bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome and Post-Surgical Lung Biopsy Change in Management of ARDS: A Proportional Prevalence Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mir Tanveer , Regmi Neelambuj , Saydain Ghulam , Kaul Viren , Soubani Ayman O. , Qureshi Waqas T.
Published: July 2022

Background: Limited epidemiological data are available on changes in management, benefits, complications, and outcomes after open lung biopsy in patients with ARDS. Methods: We performed a literature search of PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane databases for articles from the inception of each database till November 2020 that provided outcomes of lung biopsy in ARDS patients. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients that had a change in management with alteration of treatment plan, after lung biopsy. Secondary outcomes included pathological diagnoses and complications related to the lung biopsy. Pooled proportions with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for the prevalence of outcomes. Results: After analysis of 22 articles from 1994 to 2018, a total of 851 ARDS patients (mean age 59.28 ± 7.41, males 56.4%) that were admitted to the ICU who underwent surgical lung biopsy for ARDS were included. Biopsy changed the management in 539 patients (pooled proportion 75%: 95% CI 64–84%). There were 394 deaths (pooled proportion 49%: 95% CI 41–58%). The most common pathologic diagnosis was diffuse alveolar damage that occurred in 30% (95% CI 19–41%), followed by interstitial lung disease in 10% (95% CI 3–19%), and viral infection in 9% (95% CI 4–16%). Complications occurred among 201 patients (pooled proportion 24%, 95% CI 17–31%). The most common type of complication was persistent air-leak among 115 patients (pooled estimate 13%, 95% CI 9–17%). Conclusion: Despite the high mortality risk associated with ARDS, lung biopsy changed management in about 3/4 of the patients. However, 1/4 of the patients had a complication due to lung biopsy. The risks from the procedure should be carefully weighed before proceeding with lung biopsy.
The Role and Efficacy of Vitamin C in Sepsis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Muhammad Marwah , Jahangir Ahmad , Kassem Ali , Sattar Saud Bin Abdul , Jahangir Abdullah , Sahra Syeda , Niazi Muhammad Rafay Khan , Mustafa Ahmad , Zia Zeeshan , Siddiqui Fasih Sami , Sadiq Waleed , Mishiyev Danil , Sammar Aleena , Dahabra Loai , Irshad Aazib , Elsayegh Dany , Chalhoub Michel
Published: July 2022

Clinical rationale for study: Despite advancements in critical care, the mortality rate of sepsis remains high, with an overall poor prognosis. There is a complex pathophysiology of a lethal cascade of cytokines and inflammatory proteins underlying sepsis. The use of vitamin C can theoretically suppress the inflammatory cascade but remains a questionable practice due to a lack of conclusive evidence. Aims of the study: To appraise the therapeutic role of vitamin C in sepsis. Materials and methods: A systematic review was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and the Central Cochrane Registry. The study included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with vitamin C as an intervention arm in the septic patient population. For continuous variables, the difference in means (MD) and for discrete variables, the odds ratio (OR) was used. For effect sizes, a confidence interval of 95% was used. A p-value of less than 0.05 was used for statistical significance. The analysis was performed using a random-effects model irrespective of heterogeneity. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic. Results: 23 studies were included with the total sample size of 2712 patients. In patients treated with vitamin C, there was a statistically significant reduction in the mortality: OR = 0.778 (0.635 to 0.954), p = 0.016; the sequential organ failure assessment score (SOFA): MD = −0.749 (−1.115 to −0.383), p < 0.001; and the duration of vasopressor requirement: MD = −1.034 days (−1.622 to −0.445), p = 0.001. No significant difference was found in the hospital or ICU length of stay. Conclusions and clinical implications: Vitamin C treatment regimens were associated with reduced mortality, SOFA score, and vasopressor requirement compared to the control in sepsis. Given its low cost and minimal adverse effects, we strongly encourage further large, randomized trials to establish vitamin C as a standard of care in sepsis management.
How Nanoparticle Aerosols Transport through Multi-Stenosis Sections of Upper Airways: A CFD-DPM Modelling
Authors: Islam Md Rabiul , Larpruenrudee Puchanee , Rahman Md Mostafizur , Ullah Sana , Godder Tapan Kumar , Cui Xinguang , Mortazavy Beni Hamidreza , Inthavong Kiao , Dong Jingliang , Gu Yuantong , Islam Mohammad S.
Published: July 2022

Airway stenosis is a global respiratory health problem that is caused by airway injury, endotracheal intubation, malignant tumor, lung aging, or autoimmune diseases. A precise understanding of the airflow dynamics and pharmaceutical aerosol transport through the multi-stenosis airways is vital for targeted drug delivery, and is missing from the literature. The object of this study primarily relates to behaviors and nanoparticle transport through the multi-stenosis sections of the trachea and upper airways. The combination of a CT-based mouth–throat model and Weibel’s model was adopted in the ANSYS FLUENT solver for the numerical simulation of the Euler–Lagrange (E-L) method. Comprehensive grid refinement and validation were performed. The results from this study indicated that, for all flow rates, a higher velocity was usually found in the stenosis section. The maximum velocity was found in the stenosis section having a 75% reduction, followed by the stenosis section having a 50% reduction. Increasing flow rate resulted in higher wall shear stress, especially in stenosis sections. The highest pressure was found in the mouth–throat section for all flow rates. The lowest pressure was usually found in stenosis sections, especially in the third generation. Particle escape rate was dependent on flow rate and inversely dependent on particle size. The overall deposition efficiency was observed to be significantly higher in the mouth–throat and stenosis sections compared to other areas. However, this was proven to be only the case for a particle size of 1 nm. Moreover, smaller nanoparticles were usually trapped in the mouth–throat section, whereas larger nanoparticle sizes escaped through the lower airways from the left side of the lung; this accounted for approximately 50% of the total injected particles, and 36% escaped from the right side. The findings of this study can improve the comprehensive understanding of airflow patterns and nanoparticle deposition. This would be beneficial in work with polydisperse particle deposition for treatment of comprehensive stenosis with specific drugs under various disease conditions.
Time-Lagged Ensemble Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts for Three Landfalling Typhoons in the Philippines Using the CReSS Model, Part I: Description and Verification against Rain-Gauge Observations
Authors: Wang Chung-Chieh , Tsai Chien-Hung , Jou Ben Jong-Dao , David Shirley J.
Published: July 2022

In this study, the 2.5 km Cloud-Resolving Storm Simulator was applied to forecast the rainfall by three landfalling typhoons in the Philippines at high resolution: Mangkhut (2018), Koppu (2015), and Melor (2015), using a time-lagged strategy for ensemble. The three typhoons penetrated northern Luzon, central Luzon, and the middle of the Philippine Archipelago, respectively, and the present study verified the track and quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) using categorical statistics against observations at 56 rain-gauge sites at seven thresholds up to 500 mm. The predictability of rainfall is the highest for Koppu, followed by Melor, and the lowest for Mangkhut, which had the highest peak rainfall amount. Targeted at the most-rainy 24 h of each case, the threat score (TS) within the short range (≤72 h) could reach 1.0 for Koppu at 350 mm in many runs (peak observation = 502 mm), and 1.0 for Mangkhut and 0.25 for Melor (peak observation = 407 mm) both at 200 mm in the best member, when the track errors were small enough. For rainfall from entire events (48 or 72 h), TS hitting 1.0 could also be achieved regularly at 500 mm for Koppu (peak observation = 695 mm), and 0.33 at 350 mm for Melor (407 mm) and 0.46 at 200 mm for Mangkhut (786 mm) in the best case. At lead times beyond the short range, one third of these earlier runs also produced good QPFs for both Koppu and Melor, but such runs were fewer for Mangkhut and the quality of QPFs was also not as high due to larger northward track biases. Overall, the QPF results are very encouraging, and comparable to the skill level for typhoon rainfall in Taiwan (with similar peak rainfall amounts). Thus, at high resolution, there is a fair chance to make decent QPFs even at lead times of 3–7 days before typhoon landfall in the Philippines, with useful information on rainfall scenarios for early preparation.
Novel Global Harmony Search Algorithm for General Linear Complementarity Problem
Authors: Yong Longquan
Published: July 2022

Linear complementarity problem (LCP) is studied. After reforming general LCP as the system of nonlinear equations by NCP-function, LCP is equivalent to solving an unconstrained optimization model, which can be solved by a recently proposed algorithm named novel global harmony search (NGHS). NGHS algorithm can overcome the disadvantage of interior-point methods. Numerical results show that the NGHS algorithm has a higher rate of convergence than the other HS variants. For LCP with a unique solution, NGHS converges to its unique solution. For LCP with multiple solutions, NGHS can find as many solutions as possible. Meanwhile, for unsolvable LCP, all algorithms are terminated on the solution with the minimum error.
Influence of the Ambient Storage of LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 Powder and Electrodes on the Electrochemical Performance in Li-ion Technology
Authors: de Meatza Iratxe , Landa-Medrano Imanol , Sananes-Israel Susan , Eguia-Barrio Aitor , Bondarchuk Oleksandr , Lijó-Pando Silvia , Boyano Iker , Palomares Verónica , Rojo Teófilo , Grande Hans-Jürgen , Urdampilleta Idoia
Published: July 2022

Nickel-rich LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) is one of the most promising Li-ion battery cathode materials and has attracted the interest of the automotive industry. Nevertheless, storage conditions can affect its properties and performance. In this work, both NMC811 powder and electrodes were storage-aged for one year under room conditions. The aged powder was used to prepare electrodes, and the performance of these two aged samples was compared with reference fresh NMC811 electrodes in full Li-ion coin cells using graphite as a negative electrode. The cells were subjected to electrochemical as well as ante- and postmortem characterization. The performance of the electrodes from aged NM811 was beyond expectations: the cycling performance was high, and the power capability was the highest among the samples analyzed. Materials characterization revealed modifications in the crystal structure and the surface layer of the NMC811 during the storage and electrode processing steps. Differences between aged and fresh electrodes were explained by the formation of a resistive layer at the surface of the former. However, the ageing of NMC811 powder was significantly mitigated during the electrode processing step. These novel results are of interest to cell manufacturers for the widespread implementation of NMC811 as a state-of-the-art cathode material in Li-ion batteries.
Influence of Growth Parameters on the Electrochemical Performance of Electrodeposited Carbons
Authors: Wu Jimmy , Hughes Matthew A. , Sharma Neeraj , Allen Jessica
Published: July 2022

Generating useful chemicals from CO2 is driving research into carbon capture and utilization. In this work, hard carbons are electrodeposited on various substrates from molten carbonate melts in CO2 atmospheres. These electrodeposited carbons are subsequently used as anodes in sodium-ion batteries, with preliminary investigations into their performance in potassium-ion batteries. The hard carbons were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Hard carbons grown on graphite substrates produced initial reversible capacities of 405 ± 29 mAh/g and capacity retention of 85.2 ± 1.1% after 50 cycles when cycled at 10 mA/g which are amongst the highest capacities reported for hard carbons to date. This work clearly illustrates that the carbons generated via CO2 mediated electrodeposition are suitable for application in next generation batteries.
Living at the Wrong Time: Effects of Unmatching Official Time in Portugal and Western Spain
Authors: Bonmatí-Carrión María-Ángeles , Casado-Ramirez Elvira , Moreno-Casbas María-Teresa , Campos Manuel ,   ModulEN Consortium, Madrid Juan Antonio , Rol Maria-Angeles
Published: July 2022

Human circadian rhythmicity is subjected to the internal circadian clock, the sun and social clocks (official time, social/work schedules). The discrepancy among these clocks, as occurs when official time does not match its geographical time zone, may produce circadian disruption. Western Spain (GMT+1/+2) and Portugal (GMT0/+1) share similar longitudes (sun time) but have different official times. This provides a unique opportunity to evaluate the effects of official time on circadian rhythmicity and sleep in elderly and retired populations (with no remunerated duties presumed, although other social commitments may be present) at both locations. Although both populations slept enough for their age (7–8 h), circadian robustness (e.g., interdaily stability, relative amplitude) was greater in Portugal, especially during weekdays, while greater desynchronization (both body temperature vs. motor activity and body temperature vs. light exposure) tended to occur in the Spaniards. Once corrected by GMT0, meals took place later in Spain than in Portugal, especially as the day progresses, and a possible interplay between bed/meal timings and internal desynchronization was found. Our results point to the possible deleterious effect on circadian system robustness when official time is misaligned with its geographical time zone.
Intercropping of Euonymus japonicus with Photinia × fraseri Improves Phytoremediation Efficiency in Cd/Cu/Zn Contaminated Field
Authors: Liu Junli , Qiu Gaoyang , Liu Chen , Lin Yicheng , Chen Xiaodong , Li Hua , Fu Qinglin , Guo Bin
Published: July 2022

Intercropping plants for phytoremediation is a promising strategy in heavy metal-polluted soils. In this study, two typical greening plant species, Euonymus japonicus (E. japonicus) and Photinia × fraseri (P. × fraseri), were intercropped in a Cd/Cu/Zn-contaminated field. The phytoremediation efficiency was investigated by measuring the plant biomass, metal concentration, and mycorrhizal colonisation, as well as the effects on soil properties, including soil pH; soil total N; and available N, P, K, Cd, Cu, and Zn. The results showed that, compared with the monoculture system, intercropping significantly lowered the available Cd, Cu, and Zn contents, significantly improved the total and available N contents in rhizosphere soils of both plant species, and increased the hyphae colonisation rate of P. × fraseri. In both plants, intercropping significantly improved the total plant biomass. Furthermore, the concentrations Zn and Cd in the root of E. japonicus and Cu concentration in the root of P. × fraseri were enhanced by 58.16%, 107.74%, and 20.57%, respectively. Intercropping resulted in plants accumulating higher amounts of Cd, Cu, and Zn. This was particularly evident in the total amount of Cd in E. japonicus, which was 2.2 times greater than that in the monoculture system. Therefore, this study provides a feasible technique for improving phytoremediation efficiency using greening plants.
Growth and Mechanical Characterization of Mycelium-Based Composites towards Future Bioremediation and Food Production in the Material Manufacturing Cycle
Authors: Houette Thibaut , Maurer Christopher , Niewiarowski Remik , Gruber Petra
Published: July 2022

Today’s architectural and agricultural practices negatively impact the planet. Mycelium-based composites are widely researched with the aim of producing sustainable building materials by upcycling organic byproducts. To go further, this study analyzed the growth process and tested the mechanical behavior of composite materials grown from fungal species used in bioremediation. Agricultural waste containing high levels of fertilizers serves as the substrate for mycelium growth to reduce chemical dispersal in the environment. Compression and three-point bending tests were conducted to evaluate the effects of the following variables on the mechanical behavior of mycelium-based materials: substrate particle size (with or without micro-particles), fungal species (Pleurotus ostreatus and Coprinus comatus), and post-growth treatment (dried, baked, compacted then dried, and compacted then baked). Overall, the density of the material positively correlated with its Young’s and elastic moduli, showing higher moduli for composites made from substrate with micro-particles and for compacted composites. Compacted then baked composites grown on the substrate with micro-particles provided the highest elastic moduli in compression and flexural testing. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insight into the selection of substrate particle size, fungal species, and post-growth treatment for various applications with a focus on material manufacturing, food production, and bioremediation.
Cost-Effective Fiber Optic Solutions for Biosensing
Authors: Leitão Cátia , Pereira Sónia O. , Marques Carlos , Cennamo Nunzio , Zeni Luigi , Shaimerdenova Madina , Ayupova Takhmina , Tosi Daniele
Published: July 2022

In the last years, optical fiber sensors have proven to be a reliable and versatile biosensing tool. Optical fiber biosensors (OFBs) are analytical devices that use optical fibers as transducers, with the advantages of being easily coated and biofunctionalized, allowing the monitorization of all functionalization and detection in real-time, as well as being small in size and geometrically flexible, thus allowing device miniaturization and portability for point-of-care (POC) testing. Knowing the potential of such biosensing tools, this paper reviews the reported OFBs which are, at the moment, the most cost-effective. Different fiber configurations are highlighted, namely, end-face reflected, unclad, D- and U-shaped, tips, ball resonators, tapered, light-diffusing, and specialty fibers. Packaging techniques to enhance OFBs’ application in the medical field, namely for implementing in subcutaneous, percutaneous, and endoscopic operations as well as in wearable structures, are presented and discussed. Interrogation approaches of OFBs using smartphones’ hardware are a great way to obtain cost-effective sensing approaches. In this review paper, different architectures of such interrogation methods and their respective applications are presented. Finally, the application of OFBs in monitoring three crucial fields of human life and wellbeing are reported: detection of cancer biomarkers, detection of cardiovascular biomarkers, and environmental monitoring.
A Novel Perspective on Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Exosome and Noncoding RNA Studies
Authors: Wang Qianwen , Chen Yuhui , Meng Lingbing , Yin Jiawen , Wang Li , Gong Tao
Published: July 2022

Ischemic stroke is a life-threatening condition that also frequently results in long-term disability. Currently, intravenous thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator and mechanical thrombectomy is the most popular treatment. However, the narrow time window and related complications limit the treatment benefits. Exosomes have recently emerged as ideal therapeutic candidates for ischemic stroke with the ability to pass through the blood_brain barrier and mediate intercellular communication, in addition, exosomes and their contents can be bioengineered to implement targeted delivery. In the last two decades, exosomes and exosomal noncoding RNAs have been found to be involved in the pathophysiological progression of ischemic stroke, including atherosclerosis, apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurovascular remodeling. In this review, we describe the latest progress regarding the role of exosomal long noncoding RNAs and circular RNAs in the occurrence, progression, and recovery of ischemic stroke. Exploration of exosomal noncoding RNAs and their correlated effects in ischemic stroke may facilitate accurate diagnosis, and they may serve as new therapeutic targets for the disease.
Cognitive and Academic Outcomes of Fundamental Motor Skill and Physical Activity Interventions Designed for Children with Special Educational Needs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jylänki Pinja , Mbay Theo , Byman Anni , Hakkarainen Airi , Sääkslahti Arja , Aunio Pirjo
Published: July 2022

This systematic review aimed to investigate the methodological quality and the effects of fundamental motor skills and physical activity interventions on cognitive and academic skills in 3- to 7-year-old children with special educational needs. The review was reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) statement. A literature search was carried out in April 2020 (updated in January 2022) using seven electronic databases, including ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool. Cohen’s d effect sizes and post-hoc power analyses were conducted for the included studies. Altogether 22 studies (1883 children) met the inclusion criteria, representing children at-risk for learning difficulties, due to family background (nstudies = 8), children with learning difficulties (nstudies = 7), learning disabilities (nstudies = 5), and physical disabilities (nstudies = 2). Two of the included 22 studies displayed strong, one moderate, and 19 studies weak methodological quality. The intervention effects appeared to be somewhat dependent on the severity of the learning difficulty; in cognitive and language skills, the effects were largest in children at-risk due to family background, whereas in executive functions the effects were largest in children with learning disabilities. However, due to the vast heterogeneity of the included studies, and a rather low methodological quality, it is challenging to summarize the findings in a generalizable manner. Thus, additional high-quality research is required to determine the effectiveness of the interventions.
Malingering and Stimulant Medications Abuse, Misuse and Diversion
Authors: Sadek Joseph
Published: July 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that interferes with multiple aspects of daily functioning. Malingering or feigning of symptoms can be a major challenge during ADHD assessment. Stimulant medication abuse, misuse and diversion may constitute another challenge during management. A literature search of the past 15 years on the topic continued to suggest that there are several reasons for malingering and faking ADHD symptoms. Some of the reasons include the intent to obtain prescriptions for stimulant medications for performance enhancement, to gain access to additional school services and accommodations, to use recreationally and to sell as a street drug. In some countries, patients may receive additional tax or student loan benefits. Several researchers suggested that self-report rating measures are easily simulated by patients without ADHD. They concluded that no questionnaire has proved sufficiently robust against false positives. Some clinical factors that may suggest malingering during the ADHD assessment are highlighted and some available tests to detect malingering are discussed.
Gediminas Hill Slopes Behavior in 3D Finite Element Model
Authors: Skuodis Šarūnas , Daugevičius Mykolas , Medzvieckas Jurgis , Šneideris Arnoldas , Jokūbaitis Aidas , Rastenis Justinas , Valivonis Juozas
Published: July 2022

In this manuscript, we present the results of three-dimensional finite element analyses performed in the cloud of a large-scale model of the Gediminas Hill buildings and the construction remains of the Upper and Lower castles in Vilnius city. The greatest challenge associated with the simulated numerical model is the difficult geological layer surface inclinations and soil–structure interaction behavior prognosis, which require significant computational resources. The purpose of this research work is to present current and possible worst-case scenarios for Gediminas Hill, considering its buildings and construction remains, regarding the stability of its slopes through a safety analysis. The construction of a numerical three-dimensional model of Gediminas Hill allows for us to assess the soil–structure interaction behavior. The results of non-linear analysis on the created model are in agreement with the tendencies observed in direct geodetic measurements and the relevant landslide history.
Analysis of the Acoustic Comfort in Hospital: The Case of Maternity Rooms
Authors: Secchi Simone , Setola Nicoletta , Marzi Luca , Amodeo Veronica
Published: July 2022

Hospitals include a variety of different spaces with different requirements and levels of sensitivity to noise but also different activities and equipment that can cause high noise levels. In this article, noise disturbance in hospitals is studied with reference to a case study in a maternity ward. The analysis is carried out by means of sound insulation measurements between bedrooms and between bedroom and corridor. Equivalent sound pressure level measurements were carried out continuously for two days and nights. The number of awakening events is examined for each hour of the two nights. In addition, the results of a questionnaire conducted on more than 100 patients are reported. The results of the study show that the main cause of noise disturbance is activity in the corridors and that this kind of disturbance is usually repeated throughout the night. This is made more critical by the poor acoustic performance of the doors, but also by the habit of keeping doors open or half-open to allow doctors to always control patients. The article proposes some possible solutions to reduce noise intrusion from the corridor to the rooms.
Study of Geopolymer Composites Based on Volcanic Ash, Fly Ash, Pozzolan, Metakaolin and Mining Tailing
Authors: Churata Rossibel , Almirón Jonathan , Vargas María , Tupayachy-Quispe Danny , Torres-Almirón Jeniffer , Ortiz-Valdivia Yosheff , Velasco Francisco
Published: July 2022

This work studies the feasibility to employ a combination of volcanic ash (natural waste) with different raw materials in the production of geopolymers: fly ash and mining tailing (considered hazardous solid waste), natural pozzolan, and metakaolin. This study compares the properties of geopolymers based on volcanic ash with fly ash, pozzolan, metakaolin, and mining tailing in a relation of 1:1 with the addition of NaOH 15M and Na2SiO3 as alkali activators. FTIR and XRD assays and mechanical tests were employed to characterize the geopolymers. The results showed that those materials can be used as raw materials to produce geopolymers. Additionally, the results revealed that prime material composition and their mineralogical characteristics influence the geopolymerization reaction and compression strength, reaching values of 35 MPa for the volcanic ash-pozzolan mixture. The pozzolan is a good source of Al2O3 and SiO2 and is highly reactive to the alkali activators resulting in a better geopolymerization in comparison to the mixtures of volcanic ash with metakaolin, fly ash, or mining tailing.
Pten and p53 Loss in the Mouse Lung Causes Adenocarcinoma and Sarcomatoid Carcinoma
Authors: Lázaro Sara , Lorz Corina , Enguita Ana Belén , Seller Iván , Paramio Jesús M. , Santos Mirentxu
Published: July 2022

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Among the Non-Small Cell Carcinoma (NSCLC) category, Adenocarcinoma (ADC) represents the most common type, with different reported driver mutations, a bunch of models described and therapeutic options. Meanwhile, Pulmonary Sarcomatoid Carcinoma (PSC) is one of the rarest, with very poor outcomes, scarce availability of patient material, no effective therapies and no models available for preclinical research. Here, we describe that the combined deletion of Pten and Trp53 in the lungs of adult conditional mice leads to the development of both ADC and PSC irrespective of the lung targeted cell type after naphthalene induced airway epithelial regeneration. Although this model shows long latency periods and incomplete penetrance for tumor development, it is the first PSC mouse model reported so far, and sheds light on the relationships between ADC and PSC and their cells of origin. Moreover, human ADC show strong transcriptomic similarities to the mouse PSC, providing a link between both tumor types and the human ADC.
Antimicrobial Activity of a Titanium Dioxide Additivated Thermoset
Authors: Ahrens Markus , Fischer Theresa , Zuber Nina , Yatsenko Serhiy , Hochrein Thomas , Bastian Martin , Eblenkamp Markus , Mela Petra
Published: July 2022

The transmission of pathogens via surfaces poses a major health problem, particularly in hospital environments. Antimicrobial surfaces can interrupt the path of spread, while photocatalytically active titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have emerged as an additive for creating antimicrobial materials. Irradiation of such particles with ultraviolet (UV) light leads to the formation of reactive oxygen species that can inactivate bacteria. The aim of this research was to incorporate TiO2 nanoparticles into a cellulose-reinforced melamine-formaldehyde resin (MF) to obtain a photocatalytic antimicrobial thermoset, to be used, for example, for device enclosures or tableware. To this end, composites of MF with 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% TiO2 were produced by ultrasonication and hot pressing. The incorporation of TiO2 resulted in a small decrease in tensile strength and little to no decrease in Shore D hardness, but a statistically significant decrease in the water contact angle. After 48 h of UV irradiation, a statistically significant decrease in tensile strength for samples with 0 and 10 wt% TiO2 was measured but with no statistically significant differences in Shore D hardness, although a statistically significant increase in surface hydrophilicity was measured. Accelerated methylene blue (MB) degradation was measured during a further 2.5 h of UV irradiation and MB concentrations of 12% or less could be achieved. Samples containing 0, 10, and 20 wt% TiO2 were investigated for long-term UV stability and antimicrobial activity. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed no changes in the chemical structure of the polymer, due to the incorporation of TiO2, but changes were detected after 500 h of irradiation, indicating material degradation. Specimens pre-irradiated with UV for 48 h showed a total reduction in Escherichia coli when exposed to UV irradiation.
Deep Learning-Based Image Analysis for the Quantification of Tumor-Induced Angiogenesis in the 3D In Vivo Tumor Model—Establishment and Addition to Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI)
Authors: Kuri Paulina Mena , Pion Eric , Mahl Lina , Kainz Philipp , Schwarz Siegfried , Brochhausen Christoph , Aung Thiha , Haerteis Silke
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: angiogenesis plays an important role in the growth and metastasis of tumors. We established the CAM assay application, an image analysis software of the IKOSA platform by KML Vision, for the quantification of blood vessels with the in ovo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. We added this proprietary deep learning algorithm to the already established laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI). (2) Methods: angiosarcoma cell line tumors were grafted onto the CAM. Angiogenesis was measured at the beginning and at the end of tumor growth with both measurement methods. The CAM assay application was trained to enable the recognition of in ovo CAM vessels. Histological stains of the tissue were performed and gluconate, an anti-angiogenic substance, was applied to the tumors. (3) Results: the angiosarcoma cells formed tumors on the CAM that appeared to stay vital and proliferated. An increase in perfusion was observed using both methods. The CAM assay application was successfully established in the in ovo CAM model and anti-angiogenic effects of gluconate were observed. (4) Conclusions: the CAM assay application appears to be a useful method for the quantification of angiogenesis in the CAM model and gluconate could be a potential treatment of angiosarcomas. Both aspects should be evaluated in further research.
Higher Loading of Gold Nanoparticles in PAD Mesenchymal-like Stromal Cells Leads to a Decreased Exocytosis
Authors: Oberländer Jennifer , Ayerbe Rafael , Cabellos Joan , da Costa Marques Richard , Li Bin , Günday-Türeli Nazende , Türeli Akif Emre , Ofir Racheli , Shalom Eliran Ish , Mailänder Volker
Published: July 2022

Cell therapy is an important new method in medicine and is being used for the treatment of an increasing number of diseases. The challenge here is the precise tracking of cells in the body and their visualization. One method to visualize cells more easily with current methods is their labeling with nanoparticles before injection. However, for a safe and sufficient cell labeling, the nanoparticles need to remain in the cell and not be exocytosed. Here, we test a glucose-PEG-coated gold nanoparticle for the use of such a cell labeling. To this end, we investigated the nanoparticle exocytosis behavior from PLX-PAD cells, a cell type currently in clinical trials as a potential therapeutic agent. We showed that the amount of exocytosed gold from the cells was influenced by the uptake time and loading amount. This observation will facilitate the safe labeling of cells with nanoparticles in the future and contribute to stem cell therapy research.
Autophagy-Associated Immunogenic Modulation and Its Applications in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Duan Zhuxi , Shi Yu , Lin Qun , Hamaï Ahmed , Mehrpour Maryam , Gong Chang
Published: July 2022

Autophagy, a lysosome-mediated cellular degradation pathway, recycles intracellular components to maintain metabolic balance and survival. Autophagy plays an important role in tumor immunotherapy as a “double-edged sword” that can both promote and inhibit tumor progression. Autophagy acts on innate and adaptive immunity and interacts with immune cells to modulate tumor immunotherapy. The discovery of autophagy inducers and autophagy inhibitors also provides new insights for clinical anti-tumor therapy. However, there are also difficulties in the application of autophagy-related regulators, such as low bioavailability and the lack of efficient selectivity. This review focuses on autophagy-related immunogenic regulation and its application in cancer therapy.
Photonic Sintering of Oxide Ceramic Films: Effect of Colored FexOy Nanoparticle Pigments
Authors: Gilshtein Evgeniia , Pfeiffer Stefan , Siegrist Severin , Vlnieska Vitor , Graule Thomas , Romanyuk Yaroslav E.
Published: July 2022

Alumina and zirconia thin films modified with colored nano-FexOy pigments were sintered by the flash-lamp-annealing method. We selected a nano α-Al2O3 and micron α-Al2O3 bimodal mixture as the base precursor material, and we doped it with 5 vol% of FexOy red/brown/black/yellow pigments. The coatings were deposited from nanoparticle dispersions both on glass and on flexible metal foil. The characteristics of the thin films obtained with the use of various additives were compared, including the surface morphologies, optical properties, crystallinities, and structures. Flash lamp annealing was applied with the maximum total energy density of 130 J/cm2 and an overall annealing time of 7 s. Based on the simulated temperature profiles and electron-microscopy results, a maximum annealing temperature of 1850 °C was reached for the red Al2O3: Fe2O3 ceramic film. The results show that red α-Fe2O3 pigments allow for the achievement of maximum layer absorption, which is effective for flash lamp sintering. It was also possible to use the selected red α-Fe2O3 particles for the flash-lamp-assisted sintering of ZrO2 on a 30 µm-thin flexible stainless-steel substrate.
Preterm Birth, Kidney Function and Cardiovascular Disease in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Chainoglou Athanasia , Chrysaidou Katerina , Kotsis Vasilios , Stabouli Stella
Published: July 2022

Over recent decades, there has been a global increase in preterm birth rate, which constitutes about 11% of total births worldwide. The present review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the long-term consequences of prematurity on renal and cardiovascular development and function. Recent literature supports that prematurity, intrauterine growth restriction or low birth weight (LBW) may have an adverse impact on the development of multiple organ systems, predisposing to chronic diseases in childhood and adulthood, such as arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease. According to human autopsy and epidemiological studies, children born preterm have a lower nephron number, decreased kidney size and, in some cases, affected renal function. The origin of hypertension in children and adults born preterm seems to be multifactorial as a result of alterations in renal, cardiac and vascular development and function. The majority of the studies report increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) in individuals born preterm compared to full term. The early prevention and detection of chronic non-communicable diseases, which start from childhood and track until adulthood in children with a history of prematurity or LBW, are important.
Topical Reappraisal of Molecular Pharmacological Approaches to Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus Angiopathy
Authors: Munteanu Constantin , Rotariu Mariana , Turnea Marius-Alexandru , Anghelescu Aurelian , Albadi Irina , Dogaru Gabriela , Silișteanu Sînziana Calina , Ionescu Elena Valentina , Firan Florentina Carmen , Ionescu Anca Mirela , Oprea Carmen , Onose Gelu
Published: July 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a frequent medical problem, affecting more than 4% of the population in most countries. In the context of diabetes, the vascular endothelium can play a crucial pathophysiological role. If a healthy endothelium—which is a dynamic endocrine organ with autocrine and paracrine activity—regulates vascular tone and permeability and assures a proper balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis, and vasodilation and vasoconstriction, then, in contrast, a dysfunctional endothelium has received increasing attention as a potential contributor to the pathogenesis of vascular disease in diabetes. Hyperglycemia is indicated to be the major causative factor in the development of endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, many shreds of evidence suggest that the progression of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes is parallel to the advancement of endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis. To present the state-of-the-art data regarding endothelial dysfunction in diabetic micro- and macroangiopathy, we constructed this literature review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). We interrogated five medical databases: Elsevier, PubMed, PMC, PEDro, and ISI Web of Science.
Study of the Evolution of the Residual Stresses in Thermal Barrier Coatings from Manufacturing to Its Operation Work
Authors: Yáñez-Contreras Pedro , León-Rodríguez Miguel , Santander-Bastida Francisco Javier , Medina-Flores José Martín , Jiménez-García José Alfredo , Ganados-Alejo Vignaud
Published: July 2022

Residual stresses’ magnitude generated by deposition, quenching stress, thermal stress operation temperature, and infiltration in the thermal barrier coating (TBC) of gas turbines was determined. A thermal barrier coating was manufactured by the deposition of two layers, CoNiCrAlY and yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), on an AISI 304 stainless steel substrate. The CoNiCrAlY was deposited by using an HVOF gun and the YSZ by an atmospheric plasma spray (APS). The TBCs were heat-treated at 1250 °C, with a CMAS (CaO, MgO, Al2O3, and SiO2) attack with a concentration of 10 mg/cm2 for 6 h in order to evaluate the evolution of the state of residual stresses in the coating at a high temperature. Residual stresses were determined by employing the modified layer removal method for duplex coatings (MLRMDC), ANSYS Version R19.2, and the equations proposed by Noda et al. In the YSZ, the total maximum residual stresses were 139 MPa in compression, and in the CoNiCrAlY, the maximum residual stress was 214 MPa in compression. The factor that has the largest effect on the magnitude of residual stresses was the infiltration of the CMAS in the YSZ.
Quasi-Bound States in the Continuum Enabled Strong Terahertz Chiroptical Response in Bilayer Metallic Metasurfaces
Authors: Hu Yaolin , Xie Suxia , Bai Chongjun , Shen Weiwei , Yang Jingcheng
Published: July 2022

Bound state in the continuum (BIC) as a novel non-radiating state of light in the continuum of propagating modes has received great attention in photonics. Recently, chiral BICs have been introduced in the terahertz regime. However, strong chiroptical effects of transmitted waves remain challenging to achieve in metallic terahertz metasurfaces, especially for intrinsic chirality at normal incidences. Here, we propose a chiral quasi-BIC by simultaneously breaking the out-of-plane mirror and in-plane C2 rotation symmetries in a bilayer metallic metasurface, in which spin-selective terahertz transmittance is successfully realized. Benefiting from the symmetry-protected nature of our proposed BIC, precise tuning of structural parameters can lead to anticipated chiroptical performance. As a degree of freedom, the rotation angle of the split ring gaps can fully determine the handedness, linewidth, and working frequency with strong circular dichroism. Besides, the sensing performance shows a surrounding refractive index sensitivity of 200 GHz/RIU, which is similar to those of previous works based on terahertz metasurfaces. Taking advantage exclusively of symmetry-protected BICs to realize transmitted terahertz chiroptical response provides fresh insights into the creation of novel BICs, which enables profound advancements in the surging field of novel terahertz devices.
Three-Dimensional, Km-Scale Hyperspectral Data of Well-Exposed Zn–Pb Mineralization at Black Angel Mountain, Greenland
Authors: Lorenz Sandra , Thiele Sam T. , Kirsch Moritz , Unger Gabriel , Zimmermann Robert , Guarnieri Pierpaolo , Baker Nigel , Sørensen Erik Vest , Rosa Diogo , Gloaguen Richard
Published: July 2022

Hyperspectral imaging is an innovative technology for non-invasive mapping, with increasing applications in many sectors. As with any novel technology, robust processing workflows are required to ensure a wide use. We present an open-source hypercloud dataset capturing the complex but spectacularly well exposed geology from the Black Angel Mountain in Maarmorilik, West Greenland, alongside a detailed and interactive tutorial documenting relevant processing workflows. This contribution relies on very recent progress made on the correction, interpretation and integration of hyperspectral data in earth sciences. The possibility to fuse hyperspectral scans with 3D point cloud representations (hyperclouds) has opened up new possibilities for the mapping of complex natural targets. Spectroscopic and machine learning tools allow or the rapid and accurate characterization of geological structures in a 3D environment. Potential users can use this exemplary dataset and the associated tools to train themselves or test new algorithms. As the data and the tools have a wide range of application, we expect this contribution to benefit the scientific community at large.
The Influence of Gd-EOB-DTPA on T2 Signal Behavior: An Example from Clinical Routine
Authors: Franceschi Paola , Pecorelli Anna , Golfieri Rita , Renzulli Matteo
Published: July 2022

In the literature, it has repeatedly been stated that the introduction of hepatospecific contrast agents in Magnetic Resonance Imaging prolongs the acquisition time due to the hepatobiliary phase, normally acquired 15–20 min after injection. Many efforts have been made to shorten the time-consuming protocols, and it was demonstrated that T2-Weighted Images (T2WI) and Diffusion-Weighted Images (DWI) acquired after Gd-EOB-DTPA show a comparable diagnostic capability to pre-contrast T2WI and DWI in the detection and characterization of hepatic tumors. Therefore, T2WI and DWI are usually acquired after the acquisition of vascular phases, in the dead time until the acquisition of the hepatobiliary phase. Unfortunately, contrast agents, especially Gd-EOB-DTPA, reduce the hydrogen nuclei’s relaxation time and modify signal intensity. We report a case in which, due to these limitations of the acquisition protocol, two hemangiomas showed an inhomogeneous, low signal on T2WI and DWI that was not visible in a follow-up scan a few days later. In conclusion, when liver lesions of unknown nature must be characterized, and there is a lack of previous radiological investigations, it could be useful to acquire pre-contrast T2WI and DWI to avoid diagnostic confusion, especially in non-tertiary centers.
Loading of the Spine in Low Back Pain Patients Does Not Induce MRI Changes in Modic Lesions: A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Hebelka Hanna , Brisby Helena , Erkmar Alfred , Lagerstrand Kerstin
Published: July 2022

Modic changes (MCs) are gaining increased interest as potential generators of low back pain (LBP). The current aim was to investigate possible spinal loading effects on the MRI signal in MCs in patients with LBP. Supine lumbar MRIs were performed and immediately repeated with axial loading in 100 LBP patients. A total of 43 patients (23 male, mean age 45.7 years) had MCs. Each Modic was outlined on all sagittal T2-weighted images (>25% affected vertebrae). For reference, regions of interest were placed in both vertebrae without Modic and in Modic-free tissue in vertebrae with Modic. The Modic signal intensity, normalized to cerebrospinal fluid, and Modic volume were compared between MRIs with and without spinal loading. Of the 94 MCs, 36.2% (n = 34) were type I, 58.5% (n = 55) were type II, and 5.3% (n = 5) were type III. No differences in Modic volume (mean 0.046 cm3; p = 0.25) between the MRIs with and without spinal loading were found. In addition, no significant changes in Modic signal were induced by loading (mean 1.5% difference; p = 0.308). Loading increased the signal in the reference regions of interest in vertebrae both with Modic (mean 5.5%; p = 0.002) and without (mean 3.5%; SD 0.09; p = 0.02). To conclude, MRIs performed with and without spinal loading showed no change in either volume or signal of MCs, suggesting that most MCs are not instantaneously influenced by biomechanical load.