bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Has COVID-19 Changed the Incidence and Profile of Late Presenters for HIV Infection in Lodz, Polish Reference Centre, Poland?
Authors: Wójcik-Cichy Kamila , Piekarska Anna , Jabłonowska Elżbieta
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence and characteristics of HIV late presenters (LPs) and advanced LPs (aLPs) registered in the Lodz HIV centre during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021) with those of the pre-pandemic period (2017–2019). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of the predictive factors associated with HIV LPs and aLPs based on multivariable logistic regression. The patient entry into specialist HIV care after diagnosis during the pandemic was analysed. Results: Of 121 newly diagnosed HIV infections during the pandemic, 49.6% had late presentation and 36.4% had advanced HIV disease (AHD). In the pre-pandemic period, out of 154 newly diagnosed patients, 58.4% were LPs and 38.3% were aLPs. Independent risk factors for HIV late presentation were older age (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.076; p = 0.008), diagnosis in hospital (OR: 5.63, 95% CI: 2.87–11.05; p < 0.001) and negative VDRL as compared to positive VDRL (OR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.19–5.15; p = 0.015). The same predictive factors were associated with aLPs: older age (OR: 1.07, 95% Cl 1.04–1.11; p < 0.001), HIV diagnosis in hospital (OR: 4.25, 95% CI 2.17–8.29; p < 0.001) and negative VDRL as compared to positive VDRL (OR: 4.95, 95% CI 1.87–13.10; p = 0.001). HIV diagnosis during the pandemic was not a risk factor for late presentation nor for advanced late presentation. However, the time between HIV diagnosis and the first visit to an HIV centre was statistically lower in the pre-pandemic period (p = 0.0048); the median lengths of time between the date of HIV testing, the first visit to the centre and the initiation of ART did not differ between these two periods in LPs and aLPs (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic did not change the prevalence or characteristics of late presentation and aLPs among newly diagnosed patients, nor did it extend the time to enrolment in HIV care or ART introduction in these groups.
Re-Evaluation of Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Primary Prevention Treatments with Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring in Primary Prevention Patients
Authors: Arslan Abdulla , Aytemiz Fatih , Işıklar İclal , Özkaya Öykü Gülmez
Published: July 2024

Objective: The coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is used as a screening tool to identify the presence/absence of subclinical atherosclerosis in asymptomatic individuals. We evaluated the risk categories and medical therapy of asymptomatic individuals with subclinical atherosclerosis (CACS > 0) and applied the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) score and Framingham risk score (FRS) to assess those at a high risk of subclinical atherosclerosis (CACS ≥ 400). Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 218 asymptomatic individuals (65.6% women, and mean age 67.5 ± 10.3 years) who had their CACS evaluated at the cardiovascular department of our hospital between 2016 and 2020. Results: Among the 218 participants, 24.3% were classified as low-risk according to the FRS, and 19.3% had no subclinical atherosclerosis. However, only 12.8% and 27.5% of the study population were taking statins and aspirin, respectively. Furthermore, although more than half of the individuals without subclinical atherosclerosis were in the intermediate- and high-risk groups according to the risk scores, there were no considerable differences in the rates of taking aspirin and statins between the groups. When patients in the very-high-risk group according to the CACS and low-intermediate-risk patients were compared, there was no considerable difference in the rates of risk subgroups and taking statins, whereas high-risk patients took statistically significantly more aspirin. Conclusions: In primary prevention screening, CACS can be used as a reliable marker of subclinical ASCVD and help physicians optimize and improve adherence to medical therapy, including aspirin and statins, particularly for high-risk individuals.
Novel Techniques and Technologies for Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement: A Large Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Caruso Vincenzo , Bilkhu Rajdeep , Young Christopher , Roxburgh James , Bosco Paolo , Lucchese Gianluca
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives: In an era of growing evidence for transaortic valve implantation (TAVI), our research topic was the evaluation of how surgical aortic valve replacements (SAVRs) are performing in terms of short- and long-term outcomes in different risk categories. Methods: This was a single centre, prospective, and observational cohort study of consecutive patients with aortic valve stenosis, undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement using a biological or mechanical prosthesis, Freestyle™ (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) graft, homograft, or Ross procedure. The participant data were collected by review of an internal database. The primary endpoints were all-cause operative mortality (in hospital and at 30 days) and late mortality at the follow-up date. The secondary composite endpoint was the incidence of postoperative complications. Results: 1501 patients underwent SAVR; the mean age was 67 years (SD: 12.6). The in-hospital mortality was 1% (n = 16). At a median follow-up of 60 months, the survival rate was 98.7%. The main predictors for mortality were operative urgency and cardiogenic shock. The overall incidence of PPM was 2.3% (n = 34). Patients who underwent Ross procedure were younger (mean age: 20 years (SD: 1.7)), had a lower incidence of postoperative complications, and were all alive at follow-up. Conclusions: SAVR shows an excellent survival rate and a low rate of postoperative complications despite an increasing surgical risk. Recent advancements in technology, like sutureless/rapid deployment prostheses and minimally invasive techniques, are shown to have favourable effects on outcomes.
Numerical Investigation into the Hydrodynamic Performance of a Biodegradable Drifting Fish Aggregating Device
Authors: Zhang Tongzheng , Zhao Fenfang , Wan Rong
Published: July 2024

Drifting fish aggregating devices (DFADs) can significantly enhance fishing efficiency and capability. Conventional drifting devices are prone to degradation in harsh marine environments, leading to marine waste or pollution. In this study, we develop a biodegradable DFAD (Bio-DFAD) to minimise negative impacts on marine ecology. To investigate the hydrodynamic performance of the proposed device, numerical modelling involving the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equation has been conducted, in which a realisable k–ε model is applied to consider the turbulence effect. The response amplitude operators, which are key parameters for design, are obtained for heave and pitch motions. The hydrodynamic performance is found to be sensitive to the relative length, relative diameter, and wave steepness, but they are less sensitive to the relative current velocity. This work provides some scientific insights for practical applications.
Investigation of Machine and Deep Learning Techniques to Detect HPV Status
Authors: Petrou Efstathia , Chatzipapas Konstantinos , Papadimitroulas Panagiotis , Andrade-Miranda Gustavo , Katsakiori Paraskevi F. , Papathanasiou Nikolaos D. , Visvikis Dimitris , Kagadis George C.
Published: July 2024

Background: This study investigated alternative, non-invasive methods for human papillomavirus (HPV) detection in head and neck cancers (HNCs). We compared two approaches: analyzing computed tomography (CT) scans with a Deep Learning (DL) model and using radiomic features extracted from CT images with machine learning (ML) models. Methods: Fifty patients with histologically confirmed HNC were included. We first trained a modified ResNet-18 DL model on CT data to predict HPV status. Next, radiomic features were extracted from manually segmented regions of interest near the oropharynx and used to train four ML models (K-Nearest Neighbors, logistic regression, decision tree, random forest) for the same purpose. Results: The CT-based model achieved the highest accuracy (90%) in classifying HPV status. Among the ML models, K-Nearest Neighbors performed best (80% accuracy). Weighted Ensemble methods combining the CT-based model with each ML model resulted in moderate accuracy improvements (70–90%). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that CT scans analyzed by DL models hold promise for non-invasive HPV detection in HNC. Radiomic features, while less accurate in this study, offer a complementary approach. Future research should explore larger datasets and investigate the potential of combining DL and radiomic techniques.
Inflammatory Response Genes’ Polymorphism Associated with Risk of Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Sinitskaya Anna , Khutornaya Maria , Hryachkova Oksana , Asanov Maxim , Poddubnyak Alyona , Ponasenko Anastasia , Sinitsky Maxim
Published: July 2024

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) caused by group A streptococcus infection is one of the most important reasons of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Aberrant host immune response modulated by polymorphisms in inflammatory response genes plays an important role in RHD pathogenesis. This study aimed to determine risk-associated polymorphic variants in inflammatory response genes in Caucasian RHD patients. A total of 251 Caucasian RHD patients and 300 healthy donors were recruited for this study, and 27 polymorphic sites in 12 genes (TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR6, IL1B, IL6R, IL6, IL10, IL12RB1, IL12B, TNF and CRP) were analyzed using allele-specific PCR. It was demonstrated that the polymorphic variants rs1800871 and rs1800872 in the IL10 gene, rs 1130864, rs3093077 and rs1205 in the CRP gene, rs375947 in the IL12RB1 gene, rs 5743551 and rs5743611 in the TLR1 gene, and rs3775073 in the TLR6 gene can modify RHD risk in a gender- and age-dependent manner. The obtained results can be used to determine the personalized risk of RHD in healthy donors during medical examination or screening, as well as to develop appropriate early prevention strategies targeting RHD in the risk groups.
Dynamic Replacement of Soil Inorganic Carbon under Water Erosion
Authors: Zhang Chen , Xu Can , Huang Tianbao , Zhang Liankai , Yang Jinjiang , Chen Guiren , Xu Xiongwei , Zou Fuyan , Liu Zihao , Wang Zhenhui
Published: July 2024

The dynamic replacement of soil organic carbon represents a pivotal mechanism through which water erosion modulates soil–atmosphere CO2 fluxes. However, the extent of this dynamic replacement of soil inorganic carbon within this process remains unclear. In our study, we focused on Yuanmou County, China, a prototypical region afflicted by water erosion, as our study area. We leveraged the WaTEM/SEDEM model to quantify the dynamic replacement of soil carbon, accounted for the average annual net change in soil carbon pools, and used isotope tracer techniques to track and measure the process of the coupled carbon–water cycling. This comprehensive approach enabled us to scrutinize the dynamic replacement of soil carbon under water erosion and delineate its ramifications for the carbon cycle. Our findings unveiled that the surface soil carbon reservoir in the Yuanmou area receives an annual replacement of 47,600 ± 12,600 tons following water erosion events. A substantial portion, amounting to 39,700 ± 10,500 tons, stems from the dynamic replacement of soil inorganic carbon facilitated by atmospheric carbon. These results underscore the critical role of the dynamic replacement of soil inorganic carbon in altering the soil–atmosphere CO2 fluxes under water erosion, thereby influencing the carbon cycle dynamics. Consequently, we advocate for the integration of water erosion processes into regional carbon sink assessments to attain a more comprehensive understanding of regional carbon dynamics.
The Temporal and Spatial Dynamics of Succession in a Glacial Foreland in Southern Iceland: The Effects of Landscape Heterogeneity
Authors: Tanner Lawrence , Kikukawa Genevieve , Weits Kaylyn
Published: July 2024

One of the more visible consequences of anthropogenic climate change is the ongoing retreat of glaciers worldwide. Rates of primary succession in the resulting glacial forelands are commonly calculated from a single measurement set using a single set of measurements across a landscape of varying age, but repeated measurements over decadal scales may be a more effective means of examining the rates and trends of colonization and community development. Repeated measurements of vegetation groups in a glacial foreland in southern Iceland demonstrate that successional changes are measurable, as shown by the calculation of the dissimilarity index at sites over a 15 year interval. Inter-site dissimilarity validates the essential paradigm of primary succession, where vegetative coverage increases in the glacial foreland as a function of time and supports earlier interpretations saying that species richness decreases on older surfaces, even as the total vegetation cover increases. However, successional processes are subject to major abiotic factors, such as aspect, which is controlled by landscape topography, and the substrate composition. The glacial moraines and outwash plain are underlain by different substrates which produce separate successional trajectories. Succession on the moraines ultimately produces a birch-shrub-heath community, while the outwash deposits promote development of a moss-heath community.
Causal Relations and Cohesive Strategies in the Narratives of Heritage Speakers of Russian in Their Two Languages
Authors: Kupersmitt Judy R. , Fichman Sveta , Armon-Lotem Sharon
Published: July 2024

Causal relations allow a very detailed insight into the narrative skills of children from various backgrounds; however, their contribution has not been sufficiently studied in bilingual populations. The present study examines the expression of causal relations and the linguistic forms used to encode them in narratives of bilingual children speaking Russian as the Heritage Language (HL) and Hebrew as the Societal Language (SL). Narratives were collected from 21 typically developing Russian–Hebrew bilingual children using the Frog story picture book and were coded for frequency and type of episodic components, and for causal relations focusing on enabling and motivational relations. Results showed that the number of episodic components was higher in Hebrew than in Russian. An in-depth analysis showed that more components were mentioned in the first five episodes, particularly at the onset of the story. Causal relations were similar in both languages but were differently distributed across the languages—more enabling relations in Russian stories and more motivational relations in Hebrew stories. Production of episodic components and causal relations was affected by language proficiency but not by age of onset of bilingualism (AoB). In terms of language forms, lexical chains (e.g., search~find) were the most frequent means for inferring relations. Syntactic and referential cohesion were used in dedicated episodes to convey relations in both languages. Finally, a higher number of significant correlations between narrative productivity measures, episodic components, and causal relations were found in SL/Hebrew than in HL/Russian. The study results underscore the need to understand how language-specific abilities interact with knowledge of narrative discourse construction.
Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Renal Biopsies on Urinary N-Acetyl-Beta-D-Glucosaminidase Index Activity in Dogs with Diffuse Parenchymal Nephropathies
Authors: Codea Andrei Răzvan , Popa Romeo , Sevastre Bogdan , Biriș Alexandra , Neagu Daniela , Popovici Cristian , Mircean Mircea , Ober Ciprian
Published: July 2024

Background: Ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy is an essential diagnostics method that can increase the accuracy of the differential diagnosis between acute and chronic nephropathies. In addition, it will help clinicians perform an etiologic diagnosis, issue a prognosis, and orient therapy for the majority of parenchymal nephropathies. Due to the relative invasiveness and potential adverse effects, the use of kidney biopsies is limited among practitioners. Results: Twenty-eight dogs, of mixed breed and variable ages, of which 11 (39, 29%) were males and 17 (60, 71%) were females, were examined and underwent an ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy to establish a definitive diagnosis. The patients were presented with a variety of diffuse nephropathies, such as kidney lymphoma: 1 (3.57%), glomerulonephritis: 13 (46.43%), tubulointerstitial nephritis: 11 (39.29%), and nephrocalcinosis. A total of 3 (10.71%) of 18 (64.29%) were in acute kidney injury, and 10 (35.71%) were CKD patients. The type and the severity of the kidney lesions were correlated with changes in the urinary n-acetyl-beta-d-glucosaminidase index (iNAG. To quantify the side effects of percutaneous kidney biopsy, the magnitude of post-biopsy hematuria and changes in urinary iNAG activity were evaluated. The results indicate a significant post-biopsy increase in the urinary iNAG activity in all the patients that underwent this procedure (100.08 ± 34.45 U/g), with a pre-biopsy iNAG vs. 147.65 ± 33.26 U/g post-biopsy iNAG (p < 0.001), suggesting an intensification in the kidney tubular damage that comes consecutives to kidney puncture and sampling. Transitory macro- or microhematuria were constant findings in all the dogs that underwent ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy, but the magnitude and extent could not be associated with the platelet count (PLT 109/L), aPTT (s), and PT (s) levels in our patients, and they were also resolved after 12–24 h without therapeutic interventions. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided renal biopsy was shown to be a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that causes transient and limited effects on kidney structures. Although these effects were minor and resolved without intervention, we feel that the benefit of obtaining higher-quality biopsied tissue outweighs the higher risks associated with this procedure.
Obliterative Portal Venopathy during Estrogen Therapy in a Transgender Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Ash Nathaniel S. , Schiano Thomas D. , Safer Joshua D. , Fiel Maria I. , Skolnick Aren H. , Bach Nancy
Published: July 2024

Background: As transgender people initiate gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), they are exposed to exogenous sex hormones that have effects that have not yet been fully studied. While exogenous estrogen is associated with a risk of venous thrombosis, the full impact of estrogen on the liver is unknown. Conversely, the erroneous attribution of risks from GAHT presents a barrier to treatment for some patients. We present a case of obliterative portal venopathy (OPV) and possible DILI occurring after the initiation of estrogen in a transgender woman. Case presentation: A 28-year-old transgender woman on GAHT was referred to hepatology for liver enzyme elevations. She did not have any notable comorbid conditions, family history, or psychosocial history. Lab and imaging workup were unremarkable, and the patient underwent liver biopsy. The patient’s biopsy results showed OPV. The patient continued GAHT at a lower dose and liver enzyme elevations resolved. Conclusions: OPV is a vascular disease that falls under the category of porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder. Patients with this condition can present with or without overt clinical signs of portal hypertension. Porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder is rare and given the timing and possible dose dependence, it might be reasonable to consider that the observed OPV was influenced by the exogenous estrogen administered in an association not previously reported. Alternatively, the patient’s continued estrogen treatment without ill effect could suggest that the events were not connected and that the fear of harm could have served as a barrier to the patient receiving indicated care.
Analysis of the Impact of Waste Fly Ash on Changes in the Structure and Thermal Properties of the Produced Recycled Materials Based on Polyethylene
Authors: Caban Renata , Gnatowski Adam
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the results of the research on the structure and thermal properties of materials made from fly ash based on high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Composites based on a polyethylene matrix with 5, 10, and 15 wt% fly ash from hard coal combustion content were examined. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) was used to identify characteristic functional groups present in the chemical structure of polyethylene and the composites based on its matrix. Structural analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and microscopic examinations. Mechanical properties were also examined. Analysis of the thermal effect values determined by the DSC technique, XRD, and FTIR-ATR allowed the evaluation of the crystallinity of the tested materials. Polyethylene is generally considered to be a two-phase system consisting of crystalline and amorphous regions and is a plastic characterized by a significant crystalline phase content. Based on the FTIR-ATR spectra, DSC curves, and XRD, the effect of the filler and the changes occurring in the materials studied resulted in a decrease in the degree of crystallinity and a change in the melting point and crystallization temperature of the polymer matrix were established. Microscopic examinations were carried out to analyze the microstructure of the composites to collect information on the distribution and shape of the filler particles, indicating their size and distribution in the polymer matrix. Furthermore, the use of scanning electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) allowed for the microanalysis of the chemical composition of the filler particles.
Thermal and Combustion Properties of Biomass-Based Flame-Retardant Polyurethane Foams Containing P and N
Authors: Zhan Jing , Mao Liangchen , Qin Rongshui , Qian Jing , Mu Xiaowei
Published: July 2024

Biomass has been widely used due to its environmental friendliness, sustainability, and low toxicity. In this study, aminophosphorylated cellulose (PNC), a biomass flame retardant containing phosphorus and nitrogen, was synthesized by esterification from cellulose and introduced into polyurethane to prepare flame-retardant rigid polyurethane foam. The combustion properties of the PU and PU/PNC composites were studied using the limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL-94, and cone calorimeter (CCT) methods. The thermal degradation behavior of the PU and PU/PNC composites was analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and thermogravimetric infrared spectroscopy (TG-IR). The char layer after combustion was characterized using SEM, Raman, and XPS. The experimental results showed that the introduction of PNC significantly improved the flame-retardant effect and safety of PU/PNC composites. Adding 15 wt% PNC to PU resulted in a vertical burning grade of V-0 and a limiting oxygen index of 23.5%. Compared to the pure sample, the residual char content of PU/PNC15 in a nitrogen atmosphere increased by 181%, and the total heat release (THR) decreased by 56.3%. A Raman analysis of the char layer after CCT combustion revealed that the ID/IG ratio of PU/PNC15 decreased from 4.11 to 3.61, indicating that the flame retardant could increase the stability of the char layer. The TG-IR results showed that PNC diluted the concentration of O2 and combustible gases by releasing inert gases such as CO2. These findings suggest that the developed PU/PNC composites have significant potential for real-world applications, particularly in industries requiring enhanced fire safety, such as construction, transportation, and electronics. The use of PNC provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional flame retardants. This research paves the way for the development of safer, more sustainable, and environmentally friendly fire-resistant materials for a wide range of applications.
A Study on the Application Performance of High-Aspect-Ratio Nano-Ettringite in Photocurable Resin Composites
Authors: Cao Weihua , Zhu Hong
Published: July 2024

In this study, the impact of the addition of high-aspect-ratio nano-ettringite to photocurable epoxy acrylate resin was explored. The nano-ettringite samples were modified using γ-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH-550) and γ-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (KH-570). Then, 3 wt% or 6 wt% KH-550-modified, KH-570-modified, and unmodified nano-ettringite samples were dispersed into resin via ultrasonic treatment in conjunction with mechanical stirring. The grafting effects of nano-ettringite onto KH-550 or KH-570 were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. The results demonstrate that KH-550 and KH-570 have been successfully grafted onto the surface of nano-ettringite. In addition, this study also focuses on the variations of composite materials in the viscosity, shrinkage, tensile strength, and elongation at break. The results indicate that increased dosages of unmodified, KH-550-modified, and KH-570-modified nano-ettringite led to increased viscosity of the composite while reducing shrinkage. At the same dosage, the photocurable resin containing KH-570-modified nano-ettringite demonstrated a lower shrinkage and a higher tensile strength. From the analysis of tensile fracture surfaces, it was observed that compared to the KH-550 modified and unmodified variants, the KH-570 modified nano-ettringite exhibits superior dispersibility in photocurable epoxy acrylate resin. Notably, when the amount of KH-570-modified nano-ettringite was 3 wt%, the highest tensile strength of the composite was 64.61 MPa, representing a 72.57% increase compared to the blank sample. Furthermore, the incorporation of KH-570-modified nano-ettringite as a filler provides a new perspective for improving the performance of photocurable epoxy acrylate resin composites.
Achieving High Strength–Ductility Synergy in Low-Alloyed Mg–Li–Er Extrusion Alloys via Tailoring Bimodal-Grained Structure
Authors: Tang Ruyue , Zhang Jing , Gong Zhenwei , Li Bingcheng , Dong Quan
Published: July 2024

Low-alloyed Mg–Li–Er alloys were developed in this study and a bimodal-grained structure was obtained by varying the trace Er content and extrusion temperature. The alloys displayed a good strength–ductility synergy, i.e., a tensile yield strength (TYS) of 270 MPa and an elongation (EL) of 19.1%. Microstructural characterization revealed that the formation of numerous submicron Mg24Er5 particles favored a high density of low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs) inside the deformed grains and inhibited dynamic recrystallization (DRX). The resultant coarse unDRXed grains with a strong basal texture and considerable LAGBs, together with the fine DRXed grains, contributed to the high strength–ductility synergy.
Marizomib (Salinosporamide A) Promotes Apoptosis in A375 and G361 Melanoma Cancer Cells
Authors: Piskorz Wiktoria Monika , Krętowski Rafał , Cechowska-Pasko Marzanna
Published: July 2024

Malignant melanoma—a tumor originating from melanocytes—is characterized by dynamic growth and frequent metastases in the early stage of development. Current therapy methods are still insufficient, and there is a need to search for new ways of treating this malady. The induction of apoptosis—physiological cell death—by proteasome inhibitors is recognized as an effective method of non-invasive elimination of cancer cells. In our research, we wanted to check the potential of marizomib (MZB, salinosporamide A, NPI-0052)—an irreversible proteasome inhibitor derived from the marine actinomycete Salinispora tropica—to induce apoptosis in A375 and G361 malignant melanoma cells. We determined the cytotoxic activity of marizomib by performing an MTT test. Ethidium bromide and acridine orange staining demonstrated the disruption of membrane integrity in the examined cell lines. We confirmed the proapoptotic activity of marizomib by flow cytometry with the use of an FITC-Annexin V assay. A Western blot analysis presented an increase in the expression of proteins related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as well as markers of the apoptosis. The gathered findings suggest that marizomib induced the ER stress in the examined melanoma cancer cells and directed them towards the apoptosis pathway.
Can Hematological Inflammatory Indices Be Used to Differentiate Modic Type 1 Changes from Brucella Spondylodiscitis?
Authors: Şah Volkan , Baran Ali İrfan
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Differentiation between brucella spondylodiscitis and Modic type I changes (MC1) includes difficulties. Hematological inflammatory indices (HII) such as neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI) are suggested as indicators of inflammation and infection and have diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive roles in various diseases. This study aimed to evaluate differences between brucella spondylodiscitis and MC1 in terms of HII. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five patients with brucella spondylodiscitis and thirty-seven with MC1 were enrolled in the study. Brucella spondylodiscitis and MC1 were diagnosed by microbiological, serological, and radiological diagnostic tools. HII (NLR, MLR, PLR, NLPR, SII, SIRI, AISI) were derived from baseline complete blood count. Results: The two groups were similar for age (p = 0.579) and gender (p = 0.092), leukocyte (p = 0.127), neutrophil (p = 0.366), lymphocyte (p = 0.090), and monocyte (p = 0.756) scores. The Brucella spondylodiscitis group had significantly lower pain duration (p < 0.001), higher CRP and ESR levels (p < 0.001), and lower platelet count (p = 0.047) than the MC1 group. The two groups had similarity in terms of HII: NLR (p = 0.553), MLR (p = 0.294), PLR (p = 0.772), NLPR (p = 0.115), SII (p = 0.798), SIRI (p = 0.447), and AISI (p = 0.248). Conclusions: Increased HII can be used to differentiate infectious and non-infectious conditions, but this may be invalid in brucellosis. However, pain duration, CRP and ESR levels, and platelet count may be useful to distinguish brucella spondylodiscitis from MC1.
Percutaneous Internal Ring Suturing for Inguinal Hernia Repair in Children: Retrospective Cohort of 714 Patients with Minimum 3-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Thomas David Terence , Sag Sefa , Kalyoncu Aycenk Aybegum , Tulgar Serkan
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Despite numerous described techniques, laparoscopy has yet to replace open surgery as the gold standard for inguinal hernia (IH) repair in children. This may be due to many variables, including the lack of long-term follow-up and concern for increased recurrence. In this study, we present our long-term follow-up data on children undergoing percutaneous internal ring suturing (PIRS) for IH repair. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included children who underwent PIRS for IH between May 2013 and May 2021 at three tertiary care institutions, with at least three years of follow-up. Age at surgery, side of IH, presence of contralateral patent processus vaginalis, surgical and anesthesia time, and complications were noted. Parents were contacted to enquire about long-term complications, such as recurrence. Results: Long-term follow-up (average 6.9 ± 2.3 years) was available for 714 patients. For unilateral and bilateral procedures, the average surgical time was 13.6 ± 5.4 and 19.9 ± 3.0, and the average anesthesia time was 27.7 ± 12.9 and 33.9 ± 14.1 min, respectively. Complications were seen in 0.84% of patients and 1.2% of procedures, and recurrence was observed in 0.98% of patients and 0.78% of procedures. Conclusions: Our study, with a nearly 7-year follow-up, provides substantial evidence that PIRS is a safe and effective technique for IH repair in children, with low recurrence and complication rates. Despite the study’s retrospective nature and limited sample size, it contributes valuable data supporting the use of PIRS in pediatric IH repair.
Performance and Impact of Crosslinking Level of Hierarchical Anion-Exchange Membranes on Demineralization of a Complex Food Solution by Electrodialysis
Authors: Khetsomphou Elodie , Deboli Francesco , Donten Mateusz L. , Bazinet Laurent
Published: July 2024

Promising results were recently reported for hierarchical ion-exchange membranes, fabricated by the UV crosslinking of a thin functional coating on a porous substrate, on model NaCl solution demineralization by electrodialysis (ED). Hierarchical anion-exchange membranes (hAEMs) have never been tested with complex solutions to demonstrate their potential use in the biofood industry. The impact of three different crosslinking densities of the ion-exchange coating (EbN-1, EbN-2 and EbN-3) on the performances of whey demineralization by ED was investigated and compared with commercial AMX. The results showed that by increasing the coating crosslinking density, the membrane conductivity decreased, leading to an increase in the global system resistance during whey demineralization (from +28% to +64%). However, 18% sweet whey solutions were successfully treated until 70% demineralization for all membranes. The energy consumption (averaged EbN value of 14.8 vs. 15.1 Wh for AMX) and current efficiency (26.0 vs. 27.4%) were similar to the control. Potential fouling by non-protein nitrogen was detected by ATR-FTIR for hAEMs impacting some membranes properties and ED performances. Overall, EbN-1 obtained results were comparable with the benchmark and can be considered as an alternative membrane for whey demineralization by ED and other applications in the demineralization of complex products from the food industry.
Ductile-to-Brittle Transition of Steel Due to Dynamic Loading
Authors: Riganti Gianmario , Cadoni Ezio
Published: July 2024

The transition from ductile to brittle for metals is usually encountered during fast machining operations, in low-temperature environments, and in all situations involving very high strain rates. Traditionally, classical material models used in the dynamic structural analysis focus on the plastic-stress-versus-strain rate. As a result, those models cannot incorporate sudden changes in failure strains and strengths triggered by material behavior transition. The ability to predict realistically the dynamic behavior of structures based on physical constitutive equations depends on having a comprehensive understanding of such drastic changes in material behavior. This transition is described by the DAMP-PLAST model, incorporating constitutive equations and governed by the shear band speed parameter at a finite time. After the development of the equation set, the material model is tested in regard to its ability to produce three distinguished material responses: elastic-plastic, elastic–plastic with strain-rate sensitivity, and brittle with increased dynamic failure strength. The study identifies metal dynamic brittleness linked to a critical loading rate influencing the plastic flow process. Based on this relation, the identification of the critical loading rate using split Hopkinson bar apparatus, and material constitutive equation is proposed.
Inconel 740H Prepared by Additive Manufacturing: Microstructure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Hu Ruizhang , Li Wenqing , Guo Chun , Huang Guangcan , Zhang Xinyu , Lin Qingcheng
Published: July 2024

An Inconel 740H nickel-based alloy was fabricated via wire arc additive manufacturing. The as-welded and heat-treated samples were analyzed to investigate their phase composition, microstructure, crystal structure, and mechanical properties. After heat treatment, the sample exhibited a columnar crystal zone microstructure consisting of a γ matrix + precipitated phase, the remelting zone metallographic structure was a γ matrix + precipitated phase, and the HAZ metallographic structure was a γ matrix + precipitated phase. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) were used to show that the welded sample exhibited many dislocations, a few inclusions, and carbides, nitrides, and γ’ precipitates in its crystal structure. In contrast, the crystal structure of the heat-treated sample exhibited a lower number of dislocations and significantly higher carbide and γ’ precipitate content. Moreover, the mechanical performance of these samples was excellent. This heat-treatment process improved the sample strength by about 200 MPa, leading to better high-temperature mechanical properties. This work is anticipated to offer theoretical and experimental support for using additive manufacturing methods in the manufacturing of nickel-based superalloy components.
Study on the Influence of Surface Roughness and Temperature on the Interface Void Closure and Microstructure Evolution of Stainless Steel Diffusion Bonding Joints
Authors: Wei Yanni , Zhang Shuyuan , Jia Lei , Li Quanning , Ma Mengfan
Published: July 2024

Austenitic stainless steel diffusion bonding was performed, and the effects of the surface roughness and bonding temperature on the interface microstructure and mechanism of hole closure were investigated. The bonded interface microstructure was analyzed. The influence of surface roughness and temperature on cavity evolution, bonding rate, and axial deformation rate was studied. The mechanism of interfacial void closure in the stainless steel diffusion bonding process was revealed. With the increase in temperature and the decrease in surface roughness, the size of the interface void and the bonded area decreased. The bonding rate can reach more than 95% when the surface roughness value is 0.045 μm and the temperature is at or higher than 750 °C. The analytical equations of interfacial bonding rate δ and axial deformation rate ε produced by the deformation mechanism were established, and the laws of the deformation mechanism and diffusion mechanism within interfacial hole closure were obtained.
An Alternative Method of Investigating the Thermal Stability of Shoe-Braked Railway Wheel Steels Based on Strain Hardening Analysis
Authors: Angella Giuliano , Ghidini Lorenzo , Faccoli Michela
Published: July 2024

During service, shoe-braked railway wheel steels are often subjected to a severe thermal cycle. Therefore, understanding the evolution of the microstructure and the resulting changes in mechanical properties during service is fundamental in the choice of steel. In previous research, the effects of the thermal loading on the microstructure and mechanical properties of five different steels for railway wheels (ER7, HYPERLOS®, Class B, SANDLOS® and Class C) were investigated by hardness, tensile and toughness tests, in the as-supplied condition and after different heat treatments designed to replicate the modification of the microstructure due to braking. In this paper, the tensile work hardening behavior was studied by interpolating the tensile flow curves with the constitutive equation related to the dislocation density proposed by Voce, which correlates the Voce equation parameters with the microstructural features of metallic materials. The work hardening analysis revealed that there is a good correlation between the Voce parameters and the microstructure of the five steels in as-supplied condition and after heat treatments. An interesting correlation was found between Voce parameters and apparent fracture toughness. After heat treatments at 700 °C and 750 °C the properties of the steels decreased, which was consistent with the evolution of the microstructure. However, after exposure at 970 °C with subsequent cooling in air, Class C steel appears to have a microstructure similar to the original microstructure, with tensile and toughness properties very similar to the as-supplied condition, demonstrating better microstructural stability compared to steels ER7, HYPERLOS®, Class B and SANDLOS®.
A Study on the Optimal Powder Metallurgy Process to Obtain Suitable Material Properties of Soft Magnetic Composite Materials for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Kang Seongsu , Lee Seonbong
Published: July 2024

This study systematically investigates the impact of the material properties of soft magnetic composites (SMCs) on the powder metallurgy forming process. It proposes a suitable material selection process for various motor types and shapes and determines the optimal forming conditions for each SMC material. This study employed the Taguchi design method to identify key control factors such as powder type, forming temperature, and forming speed, and analyzed their effects on relative density. Simulation results indicated that AncorLam HR exhibited superior properties compared with AncorLam and Fe-6.5wt.%Si. The optimal conditions determined through signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) calculations were AncorLam HR at 60 °C and five cycles per minute (CPMs). Validation through simulation and SEM analysis confirmed improved density uniformity and reduced defects in products formed under optimal conditions. Final prototype testing demonstrated that the selected conditions achieved the target density with minimal variance, enhancing the mechanical properties and performance of the motors. These results suggest that the appropriate application of SMC materials can significantly enhance motor efficiency and reliability.
Characterization of Incremental Markings in the Sagittal Otolith of the Pacific Sardine (Sardinops sagax) Using Different Imaging Modalities
Authors: James Kelsey C. , Kierdorf Uwe , Cooley Victoria , Nikitin Viktor , Stock Stuart R. , Kierdorf Horst
Published: July 2024

Teleost fish possess calcium carbonate otoliths located in separate chambers (utriculus, sacculus, and lagena) of their membranous labyrinth. This study analyzed the surface topography of the sagittal otolith of the Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax) and the daily and annual increments in these otoliths. The otolith surface, characterized by laser scanning confocal microscopy for the first time, consisted of a system of prominent ridges and valleys (grooves), but it is unclear whether these structures are functional or represent time-resolving markings reflecting growth periodicity. Within the first-year volume, daily increments, each consisting of an incremental (more mineralized) and a discontinuous (less mineralized) zone, were resolved by optical microscopy and backscattered electron (BSE) imaging in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Daily growth increments could, however, not be resolved in volumes formed after the first year, presumably because otolith growth markedly slows down and spacing of incremental markings narrows in older fish. Throughout otolith growth, the crystalline network continues across the discontinuous zones. Fluorochrome labeling provides additional information on growth after the first year. Compared with optical and BSE imaging, synchrotron microComputed Tomography of intact otoliths (with 0.69 µm volume elements) was less able to resolve daily increments; X-ray phase contrast reconstructions provided more detail than reconstructions with absorption contrast. Future research directions are proposed.
Complexes of Zinc-Coordinated Heteroaromatic N-Oxides with Pyrene: Lewis Acid Effects on the Multicenter Donor–Acceptor Bonding
Authors: Nizhnik Yakov P. , Hansen Erin , Howard Cayden , Zeller Matthias , Rosokha Sergiy V.
Published: July 2024

4-Nitroquinoline-N-oxide (NQO) and 4-nitropyridine-N-oxide (NPO) are important precursors for the synthesis of substituted heterocycles while NQO is a popular model mutagen and carcinogen broadly used in cancer research; intermolecular interactions are critical for their reactions or functioning in vivo. Herein, the effects of the coordination of N-oxide’s oxygen atom to Lewis acids on multicenter donor–acceptor bonding were explored via a combination of experimental and computational studies of the complexes of NQO and NPO with a typical π-electron donor, pyrene. Coordination with ZnCl2 increased the positive electrostatic potentials on the surfaces of these π-acceptors and lowered the energy of their LUMO. Analogous effects were observed upon the protonation of the N-oxides’ oxygen or bonding with boron trifluoride. The interaction of ZnCl2, NPO, or NQO and pyrene resulted in the formation of dark co-crystals comprising π-stacked Zn-coordinated N-oxides and pyrene similar to that found with protonated or (reported earlier) BF3-bonded N-oxides. Computational studies indicated that the coordination of N-oxides to zinc(II), BF3, or protonation led to the strengthening of the multicenter bonding of the nitro-heterocycle with pyrene, and this effect was related both to the increased electrostatic attraction and molecular–orbital interactions in their complexes.
Facile Synthesis of Novel Magnetic Janus Graphene Oxide for Efficient and Recyclable Demulsification of Crude Oil-in-Water Emulsion
Authors: Xu Yingbiao , Cheng Li , Wang Yefei , Jia Han
Published: July 2024

Nanoparticles have been widely applied to treat emulsion-containing wastewater in the form of chemical demulsifiers, such as SiO2, Fe3O4, and graphene oxide (GO). Owing to their asymmetric structures and selective adsorption, Janus nanoparticles show greater application potential in many fields. In the present work, the novel magnetic Janus graphene oxide (MJGO) nanoparticle was successfully prepared by grafting magnetic Fe3O4 to the surface of the JGO, and its demulsifying ability to treat a crude oil-in-water emulsion was evaluated. The MJGO structure and its magnetic intensity were verified by Fourier-transform infrared spectra (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and magnetization saturation (MS) tests. Compared with GO and JGO, MJGO displayed the superior efficiency (>96%) to demulsify the crude oil-in-water emulsion, which can be attributed to the reduced electrostatic repulsion between MJGO and the emulsion droplets. Furthermore, the effects of pH and temperature on the demulsification performance of MJGO were also studied. Lastly, the recyclability of MJGO largely reduced the cost of demulsifiers in separating crude oil and water. The current research presents an efficient and recyclable demulsifier, which provides a new perspective for the structural design of nanomaterials and their application in the field of demulsification.
Experimental and Modeling Analysis of Mechanical Response of Composite Electrodes in Lithium Batteries
Authors: Shen Zheru , Jin Zhiyao , He Yaolong , Li Dawei
Published: July 2024

The mechanical response is one of the main factors that influence the capacity and number of cycles of lithium batteries, which hinder its wide application. Therefore, it is crucial to perform an in-depth investigation of the electro-chemo-mechanical coupling performance and work mechanism of battery electrodes during the electrochemical reaction process. Usually, graphite is the main active material used in commercially used batteries, while silicon is gaining worldwide attention because of its large energy density. Here, graphite and silicon composite electrodes were prepared to obtain the electro-chemo-mechanical response during electrochemical cycling by an in situ bending deformation measurement. The findings indicate that the composite electrodes could induce a large bending deformation, with an increase in the state of charge (C-rate). And, with an increase in the C-rate, the deformation degree of the silicon composite electrode increases, while that of the graphite composite electrode decreases due to the hardening properties of the graphite particles. In addition, increasing the thickness ratio could induce an increase in the peak stress for both composite electrodes. This work gives a detailed analysis of the mechanical properties of composite electrodes and finds the working mechanism of the C-rate and thickness ratio, which can supply suggestions for the development of high-performance batteries.