bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plastic Debris in Nests of Two Water Bird Species Breeding on Inland Saline Lakes in a Mediterranean Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Luna Álvaro , Gil-Delgado José A. , Bernat-Ponce Edgar
Published: November 2022

Despite more studies being carried out to know the impacts associated with plastic debris and much effort being spent on marine ecosystems, the impacts of plastics on terrestrial and freshwater species remain largely unknown. Here, we explored the presence of anthropogenic materials in nests of two wader species, the gull-billed tern (Gelochelidon nilotica) and the black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus), breeding on the inland salt lakes in the “La Mancha Húmeda” Biosphere Reserve, Central Spain. We revealed the presence of anthropogenic debris, mainly macroplastics (>5 mm), in 2.4% and 12.5% of the sampled nests of the gull-billed tern and the black-winged stilt, respectively. The fragments found in nests ranged from 8 mm to 257 mm for the gull-billed tern and from 7 mm to 19 mm for the black-winged stilt. This debris showed no clear pattern of color or size and probably originated both in the agricultural activities in the surroundings and domestic refuse. Although we did not detect any pernicious impacts on adults or chicks (e.g., entangled, injured, or dead individuals), the presence of plastics and other human waste directly placed in nests located in a protected area should warn us about the ubiquity of these pollutants, and the endocrine and immunological effects, among others, that may reduce the recruitment of new animals to the population should be assessed.
Comparison of Models for 3D Printing of Solitary Fibrous Tumor Obtained Using Open-Source Segmentation Software
Authors: Tincopa Jean Pierre , Salazar-Gamarra Rodrigo , Lopez-Hinostroza Madaleine , Moya-Salazar Belén , Contreras-Pulache Hans , Moya-Salazar Jeel
Published: November 2022

The objective of the present study is to make a comparison between various free and open-source software used for medical image processing, such as 3D Slicer (version 4.11), ITK-Snap (version 3.8), and Invesalius (version 3.1) in its application for the calculation of solitary fibrous tumor volumes. Knowing the size, shape, and volume of mesothelioma is decisive for clinical decision-making by health personnel when performing surgery; the currently used standard procedure is manual segmentation through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This process tends to take a long time to complete. On the other hand, automatic segmentation software is much faster and more user-friendly, so looking for software that gives us greater accuracy when doing this task is very important. This work obtained magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of a mesothelioma patient, and the images were segmented in the 3 different programs to evaluate the concordance between the software later.
Seasonal Variations in Concentrations and Chemical Compositions of TSP near a Bulk Material Storage Site for a Steel Plant
Authors: Lee Yen-Yi , Lin Sheng-Lun , Huang Bo-Wun , Mutuku Justus Kavita , Chang-Chien Guo-Ping
Published: November 2022

The concentrations of total suspended particles (TSPs) on four buildings near a steel plant’s bulk material storage site for iron ore, coal, limestone, and sinter were evaluated for summer and winter, where the concentrations were 58 (17–55) μg m−3 and 125 (108–155) μg m−3, respectively. A multivariate regression analysis of meteorological parameters with TSP concentrations indicates that temperature, wind speed, and frequency of rainfall are potential predictors of TSP concentrations, where the respective p values for the model are p = 0.005, p = 0.049, and p = 0.046. The strong correlation between usual co-pollutants, CO, NO2, and NOX with TSP concentrations, as indicated by the Pearson correlation values of 0.87, 0.86, and 0.77, respectively, implies substantial pollution from mobile sources. The weak correlation of SO2 with TSP concentrations rules out a significant pollution contribution from power plants. The speciation of TSPs in winter showed the percentage proportions of water-soluble ions, metal elements, and carbon content in winter as 60%, 15%, and 25%, while in summer, they were 68%, 14%, and 18%, respectively. Water-soluble ions were the most significant composition for both seasons, where the predominant species in summer and winter are SO42− and NO3−, respectively. In the TSP metal elements profile, the proportion of natural origin ones exceeded those from anthropogenic sources. The health risk assessment indicates a significant cancer risk posed by chromium, while that posed by other metal elements including Co, Ni, As, and Pb are insignificant. Additionally, all metal elements’ chronic daily occupational exposure levels were below the reference doses except for Cu and Zn. Insights from this investigation can inform decisions on the design of the TSP-capturing mechanism. Specifically, water sprays to capture the water-soluble portion would substantially reduce the amplified concentrations of TSPs, especially in winter.
Monitoring and Analysis of Indoor Air Quality in Graduate Dormitories in Northern China
Authors: Liu Zhibin , Li Yuxin , Zhao Liang
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the indoor air quality (IAQ) of educational buildings has attracted people’s attention. As a resting place, the dormitory occupies more than half of the students’ time in school. During sleep, the IAQ in dormitories is easily affected by breathing, which in turn affects the sleep quality and mental state of students. In order to study the relevant IAQ during sleep, this paper selected the dormitories of graduate students of different grades in a university in northern China, and monitored the temperature, humidity, CO2, PM2.5, HCHO and TVOC for two weeks during the changing seasons of autumn and winter. In addition, by issuing questionnaires, students made a subjective evaluation of the IAQ. According to the results of objective monitoring data and subjective evaluation, the IAQ changes in student dormitories of different grades, genders, and locations are statistically analyzed, and the correlation between environmental parameters is discussed. The research results show that temperature and humidity basically meet the national standards; indoor PM2.5 is positively correlated with outdoor PM2.5; and HCHO and TVOC are positively correlated with indoor temperature and humidity. Most dormitories lack natural ventilation, and the concentration of CO2 during sleep is too high, which affects the quality of sleep and mental state.
Dienogest May Reduce Estradiol- and Inflammatory Cytokine-Induced Cell Viability and Proliferation and Inhibit the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: A Cell Culture- and Mouse Model-Based Study
Authors: Kim Hyun Jin , Kim Sung Hoon , Oh Young Sang , Lee Sa Ra , Chae Hee Dong
Published: November 2022

Dienogest (DNG) is a therapeutic medication used in endometriosis treatment. Limited data are available regarding its mechanism of action on endometrial cells. Using in vivo and in vitro models, we investigated whether DNG treatment causes significant biological changes in human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). The markers related to the pathogenesis of endometriosis in ESCs were evaluated using estradiol, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and IL-32, administered alone or in combination with DNG. Implanted endometrial tissues were compared between C57BL/6 mice that did or did not receive DNG treatment by using size measurements and immunohistochemistry. A significant decrease in cell viability, protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation, and the expression of p21-activated kinase 4 and vascular endothelial growth factor were observed in ESCs treated with estradiol plus DNG. Cell viability, AKT phosphorylation, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression also decreased significantly after TNF-α plus DNG treatment. Treatment with IL-1β or IL-32 plus DNG significantly decreased cell viability or PCNA expression, respectively. The size of the implanted endometrial tissue significantly decreased in mice treated with DNG, accompanied by decreased PCNA expression. Thus, DNG may reduce cell viability and proliferation induced by estradiol, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-32, and inhibit the endometriosis pathogenesis by decreasing PCNA expression.
Is EDSS Enough to Predict Risk of Upper Urinary Tract Damage in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis?
Authors: Stritt Kevin , Lucca Ilaria , Roth Beat , Grilo Nuno
Published: November 2022

Lower urinary tract dysfunction is often observed in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and may be responsible for an increased risk of upper urinary tract (UUT) damage. Although there are well-known urodynamic risk factors for UUT damage, no clinical prediction parameters are clearly identified. We aimed to confirm the accuracy of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in predicting urodynamic risk factors for UUT deterioration and to assess other clinical parameters potentially predicting urodynamic risk factors. We retrospectively reviewed 201 patients with MS referred for primary neuro-urological work-up, including a video-urodynamic study (VUDS) from August 2009 to February 2020. Multivariate modeling revealed EDSS, male gender, and a number of LUTS as clinical parameters significantly associated with urodynamic risk factors for UUT damage (p = 0.06, p = 0.01, p = 0.02, respectively). A nomogram combining EDSS, male gender, and a number of different LUTS was created to predict the presence of at least one urodynamic risk factor for UUT damage. In conclusion, the presence of high EDSS combined with male gender and several different LUTS is significantly associated with urodynamic risk factors and can be used to stratify MS patients for further neuro-urological assessment and treatment.
Parametric Study and Experimental Investigations of a Single Crank–Slotted Dual Lever Mechanism for MAV Flapping Actuation
Authors: Singh Spoorthi , Muralidharan Aravind Karthik , Radhakrishnan Jayakrishnan , Zuber Mohammad , Basri Adi Azriff , Mazlan Norkhairunnisa , Hamidon Mohd Nizar , Ahmad Kamarul Arifin
Published: November 2022

Insect RoboFlyers are interesting and active focuses of study but producing high-quality flapping robots that replicate insect flight is challenging., due to the dual requirement of both a sophisticated transmission mechanism with light weight and minimal intervening connections. This innovative mechanism was created to address the need for a producible structure that is small in size, small in mass, and has reduced design linkages. The proposed Single Crank-Slotted Dual Lever (SC-SDL) mechanism transforms rotational motion into specific angular motion at different velocities for each of its two strokes, i.e., the forward stroke and the return stroke. The discovery of a lag between the left and right lever motions in our design mechanism-I leads us to the conclusion that the flapping is asymmetric. To eliminate the position lag, the design has been altered, and a new design mechanism-II has been developed. Comparative kinematic analysis of both design systems is performed using simulations. Two-dimensional analysis of the base ornithopter configuration using ANSYS FLUENT yielded deeper insights regarding the influence of varying flapping frequency on critical flow metrics regarding adequate lift and thrust. For a flapping frequency of 24 Hz, adequate lift generation was achieved with minimal flow disturbances and wake interactions. Averaged dual wing estimations were made as part of the CFD study, which showed similar agreements. To validate the estimations, experimental tests were performed over the design mechanism-II configuration.
Recent Advances in Multifunctional Wearable Sensors and Systems: Design, Fabrication, and Applications
Authors: Jia Shigang , Gao Hongwei , Xue Zhaoguo , Meng Xianhong
Published: November 2022

Multifunctional wearable sensors and systems are of growing interest over the past decades because of real-time health monitoring and disease diagnosis capability. Owing to the tremendous efforts of scientists, wearable sensors and systems with attractive advantages such as flexibility, comfort, and long-term stability have been developed, which are widely used in temperature monitoring, pulse wave detection, gait pattern analysis, etc. Due to the complexity of human physiological signals, it is necessary to measure multiple physiological information simultaneously to evaluate human health comprehensively. This review summarizes the recent advances in multifunctional wearable sensors, including single sensors with various functions, planar integrated sensors, three-dimensional assembled sensors, and stacked integrated sensors. The design strategy, manufacturing method, and potential application of each type of sensor are discussed. Finally, we offer an outlook on future developments and provide perspectives on the remaining challenges and opportunities of wearable multifunctional sensing technology.
Using the ICF Framework to Assess Communicative Competence in Dyadic Communication among Children and Adolescents Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Meng-Ju
Published: November 2022

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices enable children and adolescents (CAD) with communication disorders to communicate competently and develop friendships through communicative competence (CC). Existing assessment tools are unable to indicate whether CAD aged 0 to 18 years would competently use the subsidized AAC devices provided by the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Taiwan. This study, thus, aimed to develop an assessment tool by using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to measure CC in dyadic communication among CAD using AAC devices. Five speech-language pathologists (SLPs), five special education teachers, and four AAC experts (14 in total) selected codes relevant to the four domains of CC via the Delphi method. Next, they categorized the selected codes into one of the four domains of CC through a face-to-face expert panel. A total of 112 codes were listed in the tool and fully classified into the four domains of CC. Among these, seven codes were concurrently placed under two domains of CC. Consequently, this study developed an assessment tool by employing the ICF for children and youth core set using universal qualifiers to measure the relative levels of CC in dyadic communication among CAD who use AAC devices in their daily life.
The Impact of Building Clean Energy Consumption on Residents’ Subjective Well-Being: Evidence from China
Authors: Sun Zhiqun , Wu Yanbo , Sun Hao , Zhou Dian , Lou Yang , Qin Lei
Published: November 2022

This study used micro data from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) in 2018 to explore the impact of China’s residential clean energy consumption on residents’ subjective well-being. Our research results show that: the more clean energy consumption is present in housing, the stronger the residents’ sense of happiness; furthermore, it can be seen from the results of marginal effects that the increase in residential clean energy consumption increases the probability of residents choosing “relatively happy” and “extremely happy”. Moreover, the heterogeneity analysis found that the increase in residential clean energy consumption increased the happiness of people with housing and low education, and also increased the happiness of residents in central China and middle-aged and elderly residents; the intermediary analysis shows that the use of clean energy in housing improves the health of residents, and improves their quality of life while increasing their expenditure. In addition, central heating affects the relationship between residential clean energy consumption and residents’ well-being. Further analysis shows that there is no non-linear relationship between the increase in residential clean energy consumption and residents’ happiness. This study enriches the research on residential clean energy and provides policy suggestions for improving residents’ living standards and welfare.
Empagliflozin and Dapagliflozin Increase Na+ and Inward Rectifier K+ Current Densities in Human Cardiomyocytes Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSC-CMs)
Authors: Dago María , Crespo-García Teresa , Cámara-Checa Anabel , Rapún Josu , Rubio-Alarcón Marcos , Marín María , Tamargo Juan , Caballero Ricardo , Delpón Eva
Published: November 2022

Dapagliflozin (dapa) and empagliflozin (empa) are sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) that reduce morbidity and mortality in heart failure (HF) patients. Sodium and inward rectifier K+ currents (INa and IK1), carried by Nav1.5 and Kir2.1 channels, respectively, are responsible for cardiac excitability, conduction velocity, and refractoriness. In HF patients, Nav1.5 and Kir2.1 expression are reduced, enhancing risk of arrhythmia. Incubation with dapa or empa (24-h,1 µM) significantly increased INa and IK1 densities recorded in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) using patch-clamp techniques. Dapa and empa, respectively, shifted to more hyperpolarized potentials the INa activation and inactivation curves. Identical effects were observed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells that were incubated with dapa or empa and transiently expressed human Nav1.5 channels. Conversely, empa but not dapa significantly increased human Kir2.1 currents in CHO cells. Dapa and empa effects on INa and IK1 were also apparent in Ca-calmodulin kinase II-silenced CHO cells. Cariporide, a Na+/H+ exchanger type 1 (NHE1) inhibitor, did not increase INa or IK1 in hiPSC-CMs. Dapa and empa at therapeutic concentrations increased INa and IK1 in healthy human cardiomyocytes. These SGLT2is could represent a new class of drugs with a novel and long-pursued antiarrhythmic mechanism of action.
Calmodulin Binding Domains in Critical Risk Proteins Involved in Neurodegeneration
Authors: O’Day Danton H.
Published: November 2022

Neurodegeneration leads to multiple early changes in cognitive, emotional, and social behaviours and ultimately progresses to dementia. The dysregulation of calcium is one of the earliest potentially initiating events in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. A primary neuronal target of calcium is the small sensor and effector protein calmodulin that, in response to calcium levels, binds to and regulates hundreds of calmodulin binding proteins. The intimate and entangled relationship between calmodulin binding proteins and all phases of Alzheimer’s disease has been established, but the relationship to other neurodegenerative diseases is just beginning to be evaluated. Risk factors and hallmark proteins from Parkinson’s disease (PD; SNCA, Parkin, PINK1, LRRK2, PARK7), Huntington’s disease (HD; Htt, TGM1, TGM2), Lewy Body disease (LBD; TMEM175, GBA), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal disease (ALS/FTD; VCP, FUS, TDP-43, TBK1, C90rf72, SQSTM1, CHCHD10, SOD1) were scanned for the presence of calmodulin binding domains and, within them, appropriate binding motifs. Binding domains and motifs were identified in multiple risk proteins, some of which are involved in multiple neurodegenerative diseases. The potential calmodulin binding profiles for risk proteins involved in HD, PD, LBD, and ALS/FTD coupled with other studies on proven binding proteins supports the central and potentially critical role for calmodulin in neurodegenerative events.
Predicting the Residual Stress of Amorphous Al2O3-Y2O3 Nano-Laminated Deuterium Permeation Barrier under Thermal Cycles
Authors: Huang Kezhi , Liu Hao , Wang Weijing , Yu Qinghe , Jiang Liwu , Liu Yu , Mi Jing , Hao Lei , Yuan Baolong , Liu Mingkun , Cai Rui , Xiao Wei
Published: November 2022

Al2O3-Y2O3 laminated coating can be applied in fusion reactors to prevent fuel leakage and radiological hazard. However, the residual stress induced by the thermal cycles during the operation of the reactor can cause the failure of the coating. In order to analyze the problem, finite element models of Al2O3-Y2O3 laminated coatings with 600 nm of total thickness and different layout were analyzed. The max principal stress site in the coatings is located at the sub-top layer. The max principal stress in laminated coating with the Y2O3 sub-top decreases from 657 MPa for a two-layer coating (300 nm) to 598 MPa for a four-layer coating (150 nm). On the contrary, if Al2O3 is the sub-top layer, the max principal stress increases from 463 MPa for a two-layer coating (300 nm) to 495 MPa for a four-layer coating (150 nm). The result shows that the more deformable amorphous Al2O3 layer in the laminated coating system is more influential to the thermal stress.
Enhancement of Power Conversion Efficiency with Zinc Oxide as Photoanode and Cyanococcus, Punica granatum L., and Vitis vinifera as Natural Fruit Dyes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Mohamad Ili Salwani , Norizan Mohd Natashah , Mahmed Norsuria , Jamalullail Nurnaeimah , Halin Dewi Suriyani Che , Salleh Mohd Arif Anuar Mohd , Sandu Andrei Victor , Baltatu Madalina Simona , Vizureanu Petrica
Published: November 2022

Ruthenium N719 is a well-known material used as the dye in commercial dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) devices. However, it poses risks to human health and the environment over time. On the other hand, titanium dioxide (TiO2) has low electron mobility and high recombination losses when used as a photoanode in this photovoltaic technology device. In addition, using Ruthenium as the dye material harms the environment and human health. As an alternative sensitizer to compensate Ruthenium on two different photoanodes (TiO2 and ZnO), we constructed DSSC devices in this study using three different natural dyes (blueberry, pomegranate, and black grape). In good agreement with the anthocyanin content in the fruits, black grape, with the highest anthocyanin content (450.3 mg/L) compared to other fruit dyes (blueberry—386.6 mg/L and pomegranate—450.3 mg/L), resulted in the highest energy conversion efficiency (3.63%) for the natural dye-based DSSC. Furthermore, this research proved that the electrical performance of natural dye sensitizer in DSSC applications with a ZnO photoanode is better than using hazardous Ru N719 dye with a TiO2 photoanode owing to the advantage of high electron mobility in ZnO.
Photocatalytic Performance of ZnO/Ag(NPs) Nanocomposite Thin Films under Natural Conditions
Authors: Khiari Mouna , Lejeune Michaël , Gilliot Mickaël , Lazar Florica , Hadjadj Aomar
Published: November 2022

The original technique developed for the direct incorporation and efficient dispersion of silver metal NPs into ZnO precursor solution allowed us to elaborate nanocomposite thin films with a large effective surface area for interaction with the external environment as well as a large surface area for metal–semiconductor interaction suitable for surface photocatalysis reactions. Such photocatalysts have the advantage of being in solid form, combining the benefits of the semiconductor material and the metallic nanoparticles embedded in it, while being eco-friendly. Their photocatalytic performance was analyzed under different operating conditions. The improved photocatalytic performance, stability, and reusability of the nanocomposite were demonstrated under both laboratory and natural conditions of use. The results of the present study provide interesting perspectives for the application of these photocatalysts in water treatment.
Simulation Analysis with Randomly Distributed Multiple Projectiles and Experimental Study of Shot Peening
Authors: Qian Wenxue , Huang Shuanghui , Yin Xiaowei , Xie Liyang
Published: November 2022

Shot peening technology is used to improve the fatigue strength of materials and parts, and is one of the most effective surface engineering techniques to prolong fatigue life. In this paper, according to the finite element simulation analysis of shot peening, a randomly distributed multiple-shot finite element model was established. The superimposed effects of multiple projectile impact craters in shot peening are fully considered. The effects of shot velocity, shot peening angle and shot coverage on the residual stress field and surface roughness were studied. The alloy steel 20MnTiB, widely used in the automotive industry, was used as the raw material to process the specimens. The shot peening tests of different process parameters were carried out. The test results verified the correctness and accuracy of the random distribution model of multiple-shot. The shot-peening simulation model proposed in this paper allows a more accurate analysis of the effect of shot-peening parameters on the surface residual stress field and helps to quickly set the correct shot-peening process parameters. This paper further investigates the effect of shot peening parameters on fatigue life, providing a basis for the rational development of shot peening solutions.
Electrodeposition and Characterization of Poly 3-Amino-1,2,4-Triazole-5-Thiol Films on Brass Electrode in 0.1 M Methanol
Authors: Damej Mohamed , Abouchane Mohammed , Doubi Mostafa , Erramli Hamid , Benmessaoud Mohammed , Hajjaji Najat
Published: November 2022

The electrochemical synthesis of conductive polymers (CPs) or semiconductors (SCs) is influenced by several parameters, such as the choice of monomers, solvents, support electrolytes, and the nature of dopants, which induce electrical conductivity in conjugated organic polymers. This work describes the electropolymerization of 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole-5-thiol (ATT) on a 60Cu-40Zn brass alloy. The synthesis of polymer film by electrochemical method was carried out by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry in a medium of KOH 0.1 M dissolved in pure methanol CH3OH. The voltammograms obtained show that the ATT oxidizes anodically at a potential of 1.15 V. The effect of the sweep speed shows that the increase in the sweep speed is accompanied by the increase in the intensity of the first oxidation peak, indicating the acceleration of the process studied, and also indicating that the oxidation reaction of the monomers is essentially irreversible and controlled by a diffusion process. The polymer film analysis by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy shows a capacitive then diffusional behavior—this is a typical effect of conductive polymers. Analysis by EDX justifies the formation of a polymer film on the metal surface. This work was completed by theoretical calculation, which showed that the oxidation of the ATT considerably reduces the energy value of Gap Egap, reaching a value of 2.07 eV—this shows that the polymer film is a semiconductive material.
Tunable Sensing and Transport Properties of Doped Hexagonal Boron Nitride Quantum Dots for Efficient Gas Sensors
Authors: Abdelsalam Hazem , Saroka Vasil A. , Atta Mohamed M. , Abd-Elkader Omar H. , Zaghloul Nouf S. , Zhang Qinfang
Published: November 2022

The electronic, sensing, and transport properties of doped square hexagonal boron nitride (shBN) quantum dots were investigated using density functional theory calculations. The electronic and magnetic properties were controlled by substitutional doping. For instance, heterodoping with Si and C atoms decreased the energy gap to half its value and converted the insulator shBN quantum dot to a semiconductor. Doping with a single O atom transformed the dot to spin half metal with a tiny spin-up energy gap and a wide spin-down gap. Moreover, doping and vacancies formed low-energy interactive molecular orbitals which were important for boosting sensing properties. The unmodified shBN quantum dot showed moderate physical adsorption of NO2, acetone, CH4, and ethanol. This adsorption was elevated by doping due to interactions between electrons in the low-energy orbitals from the doped-shBN dot and π-bond electrons from the gas. The transport properties also showed a significant change in the current by doping. For instance, the spin-up current was very high compared to the spin-down current in the shBN dots doped with an O atom, confirming the formation of spin half metal. The spin-up/down currents were strongly affected by gas adsorption, which can be used as an indicator of the sensing process.
Anomalous Dynamics of Recalescence Front in Crystal Growth Processes: Theoretical Background
Authors: Alexandrov Dmitri V. , Galenko Peter K. , Toropova Liubov V.
Published: November 2022

A theory for crystal nucleation and growth with the recalescence front is developed. The theory is based on the saddle-point technique for evaluating a Laplace-type integral as well as the small parameter method for solving the moving boundary heat transfer problem. The theory developed shows the U-shaped behavior of the growth velocity–melt undercooling curve. The ordinary upward branch of this curve is caused by the growth dictated by heat transport and the predominant crystal growth, while the unusual downward branch demonstrates the anomalous behavior caused by the predominant nucleation and attachment kinetics of the growing crystals to the phase interface. Such a U-shaped behavior of the growth velocity–melt undercooling curve is consistent with experimental data carried out on the ground, under reduced gravity during parabolic flights, and in the microgravity conditions onboard the International Space Station [M. Reinartz et al., JOM 74, 2420 (2022); P.K. Galenko et al., Acta Mater. 241, 118384 (2022)].
Treating Multiple Myeloma in the Context of the Bone Marrow Microenvironment
Authors: Ho Matthew , Xiao Alexander , Yi Dongni , Zanwar Saurabh , Bianchi Giada
Published: November 2022

The treatment landscape of multiple myeloma (MM) has evolved considerably with the FDA-approval of at least 15 drugs over the past two decades. Together with the use of autologous stem cell transplantation, these novel therapies have resulted in significant survival benefit for patients with MM. In particular, our improved understanding of the BM and immune microenvironment has led to the development of highly effective immunotherapies that have demonstrated unprecedented response rates even in the multiple refractory disease setting. However, MM remains challenging to treat especially in a high-risk setting. A key mediator of therapeutic resistance in MM is the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment; a deeper understanding is necessary to facilitate the development of therapies that target MM in the context of the BM milieu to elicit deeper and more durable responses with the ultimate goal of long-term control or a cure of MM. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the role the BM microenvironment plays in MM pathogenesis, with a focus on its immunosuppressive nature. We also review FDA-approved immunotherapies currently in clinical use and highlight promising immunotherapeutic approaches on the horizon.
Effects of Serum Lipids on the Long-Term Prognosis of Ampullary Adenocarcinoma Patients after Curative Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Li Zheng , Zhang Xiaojie , Sun Chongyuan , Fei He , Li Zefeng , Zhao Dongbing
Published: November 2022

Background: Serum lipids (SLs), the prominent indicators of lipid metabolism, produce an intricate impact on proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of cancer cells. However, the effects of serum lipids on the prognosis of ampullary adenocarcinoma (AC) have not been investigated. Methods: Patients with AC in the National Cancer Center of China between January 1998 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Survival analysis for overall survival (OS, Time from operation to death) and recurrence-free survival (RFS, Time from operation to first-time recurrence) was performed using Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards models. Results: A total of 232 AC patients were enrolled into the study. SLs levels were significantly lower in patients with vascular invasion compared to those without (all p < 0.05). The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year OS rates for AC patients were 86.1%, 64.1%, and 47.6% and 75.8%, 54.8%, and 46.5% for RFS. Biliary/pancreatic fistula (31.9%) and chemotherapy (81.4%) were the majority of postoperative complications and adjuvant therapy, respectively. According to Cox analysis, preoperative LDL-C was an independent prognostic factor for RFS (HR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.21–0.85, p = 0.015), whereas no statistical significance existed in the analysis of HDL-C, TC, and TG. Conclusions: High levels of preoperative LDL-C is a significant predictor of prolonged prognosis in AC patients, which was also observed to be a protective factor to reduce vascular invasion.
A Study of the Metabolic Pathways Affected by Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Comparison with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Spanou Loukia , Dimou Aikaterini , Kostara Christina E. , Bairaktari Eleni , Anastasiou Eleni , Tsimihodimos Vasilis
Published: November 2022

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remains incompletely understood and increases the risk of developing Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2). Metabolomics provides insights etiology and pathogenesis of disease and discovery biomarkers for accurate detection. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a key platform defining metabolic signatures in intact serum/plasma. In the present study, we used NMR-based analysis of macromolecules free-serum to accurately characterize the altered metabolic pathways of GDM and assessing their similarities to DM2. Our findings could contribute to the understanding of the pathophysiology of GDM and help in the identification of metabolomic markers of the disease. Methods: Sixty-two women with GDM matched with seventy-seven women without GDM (control group). 1H NMR serum spectra were acquired on an 11.7 T Bruker Avance DRX NMR spectrometer. Results: We identified 55 metabolites in both groups, 25 of which were significantly altered in the GDM group. GDM group showed elevated levels of ketone bodies, 2-hydroxybutyrate and of some metabolic intermediates of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and significantly lower levels of metabolites of one-carbon metabolism, energy production, purine metabolism, certain amino acids, 3-methyl-2-oxovalerate, ornithine, 2-aminobutyrate, taurine and trimethylamine N-oxide. Conclusion: Metabolic pathways affected in GDM were beta-oxidation, ketone bodies metabolism, one-carbon metabolism, arginine and ornithine metabolism likewise in DM2, whereas BCAAs catabolism and aromatic amino acids metabolism were affected, but otherwise than in DM2.
Identification and Application of a Novel Immune-Related lncRNA Signature on the Prognosis and Immunotherapy for Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zeng Zhimin , Liang Yuxia , Shi Jia , Xiao Lisha , Tang Lu , Guo Yubiao , Chen Fengjia , Lin Gengpeng
Published: November 2022

Background: Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) participates in the immune regulation of lung cancer. However, limited studies showed the potential roles of immune-related lncRNAs (IRLs) in predicting survival and immunotherapy response of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Methods: Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and ImmLnc databases, IRLs were identified through weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), Cox regression, and Lasso regression analyses. The predictive ability was validated by Kaplan–Meier (KM) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves in the internal dataset, external dataset, and clinical study. The immunophenoscore (IPS)-PD1/PD-L1 blocker and IPS-CTLA4 blocker data of LUAD were obtained in TCIA to predict the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The expression levels of immune checkpoint molecules and markers for hyperprogressive disease were analyzed. Results: A six-IRL signature was identified, and patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups. The low-risk had improved survival outcome (p = 0.006 in the training dataset, p = 0.010 in the testing dataset, p < 0.001 in the entire dataset), a stronger response to ICI (p < 0.001 in response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1, p < 0.001 in response to anti-CTLA4), and higher expression levels of immune checkpoint molecules (p < 0.001 in PD-1, p < 0.001 in PD-L1, p < 0.001 in CTLA4) but expressed more biomarkers of hyperprogression in immunotherapy (p = 0.002 in MDM2, p < 0.001 in MDM4). Conclusion: The six-IRL signature exhibits a promising prediction value of clinical prognosis and ICI efficacy in LUAD. Patients with low risk might gain benefits from ICI, although some have a risk of hyperprogressive disease.
Correlation between CT Value on Lung Subtraction CT and Radioactive Count on Perfusion Lung Single Photon Emission CT in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Kariyasu Toshiya , Machida Haruhiko , Yamashiro Tsuneo , Fukushima Keita , Koyanagi Masamichi , Yokoyama Kenichi , Nishikawa Makiko , Satoh Toru
Published: November 2022

Background: Lung subtraction CT (LSCT), the subtraction of noncontrast CT from CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) without spatial misregistration, is easily applicable by utilizing a software-based deformable image registration technique without additional hardware and permits the evaluation of lung perfusion as iodine accumulation, similar to that observed in perfusion lung single photon emission CT (PL-SPECT). The aim of this study was to use LSCT to newly assess the quantitative correlation between the CT value on LSCT and radioactive count on PL-SPECT as a reference and validate the quantification of lung perfusion by measuring the CT value in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Methods: We prospectively enrolled 47 consecutive patients with CTEPH undergoing both LSCT and PL-SPECT; we used noncontrast CT, CTPA, and LSCT to measure CT values and PL-SPECT to measure radioactive counts in areas representing three different perfusion classes—no perfusion defect, subsegmental perfusion defect, and segmental perfusion defect; we compared CT values on noncontrast CT, CTPA, and LSCT and radioactive counts on PL-SPECT among the three classes, then assessed the correlation between them. Results: Both the CT values and radioactive counts differed significantly among the three classes (p < 0.01 for all) and showed weak correlation (ρ = 0.38) by noncontrast CT, moderate correlation (ρ = 0.61) by CTPA, and strong correlation (ρ = 0.76) by LSCT. Conclusions: The CT value measurement on LSCT is a novel quantitative approach to assess lung perfusion in CTEPH and only correlates strongly with radioactive count measurement on PL-SPECT.
Label-Free Optical Spectroscopy for Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Authors: Maryam Siddra , Nogueira Marcelo Saito , Gautam Rekha , Krishnamoorthy Shree , Venkata Sekar Sanathana Konugolu , Kho Kiang Wei , Lu Huihui , Ni Riordain Richeal , Feeley Linda , Sheahan Patrick , Burke Ray , Andersson-Engels Stefan
Published: November 2022

Oral cancer is the 16th most common cancer worldwide. It commonly arises from painless white or red plaques within the oral cavity. Clinical outcome is highly related to the stage when diagnosed. However, early diagnosis is complex owing to the impracticality of biopsying every potentially premalignant intraoral lesion. Therefore, there is a need to develop a non-invasive cost-effective diagnostic technique to differentiate non-malignant and early-stage malignant lesions. Optical spectroscopy may provide an appropriate solution to facilitate early detection of these lesions. It has many advantages over traditional approaches including cost, speed, objectivity, sensitivity, painlessness, and ease-of use in clinical setting for real-time diagnosis. This review consists of a comprehensive overview of optical spectroscopy for oral cancer diagnosis, epidemiology, and recent improvements in this field for diagnostic purposes. It summarizes major developments in label-free optical spectroscopy, including Raman, fluorescence, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy during recent years. Among the wide range of optical techniques available, we chose these three for this review because they have the ability to provide biochemical information and show great potential for real-time deep-tissue point-based in vivo analysis. This review also highlights the importance of saliva-based potential biomarkers for non-invasive early-stage diagnosis. It concludes with the discussion on the scope of development and future demands from a clinical point of view.
Diagnostic AI and Cardiac Diseases
Authors: Uzun Ozsahin Dilber , Ozgocmen Cemre , Balcioglu Ozlem , Ozsahin Ilker , Uzun Berna
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: The purpose of this study is to review and highlight recent advances in diagnostic uses of artificial intelligence (AI) for cardiac diseases, in order to emphasize expected benefits to both patients and healthcare specialists; (2) Methods: We focused on four key search terms (Cardiac Disease, diagnosis, artificial intelligence, machine learning) across three different databases (Pubmed, European Heart Journal, Science Direct) between 2017–2022 in order to reach relatively more recent developments in the field. Our review was structured in order to clearly differentiate publications according to the disease they aim to diagnose (coronary artery disease, electrophysiological and structural heart diseases); (3) Results: Each study had different levels of success, where declared sensitivity, specificity, precision, accuracy, area under curve and F1 scores were reported for every article reviewed; (4) Conclusions: the number and quality of AI-assisted cardiac disease diagnosis publications will continue to increase through each year. We believe AI-based diagnosis should only be viewed as an additional tool assisting doctors’ own judgement, where the end goal is to provide better quality of healthcare and to make getting medical help more affordable and more accessible, for everyone, everywhere.
Short-Term Combined Intake of Vitamin B2 and Vitamin E Decreases Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations in Female Track Athletes
Authors: Shinagawa Akiho , Serizawa Naho , Yamazaki Tomoki , Minematsu Ayako , Miyakoshi Yuichi , Yano Tomohiro , Ota Masako
Published: November 2022

Female athletes who endure physical strain on the same bone area are prone to stress fractures. Preventing these improves their quality of life. Blood vitamin B2 (V.B2) and E (V.E) levels influence blood homocysteine (Hcy) levels, which, when elevated, increase the risk of stress fractures. We aimed to determine the effects of V.B2 and V.E supplementation on plasma Hcy concentrations in these athletes carrying the C677T polymorphism in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). This study is a before–after study in 16 female athletes. It was divided into three intervention periods of V.B2 (28 mg/day), V.E (60 mg/day), and V.B2 + V.E intake, and each period was 14 days. Blood samples were collected before and after each period, and plasma Hcy concentration and each blood vitamin concentration were measured. Plasma Hcy concentration significantly decreased in all periods, but the maximum lowering effect was obtained when V.B2 and V.E were used in combination. The administration of V.B2 might have lowered the plasma Hcy level by maximizing the catalytic activity of MTHFR; V.E might have suppressed cell oxidation, increasing the efficiency of folate in lowering the plasma Hcy level. We propose the combined intake of V.B2 and V.E as effective nutrients to reduce plasma Hcy concentrations in female athletes with MTHFR polymorphisms.
Transversality Conditions for Geodesics on the Statistical Manifold of Multivariate Gaussian Distributions
Authors: Herntier Trevor , Peter Adrian M.
Published: November 2022

We consider the problem of finding the closest multivariate Gaussian distribution on a constraint surface of all Gaussian distributions to a given distribution. Previous research regarding geodesics on the multivariate Gaussian manifold has focused on finding closed-form, shortest-path distances between two fixed distributions on the manifold, often restricting the parameters to obtain the desired solution. We demonstrate how to employ the techniques of the calculus of variations with a variable endpoint to search for the closest distribution from a family of distributions generated via a constraint set on the parameter manifold. Furthermore, we examine the intermediate distributions along the learned geodesics which provide insight into uncertainty evolution along the paths. Empirical results elucidate our formulations, with visual illustrations concretely exhibiting dynamics of 1D and 2D Gaussian distributions.
“Found in Translation”: An Evolutionary Framework for Auditory–Visual Relationships
Authors: Rodrigues Ana , Sousa Bruna , Cardoso Amílcar , Machado Penousal
Published: November 2022

The development of computational artifacts to study cross-modal associations has been a growing research topic, as they allow new degrees of abstraction. In this context, we propose a novel approach to the computational exploration of relationships between music and abstract images, grounded by findings from cognitive sciences (emotion and perception). Due to the problem’s high-level nature, we rely on evolutionary programming techniques to evolve this audio–visual dialogue. To articulate the complexity of the problem, we develop a framework with four modules: (i) vocabulary set, (ii) music generator, (iii) image generator, and (iv) evolutionary engine. We test our approach by evolving a given music set to a corresponding set of images, steered by the expression of four emotions (angry, calm, happy, sad). Then, we perform preliminary user tests to evaluate if the user’s perception is consistent with the system’s expression. Results suggest an agreement between the user’s emotional perception of the music–image pairs and the system outcomes, favoring the integration of cognitive science knowledge. We also discuss the benefit of employing evolutionary strategies, such as genetic programming on multi-modal problems of a creative nature. Overall, this research contributes to a better understanding of the foundations of auditory–visual associations mediated by emotions and perception.
Flow-Induced Vibration of Non-Rotating Structures of a High-Head Pump-Turbine during Start-Up in Turbine Mode
Authors: Yang Mengqi , Zhao Weiqiang , Bi Huili , Yang Haixia , He Qilian , Huang Xingxing , Wang Zhengwei
Published: November 2022

Pumped storage-power plants play an extremely important role in the modern smart grid due to their irreplaceable advantages in load peak-valley regulation, frequency modulation, and phase modulation. The number of start-stops per day of pump-turbine units is therefore also increasing. During the start-up transient process in turbine mode, the complex flow in runner passage, crown and band chambers, and seal labyrinth is able to induce severe vibration of non-rotating structures such as head cover, stay-ring, and pose a threat to the safe operation of the pump-turbine unit. In this article, the flow-induced vibration of the structures of a pump-turbine unit during its start-up process in turbine mode is studied. In the first place, this investigation establishes a three-dimensional model of the full flow passage and carries out a full three-dimensional CFD calculation based on one-dimensional pipeline calculation results for the start-up transient process. In the next place, by applying the fluid–structure interaction calculation method, the finite element analysis of non-rotating components of the pump-turbine unit is carried out. The flow-induced stresses and deformations of head cover, stay-ring, etc., are obtained and analyzed. The results reveal that the maximum deformation of the non-rotating structures is located at the inner edge of the head cover while the maximum stress appears at the trailing edge fillet of a stay vane. In summary, the dynamic stress of the non-rotating structures changes largely during the start-up process. The stress is strongly related to the axial thrust caused by the fluid flow. The achieved results can provide guidance for further fatigue life assessment of non-rotating structures and contribute to the structural safety design of pump-turbine units.