRI) as inputs achieved the highest AUC of 0.90 ± 0.03 (CI: 0.89–0.91) in the validation cohort. The same finding was observed in the independent testing cohort, with an AUC of 0.83 ± 0.03 (CI: 0.82–0.84). The shear wave speed and phase angle improved the performance of the DLCR model significantly for Ki-67 prediction, suggesting that MRE-based c and φ-maps can serve as important parameters to assess the tumor proliferation status in HCC.
Optimal Monitoring Technology for Pediatric Thyroidectomy
Authors: Zhang Daqi , Sun Hui , Kim Hoon Yub , Pino Antonella , Patroniti Serena , Frattini Francesco , Impellizzeri Pietro , Romeo Carmelo , Randolph Gregory William , Wu Che-Wei , Dionigi Gianlorenzo , Fama’ Fausto
Published: May 2022

This retrospective study aimed to describe, firstly, characteristics and outcomes of the intraoperative neural monitoring technology in the pediatric population, and secondarily the recurrent laryngeal nerve complication rate. Thirty-seven patients (age <18 years) operated on from 2015 to 2021 by conventional open thyroid surgery were included. Twenty-four (64.9%) total thyroidectomies and 13 (35.1%) lobectomies were performed. Seven central and six lateral lymph node dissections completed 13 bilateral procedures. Histology showed malignancy in 45.9% of the cases. The differences between the electromyographic profiles of endotracheal tubes or electrodes for continuous monitoring were not statistically significant. In our series of young patients, both adhesive (even in 4- or 5-year-olds) and embedded endotracheal tubes were used, while in patients 3 years old or younger, the use of a more invasive detection method with transcartilage placement recording electrodes was required. Overall, out of 61 total at-risk nerves, 5 (8.2%) recurrent laryngeal nerves were injured with consequent intraoperative loss of the signal; however, all these lesions were transient, restoring their normal functionality within 4 months from surgical procedure. To our knowledge, this is the first study of intraoperative neural monitoring management in a cohort of Italian pediatric patients.
Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) following Conservative Surgery of the Supraglottic Region: Impact on Functional Outcomes
Authors: Alterio Daniela , Marani Simona , Zurlo Valeria , Zorzi Stefano Filippo , Ferrari Annamaria , Volpe Stefania , Bandi Francesco , Vigorito Sabrina , Vincini Maria Giulia , Gandini Sara , Gaeta Aurora , Fodor Cristiana Iuliana , Casbarra Alessia , Zaffaroni Mattia , Starzyńska Anna , Belgioia Liliana , Ansarin Mohssen , Aristei Cynthia , Jereczek-Fossa Barbara Alicja
Published: May 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) on the toxicity profile of patients treated with conservative surgery (CS) of the supraglottic (SG) region. Data on patients treated with CS and postoperative radiotherapy (PORT)-IMRT were prospectively collected. Results. In total, 20 patients were analyzed. Of these, six patients (35%) required the positioning of a temporary tracheostomy. The functional larynx preservation rate was 95%. Females had a higher risk of both endoscopic intervention and chondronecrosis, while the median age was significantly higher in patients requiring enteral nutrition. The incidence of long-term severe toxicities was lower in patients treated with IMRT than in the historical 3D-CRT cohort. Patients who had received PORT-IMRT achieved a lower rate of permanent laryngeal and swallowing dysfunctions. Overall, results from the comparison with the historical 3D-CRT cohort favor the IMRTs.
External Validation of a Prognostic Score for Survival in Lung Carcinoids
Authors: Chiappetta Marco , Tabacco Diomira , Sassorossi Carolina , Sperduti Isabella , Cusumano Giacomo , Terminella Alberto , Fournel Ludovic , Alifano Marco , Guerrera Francesco , Filosso Pier Luigi , Nicosia Samanta , Gallina Filippo , Facciolo Francesco , Margaritora Stefano , Lococo Filippo
Published: May 2022

Background: A prognostic score including T-dimension, age, histology and lymph node ratio was previously proposed in absence of an external validation dataset. The aim of the current study was to validate the proposed prognostic score using an independent dataset. Methods: Data of patients with lung carcinoids, who underwent surgical resection and lymphadenectomy in five institutions from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2019, were retrospectively analyzed. Two risk groups were created based on the following data: age, histology, node ratio and pT for disease-free survival (DFS); age, sex, node ratio and pT for overall survival (OS). The previously proposed score was validated, identifying two groups of patients: a high risk (HRG) and low risk (LRG) group. Results: The final analysis was conducted on 283 patients. Regarding DFS, 230 (81.3%) patients were assigned to the LRG and 53 (18.7%) to the HRG. Considering OS, 268 (94.7%) were allocated in the LRG and 15 (5.3%) in the HRG. The 5-year DFS was 92.7% in the LRG vs. 67% in the HRG (p < 0.001) while the 5-year OS was 93.6% in the LRG vs. 86.2% in the HRG (p = 0.29) with clear curve separation. Conclusion: Our analysis confirmed the validity of the composite score for DFS in lung carcinoids. Regarding OS, statistical significance was not reached because of a low number of deaths and patients in the HRG.
Meningioma Radiomics: At the Nexus of Imaging, Pathology and Biomolecular Characterization
Authors: Ugga Lorenzo , Spadarella Gaia , Pinto Lorenzo , Cuocolo Renato , Brunetti Arturo
Published: May 2022

Meningiomas are the most common extra-axial tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). Even though recurrence is uncommon after surgery and most meningiomas are benign, an aggressive behavior may still be exhibited in some cases. Although the diagnosis can be made by radiologists, typically with magnetic resonance imaging, qualitative analysis has some limitations in regard to outcome prediction and risk stratification. The acquisition of this information could help the referring clinician in the decision-making process and selection of the appropriate treatment. Following the increased attention and potential of radiomics and artificial intelligence in the healthcare domain, including oncological imaging, researchers have investigated their use over the years to overcome the current limitations of imaging. The aim of these new tools is the replacement of subjective and, therefore, potentially variable medical image analysis by more objective quantitative data, using computational algorithms. Although radiomics has not yet fully entered clinical practice, its potential for the detection, diagnostic, and prognostic characterization of tumors is evident. In this review, we present a wide-ranging overview of radiomics and artificial intelligence applications in meningioma imaging.
Synthetic and DFT Modeling Studies on Suzuki–Miyaura Reactions of 4,5-Dibromo-2-methylpyridazin-3(2H)-one with Ferrocene Boronates, Accompanied by Hydrodebromination and a Novel Bridge-Forming Annulation In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity of the Ferrocenyl–Pyridazinone Products
Authors: Alaoui Nour-Eddine El , Boulhaoua Mohammed , Hutai Dániel , Oláh-Szabó Rita , Bősze Szilvia , Hudecz Ferenc , Csámpai Antal
Published: May 2022

This paper presented the efficiency of different Pd-based catalytic systems in a series of SM reactions of 4,5-dibromo-2-methylpyridazin-3(2H)-one with ferroceneboronic acid, ferrocene-1,1′-diboronoc acid, and its bis-pinacol ester. In addition to the disubstituted product, these transformations afford substantial amounts of isomeric 4- and 5-ferrocenyl-2-methylpyridazin-3(2H)-ones, and a unique asymmetric bi-pyridazinone-bridged ferrocenophane with a screwed molecular architecture. The reactions of phenylboronic acid, conducted under the conditions, are proven to be the most reductive in the conversions of ferroceneboronic acid, and produce 2-methyl-4,5-diphenylpyridazin-3(2H)-one as single product, supporting our view about solvent-mediated hydrodehalogenations that are supposed to proceed via the assistance of the ferrocenyl group present in the reaction mixture, or attached to the bromo-pyridazinone scaffold, which is constructed in the first SM coupling of the heterocyclic precursor. A comparative DFT modelling study on the structures and possible transformations of relevant bromo-, ferrocene- and phenyl-containing carbopalladated intermediate pairs was carried out, providing reasonable mechanisms suitable to account for the apparently surprising regioselectivity of the alternative hydrodebromination processes, and for the formation of the ferrocenophane product. Supporting the results of DFT modelling studies, the implication of DMF as a hydrogen transfer agent in the hydrodebromination reactions is evidenced by deuterium labelling experiments using the solvent mixtures DMF-d7–H2O (4:1) and DMF–D2O (4:1). The organometallic products display antiproliferative effects on human malignant cell lines.
Across Dimensions: Developing 2D and 3D Human iPSC-Based Models of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Lee Azalea , Xu Jie , Wen Zhexing , Jin Peng
Published: May 2022

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. FXS is caused by a cytosine-guanine-guanine (CGG) trinucleotide repeat expansion in the untranslated region of the FMR1 gene leading to the functional loss of the gene’s protein product FMRP. Various animal models of FXS have provided substantial knowledge about the disorder. However, critical limitations exist in replicating the pathophysiological mechanisms. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) provide a unique means of studying the features and processes of both normal and abnormal human neurodevelopment in large sample quantities in a controlled setting. Human iPSC-based models of FXS have offered a better understanding of FXS pathophysiology specific to humans. This review summarizes studies that have used hiPSC-based two-dimensional cellular models of FXS to reproduce the pathology, examine altered gene expression and translation, determine the functions and targets of FMRP, characterize the neurodevelopmental phenotypes and electrophysiological features, and, finally, to reactivate FMR1. We also provide an overview of the most recent studies using three-dimensional human brain organoids of FXS and end with a discussion of current limitations and future directions for FXS research using hiPSCs.
Inhibition of ATR Reverses a Mitochondrial Respiratory Insufficiency
Authors: Borror Megan B. , Girotti Milena , Kar Adwitiya , Cain Meghan K. , Gao Xiaoli , MacKay Vivian L. , Herron Brent , Bhaskaran Shylesh , Becerra Sandra , Novy Nathan , Ventura Natascia , Johnson Thomas E. , Kennedy Brian K. , Rea Shane L.
Published: May 2022

Diseases that affect the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) often manifest as threshold effect disorders, meaning patients only become symptomatic once a certain level of ETC dysfunction is reached. Cells can invoke mechanisms to circumvent reaching their critical ETC threshold, but it is an ongoing challenge to identify such processes. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, severe reduction of mitochondrial ETC activity shortens life, but mild reduction actually extends it, providing an opportunity to identify threshold circumvention mechanisms. Here, we show that removal of ATL-1, but not ATM-1, worm orthologs of ATR and ATM, respectively, key nuclear DNA damage checkpoint proteins in human cells, unexpectedly lessens the severity of ETC dysfunction. Multiple genetic and biochemical tests show no evidence for increased mutation or DNA breakage in animals exposed to ETC disruption. Reduced ETC function instead alters nucleotide ratios within both the ribo- and deoxyribo-nucleotide pools, and causes stalling of RNA polymerase, which is also known to activate ATR. Unexpectedly, atl-1 mutants confronted with mitochondrial ETC disruption maintain normal levels of oxygen consumption, and have an increased abundance of translating ribosomes. This suggests checkpoint signaling by ATL-1 normally dampens cytoplasmic translation. Taken together, our data suggest a model whereby ETC insufficiency in C. elegans results in nucleotide imbalances leading to the stalling of RNA polymerase, activation of ATL-1, dampening of global translation, and magnification of ETC dysfunction. The loss of ATL-1 effectively reverses the severity of ETC disruption so that animals become phenotypically closer to wild type.
Distinct Synaptic Vesicle Proteomic Signatures Associated with Pre- and Post-Natal Oxycodone-Exposure
Authors: Odegaard Katherine , Gallegos Gabriel , Koul Sneh , Schaal Victoria , Vellichirammal Neetha , Guda Chittibabu , Dutoit Andrea , Lisco Steven , Yelamanchili Sowmya , Pendyala Gurudutt
Published: May 2022

The current opioid crisis, which has ravaged all segments of society, continues to pose a rising public health concern. Importantly, dependency on prescription opioids such as oxycodone (oxy) during and after pregnancy can significantly impact the overall brain development of the exposed offspring, especially at the synapse. A significant knowledge gap that remains is identifying distinct synaptic signatures associated with these exposed offspring. Accordingly, the overall goal of this current study was to identify distinct synaptic vesicle (SV) proteins as signatures for offspring exposed to oxy in utero (IUO) and postnatally (PNO). Using a preclinical animal model that imitates oxycodone exposure in utero (IUO) and postnatally (PNO), we used a quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomics platform to examine changes in the synaptic vesicle proteome on post-natal day 14 (P14) IUO and PNO offspring. We identified MEGF8, associated with carpenter syndrome, to be downregulated in the IUO offspring while LAMTOR4, associated with the regulator complex involved in lysosomal signaling and trafficking, was found to be upregulated in the PNO groups, respectively. Their respective differential expression was further validated by Western blot. In summary, our current study shows exposure to oxy in utero and postnatally can impact the SV proteome in the exposed offspring and the identification of these distinct SV signatures could further pave the way to further elucidate their downstream mechanisms including developing them as potential therapeutic targets.
Divergence between Neuronal and Oligodendroglial Cell Fate, in Postnatal Brain Neural Stem Cells, Leads to Divergent Properties in Polymorphic In Vitro Assays
Authors: Anesti Maria , Magkafa Stavroula , Prantikou Efstathia , Kazanis Ilias
Published: May 2022

Two main stem cell pools exist in the postnatal mammalian brain that, although they share some “stemness” properties, also exhibit significant differences. Multipotent neural stem cells survive within specialized microenvironments, called niches, and they are vulnerable to ageing. Oligodendroglial lineage-restricted progenitor cells are widely distributed in the brain parenchyma and are more resistant to the effects of ageing. Here, we create polymorphic neural stem cell cultures and allow cells to progress towards the neuronal and the oligodendroglial lineage. We show that the divergence of cell fate is accompanied by a divergence in the properties of progenitors, which reflects their adaptation to life in the niche or the parenchyma. Neurogenesis shows significant spatial restrictions and a dependence on laminin, a major niche component, while oligodendrogenesis shows none of these constraints. Furthermore, the blocking of integrin-β1 leads to opposing effects, reducing neurogenesis and enhancing oligodendrogenesis. Therefore, polymorphic neural stem cell assays can be used to investigate the divergence of postnatal brain stem cells and also to predict the in vivo effects of potential therapeutic molecules targeting stem and progenitor cells, as we do for the microneurotrophin BNN-20.
Synthesis and Characterization of Fluorinated Phosphonium Ionic Liquids to Use as New Engineering Solvents
Authors: Naranjo María C. , Redondo Andres E. , Acuña Jacqueline C. , Vieira Nicole S. M. , Araújo João M. M. , Pereiro Ana B.
Published: May 2022

In this work, a set of novel fluorinated ionic liquids (FILs), based on different tetra-alkyl-phosphonium cations with perfluorobutanesulfonate and perfluoropentanoate anions, were synthesized and characterized in order to check their suitability to apply as engineering solvents. Thermophysical and thermal properties were both determined between 293.15 and 353.15 K, and the molecular volumes and free volumes and the coefficients of isobaric thermal expansion were determined from experimental values of refractive index and density. Lastly, the Walden plot was used to evaluate the ionicity of the novel FILs. The cytotoxicity of these compounds was also determined using the human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) and the human colon carcinoma cells (Caco-2). Finally, the results were all discussed with the aim of understanding the behaviour of these compounds, considering the influence of the anion and the hydrogenated alkyl chain length. In summary, the new FILs synthesized in this work present adequate properties for their application in different industrial processes. Most of these compounds are liquid at room temperature with high decomposition temperatures. All phosphonium-based FILs have lower densities than conventional ionic liquids and common organic solvents, and the viscosity depends directly on the selected anion. Furthermore, the ionicity of FILs based on the sulfonate anion is higher than those based on the carboxylate anion. Finally, the phosphonium-based FILs have no significant effect on cellular viability at lower concentrations.
State of the Art of Chemosensors in a Biomedical Context
Authors: Kny Erich , Reiner-Rozman Ciril , Dostalek Jakub , Hassel Achim-Walter , Nöhammer Christa , Pfaffeneder-Mantai Florian , Szunerits Sabine , Weber Viktoria , Knoll Wolfgang , Kleber Christoph
Published: May 2022

Healthcare is undergoing large transformations, and it is imperative to leverage new technologies to support the advent of personalized medicine and disease prevention. It is now well accepted that the levels of certain biological molecules found in blood and other bodily fluids, as well as in exhaled breath, are an indication of the onset of many human diseases and reflect the health status of the person. Blood, urine, sweat, or saliva biomarkers can therefore serve in early diagnosis of diseases such as cancer, but also in monitoring disease progression, detecting metabolic disfunctions, and predicting response to a given therapy. For most point-of-care sensors, the requirement that patients themselves can use and apply them is crucial not only regarding the diagnostic part, but also at the sample collection level. This has stimulated the development of such diagnostic approaches for the non-invasive analysis of disease-relevant analytes. Considering these timely efforts, this review article focuses on novel, sensitive, and selective sensing systems for the detection of different endogenous target biomarkers in bodily fluids as well as in exhaled breath, which are associated with human diseases.
Polyethylene and Semiconducting Polymer Blends for the Fabrication of Organic Field-Effect Transistors: Balancing Charge Transport and Stretchability
Authors: Kulatunga Piumi , Yousefi Nastaran , Rondeau-Gagné Simon
Published: May 2022

Polyethylene is amongst the most used polymers, finding a plethora of applications in our lives owing to its high impact resistance, non-corrosive nature, light weight, cost effectiveness, and easy processing into various shapes from different sizes. Despite these outstanding features, the commodity polymer has been underexplored in the field of organic electronics. This work focuses on the development of new polymer blends based on a low molecular weight linear polyethylene (LPE) derivative with a high-performance diketopyrrolopyrrole-based semiconducting polymer. Physical blending of the polyethylene with semiconducting polymers was performed at ratios varying from 0 to 75 wt.%, and the resulting blends were carefully characterized to reveal their electronic and solid-state properties. The new polymer blends were also characterized to reveal the influence of polyethylene on the mechanical robustness and stretchability of the semiconducting polymer. Overall, the introduction of LPE was shown to have little to no effect on the solid-state properties of the materials, despite some influence on solid-state morphology through phase separation. Organic field-effect transistors prepared from the new blends showed good device characteristics, even at higher ratios of polyethylene, with an average mobility of 0.151 cm2 V−1 s−1 at a 25 wt.% blend ratio. The addition of polyethylene was shown to have a plasticizing effect on the semiconducting polymers, helping to reduce crack width upon strain and contributing to devices accommodating more strain without suffering from decreased performance. The new blends presented in this work provide a novel platform from which to access more mechanically robust organic electronics and show promising features for the utilization of polyethylene for the solution processing of advanced semiconducting materials toward novel soft electronics and sensors.
The Influence of ASD Severity on Parental Overload: The Moderating Role of Parental Well-Being and the ASD Pragmatic Level
Authors: Lira Rodríguez Eva M. , Pascual Rocío Cremallet , Sanclemente Miguel Puyuelo , Martín-Hernández Pilar , Gil-Lacruz Marta , Gil-Lacruz Ana I.
Published: May 2022

The aim of the present study is to analyze the relation between the severity of symptoms in people with ASD on their parents’ overload, moderated by parental well-being and the ASD pragmatic level. A sample consisted of 28 fathers and mothers whose children had ASD. The obtained results showed that the higher the ASD severity, the better the parental overload was perceived if parents had low well-being levels. However, this relation did not occur if the parental well-being level was high. Moreover, the relation between severity and parental overload moderated by parental well-being occurred regardless of the pragmatic language level. Therefore, the main results of this study are that the responsibility for parental overload depends more on parental well-being than on the symptom severity of the person with ASD. The relevance of carrying out interventions with not only people with ASD, but also with their parents or caregivers for their well-being is highlighted.
miR-92a-2-5p Regulates the Proliferation and Differentiation of ASD-Derived Neural Progenitor Cells
Authors: Zhuang Wenting , Liu Hui , He Zhize , Ju Jielan , Gao Qiuxia , Shan Zhiyan , Lei Lei
Published: May 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders with abnormal behavior. However, the pathogenesis of ASD remains to be clarified. It has been demonstrated that miRNAs are essential regulators of ASD. However, it is still unclear how miR-92a-2-5p acts on the developing brain and the cell types directly. In this study, we used neural progenitor cells (NPCs) derived from ASD-hiPSCs as well as from neurotypical controls to examine the effects of miR-92a-2-5p on ASD-NPCs proliferation and neuronal differentiation, and whether miR-92a-2-5p could interact with genetic risk factor, DLG3 for ASD. We observed that miR-92a-2-5p upregulated in ASD-NPCs results in decreased proliferation and neuronal differentiation. Inhibition of miR-92a-2-5p could promote proliferation and neuronal differentiation of ASD-NPCs. DLG3 was negatively regulated by miR-92a-2-5p in NPCs. Our results suggest that miR-92a-2-5p is a strong risk factor for ASD and potentially contributes to neuropsychiatric disorders.
Long-Term Effect of a Single Dose of Caffeine on Sleep, the Sleep EEG and Neuronal Activity in the Peduncular Part of the Lateral Hypothalamus under Constant Dark Conditions
Authors: Wang Yumeng , Deboer Tom
Published: May 2022

Background: Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that influences both the sleep–wake cycle and the circadian clock and is known to influence neuronal activity in the lateral hypothalamus, an important area involved in sleep–wake regulation. Light is a strong zeitgeber and it is known to interact with the effect of caffeine on the sleep–wake cycle. We therefore wanted to investigate the long-term effects of a single dose of caffeine under constant dark conditions. Methods: We performed long-term (2 days) electroencephalogram (EEG)/electromyogram recordings combined with multi-unit neuronal activity recordings in the peduncular part of the lateral hypothalamus (PLH) under constant darkness in Brown Norway rats, and investigated the effect of a single caffeine treatment (15 mg/kg) or saline control given 1 h after the onset of the endogenous rest phase. Results: After a reduction in sleep and an increase in waking and activity in the first hours after administration, also on the second recording day after caffeine administration, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep was still reduced. Analysis of the EEG showed that power density in the theta range during waking and REM sleep was increased for at least two days. Neuronal activity in PLH was also increased for two days after the treatment, particularly during non-rapid eye movement sleep. Conclusion: Surprisingly, the data reveal long-term effects of a single dose of caffeine on vigilance states, EEG, and neuronal activity in the PLH. The absence of a light–dark cycle may have enabled the expression of these long-term changes. It therefore may be that caffeine, or its metabolites, have a stronger and longer lasting influence, particularly on the expression of REM sleep, than acknowledged until now.
PLLA/Graphene Nanocomposites Membranes with Improved Biocompatibility and Mechanical Properties
Authors: He Yaoting , Yan Jiafei , He Xuzhao , Weng Wenjian , Cheng Kui
Published: May 2022

In this work, nanocomposite membranes based on graphene and polylactide were evaluated for mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Single-layer graphene (SLG), graphene nanosheets (GNS), and poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) were prepared through layer-by-layer deposition and homogeneous mixing. The results revealed that PLLA/SLG nanocomposites and PLLA/GNS nanocomposites could show enhanced mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The addition of a tiny amount of SLG significantly improved Young’s modulus and tensile strength of the PLLA matrix by 15.9% and 32.8% respectively, while the addition of the same mass ratio of GNS boosted the elongation at break of the PLLA matrix by 79.7%. These results were ascribed to the crystallinity and interfacial interaction differences resulting from graphene incorporation. Also, improved biocompatibility was observed with graphene incorporation. Such nanocomposites membranes showed a lot of potential as environment-friendly and biomedical materials.
Characterization of the Structure and Wear Resistance of Ni65-Based Coatings via HVOF Flame Spraying and Its Application to Potato Digging Shovels
Authors: Yu Jiangtao , Xu Zihe , Wang Shuo , Liu Xuanting , Qi Hongyan , Ma Yunhai
Published: May 2022

To improve the tribological properties of a potato digging shovel (PDS), Ni65-based coatings with rare earth oxides additions were fabricated on 65Mn# steel via High-Velocity Oxygen-Fuel (HVOF) flame spraying, the effect of macroscopic surface shape of PDSs on their wear resistance of PDSs was examined, and finally a kind of PDS with a specific macroscopic surface shape and satisfied wear resistance was obtained. The addition of CeO2 and Y2O3 decreased the defects in coatings, refined the microstructure, made hard phases distributed more uniformly and ultimately improved coating properties. According to the XRD analysis results, the Ni65-based coatings were composed of the matrix phase γ-Ni and hard phases formed by Cr, Fe and Ni with B, C and Si. More Cr7C3 phases were detected in coating B than in coating A, but the phases related to Y and Ce were also not detected because of the low content in both EDS and XRD analyses. Heat treatment and HVOF flame sprayed coatings both increased the hardness of specimens, and coating A (621HV1.0) provided a hardness nearly equivalent to that of the heat treatment specimens (617HV1.0), while coating B provided the highest hardness (664HV1.0). For all specimens, laser surface texturing (LST) structures weakened their corrosion resistance. However, the Ni65-based self-fluxing alloy coatings significantly improved the corrosion resistance of specimens, and coating B provided the best corrosion resistance. SEM images show that the main wear mechanism for worn specimens was abrasive wear, and less wear signs were observed on the surface of coating B. Abrasive wear examinations indicate that specimen BJ had the best wear resistance and, compared with specimen W, the mass loss of specimen BJ decreased by 28.56% and 20.83% at relative sliding speeds of 2.35 m/s and 3.02 m/s, respectively. However, considering the negative effect of LST structures on the corrosion resistance of specimens, the processing techniques of specimen A and specimen B are more applicable to PDSs. The macroscopic surface shapes affected the wear resistance of PDSs and ZF had the lowest mass loss but the highest draught force; comparatively, YS had a better balance on the draught force reduction and wear resistance. Finally, YS with coating B, which decreased the mass loss by more than 27.17%, is recommended in this paper. On the whole, the conclusions in this paper provide a reference for the design of potato digging shovels with lower draught force and better tribological properties.
Surface Modification of 304L Stainless Steel and Interface Engineering by HiPIMS Pre-Treatment
Authors: Chabanon Angélique , Michau Alexandre , Schlegel Michel Léon , Gündüz Deniz C. , Puga Beatriz , Miserque Frédéric , Schuster Frédéric , Maskrot Hicham , Pareige Cristelle , Cadel Emmanuel , Beainy Georges , Cloute-Cazalaa Véronique , Narasimalu Srikanth , Yao Bingqing , Dong Zhili , Balbaud-Célérier Fanny
Published: May 2022

A clean and defect-free substrate/coating interface is required to guarantee good adhesion of coatings under service conditions. For this purpose, an etching pre-treatment using High-Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HiPIMS) was performed to modify the surface of 304L stainless steel. The effect of three etching procedures on the substrate properties, such as corrosion resistance and adhesion, was investigated with unprecedented spatial resolution and spectroscopic details. Glancing angle X-ray diffraction showed modification in phase content but no neoformation after steel etching. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the presence of etchant species (6–7 at.%) on the extreme surface of the substrate. Transmission Electron Microscopy and Atomic Probe Tomography showed that the interface was less than a few nanometers wide. Polarization curves in a nitric acid solution at boiling temperature showed, for the first time, that the Ti+ and Zr+ etchings decreased the corrosion current density compared to the untreated original surface. Scratch-test measurements indicated better substrate/coating adhesion using HiPIMS metal ion etching. Electrochemical characterization revealed that Zr etching and thin coating improve the anti-corrosion properties of stainless steel in strong nitric acid conditions.
Swarm Robotics: Simulators, Platforms and Applications Review
Authors: Calderón-Arce Cindy , Brenes-Torres Juan Carlos , Solis-Ortega Rebeca
Published: May 2022

This paper presents an updated and broad review of swarm robotics research papers regarding software, hardware, simulators and applications. The evolution from its concept to its real-life implementation is presented. Swarm robotics analysis is focused on four aspects: conceptualization, simulators, real-life robotics for swarm use, and applications. For simulators and robots, a detailed comparison between existing resources is made. A summary of the most used swarm robotics applications and behaviors is included.