bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the IPDfromKM-Shiny Method to Compare the Efficacy of Novel Treatments Aimed at the Same Disease Condition: A Report of 14 Analyses
Authors: Messori Andrea , Damuzzo Vera , Rivano Melania , Cancanelli Luca , Di Spazio Lorenzo , Ossato Andrea , Chiumente Marco , Mengato Daniele
Published: March 2023

In the area of evidence-based medicine, the IPDfromKM-Shiny method is an innovative method of survival analysis, midway between artificial intelligence and advanced statistics. Its main characteristic is that an original software investigates the Kaplan-Meier graphs of trials so that individual-patient data are reconstructed. These reconstructed patients represent a new form of original clinical material. The typical objective of investigations based on this method is to analyze the available evidence, especially in oncology, to perform indirect comparisons, and determine the place in therapy of individual agents. This review examined the most recent applications of the IPDfromKM-Shiny method, in which a new web-based software—published in 2021—was used. Reported here are 14 analyses, mostly focused on oncological treatments. Indirect comparisons were based on overall survival or progression free survival. Each of these analyses provided original information to compare treatments with one another and select the most appropriate depending on patient characteristics. These analyses can also be useful to assess equivalence from a regulatory viewpoint. All investigations stressed the importance of heterogeneity to better interpret the evidence generated by IPDfromKM-Shiny investigations. In conclusion, these investigations showed that the reconstruction of individual patient data through this online tool is a promising new method for analyzing trials based on survival endpoints. This new approach deserves further investigation, particularly in the area of indirect comparisons.
More than Meets the Eye: Integration of Radiomics with Transcriptomics for Reconstructing the Tumor Microenvironment and Predicting Response to Therapy
Authors: Logotheti Stella , Georgakilas Alexandros G.
Published: March 2023

For over a decade, large cancer-related datasets (big data) have continuously been produced and made publicly available to the scientific community [...]
Treatment Strategies for KRAS-Mutated Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: O’Sullivan Éabha , Keogh Anna , Henderson Brian , Finn Stephen P. , Gray Steven G. , Gately Kathy
Published: March 2023

Activating mutations in KRAS are highly prevalent in solid tumours and are frequently found in 35% of lung, 45% of colorectal, and up to 90% of pancreatic cancers. Mutated KRAS is a prognostic factor for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in NSCLC and is associated with a more aggressive clinical phenotype, highlighting the need for KRAS-targeted therapy. Once considered undruggable due to its smooth shallow surface, a breakthrough showed that the activated G12C-mutated KRAS isozyme can be directly inhibited via a newly identified switch II pocket. This discovery led to the development of a new class of selective small-molecule inhibitors against the KRAS G12C isoform. Sotorasib and adagrasib are approved in locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC patients who have received at least one prior systemic therapy. Currently, there are at least twelve KRAS G12C inhibitors being tested in clinical trials, either as a single agent or in combination. In this study, KRAS mutation prevalence, subtypes, rates of occurrence in treatment-resistant invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas (IMAs), and novel drug delivery options are reviewed. Additionally, the current status of KRAS inhibitors, multiple resistance mechanisms that limit efficacy, and their use in combination treatment strategies and novel multitargeted approaches in NSCLC are discussed.
Associations of Age and Sex with the Efficacy of Inpatient Cancer Rehabilitation: Results from a Longitudinal Observational Study Using Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Lehmann Jens , Riedl David , Nickels Alain , Sanio Gabriele , Hassler Marco , Rumpold Gerhard , Holzner Bernhard , Licht Thomas
Published: March 2023

Cancer rehabilitation is thought to increase the quality of life (QOL) and functioning of cancer survivors. It remains, however, uncertain whether subgroups benefit equally from rehabilitation. We wished to investigate the outcomes of multimodal rehabilitation according to age, sex and functioning. Patients of an Austrian rehabilitation center routinely completed the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) questionnaires prior to (T1), and after rehabilitation (T2). To compare the outcomes between age groups (i.e., <40, 41–69, and ≥70 years), sex, and the Norton scale risk status, repeated measures of analyses of variance were calculated. A total of 5567 patients with an average age of 60.7 years were included, of which 62.7% were female. With T1 indicating the cancer survivors’ needs, older and high-risk patients reported lower functioning (all p < 0.001) and a higher symptom burden for most scales (all p < 0.05) before rehabilitation. Regardless of age, sex or risk status, the patients showed at a least small to medium improvement during rehabilitation for anxiety, depression, and most functioning and symptom scales. Some between-group differences were observed, none of which being of a relevant effect size as determined with the Cohen’s d. In conclusion, QOL is improved by rehabilitation in all patients groups, independently from age, sex, or the risk status.
Relationship between Preoperative Pyuria and Bacille Calmette-Guerin Treatment in Intravesical Recurrence after Transurethral Resection of High-Risk, Non-Muscle Invasive, Bladder Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study of Human Data
Authors: Tsukamoto Ryo , Sazuka Tomokazu , Hattori Yoshinori , Sato Hiroaki , Arai Takayuki , Goto Yusuke , Imamura Yusuke , Sakamoto Shinichi , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: March 2023

Some researchers have found that preoperative pyuria is a risk factor for recurrence after transurethral resection of high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. However, to our knowledge, none have clarified the risks associated with pyuria according to bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) treatment status. We retrospectively selected patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer according to Japanese Urological Association guidelines. Pyuria was defined as ≥10 white blood cells per high-powered field. We analyzed recurrence-free rates (RFS) in 424 patients who had and had not undergone BCG treatment. The median duration of follow-up was 45.2 months. According to multivariate analysis, postoperative intravesical BCG induction and preoperative pyuria were independent risk factors for intravesical recurrence in the whole study cohort. We found no significant risk factors for recurrence in the BCG-treated group (n = 179). In the non-BCG-treated group (n = 245), patients with pyuria were much more frequently female and more often had T1 disease than patients without pyuria. According to univariate and multivariate analysis, preoperative pyuria is an independent risk factor for intravesical recurrence. There was no significant difference in the severity of pyuria between the BCG and non-BCG-treated groups. Aggressive BCG treatment may need to be considered in patients with high-risk NMIBC and pyuria.
Novel Cu and Pd-Cu Catalysts Supported on Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Steam Reforming and Decomposition of Methanol
Authors: Mierczyński Paweł , Mierczyńska-Vasilev Agnieszka , Maniukiewicz Waldemar , Vasilev Krasimir , Szynkowska-Jóźwik Małgorzata
Published: March 2023

In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) using acetylene as a carbon source over an iron catalyst. As-prepared MWCNTs were used to support modern mono-copper, palladium, and bimetallic palladium-copper catalysts, and their feasibility for hydrogen production was tested during steam reforming of methanol (SRM) and methanol decomposition (DM). The structural characteristics of the MWCNTs were evaluated using the SEM and XRD methods. The physicochemical properties of the monometallic and bimetallic catalysts were analysed using the TPR and XRD methods. The promotion effect of palladium on methanol conversion rate and H2 productivity in the case of the copper catalysts was demonstrated. The enhanced activity of the Cu/MWCNTs after palladium promotion was due to the formation of Pd-Cu alloy compound.
Photocatalytic Performance of Sn–Doped TiO2 Nanopowders for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange Dye
Authors: Predoană Luminița , Ciobanu Elena Mădălina , Petcu Gabriela , Preda Silviu , Pandele-Cușu Jeanina , Anghel Elena Maria , Petrescu Simona Viorica , Culiță Daniela Cristina , Băran Adriana , Surdu Vasile-Adrian , Vasile Bogdan Ștefan , Ianculescu Adelina C.
Published: March 2023

The tin-doped TiO2 powders obtained by sol-gel and microwave-assisted sol-gel methods were investigated. The synthesis took place in a basic medium (pH 10, ammonium hydroxide, 25%) starting from tetrabutyl orthotitanate in its parental alcohol. In the case of the dopant, Tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate as SnO2 precursor was used in the amount of 1, 2, or 4 mol % SnO2. Based on thermal analysis data, the powders were thermally treated in air, at 500 °C. The comparative investigation of the structure and morphology of the nanopowders annealed at 500 °C was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy with selected area electron diffraction (HRTEM/SAED), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) coupled with EDX mapping, Fourier transmission infrared (FTIR), UV–Vis, Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray florescence spectroscopy (XRF). The obtained materials were tested for the photocatalytic removal of methyl orange dye from aqueous solutions. High degradation efficiencies (around 90%) were obtained by Sn doping after 3 h of UV light irradiation.
Modeling of a Two-Bed Reactor for Low-Temperature Removal of Nitrogen Oxides in Nitric Acid Production
Authors: Vernikovskaya Nadezhda , Ivanova Yuliya , Sheboltasov Artem , Chumachenko Victor , Isupova Lyubov
Published: March 2023

In this study, the modeling of the low-temperature catalytic abatement of NOX and N2O from tail gases in a weak nitric acid plant utilizing a single-pressure 0.716 MPa system was performed. A one-reactor concept assumes that in the first bed, NOX is reduced by ammonia on a commercial vanadia–alumina catalyst, and in the second bed, N2O is decomposed on a proprietary nickel–cobalt catalyst. The kinetics of N2O decomposition on a Cs/Ni0.1Co2.9O4 catalyst was experimentally studied in an isothermal flow reactor. The reaction rate constants were determined by varying the residence time and temperature; these data formed the basis for modeling kinetics and heat and mass transport in an adiabatic reactor in which the low-temperature mitigation of nitrogen oxides occurred. Taking into account the given spatial limitations inside the reactor and the allowable temperatures, the layer heights were evaluated to ensure a residual NOX and N2O content of less than 50 ppm. Catalyst loading using layers in a commercial reactor was estimated for the tail-gas flow rates of 46,040–58,670 m3/h. Simulations showed that the optimum inlet temperature was 260 °C; in this case, the NOX and N2O conversion targets were achieved in the range of 46,040–58,670 m3/h while adhering to catalyst bed height and outlet temperature limitations.
MFI Type Zeolite Aggregates with Nanosized Particles via a Combination of Spray Drying and Steam-Assisted Crystallization (SAC) Techniques
Authors: Machoke Albert G. F. , Arias Aurina Martinez , Baracchini Giulia , Rubin Michael , Baser Hasan , Weissenberger Tobias , Dittmeyer Roland , Weber Alfred , Hartmann Martin , Schwieger Wilhelm
Published: March 2023

Hydrothermal synthesis is the state-of-the-art technique for the preparation of zeolites and related porous solids. However, when it comes to the preparation of nanosized zeolites, this technique is limited by low yields, separation problems and high amounts of waste. In this work, we utilized the strengths of a combination of spray drying and steam-assisted crystallization (SAC), also known as dry gel conversion, to reduce these problems. At spray drying temperatures between 300 and 400 °C, it was possible to convert all the amorphous material via SAC into zeolite particles without extra addition of template. Kinetic studies of SAC revealed that about 4 to 8 days are needed to achieve the formation of a 100% crystalline product. The newly formed crystalline phase was crystallized on the surface of the nanosized zeolites and led to a slight increase in the primary particle size while the macroscopic morphology of the spray-dried aggregates was preserved. This work demonstrates that the combination of spray drying and SAC are useful tools in supplementing the hydrothermal synthesis of nanosized zeolites.
Intermittent Lead Exposure Induces Behavioral and Cardiovascular Alterations Associated with Neuroinflammation
Authors: Shvachiy Liana , Amaro-Leal Ângela , Outeiro Tiago F. , Rocha Isabel , Geraldes Vera
Published: March 2023

The nervous system is the primary target for lead exposure and the developing brain appears to be especially susceptible, namely the hippocampus. The mechanisms of lead neurotoxicity remain unclear, but microgliosis and astrogliosis are potential candidates, leading to an inflammatory cascade and interrupting the pathways involved in hippocampal functions. Moreover, these molecular changes can be impactful as they may contribute to the pathophysiology of behavioral deficits and cardiovascular complications observed in chronic lead exposure. Nevertheless, the health effects and the underlying influence mechanism of intermittent lead exposure in the nervous and cardiovascular systems are still vague. Thus, we used a rat model of intermittent lead exposure to determine the systemic effects of lead and on microglial and astroglial activation in the hippocampal dentate gyrus throughout time. In this study, the intermittent group was exposed to lead from the fetal period until 12 weeks of age, no exposure (tap water) until 20 weeks, and a second exposure from 20 to 28 weeks of age. A control group (without lead exposure) matched in age and sex was used. At 12, 20 and 28 weeks of age, both groups were submitted to a physiological and behavioral evaluation. Behavioral tests were performed for the assessment of anxiety-like behavior and locomotor activity (open-field test), and memory (novel object recognition test). In the physiological evaluation, in an acute experiment, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and heart and respiratory rates were recorded, and autonomic reflexes were evaluated. The expression of GFAP, Iba-1, NeuN and Synaptophysin in the hippocampal dentate gyrus was assessed. Intermittent lead exposure induced microgliosis and astrogliosis in the hippocampus of rats and changes in behavioral and cardiovascular function. We identified increases in GFAP and Iba1 markers together with presynaptic dysfunction in the hippocampus, concomitant with behavioral changes. This type of exposure produced significant long-term memory dysfunction. Regarding physiological changes, hypertension, tachypnea, baroreceptor reflex impairment and increased chemoreceptor reflex sensitivity were observed. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the potential of lead intermittent exposure inducing reactive astrogliosis and microgliosis, along with a presynaptic loss that was accompanied by alterations of homeostatic mechanisms. This suggests that chronic neuroinflammation promoted by intermittent lead exposure since fetal period may increase the susceptibility to adverse events in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease and/or in the elderly.
Molecular Regulation of Autophagy and Asymmetric Cell Division by Cancer Stem Cell Marker CD133
Authors: Izumi Hideki , Kaneko Yasuhiko , Nakagawara Akira
Published: March 2023

CD133, also called prominin-1, is widely known as a cancer stem cell marker, and its high expression correlates with a poor prognosis in many cancers. CD133 was originally discovered as a plasma membranous protein in stem/progenitor cells. It is now known that Src family kinases phosphorylate the C-terminal of CD133. However, when Src kinase activity is low, CD133 is not phosphorylated by Src and is preferentially downregulated into cells through endocytosis. Endosomal CD133 then associates with HDAC6, thereby recruiting it to the centrosome via dynein motors. Thus, CD133 protein is now known to localize to the centrosome as endosomes as well as to the plasma membrane. More recently, a mechanism to explain the involvement of CD133 endosomes in asymmetric cell division was reported. Here, we would like to introduce the relationship between autophagy regulation and asymmetric cell division mediated by CD133 endosomes.
Electrophysiological Activity of Primary Cortical Neuron-Glia Mixed Cultures
Authors: Goshi Noah , Kim Hyehyun , Girardi Gregory , Gardner Alexander , Seker Erkin
Published: March 2023

Neuroinflammation plays a central role in many neurological disorders, ranging from traumatic brain injuries to neurodegeneration. Electrophysiological activity is an essential measure of neuronal function, which is influenced by neuroinflammation. In order to study neuroinflammation and its electrophysiological fingerprints, there is a need for in vitro models that accurately capture the in vivo phenomena. In this study, we employed a new tri-culture of primary rat neurons, astrocytes, and microglia in combination with extracellular electrophysiological recording techniques using multiple electrode arrays (MEAs) to determine the effect of microglia on neural function and the response to neuroinflammatory stimuli. Specifically, we established the tri-culture and its corresponding neuron-astrocyte co-culture (lacking microglia) counterpart on custom MEAs and monitored their electrophysiological activity for 21 days to assess culture maturation and network formation. As a complementary assessment, we quantified synaptic puncta and averaged spike waveforms to determine the difference in excitatory to inhibitory neuron ratio (E/I ratio) of the neurons. The results demonstrate that the microglia in the tri-culture do not disrupt neural network formation and stability and may be a better representation of the in vivo rat cortex due to its more similar E/I ratio as compared to more traditional isolated neuron and neuron-astrocyte co-cultures. In addition, only the tri-culture displayed a significant decrease in both the number of active channels and spike frequency following pro-inflammatory lipopolysaccharide exposure, highlighting the critical role of microglia in capturing electrophysiological manifestations of a representative neuroinflammatory insult. We expect the demonstrated technology to assist in studying various brain disease mechanisms.
Fermented Soybean Paste Attenuates Biogenic Amine-Induced Liver Damage in Obese Mice
Authors: Yang Ju-Hwan , Byeon Eun-Hye , Kang Dawon , Hong Seong-Geun , Yang Jinsung , Kim Deok-Ryong , Yun Seung-Pil , Park Sang-Won , Kim Hyun-Joon , Huh Jae-Won , Kim So-Yong , Kim Young-Wan , Lee Dong-Kun
Published: March 2023

Biogenic amines are cellular components produced by the decarboxylation of amino acids; however, excessive biogenic amine production causes adverse health problems. The relationship between hepatic damage and biogenic amine levels in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear. In this study, mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 10 weeks to induce obesity, presenting early-stage of NAFLD. We administered histamine (20 mg/kg) + tyramine (100 mg/kg) via oral gavage for 6 days to mice with HFD-induced early-stage NAFLD. The results showed that combined histamine and tyramine administration increased cleaved PARP-1 and IL-1β in the liver, as well as MAO-A, total MAO, CRP, and AST/ALT levels. In contrast, the survival rate decreased in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. Treatment with manufactured or traditional fermented soybean paste decreased biogenically elevated hepatic cleaved PARP-1 and IL-1β expression and blood plasma MAO-A, CRP, and AST/ALT levels in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. Additionally, the biogenic amine-induced reduction in survival rate was alleviated by fermented soybean paste in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. These results show that biogenic amine-induced liver damage can be exacerbated by obesity and may adversely affect life conservation. However, fermented soybean paste can reduce biogenic amine-induced liver damage in NAFLD mice. These results suggest a beneficial effect of fermented soybean paste on biogenic amine-induced liver damage and provide a new research perspective on the relationship between biogenic amines and obesity.
Anticancer Activity of Bitter Melon-Derived Vesicles Extract against Breast Cancer
Authors: Feng Ting , Wan Yilin , Dai Bin , Liu Yanlei
Published: March 2023

Due to their low immunogenicity, high biocompatibility and ready availability in large quantities, plant-derived vesicles extracts have attracted considerable interest as a novel nanomaterial in tumor therapy. Bitter melon, a medicinal and edible plant, has been reported to exhibit excellent antitumor effects. It is well-documented that breast cancer gravely endangers women’s health, and more effective therapeutic agents must be urgently explored. Therefore, we investigated whether bitter melon-derived vesicles extract (BMVE) has antitumor activity against breast cancer. Ultracentrifugation was used to isolate BMVE with a typical “cup-shaped” structure and an average size of approximately 147 nm from bitter melon juice. The experimental outcomes indicate that 4T1 breast cancer cells could efficiently internalize BMVE, which shows apparent anti-proliferative and migration-inhibiting effects. In addition, BMVE also possesses apoptosis-inducing effects on breast cancer cells, which were achieved by stimulating the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and disrupting mitochondrial function. Furthermore, BMVE could dramatically inhibit tumor growth in vivo with negligible adverse effects. In conclusion, BMVE exhibits a pronounced antitumor effect on 4T1 breast cancer cells, which has great potential for use in tumor therapy.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Paediatrics Represents Still a Serious Challenge: A Case Series Study
Authors: Bassareo Pier Paolo , Argiento Paola , McMahon Colin Joseph , Dunne Esme , Walsh Kevin Patrick , Russo Maria Giovanna , D’Alto Michele
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Paediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) represents a heterogeneous illness that is responsible for high morbidity and mortality if left without treatment. Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a subtype of PAH rarely seen in paediatrics. Limited long-term data are available. Methods: Over a period of 20 years, 10 paediatric patients were enrolled at two tertiary centres. Their clinical, echocardiographic, and right heart catheterisation (RHC) features and outcome were evaluated. Results: The mean age at first diagnosis was 5.7 ± 5.7 years. The age at the last follow-up was 12.4 ± 6.1 years. The average follow-up was 6.6 ± 0.8 years. There was a female prevalence of 60% (p < 0.05) in this case series. Regarding the NYHA functional class, 80% of IPAH subjects were in class III or IV. The mean saturation was 91 ± 5%. In this regard, 70% of the patients were on a combination of three drugs, with sildenafil (90%) included. On echocardiography, longitudinal right ventricular contractility (TAPSE) was slightly reduced (13.4 ± 2.6 mm), whilst RVSP was severely elevated (101 ± 19 mmHg). The RHC data showed that mPAP was 61.8 ± 23.1 mmHg (p = 0.0017 with RVSP on echocardiography), mRAP was 10.7 ± 3.8 mmHg, CI was 2.6 ± 1 L·min−1·m−2, PVRi was 16.8 ± 12.6 WU·m2, and SVO2 was 63.6 ± 14.8%. Regarding the outcome, two male IPAH patients (20%) died, and 50% underwent lung transplant or were on transplant assessment or already on the waiting list for lung transplantation. One patient underwent a ductus arteriosus stenting (reverse Potts shunt) and another underwent atrial septostomy and stenting. Conclusions: Notwithstanding the progress in medical therapy, IPAH continues to represent a serious challenge, particularly in the paediatric population, with the need for lung transplantation and significant mortality.
Dynamic Modeling of the Trophic Status of an Urban Tropical Wetland under ENSO Conditions
Authors: García-León Leidy Gisselle , Beltrán-Vargas Julio Eduardo , Zafra-Mejía Carlos Alfonso
Published: March 2023

The climate variability associated with the ENSO phenomenon has a significant impact on wetlands, affecting the total precipitation input and hydrological flows of these ecosystems. The objective of this paper is to study the trophic status variation of an urban tropical wetland under ENSO conditions, through dynamic modeling. The results suggest an increase in precipitation, by 3.32 times, during the La Niña phase compared to the El Niño phase. Wetland input total phosphorus (TP) concentrations are 1.85 times lower during La Niña. This is probably due to a dilution effect exerted by the increase in surface runoff volumes from the basin. The findings suggest a reduction in wetland hydraulic retention time (HRT) during La Niña (1.33 times) compared to El Niño. This trend causes the TP concentration inside the wetland to decrease, possibly due to an increase in the water volume stored (dilution), and by the exit of this nutrient due to a shorter hydraulic renewal (HRT/La Niña < HRT/El Niño). The occurrence of a high input of TP concentration to the wetland does not necessarily indicate a high trophic status index (TSI). This is because the trophic status of the wetland is possibly more associated with HRT rather than input TP concentration. The trophic status of the wetland during the La Niña tends to be eutrophic. Lastly, under ENSO scenarios, the use of Aizaki’s method is suggested, because it considers HRT as a decisive factor for the calculation of wetland trophic status.
Quality Evaluation System of Monolayer Brazed Diamond Tools: A Brief Review
Authors: Wang Jinfang , Mao Yamei , Zhang Meng , Ye Nengyong , Dai Sheng , Zhu Liu
Published: March 2023

In this article, the studies undertaken on brazed diamond tools were reviewed. The influences of the brazing alloys with different active elements on the brazing quality of brazed diamond tools are emphatically discussed. The differences in the micromorphology, friction and wear properties, and mechanical properties of brazed diamonds caused by three different brazing alloys are described in detail. The quality evaluation of brazed diamond tools is discussed from several aspects, such as the difference in microstructure of the diamond/brazing alloy interface, the friction and wear of brazed diamond tools, and the strength and residual stress of the brazing interface. Finally, relevant open questions related to the brazed diamond tools’ performance are outlined, and the future has been prospected.
Investigation of the Wet and Thermal Conditions Effect on the Micro-Scale Characteristics of Interfacial Transition Zone of Porous Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Zhao Dong , Ma Xiang , Wang Hao , Zhang Chaolin
Published: March 2023

Complex environmental factors can significantly influence the micro-properties of porous asphalt (PA) mixture. Therefore, the effects of short-term and long-term thermal aging and moisture immersion on the micromechanics properties, micro-morphology, and chemical element distributions of the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) of PA mixture were studied to reveal the mechanisms by which environmental degradation impact performance by means of nanoindentation (NI), backscattering scanning electron microscope (BSEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis techniques. The results show that the ITZ is not the softest part of the PA mixture, and the order of modulus is aggregate > ITZ > asphalt mastic. ITZ thickness is about 10–20 μm. Thermal aging has negligible effect on the width of ITZ. With increasing aging degree, the asphalt mastic and ITZ modulus increase, while water damage reduces the modulus of ITZ and slightly increases the width of ITZ. Thermal aging has little effect on the morphology of ITZ, while water damage will lead to microcracks and micropores in ITZ. Compared with thermal aging, water damage has a greater effect on the morphology of ITZ and leads to softening of the interfacial transition zone and asphalt mastic phase. The width of ITZ obtained by EDS line scanning is basically consistent with that of nanoindentation. Overall, external environmental factors have a more significant effect on the mechanical properties than the micro-morphology of ITZ. The outcomes of this research provide a better understanding of the impact of the service environment on the microscopic characteristics of PA mixture.
Electronic Structures and Magnetic Properties of Co/Mn Co-Doped ZnO Nanowire: First-Principles LDA+U Studies
Authors: Xue Suqin , Zhang Lei , Liu Gaihui , Wu Qiao , Ning Jing , Zhang Bohang , Yang Shenbo , Zhang Fuchun , Zhang Weibin
Published: March 2023

The first-principle calculation method based on the density functional theory (DFT) in combination with the LDA+U algorithm is employed to study the electronic structure and magnetic properties of Co/Mn co-doped ZnO nanowires. Special attention is paid to the optimal geometric replacement position, the coupling mechanism, and the magnetic origin of Co/Mn atoms. According to the simulation data, Co/Mn co-doped ZnO nanowires of all configurations exhibit ferromagnetism, and substitution of Co/Mn atoms for Zn in the (0001) inner layer brings nanowires to the ground state. In the magnetic coupling state, the obvious spin splitting is detected near the Fermi level, and strong hybridization effects are observed between the Co/Mn 3d and O 2p states. Moreover, the ferromagnetic ordering forming Co2+-O2−-Mn2+ magnetic path is established. In addition, the calculation results suggest that the magnetic moment mainly takes its origin from the Co/Mn 3d orbital electrons, and the size of the magnetic moment is related to the electronic configurations of Co/Mn atoms. Therefore, a realistic description of the electronic structure of Co/Mn co-doped ZnO nanowires, obtained via LDA+U method, shows their potential for diluted magnetic semiconductor materials.
Bioactive Compounds of Broccoli Florets as Affected by Packing Micro-Perforations and Storage Temperature
Authors: Paulsen Erika , Moreno Diego A. , Martínez-Romero Domingo , García-Viguera Cristina
Published: March 2023

Fresh-cut broccoli is a highly demanded product due to its convenience and high content of bioactive compounds. Unfortunately, this product shows rapid senescence and anoxia generation problems, especially when storage temperature varies. Therefore, perforation-mediated modified atmosphere packaging (PM-MAP) of broccoli florets, in different temperature scenarios, was studied. Polypropylene films with different levels of laser perforation were evaluated. After packaging, florets were stored at two temperatures: 2 °C, and 2 °C + 7 °C (during 2 d before sampling). PM-MAP slightly modified the internal composition of O2 (14–20 kPa) and CO2 (0.9–5 kPa) and allowed us to preserve the external quality and bioactive compounds of broccoli florets throughout 21 d, even at 7 °C. The generation of anoxia was avoided at both temperatures. PM-MAP kept broccoli mass loss below 0.5% and preserved its sensory quality. The perforation level affected evolution of firmness and glucosinolate content, especially with increasing temperature. Broccolis packaged in the film with fewer perforations showed higher firmness (0.73 ± 0.09 N/mm) and total glucosinolate content (10 ± 0.3 mg/g) compared to broccolis packaged in films with higher perforations (0.59 ± 0.05 N/mm and 8.60 ± 0.2 mg/g). Therefore, the perforation level should be taken into account in the design of packaging for fresh-cut products.
Failure Analysis of Printed Circuit Board Solder Joint under Thermal Shock
Authors: Zhou Zhidai , Chen Jiahuan , Yu Chen , Wang Yuxin , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2023

Investigating the failure mechanism of solder joints under different temperature conditions is significant to ensure the service life of a printed circuit board (PCB). In this research, the stress and strain distribution of a PCB solder joint was evaluated by high- and low-temperature thermal shock tests. The cross-section of the solder joint after thermal shock testing was measured using a 3D stereoscopic microscope and SEM equipped with EDS. The microstructure of the lead-free solder joint and the phase of the intermetallic compound (IMC) layer were studied by XRD. The working state of the PCB solder joint under thermal shock was simulated and analyzed by the finite element method. The results show that thermal shock has a great effect on the reliability of solder joints. The location of the actual crack is consistent with the maximum stress–strain concentration area of the simulated solder joint. The brittle Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn phases at the interface accelerate the failure of solder joints. Limiting the growth of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn phases can improve the reliability of solder joints to a certain extent.
Novel Collection Equipment Loaded with Superhydrophobic Sponge for Continuous Oil/Water Separation from Offshore Environments
Authors: Yan Xi , Xie Yan , Sheng Xuejia , Zhang Shucai , Song Xiangning
Published: March 2023

Currently, frequent oil spill accidents caused by transportation, storage, and usage may lead to extensive damage to marine ecosystems. Effective methods for oil spillage recovery from offshore environments are still urgently in demand. A superhydrophobic sponge (MS@PVC@SiO2) was obtained via a facile two-step method for rapid oil adsorption, and a piece of novel collection equipment loaded with MS@PVC@SiO2 was developed for in situ continuous oil/seawater separation. The results showed that MS@PVC@SiO2 exhibits excellent water repellence, compressibility, and durability. Furthermore, the obtained MS@PVC@SiO2 shows high diesel oil adsorption capacity (32 g/g), and excellent recyclability (up to 200 times). The collection equipment demonstrates highly selective oil adsorption capacity and good stability in real seawater. The maximum possible recovery capacity of collection equipment was 557.784 L/h with 98% efficiency, which was much higher than that of commercial disc oil collectors (119.8 L/h). The recovery performance was effectively improved by introducing MS@PVC@SiO2, due to its large specific area and enough storage space. Moreover, even after continuous operation for 58 h in seawater, the collection equipment remained at a high recovery capacity. The results indicate that both MS@PVC@SiO2 and the collection equipment have great application perspectives in practical marine oil spillage recovery.
Discretization and Analysis of HIV-1 and HTLV-I Coinfection Model with Latent Reservoirs
Authors: Elaiw Ahmed M. , Aljahdali Abdualaziz K. , Hobiny Aatef D.
Published: March 2023

This article formulates and analyzes a discrete-time Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) coinfection model with latent reservoirs. We consider that the HTLV-I infect the CD4+T cells, while HIV-1 has two classes of target cells—CD4+T cells and macrophages. The discrete-time model is obtained by discretizing the original continuous-time by the non-standard finite difference (NSFD) approach. We establish that NSFD maintains the positivity and boundedness of the model’s solutions. We derived four threshold parameters that determine the existence and stability of the four equilibria of the model. The Lyapunov method is used to examine the global stability of all equilibria. The analytical findings are supported via numerical simulation. The impact of latent reservoirs on the HIV-1 and HTLV-I co-dynamics is discussed. We show that incorporating the latent reservoirs into the HIV-1 and HTLV-I coinfection model will reduce the basic HIV-1 single-infection and HTLV-I single-infection reproductive numbers. We establish that neglecting the latent reservoirs will lead to overestimation of the required HIV-1 antiviral drugs. Moreover, we show that lengthening of the latent phase can suppress the progression of viral coinfection. This may draw the attention of scientists and pharmaceutical companies to create new treatments that prolong the latency period.
Tribocorrosion Performance of WC-12Co HVOF-Sprayed Coatings Reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Staia Mariana Henriette , Mejias Alberto , Kossman Stephania , Puchi-Cabrera Eli Saul
Published: March 2023

WC-12Co HVOF-sprayed coatings (~400 µm in thickness) reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), were deposited on a steel substrate. The aim of this work is to provide and analyze data from HVOF WC-12Co sprayed coatings, concerning the influence of the addition of MWCNTs on their tribocorrosion performance, in a 3.5% NaCl electrolyte. Electrochemical data (current density and corrosion potential from potentiodynamic polarization curves) and wear data (coefficients of friction, coating volume losses and wear constants) are reported for the coatings, with and without the addition of MWCNTs (labeled WCCNT and WCAS-RECEIVED, respectively), considering the synergistic effects of wear and corrosion coupling. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and profilometry are used to explain both the wear and corrosion mechanisms that account for each coating’s performance in this environment. During the tribocorrosion tests, similar wear constants, of the order of approximately 10−12 m3/Nm, were found for all samples, with an increase of ~20% due to the MWCNTs presence. However, for the coatings reinforced with MWCNTs, a remarkable increase in icorr, representing almost 3 times the icorr of the WCAS-RECEIVED coating, was determined. The above results illustrate the complex mechanisms that occur when these coatings are tested under tribocorrosion conditions, which give rise to concurrent interacting phenomena, involving both electrochemical and mechanical responses.
The Necessity of Maintaining the Resilience of Peri-Urban Forests to Secure Environmental and Ecological Balance: A Case Study of Forest Stands Located on the Romanian Sector of the Pannonian Plain
Authors: Chivulescu Serban , Cadar Nicolae , Hapa Mihai , Capalb Florin , Radu Raul Gheorghe , Badea Ovidiu
Published: March 2023

Climate change’s negative effects, such as rising global temperatures and the disruption of global ecological ecosystems as a direct effect of rising carbon emissions in the atmosphere, are a significant concern for human health, communities, and ecosystems. The condition and presence of forest ecosystems, especially those in peri-urban areas, play an essential role in mitigating the negative effects of climate change on society. They provide direct benefits to the residents of large cities and their surrounding areas, and they must be managed sustainably to protect all their component ecosystems. This research was carried out in the forests of Lunca Muresului Natural Park and Bazos Arboretum, located in the Romanian sector of the Pannonian Plain, near urban agglomerations. The results showed high variability in the stands. Using the height-to-diameter ratio indicator concerning dbh and species, a strong Pearson correlation was registered (between 0.45 and 0.82). These values indicate the high stability of these stands, providing positive human–nature interactions such as recreational or outdoor activities (and a complementary yet indirect use value through attractive landscape views). Protecting these ecosystems offers a so-called insurance policy for the next generations from a climate change standpoint.
Benthic Foraminifera Diversity of the Abyssal Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Hesemann Michael
Published: March 2023

The species diversity of benthic foraminifera at four abyssal working areas in the Labrador Sea, Labrador Basin, and Southwest of the Azores is documented. One hundred and fifty taxa (forty-three not assigned to a species) were found and their diversity was recorded. One hundred and twenty-four taxa (fifteen not assigned to a species) were illustrated with optical and/or SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) images on twelve plates. The material was sampled during RV Sonne cruise SO286 as part of IceDivA2 (Icelandic marine Animals meets Diversity along latitudinal gradients in the deep sea of the Atlantic Ocean 2). IceDivA2 investigated the biodiversity within key groups of the marine benthic abyssal habitats of the North Atlantic. Thirty-two samples from four sliced and three full cores, from six stations sampled with a MUC (Multiple corer), were analyzed. Given low sedimentation rates in such environments the material is assumed to be of Holocene to late Pleistocene age. Due to the scarcity of living specimens this study was based on total assemblages. Four species-based clusters are identified, which correspond to the four working areas. The samples of each cluster show specific characteristics markedly different from those of the samples of the other clusters. It indicates that abyssal faunas are heterogeneous. Three clusters are dominated by Epistominella exigua (Brady, 1884), which is recorded as not rare to dominant in many abyssal plains worldwide. The faunal differences are manifested in the long tail of less important species and differing abundances of E. exigua.
Manufacturing and Assembly for the Ease of Product Recycling: A Review
Authors: Shahhoseini Ahad , Heydari Sara , Pedrammehr Siamak
Published: March 2023

Design for manufacturing, assembly, and disassembly is critical in manufacturing. Failing to consider this aspect can lead to inefficient performance and material overuse, which significantly impact cost and construction time. Production with a high capability for recycling is a method to help conserve natural resources. This article is compiled with a review method and has evaluated the recent and related articles that consider design for production, design for assembly and disassembly, design for recycling and reuse, and sustainable design. This review, moreover, aims to focus more on the relationship between using a design approach for production and assembly in the ease of recycling and preservation of raw materials and reuse of materials. The survey for the design methods conducive to achieving ease of recycling is one of the crucial issues that fill the gap in the literature in this respect. Google Scholar was selected as a database, and the keywords “DFMA”, “design”, “facility of recycling”, “recycling”, “EoL”, and “product design” were considered to collect related articles. At first, 115 articles were identified, and 26 articles with a high focus on the subject were selected. Finally, nine articles were considered for final evaluation, 33% of which focused on the design approach for assembly. Many of the issues evaluated are about reducing the number of components and reducing complexity in design, materials, environmental impact, manufacturing cost and time, repair, reuse, end-of-life, remanufacturing, recycling, and non-recyclable waste. According to the mentioned materials, compiling a category of crucial information along with sustainable design indicators and approaches, as well as identifying and explaining the strategic actions of the researchers in this field, will benefit the experts and help them to obtain better insight into environmentally friendly production. This, moreover, helps to substantiate a circular economy by increasing the percentage of recycling materials and parts with various methods and reducing costs and the use of raw materials.
Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Macular Edema Detection Using Ensemble Based Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Sundaram Swaminathan , Selvamani Meganathan , Raju Sekar Kidambi , Ramaswamy Seethalakshmi , Islam Saiful , Cha Jae-Hyuk , Almujally Nouf Abdullah , Elaraby Ahmed
Published: March 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME) are forms of eye illness caused by diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the eyes, with the ground occupied by lesions of varied extent determining the disease burden. This is among the most common cause of visual impairment in the working population. Various factors have been discovered to play an important role in a person’s growth of this condition. Among the essential elements at the top of the list are anxiety and long-term diabetes. If not detected early, this illness might result in permanent eyesight loss. The damage can be reduced or avoided if it is recognized ahead of time. Unfortunately, due to the time and arduous nature of the diagnosing process, it is harder to identify the prevalence of this condition. Skilled doctors manually review digital color images to look for damage produced by vascular anomalies, the most common complication of diabetic retinopathy. Even though this procedure is reasonably accurate, it is quite pricey. The delays highlight the necessity for diagnosis to be automated, which will have a considerable positive significant impact on the health sector. The use of AI in diagnosing the disease has yielded promising and dependable findings in recent years, which is the impetus for this publication. This article used ensemble convolutional neural network (ECNN) to diagnose DR and DME automatically, with accurate results of 99 percent. This result was achieved using preprocessing, blood vessel segmentation, feature extraction, and classification. For contrast enhancement, the Harris hawks optimization (HHO) technique is presented. Finally, the experiments were conducted for two kinds of datasets: IDRiR and Messidor for accuracy, precision, recall, F-score, computational time, and error rate.
Comparison of Ultra-Magnifying Endocytoscopic and Hematoxylin-Eosin-Stained Images of Lung Specimens
Authors: Kobayashi Misato , Kurimoto Noriaki , Tanino Ryosuke , Shiratsuki Yohei , Okuno Takae , Nakao Mika , Hotta Takamasa , Tsubata Yukari , Nagasaki Makoto , Nishisaka Takashi , Isobe Takeshi
Published: March 2023

Endocytoscopy enables real-time observation of lesions at ultra-magnification. In the gastrointestinal and respiratory fields, endocytoscopic images are similar to hematoxylin-eosin-stained images. This study aimed to compare the nuclear features of pulmonary lesions in endocytoscopic and hematoxylin-eosin-stained images. We performed an endocytoscopy to observe resected specimens of normal lung tissue and lesions. Nuclear features were extracted using ImageJ. We analyzed five nuclear features: nuclear number per area, mean nucleus area, median circularity, coefficient of variation of roundness, and median Voronoi area. We conducted dimensionality reduction analyses for these features, followed by assessments of the inter-observer agreement among two pathologists and two pulmonologists to evaluate endocytoscopic videos. We analyzed the nuclear features of hematoxylin-eosin-stained and endocytoscopic images from 40 and 33 cases, respectively. Endocytoscopic and hematoxylin-eosin-stained images displayed a similar tendency for each feature, despite there being no correlation. Conversely, the dimensionality reduction analyses demonstrated similar distributions of normal lung and malignant clusters in both images, thus differentiating between the clusters. The diagnostic accuracy of the pathologists was 58.3% and 52.8% (κ-value 0.38, fair), and that of the pulmonologists was 50% and 47.2% (κ-value 0.33, fair). The five nuclear features of pulmonary lesions were similar in the endocytoscopic and hematoxylin-eosin-stained images.