bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Proliferation of Neuroblastoma Cells under Fructose Metabolism Can Be Measured by Isothermal Microcalorimetry
Authors: Pini Nicola , Huo Zihe , Holland-Cunz Stefan , Gros Stephanie J.
Published: September 2021

Neuroblastoma, like other cancer types, has an increased need for energy. This results in an increased thermogenic profile of the cells. How tumor cells optimize their energy efficiency has been discussed since Warburg described the fact that tumor cells prefer an anaerobic to an aerobic metabolism in the 1920s. An important question is how far the energy efficiency is influenced by the substrate. The aim of this study was to investigate how the metabolic activity of neuroblastoma cells is stimulated by addition of glucose or fructose to the medium and if this can be measured accurately by using isothermal microcalorimetry. Proliferation of Kelly and SH-EP Tet-21/N cells was determined in normal medium, in fructose-enriched, in glucose-enriched and in a fructose/glucose-enriched environment. Heat development of cells was measured by isothermal microcalorimetry. The addition of fructose, glucose or both to the medium led to increases in the metabolic activity of the cells, resulting in increased proliferation under the influence of fructose. These changes were reflected in an enhanced thermogenic profile, mirroring the results of the proliferation assay. The tested neuroblastoma cells prefer fructose metabolism over glucose metabolism, a quality that provides them with a survival benefit under unfavorable low oxygen and low nutrient supply when fructose is available. This can be quantified by measuring thermogenesis.
The Effect of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) Aggregates on the Reaction, Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Alkali-Activated Slag
Authors: Costa Juliana O. , Borges Paulo H. R. , dos Santos Flávio A. , Bezerra Augusto Cesar S. , Blom Johan , Van den bergh Wim
Published: September 2021

Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is a recyclable aggregate produced during the demolition of old flexible pavements and consists of natural aggregates (NA) coated with aged bitumen. The detrimental effect caused by the bitumen coating on strength and porosity has limited the use of RAP on traditional cementitious systems. This study investigates the potential use of fine RAP to substitute NA in the production of alkali-activated slag mortars (AAM). The effect of different activator dosages was assessed, i.e., either 4% or 6% Na2O (wt. slag) combined with a modulus of silica equal to 0, 0.5 and 1.0. The characterisation of 100% RAP-AAM consisted of hydration kinetics (Isothermal Calorimetry), pore size distribution (Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry), mechanical performance (Compressive and Flexural strength), and microstructure analysis (Scanning Electron Microscopy and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy). The results show that RAP aggregates do not compromise the reaction of the matrices; however, it causes a significant strength loss (compressive strength of RAP-mortars 54% lower than reference NA-mortar at 28 days). The higher porosity at the interface transition zone of RAP-AAM is the main responsible for the lower strength performance. Increasing silicate dosages improves alkaline activation, but it has little impact on the adhesion between aggregate and bitumen. Despite the poorer mechanical performance, 100% RAP-AAM still yields enough strength to promote this recycled material in engineering applications.
A Simple and Fast Method to Sequence the Full-Length Spike Gene for SARS-CoV-2 Variant Identification from Patient Samples
Authors: Recordon-Pinson Patricia , Blondot Marie-Lise , Bellecave Pantxika , Lafon Marie-Edith , Tumiotto Camille , Métifiot Mathieu , Andreola Marie-Line
Published: September 2021

Since the beginning of the pandemic, a race has been underway to detect SARS-CoV-2 virus infection (PCR screening, serological diagnostic kits), treat patients (drug repurposing, standard care) and develop a vaccine. After almost a year of active circulation worldwide, SARS-CoV-2 variants have appeared in different countries. Those variants include mutations in multiple regions of the genome, particularly in the spike gene. Because this surface protein is a key player in both the spread of the virus and the efficacy of vaccine strategies, the challenge is to efficiently monitor the appearance of spike mutations in the population. The present work describes a procedure based on the widely available Sanger technology to produce a full-length sequence of the spike gene from patient-derived samples.
Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetic Patients: From Etiology to Management
Authors: Cannarella Rossella , Barbagallo Federica , Condorelli Rosita A. , Gusmano Carmelo , Crafa Andrea , La Vignera Sandro , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: September 2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a widespread chronic disease with a prevalence that is expected to further increase in the near future. The classical management of DM includes the normalization of the glycometabolic profile and the evaluation of cardiac and cerebral vascular health by the intervention of an array of different specialists. However, so far, sexual dysfunctions are still a neglected complication in patients with DM, although there is an elevated prevalence of this long-term complication in male and female patients. Furthermore, some of them may represent a sign of vascular alteration and/or hypogonadism and require timely management to prevent the onset of major adverse cardiac events. This narrative review briefly summarizes the current evidence on epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of erectile dysfunction in male patients with DM to support diabetologists in clinical practice.
Trends in Multiplex Immunoassays for In Vitro Diagnostics and Point-of-Care Testing
Authors: Vashist Sandeep Kumar
Published: September 2021

The tremendous advances in multiplex immunoassays (MIAs) are leading to novel in vitro diagnostics (IVD) and point-of-care testing (POCT) [...]
Vulnerability to the COVID-19 Pandemic for People with Disabilities in the U.S.
Authors: Chakraborty Jayajit
Published: September 2021

This study seeks to examine the relationship between COVID-19 vulnerability and disability status in the U.S. by investigating whether vulnerability to the pandemic is significantly greater in counties containing higher percentages of people with disabilities (PwDs) and those reporting specific types of difficulties, in four timeframes from May 2020 to February 2021. Values of the recently developed U.S. COVID-19 Pandemic Vulnerability Index (PVI) are analyzed with respect to disability variables from the 2019 American Community Survey five-year estimates. Statistical analyses are based on comparing the mean percentages of PwDs across five quintiles of PVI scores and bivariate generalized estimating equations that examine associations between PVI scores and disability characteristics while controlling for geographic clustering. The results indicate that the percentages of people with any disability and multiple disabilities, as well as percentages of PwDs reporting vision, cognitive, ambulatory, self-care, and independent living difficulties, are significantly greater in counties in the highest 20% of the PVI, compared to those in the lowest 20%. The percentages of all these disability variables are significantly and positively associated with PVI scores, suggesting that PwDs were overrepresented in U.S. counties with higher pandemic vulnerability in all four timeframes. These county-level associations emphasize the urgent need for more detailed analyses to examine the adverse impacts of COVID-19 on PwDs and more detailed information to enable such analyses.
Complexity Evaluation of an Environmental Control and Life-Support System Based on Directed and Undirected Structural Entropy Methods
Authors: Yang Kaichun , Yang Chunxin , Yang Han , Zhou Chenglong
Published: September 2021

During manned space missions, an environmental control and life-support system (ECLSS) is employed to meet the life-supporting requirements of astronauts. The ECLSS is a type of hierarchical system, with subsystem—component—single machines, forming a complex structure. Therefore, system-level conceptual designing and performance evaluation of the ECLSS must be conducted. This study reports the top-level scheme of ECLSS, including the subsystems of atmosphere revitalization, water management, and waste management. We propose two schemes based on the design criteria of improving closure and reducing power consumption. In this study, we use the structural entropy method (SEM) to calculate the system order degree to quantitatively evaluate the ECLSS complexity at the top level. The complexity of the system evaluated by directed SEM and undirected SEM presents different rules. The results show that the change in the system structure caused by the replacement of some single technologies will not have great impact on the overall system complexity. The top-level scheme design and complexity evaluation presented in this study may provide technical support for the development of ECLSS in future manned spaceflights.
Multisensory Connections of Novel Linguistic Stimuli in Japanese as a Native Language and Referential Tastes
Authors: Yan Yan , Yang Yutao , Ando Misa , Liu Xinyi , Kambara Toshimune
Published: September 2021

Previous findings have shown essential connections between linguistic and gustatory stimuli for people with autism or lexical gustatory synesthesia. We examined the associative learning of novel linguistic forms in Japanese as a native language and tastes (candies and chocolates) for healthy people. Healthy subjects performed four phases: (a) evaluation phase of gustatory features; (b) learning phases of novel linguistic form and gustatory stimulus pairs (G) or novel word forms (W); (c) recognition memory phases linked with G and W; and (d) free recall phase for G and W. In the recognition memory phases, the performance scores of W were higher than those of G, while there was no significant difference between response times of G and W. Additionally, no difference between recall performances in G and W was also shown. A subjective evaluation of gustatory features (sweetness) negatively correlated with the recall score for linguistic forms connected to the gustatory feature, whereas the accuracy rates of the recognition memory phase in G positively correlated with those of the free recall phase in G. Although learning of novel linguistic forms is more efficient than learning of the relationships between novel linguistic forms and tastes, gustatory features influence the free recall performances of linguistic forms linked with the tastes. These results may contribute to future applications to word learning not just for patients, but also healthy people.
Digital Literacy and Electronic Business
Authors: Grefen Paul
Published: September 2021

Digital literacy is a term that traditionally describes the extent to which a person is able to use interactive digital devices for living and working, such as computers and smartphones, as well as services delivered through these devices. The advent of the digital society at large and electronic business, specifically in the past decades, has broadened the use of digital devices beyond the isolated uses of working and simple communication; this advent has created digital ecosystems in which workers and consumers are embedded to various degrees, such as social media platforms or integrated shopping and media platforms. This embedding implies that a traditional, narrow notion of digital literacy needs to be extended and made more precise. For this purpose, we use the related notions of digital dexterity, digital proficiency and digital awareness. The term digital dexterity describes the extent to which an individual can handle or operate digital devices or services from a physical perspective. The term digital proficiency describes the extent to which an individual can use digital means to effectively and efficiently facilitate their living and working. The term digital awareness describes the extent to which individuals can understand what their position in digital ecosystems is, including the opportunities and threats of participating in these ecosystems. Digital literacy in the modern, broad interpretation is then the combination of digital dexterity, digital proficiency and digital awareness.
Sex Differences in Cancer-Specific Survival Are Pronounced during Adolescence and Young Adulthood: A SEER Population-Based Study
Authors: Sultan Iyad , Amarin Justin Z. , Mansour Razan , Sultan Hala , Al-Hussaini Maysa
Published: September 2021

Sex differences in cancer survival may be related to hormonal changes during puberty and menopause; therefore, we investigated sex differences in the cancer-specific survival rates of children, adolescents and young adults (AYAs), and older adults with sex-nonspecific cancers. We interrogated the November 2019 submission of the SEER 18 database and included microscopically confirmed cases of first primary malignant tumors. We stratified the dataset into children (<15 years), AYAs (modified; 15–49 years), and older adults (≥50 years). For each age group, we used the Kaplan–Meier method to estimate the sex-stratified 5-year all-site cancer-specific survival probabilities. Of 3,386,276 eligible patients, 45,124 (1.3%) were children, 548,158 (16.2%) were AYAs, and 2,792,994 (82.5%) were older adults. The 5-year all-site cancer-specific survival probabilities were 84.0% (95% CI, 83.5%–84.5%) for boys, 84.8% (95% CI, 84.3%–85.3%) for girls, 70.4% (95% CI, 70.2%–70.6%) for male AYAs, 80.8% (95% CI, 80.6%–81.0%) for female AYAs, 52.0% (95% CI, 51.9%–52.1%) for older adult men, and 52.2% (95% CI, 52.1%–52.3%) for older adult women. The all-site survival rate for female patients with cancer is markedly higher than for male patients with cancer during adolescence and young adulthood, although this difference diminishes in older adulthood.
Synergistic Effect of Dwarf Bamboo Flowering and Wild Boar Rooting on Forest Regeneration
Authors: Cho Soyeon , Kim Youngjin , Jung Sangyeop , Choung Yeonsook
Published: September 2021

Sasa spp., monocarpic dwarf bamboos, are known to form recalcitrant understories, lower species diversity, and hinder forest development. Sasa borealis distributed throughout Korea showed a phenomenon of synchronized dieback after large-scale synchronized flowering nationwide around 2015. Therefore, we conducted this study to take advantage of the rare event and add prevailing activity of wild boars and culm removal to elucidate whether they promote the regeneration of a long-term suppressed forest. We set permanent plots in forests with different understory types, and tracked the vegetation change in 5 years with respect to species composition, tree regeneration, and S. borealis reestablishment. This study focused on comparison between plots established after mass flowering. In flowering stands, we found the species diversity increased significantly with increase in species evenness, but not with recruitment of new species. Furthermore, the seeds of mass-produced bamboo germinated, and the seedling abundance was found to increase considerably. In stands rooted by wild boar, species diversity increased through the recruitment of new species, including tree species. It increased the abundance of shrub and perennial herbs, while it suppressed the reestablishment of S. borealis. Although rooting effect was independently significant regardless of flowering, the synergistic effect of rooting and flowering on forest regeneration was outstanding. Wild boar seemed to function as a remover of dead culms and a breaker of remaining underground mats as well as a seed disperser. Consequently, the species composition became similar to the reference stands. However, culm cutting caused negative effects by facilitating S. borealis to re-occupy or resprout. Overall, as the wild boar population increases, the positive effect can be expected to enhance. At landscape scale, considering several factors such as flowering and non-flowering, and population size of wild boar, the long-term suppressed forests by S. borealis are projected to regenerate with mosaic forests.
Species-Specific Allometric Equations for Predicting Belowground Root Biomass in Plantations: Case Study of Spotted Gums (Corymbia citriodora subspecies variegata) in Queensland
Authors: Huynh Trinh , Applegate Grahame , Lewis Tom , Pachas Anibal Nahuel A. , Hunt Mark A. , Bristow Mila , Lee David J.
Published: September 2021

Spotted gum (Corymbia citriodora spp. variegata; CCV) has been widely planted, has a wide natural distribution, and is the most important commercially harvested hardwood species in Queensland, Australia. It has a great capacity to sequester carbon, thus reducing the impact of CO2 emissions on climate. Belowground root biomass (BGB) plays an important role as a carbon sink in terrestrial ecosystems. To explore the potential of biomass and carbon accumulation belowground, we developed and validated models for CCV plantations in Queensland. The roots of twenty-three individual trees (size range 11.8–42.0 cm diameter at breast height) from three sites were excavated to a 1-m depth and were weighed to obtain BGB. Weighted nonlinear regression models were most reliable for estimating BGB. To evaluate the candidate models, the data set was cross-validated with 70% of the data used for training and 30% of the data used for testing. The cross-validation process was repeated 23 times and the validation of the models were averaged over 23 iterations. The best model for predicting spotted gum BGB was based on a single parameter, with the diameter at breast height (D) as an independent variable. The best equation BGB = 0.02933 × D2.5805 had an adjusted R2 of 0.854 and a mean absolute percentage error of 0.090%. This equation was tested against published BGB equations; the findings from this are discussed. Our equation is recommended to allow improved estimates of BGB for this species.
EPIsHilbert: Prediction of Enhancer-Promoter Interactions via Hilbert Curve Encoding and Transfer Learning
Authors: Zhang Mingyang , Hu Yujia , Zhu Min
Published: September 2021

Enhancer-promoter interactions (EPIs) play a significant role in the regulation of gene transcription. However, enhancers may not necessarily interact with the closest promoters, but with distant promoters via chromatin looping. Considering the spatial position relationship between enhancers and their target promoters is important for predicting EPIs. Most existing methods only consider sequence information regardless of spatial information. On the other hand, recent computational methods lack generalization capability across different cell line datasets. In this paper, we propose EPIsHilbert, which uses Hilbert curve encoding and two transfer learning approaches. Hilbert curve encoding can preserve the spatial position information between enhancers and promoters. Additionally, we use visualization techniques to explore important sequence fragments that have a high impact on EPIs and the spatial relationships between them. Transfer learning can improve prediction performance across cell lines. In order to further prove the effectiveness of transfer learning, we analyze the sequence coincidence of different cell lines. Experimental results demonstrate that EPIsHilbert is a state-of-the-art model that is superior to most of the existing methods both in specific cell lines and cross cell lines.
Pediatric Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma with Concomitant Involvement of Spine and Central Nervous System: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Restivo Giulia A. , Mussolin Lara , D’Angelo Paolo , Trizzino Angela , Ialuna Salvatore , Sabattini Elena , Gallo Cristina , Toscano Angelo , Carraro Elisa , Pillon Marta , Farruggia Piero
Published: September 2021

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a histological subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, largely characterized by anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) positivity, resulting from the chromosomal translocation t(2;5). We report a pediatric case of ALK-positive ALCL with primary concomitant involvement of bone and central nervous system (CNS); thereafter, a literature review about pediatric primary bone and primary CNS ALCL was conducted. According to the analyzed data, our case is unique because it is characterized by the contemporary involvement of the spine and CNS. During and after chemotherapy, our patient was monitored by detecting minimal residual disease (MRD) through the analysis of fusion transcript nucleophosmin-ALK. MRD assessment, not only in bone marrow but also in peripheral blood, seems to be a very powerful tool for predicting the prognosis of pediatric ALCL patients, as already described in the literature. Moreover, as shown in our case, it could be used during the follow-up for early recognition of relapse.
Visibility Model of Tangible Heritage. Visualization of the Urban Heritage Environment with Spatial Analysis Methods
Authors: Sarihan Elif
Published: September 2021

The methodological approach of the study proposes an innovative yet adaptive way to define and preserve heritage sites and their elements. In the case study, the proposed methodology guides the design/planning research of heritage sites by linking the perceptual behaviour with the information of the built environment. Visibility is the tool to measure the level of exposure of specific urban elements from a particular perspective. While isovist analyses define visibility in the built environment, fields of view from the periphery of heritage sites are applied to calculate visible or invisible areas by the observer. The purpose of the current study is the evaluation of the identification of the elements to be protected, by modelling both the heritage environment and the heritage elements according to the visibility criteria. For this purpose, I illustrate my approach by using visibility analyses and Space syntax analysis in the case of the Sulukule neighbourhood, the leading renewal project, in Istanbul. This area used to have notably cultural–historical assets–historic land walls, the lifestyle of Roma people—but now the renovation works carried out in the Sulukule case study site have affected the identity of the “visible” and “known” space of the historic quarter.
Max Ernst’s Woman, Old Man, and Flower (1923–24): Four Paintings in One Revealed by Technical Imaging
Authors: Martins Ana , Davis Ellen , Kwartler Talia
Published: September 2021

Examining the painting Woman, Old Man, and Flower (1923–24) by Max Ernst with macro-X-ray fluorescence scanning (MA-XRF), X-ray radiography (XRR) as well as photography under ultraviolet (UVF), infrared reflected (IRR) and transmitted (IRT) illumination revealed the existence and sequence of three distinct paintings concealed under the final composition. The study confirmed a known and previously documented intermediate composition and uncovered two additional states: a very first state exposed by XRR, and a third state revealed in the elemental distribution maps obtained by MA-XRF. The complimentary images document the insertion, mutation, and concealing of several human and anthropomorphic subjects across the four layers, expanding our understanding of the painting and of Ernst’s collage-like pictorial development. In addition, a list of pigments is proposed based on the elemental information provided by MA-XRF, contributing to the technical literature devoted to the materials of Ernst’s paintings during the transitional period between Dada and Surrealism.
Hardware Heritage—Briefcase-Sized Computers
Authors: Król Karol
Published: September 2021

The computer industry was a vivid place in the 1980s. IT systems and technologies thrived, and the market offered ever better, smaller, and more useful machines. Innovative technical solutions or intelligent designs that satisfied customers’ needs are often listed as computer hardware milestones. Consequently, they became a permanent part of the computerisation history and can be considered hardware heritage artefacts. The purpose of the paper is to analyse the usability of selected portable computer systems. The foundation of the work is a literature review that includes technical specifications, industry reviews, and research papers. Archival materials were obtained from the Internet Archive. Studies have revealed that the main problems design engineers of portable computers had to tackle in the 1980s were the reduction of mass and size of the computer system, portable power (self-power), and the quality of the displayed image.
Chitosan Can Induce Rosa roxburghii Tratt. against Sphaerotheca sp. and Enhance Its Resistance, Photosynthesis, Yield, and Quality
Authors: Li Jiaohong , Guo Zhenxiang , Luo Yue , Wu Xiaomao , An Huaming
Published: September 2021

Powdery mildew caused by Sphaerotheca sp. is the most serious disease of Rosa roxburghii cultivation. In this study, the foliar application of chitosan induced Rosa roxburghii Tratt. against Sphaerotheca sp. and its effects on the disease resistance, growth, yield, and quality of R. roxburghii were investigated. The results show that the foliar application of 1.0%~1.5% chitosan could effectively control Sphaerotheca sp. of R. roxburghii with the inducing control efficacy of 69.30%~72.87%. The foliar application of 1.0%~1.5% chitosan significantly (p < 0.01) increased proline, soluble sugar, flavonoids, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and polyphenoloxidase (POD) activities of the R. roxburghii leaf and decreased its malonaldehyde (MDA), as well as reliably enhanced its photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll. Moreover, the foliar application of 1.0%~1.5% chitosan notably improved single fruit weight, yield, vitamin C, soluble solid, soluble sugar, total acidity, soluble protein, flavonoids, and SOD activity of R. roxburghii fruits. This study highlights that chitosan can be used as an ideal, efficient, safe, and economical inductor for controlling powdery mildew of R. Roxburgh and enhancing its resistance, growth, yield, and quality.
Improving Fruit Quality, Bioactive Compounds, and Storage Life of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L., cv. Barhi) Using Natural Elicitors
Authors: Ahmed Zienab F. R. , Al Shaibani Fatima Y. Y. , Kaur Navjot , Maqsood Sajid , Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo
Published: September 2021

“Barhi” date fruit is highly appreciated and widely consumed at the Bisr stage (first edible stage) of maturity. However, maintaining its quality for long periods of time after harvest and throughout marketing is a substantial challenge. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of preharvest spray treatments of 1% chitosan (Ch) in conjunction with 3% calcium chloride (Ca) and 2 mM salicylic acid (SA) on “Barhi” fruit’s shelf life, quality, and phytochemical composition at harvest and during cold storage. All treatments significantly delayed the ripening and decay of “Barhi” dates compared to controls. Ch treatment, followed by Ch + SA and Ch + SA + Ca, showed the lowest weight loss. Ch + Ca, Ch + SA + Ca, and Ch + SA treatments showed significantly lower levels of total soluble solids (TSS) compared to the control fruit. Ch + Ca and Ch + Ca + SA treatments showed no decayed fruit after 60 days of cold storage. At the end of storage time, the Ca treatment, followed by Ch + Ca + SA, showed the greatest total phenolic (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), and tannin (TTC) contents. Ch + SA + Ca, Ch + SA, and Ch showed significantly higher antioxidant and antimicrobial activities compared to controls. Based on these findings, these treatments may be recommended to prolong the shelf life of “Barhi” date fruit.
Update on the Epidemiology of Macrolide-Resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Europe: A Systematic Review
Authors: Loconsole Daniela , De Robertis Anna Lisa , Sallustio Anna , Centrone Francesca , Morcavallo Caterina , Campanella Silvia , Accogli Marisa , Chironna Maria
Published: September 2021

Macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MR-MP) infections cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections in both children and adults, and are characterized by a longer duration of symptoms. Here, we undertook a systematic review of studies on MR-MP in Europe. The review meets PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases were searched using suitable keywords to identify relevant studies published from 2010 to 2021; 21 studies were included. Overall, a low level of MR-MP spread was reported in Europe. MR-MP spread increased during epidemic waves registered in Europe, particularly in Italy and Scotland, where the highest MR-MP infection rates were registered during the 2010–2011 epidemic. By contrast, no MR-MP infections were reported in Finland and the Netherlands. Continued monitoring of MR-MP in Europe is needed to maintain the low rates of infection. Moreover, a coordinated and structured pan-European surveillance program adequate for public health surveillance is advisable, with the purpose of containing the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Environmental Exposures around Conception: Developmental Pathways Leading to Lifetime Disease Risk
Authors: Fleming Tom P. , Sun Congshan , Denisenko Oleg , Caetano Laura , Aljahdali Anan , Gould Joanna M. , Khurana Pooja
Published: September 2021

Environment around conception can influence the developmental programme with lasting effects on gestational and postnatal phenotype and with consequences for adult health and disease risk. Peri-conception exposure comprises a crucial part of the ‘Developmental Origins of Health and Disease’ (DOHaD) concept. In this review, we consider the effects of maternal undernutrition experienced during the peri-conception period in select human models and in a mouse experimental model of protein restriction. Human datasets indicate that macronutrient deprivation around conception affect the epigenome, with enduring effects on cardiometabolic and neurological health. The mouse model, comprising maternal low protein diet exclusively during the peri-conception period, has revealed a stepwise progression in altered developmental programming following induction through maternal metabolite deficiency. This progression includes differential effects in extra-embryonic and embryonic cell lineages and tissues, leading to maladaptation in the growth trajectory and increased chronic disease comorbidities. The timeline embraces an array of mechanisms across nutrient sensing and signalling, cellular, metabolic, epigenetic and physiological processes with a coordinating role for mTORC1 signalling proposed. Early embryos appear active participants in environmental sensing to optimise the developmental programme for survival but with the trade-off of later disease. Similar adverse health outcomes may derive from other peri-conception environmental experiences, including maternal overnutrition, micronutrient availability, pollutant exposure and assisted reproductive treatments (ART) and support the need for preconception health before pregnancy.
Infant Injury Prevention Education for Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Class: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Honda Chikako , Naruse Takashi , Yamana Hayato , Yamamoto-Mitani Noriko
Published: September 2021

It is important to educate caregivers in order to prevent infant injuries. However, there have been few studies on the effects of education on pregnant women. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of injury prevention group education on this group. Study participants were recruited from a group of pregnant mothers attending an antenatal class in Tokyo. Participants were assigned to either the intervention or control group based on the month in which they attended the existing antenatal class. Both groups received a leaflet on injury prevention, but only the intervention group received an additional short one-shot lecture. The implementation of each of the nine safety practices was assessed during home visits after childbirth. Of the 131 study participants (56 in the control group and 75 in the intervention group), 106 (80.9%) received home visits after birth. Mothers in the intervention group implemented three practices significantly more than those in the control group: Keep soft objects away from the baby’s head (38.3% vs. 13.0%), Do not place your baby on a high surface (74.6% vs. 52.2%), and Use the baby carrier correctly (93.3% vs. 76.1%). In the future, we plan to follow up the participants to evaluate the program’s long-term effects, and to continue to improve the program.
An Instrument to Operationalize the Balance between Risks and Resources and Predict Job Burnout
Authors: Bebiroglu Neda , Bayot Marie , Brion Benjamin , Denis Léopold , Pirsoul Thomas , Roskam Isabelle , Mikolajczak Moïra
Published: September 2021

The goal of the present paper was to develop a valid and reliable instrument to operationalize the balance between job demands and resources in order to predict job burnout. After generating the items, we first conducted a cross-sectional study (Study 1) based on 656 participants, which provided preliminary evidence for the validity of the balance. We then conducted a longitudinal study (Study 2) based on 882 participants to improve and validate the final version of the balance. In study 1, the (im)balance between risks and resources explained a high percentage of variance in job burnout (44%) and a significant percentage in job turnover intention (27%) as well as subjective health (12%). In study 2, results indicated that a change in the balance produced significant change in job burnout scores over time. In addition, balance scores positively predicted positive outcomes (i.e., overall job satisfaction and subjective health) and negatively predicted negative outcomes (i.e., job turnover intention, counterproductive behaviors at work, depression, alcohol use, sleep disorders and somatic complaints). Findings support the usefulness of the Balance for clinicians, companies and researchers interested in assessing job demands and resources.
Sleep Paralysis among Professional Firefighters and a Possible Association with PTSD—Online Survey-Based Study
Authors: Wróbel-Knybel Paulina , Rog Joanna , Jalal Baland , Szewczyk Paweł , Karakuła-Juchnowicz Hanna
Published: September 2021

The prevalence of sleep paralysis (SP) is estimated at approximately 7.6% of the world’s general population. One of the strongest factors in the onset of SP is PTSD, which is often found among professional firefighters. Our study aimed to assess in the professional firefighter population (n = 831) (1) the prevalence of SP, (2) the relationship between SP and PTSD and (3) the relationship between SP and other factors: the severity of the stress felt, individual tendency to feel anxious and worried and lifestyle variables. The incidence of SP in the study group was 8.7%. The high probability of PTSD was found in 15.04% of subjects and its presence was associated with 1.86 times the odds of developing SP [OR = 1.86 (95% CI: 1.04–3.33); p = 0.04]. Officers who experienced at least 1 SP during their lifetime had significantly higher results in the scales: PCL-5, STAI-T, PSWQ. The number of SP episodes was positively correlated with the severity of symptoms measured by the PCL-5, PSS-10, STAI and PSWQ questionnaires. Further research is needed to assess the importance of SP among the firefighter population in the context of mental and somatic health and to specify methods of preventing SP episodes.
Crosstalk of Endothelial and Mesenchymal Stromal Cells under Tissue-Related O2
Authors: Zhidkova Olga , Andreeva Elena , Ezdakova Mariia , Buravkova Ludmila
Published: September 2021

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are considered a valuable tool for cell therapy. After systemic administration, the outcome of MSCs and endothelial cells (ECs) interactions strongly depend on the local microenvironment and tissue O2 levels in particular. In vitro analysis of EC effects on MSC regenerative potential in co-culture was performed after short-term interaction at “physiological” hypoxia (5% O2) and acute hypoxic stress (0.1% O2). At 5% O2, MSCs retained stromal phenotype and CFU-f numbers, osteogenic RUNX2 was upregulated. A shift in the expression of adhesion molecules, and an increase in transcription/synthesis of IL-6, IL-8 contributed to facilitation of directed migration of MSCs. In the presence of MSCs, manifestations of oxidative stress in ECs were attenuated, and a decrease in adhesion of PBMCs to TNF-α-activated ECs was observed. Under 0.1% O2, reciprocal effects of ECs and MSCs were similar to those at 5% O2. Meanwhile, upregulation of RUNX2 was canceled, IL-6 decreased, and IL-8 significantly increased. “Protective” effects of MSCs on TNF-α-ECs were less pronounced, manifested as NOS3 downregulation and intracellular NO elevation. Therefore, interaction with ECs at “physiological” hypoxia enhanced pro-regenerative capacities of MSCs including migration and anti-inflammatory modulation of ECs. Under acute hypoxic stress, the stimulating effects of ECs on MSCs and the “protective” potential of MSCs towards TNF-α-ECs were attenuated.
Artificial Intelligence ante portas: Reactions of Law
Authors: Weber Rolf H.
Published: September 2021

Artificial intelligence and algorithmic decision-making causes new (technological) challenges for the normative environment around the globe. Fundamental legal principles (such as non-discrimination, human rights, transparency) need to be strengthened by regulatory interventions. The contribution pleads for a combination of regulatory models (hard law and soft law); based on this assessment, the recent European legislative initiatives are analyzed.
Role of Antifungal Combinations in Difficult to Treat Candida Infections
Authors: Vitale Roxana G.
Published: September 2021

Candida infections are varied and, depending on the immune status of the patient, a life-threatening form may develop. C. albicans is the most prevalent species isolated, however, a significant shift towards other Candida species has been noted. Monotherapy is frequently indicated, but the patient’s evolution is not always favorable. Drug combinations are a suitable option in specific situations. The aim of this review is to address this problem and to discuss the role of drug combinations in difficult to treat Candida infections. A search for eligible studies in PubMed and Google Scholar databases was performed. An analysis of the data was carried out to define in which cases a combination therapy is the most appropriate. Combination therapy may be used for refractory candidiasis, endocarditis, meningitis, eye infections and osteomyelitis, among others. The role of the drug combination would be to increase efficacy, reduce toxicity and improve the prognosis of the patient in infections that are difficult to treat. More clinical studies and reporting of cases in which drug combinations are used are needed in order to have more data that support the use of this therapeutic strategy.
Entamoeba histolytica Trophozoites Interact with the c-Met Receptor at the Surface of Liver Origin Cells through the Gal/GalNAc Amoebic Lectin
Authors: Pérez-Hernández Jesus , Retana-González Clarisa , Ramos-Martínez Espiridión , Cruz-Colín José , Saralegui-Amaro Andrés , Baltazar-Rosario Gabriela , Gutiérrez-Ruíz Concepción , Aristi-Urista Gerardo , López-Vancell Rosario
Published: September 2021

Amoebiasis in humans is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, which cytotoxic activity has been demonstrated on a wide variety of target cells. The process involves the adherence of the parasite to the cell, and such adherence is mediated by an amoebic surface lectin, known as Gal/GalNAc lectin. It is composed of heavy, intermediate, and light subunits. The carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) has been identified within a cysteine-rich region in the lectin heavy subunit and has an amino acid sequence identity to the receptor-binding domain of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Recombinant CRD has been previously shown to compete with HGF for binding to the c-Met receptor IgG fusion protein. In the present study, we searched for evidence of interaction between the Gal/GalNAc lectin at the surface of trophozoites with the c-Met receptor expressed at the surface of HepG2 in coculture assays. Immunoprecipitation of the coculture lysate indicated interaction of the c-Met with a 60 kDa peptide recognized by antiamoebic lectin antibody. Colocalization of both molecules was detected by fluorescence confocal microscopy. Incubation of HepG2 cells with HGF before coculture with trophozoites prevents the cytotoxic effect caused by the parasites but not their adherence to the cells. Our results point to Gal/GalNAc lectin as a ligand of the c-Met receptor at the surface of HepG2 cells.
Toughness Behavior of SBR Acrylate Copolymer-Modified Pervious Concrete with Single-Sized Aggregates
Authors: Zhao Chaohua , Li Hualin , Peng Yi , Jia Xiaoyao , Rahman Ali
Published: September 2021

Pervious concrete is an eco-efficient concrete but has problems regarding its mechanical performance and permeability balance. This research investigated the feasibility of using a combination of styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) and acrylate polymer to improve the toughness of pervious concrete while keeping its permeability. Single-sized aggregate and no sand were considered in the concrete mixture. Acrylate polymers with different solid content, PH, density, and viscosity were emulsion copolymerized with an SBR polymer. Eleven scenarios with different mix proportions and 220 specimens for compressive strength, flexural strength, flexural stiffness, impact resistance, and fracture toughness tests were selected to evaluate the effects of the copolymer on the toughness of copolymer-modified pervious concrete (CMPC). The studies showed that (1) the influence trend of the copolymers generally varied according to different mechanical indexes; (2) XG–6001 acrylate polymer mainly and comprehensively enhanced the toughness of the CMPC; (3) it was difficult to increase the enhancing property of the XG–6001 acrylate polymer with the growth of its mix proportion; (4) the zero-sand pervious concrete with 90% SBR and 10% XG–6001 acrylate emulsion copolymerization proved to have relatively high toughness. The proposed CMPC holds promising application value in sustainability traffic road construction.
Sustainable Hydrothermal and Solvothermal Synthesis of Advanced Carbon Materials in Multidimensional Applications: A Review
Authors: Ndlwana Lwazi , Raleie Naledi , Dimpe Kgogobi M. , Ogutu Hezron F. , Oseghe Ekemena O. , Motsa Mxolisi M. , Msagati Titus A.M. , Mamba Bhekie B.
Published: September 2021

The adoption of green technology is very important to protect the environment and thus there is a need for improving the existing methods for the fabrication of carbon materials. As such, this work proposes to discuss, interrogate, and propose viable hydrothermal, solvothermal, and other advanced carbon materials synthesis methods. The synthesis approaches for advanced carbon materials to be interrogated will include the synthesis of carbon dots, carbon nanotubes, nitrogen/titania-doped carbons, graphene quantum dots, and their nanocomposites with solid/polymeric/metal oxide supports. This will be performed with a particular focus on microwave-assisted solvothermal and hydrothermal synthesis due to their favourable properties such as rapidity, low cost, and being green/environmentally friendly. These methods are regarded as important for the current and future synthesis and modification of advanced carbon materials for application in energy, gas separation, sensing, and water treatment. Simultaneously, the work will take cognisance of methods reducing the fabrication costs and environmental impact while enhancing the properties as a direct result of the synthesis methods. As a direct result, the expectation is to impart a significant contribution to the scientific body of work regarding the improvement of the said fabrication methods.
Suppression of the High-Frequency Errors in Surface Topography Measurements Based on Comparison of Various Spline Filtering Methods
Authors: Podulka Przemysław
Published: September 2021

The metrology of so-called “engineering surfaces” is burdened with a substantial risk of both measurement and data analysis errors. One of the most encouraging issues is the definition of frequency-defined measurement errors. This paper proposes a new method for the suppression and reduction of high-frequency measurement errors from the surface topography data. This technique is based on comparisons of alternative types of noise detection procedures with the examination of profile (2D) or surface (3D) details for both measured and modelled surface topography data. In this paper, the results of applying various spline filters used for suppressions of measurement noise were compared with regard to several kinds of surface textures. For the purpose of the article, the influence of proposed approaches on the values of surface topography parameters (from ISO 25178 for areal and ISO 4287 for profile standards) was also performed. The effect of the distribution of some features of surface texture on the results of suppressions of high-frequency measurement noise was also closely studied. Therefore, the surface topography analysis with Power Spectral Density, Autocorrelation Function, and novel approaches based on the spline modifications or studies of the shape of an Autocorrelation Function was presented.
Microwave Measurements of Electromagnetic Properties of Materials
Authors: Krupka Jerzy
Published: September 2021

A review of measurement methods of the basic electromagnetic parameters of materials at microwave frequencies is presented. Materials under study include dielectrics, semiconductors, conductors, superconductors, and ferrites. Measurement methods of the complex permittivity, the complex permeability tensor, and the complex conductivity and related parameters, such as resistivity, the sheet resistance, and the ferromagnetic linewidth are considered. For dielectrics and ferrites, the knowledge of their complex permittivity and the complex permeability at microwave frequencies is of practical interest. Microwave measurements allow contactless measurements of their resistivity, conductivity, and sheet resistance. These days contactless conductivity measurements have become more and more important, due to the progress in materials technology and the development of new materials intended for the electronic industry such as graphene, GaN, and SiC. Some of these materials, such as GaN and SiC are not measurable with the four-point probe technique, even if they are conducting. Measurement fixtures that are described in this paper include sections of transmission lines, resonance cavities, and dielectric resonators.
Thermally Treated Waste Silt as Filler in Geopolymer Cement
Authors: Solouki Abbas , Fathollahi Alireza , Viscomi Giovanni , Tataranni Piergiorgio , Valdrè Giovanni , Coupe Stephen J. , Sangiorgi Cesare
Published: September 2021

This study aims to investigate the feasibility of including silt, a by-product of limestone aggregate production, as a filler in geopolymer cement. Two separate phases were planned: The first phase aimed to determine the optimum calcination conditions of the waste silt obtained from Società Azionaria Prodotti Asfaltico Bituminosi Affini (S.A.P.A.B.A. s.r.l.). A Design of Experiment (DOE) was produced, and raw silt was calcined accordingly. Geopolymer cement mixtures were made with sodium or potassium alkali solutions and were tested for compressive strength and leaching. Higher calcination temperatures showed better compressive strength, regardless of liquid type. By considering the compressive strength, leaching, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, the optimum calcination temperature and time was selected as 750 °C for 2 h. The second phase focused on determining the optimum amount of silt (%) that could be used in a geopolymer cement mixture. The results suggested that the addition of about 55% of silt (total solid weight) as filler can improve the compressive strength of geopolymers made with Na or K liquid activators. Based on the leaching test, the cumulative concentrations of the released trace elements from the geopolymer specimens into the leachant were lower than the thresholds for European standards.