bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small Extracellular Vesicles and Their Involvement in Cancer Resistance: An Up-to-Date Review
Authors: Słomka Artur , Kornek Miroslaw , Cho William C.
Published: September 2022

In recent years, tremendous progress has been made in understanding the roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer. Thanks to advancements in molecular biology, it has been found that the fraction of EVs called exosomes or small EVs (sEVs) modulates the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents by delivering molecularly active non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). An in-depth analysis shows that two main molecular mechanisms are involved in exosomal modified chemoresistance: (1) translational repression of anti-oncogenes by exosomal microRNAs (miRs) and (2) lack of translational repression of oncogenes by sponging of miRs through long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). At the cellular level, these processes increase the proliferation and survival of cancer cells and improve their ability to metastasize and resist apoptosis. In addition, studies in animal models have shown enhancing tumor size under the influence of exosomal ncRNAs. Ultimately, exosomal ncRNAs are responsible for clinically significant chemotherapy failures in patients with different types of cancer. Preliminary data have also revealed that exosomal ncRNAs can overcome chemotherapeutic agent resistance, but the results are thoroughly fragmented. This review presents how exosomes modulate the response of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Understanding how exosomes interfere with chemoresistance may become a milestone in developing new therapeutic options, but more data are still required.
Mast Cell Proteases Promote Diverse Effects on the Plasminogen Activation System and Wound Healing in A549 Alveolar Epithelial Cells
Authors: Mogren Sofia , Berlin Frida , Eskilsson Lykke , Van Der Burg Nicole , Tufvesson Ellen , Andersson Cecilia K.
Published: September 2022

Tissue damage, epithelial alterations, and intraepithelial presence of mast cells (MCs) are characteristics of asthma pathogenesis. Increased alveolar infiltration of MC populations has also been identified as a feature of asthma and other chronic respiratory diseases. The asthma associated receptor, urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), has been shown to regulate bronchial epithelial repair responses. However, the impact of MC tryptase and chymase on functional properties and expression of uPAR in alveolar epithelial cells have not been fully investigated. Alveolar epithelial cell migration and wound healing were investigated using holographic live cell imaging of A549 cells in a wound scratch model post stimulation with tryptase or chymase. The expression of uPAR was investigated on the protein and gene level from cellular supernatants and in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid fractions from allergic asthmatics. We found that tryptase improved wound healing capacity, cellular migration and membrane bound uPAR expression. Chymase reduced gap closure capacity, cellular migration and membrane bound uPAR expression but increased soluble uPAR release. Our data suggest a dual regulatory response from the MC proteases in events related to uPAR expression and wound healing which could be important features in asthmatic disease.
Sorption-Assisted Ultrafiltration Hybrid Method for Treatment of the Radioactive Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Fuks Leon , Miśkiewicz Agnieszka , Zakrzewska-Kołtuniewicz Grażyna
Published: September 2022

The paper presents results of studies on the possibility of using the ultrafiltration method supported by sorption on low-cost, easily accessible aluminosilicates to purify water contaminated with radionuclides. An aqueous solution contaminated with radionuclides in the form of cations at different oxidation states—Cs(I)-137, Co(II)-60 and Am(III)-241—as well as pertechnetate anions—TcO4−-99m—was treated by the proposed hybrid method. In the presented work, the influence of the important process parameters (i.e., pH, sorbent dosage, temperature and feed flow rate) on the removal efficiency of radionuclides was studied. The obtained results showed that hazardous impurities, both in the form of cations and anions, may be effectively removed from water by the application of sorption-assisted UF (SAUF) using the clay-salt slimes as a sorbent. As a final stage of the work, we treated the simulated liquid radioactive waste using the SAUF method, also showing satisfactory results in its purification efficiency.
Mo2C-Based Microfluidic Gas Sensor Detects SF6 Decomposition Components: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Liu Li , Zhang Guozhi , Wang Zengting , Yuan Jiawei , Tan Senyuan , Li Yi
Published: September 2022

Mo2C is a two-dimensional material with high electrical conductivity, low power consumption, and catalytic effect, which has promising applications in the field of microfluidic gas detection. First principles were used to study the adsorption characteristics of Mo2C monolayer on four typical decomposition gases of SF6 (H2S, SO2, SOF2, and SO2F2), and to explore the feasibility of its application in the detection of SF6 decomposition components. The results showed that Mo2C chemisorbed all four gases, and the adsorption capacity was H2S < SO2 < SOF2 < SO2F2. The adsorption mechanism of Mo2C as a microfluidic sensor was analyzed in combination with its charge-density difference and density of states. On the other hand, the different work-function change trends after adsorbing gases provide the possibility for Mo2C to selectively detect gases as a low-power field-effect transistor sensor. All content can be used as theoretical guidance in the realization of Mo2C as a gas-sensitive material for the detection of SF6 decomposition components.
Effects of Viscosity and Salt Interference for Planar Iridium Oxide and Silver Chloride pH Sensing Electrodes on Flexible Substrate
Authors: Chawang Khengdauliu , Bing Sen , Chiao Jung-Chih
Published: September 2022

The equivalency of pH measurements between aqueous and non-aqueous or viscous solutions is of great interest in biomedical applications as well for processing food and pharmaceuticals. Commercial glass-type electrodes have practical limitations, such as bulky sizes and membrane clogging in viscous environments. In this study, planar and flexible electrochemical pH sensors with iridium oxide as the sensing film have been developed by sol-gel and oxidation processes. A reference electrode was prepared by screen printing Ag/AgCl ink on the same polyimide substrate. The small form factors of the planar flexible electrodes provide an advantage in small volume or conformal surface measurements. Cyclic voltammetry was performed in different pH solutions. The electrode originally produced a response of −70.1 mV/pH at room temperature in aqueous solutions. The sensitivities were reduced when salt was added into the buffer solutions, although output potentials were increased. Sensing performances in a wide range of viscous conditions with various concentrations of added salt have been analyzed to study their effects on pH-sensing responses. Suitable calibration techniques using aqueous buffer solutions were studied for output potentials and their respective pH readings in viscous salt-added solutions. The mechanisms affecting output potentials are explained and results matched well for two different thickening agents. Specificity to pH changes measured by the planar IrOx-Ag/AgCl pH electrodes showed how the potential-pH calibration should consider the interference effect of salt. The viscosity effects on pH reading errors became more pronounced as solution viscosity increased. Comparisons of pH readings to those from a commercial glass-bodied pH meter indicated that the planar electrodes provided predictable pH deviations that were confined to a limited range. The planar IrOx-Ag/AgCl electrodes on flexible polyimide substrates have mostly been demonstrated with aqueous solutions in various diagnostic and environmental monitoring applications. This work provides more insights into pH sensing performance when the fluid is viscous and contains salt, which often is the case in biomedical and food-processing applications.
The Effect of Obesity on Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide in School-Aged Children
Authors: Barański Kamil , Kocot Krzysztof
Published: September 2022

Background: Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is recognized as a biomarker of eosinophilic inflammation. Current literature shows evidence that FeNO is influenced by many factors. Obesity is a chronic inflammatory state. In this study, we considered obesity as a potential factor that influences FeNO levels. The aim of the study was to analyze the association between body mass index (BMI, body mass (kg)/height (m)2) and FeNO levels in a young group of children. Methods: The participants in the study were 506 school-aged children who were randomly selected from primary schools located in Silesian Voivodship (Poland). The modified version of the Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire was used to assess the respiratory system status of children. FeNO was measured in 447 children according to European Respiratory Society and America Thoracic Society (ERS/ATS) recommendations. Body mass and height were measured by a medical body composition analyzer. BMI was defined and interpreted with Palczewska’s percentile charts. Results: In the study group there were 49.9% (n = 223) boys and 50.1% (n = 224) girls. The frequency of normal BMI was 76.8% (n = 172), overweight 13.7% (n = 31) and obesity 9.4% (n = 21) in girls, while the normal BMI was found in 71.3% (n = 159), overweight 11.6% (n = 26) and obesity 17% (n = 38) in boys, the differences not statistically significant (p = 0.05). The mean FeNO value in children with obesity was 16.1 ± 12.5 ppb, in children with normal BMI 15.8 ± 15.5 ppb and the lowest FeNO values were in children with overweight 15.3 ± 13.0 ppb; p = 0.9. The FeNO values after adjusting for age, sex, BMI and symptoms from respiratory system were depended on age and respiratory symptoms only. Conclusions: In 6–9 year old school children, FeNO levels are associated with age and health in relation to the respiratory system. The BMI should not be included when considering reference values for FeNO.
Individual, Maternal, Household, and Community Level Variability in Determining Inequalities in Childhood Anaemia within Ethiopia: Four-Level Multilevel Analysis Approach
Authors: Kuse Kenenisa Abdisa , Jima Demie Seyoum , Chikako Teshita Uke , Hagan John Elvis , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Aboagye Richard Gyan , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku
Published: September 2022

Background: Childhood anaemia is a major public health issue necessitating rapid attention due to its debilitating consequences on the child, family, and society. Previous studies have assessed the prevalence and contributing factors to childhood anaemia in many developing countries. Yet, little is known about the factors that contribute to childhood anaemia in Ethiopia. The study examined the factors associated with inequalities of childhood anaemia in Ethiopia. Methods: Data for the study were extracted from the 2016 Demographic and Health Survey of Ethiopia. A total of 7960 children were considered in the final study. Bivariate and multilevel ordinal logistic regression analyses were used to estimate determinants of inequalities of childhood anaemia status. Results: Overall, the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe anaemia among the children were 24.5%, 28.4%, and 2.2%, respectively. The child’s age (in months), sex of the child, preceding birth interval (in months), mother’s educational level, antenatal care visit, wealth index of mothers, source of drinking water, type of toilet facility, place of residence, and region were significantly associated with childhood anaemia. The multilevel random coefficient model found that there is a variation of childhood anaemia among women (intra-cluster correlation [ICC] = 15.06%), households (ICC = 15.6%), and communities (ICC = 14.22%) in Ethiopia. Conclusions: This study showed that anaemia is common among Ethiopian children. Factors found to be associated with childhood anaemia were the sociodemographic characteristics of the child and their mothers. We recommend that existing programs and interventions to prevent and reduce childhood anaemia be strengthened. Moreover, a targeted intervention includes deworming, intensified year-round behavior change communication campaigns and testing using digital methods, and point-of-care treatment.
Oral Care Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Black/African American Caregivers of Autistic Children and Non-Autistic Children
Authors: Como Dominique H. , Floríndez-Cox Lucía I. , Stein Duker Leah I. , Polido Jose C. , Jones Brandi P. , Lawlor Mary , Cermak Sharon A.
Published: September 2022

Oral health is a vital component of overall health. Children from underserved, minoritized populations (i.e., Black/African Americans, autistic children) are at even greater risk for experiencing oral health disparities. This study aims to illuminate the oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Black/African American caregivers of autistic and non-autistic children. Black/African American caregivers of children (4-to-14 years) on the autism spectrum (n = 65) or not on the autism spectrum (n = 60), participated in a survey, with input from literature reviews, interviews, previous research, and reviews by experts. Caregivers demonstrated basic knowledge of oral health with significantly lower scores for caregivers of autistic children. Caregivers care about oral health and would like to increase their knowledge. Significant differences in oral care practices were found between the autistic and non-autistic groups. Caregivers reported they can access dental services with relative ease, including finding their child a dentist, scheduling a dental appointment, and accessing transportation (personal or public) to attend the visit. Black/African American caregivers of autistic children and children without autism seem to have foundational knowledge about oral health and basic practices; however, they are interested in learning more. Therefore, tailored oral health education programs may help mitigate oral health disparities for Black/African American families.
Inhibitory Activity of Quaternary Isoquinoline Alkaloids on Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase
Authors: Kim Jang Hoon , Cho Chong Woon , Hur Mok , Park Woo Tae , Moon Youn-Ho , Koo Sung-Cheol , Hur Yun-Chan , Kang Jong Seong , Lee Ik Soo
Published: September 2022

The quaternary isoquinoline alkaloids of palmatine (1), berberine (2), and jatrorrhizine (3) were evaluated in terms of their ability to inhibit soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). They had similar inhibitory activities, with IC50 values of 29.6 ± 0.5, 33.4 ± 0.8, and 27.3 ± 0.4 μM, respectively. Their respective Ki values of 26.9, 46.8, and 44.5 μM—determined by enzyme kinetics—indicated that they inhibited the catalytic reaction by binding noncompetitively with sEH. The application of computational chemistry to the in vitro results revealed the site of the receptor to which the ligand would likely bind. Accordingly, three alkaloids were identified as having a suitable basic skeleton for lead compound development of sEH inhibitors.
Curious Corrosion Compounds Caused by Contact: A Review of Glass-Induced Metal Corrosion on Museum Exhibits (GIMME)
Authors: Eggert Gerhard , Fischer Andrea
Published: September 2022

Many heritage objects consist of glass in contact with metals. By ion exchange with absorbed water, alkaline aqueous films are formed on the glass surface. They contain sodium and/or potassium, hydroxide, and carbonate (uptake of carbon dioxide) ions. These electrolytes induce corrosion while in contact with metal. Surprisingly, this phenomenon has only been realised by research in Stuttgart in the last two decades. About 350 affected objects were detected in the meantime in a number of heritage collections. Because of the special electrolytes, unusual corrosion products are often formed. The unknown structure and formula of three of them could be determined by modern X-ray powder diffraction data evaluation. One example is the basic potassium lead carbonate, KOH‧2PbCO3, detected on a pewter lid of a glass jug. The sodium analogon of already known structure was found in hollow glass balls mirrored on the inside with molten lead. Chalconatronite, Na2[Cu(CO3)2]‧3H2O, is known as a corrosion product of copper alloys in contact with soda solutions (here: from glass degradation). Exposed to acetic acid emissions (e.g., from wood), it transforms to a sodium copper acetate carbonate of hitherto undetermined structure. The ubiquitous pollutant formaldehyde reacts directly to formate in the alkaline medium provided by glass degradation. On copper alloys in contact with glass, formates are, therefore, frequent: Na4Cu4O(HCOO)8(OH)2‧4H2O in 50% of all cases and in 33% Cu2(HCOO)(OH)3. Zinc (from brass) forms Zn(HCOO)2‧2H2O and Zn4Cu3(Zn1−xCux)6(HCOO)8 (OH)18·6H2O. There are a number of other corrosion products, e.g., containing zinc and carboxylates awaiting further characterisation. Preventive conservation needs to slow down corrosion by dry storage (not lower than 35% rH). Pollutants need to be avoided by careful selection of materials for storage, display, and conservation.
Dynamics of Colloidal Mixture of Cu-Al2O3/Water in an Inclined Porous Channel Due to Mixed Convection: Significance of Entropy Generation
Authors: Cimpean Dalia Sabina
Published: September 2022

The unavailability of energy has become a major challenge to industry in the last years, as an important percentage of the generated energy is dissipated as heat in transport. Since heat transfer processes are irreversible, the role of entropy generation minimization in nanofluid flow and heat transfer cannot be neglected. The present paper was dedicated to the study of entropy generation for the problem of steady mixed-convection flow in a porous inclined channel filled with a hybrid nanofluid (Cu-Al2O3/water). A symmetrical uniform heat flux was considered at the walls and a constant flow rate was given through the channel. The mathematical model, consisting of a system of equations with given boundary conditions, was transformed in terms of dimensionless variables and the proposed analytical solution was found to be valid for all the cases of the inclined channel. The solution was validated by comparison with previously published results. The behavior of the velocity and temperature of the hybrid nanofluid were studied together with the entropy generation inside the channel by considering the influence of different important parameters, such as the nanoparticle volume fraction, the mixed-convection parameter and the inclination angle of the channel from horizontal. The results were focused to prevent the dissipation of energy by calculating the maximum thermal advantage at a minimum entropy generation in the system.
The Suitability of Photocatalyst Precursor Materials in Geopolymer Coating Applications: A Review
Authors: Jamaludin Liyana , Razak Rafiza Abd , Abdullah Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri , Vizureanu Petrica , Bras Ana , Imjai Thanongsak , Sandu Andrei Victor , Abd Rahim Shayfull Zamree , Yong Heah Cheng
Published: September 2022

Today, the building and construction sector demands environmentally friendly and sustainable protective coatings using inorganic coating materials for safe, non-hazardous, and great performance. Many researchers have been working on sustainable solutions to protect concrete and metal infrastructures against corrosion and surface deterioration with the intention of introducing green alternatives to conventional coatings. This article presents a review of developments of geopolymer pastes doped with different types of photocatalyst precursors including factors affecting geopolymer properties for enhancing coating with photocatalytic performance. Photodegradation using geopolymer photocatalyst has great potential for resolving harmless substances and removing pollutants when energized with ultraviolet (UV) light. Although geopolymer is a potentially new material with great properties, there has been less research focusing on the development of this coating. This study demonstrated that geopolymer binders are ideal precursor support materials for the synthesis of photocatalytic materials, with a significant potential for optimizing their distinctive properties.
Gold Nanoparticles Decorated Titanium Oxide Nanotubes with Enhanced Antibacterial Activity Driven by Photocatalytic Memory Effect
Authors: Zhu Hongqin , Tan Ji , Qiu Jiajun , Wang Donghui , Zhao Zhe , Lu Zihan , Huang Gaoshan , Liu Xuanyong , Mei Yongfeng
Published: September 2022

Titanium and its alloys have been widely used for orthopedic and dental implants. However, implant failures often occur due to the implant-related bacterial infections. Herein, titanium oxide nanotubes (TNTs) with an average diameter of 75 nm were formed by anodizing on the surface of titanium, and subsequently gold (Au) nanoparticles were deposited on TNTs by magnetron sputtering (Au@TNTs). The antibacterial study shows that TNTs surface decorated with Au nanoparticles exhibits the preferable effect in restricting the growth of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) even under dark conditions, and the antibacterial rates reached 84% and 75%, respectively. In addition, the constructed film showed no cytotoxicity. Such a selective bactericidal effect of Au@TNTs samples might be attributed to the photocatalytic memory effect, which provides a new insight in the designing of antibacterial surfaces for biomedical application.
Study of the Machining Process of GFRP Materials by Milling Technology with Coated Tools
Authors: Knap Artur , Dvořáčková Štěpánka , Knápek Tomáš
Published: September 2022

Glass fibers are often used as reinforcing fibers in reinforced polymers. Composites reinforced with glass fibers (GFRP) stand out with excellent mechanical and physical properties applicable to industrial practice. Machining these composites requires the correct choice of tools and cutting conditions so that the machined surface shows good properties, there is no fiber delamination, thermal stress on the workpiece and the tool, or excessive tool wear. The study was devoted to circumferential milling of fabric-bonded GFRP plates, in which attention was paid to the influence of the abrasive effect of glass fibers on wear and tool life. Attention was also paid to surface roughness after machining, material delamination, and forces during machining were measured. Three end mills of the same diameter with different coatings, number of teeth, and geometry were selected for the study. This choice of tools was intended to achieve various accompanying and subsequent phenomena that were investigated. Milling was performed on a CNC milling center under preselected cutting conditions. The paper summarizes information on fiber delamination and machined laminate damage after milling, tool wear, and surface roughness parameters as a function of tool wear. This paper provides an opportunity for researchers to increase their knowledge of specific aspects of milling GFRP composites, whether with a tool specifically designed for this or not.
Experimental Study on Shear Performance of Post-Tensioning Prestressed Concrete Beams with Locally Corroded Steel Strands
Authors: Yang Rihua , Yang Yiming , Liu Peng , Wang Xinzhong
Published: September 2022

To study the effect of the local corrosion of prestressed steel strands on the shear failure mode and shear bearing capacity of concrete beams, unilateral steel strands in four post-tensioning prestressed concrete (PC) beams are corroded, and the shear test of four PC beams are performed. Moreover, a simplified calculation method for the shear bearing capacity of concrete beams with diagonal steel bars is proposed considering the effect of cross-sectional reduction of steel bars, the degradation of mechanical properties, and the cross-sectional damage of concrete. Results shows that the crack propagation mode and failure mode are unrelated to the corrosion of prestressed steel bars when the shear span ratio of beam is the same. The shear capacity of the beam decreases with the increase of corrosion rate, but the decreasing rate is lower than the increasing rate of the corrosion rate. The growth rate of stirrup stress is much greater than that of load after concrete tension and compression loss cracking, and the yield of stirrup can be used as a sign of the ultimate bearing capacity of the beam. In addition, by comparing the experimental and numerical simulation results, the proposed simplified calculation method for the shear bearing capacity of concrete beams is of high accuracy.
Advanced Materials for High Biocompatible Hydrogel System
Authors: Li Guanlin , Zhao Zheng
Published: September 2022

Hydrogels are gels with water as the dispersion medium and three-dimensional porous polymer networks cross-linked chemically or physically [...]
Effect of the Location of Broken Wires on Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipes under Working Pressure
Authors: Zhang Zhu , Li Tongchun , Zhao Lanhao , Qi Huijun
Published: September 2022

The precise analysis of the overall mechanical performance of prestressed concrete cylinder pipes (PCCPs) with broken wires is a complicated problem. In this article, powerful finite element numerical means are applied to solve this problem. Firstly, the advantages and shortcomings of the current prestress simulation methods in the finite element analysis (FEA) literature are discussed, and the initial stress method based on a novel single-spring joint element method to model the pre-stress of wires is proposed. Then, different distributions of broken zones, including random broken distributions, are developed for two typical PCCP pipes with different wire-wrapped layers. The established nonlinear FEA model considers actual service processes such as manufacturing, installation and operation to investigate the mechanical behavior of two typical PCCP pipes with different breakage distribution regions and breakage ratios, and in particular, the overall mechanical behavior of a pipe with random breakage is determined first. To verify the accuracy of the proposed pre-stress simulation method and the established nonlinear finite element model, the overall mechanical response of a pipe before wires broke is compared with the results obtained via the specifications. The computed results under the corresponding breakage assumptions are consistent with the conclusions in the existing literature, providing important guidance for pipeline management and operation.
BER Aided Energy and Spectral Efficiency Estimation in a Heterogeneous Network
Authors: Musovic Jasmin , Lipovac Adriana , Lipovac Vlatko
Published: September 2022

In this work, we adopt the analysis of a heterogeneous cellular network by means of stochastic geometry, to estimate energy and spectral network efficiency. More specifically, it has been the widely spread experience that practical field assessment of the Signal-to-Noise and Interference Ratio (SINR), being the key physical-layer performance indicator, involves quite sophisticated test instrumentation that is not always available outside the lab environment. So, in this regard, we present here a simpler test model coming out of the much easier-to-measure Bit Error Rate (BER), as the latter can deteriorate due to various impairments regarded here as equivalent with additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) abstracting (in terms of equal BER degradation) any actual non-AWGN impairment. We validated the derived analytical model for heterogeneous two-tier networks by means of an ns3 simulator, as it provided the test results that fit well to the analytically estimated corresponding ones, both indicating that small cells enable better energy and spectral efficiencies than the larger-cell networks.
Measuring Impact of Dependency Injection on Software Maintainability
Authors: Sun Peter , Kim Dae-Kyoo , Ming Hua , Lu Lunjin
Published: September 2022

Dependency injection (DI) is generally known to improve maintainability by keeping application classes separate from the library. Particularly within the Java environment, there are many applications using the principles of DI with the aim to improve maintainability. There exists some work that provides an inference on the impact of DI on maintainability, but no conclusive evidence is provided. The fact that there are no publicly available tools for quantifying DI makes such evidence more difficult to be produced. In this paper, we propose two novel metrics, dependency injection-weighted afferent couplings (DCE) and dependency injection-weighted coupling between objects (DCBO), to measure the proportion of DI in a project based on weighted couplings. We describe how DCBO can serve as a more meaningful metric in assessing maintainability when DI is also considered. The metric is implemented in the CKJM-Analyzer, an extension of the CKJM tool to perform static analysis on DI detection. We discuss the algorithmic approach behind the static analysis and prove the soundness of the tool using a set of open-source Java projects.
Effect of Annealing Time on Structure, Morphology, and Optical Properties of Nanostructured CdO Thin Films Prepared by CBD Technique
Authors: Kadhim Khalid Ridha , Mohammed Raghad Y.
Published: September 2022

Nanostructured cadmium oxide (CdO) thin films were deposited onto glass substrates using the chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique. Different deposition parameters such as deposition time, bath temperature, pH, and CdSO4 concentration have been considered to specify the optimum conditions to obtain uniform and well-adherent thin films. The thin films prepared under these optimum conditions were annealed for different times (20, 40, and 60 min) at 300 °C, where no previous studies had been done to study the effect of annealing time. The XRD analysis showed that the as-deposited film is Cd(OH)2 with a hexagonal phase. While all the annealed films are CdO with a cubic phase. The crystallite size increases with the annealing time. However, the strain, dislocation density, and the number of crystallites were found to be decreased with annealing time. SEM images of annealed films showed a spherical nanoparticle with an average of particle size 80–46 nm. EDX analysis revealed that the ratio of cadmium to oxygen increases with increasing the annealing time to 40 min. The optical characterization shows that the transmittance is in the range of 63–73% and the energy gap is in the range of 2.61–2.56 eV. It has been found that the transmittance increased and the energy gap decreased with the annealing time. The prepared CdO films can be used in photodegradation applications to remove pollutants from water.
A Carbon Black/Polyvinyl Alcohol-Based Composite Thin Film Sensor Integrating Strain and Humidity Sensing Using the Droplet Deposition Method
Authors: Zhang Yiqun , Liu Xiaoyu , Wu Xiaodong , Liu Qi , Wang Zhuqing
Published: September 2022

Carbon black (CB) is a low-cost and excellent conductive material, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a non-conductive material with the advantages of easy processing and high mechanical stability. Here, we report a CB/PVA-based flexible conductive polymer film suitable for small strain detection and humidity detection. Thin film is formed by depositing the CB/PVA dispersion liquid droplets on a cleaned silicon/silicon dioxide (Si/SiO2) substrate. Theoretically, CB/PVA films can be transferred or formed on other substrates, such as polydimethylsiloxane, which have the advantage of flexibility. The droplet deposition method not only enhances the controllability of the film thickness and wastage of materials, but also improves the sensitivity of the prepared film. The electrical conductivity of the CB/PVA composite film and the relationship between the resistance change and strain were measured by the four-point bending method, which showed a good gauge factor of 30 when the strain rate was 0.007%. In addition, the sensor also showed excellent sensing performance and repeatability at humidity levels ranging from 10% to 70% RH. These results demonstrate that the CB/PVA thin film prepared in this work has the advantages of a simple fabrication process, low-cost, multifunctional properties, and high device sensitivity, providing further insights for detecting minor strain and humidity.
Effective Chiral Interactions between Nonchiral Rigid Macromolecules in a Chiral Solvent and the Induced Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Phase
Authors: Osipov Mikhail A. , Merekalov Alexey S.
Published: September 2022

It has been shown that a nonchiral anisotropic macromolecule embedded in a chiral dielectric solvent possesses an effective optical activity proportional to the optical activity of the solvent. As a result, there exists an effective chiral interaction between the macromolecules, which creates a torque acting on the primary axes of the two interacting molecules. A general expression for the effective chiral interaction potential has been derived in terms of the effective polarizability and the effective gyration tensor of the macromolecule in the chiral solvent. Explicit expressions for the components of the effective polarizability and the gyration have been obtained using the model of a hard rod filled with anisotropic dielectric and embedded into the isotropic chiral dielectric medium. The theory predicts the formation of the cholesteric helical structure in the nematic polymer liquid crystal phase induced by a chiral solvent.
Contrasting Effects of Laser Shock Peening on Austenite and Martensite Phase Distribution and Hardness of Nitinol
Authors: Tamiridi Rajesh Dora , Goud Rajendra , Subramaniyan Prabhakaran , Sivaperuman Kalainathan , Subramaniyan Anand Kumar , Charit Indrajit , Gollapudi Srikant
Published: September 2022

Laser shock peening of cold rolled Nitinol was carried out at high power density (7 and 9 GW/cm2) and high overlap ratio (90%). Tensile surface residual stresses were generated in the peened material. An enhancement in surface microhardness from 351 for unpeened material to 375 and 394 VHN for the 7 and 9 GW/cm2 samples, respectively, was also observed. However, at a depth of 50 μm, the hardness of the peened material was lower than that of the as-received material. These contrasting observations were attributed to the change in the austenitic phase fraction brought about by laser interactions.
Influence of Temperature Field Distribution on the Growth of Aluminum Nitride Crystal by Simulation Technology
Authors: Zhang Shengtao , Yuan Wenbo , Fan Guofeng , Li Tie , Zhao Lili
Published: September 2022

During the crystal growth process, the temperature distribution in the reactor plays a decisive role in crystal growth and directly affects the crystal growth rate. In this study, a numerical simulation method was used to model and study the temperature distribution in the PVT AlN crystal reactor. By adjusting the relative position of the heater and the crucible, different temperature field structures are obtained. The effect of different temperature gradients on the decisiveness of the crystal growth and the growth rate is explored and analyzed, and the best scheme is selected. With the help of simulation technology, a 52 mm diameter AlN crystal is successfully prepared with a certain thickness. The results prove the feasibility of the simulation scheme, which is supported by the existing experimental data.
Surgical Treatment of Distal Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Gorji Leva , Beal Eliza W.
Published: September 2022

Distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA) is a rare malignancy arising from the epithelial cells of the distal biliary tract and has a poor prognosis. dCCA is often clinically silent and patients commonly present with locally advanced and/or distant disease. For patients identified with early stage, resectable disease, surgical resection with negative margins remains the only curative treatment strategy available. However, despite appropriate treatment and diligent surveillance, risk of recurrence remains high with nearly 50% of patients experiencing recurrence at 5 years subsequent to surgical resection; therefore, it is prudent to continue to optimize neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies in order to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve overall survival. In this review, we discuss the clinical presentation, workup and surgical treatment of dCCA.
Immunogenic Cell Death Role in Urothelial Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yadollahvandmiandoab Reza , Jalalizadeh Mehrsa , Buosi Keini , Garcia-Perdomo Herney Andrés , Reis Leonardo Oliveira
Published: September 2022

Purpose: Bladder cancer is the 13th most common cause of cancer death with the highest lifetime cost for treatment of all cancers. This scoping review clarifies the available evidence on the role of a novel therapeutic approach called immunogenic cell death (ICD) in urothelial cancer of the bladder. Methods: In accordance with the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute, we searched MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE, CENTRAL databases, and supplemented with manual searches through the conferences, Google scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov for published studies up to April 2022. We included literature that studied molecular mechanisms of ICD and the role of certain danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in generating ICD, safety and efficacy of different ICD inducers, and their contributions in combination with other urothelial cancer treatments. Results: Oncolytic viruses, radiotherapy, certain chemo/chemo radiation therapy combinations, photodynamic therapy, and novel agents were studied as ICD-inducing treatment modalities in the included studies. ICD was observed in vitro (murine or human urothelial carcinoma) in ten studies, eight studies were performed on mouse models (orthotopic or subcutaneous), and five clinical trials assessed patient response to ICD inducing agents. The most common studied DAMPs were Calreticulin, HMGB1, ATP, and Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) 70 and 90, which were either expressed on the cancer cells or released. Conclusion: ICD inducers were able to generate lasting antitumor immune responses with memory formation in animal studies (vaccination effect). In clinical trials these agents generally had low side effects, except for one trial, and could be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatment strategies in urothelial cancer patients.
The American Tribes Anypotactini and Eudiagogini (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) in Eocene of Europe as Indicators of Eocene Climate with Description a New Species
Authors: Legalov Andrei A. , Vasilenko Dmitry V. , Perkovsky Evgeny E.
Published: September 2022

From the modern distribution of the tribes Anypotactini and Eudiagogini (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), it can be assumed that the climate of the late Eocene amber forests was similar to that of the Valdivian temperate forests. A new species, Paonaupactus zosimovichi sp. n. from the tribe Anypotactini of the subfamily Entiminae is described from Late Eocene Rovno amber. It differs from Paonaupactus gracilis by its rarer, decumbent scales on the elytral interstriae, elytral interstriae, which are clearly visible between scales, and its smaller body size. This is the third species of the genus Paonaupactus found in Rovno amber.
Influence of Ethanol on the Acid-Induced Flocculation of Casein Micelles
Authors: Huppertz Thom
Published: September 2022

The influence of ethanol (0–10%, v/v) on the acid-induced flocculation of casein micelles was examined using diffusing wave spectroscopy. For this purpose, samples containing 10% (w/w) reconstituted skim milk powder and 0–10% (v/v) ethanol were acidified with glucono-delta-lactone and acid-induced coagulation was monitored by diffusing wave spectroscopy. The pH at which acid-induced flocculation of the casein micelles commenced (pHf) increased near-linearly with increasing ethanol content, whereas the rate of flocculation was not affected by ethanol. The results are discussed in terms of the steric stabilisation of casein micelles by a polyelectrolyte brush in a medium of high ionic strength. Ethanol-induced increases in pHf are probably primarily due to an ethanol-induced reduction in solvent quality; an ethanol-induced reduction in dissociation of carboxylic acid groups in the brush is likely to contribute.
Artificial Intelligence in Orthopedic Radiography Analysis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chen Kenneth , Stotter Christoph , Klestil Thomas , Nehrer Stefan
Published: September 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine is a rapidly growing field. In orthopedics, the clinical implementations of AI have not yet reached their full potential. Deep learning algorithms have shown promising results in computed radiographs for fracture detection, classification of OA, bone age, as well as automated measurements of the lower extremities. Studies investigating the performance of AI compared to trained human readers often show equal or better results, although human validation is indispensable at the current standards. The objective of this narrative review is to give an overview of AI in medicine and summarize the current applications of AI in orthopedic radiography imaging. Due to the different AI software and study design, it is difficult to find a clear structure in this field. To produce more homogeneous studies, open-source access to AI software codes and a consensus on study design should be aimed for.
Vascular Abnormalities of the Parotid Region: An Uncommon Presentation of a Common Condition—A Case Series
Authors: Nowicki Tomasz K. , Joskowski Michał , Garsta Ewa , Mikaszewski Bogusław
Published: September 2022

A variety of non-neoplastic diseases and benign and malignant lesions may involve parotid glands. In clinical practice, effective diagnosis is crucial to ensure proper treatment and achieve a good therapeutic effect. Unclear anamnesis and short medical history are factors that make diagnosis difficult, especially when cancer should be excluded. We present a case series of four patients who reported to the outpatient clinic with a unilateral nodule in the parotid region. The clinical presentation prevented an unequivocal diagnosis. The suspicion of a neoplastic disease resulted in profound diagnostics, including repeated cytology, ultrasound and magnetic resonance examination. Combining all the acquired information and follow-up, or a histopathologic examination, facilitated the final diagnosis. In all cases, thrombosis was diagnosed. We then analysed the diagnostic process and the associated difficulties. When thrombosis in vascular malformation occurs in the parotid region, it may have an unclear clinical and radiological presentation. Such an image can imitate both benign and malignant tumours. Ambiguous imaging in conjunction with blood cells in cytology should result in the inclusion of thrombosis in vascular malformations in the differential diagnosis.
An Experimental Study of a 3D Bone Position Estimation System Based on Fluoroscopic Images
Authors: Yoshii Yuichi , Iwahashi Yuta , Sashida Satoshi , Shrestha Pragyan , Shishido Hidehiko , Kitahara Itaru , Ishii Tomoo
Published: September 2022

To compare a 3D preoperative planning image and fluoroscopic image, a 3D bone position estimation system that displays 3D images in response to changes in the position of fluoroscopic images was developed. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy of the estimated position of 3D bone images with reference to fluoroscopic images. Bone positions were estimated from reference points on a fluoroscopic image compared with those on a 3D image. The four reference markers positional relationships on the fluoroscopic image were compared with those on the 3D image to evaluate whether a 3D image may be drawn by tracking positional changes in the radius model. Intra-class correlations coefficients for reference marker distances between the fluoroscopic image and 3D image were 0.98–0.99. Average differences between measured values on the fluoroscopic image and 3D bone image for each marker corresponding to the direction of the bone model were 1.1 ± 0.7 mm, 2.4 ± 1.8 mm, 1.4 ± 0.8 mm, and 2.0 ± 1.6 mm in the anterior-posterior view, ulnar side lateral view, posterior-anterior view, and radial side lateral view, respectively. Marker positions were more accurate in the anterior-posterior and posterior-anterior views than in the radial and ulnar side lateral views. This system helps in real-time comparison of dynamic changes in preoperative 3D and intraoperative fluoroscopy images.
Targeted Sequencing of Germline Breast Cancer Susceptibility Genes for Discovering Pathogenic/Likely Pathogenic Variants in the Jakarta Population
Authors: Panigoro Sonar Soni , Paramita Rafika Indah , Siswiandari Kristina Maria , Fadilah Fadilah
Published: September 2022

Germline predisposition plays an important role in breast cancer. Different ethnic populations need respective studies on cancer risks pertinent to germline variants. We aimed to discover the pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants (P/LP-Vs) of germline breast cancer susceptibility genes and to evaluate their correlation with the clinical characteristics in Jakarta populations. The pure DNA was extracted from the blood buffy coat, using reagents from the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit® (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany). The DNA libraries were prepared using the TargetRich™ Hereditary Cancer Panel (Kailos Genetics®, Huntsville, AL, USA). The barcoded DNA libraries were sequenced using the Illumina NextSeq 500 platform. In-house bioinformatics pipelines were used to analyze the gene variants. We identified 35 pathogenic and likely pathogenic (P/LP-Vs) variants (28 frameshift, 5 nonsense, and 2 splice-site variants). The P/LP-Vs group was statistically significantly different in luminal B status (p < 0.05) compared with the non-P/LP-Vs group. The P/LP-Vs found both in BRCA1/2 genes and non-BRCA genes may increase the risk of breast cancer and alter drug responses. The screening of multigene variants is suggested, rather than BRCA testing only. Prior knowledge of the germline variants status is important for optimal breast cancer diagnosis and optimal therapy.
Chronic Endometritis in Infertile Women: Impact of Untreated Disease, Plasma Cell Count and Antibiotic Therapy on IVF Outcome—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vitagliano Amerigo , Laganà Antonio Simone , De Ziegler Dominique , Cicinelli Rossana , Santarsiero Carla Mariaflavia , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Chiantera Vito , Cicinelli Ettore , Marinaccio Marco
Published: September 2022

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the impact of chronic endometritis (CE) and its therapy on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. Additionally, we aim to investigate whether various degrees of CE severity may exert a different effect on IVF outcome. Ongoing-pregnancy rate/live-birth-rate (OPR/LBR), clinical-pregnancy rate (CPR), and miscarriage rate (MR) were calculated. A total number of 4145 patients (from ten studies) were included. Women with CE had lower OPR/LBR (OR 1.97, p = 0.02) and CPR (OR 2.28, p = 0.002) compared to those without CE. CE cure increased OPR/LBR (OR 5.33, p < 0.0001) and CPR (OR 3.64, p = 0.0001). IVF outcome was comparable between women with cured CE and those without CE (OPR/LBR, CPR and MR: p = ns). Women with severe CE had lower OPR/LBR (OR 0.43, p = 0.003) and CPR (OR 0.40, p = 0.0007) compared to those mild CE. Mild CE showed no influence on the IVF outcome as compared to women without CE (OPR/LBR, CPR and MR: p = ns). Based on this data analysis, CE significantly reduces OPR/LBR and CPR in women undergoing IVF. Importantly, CE resolution after antibiotic therapy may improves IVF outcome, leading to similar OPR/LBR and CPR as compared to unaffected patients. The negative effects of CE on IVF outcome may be restricted to severe disease, whereas mild CE may have no influence on IVF success.