bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alpha-Defensin 1: An Emerging Periodontitis Biomarker
Authors: Lee Jisuk , Chang Dong Sik , Kim Junsu , Hwang Young Sun
Published: June 2023

Background: Research on the development of reliable diagnostic targets is being conducted to overcome the high prevalence and difficulty in managing periodontitis. However, despite the development of various periodontitis target markers, their practical application has been limited due to poor diagnostic accuracy. In this study, we present an improved periodontitis diagnostic target and explore its role in periodontitis. Methods: Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected from healthy individuals and periodontitis patients, and proteomic analysis was performed. The target marker levels for periodontitis were quantified in GCF samples by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) were used for the osteoclast formation assay. Results: LC-MS/MS analysis of whole GCF showed that the level of alpha-defensin 1 (DEFA-1) was higher in periodontitis GCF than in healthy GCF. The comparison of periodontitis target proteins galactin-10, ODAM, and azurocidin proposed in other studies found that the difference in DEFA-1 levels was the largest between healthy and periodontitis GCF, and periodontitis was more effectively distinguished. The differentiation of RANKL-induced BMMs into osteoclasts was significantly reduced by recombinant DEFA-1 (rDEFA-1). Conclusions: These results suggest the regulatory role of DEFA-1 in the periodontitis process and the relevance of DEFA-1 as a diagnostic target for periodontitis.
Department Wide Validation in Digital Pathology—Experience from an Academic Teaching Hospital Using the UK Royal College of Pathologists’ Guidance
Authors: Kelleher Mai , Colling Richard , Browning Lisa , Roskell Derek , Roberts-Gant Sharon , Shah Ketan A. , Hemsworth Helen , White Kieron , Rees Gabrielle , Dolton Monica , Soares Maria Fernanda , Verrill Clare
Published: June 2023

Aim: we describe our experience of validating departmental pathologists for digital pathology reporting, based on the UK Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) “Best Practice Recommendations for Implementing Digital Pathology (DP),” at a large academic teaching hospital that scans 100% of its surgical workload. We focus on Stage 2 of validation (prospective experience) prior to full validation sign-off. Methods and results: twenty histopathologists completed Stage 1 of the validation process and subsequently completed Stage 2 validation, prospectively reporting a total of 3777 cases covering eight specialities. All cases were initially viewed on digital whole slide images (WSI) with relevant parameters checked on glass slides, and discordances were reconciled before the case was signed out. Pathologists kept an electronic log of the cases, the preferred reporting modality used, and their experiences. At the end of each validation, a summary was compiled and reviewed with a mentor. This was submitted to the DP Steering Group who assessed the scope of cases and experience before sign-off for full validation. A total of 1.3% (49/3777) of the cases had a discordance between WSI and glass slides. A total of 61% (30/49) of the discordances were categorised as a minor error in a supplementary parameter without clinical impact. The most common reasons for diagnostic discordances across specialities included identification and grading of dysplasia, assessment of tumour invasion, identification of small prognostic or diagnostic objects, interpretation of immunohistochemistry/special stains, and mitotic count assessment. Pathologists showed similar mean diagnostic confidences (on Likert scale from 0 to 7) with a mean of 6.8 on digital and 6.9 on glass slide reporting. Conclusion: we describe one of the first real-world experiences of a department-wide effort to implement, validate, and roll out digital pathology reporting by applying the RCPath Recommendations for Implementing DP. We have shown a very low rate of discordance between WSI and glass slides.
It Wasn’t All Zoom and Gloom: Teacher and Student Experiences of Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic in an Irish Post-Primary School
Authors: Egan Avril , Tiernan Peter
Published: June 2023

Research into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational institutions in Ireland has primarily focused on third-level courses and initial teacher education programmes. Little research has captured the experiences of practising post-primary teachers and their students as they made the transition to online learning. This study begins by examining the digital context of post-primary education in Ireland prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, paying particular attention to ICT policies and their recommendations. Following this, the importance of schools as more than a centre for curriculum delivery is examined, as well as the potential challenges adolescents face in non-face-to-face contexts. In total, 49 teachers and 130 students participated in the study by completing online surveys about their online learning experiences. The findings indicate that although teachers felt underprepared, many benefits to online learning were identified, especially around assessment and the provision of asynchronous content. Students enjoyed elements of online learning but felt overwhelmed and isolated.
Vapor Bubble Deformation and Collapse near Free Surface
Authors: Chen Yue , Wang Qichao , Xiong Hongbing , Qian Lijuan
Published: June 2023

Vapor bubbles are widely concerned in many industrial applications. The deformation and collapse of a vapor bubble near a free surface after being heated and raised from the bottom wall are investigated in this paper. On the basis of smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) and the van der Waals (VDW) equation of state, a numerical model of fluid dynamics and phase change was developed. The effects of fluid dynamics were considered, and the phase change of evaporation and condensation between liquid and vapor were discussed. Quantitative and qualitative comparisons between our numerical model and the experimental results were made. After verification, the numerical simulation of bubbles with the effects of the shear viscosity ηs and the heating distance L were taken into account. The regularity of the effect of the local Reynolds number (Re) and the Ohnesorge number (Oh) on the deformation of vapor bubbles is summarized through a further analysis of several cases, which can be summarized into four major patterns as follows: umbrella, semi-crescent, spheroid, and jet. The results show that the Re number has a great influence on the bubble deformation of near-wall bubbles. For Re > 1.5 × 102 and Oh < 3 × 10−4, the shape of the bubble is umbrella; for Re < 5 × 100 and Oh > 10−3, the bubble is spheroidal; and for 5 × 100 < Re < 1.5 × 102, 3 × 10−4 < Oh < 10−3, the bubble is semi-crescent. For liquid-surface bubbles, the Re number effect is small, and when Oh > 5 × 10−3, the shape of the bubble is jet all the time; there is no obvious difference in the bubble deformation, but the jet state is more obvious as the Re decreases. Finally, the dynamic and energy mechanisms behind each mode are discussed. The bubble diameter, bubble symmetry coefficient, and rising velocity were analyzed during their whole processes of bubble growth and collapse.
Study of Effects of MoS2 Nanofluid MQL Parameters on Cutting Forces and Surface Roughness in Hard Turning Using CBN Insert
Authors: Tuan Ngo Minh , Long Tran The , Ngoc Tran Bao
Published: June 2023

Lubrication and cooling in hard machining is an urgent and growing concern. The use of a suitable cooling lubrication condition is a crucial factor and has a great influence on the machining efficiency and the machined surface quality in hard machining. Among the proposed technological solutions, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) using nano-cutting oils is a novel solution and its effectiveness has been proven for hard turning. This work aims to investigate the influence of MQL technological parameters using MoS2 nano-cutting oil including nanoparticle concentration, air pressure, and air flow rate on surface roughness and the resultant cutting force in hard turning using CBN inserts. Box-Behnken optimal experimental design and ANOVA analysis were used to study the influence of the input parameters and determine the optimal values. The results present the influence of the survey parameters and provide technological guides for specific objective functions for further sustainable studies on MQL hard turning using nano-cutting oil.
Fractional Factor Model for Data Transmission in Real-Time Monitoring Network
Authors: Zhou Juxiang , Gao Wei , Zhang Hainan
Published: June 2023

Modeling data transmission problems in graph theory is internalized to the existence of fractional flows, and thus can be surrogated to be characterized by a fractional factor in diversified settings. We study the fractional factor framework in the network environment when some sites are damaged. The setting we focus on refers to the lower and upper fractional degrees described by two functions on the vertex set. It is determined that G is fractional (g,f,n) critical if δ(G)≥⌊a2+b2+2ab+2a+2b−34a⌋+n and I(G)>n+⌊(a+b−1)22a+2b−1a⌋2, where 1≤a≤b and b≥2.
Hybrid Impulsive Feedback Control for Drive–Response Synchronization of Fractional-Order Multi-Link Memristive Neural Networks with Multi-Delays
Authors: Fan Hongguang , Tang Jiahui , Shi Kaibo , Zhao Yi
Published: June 2023

This article addresses the issue of drive–response synchronization in fractional-order multi-link memristive neural networks (FMMNN) with multiple delays, under hybrid impulsive feedback control. To address the impact of multiple delays on system synchronization, an extended fractional-order delayed comparison principle incorporating impulses is established. By leveraging Laplace transform, Mittag–Leffler functions, the generalized comparison principle, and hybrid impulsive feedback control schemes, several new sufficient conditions are derived to ensure synchronization in the addressed FMMNN. Unlike existing studies on fractional-order single-link memristor-based systems, our response network is a multi-link model that considers impulsive effects. Notably, the impulsive gains αi are not limited to a small interval, thus expanding the application range of our approach (αi∈(−2,0)∪(−∞,−2)∪(0,+∞)). This feature allows one to choose impulsive gains and corresponding impulsive intervals that are appropriate for the system environment and control requirements. The theoretical results obtained in this study contribute to expanding the relevant theoretical achievements of fractional-order neural networks incorporating memristive characteristics.
A New Perspective on Predicting Roughness of Discontinuity from Fractal Dimension D of Outcrops
Authors: Zhang Qi , Pei Yuechao , Shen Yixin , Wang Xiaojun , Lai Jingqi , Wang Maohui
Published: June 2023

In tunnel construction, predicting the roughness of discontinuity is significant for preventing the collapse of the excavation face. However, currently, we are unable to use a parameter with invariant properties to quantify and predict the roughness of discontinuity. Fractal dimension D is one such parameter that be used to characterize the roughness of discontinuity. The study proposes a new method to predict the roughness of discontinuity from the fractal dimension D of outcrops. The measurement method of the coordinates of outcrops is firstly summarized, and the most suitable method of calculating fractal dimension D is then provided. For characterizing the spatial variability of fractal dimension D, the random field of fractal dimension D is discretized, and the prediction model is then established based on Bayesian theory. The proposed method is applied to one tunnel for predicting the roughness of discontinuity, and the results indicate that the relative errors of prediction are less than 1.5%. The sensitivities of correlation function and discontinuity size are analyzed. It is found that the different correlation functions have no obvious effect on the prediction results, and the proposed method is well applied to relatively large sizes of discontinuity.
Physical Activity and Emotional Regulation in Physical Education in Children Aged 12–14 Years and Its Relation with Practice Motives
Authors: Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Franco-García Juan Manuel , Mayordomo-Pinilla Noelia , Pazzi Francesco , Galán-Arroyo Carmen
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to analyze the different types of emotional regulation in first and second year high school students according to sex and age. Many adolescents do not meet the minimum WHO recommendations, at a critical stage in which habits that will later be maintained are established. For this reason, physical education is an important means to promote these habits and an understanding of the reasons for their participation in physical education. For this purpose, PLOC-2 was used. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was used to determine the characteristics of the data, the ANOVA test to explore the differences between sexes, and the Spearman test for correlations between the type of regulation and age. The results showed significant differences in several items and emotional regulation by sex and an inverse correlation between age and demotivation. There are differences between the reasons why both sexes perform physical activity, and we have determined that boys have more intrinsic regulation than girls do.
Exploring Spatial Mismatch between Primary Care and Older Populations in an Aging Country: A Case Study of South Korea
Authors: Kang Jeon-Young , Wong Sandy , Park Jinwoo , Lee Jinhyung , Aldstadt Jared
Published: June 2023

With the rapid growth of aging populations in South Korea, it is important to assess spatial accessibility to healthcare resources as older adults may need frequent visits to hospitals. Healthcare spatial accessibility is measured based on available resources (e.g., physicians, beds, services), demands (e.g., population), and travel costs (e.g., distance or time). In this study, we employed an Enhanced Two-Step Floating Catchment Area (E2SFCA) method to measure the spatial accessibility to primary care for older populations (i.e., aged 65 and older) in major cities in South Korea, including Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, Daejeon, and Ulsan. We found that the aging population in Seoul, the capital and biggest city in South Korea, has relatively better accessibility than those living in other cities. We also discovered a negative relationship between accessibility to primary care and the aging index (i.e., population over 65 years old/population less than 15 years old); the regions with a higher ratio of older populations have lower accessibility to primary care. The results suggested that more primary care services (perhaps via mobile vans) are needed in regions predominantly with older people to improve their healthcare access.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Luminescent Sensing Properties of a Supramolecular 3D Zinc(II) Metal–Organic Framework with Terephthalate and Bis(imidazol-1-yl)methane Linkers
Authors: Matveevskaya Vladislava V. , Pavlov Dmitry I. , Ryadun Alexey A. , Fedin Vladimir P. , Potapov Andrei S.
Published: June 2023

Supramolecular 3D Zn(II) coordination polymer {[Zn(bim)(bdc)]⋅0.8DMF⋅0.4EtOH⋅0.1H2O }n (Zn-MOF), constructed from Zn2+ ions, bis(imidazol-1-yl)methane (bim) and terephthalate (bdc2−) anions, was synthesized and structurally characterized. Zn-MOF crystallizes in the tetragonal crystal system, space group P42/n. Each Zn(II) ion coordinates two neutral bim molecules in a bridging bidentate coordination mode via nitrogen atoms at position 3 of the imidazole rings and two bdc2− anions, with monodentate coordination of the carboxylate group for one of them and bidentate coordination for another. Zn(II) cations are in a distorted square pyramidal ZnN2O3 coordination environment. Metal cations are alternately linked by the bim and bdc2− ligands, forming a two-dimensional layered structure along the crystallographic plane ab. As a result of layer interpenetration, a supramolecular 3D network is formed. Zn-MOF demonstrated blue (aquamarine) emission with a maximum at 430 nm upon excitation at 325 nm. The luminescence lifetime of 6 ns is characteristic for ligand-centered fluorescence. The luminescent sensing properties of Zn-MOF in ethanol suspension toward inorganic cations and anions were evaluated and an emission quenching response was observed for Fe3+ and chromate/dichromate ions. Photoinduced electron transfer from Zn-MOF to Fe3+ was elucidated as a possible quenching mechanism on the basis of DFT calculations.
Educational Intervention Effects on Depression and Anxiety in Patients after Myocardial Infarction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhamaliyeva Lazzat M. , Zhamankulova Damira G. , Abenova Nurgul A. , Koshmaganbetova Gulbakit K.
Published: June 2023

Depression and anxiety in cardiovascular disease worsen the prognosis of patients. Treatments for these disorders often provide limited improvement. The present study aimed to test, for the first time, the impact of educational technology on anxiety and depressive symptoms in patients participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program. A 12-month randomized controlled trial was conducted, in which 207 patients were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n = 76) or control (n = 69) groups. The intervention involved a structured patient education program provided by medical students who had undergone specially designed training in cardiac rehabilitation. The primary outcomes were death, hospitalization, heart failure, and recurrent myocardial infarction. The study also assessed anxiety and depression. A year later, the experimental group showed a statistically significant decrease in anxiety and depression on the HADS scale, with reductions of 2.0 and 1.9 points, respectively (p < 0.05). The control group showed reductions of 1.5 and 1.2 points (p < 0.05). The difference in the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression between the groups at 12 months was −1.29 in favor of the main group (95% CI, −0.7 to −1.88), and the standardized mean difference was 0.36 (95% CI, 0.03 to 0.69). No treatment-related adverse events were observed. The results suggest that educational interventions can have a positive impact on mental health. The study’s strengths include a structured intervention, randomization, and long-term follow-up. The limitations include the lack of blinding of study participants and a relatively small sample size.
Objective, Clinician- and Patient-Reported Evaluation of Late Toxicity Following Adjuvant Radiation for Early Breast Cancer: Long-Term Follow-Up Results of a Randomised Series
Authors: Dejonckheere Cas Stefaan , Abramian Alina , Lindner Kira , Bachmann Anne , Layer Katharina , Anzböck Teresa , Layer Julian Philipp , Sarria Gustavo Renato , Scafa Davide , Koch David , Leitzen Christina , Kaiser Christina , Faridi Andree , Schmeel Leonard Christopher
Published: June 2023

Background and Purpose: This study aimed to differentially assess the frequency and severity of late radiation-induced toxicity following adjuvant whole-breast irradiation for early breast cancer with conventional fractionation (CF) and moderate hypofractionation (mHF). Materials and Methods: Patients recruited in a previous randomised controlled trial comparing acute toxicity between CF and mHF without disease recurrence were included in a post hoc analysis. Spectrophotometric and ultrasonographic examinations were performed for an objective evaluation and subsequent comparison of long-term skin toxicity. Furthermore, patient- and clinician-reported outcomes were recorded. Results: Sixty-four patients with a median age of 58 (37–81) years were included. The median follow-up was 57 (37–73) months. A total of 55% underwent CF and 45% mHF. A total of 52% received a sequential boost to the tumour bed. A significant decrease in mean L* (p = 0.011) and an increase in a* (p = 0.040) and b* values (p < 0.001) were observed, indicating hyperpigmentation. In comparison with the non-irradiated breast, there was a significant increase in both cutis (+14%; p < 0.001) and subcutis (+17%; p = 0.011) thickness, significantly more pronounced in CF patients (p = 0.049). In CF patients only, a sequential boost significantly increased the local cutis thickness and oedema compared to non-boost regions in the same breast (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: mHF objectively resulted in reduced long-term skin toxicity compared to CF. A sequential boost increased the local fibrosis rate in CF, but not in mHF. This might explain the subjectively reported better cosmetic outcomes in patients receiving mHF and reinforces the rationale for favouring mHF as the standard of care.
Evaluation of the Hemostatic Effect of an Innovative Tissue Adhesive during Extraction Therapy under Rivaroxaban in a Rodent Model
Authors: Heitzer Marius , Winnand Philipp , Bock Anna , Ooms Mark , Katz Marie Sophie , Kniha Kristian , Grottke Oliver , Hölzle Frank , Modabber Ali
Published: June 2023

An increase in rivaroxaban therapies is associated with increased numbers of postoperative bleeding despite the use of hemostatic sponges, which are currently the gold standard treatment. VIVO has shown promising hemostatic results, favorable tissue properties, and ease of application, although it has not yet been used in the oral cavity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hemostatic properties of VIVO in the extraction sockets of 31 rodents and compare this to gelatin sponge (GSP) therapy. At rivaroxaban concentrations of 264.10 ± 250.10 ng/mL, 62 extraction sockets were generated, of which 31 were treated with VIVO and 31 with GSP. The duration time, early and late bleeding events, and wound healing score were determined. Histologic examinations of the tissues were performed after 5 days. VIVO presented a longer procedure, 1.26 ± 0.06 min, but a significantly shorter bleeding time, 0.14 ± 0.03 min. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of the severity and timing of bleeding. More minor early bleeding events were observed for GSP. VIVO showed a significantly better healing score, with favorable histological results. In an animal study, VIVO showed promising hemostatic properties after tooth extraction under ongoing anticoagulative therapy.
Flow Behavior and Mechanical Properties of Multi-Pass Thermomechanically Processed 7075 Al-Alloy
Authors: El-Shenawy Eman , Farahat Ahmed I. Z. , Ragab Adham E. , Elsayed Ahmed , Reda Reham
Published: June 2023

Research on multi-pass hot processing of 7075 Al-alloy was rarely discussed. This study aims to design and evaluate different thermomechanical processing strategies (TMPS) to produce 3 mm-thick sheets of 7075 Al-alloy. A physical simulation was performed using the hot compression test of a Gleeble 3500 to study flow mechanisms and microstructural evolution, while an experimental investigation was carried out using a rolling mill to examine the effect of TMPS on the mechanical properties. Four hot forming strategies were designed and tested at a constant strain rate of 0.1 s−1 over a temperature range of 200–450 °C. These strategies involved applying a constant amount of deformation of 65–70% in single (SP), double (DP), triple (TP), and quadruple (QP) passes of thermomechanical processing to study the influence of multi-pass thermomechanical processing on the final mechanical properties and industrial feasibility. The microstructure analysis showed a significant refinement and more uniform distribution of precipitates with an increasing number of passes, as observed through optical micrographs and the full width at half maximum (FWHM)-position relationship of XRD data. The results indicate that QP is the optimum strategy for producing the best mechanical properties in the shortest production time.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir Welded DP1180 Steel Plates
Authors: Zhao Chen , Li Shuai , Wang Binbin , Wang Naiqian , Zhang Qi , Sun Yufeng , Wang Liguo , Guan Shaokang
Published: June 2023

The effect of rotation speeds from 100 to 600 rpm on the microstructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded (FSW) DP1180 steel joints was studied. The microstructure in the different weld zones were examined using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). It was found that when welded at 100 rpm, there was an obvious boundary formed in the middle of the stir zone (SZ), which divided the SZ into two parts, namely, SZ-Ⅰ and SZ-Ⅱ. Significantly refined microstructures with an average grain size of 0.41 μm and 0.28 μm were observed in SZ-Ⅰ and SZ-Ⅱ, respectively. The SZs were mainly composed of martensite when the rotation speed increased over 200 rpm. The thermo-mechanically affected zone (TMAZ) of all joints was composed of martensite and ferrite. Microhardness tests showed that the minimum microhardness of heat affected zone (HAZ) of all joints was between 280–300 HV. It was revealed that as the rotation speed increased, the tensile strength of the joint decreased. The tensile strength of the 100 rpm joint was the highest, reaching 1094 MPa. The fracture position of the 100 rpm joint was in SZ while the fracture positions of the other joints were in HAZ.
Effect of Dissolved CO2 on the Interaction of Stress and Corrosion for Pipeline Carbon Steels in Simulated Marine Environments
Authors: Abubakar Shamsuddeen Ashurah , Mori Stefano , Sumner Joy
Published: June 2023

Offshore pipelines are subjected to stresses (e.g., from fluid flow, mechanical vibration, and earth movement). These stresses, combined with corrosive environments and in the presence of trace gases (O2, CO2), can increase the pipeline’s corrosion rate and potentially lead to cracking. As such, the impact of trace gases such as CO2 (linked to enhanced oil recovery and carbon capture and sequestration) on corrosion is key to determining whether pipelines are at increased risk. American Petroleum Institute (API) 5L X70 and X100 were exposed as stressed C-rings (80% or 95% of yield strength). The tests were conducted with either N2 (control) or CO2 bubbled through 3.5% NaCl, at either 5 °C or 25 °C. Linear polarization resistance was used to assess corrosion rate, while morphology and variation were determined using optical microscopy (generating metal loss distributions) and scanning electron microscopy. The control experiment (N2) showed that corrosion rates correlated with temperature and stress. In this low O2 environment, both alloys showed similar trends. Under CO2 exposure, all samples showed accelerated corrosion rates; furthermore, the morphologies generated were different for the two alloys: undercutting corrosion with discontinuous microcracks (X70) or deep, wide ellipses (X100). Understanding these changes in corrosion response is key when selecting materials for specific operational environments.
White Matter Metabolite Ratios Predict Cognitive Outcome in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Berger Luke , Holshouser Barbara , Nichols Joy G. , Pivonka-Jones Jamie , Ashwal Stephen , Bartnik-Olson Brenda
Published: June 2023

The prognostic ability of global white matter and gray matter metabolite ratios following pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their relationship to 12-month neuropsychological assessments of intelligence quotient (IQ), attention, and memory is presented. Three-dimensional proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in pediatric subjects with complicated mild (cMild), moderate, and severe TBI was acquired acutely (6–18 days) and 12 months post-injury and compared to age-matched typically developing adolescents. A global linear regression model, co-registering MRSI metabolite maps with 3D high-resolution magnetic resonance images, was used to identify longitudinal white matter and gray matter metabolite ratio changes. Acutely, gray matter NAA/Cr, white matter NAA/Cr, and white matter NAA/Cho ratios were significantly lower in TBI groups compared to controls. Gray matter NAA/Cho was reduced only in the severe TBI group. At 12 months, all metabolite ratios normalized to control levels in each of the TBI groups. Acute gray matter and white matter NAA ratios were significantly correlated to 12-month assessments of IQ, attention, and memory. These findings suggest that whole brain gray matter and white matter metabolite ratios reflect longitudinal changes in neuronal metabolism following TBI, which can be used to predict neuropsychological outcomes in pediatric subjects.
Low Fasting Concentrations of Glucagon in Patients with Very Long-Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Stenlid Rasmus , Manell Hannes , Seth Rikard , Cerenius Sara Y. , Chowdhury Azazul , Roa Cortés Camilla , Nyqvist Isabelle , Lundqvist Thomas , Halldin Maria , Bergsten Peter
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Deficiencies of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) define a subgroup of inborn errors of metabolism, with medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCAD) and very long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCAD) being two of the most common. Hypoketotic hypoglycemia is a feared clinical complication and the treatment focuses on avoiding hypoglycemia. In contrast, carnitine uptake deficiency (CUD) is treated as a mild disease without significant effects on FAO. Impaired FAO has experimentally been shown to impair glucagon secretion. Glucagon is an important glucose-mobilizing hormone. If and how glucagon is affected in patients with VLCAD or MCAD remains unknown. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed with plasma hormone concentrations quantified after four hours of fasting. Patients with VLCAD (n = 10), MCAD (n = 7) and CUD (n = 6) were included. (3) Results: The groups were similar in age, sex, weight, and height. The glucagon and insulin levels were significantly lower in the VLCAD group compared to the CUD group (p < 0.05, respectively). The patients with CUD had glucagon concentrations similar to the normative data. No significant differences were seen in GLP-1, glicentin, glucose, amino acids, or NEFAs. (4) Conclusions: Low fasting concentrations of glucagon are present in patients with VLCAD and cannot be explained by altered stimuli in plasma.
Cloudiness Parameterization for Use in Atmospheric Models: A Review and New Perspectives
Authors: Park Rae-Seol , Hong Song-You
Published: June 2023

In atmospheric models, the representation of cloudiness is a direct linkage between the moisture amount and associated radiative forcing. This paper begins by providing a review of the parameterization of cloudiness that has been used for numerical weather predictions and climate studies. The inherent uncertainties in representing a partial fraction of clouds for radiation feedback and in evaluating it against the corresponding observations are focused. It is also stated that the major hydrometeor categories of water substances such as cloud ice and water that are responsible for cloud cover are readily available in modern weather and climate models. Inconsistencies in cloud cover and hydrometeors, even in the case of the prognostic method, are discussed. The compensating effect of cloudiness for radiative feedback is found to imply that the condensed water amount itself is more influential on the radiative forcing, rather than the accuracy of the cloudiness. Based on the above perspectives, an alternative diagnostic parameterization method is proposed, utilizing a monotonic relation between the cloud water amounts and cloudiness that are obtained from aircraft and satellite observations. The basic premise of this approach lies in the accuracy of the water substance in the models, indicating that future efforts need to be given to improvements in physical processes concerning hydrometeor properties for the accurate representation of cloud radiative feedback.
The Mystery of Piezophiles: Understudied Microorganisms from the Deep, Dark Subsurface
Authors: Scheffer Gabrielle , Gieg Lisa M.
Published: June 2023

Microorganisms that can withstand high pressure within an environment are termed piezophiles. These organisms are considered extremophiles and inhabit the deep marine or terrestrial subsurface. Because these microorganisms are not easily accessed and require expensive sampling methods and laboratory instruments, advancements in this field have been limited compared to other extremophiles. This review summarizes the current knowledge on piezophiles, notably the cellular and physiological adaptations that such microorganisms possess to withstand and grow in high-pressure environments. Based on existing studies, organisms from both the deep marine and terrestrial subsurface show similar adaptations to high pressure, including increased motility, an increase of unsaturated bonds within the cell membrane lipids, upregulation of heat shock proteins, and differential gene-regulation systems. Notably, more adaptations have been identified within the deep marine subsurface organisms due to the relative paucity of studies performed on deep terrestrial subsurface environments. Nevertheless, similar adaptations have been found within piezophiles from both systems, and therefore the microbial biogeography concepts used to assess microbial dispersal and explore if similar organisms can be found throughout deep terrestrial environments are also briefly discussed.
Research on New Solid Waste Heat Insulation Material for Deep Mining
Authors: Wen Xinyi , Fu Jianxin , Zheng Weifei
Published: June 2023

The global demand for mineral resources has led to the gradual transformation of the mining industry from the traditional shallow, small-scale mining mode to the high-intensity mining of deep underground mines. Due to the high stress, high temperature, high permeability, and easy disturbance of deep mines, new challenges have been brought to the mining of materials. Some scholars have improved the thermal insulation performance of concrete by adding low thermal conductivity materials such as ceramsite, shell, and natural fiber to traditional shotcrete, but there are still high costs, insufficient support strength, and unsatisfactory thermal insulation effects. Given the background related to the fact that it is still not possible to fully recycle the large amount of solid waste generated by mining activities, this paper, with traditional shotcrete as its basis, uses coal fly ash to replace part of the cement and tailings to replace part of the sand and gravel aggregate. In addition, it adds basalt fiber to reduce thermal conductivity and restore strength. An orthogonal experiment of three factors and three levels was designed to explore a new type of solid waste-based thermal insulation support shotcrete material. Through the testing and analysis of the mechanical and thermal properties of the specimens, it was concluded that the optimal ratio of the materials was 45% fly ash, 50% tailings, and 25% basalt fiber (the percentage of the total mass of fly ash and cement). The compressive strength of the specimens after curing for 28 days could reach 16.26 MPa, and the thermal conductivity and apparent density were 0.228561 W/(m·k) and 1544.00 kg/m3, respectively. By using COMSOL Multiphysics multi-physics coupling software to analyze the coupling of the stress field and temperature field, it was concluded that the optimum thickness of the thermal insulation layer of this material was 150 mm. The field application in a mine in Shandong Province proved that it met the effects of thermal insulation (the ability to isolate heat conduction) and support. The successful trial of this material provides a new idea for the solving of the problem of heat damage and solid waste utilization in deep mines, which has a certain practical significance.
EDEM and FLUENT Parameter Finding and Verification Study of Thickener Based on Genetic Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Jinxia , Chang Zhenjia , Niu Fusheng , Zhang Hongmei , Bu Ziheng , Zheng Kailu , Ma Xianyun
Published: June 2023

To improve the concentration performance of the concentrator in the iron ore beneficiation process for iron ore tailings, a coupled simulation analysis of the concentration process was conducted using the discrete element software EDEM (Engineering Discrete Element Method) and the finite element FLUENT software. The volume concentration at the bottom flow outlet of the concentrator was used as the evaluation index. The scraper rotation speed, feed rate, and feed concentration were considered as parameters. Response surface experiments were designed using the Box-Behnken module in Design Expert11 software, and numerical simulations were performed to obtain data. Based on the numerical simulation results, a prediction model was established using the backpropagation neural network (backpropagation neural network, BP-NN) and combined with the genetic algorithm (genetic algorithm, GA) for parameter optimization of the thickener’s concentration conditions. The results showed that with a scraper rotation speed of 9.7677 rpm, feed rate of 0.2037 m/s, and feed concentration of 6.5268%, the maximum outlet volume concentration reached approximately 62.00%. The predicted optimal working conditions were validated through physical tests and numerical simulations. The average outlet volume concentration in the physical tests was 60.712% (n = 10) (“n” is the number of experiments), with an error of only 2.077% compared to the predicted value. The middle outlet volume concentration in the numerical simulation experiments was 59.951% (n = 10), with an error of only 3.304% from the expected value. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using a genetic neural network for optimizing the EDEM–FLUENT simulation parameters of the thickener, providing valuable insights for the matching optimization of the thickener’s process parameters.
Genesis of the Giant Huoshaoyun Non-Sulfide Zinc–Lead Deposit in Karakoram, Xinjiang: Constraints from Mineralogy and Trace Element Geochemistry
Authors: Chen Xiang , Duan Dengfei , Zhang Yuhang , Zhou Fanyan , Yuan Xin , Wu Yue
Published: June 2023

The Huoshaoyun zinc–lead deposit, a giant non-sulfide deposit in Xinjiang, is one of the most significant discoveries of zinc–lead deposit in China and globally in recent years. The deposit is dominated by zinc–lead non-sulfides, with minor occurrences of sulfides such as sphalerite, galena, and pyrite. The non-sulfide minerals include smithsonite, cerussite, anglesite, and Fe-oxide. This study focuses on the mineralogical characteristics of sulfide and non-sulfide ores, as well as the trace element characteristics of sphalerite, smithsonite, and Fe-oxide. Mineralogical analysis reveals that smithsonite is derived from the oxidation of primary sulfide minerals and can be classified into three types that are generated during different stages of supergene oxidation. The three types of smithsonite are formed through replacing the sphalerite and host limestone, as well as directly precipitating in the fissures and vugs. Trace element analysis of sphalerite indicates that it is rich in Cd, Tl, and Ge, but poor in Fe and Mn. The ore-forming temperature, calculated using the GGIMFis geothermometer, is mostly within the range of 100~150 °C. Moreover, the trace element characteristics, ore-forming temperature, and S and Pb isotope compositions of the sulfide ores of the Huoshaoyun deposit are similar to those of the Jinding and Duocaima MVT lead–zinc deposits, which are also located in the Eastern Tethyan zinc–lead belt. This suggests that the sulfide orebody in the Huoshaoyun Zn-Pb deposit could also be the MVT deposit. Study of the trace element of the non-sulfide minerals shows that the Mn and Cd are relatively enriched in smithsonite, while Ga, Ge, and Pb are enriched in Fe-oxide. This can be attributed to distinct geochemical properties of the trace elements in the non-sulfide minerals of the Huoshaoyun deposit and is consistent with those of the other oxidized MVT deposits, thus indicating the supergene oxidation process of this deposit.
Fe-Cu-Zn Isotopic Compositions in Polymetallic Sulfides from Hydrothermal Fields in the Ultraslow-Spreading Southwest Indian Ridge and Geological Inferences
Authors: Wang Yan , Wu Zhongwei , Huang Yi , Sun Xiaoming , Yan Jinhui , Yang Fan , Yin Zhengxin , Xu Li
Published: June 2023

Submarine hydrothermal sulfides from the ultraslow-spreading Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR) were sampled from three hydrothermal fields, and the Fe-Cu-Zn isotopic compositions were analyzed in this study. The Fe isotopes ranged from −0.011‰ to −1.333‰. We believe the processes controlling the Fe isotope variability in the hydrothermal systems include the sulfide precipitation process, the initial isotopic composition of the hydrothermal fluid, and the temperature during precipitation. Among these factors, the sulfide precipitation process is the dominant one. The Cu isotope compositions of the sulfides varied from −0.364‰ to 0.892‰, indicating that the hydrothermal fluid preferentially leached 65Cu in the early stages and that hydrothermal reworking led to decreases in the Cu isotopes in the later stages. In addition, because mass fractionation occurred during sulfide precipitation, the Zn isotope variations ranged from −0.060‰ to 0.422‰. Combined with the S isotopic compositions, these results also implied that different Fe-Cu-Zn isotopic fractionation mechanisms prevailed for the different sample types. Based on these results, we are sure that the metallic elements, including Fe, Cu, and Zn, were derived from the mantle in the SWIR hydrothermal field, and the Fe-Cu isotope results indicated that these metallic elements were provided by fluid leaching processes. Using the isotopic fractionation and sulfide results, we calculated that the Fe-Cu-Zn isotopic compositions of the hydrothermal fluid in this field were δ56Fe(fluid): −0.8~0.0‰; δ65Cu(fluid): 0.3~1.3‰; and δ66Zn(fluid): 0~0.48‰.
Ceramic Aggregate Material Formulated with MSWI Fly Ash and Fuel Ash for Use as Filter Media
Authors: Lu Ning , Chen Hougang , Chen Jiao , Cao Yi-Fang
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to develop a novel filtering medium ceramic aggregate prepared using municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash and the fuel ash from coal power plants, together with small amounts of silicon carbide foaming agent and magnesia flux as additives. For the manufacturing process, the dosage of MSWI fly ash and the sintering temperature were optimized to maximize the performance of the resulting materials. Leaching test results indicated that the heavy metal concentrations in the ceramic aggregate were significantly below the limits proposed by GB5085.3-2007, demonstrating its safety for wastewater treatment. The ammonia nitrogen removal efficiency was assessed, and the removal rate of the developed ceramic aggregate was found to be 16.4% higher than that of zeolite, making it comparable to commercial ceramic aggregate. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffractometer analyses were conducted on the ceramic aggregates. The ammonia-nitrogen-removing mechanism, attributed to adsorption and ion exchange, is discussed based on the microstructural analysis results.
Optimized Protocol for Preservation of Human Platelet Samples for Fluorometric Polyphosphate Quantification
Authors: Kawase Tomoyuki , Suzuki Katsuya , Kamimura Masami , Mochizuki Tomoharu , Ushiki Takashi
Published: June 2023

Platelet polyphosphate (polyP) can be conveniently quantified by exploiting a recent methodological breakthrough using 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). However, the preservation of these biological samples has not yet been standardized. In a preliminary study, potential protocols were screened, while accepted protocols were further tested in this study. Pure-platelet-rich plasma (P-PRP) samples and washed platelet suspensions were prepared using blood obtained from non-smoking healthy male donors and were fixed with ThromboFix for 20–24 h at 4 °C. Mass polyP levels were determined using a fluorometer at wavelengths of 425 and 525 nm. Platelet polyP levels were normalized to platelet counts. Statistical analyses were performed using non-parametric tests. Platelet polyP levels significantly decreased by 20% after 7 days in the platelet suspension maintained under fixed conditions at 4 °C (control). In contrast, the platelet polyP levels in both the P-PRP and washed platelet suspensions were maintained without a significant reduction for up to 6 weeks by removing ThromboFix after fixation and subsequent freezing in pure water at −80 °C. Fluorometric polyP quantification often interferes with the low specificity of DAPI binding and the wavelength used. Our validated protocols will enable long-term preservation and high-throughput polyP quantification and can be applied to relatively large cohort studies.
Oncolytic Virotherapy for High-Grade Glioma and Current Evidence and Factors to Consider for Incorporation into Clinical Practice
Authors: Soldozy Sauson , Eichberg Daniel G. , Morell Alexis A. , Luther Evan , Lu Victor M. , Higgins Dominique M. O. , Patel Nitesh V. , Shah Ashish H. , Hanft Simon J. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Ivan Michael E.
Published: June 2023

Brain tumor incidence is on the rise, and glioblastoma comprises the majority of primary tumors. Despite maximal safe resection and adjuvant chemoradiation, median survival for high-grade glioma remains poor. For this reason, it is important to develop and incorporate new treatment strategies. Oncolytic virotherapy has emerged as a viable new therapeutic entity to fill this gap. Preclinical research has shown oncolytic virotherapy to be a robust and effective treatment option for brain tumors, and clinical trials for both adult and pediatric high-grade glioma are underway. The unique and protected environment of the nervous system, in part due to the blood–brain barrier, prevents traditional systemic therapies from achieving adequate penetration. Brain tumors are also heterogenous in nature due to their diverse molecular profiles, further complicating systemic treatment efforts. Oncolytic viruses may serve to fill this gap in brain tumor treatment given their amenability to genetic modification and ability to target unique tumor epitopes. In addition, direct inoculation of the oncolytic virus agent to the tumor bed following surgical resection absolves risk of systemic side effects and ensures adequate delivery. As virotherapy transitions from bench to bedside, it is important to discuss factors to make this transition more seamless. In this article, we describe the current clinical evidence as it pertains to oncolytic virotherapy and the treatment of brain tumors as well as factors to consider for its incorporation into neurosurgical workflow.
Building the Blocks of Being: The Attributes and Qualities Required for Consciousness
Authors: Tait Izak , Bensemann Joshua , Nguyen Trung
Published: June 2023

For consciousness to exist, an entity must have prerequisite characteristics and attributes to give rise to it. We explore these “building blocks” of consciousness in detail in this paper, which range from perceptive to computational to meta-representational characteristics of an entity’s cognitive architecture. We show how each cognitive attribute is strictly necessary for the emergence of consciousness, and how the building blocks may be used for any entity to be classified as being conscious. The list of building blocks is not limited to human or organic consciousness and may be used to classify artificial and organisational conscious entities. We further explore a list of attributes that seem intuitively necessary for consciousness, but on further investigation, are neither required nor sufficient. The building blocks do not represent a theory of consciousness but rather a meta-theory on the emergence and classification of consciousness.