bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
808-Nm Near-Infrared Laser Photobiomodulation versus Switched-Off Laser Placebo in Major Aphthae Management: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
Authors: Pasquale Claudio , Colombo Esteban , Benedicenti Stefano , Signore Antonio , Amaroli Andrea
Published: May 2021

Background: the aphtha is one of the most common oral mucosal ulcerations and presents as a painful punched-out sore. Systemic and topical medications are used to reduce inflammation and pain and to support the natural period of remission. Alternative treatment modalities have been requested to relieve pain and improve its healing. In this regard, photobiomodulation, which is a manipulation of cells’ metabolism through an energy transfer by light sources of non-ablative or thermal intensity, could support aphtha management. The predictor variable of our research was the photobiomodulation through higher energy and power irradiated through a handpiece with a flat-top beam profile. The primary end point was the complete healing of the aphtha, defined as the time from the irradiation to the complete recovery. The secondary end point was pain relief, evaluated daily through the visual analogue scale (VAS), from the irradiation to 24 and 48 h after. Methods: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted according to the CONSORT guideline. Irradiation was performed through an 808-nm diode laser with flat-top handpiece, and 1 W, 1 W/cm2, 60 J, 60 J/cm2 for 60 s on a spot-size area of 1 cm2. Time of complete healing and pain evaluation by VAS scale were evaluated. Results: between 1 January, 2020 and 1 March, 2021, 126 patients were screened for the study at the Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy. Sixty patients were randomly assigned (30 in the photobiomodulation group and 30 in the placebo group). Patients of the photobiomodulation group experienced complete healing in an average time of 8.13 days ± 1.69 (min 5–max 10 days), while for the placebo group the average time extended to 30.76 ± 4.63 days (min 25–max 42 days). Patients of the photobiomodulation therapy group experienced a statistically significant reduction in pain and discomfort 24 and 48 h after treatment (p < 0.05); the reduction was statistically higher (p < 0.05) 48 h after treatment compared to 24 h after. Conclusions: photobiomodulation at the parameters and modality of irradiation proposed accelerates the healing recovery and reduces pain compared to the patients treated with the placebo.
Impact of Environmental Stressors on Gene Expression in the Embryo of the Italian Wall Lizard
Authors: Scudiero Rosaria , Motta Chiara Maria , Simoniello Palma
Published: May 2021

The cleidoic eggs of oviparous reptiles are protected from the external environment by membranes and a parchment shell permeable to water and dissolved molecules. As a consequence, not only physical but also chemical insults can reach the developing embryos, interfering with gene expression. This review provides information on the impact of the exposure to cadmium contamination or thermal stress on gene expression during the development of Italian wall lizards of the genus Podarcis. The results obtained by transcriptomic analysis, although not exhaustive, allowed to identify some stress-reactive genes and, consequently, the molecular pathways in which these genes are involved. Cadmium-responsive genes encode proteins involved in cellular protection, metabolism and proliferation, membrane trafficking, protein interactions, neuronal transmission and plasticity, immune response, and transcription regulatory factors. Cold stress changes the expression of genes involved in transcriptional/translational regulation and chromatin remodeling and inhibits the transcription of a histone methyltransferase with the probable consequence of modifying the epigenetic control of DNA. These findings provide transcriptome-level evidence of how terrestrial vertebrate embryos cope with stress, giving a key to use in population survival and environmental change studies. A better understanding of the genes contributing to stress tolerance in vertebrates would facilitate methodologies and applications aimed at improving resistance to unfavourable environments.
Evolutionary Integrated Heuristic with Gudermannian Neural Networks for Second Kind of Lane–Emden Nonlinear Singular Models
Authors: Nisar Kashif , Sabir Zulqurnain , Zahoor Raja Muhammad Asif , Ag. Ibrahim Ag. Asri , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C. , Shahid Khan Adnan , Gupta Manoj , Kamal Aldawoud , Rawat Danda B.
Published: May 2021

In this work, a new heuristic computing design is presented with an artificial intelligence approach to exploit the models with feed-forward (FF) Gudermannian neural networks (GNN) accomplished with global search capability of genetic algorithms (GA) combined with local convergence aptitude of active-set method (ASM), i.e., FF-GNN-GAASM to solve the second kind of Lane–Emden nonlinear singular models (LE-NSM). The proposed method based on the computing intelligent Gudermannian kernel is incorporated with the hidden layer configuration of FF-GNN models of differential operatives of the LE-NSM, which are arbitrarily associated with presenting an error-based objective function that is used to optimize by the hybrid heuristics of GAASM. Three LE-NSM-based examples are numerically solved to authenticate the effectiveness, accurateness, and efficiency of the suggested FF-GNN-GAASM. The reliability of the scheme via statistical valuations is verified in order to authenticate the stability, accuracy, and convergence.
Towards In Vivo Monitoring of Ions Accumulation in Trees: Response of an in Planta Organic Electrochemical Transistor Based Sensor to Water Flux Density, Light and Vapor Pressure Deficit Variation
Authors: Amato Davide , Montanaro Giuseppe , Vurro Filippo , Coppedé Nicola , Briglia Nunzio , Petrozza Angelo , Janni Michela , Zappettini Andrea , Cellini Francesco , Nuzzo Vitale
Published: May 2021

Research on organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) based sensors to monitor in vivo plant traits such as xylem sap concentration is attracting attention for their potential application in precision agriculture. Fabrication and electronic aspects of OECT have been the subject of extensive research while its characterization within the plant water relation context deserves further efforts. This study tested the hypothesis that the response (R) of an OECT (bioristor) implanted in the trunk of olive trees is inversely proportional to the water flux density flowing through the plant (Jw). This study also examined the influence on R of vapor pressure deficit (VPD) as coupled/uncoupled with light. R was hourly recorded in potted olive trees for a 10-day period concomitantly with Jw (weight loss method). A subgroup of trees was bagged in order to reduce VPD and in turn Jw, and other trees were located in a walk-in chamber where VPD and light were independently managed. R was tightly sensitive to diurnal oscillation of Jw and at negligible values of Jw (late afternoon and night) R increased. The bioristor was not sensitive to the VPD per se unless a light source was coupled to trigger Jw. This study preliminarily examined the suitability of bioristor to estimate the mean daily nutrients accumulation rate (Ca, K) in leaves comparing chemical and sensor-based procedures showing a good agreement between them opening new perspective towards the application of OECT sensor in precision agricultural cropping systems.
Experimental and Numerical Model Investigations of Oxygen-Enriched Characteristics in Air-Conditioned Rooms
Authors: Zhang Chuanzhao , Yang Xiong , Li Ziyi , Liu Yingshu , Zhao Yu , Wang Haoyu , Ma Xiaojun , Li Chunwang , Zhang Yuanhui
Published: May 2021

People who live and work in air-conditioned rooms with micro-hypoxia are prone to sick building syndrome (SBS). Enriching oxygen into an air-conditioned room to increase the oxygen concentration can improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and reduce ventilation to save building energy consumption. In the present paper, the number and diameter of the oxygen supply vents, the oxygen supply flow rate, the oxygen supply method and the air flow organization form were comparatively studied using a numerical model. The results were compared with the experiments results in un-air-conditioned rooms, which showed that this model can give a favorable prediction. The results show that the maximum axial velocity decreases with the increase of the axial distance under air-conditioned conditions. The relationship between the oxygen-enriched area and the oxygen flow rate is obtained by fitting. The diameter of the oxygen supply pipe is 0.006 m, and when oxygen supply methods 1# and 4# are adopted, the oxygen-enriched area is F = 0.4 + 0.383 Q and F = 0.237 + 0.8 Q, respectively.
Nematic Dispersive Shock Waves from Nonlocal to Local
Authors: Baqer Saleh , Frantzeskakis Dimitrios J. , Horikis Theodoros P. , Houdeville Côme , Marchant Timothy R. , Smyth Noel F.
Published: May 2021

The structure of optical dispersive shock waves in nematic liquid crystals is investigated as the power of the optical beam is varied, with six regimes identified, which complements previous work pertinent to low power beams only. It is found that the dispersive shock wave structure depends critically on the input beam power. In addition, it is known that nematic dispersive shock waves are resonant and the structure of this resonance is also critically dependent on the beam power. Whitham modulation theory is used to find solutions for the six regimes with the existence intervals for each identified. These dispersive shock wave solutions are compared with full numerical solutions of the nematic equations, and excellent agreement is found.
Tribological Performance of Friction Pairs with Different Materials and Bi-Composite Surface Texture Configurations
Authors: Lu Junjie , Wang Tianrui , Ding Xuexing , Song Hui , Li He
Published: May 2021

Bi-composite surface texture configurations are proposed to study the friction performance of a mechanical seal under low speed. Three sets of comparative experiments were designed. They involved friction pairs with different pairing materials, single texture patterns, and bi-composite surface texture configurations. Tribological performances, such as friction coefficient, wear quantity, and surface topography, were measured. The research results showed that the average friction coefficient and surface temperature rise of the 3-C3 group (triangular texture in SSiC–conventional spiral groove in SSiC) were only 0.052 and 3.8 °C, respectively, which was the smallest friction coefficient and lowest temperature rise of all the test subjects. What’s more, the wear of M120D was mainly caused by the cutting effect of the texture edges, the adhesive wear of the non-textured areas, and the secondary wear caused by debris from the internal texture. It was indicated that the bi-composite patterns of spiral-triangle could produce a ‘synergistic effect’ by improving tribological performance and reaching lower friction in low-rotational-speed operation, which could provide a basis for designing a long-lasting and exceptionally reliable mechanical seal.
Neural Network Control for Trajectory Tracking and Balancing of a Ball-Balancing Robot with Uncertainty
Authors: Jang Hyo-Geon , Hyun Chang-Ho , Park Bong-Seok
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a neural-network-based control method to achieve trajectory tracking and balancing of a ball-balancing robot with uncertainty is presented. Because the ball-balancing robot is an underactuated system and has nonlinear couplings in the dynamic model, it is challenging to design a controller for trajectory tracking and balancing. Thus, various approaches have been proposed to solve these problems. However, there are still problems such as the complex control system and instability. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to propose a solution to these problems. To this end, we developed a virtual angle-based control scheme. Because the virtual angle was used as the reference angle to achieve trajectory tracking while keeping the balance of the ball-balancing robot, we could solve the underactuation problem using a single-loop controller. The radial basis function networks (RBFNs) were employed to compensate uncertainties, and the controller was designed using the dynamic surface control (DSC) method. From the Lyapunov stability theory, it was proven that all errors of the closed-loop control system were uniformly ultimately bounded. Therefore, the control system structure was simple and ensured stability in achieving simultaneous trajectory tracking and balancing of the ball-balancing robot with uncertainty. Finally, the simulation results are given to verify the performance of the proposed controller through comparison results. As a result, the proposed method showed a 19.2% improved tracking error rate compared to the existing method.
Analysis of the Vibrations of Operators’ Seats in Agricultural Machinery Using Dynamic Substructuring
Authors: Brunetti Jacopo , D'Ambrogio Walter , Fregolent Annalisa
Published: May 2021

The vibrations produced by an agricultural machine are transmitted to the seat of the tractor operator and must comply with the limitations imposed by international and national regulations. An agricultural machine is generally composed of a tractor that can be linked to different machines required to perform a large number of agricultural tasks. In this paper, substructuring techniques are proposed to investigate the dynamics of the agricultural machine and to evaluate the resulting vibration exposure to the tractor driver in different configurations of the machine. These techniques allow one to couple reduced-order models or experimental models of the component subsystems to obtain the response of the whole system. In the results, the vibration exposure of the tractor operator is evaluated for different configurations of the agricultural machine, by observing the frequency response function (inertance and transmissibility) and the transient response to a given excitation. In conclusion, these techniques allow one to investigate a large number of different configurations and a wide range of operating conditions with a light computational burden and without asking the manufacturers to share sensitive design details.
Influence of Laboratory Compaction Method on Compaction and Strength Characteristics of Unbound and Cement-Bound Mixtures
Authors: Zvonarić Matija , Barišić Ivana , Galić Mario , Minažek Krunoslav
Published: May 2021

During road construction, granular materials for the unbound base course (UBC) and cement-bound base course (CBC) are mostly compacted by vibratory rollers. A widespread laboratory test for determining the optimal moisture content (OMC) and maximum dry density (MDD) of the mixture for installation in UBC and CBC is the Proctor test. Considering that the Proctor test does not produce any vibrations during compaction, this paper compares the Proctor test and the vibrating hammer test. The examination was conducted on UBC and CBC with varying cement content and aggregate types. All mixtures were compacted by both methods with the aim of determining the compaction and strength characteristics. The results indicated the high comparability of the two test methods for mixtures with natural aggregate in terms of MDD, OMC, density and strength characteristics (California bearing ratio (CBR) for UBC and 28-day compressive strength for CBC). For mixtures with higher cement content, the OMC difference depending on the laboratory compaction method used can be significant, so the laboratory compaction method should be chosen carefully, particularly for moisture-susceptible materials. This paper also reveals that by increasing the proportion of rubber in the mixture, the compaction and strength characteristics differ significantly due to the compaction method. Therefore, when using alternative and insufficiently researched materials, the compaction method should also be chosen carefully.
Concise Robust Control of the Nonlinear Ship in Course-Keeping Control
Authors: Zou Changjun , Yu Jia , Guo Yingxuan
Published: May 2021

Most of the existing nonlinear ship course-keeping control systems are designed with the Nomoto model, which solely considers the yawing of the ship with only one Degree of Freedom (DOF), and it does not consider the coupling between the longitudinal and the lateral velocity of the ship. In this paper, a nonlinear ship course controller design method that can be used in a nonlinear coupled model was proposed. A stable nonlinear ship course controller with anti-wind and anti-wave interference was constructed based on the Lyapunov stability principle and robust control theory, which can be used in the course control of autopilot in the case of wind and waves. In this method, the coupling among the longitudinal and lateral velocity as well as yawing of the ship was considered. The simulation results showed that the method can not only effectively control the ship’s course but also can track the dynamic course effectively. At the same time, compared with the PID control method based on backstepping, the steering angle of the rudder angle of our method is smaller and the wear and tear of steering gear will be smaller.
Comparison of the Air Pollution Mathematical Model of PM10 and Moss Biomonitoring Results in the Tritia Region
Authors: Svozilík Vladislav , Svozilíková Krakovská Aneta , Bitta Jan , Jančík Petr
Published: May 2021

Knowing the relationship between pollution sources and air pollution concentrations is crucial. Mathematical modeling is a suitable method for the assessment of this relationship. The aim of this research was to compare the results of the Analytical Dispersion Modelling Supercomputer System (ADMOSS), which is used for air pollution modeling in large areas, with the results of moss biomonitoring. For comparison purposes, air pollution mathematical modeling and the collection of moss samples for biomonitoring in the Czech–Polish–Slovak border area in the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) Tritia were carried out. Moss samples were analyzed by multi-element instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). The INAA results were statistically processed using the correlation-matrix-based hierarchical clustering and correlation analysis of the biomonitoring results and ADMOSS results. Biomonitoring using bryophytes proved to be suitable for the verification of mathematical models of air pollution due to the ability of bryophytes to capture the long-term deposition of pollutants and the resulting possibility of finding the real distribution of pollutants in the area, as well as identify the specific chemical elements, the distribution of which coincides with the mathematical model.
Optimal Segmentation over a Generalized Customer Distribution
Authors: Ou Tsung-Yin , Chen Yenming J.
Published: May 2021

This paper investigates the impact of consumer preferences on the intensity of competition for companies in a duopoly market. A classical Hotelling’s competition problem will be different if consumers are allowed to distribute non-uniformly. New results in competition intensity are established and conditions for the existence of a subgame perfect Nash equilibrium is identified through a model that considers generic distribution in consumer preferences. A competition strategy is demonstrated to depend on the signs of local change rates of the density function at the endpoints of market segments.
Green Tea Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) Targeting Protein Misfolding in Drug Discovery for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Gonçalves Priscila Baltazar , Sodero Ana Carolina Rennó , Cordeiro Yraima
Published: May 2021

The potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) of the major bioactive compound of green tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), is well documented. Numerous findings now suggest that EGCG targets protein misfolding and aggregation, a common cause and pathological mechanism in many NDs. Several studies have shown that EGCG interacts with misfolded proteins such as amyloid beta-peptide (Aβ), linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and α-synuclein, linked to Parkinson’s disease (PD). To date, NDs constitute a serious public health problem, causing a financial burden for health care systems worldwide. Although current treatments provide symptomatic relief, they do not stop or even slow the progression of these devastating disorders. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop effective drugs for these incurable ailments. It is expected that targeting protein misfolding can serve as a therapeutic strategy for many NDs since protein misfolding is a common cause of neurodegeneration. In this context, EGCG may offer great potential opportunities in drug discovery for NDs. Therefore, this review critically discusses the role of EGCG in NDs drug discovery and provides updated information on the scientific evidence that EGCG can potentially be used to treat many of these fatal brain disorders.
Microglial Extracellular Vesicles as Vehicles for Neurodegeneration Spreading
Authors: Aires Inês Dinis , Ribeiro-Rodrigues Teresa , Boia Raquel , Ferreira-Rodrigues Magda , Girão Henrique , Ambrósio António Francisco , Santiago Ana Raquel
Published: May 2021

Microglial cells are the neuroimmune competent cells of the central nervous system. In the adult, microglia are responsible for screening the neuronal parenchyma searching for alterations in homeostasis. Chronic neuroinflammation plays a role in neurodegenerative disease. Indeed, microglia-mediated neuroinflammation is involved in the onset and progression of several disorders in the brain and retina. Microglial cell reactivity occurs in an orchestrated manner and propagates across the neural parenchyma spreading the neuroinflammatory signal from cell to cell. Extracellular vesicles are important vehicles of intercellular communication and act as message carriers across boundaries. Extracellular vesicles can be subdivided in several categories according to their cellular origin (apoptotic bodies, microvesicles and exosomes), each presenting, different but sometimes overlapping functions in cell communication. Mounting evidence suggests a role for extracellular vesicles in regulating microglial cell action. Herein, we explore the role of microglial extracellular vesicles as vehicles for cell communication and the mechanisms that trigger their release. In this review we covered the role of microglial extracellular vesicles, focusing on apoptotic bodies, microvesicles and exosomes, in the context of neurodegeneration and the impact of these vesicles derived from other cells in microglial cell reactivity.
Transcriptional Cascade in the Regulation of Flowering in the Bamboo Orchid Arundina graminifolia
Authors: Ahmad Sagheer , Lu Chuqiao , Wu Jieqiu , Wei Yonglu , Gao Jie , Jin Jianpeng , Zheng Chuanyuan , Zhu Genfa , Yang Fengxi
Published: May 2021

Flowering in orchids is the most important horticultural trait regulated by multiple mechanisms. Arundina graminifolia flowers throughout the year unlike other orchids with a narrow flowering span. However, little is known of the genetic regulation of this peculiar flowering pattern. This study identifies a number of transcription factor (TF) families in five stages of flower development and four tissue types through RNA-seq transcriptome. About 700 DEGs were annotated to the transcription factor category and classified into 35 TF families, which were involved in multiple signaling pathways. The most abundant TF family was bHLH, followed by MYB and WRKY. Some important members of the bHLH, WRKY, MYB, TCP, and MADS-box families were found to regulate the flowering genes at transcriptional levels. Particularly, the TFs WRKY34 and ERF12 possibly respond to vernalization and photoperiod signaling, MYB108, RR9, VP1, and bHLH49 regulate hormonal balance, and CCA1 may control the circadian pathway. MADS-box TFs including MADS6, 14, 16, AGL5, and SEP may be important regulators of flowering in A. graminifolia. Therefore, this study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the molecular mechanism of flowering in A. graminifolia.
Complement Components in the Diagnosis and Treatment after Kidney Transplantation—Is There a Missing Link?
Authors: Kielar Małgorzata , Gala-Błądzińska Agnieszka , Dumnicka Paulina , Ceranowicz Piotr , Kapusta Maria , Naumnik Beata , Kubiak Grzegorz , Kuźniewski Marek , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata
Published: May 2021

Currently, kidney transplantation is widely accepted as the renal replacement therapy allowing for the best quality of life and longest survival of patients developing end-stage renal disease. However, chronic transplant rejection, recurrence of previous kidney disease or newly acquired conditions, or immunosuppressive drug toxicity often lead to a deterioration of kidney allograft function over time. Complement components play an important role in the pathogenesis of kidney allograft impairment. Most studies on the role of complement in kidney graft function focus on humoral rejection; however, complement has also been associated with cell mediated rejection, post-transplant thrombotic microangiopathy, the recurrence of several glomerulopathies in the transplanted kidney, and transplant tolerance. Better understanding of the complement involvement in the transplanted kidney damage has led to the development of novel therapies that inhibit complement components and improve graft survival. The analysis of functional complotypes, based on the genotype of both graft recipient and donor, may become a valuable tool for assessing the risk of acute transplant rejection. The review summarizes current knowledge on the pathomechanisms of complement activation following kidney transplantation and the resulting diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities.
Iridoids, Flavonoids, and Antioxidant Capacity of Cornus mas, C. officinalis, and C. mas × C. officinalis Fruits
Authors: Klymenko Svitlana , Kucharska Alicja Zofia , Sokół-Łętowska Anna , Piórecki Narcyz , Przybylska Dominika , Grygorieva Olga
Published: May 2021

The fruits of Cornus mas and Cornus officinalis have been known and appreciated in folk medicine for years and have a high biological value, which is mainly connected with their polyphenols and iridoids content. However, hybrids of C. mas × C. officinalis have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the iridoids, anthocyanins, and flavonols content, and antioxidant capacity of Cornus mas, Cornus officinalis, and C. mas × C. officinalis. Iridoids and flavonoids were quantified by the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. Antioxidant capacity (AC) was measured using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) tests. Total phenolic content (TPC) was evaluated using the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent. Among the C. mas cultivars and C. officinalis genotypes, there was considerable variation in the content of iridoids, flavonoids, and AC. Interspecific hybrids C. mas × C. officinalis contained more iridoids than C. mas and more anthocyanins than C. officinalis and additionally had higher AC and TPC than C. officinalis and most C. mas. AC, TPC, and the presence of iridoids, anthocyanins, and flavonols in hybrids C. mas × C. officinalis are reported for the first time. The Cornus species deserve special attention due to their highly biologically active substances, as well as useful medicinal properties.
Natural Photosensitizers in Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Polat Ece , Kang Kyungsu
Published: May 2021

Health problems and reduced treatment effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance have become important global problems and are important factors that negatively affect life expectancy. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (APDT) is constantly evolving and can minimize this antimicrobial resistance problem. Reactive oxygen species produced when nontoxic photosensitizers are exposed to light are the main functional components of APDT responsible for microbial destruction; therefore, APDT has a broad spectrum of target pathogens, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Various photosensitizers, including natural extracts, compounds, and their synthetic derivatives, are being investigated. The main limitations, such as weak antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, solubility, specificity, and cost, encourage the exploration of new photosensitizer candidates. Many additional methods, such as cell surface engineering, cotreatment with membrane-damaging agents, nanotechnology, computational simulation, and sonodynamic therapy, are also being investigated to develop novel APDT methods with improved properties. In this review, we summarize APDT research, focusing on natural photosensitizers used in in vitro and in vivo experimental models. In addition, we describe the limitations observed for natural photosensitizers and the methods developed to counter those limitations with emerging technologies.
Local Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Rats
Authors: Vasilevskaya Ekaterina , Makarenko Aleksandr , Tolmacheva Galina , Chernukha Irina , Kibitkina Anastasiya , Fedulova Liliya
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Hemorrhagic stroke is a lethal disease, accounting for 15% of all stroke cases. However, there are very few models of stroke with a hemorrhagic etiology. Research work is devoted to studying the development of cerebrovascular disorders in rats with an intracerebral hematoma model. The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive short-term study, including neurological tests, biochemical blood tests, and histomorphological studies of brain structures. (2) Methods: The model was reproduced surgically by traumatizing the brain in the capsula interna area and then injecting autologous blood. Neurological deficit was assessed according to the McGrow stroke-index scale, motor activity, orientation–exploratory behavior, emotionality, and motor functions. On Day 15, after the operation, hematological and biochemical blood tests as well as histological studies of the brain were performed. (3) Results: The overall lethality of the model was 43.7%. Acute intracerebral hematoma in rats causes marked disorders of motor activity and functional impairment, as well as inflammatory processes in the nervous tissue, which persist for at least 14 days. (4) Conclusions: This model reflects the situation observed in the clinic and reproduces the main diagnostic criteria for acute disorders of cerebral circulation.
Current Understanding of the Immunomodulatory Activities of High-Density Lipoproteins
Authors: Trakaki Athina , Marsche Gunther
Published: May 2021

Lipoproteins interact with immune cells, macrophages and endothelial cells - key players of the innate and adaptive immune system. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles seem to have evolved as part of the innate immune system since certain HDL subspecies contain combinations of apolipoproteins with immune regulatory functions. HDL is enriched in anti-inflammatory lipids, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate and certain saturated lysophospholipids. HDL reduces inflammation and protects against infection by modulating immune cell function, vasodilation and endothelial barrier function. HDL suppresses immune cell activation at least in part by modulating the cholesterol content in cholesterol/sphingolipid-rich membrane domains (lipid rafts), which play a critical role in the compartmentalization of signaling pathways. Acute infections, inflammation or autoimmune diseases lower HDL cholesterol levels and significantly alter HDL metabolism, composition and function. Such alterations could have a major impact on disease progression and may affect the risk for infections and cardiovascular disease. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the immune cell modulatory activities of HDL. We focus on newly discovered activities of HDL-associated apolipoproteins, enzymes, lipids, and HDL mimetic peptides.
Microvascular Tissue Engineering—A Review
Authors: Vajda Jernej , Milojević Marko , Maver Uroš , Vihar Boštjan
Published: May 2021

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have come a long way in recent decades, but the lack of functioning vasculature is still a major obstacle preventing the development of thicker, physiologically relevant tissue constructs. A large part of this obstacle lies in the development of the vessels on a microscale—the microvasculature—that are crucial for oxygen and nutrient delivery. In this review, we present the state of the art in the field of microvascular tissue engineering and demonstrate the challenges for future research in various sections of the field. Finally, we illustrate the potential strategies for addressing some of those challenges.
Development of a Smartphone-Based Optical Device to Measure Hemoglobin Concentration Changes for Remote Monitoring of Wounds
Authors: Kaile Kacie , Fernandez Christian , Godavarty Anuradha
Published: May 2021

Telemedicine (TM) can revolutionize the impact of diabetic wound care management, along with tools for remote patient monitoring (RPM). There are no low-cost mobile RPM devices for TM technology to provide comprehensive (visual and physiological) clinical assessments. Here, a novel low-cost smartphone-based optical imaging device has been developed to provide physiological measurements of tissues in terms of hemoglobin concentration maps. The device (SmartPhone Oxygenation Tool—SPOT) constitutes an add-on optical module, a smartphone, and a custom app to automate data acquisition while syncing a multi-wavelength near-infrared light-emitting diode (LED) light source (690, 810, 830 nm). The optimal imaging conditions of the SPOT device were determined from signal-to-noise maps. A standard vascular occlusion test was performed in three control subjects to observe changes in hemoglobin concentration maps between rest, occlusion, and release time points on the dorsal of the hand. Hemoglobin concentration maps were compared with and without applying an image de-noising algorithm, single value decomposition. Statistical analysis demonstrated that the hemoglobin concentrations changed significantly across the three-time stamps. Ongoing efforts are in imaging diabetic foot ulcers using the SPOT device to assess its potential as a smart health device for physiological monitoring of wounds remotely.
Patterns of Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Video Recording Study. Preliminary Report
Authors: Grossi Enzo , Caminada Elisa , Goffredo Michela , Vescovo Beatrice , Castrignano Tristana , Piscitelli Daniele , Valagussa Giulio , Franceschini Marco , Vanzulli Franco
Published: May 2021

Background: Several instruments have been proposed to investigate restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRBs) in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Systematic video observations may overcome questionnaire and interview limitations to investigate RRBs. This study aimed to analyze stereotypic patterns through video recordings and to determine the correlation between the number and appearance of RRBs to ASD severity. Methods: Twenty health professionals wearing a body cam recorded 780 specific RRBs during everyday activities of 67 individuals with ASD (mean age: 14.2 ± 3.72 years) for three months. Each stereotypy was classified according to its complexity pattern (i.e., simple or complex) based on body parts and sensory channels involved. Results: The RRBs spectrum for each subject ranged from one to 33 different patterns (mean: 11.6 ± 6.82). Individuals with a lower number of stereotypies shown a lower ASD severity compared to subjects with a higher number of stereotypies (p = 0.044). No significant differences were observed between individuals exhibiting simple (n = 40) and complex patterns (n = 27) of stereotypies on ASD severity, age, sex, and the number of stereotypes. Conclusions: This study represents the first attempt to systematically document expression patterns of RRBs with a data-driven approach. This may provide a better understanding of the pathophysiology and management of RRBs.
Corrosion Activity of Carbon Steel B450C and Low Chromium Ferritic Stainless Steel 430 in Cement Extract Solution
Authors: Bacelis Ángel , Veleva Lucien , Feliu Sebastián , Cabrini Marina , Lorenzi Sergio
Published: May 2021

This study compares corrosion activities of carbon steel B450C and SS 430 (Mn in low content) exposed for 30 days in cement extract solution. Iron oxide and hydroxide were formed as corrosion products, in addition to CaCO3, in the presence of Cr2O3 on SS 430. Because of the decrease in pH, B450C lost the passive state when OCP shifted to negative values, while SS 430 showed positive OCP values, maintaining its passive state. The SEM images confirmed that the corrosion attack on the surface was less aggressive for SS 430. The Nyquist plots of EIS initially showed capacitive behavior and later changed to semi-linear diffusion impedance, which SS 430 maintained firmly. The phase angle Bode diagrams confirmed these changes. Two equivalent circuits were applied. The calculated values of Rp for SS 430 increased over time (protective passive layer mainly of Cr2O3 oxide), while for carbon steel, Rp reached maximum value after 168 h and then decreased, maintaining minimum values approximately five orders lower than those of the stainless steel.
A Study on Evaluation of Influencing Factors for Sustainable Development of Smart Construction Enterprises: Case Study from China
Authors: Zhao Sidong , Zhang Ping , Li Weiwei
Published: May 2021

Smart construction enterprises are the key subjects in the development and practical transformation of smart building technology, and their sustainable development has been a hot research topic in the new era. In the context of the new round of technology and industrial revolution, the rapid accumulation of development uncertainties and their possible transformation into risks at any time, as well as the ambiguity of growth mechanisms and the loss of strategies, have become major challenges that may constrain the development and strategic management of enterprises. Based on SWOT, BCG, GE, QSPM and principal component analysis methods, this paper constructs a new framework combining theory and practice organically for quantitative identification and evaluation of influencing factors, and analysis of strategy selection and the decision-making process. It will provide a scientific basis for sustainable development and strategic management of smart construction enterprises. DK Company is a typical smart building enterprise in China, and the results of its empirical study show that: Firstly, the 28 variable elements influencing the sustainable development of smart construction enterprises can be summarized into six key factors, with significant differences in their influence, and the external influence far greater than the internal driving force. Secondly, a priority set of six alternatives for strategic decision-making and implementation is proposed, based on the quantitative strategy selection and matching analysis, which improves the accuracy and practicality of the study findings.
Ablation in Pancreatic Cancer: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Narayanan Govindarajan , Daye Dania , Wilson Nicole M. , Noman Raihan , Mahendra Ashwin M. , Doshi Mehul H.
Published: May 2021

The insidious onset and aggressive nature of pancreatic cancer contributes to the poor treatment response and high mortality of this devastating disease. While surgery, chemotherapy and radiation have contributed to improvements in overall survival, roughly 90% of those afflicted by this disease will die within 5 years of diagnosis. The developed ablative locoregional treatment modalities have demonstrated promise in terms of overall survival and quality of life. In this review, we discuss some of the recent studies demonstrating the safety and efficacy of ablative treatments in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer.
Proteomics, Personalized Medicine and Cancer
Authors: Su Miao , Zhang Zhe , Zhou Li , Han Chao , Huang Canhua , Nice Edouard C.
Published: May 2021

As of 2020 the human genome and proteome are both at >90% completion based on high stringency analyses. This has been largely achieved by major technological advances over the last 20 years and has enlarged our understanding of human health and disease, including cancer, and is supporting the current trend towards personalized/precision medicine. This is due to improved screening, novel therapeutic approaches and an increased understanding of underlying cancer biology. However, cancer is a complex, heterogeneous disease modulated by genetic, molecular, cellular, tissue, population, environmental and socioeconomic factors, which evolve with time. In spite of recent advances in treatment that have resulted in improved patient outcomes, prognosis is still poor for many patients with certain cancers (e.g., mesothelioma, pancreatic and brain cancer) with a high death rate associated with late diagnosis. In this review we overview key hallmarks of cancer (e.g., autophagy, the role of redox signaling), current unmet clinical needs, the requirement for sensitive and specific biomarkers for early detection, surveillance, prognosis and drug monitoring, the role of the microbiome and the goals of personalized/precision medicine, discussing how emerging omics technologies can further inform on these areas. Exemplars from recent onco-proteogenomic-related publications will be given. Finally, we will address future perspectives, not only from the standpoint of perceived advances in treatment, but also from the hurdles that have to be overcome.
Immune Responses against Disseminated Tumor Cells
Authors: Peng Ling , Zhang Yongchang , Wang Zibing
Published: May 2021

Most cancer-related deaths are a consequence of metastases, a series of linear events, notably the invasion–metastasis cascade. The current understanding of cancer immune surveillance derives from studies in primary tumors, but disseminated cancer cells acquire mutations and, in some cases, appear to progress independently after spreading from primary sites. An early step in this process is micrometastatic dissemination. As such, the equilibrium between the immune system and disseminated cancer cells controls the fate of the cancer. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) exhibit significant clinical activity in patients, but the efficacy of ICIs depends on both the tumor and its microenvironment. Data often suggest that disseminated cancer cells are not adequately targeted by the immune system. In this review, we summarize the main basic findings of immune responses against disseminated tumor cells and their organ-specific characteristics. Such studies may provide new directions for cancer immune therapy.
Financial Counseling Is Associated with Reduced Financial Difficulty Scores in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated with Radiation Therapy
Authors: Farrugia Mark , Yu Han , Ma Sung Jun , Iovoli Austin J. , Erickson Kayleigh , Wendel Elizabeth , Attwood Kristopher , Wooten Kimberly E. , Gupta Vishal , McSpadden Ryan P. , Kuriakose Moni A. , Markiewicz Michael R. , Chan Jon M. , Hicks Wesley L. , Platek Mary E. , Ray Andrew D. , Repasky Elizabeth A. , Singh Anurag K.
Published: May 2021

Background: Financial toxicity (FT) can be devastating to cancer patients, and solutions are urgently needed. We investigated the impact of financial counseling (FC) on FT in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Methods: Via a single-institution database, we reviewed the charts of HNC patients who underwent definitive or post-operative radiotherapy, from October 2013 to December 2020. Of these patients, 387 had provided baseline and post-treatment information regarding financial difficulty. In July 2018, a dedicated financial counselor was provided for radiation therapy patients and we subsequently examined the impact of FC on financial difficulty scores. Results: Following the hiring of a dedicated financial counselor, there was a significant increase in the proportion of patients receiving FC (5.3% vs. 62.7%, p < 0.0001). Compared with baseline scores, patients who did not undergo FC had a significant increase in reported financial difficulty at the end of treatment (p = 0.002). On the other hand, there was no difference in pre- and post-treatment scores in patients who had received FC (p = 0.588). After adjusting for gender and nodal status with a multiple linear regression model, FC was significantly associated with change in financial difficulty (β = −0.204 ± 0.096, p = 0.035). On average, patients who received FC had a 0.2 units lower change in financial difficulty score as compared with those with the same gender and nodal stage but without FC. Conclusions: Providing a dedicated financial counselor significantly increased the proportion of HNC receiving FC, resulting in the stabilization of financial difficulty scores post-treatment. Based on a multiple linear regression model, FC was independently associated with reduced financial difficulty. The employment of a financial counselor may be a viable, hospital-based approach to begin to address FT in HNC.
Methylation Patterns of DKK1, DKK3 and GSK3β Are Accompanied with Different Expression Levels in Human Astrocytoma
Authors: Kafka Anja , Bukovac Anja , Brglez Emilija , Jarmek Ana-Marija , Poljak Karolina , Brlek Petar , Žarković Kamelija , Njirić Niko , Pećina-Šlaus Nives
Published: May 2021

In the present study, we investigated genetic and epigenetic changes and protein expression levels of negative regulators of Wnt signaling, DKK1, DKK3, and APC as well as glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3β) and β-catenin in 64 human astrocytomas of grades II–IV. Methylation-specific PCR revealed promoter methylation of DKK1, DKK3, and GSK3β in 38%, 43%, and 18% of samples, respectively. Grade IV comprised the lowest number of methylated GSK3β cases and highest of DKK3. Evaluation of the immunostaining using H-score was performed for β-catenin, both total and unphosphorylated (active) forms. Additionally, active (pY216) and inactive (pS9) forms of GSK3β protein were also analyzed. Spearman’s correlation confirmed the prevalence of β-catenin’s active form (rs = 0.634, p < 0.001) in astrocytoma tumor cells. The Wilcoxon test revealed that astrocytoma with higher levels of the active pGSK3β-Y216 form had lower expression levels of its inactive form (p < 0.0001, Z = −5.332). Changes in APC’s exon 11 were observed in 44.44% of samples by PCR/RFLP. Astrocytomas with changes of APC had higher H-score values of total β-catenin compared to the group without genetic changes (t = −2.264, p = 0.038). Furthermore, a positive correlation between samples with methylated DKK3 promoter and the expression of active pGSK3β-Y216 (rs = 0.356, p = 0.011) was established. Our results emphasize the importance of methylation for the regulation of Wnt signaling. Large deletions of the APC gene associated with increased β-catenin levels, together with oncogenic effects of both β-catenin and GSK3β, are clearly involved in astrocytoma evolution. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the etiology of gliomas. Further studies should elucidate the clinical and therapeutic relevance of the observed molecular alterations.