bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Monitoring and Fault Detection in Photovoltaic Systems in Central Greece Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Roumpakias Elias , Stamatelos Tassos
Published: November 2022

The operation and maintenance of a photovoltaic system is a challenging task that requires scientific soundness, and has significant economic impact. Faults in photovoltaic systems are a common phenomenon that demands fast diagnosis and repair. The effective and accurate diagnosis and categorization of faults is based on information received from the photovoltaic plant monitoring and energy management system. This paper presents the application of machine learning techniques in the processing of monitoring datasets of grid connected systems in order to diagnose faults. In particular, monitoring data from four photovoltaic parks located in Central Greece are analyzed. The existing data are divided for training and validation procedures. Different scenarios are examined first, in order to observe and quantify the behavior of artificial neural networks in already known faults. In this process, the faults are divided in three main categories. The system’s performance deviation against the prediction of the trained artificial neural network in each fault category is processed by health monitoring methodology in order to specify it quantitatively.
Numerical Investigation of Air Entrapment Dynamics for High-Speed Thermal Spraying
Authors: Ge Han , Wang Kaichuang , Chen Jiawang , Zhu Ronghua , Lazarus Marisa , Yan Dayun
Published: November 2022

For thermal spraying, bubble entrapments are highly undesired, as this would lead to pores in the final coating and lower its adhesion quality. This understanding warrants an investigation of the process behind their formation. Nevertheless, the air entrapment process is difficult to study via experimental methods since molten droplets are always opaque and hard to visualize. Most numerical models are focused on air entrapment at the moment of impact, which could only explain the pores observed around the center of the splat. Here, in this paper, the air entrapment of a micron-sized molten nickel droplet impacting on a stainless-steel substrate is numerically studied. The results show that, besides the air entrapped during the high-speed impacting (impacting air bubbles/IM bubbles), bubbles may also be entrapped due to the fallback of the pointed-out finger on the edge during the spreading process (spreading air bubbles/SP bubbles). The number and size of the entrapped SP bubbles are related to the solidification rate and spreading rate. Therefore, both low (50 m/s) and high (200 m/s) impacting speeds could achieve an entrapped bubble ratio that is about 10% lower than that of a medium one (100 m/s). However, the formed coating is thick for low impacting speeds, and the low entrapped bubble ratio is obtained due to the cut-off of the peripherical fingers, which is actually unwanted.
Application of an Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) to Communications in a Hospital Environment
Authors: Kim Boseul , Kim Sunghae , Lee Min , Chang Hyukjae , Park Eunjeong , Han Taehwa
Published: November 2022

IoT technology is used in various industries, including the manufacturing, energy, finance, education, transportation, smart home, and medical fields. In the medical field, IoT applications can provide high-quality medical services through the efficient management of patients and mobile assets in hospitals. In this paper, we introduce an IoT system to the medical field using Sigfox, a low-power communication network for indoor location monitoring used as a hospital network. A proof-of-concept (PoC) was implemented to evaluate the effectiveness of medical device and patient safety management. Specific requirements should be considered when applying the IoMT system in a hospital environment. In this study, the location and temperature of various targets sending signals to the monitoring system using three different networks (Sigfox, Hospital and Non-Hospital) were collected and compared with true data, the average accuracy of which were 69.2%, 72.5%, and 83.3%, respectively. This paper shows the significance in the application of an IoMT using the Sigfox network in a hospital setting in Korea compared with existing hospital networks.
A Survey of Applications of Deep Learning in Radio Signal Modulation Recognition
Authors: Wang Tiange , Yang Guangsong , Chen Penghui , Xu Zhenghua , Jiang Mengxi , Ye Qiubo
Published: November 2022

With the continuous development of communication technology, the wireless communication environment becomes more and more complex with various intentional and unintentional signals. Radio signals are modulated in different ways. The traditional radio modulation recognition technology cannot recognize the modulation modes accurately. Consequently, the communication system has embraced Deep Learning (DL) models as they can automatically recognize the modulation modes and have better accuracy. This paper systematically summarizes the related contents of radio Automatic Modulation Recognition (AMR) based on DL over the last seven years. First, we summarize the current research status of modulation recognition and the necessity of AMR research based on DL. Then, we review current radio AMR methods based on DL. In addition, we also propose a network model of AMR based on Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and prove its effectiveness. Finally, we highlight existing challenges and research directions of radio AMR based on DL.
The Contribution of the User Experiences Goals for Designing Better Cobots: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Duarte Inês Margarida , Pinto Ana , Carvalho Carla , Zornoza Ana , Santos Joana
Published: November 2022

Collaborative robots are an indispensable element of both industry 4.0 and industry 5.0, the latter of which gives special emphasis to the human facet of the human-robot collaboration. To facilitate such an interaction, attention should be given to the design of the cobot, including its interface, which enables communication with the user. Programming through the interface and performing a task with the robotic device are responsible for the user experience (UX), which comprises both pragmatic and hedonic aspects. In order to design the most positive experience for users, their perspectives must be considered, which is achieved through the identification of UX goals. In this respect, a systematic review was conducted to revise the UX goals present in the literature. The following seven UX goals were identified: safety, relationship, usability, inspiration, flexibility, efficiency, and accomplishment. These findings represent the first systematic categorization of UX goals for the specific design of cobots, that should empirically be tested.
Comparison of Systemic Financial Risks in the US before and after the COVID-19 Outbreak—A Copula–GARCH with CES Approach
Authors: Ma Ji , Li Xiaoqing , Liu Jianxu , Cui Jiande , Zhang Mingzhi , Sriboonchitta Songsak
Published: November 2022

The analysis and prediction of systemic financial risks in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic is of great significance to the stability of financial markets in the US and even the world. This paper aims to predict the systemic financial risk in the US before and during the COVID-19 pandemic by using copula–GJR–GARCH models with component expected shortfall (CES), and also identify systemically important financial institutions (SIFIs) for the two comparative periods. The empirical results show that the overall systemic financial risk increased after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the first half of the year. We predicted four extreme risks that were basically successful in capturing the high risks in the US financial markets. Second, we identified the SIFIs, and depository banks made the greatest contribution to systemic risk from four financial groups. Third, after the outbreak of the epidemic, the share of Broker–Dealer and Other Institutions in the overall systemic risk has apparently increased. Finally, we recommend that the US financial regulators should consider macro-prudential guidance for major financial institutions, and we should pay more attention to Broker–Dealers, thereby improving the financial stability of the US and the global financial markets.
Scaffold Fabrication Techniques of Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering: A Critical Review
Authors: Bhushan Sakchi , Singh Sandhya , Maiti Tushar Kanti , Sharma Chhavi , Dutt Dharm , Sharma Shubham , Li Changhe , Tag Eldin Elsayed Mohamed
Published: November 2022

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is a promising alternative to repair bone defects using biomaterial scaffolds, cells, and growth factors to attain satisfactory outcomes. This review targets the fabrication of bone scaffolds, such as the conventional and electrohydrodynamic techniques, for the treatment of bone defects as an alternative to autograft, allograft, and xenograft sources. Additionally, the modern approaches to fabricating bone constructs by additive manufacturing, injection molding, microsphere-based sintering, and 4D printing techniques, providing a favorable environment for bone regeneration, function, and viability, are thoroughly discussed. The polymers used, fabrication methods, advantages, and limitations in bone tissue engineering application are also emphasized. This review also provides a future outlook regarding the potential of BTE as well as its possibilities in clinical trials.
Alterations in Cerebellar Microtubule Cytoskeletal Network in a ValproicAcid-Induced Rat Model of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Gąssowska-Dobrowolska Magdalena , Kolasa Agnieszka , Beversdorf David Q. , Adamczyk Agata
Published: November 2022

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental diseases characterised by deficits in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours. The growing body of evidence points to a role for cerebellar changes in ASD pathology. Some of the findings suggest that not only motor problems but also social deficits, repetitive behaviours, and mental inflexibility associated with ASD are connected with damage to the cerebellum. However, the understanding of this brain structure’s functions in ASD pathology needs future investigations. Therefore, in this study, we generated a rodent model of ASD through a single prenatal administration of valproic acid (VPA) into pregnant rats, followed by cerebellar morphological studies of the offspring, focusing on the alterations of key cytoskeletal elements. The expression (Western blot) of α/β-tubulin and the major neuronal MT-associated proteins (MAP) such as MAP-Tau and MAP1B, MAP2, MAP6 (STOP) along with actin-crosslinking αII-spectrin and neurofilament light polypeptide (NF-L) was investigated. We found that maternal exposure to VPA induces a significant decrease in the protein levels of α/β-tubulin, MAP-Tau, MAP1B, MAP2, and αII-spectrin. Moreover, excessive MAP-Tau phosphorylation at (Ser396) along with key Tau-kinases activation was indicated. Immunohistochemical staining showed chromatolysis in the cerebellum of autistic-like rats and loss of Purkinje cells shedding light on one of the possible molecular mechanisms underpinning neuroplasticity alterations in the ASD brain.
Influence of Protein Carbonylation on Human Adipose Tissue Dysfunction in Obesity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Navarro-Ruiz M. Carmen , Soler-Vázquez M. Carmen , Díaz-Ruiz Alberto , Peinado Juan R. , Nieto Calonge Andrea , Sánchez-Ceinos Julia , Tercero-Alcázar Carmen , López-Alcalá Jaime , Rangel-Zuñiga Oriol A. , Membrives Antonio , López-Miranda José , Malagón María M. , Guzmán-Ruiz Rocío
Published: November 2022

Background: Obesity is characterized by adipose tissue dysregulation and predisposes individuals to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. At the molecular level, adipocyte dysfunction has been linked to obesity-triggered oxidative stress and protein carbonylation, considering protein carbonylation as a link between oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction. The identification of specific carbonylated proteins in adipose tissue could provide novel biomarkers of oxidative damage related to metabolic status (i.e prediabetes). Thus, we aimed at characterizing the subcutaneous and omental human adipose tissue carbonylome in obesity-associated insulin resistance. Methods: 2D-PAGE was used to identify carbonylated proteins, and clinical correlations studies and molecular biology approaches including intracellular trafficking, reactive oxygen species assay, and iron content were performed using in vitro models of insulin resistance. Results: The carbonylome of human adipose tissue included common (serotransferrin, vimentin, actin, and annexin A2) and depot-specific (carbonic anhydrase and α-crystallin B in the subcutaneous depot; and α-1-antitrypsin and tubulin in the omental depot) differences that point out the complexity of oxidative stress at the metabolic level, highlighting changes in carbonylated transferrin expression. Posterior studies using in vitro prediabetic model evidence alteration in transferrin receptor translocation, linked to the prediabetic environment. Finally, ligand-receptor molecular docking studies showed a reduced affinity for carbonylated transferrin binding to its receptor compared to wild-type transferrin, emphasizing the role of transferrin carbonylation in the link between oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction. Conclusions: The adipose tissue carbonylome contributes to understanding the molecular mechanism driving adipocyte dysfunction and identifies possible adipose tissue carbonylated targets in obesity-associated insulin resistance.
Cutting-Edge CAR Engineering: Beyond T Cells
Authors: Chocarro Luisa , Blanco Ester , Fernández-Rubio Leticia , Arasanz Hugo , Bocanegra Ana , Echaide Miriam , Garnica Maider , Ramos Pablo , Piñeiro-Hermida Sergio , Vera Ruth , Kochan Grazyna , Escors David
Published: November 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T adoptive cell therapy is one of the most promising advanced therapies for the treatment of cancer, with unprecedented outcomes in haematological malignancies. However, it still lacks efficacy in solid tumours, possibly because engineered T cells become inactive within the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME). In the TME, cells of the myeloid lineage (M) are among the immunosuppressive cell types with the highest tumour infiltration rate. These cells interact with other immune cells, mediating immunosuppression and promoting angiogenesis. Recently, the development of CAR-M cell therapies has been put forward as a new candidate immunotherapy with good efficacy potential. This alternative CAR strategy may increase the efficacy, survival, persistence, and safety of CAR treatments in solid tumours. This remains a critical frontier in cancer research and opens up a new possibility for next-generation personalised medicine to overcome TME resistance. However, the exact mechanisms of action of CAR-M and their effect on the TME remain poorly understood. Here, we summarise the basic, translational, and clinical results of CAR-innate immune cells and CAR-M cell immunotherapies, from their engineering and mechanistic studies to preclinical and clinical development.
Aberrant Expression and Prognostic Potential of IL-37 in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Christodoulou Panayiota , Kyriakou Theodora-Christina , Boutsikos Panagiotis , Andreou Maria , Ji Yuan , Xu Damo , Papageorgis Panagiotis , Christodoulou Maria-Ioanna
Published: November 2022

Interleukin-37 (IL-37) is a relatively new IL-1 family cytokine that, due to its immunoregulatory properties, has lately gained increasing attention in basic and translational biomedical research. Emerging evidence supports the implication of this protein in any human disorder in which immune homeostasis is compromised, including cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the prognostic and/or diagnostic potential of IL-37 and its receptor SIGIRR (single immunoglobulin IL-1-related receptor) in human tumors. We utilized a series of bioinformatics tools and -omics datasets to unravel possible associations of IL-37 and SIGIRR expression levels and genetic aberrations with tumor development, histopathological parameters, distribution of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and survival rates of patients. Our data revealed that amongst the 17 human malignancies investigated, IL-37 exhibits higher expression levels in tumors of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Moreover, the expression profiles of IL-37 and SIGIRR are associated with LUAD development and tumor stage, whereas their high mRNA levels are favorable prognostic factors for the overall survival of patients. What is more, IL-37 correlates positively with a LUAD-associated transcriptomic signature, and its nucleotide changes and expression levels are linked with distinct infiltration patterns of certain cell subsets known to control LUAD anti-tumor immune responses. Our data indicate the potential value of IL-37 and its receptor SIGIRR to serve as biomarkers and/or immune-checkpoint therapeutic targets for LUAD patients. Further, the data highlight the urgent need for further exploration of this cytokine and the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms to fully elucidate its implication in LUAD development and progression.
Xenobiotic-Metabolizing Enzymes in Trematodes
Authors: Mordvinov Viatcheslav , Pakharukova Maria
Published: November 2022

Trematode infections occur worldwide causing considerable deterioration of human health and placing a substantial financial burden on the livestock industry. The hundreds of millions of people afflicted with trematode infections rely entirely on only two drugs (praziquantel and triclabendazole) for treatment. An understanding of anthelmintic biotransformation pathways in parasites should clarify factors that can modulate therapeutic potency of anthelmintics currently in use and may lead to the discovery of synergistic compounds for combination treatments. Despite the pronounced epidemiological significance of trematodes, there is still no adequate understanding of the functionality of their metabolic systems, including xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes. The review is focused on the structure and functional significance of the xenobiotic-metabolizing system in trematodes. Knowledge in this field can solve practical problems related to the search for new targets for antiparasitic therapy based on a focused action on certain elements of the parasite’s metabolic system. Knowledge of the functionality of this system is required to understand the adaptation of the biochemical processes of parasites residing in the host and mechanisms of drug resistance development, as well as to select a promising molecular target for the discovery and development of new anthelmintic drugs.
Engineered Extracellular Vesicles in Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Review
Authors: Raghav Alok , Ashraf Hamid , Jeong Goo-Bo
Published: November 2022

Insulin replacement is an available treatment for autoimmune type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). There are multiple limitations in the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as T1DM by immunosuppression using drugs and chemicals. The advent of extracellular vesicle (EV)-based therapies for the treatment of various diseases has attracted much attention to the field of bio-nanomedicine. Tolerogenic nanoparticles can induce immune tolerance, especially in autoimmune diseases. EVs can deliver cargo to specific cells without restrictions. Accordingly, EVs can be used to deliver tolerogenic nanoparticles, including iron oxide-peptide-major histocompatibility complex, polyethylene glycol-silver-2-(1′H-indole-3′-carbonyl)-thiazole-4-carboxylic acid methyl ester, and carboxylated poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles coupled with or encapsulating an antigen, to effectively treat autoimmune T1DM. The present work highlights the advances in exosome-based delivery of tolerogenic nanoparticles for the treatment of autoimmune T1DM.
Deep Learning Model for COVID-19-Infected Pneumonia Diagnosis Using Chest Radiography Images
Authors: Ibrokhimov Bunyodbek , Kang Justin-Youngwook
Published: November 2022

Accurate and early detection of causes of pneumonia is important for implementing fast treatment and preventive strategies, reducing the burden of infections, and establishing more effective ways of interventions. After the outbreak of COVID-19, the new cases of pneumonia and conditions of breathing problems called acute respiratory distress syndrome have increased. Chest radiography, known as CXR or simply X-ray has become a significant source to diagnose COVID-19-infected pneumonia in designated institutions and hospitals. It is essential to develop automated computer systems to assist doctors and medical experts to diagnose pneumonia in a fast and reliable manner. In this work, we propose a deep learning (DL)-based computer-aided diagnosis system for rapid and easy detection of pneumonia using X-ray images. To improve classification accuracy and faster conversion of the models, we employ transfer learning and parallel computing techniques using well-known DL models such as VGG19 and ResNet50. Experiments are conducted on the large COVID-QU-Ex dataset of X-ray images with three classes, such as COVID-19-infected pneumonia, non-COVID-19 infections (other viral and bacterial pneumonia), and normal (uninfected) images. The proposed model outperformed compared methodologies, achieving an average classification accuracy of 96.6%. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective in diagnosing pneumonia using X-ray images.
Optical System Based on Nafion Membrane for the Detection of Ammonia in Blood Serum Samples
Authors: Pasqualotto Elisabetta , Cretaio Erica , Scaramuzza Matteo , De Toni Alessandro , Franchin Lara , Paccagnella Alessandro , Bonaldo Stefano
Published: November 2022

The blood ammonia (NH3) level is one of the most important hepatic biomarkers for the diagnosis and monitoring of liver pathologies and infections. In this work, we developed an optimized optical biosensing method to extract and quantify the ammonia contained in complex-matrix samples emulating the blood serum. First, the approach was tested with solutions of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and ammonia chloride. Then, further trials were carried out with solutions of fetal bovine serum (FBS). The ammonia was extracted from the tested samples through a customized cell, and it was optically quantified by exploiting the indophenol reaction. The extraction cell included a cation-exchange membrane in Nafion, which was chemically pre-treated through cleaning procedures of sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide to keep a basic pH in the ammonia solution and to avoid contaminants in the membrane. From the NH3 solution, the indophenol reaction produced light-reactive indophenol dye molecules, which were used as colorimetric indicators. Through absorbance measurements of the indophenol dye solution at 670 nm wavelength, we were able to detect and quantify the ammonia level in the samples both with a spectrophotometer and a customized miniaturized read-out system, obtaining a detection limit of 0.029 µmol/mL.
Gepants for Acute and Preventive Migraine Treatment: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rissardo Jamir Pitton , Caprara Ana Letícia Fornari
Published: November 2022

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists are a class of medications that act as antagonists of the CGRP receptor or ligand. They can be divided into monoclonal antibodies and non-peptide small molecules, also known as gepants. CGRP antagonists were the first oral agents specifically designed to prevent migraines. The second generation of gepants includes rimegepant (BHV-3000, BMS-927711), ubrogepant (MK-1602), and atogepant (AGN-241689, MK-8031). Zavegepant (BHV-3500, BMS-742413) belongs to the third generation of gepants characterized by different administration routes. The chemical and pharmacological properties of this new generation of gepants were calculated. The clinical trials showed that the new generation of CGRP antagonists is effective for the acute and/or preventive treatment of migraines. No increased mortality risks were observed to be associated with the second- and third-generation gepants. Moreover, the majority of the serious adverse events reported probably occurred unrelated to the medications. Interesting facts about gepants were highlighted, such as potency, hepatotoxicity, concomitant use with monoclonal antibodies targeting the CGRP, comparative analysis with triptans, and the “acute and preventive” treatment of migraine. Further studies should include an elderly population and compare the medications inside this class and with triptans. There are still concerns regarding the long-term side effects of these medications, such as chronic vascular hemodynamic impairment. Meanwhile, careful pharmacovigilance and safety monitoring should be performed in the clinical practice use of gepants.
Functional Implications of Epstein-Barr Virus Lytic Genes in Carcinogenesis
Authors: Yap Lee Fah , Wong Anna Kang Chee , Paterson Ian C. , Young Lawrence S.
Published: November 2022

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with a diverse range of tumors of both lymphoid and epithelial origin. Similar to other herpesviruses, EBV displays a bipartite life cycle consisting of latent and lytic phases. Current dogma indicates that the latent genes are key drivers in the pathogenesis of EBV-associated cancers, while the lytic genes are primarily responsible for viral transmission. In recent years, evidence has emerged to show that the EBV lytic phase also plays an important role in EBV tumorigenesis, and the expression of EBV lytic genes is frequently detected in tumor tissues and cell lines. The advent of next generation sequencing has allowed the comprehensive profiling of EBV gene expression, and this has revealed the consistent expression of several lytic genes across various types of EBV-associated cancers. In this review, we provide an overview of the functional implications of EBV lytic gene expression to the oncogenic process and discuss possible avenues for future investigations.
Meta-Analysis of RNA-Seq Datasets Identifies Novel Players in Glioblastoma
Authors: Sallam Magy , Mysara Mohamed , Baatout Sarah , Guns Pieter-Jan , Ramadan Raghda , Benotmane Mohammed Abderrafi
Published: November 2022

Glioblastoma is a devastating grade IV glioma with poor prognosis. Identification of predictive molecular biomarkers of disease progression would substantially contribute to better disease management. In the current study, we performed a meta-analysis of different RNA-seq datasets to identify differentially expressed protein-coding genes (PCGs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). This meta-analysis aimed to improve power and reproducibility of the individual studies while identifying overlapping disease-relevant pathways. We supplemented the meta-analysis with small RNA-seq on glioblastoma tissue samples to provide an overall transcriptomic view of glioblastoma. Co-expression correlation of filtered differentially expressed PCGs and lncRNAs identified a functionally relevant sub-cluster containing DANCR and SNHG6, with two novel lncRNAs and two novel PCGs. Small RNA-seq of glioblastoma tissues identified five differentially expressed microRNAs of which three interacted with the functionally relevant sub-cluster. Pathway analysis of this sub-cluster identified several glioblastoma-linked pathways, which were also previously associated with the novel cell death pathway, ferroptosis. In conclusion, the current meta-analysis strengthens evidence of an overarching involvement of ferroptosis in glioblastoma pathogenesis and also suggests some candidates for further analyses.
Impact of Neurons on Patient-Derived Cardiomyocytes Using Organ-On-A-Chip and iPSC Biotechnologies
Authors: Bernardin Albin A. , Colombani Sarah , Rousselot Antoine , Andry Virginie , Goumon Yannick , Delanoë-Ayari Hélène , Pasqualin Côme , Brugg Bernard , Jacotot Etienne D. , Pasquié Jean-Luc , Lacampagne Alain , Meli Albano C.
Published: November 2022

In the heart, cardiac function is regulated by the autonomic nervous system (ANS) that extends through the myocardium and establishes junctions at the sinus node and ventricular levels. Thus, an increase or decrease in neuronal activity acutely affects myocardial function and chronically affects its structure through remodeling processes. The neuro–cardiac junction (NCJ), which is the major structure of this system, is poorly understood and only a few cell models allow us to study it. Here, we present an innovant neuro–cardiac organ-on-chip model to study this structure to better understand the mechanisms involved in the establishment of NCJ. To create such a system, we used microfluidic devices composed of two separate cell culture compartments interconnected by asymmetric microchannels. Rat PC12 cells were differentiated to recapitulate the characteristics of sympathetic neurons, and cultivated with cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC). We confirmed the presence of a specialized structure between the two cell types that allows neuromodulation and observed that the neuronal stimulation impacts the excitation–contraction coupling properties including the intracellular calcium handling. Finally, we also co-cultivated human neurons (hiPSC-NRs) with human cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs), both obtained from the same hiPSC line. Hence, we have developed a neuro–cardiac compartmentalized in vitro model system that allows us to recapitulate the structural and functional properties of the neuro–cardiac junction and that can also be used to better understand the interaction between the heart and brain in humans, as well as to evaluate the impact of drugs on a reconstructed human neuro–cardiac system.
The Incidence of Associated Anomalies in Children with Congenital Duodenal Obstruction—A Retrospective Cohort Study of 112 Patients
Authors: Pijpers Adinda G. H. , Eeftinck Schattenkerk Laurens D. , Straver Bart , Zwijnenburg Petra J. G. , Broers Chantal J. M. , Van Heurn Ernest L. W. , Gorter Ramon R. , Derikx Joep P. M.
Published: November 2022

Background: Duodenal obstruction (DO) is a congenital anomaly that is highly associated with other anomalies, such as cardiac anomalies and trisomy 21. However, an overview of additional anomalies and patient-specific risk factors for cardiac anomalies is lacking. Potential association with the vertebral, anorectal, cardiac, trachea-esophageal, renal and limb anomalies (VACTERL) spectrum remains unknown. Therefore, we aim to examine the incidence of associated anomalies, a VACTERL-spectrum association and patient-specific risk factors for cardiac anomalies in patients with DO. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed between 1996 and 2021. Outcomes were the presence of any additional anomalies. Risk factors for cardiac anomalies were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Of 112 neonates with DO, 47% (N = 53/112) had one associated anomaly and 38% (N = 20/53) had multiple anomalies. Cardiac anomalies (N = 35/112) and trisomy 21 (N = 35/112) were present in 31%. In four patients, VACTERL-spectrum was discovered, all with cardiac anomalies. Trisomy 21 was found to be a risk factor for cardiac anomalies (OR:6.5; CI-95%2.6–16.1). Conclusion: Associated anomalies were present in half of patients with DO, of which cardiac anomalies and trisomy 21 occurred most often, and the VACTERL-spectrum was present in four patients. Trisomy 21 was a significant risk factor for cardiac anomalies. Therefore, we recommend a preoperative echocardiogram in patients with DO. In case a cardiac anomaly is found without trisomy 21, VACTERL-screening should be performed.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Acid-Base Status in Infants with Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis
Authors: Bašković Marko , Sinjeri Dorotea
Published: November 2022

Background: Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is a condition in newborns in which the hypertrophic pyloric muscle causes gastric obstructive symptoms of progressive vomiting leading to hypochloremic hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis. The main aim of the research was to assess whether, based on the acid-base status, we can distinguish newborns who vomit due to pylorostenosis, compared with newborns who vomit for other unspecific reasons. Methods: The electronic records of patients in the hospital information system treated under the diagnosis Q40.0 (Congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis) (n = 69/included in the study = 53) in the period from 1 January 2014 to 1 January 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. For the purposes of the control group, the electronic records of patients treated in the emergency department with a diagnosis of R11.0 (Nausea and vomiting) (n = 53) without an established cause were randomly reviewed. In addition to the main aim, other research outcomes were to determine differences between groups in the following variables: duration of symptoms, family history, birth (preterm, term, post-term), birth weight, weight during examination, difference between birth weight and weight during an examination, type of vomiting, the thickness of the muscle wall and its length, and to calculate whether there is a correlation between the thickness and length of the pylorus muscle and the duration of vomiting in relation to variables from acid-base status. Results: In relation to the variables of interest between the groups, statistically significant differences were observed in the duration of symptoms (Mdn 4 vs. 2 days, p = 0.002), weight at examination (Mean 3880 vs. 4439 g, p = 0.001), difference in weight between birth and examination (Mean 374 vs. 1010 g, p < 0.0001), and type of vomiting (explosive 45 vs. 22, p = 0.023). In the acid-base status between the groups, a statistically significant difference was recorded for pH (Mdn 7.457 vs. 7.422, p < 0.0001), bicarbonate (Mdn 25 vs. 23 mmol/L, p = 0.000), total carbon dioxide (Mdn 25 vs. 24 mmol/L, p = 0.011), base excess (Mdn 0.8 vs. −1.3 mmol/L, p = 0.000), potassium (Mdn 5 vs. 5.3 mmol/L, p = 0.006), ionized calcium (Mdn 1.28 vs. 1.31 mmol/L, p = 0.011), and glucose (Mdn 4.5 vs. 4.9 mmol/L, p = 0.007). Regardless of the group, the correlations between the duration of vomiting (r = 0.316, p = 0.021 vs. r = 0.148, p = 0.290) and the thickness (r = 0.190, p = 0.172) and length (r = 0.142, p = 0.311) of the pylorus muscle in relation to pH did not exist or were weak. Conclusions: In a world where radiological methods are not equally available everywhere, with promising acid-base indicators, prospective multicenter studies and meta-analyses must be pursued in the future in order not to miss the possible much greater diagnostic potential of acid-base status.
A Pediatric Case of Inverted Meckel’s Diverticulum Presenting with Cyclic Vomiting-like Symptoms: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Endo Yoshiko , Jimbo Keisuke , Arai Nobuyasu , Ochi Takanori , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Yamataka Atsuyuki , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: November 2022

Asymptomatic Meckel’s diverticulum cases are not uncommon, leading to diagnostic difficulties in cases of atypical presentations with only gastrointestinal symptoms other than bloody stool. A nine-year-old boy diagnosed as having cyclic vomiting because of recurrent abdominal pain and vomiting for 6 months was referred to our institute and hospitalized due to worsening symptoms. After admission, abdominal ultrasonography showed the multiple concentric ring sign and a pseudokidney sign at the lower ileum, leading to the diagnosis of ileo-ileal intussusception, but the gastrointestinal symptoms and ultrasonic findings disappeared spontaneously. Transanal, double-balloon, intestinal endoscopy demonstrated a pedunculated polyp-like structure, and surgical resection was performed. An inverted diverticulum was found in the resected intestinal lumen, and ectopic gastric mucosa was identified histologically, leading to the diagnosis of inverted Meckel’s diverticulum. In pediatric cases involving periodic attacks of vomiting and abdominal pain, unnecessary emergent surgery could be avoided by cautious imaging evaluation and consideration of ileo-ileal intussusception with advanced lesions of an inverted Meckel’s diverticulum as a differential diagnosis, without facilely diagnosing cyclic vomiting. In addition, previous reports of inverted Meckel’s diverticulum were reviewed, and the results were compared between adult and pediatric groups in each category.
Thyroid Surgery in Children: A 5-Year Retrospective Study at a Single Paediatric Surgical Center and Systematic Review
Authors: Bukarica Svetlana , Antić Jelena , Fratrić Ivana , Kravarušić Dragan , Pajić Miloš , Jokić Radoica
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to analyse and evaluate our 5-year experience in paediatric thyroid surgery, as well as the specificities of this kind of surgery in the literature. This retrospective study was based on 19 operations in 17 patients aged from 5 to 17 years who were operated on due to thyroid pathology from 2017 until 2022. We presented data on surgical procedures and complications following surgery. Most of the patients were adolescent girls. The most common clinical presentations included enlarged thyroid gland, followed by thyroid nodules and hyperthyroidism. Eight total thyroidectomies, five left lobectomies, five right lobectomies, and three central neck dissections were performed. The most common histopathological diagnosis was hyperplastic diffuse colloid goitre, followed by papillary carcinoma, cystic nodule, follicular adenoma, Hashimoto thyroiditis and toxic adenoma. Postoperative course was uneventful, with four mild complications (one wound infection, one manifest hypocalcaemia, and two transitory recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis). In our literature review, eighteen full-text articles were included and analysed. This study demonstrated that thyroid surgery in paediatric population is a safe and efficient procedure. Thyroid pathology in children significantly differs from that in the adults, and paediatric surgeons should be included into the team managing such cases.
Comparative Study on Thermal Transmission Aspects of Nano and Ferrofluid in Enclosures Holding Heat-Generating Body
Authors: Periyasamy Umadevi , Alessa Nazek , Sadhana G. , Loganathan Karuppusamy
Published: November 2022

The heat-transmission characteristics of Co ferrofluid and SiO2−water nanofluid are compared numerically inside enclosures including a heat-generating body. Using the finite-volume method, a steady laminar incompressible flow in two dimensions is solved. The numerical study is conducted to determine the impacts of the solid volume fraction (φ=0.02,0.1 and 0.2), the temperature-difference ratio (ΔT*=0,4 and 20), and the Rayleigh number (Ra=105,106 and 107) on both SiO2−water nanofluid and Co ferrofluid, respectively. In consideration of isothermal and streamlines contours, the aspects of temperature transmission and fluid flow are addressed. It is shown that there is no remarkable difference in the convection rate for both the fluids while increasing the Rayleigh number and temperature difference ratio.
High Performance of InGaZnO TFTs Using HfxAlyOz Nanolaminates as Gate Insulators Prepared by ALD
Authors: Huang Chuanxin , Liu Yunyun , Ma Dianguo , Guo Zhongkai , Yao Haiyun , Lv Kaikai , Tian Zhongjun , Liang Lanju , Gao Ju , Ding Xingwei
Published: November 2022

In this study, HfxAlyOz nanolaminate, single-layer Al2O3, and HfO2 gate insulators were fabricated by atomic layer deposition (ALD) to successfully integrate the InGaZnO (IGZO) thin-film transistors (TFTs). Compared with single-layer HfO2-based TFTs, the HfxAlyOz-based IGZO TFTs showed a larger field-effect mobility of 10.31 cm2/Vs and a smaller subthreshold swing of 0.12 V/decade. Moreover, it showed a smaller threshold voltage shift of 0.5 V than that of HfO2-based TFTs under gate-bias stress at +5 V for 900 s due to the smooth surface. Moreover, the high dielectric HfxAlyOz nanolaminate had a larger equivalent SiO2 thinness than that of Al2O3 gate insulators, which are beneficial in applications of high-resolution display. Thus, the high mobility and high stability TFTs could be regarded as good candidates for active-matrix flat panel displays.
Metallic Materials for Hydrogen Storage—A Brief Overview
Authors: Hájková Pavlína , Horník Jakub , Čižmárová Elena , Kalianko František
Published: November 2022

The research and development of materials suitable for hydrogen storage has received a great deal of attention worldwide. Due to the safety risks involved in the conventional storage of hydrogen in its gaseous or liquid phase in containers and tanks, development has focused on solid-phase hydrogen storage, including metals. Light metal alloys and high-entropy alloys, which have a high potential for hydrogen absorption/desorption at near-standard ambient conditions, are receiving interest. For the development of these alloys, due to the complexity of their compositions, a computational approach using CALPHAD (Calculation of Phases Diagrams) and machine learning (ML) methods that exploit thermodynamic databases of already-known and experimentally verified systems are being increasingly applied. In order to increase the absorption capacity or to decrease the desorption temperature and to stabilize the phase composition, specific material preparation methods (HEBM—high-energy milling, HPT—high-pressure torsion) referred to as activation must be applied for some alloys.
Improvement of Electrical Properties of Silver Nanowires Transparent Conductive by Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Modification
Authors: Liu Wei , Hu Yuehui , Chen Yichuan , Hu Zhiqiang , Zhou Ke , Min Zhijian , Liu Huiwen , Zhan Lilin , Dai Yinjie
Published: November 2022

At present, silver nanowire transparent conductive films (AgNWs-TCFs) still have problems such as high resistance of AgNWs network nodes, uneven distribution of resistance and poor electrical performance stability, which restrict their commercial application. Different from chemical modification, in this paper, a method of modifying AgNWs-TCFs with metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) is proposed, that is, ZnO, SnO2, Al2O3 and TiO2 etc., four transparent metal oxides are used as targets respectively in a magnetron sputtering process, modifying the silver nanowire network wire–wire junctions and silver nanowire in AgNWs-TCFs using active MONPs generated by magnetron sputtering. A series of AgNWs@MONPs for the AgNWs@ZnO-TCFs, AgNWs@SnO2-TCFs, AgNWs@Al2O3-TCFs and AgNWs@TiO2-TCFs were obtained. A significant decrease in the resistance of AgNWs-TCFs through the modification of MONPs was shown. Respectively, the reduction of resistance was 75.6%, 70.4%, 53.2% and 59.8% for AgNWs@ZnO-TCFs, AgNWs@SnO2-TCFs, AgNWs@Al2O3-TCFs and AgNWs@TiO2-TCFs. Correspondingly, its non-uniformity of resistance distribution was 12.5% (18.2% before), 10.0% (17.1% before), 10.1% (24.3% before) and 10.6% (13.4% before), respectively, which markedly improved the uniformity of electrical property. Respectively, their failure voltages reach 16, 16, 15 and 16 (V), so accordingly, the electrical stability is considerably enhanced. In addition, the uniformity of temperature distribution was also significantly optimized with its temperature non-uniformity of 10.4%, 8.7%, 10.3% and 9.6%, respectively. Contrast that with AgNWs@MONPs, and the failure voltages and temperature non-uniformity of AgNWs-TCFs are 12 V and 40.6%.
Microstructure, Fatigue, Wear Properties of Steels
Authors: Long Xiaoyan , Zhang Yu , Liu Wei , Zhang Zhen , Zhu Ranran
Published: November 2022

Green manufacturing is a hot topic in the manufacturing industry [...]
Asymptotic Characteristics of the Non-Iterative Estimates of the Linear-by-Linear Association Parameter for Ordinal Log-Linear Models
Authors: Zafar Sidra , Cheema Salman A. , Beh Eric J. , Hudson Irene L.
Published: November 2022

Over the past decade, a series of procedures has been introduced to estimate, using a non-iterative method, the linear-by-linear association parameter of an ordinal log-linear model. This paper will examine the two key non-iteratively determined estimates of the parameter for the analysis of the association between the two categorical variables that form a contingency table; these are the log and the Beh-Davy non-iterative estimates, referred to simply as the LogNI and the BDNI estimates, respectively. Such an examination will focus on determining their asymptotic characteristics. To do so, a computational study was undertaken for tables of varying sizes to show that these two estimates are asymptotically unbiased. It is also shown that both estimates are asymptotically normally distributed. On the basis of the standard errors, their relative efficiency was established for the 13 commonly analysed contingency tables that appear throughout the literature.
Morphological Control of Layered Double Hydroxides Prepared by Co-Precipitation Method
Authors: Wei Changxin , Yan Xiaoyun , Zhou Yi , Xu Wenke , Gan Yiqi , Zhang Yihe , Zhang Na
Published: November 2022

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) can be used in various popular fields due to their good biocompatibility, easy chemical modification, and high theoretical specific capacity. However, for different applications, there are different requirements for the morphology of LDH nanosheets. In this paper, the crystal morphological control and the exfoliation states of LDHs are investigated. The interlayer spacing of LDH decreases with the increase of intercalating ion affinity, exhibiting difficulty in being exfoliated into nanosheets. The calculated binding energies between LDH laminates and intercalated ions CO32−, Cl−, and NO3− are 0.311 eV, 0.301 eV, and 0.071 eV, respectively. LDH-NO3− with complete hexagonal shape and high crystallinity can be prepared under the condition of Co:Al:urea = 3:1:10, 90 °C, and 48 h. In the preparation of LDH-NO3− with high saturation co-precipitation method, formamide acts as an effective layer growth inhibitor. When the formamide content is 50%, the size of formed LDH nanosheets is significantly reduced by 28.1%, and when the formamide content is up to 100%, it is further reduced by 7.0%. The addition of formamide can also inhibit the generation of byproducts. The addition of NaNO3 leads to a stronger monodispersity of LDH nanosheets. By comparing CoAl-LDH, MgAl-LDH, and ZnAl-LDH, lower standard molar Gibbs free energy results in a larger nanosheet with high saturation co-precipitation method, but the alteration of M2+ exhibits negligible difference in the size and shape by means of homogeneous co-precipitation.
Effect of Cr2O3 on Crystallization of Diopside Glass–Ceramics
Authors: Wang Yifan , Wang Yici , Zhang Yunhao , Chai Yifan , Zhao Fengguang , Luo Guoping
Published: November 2022

CaO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–Cr2O3 diopside glass–ceramics were prepared from blast furnace slag, low-carbon ferrochromium alloy slag, and quartz sand by the melting method. The prepared glass–ceramics were characterized by differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD),scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The effect of Cr2O3, a nucleating agent, in the crystallization process of diopside glass–ceramics was studied. The results show that chromium is present in glass–ceramics as Cr3+ and Cr6+, and Cr3+ accounts for more than 80% of the chromium contents. When the mass percentage of Cr2O3 in glass–ceramics is less than 1.60%, a small amount of diopside phase is precipitated during heat treatment, and Cr3+ is dispersed in the diopside phase. When the mass percentage of Cr2O3 reaches or exceeds 1.60%, Cr3+ preferentially forms the magnesia chrome spinel phase, which further induces the in situ growth of diopside. The leaching concentration of chromium meets the Chinese national standard, indicating that diopside glass–ceramics can effectively solidify the heavy metal chromium, and this fact makes the application of glass–ceramics feasible.