bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Review of Current Controversies
Authors: Mauro Ezequiel , Sanduzzi-Zamparelli Marco , Jutras Gabrielle , Garcia Raquel , Soler Perromat Alexandre , Llarch Neus , Holguin Arce Victor , Ruiz Pablo , Rimola Jordi , Lopez Eva , Ferrer-Fàbrega Joana , García-Criado Ángeles , Colmenero Jordi , Lai Jennifer C. , Forner Alejandro
Published: September 2024

Liver transplantation (LT) remains one of the most effective treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and significantly enhances patient survival. However, the application of LT for HCC faces challenges owing to advancements in cancer-specific treatment modalities and the increased burden of patients’ comorbidities. This narrative review explores current controversies and advancements in LT for HCC. Key areas of focus include the management of comorbidities and patient education by advanced practice nurses, impacts of frailty on waitlists and post-LT outcomes, selection criteria for LT in the era of new downstaging tools, role of radiology in patient selection, and implications of potential immunotherapy use both before and after LT. Additionally, the importance of immunosuppression management with strategies aimed at minimizing rejection while considering the risk of HCC recurrence and the role of surveillance for HCC recurrence is highlighted. This review also underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for optimizing outcomes in patients with HCC undergoing LT.
MicroRNA-532-3p Modulates Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation and Invasion via Suppression of FOXM1
Authors: Mahajan Ketakee , Das Ani V. , Alahari Suresh K. , Pothuraju Ramesh , Nair S. Asha
Published: September 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease and classified into various subtypes, among which transcriptional alterations result in CRC progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. Forkhead-box M1 (FOXM1) is a proliferation-associated transcription factor which is overexpressed in CRC and the mechanisms of FOXM1 regulation have been under investigation. Previously, we showed that FOXM1 binds to promoters of certain microRNAs. Database mining led to several microRNAs that might interact with FOXM1 3’UTR. The interactions between shortlisted microRNAs and FOXM1 3’UTR were quantitated by a dual-luciferase reporter assay. MicroRNA-532-3p interacted with the 3’UTR of the FOXM1 mRNA transcript most efficiently. MicroRNA-532-3p was ectopically overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines, leading to reduced transcript and protein levels of FOXM1 and cyclin B1, a direct transcriptional target of FOXM1. Further, a clonogenic assay was conducted in overexpressed miR-532-3p CRC cells that revealed a decline in the ability of cells to form colonies and a reduction in migratory and invading potential. These alterations were reinforced at molecular levels by the altered transcript and protein levels of the conventional EMT markers E-cadherin and vimentin. Overall, this study identifies the regulation of FOXM1 by microRNA-532-3p via its interaction with FOXM1 3’UTR, resulting in the suppression of proliferation, migration, and invasion, suggesting its role as a tumor suppressor in CRC.
Kinetic Study of the Water Quality Parameters during the Oxidation of Diclofenac by UV Photocatalytic Variants
Authors: Villota Natalia , Echevarria Begoña , Duoandicoechea Unai , Lombraña Jose Ignacio , De Luis Ana María
Published: September 2024

Diclofenac (DCF, C14H11Cl2NO2) is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, with a significant occurrence in waste effluents. DCF is especially persistent and difficult to degrade, with numerous toxic effects on aquatic fauna and humans. In 2015, DCF was identified as a priority pollutant (EU Directives on water policy). In this work, UV irradiation and its combination with hydrogen peroxide only or catalyzed by iron salts (photo-Fenton) are analyzed to find the most efficient alternative. DCF aqueous solutions were treated in a stirred 150 W UV photocatalytic reactor. Depending on the case, 1.0 mM H2O2 and 0–5.0 mg/L Fe2+ catalyst, such as FeSO4, was added. During the reaction, DCF, pH, turbidity, UVA at 254 and 455 nm, dissolved oxygen (DO), and TOC were assessed. The degradation of DCF yields a strong increase in aromaticity because of the rise in aromatic intermediates (mono-hydroxylated (4-hydroxy-diclofenac and 5-hydroxy-diclofenac) and di-hydroxylated products (4,5-dihydroxy-diclofenac), which subsequently generate compounds of a quinoid nature), which are very stable and non-degradable by UV light. Thus, only if H2O2 is added can UV completely degrade these aromatic colour intermediates. However, adding ferrous ion (photo-Fenton) the aromaticity remains constant due to iron com-plexes, that generates maximum colour and turbidity at an stoichiometric Fe2+ : DCF ratio of 3. As a result of the study, it is concluded that, with UV light only, a strong yellow colour is generated and maintained along the reaction, but by adding H2O2, a colourless appearance, low turbidity (<1 NTU), and [DO] = 8.1 mg/L are obtained. Surprisingly, photo-Fenton was found to be unsuitable for degrading DCF.
Degradation of Organic Dye Congo Red by Heterogeneous Solar Photocatalysis with Bi2S3, Bi2S3/TiO2, and Bi2S3/ZnO Thin Films
Authors: Palma Soto Eli , Rodriguez Gonzalez Claudia A. , Luque Morales Priscy Alfredo , Reyes Blas Hortensia , Carrillo Castillo Amanda
Published: September 2024

In this work, bismuth sulfide (Bi2S3) thin films were deposited by a chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique (called soft chemistry), while titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were synthesized by sol–gel and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were extracted from alkaline batteries. The resulting nanoparticles were then deposited on the Bi2S3 thin films by spin coating at 1000 rpm for 60 s each layer to create heterojunctions of Bi2S3/ZnO and Bi2S3/TiO2. These materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The optical and contact angle analyses were undertaken by UV–Vis spectroscopy and a contact microscopy angle meter, respectively. The calculated band gap values were found to be between 1.9 eV and 2.45 eV. The Bi2S3 presented an orthorhombic structure, the TiO2 nanoparticles presented an anatase structure, and the ZnO nanoparticles presented a wurtzite hexagonal crystal structure. Furthermore, heterogeneous solar photocatalysis was performed using the Bi2S3, Bi2S3/ZnO, and Bi2S3/TiO2 thin film combinations, which resulted in the degradation of Congo red increasing from 8.89% to 30.80% after a 30 min exposure to sunlight.
Understanding Macrophage Interaction with Antimony-Doped Tin Oxide Plasmonic Nanoparticles
Authors: Balitskii Olexiy , Ivasiv Viktoriya , Porteiro-Figueiras Maria , Yajan Phattadon , Witzig Mira , Moreno-Echeverri Aura Maria , Muñetón Díaz José , Rothen-Rutishauser Barbara , Petri-Fink Alke , Keshavan Sandeep
Published: September 2024

Antimony-doped tin oxide nanoparticles (ATO NPs) have emerged as a promising tool in biomedical applications, namely robust photothermal effects upon near-infrared (NIR) light exposure, enabling controlled thermal dynamics to induce spatial cell death. This study investigated the interplay between ATO NPs and macrophages, understanding cellular uptake and cytokine release. ATO NPs demonstrated biocompatibility with no impact on macrophage viability and cytokine secretion. These findings highlight the potential of ATO NPs for inducing targeted cell death in cancer treatments, leveraging their feasibility, unique NIR properties, and safe interactions with immune cells. ATO NPs offer a transformative platform with significant potential for future biomedical applications by combining photothermal capabilities and biocompatibility.
Risk Assessment Protocol for Existing Bridge Infrastructure Considering Climate Change
Authors: Altamimi Shereen , Amleh Lamya , Fang Liping
Published: September 2024

The escalating impact of climate change on global weather patterns threatens the functionality and resilience of infrastructure systems. This paper presents a rigorous risk assessment protocol tailored to existing bridge infrastructure, integrating climate change projections, structural integrity, and socioeconomic factors. The protocol’s application involves five sequential steps: selecting a bridge, disassembling the structure into components, calculating utilization factors for design and projected temperatures, evaluating severity factors encompassing structural and socioeconomic aspects, and ultimately determining an overall risk rating. To demonstrate the protocol’s effectiveness, a case study was conducted on the Westminster Drive Underpass in London, Ontario. This study shows how the protocol systematically evaluates the vulnerability of each bridge component to projected temperatures under the Representative Concentration Pathway 6.0 model. The protocol provides a holistic risk assessment by incorporating both the structural response and socioeconomic implications of failure. The results rank the bridge’s risk level and highlight the urgency of intervention. The protocol emerges as a robust tool for decision-makers, practitioners, and engineers, offering a comprehensive approach to strengthen bridge infrastructure against the challenges of climate change.
Regulations of Thermal Expansion Coefficients of Yb1−xAlxTaO4 for Environmental Barrier Coatings Applications
Authors: Liao Jiaxin , Chen Lin , Zhang Luyang , Chen Xunlei , Xu Cheng , Li Tianyu , Feng Jing
Published: September 2024

Environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are widely used to protect ceramic matrix composites (CMCs, SiCf/SiC, and Al2O3f/Al2O3), and they should have low thermal expansion coefficients (TECs) matching the CMCs and excellent mechanical properties to prolong their lifetime. Current EBC materials have disadvantages of phase transitions and insufficient mechanical properties, which affect their working temperatures and lifetime. It is necessary to develop new oxide EBCs. Ytterbium tantalate (YbTaO4) is a stable and novel EBC material, and we have improved the mechanical properties and TECs of Yb1−xAlxTaO4 (x = 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) ceramics by replacing Yb with Al. XRD, SEM, and EDS are used to verify the crystal and microstructures, and nano-indentation is used to measure the modulus and hardness when changes in TECs are measured within a thermal expansion device. The results show that the phase structure of Yb1−xAlxTaO4 (x = 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) is stable at 25–1400 °C within air atmosphere, and their high-temperature TECs (6.4–8.9 × 10−6 K−1, 1400 °C) are effectively regulated by introductions of different contents of Al, which enlarge their engineering applications for SiCf/SiC and Al2O3f/Al2O3 CMCs. The evolutions of TECs are analyzed from structural characteristics and phase compositions, and the increased TECs make Yb1−xAlxTaO4 potential EBCs for Al2O3 matrixes. Due to the high bonding strength of Al–O bonds, hardness, as well as Young’s modulus, are enhanced with the increasing Al content, with Yb1−xAlxTaO4 (x = 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) having a nano-hardness of 3.7–12.8 GPa and a Young’s modulus of 100.9–236.6 GPa. The TECs of YbTaO4 are successfully regulated to expand their applications, and they match those of Al2O3 and SiC matrixes, as well as displaying improved mechanical properties. This work promotes applications of YbTaO4 as potential EBCs and provides a new way to regulate the TECs of tantalates.
Carbon Steel Corrosion Induced by Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria: A Review of Electrochemical Mechanisms and Pathways in Biofilms
Authors: Liu Na , Qiu Lina , Qiu Lijuan
Published: September 2024

Microbial metal corrosion has become an important topic in metal research, which is one of the main causes of equipment damage, energy loss, and economic loss. At present, the research on microbial metal corrosion focuses on the characteristics of corrosion products, the environmental conditions affecting corrosion, and the measures and means of corrosion prevention, etc. In contrast, the main microbial taxa involved in metal corrosion, their specific role in the corrosion process, and the electron transfer pathway research are relatively small. This paper summarizes the mechanism of microbial carbon steel corrosion caused by SRB, including the cathodic depolarization theory, acid metabolite corrosion theory, and the biocatalytic cathodic sulfate reduction mechanism. Based on the reversible nature of electron transfer in biofilms and the fact that electrons must pass through the extracellular polymers layer between the solid electrode and the cell, this paper focuses on three types of electrochemical mechanisms and electron transfer modes of extracellular electron transfer occurring in microbial fuel cells, including direct-contact electron transfer, electron transfer by conductive bacterial hair proteins or nanowires, and electron shuttling mediated by the use of soluble electron mediators. Finally, a more complete pathway of electron transfer in microbial carbon steel corrosion due to SRB is presented: an electron goes from the metal anode, through the extracellular polymer layer, the extracellular membrane, the periplasm, and the intracellular membrane, to reach the cytoplasm for sulfate allosteric reduction. This article also focuses on a variety of complex components in the extracellular polymer layer, such as extracellular DNA, quinoline humic acid, iron sulfide (FeSX), Fe3+, etc., which may act as an extracellular electron donor to provide electrons for the SRB intracellular electron transfer chain; the bioinduced mineralization that occurs in the SRB biofilm can inhibit metal corrosion, and it can be used for the development of green corrosion inhibitors. This provides theoretical guidance for the diagnosis, prediction, and prevention of microbial metal corrosion.
Effects of Y2O3 Content on the Microstructure and Tribological Properties of WC-Reinforced Ti-Based Coatings on TC4 Surfaces
Authors: Wang Changhao , Zhang Qiyu , Zhang Tiangang , Zhen Hao , Zhang Zhiqiang , Zhang Zhihao , Cao Huijun
Published: September 2024

To extend the safety service life of aviation TC4 alloy, the composite coatings of TC4 + Ni-MoS2 + WC + xY2O3 (x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 wt.%) were prepared on TC4 by coaxial powder feeding laser cladding technology. The results showed that all the coatings had the same generated phases which mainly consisted of TiC, Ti2Ni, Ti2S, matrix β-Ti, and unfused residual WC. Y2O3 formed co-dependent growth relationships with TiC, Ti2S, and Ti2Ni. Meanwhile, TiC-Ti2S, TiC-Ti2Ni, and Ti2S-Ti2Ni coherent composite structure phases were effectively synthesized in all the coatings. With the increase in the Y2O3 content, the exposed area of the matrix increased and other phases refined progressively. When the Y2O3 content in the coatings were 3 and 4 wt.%, the degree of phase refinement in the coatings was consistent and the phases grew along grain boundaries, but microstructure segregated in the 4 wt.% Y2O3 coating. The microhardness of all the coatings was higher than that of TC4 and decreased with the increase in the Y2O3 content. Higher friction coefficients and lower wear rates both appeared in all the coatings than in the substrate, and they presented a trend of decreased first and then increased with the addition of Y2O3, in which the 3 wt.% Y2O3 coating had the lowest friction coefficient and optimal wear resistance. The research found that the Y2O3 could not change the types of phases in the coatings and could serve as a heterogeneous nucleation center for the refinement of the TiC-Ti2S-Ti2Ni coherent structure phase. Meanwhile, except for the matrix phase, Y2O3 could attract other phases to pinning on the grain boundaries of the coatings. The content of Y2O3 was negatively correlated with the hardness and wear resistance of the coating and it had the optimal tribological properties with the moderate amount of Y2O3. The wear mechanism of all coatings was abrasive wear.
Effect of Two Types of Chitosan Thermochromic Microcapsules Prepared with Syringaldehyde and Sodium Tripolyphosphate Crosslinking Agents on the Surface Coating Performance of Basswood Board
Authors: Hang Jingyi , Zhang Bo , Fan Hongwei , Yan Xiaoxing , Li Jun
Published: September 2024

In order to investigate the effect of thermochromic microcapsules on the surface coating performance of basswood board, two types of microcapsules prepared with syringaldehyde and sodium tripolyphosphate crosslinking agents were added to a UV primer and coated on the surface of basswood board. The color-change effect of the surface coating on basswood board with microcapsules added with syringaldehyde as the crosslinking agent was better than that with microcapsules added with sodium tripolyphosphate as the crosslinking agent, and the color difference varied more significantly with temperature. The effect of the two types of microcapsules on the glossiness of the surface coating on basswood board was relatively weak. The glossiness of the surface coating on basswood board with microcapsules containing syringaldehyde as the crosslinking agent showed an overall increasing trend with the increase in microcapsules, and the change trend was relatively gentle. The glossiness of the surface coating on basswood board with microcapsules containing sodium tripolyphosphate as the crosslinking agent increased first and then decreased as the amount of microcapsules added increased. The addition of microcapsules with syringaldehyde as the crosslinking agent had no significant effect on the reflectance in the visible light band of the surface coating on basswood board. Among the two groups of samples, the hardness increase in the surface coating on basswood board with syringaldehyde as the crosslinking agent was more significant. The adhesion level of the coating on the surface of the basswood board with the two microcapsules did not change. Neither of the microcapsules had a significant effect on the impact resistance of the surface on basswood board. In the comprehensive analysis, the surface coating on basswood board with microcapsules added with syringaldehyde as the crosslinking agent at a content of 4.0% had better comprehensive performance, better surface morphology, better color-change effect, and moderate mechanical properties. The color difference was found to be 21.0 at 25 °C, the reflectivity was found to be 57.06%, the hardness was found to be 3H, the adhesion was found to be five, and the impact resistance was found to be three.
Controlled Compositions in Zn–Ni Coatings by Anode Material Selection for Replacing Cadmium
Authors: Yi Lijia , Wang Shuncai , Wood Robert J. K.
Published: September 2024

Cadmium-based coatings have long been used to protect high-strength steel in aerospace, but due to cadmium’s toxic and carcinogenic nature, its use is increasingly restricted. Zinc–nickel coatings, containing 10–14 wt% Ni, offer superior corrosion resistance compared to pure zinc, making them a promising alternative. However, Zn–Ni coatings are prone to cracking, which can compromise their protection. This study investigates how different anode materials influence crack formation and coating properties during electrodeposition. Zinc and nickel anodes produced coatings with consistent thicknesses of 13–15 µm, while 1020 steel and stainless steel resulted in thicker coatings of up to 33 µm. Notably, coatings deposited with nickel anodes demonstrated strong adhesion and consistent interface quality. Zinc anodes achieved a high Ni content of about 13.5 wt%, whereas 1020 steel and stainless steel produced lower Ni content, around 7 wt%. Additionally, zinc and nickel anodes led to fewer defects and minimal porosity, in contrast to the higher porosity observed with 1020 steel and stainless steel anodes. Furthermore, zinc anodes maintained stable voltages (~0.5 V), contributing to more uniform coatings. In terms of corrosion resistance, zinc anodes exhibited a lower corrosion rate of 0.44 mm/year compared to 1.54 mm/year for nickel anodes. This study highlights the importance of anode selection in reducing cracking and optimizing Zn–Ni coatings, presenting them as a safer and more effective alternative to cadmium-based coatings.
Introducing HeliEns: A Novel Hybrid Ensemble Learning Algorithm for Early Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Qasem Sultan Noman
Published: September 2024

The Gram-negative bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. infection) infects the human stomach and is a major cause of gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. With over 50% of the global population affected, early and accurate diagnosis of H. infection infection is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of severe complications. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as endoscopy with biopsy, serology, urea breath tests, and stool antigen tests, are often invasive, costly, and can lack precision. Recent advancements in machine learning (ML) and quantum machine learning (QML) offer promising non-invasive alternatives capable of analyzing complex datasets to identify patterns not easily discernible by human analysis. This research aims to develop and evaluate HeliEns, a novel quantum hybrid ensemble learning algorithm designed for the early and accurate diagnosis of H. infection infection. HeliEns combines the strengths of multiple quantum machine learning models, specifically Quantum K-Nearest Neighbors (QKNN), Quantum Naive Bayes (QNB), and Quantum Logistic Regression (QLR), to enhance diagnostic accuracy and reliability. The development of HeliEns involved rigorous data preprocessing steps, including data cleaning, encoding of categorical variables, and feature scaling, to ensure the dataset’s suitability for quantum machine learning algorithms. Individual models (QKNN, QNB, and QLR) were trained and evaluated using metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The ensemble model was then constructed by integrating these quantum models using a hybrid approach that leverages their diverse strengths. The HeliEns model demonstrated superior performance compared to individual models, achieving an accuracy of 94%, precision of 97%, recall of 92%, and an F1-score of 94% in detecting H. infection infection. The quantum ensemble approach effectively mitigated the limitations of individual models, providing a robust and reliable diagnostic tool. HeliEns significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and reliability for early H. infection detection. The integration of multiple quantum ML algorithms within the HeliEns framework enhanced overall model performance. The non-invasive nature of the HeliEns model offers a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative to traditional diagnostic methods. This research underscores the transformative potential of quantum machine learning in healthcare, particularly in enhancing diagnostic efficiency and patient outcomes. HeliEns represents a significant advancement in the early diagnosis of H. infection infection, leveraging quantum machine learning to provide a non-invasive, accurate, and reliable diagnostic tool. This research highlights the importance of QML-driven solutions in healthcare and sets the stage for future research to further refine and validate the HeliEns model in real-world clinical settings.
The Characteristics and Variation of the Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos Home Range
Authors: Fielding Alan H. , Anderson David , Barlow Catherine , Benn Stuart , Chandler Charlotte J. , Reid Robin , Tingay Ruth , Weston Ewan D. , Whitfield D. Philip
Published: September 2024

Satellite tracking allows for novel investigations into golden eagle home range characteristics. Understanding home range characteristics is important for conservation and for assessing the potential impact of landscape changes from forest planting, wind farms, etc. Small sample sizes, inconsistent definitions and methods restricted several previous studies. Our study involved 69 resident tagged eagles with over one year of data across five Scottish regions. Home range size was estimated from 95% isopleth contours extracted from Utilisation Distributions. Above a small threshold, estimated range size was not affected by the number of records but at least one year of data is required, largely because of the breeding and non-breeding seasonal differences. There were no significant range size differences between birds tagged as range holders and those previously tagged as nestlings. Across four regions, with considerable intra-regional variation, planar 95% isopleths did not differ (medians, km2): Argyll 58.9, Northwest Highlands 61.7, Northeast Highlands 89.3, South of Scotland 91.9. Ranges in the isolated Outer Hebrides region were exceptionally small, at 24.0 km2. Estimated range area was usually reduced to 70–80% of the planar area when restricted to usable habitat, as estimated by the Golden Eagle Topography (GET) model. Applying measures of known unsuitable habitat (closed-canopy commercial forest and wind turbines) further reduced usable open land. Loss of otherwise suitable habitat was substantially due to commercial forest. Larger ranges had larger extents of suitable habitat (according to GET), with no apparent optimum of preferred GET habitat. Range size was not different across a year between the sexes. Breeding ranges were smaller, and females’ breeding ranges were much smaller than those of males, but larger than males’ ranges in the non-breeding season. Breeding attempt duration was probably also influential. Our study provides novel insights into golden eagle home range characteristics and can guide further research and practical applications.
Fishing for Estuarine Oomycetes
Authors: Christova Petya Koeva
Published: September 2024

Oomycetes are water molds that are frequently isolated during a survey of waterways. Biodiversity of oomycetes in the estuary region of the Veleka River in Bulgaria was investigated in 2021. A total number of 32 isolates were derived using the baiting method. Species identification based on sequencing of the ITS region divided them into four different genera: Phytophthora (P.), Phytopythium (Pp.), Pythium (Py.) and Elongisporangium (E.). The most abundant species in the studied region was P. lacustris (sixteen isolates), followed by P. honggalleglyana (nine isolates). P. bilorbang and P. inundata were represented by only one isolate each and were recognized for the first time in Bulgaria. The genus Phytopythium was presented by two isolates that belong to different species, Pp. litorale and Pp. citrinum. In the obtained collection, the genera Pythium and Elongisporangium were represented by only one species each, Py. angustatum (one isolate) and E. anandrum (two isolates), respectively. Colony morphology of the eight collected oomycete species was characterized by cultivation of selected isolates on three different media. Potential host species of the isolated estuarine oomycetes were estimated by pathogenicity tests conducted with sixteen plants from ten diverse families. P. lacustris and P. honggalleglyana demonstrated a higher aggressiveness among Phytophthora isolates, whereas P. bilorbang and P. inundata showed less ability to infect the tested plant species. Similar pathogenicity and a potential host range for both Phytopythium species were observed. Less aggressive against analyzed plants in this study were Py. angustatum and E. anandrum.
Oribatid Mites in a Humid Mediterranean Environment under Different Soil Uses and Fertilization Management
Authors: Bosch-Serra Àngela D. , Orobitg Jordi , Badia-Cardet Martina , Veenstra Jennifer L. , Perramon Bernat
Published: September 2024

Measuring soil quality and the use of indicators for its evaluation is a worldwide challenge. In Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park (northeastern Spain), different parameters related to oribatid mites as indicators of soil quality were evaluated under different land uses: forest, pasture, and a biennial double-crop rotation of forage crops. In forage crops, previous fertilization management (one based on mineral fertilizers, three on cattle manure, and one using both types) was also evaluated. Three samplings (April, June, and September) were performed over one season. Fifty-four oribatid species belonging to 28 families were identified. Abundance was the lowest in June for all land uses (average of 1184 individuals m−2). In the study period, abundance, diversity (Shannon index, H’), and dominance (Berger–Parker index, d) varied with different land uses, with the highest values of abundance and H’ in forests (9287 individuals m−2 and 2.19, respectively) and the lowest dominance in forests (d = 0.29) without differences between the other uses. Additionally, in the studied parameters, no differences were associated with previous fertilization management in forage crops. Hypochthoniella minutissima, Xenillus (X.) tegeocranus characterized the forest system, Epilohmannia cylindrica minima the forage crops, and Tectocepheus sarekensis the pasture. In pasture, the dominance of the parthenogenetic species Tectocepheus sarekensis raises concerns about potential management constraints.
Handheld Ultrasound Devices Used by Newly Certified Operators for Pneumonia in the Emergency Department—A Diagnostic Accuracy Study
Authors: Lorentzen Morten Jongshøj , Kristensen Anne Heltborg , Kaldan Frida Poppius , Cartuliares Mariana Bichuette , Hertz Mathias Amdi , Specht Jens Juel , Posth Stefan , Lindberg Mats Jacob Hermansson , Skaarup Søren Helbo , Hansen Meinhard Reinert , Spile Camilla Stræde , Andersen Michael Brun , Graumann Ole , Mogensen Christian Backer , Skjøt-Arkil Helene , Laursen Christian B.
Published: September 2024

The diagnostic accuracy of handheld ultrasound (HHUS) devices operated by newly certified operators for pneumonia is unknown. This multicenter diagnostic accuracy study included patients prospectively suspected of pneumonia from February 2021 to February 2022 in four emergency departments. The index test was a 14-zone focused lung ultrasound (FLUS) examination, with consolidation with air bronchograms as diagnostic criteria for pneumonia. FLUS examinations were performed by newly certified operators using HHUS. The reference standard was computed tomography (CT) and expert diagnosis using all medical records. The sensitivity and specificity of FLUS and chest X-ray (CXR) were compared using McNemar’s test. Of the 324 scanned patients, 212 (65%) had pneumonia, according to the expert diagnosis. FLUS had a sensitivity of 31% (95% CI 26–36) and a specificity of 82% (95% CI 78–86) compared with the experts’ diagnosis. Compared with CT, FLUS had a sensitivity of 32% (95% CI 27–37) and specificity of 81% (95% CI 77–85). CXR had a sensitivity of 66% (95% CI 61–72) and a specificity of 76% (95% CI 71–81) compared with the experts’ diagnosis. Compared with CT, CXR had a sensitivity of 69% (95% CI 63–74) and a specificity of 68% (95% CI 62–72). Compared with the experts’ diagnosis and CT diagnosis, FLUS performed by newly certified operators using HHUS devices had a significantly lower sensitivity for pneumonia when compared to CXR (p < 0.001). FLUS had a significantly higher specificity than CXR using CT diagnosis as a reference standard (p = 0.02). HHUS exhibited low sensitivity for pneumonia when used by newly certified operators.
Confused Images Confused Eyes: A Case of Ultrasound Misdiagnosis of Pelvic Actinomycosis
Authors: Huang Li , Xiong Wen
Published: September 2024

This article introduces a case of pelvic actinomycosis, which is easily confused with an ovarian malignant tumor. These images are from a 52-year-old woman who was admitted to hospital with difficulty defecating. Colonoscopy and biopsy indicated inflammatory changes within the intestinal tract, but the anti-inflammatory treatment was not effective. Later, she was readmitted due to abdominal pain and emaciation, and laboratory findings revealed mild anemia and inflammation. Various tumor markers are normal. CT suggested inflammatory lesions in the sigmoid colon and upper rectum. PET-CT considered a high metabolic mass originating from the mesentery. Ultrasound scan revealed a mixed-echo mass adjacent to the right side of the uterus, poorly demarcated from the rectum and right ovary, suggesting a neoplastic lesion. A biopsy of the right ovarian mass indicated suppurative inflammation, with negative antacid staining and microscopic observation of yellowish sulfur granules, suggestive of Actinomyces infection. Following a 12-month treatment regimen involving the removal of an intrauterine device and administration of penicillin, the patient’s condition markedly improved. Pelvic actinomycosis is usually characterized by abdominal pain accompanied by an abdominal mass, which is often related to an intrauterine device (IUD), and is very difficult to distinguish from pelvic tumors and tuberculosis, so it is necessary for doctors to understand its clinical and imaging features.
Role of Epigenetic Factors in Determining the Biological Behavior and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Akbulut Sami , Kucukakcali Zeynep , Sahin Tevfik Tolga , Colak Cemil , Yilmaz Sezai
Published: September 2024

Background: The current study’s objective is to evaluate the molecular genetic mechanisms influencing the biological behavior of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by analyzing the transcriptomic and epigenetic signatures of the tumors. Methods: Transcriptomic data were downloaded from the NCBI GEO database. We investigated the expression differences between the GSE46444 (48 cirrhotic tissues versus 88 HCC tissues) and GSE63898 (168 cirrhotic tissues versus 228 HCC tissues) data sets using GEO2R. Differentially expressed genes were evaluated using GO and KEGG metabolic pathway analysis websites. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and Methylated DNA Immunoprecipitation Sequencing (MeDIP-Seq) data sets (26 HCC tissues versus 26 adjacent non-tumoral tissues) were also downloaded from the NCBI SRA database. These data sets were analyzed using Bismark and QSEA, respectively. The methylation differences between the groups were assessed using functional enrichment analysis. Results: In the GSE46444 data set, 80 genes were upregulated, and 315 genes were downregulated in the tumor tissue (HCC tissue) compared to the non-tumor cirrhotic tissue. In the GSE63898 data set, 1261 genes were upregulated, and 458 genes were downregulated in the cirrhotic tissue compared to the tumor tissues. WGBS revealed that 20 protein-coding loci were hypermethylated. while the hypomethylated regions were non-protein-coding. The methylated residues of the tumor tissue, non-tumorous cirrhotic tissue, and healthy tissue were comparable. MeDIP-Seq, conducted on tumoral and non-tumoral tissues, identified hypermethylated or hypomethylated areas as protein-coding regions. The functional enrichment analysis indicated that these genes were related to pathways including peroxisome, focal adhesion, mTOR, RAP1, Phospholipase D, Ras, and PI3K/AKT signal transduction. Conclusions: The investigation of transcriptomic and epigenetic mechanisms identified several genes significant in the biological behavior of HCC. These genes present potential targets for the development of targeted therapy.
Development of an Innovative Pupillometer Able to Selectively Stimulate the Eye’s Fundus Photoreceptor Cells
Authors: Gibertoni Giovanni , Hromov Anton , Piffaretti Filippo , Geiser Martial H.
Published: September 2024

Recent advancements in clinical research have identified the need to combine pupillometry with a selective stimulation of the eye’s photoreceptor cell types to broaden retinal and neuroretinal health assessment opportunities. Our thorough analysis of the literature revealed the technological gaps that currently restrict and hinder the effective utilization of a method acknowledged to hold great potential. The available devices do not adequately stimulate the photoreceptor types with enough contrast and do not guarantee seamless device function integration, which would enable advanced data analysis. RetinaWISE is an advanced silencing pupillometry device that addresses these deficiencies. It combines a Maxwellian optical arrangement with advanced retinal stimulation, allowing for calibrated standard measurements to generate advanced and consistent results across multiple sites. The device holds a Class 1 CE marking under EU regulation 2017/745, thus facilitating clinical research progress.
Survival Trends for Uterine Sarcomas from a Tertiary Center: The Oxford Experience
Authors: Aggarwal Aakriti , Ferrari Federico , Zouridis Andreas , Kehoe Sean , Pratap Sarah , Gozzini Elisa , Soleymani Majd Hooman
Published: September 2024

Uterine sarcomas are rare and aggressive gynecological malignancies. We evaluated the epidemiology, treatment outcomes and survival rates in uterine sarcoma patients managed in our institute. The medical records of women with histology proven uterine sarcoma, including leiomyosarcoma (LMS), adenosarcoma (ADS), and endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS), treated at our institution from February 2010 to February 2022, were analyzed. In total, 41 patients were identified. In detail, LMS, ADS, and high-grade and low-grade ESS were identified, respectively, in 60.9%, 19.5%, 12.1%, and 7.3% of the cases. The majority of women affected by LMS (72%) underwent primary surgery and 40% of them also received adjuvant chemotherapy. A surgical approach was the preferred mode of treatment in 83% of the recurrences. The median OS (overall survival), DFS (disease free survival), and PFS (progression free survival) for the LMS group were 25, 44.5, and 8 months, respectively. The 5-year survival rates for LMS, ADS, and ESS groups were 30.5%, 100% and 37.5%, respectively. The 5-year survival for LMS was found to be significantly worse than for other histology types (p = 0.016). Our study provides valuable data for the evaluation of treatment strategies and survival trends among these rare cancers. The management and follow-up planning of each subtype requires a thorough patient-focused multidisciplinary discussion.
Direct Oral Anticoagulants and Bleeding Management Following Tooth Extractions—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Izzetti Rossana , Cinquini Chiara , Nisi Marco , Mattiozzi Marco , Marotta Monica , Barone Antonio
Published: September 2024

The aim of the present study was to assess the occurrence of intra-, peri-, and post-operative bleeding following tooth extractions in patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Consecutive patients requiring at least one dental extraction were enrolled. The DOAC regimen was either maintained or suspended. Patients were classified in subgroups depending on the number of teeth extracted per procedure (≤3 or >3), the need for flap elevation, and the performance of osteotomy. Bleeding was recorded intra-operatively; peri-operatively at 20, 40, 60, and 80 min after the procedure; and daily in the first seven days following tooth extractions. Forty-nine patients treated with DOACs (17 with rivaroxaban, 16 with apixaban, 8 with edoxaban, and 8 with dabigatran) were enrolled. Of them, 33 refrained from DOAC administration pre-operatively. The performances of >3 teeth extractions, flap elevation, and osteotomy were significantly associated with higher bleeding rates (p < 0.05). In patients treated with rivaroxaban and apixaban, bleeding episodes were more frequent. Although DOAC treatment may increase the rates of intra-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative bleeding, the recorded episodes were mild and manageable. DOAC suspension may reduce peri-operative bleeding, while no effect could be observed for post-operative bleeding.
Evaluation of Cleaning Methods for Lithium Disilicate Ceramic Post Try-In Paste Application: An SEM Analysis
Authors: Santos Junior Gildo Coelho , Santos Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho
Published: September 2024

This in vitro study assessed the efficacy of three cleaning methods on lithium disilicate ceramic after the application of different try-in pastes through SEM analysis. Ten rectangular specimens of IPS e.max CAD were prepared using a diamond disc, crystallized, etched with 5% hydrofluoric acid, and subjected to three try-in pastes—Calibra ©, Variolink (V), RelyX Veneer®—and three cleaning techniques—air–water spray (RD), ultrasonic bath in distilled water for five minutes (ULT/W), and ultrasonic bath in distilled alcohol for five minutes (ULT/A). A control specimen was also included. After one-minute paste application and subsequent cleaning method application, SEM evaluation was conducted. The results indicate that RD was as effective as CTRL in removing remnants from R-RD, V-ULT/W and V-ULT/A samples, but ineffective for all Calibra paste-contaminated specimens. In conclusion, the optimal removal of try-in paste residues from lithium disilicate restorations is paste-dependent; however, ultrasonic baths with distilled water or alcohol proved effective for most pastes tested.
Prediction of Remaining Useful Life of Battery Using Partial Discharge Data
Authors: Hussain Qaiser , Yun Sunguk , Jeong Jaekyun , Lee Mangyu , Kim Jungeun
Published: September 2024

Lithium-ion batteries are cornerstones of renewable technologies, which is why they are used in many applications, specifically in electric vehicles and portable electronics. The accurate estimation of the remaining useful life (RUL) of a battery is pertinent for durability, efficient operation, and stability. In this study, we have proposed an approach to predict the RUL of a battery using partial discharge data from the battery cycles. Unlike other studies that use complete cycle data and face reproducibility issues, our research utilizes only partial data, making it both practical and reproducible. To analyze this partial data, we applied various deep learning methods and compared multiple models, among which ConvLSTM showed the best performance, with an RMSE of 0.0824. By comparing the performance of ConvLSTM at various ratios and ranges, we have confirmed that using partial data can achieve a performance equal to or better than that obtained when using complete cycle data.
Insulator Defect Detection Based on YOLOv5s-KE
Authors: Fang Guozhi , An Xin , Fang Qi , Gao Shengpan
Published: September 2024

To tackle the issue of low detection accuracy in insulator images caused by intricate backgrounds and small defect sizes, as well as the requirement for real-time detection on embedded and mobile devices, this research introduces the YOLOv5s-KE model. Integrating multiple strategies, YOLOv5s-KE aims to boost detection accuracy significantly. Initially, an enhanced anchor generation method utilizing the K-means++ algorithm is proposed to generate more appropriate anchor boxes for insulator defects. Moreover, an attention mechanism is integrated into both the backbone and neck networks to enhance the model’s capacity to focus on defect features and resist interference. To improve the detection of small defects, the EIoU loss function is implemented in place of the original CIoU loss function. In order to meet the real-time detection needs on embedded and mobile devices, the model is further refined through the integration of Ghost convolution for lightweight feature extraction and a linear transformation to reduce the computational burden of standard convolution. A channel pruning strategy is deployed to optimize the sparsely trained network, diminishing redundancy, and improving model generalization. Additionally, the CARAFE operator replaces the original upsampling operator to minimize model parameters and elevate detection speed. Experimental outcomes demonstrate that YOLOv5s-KE achieves a detection accuracy of 92.3% on the Chinese transmission line insulator dataset, marking a 5.2% enhancement over the original YOLOv5s. The streamlined version of YOLOv5s-KE achieves a detection speed of 94.3 frames per second, indicating an improvement of 30.1 frames per second compared to the original model. Model parameters are condensed to 9.6 M, resulting in a detection accuracy of 91.1%. This study underscores the precision and efficiency of the proposed approach, suggesting that the advanced strategies explored introduce novel possibilities for insulator defect detection.
An Oscillation Stability Analysis of a Direct-Driven Wind Power Grid-Connected System Considering Low Voltage Ride though from an Energy Perspective
Authors: Ren Bixing , Wang Chenggen , Li Qiang , Zou Xiaoming , Wang Dajiang , Hu Yingjie
Published: September 2024

To solve the problem of the oscillation stability of direct-driven wind-powered grid-connected systems with a low-voltage crossing control, a method of oscillation stability analysis for these systems, based on interactive energy, is proposed in this paper. Firstly, a dynamic energy model of a direct-driven wind-powered grid-connected system is established, considering a low-voltage traverse control. Secondly, the energy is divided into four parts—the line parameter energy, current inner loop energy, PLL energy, and current inner loop–PLL interaction energy—and the conduction path of the energy during a low-voltage crossing is described. On this basis, the aperiodic components of each energy path are analyzed, the stability level of the system is quantified, the influence of the different control parameters on the interactive energy dissipation is deduced, the key interactive control links affecting the stability of the system are screened, and the influence rules of the parameters are expounded. Finally, a direct-driven wind-powered grid-connected system model is built on the Rt-lab platform, and it is verified by a simulation test. The results show that the interaction energy generated by the interaction of the current inner loop and phase-locked loop is a key factor affecting the stability of the direct-driven wind-powered grid-connected system. The simulation test parameters of the control group were adjusted as the current inner loop’s proportion parameter increased from 1.32 to 5.28, the current inner loop’s integral parameter increased from 4.48 to 6.42, the PLL’s proportion parameter decreased from 9.45 to 6.3, and the PLL’s integral parameter decreased from 50.25 to 40.2. Both the theoretical and experimental results show that increasing the current inner loop’s integral and proportion parameters can improve the stability level of the direct-driven wind-powered grid-connected system; reducing the phase-locked loop’s proportion and integral parameters can also improve the stability level of the grid-connected system.
Structural Effects of Economic Shocks on the Macroeconomic Economy–Electricity–Emissions Nexus in India via Long-Term Cointegration Approach
Authors: Basu Soumya , Ishihara Keiichi , Ogawa Takaya , Okumura Hideyuki
Published: September 2024

For developing nations to achieve net-zero targets, macroeconomic linkages impacting the decoupling of emissions from economic growth must account for non-linear business cycles and economic shocks. This study aims to delineate decarbonization policy pathways for the Indian electricity sector in the aftermath of COVID-19 by analysing the long-term evolution of the economy–electricity–emissions (3E) nexus during the 2008 financial crisis and during COVID-19, covering the period of 1996Q2 to 2020Q3. Upon testing multiple theoretical 3E systems, it was found that a model internalizing trade, inflation, and stochasticity was able to minimize the reproduction errors from growth to recession phases, as well as predict the rebound effect from an economic crisis. This was revealed to be due to more information within the coefficients in a trade stochastic model. Our results confirm the existence of electricity-associated emission decoupling with capital formation in the long-run, post-crisis, while economic growth and inflation increase CO2 emissions. The main finding highlights the negative feedback loop of inflation->trade->emissions, which shows that GDP and emissions are not directly causal. This long-run macroeconomic dynamic death spiral causes decoupling to be inhibited, where fossil fuel imports should not be subsidized for economic shock rebound, and the risk hedging of energy transition investments should occur in the post-COVID-19 era.