bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS PEMBAKARAN GAS METANA PADA UNIT FLARING WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT (WWTP)
Authors: Maulidian Citra Devia , Chrisnandari Rosita Dwi , Setiawan Eko Sri Agus
Published: December 2023

PT Indolakto Purwosari memiliki unit untuk pengolahan limbah cair dengan proses anaerob. Unit yang digunakan yaitu reaktor Expanded Granular Sludge Bed (EGSB) dan Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) untuk mengolah supernatan, dan Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) untuk mengolah sludge. Pada prosesnya, digesti bakteri anaerob menghasilkan gas metana. Oleh karena gas metana yang dihasilkan tidak dimanfaatkan kembali, maka gas metana diarahkan ke unit flaring untuk dibakar. Pembakaran gas metana pada unit flaring menghasilkan api yang dapat menjadi indikator kandungan gas metana hasil digesti bakteri anaerob. Semakin tinggi kandungan gas metana, maka warna api yang dihasilkan akan didominasi warna biru. Namun, pada WWTP PT Indolakto Purwosari, warna api yang dihasilkan tidak murni berwarna biru, melainkan terdapat sedikit warna merah, dan terjadi pula ketidakstabilan pada nyala api. Oleh karena itu, dilakukan analisis mengenai penyebab warna api dari pembakaran gas metana pada unit flaring di PT Indolakto Purwosari. Analisis dilakukan dengan melakukan perhitungan jumlah gas yang masuk unit flaring dan perhitungan suhu pembakaran pada unit flaring berdasarkan konsentrasi gas metana sehingga didapatkan pengaruh kosentrasi gas metana terhadap warna dan nyala api pada unit flaring. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa konsentrasi rata-rata gas metana per harinya yang dihasilkan dari proses anaerob unit WWTP PT Indolakto sebesar 52%, warna api di unit WWTP didominasi oleh warna biru, namun masih terdapat api berwarna jingga dikarenakan konsentrasi gas metana <60% yang disebabkan karena adanya gas CO2 sebanyak 48%.
ANALISIS PENGARUH TEKANAN VAKUM PADA ROTARY VACUUM FILTER (RVF) TERHADAP %POL BLOTONG
Authors: Fadhilah Alfira Insani , Ariani Ariani
Published: December 2023

Pada proses pemisahan/ filtrasi di beberapa industri gula menggunakan alat Rotary Vacuum Filter (RVF). Salah satu faktor pengaruh kapasitas produk gula yang dihasilkan adalah proses pemisahan nira dan kotorannya pada alat Rotary Vacuum Filter (RVF) dalam produksi gula di stasiun pemurnian. RVF yang terpasang di beberapa industri gula umumnya dapat memisahkan nira dan kotorannya menghasilkan nira tapis dan blotong dengan tekanan high vakum optimum sebesar -40 cmHg hingga -45 cmHg dan %pol blotong sebesar 0,25 – 3%. Akan tetapi, terjadi perubahan tekanan vakum menjadi -20 cmHg hingga -30 cmHg yang mengakibatkan nilai %pol blotong meningkat menjadi lebih besar dari 3% sehingga berdampak pada jumlah produk gula yang dihasilkan menurun. Oleh karena itu, perlu dilakukan analisis pengaruh tekanan vakum yang diberikan pada RVF terhadap %pol blotong. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mengidentifikasi dampak dari perubahan tekanan high vakum pada RVF terhadap nilai %pol blotong guna mencegah terbuangnya nira dalam blotong. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan melakukan pengamatan pada alat RVF di lapangan kemudian dilakukan perhitungan kehilangan gula dalam blotong seiring meningkatnya nilai %pol pada blotong menggunakan Microsoft excel. Berdasarkan hasil pengamatan dan perhitungan pada tekanan high vakum sebesar -20 cmHg (%pol = 3,97), -30 cmHg (%pol = 3,14), dan -40 cmHg (%pol = 1,78) menunjukkan bahwa semakin besar tekanan high vakum RVF maka semakin tinggi juga nilai %pol blotong yang dihasilkan sehingga berakibat pada kapasitas produk gula yang semakin menurun dari kapasitas produk yang ditargetkan tiap tahunnya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tekanan high vakum RVF yang efektif dalam menghasilkan nilai pol blotong rendah yaitu -40 cmHg.
PENGARUH RASIO PEREKAT TEPUNG TAPIOKA TERHADAP KARAKTERISTIK FISIK DAN PEMBAKARAN BRIKET SABUT KELAPA DAN SERBUK GERGAJI KAYU CAMPURAN
Authors: Rofiq Mohammad Ainur , Hardjono Hardjono
Published: December 2023

Pemakaian bahan bakar fosil yang meningkat setiap tahunnya dan persediaan bahan bakar fosil yang terbatas  menyebabkan kenaikan gas emisi rumah kaca sehingga menimbulkan perubahan iklim, untuk itu diperlukan pengembangan energi alternatif. Pemanfaatan biomassa sabut kelapa dan serbuk gergaji menjadi briket sebagai solusi pengembangan energi alternatif. Biomassa memiliki sifat dapat diperbaharui, lebih ramah lingkungan, serta sebagai upaya pemanfaatan hasil hutan dan pertanian. Penelitian ini bertujuan yaitu untuk mengetahui pengaruh penggunaan rasio perekat terhadap karakteristik fisik briket meliputi kadar air, abu, kadar zat mudah menguap dan fixed carbon dan uji produk berupa karakteristik pembakaran meliputi waktu pembakaran dan laju pembakaran. Bahan baku berupa sabut kelapa dan serbuk gergaji kayu campuran. Variabel yang digunakan yaitu rasio penggunaan perekat tepung tapioka 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60% dan perbandingan campuran bahan baku sabut kelapa dan serbuk gergaji campuran 30%:70%. Hasil penelitian karakteristik fisik kadar air terendah sebesar 4,84%, kadar karbon tertinggi sebesar 87,96%, zat menguap terendah sebesar 6,06%, kadar abu terendah sebesar 0,34%, dan karakteristik pembakaran meliputi nilai laju  pembakaran tertinggi 0,236 gr/menit pada rasio perekat 40% dan 60%, waktu pembakaran paling lama 108 menit. Karakteristik fisik briket yang dihasilkan sudah sesuai SNI 01-6235-2000 briket arang kayu. Hasil karakteristik laju pembakaran berbanding terbalik dengan waktu pembakaran yaitu tingginya nilai laju pembakaran menyebabkan semakin singkat waktu pembakaran, sedangkan semakin besar rasio perekat semakin tinggi laju pembakaran serta semakin pendek waktu pembakaran.
PENGARUH RASIO SABUT KELAPA DAN JERAMI PADI TERHADAP KARAKTERISTIK PUPUK ORGANIK PADAT
Authors: Sinaga Rafael , Dewi Ernia Novika
Published: December 2023

Dalam dunia pertanian pupuk merupakan salah satu kebutuhan penting bagi petani untuk menumbuhkan dan menyuburkan tanaman. Pada saat sekarang ini sudah banyak petani yang menggunakan pupuk kimia sebagai media penyubur tanaman yang memiliki dampak buruk seperti menurunkan kualitas dan kesuburan tanah. Masalah ini dapat diatasi dengan menggunakan pupuk organik yang memiliki dampak yang baik untuk kesuburan tanah. Pupuk organik berasal dari limbah organik yang dapat terurai dan bernutrisi bagi tanah. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah memproduksi dan mengetahui pengaruh rasio sabut kelapa dan jerami padi pada pupuk organik padat dan juga melakukan uji karakteristik pada pupuk tersebut. Bahan yang digunakan adalah sabut kelapa yang merupakan limbah dari buah kelapa dan juga jerami padi yang merupakan limbah dari tanaman padi setelah dipanen. Langkah-langkah pembuatan yang dilakukan adalah pencampuran dan perbandingan rasio yang akan dilakukan pada kedua bahan ini . Untuk rasio perbandingan nya adalah (sabut kelapa:jerami padi) 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 2:1, dan 3:1. Kedua limbah biomassa sabut kelapa dan jerami padi akan dilakukan pengecilan ukuran dengan cara dipotong-potong lalu dimasukkan ke dalam wadah pengomposan sesuai rasio dan dilakukan proses pengomposan selama 3-4 minggu. Setelah proses pengomposan selesai pupuk yang didapat pun akan dilakukan uji karakteristik yaitu kadar air, pH, dan POC sebagai produk samping. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pupuk organik padat yang dihasilkan dengan rasio 1:2 merupakan hasil paling optimum, yaitu memiliki kadar air sebesar 37,75%, pH sebesar 7,09, dan POC yang tergolong cukup banyak yaitu 60 ml.
PENGARUH WAKTU TINGAL DAN LAJU UDARA AERASI PADA PENGOLAHAN AIR LIMBAH INDUSTRI GONDORUKEM MENGGUNAKAN PROSES ANAEROBIK AEROBIK BIOFILTER (A2B) TERHADAP PENURUNAN BAHAN PENCEMAR
Authors: Nurrachma Alifia Luzza , Prayitno Prayitno
Published: December 2023

Air limbah yang dihasilkan dari industri gondorukem mengandung bahan - bahan pencemar yang sangat berpotensi menimbulkan pencemaran lingkungan perairan. Upaya yang dilakukan dalam pengolahan air limbah industri gondorukem yaitu dengan mengolahnya dalam suatu Instalasi Pengolahan Air Limbah (IPAL) menggunakan proses netralisasi dan diikuti proses aerasi dalam bak. Namun sistem pengolahan tersebut masih belum efektif karena belum adanya proses pengoalahan biologi, sedangkan air limbah banyak mengandung bahan-bahan pencemar organik. Salah satu usaha untuk menurunkan bahan bahan pencemar organik pada air limbah industri gondorukem adalah pengolahan air limbah menggunakan  biofilter anaerob-aerob. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh waktu tinggal dan laju alir udara aerasi terhadap penurunan kosentrasi bahan pencemar dalam proses anaerob-aerob biofilter. Percobaan dilakukan dengan cara mengalirkan air limbah terpentin ke dalam reaktor anaerob-aerob biofilter yang berisi bakteri indigeneous anaerob dan aerob. Dengan melakukan perubahan - perubahan terhadap waktu tinggal 2,5 jam dan 3 jam serta laju alir udara aerasi 2,5 L/menit dan 5 L/menit selanjutnya mengukur konsentrasi bahan pencemar (BOD, COD, dan TDS) pada influent dan effluent maka akan diperoleh besarnya penurunan konsentrasinya. Penurunan kadar BOD,COD, dan TDS yang paling efektif yaitu pengolahan air limbah industri gondorukem dengan waktu tinggal 2,5 jam dan laju alir udara aerasi 5 L/menit dapat menurunkan kadar pencermar dengan % penurunan BOD  80,41%, COD 76,23%, dan TDS 50,51%.
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN ASAM AKTIF TERHADAP PH SURFAKTAN SEBAGAI BASE CLEANSER
Authors: Firdaus Refrina Charissadi , Rahmatulloh Arief
Published: December 2023

Kosmetik merupakan kebutuhan penting untuk saat ini, salah satunya adalah cleanser. Cleanser semakin dikembangkan dengan cara pemberian fungsi lain, seperti mencerahkan, menghilangkan kerutan, dan lainnya di samping fungsi utamanya sebagai pembersih, yaitu dengan cara pemberian bahan aktif, seperti asam aktif. Sifat asam aktif yang memiliki pH rendah berbanding terbalik dengan pH umum dari produk cleanser yang mengandung bahan utama berupa surfaktan. Perbedaan pH ini dapat mengakibatkan ketidakseimbangan pH dan dapat berbahaya untuk kulit manusia, sehingga perlu diteliti surfaktan yang memiliki pH stabil setelah diinkorporasikan dengan asam aktif. Pada penelitian ini, digunakan 5 jenis surfaktan berupa cocamidopropyl betainee, sodium olefin sulfonate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, dan sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate. Sedangkan asam aktif yang digunakan adalah lactic acid, salisylic acid, glycolic acid, gluconolactone, citric acid, mandelic acid, succinic acid, dan kojic acid. Pengamatan dilakukan dengan tes stabilitas sediaan di dalam kondisi suhu ruang dan suhu oven 50°C selama 7 hari. Dari hasil pengamatan, diketahui bahwa surfaktan yang memiliki pH stabil setelah diinkorporasi dengan asam aktif adalah sodium methyl cocoyl taurate.
PENGARUH SUHU DAN UKURAN PARTIKEL PADA PROSES PEMBUATAN NATRIUM SILIKAT DARI BATUAN PYROPHYLLITE
Authors: Wibowo Dizza Capolizta , Santosa Sandra
Published: December 2023

Batuan piropilit merupakan salah satu sumber mineral dengan kandungan silika atau silikon dioksida (SiO2) yang tinggi dan memiliki ketersediaan cukup banyak di Indonesia khususnya di kecamatan Sumbermanjing, Jawa Timur. Batuan piropilit ini ternyata belum banyak dimanfaatkan dan umumnya hanya dijual dalam bentuk serbuk atau tepung batu. Kandungan silika yang tinggi pada batuan piropilit dapat digunakan sebagai alternatif sumber silikon dioksida yang potensial dalam sintesis natrium silikat (Na2SiO3). Untuk mendapatkan natrium silikat dari batuan piropilit dapat dilakukan dengan menggunakan proses ekstraksi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempelajari dan menganalisa pengaruh suhu dan ukuran partikel batuan terhadap kualitas dan kuantitas natrium silikat. Dalam penelitian ini variabel suhu ekstraksi yang digunakan adalah 70oC, 80oC, 90oC dan 100oC. Ukuran partikel divariabelkan pada 40 mesh, 60 mesh, 80 mesh, dan 100 mesh. Hasil analisis XRF yang dilakukan pada natrium silikat tersebut menunjukkan bahwa perbedaan suhu dan ukuran batuan memberi pengaruh nyata terhadap persentase natrium silikat yang dihasilkan. Besar suhu 100oC dengan ukuran partikel batuan 100 mesh menghasilkan persentase natrium silikat tertinggi di antara variabel lainnya, yaitu 61,83%
Investigation into the Effect of H2-Enriched Conditions on the Structure and Stability of Flames in a Low-Swirl Combustor Derived from Aero-Engine Design
Authors: Bonuso Sara , Di Gloria Pasquale , Marseglia Guido , Martínez Ramón A. Otón , Mehdi Ghazanfar , Shah Zubair Ali , Ficarella Antonio , De Giorgi Maria Grazia
Published: December 2023

This study introduces an innovative approach involving the injection of hydrogen into a low-swirl, non-premixed flame, which operates with gaseous fuels derived from an air-blast atomizer designed for aero-engine applications. The aim is to characterize how hydrogen enrichment influences flame structures while maintaining a constant thermal output of 4.6 kW. Using high-speed chemiluminescence imaging, three fueling conditions were compared: the first involved pure methane/air, while the second and third conditions introduced varying levels of hydrogen to an air–methane mixture. The results reveal significant effects of hydrogen enrichment on flame characteristics, including a slightly shorter length and a wider angle attributed to heightened expansion within the Combustion Recirculation Zone. Moreover, the emission of UV light underwent considerable changes, resulting in a shifted luminosity zone and reduced variance. To delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms, the researchers employed Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and Spectral Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (SPOD) analyses, showing coherent structures and energetic modes within the flames. Hydrogen enrichment led to the development of smaller structures near the nozzle exit, accompanied by longitudinal oscillations and vortex shedding phenomena. These findings contribute to an advanced understanding of hydrogen’s impact on flame characteristics, thereby propelling efforts toward improved flame stability. Additionally, these insights hold significance in the exploration of hydrogen as an alternative energy source with potential environmental benefits.
Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Properties of a Thinned-Nectarine-Based Nanoformulation in a Pancreatic β-Cell Line
Authors: Schiano Elisabetta , Novellino Ettore , Gámez Fernández Marta María , Tiekou Lorinczova Helena , Tenore Gian Carlo , Iannuzzo Fortuna , Patel Vinood B. , Somavarapu Satyanarayana , Zariwala Mohammed Gulrez
Published: December 2023

Pancreatic β-cells play a crucial role in maintaining glucose homeostasis, although they are susceptible to oxidative damage, which can ultimately impair their functionality. Thinned nectarines (TNs) have gained increasing interest due to their high polyphenol and abscisic acid (ABA) content, both of which possess antidiabetic properties. Nevertheless, the efficacy of these bioactive compounds may be compromised by limited stability and bioavailability in vivo. This study aimed to develop nanoformulations (NFs) containing pure ABA or a TN extract (TNE) at an equivalent ABA concentration. Subsequently, the insulinotropic and antioxidant potential of the NFs and their unformulated (free) forms were compared in MIN-6 pancreatic cells exposed to varying glucose (5.5 mM and 20 mM) and iron (100 µM) concentrations. NF-TNE treatment exhibited enhanced antioxidant activity compared to free TNE, while ABA-based groups showed no significant antioxidant activity. Moreover, MIN6 cells incubated with both high glucose and iron levels demonstrated significantly higher insulin AUC levels after treatment with all samples, with NF-TNE displaying the most pronounced effect. In conclusion, these results highlight the additional beneficial potential of TNE due to the synergistic combination of bioactive compounds and demonstrate the significant advantage of using a nanoformulation approach to further increase the benefits of this and similar phytobioactive molecules.
Analysis of Touristification Processes in Historic Town Centers: The City of Seville
Authors: Herruzo-Domínguez Germán , Aladro-Prieto José-Manuel , Rey-Pérez Julia
Published: December 2023

Encouraged by the administration, the gen9otrification process has been useful in economic terms for the reactivation of the socio-cultural fabrics of historic urban spaces in decline. What was initially considered an advantage has led to the touristification of historic centers, and in turn to the alteration of their original use. In these settings, the demographic void caused by increasingly shunning local identity has combined with pressure from excessive tourism and the obsolescence of heritage protection bodies in charge of conservation. Given the crisis affecting the definitions of the current system, this study aims to review the environmental agents of heritage value in relation to the processes of touristification and gentrification. Data obtained from different methodologies are analyzed using a multidisciplinary database, a model which enables the analysis of the relevant information from the different interacting fields. This case study focuses on the historic town center of Seville, specifically between 2015 and 2020. Elements are defined as indicators for these processes and the analysis of this case study will comprise the main results of this research.
On Behavior of Solutions for Nonlinear Klein–Gordon Wave Type Models with a Logarithmic Nonlinearity and Multiple Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Belmiloudi Aziz
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we study the existence and exponential stability of solutions to a class of nonlinear delay Klein–Gordon wave type models on a bounded domain. Such models include multiple time-varying delays, frictional damping, and nonlinear logarithmic source terms. After showing the local existence result of the solutions using Faedo–Galerkin’s method and logarithmic Sobolev inequality, the global existence is analyzed. Then, under some appropriate conditions, energy decay estimates and exponential stability results of the global solutions are investigated.
The Next Frontier in Energy Storage: A Game-Changing Guide to Advances in Solid-State Battery Cathodes
Authors: Machín Abniel , Márquez Francisco
Published: December 2023

As global energy priorities shift toward sustainable alternatives, the need for innovative energy storage solutions becomes increasingly crucial. In this landscape, solid-state batteries (SSBs) emerge as a leading contender, offering a significant upgrade over conventional lithium-ion batteries in terms of energy density, safety, and lifespan. This review provides a thorough exploration of SSBs, with a focus on both traditional and emerging cathode materials like lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), as well as novel sulfides and oxides. The compatibility of these materials with solid electrolytes and their respective benefits and limitations are extensively discussed. The review delves into the structural optimization of cathode materials, covering strategies such as nanostructuring, surface coatings, and composite formulations. These are critical in addressing issues like conductivity limitations and structural vulnerabilities. We also scrutinize the essential roles of electrical and thermal properties in maintaining battery safety and performance. To conclude, our analysis highlights the revolutionary role of SSBs in the future of energy storage. While substantial advancements have been made, the path forward presents numerous challenges and research opportunities. This review not only acknowledges these challenges, but also points out the need for scalable manufacturing approaches and a deeper understanding of electrode–electrolyte interactions. It aims to steer the scientific community toward addressing these challenges and advancing the field of SSBs, thereby contributing significantly to the development of environmentally friendly energy solutions.
Correction: Han et al. Research and Application of Information Model of a Lithium Ion Battery Intelligent Manufacturing Workshop Based on OPC UA. Batteries 2020, 6, 52
Authors: Han Youjun , Hu Yueming , Wang Yaqing , Jia Gang , Ge Chengjie , Zhang Chunjie , Huang Xuejie
Published: December 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections in Section 3 [...]
Optimizing Skin Cancer Survival Prediction with Ensemble Techniques
Authors: Abbasi Erum Yousef , Deng Zhongliang , Magsi Arif Hussain , Ali Qasim , Kumar Kamlesh , Zubedi Asma
Published: December 2023

The advancement in cancer research using high throughput technology and artificial intelligence (AI) is gaining momentum to improve disease diagnosis and targeted therapy. However, the complex and imbalanced data with high dimensionality pose significant challenges for computational approaches and multi-omics data analysis. This study focuses on predicting skin cancer and analyzing overall survival probability. We employ the Kaplan–Meier estimator and Cox proportional hazards regression model, utilizing high-throughput machine learning (ML)-based ensemble methods. Our proposed ML-based ensemble techniques are applied to a publicly available dataset from the ICGC Data Portal, specifically targeting skin cutaneous melanoma cancers (SKCM). We used eight baseline classifiers, namely, random forest (RF), decision tree (DT), gradient boosting (GB), AdaBoost, Gaussian naïve Bayes (GNB), extra tree (ET), logistic regression (LR), and light gradient boosting machine (Light GBM or LGBM). The study evaluated the performance of the proposed ensemble methods and survival analysis on SKCM. The proposed methods demonstrated promising results, outperforming other algorithms and models in terms of accuracy compared to traditional methods. Specifically, the RF classifier exhibited outstanding precision results. Additionally, four different ensemble methods (stacking, bagging, boosting, and voting) were created and trained to achieve optimal results. The performance was evaluated and interpreted using accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, confusion matrix, and ROC curves, where the voting method achieved a promising accuracy of 99%. On the other hand, the RF classifier achieved an outstanding accuracy of 99%, which exhibits the best performance. We compared our proposed study with the existing state-of-the-art techniques and found significant improvements in several key aspects. Our approach not only demonstrated superior performance in terms of accuracy but also showcased remarkable efficiency. Thus, this research work contributes to diagnosing SKCM with high accuracy.
Metabolomic-Based Approaches for Endometrial Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis: A Review
Authors: Albertí-Valls Manel , Megino-Luque Cristina , Macià Anna , Gatius Sònia , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Eritja Núria
Published: December 2023

Endometrial cancer, the most prevalent gynecological malignancy in developed countries, is experiencing a sustained rise in both its incidence and mortality rates, primarily attributed to extended life expectancy and lifestyle factors. Currently, the absence of precise diagnostic tools hampers the effective management of the expanding population of women at risk of developing this disease. Furthermore, patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer require precise risk stratification to align with optimal treatment planning. Metabolomics technology offers a unique insight into the molecular landscape of endometrial cancer, providing a promising approach to address these unmet needs. This comprehensive literature review initiates with an overview of metabolomic technologies and their intrinsic workflow components, aiming to establish a fundamental understanding for the readers. Subsequently, a detailed exploration of the existing body of research is undertaken with the objective of identifying metabolite biomarkers capable of enhancing current strategies for endometrial cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and recurrence monitoring. Metabolomics holds vast potential to revolutionize the management of endometrial cancer by providing accuracy and valuable insights into crucial aspects.
Comparative Study of the Effect of Radiation Delivered by Lutetium-177 or Actinium-225 on Anti-GD2 Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Viability and Functions
Authors: Sodji Quaovi H. , Forsberg Matthew H. , Cappabianca Dan , Kerr Caroline P. , Sarko Lauren , Shea Amanda , Adam David P. , Eickhoff Jens C. , Ong Irene M. , Hernandez Reinier , Weichert Jamey , Bednarz Bryan P. , Saha Krishanu , Sondel Paul M. , Capitini Christian M. , Morris Zachary S.
Published: December 2023

Background and purpose. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been relatively ineffective against solid tumors. Low-dose radiation which can be delivered to multiple sites of metastases by targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) can elicit immunostimulatory effects. However, TRT has never been combined with CAR T cells against solid tumors in a clinical setting. This study investigated the effects of radiation delivered by Lutetium-177 (177Lu) and Actinium-225 (225Ac) on the viability and effector function of CAR T cells in vitro to evaluate the feasibility of such therapeutic combinations. After the irradiation of anti-GD2 CAR T cells with various doses of radiation delivered by 177Lu or 225Ac, their viability and cytotoxic activity against GD2-expressing human CHLA-20 neuroblastoma and melanoma M21 cells were determined by flow cytometry. The expression of the exhaustion marker PD-1, activation marker CD69 and the activating receptor NKG2D was measured on the irradiated anti-GD2 CAR T cells. Both 177Lu and 225Ac displayed a dose-dependent toxicity on anti-GD2 CAR T cells. However, radiation enhanced the cytotoxic activity of these CAR T cells against CHLA-20 and M21 irrespective of the dose tested and the type of radionuclide. No significant changes in the expression of PD-1, CD69 and NKG2D was noted on the CAR T cells following irradiation. Given a lower CAR T cell viability at equal doses and an enhancement of cytotoxic activity irrespective of the radionuclide type, 177Lu-based TRT may be preferred over 225Ac-based TRT when evaluating a potential synergism between these therapies in vivo against solid tumors.
TAMs and PD-1 Networking in Gastric Cancer: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Yerolatsite Melina , Torounidou Nanteznta , Gogadis Aristeidis , Kapoulitsa Fani , Ntellas Panagiotis , Lampri Evangeli , Tolia Maria , Batistatou Anna , Katsanos Konstantinos , Mauri Davide
Published: December 2023

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common and aggressive types of cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have proven effective in treating various types of cancer. The use of ICIs in GC patients is currently an area of ongoing research. The tumor microenvironment (TME) also seems to play a crucial role in cancer progression. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant population in the TME. TAMs are capable of displaying programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) on their surface and can form a ligand with programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), which is found on the surface of cancer cells. Therefore, it is expected that TAMs may significantly influence the immune response related to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Aim of the study: Understanding the role of TAMs and PD-1/PD-L1 networking in GC. Methods: A systematic review of published data was performed using MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane databases. We retrieved articles investigating the co-existence of TAMs and PD-1 in GC and the prognosis of patients expressing high levels of PD-1+ TAMs. Results: Ten articles with a total of 2277 patients were included in the systematic review. The examined data suggest that the expression of PD-L1 has a positive correlation with the infiltration of TAMs and that patients who express high levels of PD-1+ TAMs may have a worse prognosis than those who express low levels of PD-1+ TAMs. Conclusions: TAMs play a pivotal role in the regulation of PD-1/PD-L1 networking and the progression of GC cells. Nevertheless, additional studies are needed to better define the role of TAMs and PD-1/PD-L1 networking in GC.
Comparing Methods to Determine Complete Response to Chemoradiation in Patients with Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer
Authors: van Kol Kim , Ebisch Renée , Beugeling Maaike , Cnossen Jeltsje , Nederend Joost , van Hamont Dennis , Coppus Sjors , Piek Jurgen , Bekkers Ruud
Published: December 2023

Objectives: There is no consensus on the most reliable procedure to determine remission of cervical cancer after chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Therefore, this study aims to assess the diagnostic performance of two different imaging techniques, MRI and 18F[FDG]-PET/CT, in determining the presence of locoregional residual disease after CRT in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. Methods: Patients diagnosed with locally advanced cervical cancer (FIGO 2009) treated with CRT were retrospectively identified from a regional cohort. The accuracy of MRI and 18F[FDG]-PET/CT in detecting locoregional residual disease was assessed with histology as the reference standard. Results: The negative predictive value (NPV) and positive predictive value (PPV) for locoregional residual disease detection of MRI and 18F[FDG]-PET/CT combined were 84.2% (95% CI 73.2–92.1), and 70.4% (95% CI 51.8–85.2), respectively. The NPV and PPV of MRI alone were 80.2% (95% CI 71.2–87.5) and 47.7% (95% CI 35.8–59.7), respectively, and values of 81.1% (95% CI 72.2–88.3) and 55.8 (95% CI 42.2–68.7), respectively, were obtained for 18F[FDG]-PET/CT alone. Conclusion: In this study, the reliability of MRI and 18F[FDG]-PET/CT in detecting locoregional residual disease was limited. Combining MRI and 18F[FDG]-PET/CT did not improve predictive values. Routine use of both MRI and 18F[FDG]-PET/CT in the follow-up after CRT should be avoided. MRI during follow-up is the advised imaging technique. Pathology confirmation of the presence of locoregional residual disease before performing salvage surgery is warranted.
Prediction of 177Lu-DOTATATE Therapy Outcomes in Neuroendocrine Tumor Patients Using Semi-Automatic Tumor Delineation on 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT
Authors: Lee Hwan , Kipnis Sarit T. , Niman Remy , O’Brien Sophia R. , Eads Jennifer R. , Katona Bryson W. , Pryma Daniel A.
Published: December 2023

Background: Treatment of metastatic neuroendocrine tumors (NET) with 177Lu-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) results in favorable response only in a subset of patients. We investigated the prognostic value of quantitative pre-treatment semi-automatic 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT analysis in NET patients treated with PRRT. Methods: The medical records of 94 NET patients who received at least one cycle of PRRT at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. On each pre-treatment 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT, the total tumor volume (TTV), maximum tumor standardized uptake value for the patient (SUVmax), and average uptake in the lesion with the lowest radiotracer uptake (SUVmin) were determined with a semi-automatic tumor delineation method. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) among the patients were compared based on optimal cutoff values for the imaging parameters. Results: On Kaplan–Meier analysis and univariate Cox regression, significantly shorter PFS was observed in patients with lower SUVmax, lower SUVmin, and higher TTV. On multivariate Cox regression, lower SUVmin and higher TTV remained predictive of shorter PFS. Only higher TTV was found to be predictive of shorter OS on Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses. In a post hoc Kaplan–Meier analysis, patients with at least one high-risk feature (low SUVmin or high TTV) showed shorter PFS and OS, which may be the most convenient parameter to measure in clinical practice. Conclusions: The tumor volume and lowest lesion uptake on 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT can predict disease progression following PRRT in NET patients, with the former also predictive of overall survival. NET patients at risk for poor outcomes following PRRT can be identified with semi-automated quantitative analysis of 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT.
Congenital Deafness and Deaf-Mutism: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Cozza Andrea , Di Pasquale Fiasca Valerio Maria , Martini Alessandro
Published: December 2023

Hearing loss is the most common sensory deficit and one of the most common congenital abnormalities. The estimated prevalence of moderate and severe hearing loss in a normal newborn is 0.1–0.3%, while the prevalence is 2–4% in newborns admitted to the newborn intensive care unit. Therefore, early detection and prompt treatment are of utmost importance in preventing the unwanted sequel of hearing loss on normal language development. The problem of congenital deafness is today addressed on the one hand with hearing screening at birth, on the other with the early (at around 3 months of age) application of hearing aids or, in case of lack of benefit, by the cochlear implant. Molecular genetics, antibody tests for some viruses, and diagnostic imaging have largely contributed to an effective etiological classification. A correct diagnosis and timely fitting of hearing aids or cochlear implants is useful for deaf children. The association between congenital deafness and “mutism”, with all the consequences on/the consideration that deaf mutes have had since ancient times, not only from a social point of view but also from a legislative point of view, continued until the end of the nineteenth century, with the development on one side of new methods for the rehabilitation of language and on the other of sign language. But we need to get to the last decades of the last century to have, on the one hand, the diffusion of “universal newborn hearing screening”, the discovery of the genetic causes of over half of congenital deafness, and on the other hand the cochlear implants that have allowed thousands of children born deaf the development of normal speech. Below, we will analyze the evolution of the problem between deafness and deaf-mutism over the centuries, with particular attention to the nineteenth century.
Exploring the Nexus between Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity, Self-Disclosure, Social Anxiety, and Adolescent Social Avoidance: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Central China
Authors: Chen Shuyin , Jing Longjun , Li Chuchu , Wang Huilin
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Psychological issues among adolescents represent a prevalent challenge in today’s society. The purpose of this study is to explore the associations among moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, self-disclosure, social anxiety, and social avoidance in adolescents. Methods: This study collected cross-sectional data from 427 students in eight provincial key junior and senior high schools in the central China region of three provinces using snowball sampling and convenience sampling from July to August 2023. A structural equation model was employed to investigate the relationship between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and social avoidance among adolescents. Results: The findings indicate that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is negatively correlated with social anxiety (standardized coefficient = −0.219, p < 0.001) and positively correlated with self-disclosure (standardized coefficient = 0.454, p < 0.001). Social anxiety is negatively correlated with self-disclosure (standardized coefficient = −0.220, p < 0.001). Social avoidance is positively correlated with social anxiety (standardized coefficient = 0.461, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with self-disclosure (standardized coefficient = −0.331, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The chain-mediated dual-path model between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and social avoidance is facilitated by social anxiety and self-disclosure. In other words, adolescents who engage in more moderate to high-intensity physical activities exhibit lower levels of social anxiety, and those who have a stronger inclination for self-disclosure tend to demonstrate lower levels of social avoidance. In light of these findings, it is recommended that the government, society, schools, and families collaborate synergistically to promote the holistic well-being of adolescents and advance the development of a healthier China.
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function in Preschool (BRIEF-P) and Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Floor and Ceiling Effects
Authors: Bausela-Herreras Esperanza , Alonso-Esteban Yurena , Alcantud-Marín Francisco
Published: December 2023

Background. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is accompanied by executive challenges. Objectives. To obtain evidence of the usefulness of the BRIEF-P and to analyze the possible ceiling and floor effect of its scores in the assessment of executive function in preschoolers with signs compatible with a possible diagnosis of ADHD. Method. A search was performed in Science Direct, NCBI (PubMed), and ProQuest Education Journals during the period 2012–2022. We included studies that evaluated samples of individuals with symptomatology compatible with ADHD, with an age range between 2 and 6 years, published in English or Spanish. Of a total of 2538 articles, only seven met the inclusion criteria. The risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS-2 questionnaire. The main variables were age and executive functioning. Conclusions. Executive deficits in early-age individuals with symptoms compatible with ADHD are more extensive than just deficits in working memory. A floor effect has been found in tests associated with hot executive functions and a ceiling effect in cold executive functions. This makes it necessary to use different tests to assess executive performance in preschoolers with ADHD-compatible symptomatology and to design intervention proposals accordingly. The BRIEF-P is an instrument that facilitates obtaining a sensitive and discriminative executive profile, although it should be used in combination with other neuropsychological performance tests.
CO2 Capture Using Deep Eutectic Solvents Integrated with Microalgal Fixation
Authors: Brettfeld Eliza Gabriela , Popa Daria Gabriela , Dobre Tănase , Moga Corina Ioana , Constantinescu-Aruxandei Diana , Oancea Florin
Published: December 2023

In this study, we investigated the use of functionalized deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as a medium for CO2 capture integrated with CO2 desorption and biofixation in microalgal culture, as an approach for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). The newly devised DES formulation—comprising choline chloride, ethylene glycol, and monoethanolamine—demonstrated a significant advancement in CO2 absorption capacity compared with conventional solvents. Effective CO2 desorption from the solvent was also achieved, recovering nearly 90% of the captured CO2. We then examined the application of the functionalized DESs to promote microalgal cultivation using a Chlorella sp. strain. The experimental results indicated that microalgae exposed to DES-desorbed CO2 exhibited heightened growth rates and enhanced biomass production, signifying the potential of DES-driven CO2 capture for sustainable microalgal biomass cultivation. This research contributes to the growing field of CCUS strategies, offering an avenue for efficient CO2 capture and conversion into valuable biomasses, thereby contributing to both environmental sustainability and bioresource use.
Allelopathic Potential of Nicotiana glauca Aqueous Extract on Seed Germination and Seedlings of Acacia gerrardii
Authors: Abdelmalik Abdelmalik M. , Alshahrani Thobayet S. , Alqarawi Abdulaziz A. , Ahmed Eljaily M.
Published: December 2023

Nicotian glauca is a noxious invasive shrub in Saudi Arabia, and it is well known for its harmful impact on biodiversity, competing with native plants using various strategies. Among their strategies is their allelochemical activity, i.e., the use of chemicals to dominate and compete. The present study aims to evaluate the allelopathic potential of N. glauca aqueous extracts from leaves, flowers, and twigs on Acacia gerrardi seed germination and seedling growth. Petri dishes containing extracts from N. glauca parts with different concentrations were incubated in a growth chamber. The results indicated that extracts and concentrations negatively impact seed germination and hypocotyl. Relative to the control, the leaf extract with concentrations of 60 and 100 g/L reduced the seed germination rate by 81.11% and 93.33%, respectively. Flower extracts of similar concentrations decreased germination by 81.91 and 92.55%, while the twig extracts declined germination by 79.56 and 95.69%, respectively. The leaf, flower, and twig extracts (100 g/L) decreased hypocotyl radicle by 76.54, 78.05, and 65.75%, respectively. Overall, the concentrations of 20, 60, and 100 g/L showed the lowest growth indices. Generally, aqueous extracts, particularly 100 g/L, impacted the germination and protrusion of A. gerrardii hypocotyl. In conclusion, our study draws attention to the harmful impact of N. glauca on A. gerrardii regeneration.
Nationwide Tracing of Two Top Freshwater Fish Invaders in Greece Using Environmental DNA Sampling
Authors: Kalogianni Eleni , Kalaitzakis Nektarios , Vardakas Leonidas , Koutsikos Nicholas , Zimmerman Brian , Meek Sarah , Weldon Laura , Sargeant Stephanie , Steer Mark D.
Published: December 2023

Alien fish invasions are causing devastating impacts on native freshwater fauna; thus, rigorous, non-invasive and cost-effective biomonitoring of lotic and lentic freshwaters to design and implement appropriate prevention and control measures is now a priority. In this study, we used a species-specific qPCR eDNA assay to monitor two of the most invasive fish species (Gambusia holbrooki and Pseudorasbora parva) in 15 river basins of Greece and validated these results with conventional fish sampling as well as existing field sampling data. Our monitoring provided new records of invasive species indicating basins for rigorous future monitoring and possible eradication attempts. The eDNA proved more sensitive as a detection tool (56% detection rate) compared to conventional electrofishing (50% detection rate) for G. holbrooki. In contrast, it proved less sensitive for detecting P. parva (38% accuracy) compared to electrofishing (44% accuracy), as evident by the two locations where the eDNA failed to detect the target species. Our study illustrates the potential of the eDNA method for regular, standardised monitoring of riverine habitats for invasive fish species by local managers for early detection. Finally, we discuss the application of eDNA in management interventions for identifying invasive species’ hotspots for management prioritisation, for early detection of invaders and for the monitoring of eradication/control actions.
Experimental Dataset of Tunable Mode Converter Based on Long-Period Fiber Gratings Written in Few-Mode Fiber: Impacts of Thermal, Wavelength, and Polarization Variations
Authors: Soto-Perdomo Juan , Reyes-Vera Erick , Montoya-Cardona Jorge , Torres Pedro
Published: December 2023

Mode division multiplexing (MDM) is currently one of the most attractive multiplexing techniques in optical communications, as it allows for an increase in the number of channels available for data transmission. Optical modal converters are one of the main devices used in this technique. Therefore, the characterization and improvement of these devices are of great current interest. In this work, we present a dataset of 49,736 near-field intensity images of a modal converter based on a long-period fiber grating (LPFG) written on a few-mode fiber (FMF). This characterization was performed experimentally at various wavelengths, polarizations, and temperature conditions when the device converted from LP01 mode to LP11 mode. The results show that the modal converter can be tuned by adjusting these parameters, and that its operation is optimal under specific circumstances which have a great impact on its performance. Additionally, the potential application of the database is validated in this work. A modal decomposition technique based on the particle swarm algorithm (PSO) was employed as a tool for determining the most effective combinations of modal weights and relative phases from the spatial distributions collected in the dataset. The proposed dataset can open up new opportunities for researchers working on image segmentation, detection, and classification problems related to MDM technology. In addition, we implement novel artificial intelligence techniques that can help in finding the optimal operating conditions for this type of device.
Giant Folliculosebaceous Cystic Hamartoma of the Face
Authors: Tasar Ramona , Peckruhn Melanie , Tittelbach Jörg
Published: December 2023

Folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma (FSCH) is a rare and benign form of cutaneous hamartomas. These skin lesions often lead to clinical and histopathological misdiagnosis due to their similarities to cutaneous lesions with overproduction of clustered sebaceous glands. Clinically, the lesions often present as solitary, skin-colored, pedunculated warts to cauliflower-like, exophytic papules and nodules, usually with a diameter ranging 0.5–1.5 cm that rarely exceed 2 cm in size. Only a small number of giant variants are reported in the literature with a diameter in the range of 5–23 cm. The vast majority of the lesions appear in the central face and show a striking predilection for the nose, ears, and scalp, but also emerge on the nipples, extremities, and genitals. Histologically, the epithelial components of folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma comprise dilated infundibular cystic proliferation with surrounding mesenchymal components, which commonly include fibroplasia and vascular and adipose tissue proliferation. These histological characteristics were coined by Kimura and colleagues (1991). To the best of our knowledge, our case represents the biggest variant of giant folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma.
A Comparative Analysis of NT-proBNP Levels in Pregnant Women and the Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Influence on Birth Outcome
Authors: Marta Carmen-Ioana , Craina Marius , Nitu Razvan , Maghiari Anca Laura , Abu-Awwad Simona-Alina , Boscu Lioara , Diaconu Mircea , Dumitru Catalin , Dahma George , Yasar Ionela-Iasmina , Babes Katalin
Published: December 2023

Background: The cardiac biomarker NT-proBNP is released by the ventricles in response to increased cardiac wall tension, showing cardiac activity in heart failure. The primary objective of this comparative study was to analyze the variations of NT-proBNP levels among pregnant patients and to determine the potential influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection on these values. Secondly, the study focused on NT-proBNP levels and their influence on the type of birth. Methods: Blood samples were taken from 160 pregnant mothers in order to determine, through the solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, the NT-proBNP concentrations from the plasma. The cohort was separated into two distinct groups based on SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic results: negative to the infection, and positive to the infection. Results: The SARS-CoV-2-positive group of patients presented with higher levels of NT-proBNP and had higher rates of cesarean sections. (4) Conclusions: Our research highlights the crucial relationship between elevated NT-proBNP values and the mode of giving birth, natural delivery or cesarean section, and also the influence of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection and this biomarker.