bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Resveratrol Treatment Mitigates Joint Degeneration and Dampens Pain in a Mouse Model of Pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH)
Authors: Hecht Jacqueline , Veerisetty Alka , Patra Debabrata , Hossain Mohammad , Chiu Frankie , Mobed Claire , Gannon Francis , Posey Karen
Published: October 2023

Pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH), a severe dwarfing condition associated with early-onset joint degeneration and lifelong joint pain, is caused by mutations in cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP). The mechanisms underlying the mutant-COMP pathology have been defined using the MT-COMP mouse model of PSACH that has the common D469del mutation. Mutant-COMP protein does not fold properly, and it is retained in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER) of chondrocytes rather than being exported to the extracellular matrix (ECM), driving ER stress that stimulates oxidative stress and inflammation, driving a self-perpetuating cycle. CHOP (ER stress signaling protein) and TNFα inflammation drive high levels of mTORC1 signaling, shutting down autophagy and blocking ER clearance, resulting in premature loss of chondrocytes that negatively impacts linear growth and causes early joint degeneration in MT-COMP mice and PSACH. Previously, we have shown that resveratrol treatment from birth to 20 weeks prevents joint degeneration and decreases the pathological processes in articular chondrocytes. Resveratrol’s therapeutic mechanism of action in the mutant-COMP pathology was shown to act by primarily stimulating autophagy and reducing inflammation. Importantly, we demonstrated that MT-COMP mice experience pain consistent with PSACH joint pain. Here, we show, in the MT-COMP mouse, that resveratrol treatment must begin within 4 weeks to preserve joint health and reduce pain. Resveratrol treatment started at 6 or 8 weeks (to 20 weeks) was not effective in preventing joint degeneration. Collectively, our findings in MT-COMP mice show that there is a postnatal resveratrol treatment window wherein the inevitable mutant-COMP joint degeneration and pain can be prevented.
Navigating the ERK1/2 MAPK Cascade
Authors: Martin-Vega Ana , Cobb Melanie H.
Published: October 2023

The RAS-ERK pathway is a fundamental signaling cascade crucial for many biological processes including proliferation, cell cycle control, growth, and survival; common across all cell types. Notably, ERK1/2 are implicated in specific processes in a context-dependent manner as in stem cells and pancreatic β-cells. Alterations in the different components of this cascade result in dysregulation of the effector kinases ERK1/2 which communicate with hundreds of substrates. Aberrant activation of the pathway contributes to a range of disorders, including cancer. This review provides an overview of the structure, activation, regulation, and mutational frequency of the different tiers of the cascade; with a particular focus on ERK1/2. We highlight the importance of scaffold proteins that contribute to kinase localization and coordinate interaction dynamics of the kinases with substrates, activators, and inhibitors. Additionally, we explore innovative therapeutic approaches emphasizing promising avenues in this field.
RT-RPA-PfAgo System: A Rapid, Sensitive, and Specific Multiplex Detection Method for Rice-Infecting Viruses
Authors: Liu Yan , Xia Wenqiang , Zhao Wei , Hao Peiying , Wang Zhengliang , Yu Xiaoping , Shentu Xuping , Sun Kai
Published: October 2023

The advancement in CRISPR-Cas biosensors has transmuted the detection of plant viruses owing to their rapid and higher sensitivity. However, false positives and restricted multiplexing capabilities are still the challenges faced by this technology, demanding the exploration of novel methodologies. In this study, a novel detection system was developed by integrating reverse transcriptome (RT) techniques with recombinase polymerase isothermal amplification (RPA) and Pyrococcus furiosus Argonaute (PfAgo). The RT-RPA-PfAgo system enabled the simultaneous detection of rice ragged stunt virus (RRSV), rice grassy stunt virus (RGSV), and rice black streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV). Identifying targets via guide DNA without being hindered by protospacer adjacent motif sequences is the inherent merit of PfAgo, with the additional advantage of it being simple, cost-effective, and exceptionally sensitive, with detection limits between 3.13 and 5.13 copies/µL, in addition to it effectively differentiating between the three distinct viruses. The field evaluations were also in accordance with RT-PCR methods. The RT-RPA-PfAgo system proved to be a robust, versatile, highly specific, and sensitive method with great potential for practicality in future plant virus diagnostics.
Serotonin Transporter mRNA Expression Is Reduced in the Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Subjects with Major Depression but Normal in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Villanueva-Charbonneau Gaël , Potvin Stéphane , Marchand Serge , McIntyre Alexander , McIntosh Diane , Bissonnette Alain , Gendron Alain , Giguère Charles-Édouard , Koué Marie-Ève , Kouassi Édouard
Published: October 2023

Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) and major depression disorder (MDD) frequently co-occur. Both disorders may share common serotonergic alterations, although there is less evidence of such alterations in FM. It is also unclear as to whether these alterations are persistent over time or transient. The objectives of this study were to (i) examine the changes in mRNA expression of serotonin transporter (SERT) on the surface of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in FM, MDD, and the FM + MDD subjects compared to healthy controls, and to (ii) evaluate the effect of drug treatment on SERT expression. Methods: PBMCs were isolated from FM, MDD, FM + MDD, and control subjects. SERT expression was analyzed at the mRNA level via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Statistical analyses were performed using analyses of variance and linear mixed-effects models. Results: SERT mRNA expression was significantly reduced in MDD subjects compared to controls (p < 0.001), but not in FM nor in FM + MDD subjects. Although the drug treatments improved symptoms in FM, MDD, and FM + MDD subjects, they had no significant effect on SERT mRNA expression. Conclusions: These results corroborate the role of the SERT in the pathophysiology of MDD, but not in FM, and show that the decreased mRNA expression of SERT is a persistent, rather than transient, phenomenon.
Managing Safety Risks from Overlapping Construction Activities: A BIM Approach
Authors: Rashidi Nasab Armin , Malekitabar Hassan , Elzarka Hazem , Nekouvaght Tak Ala , Ghorab Khashayar
Published: October 2023

Addressing safety risks in construction is an ongoing priority, and integrating safety considerations into construction scheduling is a crucial aspect of this effort. A notable challenge is the safety risk posed by concurrent tasks, which has received limited attention in prior research. This study aims to address this research gap by introducing a novel Building Information Modeling (BIM)-based model that assesses the increased hazardousness resulting from overlapping construction activities. Historically, research has predominantly focused on individual task safety, with less emphasis on the risks associated with overlapping activities. Our innovative approach introduces the concept of a ‘source–target’ match, which evaluates the degree of hazardousness escalation when activities overlap. Drawing on data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) fatal accident reports, we extracted 11 hazardous and 9 susceptibility attributes to build a source–target match table. This table reveals the characteristics of activities that generate hazardous conflicts when overlapping. The key contribution of this research is the assessment, prioritization, and visualization of risk levels in a BIM environment. This framework empowers safety managers to proactively address safety risks resulting from overlapping construction activities, ultimately reducing accidents in the construction industry. By shedding light on this overlooked aspect of construction safety, our research highlights the importance of integrating safety considerations into construction scheduling and provides a practical tool for mitigating risks, enhancing workplace safety, and ultimately improving project outcomes.
Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Modified NiCo2S4 for the Efficient Photocatalytic Reduction of Hexavalent Chromium
Authors: Jin Qiu , Zheng Ziye , Feng Yuxiao , Tian Shuang , He Zuoli
Published: October 2023

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) compounds are considered to be occupational carcinogens, which can be transferred from the environment to the human body and pose a significant threat to human health. It is particularly urgent to explore a more efficient catalyst for removing Cr(VI) to comply with discharge standards. The addition of CNTs enables the separation and transfer of photogenerated charges. Thus, we synthesized a range of NiCo2S4 hybrid materials with different multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) contents using a two-step hydrothermal method. The composites had significant advantages compared to pure NiCo2S4, such as an enhanced visible light absorption, increased specific surface area, high electron–hole pair separation, and fast electron transport. Thus, MWCNT addition enabled efficient photocatalytic performances in terms of reducing hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). Among all the composite samples, the MWCNT/NiCo2S4 with 0.050 g of MWCNTs achieved the highest efficiency in reducing Cr(VI) under light irradiation, which showed a removal rate close to 100% within 40 min. Such CNT-based composite photocatalysts could be used to reduce the highly toxic Cr(VI) in environmental applications.
Pancreatic Cancer Health Disparity: Pharmacologic Anthropology
Authors: Wall Nathan R. , Fuller Ryan N. , Morcos Ann , De Leon Marino
Published: October 2023

Pancreatic cancer (PCa) remains a formidable global health challenge, with high mortality rates and limited treatment options. While advancements in pharmacology have led to improved outcomes for various cancers, PCa continues to exhibit significant health disparities, disproportionately affecting certain populations. This paper explores the intersection of pharmacology and anthropology in understanding the health disparities associated with PCa. By considering the socio-cultural, economic, and behavioral factors that influence the development, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of PCa, pharmacologic anthropology provides a comprehensive framework to address these disparities and improve patient care.
The Prediction of Biological Features Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: van der Hulst Hedda J. , Jansen Robin W. , Vens Conchita , Bos Paula , Schats Winnie , de Jong Marcus C. , Martens Roland M. , Bodalal Zuhir , Beets-Tan Regina G. H. , van den Brekel Michiel W. M. , de Graaf Pim , Castelijns Jonas A.
Published: October 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an indispensable, routine technique that provides morphological and functional imaging sequences. MRI can potentially capture tumor biology and allow for longitudinal evaluation of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the ability of MRI to predict tumor biology in primary HNSCC. Studies were screened, selected, and assessed for quality using appropriate tools according to the PRISMA criteria. Fifty-eight articles were analyzed, examining the relationship between (functional) MRI parameters and biological features and genetics. Most studies focused on HPV status associations, revealing that HPV-positive tumors consistently exhibited lower ADCmean (SMD: 0.82; p < 0.001) and ADCminimum (SMD: 0.56; p < 0.001) values. On average, lower ADCmean values are associated with high Ki-67 levels, linking this diffusion restriction to high cellularity. Several perfusion parameters of the vascular compartment were significantly associated with HIF-1α. Analysis of other biological factors (VEGF, EGFR, tumor cell count, p53, and MVD) yielded inconclusive results. Larger datasets with homogenous acquisition are required to develop and test radiomic-based prediction models capable of capturing different aspects of the underlying tumor biology. Overall, our study shows that rapid and non-invasive characterization of tumor biology via MRI is feasible and could enhance clinical outcome predictions and personalized patient management for HNSCC.
The Synthesis of a Pt/SAPO-11 Composite with Trace Pt Loading and Its Catalytic Application in n-Heptane Hydroisomerization
Authors: Jiang Zhen , Chen Liduo , Cui Yanhong , Gao Huijie , Zhou Yisi , Zhang Wei , Suo Yanhua , Wang Yingjun
Published: October 2023

n-Alkane hydroisomerization over bifunctional catalysts is an effective approach for clean fuel production. However, achieving metal–acid synergy and enhancing the catalytic performance by the preparation of bifunctional catalysts with suitable proximity between the metal sites and Brønsted acid sites are still challenging. In this work, a series of Pt/SAPO-11 catalysts with different Pt loading applied in n-heptane hydroisomerization was synthesized. SAPO-11 was synthesized by the Instant Exactness Synthesis (IES) method, which, with unique morphology and pore structure, was chosen as support for the hydroisomerization catalysts; Pt/SAPO-11 was synthesized with the impregnation method, Pt nanoclusters with trace loading were fabricated over the SAPO-11 support, and the as-synthesized catalysts with different Pt loading were labeled as xPt/SAPO-11 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8 and 1.0). Various characterizations, including XRD, nitrogen adsorption–desorption, SEM, TEM, NH3-TPD and XPS, were carried out on catalysts to obtain deep insights into the microstructure and valence states of xPt/SAPO-11. The catalytic performance of xPt/SAPO-11, including catalytic selectivity and conversion, was investigated in the n-heptane hydroisomerization in detail. Pt loading affected the catalytic properties of xPt/SAPO-11 in the hydroisomerization of n-heptane. The selectivity of 0.5Pt/SAPO-11 toward isomers was about 65% with a conversion of 77% at 310 °C, which was obviously higher than other xPt/SAPO-11 catalysts.
Clinical Approaches for Mitochondrial Diseases
Authors: Hong Seongho , Kim Sanghun , Kim Kyoungmi , Lee Hyunji
Published: October 2023

Mitochondria are subcontractors dedicated to energy production within cells. In human mitochondria, almost all mitochondrial proteins originate from the nucleus, except for 13 subunit proteins that make up the crucial system required to perform ‘oxidative phosphorylation (OX PHOS)’, which are expressed by the mitochondria’s self-contained DNA. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) also encodes 2 rRNA and 22 tRNA species. Mitochondrial DNA replicates almost autonomously, independent of the nucleus, and its heredity follows a non-Mendelian pattern, exclusively passing from mother to children. Numerous studies have identified mtDNA mutation-related genetic diseases. The consequences of various types of mtDNA mutations, including insertions, deletions, and single base-pair mutations, are studied to reveal their relationship to mitochondrial diseases. Most mitochondrial diseases exhibit fatal symptoms, leading to ongoing therapeutic research with diverse approaches such as stimulating the defective OXPHOS system, mitochondrial replacement, and allotropic expression of defective enzymes. This review provides detailed information on two topics: (1) mitochondrial diseases caused by mtDNA mutations, and (2) the mechanisms of current treatments for mitochondrial diseases and clinical trials.
Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component 1 (PGRMC1) Modulates Tumour Progression, the Immune Microenvironment and the Response to Therapy in Glioblastoma
Authors: Dumitru Claudia Alexandra , Schröder Hannah , Schäfer Frederik Till Alexander , Aust Jan Friedrich , Kreße Nina , Siebert Carl Ludwig Raven , Stein Klaus-Peter , Haghikia Aiden , Wilkens Ludwig , Mawrin Christian , Sandalcioglu Ibrahim Erol
Published: October 2023

Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component 1 (PGRMC1) is a tumour-promoting factor in several types of cancer but its role in brain tumours is poorly characterized thus far. Our study aimed to determine the effect of PGRMC1 on glioblastoma (GBM) pathophysiology using two independent cohorts of IDH wild-type GBM patients and stable knockdown GBM models. We found that high levels of PGRMC1 significantly predicted poor overall survival in both cohorts of GBM patients. PGRMC1 promoted the proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, and invasion of GBM cells. We identified Integrin beta-1 (ITGB1) and TCF 1/7 as potential members of the PGRMC1 pathway in vitro. The levels of ITGB1 and PGRMC1 also correlated in neoplastic tissues from GBM patients. High expression of PGRMC1 rendered GBM cells less susceptible to the standard GBM chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide but more susceptible to the ferroptosis inducer erastin. Finally, PGRMC1 enhanced Interleukin-8 production in GBM cells and promoted the recruitment of neutrophils. The expression of PGRMC1 significantly correlated with the numbers of tumour-infiltrating neutrophils also in tissues from GBM patients. In conclusion, PGRMC1 enhances tumour-related inflammation and promotes the progression of GBM. However, PGRMC1 might be a promising target for novel therapeutic strategies using ferroptosis inducers in this type of cancer.
Vinyl Esters and Vinyl Sulfonates as Green Alternatives to Vinyl Bromide for the Synthesis of Monosubstituted Alkenes via Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Tobrman Tomáš
Published: October 2023

This review summarizes the applications of vinyl sulfonate and vinyl acetate as green alternatives for vinyl bromide in cross-coupling reactions. In the first part, the preparation of vinyl sulfonates and their cross-coupling reactions are briefly discussed. Then, a brief review of vinyl acetate cross-coupling reactions, including cyclization reactions, the Fujiware–Moritani reaction, and transvinylation reactions are described.
Sleep Respiratory Disorders in Children and Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis and Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
Authors: Papale Maria , Manti Sara , Presti Santiago , Mollica Federico , Parisi Giuseppe F. , Leonardi Salvatore
Published: October 2023

Cystic fibrosis (CF) and primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) are genetic respiratory diseases featured by chronic upper and lower airway inflammation and infection, mainly due to impaired mucociliary clearance due to genetic mutations. Sleep is crucial to healthy children’s normal physical and psychological development and has an important value in chronic respiratory diseases. Impaired sleep quality, such as sleep deprivation or insufficient sleep during the night, and sleep respiratory disorders (SRDs) are common in 5% to 30% of the general population. Sleep disruption leads to attention deficits, daytime sleepiness, fatigue and mood disorders and correlates to a worsened quality of life. Furthermore, sleep respiratory disorders (SRSs) are under-recognized comorbidities in CF and PCD patients. SRSs include a spectrum of symptoms ranging from primary snoring through upper airway resistance to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), nocturnal hypoventilation and hypoxemia occurring in people with moderate to severe lung disease and damaging the disease-related outcomes and quality of life. Effective screening during sleep with polysomnography is very important for the timely initiation of efficacious treatments and to prevent worsened respiratory, metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes. However, the impact of SRDs on health and quality of life is still underinvestigated.
Characterization of Non-Food Foreign Bodies Aspirated by Children: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Lorenzoni Giulia , Vertuani Marco , Basso Valeria , Rescigno Paola , Ocagli Honoria , Gregori Dario
Published: October 2023

Background. Foreign Body Aspiration (FBA) represents a leading cause of death among unintentional injuries in children less than one year of age. This study reviewed case reports and case series reporting non-food FBA in children to characterize aspirated foreign bodies, describing the clinical presentations and the outcomes. Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA checklist. Case reports and case series presenting non-food FBA in children (up to 18 years) were eligible to be included. Information regarding study characteristics, child demographics, foreign body characteristics, clinical presentation, and outcome were extracted. Results: The review included 248 articles published between 1965 and 2023, corresponding to 294 cases. The male gender was the most prevalent (194 cases, 66%), and the median age was 3.5 years (Interquartile Range: 1–8 years). Button batteries were the objects most frequently reported (21 cases, 7.1%). Objects were located most often in the bronchus (102 cases, 35%). The most common symptom was cough (181 cases, 62%), followed by respiratory distress (160 cases, 54%) and wheezing/stridor (127 cases, 43%). Conclusions: The present systematic review may have relevant public health implications, since characterizing objects that cause foreign body injuries is essential to reduce the burden of this phenomenon.
Thermal–Fluid–Solid Coupling Analysis on the Effect of Cooling Gas Temperature on the Fatigue Life of Turbine Blades with TBCs
Authors: Chen Yingtao , Zhang Ziliang , Ai Yanting , Guan Peng , Yao Yudong , Liu Hongwei
Published: October 2023

The application of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) can increase the blade’s operating temperature and fatigue life. Previous studies have neglected the effects of cooling gas temperature variations on the temperature field, stress field, and fatigue life of blades and TBCs. For this reason, this paper considers the inhomogeneity of the high-temperature gas inlet temperature, the internal cooling gas temperature, the periodicity of the external flow field, etc., and establishes a finite element model of the gas turbine blade with TBCs. Then, the life of the blade and the TBCs is predicted based on the Ncode 2020R2. Finally, the effect of the cooling gas temperature on the temperature, stresses, and life of the blade and the TBCs is analyzed. The results show that the fatigue life of the TBCs is lower than that of the blade, and the low-life region of the TBCs is located at the leading edge of the blade, which is consistent with the TBCs shedding region of the real blade and verifies the accuracy of the life prediction method in this paper. The fatigue life of the blade and TBCs firstly increases and then decreases with the increase in the cooling gas temperature, and the trend of the stress changes in the opposite direction. When the cooling gas temperature is increased from 573 K to 873 K, the minimum life of the blade is increased by 358.5%, and that of the TBCs is increased by 138.7%. The conclusions can provide guidance for the design of long-life turbine blades with TBCs.
Surface Modifications of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles with Polyvinyl Alcohol, Chitosan, and Activated Carbon or Graphite as Methylene Blue Adsorbents—Comparative Study
Authors: Doan Linh , Nguyen Tu M. D. , Le Tan M. , Huynh Khanh G. , Quach Tran P. T.
Published: October 2023

Adsorption is a popular technique and has been investigated with many different materials for removing synthetic dyes from textile wastewater. This study compares the methylene blue (MB) adsorption capabilities of surface-modified superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, (SPION) using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS), combined with two carbon materials, activated carbon (AC) and graphite (GR), respectively. After 9 days, depending on the initial MB loading concentration (0.015 mg/mL, 0.02 mg/mL, and 0.025 mg/mL), the MB adsorption capacities onto SPION/PVA/CS/AC and SPION/PVA/CS/GR were 7.6 ± 0.2–22.4 ± 0.05 and 6.9 ± 0.02–22.4 ± 0.05 mg/g, respectively. The cumulative release percentages of SPION/PVA/CS/AC and SPION/PVA/CS/GR after 30 days were 63.24 ± 8.77%–22.10 ± 2.59% and 91.29 ± 12.35%–24.42 ± 1.40%, respectively. Additionally, both SPION/PVA/CS/AC and SPION/PVA/CS/GR can both fit the Freundlich isotherm model. The adsorption and desorption kinetics can be fitted to the pseudo-second-order linear and zeroth-order models, respectively. At 0.020 mg/mL MB initial loading, out of SPION/PVA/CS/AC, SPION/PVA/CS/GR, and SPION/PVA/CS/GO, SPION/PVA/CS/AC is the most economical adsorbent. Compared to SPION/PVA/AC, SPION/PVA/CS/AC is less economical. Since CS has antimicrobial properties, antimicrobial activities should be investigated to conclude which adsorbent is more promising: SPION/PVA/AC or SPION/PVA/CS/AC.
Fabrication of Cr2AlB2 and Cr4AlB4 MAB Phase Coatings by Magnetron Sputtering and Post-Annealing
Authors: Jia Ke , Wang Guojing , Lv Shasha , Li Yan , Du Shengjie , Li Zhengcao
Published: October 2023

Cr2AlB2 and Cr4AlB4 are members of the MAB phases that exhibit unique properties of both metals and ceramics. However, despite these unique characteristics, Cr2AlB2 and Cr4AlB4 phase coatings have not been widely investigated. In this study, Cr2AlB2 and Cr4AlB4 MAB phase coatings were fabricated by magnetron sputtering at room temperature and post-annealing. A composite target, consisting of a phase-pure disc-shaped CrB target overlapped by uniformly dispersed fan-shaped Al slices, was placed parallel to the substrates. The Al content of the coatings was adjusted by altering the areal proportion of the Al slices. MAB phases have crystallized upon post-annealing the as-deposited coatings on Al2O3(0001) substrates in Ar. The phase compositions and morphologies of the crystalline coatings were found to be dependent on the Al content and the annealing temperature. As-deposited coatings with a Cr:Al:B ratio close to 2:1:2 could crystallize as pure and dense Cr2AlB2 phases within the temperature range of 650–800 °C; higher annealing temperatures resulted in the decomposition of Cr2AlB2, while crystallization at lower temperatures was not evident from X-ray diffraction. As-deposited coatings with a Cr:Al:B ratio close to 3:1:3, despite containing a relatively higher Al content than required by the stoichiometry of Cr4AlB4, exhibited insufficient crystallization of Cr4AlB4 with unknown phases below 840 °C. Higher annealing temperatures resulted in the coexistence of Cr4AlB4 and CrB, indicating that achieving phase-pure and well-crystallized Cr4AlB4 coatings proved challenging, possibly due to the inevitable loss of Al during annealing. The configuration of the composite target and the substrates provides a promising strategy for fabricating phase-pure and dense Cr2AlB2 coatings.
Experimental Evaluation of the Properties of Asphalt Binders Modified with Calcium Sulfate Anhydrous Whiskers and Polyester Fibers
Authors: Fan Taotao , Si Chundi , Gao Junfeng
Published: October 2023

The use of waste calcium sulfate whiskers in pavement construction is cost-effective and beneficial to the environment. In this paper, modified asphalt binders are prepared by adding calcium sulfate anhydrous whiskers (ACSW, 9 wt.%,11 wt.%, and 13 wt.% by weight of asphalt binder) and polyester fibers (4 wt.%,6 wt.%, and 8 wt.% by weight of asphalt binder). The viscosity-temperature, rheological, and low-temperature properties of the modified asphalt binder were evaluated using the Brookfield rotational viscosity test, the dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test, the bending beam rheometer (BBR) test, and the force ductility test. The results demonstrated that the addition of the ACSW and polyester fiber could improve the anti-deformation and low-temperature properties of the asphalt binders, but reduce their viscosity-temperature properties to some extent. The modified asphalt binder with 11 wt.% ACSW and 8% polyester fiber showed the best anti-deformation property, while the 11 wt.% ACSW and 6 wt.% polyester fiber modified asphalt binder had a better low-temperature performance. The force ductility test was more suitable than the BBR test to characterize the low-temperature properties of the modified asphalt binders. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests were conducted to study the functional groups and micro-structure of the modified asphalt binders, and the results indicated that no new functional groups were generated and that the interaction between the ACSW, polyester fiber, and asphalt binder was a physical adsorption and interleaving process.
Effect of Microstructure on Electroless Ni Plating Behavior on Super Duplex Stainless Steel SAF2507 in Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Shin Byung-Hyun , Kim Dohyung , Kim Doo-In , Lee Wookjin , Kwon Se-Hun
Published: October 2023

The demand for Li-ion batteries has significantly increased in recent years, driven by the growing need for electric vehicles and electronic devices like smartphones. Among various materials, super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) is considered a suitable material for Li-ion batteries due to its excellent strength and corrosion resistance. However, SDSS is sensitive to heat-treatment conditions, necessitating research on heat treatment and Ni plating for battery case usage. While extensive research has been conducted on SDSS and its heat-treatment conditions, there is a research gap concerning the Ni plating of SDSS. This study addresses this gap by performing Ni plating on heat-treated SDSS. Ni plating can be executed via two methods: electroless and electro-Ni plating. To achieve a uniform plating layer, Ni plating was conducted after heat treatment at temperatures ranging from 1000 °C to 1300 °C, followed by an analysis of the behavior of electroless Ni plating. The heat-treated SDSS displayed three primary characteristics: secondary phase precipitation, solution annealing, and ferritization (ferrite fractions of 61% and 73%). The presence of secondary phases led to a slower Ni plating rate due to its lower reactivity with Ni. Post-solution annealing, the texture of SDSS exhibited the thickest Ni plating layer at the same plating time. As the volume fraction of ferrite increased from 50% to 73% on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the resistance of the Ni plating layer decreased from 45 kOhms to 13 kOhms. The lowest resistance was observed when the ferrite fraction reached 73%, attributed to the lower reactivity of ferrite compared to austenite. Both secondary phases and ferrite contributed to reducing the thickness of the electroless Ni plating layer. Therefore, optimizing the volume fraction of SDSS using solution annealing proves beneficial for optimizing Ni plating and enhancing corrosion resistance.
L-PRNU: Low-Complexity Privacy-Preserving PRNU-Based Camera Attribution Scheme
Authors: Huang Alan , Juan Justie Su-Tzu
Published: October 2023

A personal camera fingerprint can be created from images in social media by using Photo Response Non-Uniformity (PRNU) noise, which is used to identify whether an unknown picture belongs to them. Social media has become ubiquitous in recent years and many of us regularly share photos of our daily lives online. However, due to the ease of creating a PRNU-based camera fingerprint, the privacy leakage problem is taken more seriously. To address this issue, a security scheme based on Boneh–Goh–Nissim (BGN) encryption was proposed in 2021. While effective, the BGN encryption incurs a high run-time computational overhead due to its power computation. Therefore, we devised a new scheme to address this issue, employing polynomial encryption and pixel confusion methods, resulting in a computation time that is over ten times faster than BGN encryption. This eliminates the need to only send critical pixels to a Third-Party Expert in the previous method. Furthermore, our scheme does not require decryption, as polynomial encryption and pixel confusion do not alter the correlation value. Consequently, the scheme we presented surpasses previous methods in both theoretical analysis and experimental performance, being faster and more capable.
Erectile Dysfunction Is Common after Rectal Cancer Surgery: A Cohort Study
Authors: Hansen Sebastian Borgund , Oggesen Birthe Thing , Fonnes Siv , Rosenberg Jacob
Published: October 2023

Erectile dysfunction is a known late complication following surgery for rectal cancer. We aimed to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery and characterize it. This was a prospective observational cohort study. Data from men after surgery for rectal cancer were collected between October 2019 and April 2023. The primary outcome was the prevalence of erectile dysfunction following surgery based on the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaires, IIEF-5 and 15. Secondary outcomes were prevalence in subgroups and self-perceived erectile function. In total, 101 patients agreed to participate, while 67 patients (67%) responded after a median six-month follow-up after surgery. Based on IIEF-15, 84% of the patients had erectile dysfunction. For subgroups, 74% of patients who underwent robot-assisted surgery had erectile dysfunction, whereas all patients who underwent either laparoscopic or open surgery had erectile dysfunction (p = 0.031). Furthermore, half of the patients rated their self-perceived ability to obtain and keep an erection as very low. In conclusion, in our cohort, erectile dysfunction was common after rectal cancer surgery, and half of the patients were unconfident that they could obtain and keep an erection. Information regarding this finding should be given so that patients feel comfortable discussing therapeutic solutions if needed.
Seasonal Study of Aflatoxin M1 Contamination in Cow Milk on the Retail Dairy Market in Gorgan, Iran
Authors: Rahimzadeh Barzoki Hadi , Faraji Hossein , Beirami Somayeh , Keramati Fatemeh Zahra , Nayik Gulzar Ahmad , Izadi Yazdanaabadi Zahra , Mozaffari Nejad Amir Sasan
Published: October 2023

Milk and milk products are the main nutritional foods for all age groups, especially for infants and children. Milk may be dangerous to consume due to the presence of a harmful substance called Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). The objective of this study was to assess the levels of AFM1 in milk, particularly those that exceed the standards set by the European Union (50 ng/L), the Food and Drug Administration (500 ng/L), and the Iranian National Standards Organization (100 ng/L). The study included one hundred and eighty samples of raw cow’s milk from various retail dairy markets in Gorgan, with 45 samples collected during each season. The level of Aflatoxin M1 in the samples was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. AFM1 was detected in 139 (72.2%) raw cow milk samples with a range of 3.5–357 ng/L. All of the samples collected had Aflatoxin M1 concentration levels that were below the maximum limit of 500 ng/L set by the FDA. However, 41 samples (22.7%) exceeded the EU’s limit of 50 ng/L, and 26 samples (14.4%) exceeded the INSO’s limit of 100 ng/L for Aflatoxin M1 in raw cow’s milk. The lowest and highest AFM1 levels of contamination were detected in the summer and winter seasons, which constituted 32 (71.1%) and 38 (84.4%) samples, respectively. The consumption of raw cow milk can lead to health risks for individuals from various age groups because regulatory limits are not being followed.
Respiratory Diaphragm Motion-Based Asynchronization and Limitation Evaluation on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Zhou Xingyu , Ye Chen , Iwao Yuma , Okamoto Takayuki , Kawata Naoko , Shimada Ayako , Haneishi Hideaki
Published: October 2023

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) typically causes airflow blockage and breathing difficulties, which may result in the abnormal morphology and motion of the lungs or diaphragm. Purpose: This study aims to quantitatively evaluate respiratory diaphragm motion using a thoracic sagittal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) series, including motion asynchronization and limitations. Method: First, the diaphragm profile is extracted using a deep-learning-based field segmentation approach. Next, by measuring the motion waveforms of each position in the extracted diaphragm profile, obvious differences in the independent respiration cycles, such as the period and peak amplitude, are verified. Finally, focusing on multiple breathing cycles, the similarity and amplitude of the motion waveforms are evaluated using the normalized correlation coefficient (NCC) and absolute amplitude. Results and Contributions: Compared with normal subjects, patients with severe COPD tend to have lower NCC and absolute amplitude values, suggesting motion asynchronization and limitation of their diaphragms. Our proposed diaphragmatic motion evaluation method may assist in the diagnosis and therapeutic planning of COPD.
The Value of Ultrasound Diagnostic Imaging of Meniscal Knee Injuries Verified by Experimental and Arthroscopic Investigations
Authors: Wasilczyk Cezary
Published: October 2023

(1) Introduction: Meniscal knee injuries may develop as the result of trauma or overloading. Ultrasound imaging is an observer-dependent modality, meaning that the assessment of structural damage depends on the investigator’s experience.. None of the published papers provides a standardized method for ultrasound examination of knee menisci. The main goal of this study is to realize and standardize ultrasound imaging diagnostics of meniscal knee injuries based on individual features of ultrasound presentation and to evaluate the applicability of this modality in clinical practice. (2) Material and methods: This study consisted of two anatomical parts, including a clinical part that started with clinical examination of 50 patients with suspected meniscal knee injuries. After this we performed ultrasound examinations in patients with positive clinical test results, using sonographic confirmation for inclusion in the next stage. Finally, knee arthroscopy by two physicians in an operating room was performed, with procedures documented through photographs and video recordings, and analytic material obtained from patients in the control group documented similarly. (3) Results: In the clinical part of the study, arthroscopic examination revealed 13 longitudinal injuries (corresponding to 36% of all injuries in the group), 14 multidirectional injuries (corresponding to 28% of all injuries), 3 radial injuries (corresponding to 6% of all injuries), and 20 oblique injuries (corresponding to 40% of all injuries). The analysis of the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic test in terms of recognizing actual meniscal injuries on the basis of full-thickness or partial-thickness delamination, meniscal cyst oedema, and articular space stenosis revealed that the presence of at least two of these three characteristics was associated with the sensitivity of 88% and the specificity of 86% relative to the number of actual meniscal injuries as seen in arthroscopic examination. (4) Conclusions: Research results confirm that clinical examination combined with ultrasound imaging is a very efficient tool for evaluation of meniscal injuries.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Prospective Real-Time Histological Prediction of Colorectal Lesions during Colonoscopy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vadhwana Bhamini , Tarazi Munir , Patel Vanash
Published: October 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) presents a novel platform for improving disease diagnosis. However, the clinical utility of AI remains limited to discovery studies, with poor translation to clinical practice. Current data suggests that 26% of diminutive pre-malignant lesions and 3.5% of colorectal cancers are missed during colonoscopies. The primary aim of this study was to explore the role of artificial intelligence in real-time histological prediction of colorectal lesions during colonoscopy. A systematic search using MeSH headings relating to “AI”, “machine learning”, “computer-aided”, “colonoscopy”, and “colon/rectum/colorectal” identified 2290 studies. Thirteen studies reporting real-time analysis were included. A total of 2958 patients with 5908 colorectal lesions were included. A meta-analysis of six studies reporting sensitivities (95% CI) demonstrated that endoscopist diagnosis was superior to a computer-assisted detection platform, although no statistical significance was reached (p = 0.43). AI applications have shown encouraging results in differentiating neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions using narrow-band imaging, white light imaging, and blue light imaging. Other modalities include autofluorescence imaging and elastic scattering microscopy. The current literature demonstrates that despite the promise of new endoscopic AI models, they remain inferior to expert endoscopist diagnosis. There is a need to focus developments on real-time histological predictions prior to clinical translation to demonstrate improved diagnostic capabilities and time efficiency.
Exploring Knowledge of the Concept of Physical Literacy among Rehabilitation Professionals, Students and Coaches Practicing in a Pediatric Setting
Authors: Hebinck Margaux , Pelletier Roxanne , Labbé Mariève , Best Krista L. , Robert Maxime T.
Published: October 2023

Approximately 22% of Canadian children with physical disabilities meet the daily physical activity recommendations. Physical activity is attributed to physical literacy, a conceptualization of the domains required to be physically active throughout life. In Canada, pediatric rehabilitation professionals’ and coaches’ roles are essential for developing physical literacy. The aim of the study was to explore knowledge of physical literacy and strategies for developing physical literacy for children with physical disabilities among pediatric rehabilitation professionals, students, and coaches in Quebec. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with pediatric rehabilitation professionals, students and coaches and thematically analyzed using NVivo. Twenty professionals and students reported having variable knowledge about physical literacy, but suggested that adaptation, play and interdisciplinarity were essential in the development of physical literacy for children with physical disabilities. Participants highlighted the need to redefine fundamental movement skills for children with physical disabilities. Despite perceiving varied knowledge of the physical literacy concept, pediatric rehabilitation professionals and coaches described essential domains to foster physical literacy in children with disabilities. Pediatric rehabilitation professionals and coaches play a vital role in fostering physical literacy. Therefore, it is essential to support the development of knowledge that may support professionals, such as through training programs and continuing education.
A Benchmarking of Commercial Small Fixed-Wing Electric UAVs and RGB Cameras for Photogrammetry Monitoring in Intertidal Multi-Regions
Authors: Fontenla-Carrera Gabriel , Aldao Enrique , Veiga Fernando , González-Jorge Higinio
Published: October 2023

Small fixed-wing electric Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are perfect candidates to perform tasks in wide areas, such as photogrammetry, surveillance, monitoring, or search and rescue, among others. They are easy to transport and assemble, have much greater range and autonomy, and reach higher speeds than rotatory-wing UAVs. Aiming to contribute towards their future implementation, the objective of this article is to benchmark commercial, small, fixed-wing, electric UAVs and compatible RGB cameras to find the best combination for photogrammetry and data acquisition of mussel seeds and goose barnacles in a multi-region intertidal zone of the south coast of Galicia (NW of Spain). To compare all the options, a Coverage Path Planning (CPP) algorithm enhanced for fixed-wing UAVs to cover long areas with sharp corners was posed, followed by a Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) to find the best route between regions. Results show that two options stand out from the rest: the Delair DT26 Open Payload with a PhaseOne iXM-100 camera (shortest path, minimum number of pictures and turns) and the Heliplane LRS 340 PRO with the Sony Alpha 7R IV sensor, finishing the task in the minimum time.
Denoising Vanilla Autoencoder for RGB and GS Images with Gaussian Noise
Authors: Miranda-González Armando Adrián , Rosales-Silva Alberto Jorge , Mújica-Vargas Dante , Escamilla-Ambrosio Ponciano Jorge , Gallegos-Funes Francisco Javier , Vianney-Kinani Jean Marie , Velázquez-Lozada Erick , Pérez-Hernández Luis Manuel , Lozano-Vázquez Lucero Verónica
Published: October 2023

Noise suppression algorithms have been used in various tasks such as computer vision, industrial inspection, and video surveillance, among others. The robust image processing systems need to be fed with images closer to a real scene; however, sometimes, due to external factors, the data that represent the image captured are altered, which is translated into a loss of information. In this way, there are required procedures to recover data information closest to the real scene. This research project proposes a Denoising Vanilla Autoencoding (DVA) architecture by means of unsupervised neural networks for Gaussian denoising in color and grayscale images. The methodology improves other state-of-the-art architectures by means of objective numerical results. Additionally, a validation set and a high-resolution noisy image set are used, which reveal that our proposal outperforms other types of neural networks responsible for suppressing noise in images.
Variational Inference via Rényi Bound Optimization and Multiple-Source Adaptation
Authors: Zalman (Oshri) Dana , Fine Shai
Published: October 2023

Variational inference provides a way to approximate probability densities through optimization. It does so by optimizing an upper or a lower bound of the likelihood of the observed data (the evidence). The classic variational inference approach suggests maximizing the Evidence Lower Bound (ELBO). Recent studies proposed to optimize the variational Rényi bound (VR) and the χ upper bound. However, these estimates, which are based on the Monte Carlo (MC) approximation, either underestimate the bound or exhibit a high variance. In this work, we introduce a new upper bound, termed the Variational Rényi Log Upper bound (VRLU), which is based on the existing VR bound. In contrast to the existing VR bound, the MC approximation of the VRLU bound maintains the upper bound property. Furthermore, we devise a (sandwiched) upper–lower bound variational inference method, termed the Variational Rényi Sandwich (VRS), to jointly optimize the upper and lower bounds. We present a set of experiments, designed to evaluate the new VRLU bound and to compare the VRS method with the classic Variational Autoencoder (VAE) and the VR methods. Next, we apply the VRS approximation to the Multiple-Source Adaptation problem (MSA). MSA is a real-world scenario where data are collected from multiple sources that differ from one another by their probability distribution over the input space. The main aim is to combine fairly accurate predictive models from these sources and create an accurate model for new, mixed target domains. However, many domain adaptation methods assume prior knowledge of the data distribution in the source domains. In this work, we apply the suggested VRS density estimate to the Multiple-Source Adaptation problem (MSA) and show, both theoretically and empirically, that it provides tighter error bounds and improved performance, compared to leading MSA methods.