bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Adhesion on Indentation Behavior of Various Smart Materials
Authors: Luo Qinghui , Zhou Yueting , Wang Lihua , Ding Shenghu
Published: November 2022

The nanoindentation technique plays a significant role in characterizing the mechanical properties of materials at nanoscale, where the adhesion effect becomes very prominent due to the high surface-to-volume ratio. For this paper, the classical adhesion theories were generalized to study the contact behaviors of various piezoelectric materials indented by conical punches with different electric properties. With the use of the Hankel integral transform, dual integral equations, and superposing principle, the closed-form solutions of the physical fields for the Johnson-Kendall-Roberts (JKR) and Maugis-Dugdale (M-D) models were obtained, respectively. The contribution of the electrical energy to the energy release rate under the conducting punch was taken into consideration. The relationships between the contact radius, the indentation load, and the indentation depth were set up using the total energy method for the JKR model and the Griffith energy balance for the M-D model, respectively. Numerical results indicate that increasing the half cone angle of the conical punch enhances the adhesion effect, which can significantly affect the accuracy of the results of characterization in nanoindentation tests. It was found that the effect of electric potential on adhesion behaviors is sensitive to different material properties, which are not revealed in the existing studies of axisymmetric adhesive contact of piezoelectric materials and multiferroic composite materials. The load-displacement curves under conical punches with different half cone angles have very different slopes. These results indicate that the half cone angle has a prominent effect on the characterization of mechanical properties of piezoelectric solids in nanoindentation tests.
Thermo-Elastodifusive Waves in Semiconductor Excitation Medium with Laser Pulses under Two Temperature Photo-Thermoelasticity Theory
Authors: Alshehri Hashim M. , Lotfy Kh.
Published: November 2022

The current work aims to investigate elasto-thermodiffusive wave propagation in a homogeneous, isotropic, and thermally conducting excited semiconductor medium. The two-temperature theory is utilized in the context of the linear photo-thermoelasticity (PTE) theory of semiconductors. Thermal and elastic memories found in the equations for heat, motion, and charge carrier field are taken into account. The governing equations are applied according to the mass-diffusion transport processes in one dimension (1D), under the influence of optoelectronics with a non-Gaussian laser pulse. Laplace transforms for dimensionless quantities are utilized to obtain the analytical linear solutions for the main quantities during thermoelastic (TD) and electronic (ED) deformation. The numerical approximations solutions of the primary relevant relations are done in the Laplace inverse time domain to observe the exact expressions of the main physical quantities according to some boundary surface conditions. The physical parameters of silicon (Si) semiconductor material are used to obtain the numerical computational results. According to the difference of the thermal memories and two-temperature parameters, the wave propagation of the physical fields is obtained graphically and the results are discussed and analyzed theoretically.
Constructing a Linearly Ordered Topological Space from a Fractal Structure: A Probabilistic Approach
Authors: Gálvez-Rodríguez José Fulgencio , Sánchez-Granero Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2022

Recent studies have shown that it is possible to construct a probability measure from a fractal structure defined on a space. On the other hand, a theory on cumulative distribution functions from an order on a separable linearly ordered topological space has been developed. In this paper, we show how to define a linear order on a space with a fractal structure, so that these two theories can be used interchangeably in both topological contexts.
Optimization of Robust LMI-Control Systems for Unstable Vertical Plasma Position in D-Shaped Tokamak
Authors: Mitrishkin Yuri , Pavlova Evgeniia , Khlebnikov Mikhail
Published: November 2022

The paper is devoted to the synthesis, comparison, and optimization of robust LMI-control systems for the vertical plasma position in a D-shaped tokamak, specifically the T-15MD tokamak (Kurchatov Institute, Moscow, Russia). The novelty of this work is to find out the possibilities of LMI robust control systems, according to the criteria of the robust stability radius and control power peak at the rejection of a minor disruption type disturbance and a reference step signal using a unique unstable first-order plasma model. The plant under control consists of the connected in series plasma model with additive disturbance containing plant uncertainties, horizontal field coil (HFC), and actuator model as a multiphase rectifier. A set of robust controllers was designed by Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMI) method with pole placement in the LMI regions, state H2/H∞ performance, and output signal performance. The LMI theorems of the paper are directed to design the robust controllers and study the systems with the aim of eliminating the gap between theory and practice. The main achievement of this work consists in the optimization of robust control systems of the unstable plant with uncertain disturbance on the set of LMI synthesis approaches. The control systems have original quality criteria, such as control power and robust stability radius. The best control system on the basis of two criteria, namely, Dα,r,ϑ control system provides stabilization of the vertical plasma position on the real-time digital control testbed.
Sustainable Urban Conveyance Selection through MCGDM Using a New Ranking on Generalized Interval Type-2 Trapezoidal Fuzzy Number
Authors: Marimuthu Dharmalingam , Meidute-Kavaliauskiene Ieva , Mahapatra Ghanshaym , Činčikaitė Renata , Roy Pratik , Vasilis Vasiliauskas Aidas
Published: November 2022

This article proposes a modified ranking technique for generalized interval type-2 trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. For demonstrating uncertainty and managing imprecision in decision-making information, interval type-2 fuzzy sets are beneficial. The proposed ranking methodology resolves the difficulty of multi-criteria group decision-making on sustainable urban conveyance. Additionally, the proposed ranking approach considers all crucial aspects of transportation sustainability, including the effectiveness of durable transportation systems from economic, social, and ecological perspectives in multi-criteria group decision-making scenarios. The new ranking methodology yields superior outcomes for choosing sustainable urban transportation options. In the numerical part, studies compared the proposed ranking approach to other methods currently used for various MCDM techniques.
Current Evidence, Limitations and Future Challenges of Survival Prediction for Glioblastoma Based on Advanced Noninvasive Methods: A Narrative Review
Authors: García-García Sergio , García-Galindo Manuel , Arrese Ignacio , Sarabia Rosario , Cepeda Santiago
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Survival estimation for patients diagnosed with Glioblastoma (GBM) is an important information to consider in patient management and communication. Despite some known risk factors, survival estimation remains a major challenge. Novel non-invasive technologies such as radiomics and artificial intelligence (AI) have been implemented to increase the accuracy of these predictions. In this article, we reviewed and discussed the most significant available research on survival estimation for GBM through advanced non-invasive methods. Materials and Methods: PubMed database was queried for articles reporting on survival prognosis for GBM through advanced image and data management methods. Articles including in their title or abstract the following terms were initially screened: ((glioma) AND (survival)) AND ((artificial intelligence) OR (radiomics)). Exclusively English full-text articles, reporting on humans, published as of 1 September 2022 were considered. Articles not reporting on overall survival, evaluating the effects of new therapies or including other tumors were excluded. Research with a radiomics-based methodology were evaluated using the radiomics quality score (RQS). Results: 382 articles were identified. After applying the inclusion criteria, 46 articles remained for further analysis. These articles were thoroughly assessed, summarized and discussed. The results of the RQS revealed some of the limitations of current radiomics investigation on this field. Limitations of analyzed studies included data availability, patient selection and heterogeneity of methodologies. Future challenges on this field are increasing data availability, improving the general understanding of how AI handles data and establishing solid correlations between image features and tumor’s biology. Conclusions: Radiomics and AI methods of data processing offer a new paradigm of possibilities to tackle the question of survival prognosis in GBM.
Comparative Analysis of Laparoscopic and Robotic Transperitoneal Adrenalectomy Performed at a Single Institution
Authors: Choi Yun Suk , Lee Ji Sun , Yi Jin Wook
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) is the standard surgical approach for adrenalectomy. At present, robotic adrenalectomy (RA) has been introduced at various hospitals. This study evaluated our initial experience with robotic adrenalectomy compared with conventional laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Materials and Methods: From October 2018 to March 2022, 56 adrenalectomies were performed by a single endocrine surgeon. Thirty-two patients underwent LA (LA group), and twenty-four patients underwent RA (RA group). Results: Patients in the RA group were significantly younger than those in the LA group (48.6 ± 9.7 years vs. 55.1 ± 11.4 years, p = 0.013). The RA group had a shorter operation time than the LA group (76.1 ± 28.2 min vs. 118.0 ± 54.3 min, p < 0.001). The length of hospital stay and postoperative pain level between the two groups were similar. There were no complications in the RA group. There was no significant difference in the pathologic diagnosis between the two groups. The cost of surgery was significantly higher in the RA group than in the LA group (5288.5 US dollars vs. 441.5 ± 136.8 US dollars, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In our initial experience, RA showed a shorter operation time than LA and no complications. RA could be a viable alternative surgical option for adrenalectomy, notwithstanding its higher cost.
The Relationship between Obesity-Related Factors and Graves’ Orbitopathy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lu Ching , Lai Chao-Lun , Yang Chih-Man , Liao Karen Chia-Wen , Kao Chie-Shung , Chang Tien-Chu , Perng Ming-Der
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between obesity-related factors including body mass index (BMI), diabetes or prediabetes, hyperlipidemia, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). Materials and Methods: Eighty-four patients with Graves’ disease (GD) (42 without GO and 42 with GO) were enrolled in this cross-sectional cohort study. Gender, age, GD treatment history, height, body weight, waist circumference, smoking status, co-morbidities, levels of free thyroxin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) antibodies, fasting plasma glucose and insulin, and hs-CRP were recorded. The eye condition was evaluated using the consensus statement of the European Group of Graves’ Orbitopathy (EUGOGO) and the NOSPECS classification. Results: In this study, multivariate regression analysis showed that BMI, fasting plasma insulin, and HOMA-IR were associated with the presence of GO after adjusting the age, gender, smoking, TSHR antibodies, and steroid usage (adjusted odd’s ratio (aOR) 1.182, 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.003–1.393, p = 0.046; aOR 1.165, 95% CI, 1.001–1.355, p = 0.048; and aOR 1.985, 95% CI, 1.046–3.764, p = 0.036, respectively). In addition, BMI, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP levels were positively correlated with the severity of GO. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that obesity-related factors, especially fasting plasma insulin and HOMA-IR, are related to GO. Our study highlighted the importance of obesity-related factors in GO. Obesity-related factors may cause the development of GO or occur simultaneously with GO.
Central Sensitization Is Associated with Inferior Patient-Reported Outcomes and Increased Osteotomy Site Pain in Patients Undergoing Medial Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy
Authors: Kim Jae-Jung , Koh In-Jun , Kim Man-Soo , Choi Keun-Young , Kang Ki-Ho , In Yong
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Studies have shown that centrally sensitized patients have worse clinical outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) than non-centrally sensitized patients. It is unclear whether central sensitization (CS) affects patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and/or level of osteotomy site pain in patients undergoing medial opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). The purpose of this study was to determine whether CS is associated with PROs and osteotomy site pain following MOWHTO. Materials and Methods: A retrospective evaluation was conducted on 140 patients with varus knee osteoarthritis (OA) who were treated with MOWHTO and monitored for two years. Before surgery, the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) was used to assess CS status, and a CSI of 40 or higher was considered indicative of CS. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and pain visual analogue scale (VAS) were used to assess PROs. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the WOMAC was set as 4.2 for the pain subscore, 1.9 for the stiffness subscore, 10.1 for the function subscore, and 16.1 for the total based on the results of a previous study. The WOMAC score, pain VAS score of the osteotomy site, and the achievement rates of WOMAC MCID were compared between the CS and non-CS groups. Results: Thirty-seven patients were assigned to the CS group, whereas 84 were assigned to the non-CS group. Before surgery, the CS group showed a higher WOMAC score than the non-CS group (58.7 vs. 49.4, p < 0.05). While there was a statistically significant improvement in WOMAC subscores (pain, stiffness, function, and total) for both groups at two years after surgery (all p < 0.05), the CS group had a higher WOMAC score than the non-CS group (37.1 vs. 21.8, p < 0.05). The CS group showed significantly inferior results in pre- and postoperative changes of WOMAC subscores (pain, function, and total) relative to the non-CS group (all p < 0.05). In addition, pain at the osteotomy site was more severe in the CS group than in the non-CS group at two years after surgery (4.8 vs. 2.2, p < 0.05). Patients with CS had worse MCID achievement rates across the board for WOMAC pain, function, and total scores (all p < 0.05) compared to the non-CS group. Conclusions: Centrally sensitized patients following MOWHTO had worse PROs and more severe osteotomy site pain compared to non-centrally sensitized patients. Furthermore, the WOMAC MCID achievement rate of patients with CS was lower than that of patients without CS. Therefore, appropriate preoperative counseling and perioperative pain management are necessary for patients with CS undergoing MOWHTO. Level of Evidence: Level III, case-control study.
Considering the Effects and Maternofoetal Implications of Vascular Disorders and the Umbilical Cord
Authors: Sánchez-Trujillo Lara , García-Montero Cielo , Fraile-Martinez Oscar , Guijarro Luis G. , Bravo Coral , De Leon-Luis Juan A. , Saez Jose V. , Bujan Julia , Alvarez-Mon Melchor , García-Honduvilla Natalio , Saez Miguel A. , Ortega Miguel A.
Published: November 2022

The umbilical cord is a critical anatomical structure connecting the placenta with the foetus, fulfilling multiple functions during pregnancy and hence influencing foetal development, programming and survival. Histologically, the umbilical cord is composed of three blood vessels: two arteries and one vein, integrated in a mucous connective tissue (Wharton’s jelly) upholstered by a layer of amniotic coating. Vascular alterations in the umbilical cord or damage in this tissue because of other vascular disorders during pregnancy are worryingly related with detrimental maternofoetal consequences. In the present work, we will describe the main vascular alterations presented in the umbilical cord, both in the arteries (Single umbilical artery, hypoplastic umbilical artery or aneurysms in umbilical arteries) and the vein (Vascular thrombosis, aneurysms or varicose veins in the umbilical vein), together with other possible complications (Velamentous insertion, vasa praevia, hypercoiled or hypocoiled cord, angiomyxoma and haematomas). Likewise, the effect of the main obstetric vascular disorders like hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (specially pre-eclampsia) and chronic venous disease on the umbilical cord will also be summarized herein.
Clinical and Radiological Features of Interstitial Lung Diseases Associated with Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis
Authors: Palmucci Stefano , Di Mari Alessia , Cancemi Giovanna , Pennisi Isabella , Mauro Letizia Antonella , Sambataro Gianluca , Sambataro Domenico , Galioto Federica , Fazio Giulia , Ferlito Agata , Pino Fabio , Basile Antonio , Vancheri Carlo
Published: November 2022

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis are autoimmune idiopathic systemic inflammatory diseases, characterized by various degrees of muscle inflammation and typical cutaneous lesions—the latter found in dermatomyositis. The underlying pathogenesis is characterized by a high level of uncertainty, and recent studies suggest diseases may have different immunopathological mechanisms. In polymyositis, components of the cellular immune system are involved, whereas in dermatomyositis, the pathogenesis is mainly mediated by the humoral immune response. The interstitial lung disease occurs in one-third of polymyositis and dermatomyositis patients associated with worse outcomes, showing an estimated excess mortality rate of around 40%. Lung involvement may also appear, such as a complication of muscle weakness, mainly represented by aspiration pneumonia or respiratory insufficiency. The clinical picture is characterized, in most cases, by progressive dyspnea and non-productive cough. In some cases, hemoptysis and chest pain are found. Onset can be acute, sub-acute, or chronic. Pulmonary involvement could be assessed by High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT), which may identify early manifestations of diseases. Moreover, Computed Tomography (CT) appearances can be highly variable depending on the positivity of myositis-specific autoantibodies. The most common pathological patterns include fibrotic and cellular nonspecific interstitial pneumonia or organizing pneumonia; major findings observed on HRCT images are represented by consolidations, ground-glass opacities, and reticulations. Other findings include honeycombing, subpleural bands, and traction bronchiectasis. In patients having Anti-ARS Abs, HRCT features may develop with consolidations, ground glass opacities (GGOs), and reticular opacities in the peripheral portions; nonspecific interstitial pneumonia or nonspecific interstitial pneumonia mixed with organizing pneumonia have been reported as the most frequently encountered patterns. In patients with anti-MDA5 Abs, mixed or unclassifiable patterns are frequently observed at imaging. HRCT is a sensitive method that allows one not only to identify disease, but also to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect disease progression and/or complications; however, radiological findings are not specific. Therefore, aim of this pictorial essay is to describe clinical and radiological features of interstitial lung diseases associated with polymyositis and dermatomyositis, emphasizing the concept that gold standard for diagnosis and classification–should be based on a multidisciplinary approach.
Risk Factors of Descending Necrotizing Mediastinitis in Deep Neck Abscesses
Authors: Hu Chih-Yu , Lien Kuang-Hsu , Chen Shih-Lung , Chan Kai-Chieh
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Cervical space infection could also extend to the mediastinum due to the anatomical vicinity. The mortality rate of descending necrotizing mediastinitis is 85% if untreated. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for the progression of deep neck abscesses to descending necrotizing mediastinitis. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients undergoing surgical treatment of deep neck abscesses from August 2017 to July 2022. Computed tomography (CT) was performed in all patients. Before surgery, lab data including hemoglobulin (Hb), white blood cell count, neutrophil percentage, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, and blood glucose were recorded. Patients’ characteristics including gender, age, etiology, and presenting symptoms were collected. Hospitalization duration and bacterial cultures from the wound were also analyzed. Results: The C-reactive protein (CRP) level was higher in patients with a mediastinal abscess than in patients without a mediastinal abscess (340.9 ± 33.0 mg/L vs. 190.1 ± 72.7 mg/L) (p = 0.000). The submandibular space was more commonly affected in patients without a mediastinal abscess (p = 0.048). The retropharyngeal (p = 0.003) and anterior visceral (p = 0.006) spaces were more commonly affected in patients with a mediastinal abscess. Conclusions: Descending necrtotizing mediastinitis results in mortality and longer hospitalization times. Early detection of a mediastinal abscess on CT is crucial for treatment. Excluding abscesses of the anterior superior mediastinum for which transcervical drainage is sufficient, other mediastinal abscesses require multimodal treatment including ENT and thoracic surgery to achieve a good outcome.
Safety of Rigid Bronchoscopy for Therapeutic Intervention at the Intensive Care Unit Bedside
Authors: Kim Sang Hyuk , Chang Boksoon , Ahn Hyun Joo , Kim Jie Ae , Yang Mikyung , Kim Hojoong , Jeong Byeong-Ho
Published: November 2022

Background and Objective: Although rigid bronchoscopy is generally performed in the operating room (OR), the intervention is sometimes emergently required at the intensive care unit (ICU) bedside. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety of rigid bronchoscopy at the ICU bedside. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed medical records of patients who underwent rigid bronchoscopy while in the ICU from January 2014 to December 2020. According to the location of rigid bronchoscopic intervention, patients were classified into the ICU group (n = 171, cases emergently performed at the ICU bedside without anesthesiologists) and the OR group (n = 165, cases electively performed in the OR with anesthesiologists). The risk of intra- and post-procedural complications in the ICU group was analyzed using multivariable logistic regression, with the OR group as the reference category. Results: Of 336 patients, 175 (52.1%) were moribund and survival was not expected without intervention, and 170 (50.6%) received invasive respiratory support before the intervention. The most common reasons for intervention were post-intubation tracheal stenosis (39.3%) and malignant airway obstruction (34.5%). Although the overall rate of intra-procedural complications did not differ between the two groups (86.0% vs. 80.6%, p = 0.188), post-procedural complications were more frequent in the ICU group than in the OR group (24.0% vs. 12.1%, p = 0.005). Severe complications requiring unexpected invasive management occurred only post-procedurally and were more common in the ICU group (10.5% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.052). In the fully adjusted model, the ICU group had increased odds for severe post-procedural complications, but statistical significance was not observed (odds ratio, 2.54; 95% confidence interval, 0.73–8.88; p = 0.144). Conclusions: Although general anesthesia is generally considered the gold standard for rigid bronchoscopy, our findings indicate that rigid bronchoscopy may be safely performed at the ICU bedside in selective cases of emergency. Moreover, adequate patient selection and close post-procedural monitoring are required to prevent severe complications.
Utilizing Graphical Analysis of Chest Radiographs for Primary Screening of Osteoporosis
Authors: Saeki Soichiro , Yamamoto Kouichi , Tomizawa Rie , Meszaros Szilvia , Horvath Csaba , Zoldi Luca , Szabo Helga , Tarnoki Adam Domonkos , Tarnoki David Laszlo , Ishida Takayuki , Honda Chika
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Osteoporosis is a major risk of fractures, harming patients’ quality of life. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which can detect osteoporosis early, is too expensive to be conducted on a regular basis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a screening method using chest radiographs developed in Japan applied to another population. Materials and Methods: Fifty-five patients who had a chest radiograph and DXA and applied within three months of each test were recruited from the patient database of Semmelweis University (Budapest, Hungary). Graphical analysis of the chest radiographs was conducted to identify the ratio of the cortical bone in the clavicle of each patient. Two researchers performed the analysis, and multiple regression was conducted to determine the bone mineral density of each patient provided by DXA. Results: The Pearson correlation between two examiners’ determinations of the cortical bone ratio was 0.769 (p < 0.001). The multiple regression model proved to be statistically significant in identifying osteoporosis, but the model adopted for the Hungarian population was different compared to the Japanese population. Conclusions: This simple, economic Japanese graphical analysis method for chest radiographs may be feasible in detecting osteoporosis. Further studies with a larger population of patients with greater variety of ethnicity would be of value in improving the accuracy of this model.
Associations between Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference, and Myocardial Infarction in Older Adults Aged over 75 Years: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Han So Yoon , Kim Nan Hee , Kim Do Hoon , Kim Yang Hyun , Park Yong Kyu , Kim Seon Mee
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Body mass index (BMI) is widely used as a standard screening method for obesity and an indicator of related diseases. However, its inability to distinguish between lean body mass and body fat limits its utility. This limitation may be more prominent in older populations, wherein age-related sarcopenia and increased visceral fat due to the redistribution of adipose tissue may preclude a precise estimation of obesity. Many studies suggest that waist circumference (WC) is more strongly related to obesity-related diseases. There are also different opinions on whether the obesity paradox is real or a result of confusing interpretations. This study seeks to determine the association between myocardial infarction (MI), BMI, and WC in older adults and to determine if BMI and WC can reliably predict the risk of cardiovascular disease. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cohort study of older Korean adults aged over 75 years registered in the National Health Insurance System Senior database. Results: The results from the analysis using model 5, which was adjusted for each study variable, showed that the lower the BMI, the higher the hazard ratio (HR) of MI and vice versa. On the other hand, groups with lower than normal WC showed lower HR; even if it was higher, the difference was not statistically significant. Those with abdominal obesity tended to have an increased HR of MI. Conclusions: This study found that HR for MI has a negative relationship with BMI, whereas it has a positive relationship with WC. Furthermore, WC is a more appropriate indicator for predicting the risk of MI in the older population.
Characteristics of Surface Electromyograph Activity of Cervical Extensors and Flexors in Nonspecific Neck Pain Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nobe Ruka , Yajima Hiroyoshi , Takayama Miho , Takakura Nobuari
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: We identified typical surface electromyogram (sEMG) activities of the cervical extensors and flexors during motions in the three anatomical planes in healthy adults. The aim of this study was to explore characteristics of sEMG activities of these cervical muscles in nonspecific neck pain (NSNP) patients based on healthy adults. Materials and Methods: Participants were 24 NSNP patients (NSNP group, mean ± SD of age, 47.5 ± 15.5) and 24 healthy adults (control group, 20.5 ± 1.4). For each participant, sEMG of the cervical extensors and flexors was recorded during neck flexion, extension, bilateral lateral flexion, bilateral rotation, and at the neutral position in Phase I (the neck from the neutral position to the maximum range of motion), Phase II (at the maximum range of motion), and Phase III (from the maximum range of motion to the neutral position), yielding a total of 42 phases. A percentage of maximum voluntary contraction to normalize muscle activity in each phase was calculated to obtain the ratio of muscle activities in the extensors and flexors in each of 36 phases of the motions to the neutral position and ratio of the flexors to extensors in activity for 21 phases. Results: In 28 of 36 phases of the motions, the ratios of muscle activities in the extensors and flexors to the neutral position in the NSNP group were significantly larger than the control group (p < 0.05). In 6 of 21 phases, the ratios of the flexors to extensors in activity in the NSNP group were significantly larger than in the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In NSNP patients, the activity of the cervical extensors and flexors associated with neck motion increased with an imbalance in activity between these muscles compared to their activity in healthy adults. The results of this study will be useful in understanding the pathogenesis of NSNP and in constructing an objective evaluation of the treatment efficacy on NSNP patients.
Assessment of Anti-Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-Antibody-Dependent Humoral Response in Patients before and after Lung Transplantation
Authors: Stanjek-Cichoracka Anita , Ochman Marek , Chełmecka Elżbieta , Hrapkowicz Tomasz
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives: Testing for anti-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies both before and after transplantation is of fundamental significance for the success of lung transplantation. The aim of this study was the evaluation of anti-HLA immunization of patients before and after lung transplant who were subjected to qualification and transplantation. Materials and Methods: Prior to the transplantation, patients were examined for the presence of IgG class anti-HLA antibodies (anti-human leukocyte antigen), the so-called panel-reactive antibodies (PRA), using the flow cytometry method. After the transplantation, the class and specificity of anti-HLA antibodies (also IgG) were determined using Luminex. Results: In the group examined, the PRA results ranged from 0.1% to 66.4%. Low (30%) and average (30–80%) immunization was found in only 9.7% of the group examined. Presence of class I anti-HLA antibodies with MFI (mean fluorescence intensity) greater than 1000 was found in 42.7% of the patients examined, while class II anti-HLA antibodies were found in 38.4%. Immunization levels before and after the transplantation were compared. In 10.87% of patients, DSA antibodies (donor-specific antibodies) with MFI of over 1000 were found. Conclusions: It seems that it is possible to confirm the correlation between pre- and post-transplantation immunization with the use of the two presented methods of determining IgG class anti-HLA antibodies by increasing the size of the group studied and conducting a long-term observation thereof.
Recent Advances in Continuous MOF Membranes for Gas Separation and Pervaporation
Authors: Xu Xiao , Hartanto Yusak , Zheng Jie , Luis Patricia
Published: November 2022

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), a sub-group of porous crystalline materials, have been receiving increasing attention for gas separation and pervaporation because of their high thermal and chemical stability, narrow window sizes, as well as tuneable structural, physical, and chemical properties. In this review, we comprehensively discuss developments in the formation of continuous MOF membranes for gas separation and pervaporation. Additionally, the application performance of continuous MOF membranes in gas separation and pervaporation are analysed. Lastly, some perspectives for the future application of continuous MOF membranes for gas separation and pervaporation are given.
Double-Layer MWCNTs@HPPS Photothermal Paper for Water Purification with Strong Acid-Alkali Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Gao Yuan , Jin Guoqing , Wang Shuaishuai , Lyu Lihua , Wei Chunyan , Zhou Xinghai
Published: November 2022

Solar-driven interfacial evaporation technology has been identified as a promising method to relieve the global water crisis, and it is particularly important to design an ideal structure of the solar thermal conversion evaporation device. In this paper, hydrophilic polyphenylene sulfide (HPPS) paper with loose structure and appropriate water transmission performance was designed as the based-material, and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) layer with excellent photothermal conversion performance was constructed to realize the high-efficiency solar-driven evaporation. Under tail swabbing mode, the cold evaporation surface on the back of the evaporator greatly improved the evaporation rate, cut off the heat transfer channel to bulk water, and achieved the maximum evaporation rate of 1.23 L/m2·h. Ethyl cellulose (EC) was introduced to adjust the water supply performance of HPPS layer, and a large specific surface area of cold evaporation was obtained, thus improving the water evaporation rate. In the simulation experiment of seawater desalination and dye wastewater treatment, it showed good water purification capacity and acid/alkali-resistance, which had great practical application significance.
Influence of CAD/CAM Abutment Heights on the Biomechanical Behavior of Zirconia Single Crowns
Authors: de Matos Jefferson David Melo , Gomes Leonardo Silva , de Carvalho Ramos Nathália , Queiroz Daher Antonio , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Campos Tiago Moreira Bastos , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto , da Rocha Scalzer Lopes Guilherme , Bottino Marco Antonio , Paes Junior Tarcisio José Arruda
Published: November 2022

The biomechanical behavior of the universal link (titanium base) prosthetic abutment with different heights in implant-supported restorations was evaluated. Forty regular implants (4 × 10 mm) in titanium were used, divided into two groups according to the abutment height (n = 20): 4.5 × 4 mm (short) and 4.5 × 5.5 mm (long). Using CAD/CAM technology, zirconia crowns were milled and cemented onto the prosthetic abutments. Half of the specimens were submitted to the initial maximum fracture load test in a universal testing machine. The long abutments presented fracture load (41.1 ± 6.96 kgf) statistically similar to the short abutments (49.5 ± 7.68 kgf). The other half of the specimens were submitted to mechanical cycling (2,000,000 cycles, 2 Hz with a stainless-steel antagonist with a diameter of 1.6 mm), following ISO 14801:2007. Subsequently, the survival of the specimens was evaluated using the survival analysis function, Kaplan–Meier and Mentel–Cox (log- rank) (p < 0.05). The finite element analysis was performed in similar conditions to those used for the in vitro test through computer-aided engineering software (version 19.2, ANSYS Inc., Houston, TX, USA). The biomechanical behavior of both models was similar regardless of the evaluated structure of the set. It was concluded that both short and long abutment presents promising fatigue behavior and stress distribution for use in long-term implant-supported restorations.
The Effectiveness of Cooled-Finger and Vacuum Distillation Processes in View of the Removal of Fe, Si and Zn from Aluminium
Authors: Gotenbruck Michaela , Curtolo Danilo C. , Friedrich Semiramis , Friedrich Bernd
Published: November 2022

The increasing demand for ultra-high purity aluminum for technological applications has led to the improvement of refining methods in recent decades. To achieve ultra-purity levels (>5N), the common industrial way is to firstly purify aluminum from 2N8 up to 4N8 via three-layer electrolysis, followed by fractional crystallization (usually zone melting). Since both of these methods are very cost- and time-intensive, this paper aims at providing other alternatives of purification. For this purpose, here, the purification of some selected impurities through cooled-finger fractional crystallization method and vacuum distillation have been the focus of this investigation. Both processes are more environmentally friendly than three-layer electrolysis and require less time than zone melting. In this paper, both methods were explored for the aluminum purification. Moreover, the effect of process parameters on the purification efficiency of iron, zinc, and silicon has been investigated. At the end, the effectiveness of the two processes was compared and advantages and disadvantages were summarized. The results showed that the cooling finger process effectively removed iron and silicon impurities, but the removal efficiency of zinc was low. The vacuum distillation process successfully removes zinc in the first stage of distillation. Iron and silicon removal requires additional distillation stages to achieve lower impurity levels.
Micro-Scale Flow Excitation under Imposition of Uniform Magnetic Field and Electrical Current
Authors: Xu Guangye , Iwai Kazuhiko
Published: November 2022

Mass transfer is often the rate-determining step for solid-liquid chemical reactions. Decreasing the concentration boundary layer thickness is essential to intensify the chemical reaction. Because the concentration boundary layer exists in the velocity boundary layer, forcing imposition on the concentration boundary layer by superimposing an electrical current and a magnetic field was proposed. Through this, flow can be directly excited in the concentration boundary layer. The previous results indicate that by superimposing a direct current and a gradient magnetic field, the development of the concentration boundary layer was suppressed because of a macro-scale flow excitation in the whole vessel. By superimposing the gradient magnetic field with a modulated current, the development of the concentration boundary layer was further suppressed. This is because of the macro-scale flow enhancement and the excitation of a micro-scale flow near the solid-liquid interface. However, the mechanism of the micro-scale flow excitation has not been clarified. To clarify this, a uniform magnetic field was superimposed with the direct current or the modulated current. By this means, only the micro-scale flow was excited near the anode surface. The results found that the non-uniform electromagnetic force distribution is the main reason for the micro-scale flow excitation.
Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of A356 Alloy and A6061 Alloy through Rheo, Upsetting, Thixo, Forming Process, and T6 Heat Treatment
Authors: Jin Chul Kyu
Published: November 2022

The thixo process has the benefit of producing a semi-solid material in which fine primary α-Al grains are uniformly distributed. However, it also has the disadvantage of a costly raw material billet. In this study, a semi-solid slurry was prepared from the rheo process by cooling and electromagnetic stirring, and then a billet for the thixo process was manufactured through an upsetting process with semi-solid slurry. Then, the billet was reheated (thixo process) to make a semi-solid state, and then a final sample was manufactured through a forming process. In both A356 and A6061 materials, the equivalent diameter of the primary α-Al grains became smaller and the roundness became close to one throughout rheo, upsetting, thixo, and forming processes. Due to the refinement and spheroidizing effect of the primary α-Al grains, the tensile strength was improved by each process, and the elongation was slightly decreased. However, after T6 heat treatment, the tensile strength of A356 was decreased, but the elongation was greatly improved. In the case of A6061, on the other hand, the tensile strength was significantly improved, and its elongation decreased after T6 heat treatment.
Influence of Vanadium Extraction Converter Process Optimization on Vanadium Extraction Effect
Authors: Zhao Jinxuan , Wu Wei , Zhao Bo , Li Xiangchen , Xiao Feng
Published: November 2022

In view of the problem of low bottom-blowing stirring intensity and easy blockage in the use of capillary bricks, the bottom-blowing gas supply element of circular seam was used. The results of water model experiments shows that the suitable bottom-blowing element was arranged on the circumference 0.45D away from the center of the furnace bottom (where D is the diameter of the converter bottom). The best blowing process parameters for vanadium extraction from hot metal were are obtained in different periods. The industrial test results shows that the average values of vanadium content in semi-steel and metallic iron content in vanadium slag were 0.033 wt% and 22.39 wt%, respectively, after process optimization, which were 0.003 wt% and 5.25 wt% lower than those before process optimization. The average value of vanadium oxide content in vanadium slag was 18.54 wt%, an increase of 0.2 wt% compared with the one before process optimization. This shows that after the process was optimized, the kinetic conditions of the molten bath were improved, and the vanadium oxide reaction was more sufficient. An additional 5210 tons of vanadium slag could be produced each year, and better economic benefits could be obtained.
Flavor Profiling Using Comprehensive Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Metabolites in Tomato Soups
Authors: Leygeber Simon , Grossmann Justus L. , Diez-Simon Carmen , Karu Naama , Dubbelman Anne-Charlotte , Harms Amy C. , Westerhuis Johan A. , Jacobs Doris M. , Lindenburg Peter W. , Hendriks Margriet M. W. B. , Ammerlaan Brenda C. H. , van den Berg Marco A. , van Doorn Rudi , Mumm Roland , Hall Robert D. , Smilde Age K. , Hankemeier Thomas
Published: November 2022

Trained sensory panels are regularly used to rate food products but do not allow for data-driven approaches to steer food product development. This study evaluated the potential of a molecular-based strategy by analyzing 27 tomato soups that were enhanced with yeast-derived flavor products using a sensory panel as well as LC-MS and GC-MS profiling. These data sets were used to build prediction models for 26 different sensory attributes using partial least squares analysis. We found driving separation factors between the tomato soups and metabolites predicting different flavors. Many metabolites were putatively identified as dipeptides and sulfur-containing modified amino acids, which are scientifically described as related to umami or having “garlic-like” and “onion-like” attributes. Proposed identities of high-impact sensory markers (methionyl-proline and asparagine-leucine) were verified using MS/MS. The overall results highlighted the strength of combining sensory data and metabolomics platforms to find new information related to flavor perception in a complex food matrix.
Phytochemical Study of Euphorbia turcomanica Boiss.
Authors: Motinia Newsha , Ghannadian Mustafa , Zolfaghari Behzad , Yazdiniapour Zeinab
Published: November 2022

The attraction to the Euphorbia genus, with its remarkable diversity in species, is due to its variety of chemical compositions. Euphorbia turcomanica is one of the species of the spurge family growing wildly in Iran. This research aims to investigate the presence of secondary metabolites, specially terpenoid compounds, in terms of structural determination. Samples of E. tucomanica were finely powdered and macerated with acetone/dichloromethane 2:1. Repeated column chromatography using silica gel, MPLC, and HPLC methods followed by the analysis of data obtained from spectroscopic means was carried out to purify and identify the terpenoid constituents. The chemical structures of nine known terpenoids were determined for the first time from E. turcomanica during this study. Loliolide (1), a monoterpene, and eight steroids and triterpenes, including simiarenol (2), isomultiflorenol (3), cycloart-25-ene-3β,24-diol (4), β-sitosterol (5), cycloart-23-ene-3β,25-diol (6), 3α, 11α-dihydroxyurs-12-ene (7), 3β, 24β, 25-trihydroxycycloartane (8), and 7α-hydroxystigmasterol (9) were isolated and identified. E. tucomanica, with a rich terpenoid profile, can be one of the valuable and economic sources providing compounds for drug development.
Lower Genital Tract Microbiome in Early Pregnancy in the Eastern European Population
Authors: Gryaznova Mariya , Lebedeva Olga , Kozarenko Olesya , Smirnova Yuliya , Burakova Inna , Syromyatnikov Mikhail , Maslov Alexander , Popov Vasily
Published: November 2022

Background: It is known that the features of the cervicovaginal microbiome can depend on ethnicity, which might be caused by genetic factors, as well as differences in diet and lifestyle. There is no research on the cervicovaginal microbiome of Eastern European women during early pregnancy. Methods: We evaluated the cervical and cervicovaginal microbiome of women with first-trimester pregnancy (n = 22), further delivered at term, using the 16S rRNA sequencing method. Results: The predominant bacterial species in both groups was Lactobacillus iners, followed by Prevotella copri, Ileibacterium valens, Gardnerella vaginalis and Muribaculum intestinale in the cervical samples, and Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella copri, Bifidobacterium longum, Ileibacterium valens and Muribaculum intestinale in the cervicovaginal samples. The cervical microbiome had higher alpha diversity; a higher abundance of Muribaculum intestinale, Aquabacterium parvum and Methyloversatilis universalis; and a lower abundance of Psychrobacillus psychrodurans. Conclusions: The Lactobacillus iners-dominated microbiome (CST III) was the predominant type of cervical and cervicovaginal microbiome in early pregnancy in the majority of the women. The presence of soil and animal bacteria in the cervicovaginal microbiome can be explained by the rural origin of patients.
Identification of Novel Bile Salt-Tolerant Genes in Lactobacillus Using Comparative Genomics and Its Application in the Rapid Screening of Tolerant Strains
Authors: Chen Chunfei , Yu Leilei , Tian Fengwei , Zhao Jianxin , Zhai Qixiao
Published: November 2022

Under bile salt treatment, strains display significant differences in their tolerance ability, suggesting the existence of diverse resistance mechanisms in Lactobacillus; however, the genes involved in this protective process are not fully understood. In this study, novel target genes associated with bile salt tolerance in Lactobacillus were identified using comparative genomics for PCR detection and the rapid screening of tolerant strains. The bile salt tolerance of 107 lactobacilli isolated from different origins was assessed, and 26 strains with comparatively large differences were selected for further comparative genomic analysis. Tolerant strains had 112 specific genes that were enriched in the phosphotransferase system, the two-component system, carbohydrate metabolism, and the ATP-binding cassette transporter. Six genes from Lactobacillus were cloned into the inducible lactobacillal expression vector pSIP403. Overexpression in the host strain increased its tolerance ability by 11.86–18.08%. The novel genes identified here can be used as targets to design primers for the rapid screening of bile salt-tolerant lactobacilli. Altogether, these results deepen our understanding of bile salt tolerance mechanisms in Lactobacillus and provide a basis for further rapid assessments of tolerant strains.