bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of Osteosarcoma Cells to Concentration-Dependent Bioactivities of Lipid Peroxidation Product 4-Hydroxynonenal Depend on Their Level of Differentiation
Authors: Sunjic Suzana Borovic , Gasparovic Ana Cipak , Jaganjac Morana , Rechberger Gerald , Meinitzer Andreas , Grune Tilman , Kohlwein Sepp D. , Mihaljevic Branka , Zarkovic Neven
Published: January 2021

4-Hydroxynonenal (HNE) is a major aldehydic product of lipid peroxidation known to exert several biological effects. Normal and malignant cells of the same origin express different sensitivity to HNE. We used human osteosarcoma cells (HOS) in different stages of differentiation in vitro, showing differences in mitosis, DNA synthesis, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining. Differentiated HOS cells showed decreased proliferation (3H-thymidine incorporation), decreased viability (thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide-MTT), and increased apoptosis and necrosis (nuclear morphology by staining with 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole-DAPI). Differentiated HOS also had less expressed c-MYC, but the same amount of c-FOS (immunocytochemistry). When exposed to HNE, differentiated HOS produced more reactive oxygen species (ROS) in comparison with undifferentiated HOS. To clarify this, we measured HNE metabolism by an HPLC method, total glutathione (GSH), oxidized GSH (ox GSH), glutathione transferase activity (GST), proteasomal activity by enzymatic methods, HNE-protein adducts by genuine ELISA and fatty acid composition by GC-MS in these cell cultures. Differentiated HOS cells had less GSH, lower HNE metabolism, increased formation of HNE-protein adducts, and lower proteasomal activity, in comparison to undifferentiated counterpart cells, while GST and oxGSH were the same. Fatty acids analyzed by GC-MS showed that there is an increase in C20:3 in differentiated HOS while the amount of C20:4 remained the same. The results showed that the cellular machinery responsible for protection against toxicity of HNE was less efficient in differentiated HOS cells. Moreover, differentiated HOS cells contained more C20:3 fatty acid, which might make them more sensitive to free radical-initiated oxidative chain reactions and more vulnerable to the effects of reactive aldehydes such as HNE. We propose that HNE might act as natural promotor of decay of malignant (osteosarcoma) cells in case of their differentiation associated with alteration of the lipid metabolism.
Inhibition of HER Receptors Reveals Distinct Mechanisms of Compensatory Upregulation of Other HER Family Members: Basis for Acquired Resistance and for Combination Therapy
Authors: Gutsch Daniela , Jenke Robert , Büch Thomas , Aigner Achim
Published: January 2021

Overexpression of members of the HER/erbB transmembrane tyrosine kinase family like HER2/erbB2/neu is associated with various cancers. Some heterodimers, especially HER2/HER3 heterodimers, are particularly potent inducers of oncogenic signaling. Still, from a clinical viewpoint their inhibition has yielded only moderate success so far, despite promising data from cell cultures. This suggests acquired resistance upon inhibitor therapy as one putative issue, requiring further studies in cell culture also aiming at rational combination therapies. In this paper, we demonstrate in ovarian carcinoma cells that the RNAi-mediated single knockdown of HER2 or HER3 leads to the rapid counter-upregulation of the respective other HER family member, thus providing a rational basis for combinatorial inhibition. Concomitantly, combined knockdown of HER2/HER3 exerts stronger anti-tumor effects as compared to single inhibition. In a tumor cell line xenograft mouse model, therapeutic intervention with nanoscale complexes based on polyethylenimine (PEI) for siRNA delivery, again reveals HER3 upregulation upon HER2 single knockdown and a therapeutic benefit from combination therapy. On the mechanistic side, we demonstrate that HER2 knockdown or inhibition reduces miR-143 levels with subsequent de-repression of HER3 expression, and validates HER3 as a direct target of miR-143. HER3 knockdown or inhibition, in turn, increases HER2 expression through the upregulation of the transcriptional regulator SATB1. These counter-upregulation processes of HER family members are thus based on distinct molecular mechanisms and may provide the basis for the rational combination of inhibitors.
A Case of Nasopharyngeal Tuberculosis with Cervical Lymph Node Tuberculosis Suspected of Cervical Malignant Disease at the First Examination
Authors: Kusunoki Takeshi , Homma Hirotomo , Kidokoro Yoshinobu , Yoshikawa Akihisa , Tanaka Kumiko , Kubo Satoko , Wada Ryo , Ikeda Katsuhisa
Published: January 2021

A case of nasopharyngeal tuberculosis with cervical lymph node tuberculosis is reported. The patient was a 20-year-old female immigrant from Vietnam and cook apprentice. Her chief complaint was left neck swelling with pain for three months. She was diagnosed with left neck lymphadenitis at a previous hospital, which suspected malignant lymphoma and referred her to our hospital. At the time of the first visit, she had left lymph swelling with tenderness and granuloma-like masses in the nasopharynx. PET-CT showed accumulations in both the swollen left neck lymph and nasopharynx. The diagnosis of this case would appear to be nasopharyngeal cancer with left and neck lymph node metastasis or nasopharyngeal tuberculosis with cervical lymph node tuberculosis in addition to malignant lymphoma. Based on some examinations (biopsy, bacteria culture, and imaging), it was diagnosed as nasopharyngeal tuberculosis with cervical lymph node tuberculosis. Therefore, she was treated with anti-tuberculosis agent in respiratory medicine.
Advances in Antimicrobial Coatings
Authors: Rtimi Sami
Published: January 2021

Microbial infections (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc [...]
Evaluation of Antioxidant Activities, Oxidation Enzymes, and Quality of Nano-Coated Button Mushrooms (Agaricus Bisporus) during Storage
Authors: Sami Rokayya , Elhakem Abeer , Alharbi Mona , Benajiba Nada , Almatrafi Manal , Abdelazez Amro , Helal Mahmoud
Published: January 2021

Agaricus Bisporus is an edible button mushroom that is highly perishable with an extremely short shelf-life at ambient temperature. This work aims to evaluate some antioxidant activities, oxidation enzymes, and determine postharvest qualities of nano-coated mushrooms with the combination of chitosan (CHN) component during storage at 4 °C for (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 days). Silica/CHN Film strongly delayed the mushroom respiratory spike onset and blocked carbon dioxide passage from inside to the outside, while Titanium/CHN Film (0.035 mmol s−1 kg−1) established the lowest O2 production rate and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances production (6.21 nmol g−1). Silica/CHN Film was mainly effectual for the polyphenol contents (0.39 g kg−1) and antioxidant activities (78.14% and 71.09%) for DPPH and ABTS+ radical scavenging activities, respectively. The results reported that Silica/CHN Film induced the highest (catalase and ascorbate peroxidase) activities, while Titanium/CHN Film recorded the highest (peroxidase and superoxide dismutase) activities of antioxidant enzymes. Besides, Titanium/CHN Film preserved relatively lower contents of hydrogen peroxide (22.40 µmol g−1) and hydroxyl radical (0.16 µmol g−1). In a word, nano-materials used in coating films such as titanium or even silica with the combination of CHN can directly reduce the cell degradation, oxidation processes and enhance the harvested horticultural crops.
Superhydrophobic Sands for the Preservation and Purification of Water
Authors: Liu Yuyang , Choi Chang-Hwan
Published: January 2021

Sand, a cheap and naturally abundant particulate material, was modified with photocatalytic and hydrophobic coatings to reduce evaporation loss and facilitate the purification of water. The first-level photocatalytic coatings (TiO2 or ZnO nanocrystals) rendered nanoscale roughness on the surface of the sand. The additional second-level hydrophobic coating of a self-assembled monolayer of octyltrimethoxysilane (OTS) made the sand particles superhydrophobic because of the nanoscale roughness imposed by the nanocrystals. The superhydrophobic sand particles, floating on the free surface of water due to their superhydrophobicity, significantly reduced the evaporation loss of water by 60%–90% in comparison to an uncovered water surface. When the outer hydrophobic coatings are weathered or disengaged, the inner photocatalytic coatings become exposed to water. Then, the sand particles act as photocatalysts to degrade the contaminants in water under solar radiation.
Chitosan Coated Luteolin Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: Optimization, In Vitro-Ex Vivo Assessments and Cytotoxicity Study in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Gilani Sadaf Jamal , Bin-Jumah May , Rizwanullah Md. , Imam Syed Sarim , Imtiyaz Khalid , Alshehri Sultan , Rizvi Mohd. Moshahid Alam
Published: January 2021

In the present study, luteolin (LTN)-encapsulated chitosan (CS) coated nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) were formulated using the melt emulsification ultrasonication technique. NLCs were optimized by using the 33-QbD approach for improved in vitro efficacy against breast cancer cell lines. The optimized LTN-CS-NLCs were successfully characterized by different in vitro and ex vivo experiments as well as evaluated for cytotoxicity in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines. The prepared LTN-CS-NLCs showed particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), and entrapment efficiency (%EE) in the range between 101.25 nm and 158.04 nm, 0.11 and 0.20, and 65.55% and 95.37%, respectively. Coating of NLCs with CS significantly increased the particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and zeta potential changes positively. Moreover, slow-release rate of LTN was achieved during 24 h of study for LTN-CS-NLCs. In addition, optimized LTN-CS-NLCs showed significantly higher mucoadhesion, gastrointestinal stability, and intestinal permeation compared to non-coated LTN-NLCs and LTN suspension. Furthermore, LTN-CS-NLCs showed statistically enhanced antioxidant potential as well as dose and time-dependent cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells compared to uncoated LTN-NLCs and pure LTN. On the basis of the above findings, it may be stated that chitosan-coated LTN-NLCs represents a great potential for breast cancer management.
Surface Characteristic Function of Al Alloy after Shot Peening
Authors: Gao Zicheng , Liao Kai , Chen Jiawei
Published: January 2021

The work aims to study the change rule of the surface properties of aluminum (Al) alloy after shot peening (SP), and obtain the corresponding relationship between the surface material characteristics and SP parameters. Firstly, the Finite Element Model (FEM) of multi-projectile impact Al alloy specimen was established by ANSYS/LS-DYNA (Version: Ansys15.0). Box-Benhnken design method (BBD) was used to design 3-level and 3-factor shot peening experiment with shot peening pressure. Projectile size, jet distance, the surface residual stress, as well as deformation were taken as responses. The surface stress and the deformation at the crater were obtained according to the experiments. Then, Design-Expert software was adopted to fit the values to attain the multiple regression quadratic equations, and the response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to analyse the interaction between the various factors. The degree of model-fitting was simultaneously identified in accordance with an analysis of variance of the function models. Finally, the shot peening test was carried out using 7075-T651 Al alloy as the specimen. Combined with the X-ray diffraction (XRD) stress test and the optical microscopic observation of the crater section, the value of stress and deformation value could be determined to verify the accuracy of the model. The adjusted R2 of the stress function model and the deformation function model were 94.85% and 95.08%, respectively. The deviation between calculated stress value and the experimental value was less than 5.5%. The deformation of the section showed that the deformed layer of the specimen was approximately the same as calculation value. The result indicated the function model had high accuracy. The analysis suggested that the function model could quickly and precisely deduce the parameter combination of the SP from the surface stress or deformation of the material, which provided a diversity reference for the surface stress and hardness strengthening of SP.
Ga-Doped ZnO Coating—A Suitable Tool for Tuning the Electrode Properties in the Solar Cells with CdS/ZnS Core-Shell Quantum Dots
Authors: Aleksandrova Mariya , Ivanova Tatyana , Strijkova Velichka , Tsanev Tsvetozar , Singh Ajaya Kumar , Singh Jai , Gesheva Kostadinka
Published: January 2021

Two layer system from sputtered indium tin oxide (ITO) and gallium doped zinc oxide (Ga:ZnO, GZO) were studied for transparency in the visible electromagnetic range, reflectivity in the near infrared range, conductivity and valent band for a solar cells with quantum dots. The bi-layer coatings produced at optimized oxygen partial pressure, films thickness and surface roughness exhibit improved optical properties without worsening the electrical parameters, even if additional oxygen introduction during the reactive sputtering of the GZO. With an average optical transmittance of 91.3% in the visible range, average reflection and resistivity lower than 0.4 × 10−2 Ω.cm, these coatings are suitable for top electrode in the solar cells. The obtained results reveal that multilayered stacks of transparent ITO/Ga-doped ZnO coatings possess relatively low surface roughness (7–9 nm) and appropriate refractive index. The additional oxidation of GZO films induces modification of the film thickness and respectively of their optical performances.
Experimental Study and Design of Experiment Using Statistical Analysis for the Development of Geopolymer Matrix for Oil-Well Cementing for Enhancing the Integrity
Authors: Rahman Siti Humairah A. , Zulkarnain Nurul Nazmin , Shafiq Nasir
Published: January 2021

This paper presents an experimental investigation on geopolymer cement formulations for enhancing oil-well integrity. Fresh slurry properties, mixability, density, free-water, and rheology were determined for possible field applications. The compressive strength and expansion characteristics were studied for the durability and integrity of the well system. Mix formulations complied with the requirements of API RP 10B-2. All formulations showed homogeneous mixability, rheological properties, the plastic viscosity (PV), and yield point (YP) were increased from 48 cP to 104 cP and 3.8 N/m2 12.4 N/m2, respectively, with the increase of the dosage of elastomeric type expandable material (R additive). The highest compressive strength of 15 MPa was obtained using 10% R additive in the mix-blend after 60 days of curing. Increasing the amount of R additive provides the optimum strength at 10.4 MPa with design 2, 3, and 4. The linear expansion was increased to about 1% at 60 days with 20% and 25% of the R additive dosage. Design of Experiment (DOE) was performed for setting three factors: curing time (A), curing temperature (B), and concentration of R additive (C) to optimize the linear expansion (response).
Studies on the Characteristics of Nanostructures Produced by Sparking Discharge Process in the Ambient Atmosphere for Air Filtration Application
Authors: Kumpika Tewasin , Ručman Stefan , Polin Siwat , Kantarak Ekkapong , Sroila Wattikon , Thongsuwan Wiradej , Panthawan Arisara , Sanmuangmoon Panupong , Jhuntama Niwat , Singjai Pisith
Published: January 2021

Among the various methods for the preparation of nanoparticles, a sparking process at atmospheric pressure is of interest because it is a simple method for producing nanoparticles ranging from a few nanometer-sized particles to agglomerated film structures. In this research, we studied the effects of metal electrode properties on nanoparticle sizes. The experiments were carried out by applying a high voltage to different metal sparkling tips. The transfer of energies from positive ions and electron bombardments induced the melting and vaporization of electrode metals. Based on this research, we have developed a model to describe the formation of a nanoparticle film on the substrate, placed under the sparking gap, and the nanostructure produced by metal vapor on the sparking electrodes. The model provides a realistic tool that can be used for the design of a large-scale coating and the application of nanoparticles developed by this process for the filtration of PM2.5 mask fabric by air.
First Principle Study on Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) Intermetallics by Bi Micro-Alloying
Authors: Bai Guoning , Tian Jinzhong , Guo Qingwei , Li Zhiqiang , Zhao Yuhong
Published: January 2021

Being a positive candidate reinforcement material for laminar composites, the Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) based intermetallics have attracted much attention. The elastic properties, anisotropy, and electronic properties of intermetallic compounds with Bi-doped Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) are calculated by the first principles method. Results show that the lattice parameters of Mg2X are smaller than those of Bi-doped Mg2X. The element Bi preferentially occupies the position of the X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) atom than other positions. Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn), Mg63X32Bi, Mg64X31Bi, Mg64Ge32Bi, and Mg64Sn32Bi are mechanically stable, while Mg64Si32Bi indicates that it cannot exist stably. The doping of alloying element Bi reduces the shear deformation resistance of the Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) alloy. The pure and Bi-doped Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, Sn) exhibits elastic and anisotropic characteristics. The contribution of the Bi orbitals of Mg63X32Bi, Mg64X31Bi, and Mg63X32Bi are different, resulting in different hybridization effects in three types of Bi-doped Mg2X.
Effect of Deformation on Topological Properties of Cobalt Monosilicide
Authors: Nikolaev Sergey , Pshenay-Severin Dmitry , Ivanov Yuri , Burkov Alexander
Published: January 2021

Recently, it was shown that materials with certain crystal structures can exhibit multifold band crossings with large topological charges. CoSi is one such material that belongs to non-centrosymmetric space group P213 (#198) and posseses multifold band crossing points with a topological charge of 4. The change of crystal symmetry, e.g., by means of external stress, can lift the degeneracy and change its topological properties. In the present work, the influence of uniaxial deformation on the band structure and topological properties of CoSi is investigated on the base of ab initio calculations. The k·p Hamiltonian taking into account deformation is constructed on the base of symmetry consideration near the Γ and R points both with and without spin-orbit coupling. The transformation of multifold band crossings into nodes of other types with different topological charges, their shift both in energy and in reciprocal space and the tilt of dispersion around nodes are studied in detail depending on the direction of uniaxial deformation.
Population Balance and CFD Simulation of Particle Aggregation and Growth in a Continuous Confined Jet Mixer for Hydrothermal Synthesis of Nanocrystals
Authors: Li Qing Yun , Wang Xue Zhong
Published: January 2021

Population balance and computational fluid dynamics models are built and integrated to carry out a simulation study of the reactive crystallisation process in a confined jet mixer (CJM) for the continuous flow synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles at a supercritical water condition. In the population balance model, the crystal growth in size is modelled as being due to combined nanocrystal aggregation as well as surface growth. A free molecular model is used to predict the particle aggregation. The performance of the combined aggregation and surface growth models is compared with models that only consider surface growth as the only mechanism for particle size enlargement. It was found that the combined model gives a more accurate prediction of particle size distribution.
Transformation of SnS Nanocompisites to Sn and S Nanoparticles during Lithiation
Authors: Deng Haokun , Sarakonsri Thapanee , Huang Tao , Yu Aishui , Aifantis Katerina
Published: January 2021

SnS nanomaterials have a high initial capacity of 1000 mAh g−1; however, this cannot be retained throughout electrochemical cycling. The present study provides insight into this capacity decay by examining the effect that Li intercalation has on SnS “nanoflowers” attached on carbon substrates’ such as artificial graphite. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy reveal that lithiation of such materials disrupts their initial morphology and produces free-standing Sn and SnS nanoparticles that dissolve in the electrolyte and disperse uniformly over the entire electrode surface. As a result, the SnS is rendered inactive after initial cycling and contributes to the formation of the solid electrolyte interface layer, resulting in continuous capacity decay during long term cycling. This is the first study that illustrates the morphological effects that the conversion mechanism has on SnS anodes. In order to fully utilize SnS materials, it is necessary to isolate them from the electrolyte by fully encapsulating them in a matrix.
Landscape Damage Effect Impacts on Natural Environment and Recreational Benefits in Bikeway
Authors: Yeh Chun-Chu , Lin Crystal Jia-Yi , Hsiao James Po-Hsun , Huang Chin-Huang
Published: January 2021

Landscape is an important element in outdoor sports recreation. Cyclists’ perception of an environment reflects their interaction with the actual environment; they become aware of the recreation site through their primary receptive senses. As one popular bikeway in Taiwan, the landscape along Dong-Feng bikeway appeals to many cyclists. Nevertheless, the landscape was spoiled due to a soil conservation project. This study follows the theorem of planned behavior (TPB) and applies contingent behavior scenario to evaluate the recreational benefits and the damage effect of landscape. The empirical model uses travel cost method (TCM) to estimate the consumer surplus of cyclists. Under the scenario of damaged landscape, the number of trips went down 1.01 times and the recreational benefit dropped to NT$750, making the cost of damaging the landscape to NT$132 per person. The result indicates that the landscape of environment quality is crucial to cyclists, and it is important to preserve the natural environment of bike paths for developing the sport tourism sustainability.
Died with or Died of? Development and Testing of a SARS CoV-2 Significance Score to Assess the Role of COVID-19 in the Deaths of Affected Patients
Authors: Giorgetti Arianna , Orazietti Vasco , Busardò Francesco Paolo , Pirani Filippo , Giorgetti Raffaele
Published: January 2021

Since December 2019, a new form of coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, has spread from China to the whole word, raising concerns regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) endangering public health and life. Over 1.5 million deaths related with COVID-19 have been recorded worldwide, with wide variations among countries affected by the pandemic and continuously growing numbers. The aim of this paper was to provide an overview of the literature cases of deaths involving COVID-19 and to evaluate the application of the COVID-19 Significance Score (CSS) in the classification of SARS CoV-2-related fatalities, comparing it with the Hamburg rating scale. The results obtained allowed us to highlight that CSS used after a complete accurate post-mortem examination, coupled to the retrieval of in vivo data, post-mortem radiology, histology and toxicology, as well as to additional required analyses (e.g., electronic microscopy) is a useful and concise tool in the assessment of the cause of death and the role played by this virus. A shared use of this scale might hopefully lower the inhomogeneities in forensic evaluation of SARS CoV-2-related fatalities.
Update on Molecular Genetics of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Brčić Iva , Argyropoulos Alexandra , Liegl-Atzwanger Bernadette
Published: January 2021

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. The majority are sporadic, solitary tumors that harbor mutually exclusive KIT or PDGFRA gain-of-function mutations. The type of mutation in addition to risk stratification corresponds to the biological behavior of GIST and response to treatment. Up to 85% of pediatric GISTs and 10–15% of adult GISTs are devoid of these (KIT/PDGFRA) mutations and are referred to as wild-type GISTs (wt-GIST). It has been shown that these wt-GISTs are a heterogeneous tumor group with regard to their clinical behavior and molecular profile. Recent advances in molecular pathology helped to further sub-classify the so-called “wt-GISTs”. Based on their significant clinical and molecular heterogeneity, wt-GISTs are divided into a syndromic and a non-syndromic (sporadic) subgroup. Recently, the use of succinate dehydrogenase B (SDHB) by immunohistochemistry has been used to stratify GIST into an SDHB-retained and an SDHB-deficient group. In this review, we focus on GIST sub-classification based on clinicopathologic, and molecular findings and discuss the known and yet emerging prognostic and predictive genetic alterations. We also give insights into the limitations of targeted therapy and highlight the mechanisms of secondary resistance.
The Importance of STK11/LKB1 Assessment in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinomas
Authors: Mograbi Baharia , Heeke Simon , Hofman Paul
Published: January 2021

Despite the recent implementation of immunotherapy as a single treatment or in combination with chemotherapy for first-line treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), many patients do not benefit from this regimen due to primary treatment resistance or toxicity. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop efficient biomarkers that can select patients who will benefit from immunotherapy thereby providing the appropriate treatment and avoiding toxicity. One of the biomarkers recently described for the stratification of NSCLC patients undergoing immunotherapy are mutations in STK11/LKB1, which are often associated with a lack of response to immunotherapy in some patients. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to describe the different cellular mechanisms associated with STK11/LKB1 mutations, which may explain the lack of response to immunotherapy. Moreover the review addresses the co-occurrence of additional mutations that may influence the response to immunotherapy and the current clinical studies that have further explored STK11/LKB1 as a predictive biomarker. Additionally this work includes the opportunities and limitations to look for the STK11/LKB1 status in the therapeutic strategy for NSCLC patients.
A Practical Risk Score for Prediction of Early Readmission after a First Episode of Acute Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Zamfirescu Marilena-Brîndușa , Ghilencea Liviu Nicolae , Popescu Mihaela-Roxana , Bejan Gabriel Cristian , Ghiordanescu Ileana Maria , Popescu Andreea-Catarina , Myerson Saul G. , Dorobanțu Maria
Published: January 2021

Background: The first admission for acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) drastically influences the short-term prognosis. Baseline characteristics may predict repeat hospitalization or death in these patients. Methods: A 103 patient-cohort, admitted for the first acute HFpEF episode, was monitored for six months. Baseline characteristics were recorded and their relation to the primary outcome of heart failure readmission (HFR) and secondary outcome of all-cause mortality was assessed. Results: We identified six independent determinants for HFR: estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (p = 0.07), hemoglobin (p = 0.04), left ventricle end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) (p = 0.07), E/e’ ratio (p = 0.004), left ventricle outflow tract velocity-time integral (LVOT VTI) (p = 0.045), and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.06). Three of the variables were used to generate a risk score for HFR: LVEDD, E/e’, LVOT VTI -DEI Score = − 28.763 + 4.558 × log (LVEDD (mm)) + 1.961 × log (E/e’ ratio) + 1.759 × log (LVOT VTI (cm)). Our model predicts a relative amount of 20.50% of HFR during the first 6 months after the first acute hospitalization within the general population with HFpEF with a DEI Score over −0.747. Conclusions: We have identified three echocardiographic parameters (LVEDD, E/e’, and LVOT VTI) that predict HFR following an initial acute HFpEF hospitalization. The prognostic DEI score demonstrated good accuracy.
A Review of the Practical Applications of Pedagogic Conversational Agents to Be Used in School and University Classrooms
Authors: Pérez-Marín Diana
Published: January 2021

Pedagogic Conversational Agents (PCAs) can be defined as autonomous characters that cohabit learning environments with students to create rich learning interactions. Currently, there are many agents reported in the literature of this fast-evolving field. In this paper, several designs of PCAs used as instructors, students, or companions are reviewed using a taxonomy to analyze the possibilities that PCAs can bring into the classrooms. Finally, a discussion as to whether this technology could become the future of education depending on the design trends identified is open for any educational technology practitioner, researcher, teacher, or manager involved in 21st century education.
FPGA Accelerator for Gradient Boosting Decision Trees
Authors: Alcolea Adrián , Resano Javier
Published: January 2021

A decision tree is a well-known machine learning technique. Recently their popularity has increased due to the powerful Gradient Boosting ensemble method that allows to gradually increasing accuracy at the cost of executing a large number of decision trees. In this paper we present an accelerator designed to optimize the execution of these trees while reducing the energy consumption. We have implemented it in an FPGA for embedded systems, and we have tested it with a relevant case-study: pixel classification of hyperspectral images. In our experiments with different images our accelerator can process the hyperspectral images at the same speed at which they are generated by the hyperspectral sensors. Compared to a high-performance processor running optimized software, on average our design is twice as fast and consumes 72 times less energy. Compared to an embedded processor, it is 30 times faster and consumes 23 times less energy.
An Anti-Counterfeiting Architecture for Traceability System Based on Modified Two-Level Quick Response Codes
Authors: Xie Shundao , Tan Hong-Zhou
Published: January 2021

Traceability is considered a promising solution for product safety. However, the data in the traceability system is only a claim rather than a fact. Therefore, the quality and safety of the product cannot be guaranteed since we cannot ensure the authenticity of products (aka counterfeit detection) in the real world. In this paper, we focus on counterfeit detection for the traceability system. The risk of counterfeiting throughout a typical product life cycle in the supply chain is analyzed, and the corresponding requirements for the tags, packages, and traceability system are given to eliminate these risks. Based on the analysis, an anti-counterfeiting architecture for traceability system based on two-level quick response codes (2LQR codes) is proposed, where the problem of counterfeit detection for a product is transformed into the problem of copy detection for the 2LQR code tag. According to the characteristics of the traceability system, the generation progress of the 2LQR code is modified, and there is a corresponding improved algorithm to estimate the actual location of patterns in the scanned image of the modified 2LQR code tag to improve the performance of copy detection. A prototype system based on the proposed architecture is implemented, where the consumers can perform traceability information queries by scanning the 2LQR code on the product package with any QR code reader. They can also scan the 2LQR code with a home-scanner or office-scanner, and send the scanned image to the system to perform counterfeit detection. Compared with other anti-counterfeiting solutions, the proposed architecture has advantages of low cost, generality, and good performance. Therefore, it is a promising solution to replace the existing anti-counterfeiting system.
Ontologies in Knowledge Organization
Authors: Machado Luís Miguel Oliveira
Published: January 2021

Within the knowledge organization systems (KOS) set, the term “ontology” is paradigmatic of the terminological ambiguity in different typologies. Contributing to this situation is the indiscriminate association of the term “ontology”, both as a specific type of KOS and as a process of categorization, due to the interdisciplinary use of the term with different meanings. We present a systematization of the perspectives of different authors of ontologies, as representational artifacts, seeking to contribute to terminological clarification. Focusing the analysis on the intention, semantics and modulation of ontologies, it was possible to notice two broad perspectives regarding ontologies as artifacts that coexist in the knowledge organization systems spectrum. We have ontologies viewed, on the one hand, as an evolution in terms of complexity of traditional conceptual systems, and on the other hand, as a system that organizes ontological rather than epistemological knowledge. The focus of ontological analysis is the item to model and not the intentions that motivate the construction of the system.
Effect of An 84-bp Deletion of the Receptor-Binding Domain on the ACE2 Binding Affinity of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein: An In Silico Analysis
Authors: Kemenesi Gábor , Tóth Gábor Endre , Bajusz Dávid , Keserű György M. , Terhes Gabriella , Burián Katalin , Zeghbib Safia , Somogyi Balázs A. , Jakab Ferenc
Published: January 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a recently emerged, novel human coronavirus responsible for the currently ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Recombination is a well-known evolutionary strategy of coronaviruses, which may frequently result in significant genetic alterations, such as deletions throughout the genome. In this study we identified a co-infection with two genetically different SARS-CoV-2 viruses within a single patient sample via amplicon-based next generation sequencing in Hungary. The recessive strain contained an 84 base pair deletion in the receptor binding domain of the spike protein gene and was found to be gradually displaced by a dominant non-deleterious variant over-time. We have identified the region of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) that is affected by the mutation, created homology models of the RBDΔ84 mutant, and based on the available experimental data and calculations, we propose that the mutation has a deteriorating effect on the binding of RBD to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, which results in the negative selection of this variant. Extending the sequencing capacity toward the discovery of emerging recombinant or deleterious strains may facilitate the early recognition of novel strains with altered phenotypic attributes and understanding of key elements of spike protein evolution. Such studies may greatly contribute to future therapeutic research and general understanding of genomic processes of the virus.
A Forensic Detection Method for Hallucinogenic Mushrooms via High-Resolution Melting (HRM) Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaochun , Yu Huan , Yang Qi , Wang Ziwei , Xia Ruocheng , Chen Chong , Qu Yiling , Tan Rui , Shi Yan , Xiang Ping , Zhang Suhua , Li Chengtao
Published: January 2021

In recent years, trafficking and abuse of hallucinogenic mushrooms have become a serious social problem. It is therefore imperative to identify hallucinogenic mushrooms of the genus Psilocybe for national drug control legislation. An internal transcribed spacer (ITS) is a DNA barcoding tool utilized for species identification. Many methods have been used to discriminate the ITS region, but they are often limited by having a low resolution. In this study, we sought to analyze the ITS and its fragments, ITS1 and ITS2, by using high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis, which is a rapid and sensitive method for evaluating sequence variation within PCR amplicons. The ITS HRM assay was tested for specificity, reproducibility, sensitivity, and the capacity to analyze mixture samples. It was shown that the melting temperatures of the ITS, ITS1, and ITS2 of Psilocybe cubensis were 83.72 ± 0.01, 80.98 ± 0.06, and 83.46 ± 0.08 °C, and for other species, we also obtained species-specific results. Finally, we performed ITS sequencing to validate the presumptive taxonomic identity of our samples, and the sequencing output significantly supported our HRM data. Taken together, these results indicate that the HRM method can quickly distinguish the DNA barcoding of Psilocybe cubensis and other fungi, which can be utilized for drug trafficking cases and forensic science.
Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in COVID-19—Where Are We Now?
Authors: Putowski Zbigniew , Szczepańska Anna , Czok Marcelina , Krzych Łukasz J.
Published: January 2021

The recent development in extracorporeal life support (ECLS) has created new therapeutic opportunities for critically ill patients. An interest in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), the pinnacle of ECLS techniques, has recently increased, as for the last decade, we have observed improvements in the survival of patients suffering from severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) while on ECMO. Although there is a paucity of conclusive data from clinical research regarding extracorporeal oxygenation in COVID-19 patients, the pathophysiology of the disease makes veno-venous ECMO a promising option.
Test-Retest Reliability of the Patient Activation Measure-13 in Adults with Substance Use Disorders and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Melby Katrine , Nygård Mona , Brobakken Mathias Forsberg , Gråwe Rolf W. , Güzey Ismail Cüneyt , Reitan Solveig Klæbo , Vedul-Kjelsås Einar , Heggelund Jørn , Lara-Cabrera Mariela Loreto
Published: January 2021

Patient Activation Measure-13 (PAM-13) is a valid and widely used questionnaire that assess an individual’s knowledge, confidence, and skills for self-management of their chronic illness. Although there is some evidence regarding its reliability, the test–retest reliability has not been investigated among patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) or schizophrenia spectrum disorders. We investigated the internal consistency and test–retest reliability of PAM-13 in these populations. Test–retest reliability was analysed using data from 29 patients with SUDs and 28 with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Cronbach’s α and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) scores were used to examine internal consistency and test–retest reliability, respectively. Of the 60 collected test–retest questionnaires, 57 were included in the analyses. No mean differences between time one (T1) and time two (T2) were observed in either patient group, except for item 12 in schizophrenia spectrum disorders patients (p < 0.05). Internal consistency for T1 and T2 was 0.75 and 0.84 in SUDs patients and 0.87 and 0.81 in schizophrenia spectrum disorders patients, respectively. The ICC was r = 0.86 in patients with SUDs and r = 0.93 in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. To conclude, PAM-13 showed good internal consistency and test–retest reliability in SUDs and schizophrenia spectrum disorders patients.
Netiquette: Ethic, Education, and Behavior on Internet—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Soler-Costa Rebeca , Lafarga-Ostáriz Pablo , Mauri-Medrano Marta , Moreno-Guerrero Antonio-José
Published: January 2021

In this article, an analysis of the existing literature is carried out. It focused on the netiquette (country, date, objectives, methodological design, main variables, sample details, and measurement methods) included in the Web of Science and Scopus databases. This systematic review of the literature has been developed entirely according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA). The initial search yielded 53 results, of which 18 exceeded the inclusion criteria and were analyzed in detail. These results show that this is a poorly defined line of research, both in theory and in practice. There is a need to update the theoretical framework and an analysis of the empirical proposals, whose samples are supported by students or similar. Knowing, understanding, and analyzing netiquette is a necessity in a society in which information and communication technologies (ICT) have changed the way of socializing and communicating. A new reality in which there is cyber-bullying, digital scams, fake news, and haters on social networks.
Relationship between Chewing Ability and Nutritional Status in Japanese Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Motokawa Keiko , Mikami Yurie , Shirobe Maki , Edahiro Ayako , Ohara Yuki , Iwasaki Masanori , Watanabe Yutaka , Kawai Hisashi , Kera Takeshi , Obuchi Shuichi , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Ihara Kazushige , Hirano Hirohiko
Published: January 2021

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the relationship between objective chewing ability and the nutritional status of Japanese community-dwelling elders. Design: A cross-sectional study. Participants: A total of 509 community-dwelling elders living in the Tokyo metropolitan area participated in a comprehensive survey conducted in October 2013. Measurements: The basic characteristics were sex, age, and body mass index. Undernutrition was examined through serum albumin levels. Chewing ability was examined through color-changeable xylitol gum by evaluating the color changes in chewing gum. Nutritional intake was examined using the semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Results: In the poor chewing ability group, all nutrient intake levels were significantly low, except for carbohydrates, and intake levels for all food groups were significantly low, except for cereals, confectionery, sugars, seasonings, and spices. Additionally, after adjusting for covariates for sex, age, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology-Index of Competence (TMIG-IC) score, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score, body mass index (BMI), stroke, number of functional teeth, energy intake, and protein intake, chewing ability was found to be significantly associated with undernutrition. Conclusion: We concluded that chewing ability was closely associated with nutrient and different food groups’ intake, as well as undernutrition, among Japanese community-dwelling elders. Thus, to ensure comprehensive nutritional management, nutritionists and dentists should collaborate when treating the same patients.
LEAP-Based Greenhouse Gases Emissions Peak and Low Carbon Pathways in China’s Tourist Industry
Authors: Liu Dandan , Yang Dewei , Huang Anmin
Published: January 2021

China has grown into the world’s largest tourist source market and its huge tourism activities and resulting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are particularly becoming a concern in the context of global climate warming. To depict the trajectory of carbon emissions, a long-range energy alternatives planning system (LEAP)-Tourist model, consisting of two scenarios and four sub-scenarios, was established for observing and predicting tourism greenhouse gas peaks in China from 2017 to 2040. The results indicate that GHG emissions will peak at 1048.01 million-ton CO2 equivalent (Mt CO2e) in 2033 under the integrated (INT) scenario. Compared with the business as usual (BAU) scenario, INT will save energy by 24.21% in 2040 and reduce energy intensity from 0.4979 tons of CO2 equivalent/104 yuan (TCO2e/104 yuan) to 0.3761 Tce/104 yuan. Although the INT scenario has achieved promising effects of energy saving and carbon reduction, the peak year 2033 in the tourist industry is still later than China’s expected peak year of 2030. This is due to the growth potential and moderate carbon control measures in the tourist industry. Thus, in order to keep the tourist industry in synchronization with China’s peak goals, more stringent measures are needed, e.g., the promotion of clean fuel shuttle buses, the encouragement of low carbon tours, the cancelation of disposable toiletries and the recycling of garbage resources. The results of this simulation study will help set GHG emission peak targets in the tourist industry and formulate a low carbon roadmap to guide carbon reduction actions in the field of GHG emissions with greater certainty.
RETRACTED: Bhosale et al. pH Dependent Molecular Self-Assembly of Octaphosphonate Porphyrin of Nanoscale Dimensions: Nanosphere and Nanorod Aggregates. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2011, 12, 1464–1473
Authors:   International Journal of Molecular Sciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2021

The journal retracts the article, “pH Dependent Molecular Self-Assembly of Octaphosphonate Porphyrin of Nanoscale Dimensions: Nanosphere and Nanorod Aggregates” [...]
Overwintering Larval Cold Tolerance of Sirex noctilio (Hymenoptera: Siricidae): Geographic Variation in Northeast China
Authors: Li Chengcheng , Pei Jiahe , Li Jiale , Liu Xiaobo , Ren Lili , Luo Youqing
Published: January 2021

Sirex noctilio (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) is an invasive pest that has spread and established in many regions worldwide. However, its cold tolerance strategy is still unclear. We measured the supercooling point (SCP) and the lower lethal temperature (LLT) of overwintering S. noctilio larvae during three overwintering periods in four geographically separated populations in China. In addition, using the statistical analysis of the local historical temperature data, we also conducted comprehensive studies of S. noctilio cold tolerance variations and strategies. We measured the SCP of all samples as S. noctilio could survive at its SCP during a short period of exposure (<48 h) and its cold tolerance strategy was freeze-avoidance. The average SCPs of the groups in different spatiotemporal scales were significantly related to average temperature variation with most individuals exhibiting stronger cold hardiness at low ambient temperatures. S. noctilio exhibited a strong cold tolerance and it has the ability to withstand lower temperatures in cold environments. The geographic population showed a positive tendency as the ambient temperature decreased, which would increase its chance of developing in cold regions.
The Common Fruit-Piercing Moth in the Pacific Region: A Survey of the Current State of a Significant Worldwide Economic Pest, Eudocima phalonia (Lepidoptera: Erebidae), with a Focus on New Caledonia
Authors: Leroy Lise , Mille Christian , Fogliani Bruno
Published: January 2021

When referring to fruit-piercing moths, the genus Eudocima, and more specifically Eudocima phalonia (Linneaus), is cited as a worldwide crop pest. Damages associated with this pest are substantial on more than 100 fruit species, wherever it is encountered. In New Caledonia, the once occasional pest has become a serious threat to the current fruit arboriculture. Particularly devastating during outbreak periods, it has become an urgent need to find a suitable solution able to support farmers in the ecological transition of our agricultural models. This review proposes a synthesis of the existing data and publications on E. phalonia, worldwide and especially in New Caledonia, with recent observations. The assessment of this knowledge and the dynamics of the species in the territory of New Caledonia provide key information for a better prospect of adapted solutions.