bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Wettability Alteration of Hydrophobic Carbonate Rock by Surfactant-Containing Chelating Agent Solutions
Authors: Yunusov Timur Ildarovich , Davletshina Lyutsia Faritovna , Klimov Dmitriy Nikolaevich , Magadova Lyubov Abdulaevna , Silin Mikhail Alexandrovich
Published: August 2023

Chelating agents’ application for well stimulation is gaining more and more interest, as they can perform under harsh conditions. However, the mutual influence of surfactants and chelating agents on the wettability alteration of hydrophobic carbonate rock under conditions of high-temperature well stimulation is relatively unexplored. This paper aims to study interfacial processes on the surface of hydrophobic rock in the presence of the EDTA-based chelating agent and surfactants of different classes. Cationic (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB, and cetylpyridinium bromide, CPB), anionic (sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS), and amhoteric (alkyldimethyl aminooxide, AO) surfactants were studied. Wettability alteration of model hydrophobic rock was studied under conditions specific to well stimulation. It was shown that chelating agent (CA) alone and its mixture with SDS could not lead to sufficient wettability alteration. CTAB, CPB, and AO were able to change the wettability effectively. A synergistic effect between CA and these surfactants was observed and a possible mechanism was proposed. AO was selected as the most promising surfactant. The influence of surfactant on the CA’s dissolution capacity towards carbonate rock was investigated; dissolution capacity strongly depends on wettability alteration. Finally, the effect of CA, AO, and their mixture on the wettability of aged reservoir rock was studied and the absence of negative effects was proven.
CERRT: A Mobile Robot Path Planning Algorithm Based on RRT in Complex Environments
Authors: Hao Kun , Yang Yang , Li Zhisheng , Liu Yonglei , Zhao Xiaofang
Published: August 2023

In complex environments, path planning for mobile robots faces challenges such as insensitivity to the environment, low efficiency, and poor path quality with the rapidly-exploring random tree (RRT) algorithm. We propose a novel algorithm, the complex environments rapidly-exploring random tree (CERRT), to address these issues. The CERRT algorithm builds upon the RRT approach and incorporates two key components: a pre-allocated extension node method and a vertex death mechanism. These enhancements aim to improve vertex utilization and overcome the problem of becoming trapped in concave regions, a limitation of traditional algorithms. Additionally, the CERRT algorithm integrates environment awareness at collision points, enabling rapid identification and navigation through narrow passages using local simple sampling techniques. We also introduce the bidirectional shrinking optimization strategy (BSOS) based on the pruning optimization strategy (POS) to further enhance the quality of path solutions. Extensive simulations demonstrate that the CERRT algorithm outperforms the RRT and RRV algorithms in various complex environments, such as mazes and narrow passages. It exhibits shorter running times and generates higher-quality paths, making it a promising approach for mobile robot path planning in challenging environments.
TwSense: Highly Robust Through-the-Wall Human Detection Method Based on COTS Wi-Fi Device
Authors: Zhang Zinan , Hao Zhanjun , Dang Xiaochao , Han Kaikai
Published: August 2023

With the popularization of Wi-Fi router devices, the application of device-free sensing has garnered significant attention due to its potential to make our lives more convenient. Wi-Fi signal-based through-the-wall human detection offers practical applications, such as emergency rescue and elderly monitoring. However, the accuracy of through-the-wall human detection is hindered by signal attenuation caused by wall materials and multiple propagation paths of interference. Therefore, through-the-wall human detection presents a substantial challenge. In this paper, we proposed a highly robust through-the-wall human detection method based on a commercial Wi-Fi device (TwSense). To mitigate interference from wall materials and other environmental factors, we employed the robust principal component analysis (OR-PCA) method to extract the target signal of Channel State Information (CSI). Subsequently, we segmented the action-induced Doppler shift feature image using the K-means clustering method. The features of the images were extracted using the Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG) algorithm. Finally, these features were fed into an SVM classifier (G-SVM) optimized by a grid search algorithm for action classification and recognition, thereby enhancing human detection accuracy. We evaluated the robustness of the entire system. The experimental results demonstrated that TwSense achieved the highest accuracy of 96%.
A Study on a Fully Integrated Coil Based on the LCCL-S Compensation Topology for Wireless EVs Charging Systems
Authors: Xie Junchen , Li Guangyao , Jo Seungjin , Kim Dong-Hee
Published: August 2023

This study proposes a full integration method for the double capacitances and inductance–series (LCCL-S)-compensated inductive power transfer (IPT) of electric vehicles (EVs). The transmitter and receiver coils adopt the unipolar coil, and the compensation inductor is designed as an extended DD coil. Specifically, the use of an extended DD coil enhances the misalignment tolerance of the EVs. When the IPT system is in the misaligned state, a primary transfer path for magnetic flux is established between the transmitter and receiver coils, and a secondary transfer path is established between the extended DD coil and receiver coil. The distance between the two unipolar coils of the extended DD coil is optimized to maximize the magnetic flux on the secondary transfer path, thereby increasing the total power of the system misaligned state. Simultaneously, the most suitable turns and inner diameter of the extended DD coil are designed by using the finite element method (FEM) simulation tool. In order to verify the performance of the proposed integrated coil method, a 3.3 kW experimental prototype with a 100 mm air gap was constructed and compared with the conventional integration method under the same conditions. The experimental results show that the proposed magnetic coupling structure maintains at least a 63.6% well-aligned value at a door-to-door 150 mm misaligned state, and the output power of the system is 1.05 kW higher than that of the traditional integration method without extra control algorithms.
A Novel Two-Factor Authentication Scheme for Increased Security in Accessing the Moodle E-Learning Platform
Authors: Baneş Vasile , Ravariu Cristian , Appasani Bhargav , Srinivasulu Avireni
Published: August 2023

Moodle is a platform designed for universal learning to support pedagogical interactions and educational activities. The information technology (IT) administrator uses standard authentication methods for students logging into the Moodle platform. The need for two-factor authentication has grown as institutions, governments, and individuals realize that passwords are not secure enough to protect user accounts in their current technical format. The classic connection methods have vulnerabilities, and account passwords are easy to crack. Analyzing these aspects, the goal is to create a new safe and reliable alternative to the traditional authentication methods in e-learning platforms. The proposed solution introduces a new authentication factor using digital certificates stored on physical devices or the cloud to address the evolving authentication and security challenges effectively. The absence of this authentication within the Moodle ecosystem has imparted a sense of urgency for its implementation. With the innovative authentication scheme, the users have gained confidence, are satisfied with the new solution, and have not reported security breaches. The result is increased security, data protection, and better account management.
CAM-NAS: An Efficient and Interpretable Neural Architecture Search Model Based on Class Activation Mapping
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Wang Zhan , Joe Inwhee
Published: August 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has made rapid progress in recent years, but as the complexity of AI models and the need to deploy them on multiple platforms gradually increases, the design of network model structures for specific platforms becomes more difficult. A neural network architecture search (NAS) serves as a solution to help experts discover new network structures that are suitable for different tasks and platforms. However, traditional NAS algorithms often consume time and many computational resources, especially when dealing with complex tasks and large-scale models, and the search process can become exceptionally time-consuming and difficult to interpret. In this paper, we propose a class activation graph-based neural structure search method (CAM-NAS) to address these problems. Compared with traditional NAS algorithms, CAM-NAS does not require full training of submodels, which greatly improves the search efficiency. Meanwhile, CAM-NAS uses the class activation graph technique, which makes the searched models have better interpretability. In our experiments, we tested CAM-NAS on an NVIDIA RTX 3090 graphics card and showed that it can evaluate a submodel in only 0.08 seconds, which is much faster than traditional NAS methods. In this study, we experimentally evaluated CAM-NAS using the CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100 datasets as benchmarks. The experimental results show that CAM-NAS achieves very good results. This not only proves the efficiency of CAM-NAS, but also demonstrates its powerful performance in image classification tasks.
Factory Simulation of Optimization Techniques Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning for Storage Devices
Authors: Lim Ju-Bin , Jeong Jongpil
Published: August 2023

In this study, reinforcement learning (RL) was used in factory simulation to optimize storage devices for use in Industry 4.0 and digital twins. Industry 4.0 is increasing productivity and efficiency in manufacturing through automation, data exchange, and the integration of new technologies. Innovative technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and big data analytics are smartly automating manufacturing processes and integrating data with production systems to monitor and analyze production data in real time and optimize factory operations. A digital twin is a digital model of a physical product or process in the real world. It is built on data and real-time information collected through sensors and accurately simulates the behavior and performance of a real-world manufacturing floor. With a digital twin, one can leverage data at every stage of product design, development, manufacturing, and maintenance to predict, solve, and optimize problems. First, we defined an RL environment, modeled it, and validated its ability to simulate a real physical system. Subsequently, we introduced a method to calculate reward signals and apply them to the environment to ensure the alignment of the behavior of the RL agent with the task objective. Traditional approaches use simple reward functions to tune the behavior of reinforcement learning agents. These approaches issue rewards according to predefined rules and often use reward signals that are unrelated to the task goal. However, in this study, the reward signal calculation method was modified to consider the task goal and the characteristics of the physical system and calculate more realistic and meaningful rewards. This method reflects the complex interactions and constraints that occur during the optimization process of the storage device and generates more accurate episodes of reinforcement learning in agent behavior. Unlike the traditional simple reward function, this reflects the complexity and realism of the storage optimization task, making the reward more sophisticated and effective.The stocker simulation model was used to validate the effectiveness of RL. The model is a storage device that simulates logistics in a manufacturing production area. The results revealed that RL is a useful tool for automating and optimizing complex logistics systems, increasing the applicability of RL in logistics. We proposed a novel method for creating an agent through learning using the proximal policy optimization algorithm, and the agent was optimized by configuring various learning options. The application of reinforcement learning resulted in an effectiveness of 30–100%, and the methods can be expanded to other fields.
Path-Following and Collision-Avoidance Controls of a Robot in a Large Building with One or More Elevators
Authors: Kim Jonghoek
Published: August 2023

For planning a robot’s path inside a large building with one or more elevators, we develop a topological map, called the building Voronoi graph. Using the building Voronoi graph, the robot finds the shortest path to the goal and follows the path. In the case where the robot detects an object with arbitrary shapes (e.g., human) while following the path, the robot avoids the object utilizing reactive control laws. The proposed reactive collision-avoidance control is unique in considering collision avoidance with map environments as well as (moving or static) objects having arbitrary shapes. As far as we know, our paper is novel in addressing how to make the robot follow the building Voronoi graph, while avoiding collision with map environments as well as objects with arbitrary shapes.
Stents in Congenital Heart Disease: State of the Art and Future Scenarios
Authors: Brambilla Alma , Pennati Giancarlo , Petrini Lorenza , Berti Francesca
Published: August 2023

Stents are tubular meshed endoprostheses implanted mini-invasively through a transcatheter intervention to guarantee the patency of body conduits, mainly in cardiovascular applications. In pediatric cardiology, stenting has become an accepted procedure in the treatment of congenital heart disease (CHD) as an alternative to open-heart surgery. CHD refers to a range of defects affecting the heart’s structure and function arising from abnormal development during pregnancy. While during fetal life, the presence of additional shunts allows for the establishment of parallel circulation and survival of gestation, CHD is not compatible with extrauterine life, and medical intervention is required soon after birth. This review aims to discuss the state of the art of stenting in CHD. Despite the severity of these pathologies, investment from the industry remains limited due to the restricted number of cases, and dedicated devices are still missing. As a consequence, commercially available adult stents are commonly exploited on an off-label basis in newborns without any optimization for the specific anatomy and required function. In this review, a classification of the available stents is provided, resuming the manufacturing technologies, materials, and geometrical aspects to obtain the target biomechanical performance. After analyzing the fetal circulation, different forms of CHD amenable to stenting are considered, collecting the stents currently adopted and discussing the clinical outcomes to outline the features of an ideal device.
Upper First Molar and Second Premolar Distalization with Clear Aligner and Interradicular Skeletal Anchorage: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Castroflorio Tommaso , Parrini Simone , Rossini Gabriele , Nebiolo Bianca , Gavetti Flavia , Quinzi Vincenzo , Derton Nicola , Greco Mario Alessandro , Deregibus Andrea
Published: August 2023

Background—Upper molar distalization with a clear aligner is a debated topic in the scientific literature. One of the main issues is the loss of anchorage, so Class II elastics or the application of miniscrews are recommended. The aim of this study is to evaluate, through Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis, the effects of the application of the interradicular miniscrew as an anchorage device. Methods—A maxillary arch model from the second molar to second molar, which was obtained from a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and 0.2 mm distalization of the upper second premolar and upper first molar, was simulated. Therefore, nine different anchorage configurations were analyzed, with a miniscrew simulated between the upper first and second molars. Results—Considering the anchorage of a Class I elastic on the first premolar, the resulting side effect was a buccal movement of the canine. When the Class I elastic was anchored on the canine, distal displacement of the canine was observed. The distalization movements of second premolars and first molars were more efficient when the elastics were parallel to the occlusal plane. A greater anterior anchorage loss was observed when the elastic was anchored on the canine, with a proclination of the upper central incisor 30% higher than in the simulation, in which the elastic was on the first premolar. Conclusion—The use of interradicular buccal skeletal anchorage could reduce issues of patient compliance, provide a consistent intraoral anchorage unit and allow the desired tooth movements, reducing unwanted movement of the anterior teeth.
Digital Twin of Interwoven Urban Systems: A New Approach to Future Resilient and Sustainable Cities
Authors: Sun Li , Li Haijiang
Published: August 2023

As an organically interwoven system of people, government organizations and businesses, modern cities have become the engine that drives economic growth and technological revolution for each nation [...]
Image Recognition Method for Micropores Inside Small Gas Pipelines
Authors: Zhao Yuxin , Su Zhong , Zhou Hao , Lin Jiazhen
Published: August 2023

To address difficulties in the early detection of small gas pipeline leaks, a method is proposed for the image recognition of micropores inside small gas pipelines. First, we design a feature fusion network (Neck) for a small gas pipeline internal micropores identification network model, introducing BiFPN (bi-directional feature pyramid network) into the Neck, and enhancing the micropores feature fusion capability of the network model using cross-scale feature information fusion. Second, we design a classification prediction network (Head) for a small gas pipeline internal micropores identification network model, constructing a small target detection layer in the classification prediction network, and improving the microporosity detection rate of the network model by improving the detection capability for small leakages. Then, micropore datasets are fed into the network model separately to train the model. Finally, comparison and ablation experiments are used to verify the micropore recognition ability of the network model. The experimental results show that the precision of the image recognition method for micropores inside small gas pipelines is 94.7%, the detection rate is 96.6%, and the average precision is 95.5%, which can better realize the early detection of leakages in small gas pipelines.
Screening of Microplastics in Aquaculture Systems (Fish, Mussel, and Water Samples) by FTIR, Scanning Electron Microscopy–Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy and Micro-Raman Spectroscopies
Authors: Miserli Kleopatra , Lykos Christos , Kalampounias Angelos G. , Konstantinou Ioannis
Published: August 2023

In the last decade, plastic waste has become one of the main threats to marine ecosystems and their biodiversity due to its abundance and increased persistence. Microplastics can be classified as either primary, i.e., fabricated for commercial use, or secondary, i.e., resulting from the fragmentation/weathering processes of larger plastic pieces in the environment. In general, microplastics are detected in a number of aquatic organisms (e.g., fish, bivalves, mollusks, etc.) with alarming effects on their health. Therefore, the present work focuses on the detection and identification of microplastics in fish species (Dicentrarchus labrax, Sparus aurata) and mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from aquaculture systems since these aquatic organisms are largely commercially available for consumption. In addition, seawater was also screened for the types of polymers present as well as their aging. The experimental protocol for biota samples contains a digestion step using Fenton’s reagent (0.05 M FeSO4⋅7H2O with 30% H2O2 at a volume ratio of 1:1) to remove organic material followed by filtration and a density separation step where the sample material was mixed with a saturated ZnCl2 solution to separate microplastic particles from heavier material. For seawater samples (sampled by a microplastic net sampler), only sieving on stainless steel sieves followed by filtration on silica filters was applied. Detection of microplastics and identification of their polymeric composition was achieved through the combined use of micro-Raman analysis, Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy in tandem with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Microplastic abundance was 16 ± 1.7 items/individual in mussels and 22 ± 2.1 items/individual in sea bass, and 40 ± 3.9 items/individual in sea bream, with polyethylene (74.4%) being the most detected polymer type, while polyethylene-co-vinyl acetate (65%), polyvinyl-butyral (36.8%), polyvinyl alcohol (20%), and polybutyl methacrylate (15.8%) were also detected to a lesser extent. The microplastics isolated from seawater samples were films (30%), fragments (30%), and fibers (20%), while some of them were derived from foams (20%). Also, in most of these seawater-recovered microplastics, a relatively high degree of oxidation (carbonyl index > 0.31) was observed, which was further confirmed by the results of Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Finally, the Scanning Electron Microscopy images showed various morphological characteristics (cracks, cavities, and burrs) on the surfaces of the microplastics, which were attributed to environmental exposure.
The Taconnaz Rockfall (Mont-Blanc Massif, European Alps) of November 2018: A Complex and At-Risk Rockwall-Glacier-Torrent Morphodynamic Continuum
Authors: Ravanel Ludovic , Duvillard Pierre-Allain , Astrade Laurent , Faug Thierry , Deline Philip , Berthet Johan , Cathala Maëva , Magnin Florence , Baratier Alexandre , Bodin Xavier
Published: August 2023

The glacial and torrential basin of Taconnaz (Mont-Blanc massif, France) dominates the Chamonix valley. It is one of the major paths for snow avalanches in the Alps, often triggered by serac falls from the Taconnaz glacier. On 24 November 2018, the basin’s multi-risk nature was further accentuated by a new type of hazard with a rockfall triggered at c. 2700 m a.s.l. It travelled down over a distance of 1.85 km and stopped 165 m away from the construction site of a micro-hydroelectric power station. We studied the triggering conditions at the permafrost lower limit, the effects of the supra-glacial path on the flow patterns, and the fate of the scar and the deposit on torrential activity. By comparing a pre-event Structure from Motion model with a post-event LiDAR model, we estimated the volume of the scar to be 42,900 m3 (±5%). A numerical model was employed to simulate the rapid runout. It revealed the complexity of the flow, attributed to the sequestration of a part of the deposit in crevasses, the incorporation of a significant volume of ice resulting in a transition from a dry granular flow to a mud-like flow, and the presence of numerous deposit zones. Subsequent monitoring of the area after the event allowed for the documentation of the scar’s evolution, including a landslide, as well as the progressive degradation and evacuation of the deposit by the torrent without producing debris flow. The study of the triggering factors indicated glacial retreat as the probable main cause, assisted by the melting of ice lenses left by the permafrost disappearance. Finally, we present replicable methods for managing risks at the site following the event. This event improves the understanding of cascading processes that increasingly impact Alpine areas in the context of climate change.
Activist Musicology and Informal Multimedia Archives: The Case of YouTube Channel “Serbian Composers”
Authors: Radovanović Bojana , Bralović Miloš
Published: August 2023

The YouTube channel “Serbian Composers” was founded in 2012 by four musicology students from Belgrade. As the first page dedicated to both art music and applied music of Serbian composers on this popular video-sharing website, over the past 11 years this channel has shown itself to be an excellent platform for the promotion, multi-media archiving, research, digitalization, and preservation of Serbian music. The founders of the channel—nowadays active researchers in the field—recognized the potential of YouTube for applied musicological work and worked diligently on making this channel the most reliable online source for anyone interested in Serbian composers and their works. In this article, we elaborate on what working on this channel throughout the years has entailed. We cover the realities of both the social media and internet presence of one such endeavor and situate the research in the domain of seeing YouTube as an informal multimedia archive. We also discuss the ongoing processes of collecting music and data, digitalization and preservation, selection and categorization, and the presentation of material on YouTube and other relevant social media platforms.
Projection of Sea Level Change in the South China Sea Based on Dynamical Downscaling
Authors: Zhang Jie , Ji Qiyan , Zuo Juncheng , Li Juan , Zhang Zheen , Li Huan , Liu Xing , Wang Zhizu
Published: August 2023

The projection of future sea level change is usually based on the global climate models (GCMs); however, due to the low spatial resolution of the GCMs, the ability to reproduce the spatial heterogeneity of sea level is limited. In order to improve the sea level simulation capability in the South China Sea (SCS), a high-resolution ocean model has been established by using the dynamic downscaling technology. By evaluating and testing 20 models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6), average results of seven models were selected as the forcing condition of the high-resolution ocean model. The ocean model conducted the historical (1980~2014) and future (2015~2100) simulation under three scenarios of Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSP1–2.6, SSP2–4.5 and SSP5–8.5). The selected average results of seven models in CMIP6 are better than any of them individually. The downscaled dynamic ocean model provides fruitful spatial characteristics of the sea level change, with a decrease in the dynamic sea level (DSL) in the central and southeastern parts of the SCS, and with a significant increase in the coastal DSL. The local steric sea level (SSL) is dominated by the local thermosteric sea level (TSSL), and the changes of local TSSL more than half of the sea level rise in SCS, indicate the magnitude of total sea level rise is dominated by local TSSL. But the spatial variation in total sea level is dominated by the spatial variation in DSL. Compared with CMIP5, the rise magnitude of the DSL and the local TSSL have been increased under the CMIP6 scenarios. The dynamic downscaling of sea level reveals more spatial details, provides more reliable projection of future sea level under the background of global warming, and can provide a new reference for coastal areas in the SCS to cope with the increasing risk of extreme water level disasters in the future.
Characterization of Aeroelastic Behavior in a High Aspect Ratio Wing Using Computational and Wind Tunnel Experiments
Authors: Westin Michelle F. , Balthazar Jose M. , da Silva Roberto G. A. , Ribeiro Mauricio A. , Tusset Angelo M.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this article is to characterize an aeroelastic system in terms of its dynamical behavior, which could be either chaotic or periodic before, during, and after achieving the flutter velocity. The aeroelastic system shown here is a wing with a high aspect ratio, which leads to a very flexible behavior subjected to unsteady flow. This paper compares the computational and experimental dynamical behavior of an aeroelastic system at the flutter velocity for the different dynamic stall models proposed. To understand the nonlinear behavior of this system, the traditional attractor reconstruction and Lyapunov exponent calculation are compared with the 0–1 test. In addition to this comparison, two dynamic stall semi-empirical models are applied directly to the time history. All these comparisons show that the computational and wind tunnel experiments are in good agreement, and the dynamic behavior usually gives close results for the 0–1 test and Lyapunov exponent. It is concluded that the system presents chaotic behavior when no dynamic stall correction is applied or when Gangwani’s correction is applied. However, Boeing–Vertol’s correction postpones the chaotic behavior, meaning that the chaotic behavior is only observed for velocities above the flutter.
Porcine Astrocytes and Their Relevance for Translational Neurotrauma Research
Authors: Purvis Erin M. , Fedorczak Natalia , Prah Annette , Han Daniel , O’Donnell John C.
Published: August 2023

Astrocytes are essential to virtually all brain processes, from ion homeostasis to neurovascular coupling to metabolism, and even play an active role in signaling and plasticity. Astrocytic dysfunction can be devastating to neighboring neurons made inherently vulnerable by their polarized, excitable membranes. Therefore, correcting astrocyte dysfunction is an attractive therapeutic target to enhance neuroprotection and recovery following acquired brain injury. However, the translation of such therapeutic strategies is hindered by a knowledge base dependent almost entirely on rodent data. To facilitate additional astrocytic research in the translatable pig model, we present a review of astrocyte findings from pig studies of health and disease. We hope that this review can serve as a road map for intrepid pig researchers interested in studying astrocyte biology.
The Palliative and Antioxidant Effects of Hesperidin against Lead-Acetate-Induced Testicular Injury in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Abu-Khudir Rasha , Almutairi Hayfa Habes , Abd El-Rahman Sahar S. , El-Said Karim Samy
Published: August 2023

Lead (Pb)-induced reprotoxicity is a detrimental consequence of Pb exposure, which results in abnormal spermatogenesis, testicular degeneration, and pathogenic sperm changes. The association between impaired male reproductive function and Pb-induced oxidative stress (OS) has been demonstrated, with consequent testicular antioxidant deficiency. The current study investigated the protective role of the natural antioxidant hesperidin (HSD) against lead-acetate (PbAc)-induced testicular toxicity. Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly divided into four experimental groups: Group I (negative control) received 2.0 mL/kg BW 0.9% saline; Group II received 100 mg/kg BW PbAc; Group III received 100 mg/kg BW HSD; and Group IV received HSD two hours before PbAc using the abovementioned doses. The treatments were administered daily for 30 consecutive days. The results showed that HSD treatment significantly restored PbAc-induced decrease in body, epididymal, and testicular weights as well as in semen parameters, reproductive hormones, and testicular markers of OS. Reduced MDA levels and improved testicular histopathological findings were also observed. Collectively, this study sheds light on the preventive role of HSD against PbAc-induced testicular injury, which is mediated via the suppression of OS and the modulation of reproductive hormones as well as the plausibility of HSD being used as a supplementary therapeutic option for recovery.
The Antimalarial Drug Artesunate Mediates Selective Cytotoxicity by Upregulating HO-1 in Melanoma Cells
Authors: Jochims Finn , Strohm Rebecca , von Montfort Claudia , Wenzel Chantal-Kristin , Klahm Niklas , Kondadi Arun Kumar , Stahl Wilhelm , Reichert Andreas S. , Brenneisen Peter
Published: August 2023

Despite great efforts to develop new therapeutic strategies to combat melanoma, the prognosis remains rather poor. Artesunate (ART) is an antimalarial drug displaying anti-cancer effects in vitro and in vivo. In this in vitro study, we investigated the selectivity of ART on melanoma cells. Furthermore, we aimed to further elucidate the mechanism of the drug with a focus on the role of iron, the induction of oxidative stress and the implication of the enzyme heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). ART treatment decreased the cell viability of A375 melanoma cells while it did not affect the viability of normal human dermal fibroblasts, used as a model for normal (healthy) cells. ART’s toxicity was shown to be dependent on intracellular iron and the drug induced high levels of oxidative stress as well as upregulation of HO-1. Melanoma cells deficient in HO-1 or treated with a HO-1 inhibitor were less sensitive towards ART. Taken together, our study demonstrates that ART induces oxidative stress resulting in the upregulation of HO-1 in melanoma cells, which subsequently triggers the effect of ART’s own toxicity. This new finding that HO-1 is involved in ART-mediated toxicity may open up new perspectives in cancer therapy.
Concordant and Discordant Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma Cytokine and Chemokine Responses in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: de la Monte Suzanne M. , Tong Ming , Hapel Andrew J.
Published: August 2023

Neuroinflammation may be a pathogenic mediator and biomarker of neurodegeneration at the boundary between mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Whether neuroinflammatory processes are endogenous to the central nervous system (CNS) or originate from systemic (peripheral blood) sources could impact strategies for therapeutic intervention. To address this issue, we measured cytokine and chemokine immunoreactivities in simultaneously obtained lumbar puncture cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples from 39 patients including 18 with MCI or early AD and 21 normal controls using a 27-plex XMAP bead-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The MCI/AD combined group had significant (p < 0.05 or better) or statistically trend-wise (0.05 ≤ p ≤ 0.10) concordant increases in CSF and serum IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-13, and TNF-α and reductions in GM-CSF, b-FGF, IL-6, IP-10, and MCP-1; CSF-only increases in IFN-y and IL-7 and reductions in VEGF and IL-12p70; serum-only increases in IL-1β, MIP-1α, and eotaxin and reductions in G-CSF, IL-2, IL-8 and IL-15; and discordant CSF–serum responses with reduced CSF and increased serum PDGF-bb, IL-17a, and RANTES. The results demonstrate simultaneously parallel mixed but modestly greater pro-inflammatory compared to anti-inflammatory or neuroprotective responses in CSF and serum. In addition, the findings show evidence that several cytokines and chemokines are selectively altered in MCI/AD CSF, likely corresponding to distinct neuroinflammatory responses unrelated to systemic pathologies. The aggregate results suggest that early management of MCI/AD neuroinflammation should include both anti-inflammatory and pro-neuroprotective strategies to help prevent disease progression.
Continuous Fentanyl Infusion in Newborns with Hypoxic–Ischemic Encephalopathy Treated with Therapeutic Hypothermia: Background, Aims, and Study Protocol for Time-Concentration Profiles
Authors: Lugli Licia , Garetti Elisabetta , Goffredo Bianca Maria , Candia Francesco , Crestani Sara , Spada Caterina , Guidotti Isotta , Bedetti Luca , Miselli Francesca , Della Casa Elisa Muttini , Roversi Maria Federica , Simeoli Raffaele , Cairoli Sara , Merazzi Daniele , Lago Paola , Iughetti Lorenzo , Berardi Alberto
Published: August 2023

Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) is the standard of care for newborns with moderate to severe hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Discomfort and pain during treatment are common and may affect the therapeutic efficacy of TH. Opioid sedation and analgesia (SA) are generally used in clinical practice, and fentanyl is one of the most frequently administered drugs. However, although fentanyl’s pharmacokinetics (PKs) may be altered by hypothermic treatment, the PK behavior of this opioid drug in cooled newborns with HIE has been poorly investigated. The aim of this phase 1 study protocol (Trial ID: FentanylTH; EUDRACT number: 2020-000836-23) is to evaluate the fentanyl time-concentration profiles of full-term newborns with HIE who have been treated with TH. Newborns undergoing TH receive a standard fentanyl regimen (2 mcg/Kg of fentanyl as a loading dose, followed by a continuous infusion—1 mcg/kg/h—during the 72 h of TH and subsequent rewarming). Fentanyl plasma concentrations before bolus administration, at the end of the loading dose, and 24-48-72-96 h after infusion are measured. The median, maximum, and minimum plasma concentrations, together with drug clearance, are determined. This study will explore the fentanyl time-concentration profiles of cooled, full-term newborns with HIE, thereby helping to optimize the fentanyl SA dosing regimen during TH.
Research on the Quality of Partially Removable Skeletal Prostheses Made Using Classical Versus Modern Sintering Techniques
Authors: Antohe Magda-Ecaterina , Dascălu Cristina Gena , Forna Doriana Agop , Hitruc Elena Gabriela , Cimpoeșu Nicanor , Forna Norina Consuela
Published: August 2023

Conventional partially removable skeletal dentures are one of the most common therapeutic solutions offered to edentulous patients worldwide. The present study aims to compare the skeleton of removable dentures realized via classical techniques to that realized via modern techniques, represented by the laser sintering technique, with the comparative aspects being realized through the evaluation of atomic force microscopy (AFM). A total of 20 metal frameworks made of Co-Cr were sectioned, representing the infrastructure of partially removable skeletal dentures, developed using the classical technique versus the laser sintering technique. The infrastructures of partially removable skeletal dentures were designed for both the maxilla and the mandible, with the design of each type of denture being identical, and were developed using both techniques. The roughness values are different depending on the technological method used; for the conventional casting technique, we have higher roughness for the component elements of the partially removable skeletal denture that have more stretch, e.g., the major connector, and for the 3D laser sintering technique, lower roughness is obtained for the component elements that have a lower stretch, e.g., the clasp arms, the minor connector, or the junction between the saddles and the major connector. The clinical implications of the presence of roughness at the level of the active arms or at the level of the connector saddle junction are represented by the risk of fracture, which confers real discomfort to the patient.
Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Stroke in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kourtidou Christodoula , Tziomalos Konstantinos
Published: August 2023

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a higher risk ofboth ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. This association appears to be partly independent from the higher prevalence of established risk factors for stroke in patients with CKD, including hypertension and atrial fibrillation. In the present review we aim to discuss the impact of CKD on the risk of stroke and stroke-related consequences, and explore the pathophysiology underpinning the increased risk of stroke in patients with CKD. We cover the clinical association between renal dysfunction and cerebrovascular disease including stroke, silent brain infarct, cerebral small vessel disease, microbleeds, and white matter hyperintensity, and discuss the underlying mechanisms.
Systematic Review of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Low Back Pain
Authors: Machado Edilson Silva , Soares Fabiano Pasqualotto , Vianna de Abreu Ernani , de Souza Taís Amara da Costa , Meves Robert , Grohs Hans , Ambach Mary A. , Navani Annu , de Castro Renato Bevillaqua , Pozza Daniel Humberto , Caldas José Manuel Peixoto
Published: August 2023

Background: Low back pain (LBP) has a high economic burden and is strongly related to the degenerative process of the spine, especially in the intervertebral disc and of the facet joints. Numerous treatment modalities have been proposed for the management of LBP, and the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as an innovative therapeutic option for degenerative disease of the spine. The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of PRP injections in managing low back pain. Methods: We conducted a systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations, a registered at PROSPERO Systematic Reviews Platform, under number CRD42021268491. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched to identify relevant articles, along with hand searching to identify gray literature articles, with no language restrictions. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs), nonrandomized trials (NRTs), and case series (CSs) with more than 10 patients were considered eligible. The quality assessment and the risk of bias of the randomized clinical trials were evaluated using the RoB II tool. An evaluation of the description of the preparation methods was performed using an adapted version of the MIBO checklist. Results: An electronic database search resulted in 2324 articles, and after the exclusion of noneligible articles, 13 RCTs and 27 NRTs or CSs were analyzed. Of the 13 RCTs, 11 found favorable results in comparison to the control group in pain and disability, one showed no superiority to the control group, and one was discontinued because of the lack of therapeutic effect at eight-week evaluation. Description of the PRP preparation techniques were found in almost all papers. The overall risk of bias was considered high in 2 papers and low in 11. An adapted MIBO checklist showed a 72.7% compliance rate in the selected areas. Conclusions: In this systematic review, we analyzed articles from English, Spanish and Russian language, from large databases and grey literature. PRP was in general an effective and safe treatment for degenerative LPB. Positive results were found in almost studies, a small number of adverse events were related, the risk of bias of the RCTs was low. Based on the evaluation of the included studies, we graded as level II the quality of the evidence supporting the use of PRP in LBP. Large-scale, multicenter RCTs are still needed to confirm these findings.
Clinical Effectiveness of 3D-Milled and 3D-Printed Zirconia Prosthesis—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dewan Harisha
Published: August 2023

Background: Additive manufacturing (three-dimensional (3D) printing) has become a leading manufacturing technique in dentistry due to its various advantages. However, its potential applications for dental ceramics are still being explored. Zirconia, among ceramics, has increasing popularity and applications in dentistry mostly due to its excellent properties. Although subtractive manufacturing (3D milling) is considered the most advanced technology for the fabrication of zirconia restorations, certain disadvantages are associated with it. Methods: A systematic review was piloted to compare the clinical performance of zirconium crowns that were fabricated using three-dimensional (3D) milling and 3D printing. A meta-analysis was performed, and studies published up to November 2022 were identified. The terms searched were “Zirconium crowns”, “3D printing”, “CAD/CAM” (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing), “Milling”, “dental crowns”, and “3D milling”. The characteristics that were compared were the year in which the study was published, study design, age of the patient, country, the number of crowns, the type of crown fabrication, marginal integrity, caries status, and outcomes. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to structure this systematic review. Out of eleven hundred and fifty titles identified after a primary search, nine articles were included in the quantitative analysis. The research question based on PICO/PECO (Participant, Intervention/exposure, Comparison, and Outcome) was “Do 3D-printed and milled (P) zirconia crowns and FDPs (I) have a better survival rate (O) when conventional prosthesis is also an option (C)”? The data collected were tabulated and compared, and the risk of bias and meta-analysis were later performed. Only nine articles (clinical research) were selected for the study. Since there were no clinical studies on the 3D printing of zirconium crowns, six in vitro studies were considered for the comparison. Zirconium crowns in the milling group had an average minimum follow-up of 6 months. Results: A moderate risk of bias was found, and survival was significant. A high heterogeneity level was noted among the studies. Marginal integrity, periodontal status, and survival rate were high. Linear regression depicted no statistical correlation between the type of cement used and the survival rate. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the milled crowns had a higher performance and satisfactory clinical survival.
Time-Dependent Analysis of Human Neurophysiological Activities during an Ecological Olfactory Experience
Authors: Vozzi Alessia , Martinez Levy Ana , Ronca Vincenzo , Giorgi Andrea , Ferrara Silvia , Mancini Marco , Capotorto Rossella , Cherubino Patrizia , Trettel Arianna , Babiloni Fabio , Di Flumeri Gianluca
Published: August 2023

It has been demonstrated that odors could affect humans at the psychophysiological level. Significant research has been done on odor perception and physiological mechanisms; however, this research was mainly performed in highly controlled conditions in order to highlight the perceptive phenomena and the correlated physiological responses in the time frame of milliseconds. The present study explored how human physiological activity evolves in response to different odor conditions during an ecological olfactory experience on a broader time scale (from 1 to 90 s). Two odors, vanilla and menthol, together with a control condition (blank) were employed as stimuli. Electroencephalographic (EEG) activity in four frequency bands of interest, theta, alpha, low beta, and high beta, and the electrodermal activity (EDA) of the skin conductance level and response (SCL and SCR) were investigated at five time points taken during: (i) the first ten seconds of exposure (short-term analysis) and (ii) throughout the entire exposure to each odor (90 s, long-term analysis). The results revealed significant interactions between the odor conditions and the time periods in the short-term analysis for the overall frontal activity in the theta (p = 0.03), alpha (p = 0.005), and low beta (p = 0.0067) bands, the frontal midline activity in the alpha (p = 0.015) and low beta (p = 0.02) bands, and the SCR component (p = 0.024). For the long-term effects, instead, only one EEG parameter, frontal alpha asymmetry, was significantly sensitive to the considered dimensions (p = 0.037). In conclusion, the present research determined the physiological response to different odor conditions, also demonstrating the sensitivity of the employed parameters in characterizing the dynamic of such response during the time. As an exploratory study, this work points out the relevance of considering the effects of continuous exposure instead of short stimulation when evaluating the human olfactory experience, providing insights for future studies in the field.