bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Narrative Review of Diagnosis and Medical Management
Authors: Dandurand Karel , Ali Dalal S. , Khan Aliya A.
Published: April 2021

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is the most common cause of hypercalcemia in the outpatient setting. Symptomatic presentation includes non-specific signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia, skeletal fragility, nephrolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis. The majority of individuals present at an asymptomatic stage following routine biochemical screening, without any signs or symptoms of calcium or parathyroid hormone (PTH) excess or target organ damage. Indications for surgery have recently been revised as published in recent guidelines and consensus statements. Parathyroidectomy is advised in patients younger than 50 years old and in the presence of either significant hypercalcemia, impaired renal function, renal stones or osteoporosis. Surgery is always appropriate in suitable surgical candidates, however, medical management may be considered in those with mild asymptomatic disease, contraindications to surgery or failed previous surgical intervention. We summarized the optimal medical interventions available in the care of PHPT patients not undergoing parathyroidectomy. Calcium and vitamin D intake should be optimized. Antiresorptive therapy may be used for skeletal protection in patients with an increased fracture risk. Cinacalcet, a calcimimetic agent, has been shown to effectively lower serum calcium and PTH levels. The effect of medical treatment on the reduction in fracture risk is unknown and should be the focus of future research.
Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) in Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Review of Current Clinical Outcomes, Mechanism of Action and Opportunities for Synergistic Therapy
Authors: Rai Zainab L. , Feakins Roger , Pallett Laura J. , Manas Derek , Davidson Brian R.
Published: April 2021

Locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) accounts for 30% of patients with pancreatic cancer. Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a novel cancer treatment that may improve survival and quality of life in LAPC. This narrative review will provide a perspective on the clinical experience of pancreas IRE therapy, explore the evidence for the mode of action, assess treatment complications, and propose strategies for augmenting IRE response. A systematic search was performed using PubMed regarding the clinical use and safety profile of IRE on pancreatic cancer, post-IRE sequential histological changes, associated immune response, and synergistic therapies. Animal data demonstrate that IRE induces both apoptosis and necrosis followed by fibrosis. Major complications may result from IRE; procedure related mortality is up to 2%, with an average morbidity as high as 36%. Nevertheless, prospective and retrospective studies suggest that IRE treatment may increase median overall survival of LAPC to as much as 30 months and provide preliminary data justifying the well-designed trials currently underway, comparing IRE to the standard of care treatment. The mechanism of action of IRE remains unknown, and there is a lack of data on treatment variables and efficiency in humans. There is emerging data suggesting that IRE can be augmented with synergistic therapies such as immunotherapy.
Development of a Reactive Polyurethane Foam System for the Direct Sandwich Composite Molding (D-SCM) Process
Authors: Behnisch Felix , Lichtner Viktoria , Henning Frank , Rosenberg Philipp
Published: April 2021

Sandwich structures utilize the geometric stiffening effect by increasing the area moment of inertia. This reduces carbon fiber (CF) material within CF-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, and thus, the CO2 footprint. A suitable material combination for lightweight design is the use of continuous fiber-reinforced face sheets with a light foam core. CFRP sandwich structures with foam core are manufactured by combining a prefabricated foam core with fiber-reinforced cover layers in a two-step press process. Besides the reduction of the used CFRP material, more efficient manufacturing processes are needed. The aim of this paper is to develop a novel polyurethane foam system to enable the direct sandwich composite molding (D‑SCM) process for the production of CFRP sandwich structures by utilizing the resulting foaming pressure during the reactive polyurethane (PUR) foam system expansion for the impregnation of the CF reinforced face sheets. The developed formulation enables D-SCM structures with 150–250 kg/m3 foam density and 44–47.5% fiber volume content, based on a preliminary evaluation.
Effect of Hydrogels Containing Nanosilica on the Properties of Cement Pastes
Authors: Vafaei Babak , Farzanian Khashayar , Ghahremaninezhad Ali
Published: April 2021

The effect of hydrogels containing nanosilica (NSi) on the autogenous shrinkage, mechanical strength, and electrical resistivity of cement pastes was studied. The interaction between the hydrogels and the surrounding cementitious matrix was examined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The addition of hydrogels decreased autogenous shrinkage in the cement pastes and this reduction showed a dependence on the concentration of NSi in the hydrogels. Compressive strength and electrical resistivity were reduced in the cement pastes with hydrogels and this reduction was decreased with increased concentration of NSi in the hydrogel. A change in the phase composition of the cement paste in the region close to the hydrogel was noted, compared to the region away from the hydrogel. In a lime solution with increased pH and temperature, Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3 were found to form within the hydrogels; evidence of calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) formation in the hydrogels with NSi was obtained, indicating the possible pozzolanic potential of the hydrogels with NSi.
Effects of a Vessel Speed Reduction Program on Air Quality in Port Areas: Focusing on the Big Three Ports in South Korea
Authors: An Jiyoung , Lee Kiyoul , Park Heedae
Published: April 2021

As the seriousness of air pollution from ports and ships is recognized, the Korean Port Authority is implementing many policies and instruments to reduce air pollution in port areas. This study aims to verify the effects of the vessel speed reduction (VSR) program among the procedures related to air pollution in port areas. This study was conducted using panel data created by combining ship entry and departure data and air quality measurement data. We measured the changes in air quality according to the entry and departure of ships and examined whether it changes due to the VSR program. For estimation, the panel fixed-effect model and the ordinary least squares (OLS) model were used. The results suggest that the VSR program had a positive effect on improving air quality in port areas. However, the VSR program’s effects were different over ports. Busan Port showed the highest policy effect, and Incheon Port showed a relatively low policy effect. Based on the results of this study, to maximize the VSR program’s effectiveness at the port, it is necessary to implement other eco-friendly policies as well.
Water Depth Variation Influence on the Mooring Line Design for FOWT within Shallow Water Region
Authors: Huang Wei-Hua , Yang Ray-Yeng
Published: April 2021

The objective of this paper was to present the modeling and optimization of mooring lines for floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT) located in various water depths from 50 m to 100 m in Taiwan western offshore areas. A semi-submersible floating wind turbine system is considered based on Offshore Code Comparison Collaborative Continuation (OC4) DeepCwind platform with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) offshore 5-MW baseline wind turbine. The mooring lines proposed consist of a catenary mooring with studless chains. Three nominal sizes of the mooring chain links are taken into account with diameters of 95 mm, 115 mm and 135 mm. According to this configuration, a total of five mooring designs for different water depths (i.e., 50 m, 60 m, 70 m, 80 m, 100 m) are analyzed according to the rules and regulations of the two certification institutions, Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and American Petroleum Institute (API). Considering ultimate limit state (ULS), fatigue limit state (FLS) and maximum operating sea state (MOSS) based on a typhoon with a 50-year return period and current with a 10-year return period, 25-year design life, as well as 1-year return period, respectively, long-term predictions of breaking strength, fatigue and stability are performed. The software OrcaFlex version 10.3 d is used to simulate and design the mooring lines. The obtained results show that the shallow mooring design of 50 m water depth case presents the heaviest chains among the other water depths, increasing their mooring costs. On the other hand, the 100 m water design has much longer mooring lines, making this parameter the cost driving one. Thus, the minimum mooring cost range is from 60 m to 80 m water depth.
Fungal Genomic Resources for Strain Identification and Diversity Analysis of 1900 Fungal Species
Authors: Iquebal Mir Asif , Jaiswal Sarika , Mishra Vineet Kumar , Jasrotia Rahul Singh , Angadi Ulavappa B. , Singh Bhim Pratap , Passari Ajit Kumar , Deka Purbajyoti , Prabha Ratna , Singh Dhananjaya P. , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Tomar Rukam Singh , Oberoi Harinder Singh , Rai Anil , Kumar Dinesh
Published: April 2021

Identification and diversity analysis of fungi is greatly challenging. Though internal transcribed spacer (ITS), region-based DNA fingerprinting works as a “gold standard” for most of the fungal species group, it cannot differentiate between all the groups and cryptic species. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to find an alternative approach for strain differentiation. Availability of whole genome sequence data of nearly 2000 fungal species are a promising solution to such requirement. We present whole genome sequence-based world’s largest microsatellite database, FungSatDB having >19M loci obtained from >1900 fungal species/strains using >4000 assemblies across globe. Genotyping efficacy of FungSatDB has been evaluated by both in-silico and in-vitro PCR. By in silico PCR, 66 strains of 8 countries representing four continents were successfully differentiated. Genotyping efficacy was also evaluated by in vitro PCR in four fungal species. This approach overcomes limitation of ITS in species, strain signature, and diversity analysis. It can accelerate fungal genomic research endeavors in agriculture, industrial, and environmental management.
Genomic Analysis and Assessment of Melanin Synthesis in Amorphotheca resinae KUC3009
Authors: Oh Jeong-Joo , Kim Young Jun , Kim Jee Young , Kwon Sun Lul , Lee Changsu , Lee Myeong-Eun , Kim Jung Woo , Kim Gyu-Hyeok
Published: April 2021

This study reports the draft genome of Amorphotheca resinae KUC30009, a fungal isolate with promising industrial-scale melanin production potential. The mechanisms for melanin or melanin-related pigment formation of this strain were examined through bioinformatic and biochemical strategies. The 30.11 Mb genome of A. resinae contains 9638 predicted genes. Genomic-based discovery analyses identified 14 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) associated with secondary metabolite production. Moreover, genes encoding a specific type 1 polyketide synthase and 4-hydroxynaphthalene reductase were identified and predicted to produce intermediate metabolites of dihydroxy naphthalene (DHN)-melanin biosynthesis pathway, but not to DHN-melanin. These findings were further supported by the detection of increased flaviolin concentrations in mycelia and almost unchanged morphologies of the culture grown with tricyclazole. Apart from this, the formation of melanin in the culture filtrate appeared to depend on the laccase-like activity of multi-copper oxidases. Simultaneously, concentrations of nitrogen-containing sources decreased when the melanin formed in the media. Interestingly, melanin formation in the culture fluid was proportional to laccase-like activity. Based on these findings, we proposed novel strategies for the enhancement of melanin production in culture filtrates. Therefore, our study established a theoretical and methodological basis for synthesizing pigments from fungal isolates using genomic- and biochemical-based approaches.
Breakdown of Symbiosis in Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis
Authors: Ingrosso Gianluca , Saldi Simonetta , Marani Simona , Wong Alicia Y. W. , Bertelli Matteo , Aristei Cynthia , Zelante Teresa
Published: April 2021

Oral mucositis is an acute side effect of radiation therapy that is especially common with head and neck cancer treatment. In recent years, several studies have revealed the predisposing factors for mucositis, leading to the pre-treatment of patients to deter the development of opportunistic oral fungal infections. Although many clinical protocols already advise the use of probiotics to counteract inflammation and fungal colonization, preclinical studies are needed to better delineate the mechanisms by which a host may acquire benefits via co-evolution with oral microbiota, probiotics, and fungal commensals, such as Candida albicans, especially during acute inflammation. Here, we review the current understanding of radiation therapy-dependent oral mucositis in terms of pathology, prevention, treatment, and related opportunistic infections, with a final focus on the oral microbiome and how it may be important for future therapy.
Triazole-Resistance in Environmental Aspergillus fumigatus in Latin American and African Countries
Authors: Resendiz-Sharpe Agustin , Dewaele Klaas , Merckx Rita , Bustamante Beatriz , Vega-Gomez Maria Celeste , Rolon Miriam , Jacobs Jan , Verweij Paul E. , Maertens Johan , Lagrou Katrien
Published: April 2021

Triazole-resistance has been reported increasingly in Aspergillus fumigatus. An international expert team proposed to avoid triazole monotherapy for the initial treatment of invasive aspergillosis in regions with >10% environmental-resistance, but this prevalence is largely unknown for most American and African countries. Here, we screened 584 environmental samples (soil) from urban and rural locations in Mexico, Paraguay, and Peru in Latin America and Benin and Nigeria in Africa for triazole-resistant A. fumigatus. Samples were screened using triazole-containing agars and confirmed as triazole-resistant by the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) broth dilution reference method. Isolates were further characterized by cyp51A sequencing and short-tandem repeat typing. Fungicide presence in samples was likewise determined. Among A. fumigatus positive samples, triazole-resistance was detected in 6.9% (7/102) of samples in Mexico, 8.3% (3/36) in Paraguay, 9.8% (6/61) in Peru, 2.2% (1/46) in Nigeria, and none in Benin. Cyp51A gene mutations were present in most of the triazole-resistant isolates (88%; 15/17). The environmentally-associated mutations TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A were prevalent in Mexico and Peru, and isolates harboring these mutations were closely related. For the first time, triazole-resistant A. fumigatus was found in environmental samples in Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, and Nigeria with a prevalence of 7–10% in the Latin American countries. Our findings emphasize the need to establish triazole-resistance surveillance programs in these countries.
High versus Low-Moderate Intensity Exercise Training Program as an Adjunct to Antihypertensive Medication: A Pilot Clinical Study
Authors: Ávila-Gandía Vicente , Sánchez-Macarro Maravillas , Luque-Rubia Antonio , García-Sánchez Esther , Cánovas Fernando , López-Santiago Asensio , López-Román Francisco Javier
Published: April 2021

Objective: In this pilot clinical study we investigated the effect on blood pressure (BP) of two community-based exercise training programs of high (HIT) vs. low-moderate intensity (LMIT) in hypertensive individuals receiving at least one antihypertensive drug. Methods: The study included two phases of physical exercises based on 1-h session, 3 days/week for 12 and 16 weeks, respectively, separately by a 7-week resting period. Each phase was preceded by a four-week conditioning training period. According to the average maximal heart rate at baseline, participants were randomized to HIT (80–90%), LMIT (50–70%) or no-exercise (control). Heart rate was monitored during workout and BP profiles were registered by ambulatory BP monitoring at the beginning and end of each phase. Results: Of 60 individuals randomized, 44 completed the study (HIT, n = 10; LMIT, n = 16; controls, n = 18). BP levels were significantly reduced after the second phase for both LMIT (SBP −3.1 mmHg, DBP −2.4 mmHg) and HIT (SBP −10.8 mmHg, DBP −8.3 mmHg). Similar levels of improvement were also found in daytime and night-time BP. Mean attendance of the prescribed training sessions was 87.4 ± 6.2% for HIT and 87.4 ± 5.3% for LMIT during the first phase and 84.1 ± 5.0% and 85.2 ± 5.9% during the second phase, respectively (p = 0.047). Conclusion: Both HIT and LMIT exercise training programs reduced BP but the HIT modality showed a lower rate of compliance with proposed training schedule. Intensity of training should be individually prescribed to improve tolerance to more high intensity exercises.
Novel Insights into Diagnosis, Biology and Treatment of Primary Diffuse Leptomeningeal Melanomatosis
Authors: Baumgartner Alicia , Stepien Natalia , Mayr Lisa , Madlener Sibylle , Dorfer Christian , Schmook Maria T. , Traub-Weidinger Tatjana , Lötsch-Gojo Daniela , Kirchhofer Dominik , Reisinger Dominik , Hedrich Cora , Arshad Saleha , Irschik Stefan , Boztug Heidrun , Engstler Gernot , Bernkopf Marie , Rifatbegovic Fikret , Höller Christoph , Slavc Irene , Berger Walter , Müllauer Leonhard , Haberler Christine , Azizi Amedeo A. , Peyrl Andreas , Gojo Johannes
Published: April 2021

Primary diffuse leptomeningeal melanomatosis (PDLMM) is an extremely rare and aggressive cancer type for which best treatment strategies remain to be elucidated. Herein, we present current and prospective diagnostic strategies and treatment management of PDLMM. Against the background of an extensive literature review of published PDLMM cases and currently employed therapeutic strategies, we present an illustrative case of a pediatric patient suffering from PDLMM. We report the first case of a pediatric patient with PDLMM who received combination treatment including trametinib and everolimus, followed by intravenous nivolumab and ipilimumab with concomitant intensive intraventricular chemotherapy, resulting in temporary significant clinical improvement and overall survival of 7 months. Following this clinical experience, we performed a comprehensive literature review, identifying 26 additional cases. By these means, we provide insight into current knowledge on clinical and molecular characteristics of PDLMM. Analysis of these cases revealed that the unspecific clinical presentation, such as unrecognized increased intracranial pressure (present in 67%), is a frequent reason for the delay in diagnosis. Mortality remains substantial despite diverse therapeutic approaches with a median overall survival of 4 months from diagnosis. On the molecular level, to date, the only oncogenic driver reported so far is mutation of NRAS (n = 3), underlining a close biological relation to malignant melanoma and neurocutaneous melanosis. We further show, for the first time, that this somatic mutation can be exploited for cerebrospinal fluid liquid biopsy detection, revealing a novel potential biomarker for diagnosis and monitoring of PDLMM. Last, we use a unique patient derived PDLMM cell model to provide first insights into in vitro drug sensitivities. In summary, we provide future diagnostic and therapeutic guidance for PDLMM and first insights into the use of liquid biopsy and in vitro models for this orphan cancer type.
A Sustainable Economic Recycle Quantity Model for Imperfect Production System with Shortages
Authors: AlArjani Ali , Miah Md. Maniruzzaman , Uddin Md. Sharif , Mashud Abu Hashan Md. , Wee Hui-Ming , Sana Shib Sankar , Srivastava Hari Mohan
Published: April 2021

Recycling of products has a great impact on contemporary sustainable business strategies. In this study, a sustainable recycling process in a production-inventory model for an imperfect production system with a fixed ratio of recyclable defective products is introduced. The piecewise constant demand rates of the non-defective items are considered under production run-time, production off-time with positive stock, and production off-time with shortages under varying conditions. Based on the production process, two cases are studied using this model. The first case does not consider recycling processes, while the second case picks up all defective items before sending these items to recycling during the production off-time; the recycled items are added to the main inventory. The aim of this study is to minimize the total cost and identify the optimal order quantity. The manufacturing process with the recycling process provides a better result compared to without recycling in the first case. Some theoretical derivations are developed to enunciate the objective function using the classical optimization technique. To validate the proposed study, sensitivity analysis is performed, and numerical examples are given. Finally, some managerial insights and the scope of future research are provided.
The Impact of Institutional Dimensions on Entrepreneurial Intentions of Students—International Evidence
Authors: Bakkar Yassine , Durst Susanne , Gerstlberger Wolfgang
Published: April 2021

Acknowledging the role of different forms of entrepreneurship to continued economic prosper-ity and the role of institutional dimensions on entrepreneurship, this paper investigates if and to what extent a selected number of institutional dimensions influence students’ intentions to ei-ther start a company or take over an existing one. Based on a Global University Entrepreneurial Spirit Students’ Survey (GUESS) dataset and international country-level databases, evidence shows that both entrepreneurship options are hampered by corruption and limited business freedom while promoted through favourable labour regulations and trade freedom. Property rights, fiscal freedom, government spending, monetary freedom, and investment freedom only affect start-ups, while financial freedom adversely affects both options. The study provides new insight into the impact of institutional dimensions on different types of entrepreneurship. Thus, in contrast to extant research in this area, it goes beyond the typical focus on start-ups. Evidence also suggests that male students prefer starting a new company, while female students seem to prefer a takeover. This improved understanding could help in not only designing more targeted entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial financing policies but also in improving entrepreneurship education.
The Use of Digital Social Networks and Engagement in Chilean Wine Industry
Authors: Egaña Francisco , Pezoa-Fuentes Claudia , Roco Lisandro
Published: April 2021

Recently, companies and consumers of the wine industry have changed their manner of two-way communication, with the rise of technology that introduces social networks and urges the spread of content. In this study, we identified the use and importance of engagement in social networks such as Facebook (2008 to 2018), Instagram (2012 to 2018) and Twitter (2010 to 2018) since the creation of their official accounts for the main Chilean wineries. The methods used involve qualitative and quantitative approaches that integrate the opinion of a panel of experts to estimate a social media engagement indicator through a descriptive statistical analysis and network analysis, from data originated of 70,856 publications. The results show the upward evolution of engagement, calculated through the interactions seen from users of social networks of the wineries, with users of networks of these wineries leaning towards Facebook in the first place, then Instagram, and Twitter. The contribution of this research lies in the generation of empirical evidence that allows the wine industry in a developing country to enhance its competitive advantage through the correct use of its social networks, the management of its engagement, and the diffusion of new marketing strategies.
Social Perception and Urbanscape Identity of Flagship Cultural Developments in Szczecin (in the Re-Urbanization Context)
Authors: Sochacka Eliza , Rzeszotarska-Pałka Magdalena
Published: April 2021

A growing number of urban interventions, such as culture-led regeneration strategies, has emerged alongside growing awareness of the concept of re-urbanization. These interventions evolve to create a holistic urban vision, with aims to promote social cohesion and strengthen local identity as opposed to traditional goals of measuring the economic impact of new cultural developments. Szczecin’s, Poland urban strategy is focused on the expansion of culture—a condition for improving the quality of life and increasing the city’s attractiveness. This article assesses the potential for re-urbanization of Szczecin’s flagship cultural developments. Questionnaire surveys and qualitative research methods were used to assess the characteristics that distinguish cultural projects in the formal, location-related, functional, and symbolic layers, as well as examining their social perception. The results show that the strength of these indicators of urbanscape identity affects how the cultural developments are assessed by the society. Semiotic coherence and functional complexity of the structures have a significant impact on the sense of identification, while their monumentality and exposure contribute to the assessment of the impact on their surroundings. A development with a firm identity, embedded in the city’s tradition not only preserves the cultural heritage of the city but also makes inhabitants feel association with the new project.
Linking Urban Tree Cover Change and Local History in a Post-Industrial City
Authors: Roman Lara , Catton Indigo , Greenfield Eric , Pearsall Hamil , Eisenman Theodore , Henning Jason
Published: April 2021

Municipal leaders are pursuing ambitious goals to increase urban tree canopy (UTC), but there is little understanding of the pace and socioecological drivers of UTC change. We analyzed land cover change in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (United States) from 1970–2010 to examine the impacts of post-industrial processes on UTC. We interpreted land cover classes using aerial imagery and assessed historical context using archival newspapers, agency reports, and local historical scholarship. There was a citywide UTC increase of +4.3 percentage points. Substantial UTC gains occurred in protected open spaces related to both purposeful planting and unintentional forest emergence due to lack of maintenance, with the latter phenomenon well-documented in other cities located in forested biomes. Compared to developed lands, UTC was more persistent in protected open spaces. Some neighborhoods experienced substantial UTC gains, including quasi-suburban areas and depopulated low-income communities; the latter also experienced decreasing building cover. We identified key processes that drove UTC increases, and which imposed legacies on current UTC patterns: urban renewal, urban greening initiatives, quasi-suburban developments, and (dis)investments in parks. Our study demonstrates the socioecological dynamism of intra-city land cover changes at multi-decadal time scales and the crucial role of local historical context in the interpretation of UTC change.
The Effect of Continuous Light on Growth and Muscle-Specific Gene Expression in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.) Yearlings
Authors: Shulgina Natalia S. , Churova Maria V. , Murzina Svetlana A. , Krupnova Marina Yu. , Nemova Nina N.
Published: April 2021

Photoperiod is associated to phenotypic plasticity of somatic growth in several teleost species, however, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are currently unknown. The effect of a continuous lighting (LD 24:0), compared with the usual hatchery lighting (HL) regime, on the growth rate and gene expression of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs: MyoD1 paralogs, Myf5, and MyoG) myosin heavy chain (MyHC), and MSTN paralogs in the white muscles of hatchery-reared Atlantic salmon yearlings was evaluated over a 6-month period (May to October). The levels of gene expression were determined using real-time PCR. Continuous lighting was shown to have a positive effect on weight gain. MyHC, MyoD1c, MyoD1b, and MSTN1a/b mRNA expression was influenced by the light regime applied. In all the studied groups, a significant positive correlation was observed between the expression levels of MRFs and MSTN paralogs throughout the experiment. The study demonstrated seasonal patterns regarding the simultaneous expression of several MRFs. MyoD1a, MyoG, and MyHC mRNA expression levels were elevated in the mid-October, but MyoD1b/c, and Myf5 mRNA levels decreased by the end of this month. In general, the findings showed that constant lighting affected the regulatory mechanisms of muscle growth processes in salmon.
Shewanella algae and Morganella morganii Coinfection in Cobra-Bite Wounds: A Genomic Analysis
Authors: Huang Wei-Hsuan , Kao Chin-Chuan , Mao Yan-Chiao , Lai Chih-Sheng , Lai Kuo-Lung , Lai Chung-Hsu , Tseng Chien-Hao , Huang Yao-Ting , Liu Po-Yu
Published: April 2021

Naja atra bites cause severe soft tissue injury and are prone to wound infections. The pathogens of Naja atra bite-wound infections are highly variable in different geographical regions. Here, we report the first coinfection with Shewanella algae and Morganella morganii from a Naja atra bite wound with resistome analysis using whole genome sequencing.
Theranostics in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Authors: Sauerwein Wolfgang A. G. , Sancey Lucie , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie , Kellert Martin , Panza Luigi , Imperio Daniela , Balcerzyk Marcin , Rizzo Giovanna , Scalco Elisa , Herrmann Ken , Mauri PierLuigi , De Palma Antonella , Wittig Andrea
Published: April 2021

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) has the potential to specifically destroy tumor cells without damaging the tissues infiltrated by the tumor. BNCT is a binary treatment method based on the combination of two agents that have no effect when applied individually: 10B and thermal neutrons. Exclusively, the combination of both produces an effect, whose extent depends on the amount of 10B in the tumor but also on the organs at risk. It is not yet possible to determine the 10B concentration in a specific tissue using non-invasive methods. At present, it is only possible to measure the 10B concentration in blood and to estimate the boron concentration in tissues based on the assumption that there is a fixed uptake of 10B from the blood into tissues. On this imprecise assumption, BNCT can hardly be developed further. A therapeutic approach, combining the boron carrier for therapeutic purposes with an imaging tool, might allow us to determine the 10B concentration in a specific tissue using a non-invasive method. This review provides an overview of the current clinical protocols and preclinical experiments and results on how innovative drug development for boron delivery systems can also incorporate concurrent imaging. The last section focuses on the importance of proteomics for further optimization of BNCT, a highly precise and personalized therapeutic approach.
Overview of Important Micronutrients Supplementation in Preterm Infants after Discharge: A Call for Consensus
Authors: Ilardi Laura , Proto Alice , Ceroni Federica , Morniroli Daniela , Martinelli Stefano , Mosca Fabio , Giannì Maria Lorella
Published: April 2021

Preterm infants have a lower level of nutrient body stores and immature body systems, resulting in a higher risk of malnutrition. Imbalanced complementary feeding could lead to further risk of nutritional deficits and excesses. However, evidence on their nutritional requirements following hospital discharge is limited. When planning complementary feeding, appropriate micronutrient intake should be considered for their critical role in supporting various body functions. This narrative review summarizes the need for iron, zinc, vitamin D, calcium, phosphate and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) supplementation in preterm infants during complementary feeding. Regarding iron and vitamin D, the scientific community is reaching an agreement on supplementation in some categories of prematures. On the contrary, there is still not enough evidence to detail possible recommendations for LCPUFAs, zinc, calcium and phosphorus supplementation. However, these micronutrients are paramount for preterms’ health: LCPUFAs can promote retinal and brain development while calcium and phosphorus supplementation is essential to prevent preterms’ metabolic bone disease (MBD). Waiting for a consensus on these micronutrients, it is clear how the knowledge of the heterogeneity of the prematures population can help adjust the nutritional planning regarding the growth rate, comorbidities and comprehensive clinical history of the preterm infant.
Mitochondrial Dynamics, ROS, and Cell Signaling: A Blended Overview
Authors: Brillo Valentina , Chieregato Leonardo , Leanza Luigi , Muccioli Silvia , Costa Roberto
Published: April 2021

Mitochondria are key intracellular organelles involved not only in the metabolic state of the cell, but also in several cellular functions, such as proliferation, Calcium signaling, and lipid trafficking. Indeed, these organelles are characterized by continuous events of fission and fusion which contribute to the dynamic plasticity of their network, also strongly influenced by mitochondrial contacts with other subcellular organelles. Nevertheless, mitochondria release a major amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside eukaryotic cells, which are reported to mediate a plethora of both physiological and pathological cellular functions, such as growth and proliferation, regulation of autophagy, apoptosis, and metastasis. Therefore, targeting mitochondrial ROS could be a promising strategy to overcome and hinder the development of diseases such as cancer, where malignant cells, possessing a higher amount of ROS with respect to healthy ones, could be specifically targeted by therapeutic treatments. In this review, we collected the ultimate findings on the blended interplay among mitochondrial shaping, mitochondrial ROS, and several signaling pathways, in order to contribute to the dissection of intracellular molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of eukaryotic cells, possibly improving future therapeutic approaches.
In Vitro Assembly of Virus-Like Particles and Their Applications
Authors: Le Dinh To , Müller Kristian M.
Published: April 2021

Virus-like particles (VLPs) are increasingly used for vaccine development and drug delivery. Assembly of VLPs from purified monomers in a chemically defined reaction is advantageous compared to in vivo assembly, because it avoids encapsidation of host-derived components and enables loading with added cargoes. This review provides an overview of ex cella VLP production methods focusing on capsid protein production, factors that impact the in vitro assembly, and approaches to characterize in vitro VLPs. The uses of in vitro produced VLPs as vaccines and for therapeutic delivery are also reported.
Serum Adropin Levels in Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Boric-Skaro Dijana , Mizdrak Maja , Luketin Mirko , Martinovic Dinko , Tokic Daria , Vilovic Marino , Supe-Domic Daniela , Kurir Tina Ticinovic , Bozic Josko
Published: April 2021

Adropin is a novel pleotropic peptide involved in energy homeostasis, with possible contribution to cardiovascular protection through production of nitric oxide and subsequent blood pressure regulation. Given that patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) are related with high cardiovascular risk, hyperlipidemia, chronic low-grade inflammation, and malnutrition the aim of our study was to investigate serum adropin levels in HD patients to evaluate possible associations with nutritional status and other relevant clinical and laboratory parameters. The study included 70 patients on HD and 60 healthy controls. Serum adropin levels were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in a commercially available diagnostic kit. Serum adropin levels were significantly lower in the HD group compared to the control group (2.20 ± 0.72 vs. 4.05 ± 0.93 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Moreover, there was a significant negative correlation with malnutrition-inflammation score (r = −0.476, p < 0.001), dialysis malnutrition score (r = −0.350, p = 0.003), HD duration (r = −0.305, p = 0.010), and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) (r = −0.646, p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a significant negative correlation between adropin levels and pre-dialysis systolic (r = −0.301, p = 0.011) and diastolic blood pressure (r = −0.299, p = 0.011). These results are implying that adropin is potentially involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms of chronic kidney disease (CKD)/HD and its complications. However, future larger scale longitudinal studies need to further address it.
Effects of Bonding Treatment and Ball Milling on W-20 wt.% Cu Composite Powder for Injection Molding
Authors: Ouyang Mingliang , Wang Cuiping , Zhang Huayu , Liu Xingjun
Published: April 2021

W-20 wt.% Cu pseudo-alloys were produced via powder injection molding (PIM) with powders prepared thermochemically. Bonding treatment and ball milling (BTBM) were used, and the effects of BTBM on the characteristics of the powders, rheological properties of the feedstock, shrinkage and properties of the sintered samples were studied. The morphology of the powder changed from extremely agglomerated small particles to pebble-shaped smooth large particles which were composed of several small particles combined tightly. The tap density increased from 3.25 g/cm3 to 7.22 g/cm3, and the specific surface area decreased from 0.86 m2/g to 0.45 m2/g. The critical powder loading of the feedstock increased from 45 vol.% to 56 vol.% due to the change in powder characteristics, thereby improving densification and dimension precision. For the PIM samples sintered at 1290 °C for 120 min in a hydrogen gas, the oversizing factor decreased from 1.297 to 1.216, and the dimension fluctuation ratio decreased from ±0.61% to ±0.33%. At the same time, the relative density increased from 97.8% to 98.6%, the thermal conductivity increased from 218 W/(m·K) to 233 W/(m·K), and the average coefficients of thermal expansion were roughly similar, within the range of 8.43–8.52 × 10−6/K.
Performance Evaluation of Modified Rubberized Concrete Exposed to Aggressive Environments
Authors: M. Mhaya Akram , Baghban Mohammad Hajmohammadian , Faridmehr Iman , Huseien Ghasan Fahim , Abidin Ahmad Razin Zainal , Ismail Mohammad
Published: April 2021

Recycling of the waste rubber tire crumbs (WRTCs) for the concretes production generated renewed interest worldwide. The insertion of such waste as a substitute for the natural aggregates in the concretes is an emergent trend for sustainable development towards building materials. Meanwhile, the enhanced resistance of the concrete structures against aggressive environments is important for durability, cost-saving, and sustainability. In this view, this research evaluated the performance of several modified rubberized concretes by exposing them to aggressive environments i.e., acid, and sulphate attacks, elevated temperatures. These concrete (12 batches) were made by replacing the cement and natural aggregate with an appropriate amount of the granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) and WRTCs, respectively. The proposed mix designs’ performance was evaluated by several measures, including the residual compressive strength (CS), weight loss, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), microstructures, etc. Besides, by using the available experimental test database, an optimized artificial neural network (ANN) combined with the particle swarm optimization (PSO) was developed to estimate the residual CS of modified rubberized concrete after immersion one year in MgSO4 and H2SO4 solutions. The results indicated that modified rubberized concrete prepared by 5 to 20% WRTCs as a substitute to natural aggregate, provided lower CS and weight lose expose to sulphate and acid attacks compared to control specimen prepared by ordinary Portland cement (OPC). Although the CS were slightly declined at the elevated temperature, these proposed mix designs have a high potential for a wide variety of concrete industrial applications, especially in acid and sulphate risk.
A Unified Abaqus Implementation of the Phase Field Fracture Method Using Only a User Material Subroutine
Authors: Navidtehrani Yousef , Betegón Covadonga , Martínez-Pañeda Emilio
Published: April 2021

We present a simple and robust implementation of the phase field fracture method in Abaqus. Unlike previous works, only a user material (UMAT) subroutine is used. This is achieved by exploiting the analogy between the phase field balance equation and heat transfer, which avoids the need for a user element mesh and enables taking advantage of Abaqus’ in-built features. A unified theoretical framework and its implementation are presented, suitable for any arbitrary choice of crack density function and fracture driving force. Specifically, the framework is exemplified with the so-called AT1, AT2 and phase field-cohesive zone models (PF-CZM). Both staggered and monolithic solution schemes are handled. We demonstrate the potential and robustness of this new implementation by addressing several paradigmatic 2D and 3D boundary value problems. The numerical examples show how the current implementation can be used to reproduce numerical and experimental results from the literature, and efficiently capture advanced features such as complex crack trajectories, crack nucleation from arbitrary sites and contact problems. The code developed is made freely available.
Role of Curing Conditions and Precursor on the Microstructure and Phase Chemistry of Alkali-Activated Fly Ash and Slag Pastes
Authors: Nedeljković Marija , Ghiassi Bahman , Ye Guang
Published: April 2021

Understanding the role of curing conditions on the microstructure and phase chemistry of alkali-activated materials (AAMs) is essential for the evaluation of the long-term performance as well as the optimization of the processing methods for achieving more durable AAMs-based concretes. However, this information cannot be obtained with the common material characterization techniques as they often deliver limited information on the chemical domains and proportions of reaction products. This paper presents the use of PhAse Recognition and Characterization (PARC) software to overcome this obstacle for the first time. A single precursor (ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GBFS)) and a binary precursor (50% GBFS–50% fly ash) alkali-activated paste are investigated. The pastes are prepared and then cured in sealed and unsealed conditions for up to one year. The development of the microstructure and phase chemistry are investigated with PARC, and the obtained results are compared with independent bulk analytical techniques X-ray Powder Fluorescence and X-ray Powder Diffraction. PARC allowed the determination of the type of reaction products and GBFS and FA’s spatial distribution and degree of reaction at different curing ages and conditions. The results showed that the pastes react at different rates with the dominant reaction products of Mg-rich gel around GBFS particles, i.e., Ca-Mg-Na-Al-Si, and with Ca-Na-Al-Si gel, in the bulk paste. The microstructure evolution was significantly affected in the unsealed curing conditions due to the Na+ loss. The effect of the curing conditions was more pronounced in the binary system.
Italian Advances on MMS
Authors: Niola Vincenzo , Mundo Domenico
Published: April 2021

The aim of this Special Issue is to disseminate recent developments in the field of Mechanism and Machine Science achieved by the Italian community through international collaborations, ranging from theoretical contributions to experimental and practical applications [...]
AC Susceptibility Studies under DC Fields in Superspinglass Nanomaghemite-Multiwall Carbon Nanotube Hybrid
Authors: Ramos-Guivar Juan A. , Litterst F. Jochen , Passamani Edson C.
Published: April 2021

Magnetic properties of maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles grown on activated multiwall carbon nanotubes have been studied by alternating current (AC) magnetic susceptibility experiments performed under different temperatures, frequencies, and applied magnetic fields. Transmission electron images have suggested that the γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles are not isolated and have an average size of 9 nm, but with a relatively broad size distribution. The activation energies of these 9 nm γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles, determined from the generalized Vogel–Fulcher relation, are reduced upon increasing the direct current (DC) field magnitude. The large activation energy values have indicated the formation of a superspinglass state in the γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticle ensemble, which were not observed for pure γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles, concluding that the multiwall carbon nanotubes favored the appearance of highly concentrated magnetic regions and hence the formation of superspinglass state. Magnetic relaxation studies, using Argand diagrams recorded for DC probe fields (<20 kOe) below the magnetic blocking temperature at 100 and 10 K, have revealed the presence of more than one relaxation process. The behavior of the ensemble of γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles can be related to the superspinglass state and is also supported by Almeida–Thouless plots.
Robust Pairwise n-Person Stochastic Duel Game
Authors: Kim Song-Kyoo (Amang)
Published: April 2021

This paper introduces an extended version of a stochastic game under the antagonistic duel-type setup. The most flexible multiple person duel game is analytically solved. Moreover, the explicit formulas are solved to determine the time-dependent duel game model using the first exceed theory in multiple game stages. Unlike conventional stochastic duel games, multiple battlefields are firstly introduced and each battlefield becomes a shooting ground of pairwise players in a multiperson game. Each player selects different targets in different game stages. An analogue of this new theory was designed to find the best shooting time within multiple battlefields. This model is fully mathematically explained and is the basis with which to apply a stochastic duel-type game in various practical applications.
Modeling the COVID-19 Pandemic Dynamics in Egypt and Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mansour Mahmoud M. , A. Farsi Mohammed , Mohamed Salah M. , Abd Elrazik Enayat M.
Published: April 2021

During the abrupt outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the public health system of most of the world’s nations has been tested. However, it is the concern of governments and other responsible entities to provide the correct statistics and figures to take any practicable necessary steps such as allocation of the requisite quarantine operations, calculation of the needed number of places in hospitals, determination of the extent of personal security, and determining the degree of isolation of infectious people, among others. Where the statistical literature supposes that a model governs every real phenomenon, once we know the model, we can evaluate the dilemma. Therefore, in this article, we compare the COVID-19 pandemic dynamics of two neighboring Arabic countries, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, to provide a framework to arrange appropriate quarantine activities. A new generalized family of distributions is developed to provide the best description of COVID-19 daily cases and data on daily deaths in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Some of the mathematical properties of the proposed family are studied.
A Robust Version of the Empirical Likelihood Estimator
Authors: Keziou Amor , Toma Aida
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we introduce a robust version of the empirical likelihood estimator for semiparametric moment condition models. This estimator is obtained by minimizing the modified Kullback–Leibler divergence, in its dual form, using truncated orthogonality functions. We prove the robustness and the consistency of the new estimator. The performance of the robust empirical likelihood estimator is illustrated through examples based on Monte Carlo simulations.