bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacogenetics of Lethal Opioid Overdose: Review of Current Evidence and Preliminary Results from a Pilot Study
Authors: Magarbeh Leen , Gorbovskaya Ilona , Wells Richard , Jhirad Reuven , Le Foll Bernard , Müller Daniel J.
Published: May 2023

There has been a worldwide substantial increase in accidental opioid-overdose deaths. The aim of this review, along with preliminary results from our pilot study, is to highlight the use of pharmacogenetics as a tool to predict causes of accidental opioid-overdose death. For this review, a systematic literature search of PubMed® between the time period of January 2000 to March 2023 was carried out. We included study cohorts, case–controls, or case reports that investigated the frequency of genetic variants in opioid-related post-mortem samples and the association between these variants and opioid plasma concentrations. A total of 18 studies were included in our systematic review. The systematic review provides evidence of the use of CYP2D6, and to a lower extent, CYP2B6 and CYP3A4/5 genotyping in identifying unexpectedly high or low opioid and metabolite blood concentrations from post-mortem samples. Our own pilot study provides support for an enrichment of the CYP2B6*4-allele in our methadone-overdose sample (n = 41) compared to the anticipated frequency in the general population. The results from our systematic review and the pilot study highlight the potential of pharmacogenetics in determining vulnerability to overdose of opioids.
Sedation with Sevoflurane versus Propofol in COVID-19 Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Results from a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Martínez-Castro Sara , Monleón Berta , Puig Jaume , Ferrer Gomez Carolina , Quesada Marta , Pestaña David , Balvis Alberto , Maseda Emilio , de la Rica Alejandro Suárez , Feijoo Ana Monero , Badenes Rafael
Published: May 2023

Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) related to COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) led to intensive care units (ICUs) collapse. Amalgams of sedative agents (including volatile anesthetics) were used due to the clinical shortage of intravenous drugs (mainly propofol and midazolam). Methods: A multicenter, randomized 1:1, controlled clinical trial was designed to compare sedation using propofol and sevoflurane in patients with ARDS associated with COVID-19 infection in terms of oxygenation and mortality. Results: Data from a total of 17 patients (10 in the propofol arm and 7 in the sevoflurane arm) showed a trend toward PaO2/FiO2 improvement and the sevoflurane arm’s superiority in decreasing the likelihood of death (no statistical significance was found). Conclusions: Intravenous agents are the most-used sedative agents in Spain, even though volatile anesthetics, such as sevoflurane and isoflurane, have shown beneficial effects in many clinical conditions. Growing evidence demonstrates the safety and potential benefits of using volatile anesthetics in critical situations.
Long-Term Care and Follow-Up in Laryngeal Cancer Patients: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Marijić Blažen , Tudor Filip , Janik Stefan , Grasl Stefan , Frommlet Florian , Maržić Diana , Hadžisejdić Ita , Vukelić Jelena , Braut Tamara , Velepič Marko , Erovic Boban M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: We conducted an outcome analysis on surgically treated laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) patients. Methods: A multicenter retrospective study with 352 patients was analyzed. A new nomogram that incorporates age, T- and N-classification, and treatment was created. Results: Recurrence was observed in 65 (18.5%) patients after a mean time of 16.5 months. After 60 months, 91 (25.9%) of patients developed secondary primary tumors (SPT), most commonly in the lungs (n = 29; 8.2%) followed by other head and neck cancers (n = 21; 6.0%). Notably, the mean time to occurrence of secondary head and neck cancers was twice that of lung cancer (101.1 vs. 47.5 months). Conclusion: Recurrent disease is less common in LSCC patients and appears much earlier than SPT. Because one in every four laryngeal cancer patients develops SPTs within 5–10 years, long-term care and follow-up, including imaging studies, are highly recommended. The nomogram was useful for estimating survival.
Evaluating the Impact of County-to-District Transformation on Urban Residential Land Supply: A Multi-Period Difference-in-Differences Model Analysis
Authors: Zhen Mengjia , Yu Junlan , Chen Siyi , Wang Ning , Chen Zhigang
Published: May 2023

Utilizing panel data from 264 prefecture-level cities in mainland China between 2009 and 2017, this study employs a multi-period difference-in-differences model and propensity score matching to assess the effects of county-to-district transformation (CDT) on the scale, proportion, and price of the urban residential land supply. The findings reveal the following details: (1) CDT led to a short-term increase in the overall proportion and price of this land, whereas its influence on the scale of the supply exhibited a time lag; (2) the policy’s impact on residential land supply varied across different types of cities, with a more pronounced effect on the scale, proportion, and price in large cities; and (3) the current implementation of CDT primarily modified the urban land’s supply–demand relationship through the expansion of built-up space, conversion of spatial function, and agglomeration of population and the labor force, consequently affecting the supply of the aforementioned land. Finally, this paper puts forward relevant policy suggestions on how to adjust land supply and effectively regulate the land market during the process of promoting the withdrawal of counties and districts in the future.
Impact of Land Value Tax on the Equity of Planning Outcomes
Authors: Morgan Joseph , Shahab Sina
Published: May 2023

The question of land ownership is fundamental to any modern society and has been blamed as the root of numerous social inequalities. This paper explores one potential solution to the land question, Land Value Tax (LVT), which was first popularised in the 1880s by Henry George. Despite its long history, LVT has not been widely implemented, but recently proposals to replace existing property taxes with this form of taxation have re-emerged on the political scene. While the Welsh Government has recently explored the idea of introducing an LVT, there are limited studies on this form of taxation in the context of a discretionary planning system, such as the Welsh planning system. This paper conducts exploratory qualitative research using Wales as a case study. Data was collected via semi-structured interviews with experts across various related fields, primarily within taxation and planning, to establish the potential effects of LVT in practice, with a particular focus on how it might affect the equity of planning outcomes. Overall, the research showed that despite the strong theoretical potential, fundamental practical issues would diminish the ability of LVT to effectively influence planning. LVT is argued to be largely incompatible with a discretionary planning system (e.g., the Welsh planning system), and therefore, the research concluded that many of the potential benefits of LVT could be better achieved through reforms to existing taxes and planning processes, particularly land value capture mechanisms.
Thyroid Nodules and Obesity
Authors: Demetriou Elpida , Fokou Maria , Frangos Savvas , Papageorgis Panagiotis , Economides Panayiotis A. , Economides Aliki
Published: May 2023

A widely discussed topic in the pathophysiology of thyroid nodules is the role of obesity, a state that leads to increased systemic inflammatory markers. Leptin plays a vital role in forming thyroid nodules and cancer through several mechanisms. Together with chronic inflammation, there is an augmentation in the secretion of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and the cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6), which contributed to cancer development, progression and metastasis. In addition, leptin exerts a modulatory action in the growth, proliferation and invasion of thyroid carcinoma cell lines via activating various signal pathways, such as Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and/or phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt). Through several proposed mechanisms, aberrant endogenous estrogen levels have been suggested to play a vital role in the development of both benign and malignant nodules. Metabolic syndrome triggers the development of thyroid nodules by stimulating thyroid proliferation and angiogenesis due to hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. Insulin resistance influences the distribution and structure of the thyroid blood vessels. Insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and insulin affect the regulation of the expression of thyroid genes and the proliferation and differentiation of thyroid cells. TSH can promote the differentiation of pre-adipocytes to mature adipocytes but also, in the presence of insulin, TSH possesses mitogenic properties. This review aims to summarize the underlying mechanisms explaining the role of obesity in the pathophysiology of thyroid nodules and discuss potential clinical implications.
New Radiobiological Principles for the CNS Arising from Space Radiation Research
Authors: Britten Richard A. , Limoli Charles L.
Published: May 2023

Traditionally, the brain has been regarded as a relatively insensitive late-reacting tissue, with radiologically detectable damage not being reported at doses < 60 Gy. When NASA proposed interplanetary exploration missions, it was required to conduct an intensive health and safety evaluation of cancer, cardiovascular, and cognitive risks associated with exposure to deep space radiation (SR). The SR dose that astronauts on a mission to Mars are predicted to receive is ~300 mGy. Even after correcting for the higher RBE of the SR particles, the biologically effective SR dose (<1 Gy) would still be 60-fold lower than the threshold dose for clinically detectable neurological damage. Unexpectedly, the NASA-funded research program has consistently reported that low (<250 mGy) doses of SR induce deficits in multiple cognitive functions. This review will discuss these findings and the radical paradigm shifts in radiobiological principles for the brain that were required in light of these findings. These included a shift from cell killing to loss of function models, an expansion of the critical brain regions for radiation-induced cognitive impediments, and the concept that the neuron may not be the sole critical target for neurocognitive impairment. The accrued information on how SR exposure impacts neurocognitive performance may provide new opportunities to reduce neurocognitive impairment in brain cancer patients.
Phosphine–Stibine and Phosphine–Stiborane peri-Substituted Donor–Acceptor Complexes
Authors: Bergsch Jan U. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Kilian Petr , Chalmers Brian A.
Published: May 2023

Two novel Sb(III) and Sb(V) peri-substituted acenaphthene phosphorus−antimony compounds were prepared. The Sb(III) compound, 1, was prepared via reacting the organolithium precursor with dichloro(p-tolyl)Stibine, and 2 was prepared by the chlorination of 1. Both 1 and 2 were characterized by multinuclear (1H, 13C and 31P) NMR spectroscopy, and their molecular structures resolved by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Both compounds show a dative P−Sb interaction with the antimony being the acceptor group in both cases owing to its Lewis acidity.
Computational Study of the Influence of α/β-Phase Ratio and Porosity on the Elastic Modulus of Ti-Based Alloy Foams
Authors: Aguilar Claudio , Henriquez Javier , Salvo Christopher , Alfonso Ismelí , Araya Nicolas , Muñoz Lisa
Published: May 2023

This work aims to perform a computational analysis on the influence that microstructure and porosity have on the elastic modulus of Ti-6Al-4V foams used in biomedical applications with different α/β-phase ratios. The work is divided into two analyses, first the influence that the α/β-phase ratio has and second the effects that porosity and α/β-phase ratio have on the elastic modulus. Two microstructures were analyzed: equiaxial α-phase grains + intergranular β-phase (microstructure A) and equiaxial β-phase grains + intergranular α-phase (microstructure B). The α/β-phase ratio was variated from 10 to 90% and the porosity from 29 to 56%. The simulations of the elastic modulus were carried out using finite element analysis (FEA) using ANSYS software v19.3. The results were compared with experimental data reported by our group and those found in the literature. The β-phase amount and porosity have a synergic effect on the elastic modulus, for example, when the foam has a porosity of 29 with 0% β-phase, and it has an elastic modulus of ≈55 GPa, but when the β-phase amount increases to 91%, the elastic modulus decreases as low as 38 GPa. The foams with 54% porosity have values smaller than 30 GPa for all the β-phase amounts.
The Different Welding Layers and Heat Source Energy on Residual Stresses in Swing Arc Narrow Gap MAG Welding
Authors: Fang Yuan , Ma Chunwei , Zhang Guangkai , Qin Yuli , Cao Wentao
Published: May 2023

In this paper, in order to reduce the time cost of prediction experiments in industry, a new narrow gap oscillation calculation method is developed in ABAQUS thermomechanical coupling analysis to study the distribution trend of residual weld stresses in comparison with conventional multi-layer welding processes. The blind hole detection technique and thermocouple measurement method verify the reliability of the prediction experiment. The results show that the experimental and simulation results have a high degree of agreement. In the prediction experiments, the calculation time of the high-energy single-layer welding experiments is 1/4 of the traditional multi-layer welding. Two welding processes of longitudinal residual stress and transverse residual stress distribution trends are the same. The high-energy single-layer welding experiment stress distribution range and transverse residual stress peak are smaller, but the longitudinal residual stress peak is slightly higher, which can be effectively reduced by increasing the preheating temperature of the welded parts. This implies that in the specific case of increasing the initial temperature of the workpiece, the use of high-energy single-layer welding instead of multi-layer welding to study the residual stress distribution trend not only optimizes the weld quality but also reduces the time cost to a large extent.
Coupling Computational Homogenization with Crystal Plasticity Modelling for Predicting the Warm Deformation Behaviour of AA2060-T8 Al-Li Alloy
Authors: Abd El-Aty Ali , Ha Sangyul , Xu Yong , Hou Yong , Zhang Shi-Hong , Alzahrani Bandar , Ali Alamry , Ahmed Mohamed M. Z.
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to propose a new approach for predicting the warm deformation behaviour of AA2060-T8 sheets by coupling computational homogenization (CH) with crystal plasticity (CP) modeling. Firstly, to reveal the warm deformation behaviour of the AA2060-T8 sheet, isothermal warm tensile testing was accomplished using a Gleeble-3800 thermomechanical simulator at the temperatures and strain rates that varied from 373 to 573 K and 0.001 to 0.1 s−1. Then, a novel crystal plasticity model was proposed for describing the grains’ behaviour and reflecting the crystals’ actual deformation mechanism under warm forming conditions. Afterward, to clarify the in-grain deformation and link the mechanical behaviour of AA2060-T8 with its microstructural state, RVE elements were created to represent the microstructure of AA2060-T8, where several finite elements discretized every grain. A remarkable accordance was observed between the predicted results and their experimental counterparts for all testing conditions. This signifies that coupling CH with CP modelling can successfully determine the warm deformation behaviour of AA2060-T8 (polycrystalline metals) under different working conditions.
Elimination of a Mixture of Microplastics Using Conventional and Detergent-Assisted Coagulation
Authors: Ziembowicz Sabina , Kida Małgorzata , Koszelnik Piotr
Published: May 2023

The research described here investigated the suitability of coagulation process in the elimination of microplastics from tap water. The purpose of the study was to assess the effects of microplastic type (PE1, PE2, PE3, PVC1, PVC2, and PVC3), tap water pH (3, 5, 7, and 9), coagulant doses (0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 g/L), and microplastic concentration (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 g/L) on elimination efficiency with coagulation utilizing Al and Fe coagulants as well coagulation combined with a detergent (SDBS) addition. This work also explores the elimination of a mixture of two microplastics (PE and PVC) that are significant in terms of the environment. The effectiveness of conventional and detergent-assisted coagulation was calculated as a percentage. The fundamental characteristics of microplastics were also determined via LDIR analysis, and on the basis of these findings, particles that were more coagulation-prone were identified. The maximum reduction in MPs was achieved with tap water’s neutral pH and a coagulant dosage of 0.05 g/L. The addition of SDBS increased the loss of the plastic microparticles’ efficacy. A removal efficiency of greater than 95% (Al-coagulant) and 80% (Fe-coagulant) was achieved for each of the microplastics tested. The removal efficiency of the microplastic mixture with SDBS-assisted coagulation was obtained at a level of 95.92% (AlCl3·6H2O) and 98.9% (FeCl3·6H2O). After each coagulation procedure, the mean circularity and solidity of the unremoved particles increased. This confirmed that particles with irregular shapes are easier to completely remove.
Atomic Layer Deposition of HfO2 Films Using TDMAH and Water or Ammonia Water
Authors: Gieraltowska Sylwia , Wachnicki Lukasz , Dluzewski Piotr , Witkowski Bartlomiej S. , Godlewski Marek , Guziewicz Elzbieta
Published: May 2023

Atomic layer deposition of HfO2 from TDMAH and water or ammonia water at different temperatures below 400 °C is studied. Growth per cycle (GPC) has been recorded in the range of 1.2–1.6 Å. At low temperatures (≤100 °C), the films grew faster and are structurally more disordered, amorphous and/or polycrystalline with crystal sizes up to 29 nm, compared to the films grown at higher temperatures. At high temperatures of 240 °C, the films are better crystallized with crystal sizes of 38–40 nm but grew slower. GPC, dielectric constant, and crystalline structure are improved by depositing at temperatures above 300 °C. The dielectric constant value and the roughness of the films have been determined for monoclinic HfO2, a mixture of orthorhombic and monoclinic, as well as for amorphous HfO2. Moreover, the present study shows that the increase in the dielectric constant of the films can be achieved by using ammonia water as an oxygen precursor in the ALD growth. The detailed investigations of the relationship between HfO2 properties and growth parameters presented here have not been reported so far, and the possibilities of fine-tuning and controlling the structure and performance of these layers are still being sought.
Method of Determining Kinetic Parameters of Strength Recovery in Self-Healing Ceramic Composites
Authors: Rahman Mostafizur , Maeda Taiyo , Osada Toshio , Ozaki Shingo
Published: May 2023

Self-healing ceramic composites are promising smart materials for high-temperature applications. Experimental and numerical studies have been performed to more fully understand their behaviors, and kinetic parameters such as the activation energy and frequency factor have been reported to be indispensable for investigating healing phenomena. This article proposes a method of determining the kinetic parameters of self-healing ceramic composites using the oxidation kinetics model of strength recovery. These parameters are determined by an optimization method using experimental strength recovery data under various healing temperatures, times, and microstructural features on the fractured surfaces. Alumina and mullite matrix-based self-healing ceramic composites such as Al2O3/SiC, Al2O3/TiC, Al2O3/Ti2AlC (MAX phase), and mullite/SiC, were selected as the target materials. The theoretical strength recovery behaviors of the cracked specimens obtained from the kinetic parameters were compared with the experimental results. The parameters were within the previously reported ranges, and the predicted strength recovery behaviors reasonably agreed with the experimental values. The proposed method can also be applied to other self-healing ceramics with matrices reinforced with different healing agents to evaluate oxidation rate, crack healing rate, and theoretical strength recovery behaviors to design self-healing materials used in high-temperature applications. Furthermore, the healing ability of composites can be discussed regardless of the type of strength recovery test.
Modeling and Optimizing the Crystal Violet Dye Adsorption on Kaolinite Mixed with Cellulose Waste Red Bean Peels: Insights into the Kinetic, Isothermal, Thermodynamic, and Mechanistic Study
Authors: Mecheri Razika , Zobeidi Ammar , Atia Salem , Neghmouche Nacer Salah , Salih Alsamani A. M. , Benaissa Mhamed , Ghernaout Djamel , Arni Saleh Al , Ghareba Saad , Elboughdiri Noureddine
Published: May 2023

In this study, a new eco-friendly kaolinite–cellulose (Kaol/Cel) composite was prepared from waste red bean peels (Phaseolus vulgaris) as a source of cellulose to serve as a promising and effective adsorbent for the removal of crystal violet (CV) dye from aqueous solutions. Its characteristics were investigated through the use of X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and zero-point of charge (pHpzc). The Box–Behnken design was used to improve CV adsorption on the composite by testing its primary affecting factors: loading Cel into the composite matrix of Kaol (A: 0–50%), adsorbent dosage (B: 0.02–0.05 g), pH (C: 4–10), temperature (D: 30–60 °C), and duration (E: 5–60 min). The significant interactions with the greatest CV elimination efficiency (99.86%) are as follows: BC (adsorbent dose vs. pH) and BD (adsorbent dose vs. temperature) at optimum parameters (A: 25%, B: 0.05 g, C: 10, D: 45 °C, and E: 17.5 min) for which the CV’s best adsorption capacity (294.12 mg/g) was recorded. The Freundlich and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were the best isotherm and kinetic models fitting our results. Furthermore, the study investigated the mechanisms responsible for eliminating CV by utilizing Kaol/Cel–25. It detected multiple types of associations, including electrostatic, n-π, dipole–dipole, hydrogen bonding interactions, and Yoshida hydrogen bonding. These findings suggest that Kaol/Cel could be a promising starting material for developing a highly efficient adsorbent that can remove cationic dyes from aqueous environments.
Optimization of the Filler-and-Binder Mixing Ratio for Enhanced Mechanical Strength of Carbon–Carbon Composites
Authors: Kim Ji-Hong , Hwang Hye-In , Im Ji-Sun
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a method for optimizing the mixing ratio of filler coke and binder for high-strength carbon–carbon composites is proposed. Particle size distribution, specific surface area, and true density were analyzed to characterize the filler properties. The optimum binder mixing ratio was experimentally determined based on the filler properties. As the filler particle size was decreased, a higher binder mixing ratio was required to enhance the mechanical strength of the composite. When the d50 particle size of the filler was 62.13 and 27.10 µm, the required binder mixing ratios were 25 and 30 vol.%, respectively. From this result, the interaction index, which quantifies the interaction between the coke and binder during carbonization, was deduced. The interaction index had a higher correlation coefficient with the compressive strength than that of the porosity. Therefore, the interaction index can be used in predicting the mechanical strength of carbon blocks and optimizing their binder mixing ratios. Furthermore, as it is calculated from the carbonization of blocks without additional analysis, the interaction index can be easily used in industrial applications.
Friction Stir Welding of Dissimilar Al 6061-T6 to AISI 316 Stainless Steel: Microstructure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Newishy Mohamed , Jaskari Matias , Järvenpää Antti , Fujii Hidetoshi , Abdel-Aleem Hamed Ahmed
Published: May 2023

The friction stir welding (FSW) process was recently developed to overcome the difficulty of welding non-ferrous alloys and steels. In this study, dissimilar butt joints between 6061-T6 aluminum alloy and AISI 316 stainless steel were welded by FSW using different processing parameters. The grain structure and precipitates at the different welded zones of the various joints were intensively characterized by the electron backscattering diffraction technique (EBSD). Subsequently, the FSWed joints were tensile tested to examine the mechanical strength compared with that of the base metals. The micro-indentation hardness measurements were conducted to reveal the mechanical responses of the different zones in the joint. The EBSD results of the microstructural evolution showed that a significant continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) occurred in the stir zone (SZ) of the Al side, which was mainly composed of the weak metal, Al, and fragmentations of the steel. However, the steel underwent severe deformation and discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX). The FSW rotation speed increased the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) from 126 MPa at a rotation speed of 300 RPM to 162 MPa at a rotation speed of 500 RPM. The tensile failure occurred at the SZ on the Al side for all specimens. The impact of the microstructure change in the FSW zones was significantly pronounced in the micro-indentation hardness measurements. This was presumably attributed to the promotion of various strengthening mechanisms, such as grain refinement due to DRX (CDRX or DDRX), the appearance of intermetallic compounds, and strain hardening. The aluminum side underwent recrystallization as a result of the heat input in the SZ, but the stainless steel side did not experience recrystallization due to inadequate heat input, resulting in grain deformation instead.
A Three-Dimensional Vibration Theory for Ultralight Cellular Sandwich Plates Subjected to Linearly Varying In-Plane Distributed Loads
Authors: Li Fei-Hao , Han Bin , Zhang Ai-Hua , Liu Kai , Wang Ying , Lu Tian-Jian
Published: May 2023

Thin structural elements such as large-scale covering plates of aerospace protection structures and vertical stabilizers of aircraft are strongly influenced by gravity (and/or acceleration); thus, exploring how the mechanical behaviors of such structures are affected by gravitational field is necessary. Built upon a zigzag displacement model, this study establishes a three-dimensional vibration theory for ultralight cellular-cored sandwich plates subjected to linearly varying in-plane distributed loads (due to, e.g., hyper gravity or acceleration), with the cross-section rotation angle induced by face sheet shearing accounted for. For selected boundary conditions, the theory enables quantifying the influence of core type (e.g., close-celled metal foams, triangular corrugated metal plates, and metal hexagonal honeycombs) on fundamental frequencies of the sandwich plates. For validation, three-dimensional finite element simulations are carried out, with good agreement achieved between theoretical predictions and simulation results. The validated theory is subsequently employed to evaluate how the geometric parameters of metal sandwich core and the mixture of metal cores and composite face sheets influence the fundamental frequencies. Triangular corrugated sandwich plate possesses the highest fundamental frequency, irrespective of boundary conditions. For each type of sandwich plate considered, the presence of in-plane distributed loads significantly affects its fundamental frequencies and modal shapes.
Coral Lipidome: Molecular Species of Phospholipids, Glycolipids, Betaine Lipids, and Sphingophosphonolipids
Authors: Sikorskaya Tatyana V.
Published: May 2023

Coral reefs are the most biodiversity-rich ecosystems in the world’s oceans. Coral establishes complex interactions with various microorganisms that constitute an important part of the coral holobiont. The best-known coral endosymbionts are Symbiodiniaceae dinoflagellates. Each member of the coral microbiome contributes to its total lipidome, which integrates many molecular species. The present study summarizes available information on the molecular species of the plasma membrane lipids of the coral host and its dinoflagellates (phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylinositol (PI), ceramideaminoethylphosphonate, and diacylglyceryl-3-O-carboxyhydroxymethylcholine), and the thylakoid membrane lipids of dinoflagellates (phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and glycolipids). Alkyl chains of PC and PE molecular species differ between tropical and cold-water coral species, and features of their acyl chains depend on the coral’s taxonomic position. PS and PI structural features are associated with the presence of an exoskeleton in the corals. The dinoflagellate thermosensitivity affects the profiles of PG and glycolipid molecular species, which can be modified by the coral host. Coral microbiome members, such as bacteria and fungi, can also be the source of the alkyl and acyl chains of coral membrane lipids. The lipidomics approach, providing broader and more detailed information about coral lipid composition, opens up new opportunities in the study of biochemistry and ecology of corals.
How Can Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) Data Collection in Slovenia Be Improved?
Authors: Petravić Luka , Burger Evgenija , Keše Urša , Kulovec Domen , Miklič Rok , Poljanšek Eva , Tomšič Gašper , Pintarič Tilen , Lopes Miguel Faria , Turnšek Ema , Strnad Matej
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has been established as a significant contributor to mortality rates in developed nations. Due to the challenges associated with conducting controlled randomized trials, there exists a necessity for the collection of high-quality data to enhance the comprehension of the impact of interventions. Several nations have initiated efforts to gather information pertaining to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The Republic of Slovenia has been collecting data from interventions; however, the variables and data attributes have not yet been standardized to comply with international standards. This lack of conformity poses a challenge in making comparisons or drawing inferences. The aim of this study is to identify how to better gather OHCA data in Slovenia. Materials and methods: The Utstein resuscitation registry protocol (UP) was compared to the Slovenian data points that must be gathered in accordance with the Rules on Emergency Medical Service (REMS) during interventions. In addition, we have proposed alternative measures of digitization to enhance pre-hospital data. Results: Missing data points and attribute mismatches were detected in Slovenia. Eight data points necessitated by the UP are gathered in several databases (hospitals, the National Institute of Public Health, dispatch services, intervention reports from first responders, and defibrillator files), but not in the mandated protocols based on REMS. Two data points have variables that do not match those of the UP. A total of 16 data points according to UP are currently not being collected in Slovenia. The advantages and potential drawbacks of digitizing emergency medical services have been discussed. Conclusions: The study has identified gaps in the methods employed for collecting data on OHCA in Slovenia. The assessment conducted serves as a basis for enhancing the process of data collection, integrating quality control measures across the nation, and establishing a nationwide registry for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in Slovenia.
Effects of Uncertainty, Appraisal of Uncertainty, and Self-Efficacy on the Quality of Life of Elderly Patients with Lung Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy: Based on Mishel’s Theory of Uncertainty
Authors: Hwang Min-Kyung , Kim Hee-Kyung , Lee Ki-Hyeong
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to enhance the quality of life in elderly patients with lung cancer by understanding relations of uncertainty, appraisal of uncertainty, self-efficacy, and quality of life targeting elderly patients with lung cancer receiving anticancer therapy, and also analyzing the factors affecting the quality of life based on Mishel’s theory. Materials and Methods: The subjects were a total of 112 lung cancer patients aged 65 or older receiving anticancer therapy. The data was collected by using self-report questionnaires targeting patients in hemato-oncology at Chungbuk National University Hospital. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, a t-test, an analysis of variance, Pearson’s correlational coefficients, and hierarchical regression analysis. Results: In stage 1, anticancer therapy (chemotherapy) (β = −0.34, p < 0.001), economic condition (low) (β = −0.30, p < 0.001), the number of anticancer therapies (three times or more) (β = −0.29, p < 0.001), and education (graduation from high school or higher) (β = 0.18, p = 0.033) were influencing factors (F = 0.52, p < 0.001). In stage 2, self-efficacy (β = 0.41, p < 0.001), appraisal of uncertainty: danger (β = −0.29, p < 0.001), appraisal of uncertainty: opportunity (β = 0.18, p = 0.018), the number of anticancer therapies (three times or more) (β = −0.17, p = 0.006), and anticancer therapy (chemotherapy) (β = −0.14, p = 0.031) were influencing factors, which showed 74.2% explanatory power (F = 26.17, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In order to improve the quality of life of subjects, it would be necessary to develop interventions for raising their self-efficacy by considering their degree of education, economic condition, the types and numbers of anticancer therapies, and understanding of the appraisal of uncertainty about the disease is assessed as an opportunity factor or a danger factor.
Synthesis of Low-Crystalline MnO2/MXene Composites for Capacitive Deionization with Efficient Desalination Capacity
Authors: Sun Zhumei , Peng Jun , Yang Shu , Jin Riya , Liu Changcheng , Huang Que
Published: May 2023

MXene has drawn widespread attention as a potential material for electrode use in capacitive deionization (CDI). However, the applications of MXene are limited by its property of low electrical capacity. Herein, a MnO2/MXene composite was firstly evaluated in a capacitive deionization system, in which the MnO2 acts as intercalation-type pseudocapacitive electrodes to enhance the electrical capacity, and MXene provides an electron conduction highway network that improves the charge transfer of the MnO2. The result showed that the low-crystallinity MnO2 with irregular particles was well-distributed on the surface of the MXene. The desalination capacity of 30.5 mg·g−1 is achieved at a voltage window of 1.2 V, which was higher than that of the reported pure MXene and MnO2. The electrical double-layer (EDL) capacitive and the diffusion-controlled processes are the main charge storage mechanisms, and the EDL contribution provides 50.3% to the total capacitance. This result suggests a promising direction for further applying a MnO2/MXene composite in CDI.
Quantifying Co-Deformation Effects in Metallic Laminates by Loading–Unloading–Reloading Tensile Tests
Authors: Pohl Philip Manuel , Kuglstatter Moritz , Göken Mathias , Höppel Heinz Werner
Published: May 2023

Heterostructured materials such as metallic laminates (LMCs) can be specifically tailored to showcase significantly increased mechanical behavior based on the hetero-deformation-induced (HDI) strengthening effect caused by the co-deformation at the vicinity of interfaces. This study introduces a new approach to quantify these co-deformation effects in metallic laminates by characterizing the behavior of inelastic back strain upon unloading. Experimentally, the inelastic back strain (IBS) is determined by cyclic loading–unloading–reloading (LUR) tensile tests. Compared to a linear rule of mixture (ROM) approximation used as a reference, additional amounts of inelastic back strain were measured for different metallic laminate systems, strongly depending on the dissimilarities of yield strength and elastic moduli of constituents and the interface density in the laminates. Conducting finite element analysis, the distribution of residual plastic strain was investigated for the different metallic laminates used in this study. Based on this, a schematic overview of the spatial distribution of the hetero-deformation zone for metallic laminates with dissimilar yield strength and elastic moduli is derived, summarizing the results of this study. As most mechanical components are subject to cyclic stresses during the application, the method provided in this study to characterize the co-deformation behavior of metallic laminates in the microyielding regime enables valuable insights into mechanisms affecting the cyclic deformation behavior of metallic laminates for future applications.
The Influence of 1 wt.% Cr on the Corrosion Resistance of Low-Alloy Steel in Marine Environments
Authors: Gao Jianzhuo , Wang Ningxi , Chen Hui , Xu Xuexu
Published: May 2023

In this study, the effects of 1 wt.% Cr addition on the corrosion behavior and mechanisms of low-alloy structural steel in a marine environment were investigated through immersion experiments, corrosion product analysis, and electrochemical experimental systems. The results demonstrate that the addition of 1 wt.% Cr significantly enhances the corrosion resistance of low-alloy steel in marine environments. The influence of Cr addition on the corrosion product layer was analyzed through rust layer morphology, cross-sectional morphology, elemental distribution, and electrochemical systems. Cr addition effectively promotes the densification of the corrosion product layer on the surface of low-alloy steel in marine environments, hindering the penetration of corrosive ions and thus improving corrosion resistance. This study’s findings can promote the optimization of corrosion resistance in low-alloy steel in marine environments and enhance its application prospects in marine environments.
Investigation of Copper–Carbon Composite Microstructure and Properties
Authors: Bobrynina Elizaveta , Koltsova Tatiana , Larionova Tatiana
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a study of microstructures and properties of pure copper and copper–fullerene-soot (Cu-FS) composite materials produced by mechanical milling followed by hot pressing. The electrochemical etching method was successfully applied to reveal the fragmented structure of the specimens produced by high-energy ball milling. It is shown the carbon nanoparticles are involved in the composite microstructure formation. Copper–fullerene-soot composite materials have a complex microstructure with a bimodal grain distribution. Both recrystallized (average 3 μm) and polygonized (155 nm) grains are observed in the microstructure. Thus, in the case of pure copper, due to the absence of carbon nanoparticles, only recrystallized grains are observed in the microstructure. The Cu-FS composite has a hardness up to 160 HV and thermal stability up to 700 °C.
Spatial-Time Inhomogeneity Due to the Portevin-Le Chatelier Effect Depending on Stiffness
Authors: Tretyakova Tatyana , Tretyakov Mikhail
Published: May 2023

This work is devoted to the study of the influence of the rigidity of the loading system on the kinetics of the initiation and propagation of the Portevin-Le Chatelier (PLC) strain bands due to the jerky flow in Al-Mg alloy. To estimate the influence of the loading system, the original loading attachment, which allows reducing the stiffness in a given range, was used. Registration of displacement and strain fields on the specimen surface was carried out with the Vic-3D non-contacting deformation measurement system based on the Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique. The mechanical uniaxial tension tests were carried out using samples of Al-Mg alloy at the biaxial servo-hydraulic testing system Instron 8850. As a result of tensile tests, deformation diagrams were obtained for Al-Mg alloy samples tested at different values of stiffness of the loading system: 120 MN/m (nominal value), 50 MN/m, 18 MN/m, and 5 MN/m. All diagrams show discontinuous plastic deformations (the Portevin-Le Chatelier effect). It is noted that a decrease in the rigidity of the loading system leads to a change in the type of jerky flow. At constant parameters of the loading rate, temperature, and chemical composition of the material, the PLC effects of types A, B, and C are recorded in tests.
An Arrhythmia Classification Model Based on Vision Transformer with Deformable Attention
Authors: Dong Yanfang , Zhang Miao , Qiu Lishen , Wang Lirong , Yu Yong
Published: May 2023

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a highly effective non-invasive tool for monitoring heart activity and diagnosing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Automatic detection of arrhythmia based on ECG plays a critical role in the early prevention and diagnosis of CVDs. In recent years, numerous studies have focused on using deep learning methods to address arrhythmia classification problems. However, the transformer-based neural network in current research still has a limited performance in detecting arrhythmias for the multi-lead ECG. In this study, we propose an end-to-end multi-label arrhythmia classification model for the 12-lead ECG with varied-length recordings. Our model, called CNN-DVIT, is based on a combination of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with depthwise separable convolution, and a vision transformer structure with deformable attention. Specifically, we introduce the spatial pyramid pooling layer to accept varied-length ECG signals. Experimental results show that our model achieved an F1 score of 82.9% in CPSC-2018. Notably, our CNN-DVIT outperforms the latest transformer-based ECG classification algorithms. Furthermore, ablation experiments reveal that the deformable multi-head attention and depthwise separable convolution are both efficient in extracting features from multi-lead ECG signals for diagnosis. The CNN-DVIT achieved good performance for the automatic arrhythmia detection of ECG signals. This indicates that our research can assist doctors in clinical ECG analysis, providing important support for the diagnosis of arrhythmia and contributing to the development of computer-aided diagnosis technology.
The Effect of 3D Printing Tilt Angle on the Penetration of 3D-Printed Microneedle Arrays
Authors: Razzaghi Mahmood , Akbari Mohsen
Published: May 2023

Microneedle arrays (MNAs) are emerging devices that are mainly used for drug delivery and diagnostic applications through the skin. Different methods have been used to fabricate MNAs. Recently developed fabrication methods based on 3D printing have many advantages compared to conventional fabrication methods, such as faster fabrication in one step and the ability to fabricate complex structures with precise control over their geometry, form, size, and mechanical and biological properties. Despite the several advantages that 3D printing offers for the fabrication of microneedles, their poor penetration capability into the skin should be improved. MNAs need a sharp needle tip to penetrate the skin barrier layer, the stratum corneum (SC). This article presents a method to improve the penetration of 3D-printed microneedle arrays by investigating the effect of the printing angle on the penetration force of MNAs. The penetration force needed to puncture the skin for MNAs fabricated using a commercial digital light processing (DLP) printer, with different printing tilt angles (0–60°), was measured in this study. The results showed that the minimum puncture force was achieved using a 45° printing tilt angle. Using this angle, the puncture force was reduced by 38% compared to MNAs printed with a tilting angle of 0°. We also identified that a tip angle of 120° resulted in the smallest penetration force needed to puncture the skin. The outcomes of the research show that the presented method can significantly improve the penetration capability of 3D-printed MNAs into the skin.
Advances in Femtosecond Laser GHz-Burst Drilling of Glasses: Influence of Burst Shape and Duration
Authors: Balage Pierre , Bonamis Guillaume , Lafargue Manon , Guilberteau Théo , Delaigue Martin , Hönninger Clemens , Qiao Jie , Lopez John , Manek-Hönninger Inka
Published: May 2023

The femtosecond GHz-burst mode laser processing has attracted much attention in the last few years. Very recently, the first percussion drilling results obtained in glasses using this new regime were reported. In this study, we present our latest results on top-down drilling in glasses, focusing specifically on the influence of burst duration and shape on the hole drilling rate and the quality of the drilled holes, wherein holes of very high quality with a smooth and glossy inner surface can be obtained. We show that a decreasing energy repartition of the pulses within the burst can increase the drilling rate, but the holes saturate at lower depths and present lower quality than holes drilled with an increasing or flat energy distribution. Moreover, we give an insight into the phenomena that may occur during drilling as a function of the burst shape.
Comparative Analysis of Minimum Chip Thickness, Surface Quality and Burr Formation in Micro-Milling of Wrought and Selective Laser Melted Ti64
Authors: Karakılınç Uçan , Ergene Berkay , Yalçın Bekir , Aslantaş Kubilay , Erçetin Ali
Published: May 2023

Selective laser melting (SLM) is a three-dimensional (3D) printing process that can manufacture functional parts with complex geometries as an alternative to using traditional processes, such as machining wrought metal. If precision and a high surface finish are required, particularly for creating miniature channels or geometries smaller than 1 mm, the fabricated parts can be further machined. Therefore, micro milling plays a significant role in the production of such miniscule geometries. This experimental study compares the micro machinability of Ti-6Al-4V (Ti64) parts produced via SLM compared with wrought Ti64. The aim is to investigate the effect of micro milling parameters on the resulting cutting forces (Fx, Fy, and Fz), surface roughness (Ra and Rz), and burr width. In the study, a wide range of feed rates was considered to determine the minimum chip thickness. Additionally, the effects of the depth of cut and spindle speed were observed by taking into account four different parameters. The manufacturing method for the Ti64 alloy does not affect the minimum chip thickness (MCT) and the MCT for both the SLM and wrought is 1 μm/tooth. SLM parts exhibit acicular α martensitic grains, which result in higher hardness and tensile strength. This phenomenon prolongs the transition zone of micro-milling for the formation of minimum chip thickness. Additionally, the average cutting force values for SLM and wrought Ti64 fluctuated between 0.072 N and 1.96 N, depending on the micro milling parameters used. Finally, it is worth noting that micro-milled SLM workpieces exhibit lower areal surface roughness than wrought ones.