bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformative Approaches for Sustainable Weed Management: The Power of Gene Drive and CRISPR-Cas9
Authors: Kumam Yaiphabi , Trick Harold N , Vara Prasad P.V. , Jugulam Mithila
Published: December 2023

Weeds can negatively impact crop yields and the ecosystem’s health. While many weed management strategies have been developed and deployed, there is a greater need for the development of sustainable methods for employing integrated weed management. Gene drive systems can be used as one of the approaches to suppress the aggressive growth and reproductive behavior of weeds, although their efficacy is yet to be tested. Their popularity in insect pest management has increased, however, with the advent of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, which provides specificity and precision in editing the target gene. This review focuses on the different types of gene drive systems, including the use of CRISPR-Cas9-based systems and their success stories in pest management, while also exploring their possible applications in weed species. Factors that govern the success of a gene drive system in weeds, including the mode of reproduction, the availability of weed genome databases, and well-established transformation protocols are also discussed. Importantly, the risks associated with the release of weed populations with gene drive-bearing alleles into wild populations are also examined, along with the importance of addressing ecological consequences and ethical concerns.
Integrated Multi-Model Approach for Assessing Groundwater Vulnerability in Rajasthan’s Semi-Arid Zone: Incorporating DRASTIC and SINTACS Variants
Authors: Narisetty Nadha Gowrish , Tripathi Gaurav , Kanga Shruti , Singh Suraj Kumar , Meraj Gowhar , Kumar Pankaj , Đurin Bojan , Matijević Hrvoje
Published: December 2023

Groundwater pollution in Rajasthan, India, poses significant challenges due to the region’s heavy reliance on this resource for drinking and irrigation. Given the increasing water scarcity and overexploitation, this study assesses the susceptibility of groundwater pollution in this semi-arid area. We applied and compared vulnerability mapping methods, DRASTIC and SINTACS, and their modified versions. These methodologies considered various geological and environmental factors such as depth-to-water table, recharge, aquifer conductivity, soil, and topography. The modified versions also integrated land use and temperature data for enhanced sensitivity. Validation was achieved by comparing contaminant data from the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), India, focusing on primary contaminants such as fluoride, nitrate, chloride, and total dissolved solids (TDS). The results strongly align with the modified methodologies and observed groundwater ion values. Specifically, more than half of the 300 sample points analyzed indicated TDS values exceeding the permissible 300 ppm limit, with over 80 points surpassing 500 ppm. The vulnerability was classified into the following five categories: very low; low; medium; high; and very high. Notably, 30.53% of the area displayed “very high” vulnerability under the modified DRASTIC model. Districts like Jalore, Pali, Sirohi, and Jodhpur emerged as highly vulnerable zones, while areas within Udaipur, Kota, and Jaipur, among others, showed very high vulnerability. This research highlights the importance of conducting groundwater vulnerability assessments, especially for regions grappling with water scarcity like Rajasthan. The findings from this research are pivotal in guiding sustainable ground water resource management, as well as advocating continual monitoring and effective groundwater conservation strategies in the region.
M2-Macrophage-Induced Chronic Inflammation Promotes Reversible Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Senescence and Reduces Their Anti-Fibrotic Properties
Authors: Dyachkova Uliana , Vigovskiy Maksim , Basalova Nataliya , Efimenko Anastasia , Grigorieva Olga
Published: December 2023

Fibrosis and the associated decline in organ functionality lead to an almost 50% mortality rate in developed countries. Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) were shown to suppress the development and progression of fibrosis through secreted factors including specific non-coding RNAs transferred within extracellular vesicles (EV). However, age-associated chronic inflammation can provoke MSC senescence and change secretome composition, thereby affecting their antifibrotic properties. Alternatively activated macrophages (M2-type) are key players in chronic inflammation that may interact with MSC through paracrine mechanisms and decrease their antifibrotic functions. To confirm this hypothesis, we evaluated the M2-macrophage conditioned medium (CM-M2) effect on human adipose-tissue-derived MSC senescence in vitro. We found that CM-M2, as well as a pro-senescence agent, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), increased p21+–MSC number and secretion of IL-6 and MCP-1, which are considered main senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) components. Thus, both exposures led to the senescent phenotype acquisition of MSC. EV from both CM-M2 and H2O2-exposed MSC, which showed a decreased effect on the suppression of TGFβ-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation compared to EV from control MSC according to αSMA level and the αSMA+–stress fiber reduction. After two weeks of subsequent cultivation under standard conditions, MSC demonstrated a decrease in senescence hallmarks and fibroblast differentiation suppression via EV. These results suggest that M2-macrophage-induced chronic inflammation can reversibly induce MSC senescence, which reduces the MSC’s ability to inhibit fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation.
Examining the Potential of Vitamin C Supplementation in Tissue-Engineered Equine Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon Constructs
Authors: Mienaltowski Michael J. , Callahan Mitchell , Gonzales Nicole L. , Wong Angelique
Published: December 2023

Because equine tendinopathies are slow to heal and often recur, therapeutic strategies are being considered that aid tendon repair. Given the success of utilizing vitamin C to promote tenogenesis in other species, we hypothesized that vitamin C supplementation would produce dose-dependent improvements in the tenogenic properties of tendon proper (TP) and peritenon (PERI) cells of the equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT). Equine TP- and PERI-progenitor-cell-seeded fibrin three-dimensional constructs were supplemented with four concentrations of vitamin C. The gene expression profiles of the constructs were assessed with 3′-Tag-Seq and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR); collagen content and fibril ultrastructure were also analyzed. Moreover, cells were challenged with dexamethasone to determine the levels of cytoprotection afforded by vitamin C. Expression profiling demonstrated that vitamin C had an anti-inflammatory effect on TP and PERI cell constructs. Moreover, vitamin C supplementation mitigated the degenerative pathways seen in tendinopathy and increased collagen content in tendon constructs. When challenged with dexamethasone in two-dimensional culture, vitamin C had a cytoprotective effect for TP cells but not necessarily for PERI cells. Future studies will explore the effects of vitamin C on these cells during inflammation and within the tendon niche in vivo.
Enhancement of Radiation Sensitivity by Cathepsin L Suppression in Colon Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Abdelaziz Ramadan F. , Hussein Ahmed M. , Kotob Mohamed H. , Weiss Christina , Chelminski Krzysztof , Stojanovic Tamara , Studenik Christian R. , Aufy Mohammed
Published: December 2023

Cancer is one of the main causes of death globally. Radiotherapy/Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the most common and effective cancer treatments. RT utilizes high-energy radiation to damage the DNA of cancer cells, leading to their death or impairing their proliferation. However, radiation resistance remains a significant challenge in cancer treatment, limiting its efficacy. Emerging evidence suggests that cathepsin L (cath L) contributes to radiation resistance through multiple mechanisms. In this study, we investigated the role of cath L, a member of the cysteine cathepsins (caths) in radiation sensitivity, and the potential reduction in radiation resistance by using the specific cath L inhibitor (Z-FY(tBu)DMK) or by knocking out cath L with CRISPR/Cas9 in colon carcinoma cells (caco-2). Cells were treated with different doses of radiation (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10), dose rate 3 Gy/min. In addition, the study conducted protein expression analysis by western blot and immunofluorescence assay, cytotoxicity MTT, and apoptosis assays. The results demonstrated that cath L was upregulated in response to radiation treatment, compared to non-irradiated cells. In addition, inhibiting or knocking out cath L led to increased radiosensitivity in contrast to the negative control group. This may indicate a reduced ability of cancer cells to recover from radiation-induced DNA damage, resulting in enhanced cell death. These findings highlight the possibility of targeting cath L as a therapeutic strategy to enhance the effectiveness of RT. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and to assess the translational implications of cath L knockout in clinical settings. Ultimately, these findings may contribute to the development of novel treatment approaches for improving outcomes of RT in cancer patients.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) Growth-Regulating Factor (GRF) Transcription Factors
Authors: Lu Jianyu , Wang Zhenhui , Li Jinxi , Zhao Qian , Qi Fan , Wang Fu , Xiaoyang Chunxiao , Tan Guofei , Wu Hanlu , Deyholos Michael K. , Wang Ningning , Liu Yingnan , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2023

Flax is an important cash crop globally with a variety of commercial uses. It has been widely used for fiber, oil, nutrition, feed and in composite materials. Growth regulatory factor (GRF) is a transcription factor family unique to plants, and is involved in regulating many processes of growth and development. Bioinformatics analysis of the GRF family in flax predicted 17 LuGRF genes, which all contained the characteristic QLQ and WRC domains. Equally, 15 of 17 LuGRFs (88%) are predicted to be regulated by lus-miR396 miRNA. Phylogenetic analysis of GRFs from flax and several other well-characterized species defined five clades; LuGRF genes were found in four clades. Most LuGRF gene promoters contained cis-regulatory elements known to be responsive to hormones and stress. The chromosomal locations and collinearity of LuGRF genes were also analyzed. The three-dimensional structure of LuGRF proteins was predicted using homology modeling. The transcript expression data indicated that most LuGRF family members were highly expressed in flax fruit and embryos, whereas LuGRF3, LuGRF12 and LuGRF16 were enriched in response to salt stress. Real-time quantitative fluorescent PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that both LuGRF1 and LuGRF11 were up-regulated under ABA and MeJA stimuli, indicating that these genes were involved in defense. LuGRF1 was demonstrated to be localized to the nucleus as expected for a transcription factor. These results provide a basis for further exploration of the molecular mechanism of LuGRF gene function and obtaining improved flax breeding lines.
Quantitative Association between Computed-Tomography-Based L1 Skeletal Muscle Indices and Major Adverse Clinical Events Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Park Eun Jin , Park So Yeon , Kang Jaeho , Chu Wonsang , Kang Dong Oh
Published: December 2023

Sarcopenia is as a non-traditional risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Further investigation is required to elucidate the prognostic significance of computed tomography (CT)-based sarcopenia assessment in coronary artery disease (CAD). We prospectively enrolled 475 patients, who underwent coronary stent implantation and peri-procedural CT scans within one month. Skeletal muscle index (SMI) was assessed cross-sectionally at the first lumbar vertebra (L1) level. The participants were grouped based on sex-specific L1 SMI quartiles. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality, and the secondary composite endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) over a 3-year follow-up period. Three-year all-cause mortality and MACE incidence increased significantly in patients in the lower L1 SMI quartiles compared to those of patients in the higher quartiles (p < 0.001). The individual composite endpoints consistently showed a higher incidence in the lower quartiles of L1 SMI (p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, the lower L1 SMI quartiles independently predicted 3-year all-cause mortality and MACEs (lowest vs. highest quartiles, respectively: OR 4.90 (95% CI 1.54–15.5), p = 0.007; and OR 12.3 (95% CI 4.99–30.4), p < 0.001). In conclusion, CT-based L1 SMI demonstrated a distinct dose-dependent relationship with future MACEs in CAD patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, thereby enhancing cardiovascular risk stratification.
The Association of Dry Eye Disease with Functional Visual Acuity and Quality of Life
Authors: Tan Lydia Hui-Peng , Tong Louis
Published: December 2023

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is a common chronic condition with increasing prevalence. Standard discriminative visual acuity is not reflective of real-world visual function, as patients can achieve normal acuities by blinking. Methods: Participants recruited from a tertiary referral eye centre were divided into two groups—Severe DED (with significant, central staining) and Mild DED (absence of such staining). Functional Visual Acuity (FVA) in both groups was assessed using the DryeyeKT mobile application and Impact of Vision Impairment (IVI) questionnaire to assess quality of life (QOL). Results: Among the 78 participants (74.4% women), 30 (38.5%) had Severe DED and 48 (61.5%) Mild DED. In women, Severe DED produced a significantly worse FVA of 0.53 ± 0.20 vs. 0.73 ± 0.30 in the Mild DED group (p = 0.006). FVA decreased with increasing age, showing a significant inverse correlation (r = −0.55). A poorer FVA ≤ 0.6 was seen in older patients (68.2 years ± 7.68) vs. an FVA > 0.6 in younger patients (58.9 years ± 10.7), p < 0.001. When adjusting for age, FVA was still 0.107 lower in the Severe DED group, p = 0.003. There was significant difficulty in performing specific daily activities in the Severe DED group, after adjusting for age, gender and FVA. Conclusions: FVA is reduced in severe DED and older people. Severe DED significantly impacts certain aspects of QOL. However, no significant relationship was found between FVA and QOL. FVA is not the only reason for the compromise of health-related QOL in severe dry eye.
Recent Advances and Future Challenges in Pancreatic Cancer Care: Early Detection, Liquid Biopsies, Precision Medicine and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Daamen Lois A. , Molenaar I. Quintus , Groot Vincent P.
Published: December 2023

The incidence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is rising. While surgical techniques and peri-operative care have improved, the overall survival for PDAC remains poor. Thus, novel and bold research initiatives are needed along the spectrum of clinical care, a few of which will be discussed in this article. Early detection is crucial, with specific high-risk groups possibly benefiting from targeted screening programs. Liquid biopsies (such as circulating exosomes, tumor DNA, or tumor cells) offer promise as multifunctional biomarkers for early detection, treatment guidance, and recurrence monitoring. Precision medicine is being explored via targeted therapies for actionable mutations, such as PARP inhibitors for BRCA mutations, and immunotherapy strategies. Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool in medical imaging, biomarker discovery, genetics research, and treatment planning, and it can aid in diagnosis, treatment selection, and patient monitoring. However, its associated challenges include ethics, data security, algorithm reliability, and validation. Collaborative efforts between medical professionals, researchers, and AI experts are vital for unlocking AI’s potential to enhance pancreatic cancer care. In conclusion, despite the challenges, advancements in liquid biopsies, precision medicine, and AI offer hope for enhancing the diagnosis, treatment, and management of pancreatic cancer.
The Emerging Role of Visible Light in Melanocyte Biology and Skin Pigmentary Disorders: Friend or Foe?
Authors: He Xuanxuan , Jin Shanglin , Dai Xiaoxi , Chen Li , Xiang Leihong , Zhang Chengfeng
Published: December 2023

Electromagnetic radiation, notably visible light (VL), has complicated effects on human skin, particularly pigmentation, which have been largely overlooked. In this review, we discuss the photobiological mechanisms, pathological effects, clinical applications and therapeutic strategies of VL at varying wavelengths on melanocyte biology and skin pigmentary disorders. Different VL wavelengths may impose positive or negative effects, depending on their interactions with specific chromophores, photoaging, ROS production, circadian rhythm and other photon-mediated reactions. Further in vivo and in vitro studies are required to establish the pathologic mechanisms and application principles of VL in pigmentary disorders, as well as optimal photoprotection with coverage against VL wavelengths.
Effects of Multidisciplinary Biopsychosocial Rehabilitation on Short-Term Pain and Disability in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review with Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jurak Ivan , Delaš Kristina , Erjavec Lana , Stare Janez , Locatelli Igor
Published: December 2023

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a significant public health issue, with prevalence intensifying due to an ageing global population, amassing approximately 619 million cases in 2020 and projected to escalate to 843 million by 2050. In this study, we analyzed the effects of multidisciplinary biopsychosocial rehabilitation (MBR) on pain and disability. To address this question, we conducted a PRISMA-guided systematic review and random-effect network meta-analysis on studies collected from six electronic databases. The network comprised diverse MBR modalities (behavioral, educational, and work conditioning) alongside exercise therapy (ET), minimal intervention, and usual care, with pain and disability as outcomes. Ninety-three studies were included, encompassing a total of 8059 participants. The NMA substantiated that both ET and MBR modalities were effective in alleviating CLBP, with education-oriented MBR emerging as the most efficacious for pain mitigation (MD = 18.29; 95% CI = 13.70; 22.89) and behavior-focused MBR being the most efficacious for disability reduction (SMD = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.46; 1.30). Nevertheless, the discerned differences amongst the treatments were minimal and uncertain, highlighting that no modality was definitively superior to the others. Given the intricate nature of CLBP, embodying various facets, our findings advocate for a combined therapeutic approach to optimize treatment efficacy.
Selected Exogenous (Occupational and Environmental) Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases in Military and Aviation
Authors: Maculewicz Ewelina , Pabin Agata , Dziuda Łukasz , Białek Małgorzata , Białek Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders of heart and blood vessels which are the leading cause of death globally. They are also a very important cause of military unsuitability especially among military pilots. Some of the risk factors cannot be modified, but a large group of them can be modified by introducing healthy habits or behaviors, such as regular physical activity, quitting of tobacco smoking, cessation of harmful alcohol consumption, or stress avoidance. Specific occupational and environmental factors, such as acceleration, pressure changes, hypoxia, thermal stress, noise, vibration, prolonged sedentary posture, difficulties in moving the limbs, shifts, work shift irregularities, circadian dysrhythmia, variations in the microclimate, motion sickness, radiation, toxicological threats, occupational stress, emotional tension, highly demanding tasks especially during take-off and landing, predominance of intellectual over physical activity, and forced operation speed against time shortage are considered as characteristic for military personnel, especially military aircrews. They are of special concern as some of them are considered as potential CVD risk factors. The aim of this study was to discuss the influence of selected occupational and environmental factors (noise, altitude, hypoxia, acceleration forces, tobacco smoking, oral health, and stress) regarding their importance for CVD risk in military professionals and military aviators. The performed revision confirmed that they are exposed to certain characteristic conditions, which may influence the CVD risk but the number of solid scientific data regarding this subject are limited. There is a great need to perform complex studies on environmental and occupational risk factors for CVDs in military personnel and military aviators as well as how to minimize their influence to prolong the state of health and military suitability of this professional groups.
What Should We Know about Drug Levels and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding in Inflammatory Bowel Disease under Biologic Therapy?
Authors: Barrau Mathilde , Roblin Xavier , Andromaque Leslie , Rozieres Aurore , Faure Mathias , Paul Stéphane , Nancey Stéphane
Published: December 2023

Data on the real long-term influences of in utero drug exposure in pregnant women on childhood development are scarce and remain not well determined and depend on the duration of in utero drug exposure and maternal drug levels. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) during pregnancy may help limit fetal drug exposure while maintaining an effective dose for the treatment of the underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in women. Most antibody therapies used in patients with IBD are IgG molecules which are actively transported across the placenta, especially during the third trimester of the pregnancy. Here, we propose an up-to-date clinical review to summarize the available findings of serum drug levels in maternal blood during pregnancy, in the cord blood, infants at delivery and in breast milk of patients with IBD treated with biologics. Conversely, in comparison to adalimumab (ADA) levels, which are relatively stable during pregnancy, infliximab (IFX) drug clearance decreased significantly during the last two trimesters of the pregnancy, leading to increasing drug concentrations in the blood of the pregnant women. As most guidelines recommend using live vaccines in infants at the age of one or earlier in case of negative serum drug levels in newborns, statistical models could help clinicians in making a decision to adjust the last dose of the biologic during pregnancy and to determine the optimal date to vaccinate. Altogether, data from the literature offers strong reassurance in terms of safety for anti-TNFα therapies during pregnancy not only for IBD patients who intend to conceive, but also for pregnant women and for the physicians taking care of these patients. ADA and IFX levels in breast milk are detectable, but at very low levels, and therefore, it is recommended to pursue breast feeding under anti-TNFα therapy. Our knowledge on ustekinumab or vedolizumab levels in pregnant women remains unclear and scarce. These drugs are currently not recommended for patients with IBD in clinical practice. Therefore, TDM and proactive dose adjustment are not necessary during pregnancy since its impact on making a clinical decision have not yet been clearly demonstrated in routine practice. Overall, drug concentrations in the cord blood, an infant at birth and postpartum serum concentrations in infants, due to active placental drug transfer, may have a greater impact than the limited drug transfer in breast milk during lactation on the risk of infection and developmental outcomes. Ustekinumab and vedolizumab exposure during pregnancy and lactation are both considered low risk by the recent ECCO guidelines despite the limited data that are currently available.
Comparison of Fibrinogen Concentrate and Cryoprecipitate on Major Thromboembolic Events after Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kim Jae-Hwan , Kim Kyoung-Sun , Kwon Hye-Mee , Kim Sung-Hoon , Jun In-Gu , Song Jun-Gol , Hwang Gyu-Sam
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Liver transplantation (LT) is associated with significant hemorrhage and massive transfusions. Fibrinogen replacement has a key role in treating massive bleeding during LT and hypofibrinogenemia is treated by fibrinogen concentrate or cryoprecipitate. However, these two products are known to be associated with major thromboembolism events (MTEs). We aimed to compare the effect of fibrinogen concentrate and cryoprecipitate on MTEs in living donor LT (LDLT) recipients. (2) Methods: We analyzed 206 patients who underwent LDLT between January 2021 and March 2022. The patients were divided into two groups according to fibrinogen concentrate or cryoprecipitate use. We compared the incidence of MTEs between the two groups. In addition, we performed multiple logistic regression analyses to identify the risk factors for MTEs. (3) Results: There was no significant difference in the incidence of MTEs (16 [14.7%] vs. 14 [14.4%], p = 1.000) between the cryoprecipitate group and fibrinogen concentrate group. In the multivariate analysis, cryoprecipitate (OR 2.09, 95%CI 0.85–5.11, p = 0.107) and fibrinogen concentrate (OR 2.05, 95%CI 0.82–5.12, p = 0.126) were not significantly associated with MTEs. (4) Conclusions: there was no significant difference in the incidence of MTEs between cryoprecipitate and fibrinogen concentrate in LDLT recipients.
Clinical Correlates of Incidental Probable Benign Pulmonary Nodules with Diameters Less than 8 mm in a Healthy Korean Cohort: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jung Young Ju , Kim Hwajung , Kim Youngmee , Cho Won-Kyung
Published: December 2023

Incidental pulmonary nodules detected via computed tomography (CT) are usually small, solid nodules (diameters less than 8 mm) that are likely benign and are difficult to biopsy. Additional features of the benignity of these small nodules may help determine the need and periodicity of further follow-up and should be identified. This study was conducted to examine the clinical factors associated with benign solid pulmonary nodules measuring less than 8 mm in diameter. This retrospective study enrolled participants who underwent low-dose chest CT scans for 3 consecutive years during routine health check-ups at a university hospital in Korea. We chose a 2-year study period to ensure that the nodule(s) were benign, which meant there was no interval change over this period. Participants were stratified into two groups: no nodule (n = 56) and nodule(s) (n = 355). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to explore associations (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI], p-value) between variables and nodule(s). In this study cohort, elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were positively associated factors with the presence of benign pulmonary nodule(s) (aOR: 1.10, 95% CI:1.00–1.20, p = 0.0488), whereas current cigarette smoking was negatively associated with nodules (aOR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.08–0.81, p = 0.0202). Therefore, an elevated LDL cholesterol level was the only factor that was positively associated with the presence of benign small pulmonary nodules.
Assessing Electrode Characteristics in Continuous Resistance Spot Welding of BH 340 Steel Based on Dynamic Resistance
Authors: Zhao Dawei , Vdonin Nikita , Slobodyan Mikhail , Butsykin Sergei , Kiselev Alexey , Gordynets Anton
Published: December 2023

The aim of this investigation is to offer a data-based scheme for predicting electrode wear in resistance spot welding. One of the major factors affecting the mechanical properties of spot welds and the variation in weld quality is electrode wear and alloying. In this study, Rogowski coils and twisted pairs attached to the top and bottom electrodes were used to obtain the welding current and the voltage between the electrodes in the welding process, thereby calculating the dynamic resistance value during the welding process. The electrode tip diameter was obtained from the pressure exerted by the upper and lower electrodes on the carbon paper when the current was cut off and was regarded as an indicator of electrode wear. By continuously welding 0.5 mm thick BH 340 steel plates until the electrode failed, the dynamic resistance signal was recorded in real time. Simultaneously, the electrode diameter after every several welds was also recorded. On this basis, the correlation between electrode tip diameter and dynamic resistance is studied. In order to quantitatively study the mapping relationship between dynamic resistance and electrode wear, 10 characteristic values were extracted from the dynamic resistance, and the stepwise regression method was used to obtain the regression formula between the characteristic values and the electrode tip diameter. Using new data to verify the effectiveness of the regression model, the acquired results display that the maximum error between the predicted value of the electrode tip diameter and the measured value obtained by the regression equation with the interactive quadratic term is 0.3 mm, and the corresponding relative error is 7.69%. When welding with a new pair of electrodes, the maximum absolute error was 0.72 mm, and the relative error of the model prediction is within 20% according to the linear regression model with interaction terms. This indicates that this regression model is barely satisfactory for monitoring electrode condition.
Innovating Personalized Nephrology Care: Exploring the Potential Utilization of ChatGPT
Authors: Miao Jing , Thongprayoon Charat , Suppadungsuk Supawadee , Garcia Valencia Oscar A. , Qureshi Fawad , Cheungpasitporn Wisit
Published: December 2023

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly machine learning, has brought substantial progress to the field of nephrology, enabling significant improvements in the management of kidney diseases. ChatGPT, a revolutionary language model developed by OpenAI, is a versatile AI model designed to engage in meaningful and informative conversations. Its applications in healthcare have been notable, with demonstrated proficiency in various medical knowledge assessments. However, ChatGPT’s performance varies across different medical subfields, posing challenges in nephrology-related queries. At present, comprehensive reviews regarding ChatGPT’s potential applications in nephrology remain lacking despite the surge of interest in its role in various domains. This article seeks to fill this gap by presenting an overview of the integration of ChatGPT in nephrology. It discusses the potential benefits of ChatGPT in nephrology, encompassing dataset management, diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient communication and education, as well as medical research and education. It also explores ethical and legal concerns regarding the utilization of AI in medical practice. The continuous development of AI models like ChatGPT holds promise for the healthcare realm but also underscores the necessity of thorough evaluation and validation before implementing AI in real-world medical scenarios. This review serves as a valuable resource for nephrologists and healthcare professionals interested in fully utilizing the potential of AI in innovating personalized nephrology care.
Vascularized versus Free Nerve Grafts: An Experimental Study on Rats
Authors: Giglia Giuseppe , Rosatti Fernando , Giannone Antonino Giulio , Gambino Giuditta , Zizzo Maria Grazia , Florena Ada Maria , Sardo Pierangelo , Toia Francesca
Published: December 2023

Background: Vascularized nerve grafts (VNGs) have been proposed as a superior alternative to free nerve grafts (FNGs) for complex nerve defects. A greater regenerative potential has been suggested by clinical and experimental studies, but conclusive evidence is still lacking. Methods: In this experimental study, 10 adult male Wistar rats received a non-vascularized orthotopic sciatic nerve graft on their right side, and a vascularized orthotopic sciatic nerve graft nerve on their left side. Functional outcome following nerve regeneration was evaluated through electrodiagnostic studies, target muscles weight and histomorphology, and data of VNGs and FNGs were compared. Results: The results of this study showed a significant difference in the motor unit number of Gastrocnemius Medialis (GM) estimated by MUNE in the VNG side compared to the FNG side. No other significant differences in axonal regeneration and muscle reinnervation were evident at either electrodiagnostic, histomorphology studies or muscle weight. Conclusions: This experimental model showed slight differences in nerve regeneration between VNGs and FNGs, but cannot support a high clinical advantage for VNGs. The results of this study show that VNGs are not strongly superior to FNGs in the rat model, even in avascular beds. Clinical advantages of VNGs are likely to be limited to extensive and thick nerve defects and can only be assessed on experimental model with bigger animals. Also, we showed that the MUNE technique provided a reliable and reproducible evaluation of functional outcomes in the rat sciatic nerve and defined a reproducible protocol for functional evaluation of muscle reinnervation.
Assessing Quality of Life and Walkability for Urban Regeneration: The Piave Neighbourhood in Mestre-Venice
Authors: Micelli Ezio , Giliberto Giulia
Published: December 2023

Urban regeneration works on the tangible and intangible assets of a city or part of a city. The research aimed at formulating an assessment methodology that allows for the simultaneous consideration of the tangible and intangible aspects that constitute the qualities of a part of a city. The theoretical frame of reference identifies conceptual frameworks to guide the assessment. Quality of life (QOL) and walkability (W) are chosen as the intangible and tangible dimensions, respectively. The methodology designed had to take summary variables into account for tangible elements. Similarly, walkability was summarised in complex variables carried over to observable and measurable variables. Finally, the QOL and W variables are considered in their dialectical and dynamic relationship. The statistical tools used to assess quality of life and walkability were different. The assessment of QOL and walkability was carried out using the tool of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), which can estimate latent variables from observed variables. The interaction between the variables was investigated using structural equation modelling (SEM). The sample surveyed to investigate the quality of the Piave neighbourhood, in the mainland part of the city of Venice, consists of 169 people. The results of the models highlight the relevance of the method used, given the satisfactory statistical indexes obtained. The results are also relevant from an empirical point of view. The study highlights the fact that the significant quality of the space that ensures high levels of accessibility is far from being matched by the quality of social relations, deemed problematic by the majority of those interviewed.
Effect of rh-BMP-2 in the Initiation of Neovascularization in Human Gingival Tissue: A Split-Mouth Clinical Study
Authors: Chantiri Mansour , Nammour Samir , El Toum Sami , Zeinoun Toni
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect on the initiation of new blood vessel formation of rh-BMP-2 administration in the human gingival tissue during bone regeneration surgery. Material and Methods: The randomized controlled clinical trial included twenty patients with bilateral partial edentulous of the mandibular premolar and molar region. Each patient received one implants on each side. Only one side received a 0.25 µg injection of rhBMP-2 into the gingival flap and grafted material during guided bone regeneration (GBR) for dental implantation. And the other side received GBR without injection. Three samples were collected from each patient as follows: one from the anterior area of the mandible (control group #1) collected at the time of all implant surgeries, and the two other samples during the placement of healing abutments at 4 months of follow-up, from treated side with rh-BMP-2 (test group) and untreated ones (control group #2). A total of 60 gingival samples were collected. Samples were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, and immunohistochemistry was performed with a vascular endothelial growth factor marker. The number of new vessels in each sample was counted. Result: Statistical analyses showed a significantly higher number of new vessels in the gingival tissue of the test group. Conclusions: Rh-BMP-2 injections into the gingival flap significantly improved new blood vessel formation.
Predicting Wear under Boundary Lubrication: A Decisive Statistical Study
Authors: Goerlach Bernd , Holweger Walter , Kitirach Lalita , Fliege Joerg
Published: December 2023

The forthcoming revolution in mobility and the use of lubricants to ensure ecological friendliness intensifies the pressure on tribology for predictors in new life cycles, mainly addressing wear. The current paper aims to obtain such predictors by studying how the wear processes that occur in a standard FE8 bearing test rig under thin film lubrication are conducted by the properties of the lubricant rather than simple viscosity parameters. Assuming that the activity of a lubricant with respect to the temperature, surface, and chemicals is a matter of its chemical potential, the results show that the nature of the base oil is a key parameter, apart from the chemical structure of the additives. Moreover, it becomes clear that chemical predictors are changing by altering the conditions they are exposed to. As an important result, the lubricant is effective in the prevention of wear if it has the capacity to uptake and transmit electrical charges due to its polarisability during a wear process.
Radiation Curing of Phosphorus Telomer-Based Coatings Using UV LEDs or Medium-Pressure Mercury Lamp
Authors: Kraśkiewicz Agata , Kowalczyk Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

In the presented study, UV LEDs (365 nm) or a medium-pressure mercury lamp (UV-ABC) were verified as UV radiation sources initiating the photocrosslinking process of varnishes based on novel photopolymerizable phosphorus (meth)acrylate oligomers. Coating formulations were composed of (meth)acrylic/styrene telomers with terminal P-atoms (prepared via a UV phototelomerization process) and different photoinitiators (HAPs, APOs, or APO blends). The kinetics of the UV crosslinking process of the coating formulations depending on UV irradiation and the UV range was investigated by the photo-DSC method. Moreover, the hardness of the varnishes and the conversion of double bonds using the FTIR method were tested. The photopolymerization rate and the photoinitiation index, depending on the type of photoinitiator, were as follows: APOs < APO blends < HAPs. However, the highest coating hardness results were obtained using the least reactive photoinitiator from the APO group, i.e., Omnirad TPOL, or a mixture of three different types of acylphosphine (Omnirad BL 750). The greater effectiveness of the above-mentioned APOs over HAP was also demonstrated when using a UV LED lamp at 365 nm with a low UV dose and UV irradiance, thanks to the presence of phosphoric acid diester in the coating composition, acting as both a telogen and an antioxidant.
Magnetic and Electrical Properties of CuCr2Se4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Malicka Ewa , Groń Tadeusz , Gudwański Adrian , Sawicki Bogdan , Oboz Monika , Karolus Małgorzata , Kukuła Zenon
Published: December 2023

CuCr2Se4 nanoparticles were obtained by the high-energy ball milling of CuCr2Se4 single crystals, which had a size of approximately 32 nm after 5 h of milling. Structural, magnetic, and electrical studies have shown that a reduction in CuCr2Se4 single crystals to the nanosize leads to (1) a weakening of ferromagnetic interactions, both long and short range, (2) a lack of saturation of magnetization at 5 K and 70 kOe, (3) a change in the nature of electrical conductivity from metallic to semiconductor, and (4) a reduction in the thermoelectric power factor S2σ by an order of magnitude of 400 K. The above results were considered in terms of the parameters of the band model, derived from the high-temperature expansion of magnetic susceptibility and from the diffusive component of thermoelectric power. Theoretical calculations showed a significant weakening of both the superexchange and double exchange mechanisms, a reduction in the [Cr3+,Cr4+] band width from 0.76 to 0.19 eV, and comparable values of the Fermi energy and the activation energy (0.46 eV) in the intrinsic region of electrical conductivity. The main advantage of high-energy ball milling is the ability to modify the physicochemical properties of already existing compounds for desired applications.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Displacement Cascades in BCC-Fe: Effects of Dislocation, Dislocation Loop and Grain Boundary
Authors: Lin Pandong , Cui Shugang , Nie Junfeng , He Lei , Cui Wendong
Published: December 2023

The interactions between displacement cascades and three types of structures, dislocations, dislocation loops and grain boundaries, in BCC-Fe are investigated through molecular dynamics simulations. Wigner–Seitz analysis is used to calculate the number of point defects induced in order to illustrate the effects of three special structures on the displacement cascade. The displacement cascades in systems interacting with all three types of structure tend to generate more total defects compared to bulk Fe. The surviving number of point defects in the grain boundary case is the largest of the three types of structures. The changes in the atomic structures of dislocations, dislocation loops and grain boundaries after displacement cascades are analyzed to understand how irradiation damage affects them. These results could reveal irradiation damage at the microscale. Varied defect production numbers and efficiencies are investigated, which could be used as the input parameters for higher scale simulation.
Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM) Model for the Damage Mechanisms Present in Joints Bonded Using Adhesives Doped with Inorganic Fillers
Authors: Santos João P. J. R. , Correia Daniel S. , Marques Eduardo A. S. , Carbas Ricardo J. C. , Gilbert Frida , da Silva Lucas F. M.
Published: December 2023

The use of adhesive bonding in diverse industries such as the automotive and aerospace sectors has grown considerably. In structural construction, adhesive joints provide a unique combination of low structural weight, high strength and stiffness, combined with a relatively simple and easily automated manufacturing method, characteristics that are ideal for the development of modern and highly efficient vehicles. In these applications, ensuring that the failure mode of a bonded joint is cohesive rather than adhesive is important since this failure mode is more controlled and easier to model and to predict. This work presents a numerical technique that enables the precise prediction of the bonded joint’s behavior regarding not only its failure mode, but also the joint’s strength, when inorganic fillers are added to the adhesive. To that end, hollow glass particles were introduced into an epoxy adhesive in different amounts, and a numerical study was carried out to simulate their influence on single lap joint specimens. The numerical results were compared against experimental ones, not only in terms of joint strength, but also their failure pattern. The neat adhesive, which showed 9% and 20% variations in terms of failure load and displacement, respectively. However, looking at the doped configurations, these presented smaller variations of about 2% and 10% for each respective variable. In all cases, by adding glass beads, crack initiation tended to change from adhesive to cohesive but with lower strength and ductility, correctly modeling the general experimental behavior as intended.
Influence of Typical Technological Parameters on the Forming Quality of TA1 in Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Chen Congyan , Zhou Tao , Huang Wei , Wang Wentong
Published: December 2023

As an emerging additive manufacturing technology with potential, selective laser melting (SLM) technology is one of the current mainstream additive manufacturing processes. Many complex conditions affect the quality of the SLM products, such as extremely short forming time, rapidly changing forming environment, and micron-level melting area. Numerical simulation and a printing experiment were used to study the influence of typical technological parameters on the forming quality of SLM products, where TA1 was used as the printing material. The typical technological parameters mainly considered laser power, laser scanning speed, hatch spacing, and laser energy density. Simulation analysis was based on the maximum temperature and the size of the molten pool, and the printing experiment was focused on the parameter design methods for typical processes and the forming quality of printed products. The results show the following: (1) An increase in laser power and laser energy density can significantly improve the forming quality. However, excessive input energy will lead to poor surface quality; (2) Scanning speed and hatch spacing need to be selected according to the size of the molten pool, which mainly influences the lap rate of the molten pool. The results of this study may provide some guidance for parameter setting and forming quality optimization in SLM manufacturing process.
The Effect of Lu3+ Doping on the Structural Stability and Luminescence Performances of Gd3Al5O12:Dy Phosphors
Authors: Qian Huiyu , Sun Zhigang , Liang Tuanjie , Wang Mengyao , Lu Bin , Chen Hongbing , Jiang Linwen
Published: December 2023

Transparent ceramics (Gd0.975−xLuxDy0.025)3Al5O12 (x = 0.2, 0.5, 0.975) are fabricated by vacuum sintering with the transmittance of ~60% at 583 nm. The doping of Lu3+ was beneficial to stabilize the garnet phase, and the best doping concentration was 20 at.%. All three (Gd, Lu)3Al5O12:Dy ceramics display typical Dy3+ emission, originating from 4F9/2 → 6HJ (J = 15/2, 13/2, 11/2) transition. Temperature-dependent luminescence spectra from 303.15 K to 603.15 K prove that the (Gd, Lu)3Al5O12:Dy ceramics had good thermal stability and could be an ideal yellow-emitting candidate in light-emitting diodes. The luminous efficiency of the encapsulated white LED lamp was found to be ~87.9 lm/W when the injection current was 600 mA. The transparent (Gd, Lu)3Al5O12:Dy ceramics show great application potential in various optical systems especially in the fields of luminescence and display.
Effect of Hf Dopant on Resistance to CO Toxicity on ZrCo(110) Surface for H Adsorption
Authors: Kong Xianggang , Pan Rongjian , Kharchenko Dmitrii O. , Wu Lu
Published: December 2023

Co-adsorption of multi-components in ZrCo-based hydrogen storage materials can lead to a number of synergistic effects, such as the modification of adsorption sites, and further worsen the hydrogen storage capability. In this work, we explore the co-adsorption of H and CO on the ZrCo(110) surface and find that the molecular CO can be adsorbed on the clean alloy surface and thus decrease the hydrogen storage ability of the alloy. Moreover, CO occupies the adsorption site of H and therefore prevents the adsorption and diffusion into the interior of the lattice. Fortunately, the Hf dopant reduces the number of adsorption sites of the CO molecule and inhibits the formation of carbides to a certain extent. In addition, the partial density of states (PDOS) result shows that there is almost no interaction between the s orbital of H and the s orbital of Co on the pure surface of pre-adsorbed CO, while on the Hf-doped surface of pre-adsorbed CO, the s orbital of H overlapped greatly with the s orbital of Co, indicating that Hf doping inhibits CO toxicity in the interaction between H and the surface. Hence, the doping of Hf has the effect of giving resistance to CO toxicity and is conducive to the adsorption of H.