bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening Accuracy of FeNO Measurement for Childhood Asthma in a Community Setting
Authors: Barański Kamil , Zejda Jan Eugeniusz
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: The exhaled fractional nitric oxide is a well-recognized biomarker used in clinical settings for controlling and managing asthma. Less is known about the value of Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) measurement in epidemiological studies on childhood asthma, although available evidence suggests that an increased FeNO is associated with an increased risk of asthma. (2) Aim: The aim of the study was to assess FeNO accuracy in the identification of children with asthma, participants in a population-based respiratory survey. (3) Material and methods: The cross-sectional study included 449 children, 224 (49.9%) boys and 225 (50.1%) girls aged 6–10 years. The FeNO was measured in 449 children; Spirometry tests were completed with 441 children, but technically acceptable spirometry was done in 350. All participants fulfilled the questionnaire (ISAAC) for assessment of the status of their respiratory system on which diagnosis was based on. FeNO and Spirometry were performed according to ERS/ATS recommendations. (4) Results: The FeNO was significantly higher in asthmatic children (n = 22): 27.3 ± 21.3 ppb; with allergic rhinitis (n = 106): 9.9 ± 21.6 ppb, with atopic dermatitis (n = 67) 20.8 ± 25.0 ppb, with an asthmatic tendency (n = 27): 19.8 ± 16.0 ppb in comparison to children without any respiratory/atopy symptoms. The highest diagnostic odds ratio and area under the curve were found in any treated asthma or asthma without any atopic symptoms in relation to FeNO cutoff > 35 ppb; DOR 4.85 and 8.37; AUC 0.615 and 0.795, respectively. The adjustment for spirometry parameters did not improve the diagnostic accuracy of FeNO. In each FeNO cutoff, there were more false positive than true positive subjects. (5) Conclusions. The best diagnostic accuracy of FeNO was for isolated asthma without any atopy against children without any coexisting respiratory or allergic disease. The sensitivity and specificity did not reach the required values for a good screening tool; therefore, it should not be used in epidemiological settings.
Using Theory to Drive Intervention Efficacy: The Role of Dose Form in Interventions for Children with DLD
Authors: Frizelle Pauline , McKean Cristina
Published: June 2022

‘Dose form’ is a construct that has evolved over the last number of years and is central to treating childhood language disorders. In this commentary, we present a framework of dose form that includes techniques, procedures, manner of instruction, and intervention context. We present key findings from a systematic review exploring the impact of intervention dose form on oral language outcomes (specifically morphosyntax and vocabulary learning) in children with DLD. We then discuss the hypothesized theoretical mechanisms of action underpinning these findings.
Does Focal Osteolysis in a PRECICE Stryde Intramedullary Lengthening Nail Resolve after Explantation?
Authors: Sax Oliver C. , Hlukha Larysa P. , Kowalewski Kyle A. , Herzenberg John E. , McClure Philip K.
Published: June 2022

Concerns surrounding osteolysis near and around the modular junction of a stainless-steel intramedullary lengthening rod prompted a manufacturer recall from the United States market in early 2021. These actions were preceded by similar steps taken in Europe. A concomitant review of stainless-steel lengthenings at our institution demonstrated signs of adverse tissue reaction including periosteal reaction and osteolysis at the modular junction and/or male-sided locking screws. Nearly half of our patients presented with these findings on radiographic images. At the time of the previous review, only half of the nearly 60 implanted stainless-steel devices met a 6-month follow-up. At this juncture, many patients have had their devices explanted. Given the suspected adverse tissue reactions caused by a component of the internal device, we sought to examine the rate of osteolysis post-explantation following removal of a stainless-steel nail. We reviewed a consecutive series of patients who underwent implantation of a stainless-steel limb lengthening device in the femur and/or tibia at a single institution between December 2018 and December 2020. Patients were included if their device was explanted. Periosteal reaction and osteolysis was classified according to a novel and validated classification system, as analyzed by five fellowship-trained surgeons. In addition, changes observed prior to explantation were tracked post-explantation to assess for resolution. The incidence of periosteal reaction and osteolysis prior to explantation was 22/57 (39%) and 15/57 (26%), respectively. Of the 15 patients with osteolysis pre-explantation, 14 patients’ implants were explanted. Of these, eight patients had available follow-up films. Two patients were identified as having partial osteolysis resolution at mean 1-year follow-up, while six patients were identified as having complete osteolysis at mean 18-months follow-up. Periosteal tissue reaction and osteolysis largely resolved following explantation in a subset of patients. These results provide further support to the claim that the stainless-steel device contributed to the changes seen. Further follow-up is warranted to examine the longer-term effects of adverse tissue reaction in this patient population.
Apigetrin Abrogates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in L6 Skeletal Muscle Cells through NF-κB/MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Ha Sang-Eun , Bhagwan Bhosale Pritam , Kim Hun-Hwan , Park Min-Yeong , Abusaliya Abuyaseer , Kim Gon-Sup , Kim Jin-A
Published: June 2022

Apigetrin is a glycosidic flavonoid derived from Teucrium gnaphalodes that has a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. Inflammation is a kind of defense mechanism in the body. Flavonoids are natural phytochemicals that exert anti-inflammatory effects in numerous cells. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of apigetrin and its underlying mechanism of activity in skeletal muscle cells (L6). The determination of cytotoxicity was performed by MTT assay. We treated L6 cells with apigetrin, and nontoxic concentrations were chosen to perform further experimentation. Apigetrin inhibited the expression of iNOS and COX-2 induced by LPS in a dose-dependent manner. iNOS and COX-2 are inflammatory markers responsible for enhancing the inflammatory response. Apigetrin also inhibited the LPS-induced phosphorylation of p65 and IκB-α. NF-κB signaling regulates the inflammatory process by mediating various proinflammatory genes. Similarly, the MAPK signaling pathway consists of ERK, JNK, and p38, which plays a critical role in the production of cytokines and downstream signaling events leading to inflammation. Apigetrin significantly downregulated the phosphorylation of JNK and p38, but did not affect the phosphorylation of ERK in the LPS-stimulated cells. These findings indicate the correlation between the anti-inflammatory activity of NF-κB and the MAPK signaling pathway. Thus, our overall finding suggests that apigetrin has anti-inflammatory effects and it can be considered for further drug design on L6 skeletal muscle cells.
The Pathological Links between Adiposity and the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Otelea Marina Ruxandra , Nartea Roxana , Popescu Florina Georgeta , Covaleov Anatoli , Mitoiu Brindusa Ilinca , Nica Adriana Sarah
Published: June 2022

An association between obesity and carpal tunnel syndrome is found in many epidemiological studies. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate the physiopathological links that could explain the association between these two entities. Ectopic adipose tissue is responsible for metabolic syndrome and inflammation, and is a major risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Taking these elements into consideration, we conducted an extensive literature revision of the subject, considering as ectopic fat-related mechanisms the following: (a) the direct compression and the association with the metabolic syndrome of the fat deposition around the wrist, (b) the insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, inflammatory, and oxidative mechanisms related to the central deposition of the fat, (c) the impaired muscle contraction and metabolism related to myosteatosis. Each section presents the cellular pathways which are modified by the ectopic deposition of the adipose tissue and the impact in the pathogeny of the carpal tunnel syndrome. In conclusion, the experimental and clinical data support the epidemiological findings. Efforts to reduce the obesity epidemics will improve not only cardio-metabolic health but will reduce the burden of the disability-free life expectancy due to the carpal tunnel syndrome.
Changes in the Structural Parameters and Effective Magnetic Moment of Eu2−xCexCuO4+α−δ by Zn Substitution
Authors: Pratama Rosaldi , Saragi Togar , Maulana Trisna , Winarsih Suci , Maryati Yati , Syakuur Muhammad Abdan , Widyaiswari Utami , Sari Dita Puspita , Manawan Maykel , Risdiana Risdiana
Published: June 2022

The effect of nonmagnetic Zn impurities on the structural parameters and effective magnetic moment of electron-doped superconducting cuprates Eu2−xCexCu1−yZnyO4+α−δ (ECCZO) with x = 0.10 and 0.15 and y = 0 and 0.01 has been investigated using XRD and SQUID measurements. From XRD measurements, it is found that the lattice parameter of c and the Cu-O bond length increase with increasing y. The crystallite size of ECCZO samples was relatively smaller than the sample without impurities determined by the Debye–Scherrer equation and the W-H Plot method. Changes in the lattice parameters of c and Cu-O bond length can affect the appearance of superconductivity (Tc). The smaller the value of the lattice parameter of c and the Cu-O bond length causes the distance between the conducting layer and the charge reservoir to be close enough so that the charge transfer process becomes easier. From the magnetic susceptibility measurement, paramagnetic characteristics were observed for samples with x = 0.10. Meanwhile, for samples with x = 0.15, diamagnetic characteristics can be identified in sample with y = 0. The onset of Tc was observed around 11 K, as indicated by a change from paramagnetic to diamagnetic characteristics. The superconductivity phase disappears with y = 0.01. The effective magnetic moments in samples with y = 0 are smaller than those in samples with y = 0.01. The effective magnetic moment in ECCZO can be contributed by Cu2+. When the amount of Cu2+ decreases due to the addition of nonmagnetic Zn2+ atoms, the overall effective magnetic moment value also decreases. Another possibility that causes a decrease in the value of the magnetic moment of the ECCZO is the existence of stripe-pinning model, which results in suppressed superconductivity by Zn.
Nano- and Micro-Scale Impact Testing of Hard Coatings: A Review
Authors: Beake Ben D.
Published: June 2022

In this review, the operating principles of the nano-impact test technique are described, compared and contrasted to micro- and macro-scale impact tests. Impact fatigue mechanisms are discussed, and the impact behaviour of three different industrially relevant coating systems has been investigated in detail. The coating systems are (i) ultra-thin hard carbon films on silicon, (ii) DLC on hardened tool steel and (iii) nitrides on WC-Co. The influence of the mechanical properties of the substrate and the load-carrying capacity (H3/E2) of the coating, the use of the test to simulate erosion, studies modelling the nano- and micro-impact test and performing nano- and micro-impact tests at elevated temperature are also discussed.
Surface Investigation of Physella Acuta Snail Shell Particle Reinforced Aluminium Matrix Composites
Authors: Pruncu Catalin Iulian , Vladescu Alina , Hynes N. Rajesh Jesudoss , Sankaranarayanan Ramakrishnan
Published: June 2022

Aluminium-matrix composite is one of the most preferred engineering materials and is known for its potential benefits, such as lightweight nature, high specific stiffness, superior strength, machinability, etc. The metal–matrix composites are very attractive for critical applications: Aerospace field, defense deployments, automotive sector, marine industry. In the present work, novel Physella Acuta Snail Shell particle reinforced aluminium metal–matrix composites are developed to facilitate cost-effective and sustainable manufacturing. These green composites are developed by stir-casting with LM0 as matrix material and snail shell as reinforcement with a distinct percentage (by weight) of inclusion. The influence of snail shells is analyzed through tribological, morphological, and corrosion studies. Aluminium–matrix composite Al98SNS2 with 98% (by weight) aluminium matrix and 2% (by weight) snail shell reinforcement exhibits superior performance in all investigations. Al98SNS2 composite exhibits the least wear rate in the atmosphere of deionized water and 3.5% NaCl. Corrosion deteriorates the surface roughness irrespective of the percentage of incorporation of snail shell reinforcement. However, the deterioration is minimal in Al98SNS2. The current research findings indicate that the incorporation of snail shell in aluminum metal–matrix composites promotes cost-effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly manufacturing.
Microstructure and Nanoindentation Evolution of (Ni,Pt)Al Coating on IC21 Substrate at 1100 °C
Authors: Liu Yingkun , Ye Yun , Yin Bin , Deng Chunming , Liu Min , Wu Chaoqun
Published: June 2022

In this study, a ~20 μm (Ni,Pt)Al coating was applied to an IC21 substrate via electroplating followed by aluminizing. A thermal exposure test at 1100 °C in air was used to investigate the microstructure evolution and nanoindentation behavior of samples with and without coating. The experimental results show that the (Ni,Pt)Al coating caused a phase change from β-(Ni,Pt)Al to Ni3Al, and the Topologically Close-Packed (TCP) phase at the interdiffusion zone grew larger after thermal exposure for 200 h at 1100 °C, while a layer of γ’ phase was formed on the surface of the IC21 substrate. The nanoindentation test indicated that the elastic modulus was reduced in both annealed samples (with and without coating), and after annealing the sample with coating had higher elastic modulus than the sample without coating. This result reveals that the coating effectively prevented the precipitation of refractory metal elements and the coarsening of the microstructure in the substrate, and thus shows that the coating had advantages not only in terms of improving the high-temperature oxidation properties of the substrate, but also played a significant role in improving the mechanical properties of the substrate.
Advanced Biomaterials, Coatings, and Techniques: Applications in Medicine and Dentistry
Authors: Ardelean Lavinia Cosmina , Rusu Laura-Cristina
Published: June 2022

The field of biomaterials is very extensive, encompassing both the materials themselves and the manufacturing methods, which are constantly developing [...]
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Reinforcement Mechanism of Second-Phase Reinforced TiC-Based Composites: A Review
Authors: Mao Haobo , Zhang Yingyi , Wang Jie , Cui Kunkun , Liu Hanlei , Yang Jialong
Published: June 2022

TiC ceramics have the characteristics of high melting point and density, and titanium reserves on earth are extremely large; therefore, TiC ceramics are considered ultra-high temperature materials with great research value. However, the development of TiC-based ultra-high temperature composites has been seriously hindered by their poor mechanical properties. At present, improvement of the mechanical properties of TiC is mainly accomplished by adding a second phase. In this paper, the research status of modified elements-, nitrides-, and metal-reinforced TiC matrix composites is presented. The microstructure, phase composition, and toughening mechanism of TiC matrix composites reinforced by a second phase are described. The influence of the reaction products on the matrix during the toughening process is also discussed.
Effects of Freeze–Thaw Cycles on Performance and Microstructure of Cold Recycled Mixtures with Asphalt Emulsion
Authors: Yang Ye , Sun Zongguang , Yang Yanhai , Yue Liang , Chen Guanliang
Published: June 2022

Although it is widely recognized that freeze–thaw cycles have a great influence on the properties of asphalt pavement, a quantitative understanding of how freeze–thaw cycles affect cold recycled mixtures with asphalt emulsion (CRME) is so far still lacking. The main objective of the paper was to investigate the performance and microstructure of CRME under freeze–thaw cycles with different water saturation conditions. For this, air voids, high-temperature stability, low-temperature cracking resistance, and moisture susceptibility of CRME were analyzed based on laboratory tests. The micro-morphology and chemical composition of cement asphalt emulsified compound mortar were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results showed air voids of CRME increase as freeze–thaw cycles increase; the high-temperature stability, low-temperature cracking resistance, and moisture susceptibility of CRME decrease as freeze–thaw cycles increase; the asphalt strips from the surface of hydration products, and the composite structure mainly consists of hydration products as freeze–thaw cycles increase; the microstructure of CRME is destroyed. The freeze–thaw cycles have a negative effect on the CRME performance and microstructure.
A Tool for Removing Metal Inclusions from the Surface of Paint and Varnish Car Coatings
Authors: Blinov Andrey Vladimirovich , Nagdalian Andrey Ashotovich , Gvozdenko Alexey Alekseevich , Blinova Anastasiya Aleksandrovna , Maglakelidze David Guramievich , Golik Alexey Borisovich , Slyadneva Kristina Sergeevna , Makeenko Igor Petrovich , Mikhaylenko Viktor Vasilievich , Shpak Tatyana Ivanovna , Baklanov Igor Spartakovich , Povetkin Sergey Nikolaevich , Thiruvengadam Muthu , Shariati Mohammad Ali
Published: June 2022

In this article, we presents the synthesis and research of a tool for removing metal inclusions from the surface of car paint coatings. The optimal composition of the product was determined, which includes sodium laureth sulfate, citric acid, sulfosalicylic acid, hydrogen peroxide and water. As a result of the conducted studies, a connection was established between the composition and the physicochemical, surface-active properties of the developed agent. Approbation of this tool was carried out, which confirmed its effectiveness and showed that within 30–45 s after applying the developed tool, not only are metal inclusions on the surface of car paint coating removed but also mineral contaminants in the form of sand, earth, clay and other particles. The aim of the work was to develop and optimize a method for obtaining a low-toxicity, highly effective agent for removing metal inclusions from the surface of car paint coatings and to investigate its effectiveness, as well as its physicochemical, optical and surface-active properties.
The Cracking Resistance Behavior of Geosynthetics-Reinforced Asphalt Concrete under Lower Temperatures Using Bending Test
Authors: Li Qiaoyi , He Yonghai , Yang Guangqing , Su Penghui , Li Biao
Published: June 2022

Asphalt is a kind of temperature-sensitive material. With the decrease of temperature, the deformation capacity of an asphalt mixture will be significantly reduced. When the temperature is greatly reduced, the asphalt layer will produce large shrinkage tensile stress and strain, resulting in cracking. Therefore, the cracking resistance behavior is essential for the asphalt. In order to study the cracking resistance behavior of geosynthetics-reinforced asphalt under lower temperatures, the bending tests were carried out indoors at a temperature of −10 °C. The results showed that compared with the unreinforced asphalt sample, the flexural tensile strength at failure of the geogrid-reinforced sample was increased by 14.1% and 12.3%, corresponding to AC-13C and AC-20C. Additionally, the geotextile-reinforced sample was reduced by 2.5% and 3.6%, corresponding to AC-13C and AC-20C. The values of the bending stiffness modulus of the geogrid- and geotextile-reinforced samples were reduced by 6% and 1%. The cracking energy of the geogrid-reinforced asphalt provides by 45.2% and 30.8% more than unreinforced asphalt, corresponding to AC-13C and AC-20C. The cracking energy of the geotextile-reinforced asphalt is increased by 4.5% and 0.6% compared with unreinforced asphalt, corresponding to AC-13C and AC-20C. The cracking resistance behavior of geogrid-reinforced asphalt is better than unreinforced and geotextile-reinforced asphalt. The asphalt shows obvious brittleness at a temperature of −10 °C, and the existence of the geosynthetics does not change the shape of the load–deflection curves.
Development and Characterisation of Arabinoxylan-Based Composite Films
Authors: Salvada Joana , Alke Bhavna , Brazinha Carla , Alves Vítor , Coelhoso Isabel
Published: June 2022

In the last decades, the overuse of synthetic polymers in the packaging industry has become a serious global environmental problem due to their nonbiodegradability. To overcome this issue, attention has been driven to study alternative materials, namely the use of biodegradable biopolymers extracted from agro-industrial residues, as materials for food packages. In this work, the polysaccharide arabinoxylan, previously extracted from corn fibre by alkaline hydrolysis, was used to produce composite and multilayer films. The composite films were produced by casting an oil-in-water emulsion with different quantities of oleic acid, while the multilayer films (beeswax-arabinoxylan-beeswax) were manufactured by submerging the arabinoxylan films in a beeswax solution. Both film types, along with a film composed only of arabinoxylan, were characterised in terms of their antioxidant activity, optical and mechanical properties, surface hydrophobicity, and barrier properties against water vapour (WVP), gases, and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) radiation. All the films developed were soluble in water. The multilayer films were more advantageous than the emulsion-based ones due to their enhanced barrier properties against water vapour (WVP = 0.58 × 10−11 mol/m∙s∙Pa), oxygen (with a permeability of 3.28 × 10−12 mol·m−1·s−1·Pa−1) and UV-vis radiation and higher values of water contact angle (92.43°), tensile stress (4.11 MPa), and Young’s modulus (15.96 MPa). The films developed, especially the multilayer ones, showed a good potential to produce flexible packages for low-water-content food products (e.g., several types of nuts).
RETRACTED: Cathode Interlayer Engineering for Efficient Organic Solar Cells under Solar Illumination and Light-Emitting Diode Lamp
Authors: Benesperi Iacopo
Published: June 2022

Organic solar cells (OSCs) have become a potential energy source for indoor light harvesting in recent years as they have witnessed a record power conversion efficiency (PCE) of over 30% under indoor lights. Among various strategies, interlayer engineering is one of the important factors in improving the performance of OSCs. Here, we reported an efficient OSC based on PM6:Y6 photoactive layer showing an excellent PCE of ~22% and ~14% under light-emitting diode (LED, 1000-lx) and 1-sun (AM1.5 G) conditions, respectively. The performance of OSCs was optimized by systematically investigating the optical, electrochemical, and morphological characteristics of three different cathode interlayers (CILs) named as: PEIE, ZnO, and ZnO/PEIE (bilayer). The high transmittance (~90%), suitable work function (~4.1 eV), and improved surface morphology (RMS: 2.61 nm) of the bilayer CIL contributes in improving the performance of OSCs. In addition, the suppressed charge recombination and improved charge carrier transport are attributed to high shunt resistance and appropriate energy levels alignment between photoactive layer and bilayer CIL. The findings in the study might provide guidelines for designing novel interlayers in the development of efficient OSCs for different illumination conditions.
Photostability of Oil-Coated and Stain-Coated Acetylated Hornbeam Wood against Natural Weather and Artificial Aging
Authors: Fodor Fanni , Bak Miklós , Németh Róbert
Published: June 2022

Nine different environmentally friendly coatings were tested on natural and acetylated hornbeam wood, during natural weather exposure and xenon lamp irradiation. The coating performance of acetylated hornbeam, and the photostability properties of tested coatings were evaluated to offer suggestions regarding suitable and less-suitable coatings for the exterior use of acetylated hornbeam. On the one hand, acetylation decreased the coating absorbance of hornbeam. On the other hand, it made the wood more durable and dimensionally stable, all of which influences the outdoor performance of acetylated hornbeam. The color of acetylated hornbeam is not photostable; it brightens during photodegradation, and greys after leaching. For long-lasting color, acetylated hornbeam should be coated with dark pigmented stains and maintained regularly. Fungal degradation and cracking did not occur, but the wood is just as susceptible to wasp stripping as untreated hornbeam. In this study, 200-h-long xenon lamp irradiation resulted in a color similar to that caused by 1 month of weather exposure (April to May 2018, Sopron, Hungary).
Evolution of the Chern Gap in Kagome Magnet HoMn6Sn6−xGex
Authors: Sims Christopher
Published: June 2022

The Chern gap is a unique topological feature that can host non-abelian particles. The Kagome lattice hosts Chern fermions. Upon the inclusion of magnetism, the Kagome system hosts a Chern gap at the K points in the lattice. In this work, the effect of Ge doping on HoMn6Sn6 is investigated. It is seen that with increased doping, a multi-stack Chern gap in formed in HoMn6Sn6−xGex. In addition, the Chern gaps are much more pronounced and disperse more in energy in HoMn6Ge6 then in HoMn6Sn6.
Environmental Fragility Zoning Using GIS and AHP Modeling: Perspectives for the Conservation of Natural Ecosystems in Brazil
Authors: França Luciano Cavalcante de Jesus , Lopes Luis Filipe , Morais Marcelino Santos de , Lisboa Gerson dos Santos , Rocha Samuel José Silva Soares da , Morais Junior Vicente Toledo Machado de , Santana Reynaldo Campos , Mucida Danielle Piuzana
Published: June 2022

The degradation of natural ecosystems triggers global environmental, economic, and social problems. To prevent this, it is necessary to identify the aptitude of priority areas for conservation or use by considering land fragility from multiple environmental and spatial perspectives. We applied the concept of environmental fragility to a hydrographic basin in southeastern Brazil that establishes (i) potential fragility levels according to slope, soil classes, geological domains, drainage hierarchy, and rainfall information using an algebraic map, and (ii) emerging fragility levels via the addition of the land-use parameters. The methodological approach involved the integration of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and weighted linear combination (WLC) into a geographic information system (GIS). The medium and slightly low fragility classes predominated in terms of potential (~60%), and emerging (~70%) environmental fragility models used to model the basin. The model indicated that high and extremely high potential fragilities were concentrated in the upper basin, a region that is considered a global biodiversity hotspot. The areas with high/extremely high classes of emerging fragility in the upper basin decreased, indicating that the natural cover classes and land-use types are not in danger. We also introduce acceptable conservation practices for land management and use according to the environmental fragility categories established in the present work. The methodology applied in this study can be replicated in other global ecoregions. It provides low-cost territorial and environmental zoning and flexible replication and can be adjusted by administrators who are interested in land-use planning.
Application of Hot Isostatic Pressing in Nickel-Based Single Crystal Superalloys
Authors: Zhao Yunsong , He Siliang , Li Longfei
Published: June 2022

Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) technology can effectively reduce microstructure defects such as micropores, which are formed during solidification and hominization heat treatment, and thus further improve the high temperature performance of nickel-based SX superalloys. This paper reviews the application of HIP treatment in nickel-based SX superalloys, focusing on the dislocation-creep closure and diffusion-creep closure mechanisms and the kinetics of annihilation of micropores by HIP. The effects of different scheme on pore closure and high temperature mechanical properties are compared. The advantages and disadvantages of different schemes are summarized. In addition, the application of HIP treatment in additive manufacturing (AM) of nickel-based SX superalloys is also discussed.
Study on Dynamic Mechanical Behaviors and J–C Constitutive Model of a Fine-Grained D6A Steel
Authors: Yang Zezhou , Feng Xiaowei , Zhang Xiaoli , Shen Yongfeng , Huang Xicheng , Xie Ruoze
Published: June 2022

The uniaxial tensile loading tests of coarse-grained D6A steel (CG, d = 20 μm) and fine-grained D6A steel (FG, d = 1.5 μm) were performed using a material testing machine and rotating disk Hopkinson tension bar, respectively. The stress–strain curves of two steels at different strain rates (0.001~1500 s−1) were obtained. Results show that grain refinement effectively improves the strength of FG steel, which is achieved by high-density of grain boundaries and cementite particles hindering the movement of dislocations. In the strain rate range of the test, the strain rate sensitivity of FG D6A steel decreases, which is considered to be the result of the athermal stress that independent of the strain rate becomes the dominant part of the total stress. Combined with the experimental data, the parameters of the Johnson–Cook (J–C) constitutive model were calibrated. The stress–strain curves obtained by simulations are in good agreement with those from tests. These results may provide an important experimental reference and theoretical basis for the application of FG D6A steel in various fields.
Photomechanical Structures Based on Porous Alumina Templates Filled with 9-Methylanthracene Nanowires
Authors: Berges Adam J. , Li Wangxiang , Xu Wenwen , Tong Fei , Al-Kaysi Rabih O. , Hayward Ryan C. , Bardeen Christopher J.
Published: June 2022

9-Methylanthracene (9MA) undergoes a concerted [4 + 4] photodimerization in its crystal form that can be harnessed in order to generate photomechanical motions such as bending, twisting, and expansion. As described in this paper, 9MA nanowires were grown in anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) templates with the goal of using the crystal expansion to generate a net increase in the height of the composite disk. The growth conditions were optimized in order to raise the filling amount from 28% to 77% of the available volume in the porous AAO. A new experimental method for detecting motion, based on the analysis of data from a dynamically misaligned Michelson interferometer, was developed. Template bending was observed, showing that the photodimerization of the confined nanowires generated mechanical work, but no conclusive evidence for surface disruption or vertical translation was observed. Optical measurements, as well as atomic force and scanning electron microscopy, showed that incomplete filling, crystal orientation, and debris from template polishing likely prevented the observation of vertical actuation in these nanocrystal composites. This work highlights some of the practical challenges that are involved in creating photomechanical actuators using the organic–inorganic composite approach, with the two most significant being (1) the uniform filling of the porous template with the organic active material and (2) the removal of excess organic material from the template’s surface.
Luminescent Behavior of Liquid–Crystalline Gold(I) Complexes Bearing a Carbazole Moiety: Effects of Substituent Bulkiness
Authors: Siddhant Kumar , Prabusankar Ganesan , Tsutsumi Osamu
Published: June 2022

Organometallic materials that exhibit white luminescence in condensed phases are of considerable interest for lighting and display applications. Herein, new carbazole-based Au(I) complexes containing an isocyanide group and a long pentyl chain were synthesized. The complex with an unsubstituted carbazole moiety exhibited a white emission at room temperature as well as nematic liquid crystalline behavior. Color tunability from white to blue was achieved when bulkier substituents were introduced at the 3 and 6 positions of the carbazole moiety. Furthermore, all complexes possessed long phosphorescence lifetimes in the crystal state. The proposed design framework provides new opportunities for practical applications using luminescent organometallic molecules.
Manipulation of Crystallization Kinetics for Perovskite Photovoltaics Prepared Using Two-Step Method
Authors: Wang Fei , Ge Chuangye , Zhou Xianfang , Liang Xiao , Duan Dawei , Lin Haoran , Zhu Quanyao , Hu Hanlin
Published: June 2022

Two-step fabricated perovskite solar cells have attracted considerable attention because of their good reproducibility and controllable crystallization during production. Optimizing the quality of perovskite films plays a decisive role in realizing superb performance via a two-step method. Many breakthroughs have been achieved to obtain high-quality film from the perspective of manipulating crystallization kinetics in the two-step preparation process, which promotes the rapid development of perovskite photovoltaics. Therefore, focusing on the crystallization process in the two-step preparation process can provide a reliable basis for optimizing the performance of two-step devices. In this review, recent progress on regulating the crystallization process for two-step PSCs is systematically reviewed. Firstly, a specific description and discussion are provided on the crystallization process of perovskite in different two-step methods, including spin-coating, immersion and evaporation. Next, to obtain high-quality perovskite film via these two-step methods, current strategies of additive engineering, composition engineering, and solvent engineering for regulating the crystallization process for two-step perovskite are classified and investigated. Lastly, the challenges which hindering the performance of the two-step perovskite photovoltaics and an outlook toward further developments are proposed.
Facile Glycothermal Synthesis of KxNa(1−x)NbO3 Particles
Authors: Cho Hong-Chan , Lim Dae-Young , Song Jeong-Hwan
Published: June 2022

KxNa(1−x)NbO3 particles (KNN, 0 < x < 1) were successfully synthesized through a facile glycothermal method by using KOH, NaOH and Nb2O5 as precursors and 1,4-butanediol as solvent at 200 °C for 12 h. The effects of varying the 1,4-butanediol/deionized water (B/W) volume ratio as solvent on the growth behavior, the morphological evolution, and the particle size of the synthesized KNN particles were investigated. In order to obtain K0.5Na0.5NbO3 with the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) at the potassium content of x ≈ 0.5, the effect of varying K+/Na+ molar ratio on the composition of the obtained KNN particles was investigated. The crystal phase structure, morphology, particle size, chemical composition, and thermal behavior of the obtained particle samples were characterized using XRD, FE-SEM, EDS, TG, FT-IR, PSA, and TEM. The pure orthorhombic KNN particle close to NaNbO3 phase was obtained at the same concentration K+/Na+ of 1.0/1.0 and [K++Na+]/Nb molar ratio of 2.0/0.1. The synthesized K0.01Na0.99NbO3 particle exhibited a hexahedron shape with an average crystallite size of approximately 400 nm by glycothermal treated at 200 °C for 12 h. It is also demonstrated that the size of Na-rich KNN particles was decreased from 15 µm to 400 nm with increasing 1,4-butanediol content at various reaction conditions such as the volume ratio of B/W and can be controlled by 1,4-butanediol with an additive of water. Until the molar ratio of K+/Na+ reaches 1.6/0.4, the obtained particles have produced a Na-rich KNN phase, whereas when the molar ratio of K+/Na+ is 1.8/0.2, the particles could obtain a K-rich KNN phase. The results revealed that single-phase K0.5Na0.5NbO3 particles could be obtained at a relatively narrow molar ratio of K+/Na+ to 1.7/0.3. The particles with weakened agglomerate could obtain the average particle size of approximately 400 nm and a hexahedron shape. In comparison with the traditional hydrothermal method, the glycothermal method has been confirmed to be a more efficient method in controlling the particle size of KNN particles from micro- to sub-micron.
Abstracts of the Meeting of the Austrian Stroke Society (ÖGSF) and the Swiss Stroke Society (SHG), June 14–15, 2022, Innsbruck/Austria
Authors: Michel Patrik
Published: June 2022

On behalf of Society ÖGSF and the Swiss Stroke Society SHG, we are pleased to present the Abstracts of the Annual Meeting that was held from 14–15 June 2022 in Innsbruck/Austria. Twenty (20) abstracts were selected for presentation as oral presentations and sixteen (16) abstracts were selected as poster presentations. We congratulate all the presenters on their research work and contribution.
Comparative Analysis and Phylogenetic Study of the Chloroplast Genome Sequences of Two Korean Endemic Primula Varieties
Authors: Kim Sang-Chul , Ha Young-Ho , Kim Dong-Kap , Son Dong Chan , Kim Hyuk-Jin , Choi Kyung
Published: June 2022

Primula comprises many species of horticultural value. In Korea, six species grow in the wild. Yamazaki classified the variety Primula modesta var. fauriei into P. modesta var. hannasanensis and P. modesta var. koreana based on the differences in leaf morphology. We compared the chloroplast genome sequences of the two Korean endemic Primula varieties and found that both had the typical quadripartite structure of angiosperms. The chloroplast genome size of P. modesta var. hannasanensis is 154,772 bp, including an 85,238 bp large single-copy region and a 17,790 bp small single-copy region, whereas that of P. modesta var. koreana is 154,667 bp, including an 85,152 bp large single-copy region and a 17,771 bp small single-copy region. The inverted repeat region is 25,872 bp in both varieties. We predicted 129 genes—84 protein-coding genes, 8 rRNAs, and 37 tRNAs. We identified 536 single-nucleotide polymorphisms and 501 indels between the varieties. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the two varieties formed a sister group in the clade P. knuthiana–P. stenocalyx. This study will contribute to phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies of the genus Primula; it will also contribute to the analysis of the genetic diversity of the two varieties, and to the development of identification markers.
Biodiversity and Litter Breakdown in a Karstic Freshwater System (Doberdò Lake, Northeast Italy) in Relation to Water Level Fluctuations and Environmental Features
Authors: Bertoli Marco , Lesa Davide , Merson Alessia , Pastorino Paolo , Prearo Marino , Pizzul Elisabetta
Published: June 2022

The present study reports seasonal data about chemico-physical trends, macrobenthic invertebrates, and Phragmites australis decomposition rates within a karstic freshwater system in the western classic Karst. Results presented herein were compared with those obtained from the same system five years ago. Chemico-physical data showed higher temperatures and lower levels of pH and conductivity than in the past. The macrobenthic invertebrate community varied through the seasons and through the years, though they are dominated by few taxa, such as Asellus and Gammarus. These shredders were the most abundant functional feeding guild, playing a pivotal role in the decomposition of the vegetal organic matter. Decomposition rates k ranged between 0.009 and 0.016 days−1 and varied seasonally. k values were different from those previously reported for the investigated system. Differences are mainly due to changes in water supply, depending on decreasing rainfall regimes and hydrometric levels of the Soča River, which showed lower levels than in the previous study. Changes in water supply altered the fluctuating pulse that is typical of ephemeral karstic lakes, changing the system dynamics. Potential effects of climate change on local scale are also discussed.
Malignant Clinical Course of “Proliferative” Ovarian Struma: Diagnostic Challenges and Treatment Pitfalls
Authors: Asaturova Aleksandra , Magnaeva Alina , Tregubova Anna , Kometova Vlada , Karamurzin Yevgeniy , Martynov Sergey , Lipatenkova Yuliya , Adamyan Leila , Palicelli Andrea
Published: June 2022

Struma ovarii (SO) is a monodermal teratoma predominantly composed of thyroid tissue (TT) showing benign, “proliferative”, or malignant histology. By imaging, a 38-year-old patient with lower backache revealed a 6.2-cm vertebral lesion (L5). Core biopsy showed well-differentiated TT without features of papillary carcinoma. A 3.5-cm left ovarian mature teratoma (lacking TT) and peritoneal nodules (showing well-differentiated TT) were also identified and surgically removed. Thyroid ultrasound and cytological examination resulted negative. Four years before, left ovarian cystectomy was performed for a histologically “proliferative” SO. According to the malignant clinical course and WHO classification, this case was overall reassessed as a recurring well-differentiated follicular carcinoma arising in SO (WD-FC-SO), despite lacking malignant histological features in any specimens. Immunophenotype: TTF-1+/PAX-8+/thyroglobulin+/CK7+/chromogranin-/synaptophysin-/inhibin-/calretinin-/HNF1B-; Ki-67 index < 5%. Polymerase chain reaction analysis resulted negative for BRAFV600E mutation. The patient refused further treatments, without recurrence after 17 months. The clinical behavior of SO may be unpredictable. Histologically benign or proliferative strumas extraordinarily metastasize, while SO with malignant features may not recur. The exceptional evidence of peritoneal implants of well-differentiated TT (peritoneal strumosis) in patients with histologically benign SO represents a metastasis of WD-FC-SO (like in our case). A multidisciplinary approach including clinical, laboratory, radiologic, and histopathological data is required.
NT-proBNP Concentrations in the Umbilical Cord and Serum of Term Neonates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Christou Evangelos , Iliodromiti Zoe , Pouliakis Abraham , Sokou Rozeta , Zantiotou Matina , Petropoulou Chrisa , Boutsikou Theodora , Iacovidou Nicoletta
Published: June 2022

The detection of NT-proBNP levels both in umbilical cord blood (UCB) samples and in serum samples collected from healthy term neonates during the neonatal period. A systematic review of relevant literature in accordance with PRISMA guidelines was conducted. For quality appraisal, the potential risk of bias was assessed using the BIOCROSS evaluation tool. The random-effects and fixed-effects models were used to calculate weighted mean differences with a corresponding 95% confidence interval. A total of forty (40) studies met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. After further examination, eighteen (18) studies (1738 participants) from the UCB sample group and fourteen (14) studies (393 participants) from the serum sample group were selected to perform a meta-analysis. Using the fixed-effects model, the mean intervals of NT-proBNP in UCB and serum samples were 492 pg/mL (95% CI: 480–503 pg/mL) and 1341 pg/mL (95% CI: 1286–1397 pg/mL), respectively. A higher concentration of ΝΤ-proBNP was observed in the serum sample group compared to the UCB samples (p < 0.001). We present the intervals of NT-proBNP in UCB and in the serum of healthy term neonates. The determination of the potential effect of perinatal factors on the biomarker’s reference range was also aimed.
Development of a Fully Automated Graf Standard Plane and Angle Evaluation Method for Infant Hip Ultrasound Scans
Authors: Chen Tao , Zhang Yuxiao , Wang Bo , Wang Jian , Cui Ligang , He Jingnan , Cong Longfei
Published: June 2022

Background: Graf’s method is currently the most commonly used ultrasound-based technique for the diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). However, the efficiency and accuracy of diagnosis are highly affected by the sonographers’ qualification and the time and effort expended, which has a significant intra- and inter-observer variability. Methods: Aiming to minimize the manual intervention in the diagnosis process, we developed a deep learning-based computer-aided framework for the DDH diagnosis, which can perform fully automated standard plane detection and angle measurement for Graf type I and type II hips. The proposed framework is composed of three modules: an anatomical structure detection module, a standard plane scoring module, and an angle measurement module. This framework can be applied to two common clinical scenarios. The first is the static mode, measurement and classification are performed directly based on the given standard plane. The second is the dynamic mode, where a standard plane from ultrasound video is first determined, and measurement and classification are then completed. To the best of our knowledge, our proposed framework is the first CAD method that can automatically perform the entire measurement process of Graf’s method. Results: In our experiments, 1051 US images and 289 US videos of Graf type I and type II hips were used to evaluate the performance of the proposed framework. In static mode, the mean absolute error of α, β angles are 1.71° and 2.40°, and the classification accuracy is 94.71%. In dynamic mode, the mean absolute error of α, β angles are 1.97° and 2.53°, the classification accuracy is 89.51%, and the running speed is 31 fps. Conclusions: Experimental results demonstrate that our fully automated framework can accurately perform standard plane detection and angle measurement of an infant’s hip at a fast speed, showing great potential for clinical application.
A Reinforcement Learning Approach Based on Automatic Policy Amendment for Multi-AUV Task Allocation in Ocean Current
Authors: Ding Cheng , Zheng Zhi
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the multiple autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) task allocation (TA) problem in ocean current environment based on a novel reinforcement learning approach is studied. First, the ocean current environment including direction and intensity is established and a reward function is designed, in which the AUVs are required to consider the ocean current, the task emergency and the energy constraints to find the optimal TA strategy. Then, an automatic policy amendment algorithm (APAA) is proposed to solve the drawback of slow convergence in reinforcement learning (RL). In APAA, the task sequences with higher team cumulative reward (TCR) are recorded to construct task sequence matrix (TSM). After that, the TCR, the subtask reward (SR) and the entropy are used to evaluate TSM to generate amendment probability, which adjusts the action distribution to increase the chances of choosing those more valuable actions. Finally, the simulation results are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The convergence performance of APAA is also better than DDQN, PER and PPO-Clip.