bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Multiplex HIV/TB Diagnostic Assay Based on the Microarray Technology
Authors: Malatji Kanyane , Singh Advaita , Thobakgale Christina , Alexandre Kabamba
Published: September 2023

Currently there are diagnostic tests available for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB); however, they are still diagnosed separately, which can delay treatment in cases of co-infection. Here we report on a multiplex microarray technology for the detection of HIV and TB antibodies using p24 as well as TB CFP10, ESAT6 and pstS1 antigens on epoxy-silane slides. To test this technology for antigen–antibody interactions, immobilized antigens were exposed to human sera spiked with physiological concentrations of primary antibodies, followed by secondary antibodies conjugated to a fluorescent reporter. HIV and TB antibodies were captured with no cross-reactivity observed. The sensitivity of the slides was compared to that of high-binding plates. We found that the slides were more sensitive, with the detection limit being 0.000954 µg/mL compared to 4.637 µg/mL for the plates. Furthermore, stability studies revealed that the immobilized antigens could be stored dry for at least 90 days and remained stable across all pH and temperatures assessed, with pH 7.4 and 25 °C being optimal. The data collectively suggested that the HIV/TB multiplex detection technology we developed has the potential for use to diagnose HIV and TB co-infection, and thus can be developed further for the purpose.
MRI Assessment of Changes in Tumor Vascularization during Neoadjuvant Anti-Angiogenic Treatment in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Mo Torgeir , Brandal Siri Helene Bertelsen , Geier Oliver Marcel , Engebråten Olav , Nilsen Line Brennhaug , Kristensen Vessela N. , Hole Knut Håkon , Hompland Tord , Fleischer Thomas , Seierstad Therese
Published: September 2023

Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) treatment improves response rates, but not progression-free or overall survival in advanced breast cancer. It has been suggested that subgroups of patients may benefit from this treatment; however, the effects of adding anti-VEGF treatment to a standard chemotherapy regimen in breast cancer patients are not well studied. Understanding the effects of the anti-vascular treatment on tumor vasculature may provide a selection of patients that can benefit. The aim of this study was to study the vascular effect of bevacizumab using clinical dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI). A total of 70 women were randomized to receive either chemotherapy alone or chemotherapy with bevacizumab for 25 weeks. DCE-MRI was performed at baseline and at 12 and 25 weeks, and in addition 25 of 70 patients agreed to participate in an early MRI after one week. Voxel-wise pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using semi-quantitative methods and the extended Tofts model. Vascular architecture was assessed by calculating the fractal dimension of the contrast-enhanced images. Changes during treatment were compared with baseline and between the treatment groups. There was no significant difference in tumor volume at any point; however, DCE-MRI parameters revealed differences in vascular function and vessel architecture. Adding bevacizumab to chemotherapy led to a pronounced reduction in vascular DCE-MRI parameters, indicating decreased vascularity. At 12 and 25 weeks, the difference between the treatment groups is severely reduced.
Green Synthesis and Molecular Docking Study of Some New Thiazoles Using Terephthalohydrazide Chitosan Hydrogel as Ecofriendly Biopolymeric Catalyst
Authors: Al-Humaidi Jehan Y. , Gomha Sobhi M. , El-Ghany Nahed A. Abd , Farag Basant , Zaki Magdi E. A. , Abolibda Tariq Z. , Mohamed Nadia A.
Published: September 2023

Terephthalohydrazide chitosan hydrogel (TCs) was prepared and investigated as an ecofriendly biopolymeric catalyst for synthesis of some novel thiazole and thiadiazole derivatives. Thus, TCs was used as a promising ecofriendly basic biocatalyst for preparation of three new series of thiazoles and two thiadiazoles derivatives via reacting 2-(2-oxo-1,2-diphenylethylidene) hydrazine-1-carbothio-amide with various hydrazonoyl chlorides and α-haloketones under mild ultrasonic irradiation. Also, their yield% was estimated using chitosan and TCs in a comparative study. The procedure being employed has the advantages of mild reaction conditions, quick reaction durations, and high reaction yields. It also benefits from the catalyst’s capacity to be reused several times without significantly losing potency. The chemical structures of the newly prepared compounds were confirmed by IR, MS, and 1H-NMR. Docking analyses of the synthesized compounds’ binding modes revealed promising binding scores against the various amino acids of the selected protein (PDB Code—1JIJ). SwissADME’s online tool is then used to analyze the physiochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics of the most significant substances. The majority of novel compounds showed zero violation from Lipinski’s rule (Ro5).
Modeling of FAN1-Deficient Kidney Disease Using a Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Kidney Organoid System
Authors: Lim Sun Woo , Na Dohyun , Lee Hanbi , Fang Xianying , Cui Sheng , Shin Yoo Jin , Lee Kang In , Lee Jae Young , Yang Chul Woo , Chung Byung Ha
Published: September 2023

Karyomegalic interstitial nephritis (KIN) is a genetic kidney disease caused by mutations in the FANCD2/FANCI-Associated Nuclease 1 (FAN1) gene on 15q13.3, which results in karyomegaly and fibrosis of kidney cells through the incomplete repair of DNA damage. The aim of this study was to explore the possibility of using a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived kidney organoid system for modeling FAN1-deficient kidney disease, also known as KIN. We generated kidney organoids using WTC-11 (wild-type) hiPSCs and FAN1-mutant hiPSCs which include KIN patient-derived hiPSCs and FAN1-edited hiPSCs (WTC-11 FAN1+/−), created using the CRISPR/Cas9 system in WTC-11-hiPSCs. Kidney organoids from each group were treated with 20 nM of mitomycin C (MMC) for 24 or 48 h, and the expression levels of Ki67 and H2A histone family member X (H2A.X) were analyzed to detect DNA damage and assess the viability of cells within the kidney organoids. Both WTC-11-hiPSCs and FAN1-mutant hiPSCs were successfully differentiated into kidney organoids without structural deformities. MMC treatment for 48 h significantly increased the expression of DNA damage markers, while cell viability in both FAN1-mutant kidney organoids was decreased. However, these findings were observed in WTC-11-kidney organoids. These results suggest that FAN1-mutant kidney organoids can recapitulate the phenotype of FAN1-deficient kidney disease.
Effect of Acute Enriched Environment Exposure on Brain Oscillations and Activation of the Translation Initiation Factor 4E-BPs at Synapses across Wakefulness and Sleep in Rats
Authors: Santos José , Petsidou Evlalia , Saraogi Pallavi , Bartsch Ullrich , Gerber André , Seibt Julie
Published: September 2023

Brain plasticity is induced by learning during wakefulness and is consolidated during sleep. But the molecular mechanisms involved are poorly understood and their relation to experience-dependent changes in brain activity remains to be clarified. Localised mRNA translation is important for the structural changes at synapses supporting brain plasticity consolidation. The translation mTOR pathway, via phosphorylation of 4E-BPs, is known to be activate during sleep and contributes to brain plasticity, but whether this activation is specific to synapses is not known. We investigated this question using acute exposure of rats to an enriched environment (EE). We measured brain activity with EEGs and 4E-BP phosphorylation at cortical and cerebellar synapses with Western blot analyses. Sleep significantly increased the conversion of 4E-BPs to their hyperphosphorylated forms at synapses, especially after EE exposure. EE exposure increased oscillations in the alpha band during active exploration and in the theta-to-beta (4–30 Hz) range, as well as spindle density, during NREM sleep. Theta activity during exploration and NREM spindle frequency predicted changes in 4E-BP hyperphosphorylation at synapses. Hence, our results suggest a functional link between EEG and molecular markers of plasticity across wakefulness and sleep.
Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Pb2+ Ion Detection Based on a Gradient Boosting Decision Tree Algorithm
Authors: Wang Minghao , Zhang Jing
Published: September 2023

Lead pollution poses a serious threat to the natural environment, and a fast and high-sensitivity method is urgently needed. SERS can be used for the detection of Pb2+ ions, which is urgently needed. Based on the SERS spectral reference data set of lead nitride (Pb(NO3)2), a model for detecting Pb2+ was established by using a traditional machine learning algorithm and the GBDT algorithm. Principal component analysis was used to compare the batch effect reduction in different pretreatment methods in order to find the optimal combination of such methods and machine learning models. The combination of LightGBM algorithms successfully identified Pb2+ from cross-batch data, exceeding the 84.6% balanced accuracy of the baseline correction+ radial basis function kernel support vector machine (BC+RBFSVM) model and showing satisfactory results, with a 91.4% balanced accuracy and a 0.9313 area under the ROC curve.
The Role of Distance from Home to Hospital on Parental Experience in the NICU: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bourque Stephanie L. , Williams Venice N. , Scott Jessica , Hwang Sunah S.
Published: September 2023

Prolonged admission to the neonatal intensive care unit presents challenges for families, especially those displaced far from home. Understanding specific barriers to parental engagement in the NICU is key to addressing these challenges with hospital-based interventions. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the impact of distance from home to hospital on the engagement of parents of very preterm infants (VPT) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We used a grounded theory approach and conducted 13 qualitative interviews with parents of VPT who were admitted ≥14 days and resided ≥50 miles away using a semi-structured interview guide informed by the socio-ecological framework. We used constant comparative method with double coders for theme emergence. Our results highlight a multitude of facilitators and barriers to engagement. Facilitators included: (1) individual—delivery preparedness and social support; (2) environmental—medical team relationships; and (3) societal—access to perinatal care. Barriers included: (1) individual—transfer stressors, medical needs, mental health, and dependents; (2) environmental—NICU space, communication, and lack of technology; and (3) societal—lack of paid leave. NICU parents with geographic separation from home experienced a multitude of barriers to engagement, many of which could be addressed by hospital-based interventions.
Comparison of 18F-FDG PET/CT and 68Ga-FAPI in Spindle Cell Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Shen Zhihui , Wang Ruimin
Published: September 2023

We report a rare case of spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma. Sarcomas generally exhibit an abnormal increased FDG uptake on 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging, while spindle cell rhabdosarcomas exhibits a significantly increased lesion uptake on 68Ga FAPI PET/CT imaging compared to 18F-FDG. This case suggests that 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT has potential value in evaluating spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma.
Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: From Cytology to Molecular Testing
Authors: Vignali Paola , Macerola Elisabetta , Poma Anello Marcello , Sparavelli Rebecca , Basolo Fulvio
Published: September 2023

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of thyroid nodules has become the gold standard procedure, in terms of cost and efficacy, for guiding clinicians towards appropriate patients’ management. One challenge for cytopathologists is to accurately classify cytological specimens as benign or malignant based on cytomorphological features. In fact, with a frequency ranging from 10% to 30%, nodules are diagnosed as indeterminate. In recent years, the mutational landscape of thyroid tumors has been extensively described, and two molecular profiles have been identified: RAS-like (NRAS, HRAS, and KRAS mutations; EIF1AX mutations; BRAF K601E mutation; and PPARG and THADA fusions) and BRAFV600E-like (including BRAFV600E mutation and RET and BRAF fusions). The purpose of this review is to discuss the latest molecular findings in the context of indeterminate thyroid nodules, highlighting the role of molecular tests in patients’ management.
Mining Highly Visited Co-Location Patterns Based on Minimum Visitor Similarity Constraints
Authors: Wang Xiaoxuan , Jin Peijie , Xiong Wen , Gao Song
Published: September 2023

Spatial co-location pattern is a subset of spatial features which shows association relationships based on the spatial neighborhoods. Because the previous prevalence measurements of a co-location pattern have not considered the visited information of spatial instances, co-location patterns do not reflect the social connections (such as their spatial instances are constantly visited by common or similar moving objects) between spatial features. In this paper, a special type of co-location pattern, “Highly visited co-location patterns”, is proposed, which considers the spatial proximity and visitor similarity of spatial features at the same time. A new measurement, “Minimum visitor similarity”, has been proposed to reflect the visitor similarity of co-location patterns. By discussing the properties of the minimum visitor similarity, we propose an efficient algorithm to mine the highly visited co-locations and give two pruning strategies to improve the efficiency of the algorithm. Finally, extensive experiments on YELP and Foursquare datasets prove the practicability and efficiency of the proposed algorithm, and we define a “Social Entropy” to prove that spatial features in the co-locations we mined have stronger social connections.
Shielding Effectiveness of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Electronics with Graphene-Based Absorber
Authors: Kubacki Roman , Przesmycki Rafał , Laskowski Dariusz
Published: September 2023

Within this study, we explored the augmented security measures for the electronics of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within an RF environment. UAVs are commonly utilised across various sectors, and their use as auxiliary platforms for cellular networks, as parallel networks working in tandem with ground-based base stations, holds considerable promise. In this context, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of UAVs is a paramount objective. However, the considerable external electromagnetic interference emitted by existing base stations may jeopardise the functionality of UAV electronics. This could potentially lead to an unintended flight path and a sudden cessation of communication with the operator. To mitigate the detrimental impact of the RF field, we advocate covering the UAV casing with reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The efficacy of RGO’s shielding effectiveness (SE) was investigated over a frequency spectrum from 100 MHz to 10 GHz. Our scrutiny of this property was centred around the measurement of scattering matrix coefficients of the unadulterated material—without additives of any kind. Our findings show that this material is a favourable candidate for UAV absorbers due to its low reflection coefficient coupled with its high absorption capacity. The studied absorber ensures an SE value of 25 dB and 30 dB for a 3 mm layer at frequencies of 3.6 GHz (pertaining to the 5G system) and 5.8 GHz (pertaining to LTE), respectively.
Neuroimaging Approach: Effects of Hot and Cold Germinated Wheat Beverages on Electroencephalographic (EEG) Activity of the Human Brain
Authors: Aung Thinzar , Kim Bo Ram , Kwak Han Sub , Kim Mi Jeong
Published: September 2023

Neuroimaging studies using electroencephalography (EEG) have been crucial in uncovering brain activity in sensory perception, emotion regulation, and decision-making. Despite tea’s global popularity, its temperature-related neural basis remains underexplored. This study investigated the effect of hot and cold germinated wheat beverages (HB and CB) in changes of brain waves using EEG. Four distinct approaches and topographical assessments were performed to gain deeper insights into the impact of EEG signals in the human brain. The four approaches showed different impacts of HB and CB intake, as all EEG spectral powers increased after drinking HB and decreased after consumption of CB. Significant increases in delta and theta waves were observed as a result of drinking HB, but significant decreases in alpha and beta waves were observed after drinking CB. The topographic maps illustrate the significant effects of HB more prominently than those of CB, displaying greater changes in delta, theta, and beta. These findings suggest the intake of HB is probably related to relaxation, calmness, mindfulness and concentration, while the intake of CB is related to alertness, attention, and working memory. Ultimately, the neuroscientific approaches provided in this study could advance consumer-based research on beverage consumption.
The Contribution of Minor Cereals to Sustainable Diets and Agro-Food Biodiversity
Authors: Gazza Laura , Nocente Francesca
Published: September 2023

Since the second half of the 20th century, the intensification of agriculture by increasing external inputs (fertilizers, pesticides), cropland expansion, and the cultivation of only a few selected cereal species or varieties have caused the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services on farmland [...]
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Performed after 28 Gestational Weeks and Risk for Future Diabetes—A 5-Year Cohort Study
Authors: Maor-Sagie Esther , Hallak Mordechai , Toledano Yoel , Gabbay-Benziv Rinat
Published: September 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is diagnosed by an oral glucose tolerance test (oGTT), preferably performed at 24 + 0–28 + 6 gestational weeks, and is considered a risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2DM). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the risk of T2DM associated with abnormal oGTT performed after 28 weeks. We conducted a retrospective cohort study that included parturients with available glucose levels during pregnancy and up to 5 years of follow-up after pregnancy. Data were extracted from the computerized laboratory system of Meuhedet HMO and cross-tabulated with the Israeli National Registry of Diabetes (INRD). The women were stratified into two groups: late oGTT (performed after 28 + 6 weeks) and on-time oGTT (performed at 24 + 0–28 + 6 weeks). The incidence of T2DM was evaluated and compared using univariate analysis followed by survival analysis adjusted to confounders. Overall, 78,326 parturients entered the analysis. Of them, 6195 (7.9%) performed on-time oGTT and 5288 (6.8%) performed late oGTT. The rest—66,846 (85.3%)—had normal glucose tolerance. Women who performed late oGTT had lower rates of GDM and T2DM. However, once GDM was diagnosed, regardless of oGTT timing, the risk of T2DM was increased (2.93 (1.69–5.1) vs. 3.64 (2.44–5.44), aHR (95% CI), late vs. on-time oGTT, p < 0.001 for both). Unlike in oGTT performed on time, one single abnormal value in late oGTT was not associated with an increased risk for T2DM.
Platelets and the Atherosclerotic Process: An Overview of New Markers of Platelet Activation and Reactivity, and Their Implications in Primary and Secondary Prevention
Authors: Nardin Matteo , Verdoia Monica , Cao Davide , Nardin Simone , Kedhi Elvin , Galasso Gennaro , van ‘t Hof Arnoud W. J. , Condorelli Gianluigi , De Luca Giuseppe
Published: September 2023

The key role played by platelets in the atherosclerosis physiopathology, especially in the acute setting, is ascertained: they are the main actors during thrombus formation and, thus, one of the major investigated elements related to atherothrombotic process involving coronary arteries. Platelets have been studied from different points of view, according with the technology advances and the improvement in the hemostasis knowledge achieved in the last years. Morphology and reactivity constitute the first aspects investigated related to platelets with a significant body of evidence published linking a number of their values and markers to coronary artery disease and cardiovascular events. Recently, the impact of genetics on platelet activation has been explored with promising findings as additional instrument for patient risk stratification; however, this deserves further confirmations. Moreover, the interplay between immune system and platelets has been partially elucidated in the last years, providing intriguing elements that will be basic components for future research to better understand platelet regulation and improve cardiovascular outcome of patients.
Efficacy of BREATHOX® Device Inhalation on Acute Symptoms Associated with COVID-19 (BREATH Study): A Randomized Pilot Clinical Trial
Authors: Tanni Suzana , Wehrmeister Fernando , Prudente Robson , Damatto Felipe , Breda Neto Carlos , Oliveira Leiliane , Pagan Luana , Gatto Mariana , Vieira Letícia , Coelho Liana , Rezende Diane , Machado Luiz , Mota Gustavo , Gaiato Marina , Santaella Felipe , Campos Elisângela , Franco Estefânia , Callegari Matheus , Okoshi Marina Politi , Weinreich Ulla
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: A high concentration of sodium chloride on in vitro cell culture leads to reduced SARS-CoV-2 replication. Therefore, our aim was to evaluate the effects of inhaling hypertonic NaCl particles (BREATHOX®) on the duration of COVID-19-induced acute symptoms. (2) Methods: A prospective, open label, randomized, standard of care-controlled group (SOC) pilot trial compared inhaled oral and nasal administered BREATHOX® (2.0 mg NaCl, particles size between 1–10 μm), with five or ten inhalations per day for ten days. The primary endpoint was the time to resolve COVID-19-related symptoms. Safety outcomes included adverse clinical and laboratory events. (3) Results: A total of 101 individuals were screened and 98 were randomly assigned to BREATHOX® ten sessions per day (Group 1; 33 patients), BREATHOX® five sessions per day (Group 2; 32 patients), or SOC (33 patients), and followed up for 28 days. There was an association with cough frequency after 10 days BREATHOX® compared to SOC [Group 1: hazard ratio (HR) 2.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–3.81; Group 2: HR 2.17, 95% CI 1.17–4.04]. No differences between the groups for the reported symptoms’ resolution time were seen after 28 days. After combining both BREATHOX® groups, the period to cough resolution 10 days after randomization was significantly lower than in SOC (HR 2.10, 95% CI 1.20–3.67). An adverse event occurred in 30% of Group 1, 36% of Group 2, and 9% in SOC individuals. One patient from SOC had a serious adverse event. Nasal burning, sore or itchy nose, and dry mouth were considered related to BREATHOX® use and resolved after stopping inhalations. (4) Conclusion: BREATHOX® inhalation is safe and may be effective in reducing the duration of COVID-19-induced coughing.
Effects of Investigational Moisturizers on the Skin Barrier and Microbiome following Exposure to Environmental Aggressors: A Randomized Clinical Trial and Ex Vivo Analysis
Authors: Wang Dan-Qi , Li Xi , Zhang Ru-Yi , Yuan Chao , Yan Bo , Humbert Philippe , Quan Zhe-Xue
Published: September 2023

The skin microbiota barrier participates in skin barrier function in addition to the physical, chemical, and immunological protective barriers, and is affected by environmental aggressors and skincare regimens. To better understand the exact effects of real-life environmental conditions on the skin and determine the protective methods, this study investigates the effects of three topical cosmetic moisturizers (water gel moisturizers with/without yeast extract (Moisturizers K and C) and a thick-emulsion cream moisturizer (Moisturizer L)) on clinical and skin microbiome endpoints in the presence of environmental aggressors during an 8-week, randomized controlled, triple-blind clinical trial with 110 participants, and molecular- as well as biomarker-level endpoints on ex vivo skin explants after exposure to simulate urban environmental conditions. The results show that all moisturizers are well-tolerated and improve skin barrier function and surface moisture content from the baseline, and the improvement is maintained at the last analysis point (3 days after trial completion). Compared with the untreated control areas (samples taken from the upper chest), treatment with Moisturizer K prevented a reduction in bacterial and fungal richness, and increased the change ratio of the relative abundance of commensal bacteria, such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Ralstonia, at the treated sites (samples taken from the forehead). Moreover, Moisturizer K-treated ex vivo skin explants had higher levels of caspase 14 (a marker of skin barrier function), collagen I, and elastin (structure components), and lower levels of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR; activated by air pollutants) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) than those in explants treated with other moisturizers and in the untreated areas of the skin. These results suggest that a skin postbiotic moisturizer with yeast extract supports the regulation of the skin’s microbiome balance and may provide a holistic barrier (involving skin microbiome, physical, chemical, and immune barriers) to protect the skin against environmental aggressors.
SARS-CoV-2 Syncytium under the Radar: Molecular Insights of the Spike-Induced Syncytia and Potential Strategies to Limit SARS-CoV-2 Replication
Authors: Ali Hashim , Naseem Asma , Siddiqui Zaheenul Islam
Published: September 2023

SARS-CoV-2 infection induces non-physiological syncytia when its spike fusogenic protein on the surface of the host cells interacts with the ACE2 receptor on adjacent cells. Spike-induced syncytia are beneficial for virus replication, transmission, and immune evasion, and contribute to the progression of COVID-19. In this review, we highlight the properties of viral fusion proteins, mainly the SARS-CoV-2 spike, and the involvement of the host factors in the fusion process. We also highlight the possible use of anti-fusogenic factors as an antiviral for the development of therapeutics against newly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and how the fusogenic property of the spike could be exploited for biomedical applications.
The Symptoms of Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Authors: Judson Marc A.
Published: September 2023

The aim of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive review of the etiology, measurement, and treatment of common pulmonary symptoms associated with sarcoidosis. The assessment of symptoms associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis is an important component of disease management. Some symptoms of pulmonary sarcoidosis are sensitive but nonspecific markers of disease activity, and the absence of such symptoms provides evidence that the disease is quiescent. Although quantifiable objective measurements of pulmonary physiology and chest imaging are important in the assessment of pulmonary sarcoidosis, they correlate poorly with the patient’s quality of life. Because the symptoms of pulmonary sarcoidosis directly relate to how the patient feels, they are reasonable endpoints in terms of clinical research and individual patient care. Recently, the symptoms of pulmonary sarcoidosis are capable of being quantified via patient-reported outcome measures and electronic devices. We conclude that a thorough assessment of the symptoms associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis improves patient care because it is a useful screen for manifestations of the disease, provides insight into the pathophysiology of manifestations of sarcoidosis, and may assist in optimizing treatment.
Novel Interdisciplinary Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Protocol Implementation in Paediatric Orthopaedics
Authors: Zacha Sławomir , Szwed Aleksander , Miegoń Jakub , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Andrzejewska Agata , Modrzejewska Elżbieta , Horecki Marcin , Jarosz Konrad , Biernawska Jowita
Published: September 2023

The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol is not routine management in paediatric orthopaedics. Cultural differences or assumptions about the financing of medical care in different countries encourage creative adaptation of general assumptions in local communities. The aim of this study was to compare the quality of the perioperative period before and after the introduction of an interdisciplinary protocol adopted to organisational conditions. A group of 4098 children were included in the “before–after” observational study. The data of 1553 patients (BEFORE group) were analysed in terms of compliance with the enhanced recovery after surgery protocol guidelines and the time and cost of hospitalisation over a 20-month period. A novel interdisciplinary protocol was developed, including an education and training app called BackOnFeet (BOF®), standardised hospital management, and the introduction of methods novel to Poland (intraoperative nerve cryoanalgesia in children). A further 2545 patients (AFTER group) were reassessed over a period of 20 months. It was found that the groups differed in hospitalisation time (p < 0.001), type of procedures, and percentage ratio of costs incurred to revenue generated. The usefulness of the BOF® app as an effective educational tool was demonstrated. The optimisation of perioperative management in paediatric orthopaedics based on novel tools and the interdisciplinary ERAS protocol is possible and brings tangible benefits in psychological, organisational, and financial terms.
YOLOV4_CSPBi: Enhanced Land Target Detection Model
Authors: Yin Lirong , Wang Lei , Li Jianqiang , Lu Siyu , Tian Jiawei , Yin Zhengtong , Liu Shan , Zheng Wenfeng
Published: September 2023

The identification of small land targets in remote sensing imagery has emerged as a significant research objective. Despite significant advancements in object detection strategies based on deep learning for visible remote sensing images, the performance of detecting a small and densely distributed number of small targets remains suboptimal. To address this issue, this study introduces an improved model named YOLOV4_CPSBi, based on the YOLOV4 architecture, specifically designed to enhance the detection capability of small land targets in remote sensing imagery. The proposed model enhances the traditional CSPNet by redefining its channel partitioning and integrating this enhanced structure into the neck part of the YOLO network model. Additionally, the conventional pyramid fusion structure used in the traditional BiFPN is removed. By integrating a weight-based bidirectional multi-scale mechanism for feature fusion, the model is capable of effectively reasoning about objects of various sizes, with a particular focus on detecting small land targets, without introducing a significant increase in computational costs. Using the DOTA dataset as research data, this study quantifies the object detection performance of the proposed model. Compared with various baseline models, for the detection of small targets, its AP performance has been improved by nearly 8% compared with YOLOV4. By combining these modifications, the proposed model demonstrates promising results in identifying small land targets in visible remote sensing images.
Modeling Yield Strength of Austenitic Stainless Steel Welds Using Multiple Regression Analysis and Machine Learning
Authors: Park Sukil , Choi Myeonghwan , Kim Dongyoon , Kim Cheolhee , Kang Namhyun
Published: September 2023

Designing welding filler metals with low cracking susceptibility and high strength is essential in welding low-temperature base metals, such as austenitic stainless steel, which is widely utilized for various applications. A strength model for weld metals using austenitic stainless steel consumables has not yet been developed. In this study, such a model was successfully developed. Two types of models were developed and analyzed: conventional multiple regression and machine-learning-based models. The input variables for these models were the chemical composition and heat input per unit length. Multiple regression analysis utilized five statistically significant input variables at a significance level of 0.05. Among the prediction models using machine learning, the stepwise linear regression model showed the highest coefficient of determination (R2) value and demonstrated practical advantages despite having a slightly higher mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) than the Gaussian process regression models. The conventional multiple regression model exhibited a higher R2 (0.8642) and lower MAPE (3.75%) than the machine-learning-based predictive models. Consequently, the models developed in this study effectively predicted the variation in the yield strength resulting from dilution during the welding of high-manganese steel with stainless-steel-based welding consumables. Furthermore, these models can be instrumental in developing new welding consumables, thereby ensuring the desired yield strength levels.
Production and Characterization of Aluminum Reinforced with SiC Nanoparticles
Authors: Rocha Francisca , Simões Sónia
Published: September 2023

Aluminum matrix nanocomposites have been the subject of much attention due to their extraordinary mechanical properties and thermal stability. This research focuses on producing and characterizing an aluminum matrix reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) nanometric particles. The conventional powder metallurgy route was used to produce the nanocomposites, and the dispersion and mixing process was carried out by ultrasonication. The conditions of the dispersion and the volume fraction of the SiC were evaluated in the production of the nanocomposites. Microstructural characterization was carried out using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Mechanical characterization was carried out using hardness and tensile tests. The dispersion agent was investigated, and isopropanol leads to better dispersion with fewer agglomerates. Increasing the volume fraction of the reinforcement improves the hardness of the nanocomposites. However, greater agglomeration of the reinforcement is observed for larger volume fractions. The greatest increase in hardness (77% increase compared to the hardness of the Al matrix) is obtained with 1.0 vol. % of SiC, corresponding to the sample with the best dispersion. The mechanical characterization through tensile tests attests to the effect of the reinforcement on the Al matrix. The main strengthening mechanisms identified were the load transfer, the texture hardening, Orowan strengthening, and the increase in the density of dislocations in the nanocomposites.
Study of Cooling Medium Variables during Quenching in SAE 4340 Steel Using Statistical and Modeling Tools
Authors: Puga-Patlán Carlos , Lopez-Garcia Ricardo Daniel , Medina-Juárez Israel , Maldonado-Reyes Araceli , Reyes-Gallegos María Magdalena
Published: September 2023

Although quenching is one of the most widely used heat treatments in the metal-mechanical industry to improve the mechanical properties of steels, it is also responsible for the generation of residual stress, distortion, and fractures in the treated parts. The high-temperature gradients present during quenching and martensitic transformation are the main failure mechanisms. Cooling is the critical quenching stage where several variables that need to be controlled are involved in reducing these problems. The objective of this research was to evaluate the main variables in the quenching process in SAE 4340 steels, which promote distortion, residual stress accumulation, and fracture failures. A 2ᴷ factorial experiment was designed, samples with C-ring geometry susceptible to changes in quenching variables were used, and the variables studied were the agitation and temperature of the quenching medium. Experimental measurements, statistical tools and modeling were used to evaluate and predict the distortion generated in quenched samples. Such tools include Minitab 21® software and its statistics utilities. Furthermore, a finite element method model was carried out using STFC Deform®. The results suggest that there are optimal conditions in the quenching process to minimize distortion and residual stresses and to improve mechanical properties of quenched parts; therefore, the methods used in this work could be useful to detect and control the appearance of defects in an industrial environment.
Effect of Substrate Negative Bias on the Microstructural, Optical, Mechanical, and Laser Damage Resistance Properties of HfO2 Thin Films Grown by DC Reactive Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Xi Yingxue , Qin Xinghui , Li Wantong , Luo Xi , Zhang Jin , Liu Weiguo , Yang Pengfei
Published: September 2023

Hafnium oxide thin films have attracted great attention as promising materials for applications in the field of optical thin films and microelectronic devices. In this paper, hafnium oxide thin films were prepared via DC magnetron sputtering deposition on a quartz substrate. The influence of various negative biases on the structure, morphology, and mechanical and optical properties of the obtained films were also evaluated. XRD results indicated that (1¯11)-oriented thin films with a monoclinic phase could be obtained under the non-bias applied conditions. Increasing the negative bias could refine the grain size and inhibit the grain preferred orientation of the thin films. Moreover, the surface quality and mechanical and optical properties of the films could be improved significantly along with the increase in the negative bias and then deteriorated as the negative bias voltage arrived at −50 V. It is evident that the negative bias is an effective modulation means to modify the microstructural, mechanical, and optical properties of the films.
Synthesis of α-Chloroarylacetic Acid via Electrochemical Carboxylation of α,α-Dichloroarylmethane Derivatives
Authors: Maret Corentin , David Nicolas , Pierrot David , Léonel Eric , Levacher Vincent , Brière Jean-François , Oudeyer Sylvain
Published: September 2023

The electrocarboxylation of α,α-dichloroarylmethane derivatives in the presence of CO2 was achieved, providing several α-chloroarylacetic acid derivatives with modest yields but high selectivity (chlorinated vs. non-chlorinated or dicarboxylic acid products). The obtained products were then involved in several chemical transformations, underlining their potential as versatile intermediates in synthetic chemistry. A mechanism was also proposed based upon a control experiment and cyclic voltammetry (CV) study.
HS-GC-IMS Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in Different Varieties and Harvesting Times of Rhizoma gastrodiae (Tian Ma) in Yunnan Province
Authors: Duan Hao , Zhou Shiqi , Guo Jinhong , Yan Wenjie
Published: September 2023

Headspace–gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) coupled with principal component analysis (PCA) was used to investigate the differences in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in four different varieties of Yunnan Huang Tian Ma (containing both winter and spring harvesting times), Yunnan Hong Tian Ma, Yunnan Wu Tian Ma, and Yunnan Lv Tian Ma. The results showed that the flavor substances of different varieties and different harvesting times of Rhizoma gastrodiae were mainly composed of aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, heterocycles, esters, acids, alkenes, hydrocarbons, amines, phenols, ethers, and nitrile. Among them, the contents of the aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, and heterocyclic compounds are significantly higher than those of other substances. The results of cluster analysis and fingerprint similarity analysis based on principal component analysis and Euclidean distance showed that there were some differences between different varieties of Yunnan Rhizoma gastrodiae and different harvesting times. Among them, Yunnan Lv Tian Ma and Wu Tian Ma contained the richest volatile components. Winter may be the best harvesting season for Tian Ma. At the same time, we speculate that the special odor contained in Tian Ma should be related to the aldehydes it is rich in, especially benzene acetaldehyde, Benzaldehyde, Heptanal, Hexanal, Pentanal, and butanal, which are aldehydes that contain a strong and special odor and are formed by the combination of these aldehydes.
The Different Mechanisms of Lipid Accumulation in Hepatocytes Induced by Oleic Acid/Palmitic Acid and High-Fat Diet
Authors: Zhang Miao , Bai Xue , Du Qian , Xu Jiaojiao , Wang Danqing , Chen Lei , Dong Keting , Chen Ziyue , Yang Jianhong
Published: September 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the primary chronic liver disease worldwide, mainly manifested by hepatic steatosis. Hepatic lipids may be derived from dietary intake, plasma free fatty acid (FFA) uptake, or hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Currently, cellular and animal models of hepatocellular steatosis are widely used to study the pathogenesis of NAFLD and to investigate therapeutic agents. However, whether there are differences between the in vivo and in vitro models of the mechanisms that cause lipid accumulation has not been reported. We used OA/PA-induced NCTC 1469 cells and high-fat-diet-fed C57BL/6J mice to simulate a hepatocyte steatosis model of NAFLD and to detect indicators related to FFA uptake and DNL. In addition, when serological indicators were analysed in the mouse model, it was found that serum FASN levels decreased. The results revealed that, in the cellular model, indicators related to DNL were decreased, FASN enzyme activity was unchanged, and indicators related to FFA uptake were increased, including the high expression of CD36; while, in the animal model, indicators related to both FFA uptake and de novo synthesis were increased, including the high expression of CD36 and the increased protein levels of FASN with enhanced enzyme activity. In addition, after an analysis of the serological indicators in the mouse model, it was found that the serum levels of FASN were reduced. In conclusion, the OA/PA-induced cellular model can be used to study the mechanism of FFA uptake, whereas the high-fat-diet-induced mouse model can be used to study the mechanism of FFA uptake and DNL. Combined treatment with CD36 and FASN may be more effective against NAFLD. FASN in the serum can be used as one of the indicators for the clinical diagnosis of NAFLD.
Influence of Different Types, Utilization Times, and Volumes of Aging Barrels on the Metabolite Profile of Red Wine Revealed by 1H-NMR Metabolomics Approach
Authors: Denchai Suwanan , Sasomsin Suppached , Prakitchaiwattana Cheunjit , Phuenpong Thanitaporn , Homyog Kunaporn , Mekboonsonglarp Wanwimon , Settachaimongkon Sarn
Published: September 2023

It is well recognized that the aging process is a critical step in winemaking because it induces substantial chemical changes linked to the organoleptic properties and stability of the finished wines. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the influence of different types, utilization times, and volumes of aging barrels on the metabolite profile of red wines, produced from Thai-grown Shiraz grapes, using a non-targeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) metabolomics approach. As a result, 37 non-volatile polar metabolites including alcohols, amino acids, organic acids, carbohydrates and low-molecular-weight phenolics were identified. Chemometric analysis allowed the discrimination of wine metabolite profiles associated with different types of aging containers (oak barrels vs. stainless-steel tanks), as well as the utilization times (2, 6 and >10 years old) and volumes (225, 500 and 2000 L) of the wooden barrels employed. Significant variations in the concentration of formate, fumarate, pyruvate, succinate, citrate, gallate, acetate, tyrosine, phenylalanine, histidine, γ-aminobutyrate, methionine and choline were statistically suggested as indicators accountable for the discrimination of samples aged under different conditions. These feature biomarkers could be applied to manipulate the use of aging containers to achieve the desired wine maturation profiles.
Ternary Mixed Micelle Hexadecyltrimethylammonium Bromide—Dodecyltrimethylammonium Bromide—Sodium Deoxycholate: Gibbs Free Energy of Mixing and Excess Gibbs Energy of Mixing
Authors: Pilipović Ana , Vapa Ivana , Tepavčević Vesna , Puača Gorana , Poša Mihalj
Published: September 2023

Pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic formulations often contain binary or ternary surfactant mixtures with synergistic interactions amongst micellar building blocks. Here, a ternary mixture of the surfactants hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide, and sodium deoxycholate is examined to see if the molar fractions of the surfactants in the ternary mixed micellar pseudophase are determined by the interaction coefficients between various pairs of the surfactants or by their propensity to self-associate. Critical micelle concentrations (CMC) of the analyzed ternary mixtures are determined experimentally (spectrofluorimetrically using pyrene as the probe molecule). Thermodynamic parameters of ternary mixtures are calculated from CMC values using the Regular Solution protocol. The tendency for monocomponent surfactants to self-associate (lower value of CMC) determines the molar fractions of surfactant in the mixed micelle if there is no issue with the packing of the micelle building units of the ternary mixed micelle. If a more hydrophobic surfactant is incorporated into the mixed micelle, the system (an aqueous solution of surfactants) is then the most thermodynamically stabilized.
Shikonin Causes an Apoptotic Effect on Human Kidney Cancer Cells through Ras/MAPK and PI3K/AKT Pathways
Authors: Király József , Szabó Erzsébet , Fodor Petra , Fejes Zsolt , Nagy Béla , Juhász Éva , Vass Anna , Choudhury Mahua , Kónya Gábor , Halmos Gábor , Szabó Zsuzsanna
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Shikonin, the main ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine, is described as a novel angiogenesis inhibitor, and its anticancer effects have already been studied. Shikonin and its derivatives induce apoptosis and suppress metastasis, which further enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy. However, their mechanism of function has not been completely elucidated on human renal cancer cells. (2) Methods: In our study, CAKI-2 and A-498 cells were treated with increasing concentrations (2.5–40 µM) of shikonin, when colony formation ability and cytotoxic activity were tested. The changes in the expression of the main targets of apoptotic pathways were measured by RT-qPCR and Western blot. The intracellular levels of miR-21 and miR-155 were quantified by RT-qPCR. (3) Results: Shikonin exerted a dose-dependent effect on the proliferation of the cell lines examined. In 5 µM concentration of shikonin in vitro elevated caspase-3 and -7 levels, the proteins of the Ras/MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways were activated. However, no significant changes were detected in the miR-21 and miR-155 expressions. (4) Conclusions: Our findings indicated that shikonin causes apoptosis of renal cancer cells by activating the Ras/MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways. These effects of shikonin on renal cancer cells may bear important potential therapeutic implications for the treatment of renal cancer.