bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic Deconvolution of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms Predicts Clinically Relevant Characteristics
Authors: Otto Raik , Detjen Katharina M. , Riemer Pamela , Fattohi Melanie , Grötzinger Carsten , Rindi Guido , Wiedenmann Bertram , Sers Christine , Leser Ulf
Published: February 2023

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (panNENs) are a rare yet diverse type of neoplasia whose precise clinical–pathological classification is frequently challenging. Since incorrect classifications can affect treatment decisions, additional tools which support the diagnosis, such as machine learning (ML) techniques, are critically needed but generally unavailable due to the scarcity of suitable ML training data for rare panNENs. Here, we demonstrate that a multi-step ML framework predicts clinically relevant panNEN characteristics while being exclusively trained on widely available data of a healthy origin. The approach classifies panNENs by deconvolving their transcriptomes into cell type proportions based on shared gene expression profiles with healthy pancreatic cell types. The deconvolution results were found to provide a prognostic value with respect to the prediction of the overall patient survival time, neoplastic grading, and carcinoma versus tumor subclassification. The performance with which a proliferation rate agnostic deconvolution ML model could predict the clinical characteristics was found to be comparable to that of a comparative baseline model trained on the proliferation rate-informed MKI67 levels. The approach is novel in that it complements established proliferation rate-oriented classification schemes whose results can be reproduced and further refined by differentiating between identically graded subgroups. By including non-endocrine cell types, the deconvolution approach furthermore provides an in silico quantification of panNEN dedifferentiation, optimizing it for challenging clinical classification tasks in more aggressive panNEN subtypes.
Alarming Upward Trend in Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in a Large Cohort of Immunocompromised Children: A Four-Year Comparative Study
Authors: Mihalcea Ana-Raluca , Garnier Nathalie , Faure-Conter Cécile , Rama Nicolas , Renard Cécile , Benezech Sarah , Bertrand Yves , Fuhrmann Christine , Domenech Carine
Published: February 2023

Documenting bacteremia at the onset of fever in immunosuppressed children is challenging; therefore, it leads to the early administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We aimed to analyse the evolution of antibiotic resistance profiles of bacterial bloodstream infections (BSI) and gut colonisations in a large cohort of immunocompromised children carrying a central venous catheter, in comparison with a prior, similar study conducted in our centre from 2014 to 2017. A retrospective, observational cohort study was conducted from January 2018 to December 2021, in a tertiary centre for paediatric immuno-haematology and oncology. Empirical antibiotic therapy was adapted to the immunosuppression risk group and prior bacterial colonisation. There was a mean of 6.9 BSI/1000 patient bed days. Multidrug-resistant bacteria (MDRB) associated BSI accounted for 35/273 (12.8%). The incidence of MDRB gum/gut colonisation and MDRB associated BSI increased annually and correlated with the level of immunosuppression (p = 0.024). One third (34.7%) of the BSI episodes were not associated with neutropenia. As compared to the previous study, an alarming emergence of MDRB responsible for gut colonisations and BSI in immunosuppressed children was reported over the last four years. The degree of immunosuppression directly correlates with the risk of having an MDRB gut colonisation or MDRB BSI.
One-Stage Synovectomies Result in Improved Short-Term Outcomes Compared to Two-Stage Synovectomies of Diffuse-Type Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor (D-TGCT) of the Knee: A Multicenter, Retrospective, Cohort Study
Authors: Spierenburg Geert , Verspoor Floortje , Wunder Jay , Griffin Anthony , Ferguson Peter , Houdek Matthew , King David , Boyle Richard , Randall Robert Lor , Thorpe Steven , Priester Jacob , Geiger Erik , van der Heijden Lizz , Bernthal Nicholas , Schreuder Bart , Gelderblom Hans , van de Sande Michiel
Published: February 2023

Diffuse-type tenosynovial giant cell tumors’ (D-TGCTs) intra- and extra-articular expansion about the knee often necessitates an anterior and posterior surgical approach to facilitate an extensive synovectomy. There is no consensus on whether two-sided synovectomies should be performed in one or two stages. This retrospective study included 191 D-TGCT patients from nine sarcoma centers worldwide to compare the postoperative short-term outcomes between both treatments. Secondary outcomes were rates of radiological progression and subsequent treatments. Between 2000 and 2020, 117 patients underwent one-stage and 74 patients underwent two-stage synovectomies. The maximum range of motion achieved within one year postoperatively was similar (flexion 123–120°, p = 0.109; extension 0°, p = 0.093). Patients undergoing two-stage synovectomies stayed longer in the hospital (6 vs. 4 days, p < 0.0001). Complications occurred more often after two-stage synovectomies, although this was not statistically different (36% vs. 24%, p = 0.095). Patients treated with two-stage synovectomies exhibited more radiological progression and required subsequent treatments more often than patients treated with one-stage synovectomies (52% vs. 37%, p = 0.036) (54% vs. 34%, p = 0.007). In conclusion, D-TGCT of the knee requiring two-side synovectomies should be treated by one-stage synovectomies if feasible, since patients achieve a similar range of motion, do not have more complications, but stay for a shorter time in the hospital.
Computational Pathology for Breast Cancer and Gynecologic Cancer
Authors: Wang Ching-Wei , Muzakky Hikam
Published: February 2023

Advances in computation pathology have continued at an impressive pace in recent years [...]
Incidental Node Metastasis as an Independent Factor of Worse Disease-Free Survival in Patients with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Pinheiro Renan Aguera , Leite Ana Kober , Cavalheiro Beatriz Godoi , de Mello Evandro Sobroza , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Matos Leandro Luongo
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) have high node metastasis rates. Occasionally after thyroidectomy, the pathological report reveals node metastasis unintentionally resected. The present study aimed to evaluate the prognosis of these patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort of patients submitted to thyroidectomy with or without central compartment neck dissection (CCND) due to PTC with a minimum follow-up of five years. Results: A total of 698 patients were included: 320 Nx, 264 pN0-incidental, 37 pN1a-incidental, 32 pN0-CCND and 45 pN1a-CCND. Patients with node metastasis were younger, had larger tumors, higher rates of microscopic extra-thyroidal extension, and angiolymphatic invasion and most received radioiodine therapy. Treatment failure was higher in patients pN1a-incidental and pN1a-CCND (32% and 16%, respectively; p < 0.001—Chi-square test). Disease-free survival (DFS) was lower in patients pN1a-incidental compared to patients Nx and pN0-incidental (p < 0.001 vs. Nx and pN0-incidental and p = 0.005 vs. pN0-CCND) but similar when compared to patients pN1a-CCND (p = 0.091)—Log-Rank test. Multivariate analysis demonstrated as independent risk factors: pT4a (HR = 5.524; 95%CI: 1.380–22.113; p = 0.016), pN1a-incidental (HR = 3.691; 95%CI: 1.556–8.755; p = 0.003), microscopic extra-thyroidal extension (HR = 2.560; 95%CI: 1.303–5.030; p = 0.006) and angiolymphatic invasion (HR = 2.240; 95%CI: 1.077–4.510; p = 0.030). Conclusion: Patients that were pN1a-incidental were independently associated with lower DFS.
The Efficacy and Safety of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor and Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Combination Therapy for Advanced or Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Multicenter Retrospective Real-World Cohort Study
Authors: Iinuma Koji , Yamada Toyohiro , Kameyama Koji , Taniguchi Tomoki , Kawada Kei , Ishida Takashi , Nagai Shingo , Enomoto Torai , Ueda Shota , Takagi Kimiaki , Kawase Makoto , Takeuchi Shinichi , Kawase Kota , Kato Daiki , Takai Manabu , Nakane Keita , Koie Takuya
Published: February 2023

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) as first-line therapy for patients diagnosed as having advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). We enrolled 51 patients to receive ICI+TKI therapy for mRCC at 9 Japanese institutions. The overall survival (OS) of the patients treated with ICI+TKI was the primary endpoint., and the secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR). Furthermore, we analyzed the clinical prognostic and predictive factors in patients with mRCC treated with ICI+TKI therapy. Seven months was the median follow-up period. The OS rates at 6, 12, and 18 months were 93.1, 82.5, and 68.8%, respectively. The median PFS for patients who received ICI+TKI was 19.0 months, ORR was 68.6%, and DCR was 88.2%. ICI+TKI-related adverse events occurred in 43 patients (84.3%) with any grade and in 22 patients (43.1%) with grade ≥3. Treatment selection with poor prognostic factors may be prudent, even though ICI+TKI is an efficacious and safe first-line treatment in patients with mRCC.
New Ni(II)-Ni(II) Dinuclear Complex, a Resting State of the (α-diimine)NiBr2/AlMe3 Catalyst System for Ethylene Polymerization
Authors: Soshnikov Igor E. , Semikolenova Nina V. , Bryliakova Anna A. , Antonov Artem A. , Bryliakov Konstantin P. , Talsi Evgenii P.
Published: February 2023

A novel room-temperature stable diamagnetic nickel complex 2 was detected upon activation of Brookhart-type ethylene polymerization pre-catalyst LNiBr2 (1, L = 1,4-bis-2,4,6-trimethylphenyl-2,3-dimethyl-1,4-diazabuta-1,3-diene) with AlMe3. Using in situ 1H, 2H, and 13C NMR spectroscopy, as well as DFT calculations, this species has been identified as an antiferromagnetically coupled homodinuclear complex [LNiII(μ-Me)(μ-CH2)NiIIL]+Br−. Its behavior in the reaction solution is characteristic of the resting state of nickel catalyzed ethylene polymerization.
Optical Biomedical Imaging Reveals Criteria for Violated Liver Regenerative Potential
Authors: Rodimova Svetlana , Bobrov Nikolai , Mozherov Artem , Elagin Vadim , Karabut Maria , Shchechkin Ilya , Kozlov Dmitry , Krylov Dmitry , Gavrina Alena , Zagainov Vladimir , Zagaynova Elena , Kuznetsova Daria
Published: February 2023

To reduce the risk of post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients with hepatic pathologies, it is necessary to develop an approach to express the intraoperative assessment of the liver’s regenerative potential. Traditional clinical methods do not enable the prediction of the function of the liver remnant. Modern label-free bioimaging, using multiphoton microscopy in combination with second harmonic generation (SHG) and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), can both expand the possibilities for diagnosing liver pathologies and for assessing the regenerative potential of the liver. Using multiphoton and SHG microscopy, we assessed the structural state of liver tissue at different stages of induced steatosis and fibrosis before and after 70% partial hepatectomy in rats. Using FLIM, we also performed a detailed analysis of the metabolic state of the hepatocytes. We were able to determine criteria that can reveal a lack of regenerative potential in violated liver, such as the presence of zones with reduced NAD(P)H autofluorescence signals. Furthermore, for a liver with pathology, there was an absence of the jump in the fluorescence lifetime contributions of the bound form of NADH and NADPH the 3rd day after hepatectomy that is characteristic of normal liver regeneration. Such results are associated with decreased intensity of oxidative phosphorylation and of biosynthetic processes in pathological liver, which is the reason for the impaired liver recovery. This modern approach offers an effective tool that can be successfully translated into the clinic for express, intraoperative assessment of the regenerative potential of the pathological liver of a patient.
Effect of Mo Content on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Laser Melting Deposited Inconel 690 Alloy
Authors: Liu Chen , Yao Wenbo , Shang Shuo , Guo Kuaikuai , Sun Hang , Liu Changsheng
Published: February 2023

Inconel 690 alloy is widely used in nuclear power, petrochemical, aerospace, and other fields due to its excellent high-temperature mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The Inconel 690 alloy with different Mo content was fabricated by laser melting deposition (LMD). The effects of Mo content on the microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated. The microstructure of as-deposited Inconel 690 is composed of columnar dendrites grown epitaxially, and M23C6 carbides are precipitated in the grain boundaries. With the increase of Mo content, the amount of precipitated carbide increases gradually. At the same time, the grain boundary becomes convoluted. The tensile test at room temperature shows that the high Mo content in the as-deposited Inconel 690 increases the ultimate strength but decreases the ductility. Compared with low Mo content, the alloy with high Mo deposition has better mechanical properties. The present study provides a new method to achieve the preparation of Inconel 690 alloy with excellent integrated mechanical properties.
Correction of Phase Balance on Nd:YAG Pulsed Laser Welded UNS S32750 Using Cobalt Electroplating Technique
Authors: Da Cruz Junior Eli J. , Seloto Bruna B. , Ventrella Vicente A. , Varasquim Francisco M. F. A. , Zambon Andrea , Calliari Irene , Gennari Claudio , Settimi Alessio G.
Published: February 2023

Super-duplex stainless steel (SDSS) shows high mechanical and corrosion resistance because of the balanced structure of austenite and ferrite. However, maintaining this phase ratio after welding is a challenge. The use of austenite stabilizing components is recommended to balance the microstructure. The addition of alloying elements presents a challenge because of the characteristics of Nd:YAG pulsed laser welding. An approach, which has proven to be effective, is to use metal electroplating to prepare the surfaces of the mechanical SDSS components that will be welded, therefore promoting the phase balance in the fusion zone. While the effects of metals such as nickel as an austenite stabilizer are well recognized, cobalt’s effects require more research. The present work investigated the influence of the use of cobalt addition in the joining process by preliminary electroplating on UNS S32750 SDSS Nd: YAG pulsed laser welding, specifically regarding microstructure and microhardness. Three conditions were investigated, changing the thickness of the deposited cobalt layer. The addition of cobalt modified the morphology and increased the volume fraction of austenite. An austenite volume fraction of around 48% was obtained using a 35 μm thick cobalt coating. The microhardness was affected by austenite/ferrite proportions. The microhardness dropped from about 375 HV to 345 HV as the cobalt layer’s thickness rose, being similar to that of the base metal. The effect of cobalt as an austenite stabilizer was observed, and the cobalt electroplating technique was effective to correct the phase balance on UNS S32750 laser welding.
Biomedical Applications of Titanium Alloys Modified with MOFs—Current Knowledge and Further Development Directions
Authors: Jakubowski Marcel , Domke Aleksandra , Voelkel Adam , Sandomierski Mariusz
Published: February 2023

MOFs (Metal–Organic Frameworks) are so-called coordination polymers with a porous crystalline structure. In this review, the main emphasis was placed on these compounds’ use in modifying titanium implants. The article describes what MOFs are, gives examples of ligands used in the synthesis of MOFs, and describes a subgroup of these materials, i.e., Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks. The article also lists the basic biomedical applications of these compounds. This review shows the significant impact of titanium surface modification with Metal–Organic Frameworks. These modifications make it possible to obtain layers with antibacterial properties, better corrosion resistance, increasing cell proliferation, faster bone growth in vivo, and much more. The presented work shows that the modification of titanium with MOFs is a very promising method of improving their properties. We hope that the prepared review will help research groups from around the world in the preparation of implants modified with Metal–Organic Frameworks with enhanced properties and utility applications.
Floral Specialization and Bat Pollination in Subtribe Cereinae (Cactaceae): A Morphological Approach
Authors: Albuquerque-Lima Sinzinando , Taylor Nigel P. , Zappi Daniela C. , Machado Isabel C.
Published: February 2023

Cactaceae has many vertebrate-pollinated species, and in the subtribe Cereinae, several genera are indicated as being pollinated by bats. In this subtribe, we observed phenotypic specialization in floral morphological attributes associated with chiropterophily, allowing high precision in the determination of this pollination system. However, in loco pollination records of bats have been confirmed only in a few species. In this context, using a morphological approach, we studied the floral biology of 14 columnar cacti of Cereeae-Cereinae with emphasis on species with chiropterophilous attributes and confirmed the role of bats specialized in nectar consumption as pollinators of these taxa. The studied taxa have similarities in their floral bauplan, observed by analysing the overlap in the floral morphospace. The length and opening of the floral tube are important characteristics for pollen deposition. Approximately 156 visits by bats of the subfamilies Glossophaginae and Lonchophyllinae were observed among the studied taxa. Chiropterophily is the prevalent pollination system among Cereinae, and hereby, we verified this system in five of its genera. There is, however, much variation between diurnal and nocturnal systems within this subtribe, and variation among genera and within species of a given genus may reflect the evolutive pathways, this being worthy of future studies.
North–South Differentiation of Black Flies in the Western Cordillera of North America: A New Species of Prosimulium (Diptera: Simuliidae)
Authors: Adler Peter H. , Reeves Will K.
Published: February 2023

Glaciation has been a powerful determiner of species distributions and the genetic structure of populations. Contemporary distributions of many organisms in North America’s Western Cordillera reflect the influence of Pleistocene glaciation. We identified a pattern of north–south differentiation in the genus Prosimulium of western North America, which reflects the separation of northern and southern populations by the North American Ice Sheet during the Pleistocene Epoch. The taxonomic implication is that new species exist within nominal species, requiring formal description or revalidation of names currently in synonymy. We morphologically and cytogenetically examined populations of one nominal species of black fly, Prosimulium esselbaughi Sommerman, over its known range from Alaska south to California and Colorado. Chromosomal and morphological evidence supports the presence of two species, P. esselbaughi sensu stricto from Alaska to at least southern British Columbia, and a new species, Prosimulium supernum in the central Rocky Mountains and high Sierra Nevada range of the United States. The new species is described in all life stages above the egg, along with its polytene chromosomes. The existence of differentiated populations of other nominal species of black flies in northern and southern North America provides a system for investigating possible co-differentiation of vectors and parasites.
A Novel Nomogram Based on Imaging Biomarkers of Shear Wave Elastography, Angio Planewave Ultrasensitive Imaging, and Conventional Ultrasound for Preoperative Prediction of Malignancy in Patients with Breast Lesions
Authors: Guo Guoqiang , Feng Jiaping , Jin Chunchun , Gong Xuehao , Chen Yihao , Chen Sihan , Wei Zhanghong , Xiong Huahua , Lu Jianghao
Published: February 2023

Several studies have demonstrated the difficulties in distinguishing malignant lesions of the breast from benign lesions owing to overlapping morphological features on ultrasound. Consequently, we aimed to develop a nomogram based on shear wave elastography (SWE), Angio Planewave Ultrasensitive imaging (Angio PLUS (AP)), and conventional ultrasound imaging biomarkers to predict malignancy in patients with breast lesions. This prospective study included 117 female patients with suspicious lesions of the breast. Features of lesions were extracted from SWE, AP, and conventional ultrasound images. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) algorithms were used to select breast cancer-related imaging biomarkers, and a nomogram was developed based on six of the 16 imaging biomarkers. This model exhibited good discrimination (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC): 0.969; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.928, 0.989) between malignant and benign breast lesions. Moreover, the nomogram also showed demonstrated good calibration and clinical usefulness. In conclusion, our nomogram can be a potentially useful tool for individually-tailored diagnosis of breast tumors in clinical practice.
Local-Ternary-Pattern-Based Associated Histogram Equalization Technique for Cervical Cancer Detection
Authors: Srinivasan Saravanan , Raju Aravind Britto Karuppanan , Mathivanan Sandeep Kumar , Jayagopal Prabhu , Babu Jyothi Chinna , Sahu Aditya Kumar
Published: February 2023

Every year, cervical cancer is a leading cause of mortality in women all over the world. This cancer can be cured if it is detected early and patients are treated promptly. This study proposes a new strategy for the detection of cervical cancer using cervigram pictures. The associated histogram equalization (AHE) technique is used to improve the edges of the cervical image, and then the finite ridgelet transform is used to generate a multi-resolution picture. Then, from this converted multi-resolution cervical picture, features such as ridgelets, gray-level run-length matrices, moment invariant, and enhanced local ternary pattern are retrieved. A feed-forward backward propagation neural network is used to train and test these extracted features in order to classify the cervical images as normal or abnormal. To detect and segment cancer regions, morphological procedures are applied to the abnormal cervical images. The cervical cancer detection system’s performance metrics include 98.11% sensitivity, 98.97% specificity, 99.19% accuracy, a PPV of 98.88%, an NPV of 91.91%, an LPR of 141.02%, an LNR of 0.0836, 98.13% precision, 97.15% FPs, and 90.89% FNs. The simulation outcomes show that the proposed method is better at detecting and segmenting cervical cancer than the traditional methods.
Advances on the Influence of Vegetation and Forest on Urban Air Quality and Thermal Comfort—Series II
Authors: Rivas Esther , Santiago Jose-Luis , Sánchez Beatriz
Published: February 2023

Cities are composed of different types of urban obstacles such as buildings, cars, trees, hedgerows, etc [...]
Allocation Patterns and Temporal Dynamics of Chinese Fir Biomass in Hunan Province, China
Authors: Deng Cheng , Ma Fengfeng , Xu Xiaojun , Zhu Baoqi , Tao Ji , Li Qingfen
Published: February 2023

How trees allocate their biomass among different components has important implications for their survival and growth and ecosystem carbon cycling. Data on the distribution pattern and dynamics of tree biomass are essential for fully exploiting forest carbon sequestration potential and achieving the goal of carbon neutralization. However, there has not been enough research to-date on tree biomass spatial allocation and temporal dynamics in different site qualities at specific tree species scales. This study aimed to evaluate the biomass allocation patterns within tree components of Chinese fir and to examine how they are affected by tree age and site quality. A total of 87 trees were destructively sampled and measured for stem, branch, leaf, bark and root biomass. The biomass proportion difference of tree components in different age stages (8-40 years) was analysed, and the influence process of tree age and site quality on biomass allocation was examined. Our results indicate that the biomass allocation varied with tree age and was also affected by site quality. Stem biomass accounted for the largest proportion of total tree biomass, followed by leaf, root, branch and bark biomass in young forests, and it was followed by root, bark, branch and leaf biomass in other age groups. The biomass proportion of each component all nonlinearly changed with tree age. The proportion of stem biomass increased with increasing tree age, and the biomass proportion of branches and leaves decreased with increasing tree age. The proportion of root biomass first increased and then decreased with tree age, while the bark biomass proportion first decreased and then increased with increasing tree age. Site quality had a positive effect on the biomass proportion of stems but a negative effect on the biomass proportion of branches and bark. The interaction of tree age and site quality also had a significant effect on the proportion of stem biomass as well as root biomass. Therefore, to obtain accurate estimates of Chinese fir forest biomass and carbon stocks, age-specific changes and the influence of site conditions on it need to be considered.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Torix tukubana (Annelida: Hirudinea: Glossiphoniidae)
Authors: Zhu Xiaochen , Zhao Yingying , Wei Hua , Hu Nan , Hu Qingbiao , Li Yingdong
Published: February 2023

Torix tukubana is a poorly understood proboscidate leech species, generally an ectoparasite on amphibian species. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of T. tukubana was sequenced using next-generation sequencing (NGS), and the essential characteristics, gene arrangement, and phylogenetic relationship were analyzed. The results showed that the T. tukubana mitogenome was 14,814 bp in length, consisting of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs, and 1 control region (CR). The mitogenome composition presented a strong A + T bias (73.6%). All tRNAs had the typical clover structure except the trnS1 (TCT), whose dihydrouridine (DHU) arm was short, having only one complementary base pair. Additionally, 8 gene order patterns were identified among 25 known Hirudinea species, and T. tukubana was identical to the Hirudinea ground pattern. A phylogenetic analysis based on 13 PCGs indicated that all the studied species clustered into three main clades. The relationships among Hirudinea species were basically consistent with their gene arrangement results, but different from their morphological taxonomy. T. tukubana was in the monophyletic group of Glossiphoniidae, a finding consistent with previous research. Our results provided the essential characteristics of the T. tukubana mitogenome. As the first complete mitogenome of Torix, it could offer valuable information for a systematic understanding of the Hirudinea species.
Investigating the Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Business Value in the Digital Era of Strategy: A Literature Review
Authors: Perifanis Nikolaos-Alexandros , Kitsios Fotis
Published: February 2023

For organizations, the development of new business models and competitive advantages through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in business and IT strategies holds considerable promise. The majority of businesses are finding it difficult to take advantage of the opportunities for value creation while other pioneers are successfully utilizing AI. On the basis of the research methodology of Webster and Watson (2020), 139 peer-reviewed articles were discussed. According to the literature, the performance advantages, success criteria, and difficulties of adopting AI have been emphasized in prior research. The results of this review revealed the open issues and topics that call for further research/examination in order to develop AI capabilities and integrate them into business/IT strategies in order to enhance various business value streams. Organizations will only succeed in the digital transformation alignment of the present era by precisely adopting and implementing these new, cutting-edge technologies. Despite the revolutionary potential advantages that AI capabilities may promote, the resource orchestration, along with governance in this dynamic environment, is still complex enough and in the early stages of research regarding the strategic implementation of AI in organizations, which is the issue this review aims to address and, as a result, assist present and future organizations effectively enhance various business value outcomes.
Universal Learning Approach of an Intelligent Algorithm for Non-GNSS Assisted Beamsteering in V2I Systems
Authors: Lopukhova Ekaterina , Abdulnagimov Ansaf , Voronkov Grigory , Kutluyarov Ruslan , Grakhova Elizaveta
Published: February 2023

In intelligent transportation systems, an important task is to provide a highly efficient communication channel between vehicles and other infrastructure objects that meets energy efficiency requirements and involves low time delays. The paper presents a method for generating synthetic data of the “vehicle-to-infrastructure” system, capable of simulating many scenarios of traffic situations to increase the generalizing ability of an intelligent beamsteering algorithm. The beamsteering algorithm is based on gradient boosting and is designed to connect and track vehicles with minimal delays without relying on GNSS coordinates. The predictors for the applied machine learning algorithm were: the relief, vehicle type, direction of movement and speed, timestamps, and the received signal power level. The generated dataset included the traffic model based on the Lighthill–Whitham–Richards macroscopic model and SUMO software package simulations. Simulation results showed 94% accuracy in correctly identified positions for the main lobe according to vehicle behavior.
The Trauma of the Family Separation Policy on Migrant Children (2017–2022)
Authors: Olivares Mariela
Published: February 2023

This work explores the plight of child migrants in the United States, specifically examining the Trump administration’s use of family separation as a means of migration deterrence between 2017 and 2020. The perspective discusses the ongoing physical and psychological trauma that these separated families continue to face. I explore the Biden administration’s Interagency Task Force on Family Reunification that is working to identify and reunify those families still separated while providing them with immigration and other resources and mental health therapy. I conclude by noting the critical importance of ensuring that families are never again separated in the name of immigration enforcement.
Weld Quality Analysis of High-Hardness Armored Steel in Pulsed Gas Metal Arc Welding
Authors: Son Hwi Jun , Jeong Young Cheol , Seo Bo Wook , Hong Sung-Tae , Kim Yu-Chan , Cho Young Tae
Published: February 2023

As improving fuel economy and performance through weight reduction in vehicles are recognized as important tasks, the defense industry is researching ways to reduce the weight of armor plates for combat vehicles and increase bulletproof performance and durability. Most armor plates in combat vehicles are manufactured using weld joints. High-hardness armor (HHA) is used to make armor plates; however, its mechanical properties deteriorate because of hydrogen embrittlement and high-temperature softening during welding. Welding defects, such as pores and cracks, occur frequently. In this study, HHA steel was subjected to single-pulse gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and the welding performance of the shielding gas and heat input was analyzed by the United States army tank-automotive and armaments command (TACOM) standard. The specimen cross-section was visually examined, and hardness, tensile, and impact tests were used to identify the mechanical properties based on the welding conditions. Additionally, flux cored arc welding (FCAW) and GMAW were used and compared, and spatter image analyses were used to assess the integrity of the welding process of the HHA plate applied to a combat vehicle. As a result of the experiment, as the CO2 content and heat input increased, the mechanical strength of the welded zone and the integrity of the welding process deteriorated.
Nicotiana tabacum Leaf Waste: Morphological Characterization and Chemical-Functional Analysis of Extracts Obtained from Powder Leaves by Using Green Solvents
Authors: Leal Mariana , Moreno María Alejandra , Albornoz Patricia Liliana , Mercado María Inés , Zampini Iris Catiana , Isla María Inés
Published: February 2023

Tobacco cultivation and industrialization are characterized by the production of trillions of pre-harvest and post-harvest waste biomasses each year with the resulting negative effects on the environment. The leaves of blunt, pre-harvest waste, could be further used to obtain bioactive metabolites, i.e., polyphenols and alkaloids, for its potential cosmetic use. This study was conducted to obtain bio-compounds from pre-harvest tobacco leaf waste (var. Virginia) by applying conventional and green solvents (NaDES). Leaves and ground leaf waste were characterized based on their microscopic features. Conventional solvents, such as water, acetone, ethanol, and non-conventional solvents, such as Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NaDES), i.e., sucrose:lactic acid (LAS), frutose:glucose:sucrose (FGS), lactic acid:sucrose:water (SALA), choline chloride:urea (CU), and citric acid: propylene glycol (CAP) were used for bioactive extraction from tobacco waste powder. CU, FGS, and acetone/ethanol had similar behavior for the best extraction of alkaloids (6.37–11.23 mg ACE/g tobacco powder). LAS, FGS, SALA, and CU were more effective in phenolic compound extraction than conventional solvents (18.13–21.98 mg AGE/g tobacco powder). Because of this, LAS and SALA could be used to obtain phenolic-enriched extracts with lower alkaloid content rather than CU and FGS. Extracts of the powder obtained with conventional solvent or CU showed a high level of sugars (47 mg/g tobacco powder) The ABTS antioxidant capacity of tobacco leaf powder was higher in the extracts obtained with CU, FGS, and acetone (SC50 1.6–5 µg GAE/mL) while H2O2 scavenging activity was better in the extracts obtained with LAS, CAP and SALA (SC50 3.8–8.7 µg GAE/mL). Due to the biocompatibility of the NaDES with the components of tobacco leaf waste, the opportunity to apply these extracts directly in antioxidant formulations, such as cosmetics, phytotherapic, and other formulations of topic use seems promising. Furthermore, NaDES constituents, i.e., urea and organic acid can also have beneficial effects on the skin.
Catalyst-Free Formal Conjugate Addition/Aldol or Mannich Multicomponent Reactions of Mixed Aliphatic Organozinc Reagents, π-Electrophiles and Michael Acceptors
Authors: Pinaud Marine , Presset Marc , Le Gall Erwan
Published: February 2023

Catalyst-free multicomponent reactions of mixed alkylzinc reagents with Michael acceptors and aldehydes, ketones or activated imines are described. Primary, secondary and tertiary alkylzinc reagents, pre-generated in acetonitrile from the corresponding iodoalkanes, were used in the process, leading to the very efficient formation of a variety of β-hydroxycarbonyl compounds. The imines showed more contrasting results, due to the direct addition of the organozinc compound to the C=N bond. Mechanistic assays involving TEMPO account for a polar instead of a radical character of the reaction.
Synthesis, Photoswitching Behavior and Nonlinear Optical Properties of Substituted Tribenzo[a,d,g]coronene
Authors: Li Xueqing , Zhao Jie , Wang Wei , Li Yiming , Li Yunfei , Zhou Shuyun , Xiao Jinchong
Published: February 2023

A family of tribenzocoronene derivatives bearing various substituents (3) were constructed through the Diels–Alder reaction, followed by the Scholl oxidation, where the molecular structure of 3b was determined via single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The effect of substitution on the optical and electrochemical property was systematically investigated, with the assistance of theoretical calculations. Moreover, the thin films of the resulting molecules 3b and 3e complexed with fullerene produced strong photocurrent response upon irradiation of white light. In addition, 3b and 3e exhibit a positive nonlinear optical response resulting from the two-photon absorption and excited state absorption processes.
Superconductivity in Nanosystems: A Fruitful Path to New Phenomenology in Quantum Materials
Authors: Ramallo Manuel V.
Published: February 2023

In the recent years, the landscape of the research in superconductivity has experienced a progressive focus on varied superconducting systems, which share as common primary characteristics the reduction of some of their dimensionalities and the emergence of qualitatively novel phenomenology with respect to bulk superconducting materials [...]
Investigating the Cellular Uptake of Model Nanoplastics by Single-Cell ICP-MS
Authors: Cassano Domenico , Bogni Alessia , La Spina Rita , Gilliland Douglas , Ponti Jessica
Published: February 2023

A synthetic route to producing gold-doped environmentally relevant nanoplastics and a method for the rapid and high-throughput qualitative investigation of their cellular interactions have been developed. Polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) nanoparticles, doped with ultrasmall gold nanoparticles, were synthesized via an oil-in-water emulsion technique as models for floating and sedimenting nanoplastics, respectively. Gold nanoparticles were chosen as a dopant as they are considered to be chemically stable, relatively easy to obtain, interference-free for elemental analysis, and suitable for bio-applications. The suitability of the doped particles for quick detection via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), operating in single-cell mode (scICP-MS), was demonstrated. Specifically, the method was applied to the analysis of nanoplastics in sizes ranging from 50 to 350 nm, taking advantage of the low limit of detection of single-cell ICP-MS for gold nanoparticles. As an initial proof of concept, gold-doped PVC and PE nanoplastics were employed to quantify the interaction and uptake of nanoplastics by the RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cell line, using scICP-MS and electron microscopy. Macrophages were chosen because their natural biological functions would make them likely to internalize nanoplastics and, thus, would produce samples to verify the test methodology. Finally, the method was applied to assess the uptake by CaCo-2 human intestinal cells, this being a more relevant model for humanexposure to those nanoplastics that are potentially available in the food chain. For both case studies, two concentrations of nanoplastics were employed to simulate both standard environmental conditions and exceptional circumstances, such as pollution hotspot areas.
Thermal Conductivity Enhancement of Metal Oxide Nanofluids: A Critical Review
Authors: Yasmin Humaira , Giwa Solomon O. , Noor Saima , Sharifpur Mohsen
Published: February 2023

Advancements in technology related to energy systems, such as heat exchangers, electronics, and batteries, are associated with the generation of high heat fluxes which requires appropriate thermal management. Presently, conventional thermal fluids have found limited application owing to low thermal conductivity (TC). The need for more efficient fluids has become apparent leading to the development of nanofluids as advanced thermal fluids. Nanofluid synthesis by suspending nano-size materials into conventional thermal fluids to improve thermal properties has been extensively studied. TC is a pivotal property to the utilization of nanofluids in various applications as it is strongly related to improved efficiency and thermal performance. Numerous studies have been conducted on the TC of nanofluids using diverse nanoparticles and base fluids. Different values of TC enhancement have been recorded which depend on various factors, such as nanoparticles size, shape and type, base fluid and surfactant type, temperature, etc. This paper attempts to conduct a state-of-the-art review of the TC enhancement of metal oxide nanofluids owing to the wide attention, chemical stability, low density, and oxidation resistance associated with this type of nanofluid. TC and TC enhancements of metal oxide nanofluids are presented and discussed herein. The influence of several parameters (temperature, volume/weight concentration, nano-size, sonication, shape, surfactants, base fluids, alignment, TC measurement techniques, and mixing ratio (for hybrid nanofluid)) on the TC of metal oil nanofluids have been reviewed. This paper serves as a frontier in the review of the effect of alignment, electric field, and green nanofluid on TC. In addition, the mechanisms/physics behind TC enhancement and techniques for TC measurement have been discussed. Results show that the TC enhancement of metal oxide nanofluids is affected by the aforementioned parameters with temperature and nanoparticle concentration contributing the most. TC of these nanofluids is observed to be actively enhanced using electric and magnetic fields with the former requiring more intense studies. The formulation of green nanofluids and base fluids as sustainable and future thermal fluids is recommended.
Advances in Oral Drug Delivery Systems: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Lou Jie , Duan Hongli , Qin Qin , Teng Zhipeng , Gan Fengxu , Zhou Xiaofang , Zhou Xing
Published: February 2023

The oral route is the most preferred route for systemic and local drug delivery. However, the oral drug delivery system faces the harsh physiological and physicochemical environment of the gastrointestinal tract, which limits the bioavailability and targeted design of oral drug delivery system. Innovative pharmaceutical approaches including nanoparticulate formulations, biomimetic drug formulations, and microfabricated devices have been explored to optimize drug targeting and bioavailability. In this review, the anatomical factors, biochemical factors, and physiology factors that influence delivering drug via oral route are discussed and recent advance in conventional and novel oral drug delivery approaches for improving drug bioavailability and targeting ability are highlighted. We also address the challenges and opportunities of oral drug delivery systems in future.
PLGA Nanoparticles Loaded with Sorafenib Combined with Thermosensitive Hydrogel System and Microwave Hyperthermia for Multiple Sensitized Radiotherapy
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Liu Bo , Tu Jingyao , Xiang Jingfeng , Xiong Hui , Wu Yue , Ding Shuaijie , Zhu Daoming , Zhu Dongyong , Liu Fei , Hu Guangyuan , Yuan Xianglin
Published: February 2023

Hypoxia is typically the leading cause of radiotherapy (RT) resistance in solid tumors, and glutathione (GSH) overexpression in tumor cells is a potent antioxidant mechanism that protects tumor cells from radiation damage. Herein, we developed a sorafenib (SFN) loaded-PLGA hydrogel system (SPH) in combination with microwave (MW) hyperthermia for RT sensitization. SPH with stable properties was produced by combining SFN and PLGA in a specific ratio and encapsulating the mixture in agarose hydrogel. Intratumoral injection of SPH to mice combined with MW hyperthermia can not only directly cause thermal damage to tumor cells, but also increase blood oxygen delivery to the tumor site, thus overcoming the problem of intratumoral hypoxia and achieving “first layer” RT sensitization. Moreover, high temperatures can cause the hydrogel to disintegrate and release SFN. Not only can SFN inhibit tumor growth, but it can also achieve the “second layer” of RT sensitization by inhibiting glutathione (GSH) synthesis in cells and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Experiments, both in vitro and in vivo, have indicated that SPH and MW hyperthermia can achieve a double RT sensitization effect and a significant tumor inhibition effect. In conclusion, combining our SPH nanosystem and thermoradiotherapy is a promising anti-tumor treatment.
Biological Distribution after Oral Administration of Radioiodine-Labeled Acetaminophen to Estimate Gastrointestinal Absorption Function via OATPs, OATs, and/or MRPs
Authors: Sato Kakeru , Mizutani Asuka , Muranaka Yuka , Yao Jianwei , Kobayashi Masato , Yamazaki Kana , Nishii Ryuichi , Nishi Kodai , Nakanishi Takeo , Tamai Ikumi , Kawai Keiichi
Published: February 2023

We evaluated the whole-body distribution of orally-administered radioiodine-125 labeled acetaminophen (125I-AP) to estimate gastrointestinal absorption of anionic drugs. 125I-AP was added to human embryonic kidney (HEK)293 and Flp293 cells expressing human organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP)1B1/3, OATP2B1, organic anion transporter (OAT)1/2/3, or carnitine/organic cation transporter (OCTN)2, with and without bromosulfalein (OATP and multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) inhibitor) and probenecid (OAT and MRP inhibitor). The biological distribution in mice was determined by oral administration of 125I-AP with and without bromosulfalein and by intravenous administration of 125I-AP. The uptake of 125I-AP was significantly higher in HEK293/OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1, OAT1, and OAT2 cells than that in mock cells. Bromosulfalein and probenecid inhibited OATP- and OAT-mediated uptake, respectively. Moreover, 125I-AP was easily excreted in the urine when administered intravenously. The accumulation of 125I-AP was significantly lower in the blood and urinary bladder of mice receiving oral administration of both 125I-AP and bromosulfalein than those receiving only 125I-AP, but significantly higher in the small intestine due to inhibition of OATPs and/or MRPs. This study indicates that whole-body distribution after oral 125I-AP administration can be used to estimate gastrointestinal absorption in the small intestine via OATPs, OATs, and/or MRPs by measuring radioactivity in the urinary bladder.
Rapid Preparation of Flame-Retardant Coatings Using Polyurethane Emulsion Mixed with Inorganic Fillers
Authors: Wang Yaokai , Liu Jinfang , Pan Xu , Zhao Min , Zhang Jianfu
Published: February 2023

The traditional aqueous flame-retardant coating faces the problem of slow solvent evaporation rate in the preparation process. It is an urgent problem to ensure that the function of the membrane is not destroyed while accelerating the solvent volatilization. Herein, we fabricated films on the metal substrate surface by a totally novel method: demulsification-induced fast solidification to rapidly obtain the flame-retardant coating. The environmentally friendly flame retardants aluminum hydroxide and red phosphorus were mixed with the commercial water-based polyurethane 906 emulsion to explore the optimal mixing ratio, where the adhesion of the flame-retardant reached the Grade 3 standard, the sample remained intact after the 100 cm drop hammer test and the limiting oxygen index value reached 30.4%. In addition, compared with the traditional process, this method, with the advantages of rapidly drying, environmentally friendly, uniformly prepared coatings on the surface of any shape substrates, as well as accurate and controllable coating thickness, can be widely applied in the flame-retardant field.