bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Actuated Paper and Wood Models: Low-Cost Handcrafted Biomimetic Compliant Systems for Research and Teaching
Authors: Poppinga Simon , Schenck Pablo , Speck Olga , Speck Thomas , Bruchmann Bernd , Masselter Tom
Published: June 2021

The abstraction and implementation of plant movement principles into biomimetic compliant systems are of increasing interest for technical applications, e.g., in architecture, medicine, and soft robotics. Within the respective research and development approaches, advanced methods such as 4D printing or 3D-braiding pultrusion are typically used to generate proof-of-concept demonstrators at the laboratory or demonstrator scale. However, such techniques are generally time-consuming, complicated, and cost-intensive, which often impede the rapid realization of a sufficient number of demonstrators for testing or teaching. Therefore, we have produced comparable simple handcrafted compliant systems based on paper, wood, plastic foil, and/or glue as construction materials. A variety of complex plant movement principles have been transferred into these low-cost physical demonstrators, which are self-actuated by shrinking processes induced by the anisotropic hygroscopic properties of wood or paper. The developed systems have a high potential for fast, precise, and low-cost abstraction and transfer processes in biomimetic approaches and for the “hands-on understanding” of plant movements in applied university and school courses.
Right Hemisphere Dominance for Unconscious Emotionally Salient Stimuli
Authors: Làdavas Elisabetta , Bertini Caterina
Published: June 2021

The present review will focus on evidence demonstrating the prioritization in visual processing of fear-related signals in the absence of awareness. Evidence in hemianopic patients without any form of blindsight or affective blindsight in classical terms will be presented, demonstrating that fearful faces, via a subcortical colliculo-pulvinar-amygdala pathway, have a privileged unconscious visual processing and facilitate responses towards visual stimuli in the intact visual field. Interestingly, this fear-specific implicit visual processing in hemianopics has only been observed after lesions to the visual cortices in the left hemisphere, while no effect was found in patients with damage to the right hemisphere. This suggests that the subcortical route for emotional processing in the right hemisphere might provide a pivotal contribution to the implicit processing of fear, in line with evidence showing enhanced right amygdala activity and increased connectivity in the right colliculo-pulvinar-amygdala pathway for unconscious fear-conditioned stimuli and subliminal fearful faces. These findings will be discussed within a theoretical framework that considers the amygdala as an integral component of a constant and continuous vigilance system, which is preferentially invoked with stimuli signaling ambiguous environmental situations of biological relevance, such as fearful faces.
Impact of Cognitive Reserve and Premorbid IQ on Cognitive and Functional Status in Older Outpatients
Authors: Quattropani Maria C. , Sardella Alberto , Morgante Francesca , Ricciardi Lucia , Alibrandi Angela , Lenzo Vittorio , Catalano Antonino , Squadrito Giovanni , Basile Giorgio
Published: June 2021

The study aimed to investigate cross-sectionally the associations of cognitive reserve (CR) and premorbid IQ with cognitive and functional status in a cohort of older outpatients. Additionally, we evaluated the association of CR and premorbid IQ with the worsening of patients’ cognitive status at one-year follow-up. We originally included 141 outpatients (mean age 80.31 years); a telephone-based cognitive follow-up was carried out after one year, including 104 subjects (mean age 80.26 years). CR (β = 0.418), premorbid IQ (β = 0.271) and handgrip strength (β = 0.287) were significantly associated with the MMSE score. The cognitive worsening at follow-up was associated with lower CR, lower MMSE score, reduced gait speed and frailty exhibited at baseline. Univariate linear regressions showed that CR was associated with handgrip strength (β = 0.346), gait speed (β = 0.185), autonomy in basic (β = 0.221) and instrumental (β = 0.272) daily activities, and frailty (β = −0.290); premorbid IQ was significantly associated with autonomy in instrumental daily activities (β = 0.211). These findings highlight the need for integrating CR and premorbid IQ with physical and motor measures when appraising predictors of cognitive decline in the elderly population. The study also newly extends the link of CR and premorbid IQ to the functional status in older adults.
Management Challenges of Severe, Complex Dyskinesia. Data from a Large Cohort of Patients Treated with Levodopa-Carbidopa Intestinal Gel for Advanced Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Szász József Attila , Constantin Viorelia Adelina , Orbán-Kis Károly , Bancu Ligia Ariana , Ciorba Marius , Mihály István , Nagy Előd Ernő , Szász Róbert Máté , Kelemen Krisztina , Simu Mihaela Adriana , Szatmári Szabolcs
Published: June 2021

Background: In the advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease (APD), complex forms of dyskinesia may severely impair the patient’s quality of life. Objective: In the present study, we aimed to analyze the evolution under LCIG therapy of the most important motor fluctuations and complex disabling dyskinesias, including diphasic dyskinesia. Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed the characteristics of patients with APD who had at least 30 min of diphasic dyskinesia (DID) in 3 consecutive days, were considered responders and were treated with LCIG in our clinic. Patients were evaluated before and after PEG and at 6, 12 and 18 months, when the changes in the therapy were recorded, and they completed a 7-point Global Patient Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scale. Results: Forty patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria—out of which, 34 performed all visits. There was a substantial difference between the calculated and real LCIG (1232 ± 337 mg vs. 1823 ± 728 mg). The motor fluctuations and most dyskinesias improved significantly after starting LCIG, but an increasing number of patients needed longer daily administrations of LCIG (24 instead of 16 h). Conclusions: Patients with APD with complex dyskinesias must be tested in dedicated hospitals, and they need a special therapeutic approach. The properly adapted LCIG treatment regarding the dose and time of administration completed with well-selected add-on medication should offer improvement for patients who want to or can only choose this DAT vs. others.
Relationships between Employees’ Identifications and Citizenship Behavior in Work Groups: The Role of the Regularity and Intensity of Interactions
Authors: Sidorenkov Andrey V. , Borokhovski Eugene F.
Published: June 2021

This paper explores the relationships of various employees’ identifications (personal, interpersonal, micro-group, group and organizational) in their two components (cognitive and affective) with two dimensions of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB): offering quality ideas and suggestions, and providing help and support within small work groups. Two studies were conducted in Russia on two respective samples: (1) employees of commercial enterprises (N = 183) characterized by a relatively high regularity and intensity of within-group interactions; and (2) the academic staff of higher education institutions (N = 157), which typically have relatively less regular, low-intensity within-group interactions. The research employed four questionnaires to assess the participants’ identifications in both of their components. In addition, managers in the respective organizations filled out an organizational communicativeness questionnaire and a two-factor OCB assessment instrument. It was found that the relationships between (a) particular identifications and (b) the ratio of group identification to other identifications, on the one hand, and OCB, on the other, depend on the degree of regularity of within-group interactions, as well as on the identification components. Organizational communicativeness did not moderate the relationship between identifications and OCB, but was significantly positively correlated with both OCB dimensions. The theoretical and practical implications of the study findings are discussed.
Examining the Relationships among Cognitive Ability, Domain-Specific Self-Concept, and Behavioral Self-Esteem of Gifted Children Aged 5–6 Years: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Papadopoulos Dimitrios
Published: June 2021

Although childhood is a critical period of development during which all children begin a lifelong process of self-discovery that shapes their identities, few studies have focused on the self-concept and self-esteem of young, gifted children. This study recruited 108 gifted children aged 5–6 years from Greece and their preschool teachers to explore the relationships among cognitive ability, domain-specific self-concepts, and global self-esteem. The Pictorial Scale for Perceived Competence and Social Acceptance was used to assess the domain-specific self-concepts of the participants, whereas behavioral manifestations of self-esteem were rated by the children’s teachers using the Behavioral Academic Self-Esteem Scale. There were positive correlations among IQ, perceived scholastic competence, and global self-esteem. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that significant predictors of global self-esteem were male gender, higher IQ, perceived scholastic competence, and perceived maternal acceptance. Additionally, there were gender differences in global self-esteem and perceived physical competence in favor of boys, whereas perceived maternal acceptance favored girls. This article discusses the need for practitioners working with gifted children to enact a comprehensive social–emotional learning curriculum in schools that promotes academic as well as personal and character strengths. Finally, the limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are also presented.
Building Information Modelling Diffusion Research in Developing Countries: A User Meta-Model Approach
Authors: Adekunle Samuel , Ejohwomu Obuks , Aigbavboa Clinton
Published: June 2021

Building information modelling (BIM) has become a common denominator for information management, efficiency, collaboration, and productivity in the construction industry. The adoption of building information modelling has been assessed to be unequal in the construction industry the world over. It has been observed that developing countries are struggling with BIM adoption and are at a beginner stage in the process. Meanwhile, there have been different research efforts focused on advancing BIM diffusion in developing countries. This study focused on reviewing the research trend and knowledge domains of BIM research in developing countries. The study analysed scholarly publications from selected developing countries sourced from the Scopus database from 2005 to 2019; the study covered BIM research efforts since their commencement in developing countries. The study identified the different research trends and the current focus through visualisations using VOS viewer software. The most influential and productive researchers were also identified. This research contributes to the extant body of knowledge by synthesizing the state of the art of BIM research in developing countries. Furthermore, it provides the pre-COVID-19 BIM diffusion status in developing countries.
Impact of Groundwater Level Change on Natural Frequencies of RC Buildings
Authors: Ratnika Lasma , Gaile Liga , Vatin Nikolai
Published: June 2021

Structural health monitoring (SHM) provides an opportunity to assess and predict changes in the technical condition of structures during the operation of a building. Structural damage, as well as several operational and environmental conditions, causes changes in modal parameters. Temperature is the most popular environmental condition which is used for research. However, to the authors’ knowledge, this is the first investigation that highlights the effect of groundwater level change on the natural frequencies of the buildings and the impact of possible damage detection features. Groundwater level change can influence structural health monitoring measurements and cause faulty structural damage identification using vibration-based methods. This paper aims to analyse the impact of the groundwater level changes on the modal parameters of mid-rise reinforced concrete buildings. The modal parameters of mid-rise reinforced concrete buildings are determined using finite element (FE) models. Three different FE models of structural system types of nine-storey reinforced concrete (RC) buildings with shallow foundations are used to determine the impact of groundwater level fluctuation on the values of the buildings’ natural frequencies. Changes in the groundwater level have an impact on the natural frequencies of the mid-rise reinforced concrete buildings. This research proposes a new environmental condition that has to be considered to identify the structural damage using the vibration-based method. It is found that groundwater level rise causes a decrease in the natural frequency value. In this research, it is established that the influence of the groundwater level on the natural frequencies of the buildings can change abruptly, and there is a non-linear correlation between groundwater level change and natural frequencies of the buildings. The natural frequencies of the buildings can change under varying environmental conditions as well as in the case of structural damage. To identify structural damage in the long-term structural health monitoring measurements, it is recommended to select features which are sensitive to structural damage but are not affected by groundwater level change. Data normalisation and elimination using linear correlation methods can be used for short-term SHM under varying seasonal groundwater level change.
T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma Arising in the Setting of Myeloid/Lymphoid Neoplasms with Eosinophilia: LMO2 Immunohistochemistry as a Potentially Useful Diagnostic Marker
Authors: Zanelli Magda , Loscocco Giuseppe G. , Sabattini Elena , Zizzo Maurizio , Sanguedolce Francesca , Panico Luigi , Fanni Daniela , Santi Raffaella , Caprera Cecilia , Rossi Cristiana , Soriano Alessandra , Cavazza Alberto , Giunta Alessandro , Mecucci Cristina , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Pileri Stefano A. , Ascani Stefano
Published: June 2021

Background: Rarely, T-lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) may develop in the setting of myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms with eosinophilia (M/LNs-Eo), a group of diseases with gene fusion resulting in overexpression of an aberrant tyrosine kinase or cytokine receptor. The correct identification of this category has relevant therapeutic implications. LIM domain only 2 (LMO2) is overexpressed in most T-LBL, but not in immature TdT-positive T-cells in the thymus and in indolent T-lymphoblastic proliferations (iT-LBP). Methods and Results: We retrospectively evaluated 11 cases of T-LBL occurring in the context of M/LNs-Eo. Clinical, histological, immunohistochemical and molecular features were collected and LMO2 immunohistochemical staining was performed. The critical re-evaluation of these cases confirmed the diagnosis of T-LBL with morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular features consistent with T-LBL occurring in M/LNs-Eo. Interestingly, LMO2 immunohistochemical analysis was negative in 9/11 cases, whereas only 2 cases revealed a partial LMO2 expression with a moderate and low degree of intensity, respectively. Conclusions: LMO2 may represent a potentially useful marker to identify T-LBL developing in the context of M/LNs-Eo. In this setting, T-LBL shows LMO2 immunohistochemical profile overlapping with cortical thymocytes and iT-LBP, possibly reflecting different molecular patterns involved in the pathogenesis of T-LBL arising in the setting of M/LNs-Eo.
The Evaluation of Health-Related Quality of Life Issues Experienced by Patients with Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis (The QUALIFIED Study)—A Protocol for an International Cohort Study
Authors: Schut Anne-Rose W. , Timbergen Milea J. M. , Lidington Emma , Grünhagen Dirk J. , van der Graaf Winette T. A. , Sleijfer Stefan , van Houdt Winan J. , Bonenkamp Johannes J. , Younger Eugenie , Dunlop Alison , Jones Robin L. , Verhoef Cornelis , Gennatas Spyridon , Husson Olga
Published: June 2021

Sporadic desmoid-type fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare soft tissue tumour with an unpredictable clinical course. These tumours are incapable of metastasising, but their local aggressive tumour growth and tendency to recur locally can result in a substantial symptom burden. Measuring the impact of DTF on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) can be challenging due to the variable clinical presentation of the disease. Therefore, a HRQoL instrument assessing DTF-specific issues is needed. The QUALIFIED study aims to (1) pre-test a previously developed DTF-specific HRQoL tool (the DTF-QoL); (2) evaluate prevalence of HRQoL issues in adult DTF patients; and (3) identify subgroups at risk of impaired HRQoL. This study (NCT04289077) is an international, multicentre, cross-sectional, observational cohort study. Patients ≥ 18 years with sporadic DTF from the Netherlands and the United Kingdom will be invited to complete a set of questionnaires specifically composed for this patient group. Questionnaires will be completed using PROFILES (Patient Reported Outcomes Following Initial treatment and Long-term Evaluation of Survivorship). Analyses will include testing the psychometric properties of the DTF-QoL and evaluating the prevalence of HRQoL issues using the DTF-QoL, EORTC QOL-C30 and EQ-5D-5L, among other questionnaires. This study will provide insight into HRQoL issues experienced by patients with DTF. Awareness of these issues and the implementation of the DTF-QoL in research and clinical practice can help to improve overall HRQoL and to provide personalised care.
How Researchers, Clinicians and Patient Advocates Can Accelerate Lobular Breast Cancer Research
Authors: Pate Leigh , Desmedt Christine , Metzger Otto , Burgess Hutcheson Laurie , Turner Claire , Freeney Siobhán , Oesterreich Steffi
Published: June 2021

Breast cancer research and therapies have significantly advanced in recent years. However, Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC), the second most common histological type of breast cancer and the sixth most frequently diagnosed cancer of women, has not always benefited from critical analysis, missing opportunities to better understand this important subtype. Recent progress understanding the biological and behavioral differences of ILC demonstrates that it is a unique subtype of breast cancer which can respond differently to common therapies. These new insights have increased interest in researching lobular breast disease. Concurrently, the formation of motivated patient-led advocacy organizations working in partnership with basic, translational and clinical researchers creates new opportunities, including connecting a dispersed patient population to research, encouraging new research funding and connecting patient advocates to researchers to advance common goals. This commentary will explore the unprecedented opportunity to drive multidisciplinary, multicenter and international collaborative research into lobular breast cancer that builds on recent research progress. Collaborative research partnerships that include advocates can result in a better understanding of ILC, identify targeted therapies and refine standard of care therapies that are currently equally applied to all breast cancers, resulting in improvements in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care for patients with ILC.
Utility of CT to Differentiate Pancreatic Parenchymal Metastasis from Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Barat Maxime , Aldhaheri Rauda , Dohan Anthony , Fuks David , Kedra Alice , Hoeffel Christine , Oudjit Ammar , Coriat Romain , Barret Maximilien , Terris Benoit , Marchese Ugo , Soyer Philippe
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To report the computed tomography (CT) features of pancreatic parenchymal metastasis (PPM) and identify CT features that may help discriminate between PPM and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Materials and methods: Thirty-four patients (24 men, 12 women; mean age, 63.3 ± 10.2 [SD] years) with CT and histopathologically proven PPM were analyzed by two independent readers and compared to 34 patients with PDAC. Diagnosis performances of each variable for the diagnosis of PPM against PDAC were calculated. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed. A nomogram was developed to diagnose PPM against PDAC. Results: PPM mostly presented as single (34/34; 100%), enhancing (34/34; 100%), solid (27/34; 79%) pancreatic lesion without visible associated lymph nodes (24/34; 71%) and no Wirsung duct enlargement (29/34; 85%). At multivariable analysis, well-defined margins (OR, 6.64; 95% CI: 1.47–29.93; p = 0.014), maximal enhancement during arterial phase (OR, 6.15; 95% CI: 1.13–33.51; p = 0.036), no vessel involvement (OR, 7.19; 95% CI: 1.512–34.14) and no Wirsung duct dilatation (OR, 10.63; 95% CI: 2.27–49.91) were independently associated with PPM. The nomogram yielded an AUC of 0.92 (95% CI: 0.85–0.98) for the diagnosis of PPM vs. PDAC. Conclusion: CT findings may help discriminate between PPM and PDAC.
Knocking out the Vitamin D Receptor Enhances Malignancy and Decreases Responsiveness to Vitamin D3 Hydroxyderivatives in Human Melanoma Cells
Authors: Podgorska Ewa , Kim Tae-Kang , Janjetovic Zorica , Urbanska Krystyna , Tuckey Robert C. , Bae Sejong , Slominski Andrzej T.
Published: June 2021

Vitamin D3 is not only involved in calcium and phosphate metabolism in humans, but it can also affect proliferation and differentiation of normal and cancer cells, including melanoma. The mechanism of the anti-cancer action of vitamin D3 is not fully understood. The nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) is crucial for the phenotypic effects of vitamin D hydroxyderivatives. VDR expression shows an inverse correlation with melanoma progression and poor outcome of the disease. In this study we knocked out the VDR in a human melanoma cell line using CRISPR methodology. This enhanced the proliferation of melanoma cells grown in monolayer culture, spheroids or colonies and their migration. Activated forms of vitamin D, including classical 1,25(OH)2D3, 20(OH)D3 and 1,20(OH)2D3, inhibited cell proliferation, migration rate and the ability to form colonies and spheroids in the wild-type melanoma cell line, while VDR KO cells showed a degree of resistance to their action. These results indicate that expression of VDR is important for the inhibition of melanoma growth induced by activated forms of vitamin D. In conclusion, based on our previous clinicopathological analyses and the current study, we suggest that the VDR can function as a melanoma tumor suppressor gene.
Plasma Proteomic Analysis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with PD-1/PD-L1 Blockade
Authors: Eltahir Mohamed , Isaksson Johan , Mattsson Johanna Sofia Margareta , Kärre Klas , Botling Johan , Lord Martin , Mangsbo Sara M. , Micke Patrick
Published: June 2021

Checkpoint inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, only a minority of patients demonstrate a durable clinical response. PD-L1 scoring is currently the only biomarker measure routinely used to select patients for immunotherapy, but its predictive accuracy is modest. The aim of our study was to evaluate a proteomic assay for the analysis of patient plasma in the context of immunotherapy. Pretreatment plasma samples from 43 NSCLC patients who received anti-PD-(L)1 therapy were analyzed using a proximity extension assay (PEA) to quantify 92 different immune oncology-related proteins. The plasma protein levels were associated with clinical and histopathological parameters, as well as therapy response and survival. Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis revealed two patient groups with distinct protein profiles associated with high and low immune protein levels, designated as “hot” and “cold”. Further supervised cluster analysis based on T-cell activation markers showed that higher levels of T-cell activation markers were associated with longer progression-free survival (PFS) (p < 0.01). The analysis of single proteins revealed that high plasma levels of CXCL9 and CXCL10 and low ADA levels were associated with better response and prolonged PFS (p < 0.05). Moreover, in an explorative response prediction model, the combination of protein markers (CXCL9, CXCL10, IL-15, CASP8, and ADA) resulted in higher accuracy in predicting response than tumor PD-L1 expression or each protein assayed individually. Our findings demonstrate a proof of concept for the use of multiplex plasma protein levels as a tool for anti-PD-(L)1 response prediction in NSCLC. Additionally, we identified protein signatures that could predict the response to anti-PD-(L)1 therapy.
Efficient Molybdenum Hydrazonato Epoxidation Catalysts Operating under Green Chemistry Conditions: Water vs. Decane Competition
Authors: Mrkonja Silvija , Topić Edi , Mandarić Mirna , Agustin Dominique , Pisk Jana
Published: June 2021

Molybdenum compounds containing benzaldehyde-based hydrazones were obtained. The reaction in MeOH resulted with monomeric Mo complexes, [MoO2(L)(MeOH)], while the reaction in dichloromethane (DCM) provided oligomeric complexes, [MoO2(L)]n. The solid-state structures of the obtained compounds were investigated through Infrared Spectroscopy - Attenuated Total Reflection (IR-ATR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and via X-ray diffraction. The prepared molybdenum species were employed as cyclooctene epoxidation catalysts. TBHP (tert-butylhydroperoxide) in water and TBHP in decane were employed and compared as oxidants, with 0.25 mol% [Mo]. The catalyst activity and selectivity towards epoxide is >90% for all the reactions. The results have been linked to theoretical calculations, showing the importance of the first step, i.e., the transformation of [MoO2(L)(MeOH)] into the pentacoordinate [MoO2(L)].
Pterygium—The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Authors: Van Acker Sara I. , Van den Bogerd Bert , Haagdorens Michel , Siozopoulou Vasiliki , Ní Dhubhghaill Sorcha , Pintelon Isabel , Koppen Carina
Published: June 2021

Pterygium is a multifaceted pathology that displays apparent conflicting characteristics: benign (e.g., self-limiting and superficial), bad (e.g., proliferative and potentially recurrent) and ugly (e.g., signs of preneoplastic transformation). The natural successive question is: why are we lacking reports showing that pterygium lesions become life-threatening through metastasis, especially since pterygium has considerable similarities with UV-related malignancies on the molecular level? In this review, we consider how our pathophysiological understanding of the benign pterygium pathology overlaps with ocular surface squamous neoplasia and skin cancer. The three UV-related disorders share the same initial insult (i.e., UV radiation) and responsive repair mechanisms to the ensuing (in)direct DNA damage. Their downstream apoptotic regulators and other cellular adaptations are remarkably alike. However, a complicating factor in understanding the fine line between the self-limiting nature of pterygium and the malignant transformation in other UV-related diseases is the prominent ambiguity in the pathological evaluation of pterygium biopsies. Features of preneoplastic transformation (i.e., dysplasia) are used to define normal cellular reactions (i.e., atypia and metaplasia) and vice versa. A uniform grading system could help in unraveling the true nature of this ancient disease and potentially help in identifying the earliest intervention point possible regarding the cellular switch that drives a cell’s fate towards cancer.
Senescence and Aging: Does It Impact Cancer Immunotherapies?
Authors: Maggiorani Damien , Beauséjour Christian
Published: June 2021

Cancer incidence increases drastically with age. Of the many possible reasons for this, there is the accumulation of senescent cells in tissues and the loss of function and proliferation potential of immune cells, often referred to as immuno-senescence. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), by invigorating immune cells, have the potential to be a game-changers in the treatment of cancer. Yet, the variability in the efficacy of ICI across patients and cancer types suggests that several factors influence the success of such inhibitors. There is currently a lack of clinical studies measuring the impact of aging and senescence on ICI-based therapies. Here, we review how cellular senescence and aging, either by directly altering the immune system fitness or indirectly through the modification of the tumor environment, may influence the cancer-immune response.
Th17/Treg-Related Intracellular Signaling in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Comparison between Local and Systemic Responses
Authors: Lourenço Juliana D. , Teodoro Walcy R. , Barbeiro Denise F. , Velosa Ana Paula P. , Silva Larissa E. F. , Kohler Júlia B. , Moreira Alyne R. , Aun Marcelo V. , da Silva Isadora C. , Fernandes Frederico L. A. , Negri Elnara M. , Gross Jefferson L. , Tibério Iolanda F. L. C. , Ito Juliana T. , Lopes Fernanda D. T. Q. S.
Published: June 2021

Th17/Treg imbalance plays a pivotal role in COPD development and progression. We aimed to assess Th17/Treg-related intracellular signaling at different COPD stages in local and systemic responses. Lung tissue and/or peripheral blood samples were collected and divided into non-obstructed (NOS), COPD stages I and II, and COPD stages III and IV groups. Gene expression of STAT3 and -5, RORγt, Foxp3, interleukin (IL)-6, -17, -10, and TGF-β was assessed by RT-qPCR. IL-6, -17, -10, and TGF-β levels were determined by ELISA. We observed increased STAT3, RORγt, Foxp3, IL-6, and TGF-β gene expression and IL-6 levels in the lungs of COPD I and II patients compared to those of NOS patients. Regarding the systemic response, we observed increased STAT3, RORγt, IL-6, and TGF-β gene expression in the COPD III and IV group and increased IL-6 levels in the COPD I and II group. STAT5 was increased in COPD III and IV patients, although there was a decrease in Foxp3 expression and IL-10 levels in the COPD I and II and COPD III and IV groups, respectively. We demonstrated that an increase in Th17 intracellular signaling in the lungs precedes this increase in the systemic response, whereas Treg intracellular signaling varies between the compartments analyzed in different COPD stages.
NADPH Oxidase (NOX) Targeting in Diabetes: A Special Emphasis on Pancreatic β-Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Elumalai Suma , Karunakaran Udayakumar , Moon Jun-Sung , Won Kyu-Chang
Published: June 2021

In type 2 diabetes, metabolic stress has a negative impact on pancreatic β-cell function and survival (T2D). Although the pathogenesis of metabolic stress is complex, an imbalance in redox homeostasis causes abnormal tissue damage and β-cell death due to low endogenous antioxidant expression levels in β-cells. Under diabetogenic conditions, the susceptibility of β-cells to oxidative damage by NADPH oxidase has been related to contributing to β-cell dysfunction. Here, we consider recent insights into how the redox response becomes deregulated under diabetic conditions by NADPH oxidase, as well as the therapeutic benefits of NOX inhibitors, which may provide clues for understanding the pathomechanisms and developing strategies aimed at the treatment or prevention of metabolic stress associated with β-cell failure.
Transcriptomic Profiling of Femoral Veins in Deep Vein Thrombosis in a Porcine Model
Authors: Gromadziński Leszek , Paukszto Łukasz , Skowrońska Agnieszka , Holak Piotr , Smoliński Michał , Łopieńska-Biernat Elżbieta , Lepiarczyk Ewa , Lipka Aleksandra , Jastrzębski Jan Paweł , Majewska Marta
Published: June 2021

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a severe disease affecting the human venous system, accompanied by high morbidity and mortality rates caused by early and late complications. The study aimed at analyzing the changes in the transcriptome of the femoral vein caused by DVT in the porcine model based on the formation of the thrombus in vivo. The study was performed on 11 castrated male pigs: A thrombus was formed in each left femoral vein in six animals; the remaining five served as a control group. Total RNA was isolated from the left femoral veins of the experimental and control animals. High-throughput RNA sequencing was used to analyze the global changes in the transcriptome of veins with induced DVT. Applied multistep bioinformatics revealed 1474 differentially expressed genes (DEGs): 1019 upregulated and 455 downregulated. Functional Gene Ontology annotated 1220 of DEGs into 225 biological processes, 30 molecular functions and 40 cellular components categories. KEGG analysis disclosed TNF, NF-κB and apoptosis pathways’ overexpression in DVT samples. A thorough analysis of the detected DEGs indicated that a dysregulated inflammatory response and disturbed balance between clotting and anti-clotting factors play a crucial role in the process of DVT.
Update on the Classification and Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Pediatric Cardiorenal Syndromes
Authors: Ceravolo Giorgia , Macchia Tommaso La , Cuppari Caterina , Dipasquale Valeria , Gambadauro Antonella , Casto Celeste , Ceravolo Maria Domenica , Cutrupi Maricia , Calabrò Maria Pia , Borgia Paola , Piccolo Gianluca , Mancuso Alessio , Albiero Remo , Chimenz Roberto
Published: June 2021

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is defined as a disorder resulting from the abnormal interaction between the heart and kidney, in which acute or chronic dysfunction of one organ may lead to acute and/or chronic dysfunction of the other. The functional interplay between the heart and kidney is characterized by a complex bidirectional symbiotic interaction, regulated by a wide array of both genetic and environmental mechanisms. There are at least five known subtypes of CRS, based on the severity of clinical features and the degree of heart/renal failure. The fourth subtype (cardiorenal syndrome type 4 (CRS4)) is characterized by a primary chronic kidney disease (CKD), which in turn leads to a decreased cardiac function. Impairment of renal function is among the most important pathophysiological factors contributing to heart failure (HF) in the pediatric age group, and cardiovascular complications could be one of the most important causes of mortality in pediatric patients with advanced CKD. In this context, a loss of glomerular filtration rate directly correlates with both the progression of cardiovascular complications in CRS and the risk of HF. This review describes the interaction pathways between the heart and kidney and the recently identified pathophysiological mechanisms underlying pediatric CRS, with a special focus on CRS4, which encompasses both primary CKD and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Review and Comparative Study of Decision Support Tools for the Mitigation of Urban Heat Stress
Authors: Qureshi Aiman Mazhar , Rachid Ahmed
Published: June 2021

Over the last few decades, Urban Heat Stress (UHS) has become a crucial concern of scientists and policy-makers. Many projects have been implemented to mitigate Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects using nature-based solutions. However, decision-making and selecting an adequate framework are difficult because of complex interactions between natural, social, economic and built environments. This paper contributes to the UHI issue by: (i) identifying the most important key factors of a Decision Support Tool (DST) used for urban heat mitigation, (ii) presenting multi-criteria methods applied to urban heat resilience, (iii) reviewing existing spatial and non-spatial DSTs, (iv) and analyzing, classifying and ranking DSTs. It aims to help decision-makers through an overview of the pros and cons of existing DSTs and indicate which tool is providing maximum support for choosing and planning heat resilience measures from the designing phase to the heat mitigation phase. This review shows that Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) can be used for any pilot site and the criteria can be adapted to the given location accordingly. It also highlights that GIS-based spatial tools have an effective decision support system (DSS) because they offer a quick assessment of interventions and predict long-term effects of urban heat. Through a comparative study using specific chosen criteria, we conclude that the DSS tool is well suited and fulfils many prerequisites to support new policies and interventions to mitigate UHS.
The Protection, Challenge, and Prospect of Anti-Oxidation Coating on the Surface of Niobium Alloy
Authors: Zhang Xu , Fu Tao , Cui Kunkun , Zhang Yingyi , Shen Fuqiang , Wang Jie , Yu Laihao , Mao Haobo
Published: June 2021

Niobium (Nb)-based alloys have been extensively used in the aerospace field owing to their excellent high-temperature mechanical properties. However, the inferior oxidation resistance severely limits the application of Nb-based alloys in a high-temperature, oxygen-enriched environment. Related scholars have extensively studied the oxidation protection of niobium alloy and pointed out that surface coating technology is ideal for solving this problem. Based on the different preparation methods of Nb-based alloys’ surface coatings, this article summarizes the relevant research of domestic and foreign scholars in the past 30 years, including the slurry sintering method (SS), suspension plasma spraying method (SPS), and halide activated pack cementation method (HAPC), etc. The growth mechanism and micromorphology of the coatings access by different preparation methods are evaluated. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of various coating oxidation characteristics and coating preparation approaches are summarized. Finally, the coating’s oxidation behavior and failure mechanism are summarized and analyzed, aiming to provide valuable research references in related fields.
A Comparative Review of Metal Oxide Surface Coatings on Three Families of Cathode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Somo Thabang Ronny , Mabokela Tumiso Eminence , Teffu Daniel Malesela , Sekgobela Tshepo Kgokane , Ramogayana Brian , Hato Mpitloane Joseph , Modibane Kwena Desmond
Published: June 2021

In the recent years, lithium-ion batteries have prevailed and dominated as the primary power sources for mobile electronic applications. Equally, their use in electric resources of transportation and other high-level applications is hindered to some certain extent. As a result, innovative fabrication of lithium-ion batteries based on best performing cathode materials should be developed as electrochemical performances of batteries depends largely on the electrode materials. Elemental doping and coating of cathode materials as a way of upgrading Li-ion batteries have gained interest and have modified most of the commonly used cathode materials. This has resulted in enhanced penetration of Li-ions, ionic mobility, electric conductivity and cyclability, with lesser capacity fading compared to traditional parent materials. The current paper reviews the role and effect of metal oxides as coatings for improvement of cathode materials in Li-ion batteries. For layered cathode materials, a clear evaluation of how metal oxide coatings sweep of metal ion dissolution, phase transitions and hydrofluoric acid attacks is detailed. Whereas the effective ways in which metal oxides suppress metal ion dissolution and capacity fading related to spinel cathode materials are explained. Lastly, challenges faced by olivine-type cathode materials, namely; low electronic conductivity and diffusion coefficient of Li+ ion, are discussed and recent findings on how metal oxide coatings could curb such limitations are outlined.
Tribological Properties of a Mesh-Like Nanostructured Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Lubricated with a Fully Formulated Oil at DLC/Steel Contacts under Boundary Lubrication
Authors: Okubo Hikaru , Watanabe Seiya , Sasaki Shinya , Tokuta Yuuki , Moriguchi Hideki , Iba Daisuke , Moriwaki Ichiro
Published: June 2021

The present paper describes the tribological properties of a mesh-like nanostructure of diamond-like carbon (DLC) in a formulated engine oil at DLC/steel contacts. This novel nanostructured DLC was characterized as a non-hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a-C) with a nano-mesh structure layer at the outermost surface, herein named NM-a-C. From the results of our friction tests, we observed that the NM-a-C/steel tribopair exhibited lower friction and higher wear-resistance than the a-C:H/steel tribopair, though the mechanical properties were nearly identical. The analytical result indicated that the tribofilm formation process and the chemical composition of the tribofilm varied depending on the types of the DLC. In particular, thicker MoS2-rich tribofilms formed on the NM-a-C surface. Hence, the NM-a-C structure promoted the formation of MoS2 under the lubrication with the fully formulated oil, leading to lower friction and high wear-resistance at the DLC/steel contact under boundary lubrication conditions.
Based on Ultrathin PEDOT:PSS/c-Ge Solar Cells Design and Their Photoelectric Performance
Authors: Su Ju , Yang Hua , Xu Yan , Tang Yijun , Yi Zao , Zheng Fusheng , Zhao Fei , Liu Li , Wu Pinghui , Li Hailiang
Published: June 2021

In recent years, nanostructures have improved the performance of solar cells and are regarded as the most promising microstructures. The optical properties of PEDOT:PSS/c-Ge hybrid solar cells (HSCs) based on the octagon germanium nanoparticles (O-GNPs) were numerically analyzed using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The optimal structure of the hybrid solar cell is determined by changing the thickness of the organic layer and structural parameters of nanoparticles to enhance the optical absorption and eventually achieve high broadband absorption. By changing the structure parameter of O-GNPs, we studied its effect on solar cells. The optimization of geometric parameters is based on maximum absorption. The light absorption of our optimized HSCs is basically above 90% between 200 and 1500 nm. PEDOT:PSS is placed on top of O-GNPs to transmit the holes better, allowing O-GNPs to capture a lot of photons, to increase absorbance value properties in the AM1.5 solar spectral irradiated region. The transmittance is increased by adding poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA). At the same time, the electrical characteristics of Ge solar cells were simulated by DEVICE, and short-circuit current (Jsc), open-circuit voltage (Voc), maximum power (Pmax), filling coefficient (FF) and photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) were obtained. According to the optimization results after adjusting the structural parameters, the maximum short-circuit current is 44.32 mA/cm2; PCE is 7.84 mW/cm2; FF is 69%. The results show that the O-GNPs have a good light trapping effect, and the structure design has great potential for the absorption of HSCs; it is believed that the conversion efficiency will be further improved through further research.
High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry for the Comprehensive Characterization of Plant-Pigment-Based Tattoos and Dyes Formulations
Authors: Rubio Laura , Garcia-Jares Carmen , Lores Marta
Published: June 2021

There has been little research on emerging natural-pigment-based temporary tattoos and their constituents so far. This study focused on the characterization of natural henna and jagua tattoos and dyes in commercial samples. Sample manipulation and treatment were minimal to analyze natural pigments as they are marketed. The characterization of active compounds was performed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS). A novel untargeted characterization was also applied for these types of samples, searching for compounds ranging from the original ingredients to other additives of interest they may contain. The fact that these products may also be a source of unlabelled allergens was considered. This work showed that not all of the 34 samples analyzed contained their characteristic active ingredients, and in addition, 70 substances of a different nature were found. Therefore, a rapid and high-throughput methodology has been developed for the identification of the components of these dyes, providing a necessary approach for quality control or identification of suspicious substances.
The Depth-Dependent Mechanical Behavior of Anisotropic Native and Cross-Linked HheG Enzyme Crystals
Authors: Kubiak Marta , Staar Marcel , Kampen Ingo , Schallmey Anett , Schilde Carsten
Published: June 2021

Enzymes are able to catalyze various specific reactions under mild conditions and can, therefore, be applied in industrial processes. To ensure process profitability, the enzymes must be reusable while ensuring their enzymatic activity. To improve the processability and immobilization of the biocatalyst, the enzymes can be, e.g., crystallized, and the resulting crystals can be cross-linked. These mechanically stable and catalytically active particles are called CLECs (cross-linked enzyme crystals). In this study, the influence of cross-linking on the mechanical and catalytic properties of the halohydrin dehalogenase (HheG) crystals was investigated using the nanoindentation technique. Considering the viscoelastic behavior of protein crystals, a mechanical investigation was performed at different indentation rates. In addition to the hardness, for the first time, depth-dependent fractions of elastic and plastic deformation energies were determined for enzyme crystals. The results showed that the hardness of HheG enzyme crystals are indentation-rate-insensitive and decrease with increases in penetration depth. Our investigation of the fraction of plastic deformation energy indicated anisotropic crystal behavior and higher irreversible deformation for prismatic crystal faces. Due to cross-linking, the fraction of elastic energy of anisotropic crystal faces increased from 8% for basal faces to 68% for prismatic crystal faces. This study demonstrates that mechanically enhanced CLECs have good catalytic activity and are, therefore, suitable for industrial use.
Distribution and Potential Limiting Factors of the European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis) in Eastern Europe
Authors: Nekrasova Oksana , Marushchak Oleksii , Pupins Mihails , Skute Arturs , Tytar Volodymyr , Čeirāns Andris
Published: June 2021

In order to use an integrated approach for studying the influence of risk factors on the distribution of the native turtle species E. orbicularis and accompanying invasive species (T. scripta and N. procyonoides) in the northeast of their range, we used GIS modelling and a database (GAEZ, human footprint, CliMond) of 55 preselected variables, which represent a system of bioclimatic and anthropogenic factors. The main variables that influenced the results were factors related to temperature. There was a high correlation (r = 0.6) between the species distribution model’s habitat suitability for E. orbicularis and the corresponding “human footprint” values within the European part of the species’ natural range. Its unpretentiousness towards anthropogenic factors would likely help the further expansion of its range in eastern Europe, because the areas with the highest habitat suitability (r > 0.7) were projected to increase 3.3-fold. When comparing the E. orbicularis model to those obtained for N. procyonoides and T. scripta, we concluded that N. procyonoides could be dangerous because it occupies similar habitats (the degree of correlation is reasonably high in the north of their range (r = 0.5) in Latvia). An expansion of the range of Trachemys scripta is also possible in the future within the northern territories. Therefore, when developing the turtles’ protection algorithms, it is also necessary to take into account the influence of invasive species.