bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of the Performance of Short-Column Aggregate Concrete in Rectangular Stainless Steel Pipes under Axial Compression
Authors: Zhu Ruiqing , Shao Chuanyu , Chen Haitao
Published: March 2024

In this study, 18 short-column lightweight ceramsite concrete samples were prepared in rectangular stainless steel pipes, which were used for axial pressure performance tests that took the cross-sectional length–width ratio of the rectangular stainless steel pipe (1.0, 1.5 and 2.0), the wall thickness of the steel pipe (3 mm, 4 mm and 5 mm), and the strength grade of the filled concrete (C20 and C30) as the main parameters. Then, the failure patterns, axial load–displacement curve, axial load–strain curve, ultimate bearing capacity and the interaction between the steel pipe and concrete in the specimens were measured. The test results revealed that the short-column concrete specimens in the steel pipes exhibited typical shear failure and “waist-bulging” failure under axial compressive loads. In the elastic stage, the bearing capacity of the specimens was able to reach 65–85% of the ultimate bearing capacity, with the residual bearing capacity essentially reaching 70% of the ultimate bearing capacity. Furthermore, the ultimate bearing capacity of the specimens demonstrated an increase with the rise in the strength grade of the filled concrete, with the thickness of the stainless steel pipe and with the decrease in the length–width ratio of the steel pipe cross-section. The specimens exhibited a distinct hoop effect. As the length–width ratio decreased and the hoop coefficient increased, the ductility coefficient and the strength enhancement coefficient basically displayed an increasing tendency, while the concrete contribution ratio exhibited a decreasing trend.
Axial Compression Damage Model and Damage Evolution of Crumb Rubber Concrete Based on the Energy Method
Authors: Guo Tongge , Xue Gang , Fu Bolun
Published: March 2024

The current constitutive model and damage evolution law of crumb rubber concrete (CRC) were obtained by fitting and changing parameters based on the normal concrete model. However, this model does not accurately reflect the characteristics of the material. In this paper, we studied the energy dissipation in the failure process of CRC to derive the constitutive model and damage evolution law of CRC based on the energy method. Four substitution rates of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% were selected, and the rubber concrete prism was prepared by replacing the natural fine aggregate with the same volume of crumb rubber aggregate. After that, uniaxial compressive tests were conducted. The energy lost due to the damage was calculated and analyzed, and the energy method was used to establish the damage evolution law and damage model of the crumb rubber concrete. The results demonstrated that the Guo Zhenhai damage model, which is based on the energy method, can more effectively explain the crumb rubber concrete stress–strain full curve, and the energy consumed as a result of the damage exhibits a growing and then reducing pattern with the increase in rubber doses. When the energy-based method is used, the Guo Zhenhai damage evolution model is similar to the damage evolution law calculated using the SIR damage evolution model. During uniaxial compression damage, rubber concrete with various rubber dosages demonstrated varying energy absorption in different deformation phases. When the rubber particle content was 10%, the energy absorption capacity of the specimen was 6.9% higher than that of normal concrete.
Onset of Alveolization Processes in Sandstones Exposed to Salt Weathering
Authors: Ludovico-Marques Marco , Chastre Carlos
Published: March 2024

Sandstones of the Lourinhã Formation were studied. Alveolization is the major form of weathering on the façades of monuments near Peniche in the western region of Portugal. Salt weathering is an important cause of this degradation form. Stones of specimens, similar to those found in these ancient buildings, were used for an experimental program of artificial salt ageing through the use of sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium sulfate solutions, all at 10% (w/w). Salt weathering follow-up was carried out viz. the assessment of the degradation effect on these specimens of lower values of porosity under crystallization–dissolution cycles. Sodium chloride and sodium chloride with calcium sulfate were the more deleterious solutions, causing failure of the specimens after at least 40 cycles of immersion/drying. Surfaces of the sandstone specimens of variety A showed the onset of the alveolization form due to the use of a saline solution of sodium chloride with calcium sulfate.
Accessibility of the Built Environment for People with Sensory Disabilities—Review Quality and Representation of Evidence
Authors: Chidiac S. E. , Reda M. A. , Marjaba G. E.
Published: March 2024

People with sensory disabilities constitute a significant portion of society whose accessibility needs must be prioritized in the design of the built environment. Sensory disabilities cause a gap in the environmental information received, most commonly visual and/or auditory cues, that requires consideration to create equal opportunities and experiences for all. This paper evaluates the quality and representation of existing research on accessibility for people with sensory disabilities, aiming to identify gaps and inconsistencies in current studies. By considering variations in disability type, degree of impairment, and assistive aid usage, we seek to enhance the development of inclusive accessibility standards. Through this analysis, we aim to provide actionable insights for future research and contribute to the creation of more equitable built environments for all individuals.
Correction: Gresseau et al. A Signaling Crosstalk Links SNAIL to the 37/67 kDa Laminin-1 Receptor Ribosomal Protein SA and Regulates the Acquisition of a Cancer Stem Cell Molecular Signature in U87 Glioblastoma Neurospheres. Cancers 2022, 14, 5944
Authors: Gresseau Loraine , Roy Marie-Eve , Duhamel Stéphanie , Annabi Borhane
Published: March 2024

In the original publication [...]
Electroporation in Translational Medicine: From Veterinary Experience to Human Oncology
Authors: Spugnini Enrico P. , Condello Maria , Crispi Stefania , Baldi Alfonso
Published: March 2024

Electroporation (EP) is a broadly accepted procedure that, through the application of electric pulses with appropriate amplitudes and waveforms, promotes the delivery of anticancer molecules in various oncology therapies. EP considerably boosts the absorptivity of targeted cells to anticancer molecules of different natures, thus upgrading their effectiveness. Its use in veterinary oncology has been widely explored, and some applications, such as electrochemotherapy (ECT), are currently approved as first-line treatments for several neoplastic conditions. Other applications include irreversible electroporation and EP-based cancer vaccines. In human oncology, EP is still mostly restricted to therapies for cutaneous tumors and the palliation of cutaneous and visceral metastases of malignant tumors. Fields where veterinary experience could help smooth the clinical transition to humans include intraoperative EP, interventional medicine and cancer vaccines. This article recapitulates the state of the art of EP in veterinary and human oncology, recounting the most relevant results to date.
CA9, CYFIP2 and LGALS3BP—A Novel Biomarker Panel to Aid Prognostication in Glioma
Authors: Hudson Amanda L. , Cho Angela , Colvin Emily K. , Hayes Sarah A. , Wheeler Helen R. , Howell Viive M.
Published: March 2024

Brain cancer is a devastating and life-changing disease. Biomarkers are becoming increasingly important in addressing clinical issues, including in monitoring tumour progression and assessing survival and treatment response. The goal of this study was to identify prognostic biomarkers associated with glioma progression. Discovery proteomic analysis was performed on a small cohort of astrocytomas that were diagnosed as low-grade and recurred at a higher grade. Six proteins were chosen to be validated further in a larger cohort. Three proteins, CA9, CYFIP2, and LGALS3BP, were found to be associated with glioma progression and, in univariate analysis, could be used as prognostic markers. However, according to the results of multivariate analysis, these did not remain significant. These three proteins were then combined into a three-protein panel. This panel had a specificity and sensitivity of 0.7459 for distinguishing between long and short survival. In silico data confirmed the prognostic significance of this panel.
Onward Spread from Liver Metastases Is a Major Cause of Multi-Organ Metastasis in a Mouse Model of Metastatic Colon Cancer
Authors: Wijler Liza A. , Viergever Bastiaan J. , Strating Esther , van Schelven Susanne J. , Poghosyan Susanna , Frenkel Nicola C. , te Rietmole Hedy , Verheem Andre , Raats Danielle A. E. , Borel Rinkes Inne H. M. , Hagendoorn Jeroen , Kranenburg Onno
Published: March 2024

Colorectal cancer metastasizes predominantly to the liver but also to the lungs and the peritoneum. The presence of extra-hepatic metastases limits curative (surgical) treatment options and is associated with very poor survival. The mechanisms governing multi-organ metastasis formation are incompletely understood. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the site of tumor growth influences extra-hepatic metastasis formation. To this end, we implanted murine colon cancer organoids into the primary tumor site (i.e., the caecum) and into the primary metastasis site (i.e., the liver) in immunocompetent mice. The organoid-initiated liver tumors were significantly more efficient in seeding distant metastases compared to tumors of the same origin growing in the caecum (intra-hepatic: 51 vs. 40%, p = 0.001; peritoneal cavity: 51% vs. 33%, p = 0.001; lungs: 30% vs. 7%, p = 0.017). The enhanced metastatic capacity of the liver tumors was associated with the formation of ‘hotspots’ of vitronectin-positive blood vessels surrounded by macrophages. RNA sequencing analysis of clinical samples showed a high expression of vitronectin in liver metastases, along with signatures reflecting hypoxia, angiogenesis, coagulation, and macrophages. We conclude that ‘onward spread’ from liver metastases is facilitated by liver-specific microenvironmental signals that cause the formation of macrophage-associated vascular hotspots. The therapeutic targeting of these signals may help to contain the disease within the liver and prevent onward spread.
Current and Emerging Radiotherapy Options for Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Semeniuk Oleksii , Yu Esther , Rivard Mark J.
Published: March 2024

What treatment options are there for patients having uveal melanoma? A randomized, prospective, multi-institutional clinical trial (COMS) showed no difference in survival between brachytherapy and enucleation for medium-sized lesions. With the obvious benefit of retaining the eye, brachytherapy has flourished and many different approaches have been developed such as low-dose-rate sources using alternate low-energy photon-emitting radionuclides, different plaque designs and seed-loading techniques, high-dose-rate brachytherapy sources and applicators, and low- and high-dose-rate beta-emitting sources and applicators. There also have been developments of other radiation modalities like external-beam radiotherapy using linear accelerators with high-energy photons, particle accelerators for protons, and gamma stereotactic radiosurgery. This article examines the dosimetric properties, targeting capabilities, and outcomes of these approaches. The several modalities examined herein have differing attributes and it may be that no single approach would be considered optimal for all patients and all lesion characteristics.
Natural Wollastonite-Derived Two-Dimensional Nanosheet Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 as a Novel Carrier of CdS for Efficient Photocatalytic H2 Generation
Authors: Ma Jiarong , Zhou Run , Tu Yu , Ma Ruixin , Chen Daimei , Ding Hao
Published: March 2024

Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 rods (NS) were synthesized via a hydrothermal method, employing natural wollastonite as a template. The hierarchical Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 rods exhibited vertically oriented nanosheets, resulting in a substantial increase in the specific surface area (from 2.24 m2/g to 178.4 m2/g). Subsequently, a CdS/Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 composite photocatalyst (CdS/NS) was prepared using a chemical deposition method. CdS was uniformly loaded onto the surface of the Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 nanosheets, successfully forming a heterojunction with Ni3Si2O5(OH)4. The CdS/NS photocatalyst in the presence of lactic acid as a sacrificial agent demonstrated an impressive H2 production rate of 4.05 mmol h−1 g−1, around 40 times higher than pure CdS. The photocorrosion of CdS was effectively solved after loading. After four cycles, the performance of CdS/NS remained stable, showing the potential for sustainable applications. After photoexcitation, electrons moved from Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 to the valence band of CdS, where they interacted with the holes via an enhanced interface contact. Simultaneously, electrons in CdS transitioned to its conduction band, facilitating hydrogenation. The enhanced performance was attributed to the improved CdS dispersion by Ni3Si2O5(OH)4 loading and efficient photogenerated carrier separation through the heterojunction formation. This work provides new perspectives for broadening the applications of mineral materials and developing heterojunction photocatalysts with good dispersibility and recyclability.
Overactivation of the Endocannabinoid System in Adolescence Disrupts Adult Adipose Organ Function in Mice
Authors: Jung Kwang-Mook , Lin Lin , Piomelli Daniele
Published: March 2024

Cannabis use stimulates calorie intake, but epidemiological studies show that people who regularly use it are leaner than those who don’t. Two explanations have been proposed for this paradoxical finding. One posits that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis desensitizes adipose CB1 cannabinoid receptors, stopping their stimulating effects on lipogenesis and adipogenesis. Another explanation is that THC exposure in adolescence, when habitual cannabis use typically starts, produces lasting changes in the developing adipose organ, which impacts adult systemic energy use. Here, we consider these possibilities in the light of a study which showed that daily THC administration in adolescent mice produces an adult metabolic phenotype characterized by reduced fat mass, partial resistance to obesity and dyslipidemia, and impaired thermogenesis and lipolysis. The phenotype, whose development requires activation of CB1 receptors in differentiated adipocytes, is associated with overexpression of myocyte proteins in the adipose organ with unchanged CB1 expression. We propose that adolescent exposure to THC causes lasting adipocyte dysfunction and the consequent emergence of a metabolic state that only superficially resembles healthy leanness. A corollary of this hypothesis, which should be addressed in future studies, is that CB1 receptors and their endocannabinoid ligands may contribute to the maintenance of adipocyte differentiation during adolescence.
Communication between Mast Cells and Group 2 Innate Lymphoid Cells in the Skin
Authors: Mehrani Yeganeh , Morovati Solmaz , Tajik Tahmineh , Sarmadi Soroush , Bitaraf Ali , Sourani Zahra , Shahverdi Mohammad , Javadi Helia , Kakish Julia E. , Bridle Byram W. , Karimi Khalil
Published: March 2024

The skin is a dynamic organ with a complex immune network critical for maintaining balance and defending against various pathogens. Different types of cells in the skin, such as mast cells (MCs) and group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), contribute to immune regulation and play essential roles in the early immune response to various triggers, including allergens. It is beneficial to dissect cell-to-cell interactions in the skin to elucidate the mechanisms underlying skin immunity. The current manuscript concentrates explicitly on the communication pathways between MCs and ILC2s in the skin, highlighting their ability to regulate immune responses, inflammation, and tissue repair. Furthermore, it discusses how the interactions between MCs and ILC2s play a crucial role in various skin conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, dermatological disorders, and allergic reactions. Understanding the complex interactions between MCs and ILC2s in different skin conditions is crucial to developing targeted treatments for related disorders. The discovery of shared pathways could pave the way for novel therapeutic interventions to restore immunological balance in diseased skin tissues.
Neutral Sphingomyelinase 2 Inhibition Limits Hepatic Steatosis and Inflammation
Authors: Al-Rashed Fatema , Arefanian Hossein , Madhoun Ashraf Al , Bahman Fatemah , Sindhu Sardar , AlSaeed Halemah , Jacob Texy , Thomas Reeby , Al-Roub Areej , Alzaid Fawaz , Malik MD Zubbair , Nizam Rasheeba , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Al-Mulla Fahd , Hannun Yusuf A. , Ahmad Rasheed
Published: March 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is manifested by hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance, hepatocyte death, and systemic inflammation. Obesity induces steatosis and chronic inflammation in the liver. However, the precise mechanism underlying hepatic steatosis in the setting of obesity remains unclear. Here, we report studies that address this question. After 14 weeks on a high-fat diet (HFD) with high sucrose, C57BL/6 mice revealed a phenotype of liver steatosis. Transcriptional profiling analysis of the liver tissues was performed using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Our RNA-seq data revealed 692 differentially expressed genes involved in processes of lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, immune responses, and cell proliferation. Notably, the gene encoding neutral sphingomyelinase, SMPD3, was predominantly upregulated in the liver tissues of the mice displaying a phenotype of steatosis. Moreover, nSMase2 activity was elevated in these tissues of the liver. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of nSMase2 prevented intracellular lipid accumulation and TNFα-induced inflammation in in-vitro HepG2-steatosis cellular model. Furthermore, nSMase2 inhibition ameliorates oxidative damage by rescuing PPARα and preventing cell death associated with high glucose/oleic acid-induced fat accumulation in HepG2 cells. Collectively, our findings highlight the prominent role of nSMase2 in hepatic steatosis, which could serve as a potential therapeutic target for NAFLD and other hepatic steatosis-linked disorders.
Chronic Pain in Autistic Youth: Clinical Prevalence and Reflections on Tailoring Evidence-Based Interventions from an Interdisciplinary Treatment Team
Authors: Han Gloria T. , Heavner Holly S. , Rains Thomas R. , Hoang Alan H. , Stone Amanda L.
Published: March 2024

Though there is growing awareness of the overrepresentation of autistic patients in chronic pain clinics, potential adaptations for the assessment and treatment of chronic pain in this population have not yet been established. To address this gap, a retrospective review of electronic medical records and discussions by an interdisciplinary pain treatment team were summarized to inform potential biopsychosocial factors affecting the presentation, assessment, and treatment of chronic pain in autistic youth. Our sample included a record review of 95 patients receiving treatment in an interdisciplinary outpatient pediatric pain clinic. Results indicated that 9% (n = 9) of the patients presented to the clinic with a prior diagnosis of autism, but an additional 21% (n = 20) were identified as likely meeting criteria for autism based on the clinical assessment of the developmental history, behaviors observed during the clinical encounter(s), and expert clinical judgment, suggesting that the prevalence rate of autism may be closer to 30% in our outpatient pediatric pain clinic. Over half (52%) of the autistic youth presented to the clinic with widespread pain, 60% identified as female, and 6% identified as gender expansive or transgender. Qualitative insights revealed that most of the autistic patients had co-occurring sensory-processing challenges and difficulty in describing their pain, emotions, and somatic experiences and exhibited cognitive inflexibility and social challenges. We summarize our team’s clinical reflections on how autism-relevant biopsychosocial vulnerability factors may contribute to the experience of pain in autistic youth and propose treatment targets and adaptations for the assessment and treatment of pain in this population. Finally, we recommend the need for interventions focused on sensorimotor integration, especially for autistic youth, and describe how pain clinics may be particularly helpful for identifying and supporting autistic females, for whom the potential role of autism in pain experiences had not been considered until receiving treatment in our clinic.
New Clinical Markers of Oxidized Lipid-Associated Protein Damage in Children and Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Kostopoulou Eirini , Varemmenou Athina , Kalaitzopoulou Electra , Papadea Polyxeni , Skipitari Marianna , Rojas Gil Andrea Paola , Spiliotis Bessie E. , Fouzas Sotirios , Georgiou Christos D.
Published: March 2024

Obesity in children and adolescents has been associated with oxidative stress (OS). The lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) and the malondialdehyde (MDA) and thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS) that oxidatively modify proteins (Pr) (i.e., PrMDA and PrTBARS, respectively) represent markers of OS-associated lipid peroxidation. We aimed to assess OS in children and adolescents with obesity using—for the first time—markers involved in the early and late lipid oxidation process. LOOH, PrMDA, and PrTBARS were investigated in 41 children and adolescents with obesity and 31 controls. Obesity was defined as BMI > 95% for age and sex. The PrMDA/PrTBARS pair, which reflects a late peroxidation stage, was found to be significantly high (39%/180%) in children and adolescents with obesity compared to controls (p < 0.001). Similarly, the early LOOH peroxidation stage marker was increased by 30%. The studied OS parameters were not influenced by sex or age. Our study introduces LOOH, PrTBARS, and PrMDA as markers for evaluating OS in children and adolescents with obesity. LOOH, PrTBARS, and PrMDA may also hold promise as prognostic markers for potential obesity-associated long-term complications.
Development of Multiplex Molecular Assays for Simultaneous Detection of Dengue Serotypes and Chikungunya Virus for Arbovirus Surveillance
Authors: Belem Louis Robert W. , Ibemgbo Sylvester Agha , Gomgnimbou Michel Kiréopori , Verma Dileep Kumar , Kaboré Antoinette , Kumar Ankit , Sangaré Ibrahim , Sunil Sujatha
Published: March 2024

The major arboviruses mainly belong to the Bunyaviridae, Togaviridae, and Flaviviridae families, among which the chikungunya virus and dengue virus have emerged as global public health problems. The main objective of this study was to develop specific, sensitive, and cost-effective molecular multiplex RT-PCR and RT-qPCR assays for the rapid and simultaneous detection of CHIKV and the four serotypes of DENV for arbovirus surveillance. Specific primers for all viruses were designed, and one-step multiplex RT-PCR (mRT-PCR) and RT-qPCR (mRT-qPCR) were developed using reference strains of the CHIKV and DENV serotypes. The specificity of the test for all the viruses was confirmed through sequencing. The standard curves showed a high correlation coefficient, R2 = 0.99, for DENV-2 and DENV-3; R2 = 0.98, for DENV-4; and CHIKV; R2 = 0.93, for DENV-1. The limits of detection were calculated to be 4.1 × 10−1 copies/reaction for DENV-1, DENV-3, and CHIKV and 4.1 × 101 for DENV-2 and DENV-4. The specificity and sensitivity of the newly developed mRT-PCR and mRT-qPCR were validated using positive serum samples collected from India and Burkina Faso. The sensitivity of mRT-PCR and mRT-qPCR are 91%, and 100%, respectively. The specificity of both assays was 100%. mRT-PCR and mRT-qPCR assays are low-cost, and a combination of both will be a useful tool for arbovirus surveillance.
Anti-Tumor Potential of Post-Translational Modifications of PD-1
Authors: Xi Xiaoming , Zhao Wuli
Published: March 2024

Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) is a vital immune checkpoint molecule. The location, stability, and protein–protein interaction of PD-1 are significantly influenced by post-translational modification (PTM) of proteins. The biological information of PD-1, including its gene and protein structures and the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway, was briefly reviewed in this review. Additionally, recent research on PD-1 post-translational modification, including the study of ubiquitination, glycosylation, phosphorylation, and palmitoylation, was summarized, and research strategies for PD-1 PTM drugs were concluded. At present, only a part of PD-1/PD-L1 treated patients (35–45%) are benefited from immunotherapies, and novel strategies targeting PTM of PD-1/PD-L1 may be important for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 non-responders (poor responders).
Hybrid Laser Additive Manufacturing of Metals: A Review
Authors: Yue Wenwen , Zhang Yichuan , Zheng Zhengxin , Lai Youbin
Published: March 2024

Due to the unparalleled benefits of traditional processing techniques, additive manufacturing technology has experienced rapid development and continues to expand its applications. However, as industrial standards advance, the pressing needs for high precision, high performance, and high efficiency in the manufacturing sector have emerged as critical bottlenecks hindering the technology’s progress. Single-laser additive manufacturing methods are insufficient to meet these demands. This review presents a comprehensive exploration of metal hybrid laser additive manufacturing technology, encompassing various aspects, such as multi-process hybrid laser additive manufacturing, additive–subtractive hybrid manufacturing, multi-energy hybrid additive manufacturing, and multi-material hybrid additive manufacturing. Through a thorough examination of the principles of laser additive manufacturing technology and the concept of hybrid manufacturing, this paper investigates in depth the notable advantages of hybrid laser additive manufacturing technology. It provides valuable insights and recommendations to guide the development and research of innovative machining technologies.
The Effect of Laser Power on the Microstructure and Wear Resistance of a Ni3Al-Based Alloy Cladding Layer Deposited via Laser Cladding
Authors: Cai Yihui , Dong Zhizhong , Zhao Lin , Peng Yun , Cao Yang
Published: March 2024

A coating prepared via laser cladding has the advantages of a high-density reinforced layer, a low matrix dilution rate, and combination with matrix metallurgy. In this study, Ni3Al-based alloy cladding layers with Cr7C3 were prepared via laser cladding, and the corresponding microstructures and wear resistance were studied in detail. The results show that the Ni3Al-based cladding layer prepared using laser cladding technology had good metallurgical bonding with the matrix, and there were no pores, cracks, or other defects on the surface. The microstructures of the laser cladding layer were mainly γ′-Ni3Al, β′-NiAl, and in situ C7C3. As the laser power increased, the heat input increased, resulting in an increase in the dilution rate. Simultaneously, the carbide size in the laser cladding layer increased. With the increase in laser power, the hardness of the laser cladding layer of the Ni3Al-based alloy decreased, and the wear resistance of the laser cladding layer first strengthened and then weakened. When the laser power increased to 2.0 kW, the wear rate of the laser cladding layer decreased to 0.480 × 10−5 mm3/N·m. When the laser power increased to 2.4 kW, the wear rate of the laser cladding layer increased to 0.961 × 10−5 mm3/N·m, which was twice the rate at 2.0 kW. This could be attributed to small Cr7C3 particles, which could not effectively separate the wear pairs, resulting in more serious adhesive wear. Large Cr7C3 particles caused the surface of cast iron material with lower hardness to be damaged, which suffered more serious particle wear. The generation of short rod-shaped carbides should be avoided because, in the process of friction and wear, carbides with these shapes are easy to break, thus leading to crack initiation.
Green Ammonia Production in Stochastic Power Markets
Authors: Lauro Ezio , Têtu Amélie , Geman Hélyette
Published: March 2024

Real assets in the energy market are subject to ecological uncertainty due to the penetration of renewables. We illustrate this point by analyzing electrolyzers, a class of assets that recently became the subject of large interest, as they lead to the production of the desirable green hydrogen and green ammonia. The latter has the advantage of being easily stored and has huge potential in decarbonizing both the fertilizer and shipping industries. We consider the optimization of green ammonia production with different types of electricity procurement in the context of stochastic power and ammonia markets, a necessary assumption to translate the features of renewable, hence intermittent, electricity. We emphasize the importance of using stochastic prices to model the volatile nature of the price dynamics effectively, illustrating the project risks that hedging activities can mitigate. This study shows the pivotal role of flexibility when dealing with fluctuating renewable production and volatile electricity prices to maximize profits and better manage risks.
Exploring Various Crystal and Molecular Structures of Gabapentin—A Review
Authors: Baranowska Justyna , Szeleszczuk Łukasz
Published: March 2024

Novel antiepileptic drugs have been developed at an unparalleled rate during the past 15 years. Gabapentin (GBP), which was approved for the treatment of refractory localization-related epilepsies in the U.K. and Europe in 1993, was one of the first drugs to come out of this era. Since then, GBP has become well-known across the world, not only for its antiepileptic qualities but also for its effectiveness in the treatment of chronic pain disorders, particularly neuropathic pain. In this review, the crystal structures of GBP and GBP-related compounds have been analyzed and compared. Particular attention has been paid to the polymorphism of GBP and its hydrates, their thermodynamic stability, and conformational differences. In addition, the puckering parameters for the cyclohexane ring of a total of 118 molecules of GBP found in the analyzed crystal structures have been calculated and analyzed. The results of recent high-pressure crystallization studies and quantum chemical calculations indicate that the entire landscape of GBP has not been revealed yet.
Effect of Fluoroalcohol Chain Extension Modified HTPB Binder on the Combustion Performance of Aluminized Propellants
Authors: Huang Yanjie , Chang Kanghua , Yao Jie , Guo Xueyong , Shen Chen , Yan Shi
Published: March 2024

To enhance both the mechanical properties of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) binder and the combustion efficiency of aluminized propellants, 2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5-octafluoro-1,6-hexanediol (OFHD) was employed as a chain extender to impart mechanical regulation to the HTPB binder. Mechanical testing showed that the mechanical properties of fluoride-modified HTPB polyurethane (FPU) were significantly improved: the peak tensile strength of the optimized samples reached 1.99 MPa, and the elongation at break attained 486%. The structural characterization of the FPUs was conducted using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Thermogravimetry-mass spectrometer (TG-MS) analysis revealed that the initial thermal decomposition temperature of the FPU shifted from 170 °C to 162 °C, accompanied by the release of fluorine-containing fragments during decomposition. Analysis of the combustion residue indicated that the addition of OFHD can reduce the agglomeration of aluminum (Al) powder in aluminized propellants. Dynamic pressure characteristics results showed an augmented pressurization rate under argon and oxygen atmospheres, increased by 18.67% and 37.29%, respectively. Heat release tests indicated that the aluminized propellants with the addition of OFHD had a higher combustion heat, being increased by 6.57%. The binder system is expected to be applied in aluminized propellants to improve the mechanical properties and combustion efficiency of Al powder.
Influence of Processing Temperature and Strain Rate on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Magnesium Alloys Processed by Single-Pass Differential Speed Rolling
Authors: Hale Christopher , Xu Zhigang , Fialkova Svitlana , Rawles Jessica , Sankar Jagannathan
Published: March 2024

Magnesium-based alloys show significant promise for widespread applications owing to their lightweight nature and improved mechanical properties achieved through grain refinement via hot rolling. This investigation focuses on Mg-xAl-yCa-zMn (AXM alloys), pre-heated to temperatures of 350, 400, and 450 °C and processed via both single-pass differential speed rolling (DSR) and conventional rolling (CR). The key findings reveal the interplay between processing temperature, strain rate during single-pass rolling, and an innovative approach for incorporating varying amounts of Ca, influencing grain size, quantity of dynamic recrystallization (DRX) grains, and overall mechanical properties, including strength and ductility. A noteworthy observation is the positive correlation between an increase in the total reduction during hot rolling and a higher fraction of DRXed grains. This leads to a significant reduction in average grain size, diminishing from 60.3 ± 54.3 μm to 19.5 ± 14.2 μm at 40%, nearly a third the size of T4 grains (the initial homogenized microstructure of the AXM alloys). The resultant material strength experiences a doubling from an average of 125 ± 10.2 MPa (T4) to 260 ± 25.8 MPa (DSR rolled at 40%) for the AXM alloys with potential improvement in the ductility depending on rolling speed conditions. This study also aims to analyze the combination of rolling temperature, rolling speed, thickness reduction, speed difference and Ca content implemented across a wide range of temperatures and strain rates to provide a holistic approach to the processing parameters affecting the microstructure and mechanical properties of AXM alloys. Furthermore, this study provides a deeper understanding of DRX mechanisms, including continuous DRX (CDRX), discontinuous DRX (DDRX), and twinning induced DRX (TDRX), while each of these mechanisms plays a distinct role in the overall enhancement of formability and performance of magnesium alloys.
Barriers and Unequal Access to Timely Molecular Testing Results: Addressing the Inequities in Cancer Care Delays across Canada
Authors: Snow Stephanie , Brezden-Masley Christine , Carter Michael D. , Dhani Neesha , Macaulay Cassandra , Ramjeesingh Ravi , Raphael Michael J. , Slovinec D’Angelo Monika , Servidio-Italiano Filomena
Published: March 2024

Genomic medicine is a powerful tool to improve diagnosis and outcomes for cancer patients by facilitating the delivery of the right drug at the right dose at the right time for the right patient. In 2023, a Canadian conference brought together leaders with expertise in different tumor types. The objective was to identify challenges and opportunities for change in terms of equitable and timely access to biomarker testing and reporting at the education, delivery, laboratory, patient, and health-system levels in Canada. Challenges identified included: limited patient and clinician awareness of genomic medicine options with need for formal education strategies; failure by clinicians to discuss genomic medicine with patients; delays in or no access to hereditary testing; lack of timely reporting of results; intra- and inter-provincial disparities in access; lack of funding for patients to access testing and for laboratories to provide testing; lack of standardized testing; and impact of social determinants of health. Canada must standardize its approach to biomarker testing across the country, with a view to addressing current inequities, and prioritize access to advanced molecular testing to ensure systems are in place to quickly bring innovation and evidence-based treatments to Canadian cancer patients, regardless of their place of residence or socioeconomic status.
Diversity of Fish and Decapod Fry in the Coastal Zone of Amvrakikos Gulf
Authors: Katselis George , Vlahos Nikolaos , Koutsikopoulos Constandin , Moutopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: March 2024

Amvrakikos Gulf and its surrounding coastal lagoons are of primary importance for the local biodiversity and fishing activities. Fish species inhabited the coastal lagoons based on the seasonal ongoing migration movements of fry and adult fish individuals from the sea towards the lagoons. Information on the early stages of fish and decapod species in the Amvrakikos Gulf is limited only to the planktonic ontogenetic stages and reproduction biology, respectively. The aim of this study was to describe the spatial distribution of fry from commercially important fish and decapod species in the coastal zone of Amvrakikos Gulf. The seasonal appearance of the early stage of the most commercially important fish species caught in the coastal zone of the gulf ranged from one to four seasons, depending on the species. Individuals of all ontogenetic stages (fry, juveniles, and adults) were reported for several species (A. boyeri, A. fasciatus, S. abaster, S. tyfle, and B. ocellaris), indicating that these species may be regarded as residents in the coastal zone, providing habitats for their entire life cycle. The average relative abundance of the species/genera exhibited no differences compared to other Greek brackish waters. The species composition in the Amvrakikos Gulf at 10 cm and above was in agreement with the transitional nature of the area, with permanent and occasional species present. The present study emphasizes the importance of the coastal zone as a nursery habitat for commercially important species.
A Contribution to the Knowledge of Hydnum (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales) in China, Introducing a New Taxon and Amending Descriptions of Five Known Species
Authors: Qin Hua-Zhi , Liao Yu-Ting , Zhang Yu-Zhuo , Lin Wen-Fei , Yang Xin-Quan , Zeng Nian-Kai
Published: March 2024

Hydnum (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales), one of the edible ectomycorrhizal mushrooms, is of considerable ecological and economic importance. Although previous studies have focused on the genus in China, the diversity still remains incompletely understood. In the present study, in addition to the known species from China being reviewed, six phylogenetic species from the country were described/redescribed, which included a new species: H. erectum, and five known taxa: H. cremeoalbum, H. minus, H. orientalbidum, H. tenuistipitum, and H. treui; H. treui is new to China. Detailed descriptions, color photographs of fresh basidiomata, and line drawings of microstructures of them are presented. A key to the accepted species of Hydnum in China is also provided.
Ascaridoid Nematodes Infection in Anadromous Fish Coilia nasus from Yangtze River
Authors: Zhou Qingjie , Wang Lijun , Xi Bingwen , Ying Congping , Liu Kai
Published: March 2024

The longjaw tapertail anchovy Coilia nasus, which migrates from ocean to freshwater for spawning in spring, is an important anadromous fish with ecological and cultural significance. To determine parasite infection in anadromous C. nasus, a total of 103 fish from the Yangtze River were collected and examined in 2021 and 2022. The overall infection prevalence of nematodes in C. nasus was 100%, with a mean intensity of 13.81 ± 16.45. The mean intensity of nematode infections in 2022 was significantly higher than that observed in 2021 across all sampling sites (p < 0.05). Nematodes were widely detected in the mesentery, pyloric cecum, stomach, and liver, among which the mesentery accounted for the highest proportion, reaching up to 53.52%. A total of eight ascaridoid nematodes belonging to the family Anisakidae and Raphidascarididae were identified by using morphological characters and molecular biological techniques, including two species of Anisakis, five species of Hysterothylacium, and one species of Raphidascaris. A. pegreffii was found as the predominant species, accounting for 48.65% of all identified parasitic nematodes in liver, while Raphidascaris sp. was the most common nematode in the mesentery, pyloric cecum, and stomach, reaching up to 39.81%, 36.21%, and 74.36%, respectively. The present study systematically investigated the parasitic status and community structure of the nematode in C. nasus during its migration in the Yangtze River. This research provides a foundation for studying the impact of nematode parasitism on the reproductive migration and population recruitment of C. nasus, and offers valuable insights for biomarker screening and nematode identification in C. nasus.
Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy—Diagnostics and Clinimetrics
Authors: Opara Józef , Odzimek Martyna
Published: March 2024

Cervical myelopathy is referred to in many ways in the English literature, for example, as cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), spondylotic radiculomyelopathy (SRM) or degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). In addition, more frequent occurrences are noted in older adults and to a greater extent in men. The causes of the effects of cervical myelopathy may be the appearance of lesions on the spinal cord, ischemia due to compression of the vertebral artery and repeated micro-injuries during maximal movements—hyperflexion or hyperextension. It is well known that lesions on the spinal cord may occur in a quarter of the population, and this problem is clearly noted in people over 60 years old. The symptoms of SCM develop insidiously, and their severity and side (unilateral or bilateral) are associated with the location and extent of spinal cord compression. Neurological examination most often diagnoses problems in the upper limbs (most often paresis with developing hand muscle atrophy), pyramidal paralysis in one or both lower limbs and disorders in the urinary system. To make a diagnosis of CSM, it is necessary to perform MRI and neurophysiological tests (such as EMG or sensory and/or motor-evoked potentials). The use of appropriately selected scales and specific tests in diagnostics is also crucial. This narrative review article describes the latest knowledge on the diagnosis and clinimetrics of cervical spondylotic myelopathy in adults and provides future directions.
Hybrid Quantum Image Classification and Federated Learning for Hepatic Steatosis Diagnosis
Authors: Lusnig Luca , Sagingalieva Asel , Surmach Mikhail , Protasevich Tatjana , Michiu Ovidiu , McLoughlin Joseph , Mansell Christopher , de’ Petris Graziano , Bonazza Deborah , Zanconati Fabrizio , Melnikov Alexey , Cavalli Fabio
Published: March 2024

In the realm of liver transplantation, accurately determining hepatic steatosis levels is crucial. Recognizing the essential need for improved diagnostic precision, particularly for optimizing diagnosis time by swiftly handling easy-to-solve cases and allowing the expert time to focus on more complex cases, this study aims to develop cutting-edge algorithms that enhance the classification of liver biopsy images. Additionally, the challenge of maintaining data privacy arises when creating automated algorithmic solutions, as sharing patient data between hospitals is restricted, further complicating the development and validation process. This research tackles diagnostic accuracy by leveraging novel techniques from the rapidly evolving field of quantum machine learning, known for their superior generalization abilities. Concurrently, it addresses privacy concerns through the implementation of privacy-conscious collaborative machine learning with federated learning. We introduce a hybrid quantum neural network model that leverages real-world clinical data to assess non-alcoholic liver steatosis accurately. This model achieves an image classification accuracy of 97%, surpassing traditional methods by 1.8%. Moreover, by employing a federated learning approach that allows data from different clients to be shared while ensuring privacy, we maintain an accuracy rate exceeding 90%. This initiative marks a significant step towards a scalable, collaborative, efficient, and dependable computational framework that aids clinical pathologists in their daily diagnostic tasks.
Clinical Evaluation of a New Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography-Based Biometer
Authors: Alió Jorge L. , José-Martínez Marina , Martínez-Abad Antonio , Rodríguez Alejandra E. , Versaci Francesco , Hjortdal Jesper , Murta Joaquim Neto , Plaza-Puche Ana B. , Cantó-Cerdán Mario , Piñero David P.
Published: March 2024

The VEMoS-AXL system is a new optical biometer based on spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) that has been tested in terms of intrasession repeatability and compared with a swept-source optical coherence tomography biometer (SS-OCT), which is recognized as the gold standard for the performance of an agreement analysis. A biometric analysis was performed three consecutive times in 120 healthy eyes of 120 patients aged between 18 and 40 years with the SD-OCT system, and afterwards, a single measurement was obtained with the SS-OCT system. Within-subject standard deviations were 0.004 mm, 4.394 µm, and 0.017 mm for axial length (AL), central corneal thickness (CCT), and anterior chamber depth (ACD) measures obtained with the SD-OCT biometer, respectively. The agreement between devices was good for AL (limits of agreement, LoA: −0.04 to 0.03 mm) and CCT (LoA: −4.36 to 14.38 µm), whereas differences between devices were clinically relevant for ACD (LoA: 0.03 to 0.21 mm). In conclusion, the VEMoS-AXL system provides consistent measures of anatomical parameters, being most of them interchangeable with those provided by the SS-OCT-based gold standard.
Use of Sensor Array Analysis to Detect Ovarian Cancer through Breath, Urine, and Blood: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Angioli Roberto , Santonico Marco , Pennazza Giorgio , Montera Roberto , Luvero Daniela , Gatti Alessandra , Zompanti Alessandro , Finamore Panaiotis , Incalzi Raffaele Antonelli
Published: March 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the eighth most common cancer in women. Since screening programs do not exist, it is often diagnosed in advanced stages. Today, the detection of OC is based on clinical examination, transvaginal ultrasound (US), and serum biomarker (Carbohydrate Antigen 125 (CA 125) and Human Epididymis Protein 4 (HE4)) dosage, with a sensitivity of 88% and 95%, respectively, and a specificity of 84% for US and 76% for biomarkers. These methods are clearly not enough, and OC in its early stages is often missed. Many scientists have recently focused their attention on volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are gaseous molecules, found in the breath, that could provide interesting information on several diseases, including solid tumors. To detect VOCs, an electronic nose was invented by a group of researchers. A similar device, the e-tongue, was later created to detect specific molecules in liquids. For the first time in the literature, we investigated the potential use of the electronic nose and the electronic tongue to detect ovarian cancer not just from breath but also from urine, blood, and plasma samples.