bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) and Posture Evaluated trough the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD): A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Minervini Giuseppe , Franco Rocco , Marrapodi Maria Maddalena , Crimi Salvatore , Badnjević Almir , Cervino Gabriele , Bianchi Alberto , Cicciù Marco
Published: April 2023

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a series of disorders that affect the muscles and joint. Symptoms include joint pain, muscle pain, and limitation of mouth opening. One of several multifactorial diseases, temporomandibular dysfunction has mostly been linked to five etiological factors: occlusion, trauma, severe pain stimuli, parafunctional activities, and psychological elements, including stress, anxiety, and depression. The position of the human body as it is displayed in space is referred to as posture. Several nerve pathways regulate posture, and through ligaments, TMD and posture affect each other. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the possible correlation between posture and TMD through a meta-analysis of the literature; Methods: A literature search was performed on PubMed, Lilacs, and Web of science, and articles published from 2000 to 31 December 2022 were considered, according to the keywords entered. The term “temporomandibular disorders” has been combined with “posture”, using the Boolean connector AND; Results: At the end of the research, 896 studies were identified from the search conducted on the 3 engines. Only three were chosen to draw up the present systematic study summarizing the article’s main findings. The meta-analysis showed through forest plot analysis a correlation between posture and TMD Conclusions: This literature meta-analysis showed a correlation between posture and TMD. Nerve pathways probably regulate both body posture and mandibular posture. Further clinical studies will be needed to confirm this hypothesis and to indicate the main conclusions or interpretations.
Neoadjuvant Therapy for Extrahepatic Biliary Tract Cancer: A Propensity Score-Matched Survival Analysis
Authors: Toyoda Junya , Sahara Kota , Takahashi Tomoaki , Miyake Kentaro , Yabushita Yasuhiro , Sawada Yu , Homma Yuki , Matsuyama Ryusei , Endo Itaru , Pawlik Timothy
Published: April 2023

Background: Although surgery is the mainstay of curative-intent treatment for extrahepatic biliary tract cancer (EBTC), recurrence following surgery can be high and prognosis poor. The impact of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) relative to upfront surgery (US) among patients with EBTC remains unclear. Methods: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) databases was utilized to identify patients who underwent surgery from 2006 to 2017 for EBTC, including gallbladder cancer (GBC) and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC). Trends in NAT utilization were investigated, and the impact of NAT on prognosis was compared with US using a propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis. Results: Among 6582 EBTC patients (GBC, n = 4467, ECC, n = 2215), 1.6% received NAT; the utilization of NAT for EBTC increased over time (Ptrend = 0.03). Among patients with lymph node metastasis, the lymph node ratio was lower among patients with NAT (0.18 vs. 0.40, p < 0.01). After PSM, there was no difference in overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) among patients treated with NAT versus US (5-year OS: 24.0% vs. 24.6%, p = 0.14, 5-year CSS: 38.0% vs. 36.1%, p = 0.21). A subgroup analysis revealed that NAT was associated with improved OS and CSS among patients with stages III–IVA of the disease (OS: HR 0.65, 95%CI 0.46–0.92, p = 0.02, CSS: HR 0.62, 95%CI 0.41–0.92, p = 0.01). Conclusions: While NAT did not provide an overall benefit to patients undergoing surgery for EBTC, individuals with advanced-stage disease had improved OS and CSS with NAT. An individualized approach to NAT use among patients with EBTC may provide a survival benefit.
Effects of Dexmedetomidine on Immunomodulation and Pain Control in Videolaparoscopic Cholecystectomies: A Randomized, Two-Arm, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Silva Gustavo Nascimento , Brandão Virna Guedes , Perez Marcelo Vaz , Lewandrowski Kai-Uwe , Fiorelli Rossano Kepler Alvim
Published: April 2023

Aim: Digital and robotic technology applications in laparoscopic surgery have revolutionized routine cholecystectomy. Insufflation of the peritoneal space is vital for its safety but comes at the cost of ischemia-reperfusion-induced intraabdominal organ compromise before the return of physiologic functions. Dexmedetomidine in general anesthesia promotes controlling the response to trauma by altering the neuroinflammatory reflex. This strategy may improve clinical outcomes in the postoperative period by reducing postoperative narcotic use and lowering the risk of subsequent addiction. In this study, the authors aimed to evaluate dexmedetomidine’s therapeutic and immunomodulatory potential on perioperative organ function. Methods: Fifty-two patients were randomized 1:1: group A—sevoflurane and dexmedetomidine (dexmedetomidine infusion [1 µg/kg loading, 0.2–0.5 µg/kg/h maintenance dose]), and group B—sevoflurane with saline 0.9% infusion as a placebo control. Three blood samples were collected: preoperatively (T0 h), 4–6 h after surgery (T4–6 h), and 24 h postoperatively (T24 h). The primary outcome was the level analysis of inflammatory and endocrine mediators. Secondary outcome measures were the time to return to normal preoperative hemodynamic parameters, spontaneous ventilation, and postoperative narcotic requirements to control surgical pain. Results: A reduction of Interleukin 6 was found at 4–6 h after surgery in group A with a mean of 54.76 (27.15–82.37; CI 95%) vs. 97.43 (53.63–141.22); p = 0.0425) in group B patients. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate were lower in group A patients, who also had a statistically significantly lower opioid consumption in the first postoperative hour when compared to group B patients (p < 0.0001). We noticed a similar return to spontaneous ventilation pattern in both groups. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine decreased interleukin-6 4–6 h after surgery, likely by providing a sympatholytic effect. It provides good perioperative analgesia without respiratory depression. Implementing dexmedetomidine during laparoscopic cholecystectomy has a good safety profile and may lower healthcare expenditure due to faster postoperative recovery.
Semantic Visualization in Functional Recovery Prediction of Intravenous Thrombolysis following Acute Ischemic Stroke in Patients by Using Biostatistics: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hsiao Chih-Chun , Cheng Chun-Gu , Chen Cheng-Chueh , Chiu Hung-Wen , Lin Hui-Chen , Cheng Chun-An
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Intravenous thrombolysis following acute ischemic stroke (AIS) can reduce disability and increase the survival rate. We designed a functional recovery analysis by using semantic visualization to predict the recovery probability in AIS patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis; (2) Methods: We enrolled 131 AIS patients undergoing intravenous thrombolysis from 2011 to 2015 at the Medical Center in northern Taiwan. An additional 54 AIS patients were enrolled from another community hospital. A modified Rankin Score ≤2 after 3 months of follow-up was defined as favorable recovery. We used multivariable logistic regression with forward selection to construct a nomogram; (3) Results: The model included age and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score as immediate pretreatment parameters. A 5.23% increase in the functional recovery probability occurred for every 1-year reduction in age, and a 13.57% increase in the functional recovery probability occurred for every NIHSS score reduction. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the model in the validation dataset were 71.79%, 86.67%, and 75.93%, respectively, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.867; (4) Conclusions: Semantic visualization-based functional recovery prediction models may help physicians assess the recovery probability before patients undergo emergency intravenous thrombolysis.
Neurocognitive Sequelae and Rehabilitation after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Optimizing Outcomes
Authors: Nwafor Divine C. , Kirby Brandon D. , Ralston Jacob D. , Colantonio Mark A. , Ibekwe Elochukwu , Lucke-Wold Brandon
Published: April 2023

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. The etiology varies between cases; however, rupture of an intracranial aneurysm accounts for 80% of medical emergencies. Early intervention and treatment are essential to prevent long-term complications. Over the years, treatment of SAH has drastically improved, which is responsible for the rapid rise in SAH survivors. Post-SAH, a significant number of patients exhibit impairments in memory and executive function and report high rates of depression and anxiety that ultimately affect daily living, return to work, and quality of life. Given the rise in SAH survivors, rehabilitation post-SAH to optimize patient outcomes becomes crucial. The review addresses the current rehabilitative strategies to combat the neurocognitive and behavioral issues that may arise following SAH.
Spatial Tools for Inclusive Landscape Governance: Negotiating Land Use, Land-Cover Change, and Future Landscape Scenarios in Two Multistakeholder Platforms in Zambia
Authors: Siangulube Freddie Sayi , Ros-Tonen Mirjam A. F. , Reed James , Bayala Eric Rega Christophe , Sunderland Terry
Published: April 2023

Landscape approaches are being promoted as a form of negotiated governance to help reconcile competing land uses and identify common concerns for planning envisioned future landscapes. Multistakeholder platforms play a key role in these efforts. This paper aims to contribute to an emerging scholarship that explores how spatial tools can be used in such platforms as boundary objects and if and how they can contribute to inclusive landscape negotiations and governance. We used spatial mapping to observe and document stakeholder perceptions about drivers of land-use and land-cover change and desired future scenarios that accommodate competing land uses. We found that land-cover maps derived from satellite images helped participants identify land-use change dynamics and drivers. The ensuing community mapping of desired landscape scenarios in both multistakeholder platforms (MSPs) triggered a process of identifying common concerns and defining actionable priorities. However, in one MSP, stakeholders ultimately reached a compromise on a draft land-use map that was widely regarded as an entry point for further negotiations in Local Area Plans, while the other lacked consensus due to deep-seated social-cultural issues, such as social-class-based disagreements. This paper illustrates, first, that instead of focusing on the end product (participatory maps), understanding negotiation processes helps uncover why spatial tools may fail to achieve the intended purpose of reconciling land uses. Second, spatial tools only work for landscape approaches if MSPs are inclusive and foster a collaborative process that considers the views of all participants. The authors recommend that those steering MSPs stimulate them to evolve from “mere consultation forums” to “innovative, participatory platforms”, encouraging stakeholders to engage in genuine negotiation processes that allow negotiated and alternative outcomes. We contend that such an approach, supported by spatial tools, is likely to contribute to the implementation of landscape approaches. Policymakers and land users can use these spatial tools as boundary objects in user-focused strategies that engender inclusive stakeholder participation and ensure legitimate, acceptable, and sustainable outcomes.
A Study on the Influence of Electrical Discharges on the Formation of White Etching Cracks in Oil-Lubricated Rolling Contacts and Their Detection Using Electrostatic Sensing Technique
Authors: Esmaeili Kamran , Wang Ling , Harvey Terry J. , White Neil M. , Holweger Walter
Published: April 2023

In bearing applications, the presence of stray and parasitic currents in combination with lubricants has been studied for almost a century and has been found to cause fluting and corrugation damages under high current densities. However, recent research has suggested that at low current densities (<1 mA/mm2) under specific operating conditions, electrical discharges can substantially reduce bearing life due to the formation of white etching cracks (WECs). To date, limited studies have investigated the critical operating and electrical conditions for WEC formation and demonstrated effective fault detection techniques. This study uses a novel monitoring technique known as the electrostatic sensing technique to detect, monitor and characterise electrical discharges in an oil-lubricated steel–steel rolling contact on a TE74 twin-roller machine. The findings demonstrate that WECs can be formed under the influence of electrical discharges in less than 50 h, and the electrostatic sensors are effective for the early detection of critical electrical discharges related to WEC-induced failures.
An Indirect Procedure for Real-Time Monitoring the Neutral Conductor Deterioration in Three-Phase Distribution Networks
Authors: León-Martínez Vicente , Montañana-Romeu Joaquín , Peñalvo-López Elisa , León-Vinet Amparo , Cano-Martínez Jorge
Published: April 2023

An indirect procedure for real-time monitoring the neutral conductor condition in three-phase distribution networks, based on watching over the growth of a novel parameter (∆τ), has been described in this paper. The parameter ∆τ has been defined as the relationship between the neutral-displacement power and Buchholz’s apparent power measured at the fundamental frequency in the loads of the distribution networks for any condition of the neutral conductor and in its nominal conditions. The effectiveness of this procedure has been compared with other traditional indirect procedures, such as the surveillance of the RMS values of the line-to-neutral load voltages or their zero-sequence component. The practical application on a real distribution network reveals that the growth of the parameter ∆τ in the early stages of the breaking process of the neutral conductor follows a straight line whose equation is known for each length and section of that conductor, regardless of the loads and the voltage regulation of the transformer of the distribution network. This characteristic of the ∆τ parameter shows that the proposed procedure is suitable for monitoring neutral conductor deterioration and can be used for preventive maintenance of distribution networks.
Reducing the Reality Gap Using Hybrid Data for Real-Time Autonomous Operations
Authors: Yildirim Suleyman , Rana Zeeshan A.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents an ablation study aimed at investigating the impact of a hybrid dataset, domain randomisation, and custom-designed neural network architecture on the performance of object localisation. In this regard, real images were gathered from the Boeing 737-400 aircraft while synthetic images were generated using the domain randomisation technique involved randomising various parameters of the simulation environment in a photo-realistic manner. The study results indicated that the use of the hybrid dataset, domain randomisation, and the custom-designed neural network architecture yielded a significant enhancement in object localisation performance. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that domain randomisation facilitated the reduction of the reality gap between the real-world and simulation environments, leading to a better generalisation of the neural network architecture on real-world data. Additionally, the ablation study delved into the impact of each randomisation parameter on the neural network architecture’s performance. The insights gleaned from this investigation shed light on the importance of each constituent component of the proposed methodology and how they interact to enhance object localisation performance. The study affirms that deploying a hybrid dataset, domain randomisation, and custom-designed neural network architecture is an effective approach to training deep neural networks for object localisation tasks. The findings of this study can be applied to a wide range of computer vision applications, particularly in scenarios where collecting large amounts of labelled real-world data is challenging. The study employed a custom-designed neural network architecture that achieved 99.19% accuracy, 98.26% precision, 99.58% recall, and 97.92% mAP@.95 trained using a hybrid dataset comprising synthetic and real images.
Hybrid Impulsive Pinning Control for Mean Square Synchronization of Uncertain Multi-Link Complex Networks with Stochastic Characteristics and Hybrid Delays
Authors: Tang Yong , Zhou Lang , Tang Jiahui , Rao Yue , Fan Hongguang , Zhu Jihong
Published: April 2023

This study explores the synchronization issue for uncertain multi-link complex networks incorporating stochastic characteristics and hybrid delays. Unlike previous works, internal delays, coupling delays, and stochastic delays considered in our model change over time; meanwhile, the impulse strength and position change with time evolution. To actualize network synchronization, a strategy called hybrid impulsive pinning control is applied, which combines the virtue of impulsive control and pinning control as well as two categories of impulses (i.e., synchronization and desynchronization). By decomposing the complicated topological structures into diagonal items and off-diagonal items, multiple nonlinear coupling terms are linearly decomposed in the process of theoretical analysis. Combining inequality technology and matrix decomposition theory, several novel synchronization criteria have been gained to ensure synchronization for the concerning multi-link model. The criteria get in touch with the uncertain strengths, coupling strengths, hybrid impulse strengths, delay sizes, impulsive intervals, and network topologies.
Relative Importance of Certain Factors Affecting Air Exchange in a High-Altitude Single-Heading Tunnels Based on the Numerical Simulation Method
Authors: Li Ming , Zhang Nianhui , Wang Junjian , Feng Xinglong
Published: April 2023

Single-heading tunnels in underground metal mines have high air pollutant concentrations, chaotic airflow, and low pollutant diffusion efficiency in high-altitude areas, resulting in poor air exchange. Based on Pulang copper mine (China), a computational fluid dynamics case using the steady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations with a k-omega turbulence model was developed to study certain factors influencing the air exchange of single-heading tunnels, and was combined with an orthogonal experimental method to simulate the mean age of air (MAA) under different working conditions. This study revealed the ranking of the importance of some factors on the air exchange via sensitivity analysis. The MAA generally increases with the increasing distance between the duct and the heading face and the increasing diameter of the oxygen supply duct. This study’s optimal distance and diameter can reduce MAA by 14.7% and 9.9%, respectively. Placing the oxygen supply duct and the duct on the same side and using an 800/1000 mm inner diameter duct can effectively reduce the MAA by 6.7% and 4.2%, respectively, in this study. The findings of this study can optimize air exchange in the Pulang copper mine, and can also be referenced for the optimization of air exchange in high-altitude highway or railway tunnels being excavated.
A Novel Link Prediction Method for Social Multiplex Networks Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Cao Jiaping , Lei Tianyang , Li Jichao , Jiang Jiang
Published: April 2023

Due to the great advances in information technology, an increasing number of social platforms have appeared. Friend recommendation is an important task in social media, but newly built social platforms have insufficient information to predict entity relationships. In this case, platforms with sufficient information can help newly built platforms. To address this challenge, a model of link prediction in social multiplex networks (LPSMN) is proposed in this work. Specifically, we first extract graph structure features, latent features and explicit features and then concatenate these features as link representations. Then, with the assistance of external information from a mature platform, an attention mechanism is employed to construct a multiplex and enhanced forecasting model. Additionally, we consider the problem of link prediction to be a binary classification problem. This method utilises three different kinds of features to improve link prediction performance. Finally, we use five synthetic networks with various degree distributions and two real-world social multiplex networks (Weibo–Douban and Facebook–Twitter) to build an experimental scenario for further assessment. The numerical results indicate that the proposed LPSMN model improves the prediction accuracy compared with several baseline methods. We also find that with the decline in network heterogeneity, the performance of LPSMN increases.
Stability and Thrombogenicity Analysis of Collagen/Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposite Coatings Using a Reversible Microfluidic Device
Authors: Popovich Kristina D. , Vagner Sergey A. , Murashko Denis T. , Ten Galina N. , Ryabkin Dmitry I. , Savelyev Mikhail S. , Kitsyuk Evgeny P. , Gerasimenko Ekaterina A. , Edelbekova Polina , Konovalov Anton N. , Telyshev Dmitry V. , Selishchev Sergey V. , Gerasimenko Alexander Yu.
Published: April 2023

Currently, the development of stable and antithrombogenic coatings for cardiovascular implants is socially important. This is especially important for coatings exposed to high shear stress from flowing blood, such as those on ventricular assist devices. A method of layer-by-layer formation of nanocomposite coatings based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) in a collagen matrix is proposed. A reversible microfluidic device with a wide range of flow shear stresses has been developed for hemodynamic experiments. The dependence of the resistance on the presence of a cross-linking agent for collagen chains in the composition of the coating was demonstrated. Optical profilometry determined that collagen/c-MWCNT and collagen/c-MWCNT/glutaraldehyde coatings obtained sufficiently high resistance to high shear stress flow. However, the collagen/c-MWCNT/glutaraldehyde coating was almost twice as resistant to a phosphate-buffered solution flow. A reversible microfluidic device made it possible to assess the level of thrombogenicity of the coatings by the level of blood albumin protein adhesion to the coatings. Raman spectroscopy demonstrated that the adhesion of albumin to collagen/c-MWCNT and collagen/c-MWCNT/glutaraldehyde coatings is 1.7 and 1.4 times lower than the adhesion of protein to a titanium surface, widely used for ventricular assist devices. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy determined that blood protein was least detected on the collagen/c-MWCNT coating, which contained no cross-linking agent, including in comparison with the titanium surface. Thus, a reversible microfluidic device is suitable for preliminary testing of the resistance and thrombogenicity of various coatings and membranes, and nanocomposite coatings based on collagen and c-MWCNT are suitable candidates for the development of cardiovascular devices.
Quality Monitoring of Resistance Spot Welding Based on a Digital Twin
Authors: Dong Jianwei , Hu Jianming , Luo Zhen
Published: April 2023

As an important means to realize intelligent manufacturing, a digital twin is a digital expression of physical entities, which realizes virtual–real interaction and the iterative optimization of product design and manufacturing by constructing a bridge of information mapping between the physical world and the virtual world. Resistance spot welding technology is widely used in automotive manufacturing, aerospace and other fields as a spot linking process for the manufacture of thin sheet structures. The fusion nugget growth process of resistance spot welding is particularly important for its joint quality. Resistance spot welding is a highly nonlinear coupled process, and physical models make it difficult to accurately monitor its quality. Taking 2219/5A06 aluminum plates with different thicknesses as the research object, digital twin technology is applied to monitor the welding process of aluminum plate. In order to improve the key technologies such as information interaction in the digital twin system, a data acquisition system for resistance spot welding process is established and a real-time data processing technology based on wavelet threshold analysis is proposed. Based on real-time data, the processed process parameters are tested in twin space to validate the feasibility of the solution.
Performance Assessment of a Junctionless Heterostructure Tunnel FET Biosensor Using Dual Material Gate
Authors: Xie Haiwu , Liu Hongxia
Published: April 2023

Biosensors based on tunnel FET for label-free detection in which a nanogap is introduced under gate electrode to electrically sense the characteristics of biomolecules, have been studied widely in recent years. In this paper, a new type of heterostructure junctionless tunnel FET biosensor with an embedded nanogap is proposed, in which the control gate consists of two parts, namely the tunnel gate and auxiliary gate, with different work functions; and the detection sensitivity of different biomolecules can be controlled and adjusted by the two gates. Further, a polar gate is introduced above the source region, and a P+ source is formed by the charge plasma concept by selecting appropriate work functions for the polar gate. The variation of sensitivity with different control gate and polar gate work functions is explored. Neutral and charged biomolecules are considered to simulate device-level gate effects, and the influence of different dielectric constants on sensitivity is also researched. The simulation results show that the switch ratio of the proposed biosensor can reach 109, the maximum current sensitivity is 6.91 × 102, and the maximum sensitivity of the average subthreshold swing (SS) is 0.62.
Sn-Based Perovskite Solar Cells towards High Stability and Performance
Authors: Ayaydah Wafa’ , Raddad Eman , Hawash Zafer
Published: April 2023

Recent years have witnessed rapid development in the field of tin-based perovskite solar cells (TPSCs) due to their environmental friendliness and tremendous potential in the photovoltaic field. Most of the high-performance PSCs are based on lead as the light-absorber material. However, the toxicity of lead and the commercialization raise concerns about potential health and environmental hazards. TPSCs can maintain all the optoelectronic properties of lead PSCs, as well as feature a favorable smaller bandgap. However, TPSCs tend to undergo rapid oxidation, crystallization, and charge recombination, which make it difficult to unlock the full potential of such perovskites. Here, we shed light on the most critical features and mechanisms affecting the growth, oxidation, crystallization, morphology, energy levels, stability, and performance of TPSCs. We also investigate the recent strategies, such as interfaces and bulk additives, built-in electric field, and alternative charge transport materials that are used to enhance the performance of the TPSCs. More importantly, we have summarized most of the recent best-performing lead-free and lead-mixed TPSCs. This review aims to help future research in TPSCs to produce highly stable and efficient solar cells.
Simulation and Experimental Study of Laser Processing NdFeB Microarray Structure
Authors: Zhao Yong , Wang Shuo , Yu Wenhui , Long Pengyu , Zhang Jinlong , Tian Wentao , Gao Fei , Jin Zhuji , Zheng Hongyu , Wang Chunjin , Guo Jiang
Published: April 2023

NdFeB materials are widely used in the manufacturing of micro-linear motor sliders due to their excellent permanent magnetic properties. However, there are many challenges in processing the slider with micro-structures on the surface, such as complicated steps and low efficiency. Laser processing is expected to solve these problems, but few studies have been reported. Therefore, simulation and experiment studies in this area are of great significance. In this study, a two-dimensional simulation model of laser-processed NdFeB material was established. Based on the overall effects of surface tension, recoil pressure, and gravity, the temperature field distribution and morphological characteristics with laser processing were analyzed. The flow evolution in the melt pool was discussed, and the mechanism of microstructure formation was revealed. In addition, the effect of laser scanning speed and average power on machining morphology was investigated. The results show that at an average power of 8 W and a scanning speed of 100 mm/s, the simulated ablation depth is 43 μm, which is consistent with the experimental results. During the machining process, the molten material accumulated on the inner wall and the outlet of the crater after sputtering and refluxing, forming a V-shaped pit. The ablation depth decreases with the increment of the scanning speed, while the depth and length of the melt pool, along with the height of the recast layer, increase with the average power.
A Closed Cavity Ultrasonic Resonator Formed by Graphene/PMMA Membrane for Acoustic Application
Authors: Xu Jing , Wood Graham S. , Mastropaolo Enrico , Lomax Peter , Newton Michael , Cheung Rebecca
Published: April 2023

A graphene/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) closed cavity resonator with a resonant frequency at around 160 kHz has been fabricated. A six-layer graphene structure with a 450 nm PMMA laminated layer has been dry-transferred onto the closed cavity with an air gap of 105 μm. The resonator has been actuated in an atmosphere and at room temperature by mechanical, electrostatic and electro-thermal methods. The (1,1) mode has been observed to dominate the resonance, which suggests that the graphene/PMMA membrane has been perfectly clamped and seals the closed cavity. The degree of linearity of the membrane’s displacement versus the actuation signal has been determined. The resonant frequency has been observed to be tuned to around 4% by applying an AC voltage through the membrane. The strain has been estimated to be around 0.08%. This research puts forward a graphene-based sensor design for acoustic sensing.
Pediatric Malaria with Respiratory Distress: Prognostic Significance of Point-of-Care Lactate
Authors: Mitran Catherine , Opoka Robert O. , Conroy Andrea L. , Namasopo Sophie , Kain Kevin C. , Hawkes Michael T.
Published: April 2023

Respiratory distress (RD) in pediatric malaria portends a grave prognosis. Lactic acidosis is a biomarker of severe disease. We investigated whether lactate, measured at admission using a handheld device among children hospitalized with malaria and RD, was predictive of subsequent mortality. We performed a pooled analysis of Ugandan children under five years of age hospitalized with malaria and RD from three past studies. In total, 1324 children with malaria and RD (median age 1.4 years, 46% female) from 21 health facilities were included. Median lactate level at admission was 4.6 mmol/L (IQR 2.6–8.5) and 586 patients (44%) had hyperlactatemia (lactate > 5 mmol/L). The mortality was 84/1324 (6.3%). In a mixed-effects Cox proportional hazard model adjusting for age, sex, clinical severity score (fixed effects), study, and site (random effects), hyperlactatemia was associated with a 3-fold increased hazard of death (aHR 3.0, 95%CI 1.8–5.3, p < 0.0001). Delayed capillary refill time (τ = 0.14, p < 0.0001), hypotension (τ = −0.10, p = 0.00049), anemia (τ = −0.25, p < 0.0001), low tissue oxygen delivery (τ = −0.19, p < 0.0001), high parasite density (τ = 0.10, p < 0.0001), and acute kidney injury (p = 0.00047) were associated with higher lactate levels. In children with malaria and RD, bedside lactate may be a useful triage tool, predictive of mortality.
Clinical Features and Outcomes of Persistent Candidemia Caused by Candida albicans versus Non-albicans Candida Species: A Focus on Antifungal Resistance and Follow-Up Blood Cultures
Authors: Kitaya Shiori , Kanamori Hajime , Katori Yukio , Tokuda Koichi
Published: April 2023

The clinical distinctions among variations in Candida species, antifungal resistance (AFR), and clearance status of hospital-acquired persistent candidemia (HA-PC) remain uncertain. This secondary analysis of a retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the differences in HA-PC based on different Candida species, AFR, and persistent candidemia (PC) clearance status. A retrospective review was conducted using medical records from Tohoku University Hospital of patients for whom blood cultures were performed between January 2012 and December 2021. PC cases were categorized into groups based on Candida species, azole, or echinocandin resistance, as well as PC-clearance status, and the respective characteristics were analyzed. The HA-PC non-clearance group had a tendency toward higher 30–90-day and 90-day mortality rates compared to the HA-PC-clearance group in both the susceptible and resistant strain groups, with the former group demonstrating a statistically significant difference (odds ratio = 19, p = 0.028). The high mortality rate observed in the Candida non-albicans and resistant strain groups necessitates a more meticulous therapeutic management approach for PC. Follow-up blood cultures and confirmation of PC clearance are useful for improving the survival rates of both the HA-PC-susceptible and -resistant strain groups.
An Alternative Exploitation of Synechocystis sp. PCC6803: A Cascade Approach for the Recovery of High Added-Value Products
Authors: Imbimbo Paola , D’Elia Luigi , Corrado Iolanda , Alvarez-Rivera Gerardo , Marzocchella Antonio , Ibáñez Elena , Pezzella Cinzia , Branco dos Santos Filipe , Monti Daria Maria
Published: April 2023

Microalgal biomass represents a very interesting biological feedstock to be converted into several high-value products in a biorefinery approach. In this study, the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 was used to obtain different classes of molecules: proteins, carotenoids and lipids by using a cascade approach. In particular, the protein extract showed a selective cytotoxicity towards cancer cells, whereas carotenoids were found to be active as antioxidants both in vitro and on a cell-based model. Finally, for the first time, lipids were recovered from Synechocystis biomass as the last class of molecules and were successfully used as an alternative substrate for the production of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) by the native PHA producer Pseudomonas resinovorans. Taken together, our results lead to a significant increase in the valorization of Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 biomass, thus allowing a possible offsetting of the process costs.
Polycaprolactone-Modified Biochar Supported Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron Coupling with Shewanella putrefaciens CN32 for 1,1,1-Trichloroethane Removal from Simulated Groundwater: Synthesis, Optimization, and Mechanism
Authors: Ye Jing , Mao Yacen , Meng Liang , Li Junjie , Li Xilin , Xiao Lishan , Zhang Ying , Wang Fenghua , Deng Huan
Published: April 2023

1,1,1-Trichloroethane (1,1,1-TCA) is a typical organochloride solvent in groundwater that poses threats to human health and the environment due to its carcinogenesis and bioaccumulation. In this study, a novel composite with nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) supported by polycaprolac-tone (PCL)-modified biochar (nZVI@PBC) was synthesized via solution intercalation and liquid-phase reduction to address the 1,1,1-TCA pollution problem in groundwater. The synergy effect and improvement mechanism of 1,1,1-TCA removal from simulated groundwater in the presence of nZVI@PBC coupling with Shewanella putrefaciens CN32 were investigated. The results were as follows: (1) The composite surface was rough and porous, and PCL and nZVI were loaded uniformly onto the biochar surface as micro-particles and nanoparticles, respectively; (2) the optimal mass ratio of PCL, biochar, and nZVI was 1:7:2, and the optimal composite dosage was 1.0% (w/v); (3) under the optimal conditions, nZVI@PBC + CN32 exhibited excellent removal performance for 1,1,1-TCA, with a removal rate of 82.98% within 360 h, while the maximum removal rate was only 41.44% in the nZVI + CN32 treatment; (4) the abundance of CN32 and the concentration of adsorbed Fe(II) in the nZVI@PBC + CN32 treatment were significantly higher than that in control treatments, while the total organic carbon (TOC) concentration first increased and then decreased during the culture process; (5) the major improvement mechanisms include the nZVI-mediated chemical reductive dechlorination and the CN32-mediated microbial dissimilatory iron reduction. In conclusion, the nZVI@PBC composite coupling with CN32 can be a potential technique to apply for 1,1,1-TCA removal in groundwater.
Papaverine: A Miraculous Alkaloid from Opium and Its Multimedicinal Application
Authors: Ashrafi Sania , Alam Safaet , Sultana Arifa , Raj Asef , Emon Nazim Uddin , Richi Fahmida Tasnim , Sharmin Tasnuva , Moon Myunghan , Park Moon Nyeo , Kim Bonglee
Published: April 2023

The pharmacological actions of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids are quite substantial, and have recently attracted much attention. One of the principle benzylisoquinoline alkaloids has been found in the unripe seed capsules of Papaver somniferum L. Although it lacks analgesic effects and is unrelated to the compounds in the morphine class, it is a peripheral vasodilator and has a direct effect on vessels. It is reported to inhibit the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) phosphodiesterase in smooth muscles, and it has been observed to increase intracellular levels of cAMP and cGMP. It induces coronary, cerebral, and pulmonary artery dilatation and helps to lower cerebral vascular resistance and enhance cerebral blood flow. Current pharmacological research has revealed that papaverine demonstrates a variety of biological activities, including activity against erectile dysfunction, postoperative vasospasms, and pulmonary vasoconstriction, as well as antiviral, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, and gestational actions. It was recently demonstrated that papaverine has the potential to control SARS-CoV-2 by preventing its cytopathic effect. These experiments were carried out both in vitro and in vivo and require an extensive understanding of the mechanisms of action. With its multiple mechanisms, papaverine can be considered as a natural compound that is used to develop therapeutic drugs. To validate its applications, additional research is required into its precise therapeutic mechanisms as well as its acute and chronic toxicities. Therefore, the goal of this review is to discuss the major studies and reported clinical studies looking into the pharmacological effects of papaverine and the mechanisms of action underneath these effects. Additionally, it is recommended to conduct further research via significant pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies.
Antifoaming Agent for Lubricating Oil: Preparation, Mechanism and Application
Authors: Ren Chenfei , Zhang Xingxing , Jia Ming , Ma Chenming , Li Jiaxin , Shi Miaomiao , Niu Yunyin
Published: April 2023

In the process of using lubricating oil, it is inevitable that bubbles will be produced, which can not only accelerate the oil’s oxidation and shorten the oil change cycle but also reduce its fluidity and lubricity, aggravate the wear of mechanical parts and produce an air lock that interrupts the oil pump supply and causes an oil shortage accident. This paper mainly and comprehensively discusses the foaming process and its harm, the defoaming mechanism and defoaming method of lubricating oil, more specifically, the synthesis, application, advantages, disadvantages and current situation of three kinds of chemical defoaming agents, namely silicone defoaming agent, non-silicone defoaming agent and compound defoaming agent. Finally, the paper looks forward to the future development of special defoaming agents for lubricating oil.
Preclinical Evaluation of [155/161Tb]Tb-Crown-TATE—A Novel SPECT Imaging Theranostic Agent Targeting Neuroendocrine Tumours
Authors: Wharton Luke , McNeil Scott W. , Merkens Helen , Yuan Zheliang , Van de Voorde Michiel , Engudar Gokce , Ingham Aidan , Koniar Helena , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Cristina , Radchenko Valery , Ooms Maarten , Kunz Peter , Bénard François , Schaffer Paul , Yang Hua
Published: April 2023

Terbium radioisotopes (149Tb, 152Tb, 155Tb, 161Tb) offer a unique class of radionuclides which encompass all four medicinally relevant nuclear decay modalities (α, β+, γ, β−/e−), and show high potential for the development of element-matched theranostic radiopharmaceuticals. The goal of this study was to design, synthesise, and evaluate the suitability of crown-TATE as a new peptide-conjugate for radiolabelling of [155Tb]Tb3+ and [161Tb]Tb3+, and to assess the imaging and pharmacokinetic properties of each radiotracer in tumour-bearing mice. [155Tb]Tb-crown-TATE and [161Tb]Tb-crown-TATE were prepared efficiently under mild conditions, and exhibited excellent stability in human serum (>99.5% RCP over 7 days). Longitudinal SPECT/CT images were acquired for 155Tb- and 161Tb- labelled crown-TATE in male NRG mice bearing AR42J tumours. The radiotracers, [155Tb]Tb-crown-TATE and [161Tb]Tb-crown-TATE, showed high tumour targeting (32.6 and 30.0 %ID/g, respectively) and minimal retention in non-target organs at 2.5 h post-administration. Biodistribution studies confirmed the SPECT/CT results, showing high tumour uptake (38.7 ± 8.0 %ID/g and 38.5 ± 3.5 %ID/g, respectively) and favourable tumour-to-background ratios. Blocking studies further confirmed SSTR2-specific tumour accumulation. Overall, these findings suggest that crown-TATE has great potential for element-matched molecular imaging and radionuclide therapy using 155Tb and 161Tb.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Activity of Ampelozizyphus amazonicus (Saracura-Mirá): Focus on the Modulation of the Spike-ACE2 Interaction by Chemically Characterized Bark Extracts by LC-DAD-APCI-MS/MS
Authors: Campos Mariana Freire , Mendonça Simony Carvalho , Peñaloza Evelyn Maribel Condori , de Oliveira Beatriz A. C. , Rosa Alice S. , Leitão Gilda Guimarães , Tucci Amanda R. , Ferreira Vivian Neuza S. , Oliveira Thamara Kelcya F. , Miranda Milene Dias , Allonso Diego , Leitão Suzana Guimarães
Published: April 2023

Traditional medicine shows several treatment protocols for COVID-19 based on natural products, revealing its potential as a possible source of anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents. Ampelozizyphus amazonicus is popularly used in the Brazilian Amazon as a fortifier and tonic, and recently, it has been reported to relieve COVID-19 symptoms. This work aimed to investigate the antiviral potential of A. amazonicus, focusing on the inhibition of spike and ACE2 receptor interaction, a key step in successful infection. Although saponins are the major compounds of this plant and often reported as its active principles, a polyphenol-rich extract was the best inhibitor of the spike and ACE2 interaction. Chemical characterization of A. amazonicus bark extracts by LC-DAD-APCI-MS/MS before and after clean-up steps for polyphenol removal showed that the latter play an essential role in maintaining this activity. The effects of the extracts on viral replication were also assessed, and all samples (aqueous and ethanol extracts) demonstrated in vitro activity, inhibiting viral titers in the supernatant of Calu-3 cells after 24 hpi. By acting both in the SARS-CoV-2 cell entry process and its replication, A. amazonicus bark extracts stand out as a multitarget agent, highlighting the species as a promising candidate in the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Mitochondrial Stress in Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Pu Sisi , Pan Yangyang , Zhang Qian , You Ting , Yue Tao , Zhang Yuxing , Wang Meng
Published: April 2023

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a widespread and harmful disease closely linked to mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Globally, severe drug-induced hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer are the primary causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality. A hallmark of DILI is ERS and changes in mitochondrial morphology and function, which increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a vicious cycle of mutually reinforcing stress responses. Several pathways are maladapted to maintain homeostasis during DILI. Here, we discuss the processes of liver injury caused by several types of drugs that induce hepatocyte stress, focusing primarily on DILI by ERS and mitochondrial stress. Importantly, both ERS and mitochondrial stress are mediated by the overproduction of ROS, destruction of Ca2+ homeostasis, and unfolded protein response (UPR). Additionally, we review new pathways and potential pharmacological targets for DILI to highlight new possibilities for DILI treatment and mitigation.
Evaluation of the Anticancer Activity and Mechanism Studies of Glycyrrhetic Acid Derivatives toward HeLa Cells
Authors: Chen Ju , Xu Yunran , Yang Yan , Yao Xin , Fu Yuan , Wang Yi , Liu Yunjun , Wang Xiuzhen
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a series of glycyrrhetic acid derivatives 3a–3f were synthesized via the esterification reaction. The cytotoxicity of these compounds against five tumor cells (SGC-7901, BEL-7402, A549, HeLa and B16) and normal LO2 cells was investigated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The results showed that compound 3a exhibited high antiproliferative activity against HeLa cells (IC50 = 11.4 ± 0.2 μM). The anticancer activity was studied through apoptosis, cloning, and scratching; the levels of the intracellular ROS, GSH, and Ca2+; and the change in the mitochondrial membrane potential, cell cycle arrest and RNA sequencing. Furthermore, the effects of compound 3a on gene expression levels and metabolic pathways in HeLa cells were investigated via transcriptomics. The experimental results showed that this compound can block the cell cycle in the S phase and inhibit cell migration by downregulating Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) expression. Moreover, the compound can reduce the intracellular glutathione (GSH) content, increase the Ca2+ level and the intracellular ROS content, and induce a decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential, further leading to cell death. In addition, it was also found that the mechanism of compounds inducing apoptosis was related to the regulation of the expression of mitochondria-related proteins B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-Associated X (Bax), and the activation of the caspase proteins. Taken together, this work provides a help for the development of glycyrrhetinic acid compounds as potential anticancer molecules.