bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal Capturing of Polysulfides by Phosphorus‐Doped Carbon Composites for Flexible High‐Energy‐Density Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Jo Seong‐Chan , Hong Jeong‐Won , Choi Ik‐Hyeon , Kim Min‐Ju , Kim Byung Gon , Lee You‐Jin , Choi Hye Young , Kim Doohun , Kim TaeYoung , Baeg Kang‐Jun , Park Jun‐Woo
Published: March 2022

The widespread adoption of Li‐ion batteries is currently limited by their unstable electrochemical performance and high flammability under mechanical deformation conditions and a relatively low energy density. Herein, high‐energy‐density lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are developed for applications in next‐generation flexible electronics and electric vehicles with long cruising distances. Freestanding high‐S‐loading carbon nanotubes cathodes are assembled with a phosphorus (P)‐doped carbon interlayer coated on commercial separators. Strategies for the active materials and structural design of both the electrodes and separators are highly efficient for immobilizing the lithium polysulfides via multimodal capturing effects; they significantly improve the electrochemical performance in terms of the redox kinetics and cycling stability. The foldable Li–S cells show stable specific capacities of 850 mAh g−1 over 100 cycles, achieving high gravimetric and volumetric energy densities of 387 Wh kgcell−1 and 395 Wh Lcell−1, respectively. The Li–S cells show highly durable mechanical flexibilities under severe deformation conditions without short circuit or failure. Finally, the Li–S battery is explored as a light‐weight and flexible energy storage device aboard airplane drones to ensure at least fivefold longer flight times than traditional Li‐ion batteries. Nanocarbon‐based S cathodes and P‐doped carbon interlayers offer a promising solution for commercializing rechargeable Li–S batteries.
Notes on the nomenclature and taxonomy of Salix fragilis (Salicaceae)
Authors: Marchenko Аlexander M. , Kuzovkina Yulia A.
Published: March 2022

We evaluated the recent replacements of Salix fragilis L. with S. еuxina I.V.Belyaeva, and S. ×rubens Schrank with S. ×fragilis L. (S. alba L. × S. euxina). The specimens of S. еuxina, identified by Belyaeva, were analyzed. The morphological characters did not coincide with those in the species description, and the ovule number was different in all specimens. This makes the application of the name S. еuxina impossible and precludes the possibility of replacing S. fragilis for S. euxina. Also, the original Linnaean descriptions of S. fragilis, the related S. alba, and S. pentandra, as well as Linnaeus's herbarium specimens, were examined. Each of the three protologues describes the characteristics of the pure species as well as their hybrids: S. pentandra × S. fragilis (in the protologues of S. pentandra and S. fragilis) and S. alba × S. fragilis (in the protologue of S. alba). Our study of the morphology, geographic data, and ovule number demonstrates that the recent replacements of S. fragilis with S. еuxina, and S. ×rubens with S. ×fragilis (S. alba × S. euxina) were erroneous. We propose continuing to use S. fragilis as the name for a glabrous crack willow and S. ×rubens for its hybrid with S. alba.
Knockdown of MAGE‐A6 enhanced the irradiation sensitivity of non‐small cell lung cancer cells by activating the AMPK pathway
Authors: Zhou Jialiang , Fan Qiang , Li Jie , Wu Jia , Huang Jianfeng , Zhang Yunxia , He Xiuyun
Published: March 2022

Non‐small cell lung cancer is a common respiratory tumor. The mortality rate of lung cancer patients has continued to rise in recent years. Several studies revealed that the expression of melanoma antigen 6 (MAGE‐A6) promoted the development of multiple types of cancer. In addition, the suppression of AMPK pathway could restrict the radiosensitization of prostate cancer cells. Inhibition of MAGE‐A6 activated the AMPK pathway in colorectal cancer cells. However, whether the MAGE‐A6 could regulate the radiosensitivity of non‐small cell lung cancer cells by regulating of the AMPK pathway is unclear. In this study, we established the MAGE‐A6 knockdown in A549 and H1299 cells. Next, the apoptosis and proliferation of these cells were detected by the flow cytometry analysis and colony formation assay after the irradiation, respectively. Then, the expression of p‐AMPKα1 and p‐S6K1 in these cells was explored by the western blotting. After that, we inhibited the expression of AMPKα1 in MAGE‐A6 knockdown cells. The proliferation and apoptosis of these cells were detected with colony formation assay and flow cytometry analysis. Finally, the tumor formation of these cells was detected in nude mice. Our results showed that inhibition of MAGE‐A6 suppressed the proliferation and aggravated the apoptosis of A549 and H1299 cells after the irradiation. Knockdown of MAGE‐A6 activated the expression of p‐AMPKα1 and repressed the expression of p‐S6K1 in these cells. Suppression of AMPKα1 in MAGE‐A6 knockdown cells abolished these effects. Knockdown of MAGE‐A6 also enhanced the radiosensitivity of these cells in vivo. These results suggested that inhibition of MAGE‐A6 promoted the radiosensitivity of non‐small cell lung cancer cells by activating AMPK pathway. Therefore, MAGE‐6 has the potential to be explored as the therapeutic target for the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer in clinical.
Edible folic acid and medicinal folinic acid produce cardioprotective effects in late‐stage triple‐transgenic Alzheimer's disease model mice by suppressing cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis
Authors: Huang Chih‐Yang , Su Yi‐Chen , Lu Cheng‐You , Chiu Ping‐Ling , Chang Yung‐Ming , Ju Da‐Tong , Chen Ray‐Jade , Yang Liang‐Yo , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Kao Hui‐Chuan
Published: March 2022

Some clinical studies have indicated the patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) display an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, to examine the relationship between AD and CVDs, we investigated the changes in heart function in triple‐transgenic late‐stage AD model mice (3× Tg‐AD; APPSwe, PS1M146V, and tauP301L). We fed the AD mice folic acid (FA) or folinic acid (FN) and analyzed the protective effects of the compounds on the heart; specifically, 20‐month‐old triple‐transgenic AD mice, weighing 34–55 g, were randomly allocated into three groups—the AD, AD + FA, and AD + FN groups—and subject to gastric feeding with FA or FN once daily at 12 mg/kg body weight (BW) for 3 months. Mouse BWs were assessed throughout the trial, at the end of which the animals were sacrificed using carbon dioxide suffocation. We found that BW, whole‐heart weight, and left‐ventricle weight were reduced in the AD + FA and AD + FN groups as compared with the measurements in the AD group. Furthermore, western blotting of excised heart tissue revealed that the levels of the hypertrophy‐related protein markers phospho(p)‐p38 and p‐c‐Jun were markedly decreased in the AD + FA group, whereas p‐GATA4, and ANP were strongly reduced in the AD + FN group. Moreover, the fibrosis‐related proteins uPA, MMP‐2, MEK1/2 and SP‐1 were decreased in the heart in both AD + FN group. In summary, our results indicate that FA and FN can exert anti‐cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis effects to protect the heart in aged triple‐transgenic AD model mice, particular in FN.
Exploratory imaging outcomes of a phase 1b/2a clinical trial of allopregnanolone as a regenerative therapeutic for Alzheimer's disease: Structural effects and functional connectivity outcomes
Authors: Raikes Adam C. , Hernandez Gerson D. , Matthews Dawn C. , Lukic Ana S. , Law Meng , Shi Yonggang , Schneider Lon S. , Brinton Roberta D.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Allopregnanolone (ALLO), an endogenous neurosteroid, promoted neurogenesis and oligogenesis and restored cognitive function in animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Based on these discovery research findings, we conducted a randomized‐controlled phase 1b/2a multiple ascending dose trial of ALLO in persons with early AD (NCT02221622) to assess safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics. Exploratory imaging outcomes to determine whether ALLO impacted hippocampal structure, white matter integrity, and functional connectivity are reported.

Methods

Twenty‐four individuals participated in the trial (n = 6 placebo; n = 18 ALLO) and underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after 12 weeks of treatment. Hippocampal atrophy rate was determined from volumetric MRI, computed as rate of change, and qualitatively assessed between ALLO and placebo sex, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele, and ALLO dose subgroups. White matter microstructural integrity was compared between placebo and ALLO using fractional and quantitative anisotropy (QA). Changes in local, inter‐regional, and network‐level functional connectivity were also compared between groups using resting‐state functional MRI.

Results

Rate of decline in hippocampal volume was slowed, and in some cases reversed, in the ALLO group compared to placebo. Gain of hippocampal volume was evident in APOE ε4 carriers (range: 0.6% to 7.8% increased hippocampal volume). Multiple measures of white matter integrity indicated evidence of preserved or improved integrity. ALLO significantly increased fractional anisotropy (FA) in 690 of 690 and QA in 1416 of 1888 fiber tracts, located primarily in the corpus callosum, bilateral thalamic radiations, and bilateral corticospinal tracts. Consistent with structural changes, ALLO strengthened local, inter‐regional, and network level functional connectivity in AD‐vulnerable regions, including the precuneus and posterior cingulate, and network connections between the default mode network and limbic system.

Discussion

Indicators of regeneration from previous preclinical studies and these exploratory MRI‐based outcomes from this phase 1b/2a clinical cohort support advancement to a phase 2 proof‐of‐concept efficacy clinical trial of ALLO as a regenerative therapeutic for mild AD (REGEN‐BRAIN study; NCT04838301).
Use of medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil in subjects with Alzheimer's disease: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study, with an open‐label extension
Authors: Juby Angela G. , Blackburn Toni E. , Mager Diana R.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Cerebral glucose and insulin metabolism is impaired in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Ketones provide alternative energy. Will medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, a nutritional source of ketones, impact cognition in AD?

Methods

This was a 6‐month randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study, with 6‐month open‐label extension in probable AD subjects, on stable medications. MCT dose was 42 g/day, or maximum tolerated. Cognition was assessed with Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Cognigram®.

Results

Twenty subjects, average age 72.6 years, 45% women, 70% university educated had baseline MMSE 22.6/30 (10–29); MoCA 15.6/30 (4–27); baseline Cognigram® Part 1: 65–106, Part 2: 48–107. Average MCT oil consumption was 1.8 tablespoons/day (25.2 g, 234 kcal). Eighty percent remained stable or improved. Longer MCT exposure and age > 73, resulted in higher final MMSE (P < .001) and Cognigram® 1 scores.

Discussion

This is the longest duration MCT AD study to date. Eighty percent had stabilization or improvement in cognition, and better response with 9‐month continual MCT oil.
Rabies in a 6‐month‐old female Nigerian indigenous dog in Ebonyi State
Authors: Okoronkwo Magdalene Ogbonneya , Alaga Olushola Dorcas , Ajifken Jonah , Olawoyin Mayokun Christiana , Magaji Gloria Oiza
Published: March 2022

This case report was aimed at confirming a suspected dog with rabies in Ogbaga area, Ebonyi State. A 6‐month‐old dog was presented to the veterinary clinic with the primary complaint of inappetence and laboured breathing. History further revealed that the puppy was attacked and bitten on the face by a stray dog about 2 weeks prior. Physical examination showed pica, dropped jaw and a healed bite wound around the mouth. The following day, the puppy was found recumbent and clinical signs observed were lethargy, paralysis, abnormal vocalisation and salivation. The puppy died on the second day after presentation and it was decapitated. The head was wrapped in a polythene bag and stored in a freezer at −20°C for further laboratory diagnosis and confirmation. The sample was properly packed and sent to Rabies Laboratory, National Veterinary Institute, Vom, where a fluorescent antibody test was used for diagnosis. The result showed the confirmation of rabies antigen in the brain sample.
Beyond energetic and scalar measures: Next generation quantum theory of atoms in molecules
Authors: Kirk Steven R. , Jenkins Samantha
Published: March 2022

Next generation quantum theory of atoms in molecules (NG‐QTAIM) is currently the only vector‐based quantum chemical theory as all other quantum chemical theories are scalar‐based. NG‐QTAIM can, for instance, be used to distinguish enantiomers, isotopomers undergoing normal modes of vibration, predict ring‐opening reaction products, ground and excited states at a conical intersection and predict reaction pathways of permutation‐inversion isomers. As a consequence, NG‐QTAIM can uniquely be used to investigate iso‐energetic phenomena where the reliance on differences in geometric measures is removed. NG‐QTAIM has already been used to determine molecular chirality consistent with the Cahn–Ingold–Prelog (CIP) classifications for chiral molecules in addition to the reactant and product of a chiral SN2 reaction. The CIP classifications however, cannot quantify the chirality of intermediate reaction structures due to their formally achiral nature. We identify the presence of chirality by quantifying a helical response of the bond electrons consistent with photoexcitation circular dichroism experiments that utilize the helical motion of the bound electrons for chiral discrimination. NG‐QTAIM can also be used to provide nongeometric based reasoning as to why there are stronger hydrogen‐bonds in cyclic water clusters compared with compact water clusters. Additionally, the effects of electric‐fields and laser irradiation in conditions not amenable to explanation using scalar measures are quantified. The QuantVec software is introduced, which coordinates external programs and efficiently computes the NG‐QTAIM analyses using the wavefunctions from a wide range of ground and excited states computed with DFT, coupled‐cluster, complete active space SCF, configuration interaction, or quantum dynamics methods.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Molecular Structures

Structure and Mechanism > Reaction Mechanisms and Catalysis

Software > Quantum Chemistry
Impacts of purple martin landlord stewardship activities on nest box occupancy
Authors: Kelly Braeden D. , Hvenegaard Glen T.
Published: March 2022

The eastern subspecies of purple martins (Progne subis; hereafter martins) nests almost exclusively in human‐made cavity nest boxes. Martin landlords manage nest boxes with varying levels of engagement and methods, but little research has evaluated the effectiveness of management on martin occupancy. In the fall of 2019, based on interviews with 31 martin landlords in Camrose, Alberta, Canada, we compared martin occupancy in nest boxes during 3 years with 8 management practices. Nest boxes whose landlords cleaned nests, removed blowfly larvae, frequently checked nests, removed competitor nests, and added nest material had higher martin occupancy rates than nest boxes without stewardship practices. Our results help affirm and prioritize future martin landlord practices.
It pays to get paid: Factors influencing wildlife‐related employment success
Authors: Bailey Karen M. , Hooker Katie R. , Loggins Anne A. , Potash Alex D. , Hardeman Donald W. , McCleery Robert A.
Published: March 2022

Individuals who are interested in wildlife‐related careers take unpaid positions to gain experience and remain competitive in the job market. However, unpaid positions may not provide the same training, skills acquisition, or long‐term success as paid positions. We surveyed 796 graduates of wildlife‐related bachelor's degree programs from accredited U.S. universities to assess how experiences and skills gained in paid and unpaid positions affected long‐term employment or educational success. We found that respondents with more paid employment experience were more likely to obtain full‐time employment in a wildlife‐related field than those who had worked more unpaid positions. Further, respondents reported gaining more skills associated with long‐term success from paid positions than unpaid positions. Our results highlight the importance of both paid work and experiences that provide valuable skills training for success in wildlife‐related fields. We urge wildlife‐related employers to offer more paid positions in lieu of unpaid opportunities. We further suggest that job‐seeking, early‐career scientists carefully consider the skills they will gain from particular jobs, and critically scrutinize the potential for long‐term benefits before accepting an unpaid position.
Polyoxometalates as Potential Next‐Generation Metallodrugs in the melanogenesis inhibitor
Authors: Chen Xiangsong , Shuai Die , Yang Han , Luo Dan , Wang Li , Chen Bingnian
Published: March 2022

Melanogenesis is a process to synthesize melanin, which is a primary responsibility for the pigmentation of human skin, eye and hair. In order to study the effect of polyoxometalates on tyrosinase activity and melanin content in mouse melanocytes, four polyoxometalates with Dawson structure were synthesized. Intracellular and docking studies have shown that the two transition metal phosphomolybdic acids (H8[P2Mo17Fe(OH2)61] and H8[P2Mo17Ni(OH2)61]) are highly effective melanogenesis inhibitors with 22.4 % and 24.1 % inhibitory activities at a concentration of 200 μM. Among the four POMs synthesized, the three phosphomolybdic acids showed extremely significant inhibitory effects on the tyrosinase activity in B16 cells (p<0.0001), and the inhibitory activities were 77.5 %, 79.3 % and 44.4 % at a concentration of 200 Μm, respectively. MTT reduction experiments show that the three polyacids (H6[P2Mo18O62], H8[P2Mo17Co(OH2)61] and H8[P2Mo17Ni(OH2)61]) have basically no effect on the viability of B16 cells. Molecular dynamics simulation studies also show that H8[P2Mo17Ni(OH2)61] forms a stable complex with tyrosinase, with a docking fraction of −51.54 kcal/mol. Based on intracellular and docking studies, we believe that H8[P2Mo17Ni(OH2)61] is a promising candidate for safe cosmetic development.
Corporate Governance and the So-Called ‘Four-Eyes Principle’
Authors: Abriani Niccolò , Catania Armando
Published: March 2022

This chapter aims to analyse the current role played by insurance undertakings and their senior managers—with a specific reference to the Italian, French, Spanish and British insurance industry, taking into consideration the important changes introduced by the Solvency II framework.

In doing so, the study identifies features of the international regulation of insurance development based on the recommendations of the International Association of Insurance Supervisory (IAIS) and the Directives of the European Union (EU).

The board delegates the running of the business to the senior managers, expecting them to operate on behalf of the company’s interests.

The literature has identified several problems resulting from this relationship.

We intend to consider the internal behaviour affected by the board-senior managers’ relationship, by looking for direct connection between the elements of senior managers behaviours’ and the organisational and operational structure of the enterprise.

Inside the theoretical framework and given the existing related literature, our work aims to answer the above research question.

According to our statements, it will be demonstrated that, with specific focus on the management sector, there are still wide possibilities for improvement and more studies concerning board-senior managers relationship.
Business Registration Data as the Best Vehicle to Achieve KYC and AML for Business
Authors: Cárdenas Erick Rincón , Molano Valeria Martinez
Published: March 2022

To achieve the corporate purpose of a company, it is necessary to follow the regulations that exist in its respective sector, which include not only the adoption of policies and protocols, but also the prevention of fraudulent activities, which can be done through a sufficient knowledge of the customer. It is of greater relevance in the case of insurance companies, which must sufficiently know their client, taking into account their transactions and activities, since the internal decisions that the company takes in relation to the risks it assumes are based on its own corporate governance policies.

For this purpose, this chapter proposes the alternative of implementing RegTech tools through the adoption of a Single Business Registry. This registry contains all the required information from a company, including financial statements for the respective periods, which can be supplemented with records already existing in a country, as this would facilitate regulatory compliance.
The Risk Management System, the Risk Culture and the Duties of the Insurers’ Directors
Authors: Marano Pierpaolo , Grima Simon
Published: March 2022

The risk management system and the risk culture pertain to the organisation of the insurance undertaking and face the risk, which is a multifaceted concept challenging such an organisation. This chapter analyses the perimeter of the risk management system to identify the risks that fall within this system and the persons who, within the insurance undertaking, are responsible for ensuring an effective risk management system to the supervisory authority. The chapter also investigates how corporate bodies can assess the head of the risk management function and the risk management system can incorporate risk culture. Lastly, the chapter illustrates concrete actions the persons with the ultimate responsibility of the risk management system can perform to comply with the task to promote, implement and monitor the risk culture.
The Acceptance of Sustainable Freight Transport
Authors: Pfoser Sarah
Published: March 2022

In this chapter it will be elaborated what influences the acceptance of sustainable freight transport strategies by LSPs. First, the relevant theoretical background will be presented in Subchapter 0 to explain the occurrence of sustainable freight transport acceptance based on behavioral theories. Afterwards, the determinants of sustainable freight transport which emerged from the data collection are described in Subchapter 5.2. Within the empirical investigation (in-depth interviews, online survey), five main determinants were identified which influence the acceptance of the above mentioned avoid, shift and improve strategies. These determinants are profitability, customer demand, availability of infrastructure, organizational efforts and legal framework. Theoretical support for these determinants comes from the technology acceptance model.
Insights into the identification of a molecular signature for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis exploiting integrated microRNA profiling of iPSC-derived motor neurons and exosomes
Authors: Rizzuti Mafalda , Melzi Valentina , Gagliardi Delia , Resnati Davide , Meneri Megi , Dioni Laura , Masrori Pegah , Hersmus Nicole , Poesen Koen , Locatelli Martina , Biella Fabio , Silipigni Rosamaria , Bollati Valentina , Bresolin Nereo , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Van Damme Philip , Nizzardo Monica , Corti Stefania
Published: March 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons (MNs). Most cases are sporadic, whereas 10% are familial. The pathological mechanisms underlying the disease are partially understood, but it is increasingly being recognized that alterations in RNA metabolism and deregulation of microRNA (miRNA) expression occur in ALS. In this study, we performed miRNA expression profile analysis of iPSC-derived MNs and related exosomes from familial patients and healthy subjects. We identified dysregulation of miR-34a, miR-335 and miR-625-3p expression in both MNs and exosomes. These miRNAs regulate genes and pathways which correlate with disease pathogenesis, suggesting that studying miRNAs deregulation can contribute to deeply investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the disease. We also assayed the expression profile of these miRNAs in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of familial (fALS) and sporadic patients (sALS) and we identified a significant dysregulation of miR-34a-3p and miR-625-3p levels in ALS compared to controls. Taken together, all these findings suggest that miRNA analysis simultaneously performed in different human biological samples could represent a promising molecular tool to understand the etiopathogenesis of ALS and to develop new potential miRNA-based strategies in this new propitious therapeutic era.
Design for manufacturing and assembly methods in the product development process of mechanical products: a systematic literature review
Authors: Formentini Giovanni , Boix Rodríguez Núria , Favi Claudio
Published: March 2022

The design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) is a family of methods belonging to the design for X (DfX) category which goal is to optimize the manufacturing and assembly phase of products. DFMA methods have been developed at the beginning of the 1980s and widely used in both academia and industries since then. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no systematic literature reviews or mapping has been proposed yet in the field of mechanical design. The goal of this paper is to provide a systematic review of DFMA methods applied to mechanical and electro-mechanical products with the aim to collect, analyse, and summarize the knowledge acquired until today and identify future research areas. The paper provides an overview of the DFMA topic in the last four decades (i.e., from 1980 to 2021) emphasizing operational perspectives such as the design phase in which methods are used, the type of products analysed, the adoption of quantitative or qualitative metrics, the tool adopted for the assessment, and the technologies involved. As a result, the paper addresses several aspects associated with the DFMA and different outcomes retrieved by the literature review have been highlighted. The first one concerns the fact that most of the DFMA methods have been used to analyse simple products made of few components (i.e., easy to manage with a short lead-time). Another important result is the lack of valuable DFMA methods applicable at early design phases (i.e., conceptual design) when information is not detailed and presents more qualitative than quantitative data. Both results lead to the evidence that the definition of a general DFMA method and metric adaptable for every type of product and/or design phase is a challenging goal that presents several issues. Finally, a bibliographic map was developed as a suitable tool to visualize results and identify future research trends on this topic. From the bibliometric analysis, it has been shown that the overall interest in DFMA methodologies decreased in the last decade.
Neutral Red-carbon nanodots for selective fluorescent DNA sensing
Authors: Martínez-Periñán Emiliano , Martínez-Sobrino Álvaro , Bravo Iria , García-Mendiola Tania , Mateo-Martí Eva , Pariente Félix , Lorenzo Encarnación
Published: March 2022

Carbon nanodots modified with Neutral Red covalently inserted in the nanostructure (NR-CDs) have been prepared by a simple synthesis method based on microwave irradiation under controlled temperature and pressure. The synthetized NR-CDs have been characterized by different techniques, demonstrating the covalent bonding of Neutral Red molecules to the carbon dots nanostructure. Fluorescence activity of the prepare NR-CDs has been explored showing different interaction pathways with singled and doubled stranded DNA. These studies have been successfully applied to develop a new fluorescence DNA hybridization assay to the detection of a specific DNA sequence of Escherichia coli bacteria.

Graphical abstract
Control of arm movements in Friedreich’s ataxia patients: role of sensory feedback
Authors: Zhang Lei , Straube Andreas , Eggert Thomas
Published: March 2022

Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a hereditary system degeneration, which progressively affects sensory functions such as proprioceptive feedback, which causes progressive ataxia in FA patients. While major clinical features of movement disorders in FA patients have been identified, the underlying impaired neural control is not sufficiently understood. To elucidate the underlying control mechanism, we investigated single-joint movements of the upper limb in FA patients. Small, tolerable force perturbations were induced during voluntary single-joint arm movements to examine the compensatory reaction of the FA patient’s motor system. Movement kinematics were measured, and muscle torques were quantified. We first found that as in healthy subjects, unperturbed single-joint movements in FA patients preserved similar temporal profiles of hand velocity and muscle torques, however, scaled in duration and amplitude. In addition, the small perturbations were compensated for efficiently in both groups, with the endpoint error < 0.5° (maximum displacement of 5–15°). We further quantified the differences in movement time, torque response, and displacement between patients and controls. To distinguish whether these differences were caused by a malfunction of top-down control or a malfunction of feedback control, the responses were fitted with a detailed model of the stretch reflex. The model simulations revealed that the feedback delay, but not the feedback gain was affected in FA patients. They also showed that the descending control signal was scaled in time and amplitude and co-contraction was smaller in FA patients. Thus, our study explains how the motor deficits of FA patients result from pathological alterations of both top-down and feedback control.
Geographical and Seasonal Analysis of the Honeybee Microbiome
Authors: Almeida Eduardo L. , Ribiere Celine , Frei Werner , Kenny Denis , Coffey Mary F. , O’Toole Paul W.
Published: March 2022

We previously showed that colonies of thriving and non-thriving honeybees co-located in a single geographically isolated apiary harboured strikingly different microbiomes when sampled at a single time point in the honey season. Here, we profiled the microbiome in returning forager bees from 10 to 12 hives in each of 6 apiaries across the southern half of Ireland, at early, middle, and late time points in the 2019 honey production season. Despite the wide range of geographical locations and forage available, apiary site was not the strongest determinant of the honeybee microbiome. However, there was clear clustering of the honeybee microbiome by time point across all apiaries, independent of which apiary was sampled. The clustering of microbiome by time was weaker although still significant in three of the apiaries, which may be connected to their geographic location and other external factors. The potential forage effect was strongest at the second timepoint (June–July) when the apiaries also displayed greatest difference in microbiome diversity. We identified bacteria in the forager bee microbiome that correlated with hive health as measured by counts of larvae, bees, and honey production. These findings support the hypothesis that the global honeybee microbiome and its constituent species support thriving hives.
An International Registry of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Appendiceal Goblet Cell Carcinoma Treated with Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy
Authors: Mercier Frederic , Passot Guillaume , Bonnot Pierre‐Emmanuel , Cashin Peter , Ceelen Wim , Decullier Evelyne , Villeneuve Laurent , Walter Thomas , Levine Edward A. , Glehen Olivier ,   PSOGI Working Group,   BIG‐RENAPE Working Group
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Peritoneal carcinomatosis from appendiceal goblet cell carcinoma (A‐GCC) is a rare and aggressive form of appendiceal tumor. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intra peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was reported as an interesting alternative regarding survival compared to surgery without HIPEC and/or systemic chemotherapy. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of CRS and HIPEC for patients presenting A‐GCC through an international registry.

Methods

A prospective multicenter international database was retrospectively searched to identify all patients with A‐GCC tumor and peritoneal metastases who underwent CRS and HIPEC through the Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI). The post‐operative complications, long‐term results, and principal prognostic factors were analyzed.

Results

The analysis included 83 patients. After a median follow‐up of 47 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 34.6 months. The 3‐ and 5‐year OS was 48.5% and 35.7%, respectively. Patients who underwent complete macroscopic CRS had a significantly better survival than those treated with incomplete CRS. The 5‐year OS was 44% and 0% for patients who underwent complete, and incomplete CRS, respectively (HR 9.65, p < 0.001). Lymph node involvement and preoperative chemotherapy were also predictive of a worse prognosis. There were 3 postoperative deaths, and 30% of the patients had major complications.

Conclusion

CRS and HIPEC may increase long‐term survival in selected patients with peritoneal metastases of A‐GCC origin, especially when complete CRS is achieved. Ideally, randomized control trials or more retrospective data are needed to confirm CRS and HIPEC as the gold standard in this pathology.
Wavelength dependence of picosecond-pulsed laser ablation of hot-dip galvanized steel
Authors: Mustafa H. , Matthews D. T. A. , Römer G. R. B. E.
Published: March 2022

Laser ablation of galvanized steel at a wavelength of 343, 515 and 1030 nm was compared for single as well as multiple picosecond laser pulses. The characteristics of ablated craters, such as ablation rate, crater shape and chemical composition, in relation to the processing parameters were studied. Surface morphology of the laser ablated craters were characterized with the help of confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Chemical compositional and crystallographic changes were analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction respectively. Three ablation regimes were identified in the ablation process of galvanized steel. For equal amount of fluence, ablation rates are found to increase with decreasing laser wavelength. Analyzing the crater shape and the cross-sectional chemical composition, three possible applications are identified for three different wavelengths when processing galvanized steel with picosecond pulsed lasers, namely coating removal, surface texturing and micro-drilling.
Card-Based ZKP for Connectivity: Applications to Nurikabe, Hitori, and Heyawake
Authors: Robert Léo , Miyahara Daiki , Lafourcade Pascal , Mizuki Takaaki
Published: March 2022

During the last years, several card-based Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) protocols for Nikoli’s puzzles have been designed. Although there are relatively simple card-based ZKP protocols for a number of puzzles, such as Sudoku and Kakuro, some puzzles face difficulties in designing simple protocols. For example, Slitherlink requires novel and elaborate techniques to construct a protocol. In this study, we focus on three Nikoli puzzles: Nurikabe, Hitori, and Heyawake. To date, no card-based ZKP protocol for these puzzles has been developed, partially because they have a relatively tricky rule that colored cells should form a connected area (namely a polyomino); this rule, sometimes referred to as “Bundan-kin” (in Japanese), complicates the puzzles, as well as facilitating difficulties in designing card-based ZKP protocols. We address this challenging task and propose a method for verifying the connectivity of hidden colored cells in a ZKP manner, such that we construct card-based ZKP protocols for the three puzzles.
Tibial tunnel enlargement is affected by the tunnel diameter-screw ratio in tibial hybrid fixation for hamstring ACL reconstruction
Authors: Flury Andreas , Wild Linda , Waltenspül Manuel , Zindel Christoph , Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Imhoff Florian B. , Fucentese Sandro F.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

There is no evidence on screw diameter with regards to tunnel size in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hybrid fixation devices. The hypothesis was that an undersized tunnel coverage by the tibial screw leads to subsequent tunnel enlargement in ACLR in hybrid fixation technique.

Methods

In a retrospective case series, radiographs and clinical scores of 103 patients who underwent primary hamstring tendon ACLR with a hybrid fixation technique at the tibial site (interference screw and suspensory fixation) were obtained. Tunnel diameters in the frontal and sagittal planes were measured on radiographs 6 weeks and 12 months postoperatively. Tunnel enlargement of more than 10% between the two periods was defined as tunnel widening. Tunnel coverage ratio was calculated as the tunnel diameter covered by the screw in percentage.

Results

Overall, tunnel widening 12 months postoperatively was 23.1 ± 17.1% and 24.2 ± 18.2% in the frontal and sagittal plane, respectively. Linear regression analysis revealed the tunnel coverage ratio to be a negative predicting risk factor for tunnel widening (p = 0.001). The ROC curve analysis provided an ideal cut-off for tunnel enlargement of > 10% at a tunnel coverage ratio of 70% (sensitivity 60%, specificity 81%, AUC 75%, p < 0.001). Patients (n = 53/103) with a tunnel coverage ratio of < 70% showed significantly higher tibial tunnel enlargement of 15% in the frontal and sagittal planes. The binary logistic regression showed a significant OR of 6.9 (p = 0.02) for tunnel widening > 10% in the frontal plane if the tunnel coverage ratio was < 70% (sagittal plane: OR 14.7, p = 0.001). Clinical scores did not correlate to tunnel widening.

Conclusion

Tibial tunnel widening was affected by the tunnel diameter coverage ratio. To minimize the likelihood of disadvantageous tunnel expansion—which is of importance in case of revision surgery—an interference screw should not undercut the tunnel diameter by more than 1 mm.
The effect of warm and humidified gas insufflation in gynecological laparoscopy on maintenance of body temperature: a prospective randomized controlled multi-arm trial
Authors: Wittenborn Julia , Mathei Deborah , van Waesberghe Julia , Zeppernick Felix , Zeppernick Magdalena , Tchaikovski Svetlana , Kowark Ana , Breuer Markus , Keszei András , Stickeler Elmar , Zoremba Norbert , Rossaint Rolf , Bruells Christian , Meinhold-Heerlein Ivo
Published: March 2022

Background

Hypothermia is defined as a decrease in body core temperature to below 36 °C. If intraoperative heat-preserving measures are omitted, a patient’s temperature will fall by 1 – 2 °C. Even mild forms of intraoperative hypothermia can lead to a marked increase in morbidity and mortality. Using warm and humidified gas insufflation in laparoscopy may help in the maintenance of intraoperative body temperature.

Methods

In this prospective randomized controlled study, we investigated effects of temperature and humidity of the insufflation gas on intra- and postoperative temperature management. 150 patients undergoing gynecologic laparoscopic surgery were randomly assigned to either insufflation with non-warmed, non-humidified CO2with forced air warming blanket (AIR), humidified warm gas without forced air warming blanket (HUMI) or humidified warm gas combined with forced air warming blanket (HUMI+). We hypothesized that the use of warmed laparoscopic gas would have benefits in the maintenance of body temperature and reduce the occurrence of hypothermia.

Results

The use of warm and humidified gas insufflation alone led to more hypothermia episodes with longer duration and longer recovery times as well as significantly lower core body temperature compared to the other two groups. In the comparison of the AIR group and HUMI + group, HUMI + patients had a significantly higher body temperature at arrival at the PACU (Post Anaesthesia Care Unit), had the least occurrence of hypothermia and suffered from less shivering.

Conclusion

The use of warm and humidified gas insufflation alone does not sufficiently warm the patients. The optimal temperature management is achieved in the combination of external forced air warming and insufflation of warm and humidified laparoscopy gas.
A distributed topology for identifying anomalies in an industrial environment
Authors: Zayas-Gato Francisco , Michelena Álvaro , Jove Esteban , Casteleiro-Roca José-Luis , Quintián Héctor , Novais Paulo , Méndez-Pérez Juan Albino , Calvo-Rolle José Luis
Published: March 2022

The devastating consequences of climate change have resulted in the promotion of clean energies, being the wind energy the one with greater potential. This technology has been developed in recent years following different strategic plans, playing special attention to wind generation. In this sense, the use of bicomponent materials in wind generator blades and housings is a widely spread procedure. However, the great complexity of the process followed to obtain this kind of materials hinders the problem of detecting anomalous situations in the plant, due to sensors or actuators malfunctions. This has a direct impact on the features of the final product, with the corresponding influence in the durability and wind generator performance. In this context, the present work proposes the use of a distributed anomaly detection system to identify the source of the wrong operation. With this aim, five different one-class techniques are considered to detect deviations in three plant components located in a bicomponent mixing machine installation: the flow meter, the pressure sensor and the pump speed.
Soluble α-Klotho levels, glycemic control and renal function in US adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ciardullo Stefano , Perseghin Gianluca
Published: March 2022

Aims

Soluble Klotho (s-Klotho) is associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and aging, but little is known on its relationship with chronic micro- and macro-vascular complications of type 2 diabetes and glycemic control. Here, we evaluate the association between s-Klotho levels, glycemic control and renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study including 2989 patients with T2D and available s-Klotho measurements from the 2007–2016 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (mean ± SE, age: 60.0 ± 0.2 years, BMI 33.3 ± 0.2 kg/m2, 46.7 ± 1.3% female). Determination of s-Klotho concentrations was performed with a sandwich ELISA test.

Results

Patients with higher s-Klotho levels were younger, more frequently female and had a lower prevalence of CKD and higher HbA1c levels. In multivariable linear regression models adjusting for age, race-ethnicity and BMI, both estimated glomerular filtration rate (B = 2.21, 95% CI 1.41–3.01, p < 0.001) and hemoglobin A1c (B = 37.38, 95% CI 28.91–45.86, p < 0.001) were positively associated with s-Klotho, while no significant association was found with cardiovascular disease. Results were confirmed when analyses were performed in men and women separately. No significant differences were identified between patients with an albuminuric or non-albuminuric CKD phenotype.

Conclusions

s-Klotho levels are dependent on kidney function and glycemic control in patients with T2D. Additional studies elucidating the mechanisms linking glycemic control and s-Klotho levels and exploring their predictive ability of clinically meaningful outcomes in patients with diabetes are needed.
Binary MoS2 nanostructures as nanocarriers for amplification in multiplexed electrochemical immunosensing: simultaneous determination of B cell activation factor and proliferation-induced signal immunity-related cytokines
Authors: Arévalo Beatriz , Blázquez-García Marina , Valverde Alejandro , Serafín Verónica , Montero-Calle Ana , Solís-Fernández Guillermo , Barderas Rodrigo , Campuzano Susana , Yáñez-Sedeño Paloma , Pingarrón José M.
Published: March 2022

A dual immunosensor is reported for the simultaneous determination of two important immunity-related cytokines: BAFF (B cell activation factor) and APRIL (a proliferation-induced signal). Sandwich-type immunoassays with specific antibodies (cAbs) and a strategy for signal amplification based on labelling the detection antibodies (dAbs) with binary MoS2/MWCNTs nanostructures and using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were implemented. Amperometric detection was carried out at screen-printed dual carbon electrodes (SPdCEs) through the hydroquinone HQ/H2O2 system. The developed dual immunosensor provided limit of detection (LOD) of 0.08 and 0.06 ng mL−1 for BAFF and APRIL, respectively, and proved to be useful for the determination of both cytokines in cancer cell lysates and serum samples from patients diagnosed with autoimmune diseases and cancer. The obtained results agreed with those found using ELISA methodologies.

Graphical abstract
Are late hernia mesh complications linked to Staphylococci biofilms?
Authors: Patiniott P. , Jacombs A. , Kaul L. , Hu H. , Warner M. , Klosterhalfen B. , Karatassas A. , Maddern G. , Richter K.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the link between bacterial biofilms and negative outcomes of hernia repair surgery. As biofilms are known to play a role in mesh-related infections, we investigated the presence of biofilms on hernia meshes, which had to be explanted due to mesh failure without showing signs of bacterial infection.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, 20 paraffin-embedded tissue sections from explanted groin hernia meshes were analysed. Meshes have been removed due to chronic pain, hernia recurrence or mesh shrinkage. The presence and bacterial composition of biofilms were determined. First, specimens were stained with fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) probes, specific for Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci, and visualised by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Second, DNA was extracted from tissue and identified by S. aureus and S. epidermidis specific PCR.

Results

Confocal microscopy showed evidence of bacterial biofilms on meshes in 15/20 (75.0%) samples, of which 3 were positive for S. aureus, 3 for coagulase-negative staphylococci and 9 for both species. PCR analysis identified biofilms in 17/20 (85.0%) samples, of which 4 were positive for S. aureus, 4 for S. epidermidis and 9 for both species. Combined results from FISH/microscopy and PCR identified staphylococci biofilms in 19/20 (95.0%) mesh samples. Only 1 (5.0%) mesh sample was negative for bacterial biofilm by both techniques.

Conclusion

Results suggest that staphylococci biofilms may be associated with hernia repair failure. A silent, undetected biofilm infection could contribute to mesh complications, chronic pain and exacerbation of disease.
Complexities of health and acceptance of electronic health records for the Austrian elderly population
Authors: Halmdienst Nicole , Pruckner Gerald J. , Winter-Ebmer Rudolf
Published: March 2022

We examine the personal health situation and how the complexities thereof affect the elderly Austrians’ willingness to accept electronic health records (EHR). Using data from the sixth wave of the SHARE survey in Austria, we find the complexity of individual health problems and the social integration of individuals influencing the acceptance of EHR. The higher the degree of multimorbidity, the more medication is prescribed, and the higher the number of hospital admissions, the higher is the acceptance of EHR. Having a chronical illness has a positive effect on EHR acceptance, whereas a pessimistic attitude and lack of joy in life, as indicators of depressive mood, have a negative impact. The results are mainly driven by women and younger patients aged between 50 and 70. People with poor social connection express lower acceptance of EHR.