bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure and Wear Properties of IN718/WC Composite Coating Fabricated by Ultrasonic Vibration-Assisted Laser Cladding
Authors: Lv Jie , Zhou Jianzhong , Zhang Teng , Meng Xiankai , Li Pengfei , Huang Shu
Published: March 2022

Laser cladding coating with wolfram carbide (WC) as enhanced particles can improve the performance of nickel-based materials. However, there still exists several problems, such as serious element segregation and unequal distribution of the reinforcement phase. In order to improve the mechanical properties further, IN718/WC coatings were prepared by ultrasonic vibration-assisted laser cladding. The effects of ultrasonic vibration on the ceramic distribution, microstructure, and wear performance were systematically studied. The results show that ultrasonic vibration can promote the uniform distribution of WC particles without changing the phase composition of the coating. The cavitation and acoustic flow induced by ultrasonic vibration interrupt the growth of columnar dendrites and refine the grains. In addition, the microhardness of the ultrasonic vibration-assisted coating is enhanced by 15.6% to 475 HV0.2. The average coefficient of friction (COF) of the ultrasonic vibration-assisted coating is 0.452, which is 17.5% lower than that of the unassisted coating. The wear volume of the coating is decreased significantly, and the wear characteristics change from severe adhesive wear to the slight coexistence of abrasive wear and adhesive wear.
Comparing the Robustness of Statistical Estimators of Proficiency Testing Schemes for a Limited Number of Participants
Authors: Tsamatsoulis Dimitris
Published: March 2022

This study aims at developing models in analyzing the results of proficiency testing (PT) schemes for a limited number of participants. The models can determine the best estimators of location and dispersion using unsatisfactory results as a criterion by combining: (a) robust and classical estimators; (b) kernel density plots; (c) Z-factors; (d) Monte Carlo simulations; (e) distributions derived from the addition of one or two contaminating distributions and one main Gaussian. The standards ISO 13258:2015, ISO 5725:2:1994, and EN ISO/IEC 17043:2010 are the basis of the analysis. The study describes an algorithm solving the optimization problem for (a) Gaussian, bimodal or trimodal distributions; (b) participating labs from 10 to 30; (c) fraction of the contaminating population up to 0.10; (d) variation coefficient of the main distribution equal to 2; (e) equal standard deviations of all the distributions, and provide figures with the optimal estimators. We also developed a generalized algorithm using kernel density plots and the previous algorithm, which is not subject to restrictions (b)–(e) and implemented in the results of a PT for the 28-day strength of cement with 12–13 participants. Optimal estimators’ figures and the generalized algorithm are helpful for a PT expert in choosing robust estimators.
Modeling and Numerical Validation for an Algorithm Based on Cellular Automata to Reduce Noise in Digital Images
Authors: Angulo Karen Vanessa , Gil Danilo Gustavo , Espitia Helbert Eduardo
Published: March 2022

Given the grid features of digital images, a direct relation with cellular automata can be established with transition rules based on information of the cells in the grid. This document presents the modeling of an algorithm based on cellular automata for digital images processing. Using an adaptation mechanism, the algorithm allows the elimination of impulsive noise in digital images. Additionally, the comparison of the cellular automata algorithm and median and mean filters is carried out to observe that the adaptive process obtains suitable results for eliminating salt and pepper type-noise. Finally, by means of examples, the result of the algorithm are shown graphically.
Metallurgical Slag
Authors: Dang Jie , Li Jichao , Lv Xuewei , Yuan Shuang , Leszczyńska-Sejda Katarzyna
Published: March 2022

The Special Issue on “Metallurgical Slag” is a collection of 23 original articles dedicated to theoretical and experimental research works providing new insights and practical findings in the field of metallurgical slag-related topics [...]
Investigation of Spectral Properties of DBR-Based Photonic Crystal Structure for Optical Filter Application
Authors: Ahmed Umair , Khan Yousuf , Ehsan Muhammad , Amirzada Muhammad , Ullah Naqeeb , Khatri Abdul , Ur Rehman Atiq , Butt Muhammad
Published: March 2022

In this work, the spectral properties of distributed Bragg reflector-based photonic crystal (DBR-PhC) structures were studied for the near-infrared (NIR) range. Different structural properties were varied to study their effect on the quality of the stopband and the appearance of the resonant dips in the reflection spectra of the DBR-PhC structure. The investigated structural features included the depth of PhC holes, hole radius, and number of PhC elements in the DBR structure. The 11-layered DBR structure was designed with a 2.4/1.4 refractive index contrast of alternating layers. The study aimed to achieve optical filtering properties in the DBR-PhC structure, to simplify the structural complexity of Fabry-Pérot filters by eliminating the FP cavity and upper-DBR mirror. The proposed DBR-PhC device can be used in different optical filtering and sensing applications.
An Evaluation of Nanoparticle Distribution in Solution-Derived YBa2Cu3O7−δ Nanocomposite Thin Films by XPS Depth Profiling in Combination with TEM Analysis
Authors: Bruneel Els , Rijckaert Hannes , Diez Sierra Javier , De Buysser Klaartje , Van Driessche Isabel
Published: March 2022

This work discusses the development of an analysis routine for evaluating the nanoparticle distribution in nanocomposite thin films. YBa2Cu3O7−δ (YBCO) nanocomposite films were synthesized via a chemical solution deposition approach starting from colloidal YBCO solutions with preformed nanoparticles. The distribution of the nanoparticles and interlayer diffusion are evaluated with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profiling and compared with cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. It is shown that the combination of both techniques deliver valuable information on the film properties as nanoparticle distribution, film thickness and interlayer diffusion.
Halogen Bonding and CO-Ligand Blue-Shift in Hybrid Organic—Organometallic Cocrystals [CpFe(CO)2X] (C2I4) (X = Cl, Br)
Authors: Torubaev Yury , Skabitskiy Ivan , Shapovalov Sergey , Tikhonova Olga , Popova Anna
Published: March 2022

This work is focused on the complex interplay of geometry of I⋯X halogen bonds (HaB) and intermolecular interaction energy in two isomorphic cocrystals [CpFe(CO)2X] (C2I4) (X = Cl (1), Br (2)). Their IR-spectroscopic measurements in solid state and solution demonstrate the blue-shift of CO vibration bands, resulting from I⋯X HaB. The reluctance of their iodide congener [CpFe(CO)2I] to form the expected cocrystal [CpFe(CO)2I] (C2I4) is discussed in terms of different molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) of the surface of iodide ligands, as compared with chloride and bromide, which dictate a different angular geometry of HaB around the metal-I and metal-Br/Cl HaB acceptors. This study also suggests C2I4 as a reliable HaB donor coformer for metal-halide HaB acceptors in the crystal engineering of hybrid metal–organic systems.
Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Ductile Cast Iron with Different Crystallizer Inner Diameters
Authors: Bai Jiaojiao , Xu Haifeng , Wang Yuhui , Chen Xingpin , Zhang Xiaodan , Cao Wenquan , Xu Yang
Published: March 2022

Five types of ductile cast irons (DCIs) were fabricated by crystallizers with different inner diameters, as well as five different austempered ductile cast irons (ADIs) after the same isothermal quenching process. The effects of amount, diameter, and morphology of graphite on the mechanical properties of DCI and ADI and the effect of the original as-cast microstructure on the microstructure after austempering were studied. The microstructures were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Their mechanical properties were examined by tensile, U-shaped impact, and hardness tests. As the diameter of the crystallizer increases from 60 mm to 150 mm, the diameter of the nodular graphite increases from ~10 to ~50 μm, and the nodularity rate decreases from 100 to 70%. The average ultimate tensile strength increases from ~500 MPa in the as-cast state to 1100 MPa in the austempered state and the hardness increases from ~180 HB to 400 HB. The elongation in cast state decreases from 11 to 4.6% and the elongation in ADI state decreases from 7 to 4.5%. Through the research in this paper, it can be seen that ADIs with different matrix microstructures can be obtained from different original as-cast microstructures through the same isothermal quenching process, and different casting crystallizers can be selected according to different performance requirements, which can reduce the nitrite pollution and reduce cost.
Influence of Solidification Parameters on the Amount of Eutectic and Secondary Arm Spacing of Al–7wt% Si Alloy Solidified under Microgravity
Authors: Roósz András , Rónaföldi Arnold , Li Yuze , Mangelinck-Noël Nathalie , Zimmermann Gerhard , Nguyen-Thi Henri , Svéda Mária , Veres Zsolt
Published: March 2022

During the solidification of hypoeutectic Al–7% Si alloy, density differences develop in the melt due to variations in concentration and temperature. On Earth, melt flow can occur due to gravity, which then affects the solidification process. The microgravity environment strongly eliminates convection in the melt and allows investigation of the solidification process in purely diffusive circumstances. In this study, four solidification experiments were performed on grain-refined and non-grain-refined Al–7 wt% Si alloy on-board the International Space Station (ISS) in the Materials Science Lab (MSL) to study the effect of solidification parameters (solid/liquid front velocity (v) and temperature gradient (G)) on the grain structure and dendritic microstructure. The grain structure has been analyzed in detail in some earlier studies. The aim of this work was to carry out detailed analysis of the macrosegregation caused by the diffusion of Si from the initial mushy zone during the homogenization step and the subsequent solidification phase of the experiments as well as the correlated distribution of eutectic along the solidification direction. The secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) for different process conditions was also studied. For these two issues, microgravity experimental results were compared to simulation results. The macrosegregation was calculated by the finite difference method. Because the steady-state solidification conditions were never reached, the solidification process was characterized by the average front velocity and temperature gradient. Considering the actual liquidus temperature (TL) caused by macrosegregation, the SDAS was calculated as a function of the average processing parameters and the actual liquidus temperature with the classical Kirkwood’s equation. As a result, good agreement was obtained between the calculated and measured SDAS.
Luminescence Properties of Ho2O3-Doped Y2O3 Stabilized ZrO2 Single Crystals
Authors: Yang Yuhua , Xu Shoulei , Li Siyao , Wu Wenxia , Pan Yihua , Wang Daini , Hong Xing , Cheng Zeyu , Deng Wen
Published: March 2022

Single crystals of Ho2O3-doped Y2O3 stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) with different Y2O3 and Ho2O3 contents were grown by the optical floating zone method. XRD and Raman spectra were measured and showed that crystal samples all had tetragonal structures. Measurements of positron annihilation lifetime spectra indicated that the increase in Y2O3 concentration led to the increases of defects and mean positron lifetime, which enhanced the scattering of light and reduced the luminous intensity and the quantum yield (QY) of the crystal. Under the excitation at 446 nm, photoluminescence (PL) spectra of Ho2O3-doped YSZ crystals showed emission peaks at 540, 551, 670, and 757 nm corresponding to Ho3+ transitions from 5S2, 5F4, 5F5, and 5I4 excited states to the 5I8 ground state, respectively. At low Ho2O3-doped concentrations (0.10–0.50 mol%), the overall emission intensity increased with Ho2O3 contents, reached the maximum value at 0.50 mol%, then decreased with higher Ho2O3 contents, probably as a result of increased non-radiative relaxation caused by increased interactions between Ho3+ ions. Quenching of the PL occurred at Ho2O3 concentrations > 0.5 mol% and due to the electric dipole–dipole interaction. The calculated chromaticity coordinates (CIE) were approximately (0.307, 0.683) and the color purity achieved 99.6%. The results showed that Ho2O3: YSZ crystals were suitable for green light-emitting devices.
Creep and Oxidation Behaviors of 25 wt.% Cr–Containing Nickel-Based Alloys Reinforced by ZrC Carbides
Authors: Berthod Patrice , Tlili Safa
Published: March 2022

Three alloys based on nickel, rich in chromium due to their oxidation resistance at high temperature and containing ZrC carbides for their mechanical reinforcing against creep, were elaborated by foundry. After control of their as-cast microstructures, these alloys were subjected at 1100 °C to flexural creep and to oxidation in air. Script-like ZrC carbides were obtained in the interdendritic spaces, forming a eutectic compound with a part of the matrix. One of the alloys additionally contained Cr7C3 eutectic carbides. By comparison with a Ni–Cr–C reference alloy with similar contents in Cr and C, the three alloys demonstrated a much better creep resistance for the same conditions of stress and temperature. However, their oxidation rates were much greater than for the reference alloy. In contrast with the chromia-forming reference alloy, several kinds of oxides formed in the case of the three alloys, as NiCr2O4 spinel and oxides involving zirconium. A significant inward interdendritic oxidation progression was noticed for the three studied alloys. To benefit from the interesting creep resistance of these alloys for long sustainability in service, it appears necessary to significantly improve their oxidation behavior.
Growth and Characterization of GaN/InxGa1−xN/InyAl1−yN Quantum Wells by Plasma-Assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Shih Huei-Jyun , Lo Ikai , Wang Ying-Chieh , Tsai Cheng-Da , Lin Yu-Chung , Lu Yi-Ying , Huang Hui-Chun
Published: March 2022

The nearly lattice-matched InxGa1−xN/InyAl1−yN epi-layers were grown on a GaN template by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy with a metal modulation technique. The band-gap energy of InxGa1−xN QW in photoluminescence measurement was estimated to be 2.89 eV and the indium concentration (x) was 14.8%. In X-ray photoelectric spectroscopy, we obtained an indium concentration (y) in the InyAl1−yN barrier of 25.9% and the band-offset was estimated to be 4.31 eV. From the atomic layer measurements from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, the lattice misfit between the InxGa1−xN QW and InyAl1−yN barrier was 0.71%. The lattice-matched InxGa1−xN/InyAl1−yN QWs can therefore be evaluated from the band profiles of III-nitrides for engineering of full-visible-light emitting diode in optoelectronic application.
Synthesis and Characterization of Graphite Intercalation Compounds with Sulfuric Acid
Authors: Rimkute Gintare , Gudaitis Mantvydas , Barkauskas Jurgis , Zarkov Aleksej , Niaura Gediminas , Gaidukevic Justina
Published: March 2022

In this work, graphite intercalation compounds (GICs) were synthesized using three different oxidizers: (NH4)2S2O8, K2S2O8, and CrO3 with and without P2O5 as a water-binding agent. Furthermore, the samples obtained were heat-treated at 800 °C. Specimens were characterized by optical microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The correlation between different characteristic parameters of the Raman analysis has shown that the use of CrO3 results in a much higher structural disorder compared to the products obtained using persulfate oxidizers. Narrowing the correlation set revealed that minimal defect concentration can be reached by using K2S2O8, while the use of (NH4)2S2O8 causes a slightly higher concentration of defects. It was also established that the additional use of P2O5 can help to achieve more effective intercalation and has a positive effect on the formation of the stage I GIC phase. After heat treatment, the intercalated products mostly return to a graphite-like structure; however, the samples obtained with CrO3 stand out with the most significant changes in their surface morphology. Therefore, analysis suggests that GICs obtained using persulfate oxidizers and P2O5 could be a candidate to produce high-quality graphene or graphene oxide.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of a New 1,2,3-Triazole Derivative of Pentacyclic Triterpene
Authors: Bębenek Ewa , Kadela-Tomanek Monika , Chrobak Elwira , Jastrzębska Maria , Książek Maria
Published: March 2022

The new 30-substituted triazole derivative of 3,28-O,O′-diacetylbetulin was obtained in the copper(I) catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). The title compound was characterized by NMR, IR, HR-MS, and X-ray diffraction techniques. The X-ray diffraction study showed that the 1,2,3-triazole derivative crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group P212121, Z = 4, and unit cell parameters are as follows a = 9.4860(10) Å, b = 13.9440(2) Å, and c = 30.2347(4) Å. The molecular packing is stabilized by intermolecular hydrogen interactions C-H…O. The Hirshfeld surface analysis showed the presence of the O…H interactions with a percentage of the 16.5% in the total Hirshfeld area. The MEP analysis showed that the nucleophilic regions are located near the oxygen atoms of the acyl and carbonyl groups of betulin moiety and the sulfur atom in the triazole linker. The HOMO and LUMO orbitals are located near the triazole moiety. The obtained results indicated that this new betulin derivative is more reactive with electrophilic than nucleophilic molecules.
Photoluminescence of the Eu3+-Activated YxLu1−xNbO4 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) Solid-Solution Phosphors
Authors: Sekulić Milica , Dramićanin Tatjana , Ćirić Aleksandar , Đačanin Far Ljubica , Dramićanin Miroslav D. , Đorđević Vesna
Published: March 2022

Eu3+-doped YxLu1−xNbO4 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) were prepared by the solid-state reaction method. YNbO4:Eu3+ and LuNbO4:Eu3+ crystallize as beta-Fergusonite (SG no. 15) in 1–10 μm diameter particles. Photoluminescence emission spectra show a slight linear variation of emission energies and intensities with the solid-solution composition in terms of Y/Lu content. The energy difference between Stark sublevels of 5D0→7F1 emission increases, while the asymmetry ratio decreases with the composition. From the dispersion relations of pure YNbO4 and LuNbO4, the refractive index values for each concentration and emission wavelength are estimated. The Ω2 Judd–Ofelt parameter shows a linear increase from 6.75 to 7.48 × 10−20 cm2 from x = 0 to 1, respectively, and Ω4 from 2.69 to 2.95 × 10−20 cm2. The lowest non-radiative deexcitation rate was observed with x = 1, and thus LuNbO4:Eu3+ is more efficient phosphor than YNbO4:Eu3+.
Experimental Research on the Mechanical Properties of Recycled Aggregate Particle Gradation and Addition on Modified Cement Soil
Authors: Tao Huaqiang , Lv Beifeng , Wu Yanting , Dai Mengdan , Pan Yutao , Li Na , Wang Wei , Jiang Ping
Published: March 2022

In order to study the effects of recycled aggregate with different particle gradations and different contents on the mechanical properties of cement soil modified by nano-MgO, unconfined compressive strength and scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests were carried out. The cement content was fixed at 15% and the nano-MgO content was 1.5%. The effects of two ages, three recycled aggregate contents, and three recycled aggregate particle gradations were considered. The test results show that the unconfined compressive strength of natural graded (RA), recycled coarse aggregate (SRA), and recycled fine aggregate (TRA) reached the maximum when the content of recycled aggregate was 20%, and the unconfined compressive strength of SRA was higher than that of TRA and RA. The residual strength of RA and SRA samples first increased and then decreased with the increase in recycled aggregate content, and the residual strength of TRA samples increased gradually with the increase in recycled aggregate content. The variation law of peak strain and peak strength of the three particle graded samples was consistent, and the variation law of brittle failure degree was highly consistent with that of residual strength. When the recycled aggregate content of RA, SRA, and TRA samples was 20%, the deformation resistance and stiffness of the samples were the best. In addition, SRA samples showed the best deformation resistance, followed by TRA samples and, finally, RA samples. The smaller the porosity of the sample, the tighter the sample structure and the stronger the bearing capacity of SRA. The unconfined compressive strength of the WPRA sample was represented by an exponentially negative power function of the porosity.
Appearance of Supersonic Stoneley Waves in Auxetics
Authors: Kuznetsov Sergey V.
Published: March 2022

It is shown that in auxetic materials (materials with negative Poisson’s ratio), supersonic Stoneley waves travelling without attenuation with a velocity equal to or exceeding maximum bulk wave velocity, may exist. Analytical expressions for the relation between negative Poisson’s ratio and Young’s moduli of the contacting isotropic media ensuring the condition of propagation for supersonic Stoneley waves, are derived by solving a secular equation for Stoneley waves.
A New Exponential Distribution to Model Concrete Compressive Strength Data
Authors: Alotaibi Refah , Nassar Mazen
Published: March 2022

Concrete mixtures can be developed to deliver a broad spectrum of mechanical and durability properties to satisfy the configuration conditions of construction. One technique for evaluating the compressive strength of concrete is to suppose that it pursues a probabilistic model from which it is reliability estimated. In this paper, a new technique to generate probability distributions is considered and a new three-parameter exponential distribution as a new member of the new family is presented in detail. The proposed distribution is able to model the compressive strength of high-performance concrete rather than some other competitive models. The new distribution delivers decreasing, increasing, upside-down bathtub and bathtub-shaped hazard rates. The maximum likelihood estimation approach is used to estimate model parameters as well as the reliability function. The approximate confidence intervals of these quantities are also obtained. To assess the performance of the point and interval estimations, a simulation study was conducted. We demonstrate the performance of the offered new distribution by investigating one high-performance concrete compressive strength dataset. The numerical outcomes showed that the maximum likelihood method provides consistent and asymptotically unbiased estimators. The estimates of the unknown parameters as well as the reliability function perform well as sample size increases in terms of minimum mean square error. The confidence interval of the reliability function has an appropriate length utilizing the delta method. Moreover, the real data analysis indicated that the new distribution is more suitable when compared to some well-known and some recently proposed distributions to evaluate the reliability of concrete mixtures.
Enhancement of Crystallization Process of the Organic Pharmaceutical Molecules through High Pressure
Authors: Feng Yaoguang , Hao Hongxun , Chen Yiqing , Wang Na , Wang Ting , Huang Xin
Published: March 2022

The enhancement of the crystallization process through high pressures was studied by using ribavirin (RVB) as a model compound. The effects of high pressure on crystallization thermodynamics, nucleation kinetics, and process yield were evaluated and discussed. The solubility of ribavirin in three pure solvents was measured at different pressures from 283.15 to 323.15 K. The results indicate that the solubility data of ribavirin decreased slightly when pressure was increased. The induction time of the cooling crystallization of ribavirin under different pressures was measured. The results show that high pressure could significantly reduce the nucleation induction period. Furthermore, the nucleation kinetic parameters under different pressures were calculated according to the classical nucleation theory. The effect of high pressure on the anti-solvent crystallization of ribavirin was also studied.
Growth and Thermal Conductivity Study of CuCr2Se4-CuCrSe2 Hetero-Composite Crystals
Authors: Lu Haomin , Yin Chenghao , Zhan Ruonan , Zhang Yanyan , Lv Yangyang , Lu Minghui , Zhou Jian , Yao Shuhua , Chen Yanbin
Published: March 2022

The CuCrSe2 shows attractive physical properties, such as thermoelectric and multiferroic properties, but pure-phase CuCrSe2 crystal is still quite challenging to obtain because CuCr2Se4 can be easily precipitated from a CuCrSe2 matrix. Here, taking the advantage of this precipitation reaction, we grew a series of CuCrSe2-CuCr2Se4 hetero-composites by adjusting growth parameters and explored their thermal conductivity property. Determined by electron-diffraction, the orientation relationship between these two compounds is [001] (100) CuCrSe2‖[111] (220) CuCr2Se4. The out-of-plane thermal conductivity κ of these hetero-composites was measured by a time-domain thermo-reflectance method. Fitting experimental κ by the Boltzmann-Callaway model, we verify that interface scattering plays significant role to κ in CuCrSe2-CuCr2Se4 hetero-composites, while in a CuCrSe2-dominated hetero-composite, both interface scattering and anharmonic three-phonon interaction lead to the lowest κ therein. Our results reveal the thermal conductivity evolution in CuCr2Se4-CuCrSe2 hetero-composites.
Waning Humoral Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination with Symptomatic Infection after Initiation of Anti-CD20 Treatment in a Patient with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Hoepner Robert , Salmen Anke
Published: March 2022

Waning humoral responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination have been reported arguing for booster vaccinations even in healthy populations. Multiple sclerosis (MS) immunotherapy with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies may negatively influence morbidity and mortality of COVID-19. The opportunity to treat patients at risk for a severe COVID-19 course with specific monoclonal antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 represents an important novel measure for patient safety. We report a patient with waning humoral vaccination response around five months after two mRNA vaccination doses upon initiation of ocrelizumab treatment. Symptomatic COVID-19 infection was treated with casirivimab/imdevimab with rapid symptom recovery.
Mental Health Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic among Cancer Survivors Who Endorse Cannabis: Results from the COVID-19 Cannabis Health Study
Authors: Rodriguez Diane L. , Vidot Denise C. , Camacho-Rivera Marlene , Islam Jessica Y.
Published: March 2022

Our objective was to examine the prevalence of mental health symptoms and the behavioral impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer survivors who endorse cannabis. Participants included 158 adults (≥18 years) who self-reported medicinal cannabis use and responded to our internet-based questionnaire (21 March 2020–24 March 2021). Data included 79 cancer survivors and 79 age-matched adults without a history of cancer. Descriptive statistics were used to compare demographics, the prevalence of generalized anxiety (GAD-7), depression (CES-D-10), and changes in behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic by cancer survivorship status. Overall, 60.8% and 48.1% of cancer survivors self-reported the use of cannabis to manage their anxiety and depression, respectively. Probable clinical depression (CES-D-10 score ≥ 10) and anxiety (GAD-7 score ≥ 10) were identified in 50.7% and 38.9% of cancer survivors, respectively. Cancer survivors were more likely to report that their anxiety symptoms made it very or extremely difficult to work, take care of home, or get along with others than their counterparts. Cancer survivors with anxiety and/or depression were more likely to fear giving COVID-19 to someone else (47.5% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.023) and to fear being diagnosed with COVID-19 (77.5% vs. 38.5%, p < 0.001) compared to cancer survivors without anxiety and depression symptoms. Further research is recommended to evaluate the use of cannabis as palliative care to improve mental health among cancer survivors.
Risk-Reducing Options for High-Grade Serous Gynecologic Malignancy in BRCA1/2
Authors: Clarfield Lauren , Diamond Laura , Jacobson Michelle
Published: March 2022

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the leading cause of death among women with gynecologic malignancy. Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene 1 (BRCA 1) and Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene 2 (BRCA 2) germline mutations confer an estimated 20 to 40 times increased risk of OC when compared to the general population. The majority of BRCA-associated OC is identified in the late stage, and no effective screening method has been proven to reduce mortality. Several pharmacologic and surgical options exist for risk-reduction of gynecologic malignancy in BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers. This review summarizes up-to-date research on pharmacologic risk-reducing interventions, including the oral contraceptive pill, acetylsalicylic acid/nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (ASA/NSAID) therapy, and denosumab, and surgical risk-reducing interventions, including risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, salpingectomy with delayed oophorectomy, and hysterectomy at the time of risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
Prevalence and Persistence of Anxiety and Depression over Five Years since Breast Cancer Diagnosis—The NEON-BC Prospective Study
Authors: Lopes Catarina , Lopes-Conceição Luisa , Fontes Filipa , Ferreira Augusto , Pereira Susana , Lunet Nuno , Araújo Natália
Published: March 2022

Anxiety and depression are frequent among patients with breast cancer (BCa). Evidence of the persistence and recovery from these conditions and their determinants is scarce. We describe the occurrence of clinically significant anxiety and depression symptoms and their associated factors among BCa patients. A total of 506 women admitted in 2012 at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Porto were evaluated before treatment and after one, three, and five years (7.9% attrition rate). The five-year prevalence of anxiety and/or depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, subscores ≥ 11) was 55.4%. The peak prevalence for anxiety was before treatment (38.0%), and after one year for depression (13.1%). One in five patients with anxiety/depression at baseline had persistent anxiety/depression over time, while only 11% and 22% recovered permanently from anxiety and depression, respectively, during the first year. Higher education, higher income, practicing physical activity, and adequate fruit and vegetable intake were protective factors against anxiety and/or depression. Loss of job and income, anxiolytics and antidepressants, cancer-related neuropathic pain, and mastectomy were associated with higher odds of anxiety and/or depression. These results highlight the importance of monitoring anxiety/depression during the first five years after cancer diagnosis and identify factors associated with these conditions.
Cutaneous Melanoma in Alpine Population: Incidence Trends and Clinicopathological Profile
Authors: Buja Alessandra , Rugge Massimo , De Luca Giuseppe , Bovo Emanuela , Zorzi Manuel , De Toni Chiara , Cozzolino Claudia , Vecchiato Antonella , Del Fiore Paolo , Spina Romina , Cinquetti Sandro , Baldo Vincenzo , Rossi Carlo , Mocellin Simone
Published: March 2022

Previous studies associated high-level exposure to ultraviolet radiation with a greater risk of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM). This study focuses on the changing incidence of CMM over time (from 1990 to 2017) in the Veneto region of Northeast Italy, and its Alpine area (the province of Belluno). The clinicopathological profile of CMM by residence is also considered. A joinpoint regression analysis was performed to identify significant changes in the yearly incidence of CMM by sex and age. For each trend, the average annual percent change (AAPC) was also calculated. In the 2017 CMM cohort, the study includes a descriptive analysis of the disease’s categorical clinicopathological variables. In the population investigated, the incidence of CMM has increased significantly over the last 30 years. The AAPC in the incidence of CMM was significantly higher among Alpine residents aged 0–49 than for the rest of the region’s population (males: 6.9 versus 2.4; females 7.7 versus 2.7, respectively). Among the Alpine residents, the AAPC was 3.35 times greater for females aged 0–49 than for people aged 50+. The clinicopathological profile of CMM was significantly associated with the place of residence. Over three decades, the Veneto population has observed a significant increase in the incidence of CMM, and its AAPC. Both trends have been markedly more pronounced among Alpine residents, particularly younger females. While epidemiology and clinicopathological profiles support the role of UV radiation in CMM, the young age of this CMM-affected female population points to other possible host-related etiological factors. These findings also confirm the importance of primary and secondary prevention strategies.
Lameness in Dairy Cow Herds: Disease Aetiology, Prevention and Management
Authors: Garvey Mary
Published: March 2022

As livestock production systems have changed to intensive commercial structures to meet the increasing demand for animal-based products, there has been an increase in food production diseases, subsequently resulting in animal welfare issues. After mastitis and infertility, lameness is one of the three major issues affecting dairy cattle globally, resulting in reduced productivity, economic losses, and animal welfare problems. Lameness is associated with reduced milk yield, lack of weight gain, poor fertility, and frequently, animal culling. Environmental (temperature, humidity) and animal risk factors contribute to disease severity, making this multifaceted disease difficult to eradicate and control. As such, prevalence rates of lameness in dairy herds ranges from 17% to 35% globally. Clinical lameness is often treated with antibiotic therapy, which is undesirable in food-producing animals, as outlined in the One Health and the European Farm to Fork food sustainability goals. Lameness is not a single disease in dairy cows but is the manifestation a range of issues, making lameness control one of the greatest challenges in dairy farming. Lameness prevention, therefore, must be a key focus of farm management and sustainable food production. There is an urgent need to establish farm-level aetiology of disease, promote the recognition of lameness, and implement effective control measures to lower incidence and transmission of disease within herds.
An Overview of Intraoperative OCT-Assisted Lamellar Corneal Transplants: A Game Changer?
Authors: Carlà Matteo Mario , Boselli Francesco , Giannuzzi Federico , Gambini Gloria , Caporossi Tomaso , De Vico Umberto , Mosca Luigi , Guccione Laura , Baldascino Antonio , Rizzo Clara , Kilian Raphael , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: March 2022

Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) is a noninvasive imaging technique that gives real-time dynamic feedback on surgical procedures. iOCT was first employed in vitreoretinal surgery, but successively served as a guidance in several anterior segment surgical approaches: keratoplasty, implantable Collamer lens (ICL) implantation, and cataract surgery. Among all of those approaches, the unbeatable features of iOCT are fully exploited in anterior and posterior lamellar keratoplasty, and the purpose of this review is to focus on the advantages and shortfalls of iOCT in these techniques, in order to assess whether this technology could be a real step forward. In deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK), iOCT is useful to evaluate the needle depth into the corneal stroma, the big bubble dissection plane, and residual stromal bed, thus aiding the standardization of the technique and the reduction of failures. In Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), iOCT allowed for clear visibility of fluid at the graft/host interface, allowing for immediate rescue maneuvers and granting the best graft apposition. In Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), iOCT can track the lenticule unfolding in real time and assess graft orientation even in severe hazy corneas, thus optimizing surgical times, as well as avoiding the use of potentially hazardous exterior markers (such as the “S” stamp) and preventing unnecessary manipulation of the graft. Overall, the role of iOCT appeared crucial in several complicated cases, overcoming the difficulties of poor visualization in a fast, non-invasive way, thus raising this approach as possible gold standard for challenging conditions. Further improvements in the technology may enable autonomous centering and tracking, overcoming the current constraint of instrument-induced shadowing.
Analytic and Clinical Validation of a Pan-Cancer NGS Liquid Biopsy Test for the Detection of Copy Number Amplifications, Fusions and Exon Skipping Variants
Authors: Audetat Audrey , Tschida Chérie , Kreston Sarah , Stephen Adam , D’Alessio Brittany , Bondy Madeline , Jackson Leisa , Mellert Hestia , Givens Niki , Sathyanarayana Ubaradka G. , Pestano Gary A.
Published: March 2022

Liquid biopsies are an integral part of the diagnosis of cancer. Here, we have extended previous validation studies of a new targeted NGS panel to include the detection of copy number amplifications (CNAs), fusions, and exon skipping variants. Detection of these gene classes included specimens from clinical and healthy donors and cell lines (fusions: ROS1, EML4-ALK, NTRK1; exon skipping: MET exon 14; CNAs: HER2, CDK6, EGFR, MYC, and MET). The limit of detection (LOD) for fusion/skipping was 42 copies (QC threshold was three copies) and was verified using three additional fusion/skipping variants. LOD for CNAs was 1.40-fold-change (QC threshold = 1.15-fold change) and was verified with three additional CNAs. In repeatability and intermediate precision (within lab) studies, all fusion/skipping variants were detected in all runs and all days of testing (n = 18/18; 100%); average CV for repeatability was 20.5% (range 8.7–34.8%), and for intermediate precision it was 20.8% (range 15.7–30.5%). For CNAs, 28/29 (96.6%) copy gains were detected. For CNAs, the average CV was 1.85% (range 0% to 5.49%) for repeatability and 6.59% (range 1.65% to 9.22%) for intermediate precision. The test panel meets the criteria for being highly sensitive and specific and extends its utility for the serial detection of clinically relevant variants in cancer.
Left Nonrecurrent Laryngeal Nerve with Situs Inversus Totalis
Authors: Chen Yin-Yang , Liao Chi-You , Yao Chung-Chin
Published: March 2022

The recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), a branch of the vagus nerve, supplies the motor and sensation function of the larynx. Generally, RLN detours around the right subclavian artery on the right side and the aortic arch on the left side. In a rare anatomical variant, called nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve (NRLN), the nerve takes an aberrant path rather than descending into the thorax as usual. First reported in 1823, NRLN is a rare anomaly arising almost exclusively on the right side, reported in 0.3–0.8% of people, and associated with vascular anomalies of embryonic aortic arch development. The atypical vascular pattern of aberrant subclavian artery (arteria lusoria) running behind the trachea and esophagus allows the vagus nerve to pass freely, which then directly branches out as NRLN at the level of the larynx. On the other hand, cases of left NRLN, only reported in 0.004% of people, are all accompanied by significant pathologies such as situs inversus totalis with opposite vascular pattern of left aberrant subclavian artery. This rare anatomical variation is clinically important, as NLRN is a major risk factor for iatrogenic injury during thyroidectomy, parathyroidectomy, and other invasive procedures in the head and neck region.
Revisiting the Diagnostic Performance of the Modified Nine-Step Test for Obstructive and Patulous Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Authors: Bae Seong Hoon , Moon Seojin , Jeong Mincheol , Moon In Seok
Published: March 2022

The nine-step test is a classical method for evaluating Eustachian tube function. It directly assesses the patient’s capacity to equilibrate middle ear pressure by swallowing. However, there are insufficient studies to appraise its diagnostic performance. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and cut-off value of the nine-step test in patients with obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction (oETD) and patulous Eustachian tube (PET). Enrolled subjects were divided into three groups. Control (50 ears of healthy volunteers), oETD (19 ears with oETD), and PET (29 ears with PET). Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic performance of maximal peak pressure difference (ETTmd) in the nine-step test. Both the oETD group and the PET group showed decreased ETTmd. The nine-step test showed moderate accuracy when used to diagnose oETD (area under the curve = 0.875) and PET (area under the curve = 0.769). The highest diagnostic performance was observed when the cut-off value was 13 daPa for both the oETD group (sensitivity = 73.7%, specificity = 90.0%) and the PET group (sensitivity = 58.6%, specificity = 90.0%). The nine-step test has moderate diagnostic performance for oETD and PET.
Clinicopathological Assessment of Cancer/Testis Antigens NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-A4 in Highly Aggressive Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Nishimura Shunji , Ito Tomohiko , Akagi Masao
Published: March 2022

We aimed to investigate the clinical significance of the expression of NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-A4 in soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Immunostaining for NY-ESO-1, MAGE-A4, and Ki67 was performed using pathological specimens harvested from 10 undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), nine myxofibrosarcoma (MFS), and three malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) patients treated at our hospital. We examined the correlation of NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-A4 expression levels with tumor size, histological grade, and SUVmax values. Positive cell rates of various markers were also compared between patients in remission and those who were not in remission. The rates of cases positive for NY-ESO, MAGE-A4, and Ki67 were 50%, 63.6%, and 90.9%, respectively. The average rates of cells positive for NY-ESO, MAGE-A4, and Ki67 in all STS types were 18.2%, 39.4%, and 16.8%, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between rates of cells positive for NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-A4 and between NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-A4 expression levels and clinical features. There was no significant difference in the positive cell rate of NY-ESO-1 or MAGE-A4 between remission and non-remission cases. Our results suggest that NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-A4 expression may be useful for the diagnosis and prognostication of UPS, MFS, and MPNST.
Assessment of Basal Cell Carcinoma Using Dermoscopy and High Frequency Ultrasound Examination
Authors: Halip Ioana-Alina , Vâţă Dan , Statescu Laura , Salahoru Paul , Patraşcu Adriana Ionela , Temelie Olinici Doinita , Tarcau Bogdan , Popescu Ioana-Adriana , Mocanu Madalina , Constantin Anne-Marie , Crisan Maria , Brihan Ilarie , Nicolescu Alin Codrut , Gheuca-Solovastru Laura
Published: March 2022

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of cutaneous neoplasia in humans, and dermoscopy may provide valuable information for histopathological classification of BCC, which allows for the choice of non-invasive topical or surgical therapy. Similarly, dermoscopy may allow for the identification of incipient forms of BCC that cannot be detected in clinical examination. The importance of early diagnosis using the dermoscopy of superficial BCC forms is proven by the fact that despite their indolent clinical appearance, they can be included in high-risk BCC forms due to the rate of postoperative recurrence. Nodular pigmentary forms of BCCs present ovoid gray-blue nests or multiple gray-blue dots/globules associated with arborized vessels, sometimes undetectable on clinical examination. The management of BCC depends on this, as pigmentary forms have been shown to have a poor response to photodynamic therapy. High frequency ultrasound examination (HFUS) aids in the diagnosis of BCC with hypoechoic tumour masses, as well as in estimating tumour size (thickness and diameter), presurgical margin delineation, and surgical planning. The examination is also useful for determining the invasion of adjacent structures and for studying local recurrences. The use of dermoscopy in combination with HFUS allows for optimisation of the management of the oncological patient.
Post-Concussion Syndrome and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: Narrative Review on the Neuropathology, Neuroimaging and Fluid Biomarkers
Authors: Mavroudis Ioannis , Kazis Dimitrios , Chowdhury Rumana , Petridis Foivos , Costa Vasiliki , Balmus Ioana-Miruna , Ciobica Alin , Luca Alina-Costina , Radu Iulian , Dobrin Romeo Petru , Baloyannis Stavros
Published: March 2022

Traumatic brain injury is a significant public health issue and represents the main contributor to death and disability globally among all trauma-related injuries. Martial arts practitioners, military veterans, athletes, victims of physical abuse, and epileptic patients could be affected by the consequences of repetitive mild head injuries (RMHI) that do not resume only to short-termed traumatic brain injuries (TBI) effects but also to more complex and time-extended outcomes, such as post-concussive syndrome (PCS) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). These effects in later life are not yet well understood; however, recent studies suggested that even mild head injuries can lead to an elevated risk of later-life cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative disease. While most of the PCS hallmarks consist in immediate consequences and only in some conditions in long-termed processes undergoing neurodegeneration and impaired brain functions, the neuropathological hallmark of CTE is the deposition of p-tau immunoreactive pre-tangles and thread-like neurites at the depths of cerebral sulci and neurofibrillary tangles in the superficial layers I and II which are also one of the main hallmarks of neurodegeneration. Despite different CTE diagnostic criteria in clinical and research approaches, their specificity and sensitivity remain unclear and CTE could only be diagnosed post-mortem. In CTE, case risk factors include RMHI exposure due to profession (athletes, military personnel), history of trauma (abuse), or pathologies (epilepsy). Numerous studies aimed to identify imaging and fluid biomarkers that could assist diagnosis and probably lead to early intervention, despite their heterogeneous outcomes. Still, the true challenge remains the prediction of neurodegeneration risk following TBI, thus in PCS and CTE. Further studies in high-risk populations are required to establish specific, preferably non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for CTE, considering the aim of preventive medicine.