bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoding of Turning Intention during Walking Based on EEG Biomarkers
Authors: Quiles Vicente , Ferrero Laura , Iáñez Eduardo , Ortiz Mario , Azorín José M.
Published: July 2022

In the EEG literature, there is a lack of asynchronous intention models that realistically propose interfaces for applications that must operate in real time. In this work, a novel BMI approach to detect in real time the intention to turn is proposed. For this purpose, an offline, pseudo-online and online analysis is presented to validate the EEG as a biomarker for the intention to turn. This article presents a methodology for the creation of a BMI that could differentiate two classes: monotonous walk and intention to turn. A comparison of some of the most popular algorithms in the literature is conducted. To filter the signal, two relevant algorithms are used: H∞ filter and ASR. For processing and classification, the mean of the covariance matrices in the Riemannian space was calculated and then, with various classifiers of different types, the distance of the test samples to each class in the Riemannian space was estimated. This dispenses with power-based models and the necessary baseline correction, which is a problem in realistic scenarios. In the cross-validation for a generic selection (valid for any subject) and a personalized one, the results were, on average, 66.2% and 69.6% with the best filter H∞. For the pseudo-online, the custom configuration for each subject was an average of 40.2% TP and 9.3 FP/min; the best subject obtained 43.9% TP and 2.9 FP/min. In the final validation test, this subject obtained 2.5 FP/min and an accuracy rate of 71.43%, and the turn anticipation was 0.21 s on average.
Histiocytic Sarcoma Involving Cervical Vertebra: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bahrami Eshagh , Najafi Masoumeh , Jahanbakhshi Amin , Hatam Jaber , Molanaei Saadat , Ciammella Patrizia , Cozzi Salvatore
Published: July 2022

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a rare neoplasm composed of cells with immunohistochemical characteristics of mature histiocytes. It can be disseminated or localized and usually involves the skin, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. Primary involvement of the vertebral column is extremely rare. We report a 29-year-old female who presented with neck pain and had a destructive 35*43*48 mm lesion in C2 with a paravertebral extension. The initial biopsy did not lead to the correct diagnosis. She later developed dysphagia, and the anterior approach was used for tumor decompression. The diagnosis of cervical histiocytic sarcoma was made, and she underwent radiotherapy. The follow-up MRI showed a marked response to radiotherapy. Here, we report the first case of cervical HS, review all cases of vertebral HS, compare patients’ characteristics and clinical courses, and discuss diagnostic nuances and treatment options.
Body Processing in Children and Adolescents with Traumatic Brain Injury: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Corti Claudia , Butti Niccolò , Bardoni Alessandra , Strazzer Sandra , Urgesi Cosimo
Published: July 2022

Dysfunctions in body processing have been documented in adults with brain damage, while limited information is available for children. This study aimed to investigate body processing in children and adolescents with traumatic brain injury (TBI) (N = 33), compared to peers with typical development. Two well-known computerized body-representation paradigms, namely Visual Body Recognition and Visuo-spatial Imagery, were administered. Through the first paradigm, the body inversion and composite illusion effects were tested with a matching to sample task as measures of configural and holistic processing of others’ bodies, respectively. The second paradigm investigated with a laterality judgement task the ability to perform first-person and object-based mental spatial transformations of own body and external objects, respectively. Body stimuli did not convey any emotional contents or symbolic meanings. Patients with TBI had difficulties with mental transformations of both body and object stimuli, displaying deficits in motor and visual imagery abilities, not limited to body processing. Therefore, cognitive rehabilitation of body processing in TBI might benefit from the inclusion of both general training on visuo-spatial abilities and specific exercises aimed at boosting visual body perception and motor imagery.
Endovascular Treatment of ICAS Patients: Targeting Reperfusion Rather than Residual Stenosis
Authors: Yi Tingyu , Zhan Alai , Wu Yanmin , Li Yimin , Zheng Xiufen , Lin Dinglai , Lin Xiaohui , Pan Zhinan , Chen Rongcheng , Parsons Mark , Chen Wenhuo , Lin Longting
Published: July 2022

Background and Purpose: Previous studies showed that acute reocclusion after endovascular therapy is related to residual stenosis. However, we observed that reperfusion status but not residual stenosis severity is related to acute reocclusion. This study aimed to assess which factor mention above is more likely to be associated with artery reocclusion after endovascular treatment. Methods: This study included 86 acute ischemic stroke patients who had middle cerebral artery (MCA) atherosclerotic occlusions and received endovascular treatment within 24 h of a stroke. The primary outcomes included intraprocedural reocclusion assessed during endovascular treatment and delayed reocclusion assessed through follow-up angiography. Results: Of the 86 patients, the intraprocedural reocclusion rate was 7.0% (6/86) and the delayed reocclusion rate was 2.3% (2/86). Regarding intraprocedural occlusion, for patients with severe residual stenosis, patients with successful thrombectomy reperfusion showed a significantly lower rate than unsuccessful thrombectomy reperfusion (0/30 vs. 6/31, p = 0.003); on the other hand, for patients with successful thrombectomy reperfusion, patients with severe residual stenosis showed no difference from those with mild to moderate residual stenosis in terms of intraprocedural occlusion (0/30 vs. 0/25, p = 1.00). In addition, after endovascular treatment, all patients achieved successful reperfusion. There was no significant difference in the delayed reocclusion rate between patients with severe residual stenosis and those with mild to moderate residual stenosis (2/25 vs. 0/61, p = 0.085). Conclusion: Reperfusion status rather than residual stenosis severity is associated with artery reocclusion after endovascular treatment. Once successful reperfusion was achieved, the reocclusion occurrence was fairly low in MCA atherosclerosis stroke patients, even with severe residual stenosis.
Optimized Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery to Avoid Vascular Damage: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis of Path Planning for Various Deep Targets by MRI Image Fusion
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Nan , Li Jiaming , Kou Huijuan , Wang Jing , Jing Jiangpeng , Su Mingming , Li Yang , Qu Liang , Wang Xuelian
Published: July 2022

Co-registration of stereotactic and preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images can serve as an alternative for trajectory planning. However, the role of this strategy has not yet been proven by any control studies, and the trajectories of commonly used targets have not been systematically studied. The purpose of this study was to analyze the trajectories for various targets, and to assess the role of trajectories realized on fused images in preventing intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Data from 1019 patients who underwent electrode placement for deep brain stimulation were acquired. Electrode trajectories were not planned for 396 patients, whereas trajectories were planned for 623 patients. Preoperative various MRI sequences and frame-placed MRI images were fused for trajectory planning. The patients’ clinical characteristics, the stereotactic systems, intracranial hemorrhage cases, and trajectory angles were recorded and analyzed. No statistically significant differences in the proportions of male patients, patients receiving local anesthesia, and diseases or target distributions (p > 0.05) were found between the trajectory planning group and the non-trajectory planning group, but statistically significant differences were observed in the numbers of both patients and leads associated with symptomatic ICH (p < 0.05). Regarding the ring and arc angle values, statistically significant differences were found among various target groups (p < 0.05). The anatomic structures through which leads passed were found to be diverse. Trajectory planning based on MRI fusion is a safe technique for lead placement. The electrode for each given target has its own relatively constant trajectory.
Personality, Intervention and Psychological Treatment: Untangling and Explaining New Horizons and Perspectives
Authors: Montoro Casandra I. , Galvez-Sánchez Carmen M.
Published: July 2022

Personality—as a construct—is involved in both health and disease [...]
A Case Study on Structural Serviceability Subjected to Railway-Induced Vibrations at TOD Developed Metro Depot
Authors: Liao Yingying , Zhang Peijie , Wu Qiong , Zhang Hougui
Published: July 2022

As a sustainable mode of metro-development strategy, transit-oriented development (TOD) is rapidly growing to finance the transport infrastructure investment. The main negative consequence of constructing residential buildings directly over metro depots is railway-induced vibration, that may affect structural serviceability. The residents may feel uncomfortable, as the metro trains start running very early in the morning and finish daily operations very late at night. In order to evaluate the level of human comfort subject to the special situation, a case study was provided in this paper. Directed by the academic review, there were four common comfort evaluation methods, with difference indexes to describe the influence of vibrations. Therefore, a measurement campaign was conducted and both acceleration and velocity sensors were simultaneously installed at the same measurement points, to reduce the influence of the conversion accuracy. The results show that there are certain differences between the evaluation methods in assessing the vibration comfort, but considering the most adverse effects together, the over-track building at this particular TOD-developed depot can ensure that 90% of the occupants would not be highly annoyed by the vibrations. The main negative effect on human comfort at the TOD depot is that the high-level vibrations would cause interruptions in sleep. Among them, the vibrations in this case would affect the rest of 17% of the occupants in the bedrooms on the seventh floor, and make it difficult for 9% of the occupants to fall asleep. Therefore, the evaluation index was suggested to consider more factors related to sleep difficulties and awake threshold values.
Evaluation of the Perioperative and Postoperative Course of Surgery for Pineal Germinoma in the SIOP CNS GCT 96 Trial
Authors: Shabo Ehab , Czech Thomas , Nicholson James C. , Mallucci Conor , Mottolese Carmine , Piatelli Gianluca , Frappaz Didier , Murray Matthew Jonathan , Faure-Conter Cecile , Garrè Maria Luisa , Sarikaya-Seiwert Sevgi , Weinhold Leonie , Haberl Hannes , Calaminus Gabriele
Published: July 2022

Background: CNS germinoma, being marker-negative, are mainly diagnosed by histological examination. These tumors predominantly appear in the suprasellar and/or pineal region. In contrast to the suprasellar region, where biopsy is the standard procedure in case of a suspected germ-cell tumor to avoid mutilation to the endocrine structures, pineal tumors are more accessible to primary resection. We evaluated the perioperative course of patients with pineal germinoma who were diagnosed by primary biopsy or resection in the SIOP CNS GCT 96 trial. Methods: Overall, 235 patients had germinoma, with pineal localization in 113. The relationship between initial symptoms, tumor size, and postoperative complications was analyzed. Results: Of 111 evaluable patients, initial symptoms were headache (n = 98), hydrocephalus (n = 93), double vision (n = 62), Parinaud syndrome (n = 57), and papilledema (n = 44). There was no significant relationship between tumor size and primary symptoms. A total of 57 patients underwent primary resection and 54 underwent biopsy. Postoperative complications were reported in 43.2% of patients after resection and in 11.4% after biopsy (p < 0.008). Biopsy was significantly more commonly performed on larger tumors (p= 0.002). Conclusions: These results support the practice of biopsy over resection for histological confirmation of pineal germinoma.
Adverse Pathological Findings at Radical Prostatectomy following Active Surveillance: Results from the Movember GAP3 Cohort
Authors: Marenghi Cristina , Qiu Zhuyu , Helleman Jozien , Nieboer Daan , Rubio-Briones Josè , Carroll Peter R. , Lee Lui Shiong , Valdagni Riccardo , Boutros Paul C. , Nicolai Nicola ,   on behalf of Movember Foundation’s Global Action Plan Prostate Cancer Active Surveillance (GAP3) Consortium
Published: July 2022

Background: Little is known about the consequences of delaying radical prostatectomy (RP) after Active Surveillance (AS) according to stringent or wider entry criteria. We investigated the association between inclusion criteria and rates, and timing of adverse pathological findings (APFs) among patients in GAP3 cohorts. Methods: APFs (GG ≥ 3, pT ≥ 3, pN > 0 and positive surgical margins [R1]) were accounted for in very low-risk (VLR: grade group [GG] 1, cT1, positive cores < 3, PSA < 10 ng/mL, PSA density [PSAD] < 0.15 ng/mL/cm3) and low-risk (LR: GG1, cT1-2, PSA ≤ 10 ng/mL) patients undergoing subsequent RP. The Kaplan–Meier method and log–rank test analyzed APF-free survival. Stratified mixed effects models analyzed association. Results: Out of 21,169 patients on AS, 1742 (VLR: 721; LR: 1021) underwent delayed RP. Most (60.8%) did not have APFs. APFs occurred more frequently (44.6% vs. 31.7%; OR 1.54, p < 0.001) and earlier (median time: 40.3 vs. 62.6 months; p < 0.001) in LR patients, and consisted of pT ≥ 3 (OR 1.47, p = 0.013) or R1 (OR 1.80, p < 0.001), but not of GG ≥ 3 or node involvement. Age (OR 1.05, p < 0.001), PSAD (OR 23.21, p = 0.003), and number of positive cores (OR 1.16, p = 0.004) were independently associated with APFs. Conclusions: AS stands as a safe option for low-risk patients, and most do not have APFs at surgery. Wider entry criteria are associated with pT3 and R1. The prognostic implications remain uncertain.
The Effect of the Gut Microbiota on Systemic and Anti-Tumor Immunity and Response to Systemic Therapy against Cancer
Authors: Aghamajidi Azin , Maleki Vareki Saman
Published: July 2022

Gut microbiota can have opposing functions from pro-tumorigenic to anti-tumorigenic effects. Increasing preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that the intestinal microbiota affects cancer patients’ response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) immunotherapy, such as anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) and anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). Microbiota-induced inflammation possibly contributes to tumor growth and cancer development. Microbiota-derived metabolites can also be converted to carcinogenic agents related to genetic mutations and DNA damage in organs such as the colon. However, other attributes of microbiota, such as greater diversity and specific bacterial species and their metabolites, are linked to better clinical outcomes and potentially improved anti-tumor immunity. In addition, the intratumoral microbial composition strongly affects T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity and anti-tumor immune surveillance, adding more complexity to the cancer-microbiome-immune axis. Despite the emerging clinical evidence for the activity of the gut microbiota in immuno-oncology, the fundamental mechanisms of such activity are not well understood. This review provides an overview of underlying mechanisms by which the gut microbiota and its metabolites enhance or suppress anti-tumor immune responses. Understanding such mechanisms allows for better design of microbiome-specific treatment strategies to improve the clinical outcome in cancer patients undergoing systemic therapy.
How the Potassium Channel Response of T Lymphocytes to the Tumor Microenvironment Shapes Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Chirra Martina , Newton Hannah S. , Gawali Vaibhavkumar S. , Wise-Draper Trisha M. , Chimote Ameet A. , Conforti Laura
Published: July 2022

Competent antitumor immune cells are fundamental for tumor surveillance and combating active cancers. Once established, tumors generate a tumor microenvironment (TME) consisting of complex cellular and metabolic elements that serve to suppress the function of antitumor immune cells. T lymphocytes are key cellular elements of the TME. In this review, we explore the role of ion channels, particularly K+ channels, in mediating the suppressive effects of the TME on T cells. First, we will review the complex network of ion channels that mediate Ca2+ influx and control effector functions in T cells. Then, we will discuss how multiple features of the TME influence the antitumor capabilities of T cells via ion channels. We will focus on hypoxia, adenosine, and ionic imbalances in the TME, as well as overexpression of programmed cell death ligand 1 by cancer cells that either suppress K+ channels in T cells and/or benefit from regulating these channels’ activity, ultimately shaping the immune response. Finally, we will review some of the cancer treatment implications related to ion channels. A better understanding of the effects of the TME on ion channels in T lymphocytes could promote the development of more effective immunotherapies, especially for resistant solid malignancies.
The Emerging Impact of Tumor Budding in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Main Issues and Clinical Relevance of a New Prognostic Marker
Authors: Togni Lucrezia , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Zerman Nicoletta , Troiano Giuseppe , Zhurakivska Khrystyna , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Balercia Andrea , Mascitti Marco , Santarelli Andrea
Published: July 2022

Tumor Budding (TB) represents a single cancer cell or a small cluster of less than five cancer cells on the infiltrative tumor front. Accumulating evidence suggests TB is an independent prognostic factor in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, its exact role is not yet elucidated, and a standardized scoring system is still necessary. The study aims to extensively review the literature data regarding the prognostic role of TB in OSCC. The results of TB are an independent prognostic factor of poor survival outcomes in OSCC. To date, the manual detection of hematoxylin and eosin-staining or pancytokeratin-immunostaining sections are the most commonly used methods. Between the several cut-offs, the two-tier system with five buds/field cut-offs provides better risk stratification. The prognostic role of the BD model in predicting survival outcomes was extensively validated; however, the inclusion of DOI, which is already a staging parameter, encouraged other authors to propose other models, integrating TB count with other adverse risk factors, such as the tumor–stroma ratio and tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes. The prognostic relevance of TB in OSCC highlights its evaluation in daily pathological practice. Therefore, the TB detection method and the TB scoring system should be validated based on tumor stage and site.
Molecular Pathological Characteristics of Thyroid Follicular-Patterned Tumors Showing Nodule-in-Nodule Appearance with Poorly Differentiated Component
Authors: Ueda Mayu , Matsuda Katsuya , Kurohama Hirokazu , Mussazhanova Zhanna , Sailaubekova Yerkezhan , Kondo Hisayoshi , Shimizu Tomoki , Takada Nami , Matsuoka Yuki , Otsubo Chieko , Sato Shinya , Yamashita Hiroyuki , Kawakami Atsushi , Nakashima Masahiro
Published: July 2022

Thyroid follicular-patterned tumors (TFTs) showing nodule-in-nodule (NN) appearance with poorly differentiated component (PDc) but neither invasion nor metastasis are diagnosed as benign nodules. Although PDc exhibits histologically aggressive features relative to the outer nodule (Out-N), its pathological significance remains unclear. TP53 binding protein-1 (53BP1) is a DNA damage response (DDR) molecule that rapidly localizes at DNA double-strand breaks. Using dual-color immunofluorescence with Ki-67, the profile of 53BP1 expression is shown to be significantly altered during diverse tumorigenesis. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the malignant potential of PDc at the molecular level. We analyzed the profile of 53BP1 expression and NRAS codon 61 and TERT-promoter (TERT-p) mutations in 16 cases of TFTs showing NN with PDc compared to 30 adenomatous goiters, 31 follicular adenomas, 15 minimally invasive follicular carcinomas (FCs), and 11 widely invasive FC cases. Our results revealed that the expression level of abnormal type 53BP1 and incidence of NRAS and TERT-p mutations in PDc were comparable to FCs, suggesting a malignant potential. Because co-expression of 53BP1 and Ki-67 can be an indicator of altered DDR, the development of PDc in NN may be associated with DDR impairments after harboring NRAS and TERT-p mutations.
Selective Oxidation of Furfural at Room Temperature on a TiO2-Supported Ag Catalyst
Authors: Sadier Achraf , Paul Sébastien , Wojcieszak Robert
Published: July 2022

The catalytic performance of the Ag/TiO2 catalyst was evaluated in the oxidation of furfural (FF) to furoic acid (FA) in an alkaline aqueous solution under 15 bar of air in a batch reactor. The catalytic activity, yield, and stability of the catalyst were compared as a function of different reaction parameters including temperature (25–110 °C), nature of the atmosphere, base equivalent (nbase/nFF = 0.25–3), and nature of the inorganic bases used (NaOH, NaHCO3, and Na2CO3). Under optimum conditions, the yield of FA (96%) was achieved at room temperature, with an excellent carbon balance (>98%). The recyclability of the catalyst was also studied and the catalytic activity of the Ag/TiO2 catalyst slightly declined due to an increase in particle size as confirmed by TEM studies.
MIL-88-Derived N and S Co-Doped Carbon Materials with Supplemental FeSx to Enhance the Oxygen Reduction Reaction Performance
Authors: Liu Yu , Xu Yinghao , Wang He , Zhang Jia , Zhao Haiyan , Chen Li , Xu Ling , Xie Yan , Huang Jiahui
Published: July 2022

To overcome the drawbacks of the single N-doped carbon materials, the further development of dual-heteroatoms (N and S) co-doped electrocatalysts is highly anticipated. Herein, N, S-doping and Fe-based carbon materials were synthesized by pyrolyzing a metal–organic framework (MIL-88) with the addition of N-/N, and S-containing ligands (chitosan and L-Cysteine) in the case of iron salt. The resulting electrocatalyst heat-treated at 850 °C (FeNSC-850) displays superior oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performances to MIL-88-850, with an overall electron transfer number of 3.97 and a minor yield of HO2-% (<2.6%). In addition to the comparable activity to commercial Pt/C in catalyzing the ORR in alkaline solution, the FeNSC-850 also shows higher stability, with a slight decline in half-wave potential (∆E1/2 = 15 mV) after 5000-cycle scanning of cyclic voltammetry. In view of the multiple Fe-based active sites, the additional S doping within FeNSC-850 creates more FeSx active sites for boosting the ORR performances in alkaline solution.
CD146 Defines a Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Subpopulation with Enhanced Suppressive Properties
Authors: Bikorimana Jean-Pierre , Saad Wael , Abusarah Jamilah , Lahrichi Malak , Talbot Sebastien , Shammaa Riam , Rafei Moutih
Published: July 2022

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are largely known for their immune-suppressive capacity, hence, their common use in the control of unwanted inflammation. However, novel concepts related to their biology, combined with the urgent need to identify MSC subpopulations with enhanced suppressive properties, drive the search for isolation protocols optimized for clinical applications. We show, in this study, that MSCs expressing high CD146 levels exhibit altered surface expression profiles of CD44 and secrete elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-6, amongst other factors. In addition, CD146hi MSCs surpass the polyclonal parental populations in inhibiting alloreactive T cells in vitro, in both a soluble- and cell-contact-dependent manner. Despite the lack of CD146hi MSC-mediated activation of peritoneal macrophages to release the suppressive factor IL-10 in vitro, their administration in animals with graft-versus-host disease alleviates inflammation and leads to 40% survival rate up to 7 weeks post-transplantation. This pronounced inhibitory property is driven by CD146-mediated in situ efferocytosis by myeloid cells. Altogether, this study provides the impetus to adopt an isolation protocol for MSCs based on a CD146 expression profile before their therapeutic use and suggests a major role played by CD146 as a novel “eat-me” signal, capable of enhancing MSC uptake by competent phagocytes.
Magnesium Supplementation Attenuates Ultraviolet-B-Induced Damage Mediated through Elevation of Polyamine Production in Human HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Shu Shokoku , Kobayashi Mao , Marunaka Kana , Yoshino Yuta , Goto Makiko , Katsuta Yuji , Ikari Akira
Published: July 2022

Magnesium ions (Mg2+) have favorable effects such as the improvement of barrier function and the reduction of inflammation reaction in inflammatory skin diseases. However, its mechanisms have not been fully understood. Microarray analysis has shown that the gene expressions of polyamine synthases are upregulated by MgCl2 supplementation in human HaCaT keratinocytes. Here, we investigated the mechanism and function of polyamine production. The mRNA and protein levels of polyamine synthases were dose-dependently increased by MgCl2 supplementation, which were inhibited by U0126, a MEK inhibitor; CHIR-99021, a glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) inhibitor; and Naphthol AS-E, a cyclic AMP-response-element-binding protein (CREB) inhibitor. Similarly, reporter activities of polyamine synthases were suppressed by these inhibitors, suggesting that MEK, GSK3, and CREB are involved in the transcriptional regulation of polyamine synthases. Cell viability was reduced by ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure, which was rescued by MgCl2 supplementation. The UVB-induced elevation of reactive oxygen species was attenuated by MgCl2 supplementation, which was inhibited by cysteamine, a polyamine synthase inhibitor. Our data indicate that the expression levels of polyamine synthases are upregulated by MgCl2 supplementation mediated through the activation of the MEK/GSK3/CREB pathway. MgCl2 supplementation may be useful in reducing the UVB-induced oxidative stress in the skin.
Pediatric Health Access and Private Medical Insurance: Based on the Ecology of Medical Care in Korea
Authors: Ryu Dong-Hee , Choi Yong-jun , Lee Jeehye
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to investigate pediatric health access by describing the ecology of medical care for children and adolescents in a medical environment where a well-balanced system between national health insurance (NHI) and private medical insurance (PMI) is required. Data from 2746 individuals aged 18 years old and younger were used. Of the participants, 87.3% had private medical insurance. Of the 1000 children, in an average month, 404 visited a clinic, 67 visited a hospital outpatient department (OPD), 49 visited an OPD in a tertiary hospital, 11 received emergency care, 5 received inpatient care in a hospital, and 9 were hospitalized. The generalized estimating equation models adjusted for age, sex, economic status, and pediatric comorbidity index were used for multivariate analysis. Receiving ambulatory care services in clinics was significantly more likely among children and adolescents with private medical insurance (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.16 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00–1.35]). Receiving ambulatory care services in clinics was significantly more likely among indemnity type policyholders (aOR = 1.23 [1.05–1.45]) and single policyholders (aOR = 1.18 [1.00–1.37]). Countries with national health insurance schemes should continuously practice the proper regulation and management of PMI, including reviewing PMI compensation measures, NHI reimbursement standards, and consumers’ perspectives on NHI and PMI.
What Do We Know about Spondylodiscitis in Children? A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yagdiran Ayla , Meyer-Schwickerath Charlotte , Wolpers Raphael , Otto-Lambertz Christina , Mehler Katrin , Oberthür Andre , Kernich Nikolaus , Eysel Peer , Jung Norma , Zarghooni Kourosh
Published: July 2022

Pediatric spondylodiscitis (PSD) is a rare disease with a major impact on mobility and functional status. Data concerning demographic and microbiological characteristics, clinical course, treatment, and outcome are scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to present clinical experiences of a third-level hospital (2009–2019) in PSD and compare these with adult spondylodiscitis (ASD). Of a total of 10 PSD patients, most of the infants presented with unspecific pain such as hip pain or a limping, misleading an adequate diagnosis of spine origin. Eight patients could be treated conservatively whereas surgery was performed in two cases with one case of tuberculous PSD (tPSD). The causative agent was detected in three of the patients. The diagnosis of PSD is often difficult since clinical symptoms are unspecific and causative pathogens often remain undetected. Nevertheless, empirical anti-infective therapy also seems to be effective. Based on recent studies, clinicians should be encouraged to keep the duration of anti-infective therapy in children short. Since comorbidities are not presented in PSD it is unclear which children suffer from PSD; thus, studies are necessary to identify predisposing factors for PSD. In our study, PSD differs from ASD in diagnostic and especially in therapeutic aspects. Therefore, specific guidelines for PSD would be desirable.
The Effects of NAA on the Tuberous Root Yield and Quality of Rehmannia glutinosa and Its Regulatory Mechanism by Transcriptome and Metabolome Profiling
Authors: Li Jianjun , Zhu Jialin , Li Huimin , Ma Jingxiao , Chen Peilei , Zhou Yanqing
Published: July 2022

Naphthylacetic acid (NAA) was used to increase the tuberous root yield of Rehmannia glutinosa, but the differences between its NAA-treated and control tuberous roots (NT and CG) and the regulatory mechanism of NAA effect remain unclear. In order to investigate them, NTs and CGs were used as materials, and both yield-related indices were measured; the metabolomics and transcriptomics were used to capture differentially accumulated metabolites (DAM) and to validate them via mining differentially expressed genes (DEGs), respectively. The effects of NAA treatment: increased NT mass per plant by 21.14%, through increasing the number of roots and increasing the mean root diameter; increased catalpol content by 1.2234% (p < 0.05); up-regulated 11DAMs and 596DEGs; and down-regulated 18 DAMs and 517DEGs. In particular, we discovered that NAA regulated its DAMs and biomass via 10 common metabolic pathways, and that the number of NAA-down-regulated DAMs was more than that of NAA-up-regulated DAMs in its tuberous root. Furthermore, HPLC validated the changes of several DAMs and 15 DEGs (4CL, ARF, CCoAOMT, ARGOS, etc.) associated with the yield increase and DAMs were verified by RT-qPCR. This study provided some valuable resources, such as tuberous root indices, key genes, and DAMs of Rehmannia glutinosa in response to NAA for distinguishing the CGs from NTs, and novel insights into the regulatory mechanism of NAA effects on both at the transcriptomic and metabolomic levels, so it will lay a theoretical foundation for NAA-regulated plant yield and quality, and provide references for prohibiting the uses of NAA as a swelling agent in medicinal tuber plants in China.
Robust Superhydrophobic Coating with Mullite Fiber Framework
Authors: Zhong Wensheng , Hu Shilin , Wu Manyuan , Xiong Bichen , Liu Qiaowen , Jia Qingqing , Liu Yaming , Liao Hongwei
Published: July 2022

Superhydrophobic surfaces have received increasing attention due to their excellent water repellency, but the fragile stability of superhydrophobic coatings has been a huge hindrance to their applications. In this work, we constructed a layer of mullite fibers on the surface of a ceramic substrate using high-temperature molten salt. Then, we obtained a superhydrophobic surface with a contact angle greater than 150° via soaking the sample with an alcoholic sol containing modified particles. On the one hand, this interlaced three-dimensional fiber structure increases the surface area and roughness, providing more locations for attaching superhydrophobic particles, as well as improving the water repellency. On the other hand, this fiber layer has a height difference, which protects the superhydrophobic particles attached at lower positions, and when an external object contacts the surface, it gives priority to the stable mullite fibers, reducing the direct contact between superhydrophobic particles and external objects and improving the stability of the superhydrophobic coating. After abrasion with sandpaper, the sample with the mullite fiber layer showed excellent stability compared to the samples without the fiber layer, indicating the significant protective effect of the fiber layer. This paper provides a potential method to enhance the stability of superhydrophobic ceramic surfaces.
Extracellular Matrix Coatings on Cardiovascular Materials—A Review
Authors: Yao Siyu , Cui Jixiang , Chen Shuyao , Zhou Xinglin , Li Jingan , Zhang Kun
Published: July 2022

Vascular transplantation is an effective and common treatment for cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the low biocompatibility of implants is a major problem that hinders its clinical application. Surface modification of implants with extracellular matrix (ECM) coatings is an effective approach to improve the biocompatibility of cardiovascular materials. The complete ECM seems to have better biocompatibility, which may give cardiovascular biomaterials a more functional surface. The use of one or several ECM proteins to construct a surface allows customization of coating composition and structure, possibly resulting in some unique functions. ECM is a complex three-dimensional structure composed of a variety of functional biological macromolecules, and changes in the composition will directly affect the function of the coating. Therefore, understanding the chemical composition of the ECM and its interaction with cells is beneficial to provide new approaches for coating surface modification. This article reviews novel ECM coatings, including coatings composed of intact ECM and biomimetic coatings tailored from several ECM proteins, and introduces new advances in coating fabrication. These ECM coatings are effective in improving the biocompatibility of vascular grafts.
Experimental Research on the Fluctuation Characteristics of Water Film Driven by Wind
Authors: Zhao Huanyu , Dai Hao , Zhu Dongyu , Zhao Ning , Zhu Chengxiang , Liu Senyun , Zhu Chunling
Published: July 2022

A series of experimental studies were conducted to explore the fluctuation characteristics of the water film under the air flow condition with the research background of the anti-icing system. The dynamic measurement of the water film on the surface of the aluminum-based plate was achieved using the digital image projection measurement technology. The influence of diverse wind speeds and Reynolds numbers on the average water film thickness, fluctuation intensity, and velocity of the liquid film was analyzed. The piecewise characteristics of the wind speed and Reynolds number for the fluctuation characteristics of the water film were analyzed innovatively. The fluctuation characteristics and formation principle of each stage were also examined. The results had a significant impact on establishing and modifying the mesoscopic models of aircraft icing to improve the design methodology of the anti-icing process.
Special Issue: Advances in Engineered Nanostructured Antibacterial Surfaces and Coatings
Authors: Balaure Paul Cătălin
Published: July 2022

Pathogenic biofilm formation is a major issue of concern in various sectors such as healthcare and medicine, food safety and the food industry, wastewater treatment and drinking water distribution systems, and marine biofouling [...]
Selective Detection of Fe3+ by Nitrogen–Sulfur-Doped Carbon Dots Using Thiourea and Citric Acid
Authors: Zhou Heng , Ren Ying , Li Zheng , He Weichun , Li Zhengxin
Published: July 2022

The quantum yield and fluorescence properties of carbon dots are key issues for environmental detection. In this study, nitrogen–sulfur-doped carbon dots (N,S-CDs) were prepared hydrothermally by adding thiourea to provide the N source. By adjusting the ratio of citric acid (CA) to thiourea (N,S) and adding anhydrous ethanol, blue fluorescent doped carbon dots with a quantum yield of up to 53.80% were obtained. The particle morphology and crystalline organization of the N,S-CDs were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to illuminate distinct functional units through the recording of typical vibration bands. The luminescence properties of the N,S-CDs were investigated using ultraviolet–visible (UV-vis) absorption spectroscopy and steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy (PL). In addition, the fluorescence stability of the N,S-CDs was studied in detail. The results showed that the functional groups of the N,S-CDs chelate Fe3+ ions to quench the fluorescence of carbon dots. This shows that the N,S-CDs exhibit high selectivity for Fe3+ ions. With the addition of Fe3+ in the concentration of 0–100 µM, the fluorescence intensity of the N,S-CDs exhibited distinct and linear dependence upon the Fe3+ concentration (R2 = 0.9965), and the detection limit (D = 3ơ/m) was measured as 0.2 µM. The excellent optical properties and Fe3+ selectivity of the N,S-CDs provide a huge boost for application in the field of environmental monitoring.
First-Principles Study of the Effect of Titanium Doping on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Properties of Zirconium-Cobalt Alloys
Authors: Zhao Shixiang , Zeng Xiangguo , Wang Yuntian , Luo Bosang , Wang Fang
Published: July 2022

It is very important to study impurity gas poisoning in ZrCo alloy because it is associated directly with the performance of ZrCo alloy as a hydrogen storage material. In this work, the effects of atomic replacement on the mechanism and properties of CO impurity gas poisoning in doped (Ti) ZrCo hydrogen storage alloys were investigated using the first principles method, based on the pseudopotential plane wave method. The adsorption energy, lattice constant, density of states, and charge density difference of the compounds before and after doping were calculated. Then, surface adsorption models of the ZrCo and Zr0.8Ti0.2Co alloys were established with the assistance of a conventional model. The resulting adsorption energy values of the clean surface and the surface adsorption energy values in the presence of CO impurity gases manifested that the Ti element-doped Zr0.8Ti0.2Co alloy was more susceptible to CO gas poisoning compared to ZrCo, which was consistent with the existing experimental results. In addition, by analyzing the conventional model, the electrons from the doped atoms overlapped with the surrounding electrons of C atoms, the phenomenon of orbital hybridization occurred, and the interactions increased. Consequently, Ti doping was not conducive to ZrCo to improve the ability to resist CO poisoning. The research results of this paper have laid a good foundation for the study of the effect of Ti doping on the antitoxicity performance.
New Bioprecursor Prodrugs of Sulfadiazine: Synthesis, X-ray Structure and Hirshfeld Analysis
Authors: Altowyan Mezna Saleh , Soliman Saied M. , Ismail Magda M. F. , Haukka Matti , Barakat Assem , Ayoup Mohammed Salah
Published: July 2022

Sulphonamide motif is found extensively in numerous chemotherapeutic drug candidates, it acts by stopping the production of folate inside the bacterial cell. Current research has established the synthesis and characterization of new bioprecursor prodrugs of sulfadiazine. The first prodrug, 3, was synthesized via the coupling of diazonium salt of sulfadiazine with ethyl acetoacetate in AcONa at 0 °C. The second prodrug, sulfadiazine-pyrazole, 5, was furnished via cyclocondensation of the hydrazono derivative, 3, and 2-pyridyl hydrazine, 4. The generated data from the X-ray analysis is interpreted and refined to obtain the crystal structure of the target compound, 5. Density functional theory (DFT) method was used to calculate the optimized geometrical parameters, electronic state (HOMO–LUMO), and the electronic properties. Moreover, Hirshfeld analysis revealed that the most important contributions to the crystal packing of the prodrug 5 are H···H, O···H and H···C contacts.
Effect of Abnormal Grains on the Mechanical Properties of FGH96 Solid-State Diffusion Bonding Joint
Authors: Zhang Jingqing , Shang Yong , Liu Qiaomu , Wang Junwu , Pei Yanling , Li Shusuo , Gong Shengkai
Published: July 2022

The hollow twin-web disk is designed to improve the thrust-to-weight ratio of the aero engine, where the welding joint microstructures determine the disk’s mechanical properties. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of abnormal grains formed in the welding region on the mechanical properties of FGH96 solid-state diffusion bonding joints. Digital image correlation using images captured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM-DIC) and electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) technologies were applied. The results show that abnormally large grains (2.5 times that of the matrix), with preferred orientation in the bonding region, were detrimental to the joint mechanical properties. The yield and tensile strengths were 995.85 MPa and 1456.67 MPa, respectively, and the corresponding relative (ratio to the matrix) ones were 92.54% and 88.81%. After modifying the bonding process, the grain size in the bonding region was tailored to close to that of the matrix, and considerable twin boundaries (TBs) formed, leading to the relative tensile and yield strength reaching 98.86% and 99.37%. Furthermore, the failure mode changed to intragranular type from intergranular type. It demonstrates that tailoring the newborn grain size, introducing TBs inside, and eliminating preferred orientation during the welding process can be an efficient way to improve the joint mechanical properties.
Improvement of Mechanical Properties and Condensation Behavior for Alkali-Activated Materials by Sodium Silicate
Authors: Li Mingjing , Huang Guodong , Cui Yi , Wang Bo , Zhang Shuwei , Wang Qi , Feng Jiacheng
Published: July 2022

To further enhance the compressive strength of alkali-activated materials and reveal their condensation behavior, the reactivity of alkali-activated slag materials was enhanced through the addition of different kinds and proportions of sodium silicate. The mechanical properties of the specimens were observed regularly and the condensation behavior was further analyzed. The results showed that both solid and liquid sodium silicate could significantly improve the compressive strength. The maximum increase in compressive strength was 123.7%, while the initial and final setting times were significantly shortened to 9 min. When solid sodium silicate content increased from 5% to 15%, the compressive strength first increased to 34.6 MPa and then decreased to 28.6 MPa, indicating that 10% was the optimum solid sodium silicate content. The large amount of crystallized solid sodium silicate in the specimen led to the decrease in mechanical properties. When liquid sodium silicate content increased from 5% to 15%, the compressive strength first increased to 52.8 MPa and then tended to be stable, implying that 10% was the optimum content. This shows that its reinforcement effect has a maximum limit. The activation effect of liquid sodium silicate was better than that of solid.
Effect of Cooling Rate on the Crystal Quality and Crystallization Rate of SiC during Rapid Solidification Based on the Solid–Liquid Model
Authors: Guo Xiaotian , Gao Yue , Meng Zihao , Gao Tinghong
Published: July 2022

The silicon carbide (SiC) that can achieve better electron concentration and motion control is more suitable for the production of high temperature, high frequency, radiation resistance, and high-power electronic devices. However, the fabrication of the high purity single crystal is challenging, and it is hard to observe the structural details during crystallization. Here, we demonstrate a study of the crystallization of single-crystal SiC by the molecular dynamic simulations. Based on several structure analysis methods, the transition of the solid–liquid SiC interface from a liquid to a zinc-blende structure is theoretically investigated. The results indicate that most of the atoms in the solid–liquid interface begin to crystallize with rapid solidification at low cooling rates, while crystallization does not occur in the system at high cooling rates. As the quenching progresses, the number of system defects decreases, and the distribution is more concentrated in the solid–liquid interface. A maximum crystallization rate is observed for a cooling rate of 1010 K/s. Moreover, when a stronger crystallization effect is observed, the energy is lower, and the system is more stable.
Effect of Design Parameters on the Flexural Strength of Reinforced Concrete Sandwich Beams
Authors: Chakrawarthi Vijayaprabha , Raj Jesuarulraj Leon , Avudaiappan Siva , Rajendren Divya , Amran Mugahed , Guindos Pablo , Roy Krishanu , Fediuk Roman , Vatin Nikolai Ivanovich
Published: July 2022

Sandwich beams are preferable for aerostructure and marine structures due to their high mechanical strength, durability, stiffness, and fatigue resistance. This paper presents a study on the flexural behavior of sandwich beams made of self-compacting concrete comprising a polystyrene inner core with wire mesh reinforcement. The effect of the design parameters such as the inner core area, percentage of tension reinforcement, and wire mesh on the moment carrying capacity and failure modes of sandwich beams was analyzed. Ten beams were cast and tested to failure with simply supported end conditions and they were classified into three different groups. The longitudinal section of the inner core area was varied by 0% (control beam), 25%, 50%, and 75% of the gross area. The tension reinforcement ratio varied between 0.6 and 1.5%. In addition, the effect of the wire mesh in shear and flexural resistance was studied. The load-carrying capacity of sandwich beams increased with flexural reinforcement. In addition, the welded wire mesh improved the sandwich beams’ flexural and shear performance. The conventional expressions for the moment of resistance were valid for sandwich beams, whereas the shear strength expressions overestimated the capacity; therefore, modifications were suggested. The refined models had a significant agreement with the experimental results.
Mite Fauna of the Family Syringophilidae (Acariformes: Prostigmata) Parasitizing Darwin’s Finches in Galápagos Archipelago
Authors: Skoracki Maciej , Sikora Bozena , Unsoeld Markus , Hromada Martin
Published: July 2022

Due to the biological uniqueness of the Galápagos Islands, ectoparasites of their avian fauna are relatively well-studied compared with other oceanic islands. However, in this study, quill mites (Acariformes: Prostigmata: Syringophilidae) were investigated for the first time in this archipelago. We investigated 7 species (out of 9) and 133 specimens of Darwin’s Finches of the genus Geospiza. Quill mite parasites were confirmed in two host species, Vampire Ground-Finch G. septentrionalis (Prevalence Index = 5%) and Small Ground-Finch G. fuliginosa (PI = 4%). Both hosts were infested by a new mite species, Aulonastus darwini sp. n., inhabiting the quills of their contour feathers. The host–parasite relationship is discussed.