bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Delivery of Cytotoxic Agents via Integrin Activation
Authors: Cirillo Martina , Giacomini Daria
Published: January 2021

Integrins are cell adhesion receptors overexpressed in tumor cells. A direct inhibition of integrins was investigated, but the best inhibitors performed poorly in clinical trials. A gained attention towards these receptors arouse because they could be target for a selective transport of cytotoxic agents. Several active-targeting systems have been developed to use integrins as a selective cell entrance for some antitumor agents. The aim of this review paper is to report on the most recent results on covalent conjugates between integrin ligands and antitumor drugs. Cytotoxic drugs thus conjugated through specific linker to integrin ligands, mainly RGD peptides, demonstrated that the covalent conjugates were more selective against tumor cells and hopefully with fewer side effects than the free drugs.
Use of Low-Dose Tamoxifen to Increase Mammographic Screening Sensitivity in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Eriksson Mikael , Czene Kamila , Conant Emily F. , Hall Per
Published: January 2021

Increased breast density decreases mammographic sensitivity due to masking of cancers by dense tissue. Tamoxifen exposure reduces mammographic density and, therefore, should improve screening sensitivity. We modelled how low-dose tamoxifen exposure could be used to increase mammographic sensitivity. Mammographic sensitivity was calculated using the KARMA prospective screening cohort. Two models were fitted to estimate screening sensitivity and detected tumor size based on baseline mammographic density. BI-RADS-dependent sensitivity was estimated. The results of the 2.5 mg tamoxifen arm of the KARISMA trial were used to define expected changes in mammographic density after six months exposure and to predict changes in mammographic screening sensitivity and detected tumor size. Rates of interval cancers and detection of invasive tumors were estimated for women with mammographic density relative decreases by 10–50%. In all, 517 cancers in premenopausal women were diagnosed in KARMA: 287 (56%) screen-detected and 230 (44%) interval cancers. Screening sensitivities prior to tamoxifen, were 76%, 69%, 53%, and 46% for BI-RADS density categories A, B, C, and D, respectively. After exposure to tamoxifen, modelled screening sensitivities were estimated to increase by 0% (p = 0.35), 2% (p < 0.01), 5% (p < 0.01), and 5% (p < 0.01), respectively. An estimated relative density decrease by ≥20% resulted in an estimated reduction of interval cancers by 24% (p < 0.01) and reduction in tumors >20 mm at detection by 4% (p < 0.01). Low-dose tamoxifen has the potential to increase mammographic screening sensitivity and thereby reduce the proportion of interval cancers and larger screen-detected cancers.
Correction: Hseu, Y.-C., et al. The In Vitro and In Vivo Anticancer Properties of Chalcone Flavokawain B through Induction of ROS-Mediated Apoptotic and Autophagic Cell Death in Human Melanoma Cells. Cancers 2020, 12, 2936
Authors: Hseu You-Cheng , Chiang Yu-Chi , Vudhya Gowrisankar Yugandhar , Lin Kai-Yuan , Huang Sheng-Teng , Shrestha Sirjana , Chang Geng-Ruei , Yang Hsin-Ling
Published: January 2021

In the original article [...]
WWC Proteins: Important Regulators of Hippo Signaling in Cancer
Authors: Höffken Verena , Hermann Anke , Pavenstädt Hermann , Kremerskothen Joachim
Published: January 2021

The Hippo signaling pathway is known to regulate cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis. Whereas activation of the Hippo signaling pathway leads to phosphorylation and cytoplasmic retention of the transcriptional coactivator YAP, decreased Hippo signaling results in nuclear import of YAP and subsequent transcription of pro-proliferative genes. Hence, a dynamic and precise regulation of the Hippo signaling pathway is crucial for organ size control and the prevention of tumor formation. The transcriptional activity of YAP is controlled by a growing number of upstream regulators including the family of WWC proteins. WWC1, WWC2 and WWC3 represent cytosolic scaffolding proteins involved in intracellular transport processes and different signal transduction pathways. Earlier in vitro experiments demonstrated that WWC proteins positively regulate the Hippo pathway via the activation of large tumor suppressor kinases 1/2 (LATS1/2) kinases and the subsequent cytoplasmic accumulation of phosphorylated YAP. Later, reduced WWC expression and subsequent high YAP activity were shown to correlate with the progression of human cancer in different organs. Although the function of WWC proteins as upstream regulators of Hippo signaling was confirmed in various studies, their important role as tumor modulators is often overlooked. This review has been designed to provide an update on the published data linking WWC1, WWC2 and WWC3 to cancer, with a focus on Hippo pathway-dependent mechanisms.
The Prognostic Role of Postablative Non-Stimulated Thyroglobulin in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Szujo Szabina , Bajnok Laszlo , Bodis Beata , Nagy Zsuzsanna , Nemes Orsolya , Rucz Karoly , Mezosi Emese
Published: January 2021

Thyroglobulin (Tg) is the most important tumor marker in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic and prognostic roles of postoperative stimulated and postablative lowest, highest, and one-year non-stimulated Tg values obtained during the follow-up of patients with DTC. In this retrospective study, 222 radioiodine-treated, anti-thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb)-negative DTC patients having at least 9 months’ follow-up time were included (172 papillary and 50 follicular cancers; median age: 48 (from 15 to 91) years; female–male ratio: 158/64; median (quartiles) follow-up time: 54 (22–97) months). The 2015 American Thyroid Association guidelines were applied as criteria of the therapeutic response. Postoperative stimulated Tg values had significantly lower diagnostic accuracy than any of the non-stimulated postablative Tg values. One-year non-stimulated Tg had excellent prognostic value for structural disease: a cut-off value of 0.85 ng/mL had an 88.1% diagnostic accuracy. If the Tg value did not decrease below 0.75 ng/mL at any time during follow-up, the risk of residual disease was 25 times higher. The highest non-stimulated Tg during follow-up was the best predictor of residual disease (e.g., a Tg value exceeding 7.7 ng/mL indicated a 30-fold increase in risk). Non-stimulated Tg values measured during follow-up have excellent diagnostic accuracy to predict structural disease in DTC patients. The risk classification of a patient can safely be modified based on even a single Tg measurement.
GRIM19 Impedes Obesity by Regulating Inflammatory White Fat Browning and Promoting Th17/Treg Balance
Authors: Jhun JooYeon , Woo Jin Seok , Lee Seung Hoon , Jeong Jeong-Hee , Jung KyungAh , Hur Wonhee , Lee Seon-Yeong , Ryu Jae Yoon , Moon Young-Mee , Jung Yoon Ju , Song Kyo Young , Chang Kiyuk , Yoon Seung Kew , Park Sung-Hwan , Cho Mi-La
Published: January 2021

Obesity, a condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat, is a metabolic disorder related to an increased risk of chronic inflammation. Obesity is mediated by signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3, which is regulated by genes associated with retinoid-interferon-induced mortality (GRIM) 19, a protein ubiquitously expressed in various human tissues. In this study, we investigated the role of GRIM19 in diet-induced obese C57BL/6 mice via intravenous or intramuscular administration of a plasmid encoding GRIM19. Splenocytes from wild-type and GRIM19-overexpressing mice were compared using enzyme-linked immunoassay, real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and histological analyses. GRIM19 attenuated the progression of obesity by regulating STAT3 activity and enhancing brown adipose tissue (BAT) differentiation. GRIM19 regulated the differentiation of mouse-derived 3T3-L1 preadipocytes into adipocytes, while modulating gene expression in white adipose tissue (WAT) and BAT. GRIM19 overexpression reduced diet-induced obesity and enhanced glucose and lipid metabolism in the liver. Moreover, GRIM19 overexpression reduced WAT differentiation and induced BAT differentiation in obese mice. GRIM19-transgenic mice exhibited reduced mitochondrial superoxide levels and a reciprocal balance between Th17 and Treg cells. These results suggest that GRIM19 attenuates the progression of obesity by controlling adipocyte differentiation.
Functional Heterogeneity and Therapeutic Targeting of Tissue-Resident Memory T Cells
Authors: van der Gracht Esmé T. I. , Behr Felix M. , Arens Ramon
Published: January 2021

Tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells mediate potent local innate and adaptive immune responses and provide long-lasting protective immunity. TRM cells localize to many different tissues, including barrier tissues, and play a crucial role in protection against infectious and malignant disease. The formation and maintenance of TRM cells are influenced by numerous factors, including inflammation, antigen triggering, and tissue-specific cues. Emerging evidence suggests that these signals also contribute to heterogeneity within the TRM cell compartment. Here, we review the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of CD8+ TRM cells at different tissue sites and the molecular determinants defining CD8+ TRM cell subsets. We further discuss the possibilities of targeting the unique cell surface molecules, cytokine and chemokine receptors, transcription factors, and metabolic features of TRM cells for therapeutic purposes. Their crucial role in immune protection and their location at the frontlines of the immune defense make TRM cells attractive therapeutic targets. A better understanding of the possibilities to selectively modulate TRM cell populations may thus improve vaccination and immunotherapeutic strategies employing these potent immune cells.
TRPing to the Point of Clarity: Understanding the Function of the Complex TRPV4 Ion Channel
Authors: Toft-Bertelsen Trine L. , MacAulay Nanna
Published: January 2021

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel (TRPV4) belongs to the mammalian TRP superfamily of cation channels. TRPV4 is ubiquitously expressed, activated by a disparate array of stimuli, interacts with a multitude of proteins, and is modulated by a range of post-translational modifications, the majority of which we are only just beginning to understand. Not surprisingly, a great number of physiological roles have emerged for TRPV4, as have various disease states that are attributable to the absence, or abnormal functioning, of this ion channel. This review will highlight structural features of TRPV4, endogenous and exogenous activators of the channel, and discuss the reported roles of TRPV4 in health and disease.
MMP-9 Signaling Pathways That Engage Rho GTPases in Brain Plasticity
Authors: Figiel Izabela , Kruk Patrycja K. , Zaręba-Kozioł Monika , Rybak Paulina , Bijata Monika , Wlodarczyk Jakub , Dzwonek Joanna
Published: January 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) has been identified as a critical factor affecting synaptic function. It forms a functional scaffold that provides both the structural support and the reservoir of signaling molecules necessary for communication between cellular constituents of the central nervous system (CNS). Among numerous ECM components and modifiers that play a role in the physiological and pathological synaptic plasticity, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) has recently emerged as a key molecule. MMP-9 may contribute to the dynamic remodeling of structural and functional plasticity by cleaving ECM components and cell adhesion molecules. Notably, MMP-9 signaling was shown to be indispensable for long-term memory formation that requires synaptic remodeling. The core regulators of the dynamic reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and cell adhesion are the Rho family of GTPases. These proteins have been implicated in the control of a wide range of cellular processes occurring in brain physiology and pathology. Here, we discuss the contribution of Rho GTPases to MMP-9-dependent signaling pathways in the brain. We also describe how the regulation of Rho GTPases by post-translational modifications (PTMs) can influence these processes.
Electrochemical Detection of a Local Anesthetic Dibucaine at Arrays of Liquid|Liquid MicroInterfaces
Authors: Almbrok Eissa Mohamed , Yusof Nor Azah , Abdullah Jaafar , Mohd Zawawi Ruzniza
Published: January 2021

Electrochemical characterization and detection of protonated dibucaine (DIC+) at microinterface array across water|1,6-dichlorohexane were performed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Some thermodynamic parameters of dibucaine, such as the standard transfer potential, the Gibbs energy of transfer and the partition coefficient, were estimated by CV. In addition to the analytical parameters, the impact of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on dibucaine detection (in artificial serum matrices) was also investigated. DPV was applied to detect a lower concentration of DIC+, resulting in a detection limit of 0.9 ± 0.06 µM. While the presence of BSA affected CV, demonstrated as reduced current responses, DPV was confirmed to be an efficient method for lowering concentrations of the dibucaine detection in the artificial serum matrix in the presence of BSA, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.9 ± 0.12 µM.
Interactions of Coating and Wood Flooring Surface System Properties
Authors: Pavlič Matjaž , Petrič Marko , Žigon Jure
Published: January 2021

Parquet flooring is one of the most common types of flooring, the surface of which can be covered with various coatings. To avoid possible damage to the parquet during use, it is necessary to test the surfaces before installation according to various non-standard and standard protocols. The present study provides an overview of the interactions between the properties of selected waterborne coatings (solids content, hardness, resistance to cracking, tensile strength) and the properties of oak wood flooring surfaces (dry film thickness, coating adhesion, resistance to scratching, impact, abrasion and cold liquids). The tests conducted showed that the performance of the surface systems was highly dependent on the coating formulations, as they were either one- or two-component systems. Although no major differences in surface resistance to cold liquids were found, there was a correlation between coating thickness, hardness and tensile strength. The harder coatings had higher tensile strengths and lower elongations. The coatings with higher tensile strength and better hardness achieved better adhesion properties. The coatings that exhibited ductile behavior showed the worst scratch resistance. A statistically significant relationship was found between the higher resistance of the flooring systems to impact stress and the improved abrasion resistance. The obtained results provide potential end users of surface coatings with valuable information on the quality that can be expected in wood flooring.
Evaluation of Antithrombogenic pHPC on CoCr Substrates for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Bannewitz Catrin , Lenz-Habijan Tim , Lentz Jonathan , Peters Marcus , Trösken Volker , Siebert Sabine , Weber Sebastian , Theisen Werner , Henkes Hans , Monstadt Hermann
Published: January 2021

Bare metal endovascular implants pose a significant risk of causing thrombogenic complications. Antithrombogenic surface modifications, such as phenox’s “Hydrophilic Polymer Coating” (pHPC), which was originally developed for NiTi implants, decrease the thrombogenicity of metal surfaces. In this study, the transferability of pHPC onto biomedical CoCr-based alloys is examined. Coated surfaces were characterized via contact-angle measurement and atomic force microscopy. The equivalence of the antithrombogenic effect in contact with whole human blood was demonstrated in vitro for CoCr plates compared to NiTi plates on a platform shaker and for braided devices in a Chandler loop. Platelet adhesion was assessed via scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. The coating efficiency of pHPC on CoCr plates was confirmed by a reduction of the contact angle from 84.4° ± 5.1° to 36.2° ± 5.2°. The surface roughness was not affected by the application of pHPC. Platelet adhesion was significantly reduced on pHPC-coated specimens. The platelet covered area was reduced by 85% for coated CoCr plates compared to uncoated samples. Uncoated braided devices were completely covered by platelets, while on the pHPC-coated samples, very few platelets were visible. In conclusion, the antithrombogenic effect of pHPC coating can be successfully applied on CoCr plates as well as stent-like CoCr braids.
Finite Element Simulation of Thermo-Mechanical Model with Phase Change
Authors: Vasilyeva Maria , Ammosov Dmitry , Vasil’ev Vasily
Published: January 2021

In this work, we consider a mathematical model and finite element implementation of heat transfer and mechanics of soils with phase change. We present the construction of the simplified mathematical model based on the definition of water and ice fraction volumes as functions of temperature. In the presented mathematical model, the soil deformations occur due to the porosity growth followed by the difference between ice and water density. We consider a finite element discretization of the presented thermoelastic model with implicit time approximation. Implementation of the presented basic mathematical model is performed using FEniCS finite element library and openly available to download. The results of the numerical investigation are presented for the two-dimensional and three-dimensional model problems for two test cases in three different geometries. We consider algorithms with linearization from the previous time layer (one Picard iteration) and the Picard iterative method. Computational time is presented with the total number of nonlinear iterations. A numerical investigation with results of the convergence of the nonlinear iteration is presented for different time step sizes, where we calculate relative errors for temperature and displacements between current solution and reference solution with the largest number of the time layers. Numerical results illustrate the influence of the porosity change due to the phase-change of pore water into ice on the deformation of the soils. We observed a good numerical convergence of the presented implementation with the small number of nonlinear iterations, that depends on time step size.
Acoustic Emission Study on the Damage Evolution of a Corroded Reinforced Concrete Column under Axial Loads
Authors: Chen Ye , Zhu Shuang , Ye Shenghua , Ling Yifeng , Wu Dan , Zhang Geqiang , Du Nianfu , Jin Xianyu , Fu Chuanqing
Published: January 2021

In this paper, the damage of a reinforced concrete (RC) column with various levels of reinforcement corrosion under axial loads is characterized using the acoustic emission (AE) technique. Based on the AE rate process theory, a modified damage evolution equation of RC associated with the axial load and different corrosion rates is proposed. The experimental results show that the measured AE signal parameters during the loading process are closely related to the damage evolution of the RC column as well as the reinforcement corrosion level. The proposed modified damage evolution equation enables dynamic analysis for the damage of corrosion on a RC column under axial loading for a further real-time quantitative evaluation of corrosion damage on reinforced concrete.
The Formation and Control of Ice Crystal and Its Impact on the Quality of Frozen Aquatic Products: A Review
Authors: Tan Mingtang , Mei Jun , Xie Jing
Published: January 2021

Although freezing has been used to delay the deterioration of product quality and extend its shelf life, the formation of ice crystals inevitably destroys product quality. This comprehensive review describes detailed information on the effects of ice crystals on aquatic products during freezing storage. The affecting factors (including nucleation temperature, freezing point, freezing rate, and temperature fluctuation) on the size, number, distribution, and shape of ice crystals are also elaborated in detail. Meanwhile, the corresponding technologies to control ice crystals have been developed based on these affecting factors to control the formation of ice crystals by inhibiting or inducing ice crystallization. In addition, the effects of ice crystals on the water, texture, and protein of aquatic products are comprehensively discussed, and the paper tries to describe their underlying mechanisms. This review can provide an understanding of ice crystallization in the aquatic products during freezing and contribute more clues for maintaining frozen food quality.
ESD Design and Analysis by Drain Electrode-Embedded Horizontal Schottky Elements for HV nLDMOSs
Authors: Hong Shi-Zhe , Chen Shen-Li
Published: January 2021

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) events can severely damage miniature components. Therefore, ESD protection is critical in integrated circuits. In this study, drain-electrode-embedded horizontal Schottky diode contact modulation and Schottky length reduction modulation were performed on a high-voltage 60-V n-channel laterally diffused metal-oxide–semiconductor transistor (nLDMOS) element. The effect of the on-voltage characteristics of cascade Schottky diodes on ESD protection was investigated. By using a transmission-line pulse tester, the trigger voltage, holding voltage, and secondary breakdown current (It2) of the nLDMOS element were determined using the I–V characteristic. As the N+ area was gradually replaced by the parasitic Schottky area at the drain electrode, an equivalent circuit of series Schottky diodes formed, which increased the on-resistance. The larger the Schottky area was the higher the It2 value was. This characteristic can considerably improve the ESD immunity of nLDMOS components (highest improvement of 104%). This is a good strategy for improving ESD reliability without increasing the production steps and fabrication cost.
A Study on the Effect of Bond Wires Lift-Off on IGBT Thermal Resistance Measurement
Authors: Luo Dan , Chen Minyou , Lai Wei , Xia Hongjian , Ding Xueni , Deng Zhenyu
Published: January 2021

Bond wire lift-off will cause an increase of remaining wires’ power dissipation, which usually is ignored for healthy modules. However, only partial wires’ power dissipation transfers through thermal path from junction to case, which will lead to overestimate the whole power dissipation from collector to emitter pole and underestimate the calculated thermal resistance using the proportion of temperature difference to power dissipation. A FEM model is established to show the change of heat flow after bond wires were removed, the temperature of bond wires increases, and the measured thermal resistance decrease after bond wires lift-off. It is validated by experimental results using open package Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) modules under different current conditions. This conclusion might be helpful to indicate the bond wires lift-off and solder fatigue by comparing the change of measured thermal resistance. Using the Kelvin setup to measure thermal resistance will cause misjudgment of failure mode due to the ignoring of wires’ power dissipation. This paper proposed that the lift-off of bond wires will lead to underestimating the thermal resistance measurement, which will overestimate the lifetime of IGBT module and misjudge its state of health.
Interturn Short-Circuit Fault Detection of a Five-Phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Authors: Yang Zhongyi , Chen Yiguang
Published: January 2021

Interturn short circuits are a common fault of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs). This paper proposes a new method to detect the interturn short-circuit fault (ISCF) of a five-phase PMSM. The method first takes the command voltage and measured current of each phase winding as the original signal and then obtains the delay signal orthogonal to the original signal via Hilbert transform. Then, the generalized instantaneous reactive power of each phase can be calculated from the orthogonal voltage and current signals of each phase. Finally, the influence of the ISCF on the generalized instantaneous reactive power of each phase is analyzed under different working conditions. By comparing the difference in the generalized instantaneous reactive power of each phase, it can be determined which phase winding has the ISCF. The proposed method is verified by simulated and experimental results.
The Influence of Thickness on the Tensile Strength of Finnish Birch Veneers under Varying Load Angles
Authors: Pramreiter Maximilian , Stadlmann Alexander , Huber Christian , Konnerth Johannes , Halbauer Peter , Baumann Georg , Müller Ulrich
Published: January 2021

The development of high-performance, veneer-based wood composites is a topic of increasing importance due to the high design flexibility and the comparable mechanical performance to solid wood. Part of this improved mechanical performance can be contributed to the size effect present in wood. Based on previous findings in the literature, this size effect can be either strengthening or weakening. The presented study investigates the influence of thickness and load angle on the tensile strength and tensile stiffness of peeled veneers compared to thin sawn timber. Veneers with thicknesses of 0.5 ± 0.05 mm, 1.0 ± 0.05 mm and 1.5 ± 0.05 mm as well as sawn wood with thicknesses of 1.5 ± 0.1 mm, 3.0 ± 0.1 mm and 5.0 ± 0.1 mm were tested in tension under different load angles (0°, 45° and 90°). The results only partly confirm a size effect for strength parallel to the grain. The strength perpendicular to the grain increased significantly between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, with a significant decrease between 1.5 mm and 5.0 mm. The presence of lathe checks diminished the strength perpendicular to the grain of the veneers by about 70% compared to solid wood, partly overshadowing a possible strengthening effect. It was concluded that a transition from a strengthening to a weakening behaviour lies in the range of multiple millimetres, but further investigations are needed to quantify this zone more precisely. The presented results provide a useful basis for the development of veneer-based wood composites with a performance driven layer-thickness.
The Effects of the Content Elements of Online Banner Ads on Visual Attention: Evidence from An-Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Peker Serhat , Menekse Dalveren Gonca Gokce , İnal Yavuz
Published: January 2021

The aim of this paper is to examine the influence of the content elements of online banner ads on customers’ visual attention, and to evaluate the impacts of gender, discount rate and brand familiarity on this issue. An eye-tracking study with 34 participants (18 male and 16 female) was conducted, in which the participants were presented with eight types of online banner ads comprising three content elements—namely brand, discount rate and image—while their eye movements were recorded. The results showed that the image was the most attractive area among the three main content elements. Furthermore, the middle areas of the banners were noticed first, and areas located on the left side were mostly noticed earlier than those on the right side. The results also indicated that the discount areas of banners with higher discount rates were more attractive and eye-catching compared to those of banners with lower discount rates. In addition to these, the participants who were familiar with the brand mostly concentrated on the discount area, while those who were unfamiliar with the brand mostly paid attention to the image area. The findings from this study will assist marketers in creating more effective and efficient online banner ads that appeal to customers, ultimately fostering positive attitudes towards the advertisement.
Electroporation Assisted Improvement of Freezing Tolerance in Yeast Cells
Authors: Simonis Povilas , Linkeviciute Ausra , Stirke Arunas
Published: January 2021

Prolonged storage of frozen dough worsens the structure of thawed dough. The main reason is the inhibition of yeast activity. In this study we investigated applicability of pulsed electric field treatment for introduction of cryoprotectant into yeast cells. We showed that pre-treatment of cells suspended in a trehalose solution improves freezing tolerance and results in higher viability after thawing. Viability increased with rise in electric field strength (from 3 to 4.5 kV/cm) and incubation time (from 0 to 60 min) after exposure. Pretreatment resulted in lower decrease in the viability of thawed cells, viability of untreated cells dropped to 10%, while pre-treatment with PEF and trehalose tripled the viability.
Quantum Mean-Field Games with the Observations of Counting Type
Authors: Kolokoltsov Vassili N.
Published: January 2021

Quantum games and mean-field games (MFG) represent two important new branches of game theory. In a recent paper the author developed quantum MFGs merging these two branches. These quantum MFGs were based on the theory of continuous quantum observations and filtering of diffusive type. In the present paper we develop the analogous quantum MFG theory based on continuous quantum observations and filtering of counting type. However, proving existence and uniqueness of the solutions for resulting limiting forward-backward system based on jump-type processes on manifolds seems to be more complicated than for diffusions. In this paper we only prove that if a solution exists, then it gives an ϵ-Nash equilibrium for the corresponding N-player quantum game. The existence of solutions is suggested as an interesting open problem.
Rhizomatic Translation and the Censor State: Publishing Aimé Césaire in Estado Novo Portugual
Authors: Rice-Davis Charles
Published: January 2021

Poet, theorist and politician, Aimé Césaire produced, over the course of his literary and political career, a singular body of work equally noteworthy for its analysis of colonialism as for his poetic innovation. Publishing his texts in Portuguese under the censorship regime of the Estado Novo required therefore a series of delicate decisions on the part of editors in order to avoid official prohibition. This article examines in particular the only Portuguese publication to make it to press during this period, an anthology of poems published by Snu Abecassis in 1970, and the relationship of this anthology to the broader Césairean paratext, arguing for a “rhizomatic” understanding of the publication and translation, necessitated by the political context.
May Ibrutinib Have Activity in Respiratory Complications by SARS-CoV-2? Clinical Experience in a Patient with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Molina-Cerrillo Javier , Marquet-Palomanes Juan , Alonso-Gordoa Teresa , López-Jiménez Javier , Grande Enrique
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 is affecting many countries all around the world. Unfortunately, no treatment has already been approved for the management of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2. It seems that SARS-CoV-2 can induce the activation of an exaggerated immune response against itself according to different mechanisms that are not really well known. Inflammatory interleukins, such as IL-6 among others, play a central role in this uncontrolled immune response. There is a strong rational under ibrutinib use in in the treatment of immune-based diseases, such a as GVHD or RA. Ibrutinib achieves a reduction in the production of TNFα, IL1, IL-6 and Monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1 (MCP-1) by neutrophils and macrophages, that are key players in keeping the inflammatory process. We present our clinical experience about ibrutinib use in ARDS secondary to SARS-CoV-2 in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
The Associations between Rapid Strength Development and Muscle Stiffness in Older Population
Authors: Nakamura Masatoshi , Kiyono Ryosuke , Sato Shigeru , Yahata Kaoru , Fukaya Taizan , Nishishita Satoru , Konrad Andreas
Published: January 2021

Background: Previous studies suggest that the capacity for rapid force production of ankle plantar flexors is essential for the prevention of falls in the elderly. In healthy young adults, there were significant associations between rate of force development and muscle stiffness measured by shear wave elastography. However, there has been no study investigating the association of rate of force development with shear elastic modulus in older adults. Methods: The muscle strength and shear elastic modulus of the medial gastrocnemius muscle in both legs were measured in 17 elderly men and 10 elderly women (mean ± SD; 70.7 ± 4.1 years; 160.6 ± 8.0 cm; 58.7 ± 9.5 kg). We investigated the rate of force development of plantar flexors and shear elastic modulus of medial gastrocnemius muscle using by shear wave elastography. Results: Our results showed that there were no significant associations between normalized rate of force development and shear elastic modulus of medial gastrocnemius muscle. Conclusion: This suggests that the capacity of rapid force production could be related not to muscle stiffness of the medial gastrocnemius muscle, but to neuromuscular function in older individuals.
Effects of Hand-Washing Facilities with Water and Soap on Diarrhea Incidence among Children under Five Years in Lao People’s Democratic Republic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Noguchi Yuko , Nonaka Daisuke , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Kobayashi Jun
Published: January 2021

Diarrhea is a leading cause of death among children under five (U5) in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR). This study assessed the association between the presence of household hand-washing facilities with water and soap and diarrhea episodes among children U5 in Lao PDR. Data from the Lao Social Indicator Survey II were used. The outcome variable was diarrhea episodes in the two weeks preceding the survey. The main predictor variable was the presence of household hand-washing facilities with or without water and/or soap. Mixed-effect logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association, controlling for clustering, and other predictor variables. Of the 8640 households surveyed with 11,404 children, 49.1% possessed hand-washing facilities with both water and soap and 34.7% possessed hand-washing facilities with water alone. Children whose households possessed hand-washing facilities with water alone were significantly more likely to have a diarrhea episode compared to children whose households possessed hand-washing facilities with both water and soap (8.1% vs. 5.9%; odds ratio, 1.49; 95% confidence interval, 1.22–1.81). The association remained significant even after adjusting for other predictors. The absence of soap in hand-washing facilities was associated with higher odds of having a diarrhea episode among children U5 in Lao PDR.
Insomnia Status of Middle School Students in Indonesia and Its Association with Playing Games before Sleep: Gender Difference
Authors: Gandaputra Septian Arief , Waluyo Imam , Efendi Ferry , Wang Jiun-Yi
Published: January 2021

The excessive use of online gaming before sleep in adolescents could be a risk factor of sleep disorders such as insomnia. This study aimed to assess the association between playing online games before sleep and insomnia based on gender perspective among middle school students in Indonesia. This was a retrospective study and the data came from a cross-sectional survey that included 315 of Grade 8 and 9 students from four middle schools in Jakarta, Indonesia. Self-reported data were collected via a structured questionnaire, which consisted of demographic variables, sleep duration per day, frequency of playing online games before sleep and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Insomnia status was classified into “none or mild” and “moderate to severe” according to ISI score. The proportions of male and female students who often or always played online games before sleep were 50.3% and 21.7%, respectively. Grade 9 students were more likely to have moderate to severe insomnia than Grade 8 students for males (odds ratio—OR = 4.34, p = 0.005) but not for females (OR = 0.69, p = 0.363). However, female students who often or always played online games before sleep were more likely to have moderate to severe insomnia (OR = 4.60, p = 0.001); such an association was relatively smaller for male students (OR = 3.09, p = 0.061). Gender differences should be taken into account when developing health education or interventions.
Validation of the Spanish Version of the Work Group Emotional Intelligence Profile Short Version (WEIP-S) in the Sports Context
Authors: Marchena-Giráldez Carlos , Acebes-Sánchez Jorge , Román Francisco J. , Granado-Peinado Miriam
Published: January 2021

Emotional intelligence (EI) is related to better performance in sports. To measure this construct, many tools have been developed and validated in the sports context. However, these tools are based on an individual’s ability to manage their own emotions, but do not consider the emotions of the rest of the team (teammates, coaches, etc.). In this regard, the Workgroup Emotional Intelligence Profile short version (WEIP-S) is a self-reported measure designed to measure the EI of individuals who are part of a team. The aim of this study was to validate the WEIP-S structure to measure EI in the sports context, and to analyze the psychometric properties of this tool in the sample in terms of validity and reliability. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 273 athletes to examine the reliability, factor structure, and evidence of validity (convergent, discriminant, nomological, and concurrent) of the WEIP-S. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the original four-factor structure is the most appropriate for the sports context. Composite reliability was adequate for all factors except management of one’s own emotions, which also showed poor convergent validity. Evidence of convergent, discriminant, and nomological validity are discussed. This study represents an advance in the use of specific scales to measure EI in the sports context.
Wellbeing Literacy: A Capability Model for Wellbeing Science and Practice
Authors: Oades Lindsay G. , Jarden Aaron , Hou Hanchao , Ozturk Corina , Williams Paige , R. Slemp Gavin , Huang Lanxi
Published: January 2021

Wellbeing science is the scientific investigation of wellbeing, its’ antecedents and consequences. Alongside growth of wellbeing science is significant interest in wellbeing interventions at individual, organizational and population levels, including measurement of national accounts of wellbeing. In this concept paper, we propose the capability model of wellbeing literacy as a new model for wellbeing science and practice. Wellbeing literacy is defined as a capability to comprehend and compose wellbeing language, across contexts, with the intention of using such language to maintain or improve the wellbeing of oneself, others or the world. Wellbeing literacy is underpinned by a capability model (i.e., what someone is able to be and do), and is based on constructivist (i.e., language shapes reality) and contextualist (i.e., words have different meanings in different contexts) epistemologies. The proposed capability model of wellbeing literacy adds to wellbeing science by providing a tangible way to assess mechanisms learned from wellbeing interventions. Moreover, it provides a framework for practitioners to understand and plan wellbeing communications. Workplaces and families as examples are discussed as relevant contexts for application of wellbeing literacy, and future directions for wellbeing literacy research are outlined.
Translation, Reliability and Validity of the Spanish Version of the Modified New Mobility Score (NMS-ES)
Authors: Prieto-Moreno Rafael , Ariza-Vega Patrocinio , Ortiz-Piña Mariana , Ashe Maureen C. , Romero-Ayuso Dulce , Kristensen Morten Tange
Published: January 2021

The New Mobility Score (NMS) is an easy to administer self-report measure of functional ability, and is used worldwide as a hip fracture (HF) score, but a Spanish version does not exist. The aim of the study is to translate NMS into Spanish, and to measure its inter-rater reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity in a sample of Spanish speaking patients with HF. A reliability and validity study with a sample of 60 adults, 65 years or older (46 women and 14 men; mean age 81.7 years) with a hip fracture admitted consecutively to the acute trauma service of the Health Campus Hospital of Granada. The participants were interviewed during the first week after surgery by an occupational therapist or a physiotherapist. The statistical test used for analysis were: Cronbach’s α coefficient, McNemar–Bowker test, Bland–Altman plot, Spearman´s Rho, and Mann–Whitney U test. The Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.90. No inter-rater systematic differences were found. We noted significant associations between the Spanish Version of the Modified New Mobility Score (NMS-ES) and selected health outcomes: Age, cognition, pre-fracture function, and basic mobility. The NMS-ES is a reliable and valid instrument to assess pre-injury functional levels for patients with HF in Spanish speaking countries.
Contemporary Integrative Review in Simulation-Based Learning in Nursing
Authors: Rajaguru Vasuki , Park Jungmin
Published: January 2021

Background: In general, simulation-based learning (SBL) has been a part of nursing education in the past two decades, though nursing educators are facing difficulties in evaluating its effectiveness in theory and practice. The aim of this review was to synthesize the research findings regarding the effects of SBL among nursing students from published scientific articles. Methods: This integrative review focused on articles published in English between 2016 and 2020, identified by using electronic databases such as Cochrane Library, PubMed, Medline (Ovid), SCOPUS, RISS, and Korea Med. Results: Fifteen articles were selected by a step-by-step process. Data were synthesized and effects of SBL methods were derived under four themes: ‘Knows A Self Com_p’ such as knowledge and skills; Attitude; Self (learning, efficacy, determination, competency, confidence, utilization, satisfaction, assessment); and Com(n) (competency, communication, and confidence) and P (perceptions and performance). Conclusion: The review results showed that SBL is the best method for teaching clinical practice. Article-focused simulations with simulators were more effective than classroom teaching, depending on the context, topic, and method. The overall results showed that SBL is a positive, safe and effective method for nursing students in clinical and simulation room settings to improve the skills and practice of client care.
A Structural Survey of Poly-Functional Dithiocarbamate Ligands and the Aggregation Patterns They Sustain
Authors: Lee See Mun , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: January 2021

An overview is presented of the crystal structures of transition metal, main group element, and lanthanide compounds containing poly-functional dithiocarbamate ligands, namely species containing two or more connected NCS2− residues. In all, there are 40 different ligands of this type that have been characterised crystallographically in their heavy-element compounds with up to six NCS2− residues; all are bridging. In most cases, the resulting aggregates are zero-dimensional, often di-nuclear, but aggregates of up to 36 metal (gold) atoms are noted. There are smaller numbers of one-, two-, and three-dimensional architectures sustained by poly-functional dithiocarbamate ligands in their respective crystals. The survey highlights the opportunities afforded by this generally under-studied class of ligand.
Comparison of New Kairomone-Based Lures for Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Italy and USA
Authors: Preti Michele , Knight Alan L. , Favaro Riccardo , Basoalto Esteban , Tasin Marco , Angeli Sergio
Published: January 2021

Studies were conducted during the period 2019/2020 to evaluate the effectiveness of four lures for codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) in pome fruits in Italy and the USA. Multi-component blends of sex pheromone ((E,E)-8,10-dodecadien-1-ol, PH), pear ester ((E,Z)-2,4-ethyl decadienoate, PE), (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene (DMNT), and pyranoid linalool oxide (6-ethenyl-2,2,6-trimethyloxan-3-ol, LOX) were loaded in either a halobutyl elastomer septum or a PVC matrix and always used in combination with acetic acid (AA) loaded in a closed membrane co-lure. Total moth capture was significantly greater with the PVC than the septum lure loaded with PH/PE + AA in both countries. Female capture in the USA study was significantly greater for 8 weeks in traps baited with the PE/DMNT/LOX blend + AA co-lure than with other lures and adding PH to this blend in a PVC lure significantly reduced female capture. In contrast, female capture in Italy did not differ among lures and counts were similar in both apple and pear crops treated with or without mating disruption. These results suggest that the effectiveness of ‘female removal’ strategies to manage codling moth may be geographically limited and further comparisons are needed in other production regions and in walnut.
The Genetic Basis for Salivary Gland Barriers to Arboviral Transmission
Authors: Sanchez-Vargas Irma , Olson Ken , Black William
Published: January 2021

Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) infect mosquito salivary glands and then escape to saliva prior to virus transmission. Arbovirus transmission from mosquitoes can be modulated by salivary gland infection barriers (SGIBs) and salivary gland escape barriers (SGEBs). We determined the influence of SGIBs and SGEBs by estimating the quantitative genetic contributions of Aedes aegypti half-sib families (Mapastepec, Mexico) infected with three dengue 2 (DENV2), two chikungunya (CHIKV), and two Zika (ZIKV) genotypes. We determined virus titer per salivary gland and saliva at seven days post-infection and virus prevalence in the half-sib population. CHIKV or ZIKV genotypes did not present SGIB, whereas DENV2 genotypes showed low rates of SGIB. However, virus titer and prevalence due to additive genetic factors in the half-sib family displayed a significant narrow-sense heritability (h2) for SGIB in two of the three DENV2 genotypes and one CHIKV and one ZIKV genotype. SGEBs were detected in all seven virus strains: 60–88% of DENV2 and 48–62% of CHIKV or ZIKV genotype infections. SGEB h2 was significant for all CHIKV or ZIKV genotypes but not for any of the DENV2 genotypes. SGIBs and SGEBs exhibited classical gene-by-gene interaction dynamics and are influenced by genetic factors in the mosquito and the virus.