bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) Mediated by Maleimide-Functionalized Closo-Dodecaborate Albumin Conjugates (MID:BSA) for Oral Cancer: Biodistribution Studies and In Vivo BNCT in the Hamster Cheek Pouch Oral Cancer Model
Authors: Monti Hughes Andrea , Goldfinger Jessica A. , Palmieri Mónica A. , Ramos Paula , Santa Cruz Iara S. , De Leo Luciana , Garabalino Marcela A. , Thorp Silvia I. , Curotto Paula , Pozzi Emiliano C. C. , Kawai Kazuki , Sato Shinichi , Itoiz María E. , Trivillin Verónica A. , Guidobono Juan S. , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Schwint Amanda E.
Published: July 2022

Background: BNCT (Boron Neutron Capture Therapy) is a tumor-selective particle radiotherapy that combines preferential boron accumulation in tumors and neutron irradiation. Although p-boronophenylalanine (BPA) has been clinically used, new boron compounds are needed for the advancement of BNCT. Based on previous studies in colon tumor-bearing mice, in this study, we evaluated MID:BSA (maleimide-functionalized closo-dodecaborate conjugated to bovine serum albumin) biodistribution and MID:BSA/BNCT therapeutic effect on tumors and associated radiotoxicity in the hamster cheek pouch oral cancer model. Methods: Biodistribution studies were performed at 30 mg B/kg and 15 mg B/kg (12 h and 19 h post-administration). MID:BSA/BNCT (15 mg B/kg, 19 h) was performed at three different absorbed doses to precancerous tissue. Results: MID:BSA 30 mg B/kg protocol induced high BSA toxicity. MID:BSA 15 mg B/kg injected at a slow rate was well-tolerated and reached therapeutically useful boron concentration values in the tumor and tumor/normal tissue ratios. The 19 h protocol exhibited significantly lower boron concentration values in blood. MID:BSA/BNCT exhibited a significant tumor response vs. the control group with no significant radiotoxicity. Conclusions: MID:BSA/BNCT would be therapeutically useful to treat oral cancer. BSA toxicity is a consideration when injecting a compound conjugated to BSA and depends on the animal model studied.
Role of Vitamin E in Neonatal Neuroprotection: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Authors: Kolnik Sarah , Wood Thomas
Published: July 2022

Vitamin E (Vit E) is an essential lipophilic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that has potential as a neuroprotectant in newborn infants with brain injury. Vit E has shown promise in many in vitro studies, but success in translation to in vivo animal studies and the clinical setting has been mixed, with concern of adverse effects at high intravenous doses in preterm infants. However, a recent rise in knowledge of the beneficial effects of fat emulsions containing higher levels of Vit E, along with associated improved outcomes in some neonatal co-morbidities, has led many to reconsider Vit E administration as a potential therapeutic modality to improve neurological outcomes in the setting of neonatal brain injury. This narrative review discusses Vit E’s structure, mechanism(s) of action, evidence in animal models, and association with health outcomes in neonates, including both dietary and supplemental Vit E and their bioavailability and pharmacokinetics as it relates to the brain. Lastly, long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes along with gaps in current knowledge are critiqued, which to date suggests that additional translational studies in larger animal models and assessment of safety profiles of different routes and doses of administration should be explored prior to large clinical trials. Importantly, a greater understanding of the brain region(s) and cell type(s) affected by Vit E may help to target the use of Vit E as a beneficial neuroprotective agent to specific populations or types of injury seen in newborns.
Combination Treatment of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy and Meibomian Gland Expression for Evaporative Dry Eye
Authors: Peng Kai-Ling , Chiu Chen-Jui , Tuan Hsin-I , Lee Yi-Chen , Hsu Pyn-Sing , Chen Jiunn-Liang
Published: July 2022

Dry eye disease (DED) is most commonly caused by evaporative subtypes and mainly induced by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Intense pulsed light (IPL) combined with meibomian gland expression (MGX) is a noninvasive treatment for improvement of ocular discomfort symptoms and MGD. In this prospective study between November 2020 and May 2022, the patients with MGD and abnormal meibomian expressibility that met the criteria of both ocular surface disease index (OSDI) ≥ 13 scores and standardized patient evaluation of eye dryness (SPEED) ≥ 8 scores were enrolled in Kaohsiung Veteran General Hospital. Three separate treatment sessions of IPL therapy combined with MGX were administered to the lower lids, with an interval of 28 days. Further tear film assessment included lipid layer thickness (LLT), tear meniscus height (TMH), noninvasive tear break-up time (NIBUT), and meibomian gland loss (MGL) either before or after first and third IPL therapy combined with MGX. In addition, lissamine green staining and pain scores were also recorded. We totally enrolled 37 patients of 74 eyes. Men accounted for 18.92% (7/37). The mean age was 54.51 ± 11.72 years. The mean OSDI scores were 58.12 ± 22, while the SPEED scores were 17.03 ± 5.98. The mean Schirmer’s test was 3.66 ± 2.43 mm. After three sessions of IPL treatment with MGX, the OSDI, SPEED, LLT, TMH, MGL, MGXS, and pain scores were significantly improved. For the MGX scores (MGXS) ≤ 20 group, lissamine green scores showed nearly significant improvements. For the MGXS > 20 group, TMH revealed statistical improvement. Noninvasive IPL therapy with MGX statistically improved not only dry eye symptoms, but also tear film assessments, including LLT, TMH, and MGL.
Nucleic Acid Thermodynamics Derived from Mechanical Unzipping Experiments
Authors: Rissone Paolo , Ritort Felix
Published: July 2022

Force-spectroscopy techniques have led to significant progress in studying the physicochemical properties of biomolecules that are not accessible in bulk assays. The application of piconewton forces with laser optical tweezers to single nucleic acids has permitted the characterization of molecular thermodynamics and kinetics with unprecedented accuracy. Some examples are the hybridization reaction between complementary strands in DNA and the folding of secondary, tertiary, and other heterogeneous structures, such as intermediate and misfolded states in RNA. Here we review the results obtained in our lab on deriving the nearest-neighbor free energy parameters in DNA and RNA duplexes from mechanical unzipping experiments. Remarkable nonequilibrium effects are also observed, such as the large irreversibility of RNA unzipping and the formation of non-specific secondary structures in single-stranded DNA. These features originate from forming stem-loop structures along the single strands of the nucleic acid. The recently introduced barrier energy landscape model quantifies kinetic trapping effects due to stem-loops being applicable to both RNA and DNA. The barrier energy landscape model contains the essential features to explain the many behaviors observed in heterogeneous nucleic-acid folding.
Biochemical Properties of Atranorin-Induced Behavioral and Systematic Changes of Laboratory Rats
Authors: Simko Patrik , Leskanicova Andrea , Suvakova Maria , Blicharova Alzbeta , Karasova Martina , Goga Michal , Kolesarova Mariana , Bojkova Bianka , Majerova Petra , Zidekova Nela , Barvik Ivan , Kovac Andrej , Kiskova Terezia
Published: July 2022

Atranorin (ATR) is a secondary metabolite of lichens. While previous studies investigated the effects of this substance predominantly in an in vitro environment, in our study we investigated the basic physicochemical properties, the binding affinity to human serum albumin (HSA), basic pharmacokinetics, and, mainly, on the systematic effects of ATR in vivo. Sporadic studies describe its effects during, predominantly, cancer. This project is original in terms of testing the efficacy of ATR on a healthy organism, where we can possibly attribute negative effects directly to ATR and not to the disease. For the experiment, 24 Sprague Dawley rats (Velaz, Únetice, Czech Republic) were used. The animals were divided into four groups. The first group (n = 6) included healthy males as control intact rats (♂INT) and the second group (n = 6) included healthy females as control intact rats (♀INT). Groups three and four (♂ATR/n = 6 and ♀ATR/n = 6) consisted of animals with daily administered ATR (10mg/kg body weight) in an ethanol–water solution per os for a one-month period. Our results demonstrate that ATR binds to HSA near the binding site TRP214 and acts on a systemic level. ATR caused mild anemia during the treatment. However, based on the levels of hepatic enzymes in the blood (ALT, ALP, or bilirubin levels), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), or liver histology, no impact on liver was recorded. Significantly increased creatinine and lactate dehydrogenase levels together with increased defecation activity during behavioral testing may indicate the anabolic effect of ATR in skeletal muscles. Interestingly, ATR changed some forms of behavior. ATR at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight is non-toxic and, therefore, could be used in further research.
Clinical and Microbiological Evaluation of a Chlorhexidine-Modified Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC-CHX) Restoration Placed Using the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) Technique
Authors: Ratnayake Jithendra , Veerasamy Arthi , Ahmed Hassan , Coburn David , Loch Carolina , Gray Andrew R. , Lyons Karl M. , Heng Nicholas C. K. , Cannon Richard D. , Leung Marcus , Brunton Paul A.
Published: July 2022

The aims of this study were to investigate the clinical effectiveness and patient acceptability of a modified glass ionomer cement placed using the atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) technique to treat root caries, and to carry out microbiological analysis of the restored sites. Two clinically visible root surface carious lesions per participant were restored using ART. One was restored with commercial glass ionomer cement (GIC) (ChemFil® Superior, DENTSPLY, Konstonz, Germany) which acted as the control. The other carious root lesion was restored with the same GIC modified with 5% chlorhexidine digluconate (GIC-CHX; test). Patient acceptability and restoration survival rate were evaluated at baseline and after 6 months. Plaque and saliva samples around the test and control restorations were collected, and microbiological analysis for selected bacterial and fungal viability were completed at baseline, and after 1, 3, and 6 months. In total, 52 restorations were placed using GIC and GIC-CHX in 26 participants; 1 patient was lost to follow-up. After reviewing the restorations during their baseline appointments, participants indicated that they were satisfied with the appearance of the restorations (n = 25, 96%) and did not feel anxious during the procedure (n = 24, 92%). Forty-eight percent (n = 12) of the GIC-CHX restorations were continuous with the existing anatomic form as opposed to six for the GIC restorations (24%), a difference which was statistically significant (p = 0.036). There was no statistically significant reduction in the mean count of the tested microorganisms in plaque samples for either type of restorations after 1, 3, or 6 months. Restoration of carious root surfaces with GIC-CHX resulted in higher survival rates than the control GIC. ART using GIC-CHX may therefore be a viable approach for use in outreach dental services to restore root surface carious lesions where dental services are not readily available, and for older people and special needs groups.
Optimization of the Growth Process of Double Perovskite Pr2−δNi1−xMn1+xO6−y Epitaxial Thin Films by RF Sputtering
Authors: Bernal-Salamanca Mónica , Balcells Lluis , Konstantinović Zorica , Pomar Alberto , Martínez Benjamín , Frontera Carlos
Published: July 2022

Epitaxial thin films of Pr2−δNi1−xMn1+xO6−y (PNMO) double perovskite were grown on (001)-oriented SrTiO3 substrates by RF magnetron sputtering. The influence of the growth parameters (oxygen pressure, substrate temperature, and annealing treatments) on the structural, magnetic and transport properties, and stoichiometry of the films was thoroughly investigated. It is found that high-quality epitaxial, insulating, and ferromagnetic PNMO thin films can only be obtained in a narrow deposition parameter window. It is shown that a careful selection of the growth conditions allows for obtaining a high degree of Ni/Mn cation ordering, which is reflected in the values of the Curie temperature, TC, and saturation magnetization, MS, which are very close to those of bulk material.
Processing and Microstructure of As-Cast Ti-45Al-2W-xC Alloys
Authors: Cegan Tomas , Kamyshnykova Kateryna , Lapin Juraj , Szurman Ivo , Jurica Jan , Klimantova Vendula
Published: July 2022

The metallurgical preparation and microstructure of as-cast Ti-45Al-2W-xC (in at.%) alloys were investigated. Five alloys with carbon content ranging from 0.38 to 1.96 at.% were prepared by vacuum induction melting (VIM) in graphite crucibles, followed by centrifugal casting into graphite moulds. A master 15W-85Al (at.%) alloy with a relatively low melting point and TiC powder were used to facilitate fast dissolution of W during VIM and to achieve the designed content of C in the as-cast alloys, respectively. The increase in the content of C affects the solidification path of the studied alloys. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) and microstructural observations show that the alloys with carbon content up to 0.75 at.% solidify with β primary phase and their dendritic as-cast microstructure consists of the α2(Ti3Al) + γ(TiAl) lamellar regions, retained B2 phase enriched by W and single γ phase formed in the interdendritic region. The increase in the content of C above 0.75 at.% leads to the formation of primary lathe-shaped Ti2AlC carbides, which act as effective heterogeneous nucleation sites of β dendrites during the solidification and grain refinement of the alloys with 1.15 and 1.96 at.% C. The increase in the content of C leads to an increase in Vickers hardness and elastic modulus in the alloys containing 1.96 at.% C.
Adsorption of Ag (I) Ions at the Zirconium Phosphate/KNO3 Aqueous Solution Interface
Authors: Janusz Władysław , Skwarek Ewa , Sydorchuk Volodymyr , Khalameida Svitlana
Published: July 2022

The paper presented the mechanical (MChT), microwave (MWT), and hydrothermal (HTT) methods of zirconium phosphate samples modification in order to improve its adsorption affinity for the Ag (I) ions. The FTIR studies proved that the modification of both gel and xerogel samples with the ultrasonic microwaves causes an increase in the concentration of phosphate groups on the surface of MWT-modified zirconium phosphate: the isoelectric point pHiep = 2.2–2.9 for these samples against 3.9 for the initial sample and pKa2 values were 4.7–5.6 and 6.3, respectively. As resulting from the Ag+ ion adsorption studies, the MWT treatment of zirconium phosphate samples caused the greatest affinity of Ag+ ions for the surface of MWT zirconium phosphate. Compared with the initial ZrP sample, the shift of the Ag (I) ion adsorption edge towards lower pH values was observed, e.g., with adsorption of Ag (I) ions from the solution with the initial concentration of 1 µmol/dm3 for the initial ZrP sample pH50% = 3.2, while for the sample MWT ZrPxero pH50% = 2.6.
Experimental Prognostication of Ultra-High-Performance Lightweight Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Concrete by Using Sintered Fly Ash Aggregate, Palm Oil Shell Aggregate, and Supplementary Cementitious Materials
Authors: Behera Diptikar , Liu Kuang-Yen , Gopalakrishnan Dineshkumar
Published: July 2022

To create cost-effective structures, the modern construction industry has sought to reduce the dead load of buildings. Lightweight concrete is a quick way to reduce dead load. The current study is primarily concerned with identifying modern substitutes for coarse aggregate likely to aid in waste management and offer potential alternatives to the most exploited natural resources. According to ACI C 39-M, this study developed a novel lightweight hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete (LWHFRC) with a density of less than 1825 kg/m3 and compressive strength of 50 to 75 MPa. Ordinary Portland cement (53 Grade) was mixed with fly ash, silica fume, and GGBS. Sintered fly ash aggregate (SFA) and palm oil shell aggregate (POS) were used as coarse aggregates. Hooked steel fibers and polyvinyl alcohol fibers were combined in a hybrid form to improve crack propagation properties at the initial and subsequent stages. The water-to-binder ratio was kept constant at 0.30 to 0.35 with a 1% superplasticizer. Four volume fractions of hybrid fibers (both steel and PVA with Vf = 0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%) were added. In addition, XRD, SEM, EDS, and EDS mapping tests were performed to finalize the material’s chemical composition and crystalline structure. Furthermore, beams and cylinders were tested to determine the modulus of rupture, which was determined to be between 9.5 and 14 MPa by ACI code C 1609-M, and indirect tensile strength, achieved as 10 to 14 MPa by ACI code C 496-M. The researcher altered the modulus of elasticity (Ec) formula for lightweight concrete and discovered a relationship between fc’ and fcb, fc’ and fspt, and fcb and fspt. Finally, ANOVA and regression tests were run to check the significance of the experiment. The cost analysis revealed that the cost of LWHFRC increased by approximately 16.46%, while the strength increased by 55.98% compared to regular concrete.
Recycling of Carbon Fibres and Subsequent Upcycling for the Production of 3D-CFRP Parts
Authors: Rabe David , Häntzsche Eric , Cherif Chokri
Published: July 2022

Carbon fibres (CF) are used in CF reinforced plastic (CFRP) components. However, waste from CF yarn trim, CFRP and the end of life (EOL) CFRP structures will cause a recycling challenge in the next decades because of strict environmental regulations. Currently, recycling is carried out almost entirely by the use of pyrolysis to regain CF as a valuable resource. This high temperature process is energy consuming, and the resulting fibres are brittle. Hence, they are not suitable for processing of textiles into yarns or new reinforcement structures. To enable grave to cradle processing, a new approach based on a solvolysis recovery of CF and subsequent yarn spinning to obtain hybrid yarns suitable for textile processing, especially by weft knitting, was the focus of the international research project IGF/CORNET 256EBR. For the first time, it was possible to process hybrid yarns made of rCF on a weft knitting machine to produce biaxial reinforced structures to form CFRP from recycled carbon fibres. Therefore, various modifications were done on the textile machinery. In this way, it was possible to process the rCF and to get out a reproducible textile structure for the production of 3D recycled CFRP (rCFRP) parts.
An Evaluation of the Hydrolytic Stability of Selected Experimental Dental Matrices and Composites
Authors: Szczesio-Wlodarczyk Agata , Kopacz Karolina , Szynkowska-Jozwik Malgorzata Iwona , Sokolowski Jerzy , Bociong Kinga
Published: July 2022

Materials with potential use as dental restoration should be evaluated in an aggressive environment. Such accelerated aging is widely used in other industries and allows the assessment of service life. In the presented study, three neat resins (UDMA/Bis-GMA/TEGDMA 70/10/20 wt.%, UDMA/Bis-GMA/TEGDMA 40/40/20 wt.% and UDMA/Bis-EMA/TEGDMA 40/40/20 wt.%) and three composites based on these matrices were tested before and after aging protocols (I-7500 cycles, 5 °C and 55 °C, water and 7 days, 60 °C, 0.1 M NaOH; II-5 days, 55 °C, water and 7 days, 60 °C, 0.1 M NaOH). Flexural strength (FS), diametral tensile strength (DTS) and hardness (HV) were determined. Applied aging protocols resulted in a decrease in the value of the FS, DTS and HV. Larger changes were noticed for the neat resins. Materials in which the content of bis-GMA was lower or substituted by bis-EMA showed better resistance to degradation. The choice of mixtures with monomers characterized by lower sorption values may favorably affect hydrolytic stability. It was shown that for composites there was a drastic decrease in hardness, which suggests a more superficial effect of the used protocols. However, degradation of the surface layer can result in a growing problem over time given that the mastication processes are an inherent element in the oral environment.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation on the Shear Behavior of Engineered Cementitious Composite Beams with Hybrid Fibers
Authors: Maheswaran Jeyaprakash , Chellapandian Maheswaran , Sivasubramanian Madappa V. R. , Murali Gunasekaran , Vatin Nikolai Ivanovich
Published: July 2022

The shear behavior of innovative engineered cementitious composites (ECC) members with a hybrid mix of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polypropylene (PP) fibers is examined. The overall objective of the investigation is to understand the shear behavior of ECC beams with different mono and hybrid fiber combinations without compromising the strength and ductility. Four different configurations of beams were prepared and tested, including 2.0% of PP fibers, 2.0% of PVA fibers, 2.0% of steel fibers and hybrid PVA and PP fibers (i.e., 1% PP and 1% PVA). In addition to the tests, a detailed nonlinear finite element (FE) analysis was accomplished using the commercial ABAQUS software. The validated FE model was used to perform an extensive parametric investigation to optimize the design parameters for the hybrid-fiber-reinforced ECC beams under shear. The results revealed that the use of hybrid PVA and PP fibers improved the performance by enhancing the overall strength and ductility compared to the steel and PP-fiber-based ECC beams. Incorporating hybrid fibers into ECC beams increased the critical shear crack angle, indicating the transition of a failure from a brittle diagonal tension to a ductile bending.
Strained Lattice Gold-Copper Alloy Nanoparticles for Efficient Carbon Dioxide Electroreduction
Authors: Chang Fangfang , Wang Chenguang , Wu Xueli , Liu Yongpeng , Wei Juncai , Bai Zhengyu , Yang Lin
Published: July 2022

Electrocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into specific renewable fuels is an attractive way to mitigate the greenhouse effect and solve the energy crisis. AunCu100-n/C alloy nanoparticles (AunCu100−n/C NPs) with tunable compositions, a highly active crystal plane and a strained lattice were synthesized by the thermal solvent co-reduction method. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results show that AunCu100−n/C catalysts display a subtle lattice strain and dominant (111) crystal plane, which can be adjusted by the alloy composition. Electrochemical results show that AunCu100−n/C alloy catalysts for CO2 reduction display high catalytic activity; in particular, the Faradaic efficiency of Au75Cu25/C is up to 92.6% for CO at −0.7 V (vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode), which is related to lattice shrinkage and the active facet. This research provides a new strategy with which to design strong and active nanoalloy catalysts with lattice mismatch and main active surfaces for CO2 reduction reaction.
The Time-Dependent Effect in Ultra High-Performance Concrete According to the Curing Methods
Authors: Lim Kwangmo , Kim Kyongchul , Koh Kyungtaek , Ryu Gumsung
Published: July 2022

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is required to develop multifunctional concrete structures such as long-span bridges. During the construction of long-span bridges, girders exhibit significant differences in age because they use different curing days in the precast process. In this study, the performances of UHPC were compared when subjected to long-term storage under various conditions after 3-day steam curing. At 365 days, the compressive strength of steam curing is 197 MPa, moist is 191 MPa, and the air is 169 MPa. Based on these differences, prediction models were proposed for long-term performances. Furthermore, the development characteristics of compressive strength, modulus of elasticity (MOE), and flexural strength until 365 days of age were analyzed under air, moist, and steam conditions. Steam curing exhibited the highest level of strength development while air curing showed the lowest. Flexural strength showed no significant difference depending on age because steel fibers were mixed with UHPC; they significantly contributed to flexural performance. The results would contribute to recognizing differences in strength between members at sites where UHPC is applied and to managing high-quality structures constructed using precast members. These research results are expected to contribute to efficient member production and process management during the construction of large structures such as super-long-span bridges.
Dynamic Simulation and Experimental Study of Electric Vehicle Motor-Gear System Based on State Space Method
Authors: Cao Zhan , Chen Yong , Li Guangxin , Zang Libin , Wang Dong , Qiu Zizhen , Wei Guangyan
Published: July 2022

In the research on electric vehicle transmission vibration characteristics, the dynamic model involving a multistage gear system is still rare, especially the influences of driving motor excitation and load excitation which are not considered, and which makes the gear system research deviate from the actual situation. In addition, the changing processes of variables are usually simplified or neglected in the study of gear systems, which is not conducive in revealing the mechanism of gear dynamic behavior. In this paper, an improved dynamic model of a motor-gear system is established. The influences of driving motor excitation and load excitation are included, and the changing processes of tangential, axial, and torsional vibration variables of driving gear and driven gear are obtained using the state space method. Furthermore, the transmission housing vibration responses are investigated. By comparing the simulation results with the measurement data, the improved dynamic model, as well as the state space solution method, are verified as reliable and universal. On this basis, the influence of motor excitation on the state change of the gear system is discussed, which provides a theoretical approach for further study of motor drive gear systems.
Laboratory Device Detecting Tensile Forces in the Rope and Coefficient of Friction in the Rope Sheave Groove
Authors: Hrabovský Leopold , Učeň Oldřich , Kudrna Lukáš , Čepica Daniel , Frydrýšek Karel
Published: July 2022

One of the possible ways to transfer the tractive power of a drive unit to the traction element is to use fibre friction. When a steel rope is used as the traction element, there is a transfer of tractive power in the groove created on the perimeter of the rim of the driving rope sheave. The transmission capability of the drive is directly proportional to the size of the angle of wrap and the shear friction coefficient of the rope surface when the rope is in contact with the surface of the groove wall. The relationship for calculating the size of friction coefficient in the grooves is given by relevant technical standards. The coefficient of friction determined in this way does not take into account the state of possible operational contamination of the groove or the diameter of the rope used. Using a unique laboratory instrument, tensile forces were measured for both rope sides in the state of a non-rotating sheave or when the sheave started to rotate rope. Experimental measurements were carried out for two different diameters of steel ropes, which were guided by two types of grooves for the rope sheave under two limit operating states of the groove wall surface: clean and dirty with oil. By evaluating the measured tensile forces in the approaching and outrunning rope side girded with the groove of the rope sheave, it was found (using a measuring apparatus) that a rope of a larger diameter acquires a higher value of the friction coefficient for the groove than a rope of a smaller diameter. The coefficient of friction in the groove decreases with the increasing size of the sum of the acting tensile forces on both sides of the rope. Lower values of the coefficient of friction achieve semi-circular grooves, and V-shaped grooves show higher values. Lower values for the coefficient of friction, close to theoretical values which were calculated using the relevant relationships specified in the standards, were found for grooves contaminated with oil as opposed to dry and clean grooves.
Coffin-Lowry Syndrome Induced by RPS6KA3 Gene Variation in China: A Case Report in Twins
Authors: Jin Huiying , Li Haifeng , Qiang Shu
Published: July 2022

Background and objectives: Coffin-Lowry Syndrome (CLS), a rare neurodegenerative disorder, is mainly diagnosed based on clinical manifestations and molecular analyses. In total, about 20 cases of CLS have been reported in China. Here, we report two cases of CLS in identical twin brothers and examine their potential causative mutations. Methods: The Trio mode was used in this analysis, i.e., DNA from the proband and his parents was sequenced. Furthermore, DNA from the proband’s twin brother was used for confirmation. Results: A hemizygous variation was detected in the 11th exon of the RPS6KA3 gene, c.898C>T (p.R300*) of the proband, and the same site variation was detected in his identical twin brother; however, the mutation was not detected in his parents. Conclusions: The RPS6KA3 gene mutation c.898C>T (p.R300*) is the causative factor of familial CLS. The variant detected was reported for the first time in the Chinese population. Additionally, by analyzing the previous literature, we were able to summarize the phenotypic and genetic characteristics of GLS in China.
Effect of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on HbA1C Level in Children with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Asiri Ashwag , Alzahrani Faris , Alghamdi Hashim , Alamri Zainab
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives: A third of the American adult population is currently pre-diabetic/morbidly obese and is, therefore, at an elevated risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Unfortunately, such a condition does not spare children from also developing morbid obesity, where incidence rates of childhood obesity—coupled with type 2 diabetes—are markedly elevated. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is gradually becoming the novel benchmark in bariatric surgery for the treatment of morbid obesity and associated co-morbidities, also within pediatric cases. However, no comprehensive study has been conducted in children that emphasizes the effect of LSG on HbA1C levels within such a patient population suffering from type 2 diabetes. Aim: Since HbA1C is a major biomarker for type 2 diabetes progression, this study aimed to identify any dysregulated serum levels for this key molecular player (together with other parameters), for post-surgical monitoring of the beneficial metabolic effects of LSG surgery on type 2 diabetes amelioration/remission within pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 64 pediatric patients, ranging in age from 5 to 14 years old, were enrolled in this retrospective study. Multiple laboratory-based analyses datasets were also collected from individual study participants, including HbA1C and random blood sugar (RBS). All participating patients were designated for undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, as per standardized surgical protocols and each participant was followed-up for two years post-surgery. Laboratory investigations were re-performed in order to identify any major variations in clinical parameters. Results: HbA1c was significantly reduced among children, from 6.0 ± 0.8 (pre-LSG) to 5.4 ± 0.4 post-surgery, with a reduction rate of 10.9% (p = 0.001). Furthermore, RBS significantly decreased from 102.9 ± 34.0 (pre-LSG) to 87.1 ± 17.3 post- surgery, with a reduction rate of 15.4% (p = 0.036). Conclusions: This study provides further concrete evidence for the beneficial metabolic influence provided by LSG surgery on morbidly obese, childhood-aged patient populations, with effectiveness in reducing co-morbidity progress, in the form of type 2 diabetes, through the reduction in HbA1c levels within such patients post-surgery.
Maladaptive Personality Traits in a Group of Patients with Substance Use Disorder and ADHD
Authors: Buică Alexandra Mariana , Preda Diana Monica , Andrei Lucia Emanuela , Stancu Mihaela , Gică Nicolae , Rad Florina
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives: the comorbidity of personality disorders in patients who use psychoactive substances is common in psychiatric practice. The epidemiology of disharmonious personality traits in patients with ADHD and addictions in adulthood is still insufficiently researched. The study investigated the typology of personality traits in a group of adult patients consuming psychoactive substances, in whom symptoms of ADHD were identified. Materials and Methods: the study evaluates a group of 104 patients with chronic psychoactive substances abuse, in whom symptoms of ADHD were identified in early adulthood, in terms of comorbid personality traits. Results: statistically significant data have been obtained regarding the presence of clinical traits characteristic for cluster B personality disorders, the patients presenting lower levels of self-control, self-image instability, difficulties in the areas of social relationships and own identity integration. Conclusions: ADHD symptomatology precedes the clinical traits of personality disorders in patients with addictions, negatively influencing chronic evolution and quality of life.
Coronary CT Value in Quantitative Assessment of Intermediate Stenosis
Authors: Zajančkauskienė Laura , Radionovaitė Laura , Jankauskas Antanas , Banišauskaitė Audra , Šakalytė Gintarė
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives: Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is an excellent non-invasive imaging tool to evaluate coronary arteries and exclude coronary artery disease (CAD). Managing intermediate coronary artery stenosis with negative or inconclusive functional tests is still a challenge. A regular stenosis evaluation together with high-risk plaque features, using semi-automated programs, are becoming promising tools. This case–control study was designed to evaluate the intermediate lesion features’ impact on CAD outcomes, using a semi-automated CCTA atherosclerotic plaque analysis program. Materials and Methods: We performed a single-center, prospective cohort study. A total of 133 patients with low to intermediate risk of CAD, older than 18 years with no previous history of CAD and good quality CCTA images were included in the study, and 194 intermediate stenosis (CAD-RADS 3) were analyzed. For more detailed morphological analysis, we used semi-automated CCTA-dedicated software. Enrolled patients were prospectively followed-up for 2 years. Results: Agatston score was significantly higher in the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) group (p = 0.025). Obstruction site analysis showed a significantly lower coronary artery remodeling index (RI) among patients with MACE (p = 0.037); nonetheless RI was negative in both groups. Plaque consistency analysis showed significantly bigger necrotic core area in the MACE group (p = 0.049). In addition, unadjusted multivariate analysis confirmed Agatston score and RI as significant MACE predictors. Conclusions: The Agatston score showes the total area of calcium deposits and higher values are linked to MACE. Higher plaque content of necrotic component is also associated with MACE. Additionally, negatively remodeled plaques are linked to MACE and could be a sign of advanced CAD. The Agatston score and RI are significant in risk stratification for the development of MACE.
Neonatal Pneumothorax Outcome in Preterm and Term Newborns
Authors: Jovandaric Miljana Z. , Milenkovic Svetlana J. , Dotlic Jelena , Babovic Ivana R. , Jestrovic Zorica , Milosevic Branislav , Culjic Miljan , Babic Sandra
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives: Pneumothorax implies the presence of air in the pleural space between the visceral and parietal pleura. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence, clinical characteristics, risk factors, therapy and perinatal outcome in neonates with pneumothorax in a tertiary care center. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study based on a five-year data sample of neonates with pneumothorax was conducted in a Maternity Hospital with a tertiary NICU from 2015 to 2020. We included all neonates with pneumothorax born in our hospital and compared demographic characteristics, perinatal risk factors, anthropometric parameters, comorbidities, clinical course and method of chest drainage between term (≥37 GW) and preterm (<37 GW) neonates. Results: The study included 74 newborns with pneumothorax, of which 67.6% were male and 32.5% were female. The majority of women (59.5%) had no complications during pregnancy. Delivery was mainly performed via CS (68.9%). Delivery occurred on average in 34.62 ± 4.03 GW. Significantly more (p = 0.001) children with pneumothorax were born prematurely (n = 53; 71.6%) than at term (n = 21; 28.4%). Most of the neonates had to be treated with ATD (63.5%) and nCPAP (39.2%), but less often they were treated with surfactant (40.5%) and corticosteroids (35.1%). O2 therapy lasted an average of 8.89 ± 4.57 days. Significantly more (p = 0.001) neonates with pneumothorax had additional complications, pneumonia, sepsis, convulsions and intraventricular hemorrhage (68.9%). However, most children had a good outcome (83.8%) and were discharged from the clinic. Fatal outcomes occurred in six cases, while another six neonates had to be transferred to referral neonatal centers for further treatment and care. Conclusion: Significantly more children with pneumothorax were born prematurely than at term. With adequate therapy, even premature newborns can successfully recover from pneumothorax.
The Influence of Laser Power and Scan Speed on the Dimensional Accuracy of Ti6Al4V Thin-Walled Parts Manufactured by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Miranda Georgina , Faria Susana , Bartolomeu Flávio , Pinto Elodie , Alves Nuno , Silva Filipe Samuel
Published: July 2022

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) technologies such as Selective Laser Melting (SLM) are being increasingly considered as viable production routes. This paradigm change demands an in-depth understanding of the fabrication process and variables, as previous studies have shown that energy density calculation alone is insufficient, because parts fabricated using similar energy density, but using different combinations of parameters, can display significantly different properties and dimensions. Thin-walled parts are particularly influenced by processing parameters; in this sense, this study explores the influence of laser power and scan speed on the dimensions of Ti6Al4V thin-walled tubes. Predictive models for manufacturing Ti6Al4V thin-walled tubes were developed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and the most influential (single and combined) factors were determined using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Three models were obtained: for the wall melt zone thickness, the total wall thickness, and the hole width.
Human In Vivo Metabolism and Elimination Behavior of Micro-Dosed Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator RAD140 for Doping Control Purposes
Authors: Wagener Felicitas , Euler Luisa , Görgens Christian , Guddat Sven , Thevis Mario
Published: July 2022

RAD140 is a selective androgen receptor modulator which has been abused in sporting competitions. Its use is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for athletes at all times. In addition to its illicit use, adverse analytical findings of RAD140 in doping control samples might result from other scenarios, e.g., the ingestion of contaminated dietary supplements. The differentiation between samples resulting from such contamination scenarios and intentional doping presents a considerable challenge, as little is known about the metabolism and elimination behavior of RAD140 in humans. In this study, six micro-dose excretion studies with five adult male volunteers each were conducted, and urine samples were analyzed by means of LC-HRMS/MS. Multiple metabolites, firstly detected in human urine, are described in this study. The sample preparation included an enzymatic hydrolysis step, which facilitated the estimation of RAD140 concentrations in urine. The elimination profiles and detection times for six metabolites as well as the intact drug are presented. The method was extensively characterized and deemed fit-for-purpose. The metabolite ratios were investigated for their predictive power in estimating the dose of RAD140 intake. The presented data will aid in better case result management in future doping cases involving RAD140.
Droplet Microfluidic Device for Chemoenzymatic Sensing
Authors: Yakimov Anton S. , Denisov Ivan A. , Bukatin Anton S. , Lukyanenko Kirill A. , Belousov Kirill I. , Kukhtevich Igor V. , Esimbekova Elena N. , Evstrapov Anatoly A. , Belobrov Peter I.
Published: July 2022

The rapid detection of pollutants in water can be performed with enzymatic probes, the catalytic light-emitting activity of which decreases in the presence of many types of pollutants. Herein, we present a microfluidic system for continuous chemoenzymatic biosensing that generates emulsion droplets containing two enzymes of the bacterial bioluminescent system (luciferase and NAD(P)H:FMN–oxidoreductase) with substrates required for the reaction. The developed chip generates “water-in-oil” emulsion droplets with a volume of 0.1 μL and a frequency of up to 12 drops per minute as well as provides the efficient mixing of reagents in droplets and their distancing. The bioluminescent signal from each individual droplet was measured by a photomultiplier tube with a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 3000/1. The intensity of the luminescence depended on the concentration of the copper sulfate with the limit of its detection of 5 μM. It was shown that bioluminescent enzymatic reactions could be carried out in droplet reactors in dispersed streams. The parameters and limitations required for the bioluminescent reaction to proceed were also studied. Hereby, chemoenzymatic sensing capabilities powered by a droplet microfluidics manipulation technique may serve as the basis for early-warning online water pollution systems.
Equilibrium Conformation of a Novel Cable-Driven Snake-Arm Robot under External Loads
Authors: Huang Long , Liu Bei , Zhang Leiyu , Yin Lairong
Published: July 2022

Based on the anti-parallelogram mechanism, an approximate cylindrical rolling joint is proposed to develop a novel cable-driven snake-arm robot with multiple degrees of freedom (DOF). Furthermore, the kinematics of the cable-driven snake-arm robot are established, and the mapping between actuator space and joint space is simplified by bending decoupling motion in the multiple segments. The workspace and bending configurations of the robot are obtained. The static model is established by the principle of minimum potential energy. Furthermore, the simplified cable constraints in the static model are proposed through Taylor expansion, which facilitates the equilibrium conformation analysis of the robot under different external forces. The cable-driven snake-arm robot prototype is developed to verify the feasibility of the robot design and the availability of the static model through the experiments of the free bending motion and the external load on the robot.
In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of the Inhibitory Activity of EGCG-Stearate against Herpes Simplex Virus-2
Authors: Stamos James D. , Lee Lee H. , Taylor Calvin , Elias Tony , Adams Sandra D.
Published: July 2022

About half a billion people worldwide are infected with herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2). Prolonged treatment with acyclovir (ACV) and its analogs leads to the development of resistant strains. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiviral potential of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from Camellia sinensis and a stable analog EGCG-stearate (EGCG-S) against HSV-2 in cultured Vero cells. Cell viability and cell proliferation assays were used to determine the non-cytotoxic concentrations on cultured Vero cells. HSV-2 with a green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion protein of VP26 virions were treated with non-cytotoxic concentrations of EGCG and EGCG-S. The effects on infectivity and mechanisms were determined by plaque assay, attachment and penetration assays, confocal microscopy, qPCR, and in silico modeling analysis. Our results demonstrate that treatment of HSV-2 virions with EGCG and EGCG-S at a concentration of 75 µM showed greater than 99.9% inhibition by inhibiting the attachment of HSV-2 virions to host cells. The bioinformatic analysis indicated high binding affinity of EGCG-S for glycoprotein D; thus EGCG-S may block fusion of HSV-2 and the cell membrane, preventing entry of HSV-2 into the cell.
Exploiting the Potential of Bioreactors for Creating Spatial Organization in the Soil Microbiome: A Strategy for Increasing Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Authors: Gutiérrez Carlos Fernando , Rodríguez-Romero Nicolás , Egan Siobhon , Holmes Elaine , Sanabria Janeth
Published: July 2022

Industrial production of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and their crop application have caused considerable environmental impacts. Some eco-friendly alternatives try to solve them but raise some restrictions. We tested a novel method to produce a nitrogen bioinoculant by enriching a soil microbial community in bioreactors supplying N2 by air pumping. The biomass enriched with diazotrophic bacteria was diluted and applied to N-depleted and sterilized soil of tomato plants. We estimated microbial composition and diversity by 16S rRNA metabarcoding from soil and bioreactors at different run times and during plant uprooting. Bioreactors promoted the N-fixing microbial community and revealed a hided diversity. One hundred twenty-four (124) operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were assigned to bacteria with a greater Shannon diversity during the reactor’s steady state. A total of 753 OTUs were found in the rhizospheres with higher biodiversity when the lowest concentration of bacteria was applied. The apparent bacterial abundance in the batch and continuous bioreactors suggested a more specific functional ecological organization. We demonstrate the usefulness of bioreactors to evidence hidden diversity in the soil when it passes through bioreactors. By obtaining the same growth of inoculated plants and the control with chemical synthesis fertilizers, we evidence the potential of the methodology that we have called directed bioprospecting to grow a complex nitrogen-fixing microbial community. The simplicity of the reactor’s operation makes its application promising for developing countries with low technological progress.