bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solutions to Achieve High-Efficient and Clean Building HVAC Systems
Authors: Ebrahimi Pejman , Ridwana Iffat , Nassif Nabil
Published: May 2023

The building sector accounts for a substantial amount of energy consumption, resulting in higher carbon emissions and environmental impact worldwide. Electrification and energy efficiency in building systems can be the key to decarbonization in buildings. This research proposes new heating and cooling loops consisting of heat pumps to lower natural gas usage in building systems. Typical chillers and boilers in the cooling and heating loops are replaced with heat pumps to serve the loads and maintain thermal comfort in the building. In addition, a new optimal supply air temperature (SAT) reset strategy is also implemented with the proposed configuration for better system performance. A large multi-zone office building is simulated as a case study to measure the conventional system’s electricity and natural gas consumption and the proposed design. Even with heat pumps that use electricity as the energy source, electricity consumption is reduced by 3.3% to 11.8% in different climate zones for the proposed system. On the other hand, 10.2% to 67% lower natural gas is consumed when the proposed system and the optimal SAT reset are utilized. The carbon emission is also reduced by 10.8% to 38% compared to the conventional system. The results show that the proposed design and optimization strategy can lead to significant energy and cost savings in conjunction with lower carbon emissions.
Hot Water Generation for Domestic Use in Residential Buildings via PCM Integrated U-Tube Based Solar Thermal Collector: A 4-E Analysis
Authors: Pathak Sudhir Kumar , Tyagi V. V. , Chopra K. , Pandey A. K. , Sari Ahmet
Published: May 2023

In recent years, building energy consumption has increased every day due to population growth and an increased human desire for a healthy and pleasant lifestyle, and this is responsible for a crisis of energy shortages worldwide. Therefore, use of solar water heating (SWH) systems in buildings for hot water demand is the prime need of the hour to maintain sustainability. The novelty of this work was in developing a phase change material (stearic acid)-filled U-tube based evacuated tube solar collector (collector A). In addition, another collector B, left without energy storage material, was considered a reference unit for comparing the energy and exergy outputs. The study’s main aim was to examine the energy, exergy, enviro- and exergoeconomic analysis of newly developed water heating systems. The findings of study revealed that the maximum daily energy outputs of collector A were found to be 85.86% (simultaneous mode) and 84.27% (midday charging mode) at a high mass flow rate (0.5 LPM), and exergy outputs were 19.41% and 21.35%, respectively, at a low flow rate. The thermal output of collector A was higher than that of collector B. The per liter cost of hot water produced from collector A with PCMs was found to be INR 0.1261 and INR 0.1276, respectively, under both modes, which is less compared with the electric geyser (0.325 INR). The levelized energy cost, net present worth, and the payback time of the developed collector A obtained were 4.61 INR/kWh, INR 49710, and 4.49 years (simultaneous), and 4.67 INR/kWh, INR 48130, and 4.64 years (mid-day charging), respectively. Furthermore, the amount of CO2 mitigation from the energy and exergy perspective for collector A was found to be 24.30 and 23.76 tCO2/lifetime and 5.31, 5.58 tCO2/lifetime, respectively.
Hygrothermal Properties Analysis of Bamboo Building Envelope with Different Insulation Systems in Five Climate Zones
Authors: Li Hongping , Yang Shiyu , Zha Ziqiong , Fei Benhua , Wang Xiaohuan
Published: May 2023

Laminated bamboo lumber (BLL) and bamboo scrimber (BS) are potential environmentally friendly building materials, considering that they are hygroscopic materials and that their hygrothermal performance is closely related to the occupants’ comfort, their building durability, and building energy consumption. This study carried out material property tests on bamboo-based materials (BLL and BS) and analyzed hygrothermal performance simulations on bamboo exterior wall constructions in five major climatic zones using WUFI. Results show that BS had a greater heat storage capacity than BLL. However, BLL showed a relatively higher moisture sorption capacity, and BLL was more easily permeated by vapor than BS. The water content (WC) of 12 walls of BLL and BS was below 20%. BLL and BS met the requirements of the envelope, and the WC of BS was lower than that of BLL. Based on the results, the walls designed in this study are suitable for the corresponding climate zones. In the cold and severe climate zones especially, the external insulation system walls performed better than the internal insulation system. The external insulation system was recommended for these two climate zones. The design and simulation results of walls made of two types of bamboo-based materials provide a scientific basis for the application of the material.
Investigation of Bending Behaviors of GFRP-Strengthened Steel RHS Profiles with Experimental and Numerical Models
Authors: Boru Elif , Aydın Emine , Sadid Mohammad Saber
Published: May 2023

The contribution of GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer) fabric to the bending behavior of steel RHS (rectangular hollow section) beams was investigated by experimental and numerical studies. In the first part of the study, small-scale RHS profiles were strengthened with GFRP fabrics in ten different configurations in the experimental study. The bending behavior of the profiles was determined by three-point bending tests, and the best strengthening configuration was decided. The numerical models were verified with the experimental results. In the second part, real-size RHS beams were strengthened with the optimum strengthening configuration. In the results of the study, it was determined that the U-shaped strengthening provided the maximum contribution to the RHS beams bending behavior. The minimum GFRP size to be used in strengthening is important, as an insufficient GFRP length leads to GFRP failure, and the number of layers should be increased for more load capacity. A total of 25% of the net beam span was determined to be the minimum GRFP length. In full-size beams, a double-layer GFRP increased the maximum load-bearing capacity by 7%. Formulas were obtained to determine the contribution of single and double-layered U-shaped GFRP to the shape factors of the RHS. With the formulations, the plastic moment capacity can be determined.
Analysis of the Tower of Hercules, the World’s Oldest Extant Lighthouse
Authors: Elizalde Rubén Rodríguez
Published: May 2023

The Tower of Hercules is an icon of the city where it is located, A Coruña, and it is supposed to be the world’s only surviving Roman lighthouse. Its function continues today: it provided a warning to shipping in antiquity and continues to do so now, in the 21st century. Furthermore, it is a paradigmatic case of architectural intervention in an ancient monument: in the 18th century, the Spanish engineer Eustaquio Giannini restored the tower, applying scientific criteria and maintaining the authenticity of the monument. For all these reasons, the Tower of Hercules is an exceptional benchmark through which the development and evolution of the different signaling and navigation aid systems can be studied from the beginning of our era to the present day.
Persistent Homology-Based Machine Learning Method for Filtering and Classifying Mammographic Microcalcification Images in Early Cancer Detection
Authors: Malek Aminah Abdul , Alias Mohd Almie , Razak Fatimah Abdul , Noorani Mohd Salmi Md , Mahmud Rozi , Zulkepli Nur Fariha Syaqina
Published: May 2023

Microcalcifications in mammogram images are primary indicators for detecting the early stages of breast cancer. However, dense tissues and noise in the images make it challenging to classify the microcalcifications. Currently, preprocessing procedures such as noise removal techniques are applied directly on the images, which may produce a blurry effect and loss of image details. Further, most of the features used in classification models focus on local information of the images and are often burdened with details, resulting in data complexity. This research proposed a filtering and feature extraction technique using persistent homology (PH), a powerful mathematical tool used to study the structure of complex datasets and patterns. The filtering process is not performed directly on the image matrix but through the diagrams arising from PH. These diagrams will enable us to distinguish prominent characteristics of the image from noise. The filtered diagrams are then vectorised using PH features. Supervised machine learning models are trained on the MIAS and DDSM datasets to evaluate the extracted features’ efficacy in discriminating between benign and malignant classes and to obtain the optimal filtering level. This study reveals that appropriate PH filtering levels and features can improve classification accuracy in early cancer detection.
The Role of Hypoxia and Cancer Stem Cells in Development of Glioblastoma
Authors: Shi Tingyu , Zhu Jun , Zhang Xiang , Mao Xinggang
Published: May 2023

Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is recognized as the most malignant brain tumor with a high level of hypoxia, containing a small population of glioblastoma stem like cells (GSCs). These GSCs have the capacity of self-renewal, proliferation, invasion and recapitulating the parent tumor, and are major causes of radio-and chemoresistance of GBM. Upregulated expression of hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) in hypoxia fundamentally contributes to maintenance and progression of GSCs. Therefore, we thoroughly reviewed the currently acknowledged roles of hypoxia-associated GSCs in development of GBM. In detail, we recapitulated general features of GBM, especially GSC-related features, and delineated essential responses resulted from interactions between GSC and hypoxia, including hypoxia-induced signatures, genes and pathways, and hypoxia-regulated metabolic alterations. Five hypothesized GSC niches are discussed and integrated into one comprehensive concept: hypoxic peri-arteriolar niche of GSCs. Autophagy, another protective mechanism against chemotherapy, is also closely related to hypoxia and is a potential therapeutic target for GBM. In addition, potential causes of therapeutic resistance (chemo-, radio-, surgical-, immuno-), and chemotherapeutic agents which can improve the therapeutic effects of chemo-, radio-, or immunotherapy are introduced and discussed. At last, as a potential approach to reverse the hypoxic microenvironment in GBM, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) might be an adjuvant therapy to chemo-and radiotherapy after surgery. In conclusion, we focus on demonstrating the important role of hypoxia on development of GBM, especially by affecting the function of GSCs. Important advantages have been made to understand the complicated responses induced by hypoxia in GBM. Further exploration of targeting hypoxia and GSCs can help to develop novel therapeutic strategies to improve the survival of GBM patients.
The Effectiveness of the Combination of Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy for Biliary Tract Cancer: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Goto Takuma , Sato Hiroki , Fujibayashi Shugo , Okada Tetsuhiro , Hayashi Akihiro , Kawabata Hidemasa , Yuzawa Sayaka , Ishitoya Syunta , Yamashina Masaaki , Fujiya Mikihiro
Published: May 2023

The standard treatment of unresectable biliary tract cancer (BTC) has shown an insufficient response rate (RR). Our retrospective setting revealed that a combination therapy consisting of intra-arterial chemotherapy plus radiation therapy (IAC + RT) provided a high RR and long-term survival benefits in unresectable BTC. This prospective study aimed to test the effectiveness and safety of IAC + RT as the first-line therapy. The regimen included one-shot IAC with cisplatin, 3–6 months of reservoir IAC (5-FU and cisplatin, q/week), and 50.4 Gy of external radiation. The primary endpoints include the RR, disease control rate, and adverse event rate. This study included seven patients with unresectable BTC without distant metastasis, with five cases classified as stage 4. RT was completed in all cases, and the median number of reservoir IAC sessions was 16. The RR was 57.1% for imaging and 71.4% for clinical assessment, and the disease control rate was 100%, indicating a high antitumor efficacy, which allowed two cases to be transferred to surgery. Five cases of leukopenia and neutropenia; four cases of thrombocytopenia; and two cases of hemoglobin depletion, pancreatic enzyme elevation, and cholangitis were observed, but with no treatment-related deaths. This study revealed a very high antitumor effect with IAC + RT for some unresectable BTC, and it could be useful for conversion therapy.
A Retrospective Multi-Institutional Cohort Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes in Dedifferentiated Chondrosarcoma
Authors: Bui Nam , Dietz Hilary , Farag Sheima , Hirbe Angela C. , Wagner Michael J. , Van Tine Brian A. , Ganjoo Kristen , Jones Robin L. , Keedy Vicki L. , Davis Elizabeth J.
Published: May 2023

Background: Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma (DDCS) is a rare subset of chondrosarcoma. It is an aggressive neoplasm characterized by a high rate of recurrent and metastatic disease with overall poor outcomes. Systemic therapy is often used to treat DDCS; however, the optimal regimen and timing are not well defined, with current guidelines recommending following osteosarcoma protocols. Methods: We conducted a multi-institutional retrospective analysis of clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with DDCS. Between 1 January 2004 and 1 January 2022, the databases from five academic sarcoma centers were reviewed. Patient and tumor factors, including age, sex, tumor size, site, location, the treatments rendered, and survival outcomes, were collected. Results: Seventy-four patients were identified and included in the analysis. Most patients presented with localized disease. Surgical resection was the mainstay of therapy. Chemotherapy was used predominantly in the metastatic setting. Partial responses were low (n = 4; 9%) and occurred upon treatment with doxorubicin with cisplatin or ifosfamide and single-agent pembrolizumab. For all other regimens, stable disease was the best response. Prolonged stable disease occurred with the use of pazopanib and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Conclusions: DDCS has poor outcomes and conventional chemotherapy has limited benefit. Future studies should focus on defining the possible role of molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapy in the treatment of DDCS.
Potential Immunotherapy Targets for Liver-Directed Therapies, and the Current Scope of Immunotherapeutics for Liver-Related Malignancies
Authors: Charles Jonathan , Vrionis Andrea , Mansur Arian , Mathias Trevor , Shaikh Jamil , Ciner Aaron , Jiang Yixing , Nezami Nariman
Published: May 2023

Liver cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, is increasing in incidence and mortality across the globe. An improved understanding of the complex tumor microenvironment has opened many therapeutic doors and led to the development of novel pharmaceuticals targeting cellular signaling pathways or immune checkpoints. These interventions have significantly improved tumor control rates and patient outcomes, both in clinical trials and in real-world practice. Interventional radiologists play an important role in the multidisciplinary team given their expertise in minimally invasive locoregional therapy, as the bulk of these tumors are usually in the liver. The aim of this review is to highlight the immunological therapeutic targets for primary liver cancers, the available immune-based approaches, and the contributions that interventional radiology can provide in the care of these patients.
Performance and Safety of EUS Ablation Techniques for Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Papaefthymiou Apostolis , Johnson Gavin J. , Maida Marcello , Gkolfakis Paraskevas , Ramai Daryl , Facciorusso Antonio , Arvanitakis Marianna , Ney Alexander , Fusai Giuseppe K. , Saftoiu Adrian , Tabacelia Daniela , Phillpotts Simon , Chapman Michael H. , Webster George J. , Pereira Stephen P.
Published: May 2023

Background: Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCL) represent an increasingly diagnosed condition with significant burden to patients’ lives and medical resources. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) ablation techniques have been utilized to treat focal pancreatic lesions. This systematic review with meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy of EUS ablation on PCL in terms of complete or partial response and safety. Methods: A systematic search in Medline, Cochrane and Scopus databases was performed in April 2023 for studies assessing the performance of the various EUS ablation techniques. The primary outcome was complete cyst resolution, defined as cyst disappearance in follow-up imaging. Secondary outcomes included partial resolution (reduction in PCL size), and adverse events rate. A subgroup analysis was planned to evaluate the impact of the available ablation techniques (ethanol, ethanol/paclitaxel, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and lauromacrogol) on the results. Meta-analyses using a random effects model were conducted and the results were reported as percentages with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Results: Fifteen studies (840 patients) were eligible for analysis. Complete cyst resolution after EUS ablation was achieved in 44% of cases (95%CI: 31–57; 352/767; I2 = 93.7%), and the respective partial response rate was 30% (95%CI: 20–39; 206/767; I2 = 86.1%). Adverse events were recorded in 14% (95%CI: 8–20; 164/840; I2 = 87.2%) of cases, rated as mild in 10% (95%CI: 5–15; 128/840; I2 = 86.7%), and severe in 4% (95%CI: 3–5; 36/840; I2 = 0%). The subgroup analysis for the primary outcome revealed rates of 70% (95%CI: 64–76; I2 = 42.3%) for ethanol/paclitaxel, 44% (95%CI: 33–54; I2= 0%) for lauromacrogol, 32% (95%CI: 27–36; I2 = 88.4%) for ethanol, and 13% (95%CI: 4–22; I2 = 95.8%) for RFA. Considering adverse events, the ethanol-based subgroup rated the highest percentage (16%; 95%CI: 13–20; I2 = 91.0%). Conclusion: EUS ablation of pancreatic cysts provides acceptable rates of complete resolution and a low incidence of severe adverse events, with chemoablative agents yielding higher performance rates.
Computational Chemistry and Catalysis: Prediction and Design
Authors: Stiriba Salah-Eddine
Published: May 2023

The combination of computational chemistry and catalysis is an insightful approach that can be utilized to predict and design a catalyst, its function and the outcome of the catalytic chemical reaction that this catalyst activates in terms of activity, selectivity and applications. [...]
New Insights into Novel Catalysts for Treatment of Pollutants in Wastewater
Authors: Xu Hao , Liu Yanbiao
Published: May 2023

Water scarcity has become a worldwide problem [...]
Heterologous Expression of Inulinase Gene in Bacillus licheniformis 24 for 2,3-Butanediol Production from Inulin
Authors: Tsigoriyna Lidia , Arsov Alexander , Petrova Penka , Gergov Emanoel , Petrov Kaloyan
Published: May 2023

Inulin is a renewable and cheap carbon source used in microbial fermentations. Bacillus licheniformis 24 is known as an excellent 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BD) producer from fructose; therefore, the cloning and expression of a robust heterologous inulinase could enhance its 2,3-BD production from inulin. The inu gene of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei DSM 23505 encoding fructan-β-fructosidase (EC 3.2.1.80) was chosen for the purpose. PCR fragments containing the complete inu (3.6 kb) and its truncated variant inu-tr (2.2 kb, lacking Big3 cell wall attachment domains) were cloned into Escherichia coli StellarTM and B. licheniformis 24. The high quality of the recombinant constructs was confirmed by restriction analysis, PCR, sequencing, and phenotypic tests. The results showed that the inulinase activity of B. licheniformis cells harboring the full-length inu variant (T26) was eightfold higher compared to the wild type, retaining cell wall attachment in the B. licheniformis host. In contrast, the truncated variant inu-tr (T14) showed mostly extracellular but weak activity, thus suggesting that the Big3 domains are also important for the enzyme’s function. During flask-batch fermentation of 100 g/L raw chicory flour (containing 90% inulin), T26 produced acetoin and 2,3-BD from inulin. Contrariwise, T14 and the wild type formed products only from the mono- and disaccharides naturally found in the chicory flour. In the fermenter, from 200 g/L of raw chicory flour, the recombinant T26 degraded approximately 140 g/L of the inulin. However, the final concentrations of the produced 2,3-BD and acetoin were 18.5 g/L and 8.2 g/L, respectively, because of the accumulation of unconverted sucrose. To conclude, further strain improvement is necessary to make the process efficient for obtaining 2,3-BD from inulin by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF).
Structured Illumination Microscopy Improves Spot Detection Performance in Spatial Transcriptomics
Authors: Linares Alejandro , Brighi Carlo , Espinola Sergio , Bacchi Francesco , Crevenna Álvaro H.
Published: May 2023

Spatial biology is a rapidly growing research field that focuses on the transcriptomic or proteomic profiling of single cells within tissues with preserved spatial information. Imaging-based spatial transcriptomics uses epifluorescence microscopy, which has shown remarkable results for the identification of multiple targets in situ. Nonetheless, the number of genes that can be reliably visualized is limited by the diffraction of light. Here, we investigate the effect of structured illumination (SIM), a super-resolution microscopy approach, on the performance of single-gene transcript detection in spatial transcriptomics experiments. We performed direct mRNA-targeted hybridization in situ sequencing for multiple genes in mouse coronal brain tissue sections. We evaluated spot detection performance in widefield and confocal images versus those with SIM in combination with 20×, 25× and 60× objectives. In general, SIM increases the detection efficiency of gene transcript spots compared to widefield and confocal modes. For each case, the specific fold increase in localizations is dependent on gene transcript density and the numerical aperture of the objective used, which has been shown to play an important role, especially for densely clustered spots. Taken together, our results suggest that SIM has the capacity to improve spot detection and overall data quality in spatial transcriptomics.
The miR-183 Cluster: Biogenesis, Functions, and Cell Communication via Exosomes in Cancer
Authors: Li Shuhui , Meng Wei , Guo Ziyi , Liu Min , He Yanyun , Li Yanli , Ma Zhongliang
Published: May 2023

Cancer is one of the leading causes of human death. MicroRNAs have been found to be closely associated with cancer. The miR-183 cluster, comprising miR-183, miR-96, and miR-182, is transcribed as a polycistronic miRNA cluster. Importantly, in most cases, these clusters promote cancer development through different pathways. Exosomes, as extracellular vesicles, play an important role in cellular communication and the regulation of the tissue microenvironment. Interestingly, the miR-183 cluster can be detected in exosomes and plays a functional regulatory role in tumor development. Here, the biogenesis and functions of the miR-183 cluster in highly prevalent cancers and their relationship with other non-coding RNAs are summarized. In addition, the miR-183 cluster in exosomes has also been discussed. Finally, we discuss the miR-183 cluster as a promising target for cancer therapy. This review is expected to provide a new direction for cancer treatment.
Targeting Sarcopenia as an Objective Clinical Outcome in the Care of Children with Spinal Cord-Related Paralysis: A Clinician’s View
Authors: Sadowsky Cristina
Published: May 2023

Muscle loss is consistently associated with immobility and paralysis and triggers significant metabolic and functional changes. The negative effects of sarcopenia are amplified in children who are in the process of building their muscle mass as part of development. Because muscle mass loss is consistently associated with increased morbidity and mortality throughout life, optimizing the size and health of muscles following a neurologic injury is an objective target for therapeutic interventions. This review hypothesizes that muscle mass correlates with functional outcomes in children with paralysis related to spinal cord-related neurologic deficits. We propose that the measurement of muscle mass in this population can be used as an objective outcome for clinical long-term care. Finally, some practical clinical approaches to improving muscle mass are presented.
Preparation of UV Curable Optical Adhesive NOA81 Bionic Lotus Leaf Structure Films by Nanoimprint Technique and the Applications on Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Xuehua , Zhang Pei , Zhang Wei , Chen Jing , Hu Fangren
Published: May 2023

Front surface texturing is a common method used to improve the optical performance of photovoltaic devices. However, traditional texturing techniques may be challenging in some cases, such as when dealing with ultra-thin substrates. Textured polymer films on such devices would be an alternative approach. This paper reports a study of NOA81 thin films with a bionic lotus leaf surface structure on monocrystalline silicon solar cells. Inspired by the surface structure of natural lotus leaves, we successfully prepared a bionic lotus leaf microstructure film on the surface of solar cells based on NOA81 using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer and nanoimprinting methods. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that the surface structure of the NOA81 thin film was the same as that of natural lotus leaves. A UV-Vis spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere was used to measure the reflectance of the textured NOA81 film on the silicon wafer. Results showed that the textured NOA81 film could effectively reduce the reflectance of the silicon wafer surface. We also used finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation to verify this conclusion further. Finally, the I-V characteristics of the prepared solar cells with the textured NOA81 film were investigated, and the highest photovoltaic efficiency was measured to be about 16.07%, effectively improving the photoelectric conversion efficiency. In addition, the film with textured NOA81 can be used as a protective film for monocrystalline silicon solar cells.
Atomic Layer Deposition of La2O3 Film with Precursor La(thd)3-DMEA
Authors: Zhao Wenyong , Jiang Jie , Luo Yawen , Li Jiahao , Ding Yuqiang
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a new precursor La(thd)3-DMEA (thd = 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedione, DMEA = N,N′-dimethylethylenediamine) was synthesized and characterized with 1H-NMR and X-ray single crystal diffraction. The thermal properties of La(thd)3-DMEA were checked by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which confirmed that the volatility and suitability of La(thd)3-DMEA are suitable for atomic layer deposition (ALD). We studied the atomic layer deposition of La2O3 films on a SiO2 surface with La(thd)3-DMEA and O3 as precursors. Self-limiting deposition behaviors were found for the prepared films. The purity and surface morphology of the as-grown La2O3 films, which possessed a constant growth rate of ~0.4 Å/cycle at 250–280 °C, were confirmed by XPS, SEM, and AFM. The results show that La(thd)3-DMEA is a suitable precursor for the atomic layer deposition of La2O3 film.
Impact of Image Compression on In Vitro Cell Migration Analysis
Authors: Jalilian Ehsaneddin , Linortner Michael , Uhl Andreas
Published: May 2023

Collective cell movement is an indication of phenomena such as wound healing, embryonic morphogenesis, cancer invasion, and metastasis. Wound healing is a complicated cellular and biochemical procedure in which skin cells migrate from the wound boundaries into the wound area to reconstruct the injured skin layer(s). In vitro analysis of cell migration is an effective assay for measuring changes in cell migratory complement in response to experimental inspections. Open-source segmentation software (e.g., an ImageJ plug-in) is available to analyze images of in vitro scratch wound healing assays; however, often, these tools are error-prone when applied to, e.g., low-contrast, out-of-focus, and noisy images, and require manual tuning of various parameters, which is imprecise, tedious, and time-consuming. We propose two algorithmic methods (namely log gradient segmentation and entropy filter segmentation) for cell segmentation and the subsequent measurement of the collective cell migration in the corresponding microscopic imagery. We further investigate the effects of image compression on the algorithms’ measurement accuracy, applying lossy compression algorithms (the current ISO standards JPEG2000, JPEG, JPEG-XL and AV1, BPG, and WEBP). We aim to identify the most suitable compression algorithm that can be used for this purpose, relating rate–distortion performance as measured in terms of peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and the multiscale structural similarity index (MS-SSIM) to the segmentation accuracy obtained by the segmentation algorithms. The experimental results show that the log gradient segmentationalgorithm provides robust performance for segmenting the wound area, whereas the entropy filter segmentation algorithm is unstable for this purpose under certain circumstances. Additionally, the best-suited compression strategy is observed to be dependent on (i) the segmentation algorithm used and (ii) the actual data sequence being processed.
The Influence of Hydrothermal Temperature on Alumina Hydrate and Ammonioalunite Synthesis by Reaction Crystallization
Authors: Wang Junkai , Li Laishi , Wu Yusheng , Wang Yuzheng
Published: May 2023

With the rapid development of the alumina industry and the shortage of bauxite, high-alumina coal fly ash (HACFA) has attracted more and more attention as a potential alternative alumina resource. In order to extract alumina from HACFA with newly developed technology, the investigation of the crucial step, the reaction between NH4Al(SO4)2·12H2O and NH3·H2O, is necessary and valuable. Thermodynamic analyses have shown that four kinds of alumina hydrate (boehmite, diaspore, gibbsite, and bayerite) might be formed at 120–200 °C, and ammonioalunite might be formed at temperatures over 180 °C. A hydrothermal reaction crystallization method was applied to this reaction. The experimental results showed that boehmite (AlOOH) could be formed at 150 °C and 200 °C after 12 h and NH4Al3(SO4)2(OH)6, an unstable intermediate, is formed during the initial stage and transformed into boehmite, eventually. The higher temperature (200 °C) was more energetically favorable for the formation of NH4Al3(SO4)2(OH)6, and the crystallinity of the products was better. More importantly, the sheet-like structure of boehmite (AlOOH) could be formed at 150 °C after 24 h of reaction time. The SEM results proved that the sheet-like structures evolutionary process of boehmite.
Thermoelectric Properties of PbS Doped with Bi2S3 and Cu2S Prepared by Hydrothermal Synthesis and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Wang Wei , Xian Cong , Ou Yun , He Zhijian , Xie Shuhong
Published: May 2023

Hierarchical PbS powders doped with different contents of Bi2S3 and Cu2S were synthesized using the hydrothermal method. Subsequently, the powders were subjected to spark plasma sintering (SPS) for consolidation into bulk ceramics. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results showed that Bi2S3 and Cu2S were doped into PbS successfully. The effect of doping with different Bi2S3 and Cu2S contents on thermoelectric performance was investigated systematically. The results showed that pure PbS was an n-type semiconductor, and Bi2S3 doping or Bi2S3-Cu2S co-doping could decrease the thermal conductivity of PbS effectively. PbS doped with 1% Bi2S3 exhibited a moderate Seebeck coefficient, high electric conductivity, and low thermal conductivity simultaneously, thus attaining a maximum figure of merit ZT of 0.55 at 773 K. PbS doped with 1% Bi2S3-1% Cu2S exhibited an enhanced power factor and reduced thermal conductivity at an elevated temperature; the maximum ZT value obtained at 773 K was 0.83, which is more than twice that of pure PbS at 758 K (0.29), as a result.
Mechanochemically Synthesized Solid Solutions La1−xCexFeO3+x/2 for Activation of Peroxydisulfate in Catalytical Reaction for Tetracycline Degradation
Authors: Tsvetkov Martin , Encheva Elzhana , Petrova Stefani , Spassova Ivanka , Milanova Maria
Published: May 2023

The synthesis of orthoferrites of the type La1−xCexFeO3+x/2, x = 0.00, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, and 0.07, by applying a simple and effective mechanochemical transformation from the constituent oxides is presented. Physicochemical methods such as powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–Vis spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) adsorption were applied to gain information about the effect of Ce4+ content on the structural, textural, and optical properties of the samples. The catalytic activity of the samples for water decontamination was determined in a photo-Fenton-like activation of persulfate for removal of tetracycline hydrochloride as model pollutant. The presence of persulfate, PDS, considerably increased the removal efficiency under visible light illumination.
Vascular Normalization Caused by Short-Term Lenvatinib Could Enhance Transarterial Chemoembolization in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tachiiri Tetsuya , Nishiofuku Hideyuki , Maeda Shinsaku , Sato Takeshi , Toyoda Shohei , Matsumoto Takeshi , Chanoki Yuto , Minamiguchi Kiyoyuki , Taiji Ryosuke , Kunichika Hideki , Yamauchi Satoshi , Ito Takahiro , Marugami Nagaaki , Tanaka Toshihiro
Published: May 2023

We describe the clinical effects of short-term lenvatinib administration prior to conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE) on tumor vasculature. Two patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma underwent high-resolution digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and perfusion four-dimensional computed tomography during hepatic arteriography (4D-CTHA) before and after administration of lenvatinib treatment. The doses and periods of lenvatinib administration were, respectively, 12 mg/day for 7 days and 8 mg/day for 4 days. In both cases, high-resolution DSA revealed a decrease in dilatation and tortuosity of the tumor vessels. Furthermore, the tumor staining became more refined, and newly formed tiny tumor vessels were observed. Perfusion 4D-CTHA revealed a decrease in arterial blood flow to the tumor by 28.6% (from 487.9 to 139.5 mL/min/100 mg) and 42.5% (from 288.2 to 122.6 mL/min/100 mg) in the two cases, respectively. The cTACE procedure resulted in good lipiodol accumulation and complete response. Patients have remained recurrence-free for 12 and 11 months after the cTACE procedure, respectively. The administration of short-term lenvatinib in these two cases resulted in the normalization of tumor vessels, which likely led to improved lipiodol accumulation and a favorable antitumor effect.
General Overview and Diagnostic (Imaging) Techniques for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: Teijink Stijn B. J. , Pesser Niels , Goeteyn Jens , Barnhoorn Renée J. , van Sambeek Marc R. H. M. , van Nuenen Bart F. L. , Gelabert Hugh A. , Teijink Joep A. W.
Published: May 2023

Thoracic outlet syndrome is an uncommon and controversial syndrome. Three different diagnoses can be made based on the compressed structure, arterial TOS, venous TOS, and neurogenic TOS, though combinations do exist as well. Diagnosing NTOS is difficult since no specific objective diagnostic modalities exist. This has resulted in a lot of controversy in recent decades. NTOS remains a clinical diagnosis and is mostly diagnosed based on the exclusion of an extensive list of differential diagnoses. To guide the diagnosis and treatment of TOS, a group of experts published the reporting standards for TOS in 2016. However, a consensus was not reached regarding a blueprint for a daily care pathway in this document. Therefore, we constructed a care pathway based on the reporting standards for both the diagnosis and treatment of NTOS patients. This care pathway includes a multidisciplinary approach in which different diagnostic tests and additional imaging techniques are combined to diagnose NTOS or guide patients in their treatment for differential diagnoses. The aim of the present work is to discuss and explain the diagnostic part of this care pathway.
Lipid Keratopathy: Histopathology, Major Differential Diagnoses and The Importance of Clinical Correlation
Authors: Knez Nora , Walkenhorst Molly , Haeri Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Lipid keratopathy (LK) is a rare ophthalmological condition characterized by a progressive reduction in visual acuity caused by corneal opacification due to central lipid accumulation. LK is characterized by lipid deposits, cholesterol clefts, and neovascularization (NV) leading to disruption in corneal optical quality. LK classification includes a primary and secondary form which depend on pre-existing corneal or systemic disorders and the evidence of NV. Secondary LK is typically associated with a prior occurrence of herpetic infection, such as herpes zoster keratitis. Patients with LK usually present with progressive vision loss and dense cream-colored corneal opacification. Treatment modalities include conservative and surgical approaches focused on corneal NV elimination. When evaluating corneal lipidosis, it is crucial to consider a range of differential diagnoses, including corneal arcus, Schnyder corneal dystrophy, and other corneal deposit conditions. We report a case of a 62-year-old male with herpes zoster keratitis complicated with LK. He presented with painless progressive vision loss and corneal scarring, which raised suspicion about LK diagnosis. This paper emphasizes the importance of correlating clinical and histological findings for accurate LK diagnosis.
Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy of the Oral Mucosa: In Vivo Experimental Validation of the Precancerous Lesions Early Detection Possibility
Authors: Kolpakov Alexander V. , Moshkova Anastasia A. , Melikhova Ekaterina V. , Sokolova Diana Yu. , Muravskaya Natalia P. , Samorodov Andrey V. , Kopaneva Nina O. , Lukina Galina I. , Abramova Marina Ya. , Mamatsashvili Veta G. , Parshkov Vadim V.
Published: May 2023

This article is devoted to the experimental validation of the possibility of early detection of precancerous lesions in the oral mucosa in vivo using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy in the wavelength range from 360 to 1000 nm. During the study, a sample of 119 patients with precancerous lesions has been collected and analyzed. As a result of the analysis, the most informative wavelength ranges were determined, in which the maximum differences in the backscattering spectra of lesions and intact tissues were observed, methods for automatic classification of backscattering spectra of the oral mucosa were studied, sensitivity and specificity values, achievable using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy for detecting hyperkeratosis on the tongue ventrolateral mucosa surface and buccal mucosa, were evaluated. As a result of preliminary experimental studies in vivo, the possibility of automatic detection of precancerous lesions of the oral mucosa surface using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy in the wavelength range from 500 to 900 nm with an accuracy of at least 75 percent has been shown.
The Benefits and Challenges of the Multimodal Treatment in Advanced/Metastatic Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Stoian Alexandru-Rares , Rahnea-Nita Gabriela , Ciuhu Anda-Natalia , Gales Laurentia , Anghel Rodica-Maricela , Rebegea Laura-Florentina , Rahnea-Nita Roxana-Andreea , Andronache Liliana-Florina , Soare Ioana , Stoleriu Gabriela
Published: May 2023

Currently, the treatment of malignant melanoma offers the longest and the most studied experience of innovative treatments in malignant pathology. The algorithm of the therapeutic decision in advanced or metastatic melanoma must comprise: the timing of the therapeutic initiation, the sequencing of the specific oncological treatment (radiotherapy and chemotherapy still being therapeutic alternatives in selected cases), the diagnosis and the management of adverse reactions. We present the case of a patient diagnosed with metastatic malignant melanoma in November 2019, who progressed successively under new systemic treatment throughout the 3 years of treatment and experienced skin reactions of various degrees of severity. The comprehensive response to secondary hilar pulmonary lymphatic determinations under subsequent chemotherapy was specific to the presented case. The occurrence of vitiligo secondary to immunotherapy is a favorable prognostic factor, but the occurrence of secondary cerebral determinations is an extremely severe prognostic factor in malignant melanoma and a challenge in making the therapeutic decision. Previous treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors may trigger a favorable response to systemic chemotherapy. The early and accurate diagnosis of the adverse events of the new therapies requires a multidisciplinary approach, because it can radically change the therapeutic decision.
Evaluation of Two Configurations of Hydroxyapatite and Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate in Sinus Grafts with Simultaneous Implant Installation: An Experimental Study in Rabbits
Authors: Jacob Ricardo Garcia Mureb , Ervolino da Silva Ana Cláudia , Chaushu Liat , Lang Niklaus Peter , Borges Duailibe de Deus Ciro , Botticelli Daniele , Rangel Garcia Júnior Idelmo
Published: May 2023

Background: This study aimed to evaluate peri-implant bone formation in rabbits after sinus grafting mediated by hydroxyapatite and beta-tricalcium phosphate (HA + β-TCP) in granule or paste configurations, concomitant with immediate implant installation. Material & methods: Thirty-four rabbit maxillary sinuses were grafted with HA + β-TCP, half of which were applied in a granule and half in a paste composition. Implant placement was performed simultaneously. At 7 and 40 days postoperatively, the animals were euthanized, and samples were prepared for tomographic, microtomographic, histological, histometric (hematoxylin and eosin staining, HE), and immunohistochemical (labeling of transcription factor Runx-2 [RUNX2], vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], osteocalcin [OCN], and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase [TRAP]) analysis. Implant removal torque was also measured. Results: On tomography, maintenance of sinus membrane integrity was observed in both the groups. Higher values of morphometric parameters evaluated by micro-CT were found in the “paste group” after seven days. At 40 days, there were no significant differences between the groups in most of the microtomographic parameters evaluated. In histological sections stained with HE, a higher percentage of newly formed bone was observed in the “granule group” after 40 days. Similar positive immunolabeling was observed for both RUNX2 and OCN in both the experimental groups. TRAP immunolabeling was similar in both groups as well. VEGF labeling increased in the “granule group”, indicating a higher osteoconductive potential in this biomaterial. Similar removal torque values were observed in both groups. Thus, the two HA + β-TCP configurations showed similar healing patterns of simultaneously installed implants adjacent to sinus floor elevation. However, significantly higher bone values were observed for the “granule configuration”. Conclusions: The HA + β-TCP granules and paste presentations showed favorable long-term healing results, with bone formation in similar quantities and quality adjacent to the implants.
Fast and Secure Image Encryption Algorithm with Simultaneous Shuffling and Diffusion Based on a Time-Delayed Combinatorial Hyperchaos Map
Authors: Shen Yulin , Huang Jun , Chen Lingling , Wen Tao , Li Tangyan , Zhang Guidong
Published: May 2023

Adding time delay to nonlinear systems can significantly improve their performance, making it possible to construct image-encryption algorithms with higher security. In this paper, we propose a time-delayed nonlinear combinatorial hyperchaotic map (TD-NCHM) with a wide hyperchaotic interval. Based on TD-NCHM, we develop a fast and secure image-encryption algorithm that includes a plaintext-sensitive key-generation method and a simultaneous row-column shuffling-diffusion encryption process. Plenty of experiments and simulations demonstrate the superiority of the algorithm in terms of efficiency, security, and practical value in secure communications.
Qualifying Method-Centered Teaching Approaches through the Reflective Teaching Model for Reading Comprehension
Authors: Oo Tun Zaw , Habók Anita , Józsa Krisztián
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to qualify method-centered teaching approaches by investigating the effects of the reflective teaching model for reading comprehension (RTMRC) on ninth-grade students’ English reading comprehension achievement in Myanmar. Three kinds of method-centered teaching approaches, namely reciprocal teaching, interactive teaching, and questioning, were qualified, compared, and examined while using the RTMRC. A quasi-experimental research design was used. The participants included 458 ninth-grade students, five English teachers, and 10 peer observers. Pre- and post-tests, a student questionnaire, and an observation scheme were used to assess the effectiveness of the RTMRC over 15 weeks. Structural equation modeling, Rasch analysis, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), effect size (Cohen’s d), and various descriptive statistics revealed that the teachers’ reflections on the instructional context were very effective for student reading comprehension achievement, the students appreciated interactive teaching the most, students’ achievements for the literal, inferential, and evaluative comprehension questions were the highest, and the RTMRC was more effective than other traditional teaching methods. In essence, the RTMRC can assist English language teachers in improving their students’ reading comprehension.
Correction: Cho et al. A Proposed Waiting Time Algorithm for a Prediction and Prevention System of Traffic Accidents Using Smart Sensors. Electronics 2022, 11, 1765
Authors: Cho Seongsoo , Shrestha Bhanu , Salah Bashir , Ullah Inam , Salem Nermin M.
Published: May 2023

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [...]
Blue-Hazard-Free Organic Light-Emitting Diode with a Lifetime Greater than 200,000 h
Authors: Jou Jwo-Huei , Lin Wen-Jun , Shih Sheng-Hsu , Wang Yi-Siang , Sahoo Snehasis , Singh Meenu , Tsai Yung-Cheng , Wen Shih-Wen
Published: May 2023

Blue-hazard-free lighting is in urgent need in order to protect human eyes and physiology. A candlelight-style organic light emitting diode (OLED) is so far the safest measure for its blue-hazard-free, low-color-temperature illumination. However, lifetime is still the most critical reliability issue in OLEDs, especially in lighting applications that are closely associated with high current density operation. Here, we present a novel approach to develop blue-hazard-free OLEDs with a lifetime exceeding 200,000 h at 1000 cd/m2 by employing a tandem structure with ultra-high purity emitter. The resultant device shows a current efficacy of 37.4 cd/A, an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 22.7%, an 80 CRI, and a 78 SRI with a 223,500 h lifetime (t50). Additionally, the resultant device also exhibits a long retina exposure duration of 12,300 s (3.42 h) and suppresses very less melatonin generation (1.7%), demonstrating that the fabricated OLED device is a highly prospective general lighting source to safeguard human health.