bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Overview of Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs) for Ageing in Place
Authors: E Jiaxuan , Xia Bo , Susilawati Connie , Chen Qing , Wang Xuechun
Published: April 2022

As an alternative to ageing at home in the community, naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs) have great potential to facilitate ageing in place; however, they have not attracted much research attention. This study conducts an overview of NORCs, aiming to examine the previous research in a comprehensive manner in order to explore how NORCs impact ageing in place, with the goal of guiding future research. The research presented here employs the content analysis method to review prior NORC-related studies and categorise research themes and findings following top-down coding principles. A total of 49 articles were selected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, and the results show that the “social environment”, which was the most discussed topic (n = 24), provides the necessary mental support and physical motivation for older adults to live actively in NORCs, and that NORCs play a positive role in preserving public resources and promoting individual health. The limitations of this study include the fact that there is little public information on NORC programs and the subjective classification of themes, among others. This study acts as a foundation for future research on NORCs, which serve as a perfect model for healthy ageing in place.
The Effect of External Wall Insulation on Mold and Moisture on the Buildings
Authors: Kon Okan , Caner İsmail
Published: April 2022

In this study, mold and moisture risk of external walls were investigated based on the six different wall types (block bims 1-2-3-4, hollow brick, and aerated concrete) and three different insulation materials (hemp wool, aerogel blanket, and extruded polystyrene). During the examinations, uninsulated and insulated external walls were taken into account according to moisture and mold growth depending on dew point temperatures. While calculating the optimum insulation thickness for uninsulated wall, degree-day and life cycle total cost methods were used. The natural gas, coal, and electricity were accepted as an energy source for heating and electricity was used for cooling. In the study, Izmir, Balikesir, Ankara, Kayseri, and Erzurum cities were selected to represent five climate zones according to Turkish insulation standard (TS 825). As a result of the calculations, the highest values of optimum insulation thickness were found in hemp wool and hollow brick for the electricity energy sources. It was determined as 0.118 m in Izmir and 0.202 m in Erzurum. For the insulated wall, the lowest indoor humidity value, where mold and moisture formation occur, was determined as 78% for Izmir and 69% for Erzurum.
Demystifying the Barriers and Motivators for the Adoption of Base Isolation Systems in New Zealand
Authors: Egbelakin Temitope , Ogunmakinde Olabode Emmanuel , Omotayo Temitope , Sojobi Adebayo
Published: April 2022

A base isolator is a proven system that can significantly reduce any damage to a building in the event of an earthquake. Despite their efficacy, seismic isolators are not widely used in New Zealand, with only about forty systems in use during the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury Earthquakes. This study seeks to investigate why base isolation systems are not frequently used in seismic strengthening projects and buildings in New Zealand. It also focuses on determining ways in which seismic isolators could become more widely used in New Zealand due to increased seismic activity. This study used an exploratory sequential mixed method design, in which qualitative data were collected first through in-depth face-to-face interviews, analysed, and used to construct the quantitative instrument, which was an online questionnaire. Data were obtained from construction professionals such as architects, engineers, site-based construction personnel, and quantity surveyors. The findings of this study indicated the need for an increased awareness of base isolation systems and improved universal guidelines for the design of seismic isolators. The motivators identified include provision of monetary incentives, such as reduced insurance premiums and financial subsidies, to encourage the adoption of seismic isolators. The factors preventing the adoption of base isolation systems in New Zealand were classified as human-related, safety and design-related, and cost-related. The study’s implication is that providing a universal guideline for seismic isolators can enhance designers’ confidence. Likewise, incentives may be provided to property owners to lower the cost of implementing a base isolation system.
GIS Multisource Data for the Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Buildings at the Urban Scale
Authors: Leggieri Valeria , Mastrodonato Giulia , Uva Giuseppina
Published: April 2022

The paper presents a methodology of extraction, integration and elaboration of data from different sources using the geographic information system (GIS), to realize a georeferenced building database (GBD) useful for the seismic vulnerability assessment of existing buildings on a large scale. Three levels of GIS entities have been defined and equipped with the related information: census section (CS), urban block (UB), and individual building (IB), depending on the level of detail of dataset. Additional information about the typological and structural features has been extracted by CARTIS catalogue, to refine the data associated with each building. The data have been validated using detailed information gathered on a proper sample of buildings, which have been filed and analyzed one-by-one. The alphanumeric format of data allows for the automatic implementation of different methods available in the literature, which provide a qualitative seismic vulnerability index at different scales (whole urban district, an urban block, and a single building). Finally, the 3D representation of data and results have been elaborated, providing a tool easily searchable and constantly implementable. An application has been developed for a case study in Puglia, Italy: Bisceglie, for which 3726 IB have been assessed. The work addresses the issue of the lack of information typical of large-scale applications, exploiting all the available data sources to achieve nearly complete knowledge of existing building stock finalized to a rapid but extensive evaluation of the seismic vulnerability on an urban scale with very low computational efforts and the use of limited resources in terms of time and cost.
Correction: Khan et al. Effects of Infills in the Seismic Performance of an RC Factory Building in Pakistan. Buildings 2021, 11, 276
Authors: Khan Nisar Ali , Monti Giorgio , Nuti Camillo , Vailati Marco
Published: April 2022

In the published paper [...]
IoT Middleware Platforms for Smart Energy Systems: An Empirical Expert Survey
Authors: Alfalouji Qamar , Schranz Thomas , Kümpel Alexander , Schraven Markus , Storek Thomas , Gross Stephan , Monti Antonello , Müller Dirk , Schweiger Gerald
Published: April 2022

Middleware platforms are key technology in any Internet of Things (IoT) system, considering their role in managing the intermediary communications between devices and applications. In the energy sector, it has been shown that IoT devices enable the integration of all network assets to one large distributed system. This comes with significant benefits, such as improving energy efficiency, boosting the generation of renewable energy, reducing maintenance costs and increasing comfort. Various existing IoT middlware solutions encounter several problems that limit their performance, such as vendor locks. Hence, this paper presents a literature review and an expert survey on IoT middleware platforms in energy systems, in order to provide a set of tools and functionalities to be supported by any future efficient, flexible and interoperable IoT middleware considering the market needs. The analysis of the results shows that experts currently use the IoT middleware mainly to deploy services such as visualization, monitoring and benchmarking of energy consumption, and energy optimization is considered as a future application to target. Likewise, non-functional requirements, such as security and privacy, play vital roles in the IoT platforms’ performances.
Modeling Pancreatic Cancer with Patient-Derived Organoids Integrating Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts
Authors: Go Yoon-Ha , Choi Woo Hee , Bae Won Jung , Jung Sook-In , Cho Chang-Hoon , Lee Seung Ah , Park Joon Seong , Ahn Ji Mi , Kim Sung Won , Lee Kyung Jin , Lee Dakeun , Yoo Jongman
Published: April 2022

Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease and is highly resistant to anticancer drugs because of its complex microenvironment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an important source of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, which alter the physical and chemical properties of pancreatic tissue, thus impairing effective intratumoral drug delivery and resulting in resistance to conventional chemotherapy. The objective of this study was to develop a new cancer organoid model, including a fibrous tumor microenvironment (TME) using CAFs. The CAF-integrated pancreatic cancer organoid (CIPCO) model developed in this study histologically mimicked human pancreatic cancer and included ECM production by CAFs. The cancer cell–CAF interaction in the CIPCO promoted epithelial–mesenchymal transition of cancer cells, which was reversed by CAF inhibition using all-trans retinoic acid. Deposition of newly synthesized collagen I in the CIPCO disturbed the delivery of gemcitabine to cancer cells, and treatment with collagenase increased the cytotoxic effect of gemcitabine. This model may lead to the development of next-generation cancer organoid models recapitulating the fibrous TME.
Optimization of Liquid Hot Water Pretreatment and Fermentation for Ethanol Production from Sugarcane Bagasse Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Khongchamnan Punjarat , Suriyachai Nopparat , Kreetachat Torpong , Laosiripojana Navadol , Weerasai Khatiya , Champreda Verawat , Suwannahong Kowit , Sakulthaew Chainarong , Chokejaroenrat Chanat , Imman Saksit
Published: April 2022

Sugarcane bagasse can be considered a potential raw material in terms of quantity and quality for the production of alternative biofuels. In this research, liquid hot water (LHW) was studied as a pretreatment process to enhance the digestibility of pretreated material for further conversion into bioethanol. Different variables (temperature, residual time, and acid concentration) were determined to predict the optimized condition. LHW pretreatment showed an impact on the hemicellulose structure. The optimized condition at 160 °C for 60 min with 0.050 M acid concentration reached the highest glucose yield of 96.86%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed conspicuous modification of the sugarcane bagasse structure. The effect of LHW pretreatment was also demonstrated by the changes in crystallinity and surface area analysis. FTIR techniques revealed the chemical structure changes of pretreated sugarcane bagasse. The prepared material was further converted into ethanol production with the maximized ethanol concentration of 19.9 g/L.
Epigenetics, Enhancer Function and 3D Chromatin Organization in Reprogramming to Pluripotency
Authors: Hörnblad Andreas , Remeseiro Silvia
Published: April 2022

Genome architecture, epigenetics and enhancer function control the fate and identity of cells. Reprogramming to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) changes the transcriptional profile and chromatin landscape of the starting somatic cell to that of the pluripotent cell in a stepwise manner. Changes in the regulatory networks are tightly regulated during normal embryonic development to determine cell fate, and similarly need to function in cell fate control during reprogramming. Switching off the somatic program and turning on the pluripotent program involves a dynamic reorganization of the epigenetic landscape, enhancer function, chromatin accessibility and 3D chromatin topology. Within this context, we will review here the current knowledge on the processes that control the establishment and maintenance of pluripotency during somatic cell reprogramming.
Physiactisome: A New Nanovesicle Drug Containing Heat Shock Protein 60 for Treating Muscle Wasting and Cachexia
Authors: Di Felice Valentina , Barone Rosario , Trovato Eleonora , D’Amico Daniela , Macaluso Filippo , Campanella Claudia , Marino Gammazza Antonella , Muccilli Vera , Cunsolo Vincenzo , Cancemi Patrizia , Multhoff Gabriele , Coletti Dario , Adamo Sergio , Farina Felicia , Cappello Francesco
Published: April 2022

Currently, no commercially available drugs have the ability to reverse cachexia or counteract muscle wasting and the loss of lean mass. Here, we report the methodology used to develop Physiactisome—a conditioned medium released by heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60)—overexpressing C2C12 cell lines enriched with small and large extracellular vesicles. We also present evidence supporting its use in the treatment of cachexia. Briefly, we obtain a nanovesicle-based secretion by genetically modifying C2C12 cell lines with an Hsp60-overexpressing plasmid. The secretion is used to treat naïve C2C12 cell lines. Physiactisome activates the expression of PGC-1α isoform 1, which is directly involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and muscle atrophy suppression, in naïve C2C12 cell lines. Proteomic analyses show Hsp60 localisation inside isolated nanovesicles and the localisation of several apocrine and merocrine molecules, with potential benefits for severe forms of muscle atrophy. Considering that Physiactisome can be easily obtained following tissue biopsy and can be applied to autologous muscle stem cells, we propose a potential nanovesicle-based anti-cachexia drug that could mimic the beneficial effects of exercise. Thus, Physiactisome may improve patient survival and quality of life. Furthermore, the method used to add Hsp60 into nanovesicles can be used to deliver other drugs or active proteins to vesicles.
Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells Secretome Inhibits Human SARS-CoV-2 and Avian Infectious Bronchitis Coronaviruses
Authors: Hussein Mohamed A. A. , Hussein Hosni A. M. , Thabet Ali A. , Selim Karim M. , Dawood Mervat A. , El-Adly Ahmed M. , Wardany Ahmed A. , Sobhy Ali , Magdeldin Sameh , Osama Aya , Anwar Ali M. , Abdel-Wahab Mohammed , Askar Hussam , Bakhiet Elsayed K. , Sultan Serageldeen , Ezzat Amgad A. , Abdel Raouf Usama , Afifi Magdy M.
Published: April 2022

Human SARS-CoV-2 and avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) are highly contagious and deadly coronaviruses, causing devastating respiratory diseases in humans and chickens. The lack of effective therapeutics exacerbates the impact of outbreaks associated with SARS-CoV-2 and IBV infections. Thus, novel drugs or therapeutic agents are highly in demand for controlling viral transmission and disease progression. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) secreted factors (secretome) are safe and efficient alternatives to stem cells in MSC-based therapies. This study aimed to investigate the antiviral potentials of human Wharton’s jelly MSC secretome (hWJ-MSC-S) against SARS-CoV-2 and IBV infections in vitro and in ovo. The half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50), cytotoxic concentration (CC50), and selective index (SI) values of hWJ-MSC-S were determined using Vero-E6 cells. The virucidal, anti-adsorption, and anti-replication antiviral mechanisms of hWJ-MSC-S were evaluated. The hWJ-MSC-S significantly inhibited infection of SARS-CoV-2 and IBV, without affecting the viability of cells and embryos. Interestingly, hWJ-MSC-S reduced viral infection by >90%, in vitro. The IC50 and SI of hWJ-MSC secretome against SARS-CoV-2 were 166.6 and 235.29 µg/mL, respectively, while for IBV, IC50 and SI were 439.9 and 89.11 µg/mL, respectively. The virucidal and anti-replication antiviral effects of hWJ-MSC-S were very prominent compared to the anti-adsorption effect. In the in ovo model, hWJ-MSC-S reduced IBV titer by >99%. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) analysis of hWJ-MSC-S revealed a significant enrichment of immunomodulatory and antiviral proteins. Collectively, our results not only uncovered the antiviral potency of hWJ-MSC-S against SARS-CoV-2 and IBV, but also described the mechanism by which hWJ-MSC-S inhibits viral infection. These findings indicate that hWJ-MSC-S could be utilized in future pre-clinical and clinical studies to develop effective therapeutic approaches against human COVID-19 and avian IB respiratory diseases.
Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Medium Spiny Neuron-like Cells Exhibit Gene Desensitization
Authors: Tam Ryan W. , Keung Albert J.
Published: April 2022

Gene desensitization in response to a repeated stimulus is a complex phenotype important across homeostatic and disease processes, including addiction, learning, and memory. These complex phenotypes are being characterized and connected to important physiologically relevant functions in rodent systems but are difficult to capture in human models where even acute responses to important neurotransmitters are understudied. Here through transcriptomic analysis, we map the dynamic responses of human stem cell-derived medium spiny neuron-like cells (hMSN-like cells) to dopamine. Furthermore, we show that these human neurons can reflect and capture cellular desensitization to chronic versus acute administration of dopamine. These human cells are further able to capture complex receptor crosstalk in response to the pharmacological perturbations of distinct dopamine receptor subtypes. This study demonstrates the potential utility and remaining challenges of using human stem cell-derived neurons to capture and study the complex dynamic mechanisms of the brain.
Cyclic-AMP Increases Nuclear Actin Monomer Which Promotes Proteasomal Degradation of RelA/p65 Leading to Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Authors: Hawkins Joseph W. , McNeill Madeleine C. , Ebrahimighaei Reza , Mellor Harry H. , Newby Andrew C. , Bond Mark
Published: April 2022

The second messenger, cAMP has potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory actions. These have been attributed, in part, to the ability of cAMP-induced signals to interfere with the function of the proinflammatory transcription factor Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB). However, the mechanisms underlying the modulation of NF-κB activity by cAMP remain unclear. Here we demonstrate an important role for cAMP-mediated increase in nuclear actin monomer levels in inhibiting NF-κB activity. Elevated cAMP or forced expression of a nuclear localised polymerisation defective actin mutant (NLS-ActinR62D) inhibited basal and TNFα induced mRNA levels of NF-κB-dependent genes and NF-κB-dependent reporter gene activity. Elevated cAMP or NLS-ActinR62D did not affect NF-κB nuclear translocation but did reduce total cellular and nuclear RelA/p65 levels. Preventing the cAMP-induced increase in nuclear actin monomer, either by expressing a nuclear localised active mutant of the actin polymerising protein mDIA, silencing components of the nuclear actin import complex IPO9 and CFL1 or overexpressing the nuclear export complex XPO6, rescued RelA/p65 levels and NF-κB reporter gene activity in forskolin-stimulated cells. Elevated cAMP or NLS-ActinR62D reduced the half-life of RelA/p65, which was reversed by the proteasome inhibitor MG132. Accordingly, forskolin stimulated association of RelA/p65 with ubiquitin affinity beads, indicating increased ubiquitination of RelA/p65 or associated proteins. Taken together, our data demonstrate a novel mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of cAMP and highlight the important role played by nuclear actin in the regulation of inflammation.
A Simple Ratiometric Electrochemical Aptasensor Based on the Thionine–Graphene Nanocomposite for Ultrasensitive Detection of Aflatoxin B2 in Peanut and Peanut Oil
Authors: Jia Fan , Li Yuye , Gong Qingfa , Liu Dong , Meng Shuyun , Zhu Chengxi , You Tianyan
Published: April 2022

The accurate and reliable analysis of aflatoxin B2 (AFB2) is widely required in food and agricultural industries. In the present work, we report the first use of a ratiometric electrochemical aptasensor for AFB2 detection with high selectivity and reliability. The working principle relies on the conformation change of the aptamer induced by its specific recognition of AFB2 to vary the ratiometric signal. Based on this principle, the proposed aptasensor collects currents generated by thionine–graphene composites (ITHI) and ferrocene-labeled aptamers (IFc) to output the ratiometric signal of ITHI/IFc. In analysis, the value of ITHI remained stable while that of IFc increased with higher AFB2 concentration, thus offering a “signal-off” aptasensor by using ITHI/IFc as a yardstick. The fabricated aptasensor showed a linear range of 0.001–10 ng mL−1 with a detection limit of 0.19 pg mL−1 for AFB2 detection. Furthermore, its applicability was validated by using it to detect AFB2 in peanut and peanut oil samples with high rates of recovery. The developed ratiometric aptasensor shows the merits of simple fabrication and high accuracy, and it can be extended to detect other mycotoxins in agricultural products.
Transanal Endoscopic-Assisted Pull-Through Colectomy for Children with High Intestinal Aganglionosis
Authors: Metzger Ulrike , Michel Armin-Johannes , Ardelean Mircia-Aurel , Metzger Roman Patrick
Published: April 2022

Intestinal aganglionosis in children is a common cause of neonatal and infantile obstruction or ileus. Diagnosis is based on a histologically proven absence of enteric ganglion cells in deep biopsies of the gut wall. Therapeutic goal is a one-stage repair with a resection of the affected segment. The endorectal pull-through (ERP) can be performed entirely transanally in a lot of the cases. In patients with difficult preparation or a high aganglionosis ERP often needs to be assisted by laparoscopy or laparotomy. We present two cases with a technical modification performing a totally transanal pull-through colectomy without any trocars other than an umbilical camera trocar. The procedure starts with a classical endorectal technique. Usually, the transanal preparation is limited by reaching the colon descendens. A camera trocar is inserted and under laparoscopic vision the preparation is completed placing the instruments directly via the opened anus. After reaching the healthy colon segment, the pull-through is completed transanally. One of the main advantages of ERP is the sparing dissection. Our modification combines advantages of laparoscopy and ERP. The umbilical camera allows an excellent view while the instruments for dissection are used like with ERP without any further trocar or traction of the anal sphincter. The dispensation of any transanal trocar allows a higher grade of freedom in preparation and possibly a smaller trauma on the distal anal channel.
The Efficacy of CPAP in Neonates with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos J. , Hilario-Gomez Maryori M. , Diaz-Reyes Nelson , Caballero-Alvarado José A. , Barboza Joshuan J.
Published: April 2022

Background: In neonates with meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) may be more beneficial compared to endotracheal intubation (ETI). We evaluated the efficacy of CPAP in neonates with MAS. Methods: Four engines were used to search randomized clinical trials (RCTs). We used relative risk (RR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) to assess the effect on dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. In addition, we used the Paule–Mandel (PM) random effects model due to the anticipated lack of events. Results: Three RCTs were included (n = 432). No significant difference was found in mortality (RR = 0.82; 95%CI = 0.54–1.25; I2 = 71%; p = 0.36), need for ventilation (RR = 0.49; 95%CI = 0.15–1.56; I2 = 71%; p = 0.57), and incidence of pneumothorax (RR = 1.24; 95%CI = 0.30–5.12; I2 = 0%; p = 0.77) in the CPAP group compared to the ETI group. Regarding secondary outcomes, compared to the ETI group, no significant differences were found in APGAR at one minute (MD = −1.01; 95%CI −2.97 to 0.94; I2 = 98%; p = 0.31), APGAR at 5 min (MD = −1.00; 95%CI = −2.96 to 0.95; I2 = 99%; p = 0.32), days of hospitalization (MD = −0.52; 95%CI = −1.46 to 0.42; I2 = 94%; p = 0.28), and cord pH (MD = 0.003; 95%CI = −0.01 to 0.02; I2 = 0%; p = 0.79). Conclusions: In patients with MAS, there is no significant effect of CPAP use compared to ETI on primary, specifically on mortality, need for ventilation, the incidence of pneumothorax, and secondary outcomes.
Memory Optimisation on AVR Microcontrollers for IoT Devices’ Minimalistic Displays
Authors: Bossard Antoine
Published: April 2022

The minimalistic hardware of most Internet of things (IoT) devices and sensors, especially those based on microcontrollers (MCU), imposes severe limitations on the memory capacity and interfacing capabilities of the device. Nevertheless, many applications prescribe not only textual but also graphical display features as output interface. Due to the aforementioned limitations, the storage of graphical data is however highly problematic and existing solutions have even resorted to requiring external storage (e.g., a microSD card) for that purpose. In this paper, we present, evaluate and discuss two solutions that enable loading fullscreen, optimal 18-bit colour image data directly from the MCU, that is, without having to rely on additional hardware. Importantly, these solutions retain a very low footprint to suit the microcontroller architecture; the AVR architecture has been selected given its popularity. The obtained results show the feasibility and practicability of the proposal: in the worst case, 21 Kbytes of memory are required, in other words approximately 33% of the flash memory of a 32-Kbyte MCU remain available.
NADPH–Cytochrome P450 Reductase Mediates the Fatty Acid Desaturation of ω3 and ω6 Desaturases from Mortierella alpina
Authors: Wang Mingxuan , Li Jing , Cong Wenjie , Zhang Jianguo
Published: April 2022

Fatty acid desaturases play an important role in maintaining the appropriate structure and function of biological membranes. The biochemical characterization of integral membrane desaturases, particularly ω3 and ω6 desaturases, has been limited by technical difficulties relating to the acquisition of large quantities of purified proteins, and by the fact that functional activities of these proteins were only tested in an NADH-initiated reaction system. The main aim of this study was to reconstitute an NADPH-dependent reaction system in vitro and investigate the kinetic properties of Mortierella alpina ω3 and ω6 desaturases in this system. After expression and purification of the soluble catalytic domain of NADPH–cytochrome P450 reductase, the NADPH-dependent fatty acid desaturation was reconstituted for the first time in a system containing NADPH, NADPH–cytochrome P450 reductase, cytochrome b5, M. alpina ω3 and ω6 desaturase and detergent. In this system, the maximum activity of ω3 and ω6 desaturase was 213.4 ± 9.0 nmol min−1 mg−1 and 10.0 ± 0.5 nmol min−1 mg−1, respectively. The highest kcat/Km value of ω3 and ω6 desaturase was 0.41 µM−1 min−1 and 0.09 µM−1 min−1 when using linoleoyl CoA (18:2 ω6) and oleoyl CoA (18:1 ω9) as substrates, respectively. M. alpina ω3 and ω6 desaturases were capable of using NADPH as reductant when mediated by NADPH–cytochrome P450 reductase; although, their efficiency is distinguishable from NADH-dependent desaturation. These results provide insights into the mechanisms underlying ω3 and ω6 fatty acid desaturation and may facilitate the production of important fatty acids in M. alpina.
Evaluation of a Pharmacist-Led Telephonic Medication Therapy Management Program in Rural Arizona: Implications for Community Health Practice
Authors: Axon David R. , Kloster Jim , Eckert Becka , Morales Sonia , Riggs Sally , Kilungo Aminata , Ehiri John , Grieser Megan , Turner-Warren Tenneh , Aseret-Manygoats Teresa , Bingham Jennifer M. , Scovis Nicole , Warholak Terri
Published: April 2022

This study evaluated a pharmacist-led telephonic Medication Therapy Management (MTM) program for rural patients in Arizona with poor access to healthcare services. A pharmacist provided telephonic MTM services to eligible adult patients living in rural Arizona communities with a diagnosis of diabetes and/or hypertension. Data were collected and summarized descriptively for demographic and health conditions, clinical values, and medication-related problems (MRPs) at the initial consultation, and follow-up data collected at 1 and 3 months. A total of 33 patients had baseline and one-month follow-up data, while 15 patients also had three-month follow-up data. At the initial consultation, the following MRPs were identified: medication adherence issues, dose-related concerns, adverse drug events (ADE), high-risk medications, and therapeutic duplications. Recommendations were made for patients to have the influenza, herpes zoster, and pneumonia vaccines; and to initiate a statin, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blocker, beta-blocker, and/or rescue inhaler. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that while pharmacists can identify and make clinical recommendations to patients, the value of these interventions is not fully realized due to recommendations not being implemented and difficulties with patient follow-up, which may have been due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional efforts to address these shortcomings are therefore required.
Comparative Study of Tribological and Corrosion Characteristics of TiCN, TiCrCN, and TiZrCN Coatings
Authors: Kenzhegulov Aidar , Mamaeva Axaule , Panichkin Aleksandr , Alibekov Zhasulan , Kshibekova Balzhan , Bakhytuly Nauryzbek , Wieleba Wojciech
Published: April 2022

Coatings based on titanium carbonitride alloyed with zirconium and chromium were deposited using the method of reactive magnetron sputtering on the surface of titanium VT1–0. The effect of alloying titanium carbonitride with zirconium and chromium on the tribo- and corrosion properties of the coating has been studied. Coatings with different compositions were formed by changing the ratio of alloying elements to titanium in a single target. To study the obtained coatings, a scanning electron microscopy, nanoindentation, sliding wear test (ball on disk method), and corrosion tests in 0.5 M Na2SO4 and 30% NaCl solution were used. As a result of wear and corrosion tests, friction coefficients, mass index, and corrosion rate of alloyed and pure titanium carbonitride coatings were obtained. The average coefficient of friction of the coatings varied in the range of 0.17–0.31. The values of nanohardness are determined depending on the composition of the coatings. From corrosion data, it is determined that TiCrCN and TiZrCN coatings exhibit better corrosion properties compared to TiCN coatings. As a result of the dependences obtained, the preferred composition of the coating, the most resistant to wear and corrosion damage, was revealed.
Quebracho-Based Wood Preservatives: Effect of Concentration and Hardener on Timber Properties
Authors: Cesprini Emanuele , Baccini Riccardo , Urso Tiziana , Zanetti Michela , Tondi Gianluca
Published: April 2022

Tannin polyphenols are produced by plants to protect themselves against natural decay. It is expected that impregnating low-durable timber with tannin extracts of more durable species such as quebracho (Schinopsis balansae) will enhance the durability of the specimens. This biomimetic approach combined with the in situ polymerization of quebracho–hexamine formulations can be a valid alternative to synthetic wood preservatives. In this work, we aim to evaluate the impregnation mechanism as well as the impact of tannin and hardener concentration on the mechanical and leaching resistance properties of treated wood. Compression resistance, surface hardness and leaching resistance of four different common non-durable wood species: spruce (Picea abies), pine (Pinus spp.), poplar (Populus alba) and beech (Fagus sylvatica) impregnated with different concentrations of extract and hexamine are presented. The results show that the mechanical properties of tannin-impregnated timber are enhanced, especially for timber with lower densities. Tannin and hardener concentrations tendentially do not contribute significantly to further increase MOE (modulus of elasticity), MOR (modulus of rupture) and Brinell hardness. Similar results are also obtained when the specimens are tested against leaching: tannin is significantly more water-resistant when cured with hexamine, but higher amounts of hardener do not further improve its water resistance. These findings suggest that quebracho tannin–hexamine formulations are already effective at low concentrations (5 to 10% extract with 2.5 to 5% hexamine).
Correction: Alnafaiy et al. Repair Bond Strength of Composite Resin to Aged Resin and Glass-Matrix CAD/CAM Ceramic Materials Using Two Different Repair Systems. Coatings 2021, 11, 1331
Authors: Alnafaiy Sarah , Labban Nawaf , Maawadh Ahmed , Alshehri Huda , Albaijan Refal
Published: April 2022

The authors wishe to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
The Emotional Impact of Maskne in the Era of COVID-19: A Commentary on the Future of a Multi-Modality Approach
Authors: Beri Kavita , Singh Dhruv , Beri Dia
Published: April 2022

Over the past two years, the world has experienced the destructive effects of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, better known as COVID-19. The use of surgical face masks was declared necessary by many governments around the world to protect citizens from catching the rapidly spreading virus. Albeit surgical masks contributing to stopping the spread of SARS-CoV-2, many people have reported rashes closely resembling acne on their chins ever since wearing face masks became mandatory. This article studies the acne that results from masks worn to prevent the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2. Acne due to the wearing of masks (“Maskne”) is a new challenge that has affected the population and can decay the mental health of societies and individuals. The exploration of the mental and physical health effects of “Maskne” help us to form treatments that emphasize the association of improving mental health to decrease acne and enhancing quality of life.
Correction: Skakunova et al. Low Temperature and High-Pressure Study of Bending L-Leucinium Hydrogen Maleate Crystals. Crystals 2021, 11, 1575
Authors: Skakunova Kseniya D. , Rychkov Denis A.
Published: April 2022

The authors wish to update the Acknowledgments in their paper published in Crystals journal [...]
Impacts of Location on Designs and Economics of DIY Low-Cost Fixed-Tilt Open Source Wood Solar Photovoltaic Racking
Authors: Vandewetering Nicholas , Hayibo Koami Soulemane , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: April 2022

Although small solar photovoltaic (PV) systems avoid most soft costs, they still have a relatively high $/W value due to racking costs. In order to fulfill the promise of small-scale plug-and-play solar, a do-it-yourself PV rack design is provided and analyzed here for six criteria: (1) made from locally-accessible renewable materials, (2) 25-year lifetime to match PV warranties, (3) able to be fabricated by average consumers, (4) able to meet Canadian structural building codes, (5) low cost and (6) that it is shared using an open-source license. The open-source wood-based fixed-tilt ground-mounted bifacial photovoltaic rack design evaluated here was found to be appropriate throughout North America. Economic analysis of the bill of materials showed the racking system ranges from 49% to 77% less expensive compared to commercial proprietary racking in Canada. The racking design, however, is highly dependent on the cost of lumber that varies widely throughout the world. Even for an absolute lower-cost design in Togo due to a lower fixed tilt angle and lower loads from lack of snow, it was not found to be economic because of the relatively high cost of wood. The recent volatile lumber market warrants local evaluation from those considering the use of the open-source design. This design, however, provides for a PV rack that can be manufactured with distributed means throughout most of the world enabling more equitable access to solar energy to support a circular bioeconomy.
MRI-Based Radiomics Models to Discriminate Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Non-Hepatocellular Carcinoma in LR-M According to LI-RADS Version 2018
Authors: Zhang Haiping , Guo Dajing , Liu Huan , He Xiaojing , Qiao Xiaofeng , Liu Xinjie , Liu Yangyang , Zhou Jun , Zhou Zhiming , Liu Xi , Fang Zheng
Published: April 2022

Differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from other primary liver malignancies in the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) M (LR-M) tumours noninvasively is critical for patient treatment options, but visual evaluation based on medical images is a very challenging task. This study aimed to evaluate whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) models based on radiomics features could further improve the ability to classify LR-M tumour subtypes. A total of 102 liver tumours were defined as LR-M by two radiologists based on LI-RADS and were confirmed to be HCC (n = 31) and non-HCC (n = 71) by surgery. A radiomics signature was constructed based on reproducible features using the max-relevance and min-redundancy (mRMR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression algorithms with tenfold cross-validation. Logistic regression modelling was applied to establish different models based on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), arterial phase (AP), portal vein phase (PVP), and combined models. These models were verified independently in the validation cohort. The area under the curve (AUC) of the models based on T2WI, AP, PVP, T2WI + AP, T2WI + PVP, AP + PVP, and T2WI + AP + PVP were 0.768, 0.838, 0.778, 0.880, 0.818, 0.832, and 0.884, respectively. The combined model based on T2WI + AP + PVP showed the best performance in the training cohort and validation cohort. The discrimination efficiency of each radiomics model was significantly better than that of junior radiologists’ visual assessment (p < 0.05; Delong). Therefore, the MRI-based radiomics models had a good ability to discriminate between HCC and non-HCC in LR-M tumours, providing more options to improve the accuracy of LI-RADS classification.
Performance Evaluation of a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) during Omicron Pandemic Wave in Greece, Conducted by Different Personnel, and Comparison with Performance in Previous Wave (Alpha Variant) Period
Authors: Kyritsi Maria A. , Speletas Matthaios , Mouchtouri Varvara , Vachtsioli Evangelia , Babalis Dimitrios , Kouliou Olympia , Tsispara Anastasia , Tseroni Maria , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: April 2022

Due to the prevailing ambiguity regarding the performance of rapid antigen tests (RATs) for B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant diagnosis, a commercial RAT was evaluated in the emergency ward of a general hospital in Larissa, Central Greece. The sampling and the evaluation were repeated twice by different personnel. Discordance between the two samplings was observed regarding the sensitivity (47.5%, 95% CI: 39.0–56.1 vs. 78.6%, 95% CI: 69.1–86.2) and specificity (93.8%, 95% CI: 86.0–97.9 vs. 100.0%, 95% CI: 93.3–100.0) of the RAT. Furthermore, the test displayed slightly lower sensitivity (78.6% vs. 85.5%, 95% CI: 79.1–90.5) compared to its initial evaluation that was conducted by our team when the B.1.1.7 (Alpha) variant was dominant.
Regional Lymph Node Metastasis and Axillary Surgery of Microinvasive Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Chen Jiamei , Luo Bo , Gao Mengting , Cai Gaoke , Luo Xixi , Zhang-Cai Yutian , Ke Shaobo , Chen Yongshun
Published: April 2022

Microinvasive breast cancer (MBC for short) is a rare entity with the decision of axillary surgery under debate in clinical practice. We aimed to unravel the lymph node metastasis (LNM) rate, axillary surgery, and prognosis of MBC based on 11,692 patients derived from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database between 2003 and 2015. In this retrospective study, 19.5% (2276/11,692) of patients received axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), 80.5% (9416/11,692) received non-ALND. In the total cohort, 10-year breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) was 96.3%, and the LNM rate was 6.4% (754/11,692). Multivariate analyses showed that LNM had the strongest predictive weight (N3, HR 14.200, 95% CI 7.933–25.417; N2, HR 12.945, 95% CI 7.725–21.694; N1, HR 3.05, 95% CI 2.246–4.140, all p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analyses showed that ALND did not confer a survival benefit on 10-year BCS in patients with N0 (94.7% vs. 97.1%, p < 0.001) and in patients with 1–2 positive nodes (92.1% vs. 89.5%, p = 0.355), respectively, when compared to non-ALND. Our study demonstrated that the vast majority of MBC have a low LNM rate and excellent prognosis; patients with LNM showed poor prognosis. Assessment of lymph node status is necessary, and non-ALND surgery is required and sufficient for MBC with 0–2 positive nodes.
Role, Development, and Value of Enzymatic Debridement as Integral Component in Initial Treatment of Burn Injuries Exemplified by NexoBrid®
Authors: Mattern Maximilian M. , Fuchs Paul C. , Schiefer Jennifer L.
Published: April 2022

Despite intensive research and increased knowledge over the past decades, the handling of severe burn injuries remains complex and is mainly based on clinical experience. High demands in terms of the diagnosis and choice of therapy often confront clinicians with challenging circumstances. Thus, the treatment of burn injuries has predominantly remained under the responsibility of specialised centres. As a new approach in addition to conventional surgery, enzymatically controlled debridement has come into focus for the treatment of burn injuries over the past years. The efficacy and safety of enzymatic debridement has already been implemented by numerous reputable studies. Promising results from the literature are enhanced by feedback from various conference contributions, intradisciplinary exchanges, and international collaborations. The implementation of enzymatic debridement in initial care management was found to be capable of reforming Standards of Care in numerous burn centres by facilitating treatment determinations and reducing the number of classical surgical interventions. Nevertheless, its use is also subject to certain restrictions as usage has shown limitations concerning efficacy when applied to scalds or pre-treated wounds. Enzymatic debridement shows high efficacy in terms of tissue debridement by combining this feature with the minimisation of collateral damage and a broad field of application in burn injuries. Due to their impressive performance in the treatment of burn injuries, enzyme-based techniques have also attracted attention for the treatment of other pathologies such as chronic wounds and are objects of ongoing research in this field. In this article, we illustrate the significance of enzyme-based treatment in initial burn care and shed some light on the potential value of enzymatic approaches in future burn surgery.
Firm Survival and Gender of Firm Owner in Times of COVID-19: Evidence from 10 European Countries
Authors: Wagner Joachim
Published: April 2022

This paper uses firm level data from World Bank Enterprise surveys conducted in 2019, and COVID-19 follow-up surveys conducted in 2020, in ten European countries to investigate the link between the gender of the firm’s owner and the firm’s survival until 2020. The empirical investigation uses econometric models that control for the firm’s characteristics that are known to be related to firm survival. The estimated effect of female ownership is positive ceteris paribus. Furthermore, the size of this estimated effect can be considered to be large on average. Having a female owner helped firms to survive.
Reflecting Culturally Responsive and Communicative Teaching (CRCT) through Partnership Commitment
Authors: Berlian Zainal , Huda Miftachul
Published: April 2022

The strategic approach to enhance cultural skills is aligned with social feeling and sense of belonging as an important element to underlie the interaction pathway with others’ diverse backgrounds. Such an approach of teaching model could be transformed and prepared to encourage ability to communicate and relate to others from diverse backgrounds. The following phase of sufficient integration amongst cognitive, social and emotional substance is reflect in the culturally responsive and communicative teaching (CRCT). This mode is an important element to advance the diverse students amidst an increasingly complex and pluralistic society. This paper is aimed at examining CRCT by having a critical look into the partnership commitment amongst interracial teachers’ daily school interaction. Data collection was conducted with 10 interracial teachers with a focus on the approach of how their partnership commitment is reflected and practiced in their daily school interaction. Thematic analysis was employed to obtain the main points of data to give insight into the multicultural school society. The findings reveal that an understanding of CRCT articulated into partnership engagement commitment has a core of three main points. These are: expanding self-awareness on cultural identity; enhancing culturally mediated emotion of social situations; and developing instructional practice for cultural sensitivity. The implication for students’ experiential learning in the multicultural classroom was also discussed. The contribution of this paper can be exerted among those involved in the education sectors. These include students, educators, principals, learning facilitators, researchers, educational technologist, instructional designers and practitioners. This is also included among the researchers who are interested in exploring, understanding and developing discerning perspectives on diversity and diverse learners in 21st century education. This study is expected to contribute by giving solving skills with the strategic approach articulated into a particular guideline to give a clear understanding in responding the multicultural classroom in the interracial school society context. This study is considered to elaborate the good feedback on the importance of CRCT in responding to emerging trends on the facades of diversity among diverse learners.
Education for Sustainable Development: How Seminar Design and Time Structure of Teacher Professional Development Affect Students’ Motivation and Creativity
Authors: Conradty Cathérine , Bogner Franz X.
Published: April 2022

Teachers need to adapt teaching styles to the goals of modern education. The Starwalker project has developed an approach for strengthening students’ self-efficacy and has provided professional development (PD) to teachers. The present study measured the effectiveness of PD indirectly by changes in students’ motivation and creativity as indicators. Two PD designs with the same time budget were examined: (1) a traditional lecture with a single feedback session; (2) repeated supervision sessions. Students completed questionnaires on school motivation, self-reported creativity and personality measures at the beginning and end of the school year. Four classes each were selected for both treatments and a control group (N = 281; Mean-Age = 10.82). At baseline, with no difference, the second PD design showed a significant increase in motivation and creativity, while the first PD design showed no differences compared to the control group. Spearman’s correlations of personality with motivation and creativity confirmed the presumed role of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness, while Grade Motivation and Flow were independent of personality. Structural equation modelling (SEM) confirmed the importance of creativity for motivation. The study proves that PD can be evaluated indirectly through its effects on students and confirms the Starwalker approach. Frequent brief interventions are recommended for attitude change.