bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AAO-Assisted Nanoporous Platinum Films for Hydrogen Sensor Application
Authors: Sener Melike , Sisman Orhan , Kilinc Necmettin
Published: February 2023

The effects of the porosity and the thickness on the ability of hydrogen sensing is demonstrated through a comparison of compact and nanoporous platinum film sensors. The synthesis of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) nanotubes with an average pore diameter of less than 100 nm served as the template for the fabrication of nanoporous Pt films using an anodization method. This was achieved by applying a voltage of 40 V in 0.4 M of a phosphoric acid solution at 20 °C. To compare the film and nanoporous Pt, layers of approximately 3 nm and 20 nm were coated on both glass substrates and AAO templates using a sputtering technique. FESEM images monitored the formation of nanoporosity by observing the Pt layers covering the upper edges of the AAO nanotubes. Despite their low thickness and the poor long-range order, the EDX and XRD measurements confirmed and uncovered the crystalline properties of the Pt films by comparing the bare and the Pt deposited AAO templates. The nanoporous Pt and Pt thin film sensors were tested in the hydrogen concentration range between 10–50,000 ppm H2 at room temperature, 50 °C, 100 °C and 150 °C. The results reveal that nanoporous Pt performed higher sensitivity than the Pt thin film and the surface scattering phenomenon can express the hydrogen sensing mechanism of the Pt sensors.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cardiac Arrhythmias
Authors: Deng Jielin , Jiang Yunqiu , Chen Zhen Bouman , Rhee June-Wha , Deng Yingfeng , Wang Zhao V.
Published: February 2023

Electrophysiological and structural disruptions in cardiac arrhythmias are closely related to mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are an organelle generating ATP, thereby satisfying the energy demand of the incessant electrical activity in the heart. In arrhythmias, the homeostatic supply–demand relationship is impaired, which is often accompanied by progressive mitochondrial dysfunction leading to reduced ATP production and elevated reactive oxidative species generation. Furthermore, ion homeostasis, membrane excitability, and cardiac structure can be disrupted through pathological changes in gap junctions and inflammatory signaling, which results in impaired cardiac electrical homeostasis. Herein, we review the electrical and molecular mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias, with a particular focus on mitochondrial dysfunction in ionic regulation and gap junction action. We provide an update on inherited and acquired mitochondrial dysfunction to explore the pathophysiology of different types of arrhythmias. In addition, we highlight the role of mitochondria in bradyarrhythmia, including sinus node dysfunction and atrioventricular node dysfunction. Finally, we discuss how confounding factors, such as aging, gut microbiome, cardiac reperfusion injury, and electrical stimulation, modulate mitochondrial function and cause tachyarrhythmia.
COVID-19 and Multiple Sclerosis: A Complex Relationship Possibly Aggravated by Low Vitamin D Levels
Authors: Fernandes de Souza William Danilo , Fonseca Denise Morais da , Sartori Alexandrina
Published: February 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an exceptionally transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus that appeared at the end of 2019 and triggered a pandemic of acute respiratory disease, known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 can evolve into a severe disease associated with immediate and delayed sequelae in different organs, including the central nervous system (CNS). A topic that deserves attention in this context is the complex relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, we initially described the clinical and immunopathogenic characteristics of these two illnesses, accentuating the fact that COVID-19 can, in defined patients, reach the CNS, the target tissue of the MS autoimmune process. The well-known contribution of viral agents such as the Epstein-Barr virus and the postulated participation of SARS-CoV-2 as a risk factor for the triggering or worsening of MS are then described. We emphasize the contribution of vitamin D in this scenario, considering its relevance in the susceptibility, severity and control of both pathologies. Finally, we discuss the experimental animal models that could be explored to better understand the complex interplay of these two diseases, including the possible use of vitamin D as an adjunct immunomodulator to treat them.
Sulforaphane Potentiates Gemcitabine-Mediated Anti-Cancer Effects against Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma by Inhibiting HDAC Activity
Authors: Tomooka Fumimasa , Kaji Kosuke , Nishimura Norihisa , Kubo Takahiro , Iwai Satoshi , Shibamoto Akihiko , Suzuki Junya , Kitagawa Koh , Namisaki Tadashi , Akahane Takemi , Mitoro Akira , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: February 2023

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), the second most common primary liver cancer, has high mortality rates because of its limited treatment options and acquired resistance to chemotherapy. Sulforaphane (SFN), a naturally occurring organosulfur compound found in cruciferous vegetables, exhibits multiple therapeutic properties, such as histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition and anti-cancer effects. This study assessed the effects of the combination of SFN and gemcitabine (GEM) on human iCCA cell growth. HuCCT-1 and HuH28 cells, representing moderately differentiated and undifferentiated iCCA, respectively, were treated with SFN and/or GEM. SFN concentration dependently reduced total HDAC activity and promoted total histone H3 acetylation in both iCCA cell lines. SFN synergistically augmented the GEM-mediated attenuation of cell viability and proliferation by inducing G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in both cell lines, as indicated by the cleavage of caspase-3. SFN also inhibited cancer cell invasion and decreased the expression of pro-angiogenic markers (VEGFA, VEGFR2, HIF-1α, and eNOS) in both iCCA cell lines. Notably, SFN effectively inhibited the GEM-mediated induction of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). A xenograft assay demonstrated that SFN and GEM substantially attenuated human iCCA cell-derived tumor growth with decreased Ki67+ proliferative cells and increased TUNEL+ apoptotic cells. The anti-cancer effects of every single agent were markedly augmented by concomitant use. Consistent with the results of in vitro cell cycle analysis, G2/M arrest was indicated by increased p21 and p-Chk2 expression and decreased p-Cdc25C expression in the tumors of SFN- and GEM-treated mice. Moreover, treatment with SFN inhibited CD34-positive neovascularization with decreased VEGF expression and GEM-induced EMT in iCCA-derived xenografted tumors. In conclusion, these results suggest that combination therapy with SFN with GEM is a potential novel option for iCCA treatment.
Inflammatory Cell Dynamics after Murine Femoral Artery Wire Injury: A Multi-Parameter Flow Cytometry-Based Analysis
Authors: Pamulapati Vivek , Cuda Carla M. , Smith Tracy L. , Jung Jonathan , Xiong Liqun , Swaminathan Suchitra , Ho Karen J.
Published: February 2023

An acute inflammatory response following arterial surgery for atherosclerosis, such as balloon angioplasty, stenting, and surgical bypass, is an important driver of neointimal hyperplasia after arterial injury, which leads to recurrent ischemia. However, a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the inflammatory infiltrate in the remodeling artery is difficult to attain due to the shortcomings of conventional methods such as immunofluorescence. We developed a 15-parameter flow cytometry method to quantitate leukocytes and 13 leukocyte subtypes in murine arteries at 4 time points after femoral artery wire injury. Live leukocyte numbers peaked at 7 days, which preceded the peak neointimal hyperplasia lesion at 28 days. Neutrophils were the most abundant early infiltrate, followed by monocytes and macrophages. Eosinophils were elevated after 1 day, while natural killer and dendritic cells gradually infiltrated over the first 7 days; all decreased between 7 and 14 days. Lymphocytes began accumulating at 3 days and peaked at 7 days. Immunofluorescence of arterial sections demonstrated similar temporal trends of CD45+ and F4/80+ cells. This method allows for the simultaneous quantitation of multiple leukocyte subtypes from small tissue samples of injured murine arteries and identifies the CD64+Tim4+ macrophage phenotype as being potentially important in the first 7 days post-injury.
Mitochondrial Metabolomics of Sym1-Depleted Yeast Cells Revealed Them to Be Lysine Auxotroph
Authors: Lagies Simon , Pan Daqiang , Mohl Daniel A. , Plattner Dietmar A. , Gentle Ian E. , Kammerer Bernd
Published: February 2023

Metabolomics has expanded from cellular to subcellular level to elucidate subcellular compartmentalization. By applying isolated mitochondria to metabolome analysis, the hallmark of mitochondrial metabolites has been unraveled, showing compartment-specific distribution and regulation of metabolites. This method was employed in this work to study a mitochondrial inner membrane protein Sym1, whose human ortholog MPV17 is related to mitochondria DNA depletion syndrome. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry-based metabolic profiling was combined with targeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis to cover more metabolites. Furthermore, we applied a workflow employing ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry with a powerful chemometrics platform, focusing on only significantly changed metabolites. This workflow highly reduced the complexity of acquired data without losing metabolites of interest. Consequently, forty-one novel metabolites were identified in addition to the combined method, of which two metabolites, 4-guanidinobutanal and 4-guanidinobutanoate, were identified for the first time in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. With compartment-specific metabolomics, we identified sym1Δ cells as lysine auxotroph. The highly reduced carbamoyl-aspartate and orotic acid indicate a potential role of the mitochondrial inner membrane protein Sym1 in pyrimidine metabolism.
Real-Time Visualization of Cytosolic and Mitochondrial ATP Dynamics in Response to Metabolic Stress in Cultured Cells
Authors: White Donnell , Lauterboeck Lothar , Mobasheran Parnia , Kitaguchi Tetsuya , Chaanine Antoine H. , Yang Qinglin
Published: February 2023

Adenosine 5′ triphosphate (ATP) is the energy currency of life, which is produced in mitochondria (~90%) and cytosol (less than 10%). Real-time effects of metabolic changes on cellular ATP dynamics remain indeterminate. Here we report the design and validation of a genetically encoded fluorescent ATP indicator that allows for real-time, simultaneous visualization of cytosolic and mitochondrial ATP in cultured cells. This dual-ATP indicator, called smacATPi (simultaneous mitochondrial and cytosolic ATP indicator), combines previously described individual cytosolic and mitochondrial ATP indicators. The use of smacATPi can help answer biological questions regarding ATP contents and dynamics in living cells. As expected, 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG, a glycolytic inhibitor) led to substantially decreased cytosolic ATP, and oligomycin (a complex V inhibitor) markedly decreased mitochondrial ATP in cultured HEK293T cells transfected with smacATPi. With the use of smacATPi, we can also observe that 2-DG treatment modestly attenuates mitochondrial ATP and oligomycin reduces cytosolic ATP, indicating the subsequent changes of compartmental ATP. To evaluate the role of ATP/ADP carrier (AAC) in ATP trafficking, we treated HEK293T cells with an AAC inhibitor, Atractyloside (ATR). ATR treatment attenuated cytosolic and mitochondrial ATP in normoxia, suggesting AAC inhibition reduces ADP import from the cytosol to mitochondria and ATP export from mitochondria to cytosol. In HEK293T cells subjected to hypoxia, ATR treatment increased mitochondrial ATP along with decreased cytosolic ATP, implicating that ACC inhibition during hypoxia sustains mitochondrial ATP but may not inhibit the reversed ATP import from the cytosol. Furthermore, both mitochondrial and cytosolic signals decrease when ATR is given in conjunction with 2-DG in hypoxia. Thus, real-time visualization of spatiotemporal ATP dynamics using smacATPi provides novel insights into how cytosolic and mitochondrial ATP signals respond to metabolic changes, providing a better understanding of cellular metabolism in health and disease.
Experimental Evaluation of a Coated Foam Catalytic Reactor for the Direct CO2-to-Methanol Synthesis Process
Authors: Musavuli Kyatsinge Cedric , Engelbrecht Nicolaas , Everson Raymond Cecil , Modisha Phillimon , Kolb Gunther , Zapf Ralf , Hofmann Christian , Bessarabov Dmitri
Published: February 2023

The era of considering carbon dioxide (CO2) as a waste stream has passed. New methods of utilising CO2 as a carbon feedstock are currently the focus of extensive research efforts. A fixed-bed reactor containing a commercial Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalyst washcoated on a Cu foam was used for the synthesis of methanol through direct CO2 hydrogenation. Catalytic activity tests in this reactor were conducted at reaction pressures of 30 and 50 bar, temperatures in the range 190–250 °C, and weight hourly space velocities (WHSV) in the range 1.125–2.925 NL gcat−1 h−1. The best reactor performance was recorded at 50 bar pressure: CO2 conversion and methanol selectivity of 27.46% and 82.97%, respectively, were obtained at 240 °C and 1.125 NL gcat−1 h−1. Increasing the WHSV to 2.925 NL gcat−1 h−1 resulted in a twofold increase in methanol weight time yield (WTY) to 0.18 gMeOH gcat−1 h−1 and a decrease in methanol selectivity to 70.55%. The results presented in this investigation provide insight into the performance of a bench-scale reactor in which mass transfer limitations are non-negligible and demonstrate that metal foams are promising catalyst support structures for CO2 hydrogenation towards methanol production.
The Platinization of Graphite Composites Turns Widespread and Low-Cost Materials into Hydrogen Peroxide Sensors and High-Value Biosensor Transducers
Authors: Caval Myriam , Sanna Carla , Marceddu Salvatore , Rocchitta Gaia , Serra Pier Andrea
Published: February 2023

Electrochemical microsensors and biosensors have been widely used in many fields, in particular neurochemical monitoring, because of their features. Usually, hydrogen peroxide (HP), obtained as a by-product of an enzymatic reaction, is the detected compound on transducers made of precious metals, in particular platinum. The over-time increase in the price of platinum and its alloys requires the use of miniaturizable low-cost supports that can be suitably modified with the deposition of Pt particles; among them, graphite is the most widespread. In the present paper, carbon-composition resistors (CCRs) and pencil leads (PLs) of different diameters (0.3, 0.5 and 2.0 mm), mainly made up of graphite, clay and some other components were used as carbonaceous support for the deposition of platinum. Platinizations were carried out by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV) and constant potential amperometry (CPA) techniques. On the platinized supports, hydrogen peroxide (HP) and ascorbic acid (AA) sensitivity were assessed in order to verify the possibility of using them as transducers of amperometric biosensors. All the used protocols determined the occurrence of HP monitoring, not appreciable on carbonaceous surfaces. We chose 0.3 mm Ø PLs for the construction of glucose biosensors by appropriately modifying the platinum surface layering, a permselective polymer, an enzyme booster, the glucose oxidase (GOx) enzyme and a containing network. The biosensor constructed in this way demonstrated a behavior comparable to that obtained using classic platinum wires.
The Role of Work as a Social Determinant of Health in Mother’s Own Milk Feeding Decisions for Preterm Infants: A State of the Science Review
Authors: Johnson Tricia J. , Meier Paula P. , Robinson Daniel T. , Suzuki Sumihiro , Kadakia Suhagi , Garman Andrew N. , Patel Aloka L.
Published: February 2023

In the United States, 10% of infants are born preterm (PT; <37 weeks gestational age) each year and are at higher risk of complications compared to full term infants. The burden of PT birth is borne disproportionately by Black versus non-Black families, with Black mothers significantly more likely to give birth to a PT infant. One proven strategy to improve short- and long-term health outcomes in PT infants is to feed mother’s own milk (MOM; breast milk from the mother). However, mothers must make decisions about work and MOM provision following PT birth, and more time spent in paid work may reduce time spent in unpaid activities, including MOM provision. Non-Black PT infants are substantially more likely than Black PT infants to receive MOM during the birth hospitalization, and this disparity is likely to be influenced by the complex decisions mothers of PT infants make about allocating their time between paid and unpaid work. Work is a social determinant of health that provides a source of income and health insurance coverage, and at the same time, has been shown to create disparities through poorer job quality, lower earnings, and more precarious employment in racial and ethnic minority populations. However, little is known about the relationship between work and disparities in MOM provision by mothers of PT infants. This State of the Science review synthesizes the literature on paid and unpaid work and MOM provision, including: (1) the complex decisions that mothers of PT infants make about returning to work, (2) racial and ethnic disparities in paid and unpaid workloads of mothers, and (3) the relationship between components of job quality and duration of MOM provision. Important gaps in the literature and opportunities for future research are summarized, including the generalizability of findings to other countries.
Promoting Health Equity: Identifying Parent and Child Reactions to a Culturally-Grounded Obesity Prevention Program Specifically Designed for Black Girls Using Community-Engaged Research
Authors: Allen Haley , Callender Chishinga , Thompson Debbe
Published: February 2023

The Butterfly Girls (BFG) Study is a culturally and developmentally appropriate online obesity prevention program for 8–10-year-old Black girls designed with key stakeholders in the Black community. This multi-methods investigation, conducted with parent–child dyads who participated in an outcome evaluation of the intervention, aimed to understand parent and child reactions to the program. We were particularly interested in understanding perceptions regarding its cultural and developmental appropriateness, relevance and acceptability. Program participation and survey data (demographics, parent and child write-in comments on process evaluation surveys) were analyzed. Participation data demonstrated high adherence in treatment and comparison groups. Descriptive statistics were calculated for survey data and highlighted the socioeconomic diversity of the sample. Post intervention surveys included two fill-in-the-blank questions for parents (n = 184 for question 1, n = 65 for question 2) and one for children (n = 32). Comments were analyzed using structured thematic analysis. The majority of the feedback from child participants was complimentary and many found the program relatable. Among the parent responses, the majority found the program to be beneficial in its educational nature and in promoting behavior change. This multi-methods analysis suggests that the BFG program was perceived as beneficial by parents while being culturally and developmentally appropriate and engaging for young Black girls, highlighting the importance of co-collaboration in program development.
COVID-19 Outbreak during Summer Courses at an Elementary School
Authors: Pantoja-Meléndez Carlos , García-De la Torre Guadalupe , Duran-Robertson Mónica , Peterson-Marquard Kenneth , Núñez-Amador Silvia , Gomez-Bocanegra Víctor , Ibáñez-Cervantes Gabriela , Vargas-De-León Cruz , Cureño-Diaz Mónica
Published: February 2023

Due to the COVID-19 emergency, face-to-face classes were suspended. After the vaccination of teachers and to mitigate educational backwardness, the schools have begun to reopen with protocols established by the government. Here, we investigated the COVID-19 outbreak in summer courses during the reopening of a private elementary school in July 2021. We report confirmed cases of COVID-19 in staff members, students, and their families. A total community of 290 people was part of this study, and we built the contact network. The clinical features of all cases are described. We used the methodology of cases and contacts. The index case was identified by epidemiological tracking, and containment measures were activated, as well as further infection chains in the setting. We estimate the attack rate for staff members at 15.68% (95% CI 7.0–28.6), students at 12.24% (95% CI 4.6–24.8), and family members at 2.6% (95% CI 0.8–6.0). An incubation period of 48–72 h was determined. A student–teacher–student–family transmission sequence was identified. The area where the infection was identified was the school swimming pool, an area where face masks are not worn or, in some cases, inadequately used. Finally, we continue with intermittent staff testing and early detection actions, reinforcing prevention measures, environmental control, cleaning, and educational interventions with students regarding the implementation of preventive measures through classes led by school health staff.
Children’s Symptoms with a Febrile Illness and a Positive or Negative Test of SARS-CoV-2 during the Omicron Wave
Authors: Möhler Ricarda , Jenetzky Ekkehart , Schwarz Silke , Gwiasda Moritz , Rathjens Larisa , Martin David
Published: February 2023

Febrile infections are common in childhood. Children can be infected with SARS-CoV-2, but their course is milder than in adults. So far, a comparison between febrile infections with a positive or negative Corona test with the Omicron variant is missing. The data used are from the FeverApp registry, which collects parent-reported data on febrile infections in children and informs about fever management. A comparison of symptomatic differences between episodes with a positive or negative Corona test was performed using Χ2-tests. During the Omicron wave, reported tests doubled and positive test results nearly 12-folded. In episodes with positive Corona saliva tests, more cough, fatigue, disturbed smell/taste, limb pain, sore throat, signs of serious sickness, and touch sensitivity were reported. Children with a negative Corona test show more tonsillitis, teething, any pain symptoms, earaches, and rashes. Thus, there are some significant differences between febrile infections with a positive or negative Corona test, but symptoms are present on both sides. The omicron variant seems to be more infectious than the alpha or delta variants in children, but the symptoms remain mild and do not differ much from other febrile infections.
The Importance of Genetic Testing in the Differential Diagnosis of Atypical TSC2-PKD1 Contiguous Gene Syndrome—Case Series
Authors: Orosz Petronella , Kollák Zita , Pethő Ákos , Fogarasi András , Reusz György , Hadzsiev Kinga , Szabó Tamás
Published: February 2023

Background: In clinical practice, the possible diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis or polycystic kidney disease is primarily based on clinical criteria, which can later be verified by genetic testing. But in the case of TSC2/PKD1 contiguous gene syndrome (TSC2/PKD1-CGS), the renal appearance of the disease is more serious. Therefore, early genetic analysis is recommended. Methods: Herein we present the report of four children with TSC2/PKD1-CGS, one involving the NTHL1 gene. We aim to emphasize the importance of genetic testing in this rare syndrome. Results: During the follow-up of tuberous sclerosis and polycystic kidney disease patients, it is essential to reappraise the diagnosis if the clinical symptoms’ appearance or onset time is unusual. Targeted genetic testing is recommended. However, early tumor formation necessitates the extension of genetic analysis. Conclusions: An appropriate evaluation of the phenotype is the cornerstone of diagnosing the rare TSC2/PKD1-CGS with the help of genetic results. In addition, malignant tumors could draw attention to an infrequent large deletion.
Why and How Should We Assess the Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? A Single-Centre Experience with Carotid Intima-Media Measurements
Authors: Gruca Marta , Orczyk Krzysztof , Zamojska Justyna , Niewiadomska-Jarosik Katarzyna , Stańczyk Jerzy , Smolewska Elżbieta
Published: February 2023

Background: Children diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are thought to be more likely to develop cardiovascular disease in adulthood. The factors modulating the cardiovascular risk, involving exposure to secondhand smoking, sedentary lifestyle and abnormal body mass index, might have had a stronger impact during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of reliable prognostic markers for a higher probability of cardiovascular events might be solved by carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) measurement. The paramount goal of the study was to assess its usefulness in JIA patients. Materials and Methods: The results of cIMT measured by a single physician in 45 children diagnosed with JIA were compared to 37 age- and sex-matched healthy counterparts. The analysis also involved anthropometric parameters, laboratory tests, and a survey regarding lifestyle-related factors. Results: Four JIA patients appeared to have cIMT above the 94th percentile. A positive correlation between erythrocytes sedimentation rate (ESR) and right carotid artery percentiles was found. Passive smoking increased the cardiovascular risk regardless of JIA. Doubling the daily screen time during the pandemic led to a significant reduction in children’s physical activity. However, the number of enrolled subjects was not enough to make significant recommendations. Conclusions: cIMT measurements remain an interesting perspective for future cardiovascular screening of children with JIA. It has yet to be determined whether it should be considered in all JIA patients on a reliable basis.
Impact of the m.13513G>A Variant on the Functions of the OXPHOS System and Cell Retrograde Signaling
Authors: Kidere Dita , Zayakin Pawel , Livcane Diana , Makrecka-Kuka Marina , Stavusis Janis , Lace Baiba , Lin Tsu-Kung , Liou Chia-Wei , Inashkina Inna
Published: February 2023

Mitochondria are involved in many vital functions in living cells, including the synthesis of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and regulation of nuclear gene expression through retrograde signaling. Leigh syndrome is a heterogeneous neurological disorder resulting from an isolated complex I deficiency that causes damage to mitochondrial energy production. The pathogenic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variant m.13513G>A has been associated with Leigh syndrome. The present study investigated the effects of this mtDNA variant on the OXPHOS system and cell retrograde signaling. Transmitochondrial cytoplasmic hybrid (cybrid) cell lines harboring 50% and 70% of the m.13513G>A variant were generated and tested along with wild-type (WT) cells. The functionality of the OXPHOS system was evaluated by spectrophotometric assessment of enzyme activity and high-resolution respirometry. Nuclear gene expression was investigated by RNA sequencing and droplet digital PCR. Increasing levels of heteroplasmy were associated with reduced OXPHOS system complex I, IV, and I + III activities, and high-resolution respirometry also showed a complex I defect. Profound changes in transcription levels of nuclear genes were observed in the cell lines harboring the pathogenic mtDNA variant, indicating the physiological processes associated with defective mitochondria.
Copper-Based Composite Coatings by Solid-State Cold Spray Deposition: A Review
Authors: Wang Huipeng , Li Peng , Guo Weiling , Ma Guozheng , Wang Haidou
Published: February 2023

Copper (Cu)-based composite coatings have been widely applied in all kinds of important industry fields due to their outstanding comprehensive properties. The preparation temperature of a composite coating is the key factor affecting the properties, so the cold spray (CS) technology is characterized by low-temperature solid-state deposition, which ensures its emergence as the most promising technology for preparing the Cu-based composite coatings. In this paper, first, the principle of CS technology and the deposition mechanism of the coatings are introduced. On this basis, the deposition mechanism of Cu-based metal/ceramic composite coatings is further explored. Secondly, the effects of key CS process parameters (particle velocity, particle morphology, and substrate state) on the quality of the Cu-based composite coatings are summarized, and the current research status of cold-sprayed Cu-based composite coatings in the fields of corrosion resistance, wear resistance, self-lubricating properties, and electrical conductivity is reviewed. Moreover, the improvement of the performance of Cu-based composite coatings by various post-process treatments of coatings, such as heat treatment (HT) and friction stir processing (FSP), is elaborated. Finally, the future development of Cu-based composite coatings and CS technology is prospected.
Experimental Study on Neutral Salt Spray Accelerated Corrosion of Metal Protective Coatings for Power-Transmission and Transformation Equipment
Authors: Chen Junwei , Liu Jie , Wang Haobin , Li Bo , Hu Quan , Shao Tianjing , Yang Ruijing , Wang Bin , Wan Qiang , Li Zhenggang , Lei Yan , Zhang Guodong , Yang Bing
Published: February 2023

At present, the common protection technology of power-transmission and transformation equipment is mainly coating protection and hot-dip zinc protection. However, due to the low adhesion of epoxy zinc-rich coating, and the poor compatibility with top paint, environmental pollution, complex processing, high energy consumption and other defects of the hot-dip zinc process, its development is limited. In view of the above deficiencies, new anti-corrosion coating materials and processes were investigated in this study. Zinc coatings and Al-Zn coatings were prepared on the C45 steel matrix by hot-spraying and cold-spraying processes. The macro appearance, micromorphology and phase composition analysis of the coatings were evaluated. The adhesion of the coating to the substrate after the salt-spray test was tested. The results showed that the hot dip zinc coating and hot spray zinc coating had obvious cracking after the salt-spray test. The surface structure of cold-sprayed Al-Zn coating was relatively dense after the salt-spray test. The critical load of the cold-sprayed Al-Zn coating after the salt-spray test was higher than that of the other two coatings. The corrosion resistance to salt spray of cold-sprayed Al-Zn coating was demonstrated to be better than the hot-dip zinc coating, and thus has great application prospects.
Parameter Optimization and Mechanical Properties of Laser Cladding of 316L Stainless Steel Powder on G20Mn5QT Steel
Authors: Fan Yunjie , Zhao Yongsheng , Liu Yan , Xie Shao , Ge Chao , Han Xiaohui , Chen Hui
Published: February 2023

G20Mn5QT steel has excellent mechanical properties and is widely used in key components of rail vehicles. However, during the operation of high-speed vehicles, wear and tear will inevitably occur. In this paper, laser cladding technology was selected to successfully prepare 316L stainless steel coating. The optimum processing parameters were obtained with a laser power of 2300 W, a scanning speed of 500 mm/min, and a powder feeding speed of 14 g/min. The microstructure of 316L coating is mainly composed of planar crystals, cellular crystals, columnar crystals, and equiaxed crystals. Through range analysis, it is found that the microhardness, wear resistance, and micro-shear strength of the cladding layers increase with the increase of laser power, while the tensile strength and yield strength increase first and then decrease with the increase of laser power. Under the optimized process parameters, the low-temperature impact toughness, elongation, tensile strength, and yield strength of the cladding layer were 97.6%, 24%, 10.9%, and 32.5% higher than that of the G20Mn5QT substrate, respectively. An excellent combination of strength and toughness was achieved by cladding 316L alloy on the surface of the G20Mn5QT substrate, which can meet the requirements of remanufacturing fractional key vehicle parts.
Preparation and Characterization of Pulse Electrodeposited Ni/W-SiC Nanocomposite Coating on Mild Steel Substrate
Authors: Zhu Zhaoge , Zou Longqing , Li Huaxing , Zhang Hongbin
Published: February 2023

In order to improve the performances of metal containers, furnace bodies and agricultural tools manufactured by mild steels, Ni/W-SiC nanocomposites are prefabricated on mild steel substrate by the pulse electrodeposition (PED) method. The morphology, texture, microstructure, microhardness, and wear performances of Ni/W-SiC nanocomposites are examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), hardness tester, and friction wear testing. The results indicate that the SiC size in nanocomposites is ~32.4 nm when its concentration in electrolytes is 7 g/L. The S1 and S4 nanocomposites’ microstructures (the S1 composite was prefabricated at 4 g/L, and the S4 composite was deposited at 13 g/L) reveal many large cauliflower-shaped grains. However, the S2 nanocomposite (the S2 composite was obtained at 7 g/L) demonstrates the homogeneous, finest and smoothest surface morphology. The diffraction angles of S1 nanocomposite are 41.2°, 51.7°, and 71.2° depicting the sharpest diffraction peaks, corresponding to the (1 1 1), (2 0 0), and (2 2 0) crystal planes of Ni-W grains, respectively. Moreover, the S2 nanocomposite exhibits the lowest wear depth and width of 34.2 μm and 5.5 mm, respectively. Some shallow and fine scratches on the as-described nanocomposites’ surface indicate its excellent tribological performance. However, the S4 nanocomposite exhibits a wear depth of 86.3 μm and a width of 11.9 mm.
Solutions of the Yang–Baxter Equation and Automaticity Related to Kronecker Modules
Authors: Cañadas Agustín Moreno , Fernández Espinosa Pedro Fernando , Ballester-Bolinches Adolfo
Published: February 2023

The Kronecker algebra K is the path algebra induced by the quiver with two parallel arrows, one source and one sink (i.e., a quiver with two vertices and two arrows going in the same direction). Modules over K are said to be Kronecker modules. The classification of these modules can be obtained by solving a well-known tame matrix problem. Such a classification deals with solving systems of differential equations of the form Ax=Bx′, where A and B are m×n, F-matrices with F an algebraically closed field. On the other hand, researching the Yang–Baxter equation (YBE) is a topic of great interest in several science fields. It has allowed advances in physics, knot theory, quantum computing, cryptography, quantum groups, non-associative algebras, Hopf algebras, etc. It is worth noting that giving a complete classification of the YBE solutions is still an open problem. This paper proves that some indecomposable modules over K called pre-injective Kronecker modules give rise to some algebraic structures called skew braces which allow the solutions of the YBE. Since preprojective Kronecker modules categorize some integer sequences via some appropriated snake graphs, we prove that such modules are automatic and that they induce the automatic sequences of continued fractions.
Ultra-High-Speed Growth of GaAs Solar Cells by Triple-Chamber Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Oshima Ryuji , Ogura Akio , Shoji Yasushi , Makita Kikuo , Ubukata Akinori , Koseki Shuuichi , Imaizumi Mitsuru , Sugaya Takeyoshi
Published: February 2023

In photovoltaic (PV) power generation, highly efficient III-V solar cells are promising for emerging mobile applications, such as vehicle-integrated PVs. Although hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) has received attention due to its lower fabrication costs, realization of high throughput performance while maintaining solar-cell characteristics using this growth method is essential. In this study, the effect of atmospheric-pressure triple-chamber HVPE growth conditions on GaAs solar-cell properties were carefully investigated in conjunction with defect analysis using deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). Based on the analysis on GaAs reaction processes, the suppression of arsine thermal cracking in the HVPE hot-wall reactor was important to achieve fast GaAs growth using a low input V/III ratio. Moreover, the DLTS results revealed that the reduced input V/III ratio was effective in suppressing the generation of EL2 traps, which is a common GaAs midgap complex defect involving arsenic antisites. Although the EL2 trap density increased with the growth rate, the performance of GaAs solar cells that were grown under reduced arsine thermal cracking exhibited almost no considerable cell parameter deterioration at a growth rate of up to 297 μm/h. Consequently, a conversion efficiency of 24% with a high open-circuit voltage of 1.04 V was achieved for the cells that were grown at 200 μm/h.
High Temperature Deformation Behavior of Near-β Titanium Alloy Ti-3Al-6Cr-5V-5Mo at α + β and β Phase Fields
Authors: Zhang Haoyu , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Shuai , Liu Xuejia , Wu Xiaoxi , Zhang Siqian , Zhou Ge
Published: February 2023

Most near-β titanium alloy structural components should be plastically deformed at high temperatures. Inappropriate high-temperature deformed processes can lead to macro-defects and abnormally coarse grains. Ti-3Al-6Cr-5V-5Mo alloy is a near-β titanium alloy with the potential application. The available information on the high-temperature deformation behavior of the alloy is limited. To provide guidance for the actual hot working of the alloy, the flow stress behavior and processing map at α + β phase field and β phase field were studied, respectively. Based on the experimental data obtained from hot compressing simulations at the range of temperature from 700 °C to 820 °C and at the range of strain rate from 0.001 s−1 to 10 s−1, the constitutive models, as well as the processing map, were obtained. For the constitutive models at the α + β phase field and β phase field, the correlated coefficients between actual stress and predicted stress are 0.986 and 0.983, and the predictive mean relative errors are 2.7% and 4.1%. The verification of constitutive models demonstrates that constitutive equations can predict flow stress well. An instability region in the range of temperature from 700 °C to 780 °C and the range of strain rates from 0.08 s−1 to 10 s−1, as well as a suitable region for thermomechanical processing in the range of temperature from 790 °C to 800 °C and the range of strain rates from 0.001 s−1 to 0.007 s−1, was predicted by the processing map and confirmed by the hot-deformed microstructural verification. After the deformation at 790 °C/0.001 s−1, the maximum number of dynamic recrystallization grains and the minimum average grain size of 17 μm were obtained, which is consistent with the high power-dissipation coefficient region predicted by the processing map.
Inline Particle Size Analysis during Technical-Scale Processing of a Fermented Concentrated Milk Protein-Based Microgel Dispersion: Feasibility as a Process Control
Authors: Heck Anisa , Nöbel Stefan , Hinrichs Jörg
Published: February 2023

Particle size is not only important for the sensory perception of fat-free fermented concentrated milk products, but also for processing operations because of the direct relationship with apparent viscosity. The aim of this study was to apply inline particle size analysis using focused beam reflectance measurement (FBRM) to obtain real-time information regarding the particle size of a fat-free fermented concentrated milk product, namely, fresh cheese. By comparing inline particle size data to offline particle size, apparent viscosity, protein content and processing information, the potential to use inline particle size analysis as a process monitoring and control option during fresh cheese production was assessed. Evaluation of inline particle size after fermentation and before further processing, e.g., after a buffering tank, shows promise as a means to control variance of product entering downstream processing and, thus, improve final product consistency over time. Measurement of inline particle size directly before filling could allow for precise control of final product characteristics by the use of mechanical or mixing devices placed before the inline measurement. However, attention should be given to the requirements of the inline measurement technology for accurate measurement, such as product flow rate and pressure.
Deep Learning-Based Auto-Segmentation of Spinal Cord Internal Structure of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Fei Ningbo , Li Guangsheng , Wang Xuxiang , Li Junpeng , Hu Xiaosong , Hu Yong
Published: February 2023

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is a chronic disorder of the spinal cord. ROI-based features on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) provide additional information about spinal cord status, which would benefit the diagnosis and prognosis of CSM. However, the manual extraction of the DTI-related features on multiple ROIs is time-consuming and laborious. In total, 1159 slices at cervical levels from 89 CSM patients were analyzed, and corresponding fractional anisotropy (FA) maps were calculated. Eight ROIs were drawn, covering both sides of lateral, dorsal, ventral, and gray matter. The UNet model was trained with the proposed heatmap distance loss for auto-segmentation. Mean Dice coefficients on the test dataset for dorsal, lateral, and ventral column and gray matter were 0.69, 0.67, 0.57, 0.54 on the left side and 0.68, 0.67, 0.59, 0.55 on the right side. The ROI-based mean FA value based on segmentation model strongly correlated with the value based on manual drawing. The percentages of the mean absolute error between the two values of multiple ROIs were 0.07, 0.07, 0.11, and 0.08 on the left side and 0.07, 0.1, 0.1, 0.11, and 0.07 on the right side. The proposed segmentation model has the potential to offer a more detailed spinal cord segmentation and would be beneficial for quantifying a more detailed status of the cervical spinal cord.
Assessment of the Diagnostic Methods of Mizaj in Persian Medicine: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmadi Mostafa , Shirafkan Hoda , Mozaffarpur Seyyed Ali
Published: February 2023

The concept of mizaj corresponds to the idea of personalized medicine and is the main diagnostic principle of Persian medicine (PM). This study aims to investigate diagnostic tools for the detection of mizaj in PM. In this systematic review of articles published before September 2022, articles were searched for in the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, SID databases, and gray literature. The titles of the articles were screened by researchers and relevant articles were selected. Abstracts were reviewed by two reviewers to select final articles. Subsequently, the articles found were critically evaluated by two reviewers according to the CEBM method. Finally, article data were extracted. Of the 1812 articles found, 54 were included in the final evaluation. Of these, 47 articles were related to the diagnosis of whole body mizaj (WBM). WBM was diagnosed in 37 studies using questionnaires and 10 using expert panels. In addition, six articles examined the mizaj of organs. Only four of these questionnaires were found with reported reliability and validity. There were two questionnaires for assessing WBM, but neither had sufficient reliability and validity. Questionnaires that assess organs had weak designs and lacked sufficient reliability and validity.
KRAS Mutational Profiles among Colorectal Cancer Patients in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Hasbullah Hidayati Husainy , Sulong Sarina , Che Jalil Nur Asyilla , Abdul Aziz Ahmad Aizat , Musa Nurfadhlina , Musa Marahaini
Published: February 2023

Background: KRAS is a key driver gene in colorectal carcinogenesis. Despite this, there are still limited data on the mutational status of KRAS amongst colorectal cancer (CRC) patients in Malaysia. In the present study, we aimed to analyze the KRAS mutational profiles on codons 12 and 13 amongst CRC patients in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, located on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Methods: DNA were extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues obtained from 33 CRC patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2019. Amplifications of codons 12 and 13 of KRAS were conducted using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by Sanger sequencing. Results: Mutations were identified in 36.4% (12/33) of patients, with G12D (50%) being the most frequent single-point mutation observed, followed by G12V (25%), G13D (16.7%), and G12S (8.3%). No correlation was found between mutant KRAS and location of the tumor, staging, and initial carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level. Conclusion: Current analyses revealed that a significant proportion of CRC patients in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia have KRAS mutations, where this frequency is higher compared to those in the West Coast. The findings of this study would serve as a precursor for further research that explores KRAS mutational status and the profiling of other candidate genes among Malaysian CRC patients.
Application of Artificial Intelligence Techniques for Monkeypox: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chadaga Krishnaraj , Prabhu Srikanth , Sampathila Niranjana , Nireshwalya Sumith , Katta Swathi S. , Tan Ru-San , Acharya U. Rajendra
Published: February 2023

Monkeypox or Mpox is an infectious virus predominantly found in Africa. It has spread to many countries since its latest outbreak. Symptoms such as headaches, chills, and fever are observed in humans. Lumps and rashes also appear on the skin (similar to smallpox, measles, and chickenpox). Many artificial intelligence (AI) models have been developed for accurate and early diagnosis. In this work, we systematically reviewed recent studies that used AI for mpox-related research. After a literature search, 34 studies fulfilling prespecified criteria were selected with the following subject categories: diagnostic testing of mpox, epidemiological modeling of mpox infection spread, drug and vaccine discovery, and media risk management. In the beginning, mpox detection using AI and various modalities was described. Other applications of ML and DL in mitigating mpox were categorized later. The various machine and deep learning algorithms used in the studies and their performance were discussed. We believe that a state-of-the-art review will be a valuable resource for researchers and data scientists in developing measures to counter the mpox virus and its spread.