bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensive Care Unit-Acquired Weakness and Positioning-Related Peripheral Nerve Injuries in COVID-19: A Case Series of Three Patients and the Latest Literature Review
Authors: Hokkoku Keiichi , Erra Carmen , Cuccagna Cristina , Coraci Daniele , Gatto Dario Mattia , Glorioso Davide , Padua Luca
Published: September 2021

A subgroup of COVID-19 patients requires intensive respiratory care. The prolonged immobilization and aggressive treatments predispose these patients to develop intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICUAW). Furthermore, this condition could increase the chance of positioning-related peripheral nerve injuries. On the basis of the latest literature review, we describe a case series of three patients with COVID-19 who developed ICUAW complicated by positioning-related peripheral nerve injuries Every patient presented sensorimotor axonal polyneuropathy and concomitant myopathy in electrophysiological studies. Furthermore, muscle MRI helped the diagnosis of ICUAW, showing massive damage predominantly in the proximal muscles. Notably, nerve ultrasound detected positioning-related peripheral nerve injuries, even though the concomitant ICUAW substantially masked their clinical features. During the acute phase of severe COVID-19 infection, most medical attention tends to be assigned to critical care management, and neuromuscular complications such as ICUAW and positioning-related peripheral nerve injuries could be underestimated. Hence, when starting post-ICU care for COVID-19 cases, the combination of electrophysiological and imaging studies will aid appropriate evaluation on the patients with COVID-19-related ICUAW.
Structural Efficiency of Hollow Reinforced Concrete Beams Subjected to Partial Uniformly Distributed Loading
Authors: Al-Maliki Hadi Naser Ghadhban , Al-Balhawi Ali , Alshimmeri Ahmad Jabbar Hussain , Zhang Binsheng
Published: September 2021

Reinforced concrete (RC) beams containing a longitudinal cavity have become an innovative development and advantage for economic purposes of light-weight members without largely affecting their resistance against the applied loads. This type of openings can also be used for maintenance purposes and usage space of communication lines, pipelines, etc. RC beams are primarily loaded in the plane of the members, which are two-dimensional in a plane stress state and the dominant structural behaviours include bending, shear, or combination of both. In the present study, six numerical models of RC beams with and without openings were simulated by using commercial finite element software ANSYS to evaluate the structural behaviours of those beam models under the partial uniformly distributed load. Different parameters were assessed, including opening dimensions and shear reinforcement ratios. The obtained numerical results were analysed and verified and were found very close to those obtained from the experimental investigations in the literature. The increase of shear reinforcement ratio could enhance the flexural and shear capacities of the RC beams, and the results also showed that some models sustained flexural failure while the others sustained failure of combined bending and shear.
Blood Vessels and Peripheral Nerves as Key Players in Cancer Progression and Therapy Resistance
Authors: Roda Niccolò , Blandano Giada , Pelicci Pier Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

Cancer cells continuously interact with the tumor microenvironment (TME), a heterogeneous milieu that surrounds the tumor mass and impinges on its phenotype. Among the components of the TME, blood vessels and peripheral nerves have been extensively studied in recent years for their prominent role in tumor development from tumor initiation. Cancer cells were shown to actively promote their own vascularization and innervation through the processes of angiogenesis and axonogenesis. Indeed, sprouting vessels and axons deliver several factors needed by cancer cells to survive and proliferate, including nutrients, oxygen, and growth signals, to the expanding tumor mass. Nerves and vessels are also fundamental for the process of metastatic spreading, as they provide both the pro-metastatic signals to the tumor and the scaffold through which cancer cells can reach distant organs. Not surprisingly, continuously growing attention is devoted to the development of therapies specifically targeting these structures, with promising initial results. In this review, we summarize the latest evidence that supports the importance of blood vessels and peripheral nerves in cancer pathogenesis, therapy resistance, and innovative treatments.
N-Directed Pd-Catalyzed Photoredox-Mediated C–H Arylation for Accessing Phenyl-Extended Analogues of Biginelli/Suzuki-Derived Ethyl 4-Methyl-2,6-diphenylpyrimidine-5-carboxylates
Authors: Georgiades Savvas N. , Nicolaou Persefoni G. , Panagiotou Nikos
Published: September 2021

The availability and application of direct, functional group-compatible C–H activation methods for late-stage modification of small-molecule bioactives and other valuable materials remains an ongoing challenge in organic synthesis. In the current study, we demonstrate that a LED-activated, photoredox-mediated, Pd(OAc)2-catalyzed C–H arylation, employing a phenyldiazonium aryl source and either tris(2,2′-bipyridine)ruthenium(II) or (2,2′-bipyridine)bis[3,5-di-fluoro-2-[5-(trifluoromethyl)-2-pyridinyl-kN][phenyl-kC]iridium(III) as photoredox initiator, may successfully produce unprecedented mono- and bis-phenyl derivatives of functionality-rich 2,6-diphenylpyrimidine substrates at room temperature. The series of 19 substrates employed herein, which share the biologically-relevant 4-methyl-2,6-diphenylpyrimidine-5-carboxylate scaffold, were generated via a synthetic route involving (3-component) Biginelli condensation, oxidative dehydrogenation of the obtained 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one to 2-hydroxypyrimidine, O-sulfonylation, and Suzuki-Miyaura C–C cross-coupling. Submission of these substrates to pyrimidine-N-atom-directed C–H arylation conditions led to regioselective phenylation at the ortho site(s) of the pyrimidine-C2-connected phenyl ring, revealing substituent-dependent electronic and steric effects. A focused library of 18 mono- and 10 bis-phenyl derivatives was generated. Its members exhibit interesting 3D and peripheral substitution features that render them promising for evaluation in drug discovery efforts.
Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion with K(ATP) Channel Modulators Antagonize Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Arni Stephan , Maeyashiki Tatsuo , Latshang Tsogyal , Opitz Isabelle , Inci Ilhan
Published: September 2021

Ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) has been implemented to increase the number of donor lungs available for transplantation. The use of K(ATP) channel modulators during EVLP experiments may protect against lung ischemia-reperfusion injury and may inhibit the formation of reactive oxygen species. In a rat model of donation after circulatory death with 2 h warm ischemic time, we evaluated rat lungs for a 4-hour time in EVLP containing either mitochondrial-specific or plasma membrane and/or sarcolemmal-specific forms of K(ATP) channel modulators. Lung physiological data were recorded, and metabolic parameters were assessed. When compared to the control group, in the EVLP performed with diazoxide or 5-hydroxydecanoic acid (5-HD) we recorded significantly lower pulmonary vascular resistance and only in the diazoxide group recorded significant lung weight loss. In the perfusate of the 5-HD group, interleukin-1β and interleukin-1α were significantly lower when compared to the control group. Perfusate levels of calcium ions were significantly higher in both 5-HD and cromakalim groups, whereas the levels of calcium, potassium, chlorine and lactate were reduced in the diazoxide group, although not significantly when compared to the control. The use of a diazoxide mitochondrial-specific K(ATP) channel opener during EVLP improved lung physiological and metabolic parameters and reduced edema.
Quasar: Easy Machine Learning for Biospectroscopy
Authors: Toplak Marko , Read Stuart T. , Sandt Christophe , Borondics Ferenc
Published: September 2021

Data volumes collected in many scientific fields have long exceeded the capacity of human comprehension. This is especially true in biomedical research where multiple replicates and techniques are required to conduct reliable studies. Ever-increasing data rates from new instruments compound our dependence on statistics to make sense of the numbers. The currently available data analysis tools lack user-friendliness, various capabilities or ease of access. Problem-specific software or scripts freely available in supplementary materials or research lab websites are often highly specialized, no longer functional, or simply too hard to use. Commercial software limits access and reproducibility, and is often unable to follow quickly changing, cutting-edge research demands. Finally, as machine learning techniques penetrate data analysis pipelines of the natural sciences, we see the growing demand for user-friendly and flexible tools to fuse machine learning with spectroscopy datasets. In our opinion, open-source software with strong community engagement is the way forward. To counter these problems, we develop Quasar, an open-source and user-friendly software, as a solution to these challenges. Here, we present case studies to highlight some Quasar features analyzing infrared spectroscopy data using various machine learning techniques.
Perspective: Why and How Ubiquitously Distributed, Vascular-Associated, Pluripotent Stem Cells in the Adult Body (vaPS Cells) Are the Next Generation of Medicine
Authors: Alt Eckhard U. , Schmitz Christoph , Bai Xiaowen
Published: September 2021

A certain cell type can be isolated from different organs in the adult body that can differentiate into ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm, providing significant support for the existence of a certain type of small, vascular-associated, pluripotent stem cell ubiquitously distributed in all organs in the adult body (vaPS cells). These vaPS cells fundamentally differ from embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells in that the latter possess the necessary genetic guidance that makes them intrinsically pluripotent. In contrast, vaPS cells do not have this intrinsic genetic guidance, but are able to differentiate into somatic cells of all three lineages under guidance of the microenvironment they are located in, independent from the original tissue or organ where they had resided. These vaPS cells are of high relevance for clinical application because they are contained in unmodified, autologous, adipose-derived regenerative cells (UA-ADRCs). The latter can be obtained from and re-applied to the same patient at the point of care, without the need for further processing, manipulation, and culturing. These findings as well as various clinical examples presented in this paper demonstrate the potential of UA-ADRCs for enabling an entirely new generation of medicine for the benefit of patients and healthcare systems.
Identification and Characterization of an Affimer Affinity Reagent for the Detection of the cAMP Sensor, EPAC1
Authors: Buist Hanna K. , Luchowska-Stańska Urszula , van Basten Boy , Valli Jessica , Smith Brian O. , Baillie George S. , Rickman Colin , Ricketts Bryon , Davidson Alex , Hannam Ryan , Sunderland Joanne , Yarwood Stephen J.
Published: September 2021

An exchange protein directly activated by cAMP 1 (EPAC1) is an intracellular sensor for cAMP that is involved in a wide variety of cellular and physiological processes in health and disease. However, reagents are lacking to study its association with intracellular cAMP nanodomains. Here, we use non-antibody Affimer protein scaffolds to develop isoform-selective protein binders of EPAC1. Phage-display screens were carried out against purified, biotinylated human recombinant EPAC1ΔDEP protein (amino acids 149–811), which identified five potential EPAC1-selective Affimer binders. Dot blots and indirect ELISA assays were next used to identify Affimer 780A as the top EPAC1 binder. Mutagenesis studies further revealed a potential interaction site for 780A within the EPAC1 cyclic nucleotide binding domain (CNBD). In addition, 780A was shown to co-precipitate EPAC1 from transfected cells and co-localize with both wild-type EPAC1 and a mis-targeting mutant of EPAC1(K212R), predominantly in perinuclear and cytosolic regions of cells, respectively. As a novel EPAC1-selective binder, 780A therefore has the potential to be used in future studies to further understand compartmentalization of the cAMP-EPAC1 signaling system.
The TGF-β/NADPH Oxidases Axis in the Regulation of Liver Cell Biology in Health and Disease
Authors: Herranz-Itúrbide Macarena , Peñuelas-Haro Irene , Espinosa-Sotelo Rut , Bertran Esther , Fabregat Isabel
Published: September 2021

The Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) pathway plays essential roles in liver development and homeostasis and become a relevant factor involved in different liver pathologies, particularly fibrosis and cancer. The family of NADPH oxidases (NOXs) has emerged in recent years as targets of the TGF-β pathway mediating many of its effects on hepatocytes, stellate cells and macrophages. This review focuses on how the axis TGF-β/NOXs may regulate the biology of different liver cells and how this influences physiological situations, such as liver regeneration, and pathological circumstances, such as liver fibrosis and cancer. Finally, we discuss whether NOX inhibitors may be considered as potential therapeutic tools in liver diseases.
Molecular Markers and Targets in Melanoma
Authors: Teixido Cristina , Castillo Paola , Martinez-Vila Clara , Arance Ana , Alos Llucia
Published: September 2021

Melanoma develops as a result of several genetic alterations, with UV radiation often acting as a mutagenic risk factor. Deep knowledge of the molecular signaling pathways of different types of melanoma allows better characterization and provides tools for the development of therapies based on the intervention of signals promoted by these cascades. The latest World Health Organization classification acknowledged the specific genetic drivers leading to melanoma and classifies melanocytic lesions into nine distinct categories according to the associate cumulative sun damage (CSD), which correlates with the molecular alterations of tumors. The largest groups are melanomas associated with low-CSD or superficial spreading melanomas, characterized by frequent presentation of the BRAFV600 mutation. High-CSD melanomas include lentigo maligna type and desmoplastic melanomas, which often have a high mutation burden and can harbor NRAS, BRAFnon-V600E, or NF1 mutations. Non-CSD-associated melanomas encompass acral and mucosal melanomas that usually do not show BRAF, NRAS, or NF1 mutations (triple wild-type), but in a subset may have KIT or SF3B1 mutations. To improve survival, these driver alterations can be treated with targeted therapy achieving significant antitumor activity. In recent years, relevant improvement in the prognosis and survival of patients with melanoma has been achieved, since the introduction of BRAF/MEK tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we describe the current knowledge of molecular pathways and discuss current and potential therapeutic targets in melanoma, focusing on their clinical relevance of development.
Preconditioned Mesenchymal Stromal Cells to Improve Allotransplantation Outcome
Authors: Cheng Hui-Yun , Anggelia Madonna Rica , Lin Cheng-Hung , Lin Chih-Fan
Published: September 2021

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are tissue-derived progenitor cells with immunomodulatory as well as multilineage differentiation capacities, and have been widely applied as cellular therapeutics in different disease systems in both preclinical models and clinical studies. Although many studies have applied MSCs in different types of allotransplantation, the efficacy varies. It has been demonstrated that preconditioning MSCs prior to in vivo administration may enhance their efficacy. In the field of organ/tissue allotransplantation, many recent studies have shown that preconditioning of MSCs with (1) pretreatment with bioactive factors or reagents such as cytokines, or (2) specific gene transfection, could prolong allotransplant survival and improve allotransplant function. Herein, we review these preconditioning strategies and discuss potential directions for further improvement.
Sinapic Acid Controls Inflammation by Suppressing NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Lee Eun Hye , Shin Jin Hak , Kim Seon Sook , Seo Su Ryeon
Published: September 2021

A natural phenolic acid compound, sinapic acid (SA), is a cinnamic acid derivative that contains 3,5-dimethoxyl and 4-hydroxyl substitutions in the phenyl ring of cinnamic acid. SA is present in various orally edible natural herbs and cereals and is reported to have antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and neuroprotective activities. Although the anti-inflammatory function of SA has been reported, the effect of SA on the NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has not been explored. In the present study, to elucidate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of SA, we examined whether SA modulates the NLRP3 inflammasome. We found that SA blocked caspase-1 activation and IL-1β secretion by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC) pyroptosome formation was consistently blocked by SA treatment. SA specifically inhibited NLRP3 activation but not the NLRC4 or AIM2 inflammasomes. In addition, SA had no significant effect on the priming phase of the NLRP3 inflammasome, such as pro-IL-1β and NLRP3 inflammasome expression levels. Moreover, we found that SA attenuated IL-1β secretion in LPS-induced systemic inflammation in mice and reduced lethality from endotoxic shock. Our findings suggest that the natural compound SA has potential therapeutic value for the suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome-associated inflammatory diseases.
Glucocorticoid and PD-1 Cross-Talk: Does the Immune System Become Confused?
Authors: Adorisio Sabrina , Cannarile Lorenza , Delfino Domenico V. , Ayroldi Emira
Published: September 2021

Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligands, PD-L1/2, control T cell activation and tolerance. While PD-1 expression is induced upon T cell receptor (TCR) activation or cytokine signaling, PD-L1 is expressed on B cells, antigen presenting cells, and on non-immune tissues, including cancer cells. Importantly, PD-L1 binding inhibits T cell activation. Therefore, the modulation of PD-1/PD-L1 expression on immune cells, both circulating or in a tumor microenvironment and/or on the tumor cell surface, is one mechanism of cancer immune evasion. Therapies that target PD-1/PD-L1, blocking the T cell-cancer cell interaction, have been successful in patients with various types of cancer. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are often administered to manage the side effects of chemo- or immuno-therapy, exerting a wide range of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. However, GCs may also have tumor-promoting effects, interfering with therapy. In this review, we examine GC signaling and how it intersects with PD-1/PD-L1 pathways, including a discussion on the potential for GC- and PD-1/PD-L1-targeted therapies to “confuse” the immune system, leading to a cancer cell advantage that counteracts anti-cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, combination therapies should be utilized with an awareness of the potential for opposing effects on the immune system.
Alveolus Lung-on-a-Chip Platform: A Proposal
Authors: Campillo Noelia , Oliveira Vinicius Rosa , da Palma Renata Kelly
Published: September 2021

Respiratory diseases are top-ranked causes of deaths and disabilities around the world, making new approaches to the treatment necessary. In recent years, lung-on-a-chip platforms have emerged as a potential candidate to replace animal experiments because they can successfully simulate human physiology. In this review, we discuss the main respiratory diseases and their pathophysiology, how to model a lung microenvironment, and how to translate it to clinical applications. Furthermore, we propose a novel alveolus lung-on-a-chip platform, based on all currently available methodologies. This review provides solutions and new ideas to improve the alveolar lung-on-a-chip platform. Finally, we provided evidence that approaches such as 3D printing, organ-a-chip devices and organoids can be used in combination, and some challenges could be overcome.
Association between Dental Caries and Influenza Infection in Children: A Japanese Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Matsumoto Naomi , Kadowaki Tomoka , Tsukahara Hirokazu , Yorifuji Takashi
Published: September 2021

Dental caries is the most common chronic childhood disease. Recent studies have suggested that dental caries harbor respiratory infections in adults. We investigated the association between dental caries and influenza in children. In this study, 42,812 children aged 2.5 years, 38,540 children aged 5.5 years, and 34,124 children aged 10 years were included in the analysis from the Longitudinal Survey of Newborns in the 21st Century in Japan, which targeted all children born during a certain period in 2001. We used information on dental caries treated at hospitals and clinics in the past year as exposure and influenza as outcome during the observation periods (1.5–2.5, 4.5–5.5, and 9–10 years of age). We performed a log-binomial regression analysis, adjusting for potential confounders, and stratified analysis according to previous dental caries status. The presence of dental caries increased the incidence of influenza in all three target ages compared with the absence of dental caries. The incidence of influenza increased with the presence of current dental caries, regardless of the presence of past dental caries. These associations were observed irrespective of household income. Early detection and treatment of dental caries may reduce the risk of influenza in children.
Marangoni Convection of Dust Particles in the Boundary Layer of Maxwell Nanofluids with Varying Surface Tension and Viscosity
Authors: AlQdah Khaled S. , Khan Naseer M. , Bacha Habib Ben , Chung Jae-Dong , Shah Nehad Ali
Published: September 2021

The flow of nanofluids is very important in industrial refrigeration systems. The operation of nuclear reactors and the cooling of the entire installation to improve safety and economics are entirely dependent on the application of nanofluids in water. Therefore, a model of Maxwell’s dusty nanofluid with temperature-dependent viscosity, surface suction and variable surface tension under the action of solar radiation is established. The basic equations of momentum and temperature of the dust and liquid phases are solved numerically using the MATLAB bvp4c scheme. In the current evaluation, taking into account variable surface tension and varying viscosity, the effect of dust particles is studied by immersing dust particles in a nanofluid. Qualitative and quantitative discussions are provided to focus on the effect of physical parameters on mass and heat transfer. The propagation results show that this mixing effect can significantly increase the thermal conductivity of nanofluids. With small changes in the surface tension parameters, a stronger drop in the temperature distribution is observed. The suction can significantly reduce the temperature distribution of the liquid and dust phases. The stretchability of the sheet is more conducive to temperature rise. The tables are used to explain how physical parameters affect the Nusselt number and mass transfer. The increased interaction of the liquid with nanoparticles or dust particles is intended to improve the Nusselt number. This model contains features that have not been previously studied, which stimulates demand for this model among all walks of life now and in the future.
Fabrication and Characterization of Ni60A Alloy Coating on Copper Pipe by Plasma Cladding with Induction Heating
Authors: Lv Jinjin , Zhang Chao , Chen Zhiyu , Bai Dan , Zhang Yuwen , Li Guangshi , Lu Xionggang
Published: September 2021

Plasma cladding coupled induction heating was developed and successfully used to fabricate Ni60A coating on the surface of copper pipe. By matching the swing arc with the rotating copper pipe, the cladding efficiency was as high as 32.72 mm2/s. From the head to the tail of the coating, the wear resistance changed from 4.5 to 1.8 times that of pure copper. During the cladding process with constant current, the surface temperature of the cladding zone and the bath depth gradually increased. The corresponding dilution ratio increased, accompanied by the widening of the interface transition zone and the growth of precipitated phases (CrB and Cr23C6). Due to the gradient change of composition, the coating can be regarded as an in situ synthesized gradient coating. The critical point of sudden change of temperature in cladding zone was 850 °C, at which point the wear mechanism changed from abrasive wear to adhesive wear. The proper surface temperature of cladding zone should be controlled within 600–850 °C, which can be achieved by matching the cladding current and induction heating power. Results indicated that plasma cladding coupled induction heating is a potentially effective method to prepare high-quality coating on the surface of a large-complex-curved copper component.
Recent Advances in Methods for Recovery of Cenospheres from Fly Ash and Their Emerging Applications in Ceramics, Composites, Polymers and Environmental Cleanup
Authors: Yadav Virendra Kumar , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Tirth Vineet , Jangid Ashok , Gnanamoorthy G. , Choudhary Nisha , Islam Saiful , Gupta Neha , Son Cao Truong , Jeon Byong-Hun
Published: September 2021

Coal fly ash (CFA) is a major global pollutant produced by thermal power plants during the generation of electricity. A significant amount of coal fly ash is dumped every year in the near vicinity of the thermal power plants, resulting in the spoilage of agricultural land. CFA has numerous value-added structural elements, such as cenospheres, plerospheres, ferrospheres, and carbon particles. Cenospheres are spherical-shaped solid-filled particles, formed during the combustion of coal in thermal power plants. They are lightweight, have high mechanical strength, and are rich in Al-Si particles. Due to cenospheres’ low weight and high mechanical strength, they are widely used as ceramic/nanoceramics material, fireproofing material, and in nanocomposites. They are also used directly, or after functionalization, as an adsorbent for environmental cleanup—especially for the removal of organic and inorganic contaminants from wastewater. By utilizing this waste material as an adsorbent, the whole process becomes economical and eco-friendly. In this review, we have highlighted the latest advances in the cenospheres recovery from fly ash and their application in ceramics and wastewater treatment.
Interplay of Active Stress and Driven Flow in Self-Assembled, Tumbling Active Nematics
Authors: Wang Weiqiang , Zhang Rui
Published: September 2021

Lyotropic chromonic liquid crystals (LCLCs) are a special type of hierarchical material in which self-assembled molecular aggregates are responsible for the formation of liquid crystal phases. Thanks to its unusual material properties and bio compatibility, it has found wide applications including the formation of active nematic liquid crystals. Recent experiments have uncovered tumbling character of certain LCLCs. However, how tumbling behavior modifies structure and flow in driven and active nematics is poorly understood. Here, we rely on continuum simulation to study the interplay of extensile active stress and externally driven flow in a flow-tumbling nematic with a low twist modulus to mimic nematic LCLCs. We find that a spontaneous transverse flow can be developed in a flow-tumbling active nematic confined to a hybrid alignment cell when it is in log-rolling mode at sufficiently high activities. The orientation of the total spontaneous flow is tunable by tuning the active stress. We further show that activity can suppress pressure-driven flow of a flow-tumbling nematic in a planar-anchoring cell but can also promote a transition of the director field under a pressure gradient in a homeotropic-anchoring cell. Remarkably, we demonstrate that the frequency of unsteady director dynamics in a tumbling nematic under Couette flow is invariant against active stress when below a threshold activity but exhibits a discontinuous increase when above the threshold at which a complex, periodic spatiotemporal director pattern emerges. Taken together, our simulations reveal qualitative differences between flow-tumbling and flow-aligning active nematics and suggest potential applications of tumbling nematics in microfluidics.
Scanning Electron Microscopy Investigation of Surface Acoustic Wave Propagation in a 41° YX-Cut of a LiNbO3 Crystal/Si Layered Structure
Authors: Roshchupkin Dmitry , Emelin Evgenii , Plotitcina Olga , Mololkin Anatoly , Telminov Oleg
Published: September 2021

The propagation process of the surface acoustic waves (SAW) and the pseudo-surface acoustic waves (PSAW) in a bonded layered structure of a 41° YX-cut of a LiNbO3 crystal/Si(100) crystal was investigated. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) method,in the low-energy secondary electrons registration mode, made it possible to visualize the SAW and PSAW in the LiNbO3/Si layered structure. The process of the SAW and PSAW propagation in a LiNbO3/Si layered structure and in a bulk 41° YX-cut of a LiNbO3 crystal were compared. It was demonstrated that the SAW velocities in the layered LiNbO3/Si structure exceed the typical SAW velocities for LiNbO3 and Si single crystals. In the layered structure, the SAW and PSAW velocities were 4062 m/s, 4731 m/s, and 5871 m/s. It was also demonstrated that the PSAW velocities are the same in the LiNbO3/Si layered structure and in the bulk 41° YX-cut of a LiNbO3 crystal.
Predominant HLA Alleles and Haplotypes in Mild Adverse Drug Reactions Caused by Allopurinol in Vietnamese Patients with Gout
Authors: Van Son Chu , Loan Nguyen Thi Hong , Trang Tran Huyen , Thinh Le Xuan , Khanh Nguyen Ba , Nhung Le Thi Hong , Van Hung Nguyen , Que Tran Ngoc , Van Lieu Nguyen , Tung Pham Dinh , Van Anh Nguyen Thi , Thang Nguyen Dinh
Published: September 2021

Allopurinol (ALP) is commonly used as a drug for gout treatment. However, ALP is known to cause cutaneous adverse reactions (CARs) in patients. The HLA-B*58:01 allele is considered a biomarker of severe CAR (SCAR) in patients with gout, with symptoms of Stevens Johnson syndrome, and with toxic epidermal necrolysis. However, in patients with gout and mild cutaneous adverse drug reactions (MCARs), the role of HLA-allele polymorphisms has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, 50 samples from ALP-tolerant patients and ALP-induced MCARs patients were genotyped in order to examine the polymorphisms of their HLA-A and HLA-B alleles. Our results showed that the frequencies of HLA-A*02:01/HLA-A*24:02 and HLA-A*02:01/HLA-A*29:01, the dual haplotypes in HLA-A, in patients with ALP-induced MCARs were relatively high, at 33.3% (7/21), which was HLA-B*58:01-independent, while the frequency of these dual haplotypes in the HLA-A locus in ALP-tolerant patients was only 3.45% (1/29). The HLA-B*58:01 allele was detected in 38% (8/21) of patients with ALP-induced MCARs, and in 3.45% (1/29) of ALP-tolerant patients. Notably, although HLA-B*58:01 may be a cause for the occurrence of MCARs in patients with gout, this correlation was not as strong as that previously reported in patients with SCAR. In conclusion, in addition to the HLA-B*58:01 allele, the presence of the dual haplotypes of HLA-A*02:01/HLA-A*24:02 and/or HLA-A*02:01/HLA-A*29:01 in the HLA-A locus may also play an important role in the appearance of ALP-induced MCARs in the Vietnamese population. The obtained primary data may contribute to the development of suitable treatments for patients with gout not only in Vietnam but also in other Asian countries.
Automatic Meniscus Segmentation Using Adversarial Learning-Based Segmentation Network with Object-Aware Map in Knee MR Images
Authors: Jeon Uju , Kim Hyeonjin , Hong Helen , Wang Joonho
Published: September 2021

Meniscus segmentation from knee MR images is an essential step when analyzing the length, width, height, cross-sectional area, surface area for meniscus allograft transplantation using a 3D reconstruction model based on the patient’s normal meniscus. In this paper, we propose a two-stage DCNN that combines a 2D U-Net-based meniscus localization network with a conditional generative adversarial network-based segmentation network using an object-aware map. First, the 2D U-Net segments knee MR images into six classes including bone and cartilage with whole MR images at a resolution of 512 × 512 to localize the medial and lateral meniscus. Second, adversarial learning with a generator based on the 2D U-Net and a discriminator based on the 2D DCNN using an object-aware map segments the meniscus into localized regions-of-interest with a resolution of 64 × 64. The average Dice similarity coefficient of the meniscus was 85.18% at the medial meniscus and 84.33% at the lateral meniscus; these values were 10.79%p and 1.14%p, and 7.78%p and 1.12%p higher than the segmentation method without adversarial learning and without the use of an object-aware map with the Dice similarity coefficient at the medial meniscus and lateral meniscus, respectively. The proposed automatic meniscus localization through multi-class can prevent the class imbalance problem by focusing on local regions. The proposed adversarial learning using an object-aware map can prevent under-segmentation by repeatedly judging and improving the segmentation results, and over-segmentation by considering information only from the meniscus regions. Our method can be used to identify and analyze the shape of the meniscus for allograft transplantation using a 3D reconstruction model of the patient’s unruptured meniscus.
Computed Tomography-Guided Percutaneous Microwave Ablation for Renal Cell Carcinoma: Impact of Tumor Size on the Progression Survival Rates
Authors: Efthymiou Evgenia , Siatelis Argyris , Liakouras Christos , Makris Georgios , Chrisofos Michael , Kelekis Alexis , Brountzos Elias , Kelekis Nikolaos , Filippiadis Dimitrios
Published: September 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) along with identifying prognostic factors affecting the progression survival rate. Institutional database retrospective research identified 69 patients with a biopsy proven solitary T1a (82.6%) or TIb (17.4%) RCC who have underwent percutaneous CT-guided MWA. Kaplan–Meier survival estimates for events were graphed and Cox regression analysis was conducted. Mean patient age was 70.4 ± 11.5 years. Mean size of the lesions was 3 ± 1.3 cm. Mean follow up time was 35.6 months (SD = 21.1). The mean progression free survival time from last ablation was 84.2 months. For T1a tumors, the cumulative progression free survival rate for 1, 6, 12 and 36 months were 100% (SE = 0%), 91.2% (SE = 3.7%), 91.2% (SE = 3.7%) and 87.5% (SE = 4.4%); the recurrence free survival rate for T1a RCC was 94.9%. For T1b tumors, the cumulative progression free survival rate for 1, 6, 12 and 36 months were 100% (SE = 0%), 63.6% (SE = 14.5%), 63.6% (SE = 14.5%) and 63.6% (SE = 14.5%). Grade 1 complications were recorded in 5 (7.2%) patients. Significantly greater hazard for progression was found in cases with a tumor size > 4 cm (HR = 9.09, p = 0.048). No statistically important difference regarding tumor progression was recorded between T1a tumors with a diameter ≤3 cm and >3 cm. In summary, the results of the present study show that CT guided percutaneous MWA is an effective technique for treatment of T1a renal cell carcinomas, irrespective of tumor size. T1b tumors were associated with higher progression rates.
Usefulness of a Metal Artifact Reduction Algorithm in Digital Tomosynthesis Using a Combination of Hybrid Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Gomi Tsutomu , Sakai Rina , Hara Hidetake , Watanabe Yusuke , Mizukami Shinya
Published: September 2021

In this study, a novel combination of hybrid generative adversarial networks (GANs) comprising cycle-consistent GAN, pix2pix, and (mask pyramid network) MPN (CGpM-metal artifact reduction [MAR]), was developed using projection data to reduce metal artifacts and the radiation dose during digital tomosynthesis. The CGpM-MAR algorithm was compared with the conventional filtered back projection (FBP) without MAR, FBP with MAR, and convolutional neural network MAR. The MAR rates were compared using the artifact index (AI) and Gumbel distribution of the largest variation analysis using a prosthesis phantom at various radiation doses. The novel CGpM-MAR yielded an adequately effective overall performance in terms of AI. The resulting images yielded good results independently of the type of metal used in the prosthesis phantom (p < 0.05) and good artifact removal at 55% radiation-dose reduction. Furthermore, the CGpM-MAR represented the minimum in the model with the largest variation at 55% radiation-dose reduction. Regarding the AI and Gumbel distribution analysis, the novel CGpM-MAR yielded superior MAR when compared with the conventional reconstruction algorithms with and without MAR at 55% radiation-dose reduction and presented features most similar to the reference FBP. CGpM-MAR presents a promising method for metal artifact and radiation-dose reduction in clinical practice.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Enhance Vascularization and Epithelialization within 7 Days after Gingival Augmentation with Collagen Matrices in Rabbits
Authors: Kulakov Anatoliy , Kogan Evgenia , Brailovskaya Tatiana , Vedyaeva Anna , Zharkov Nickolay , Krasilnikova Olga , Krasheninnikov Mikhail , Baranovskii Denis , Rasulov Timur , Klabukov Ilya
Published: September 2021

Soft gingival tissue deficiency remains a severe problem leading to postoperative recession, peri-implantitis, and bone resorption. The use of collagen matrices does not always lead to complete rebuilding of the gingiva volume. The application of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) simultaneously with collagen materials represents a promising approach for the restoration of soft gingival tissues. However, short-term effects of MSCs-enriched collagen grafts after gingival augmentation have not yet been studied properly. Mucograft and Mucoderm matrices were implanted in rabbits (n = 12) simultaneously with the intraoperative injection of rabbit bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) or without cells. Collagen matrices were implanted under the flap or by the surface technique without intentional primary closure. The samples were harvested seven days after implantation, histological staining with hematoxylin and eosin, and immunohistochemical staining for VEGF, IGF1, and TGF were performed. The use of Mucoderm led to better augmentation outcomes on day 7 compared with Mucograft (p < 0.0001). Gingival augmentation in combination with the local administration of BM-MSCs led to better regeneration of the soft gingival tissues independently of the type of implanted collagen matrices (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, injection of BM-MSCs significantly enhanced gingival vascularization and epithelization with a clear positive correlation between vascular growth and epithelial response. Administration of BM-MSCs in combination with various collagen materials may potentially improve gingiva regeneration.
Influence of Dental Implant Diameter and Bone Quality on the Biomechanics of Single-Crown Restoration. A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Larrazabal Saez de Ibarra Naiara , Morales Martín Iñigo , Saracho Rotaeche Luis
Published: September 2021

Background: Success of an implant-supported prosthesis is highly dependent on implant diameter and bone quality. The objective of this study is to assess these two variables under axial or 30° angulated loading. Methods: The study was conducted using finite element model simulations of dental implants with an unchanging length of 6.5 mm and varying diameters of Ø3.3; Ø3.5; Ø3.75; Ø4, Ø4.25 and Ø4.75 mm. The implants were placed in an axial position and a 2 mm high straight transepithelial (intermediate abutment) was used to perform a single tooth restoration. Four bone quality scenarios, Type IV, III, II or 0-I bone, were simulated from a simplified model of the mandible. A 200N load was applied both axially and at a 30° angle to the occlusal surface of the prosthesis, which was 11 mm above the implant platform, and the equivalent Von Mises stress in the bone was analyzed. Results: The maximum stress value was obtained for the Ø3.3 implant in Type IV bone (235 MPa), while the lowest value was obtained for the Ø4.75 implant and in Type 0-I bone (41 MPa). Regardless of the implant diameter, an improvement in bone quality produced a reduction in bone stress. The same effect was observed as the implant diameter was increased, being this effect even more pronounced. Conclusions: Implant diameter has an important effect on bone stress, with a reduction in stress as the implant diameter increases.
Additive Manufacturing of Zirconia Ceramic and Its Application in Clinical Dentistry: A Review
Authors: Khanlar Leila Nasiry , Salazar Rios Alma , Tahmaseb Ali , Zandinejad Amirali
Published: September 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) has many advantages and became a valid manufacturing technique for polymers and metals in dentistry. However, its application for dental ceramics is still in process. Among dental ceramics, zirconia is becoming popular and widely used in dentistry mainly due to its outstanding properties. Although subtractive technology or milling is the state of art for manufacturing zirconia restorations but still has shortcomings. Utilizing AM in fabricating ceramics restorations is a new topic for many researchers and companies across the globe and a good understanding of AM of zirconia is essential for dental professional. Therefore, the aim of this narrative review is to illustrate different AM technologies available for processing zirconia and discus their advantages and future potential. A comprehensive literature review was completed to summarize different AM technologies that are available to fabricate zirconia and their clinical application is reported. The results show a promising outcome for utilizing AM of zirconia in restorative, implant and regenerative dentistry. However further improvements and validation is necessary to approve its clinical application.
A Crop Image Segmentation and Extraction Algorithm Based on Mask RCNN
Authors: Wang Shijie , Sun Guiling , Zheng Bowen , Du Yawen
Published: September 2021

The wide variety of crops in the image of agricultural products and the confusion with the surrounding environment information makes it difficult for traditional methods to extract crops accurately and efficiently. In this paper, an automatic extraction algorithm is proposed for crop images based on Mask RCNN. First, the Fruits 360 Dataset label is set with Labelme. Then, the Fruits 360 Dataset is preprocessed. Next, the data are divided into a training set and a test set. Additionally, an improved Mask RCNN network model structure is established using the PyTorch 1.8.1 deep learning framework, and path aggregation and features are added to the network design enhanced functions, optimized region extraction network, and feature pyramid network. The spatial information of the feature map is saved by the bilinear interpolation method in ROIAlign. Finally, the edge accuracy of the segmentation mask is further improved by adding a micro-fully connected layer to the mask branch of the ROI output, employing the Sobel operator to predict the target edge, and adding the edge loss to the loss function. Compared with FCN and Mask RCNN and other image extraction algorithms, the experimental results demonstrate that the improved Mask RCNN algorithm proposed in this paper is better in the precision, Recall, Average precision, Mean Average Precision, and F1 scores of crop image extraction results.
Two Design Principles for the Design of Demonstrations to Enhance Structure–Property Reasoning
Authors: den Otter Marie-Jetta , Dam Michiel , Juurlink Ludo B. F. , Janssen Fred
Published: September 2021

Structure–property reasoning (SPR) is one of the most important aims of chemistry education but is seldom explicitly taught, and students find structure–property reasoning difficult. This study assessed two design principles for the development of structure–property reasoning in the context of demonstrations: (1) use of a POE task (predict–observe–explain) and (2) use of the domain-specific particle perspective, both to increase student engagement and to scaffold micro-level modeling. The aim of the demonstration series was to teach structure–property reasoning more explicitly to pre-university students (aged 15–16). Demonstrations pertained to the properties of metals, salts and molecular compounds. The SPR instrument was used as a pretest and posttest in order to gain insight into the effects on structure–property reasoning. In addition, one student (Sally) was followed closely to see how her structure–property reasoning evolved throughout the demonstrations. Results show that after the demonstrations students were more aware of the structure models at the micro-level. The students also knew and understood more chemical concepts needed for structure–property reasoning. Sally’s qualitative data additionally showed how she made interesting progress in modeling micro-level chemical structures. As we used conventional demonstrations as a starting point for design, this could well serve as a practical tool for teachers to redesign their existing demonstrations.
Networked Professional Learning Communities as Means to Flemish Secondary School Leaders’ Professional Learning and Well-Being
Authors: Coenen Laurien , Schelfhout Wouter , Hondeghem Annie
Published: September 2021

Whereas Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are a frequently applied professional learning tool in education, their use is often limited to an application among (a) teachers and (b) within-schools. This article contributes to the nascent research evidence on PLC usage for principal professional learning. As outcomes align with PLCs’ phased development, this article grasps the learning processes that unfold, the catalyst states that emerge and the overarching role that a process coach can adopt in this collective learning effort. Three distinct PLCs comprising of Flemish secondary school principals were systematically observed over the course of one to two years. In interviews and questionnaires, members (n = 14) reported on their experience with PLC activities, group dynamics and their personal professional well-being. Networked learning proved a worthwhile method as positive outcomes of PLC participation were predominantly found in a perceived augmentation of professional well-being and the acquisition of inspiration and ideas. Actual co-construction among principal participants appeared harder to establish as several organisational, group developmental and leadership prerequisites were found to apply. As this study was based on three in-depth case studies, it remains to be confirmed whether its conclusions apply to all school principals in Flanders and can be generalised to their counterparts internationally.