bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnosed from Chylothorax: A Case Report
Authors: Ito Kenta , Hachisu Yoshimasa , Shibasaki Mitsuhiko , Ezawa Kazuma , Iwashita Hiroshi , Jingu Asuka , Arai Hirotaka , Horie Takeo , Takise Atsushi
Published: September 2021

A 71-year-old man visited our hospital with dyspnea and left pleural effusion. Left pleural effusion was diagnosed as chylothorax by thoracentesis. He had no history of trauma or surgery, and there were no findings of malignant lymphoma or thrombosis. Furthermore, he was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma by computed tomography and hematological examinations, and the chylothorax was considered to be caused by liver cirrhosis. We report a review of the literature with this case since it is relatively rare for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed from chylothorax.
Postoperative Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio as an Overall Mortality Midterm Prognostic Factor following OPCAB Procedures
Authors: Urbanowicz Tomasz , Michalak Michał , Gąsecka Aleksandra , Perek Bartłomiej , Rodzki Michał , Bociański Michał , Straburzyńska-Migaj Ewa , Jemielity Marek
Published: September 2021

Background: Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) is believed to limit inflammatory reaction. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is one of the more common and easily accessible markers of inflammatory response. The aim of the study was to compare postoperative results of NLR with mid-term OPCAB results. Methods: In total, 224 patients (198 (88%) men and 26 (12%) women) with mean age 65 +/− 9 years who underwent OPCAB though median full sternotomy in our department in 2018 enrolled into the study. We scrupulously collected the postoperative mid-term results, including survival rate, clinical status and risk for major adverse events, and compared them with perioperative laboratory results. Results: A three-year follow-up was completed by 198 individuals (90% survival rate) with 12 (5%) showing major adverse cardiovascular (MACE) events risk. In the multivariable analysis, the laboratory parameters noticed on the 1st postoperative day were statistically significantly predictive of survival, including neutrophils (HR 1.59, 1.33–1.89 95%CI, p < 0.0001), platelets (HR 1.01, 1.01–1.01 95%CI, p = 0.0065), NLR (HR 1.47, 1.3–1.65 95%CI, p < 0.0001) and postoperative ejection fraction (HR 0.9, 0.87–0.95 95%CI, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Postoperative NLR above 4.6, as an inflammatory reaction marker, is related to mid-term mortality in OPCAB patients.
The Effect of the Deposition Method on the Structural and Optical Properties of ZnS Thin Films
Authors: Simandan Iosif-Daniel , Sava Florinel , Buruiana Angel-Theodor , Burducea Ion , Becherescu Nicu , Mihai Claudia , Velea Alin , Galca Aurelian-Catalin
Published: September 2021

ZnS is a wide band gap material which was proposed as a possible candidate to replace CdS as a buffer layer in solar cells. However, the structural and optical properties are influenced by the deposition method. ZnS thin films were prepared using magnetron sputtering (MS), pulsed laser deposition (PLD), and a combined deposition technique that uses the same bulk target for sputtering and PLD at the same time, named MSPLD. The compositional, structural, and optical properties of the as-deposited and annealed films were inferred from Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, X-ray reflectometry, Raman spectroscopy, and spectroscopic ellipsometry. PLD leads to the best stoichiometric transfer from target to substrate, MS makes fully amorphous films, whereas MSPLD facilitates obtaining the densest films. The study reveals that the band gap is only slightly influenced by the deposition method, or by annealing, which is encouraging for photovoltaic applications. However, sulphur vacancies contribute to lowering the bandgap and therefore should be controlled. Moreover, the results add valuable information towards the understanding of ZnS polymorphism. The combined MSPLD method offers several advantages such as an increased deposition rate and the possibility to tune the optical properties of the obtained thin films.
Effect of Mechanical Properties of Substrates on Flexibility of Ag Nanowire Electrodes under a Large Number of Bending Cycles
Authors: Yun Tae Gwang , Hwang Byungil
Published: September 2021

Ag nanowire electrodes have attracted considerable attention because of their potential applications in next-generation flexible electronics. However, there is a paucity of studies on the mechanical properties of Ag nanowire electrodes subjected to a large number of bending cycles. In this study, the effects of the substrate on the mechanical behavior of Ag nanowire electrodes were studied for a high bending frequency. The mechanical reliability of the Ag nanowire electrodes fabricated on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate was better than that for a polyimide (PI) substrate; the increase in the resistance of the PET-based Ag nanowire electrode was 1.07%, while that of the PI-based one was 1.23%. Nanoindentation tests showed that the elastic modulus of PI was larger than that of PET. This resulted in a lower bending strain on PET-based Ag nanowire electrodes compared to those on PI-based ones, because of the smaller distance from the neutral plane of the PET-based system. Our study showed that the mechanical properties of the substrate influenced the strain imposed on the thin layer on the substrates, which, in turn, determines the mechanical reliability of the thin-layer/substrate multilayer system.
Evaluation of Coating Film Formation Process Using the Fluorescence Method
Authors: Yano Ayako , Hamada Kyoichi , Amagai Kenji
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we invented a novel observation method of the coating film formation process using the fluorescence method. With this method, the temporal change in the coating film thickness can be evaluated quantitatively. In addition, since the thickness and flow of the coating film can be measured simultaneously, the detailed coating film formation process was clarified. In the experiment, the adhesion behavior of the spray-paint droplets when applied to a wall was investigated. The characteristics of coating films formed by the spray droplets, particularly the influence of injection pressure on the coating film formation, were determined using the fluorescence method. At the initial stage of the coating process, the coating area increased linearly. When the ratio of the coating area to the measurement range reached about 80%, the rate at which the coating area increased slowed down, and an overlap began. The amount of paint that adhered to the coating film formation could be estimated by calculating the overlap ratio. Moreover, the thickness and smoothness of the coating film were evaluated using the histogram data of the fluorescence intensity. The leveling process was discussed in relation to the standard deviation of the histogram data. In addition, the flow of the paint during the coating film formation was investigated using tracer particles, and the effect of the spray gun injection pressure on the leveling process was investigated. Changes in the film thickness and flow during the coating film formation process could be evaluated through fluorescence observation.
Physics-Based Neural Network Methods for Solving Parameterized Singular Perturbation Problem
Authors: Lazovskaya Tatiana , Malykhina Galina , Tarkhov Dmitry
Published: September 2021

This work is devoted to the description and comparative study of some methods of mathematical modeling. We consider methods that can be applied for building cyber-physical systems and digital twins. These application areas add to the usual accuracy requirements for a model the need to be adaptable to new data and the small computational complexity allows it to be used in embedded systems. First, we regard the finite element method as one of the “pure” physics-based modeling methods and the general neural network approach as a variant of machine learning modeling with physics-based regularization (or physics-informed neural networks) and their combination. A physics-based network architecture model class has been developed by us on the basis of a modification of classical numerical methods for solving ordinary differential equations. The model problem has a parameter at some values for which the phenomenon of stiffness is observed. We consider a fixed parameter value problem statement and a case when a parameter is one of the input variables. Thus, we obtain a solution for a set of parameter values. The resulting model allows predicting the behavior of an object when its parameters change and identifying its parameters based on observational data.
Thermostructural and Elastic Properties of PbTe and Pb0.884Cd0.116Te: A Combined Low-Temperature and High-Pressure X-ray Diffraction Study of Cd-Substitution Effects
Authors: Minikayev Roman , Safari Fatemeh , Katrusiak Andrzej , Szuszkiewicz Wojciech , Szczerbakow Andrzej , Bell Anthony , Dynowska Elżbieta , Paszkowicz Wojciech
Published: September 2021

Rocksalt-type (Pb,Cd)Te belongs to IV–VI semiconductors exhibiting thermoelectric properties. With the aim of understanding of the influence of Cd substitution in PbTe on thermostructural and elastic properties, we studied PbTe and Pb0.884Cd0.116Te (i) at low temperatures (15 to 300 K) and (ii) at high pressures within the stability range of NaCl-type PbTe (up to 4.5 GPa). For crystal structure studies, powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction methods were used. Modeling of the data included the second-order Grüneisen approximation of the unit-cell-volume variation, V(T), the Debye expression describing the mean square atomic displacements (MSDs), (T), and Birch–Murnaghan equation of state (BMEOS). The fitting of the temperature-dependent diffraction data provided model variations of lattice parameter, the thermal expansion coefficient, and MSDs with temperature. A comparison of the MSD runs simulated for the PbTe and mixed (Pb,Cd)Te crystal leads to the confirmation of recent findings that the cation displacements are little affected by Cd substitution at the Pb site; whereas the Te displacements are markedly higher for the mixed crystal. Moreover, information about static disorder caused by Cd substitution is obtained. The calculations provided two independent ways to determine the values of the overall Debye temperature, θD. The resulting values differ only marginally, by no more than 1 K for PbTe and 7 K for Pb0.884Cd0.116Te crystals. The θD values for the cationic and anionic sublattices were determined. The Grüneisen parameter is found to be nearly independent of temperature. The variations of unit-cell size with rising pressure (the NaCl structure of Pb0.884Cd0.116Te sample was conserved), modeled with the BMEOS, provided the dependencies of the bulk modulus, K, on pressure for both crystals. The K0 value is 45.6(2.5) GPa for PbTe, whereas that for Pb0.884Cd0.116Te is significantly reduced, 33.5(2.8) GPa, showing that the lattice with fractional Cd substitution is less stiff than that of pure PbTe. The obtained experimental values of θD and K0 for Pb0.884Cd0.116Te are in line with the trends described in recently reported theoretical study for (Pb,Cd)Te mixed crystals.
Control of Crystallographic Texture and Mechanical Properties of Hastelloy-X via Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Hibino Shinya , Todo Tsubasa , Ishimoto Takuya , Gokcekaya Ozkan , Koizumi Yuichiro , Igashira Kenichiroh , Nakano Takayoshi
Published: September 2021

The influence of various laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) process parameters on the crystallographic textures and mechanical properties of a typical Ni-based solid-solution strengthened alloy, Hastelloy-X, was examined. Samples were classified into four groups based on the type of crystallographic texture: single crystalline-like microstructure with <100>//build direction (BD) (<100>-SCM), single crystalline-like microstructure with <110>//BD (<110>-SCM), crystallographic lamellar microstructure (CLM), or polycrystalline microstructure (PCM). These four crystallographic textures were realized in Hastelloy-X for the first time here to the best of our knowledge. The mechanical properties of the samples varied depending on their texture. The tensile properties were affected not only by the Schmid factor but also by the grain size and the presence of lamellar boundaries (grain boundaries). The lamellar boundaries at the interface between the <110>//BD oriented main layers and the <100>//BD-oriented sub-layers of CLM contributed to the resistance to slip transmission and the increased proof stress. It was possible to control a wide range of crystallographic microstructures via the LPBF process parameters, which determines the melt pool morphology and solidification behavior.
Synthesis of Novel Aqua ƞ4-NNNO/Cu(II) Complexes as Rapid and Selective Oxidative Catalysts for O-Catechol: Fluorescence, Spectral, Chromotropism and Thermal Analyses
Authors: Shraim Amjad M. , Salih Kifah S. M. , Al-Soufi Ranim E. , Al-Mhini Soaad R. , Ahmad Mohammad I. , Warad Ismail
Published: September 2021

A new tetradentate Schiff base (SB), (E)-4-fluoro-2-(1-((2-(piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)imino)ethyl)phenol, was synthesized from condensation of 2-(1-piperazinyl)ethylamine and 5-fluoro-2-hydroxyacetophenone. This ligand was coordinated with three copper(II) salts (CuCl2, CuBr2 and Cu(NO3)2⸱3H2O) separately, giving rise to new neutral water-soluble Cu(II)/ƞ4-NNNO complexes (1–3). The new materials were fully characterized by standard spectroscopic, elemental, thermal, electronic, absorption, and fluorescence analyses. The chromotropism investigation of the aqueous solutions of the complexes revealed notable outcomes. A turn off-on halochromism effect was observed, both in the acidic and basic mediums. The green-colored solution was changed to colorless (off) upon the addition of HCl, while the initial green color was reversibly restored (on) after the addition of NaOH. On the other hand, bathochromic solvatochromism shifts were noticed in various solvents. Interestingly, complex 2 displayed a remarkable blue fluorescence shift (Δλ = 90 nm) when compared to its SB ligand. The oxidation capability of the three complexes was successfully demonstrated for the conversion of o-catechol to o-benzoquinone in aqueous solutions and in the presence of H2O2, an environmentally friendly oxidant, under mild reaction conditions.
Fabrication of Ti-Alloy Powder/Solid Composite with Uniaxial Anisotropy by Introducing Unidirectional Honeycomb Structure via Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Ikeo Naoko , Matsumi Tatsuya , Ishimoto Takuya , Ozasa Ryosuke , Matsugaki Aira , Matsuzaka Tadaaki , Gokcekaya Ozkan , Takigawa Yorinobu , Nakano Takayoshi
Published: September 2021

In this study, a Ti–6Al–4V alloy composite with uniaxial anisotropy and a hierarchical structure is fabricated using electron beam powder bed fusion, one of the additive manufacturing techniques that enable arbitrary fabrication, and subsequent heat treatment. The uniaxial anisotropic deformation behavior and mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus are obtained by introducing a unidirectional honeycomb structure. The main feature of this structure is that the unmelted powder retained in the pores of the honeycomb structure. After appropriate heat treatment at 1020 °C, necks are formed between the powder particles and between the powder particles and the honeycomb wall, enabling a stress transmission through the necks when the composite is loaded. This means that the powder part has been mechanically functionalized by the neck formation. As a result, a plateau region appears in the stress–strain curve. The stress transfer among the powder particles leads to the cooperative deformation of the composites, contributing to the excellent energy absorption capacity. Therefore, it is expected that the composite can be applied to bone plates on uniaxially oriented microstructures such as long bones owing to its excellent energy absorption capacity and low elasticity to unidirectionally suppress stress shielding.
Effect of pH and Type of Stirring on the Spontaneous Precipitation of CaCO3 at Identical Initial Supersaturation, Ionic Strength and a(Ca2+)/a(CO32−) Ratio
Authors: Kontrec Jasminka , Tomašić Nenad , Matijaković Mlinarić Nives , Kralj Damir , Njegić Džakula Branka
Published: September 2021

CaCO3 precipitation is physical-chemical basis of biomineral formation of hard tissue (shells, skeletons) in marine calcifying organisms (=biomineralization). Processes controlling biomineralization are still not fully clarified, so the study of influence of pH on basic processes of CaCO3 precipitation should contribute to better understanding of biomineralization under climate change. This paper reports on the effect of initial pH (pH0) and type of stirring (mechanical and magnetical) on spontaneous precipitation and phase composition, size and morphology of spontaneously precipitated CaCO3 formed at the identical initial supersaturation, ionic strength and a(Ca2+)/a(CO32−) ratio. The initial pH varied in a range 8.50 ≤ pH0 ≤ 10.50 and included values relevant for mimicking the conditions related to biomineralization in marine organisms. In all systems two CaCO3 polymorphs were found: calcite and/or vaterite. The increase of pH0 favoured the formation of rhombohedral calcite no matter the type of stirring. This was exclusively influenced by the systems’ pH0 (other relevant initial parameters were identical). Furthermore, increase of pH0 caused change of vaterite morphology from cauliflower-like spheroids to regular spherulites. The mechanically stirred systems produced larger calcite and vaterite particles and higher content of calcite.
Annealing Induced Saturation in Electron Concentration for V-Doped CdO
Authors: Li Yajie , Chen Guibin , Yu Kinman , Walukiewicz Wladyslaw , Gong Weiping
Published: September 2021

As-grown Ar-deposited Cd1−xVxO and Ar/O2-deposited Cd1−yVyO feature lower and higher electron concentrations than 4 × 1020 cm−3, respectively. After isothermal and isochronal annealing under N2 ambient, we find that the two series exhibit a decrease or increase in electron concentrations until ~4 × 1020 cm−3 which is close to Fermi stabilization energy (EFS) level of CdO, with the assistance of native defects. An amphoteric defects model is used to explain the changing trends in electron concentrations. The tendencies in mobility further confirm our results. This work may provide some strategies to predict the electrical properties in CdO.
Thermal Process of Rock Crystal: Cause of Infrared Absorption Band at 3585 cm−1
Authors: Li Jianjun , Zheng Yuyu , Liu Xuesong , Li Guihua , Yu Xiaoyan , Wang Yue , Li Hejun , Liu Haibin , Shan Guangqi , Li Ting , Ding Xiuyun , Zhao Xiaoxue , Huang Zhun , Du Ran , Tian Minmin , Yan Fei , Sun Bing
Published: September 2021

Synthetic rock crystals often show a typical infrared (IR) absorption band at 3585 cm−1. However, the authors recently found this band in a natural rock crystal with blue coating. The origin of this IR band is controversial as yet. In this paper, the infrared spectra of several natural and synthetic rock crystal samples which were heated to 673 K and 1073 K were measured after these samples returned to room temperature. Comparing the infrared spectra of samples before and after heating, we found the absorption band at 3585 cm−1 was induced by the thermal process, which indicates that this band cannot be used as diagnostic evidence for synthetic rock crystal alone. In addition, the LiOH bands decreased while AlOH bands increased upon thermal processing. And the negative correlation between the LiOH bands and the 3585 cm−1 band was also distinct. The above results reveal that the thermal process destroyed the LiOH defects, leading to the formation of a new AlLi defect. And the isolated OH− defect inside dislocations generated upon thermal processing is considered to be the exact cause of the 3585 cm−1 band.
Diel Variation of Viral Production in a Coastal Subtropical Marine System
Authors: Ho Pei-Chi , Gong Gwo-Ching , Hsieh Chih-Hao , Chen Patrichka Wei-Yi , Tsai An-Yi
Published: September 2021

Viral production (VP) and bacterial mortality by viral lysis critically influence the production and mortality of aquatic bacteria. Although bacterial production, mortality by viral lysis, and viral density have been found to exhibit diel variations, the diel change in viral production has rarely been investigated. In this study, we conducted two diel dilution incubation experiments in a semi-enclosed, nutrient-rich coastal region in northeastern Taiwan to estimate the diel viral production and the mortality by viral lysis. We also compared two methods (linear regression between viral density and time versus arithmetic mean of VP during incubation) of estimating viral production. We found that viral production estimated by linear regression and bacterial mortality by viral lysis were higher during the daytime than during the nighttime. A possible explanation for the high viral production at daytime is that the bacterial community was composed of cell types with higher burst sizes at daytime. We further argued that the classical linear regression method can be used only when viral density significantly linearly increases with time, which does not always occur in dilution incubations. This study offered observations of diel variation in viral dynamics and discussed the methods estimating viral production in a marine environment.
Determining the Target Population That Would Most Benefit from Screening for Hepatic Fibrosis in a Primary Care Setting
Authors: Park Su Hyun , Lee Jong Hyun , Jun Dae Won , Kang Kyung A , Kim Ji Na , Park Hee Jin , Hong Han Pyo
Published: September 2021

Due to its high prevalence, screening for hepatic fibrosis in the low-risk population is called for action in the primary care clinic. However, current guidelines provide conflicting recommendations on populations to be screened. We aimed to identify the target populations that would most benefit from screening for hepatic fibrosis in clinical practice. This study examined 1288 subjects who underwent magnetic resonance elastography. The diagnostic performance of the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index and NAFLD fibrosis score was compared in the following groups: (1) ultrasonography (USG)-diagnosed NAFLD, (2) elevated liver enzyme, (3) metabolic syndrome, (4) impaired fasting glucose, and (5) type 2 diabetes regardless of fatty liver. Decision curve analysis was performed to express the net benefit of groups over a range of probability thresholds (Pts). The diabetes group showed a better area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC: 0.69) compared with subjects in the USG-diagnosed NAFLD (AUROC: 0.57) and elevated liver enzyme (AUROC: 0.55) groups based on the FIB-4 index. In decision curve analysis, the diabetes group showed the highest net benefit for the detection of significant fibrosis across a wide range of Pts. Patients with diabetes, even in the absence of fatty liver, would be preferable for hepatic fibrosis screening in low-risk populations.
Shear Wave and Strain Elastography in Crohn’s Disease—A Systematic Review
Authors: Grażyńska Anna , Kufel Jakub , Dudek Arkadiusz , Cebula Maciej
Published: September 2021

One modern imaging technique used in the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease (CD) is sonoelastrography of the intestine. Guidelines regarding the use of bowel sonoelastography in CD have still not been specified. The aim of our research was to conduct a systematic review of the use of sonoelastography in the diagnosis, assessment, and monitoring of strictures in the course of CD. A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines statement. The following databases were searched in January 2021: MEDINE via PubMed, Embase and Scopus. The search utilised the following MeSH tags: ‘Ultrasound Shear Wave’, ‘Elastography’, ‘elastogram’, ‘elastographies’ AND ‘Crohn disease’. The inclusion criteria were as follows: from 2010 or later, articles with abstracts, articles in English, human-based studies and original articles. Articles were assessed independently by two reviewers. Out of 181 articles, only 15 met the criteria and were included in the review. Due to a small number of studies and significant methodological differences, the feasibility of using sonoelastography for Crohn’s disease must be proven through further research and analysis. In the future, standardised assessment criteria and cut-off points should be established for both strain elastography (SE) and shear wave elastography (SWE).
CT-Based Risk Stratification for Intensive Care Need and Survival in COVID-19 Patients—A Simple Solution
Authors: Hosse Clarissa , Büttner Laura , Fleckenstein Florian Nima , Hamper Christina Maria , Jonczyk Martin , Scholz Oriane , Aigner Annette , Böning Georg
Published: September 2021

We evaluated a simple semi-quantitative (SSQ) method for determining pulmonary involvement in computed tomography (CT) scans of COVID-19 patients. The extent of lung involvement in the first available CT was assessed with the SSQ method and subjectively. We identified risk factors for the need of invasive ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and for time to death after infection. Additionally, the diagnostic performance of both methods was evaluated. With the SSQ method, a 10% increase in the affected lung area was found to significantly increase the risk for need of ICU treatment with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.68 and for invasive ventilation with an OR of 1.35. Male sex, age, and pre-existing chronic lung disease were also associated with higher risks. A larger affected lung area was associated with a higher instantaneous risk of dying (hazard ratio (HR) of 1.11) independently of other risk factors. SSQ measurement was slightly superior to the subjective approach with an AUC of 73.5% for need of ICU treatment and 72.7% for invasive ventilation. SSQ assessment of the affected lung in the first available CT scans of COVID-19 patients may support early identification of those with higher risks for need of ICU treatment, invasive ventilation, or death.
Occurrence of NDM-1 and VIM-2 Co-Producing Escherichia coli and OprD Alteration in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Hospital Environment Samples in Northwestern Tunisia
Authors: Maaroufi Raouaa , Dziri Olfa , Hadjadj Linda , Diene Seydina M. , Rolain Jean-Marc , Chouchani Chedly
Published: September 2021

Hospital environments constitute the main reservoir of multidrug-resistant bacteria. In this study we aimed to investigate the presence of Gram-negative bacteria in one Northwestern Tunisian hospital environment, and characterize the genes involved in bacterial resistance. A total of 152 environmental isolates were collected from various surfaces and isolated using MacConkey medium supplemented with cefotaxime or imipenem, with 81 fermenter bacteria (27 Escherichia coli, and 54 Enterobacter spp., including 46 Enterobacter cloacae), and 71 non-fermenting bacteria (69 Pseudomonas spp., including 54 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and 2 Stenotrophomonas maltophilia) being identified by the MALDI-TOF-MS method. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by disk diffusion method and E-Test was used to determine MICs for imipenem. Several genes implicated in beta-lactams resistance were characterized by PCR and sequencing. Carbapenem resistance was detected among 12 isolates; nine E. coli (blaNDM-1 (n = 8); blaNDM-1 + blaVIM-2 (n = 1)) and three P. aeruginosa were carbapenem-resistant by loss of OprD porin. The whole-genome sequencing of P. aeruginosa 97H was determined using Illumina MiSeq sequencer, typed ST285, and harbored blaOXA-494. Other genes were also detected, notably blaTEM (n = 23), blaCTX-M-1 (n = 10) and blaCTX-M-9 (n = 6). These new epidemiological data imposed new surveillance strategies and strict hygiene rules to decrease the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria in this area.
The T2-FLAIR Mismatch Sign as an Imaging Indicator of IDH-Mutant, 1p/19q Non-Codeleted Lower Grade Gliomas: A Systematic Review and Diagnostic Accuracy Meta-Analysis
Authors: Adamou Antonis , Beltsios Eleftherios T. , Papanagiotou Panagiotis
Published: September 2021

The study’s objective was the evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of the T2-FLAIR mismatch sign in terms of diagnosing IDH-mutant non-codeleted (IDHmut-Noncodel) lower grade gliomas (LGG) of the brain. We searched the MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane Central databases. The last database search was performed on 12 April 2021. Studies that met the following were included: MRI scan assessing the presence of T2-FLAIR mismatch sign, and available IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion status. The quality of studies was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Twelve studies involving 14 cohorts were included in the quantitative analysis. The diagnostic odds ratio [DOR (95% confidence interval; CI)] was estimated at 34.42 (20.95, 56.56), Pz < 0.01. Pooled sensitivity and specificity (95% CI) were estimated at 40% (31–50%; Pz = 0.05) and 97% (93–99%; Pz < 0.01), respectively. The likelihood ratio (LR; 95% CI) for a positive test was 11.39 (6.10, 21.29; Pz < 0.01) and the LR (95% CI) for a negative test was 0.40 (0.24, 0.65; Pz < 0.01).The T2-FLAIR mismatch sign is a highly specific biomarker for the diagnosis of IDHmut-Noncodel LGGs. However, the test was found positive in some other tumors and had a high number of false negative results. The diagnostic accuracy of the mismatch sign might be improved when combined with further imaging parameters.
Differences between Acute Exacerbations of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Other Interstitial Lung Diseases
Authors: Faverio Paola , Stainer Anna , Conti Sara , Madotto Fabiana , De Giacomi Federica , Della Zoppa Matteo , Vancheri Ada , Pellegrino Maria Rosaria , Tonelli Roberto , Cerri Stefania , Clini Enrico M. , Mantovani Lorenzo Giovanni , Pesci Alberto , Luppi Fabrizio
Published: September 2021

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) comprise a wide group of pulmonary parenchymal disorders. These patients may experience acute respiratory deteriorations of their respiratory condition, termed “acute exacerbation” (AE). The incidence of AE-ILD seems to be lower than idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), but prognosis and prognostic factors are largely unrecognized. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 158 consecutive adult patients hospitalized for AE-ILD in two Italian university hospitals from 2009 to 2016. Patients included in the analysis were divided into two groups: non-IPF (62%) and IPF (38%). Among ILDs included in the non-IPF group, the most frequent diagnoses were non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) (42%) and connective tissue disease (CTD)-ILD (20%). Mortality during hospitalization was significantly different between the two groups: 19% in the non-IPF group and 43% in the IPF group. AEs of ILDs are difficult-to-predict events and are burdened by relevant mortality. Increased inflammatory markers, such as neutrophilia on the differential blood cell count (HR 1.02 (CI 1.01–1.04)), the presence of pulmonary hypertension (HR 1.85 (CI 1.17–2.92)), and the diagnosis of IPF (HR 2.31 (CI 1.55–3.46)), resulted in negative prognostic factors in our analysis. Otherwise, lymphocytosis on the differential count seemed to act as a protective prognostic factor (OR 0.938 (CI 0.884–0.995)). Further prospective, large-scale, real-world data are needed to support and confirm the impact of our findings.
α-Lipoic Acid Improves Hepatic Metabolic Dysfunctions in Acute Intermittent Porphyria: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Longo Miriam , Paolini Erika , Meroni Marica , Duca Lorena , Motta Irene , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , Di Pierro Elena , Dongiovanni Paola
Published: September 2021

Background: Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is caused by the haploinsufficiency of porphobilinogen deaminase (PBGD) enzymatic activity. Acute attacks occur in response to fasting, and alterations in glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial turnover may be involved in AIP pathophysiology. Therefore, we investigated the metabolic pathways in PBGD-silenced hepatocytes and assessed the efficacy of an insulin mimic, α-lipoic acid (α-LA), as a potential therapeutic strategy. Methods: HepG2 cells were transfected with siRNA-targeting PBGD (siPBGD). Cells were cultured with low glucose concentration to mimic fasting and exposed to α-LA alone or with glucose. Results: At baseline, siPBGD cells showed a lower expression of genes involved in glycolysis and mitochondrial dynamics along with reduced total ATP levels. Fasting further unbalanced glycolysis by inducing ATP shortage in siPBGD cells and activated DRP1, which mediates mitochondrial separation. Consistently, siPBGD cells in the fasted state showed the lowest protein levels of Complex IV, which belongs to the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) machinery. α-LA upregulated glycolysis and prompted ATP synthesis and triglyceride secretion, thus possibly providing energy fuels to siPBGD cells by improving glucose utilization. Finally, siPBGD exposed to α-LA plus glucose raised mitochondrial dynamics, OXPHOS activity, and energy production. Conclusions: α-LA-based therapy may ameliorate glucose metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunctions in siPBGD hepatocytes.
Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Systemically Administered Statins: A Systematic Review
Authors: Di Spirito Federica , Schiavo Luigi , Pilone Vincenzo , Lanza Antonio , Sbordone Ludovico , D’Ambrosio Francesco
Published: September 2021

Hyperlipidemia is a well-recognized risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which, in turn, acts as a contributory factor in periodontitis development. Periodontitis has been associated with benign tumors and cancers and withseveral disorders, including hyperlipidemia. Correspondingly, periodontal treatment may exert a positive effect on lipid metabolism, although opposite evidence has also been reported. As a counterpart, the therapy for hyperlipidemia, conventionally based on statins, has been proposed to positively affect periodontal conditions, mainly due to statin pleiotropic effects, reducing periodontal inflammation and promoting osseointegration. Therefore, the present systematic review aimed to evaluate, in subjects with untreated periodontitis and peri-implant disease (Population), the effect of routine systemically administered statins (Intervention), compared to non-statin use (Comparison), on periodontal parameters around natural teeth and implants (Outcome). Discordant results were found in periodontal parameters, and the current lack of such data related to peri-implant tissues and to alveolar bone loss highlights the need for further studies on the topic, potentially paving the way for a more comprehensive approach to periodontitis and peri-implantitis management. Indeed, the validation of the beneficial effect provided by systemically delivered statins on periodontal and peri-implant tissues may direct recall scheduling, predict response to therapy and, therefore, guide treatment strategies of periodontal and peri-implant treatments in statin users.
Entropy and Entropic Forces to Model Biological Fluids
Authors: Gutierrez Rafael M. , Shubeita George T. , Murade Chandrashekhar U. , Guo Jianfeng
Published: September 2021

Living cells are complex systems characterized by fluids crowded by hundreds of different elements, including, in particular, a high density of polymers. They are an excellent and challenging laboratory to study exotic emerging physical phenomena, where entropic forces emerge from the organization processes of many-body interactions. The competition between microscopic and entropic forces may generate complex behaviors, such as phase transitions, which living cells may use to accomplish their functions. In the era of big data, where biological information abounds, but general principles and precise understanding of the microscopic interactions is scarce, entropy methods may offer significant information. In this work, we developed a model where a complex thermodynamic equilibrium resulted from the competition between an effective electrostatic short-range interaction and the entropic forces emerging in a fluid crowded by different sized polymers. The target audience for this article are interdisciplinary researchers in complex systems, particularly in thermodynamics and biophysics modeling.
Modeling as Scientific Reasoning—The Role of Abductive Reasoning for Modeling Competence
Authors: Upmeier zu Belzen Annette , Engelschalt Paul , Krüger Dirk
Published: September 2021

While the hypothetico-deductive approach, which includes inductive and deductive reasoning, is largely recognized in scientific reasoning, there is not much focus on abductive reasoning. Abductive reasoning describes the theory-based attempt of explaining a phenomenon by a cause. By integrating abductive reasoning into a framework for modeling competence, we strengthen the idea of modeling being a key practice of science. The framework for modeling competence theoretically describes competence levels structuring the modeling process into model construction and model application. The aim of this theoretical paper is to extend the framework for modeling competence by including abductive reasoning, with impact on the whole modeling process. Abductive reasoning can be understood as knowledge expanding in the process of model construction. In combination with deductive reasoning in model application, such inferences might enrich modeling processes. Abductive reasoning to explain a phenomenon from the best fitting guess is important for model construction and may foster the deduction of hypotheses from the model and further testing them empirically. Recent studies and examples of learners’ performance in modeling processes support abductive reasoning being a part of modeling competence within scientific reasoning. The extended framework can be used for teaching and learning to foster scientific reasoning competences within modeling processes.
Measuring and Fostering Preservice Chemistry Teachers’ Scientific Reasoning Competency
Authors: Bicak Besim Enes , Borchert Cornelia Eleonore , Höner Kerstin
Published: September 2021

Developing scientific reasoning (SR) is a central goal of science-teacher education worldwide. On a fine-grained level, SR competency can be subdivided into at least six skills: formulating research questions, generating hypotheses, planning experiments, observing and measuring, preparing data for analysis, and drawing conclusions. In a study focusing on preservice chemistry teachers, an organic chemistry lab course was redesigned using problem-solving experiments and SR video lessons to foster SR skills. To evaluate the intervention, a self-assessment questionnaire was developed, and a performance-based instrument involving an experimental problem-solving task was adapted to the target group of undergraduates. The treatment was evaluated in a pre-post design with control group (cook-book experiments, no SR video lessons) and alternative treatment group (problem-solving experiments, unrelated video lessons). Interrater reliability was excellent (ρ from 0.915 to 1.000; ICC (A1)). Data analysis shows that the adapted instrument is suitable for university students. First insights from the pilot study indicate that the cook-book lab (control group) only fosters students’ skill in observing and measuring, while both treatment groups show an increase in generating hypotheses and planning experiments. No pretest-posttest differences were found in self-assessed SR skills in the treatment groups. Instruments and data are presented and discussed.
On the Supportive Role of the Warnke Method in Improving the Phonological Competence of a Bilingual Girl
Authors: Brzdęk Ewa , Brzdęk Janusz
Published: September 2021

It is known that bilingualism may cause some specific problems with the articulation of sounds and errors in reading and writing when acquiring linguistic skills. The paper presents the results and conclusions related to the use of the Warnke method in improving the phonological competence of a bilingual girl aged seven, which learned two languages simultaneously (Polish and Italian) in her family environment. The case study method was used. The main objective was to assess the effectiveness of the first stage of the Warnke method in improving reading and writing skills in a bilingual child. The Warnke method focuses primarily on the diagnosis and training of the phonological competence and was based on the following assumptions: (a) the automation of hearing, vision, and motor functions can be improved at the level of brain activity; (b) the development and automation of phonological analysis and synthesis are based on the cooperation of the brain hemispheres. The preliminary and final results of the diagnosis obtained for basic brain functions (visual, motor, and auditory) and the level of literacy skills were analyzed and compared. The reading and writing abilities, before and after training with the Warnke method, were assessed using the symptomatic tests. The obtained results showed that during and after training with the method, there was noticeable progress in eight basic functions (visual, motor and auditory). Improvement was also seen in the following areas: knowledge of letters; pairing phonemes with letters; technique, speed, and fluency of reading and writing. The quality of reading and writing was verified and confirmed by symptomatic tests. The conducted study suggests that the observed learning disabilities were caused by deficits in the central processing functions, which resulted in a lower level of phonological skills.
Assessment of Scratch Programming Language as a Didactic Tool to Teach Functions
Authors: Quevedo Gutiérrez Eduardo , Zapatera Llinares Alberto
Published: September 2021

The objective of this research is to study the Scratch programming language as a didactic tool to teach functions. The introduction of didactic tools allowing comprehension in simple and attractive ways is required. Given the traditional teaching/learning system, it is necessary to organize participatory and collaborative dynamic classrooms, which allow the interaction of students in activities where the educator modifies his or her traditional role as an advisor and the students take a more active role in learning through their own effort. In this sense, three activities using the Scratch programming language are proposed: the first one refers to the linear and affine functions, while the second one deals with the quadratic function and the third one is related to the exponential function. The participants in this study were 30 future teachers. The study considers the combination of magisterial lessons and active didactic methodologies as demonstration method, cooperative learning and gamification, also including the applied assessment. The activities, methodologies and assessment were evaluated by the participants with results higher than 4 in 5-point Likert scale for all cases, preferring the active methodologies than magisterial lessons.
Pedagogy of Happiness: A Russian View
Authors: Chernik Valerii , Afonkina Iulia , Kuzmicheva Tatiana
Published: September 2021

For thousands of years the topic of happiness has attracted attention from the representatives of various sciences. However, until now there has been no unity in understanding the essence, sources, and components of happiness. Quite often, the interpretation of the phenomenon of happiness is limited to the analysis of the works of philosophers of antiquity, the European Middle Ages, modern and recent history, and many researchers are in a kind of Eurocentric captivity. Consciously or accidentally, the works of Russian thinkers are often not considered. This hinders the creation of a holistic and more objective picture of such an important aspect of every person’s life. In order to overcome this Eurocentric bias, this study suggests tracing back the main stages of the development of the idea of happiness in Russia from the era of Peter the Great to the present. For this purpose, the authors used the methods of theoretical, comparative, and retrospective analysis. The authors believe that currently the pedagogy of happiness is being actively formed. To educate happy people, teachers should master the art of the pedagogy of happiness.
Fostering Critical Thinking across the Primary School’s Curriculum in the European Schools System
Authors: Lombardi Loredana , Mednick Frederick Jan , De Backer Free , Lombaerts Koen
Published: September 2021

To develop citizens’ critical thinking (CT) abilities, schools must better integrate CT into the curricula. Although educators, psychologists, and philosophers agree on the importance of critical thinking, there is no agreement on a common theoretical definition. The goal of this study is to define the framework for the promotion of critical thinking in the context of curriculum development. Specifically, to explore how the primary school curriculum addresses the concept of CT, and to identify characteristics, core skills, and approaches to CT in the syllabi. We conducted a document analysis of curriculum and syllabi in the European Schools system. The results show that although the primary school curriculum does not define the concept of CT, it does consider it a key skill to develop and foster among pupils across the school syllabi. Concerning the CT teaching approaches, our study detected a holistic approach in which the European Schools system supports CT as an explicit and implicit goal within a standard subject-matter content instruction. This study can be used in future educational research with different stakeholders (teachers, school principals, policymakers, researchers) involved in curriculum development.
Diagnosis of Faults Induced by Radiation and Circuit-Level Design Mitigation Techniques: Experience from VCO and High-Speed Driver CMOS ICs Case Studies
Authors: Monda Danilo , Ciarpi Gabriele , Saponara Sergio
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we discuss the diagnosis of particle-induced failures in harsh environments such as space and high-energy physics. To address these effects, simulation-before-test and simulation-after-test can be the key points in choosing which radiation hardening by design (RHBD) techniques can be implemented to mitigate or prevent failures. Despite the fact that total ionising dose (TID) has slow but destructive effects overtime on silicon devices, single-event effect (SEE) impulsively disrupts the typical operation of a circuit with temporary or permanent effects. The recently released SpaceFibre protocol drives the current requirements for space applications, and the future upgrade of the LHC experiment scheduled by CERN will require a redesign of the electronic front-end to sustain a radiation level up to the 1 Grad TID level. The effects that these two environments have on two different architectures for high-radiation and high-frequency data transmission are reported, and the efficiency of the mitigation techniques implemented, based on simulations and measurement tests, in the commercial 65 nm technology, are exploited.