bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Analysis of Soil Loss Tolerance and Productivity of the Olive Groves in the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Areas Norte Alentejano (Portugal) and Estepa (Andalusia, Spain)
Authors: Rodríguez Sousa Antonio Alberto , Muñoz-Rojas José , Pinto-Correia Teresa , Aguilera Pedro A. , Barandica Jesús M. , Rescia Alejandro J.
Published: March 2021

Olive groves are Mediterranean systems that occupy more than 2.5 M ha in Spain and 0.352 M ha in Portugal. Assuming the differences between both countries in terms of olive grove regulation and considering their multifunctionality, it is useful to implement agronomic indices to estimate their sustainability. The Soil Loss Tolerance Index (SLTI) and the Soil Productivity Index (SPI) are two such indices. We calculated both indices in the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Norte Alentejano (Portugal). The SLTI index was adapted considering specific variables of the analysed olive groves (i.e., SLTIog). The values obtained were compared with those previously estimated for PDO Estepa (Spain). The negative impacts of erosion and the underlying agricultural practices on the sustainability of olive groves became evident, resulting in decreased soil productivity at the regional level. The SLTIog index showed higher values for crops, being a more realistic tool to analyse sustainability. A higher soil loss tolerance was detected for integrated groves in the PDO Norte Alentejano than for PDO Estepa due to the shorter age of olive cultivation in Portugal, with incipient soil impacts. These indices provide information on the degree of soil erosion, allowing farmers and decision-makers to apply practices to maximise the sustainability of olive groves.
Use of Omics Data in Fracture Prediction; a Scoping and Systematic Review in Horses and Humans
Authors: Lee Seungmee , Baker Melissa E. , Clinton Michael , Taylor Sarah E.
Published: March 2021

Despite many recent advances in imaging and epidemiological data analysis, musculoskeletal injuries continue to be a welfare issue in racehorses. Peptide biomarker studies have failed to consistently predict bone injury. Molecular profiling studies provide an opportunity to study equine musculoskeletal disease. A systematic review of the literature was performed using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines to assess the use of miRNA profiling studies in equine and human musculoskeletal injuries. Data were extracted from 40 papers between 2008 and 2020. Three miRNA studies profiling equine musculoskeletal disease were identified, none of which related to equine stress fractures. Eleven papers studied miRNA profiles in osteoporotic human patients with fractures, but differentially expressed miRNAs were not consistent between studies. MicroRNA target prediction programmes also produced conflicting results between studies. Exercise affected miRNA profiles in both horse and human studies (e.g., miR-21 was upregulated by endurance exercise and miR-125b was downregulated by exercise). MicroRNA profiling studies in horses continue to emerge, but as yet, no miRNA profile can reliably predict the occurrence of fractures. It is very important that future studies are well designed to mitigate the effects of variation in sample size, exercise and normalisation methods.
Puma (Puma concolor) in the Neighborhood? Records Near Human Settlements and Insights into Human-Carnivore Coexistence in Central Chile
Authors: Ramírez-Álvarez Diego , Napolitano Constanza , Salgado Iván
Published: March 2021

The wildland–urban interface lies at the confluence of human-dominated and wild landscapes—creating a number of management and conservation challenges. Wildlife sightings near human settlements have appeared to increase in the last years. This article reports 51 records of presences, sightings, and livestock attacks of Puma concolor, a large-sized felid, collected from 2012 to 2020 across the O’Higgins region in central Chile. Puma records were concentrated in the east of the region in the Andes Range and foothills (90%). The number of puma records is higher in the last four to six years than in previously studied years. Of the 51 records, 23.5% are between 0 and 999 m from the nearest human settlement (classified as very close), 25.5% are between 1000 and 4999 m (moderately close), and 51% are over 5000 m (distant). Most of the sightings are recorded in the summer (35%) and spring (29%). We identify an area of approximately 9000 km2 of suitable habitat as the most probable corridor effectively connecting pumas moving between eastern and western areas, encompassing the Angostura de Paine mountain range. Our results contribute to the understanding of the presence and movements of P. concolor near urban areas and human settlements, confirming their persistence in and adaptation to human-dominated landscapes. We also provide insights into human–carnivore coexistence in the current global context in the densely populated central Chile.
Recent Trends in Synthesis of Chloramphenicol New Derivatives
Authors: Tevyashova Anna N.
Published: March 2021

Chloramphenicol (CAM), the bacteriostatic broad-spectrum antibiotic, isolated from Streptomyces venezuelae during the “golden era” of antibiotic discovery, nowadays has limited clinical potential due to adverse side effects and frequent antimicrobial resistance. Numerous CAM analogs were synthesized in order to find the derivatives with improved pharmacological properties and activity on resistant bacterial strains. This work aims to summarize the most recent achievements in obtaining new CAM analogs reported during the last five years. Current investigations are mainly focused on elucidating the molecular basis of the mode of CAM action and determining the mechanisms of resistance to this class of antibiotics or on studies of the possible use of the CAM scaffold to search for therapeutic agents with different CAM modes of action—such as selective antiproliferative agents or bacterial cell wall biosynthesis inhibitors. Hopefully, a deeper understanding of the CAM interactions with the target and its specificity will generate research ideas for developing new effective drugs.
Effects of Dietary Strategies on Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress: A Narrative Review of Human Studies
Authors: Zeng Zhen , Centner Christoph , Gollhofer Albert , König Daniel
Published: March 2021

Exhaustive exercise can induce excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may enhance oxidative stress levels. Although physiological levels are crucial for optimal cell signaling and exercise adaptations, higher concentrations have been demonstrated to damage macromolecules and thus facilitate detrimental effects. Besides single dosages of antioxidants, whole diets rich in antioxidants are gaining more attention due to their practicality and multicomponent ingredients. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the current state of research on this topic and present recent advances regarding the antioxidant effects of whole dietary strategies on exercise-induced oxidative stress in humans. The following electronic databases were searched from inception to February 2021: PubMed, Scope and Web of Science. Twenty-eight studies were included in this narrative review and demonstrated the scavenging effects of exercise-induced ROS generation, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory markers and antioxidant capacity, with only one study not confirming such positive effects. Although the literature is still scarce about the effects of whole dietary strategies on exercise-induced oxidative stress, the majority of the studies demonstrated favorable effects. Nevertheless, the protocols are still very heterogeneous and further systematically designed studies are needed to strengthen the evidence.
Generative Adversarial Networks for Data Augmentation in Structural Adhesive Inspection
Authors: Peres Ricardo Silva , Azevedo Miguel , Araújo Sara Oleiro , Guedes Magno , Miranda Fábio , Barata José
Published: March 2021

The technological advances brought forth by the Industry 4.0 paradigm have renewed the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence in the manufacturing sector, building the data-driven era on top of concepts such as Cyber–Physical Systems and the Internet of Things. However, data availability remains a major challenge for the success of these solutions, particularly concerning those based on deep learning approaches. Specifically in the quality inspection of structural adhesive applications, found commonly in the automotive domain, defect data with sufficient variety, volume and quality is generally costly, time-consuming and inefficient to obtain, jeopardizing the viability of such approaches due to data scarcity. To mitigate this, we propose a novel approach to generate synthetic training data for this application, leveraging recent breakthroughs in training generative adversarial networks with limited data to improve the performance of automated inspection methods based on deep learning, especially for imbalanced datasets. Preliminary results in a real automotive pilot cell show promise in this direction, with the approach being able to generate realistic adhesive bead images and consequently object detection models showing improved mean average precision at different thresholds when trained on the augmented dataset. For reproducibility purposes, the model weights, configurations and data encompassed in this study are made publicly available.
Output-Only Modal Estimation Using Eigensystem Realization Algorithm with Nonstationary Data Correlation
Authors: Lin Chang-Sheng , Lin Ming-Hsien
Published: March 2021

The conventional eigensystem realization algorithm with data correlation (ERA/DC) combines the impulse response or free response data of a structural system with the concept of correlation function to identify the modal parameter of the structural system. Previous studies have shown that the modal parameters of structural systems subjected to stationary white noise excitation can be estimated by ERA/DC from the ambient response without excitation data. This concept is extended in this paper for output-only modal identification for the structural system with complex modes under ambient excitation as a nonstationary process in the form of a product model. Numerical simulations and experimental verification are used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method for response-only modal estimation, and the stabilization diagram is used with modal assurance criterion (MAC) to distinguish structural modes from fictitious modes.
Strategies for Reducing Sodium Intake in Bakery Products, a Review
Authors: Codină Georgiana Gabriela , Voinea Andreea , Dabija Adriana
Published: March 2021

Nowadays, the dietary sodium chloride intake is higher than the daily recommended levels, especially due to its prominent presence in food products. This may cause an increase of high blood pressure leading to cardiovascular diseases. Cereal products, and in particular bread, are the main source of salt in human diet. However, salt is a critical ingredient in bread making, and its reduction can have a negative impact on bread quality. This review focuses on physiological role of sodium chloride, its effect on the human body and legislative recommendations on its consumption. Moreover, it presents sodium chloride effects on the bread making from the technological and sensory point of view and presents different options for salt reduction in foods focusing on bakery products. It may be concluded that salt reduction in bread making while maintaining dough rheological properties, yeast fermentation rate, bread quality through its loaf volume, color, textural properties, sensory characteristics is difficult to be achieved due to sodium chloride’s multifunctional role in the bread-making process. Several strategies have been discussed, focusing on sodium chloride replacement with other type of salts, dry sourdough and flavor enhancers.
A Sequential and Intensive Weighted Language Modeling Scheme for Multi-Task Learning-Based Natural Language Understanding
Authors: Son Suhyune , Hwang Seonjeong , Bae Sohyeun , Park Soo Jun , Choi Jang-Hwan
Published: March 2021

Multi-task learning (MTL) approaches are actively used for various natural language processing (NLP) tasks. The Multi-Task Deep Neural Network (MT-DNN) has contributed significantly to improving the performance of natural language understanding (NLU) tasks. However, one drawback is that confusion about the language representation of various tasks arises during the training of the MT-DNN model. Inspired by the internal-transfer weighting of MTL in medical imaging, we introduce a Sequential and Intensive Weighted Language Modeling (SIWLM) scheme. The SIWLM consists of two stages: (1) Sequential weighted learning (SWL), which trains a model to learn entire tasks sequentially and concentrically, and (2) Intensive weighted learning (IWL), which enables the model to focus on the central task. We apply this scheme to the MT-DNN model and call this model the MTDNN-SIWLM. Our model achieves higher performance than the existing reference algorithms on six out of the eight GLUE benchmark tasks. Moreover, our model outperforms MT-DNN by 0.77 on average on the overall task. Finally, we conducted a thorough empirical investigation to determine the optimal weight for each GLUE task.
The Diffusion Role in Adsorption of Hexavalent Chromium on Solid Olive Mill Waste
Authors: Bufalo Gennaro , Di Nezza Francesca , Perna Marco , Salvestrini Stefano , Ambrosone Luigi
Published: March 2021

The removal of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solutions with wet pomace treated with laponite was investigated. A direct comparison with untreated biomass revealed an increase in both the rate of adsorption and the amount adsorbed. A cooperative interaction between the laponite platelets and biomass surface making more adsorption sites accessible was suggested. In this process, a key role is played by intraparticle diffusion. The experimental results indicate that intraparticle diffusion plays an important role in the adsorption process. A simple diffusion-binding model is presented to discuss the experimental results. The diffusion lifetime is linearly related to the adsorbent mass. The model combined with experimental results allowed us to estimate the average free path of a Cr(VI) molecule. Particularly, it was obtained that, in 1 dm3 of solution, the diffusion path increased by nearly 1 cm per gram of adsorbent. However, this did not imply that the amount of Cr(VI) removed decreased because the total number of adsorption sites also increased.
Buckling Behavior of Non-Retrofitted and FRP-Retrofitted Steel CHS T-Joints
Authors: Yazdi Amin , Rashidi Maria , Alembagheri Mohammad , Samali Bijan
Published: March 2021

This paper aims to investigate the buckling behavior of circular hollow section (CHS) T-joints in retrofitted and non-retrofitted states under axial brace compressive loading. For this purpose, two types of analysis are carried out. The first one is evaluating the critical buckling load in various tubular joints, and the other one is investigating the post-buckling behavior after each buckling mode. More than 180 CHS T-joints with various normalized geometric properties were numerically modeled in non-retrofitted state to compute their governing buckling mode, i.e., chord ovalization, brace local, or global buckling. Then three joints with different buckling modes were selected to be retrofitted by fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) patches to illustrate the improving effect of the FRP wrapping on the post-buckling performance of the retrofitted joints. In addition, FRP composite failures were investigated. The results indicate that the FRP retrofitting is able to prevent the brace local buckling, and that matrix failure is the most common composite failure in the retrofitted joints.
Comparative Analysis of Kazakhstani and European Design Specifications: Raft Foundation, Pile Foundation, and Piled Raft Foundation
Authors: Zhanabayeva Assel , Sagidullina Nazerke , Kim Jong , Satyanaga Alfrendo , Lee Deuckhang , Moon Sung-Woo
Published: March 2021

The introduction of Eurocode in Kazakhstan allows for the application of modern technological innovations and the elimination of technical barriers for the realization of international projects. It is significant to study the international standards and design requirements provided in Eurocode. This study presents a comparative analysis of Kazakhstani and European approaches for the geotechnical design of foundations and provides the design methods in the considered codes of practice. Three different types of foundations (i.e., raft, pile, and piled raft foundations) were designed following SP RK 5.01-102-2013—Foundations of buildings and structures, SP RK 5.01-103-2013—Pile foundations, and Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design for the Nur-Sultan soil profile. For all three types of foundations, the calculated results of bearing resistance and elastic settlement showed the conservativeness of Eurocode over SNiP-based Kazakhstani building regulations, as the values of bearing resistance and elastic settlement adhering to Kazakhstani code exceeded the Eurocode values. The difference between the obtained results can be explained by the application of higher values of partial safety factors by Eurocode 7. Sensitivity analysis of the bearing resistance on foundation parameters (i.e., raft foundation width and pile length) for the Kazakhstani and European approaches was performed to support the conclusions of the study.
Advanced Edge-Cloud Computing Framework for Automated PMU-Based Fault Localization in Distribution Networks
Authors: Sodin Denis , Rudež Urban , Mihelin Marko , Smolnikar Miha , Čampa Andrej
Published: March 2021

The detection and localization of faults plays a huge role in every electric power system, be it a transmission network (TN) or a distribution network (DN), as it ensures quick power restoration and thus enhances the system’s reliability and availability. In this paper, a framework that supports phasor measurement unit (PMU)-based fault detection and localization is presented. Besides making the process of fault detecting, localizing and reporting to the control center fully automated, the aim was to make the framework viable also for DNs, which normally do not have dedicated fiber-optic connectivity at their disposal. The quality of service (QoS) for PMU data transmission, using the widespread long-term evolution (LTE) technology, was evaluated and the conclusions of the evaluation were used in the development of the proposed edge-cloud framework. The main advantages of the proposed framework can be summarized as: (a) fault detection is performed at the edge nodes, thus bypassing communication delay and availability issues, (b) potential packet losses are eliminated by temporally storing data at the edge nodes, (c) since the detection of faults is no longer centralized, but rather takes place locally at the edge, the amount of data transferred to the control center during the steady-state conditions of the network can be significantly reduced.
HADES: A Multi-Agent Platform to Reduce Congestion Anchoring Based on Temporal Coordination of Vessel Arrivals—Application to the Multi-Client Liquid Bulk Terminal in the Port of Cartagena (Spain)
Authors: Jiménez Pilar , Gómez-Fuster José María , Pavón-Mariño Pablo
Published: March 2021

Ports are key factors in international trade, and new port terminals are quite costly and time consuming to build. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize existing infrastructure to achieve sustainability in logistics. This problem is more complex in multi-client port terminals, where quay infrastructure is shared among terminal operators who often have conflicting interests. Moreover, the berth allocation problem in liquid bulk terminals implies demanding restrictions due to the reduced flexibility in berth allocation for these types of goods. In this context, this paper presents HADES, a multi-agent platform, and the experience of its pilot use in the Port of Cartagena. HADES is a software platform where agents involved in vessel arrivals share meaningful but limited information. This is done to alleviate potential congestion in multi-client liquid bulk terminals, promoting a consensus where overall congestion anchoring is reduced. A study is presented using a mixed integer linear program (MILP) optimization model to analyze the maximum theoretical reduction in congestion anchoring, depending on the flexibility of vessel arrival time changes. Results show that 6 h of flexibility is enough to reduce congestion anchoring by half, and 24 h reduces it to negligible values. This confirms the utility of HADES, which is also briefly described.
The Castle in Prószków as an Example of the Palazzo in Fortezza Architecture Trend in Poland
Authors: Legendziewicz Andrzej , Marcinów Aleksandra
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the results of a research that was carried out in a castle in Prószków, a town near Opole, Poland. The investigations were based on the conducted architectural research, including iconographic studies and the analysis of the technology, building materials, and architectural details. The conducted research demonstrated that the Renaissance structure in question was built by Baron Jerzy Prószkowski as a palazzo in fortezza, most likely in the years 1563–1571. The residence is planned around a rectangular courtyard with four bastion towers. The scope of the architectural transformations of the complex during the baroque period and the 19th century was also presented. In the summary, it was highlighted that the castle is one of the first buildings located north of the Alps that refers to the designs of Villa Farnese in Caprarolli, which was designed by Giacomo Barozzi da Vignioli. It is in the style of palazzo in Fortezza, similar to residences in Czechia, Silesia, and Poland. Here, we emphasized the uniqueness of the complex, which stands out from other residences in Silesia and areas of the former Republic of Poland due its original form and innovative solutions.
The Atmospheric Aerosol over Western Greece-Six Years of Aerosol Observations at the Navarino Environmental Observatory
Authors: Hansson Hans-Christen , Tunved Peter , Krejci Radovan , Freud Eyal , Kalivitis Nikos , Hennig Tabea , Maneas Giorgos , Gerasopoulos Evangelos
Published: March 2021

The Eastern Mediterranean is a highly populated area with air quality problems. It is also where climate change is already noticed by higher temperatures and s changing precipitation pattern. The anthropogenic aerosol affects health and changing concentrations and properties of the atmospheric aerosol affect radiation balance and clouds. Continuous long-term observations are essential in assessing the influence of anthropogenic aerosols on climate and health. We present six years of observations from Navarino Environmental Observatory (NEO), a new station located at the south west tip of Peloponnese, Greece. The two sites at NEO, were evaluated to show the influence of the local meteorology and to assess the general background aerosol possible. It was found that the background aerosol was originated from aged European aerosols and was strongly influenced by biomass burning, fossil fuel combustion, and industry. When subsiding into the boundary layer, local sources contributed in the air masses moving south. Mesoscale meteorology determined the diurnal variation of aerosol properties such as mass and number by means of typical sea breeze circulation, giving rise to pronounced morning and evening peaks in pollutant levels. While synoptic scale meteorology, mainly large-scale air mass transport and precipitation, strongly influenced the seasonality of the aerosol properties.
Albendazole Exhibits Anti-Neoplastic Actions against Gastric Cancer Cells by Affecting STAT3 and STAT5 Activation by Pleiotropic Mechanism(s)
Authors: Yang Min Hee , Ha In Jin , Um Jae-Young , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: March 2021

Albendazole (ABZ) has been reported to display anti-tumoral actions against various maliganncies, but possible impact of ABZ on gastric cancer has not been deciphered. As aberrant phosphorylation of STAT3 and STAT5 proteins can regulate the growth and progression of gastric cancer, we postulated that ABZ may interrupt the activation of these oncogenic transcription factors. We found that ABZ exposure abrogated STAT3/5 activation, inhibited phosphorylation of Janus-activated kinases 1/2 and Src and enhanced the levels of SHP-1 protein. Silencing of SHP-1 gene by small interfering RNA (siRNA) reversed the ABZ-promoted attenuation of STAT3 as well as STAT5 activation and cellular apoptosis. In addition, these effects were noted to be driven by an augmented levels of reactive oxygen species caused by drug-induced GSH/GSSG imbalance. Thus, the data indicates that ABZ can modulate the activation of STAT3 and STAT5 by pleiotropic mechanisms in gastric cancer cells.
Tumor–Stromal Interactions in a Co-Culture Model of Human Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Cells and Fibroblasts and Their Connection with Tumor Spread
Authors: Prieto-García Elena , Díaz-García C. Vanesa , Agudo-López Alba , Pardo-Marqués Virginia , García-Consuegra Inés , Asensio-Peña Sara , Alonso-Riaño Marina , Pérez Carlos , Gómez Carlos , Adeva Jorge , Paz-Ares Luis , López-Martín José A. , Agulló-Ortuño M. Teresa
Published: March 2021

One key feature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a dense desmoplastic reaction that has been recognized as playing important roles in metastasis and therapeutic resistance. We aim to study tumor–stromal interactions in an in vitro coculture model between human PDAC cells (Capan-1 or PL-45) and fibroblasts (LC5). Confocal immunofluorescence, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and Western blotting were used to evaluate the expressions of activation markers; cytokines arrays were performed to identify secretome profiles associated with migratory and invasive properties of tumor cells; extracellular vesicle production was examined by ELISA and transmission electron microscopy. Coculture conditions increased FGF-7 secretion and α-SMA expression, characterized by fibroblast activation and decreased epithelial marker E-cadherin in tumor cells. Interestingly, tumor cells and fibroblasts migrate together, with tumor cells in forming a center surrounded by fibroblasts, maximizing the contact between cells. We show a different mechanism for tumor spread through a cooperative migration between tumor cells and activated fibroblasts. Furthermore, IL-6 levels change significantly in coculture conditions, and this could affect the invasive and migratory capacities of cells. Targeting the interaction between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment might represent a novel therapeutic approach to advanced PDAC.
Awareness and Behaviors Regarding COVID-19 among Albanian Undergraduates
Authors: Gallè Francesca , Veshi Arjeta , Sabella Elita Anna , Çitozi Morena , Da Molin Giovanna , Ferracuti Stefano , Liguori Giorgio , Orsi Giovanni Battista , Napoli Christian , Napoli Christian
Published: March 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to the adoption of restriction measures that have had notable consequences on the health and wellbeing of individuals. This survey was carried out on a sample of 905 Albanian undergraduates to assess their knowledge about COVID-19 and their health-related behaviors and communication changes during lockdown. The students were invited to complete a pre-validated questionnaire during lessons. The results show that the majority of the surveyed students were able to answer correctly about the main epidemiological features of the disease. The level of knowledge was proven to be proportional to the students’ education level (enrollment year and age). No considerable relationship emerged with respect to diet or smoking. On the other hand, a relevant portion of the sample (37.6%) declared decreased physical activity (PA). Finally, a notable increase in the intensity and frequency of communication with their peers and with their parents was declared by 34.7% and 50.8% of the sample, respectively. Lifestyle variables were found to be mutually related, as were communication outcomes. The participants showed a satisfactory awareness regarding the COVID-19 epidemic. However, the registered reduction in PA may represent a public health issue and should be addressed with adequate policies. The use of electronic media seems to have increased communication habits in this population group.
Institutional Pressures and Megaproject Social Responsibility Behavior: A Conditional Process Model
Authors: Xie Linlin , Ju Tianhao , Xia Bo
Published: March 2021

Megaproject social responsibility (MSR) is a critical factor regarding the sustainable delivery of megaprojects and MSR behavior to implement MSR. However, the questions of which factors effectively promote MSR behavior and how these factors work remain underexamined. Thus, this study aims to examine how the external institutional pressure and internal factors composed of relational behavior and pure altruistic values affect MSR behavior. On the basis of a conditional process analysis conducted on a set of survey data from various organizations involved in megaprojects in China, the results revealed that the higher the degree of mimetic pressure, the higher the degree of MSR behavior. Concurrently, relational behavior mediates the relationship between normative pressures and MSR behavior. Relational behavior also drives MSR behavior, and pure altruistic values moderate the relationships between institutional pressures and MSR behavior. These findings also provide practical suggestions for policymakers on the implementation and governance of MSR.
Preoperative Detection of Liver Involvement by Right-Sided Adrenocortical Carcinoma Using CT and MRI
Authors: Kedra Alice , Dohan Anthony , Gaujoux Sébastien , Sibony Mathilde , Jouinot Anne , Assié Guillaume , Groussin Rouiller Lionel , Libé Rossella , Bertherat Jérôme , Soyer Philippe , Barat Maxime
Published: March 2021

The major prognosis factor of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is the completeness of surgery. The aim of our study was to identify preoperative imaging features associated with direct liver involvement (DLI) by right-sided ACC. Two radiologists, blinded to the outcome, independently reviewed preoperative CT and MRI examinations for eight signs of DLI, in patients operated for right-sided ACC and retrospectively included from November 2007 to January 2020. DLI was confirmed using surgical and histopathological findings. Kappa values were calculated. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed by using a logistic regression model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were built for CT and MRI. Twenty-nine patients were included. Seven patients had DLI requiring en bloc resection. At multivariable analysis, focal ACC bulge was the single independent sign associated with DLI on CT (OR: 60.00; 95% CI: 4.60–782.40; p < 0.001), and ACC contour disruption was the single independent sign associated with DLI on MRI (OR: 126.00; 95% CI: 6.82–2328.21; p < 0.001). Both signs were highly reproducible, with respective kappa values of 0.85 and 0.91. The areas under ROC curves of MRI and CT models were not different (p = 0.838). Focal ACC bulge on CT and ACC contour disruption on MRI are independent and highly reproducible signs, strongly associated with DLI by right-sided ACC on preoperative imaging. MRI does not improve the preoperative assessment of DLI by comparison with CT.
A Theoretical Approach to Coupling the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) to Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Stiffness via LOXL2
Authors: Deng Youyuan , Chakraborty Priyanka , Jolly Mohit Kumar , Levine Herbert
Published: March 2021

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a critical role in cancer progression, being responsible in many cases for the onset of the metastatic cascade and being integral in the ability of cells to resist drug treatment. Most studies of EMT focus on its induction via chemical signals such as TGF-β or Notch ligands, but it has become increasingly clear that biomechanical features of the microenvironment such as extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness can be equally important. Here, we introduce a coupled feedback loop connecting stiffness to the EMT transcription factor ZEB1, which acts via increasing the secretion of LOXL2 that leads to increased cross-linking of collagen fibers in the ECM. This increased cross-linking can effectively increase ECM stiffness and increase ZEB1 levels, thus setting a positive feedback loop between ZEB1 and ECM stiffness. To investigate the impact of this non-cell-autonomous effect, we introduce a computational approach capable of connecting LOXL2 concentration to increased stiffness and thereby to higher ZEB1 levels. Our results indicate that this positive feedback loop, once activated, can effectively lock the cells in a mesenchymal state. The spatial-temporal heterogeneity of the LOXL2 concentration and thus the mechanical stiffness also has direct implications for migrating cells that attempt to escape the primary tumor.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma: New Trends
Authors: Zwijnenburg Ellen M. , Lubeek Satish F.K. , Werner Johanna E.M. , Amir Avital L. , Weijs Willem L.J. , Takes Robert P. , Pegge Sjoert A.H. , van Herpen Carla M.L. , Adema Gosse J. , Kaanders Johannes H. A. M.
Published: March 2021

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the skin mainly seen in the elderly. Its incidence is rising due to ageing of the population, increased sun exposure, and the use of immunosuppressive medication. Additionally, with the availability of specific immunohistochemical markers, MCC is easier to recognize. Typically, these tumors are rapidly progressive and behave aggressively, emphasizing the need for early detection and prompt diagnostic work-up and start of treatment. In this review, the tumor biology and immunology, current diagnostic and treatment modalities, as well as new and combined therapies for MCC, are discussed. MCC is a very immunogenic tumor which offers good prospects for immunotherapy. Given its rarity, the aggressiveness, and the frail patient population it concerns, MCC should be managed in close collaboration with an experienced multidisciplinary team.
Minimization of Immunosuppressive Therapy Is Associated with Improved Survival of Liver Transplant Patients with Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ossami Saidy Ramin Raul , Postel Maximilian Paul , Pflüger Michael Johannes , Schoening Wenzel , Öllinger Robert , Gül-Klein Safak , Schmelzle Moritz , Tacke Frank , Pratschke Johann , Eurich Dennis
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (rHCC) after liver transplantation (LT) is associated with limited survival. Therefore, identification of factors that prolong survival in these patients is of great interest. Surgical resection, radiotherapy, and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) are established interventions to improve outcomes in these patients; however, the impact of immunosuppression is unknown. Methods: All patients diagnosed with rHCC in the follow-up after LT were identified from a database of liver recipients transplanted between 1988 and 2019 at our institution (Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany). Based on the immunosuppressive regimen following diagnosis of rHCC and the oncological treatment approach, survival analysis was performed. Results: Among 484 patients transplanted for HCC, 112 (23.1%) developed rHCC in the follow-up. Recurrent HCC was diagnosed at a median interval of 16.0 months (range 1.0–203.0), with the majority presenting early after transplantation (63.0%, <2 years). Median survival after rHCC diagnosis was 10.6 months (0.3–228.7). Reduction of immunosuppression was associated with improved survival, particularly in patients with palliative treatment (8.4 versus 3.0 months). In addition, greater reduction of immunosuppression seemed to be associated with greater prolongation of survival. Graft rejection after reduction was uncommon (n = 7, 6.8%) and did not result in any graft loss. Patients that underwent surgical resection showed improved survival rates (median 19.5 vs. 8.7 months). Conclusion: Reduction of immunosuppressive therapy after rHCC diagnosis is associated with prolonged survival in LT patients. Therefore, reduction of immunosuppression should be an early intervention following diagnosis. In addition, surgical resection should be attempted, if technically feasible and oncologically meaningful.
Ca-Poisoning Effect on V2O5-WO3/TiO2 and V2O5-WO3-CeO2/TiO2 Catalysts with Different Vanadium Loading
Authors: Guo Yangyang , Xu Xiaofei , Gao Hong , Zheng Yang , Luo Lei , Zhu Tingyu
Published: March 2021

Ca poisoning behavior is inevitable for high-calcium content flue gas, so V2O5-WO3/TiO2 (VWT) and V2O5-WO3-CeO2/TiO2 (VWCeT) catalysts with different vanadium content have been prepared and the Ca-doped catalysts are compared in this manuscript. The result shows Ce addition can both promote the NO conversion and the alkali resistance. Lower Ca addition for 0.1VWCeT catalyst promotes its oxidability and Ce modification is more suitable for low vanadium catalysts. The total acidity and the reducibility of catalysts decline after Ca doping, and the reducibility of the active species on catalysts has been strengthened by Ce addition. CeO2 based catalysts with lower Ca loading struggle to resist sulfur poisoning, while higher Ca loading favors SO2 adsorption and also physically reduces the cerium acidification process. In the presence of SO2, additional Brønsted acid sites are formed in Ca rich catalyst. The dynamic NH3 adsorption has been investigated, shows that Ca doping content on catalyst is critical for SCR reaction, and the catalyst is more susceptible to SO2 initially in alkali flue gas during the actual application, but the sulfur resistance may increase with the alkali-poisoning effect aggravated by Ca doping.
Nickel Phosphide Catalysts as Efficient Systems for CO2 Upgrading via Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: González-Castaño Miriam , le Saché Estelle , Berry Cameron , Pastor-Pérez Laura , Arellano-García Harvey , Wang Qiang , Reina Tomás
Published: March 2021

This work establishes the primordial role played by the support’s nature when aimed at the constitution of Ni2P active phases for supported catalysts. Thus, carbon dioxide reforming of methane was studied over three novel Ni2P catalysts supported on Al2O3, CeO2 and SiO2-Al2O3 oxides. The catalytic performance, shown by the catalysts’ series, decreased according to the sequence: Ni2P/Al2O3 > Ni2P/CeO2 > Ni2P/SiO2-Al2O3. The depleted CO2 conversion rates discerned for the Ni2P/SiO2-Al2O3 sample were associated to the high sintering rates, large amounts of coke deposits and lower fractions of Ni2P constituted in the catalyst surface. The strong deactivation issues found for the Ni2P/CeO2 catalyst, which also exhibited small amounts of Ni2P species, were majorly associated to Ni oxidation issues. Along with lower surface areas, oxidation reactions might also affect the catalytic behaviour exhibited by the Ni2P/CeO2 sample. With the highest conversion rate and optimal stabilities, the excellent performance depicted by the Ni2P/Al2O3 catalyst was mostly related to the noticeable larger fractions of Ni2P species established.
Analysis of Ion-Exchanged ZSM-5, BEA, and SSZ-13 Zeolite Trapping Materials under Realistic Exhaust Conditions
Authors: Toops Todd , Binder Andrew , Kunal Pranaw , Kyriakidou Eleni , Choi Jae-Soon
Published: March 2021

An industry-defined evaluation protocol was used to evaluate the hydrocarbon trapping (HCT) and passive NOx adsorption (PNA) potential for BEA, ZSM-5, and SSZ-13 zeolites with ion-exchanged Pd or Ag. All materials underwent 700 °C degreening prior to exposure to an industry-derived protocol gas stream, which included NOx, ethylene, toluene, and decane as measured trapping species as well as common exhaust gasses CO, H2O, O2, CO2, and H2. Evaluation showed that BEA and ZSM-5 zeolites were effective at trapping hydrocarbons (HCs), as saturation was not achieved after 30 min of exposure. SSZ-13 also stored HCs but was only able to adsorb 20–25% compared to BEA and ZSM-5. The presence of Ag or Pd did not impact the overall HC uptake, particularly in the first three minutes. Pd/zeolites had significantly lower THC release temperature, and it aided in the conversion of the released HCs; Ag only had a moderate effect in both areas. With respect to NOx adsorption, the level of uptake was much lower than HCs on all samples, and Ag or Pd was necessary with Pd being notably more effective. Additionally, only Pd/ZSM-5 and Pd/SSZ-13 continue to store a portion of the NOx above 200 °C, which is critical for downstream selective catalytic NOx reduction (SCR). Hydrothermal aging (800 °C for 50 h) of a subset of the samples were performed: BEA, Pd/BEA, ZSM-5, Pd/ZSM-5, and Pd/SSZ-13. There was a minimal effect on the HC storage, ~10% reduction in capacity with no effect on release temperature; however, only Pd/SSZ-13 showed significant NOx storage after aging.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Derived Extracellular Vesicles for Repairing the Neurovascular Unit after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Davis Courtney , Savitz Sean I. , Satani Nikunj
Published: March 2021

Ischemic stroke is a debilitating disease and one of the leading causes of long-term disability. During the early phase after ischemic stroke, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) exhibits increased permeability and disruption, leading to an influx of immune cells and inflammatory molecules that exacerbate the damage to the brain tissue. Mesenchymal stem cells have been investigated as a promising therapy to improve the recovery after ischemic stroke. The therapeutic effects imparted by MSCs are mostly paracrine. Recently, the role of extracellular vesicles released by these MSCs have been studied as possible carriers of information to the brain. This review focuses on the potential of MSC derived EVs to repair the components of the neurovascular unit (NVU) controlling the BBB, in order to promote overall recovery from stroke. Here, we review the techniques for increasing the effectiveness of MSC-based therapeutics, such as improved homing capabilities, bioengineering protein expression, modified culture conditions, and customizing the contents of EVs. Combining multiple techniques targeting NVU repair may provide the basis for improved future stroke treatment paradigms.
D-Mannitol Induces a Brown Fat-like Phenotype via a β3-Adrenergic Receptor-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Jeon Hui-Jeon , Choi Dong Kyu , Choi JaeHeon , Lee Seul , Lee Heejin , Yu Ji Hoon , Min Sang-Hyun
Published: March 2021

The presence of brown adipocytes within white adipose tissue is associated with phenotypes that exhibit improved metabolism and proper body weight maintenance. Therefore, a variety of dietary agents that facilitate the browning of white adipocytes have been investigated. In this study, we screened a natural product library comprising 133 compounds with the potential to promote the browning of white adipocytes, and found that D-mannitol induces the browning of 3T3-L1 adipocytes by enhancing the expression of brown fat-specific genes and proteins, and upregulating lipid metabolism markers. D-mannitol also increased the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC), suggesting a possible role in lipolysis and fat oxidation. Moreover, an increase in the expression of genes associated with D-mannitol-induced browning was strongly correlated with the activation of the β3-adrenergic receptor as well as AMPK, protein kinase A (PKA), and PPARγ coactivator 1α (PGC1α). D-mannitol effectively reduced the body weight of mice fed a high-fat diet, and increased the expression of β1-oxidation and energy expenditure markers, such as Cidea, carnitine palmityl transferase 1 (CPT1), uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), PGC1α, and acyl-coenzyme A oxidase (ACOX1) in the inguinal white adipose tissue. Our findings suggest that D-mannitol plays a dual regulatory role by inducing the generation of a brown fat-like phenotype and enhancing lipid metabolism. These results indicate that D-mannitol can function as an anti-obesity supplement.
Electrospun Fibres of Chitosan/PVP for the Effective Chemotherapeutic Drug Delivery of 5-Fluorouracil
Authors: Grant Jamie J. , Pillai Suresh C. , Perova Tatiana S. , Hehir Sarah , Hinder Steven J. , McAfee Marion , Breen Ailish
Published: March 2021

Electrospun nanofibrous mats consisting of chitosan (CS) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were constructed. Tuning of solution and process parameters was performed and resulted in an electrospun system containing a 6:4 ratio of PVP:CS. This is a significant increase in the proportion of spun CS on the previously reported highest ratio PVP:CS blend. SEM analysis showed that the nanofibrous mats with 4 wt% CS/6 wt% PVP (sample E) comprised homogenous, uniform fibres with an average diameter of 0.569 μm. XPS analysis showed that the surface of the samples consisted of PVP. Raman and FTIR analysis revealed intermolecular interactions (via H-bonding) between PVP and CS. In FTIR spectra, the contribution of chitosan to CS/PVP complexes was shown by the downshift of the C=O band and by the linear increase in intensity of C-O stretching in CS. XPS analysis showed a smaller shift at the binding energy 531 eV, which relates to the amide of the acetylated functional groups. The obtained results demonstrate a sensitivity of Raman and FTIR tests to the presence of chitosan in PVP:CS blend. The chemotherapy drug 5-Fu was incorporated into the constructs and cell viability studies were performed. WST-8 viability assay showed that exposure of A549 human alveolar basal epithelial cells to 10 mg/mL 5-Fu loaded fibres was most effective at killing cells over 24 h. On the other hand, the constructs with loading of 1 mg/mL of drug were not efficient at killing A549 human alveolar basal epithelial cells. This study showed that CS/PVP/5-Fu constructs have potential in chemotherapeutic drug delivery systems.
Neighborhood, Peer, and Parental Influences on Minor and Major Substance Use of Latino and Black Adolescents
Authors: Sigal Marika , Ross Bryan J. , Behnke Andrew O. , Plunkett Scott W.
Published: March 2021

Self-report survey data were collected from 797 adolescents (47.2% Latino, 52.8% Black) in North Carolina. Path analyses were conducted to examine relationships between youth perceptions of maternal and paternal monitoring, neighborhood crime/drugs, friends’ delinquency, peer victimization, minor substance use, and major substance use. After establishing a good fitting model, multigroup models were conducted for Blacks vs. Latinos. The results indicated perceived maternal monitoring (and paternal monitoring for Latinos) was directly related to decreased exposure to neighborhood crime/drugs and friends’ delinquency. For Latinos and Blacks, maternal and paternal monitoring were directly related to gateway substance use, and indirectly related to major substance use through gateway substance use. Additionally, friends’ delinquency and peer victimization were directly related to gateway and major substance use for Blacks and Latinos. Thus, exposure to neighborhood crime/drugs was indirectly related to substance use through friends’ delinquency and peer victimization.