bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Textbook Outcome of Laparoscopic Microwave Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lanari Jacopo , Caregari Silvia , Billato Ilaria , Gringeri Enrico , D’Amico Francesco , Gemo Giancarlo , Bassi Domenico , D’Amico Francesco Enrico , Boetto Riccardo , Bertacco Alessandra , Marchini Andrea , Lazzari Sara , Brolese Marco , Ballo Mattia , Vitale Alessandro , Cillo Umberto
Published: January 2023

In the context of spreading interest in textbook outcome (TO) evaluation in different fields, we aimed to investigate an uncharted procedure, that is, laparoscopic microwave ablation (MWA) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Absence of post-MWA complications, a hospital stay of three days, no mortality nor readmission within 30 days, and complete response of the target lesion at post-MWA CT scan defined TO achievement. Patients treated between January 2014 and March 2021 were retrospectively reviewed, and of the 521 patients eligible for the study, 337 (64.7%) fulfilled all the quality indicators to achieve the TO. The absence of complications was the main limiting factor for accomplishing TO. At multivariable analysis, Child–Pugh B cirrhosis, age of more than 70 years old, three nodules, and MELD score ≥ 15 were associated with decreased probabilities of TO achievement. A score based on these factors was derived from multivariable analysis, and patients were divided into three risk groups for TO achievement. At survival analysis, overall survival (OS) was significantly (p = 0.001) higher in patients who achieved TO than those who did not. Moreover, OS evaluation in the three risk groups showed a trend coherent with TO achievement probability. The present study, having assessed the first TO for laparoscopic MWA for HCC, encourages further broader consensus on its definition and, on its basis, on the development of clinically relevant tools for managing treatment allocation.
Potential Role of ROS in Butyrate- and Dietary Fiber-Mediated Growth Inhibition and Modulation of Cell Cycle-, Apoptosis- and Antioxidant-Relevant Proteins in LT97 Colon Adenoma and HT29 Colon Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Schlörmann Wiebke , Horlebein Christoph , Hübner Sabine M. , Wittwer Elisa , Glei Michael
Published: January 2023

The aim of the present study was to examine whether reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to chemopreventive effects of fermentation supernatants (FS) of different dietary fibers (Synergy1®, oat-, barley-, yeast β-glucan, Curdlan) and butyrate as a fermentation metabolite. LT97 and HT29 cells were treated with butyrate and FS alone or with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and their impact on ROS formation, cell growth, and protein expression (Cyclin D2, p21, PARP, Bid, GPx2) was investigated. Butyrate and FS significantly decreased cell growth. ROS levels were significantly increased, particularly in LT97 cells, while co-treatment with NAC decreased ROS formation and growth inhibitory effects in both cell lines. After treatment with butyrate and FS, Cyclin D2 expression was reduced in LT97 cells and p21 expression was increased in both cell lines. Levels of full-length PARP and Bid were decreased, while levels of cleaved PARP were enhanced. GPx2 expression was significantly reduced by fiber FS in HT29 cells. A notable effect of NAC on butyrate- and FS-modulated protein expression was observed exclusively for PARP and Bid in HT29 cells. From the present results, a contribution of ROS to growth inhibitory and apoptotic effects of butyrate and FS on LT97 and HT29 cells cannot be excluded.
Synthesis of Nanocrystalline Metal Tungstate NiWO4/CoWO4 Heterojunction for UV-Light-Assisted Degradation of Paracetamol
Authors: Alharthi Fahad Ahmed , Alshayiqi Alanoud Abdullah , Al-Nafaei Wedyan Saud , El Marghany Adel , Alanazi Hamdah Saleh , Hasan Imran
Published: January 2023

The discharge of pharma products such as paracetamol (PCT) into water has resulted in great harm to humans and emerged as a potential threat requiring a solution. Therefore, the development of smart and efficient materials as photocatalysts has become imperative in order to treat PCT in wastewater. The present study demonstrates the synthesis of pristine NiWO4 and CoWO4 and a heterojunction nanostructure, NiWO4/CoWO4, through a hydrothermal process using a Teflon-lined autoclave at 180 °C for 18 h. Various spectroscopic techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were utilised to determine the lattice, structural, optical, and morphological information of the solid nanomaterial upon heterojunction formation. The synthesised nanomaterials were exploited for the photocatalytic degradation of paracetamol (PCT) under UV light irradiation. Photocatalytic experiments were performed for the optimization of various reaction parameters, such as irradiation time, pH, catalyst dose, and PCT concentration at room temperature. The results obtained suggested that the heterojunction nanocomposite NiWO4/CoWO4 exhibited enhanced photocatalytic efficiency (97.42%) with PCT as compared to its precursors—96.50% for NiWO4 and 97.12% for CoWO4. The photocatalytic data were best defined by the Langmuir–Hinshelwood (L–H) model of pseudo-first-order kinetics, with apparent rates constant at 0.015 min−1 for NiWO4, 0.017 min−1 for CoWO4, and 0.019 min−1 for NiWO4/CoWO4 NC. It was observed that NiWO4/CoWO4 NC with enhanced optical properties effected a higher rate of PCT degradation due to the improved bandgap energy upon heterojunction formation. The scavenger test revealed the involvement of •OH radicals as reactive oxidant species (ROS) in PCT degradation. The material was found to be highly stable and reusable for the degradation of PCT at optimized reaction conditions.
Enhanced Oil Recovery by In-Reservoir Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide Using Na-Fe3O4
Authors: Aliev Firdavs , Kholmurodov Temurali , Mirzayev Oybek , Tajik Arash , Mukhamadiev Nurali , Slavkina Olga , Nourgalieva Nuriya , Vakhin Alexey
Published: January 2023

In-situ conversion of carbon dioxide into value-added products is an essential process in terms of heavy oil upgrading and utilization of the main anthropogenic greenhouse gas. In this paper, we discuss a synthesis of sodium-coated magnetite (Fe3O4) particles for in-reservoir hydrogenation of CO2. The performance of the obtained catalyst was tested in upgrading of heavy oil in a High Pressure/High Temperature (HPHT) reactor imitating the reservoir conditions during steam injection techniques. The experiments were conducted for 48 h in a CO2 environment under the steam temperature and pressure of 250 °C and 90 bar, respectively. The results showed irreversible viscosity reduction of oil from 3931 mPa.s to 2432 mPa.s after the degassing of unreacted carbon dioxide. The content of resins in the composition of upgraded oil was significantly altered from 32.1 wt% to 19.01 wt%, while the content of aromatics rose from 32.5 wt% to 48.85 wt%. The GC-MS results show the presence of alkyl benzenes and phenanthrenes, which were initially concentrated in resins and asphaltenes, in the aromatics fraction of upgraded crude oil. Thus, Na-Fe3O4 exhibits promising results for in-situ heavy oil upgrading through the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, which contributes not only to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, but also enhances heavy oil recovery.
The Challenges of Integrating the Principles of Green Chemistry and Green Engineering to Heterogeneous Photocatalysis to Treat Water and Produce Green H2
Authors: Anaya-Rodríguez Fernanda , Durán-Álvarez Juan C. , Drisya K. T. , Zanella Rodolfo
Published: January 2023

Nowadays, heterogeneous photocatalysis for water treatment and hydrogen production are topics gaining interest for scientists and developers from different areas, such as environmental technology and material science. Most of the efforts and resources are devoted to the development of new photocatalyst materials, while the modeling and development of reaction systems allowing for upscaling the process to pilot or industrial scale are scarce. In this work, we present what is known on the upscaling of heterogeneous photocatalysis to purify water and to produce green H2. The types of reactors successfully used in water treatment plants are presented as study cases. The challenges of upscaling the photocatalysis process to produce green H2 are explored from the perspectives of (a) the adaptation of photoreactors, (b) the competitiveness of the process, and (c) safety. Throughout the text, Green Chemistry and Engineering Principles are described and discussed on how they are currently being applied to the heterogeneous photocatalysis process along with the challenges that are ahead. Lastly, the role of automation and high-throughput methods in the upscaling following the Green Principles is discussed.
Recent Progress of Printing Technologies for High-Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xia Zihao , Cai Ting , Li Xiangguo , Zhang Qian , Shuai Jing , Liu Shenghua
Published: January 2023

Organic solar cells (OSCs), as a renewable energy technology that converts solar energy into electricity, have exhibited great application potential. With the rapid development of novel materials and device structures, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of non-fullerene OSCs has been increasingly enhanced, and over 19% has currently been achieved in single-junction devices. Compared with rigid silicon cells, OSCs have the characteristics of low cost, high flexibility, lightweight, and their inherent solution processability, which enables the devices to be manufactured by using printing technology for commercial applications. In recent years, to maximize the device performance of OSCs, many efforts have been devoted to improving the morphologies and properties of the active layer through various novel printing technologies. Herein, in this review, the recent progress and applications of several popular printing technologies to fabricate high-efficient OSCs are summarized, including blade-coating, slot-die coating, gravure printing, screen printing, inkjet printing, etc. The strengths and weaknesses of each printing technology are also outlined in detail. Ultimately, the challenges and opportunities of printing technology to fabricate OSC devices in industrial manufacturing are also presented.
Preclinical Evaluation of a Novel Small Molecule LCC-21 to Suppress Colorectal Cancer Malignancy by Inhibiting Angiogenic and Metastatic Signatures
Authors: Mokgautsi Ntlotlang , Kuo Yu-Cheng , Huang Yan-Jiun , Chen Chien-Hsin , Mukhopadhyay Debabrata , Wu Alexander T. H. , Huang Hsu-Shan
Published: January 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers, and it frequently metastasizes to the liver and lymph nodes. Despite major advances in treatment modalities, CRC remains a poorly characterized biological malignancy, with high reported cases of deaths globally. Moreover, cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their microenvironment have been widely shown to promote colon cancer development, progression, and metastasis. Therefore, an understanding of the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the maintenance of CSCs and their markers in CRC is crucial in efforts to treat cancer metastasis and develop specific therapeutic targets for augmenting current standard treatments. Herein, we applied computational simulations using bioinformatics to identify potential theranostic markers for CRC. We identified the overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor-α (VEGFA)/β-catenin/matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-7/Cluster of Differentiation 44 (CD44) in CRC to be associated with cancer progression, stemness, resistance to therapy, metastasis, and poor clinical outcomes. To further investigate, we explored in silico molecular docking, which revealed potential inhibitory activities of LCC-21 as a potential multitarget small molecule for VEGF-A/CTNNB1/MMP7/CD44 oncogenic signatures, with the highest binding affinities displayed. We validated these finding in vitro and demonstrated that LCC-21 inhibited colony and sphere formation, migration, and invasion, and these results were further confirmed by a Western blot analysis in HCT116 and DLD-1 cells. Thus, the inhibitory effects of LCC-21 on these angiogenic and onco-immunogenic signatures could be of translational relevance as potential CRC biomarkers for early diagnosis.
Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells from Porcine Bone Marrow, Implanted under the Kidney Capsule, form an Ectopic Focus Containing Bone, Hematopoietic Stromal Microenvironment, and Muscles
Authors: Petinati Nataliya , Shipounova Irina , Sats Natalia , Dorofeeva Alena , Sadovskaya Alexandra , Kapranov Nikolay , Tkachuk Yulia , Bondarenko Anatoliy , Muravskaya Margarita , Kotsky Michail , Kaplanskaya Irina , Vasilieva Tamara , Drize Nina
Published: January 2023

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are an object of intense investigation due to their therapeutic potential. MSCs have been well studied in vitro, while their fate after implantation in vivo has been poorly analyzed. We studied the properties of MSCs from the bone marrow (BM-MSC) before and after implantation under the renal capsule using a mini pig model. Autologous BM-MSCs were implanted under the kidney capsule. After 2.5 months, ectopic foci containing bones, foci of ectopic hematopoiesis, bone marrow stromal cells and muscle cells formed. Small pieces of the implant were cultivated as a whole. The cells that migrated out from these implants were cultured, cloned, analyzed and were proven to meet the most of criteria for MSCs, therefore, they are designated as MSCs from the implant—IM-MSCs. The IM-MSC population demonstrated high proliferative potential, similar to BM-MSCs. IM-MSC clones did not respond to adipogenic differentiation inductors: 33% of clones did not differentiate, and 67% differentiated toward an osteogenic lineage. The BM-MSCs revealed functional heterogeneity after implantation under the renal capsule. The BM-MSC population consists of mesenchymal precursor cells of various degrees of differentiation, including stem cells. These newly discovered properties of mini pig BM-MSCs reveal new possibilities in terms of their manipulation.
Improving Hydrophilicity and Adhesion of PDMS through Dopamine Modification Assisted by Carbon Dioxide Plasma
Authors: Lu Mingyue , Ding Li , Zhong Tianci , Dai Zhendong
Published: January 2023

In this paper, the carbon dioxide (CO2) plasma-assisted method was firstly developed for the preparation of dopamine coating polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The PDMS films were pre-treated by CO2 plasma at the power of 30–60 W for 5–10 min and then modified by dopamine for 18 h. The results showed that many polar groups such as C-O bonds, C=O bonds, and O-C=O bonds were introduced into the surface of PDMS films, which successfully promoted the formation of poly(dopamine) coating. Finally, the results of contact angle measurements showed that the surface of the plasma-assisted dopamine grafted samples changed from 118° to 64°. The shearing adhesion strength increased from 2.22 N/cm2 to 6.02 N/cm2, almost three times that of the original sample. This method provides a successful strategy for obtaining good poly(dopamine) coating layers on PDMS with strong hydrophilicity and shearing adhesion, which can be widely applied in the fields of medical and adhesive materials.
Mesoscopic Monitoring of Human Skin Explants Viscoelastic Properties
Authors: Lemarquand Alice , Gauthier Vincent , Wilkie-Chancellier Nicolas , Serfaty Stéphane
Published: January 2023

The investigation of the mechanical properties of skin is of great interest for monitoring physiological and pathological changes in the cutaneous barrier function for dermatological and cosmetic issues. Skin constitutes a complex tissue because of its multi-layered organisation. From a rheological point of view, it can be considered to be a soft tissue with viscoelastic properties. In order to characterise ex vivo mechanical properties of skin on the mesoscopic scale, a biosensor including a thickness shear mode transducer (TSM) in contact with a skin explant was used. A specific experimental set-up was developed to monitor continuously and in real-time human skin explants, including the dermis and the epidermis. These were kept alive for up to 8 days. Skin viscoelastic evolutions can be quantified with a multi-frequency impedance measurement (from 5 MHz to 45 MHz) combined with a dedicated fractional calculus model. Two relevant parameters for the non-destructive mesoscopic characterisation of skin explants were extracted: the structural parameter αapp and the apparent viscosity ηapp. In this study, the validity of the biosensor, including repeatability and viability, was controlled. A typical signature of the viscoelastic evolutions of the different cutaneous layers was identified. Finally, monitoring was carried out on stripped explants mimicking a weakened barrier function.
Extramammary Paget’s Disease of the Vulva and Concomitant Premalignant/Malignant Vulvar Lesions: A Potential Challenge in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Clemente Nicolò , Ciavattini Andrea , Valenti Gaetano , Zannier Federica , Di Giuseppe Jacopo , Delli Carpini Giovanni , Fichera Mariasole , Del Fabro Anna , Giorda Giorgio , Goteri Gaia , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Sopracordevole Francesco
Published: January 2023

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the incidence of concomitant vulvar cancers or premalignant lesions in women surgically treated for extramammary Paget’s disease of the vulva (EMPDV) through a multicenter case series. The medical records of all women diagnosed with and treated for EMPDV from January 2010 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Women with EMPDV and synchronous vulvar cancer, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) and/or lichen sclerosus (LS) at the histology report were included in the study. A total of 69 women eligible for the present study were considered. Concomitant vulvar lesions occurred in 22 cases (31.9%). A total of 11 cases of synchronous VIN (50%) and 14 cases (63.6%) of concomitant LS were observed. One patient (4.5%) had synchronous vulvar SCC (FIGO stage 1B). Women with EMPDV and concomitant premalignant/malignant vulvar lesions had a significantly higher rate of invasive EMPDV and wider lesions with an extravulvar involvement. The specific meaning of the association between EMPDV, VIN, SCC and LS remains unclear. The potential overlapping features between different vulvar lesions highlight the importance of dedicated gynecologists and pathologists in referral centers.
The Taming of Smeagol? A New Population and an Assessment of the Known Population of the Critically Endangered Pulmonate Gastropod Smeagol hilaris (Heterobranchia, Otinidae)
Authors: Nimbs Matt J. , Davis Tom R. , Holmes Sebastian P. , Hill Lachlan , Wehmeyer Samara , Prior Amanda , Williamson Jane E.
Published: January 2023

The genus Smeagol consists of five named species of air-breathing marine slugs (restricted to southern Australia and New Zealand) and three undescribed taxa from southern Japan. Only one species, S. hilaris, is known to be from New South Wales (NSW), and it previously had a known distribution limited to one site, Merry Beach on the south coast. This diminutive invertebrate is classified as critically endangered in NSW due to its extremely restricted distribution and concern about its historically declining numbers. Accordingly, the aims of this study were to survey the known population of S. hilaris at Merry Beach and to explore other potentially suitable sites, using a visual census method, to determine if further populations or species exist in NSW. The resulting quantitative surveys of the known population and a new population at Storm Bay, Kiama, NSW, are reported here. DNA barcoding of a ~650 bp segment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene for several individuals from each population confirmed the conspecificity among the two populations. The population at Merry Beach was found to remain viable, while the discovery of the new population of S. hilaris represents a doubling of the known global populations of this species. Details of the highly-specialised niche habitat occupied by Smeagol in New South Wales and recommendations for ongoing management are documented.
Implementing Optimal Operation of Multi-Energy Districts with Thermal Demand Response
Authors: Capone Martina , Guelpa Elisa
Published: January 2023

The combination of different energy vectors in the context of multi-energy systems is a crucial opportunity to reach CO2 reduction goals. In the case of urban areas, multi-energy districts can be connected with district heating networks to efficiently supply heat to the buildings. In this framework, the inclusion of the thermal demand response allows for significantly improve the performance of multi-energy districts by smartly modifying the heat loads. Operation optimization of such systems provides excellent results but requires significant computational efforts. In this work, a novel approach is proposed for the fast optimization of multi-energy district operations, enabling real-time demand response strategies. A 3-step optimization method based on mixed integer linear programming is proposed aimed at minimizing the cost operation of multi-energy districts. The approach is applied to a test case characterized by strongly unsteady heat/electricity and cooling demands. Results show that (a) the total operation cost of a multi-energy district can be reduced by order of 3% with respect to optimized operation without demand side management; (b) with respect to a full optimization approach, the computational cost decreases from 45 min to 1 s, while the accuracy reduces from 3.6% to 3.0%.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Authors: Lončar Brzak Božana , Horvat Aleksijević Lorena , Vindiš Ema , Kordić Iva , Granić Marko , Vidović Juras Danica , Andabak Rogulj Ana
Published: January 2023

Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a condition in which bone cells die due to various causes. It is classified as drug-induced jaw osteonecrosis, osteoradionecrosis, traumatic, non-traumatic, and spontaneous osteonecrosis. Antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drugs cause drug-induced osteonecrosis. The combination of medications, microbial contamination, and local trauma induces this condition. Osteoradionecrosis is a severe radiation therapy side effect that can affect people with head and neck cancer. It is described as an exposed bone area that does not heal for longer than three months after the end of radiation treatment with the absence of any indications of an original tumor, recurrence, or metastasis. Trauma (tooth extraction), tumor site, radiation dose that the patient receives, the area of the bone which is irradiated, oral hygiene, and other factors are risk factors for the development of osteonecrosis. Less frequently, osteonecrosis can also be induced by non-traumatic and traumatic causes. Non-traumatic osteonecrosis is brought on by infections, acquired and congenital disorders, as well as the impact of chemicals. Traumatic osteonecrosis is brought on by thermal, mechanical, or chemical damage. The treatment of osteonecrosis can be conservative, which aims to be beneficial for the patient’s quality of life, and surgical, which involves debridement of the necrotic bone.
Teacher Beliefs and Perspectives of Practice: Impacts of Online Professional Learning
Authors: Hunt Jessica , Duarte Alejandra , Miller Brittany , Bentley Brianna , Albrecht Laura , Kruse Lance
Published: January 2023

Efforts to improve teachers’ knowledge of tools and strategies are often intertwined with their beliefs regarding mathematics teaching and learning. Yet, few studies have examined the impact of professional development designed to bolster teachers’ knowledge of and beliefs about young children’s mathematical development. In this study, we evaluated whether participants’ beliefs changed significantly after engaging in online professional learning on teaching math to young children, overall orientations of participants’ teaching practices and shifts over time, and how changed beliefs might coincide with changed orientations to practice. We employed a multilevel mixed methods design, with quantitative results showing changes in participants’ overall beliefs based on survey data. We discuss how trends in perceived instructional practices coincide with beliefs found to be statistically significant in the quantitative analysis and the potential for online professional development to influence beliefs. Considerations for design of online professional learning and implications for future research are shared.
Semi-Supervised Remote Sensing Image Semantic Segmentation Method Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Li Linhui , Zhang Wenjun , Zhang Xiaoyan , Emam Mahmoud , Jing Weipeng
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we study the semi-supervised semantic segmentation problem via limited labeled samples and a large number of unlabeled samples. We propose a self-learning semi-supervised approach for the semantic segmentation of high-resolution remote sensing images. Our approach uses two networks (UNet and DeepLabV3) to predict the labels of the same unlabeled sample, and the pseudo labels samples with high prediction consistency are added to the training samples to improve the accuracy of semantic segmentation under the condition of limited labeled samples. Our method expands training data samples by using unlabeled data samples with pseudo labels. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, some experiments were conducted on the improved ISPRS Vaihingen 2D Semantic Labeling dataset using the method that we proposed. We focus on the extraction of forest and vegetation information and focus on the impact of a large number of unlabeled samples on the precision of semantic segmentation, we combine water, surface, buildings, cars, and background into one category and named others, and we call the changed dataset the improved ISPRS Vaihingen dataset. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the semantic segmentation accuracy of high-scoring remote sensing images with limited samples than common deep semi-supervised learning.
Dark and Singular Highly Dispersive Optical Solitons with Kudryashov’s Sextic Power-Law of Nonlinear Refractive Index in the Absence of Inter-Modal Dispersion
Authors: Elsherbeny Ahmed M. , Arnous Ahmed H. , Biswas Anjan , Yıldırım Yakup , Moraru Luminita , Moldovanu Simona , Iticescu Catalina , Alshehri Hashim M.
Published: January 2023

The current paper studies highly dispersive optical solitons with the aid of Kudryashov’s integration algorithm. The governing model employs Kudryashov’s sextic power law of nonlinear refractive index. The inter-modal dispersion term is absent from the model. The integration scheme retrieves dark and singular solitons to the model.
Study on Calculation Method of Heat Exchange Capacity and Thermal Properties of Buried Pipes in the Fractured Rock Mass-Taking a Project in Carbonate Rock Area as an Example
Authors: Wang Lin , Ren Yonglin , Deng Fengqiang , Zhang Yiqiang , Qiu Yan
Published: January 2023

Fractures are developed in carbonate rock areas, and the fracture water flow significantly influences the heat exchange between buried pipes and the rock mass by induing heat convection, providing the carbonate rock area a strong heat exchange capacity and preferable conditions for shallow geothermal development and utilization. In this paper, the calculation method of heat exchange capacity of buried pipes based on fracture distribution characteristics is proposed and deduced, featuring such advantages as quick speed and low cost. Taking an actual project in carbonate rock area as an example, the heat exchange capacity of buried pipes was obtained by the following two methods: in-situ thermal response test and calculation based on fracture distribution characteristics. In the thermal response test, the initial ground temperatures of the two test holes were 15.18 °C and 12.72 °C. By fitting the linear equation of time and average temperature with a linear thermal source model, the heat exchange capacities were 57.21 W/m and 58.22 W/m, the thermal conductivities were 3.56 W/(m·K) and 2.32 W/(m·K), the thermal diffusivities were 1.71 × 10−6 m2/s and 1.12 × 10−6 m2/s, and the volume specific heat capacity was 2.08 × 106 J (m3·K). The test results indicated that the thermal property parameters of rock and soil mass were higher than those of other areas, with obvious wide-range distribution characteristics. Through the statistical analysis of outcrop fracture characteristics, combined with the cube law to calculate the fracture water flow and convective heat transfer, an alternative method for the calculation and optimization of buried pipe heat transfer in fractured rock mass area is also proposed in this paper. According to the measured fracture distribution characteristics of the field outcrop, the heat exchange capacities of the two holes were 57.26 W/m and 58.56 W/m, which were basically consistent with the thermal response test values and verified the reliability of the calculation method of heat exchange capacity of buried pipes based on fracture distribution characteristics.
Energy Distribution Diagram Used for Cost-Effective Battery Sizing of Electric Trucks
Authors: Karlsson Johannes , Grauers Anders
Published: January 2023

One possible step for reducing humans’ use of fossil fuel due to transport tasks is to replace diesel trucks with battery electric ones. This paper introduces the energy distribution diagram, which makes it easy to visualise the trucks’ daily energy consumption over their full service life. The energy distribution is used to investigate which driving patterns are suitable for cost-effective battery electric trucks when compared to commercial diesel trucks. It is shown that the battery capacity that results in the lowest cost per kilowatt-hour propulsion energy depends on the driving pattern, and an algorithm for selecting the most cost-effective capacity is presented. In many instances, it was found that battery electric trucks competed favourably with diesel trucks, especially when the trucks had low variations in daily energy consumption. It is beneficial to determine the circumstances under which they may be cheaper, as this will facilitate the transition to battery electric trucks in segments with a reduced overall cost of ownership.
Shear Flows of Dilatant Fluids with Limited Shear Rates: Analytical Results and Linear Stability Analysis
Authors: Fusi Lorenzo
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we study the simple shear flows of a class of dilatant fluids with a limited shear rate. This class of fluids is characterized by shear thickening behavior in which the apparent viscosity tends to infinity as the modulus of the stress approaches a finite threshold. The apparent viscosity function is a logarithmic type with two material parameters. We considered this specific form because it fits very well with the flow curves of some granular suspensions for specific values of the material parameters. Despite the nonlinearity of the constitutive law, it is possible to determine explicit steady-state solutions for a simple shear flow, namely (i) the channel flow; (ii) the flow between coaxial cylinders, and (iii) the flow down an inclined plane. We performed a two-dimensional linear stability analysis to investigate the onset of possible instabilities of the steady basic flow, putting into evidence the dependency of the critical Reynolds number on the material parameters.
Microbial Diversity and Volatile Flavor Compounds in Tibetan Flavor Daqu
Authors: Li Yaping , Qiao Haijun , Zhang Rui , Zhang Weibing , Wen Pengcheng
Published: January 2023

In this study, the microbial diversity in Tibetan flavor Daqu was analyzed based on single molecule real-time sequencing (SMRT). The volatile flavor compounds in Daqu were detected using the headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). In addition, the correlation between various microbes and volatile flavor compounds was explored. Our studies indicated that the dominant bacterial genera in Tibetan flavor Daqu were Oceanobacillus, Kroppenstedtia, Virgibacillus, Enterococcus, Pediococcus, Streptomyces, Saccharopolyspora, Leuconostoc, uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiraceae and Lactobacillus. The dominant fungal genera were Wickerhamomyces, Monascus, Aspergillus and Rhizomucor. 101 volatile compounds were detected in the Daqu samples, including alcohols, acids, esters, aldehydes, hydrocarbons, ketones, ethers, aromatics and pyrazines, and 10 key flavor compounds were identified using the relative odor activity value (ROAV). The results of our correlation analysis showed that Enterococcus was mainly associated with the synthesis of aldehydes such as trans-2-octenal, and uncultured_bacterium_f_lachnospiraceae was associated with the synthesis of most aldehydes. This paper has systematically investigated the physicochemical indices, microbial community structure and flavor compounds of Tibetan flavor Daqu, which is helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the characteristics of Tibetan flavor Daqu.
Abstract Impulsive Volterra Integro-Differential Inclusions
Authors: Du Wei-Shih , Kostić Marko , Velinov Daniel
Published: January 2023

In this work, we provide several applications of (a, k)-regularized C-resolvent families to the abstract impulsive Volterra integro-differential inclusions. The resolvent operator families under our consideration are subgenerated by multivalued linear operators, which can degenerate in the time variable. The use of regularizing operator C seems to be completely new within the theory of the abstract impulsive Volterra integro-differential equations.
Perspectives for Targeting Ezrin in Cancer Development and Progression
Authors: Lipreri da Silva Jean Carlos , Vicari Hugo Passos , Machado-Neto João Agostinho
Published: January 2023

Recent advances have been made in understanding molecular markers involved in cancer malignancy, resulting in better tumor staging and identifying new potential therapeutic targets. Ezrin (EZR), a member of the ezrin, radixin, moesin (ERM) protein family, is essential for linking the actin cytoskeleton to the cell membrane and participates in the signal transduction of key signaling pathways such as Rho GTPases and PI3K/AKT/mTOR. Clinical and preclinical studies in a wide variety of solid and hematological tumors indicate that (i) EZR is highly expressed and predicts an unfavorable clinical outcome, and (ii) EZR inhibition reduces proliferation, migration, and invasion in experimental models. The development of pharmacological inhibitors for EZR (or the signaling mediated by it) has opened a new round of investigation, but studies are still limited. The scope of the present review is to survey studies on the expression and clinical impact of EZR in cancer, as well as studies that perform interventions on the function of this gene/protein in cancer cells, providing proof-of-concept of its antineoplastic potential.
Gene–Folic Acid Interactions and Risk of Conotruncal Heart Defects: Results from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Authors: Webber Daniel M. , Li Ming , MacLeod Stewart L. , Tang Xinyu , Levy Joseph W. , Karim Mohammad A. , Erickson Stephen W. , Hobbs Charlotte A. ,   The National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: January 2023

Conotruncal heart defects (CTDs) are heart malformations that affect the cardiac outflow tract and typically cause significant morbidity and mortality. Evidence from epidemiological studies suggests that maternal folate intake is associated with a reduced risk of heart defects, including CTD. However, it is unclear if folate-related gene variants and maternal folate intake have an interactive effect on the risk of CTDs. In this study, we performed targeted sequencing of folate-related genes on DNA from 436 case families with CTDs who are enrolled in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study and then tested for common and rare variants associated with CTD. We identified risk alleles in maternal MTHFS (ORmeta = 1.34; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.67), maternal NOS2 (ORmeta = 1.34; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.72), fetal MTHFS (ORmeta = 1.35; 95% CI 1.09 to 1.66), and fetal TCN2 (ORmeta = 1.38; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.70) that are associated with an increased risk of CTD among cases without folic acid supplementation. We detected putative de novo mutations in genes from the folate, homocysteine, and transsulfuration pathways and identified a significant association between rare variants in MGST1 and CTD risk. Results suggest that periconceptional folic acid supplementation is associated with decreased risk of CTD among individuals with susceptible genotypes.
The Perception of Nurses about Migrants after the COVID-19 Pandemic: Close Contact Improves the Relationship
Authors: Berenguel Chacón Paula , Plaza del Pino Fernando Jesús , Molina-Gallego Brigida , Ugarte-Gurrutxaga María Idoia
Published: January 2023

Nurses have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic a tough professional situation in which they have had to work in a resource-limited context and with a high probability of COVID-19 transmission. In today’s multicultural societies, care for immigrant patients is also included. In our study, we have delved into the perception of hospital nurses towards migrant people in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. We used a qualitative methodology with a phenomenological approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 nurses. Seven categories emerged and were distributed in the three blocks of the interviews: (a) perception before the pandemic: prejudices make a mark and communication problems; (b) perception after the pandemic: prejudices weaken and communication worsens; and (c) how to improve care: improve communication, more nurses, and no need for training. The approach in the interpersonal relationship between nurses and patients during the pandemic has improved health care. Proposals arise to overcome the language barrier such as the incorporation of intercultural translators-mediators and professionals of foreign origin. There is a lack of awareness of the need for training in cultural competence on the part of the nurses in the study.
Efficacy of Topical Treatments for the Management of Symptomatic Oral Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review
Authors: Serafini Giorgio , De Biase Alberto , Lamazza Luca , Mazzucchi Giulia , Lollobrigida Marco
Published: January 2023

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic mucosal inflammatory disease associated with T-cell-mediated immunological dysfunction. Symptomatic OLP is a painful condition, and complete healing is often not achieved. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of topical drugs, medications, and other interventions compared to placebo or to other treatments in pain reduction and clinical resolution in adult patients with symptomatic OLP. A detailed electronic literature search was performed through the MEDLINE (PubMed) database between 1 January 2005 and 30 September 2022. Eligible studies were selected based on the inclusion criteria, and a quality assessment was conducted. From 649 titles, 121 articles were selected as abstracts, 75 papers were assessed as full text, along with 15 other papers obtained through a manual search. A total of 15 RCTs were finally included in the review process. Because of the significant heterogeneity in the study design of the included studies, no meta-analysis of the data could be performed. Topical corticosteroids represent the first-line treatment in the management of symptomatic OLP due to their efficacy and minimal adverse effects. Calcineurin inhibitors seem to be equally effective and are indicated in recalcitrant cases, extensive lesions, patients susceptible to oral candidiasis, or cases unresponsive to corticosteroids. Other treatments, such as aloe vera, chamomile, isotretinoin, ozone, and laser therapy, could be beneficial as adjunct therapies in association with first-line treatments.
Demographics and Trends for Inbound Medical Tourism in Germany for Orthopedic Patients before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Heinz Tizian , Eidmann Annette , Jakuscheit Axel , Laux Tino , Rudert Maximilian , Stratos Ioannis
Published: January 2023

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing sector of economic growth and diversification. However, data on the demographics and characteristics of the traveling patients are sparse. In this study, we analyzed the common demographic properties and characteristics of the inbound medical tourists seeking orthopedic medical care in Germany for the years 2010 to 2019 compared to a domestic group. At the same time, we examined how the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak of 2020 changed the field of medical tourism in Germany. Calculations were performed using administrative hospital data provided by the Federal Statistical Department of Germany. Data were analyzed from the years 2010 to 2020. A total of six elective orthopedic surgery codes (bone biopsy, knee arthroplasty, foot surgery, osteotomy, hardware removal, and arthrodesis) were identified as key service indicators for medical tourism and further analyzed. Factors including residence, sex, year, and type of elective surgery were modeled using linear regression analysis. Age and sex distributions were compared between patients living inside Germany (DE) or outside Germany (non-DE). Between 2010 and 2020, 6,261,801 orthopedic procedures were coded for the DE group and 27,420 key procedures were identified for the non-DE group. Medical tourists were predominantly male and significantly younger than the domestic population. The linear regression analysis of the OPS codes over the past years showed a significantly different slope between the DE and non-DE groups only for the OPS code “hardware removal”. With the COVID-19 pandemic, an overall decline in performed orthopedic procedures was observed for the non-DE and the DE group. A significant reduction below the 95% prediction bands for the year 2020 could be shown for hardware removal and foot surgery (for DE), and for hardware removal, knee arthroplasty, foot surgery, and osteotomy (for non-DE). This study is the first to quantify inbound medical tourism in elective orthopedic surgery in Germany. The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected many—but not all—areas of orthopedic surgery. It has to be seen how this negative trend will develop in the future.
Peptide Inhibitors of Insulin Fibrillation: Current and Future Challenges
Authors: Rosetti Beatrice , Marchesan Silvia
Published: January 2023

Amyloidoses include a large variety of local and systemic diseases that share the common feature of protein unfolding or refolding into amyloid fibrils. The most studied amyloids are those directly involved in neurodegenerative diseases, while others, such as those formed by insulin, are surprisingly far less studied. Insulin is a very important polypeptide that plays a variety of biological roles and, first and foremost, is at the basis of the therapy of diabetic patients. It is well-known that it can form fibrils at the site of injection, leading to inflammation and immune response, in addition to other side effects. In this concise review, we analyze the current knowledge on insulin fibrillation, with a focus on the development of peptide-based inhibitors, which are promising candidates for their biocompatibility but still pose challenges to their effective use in therapy.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Causing Apoptosis in a Mouse Model of an Ischemic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Soni Kiran Kumar , Hwang Jinsu , Ramalingam Mahesh , Kim Choonghyo , Kim Byeong C. , Jeong Han-Seong , Jang Sujeong
Published: January 2023

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is the devastating trauma associated with functional deterioration due to apoptosis. Most laboratory SCI models are generated by a direct impact on an animal’s spinal cord; however, our model does not involve the direct impact on the spinal cord. Instead, we use a clamp compression to create an ischemia in the descending aortas of mice. Following the success of inducing an ischemic SCI (ISCI), we hypothesized that this model may show apoptosis via an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway. This apoptosis by the ER stress pathway is enhanced by the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). The ER is used for the protein folding in the cell. When the protein folding capacity is overloaded, the condition is termed the ER stress and is characterized by the accumulation of misfolded proteins inside the ER lumen. The unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling pathways that deal with the ER stress response then become activated. This UPR activates the three signal pathways that are regulated by the inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α), the activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), and the protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK). IRE1α and PERK are associated with the expression of the apoptotic proteins. Apoptosis caused by an ISCI is assessed using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) test. An ISCI also reduces synaptophysin and the neuronal nuclear protein (NeuN) in the spinal cord. In conclusion, an ISCI increases the ER stress proteins, resulting in apoptosis in neuronal cells in the spinal cord.
Evaluation of Antimicrobial, Antiadhesive and Co-Aggregation Activity of a Multi-Strain Probiotic Composition against Different Urogenital Pathogens
Authors: Malfa Patrizia , Brambilla Laura , Giardina Silvana , Masciarelli Martina , Squarzanti Diletta Francesca , Carlomagno Federica , Meloni Marisa
Published: January 2023

The urogenital microbiota is dominated by Lactobacillus that, together with Bifidobacterium, creates a physiological barrier counteracting pathogen infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a multi-strain probiotic formulation (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PBS067, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LRH020, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BL050) to inhibit adhesion and growth of urogenital pathogens. The antimicrobial and antiadhesive properties of the probiotic strains and their mixture were evaluated on human vaginal epithelium infected with Candida glabrata, Neisseria gonorrheae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Escherichia coli-infected human bladder epithelium. The epithelial tissue permeability and integrity were assessed by transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER). Co-aggregation between probiotics and vaginal pathogens was also investigated to elucidate a possible mechanism of action. The multi-strain formulation showed a full inhibition of T. vaginalis, and a reduction in C. glabrata and N. gonorrheae growth. A relevant antimicrobial activity was observed for each single strain against E. coli. TEER results demonstrated that none of the strains have negatively impaired the integrity of the 3D tissues. All the probiotics and their mixture were able to form aggregates with the tested pathogens. The study demonstrated that the three strains and their mixture are effective to prevent urogenital infections.
Review of the Neotropical Species of the Elachista praelineata Species Group (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae, Elachistinae) with Identification Keys and Description of a New Species from Bolivia
Authors: Sruoga Virginijus , Havelka Jekaterina
Published: January 2023

Neotropical species of the Elachista praelineata species group are reviewed. Five species are recognized in the Neotropics. A new species, Elachista stonisi sp. nov., and female of E. albisquamella Zeller, 1877 are described and illustrated with photographs of the adults, some of the immature stages, female genitalia, and leaf mines. The female of E. lata Sruoga, 2010 is associated with the male based on morphology and the comparison of partial mitochondrial COI sequences. Identification keys to the Neotropical species of E. praelineata species group, based on male and female genitalia, are provided.