bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating Machine Learning into Established Bioinformatics Frameworks
Authors: Auslander Noam , Gussow Ayal B. , Koonin Eugene V.
Published: March 2021

The exponential growth of biomedical data in recent years has urged the application of numerous machine learning techniques to address emerging problems in biology and clinical research. By enabling the automatic feature extraction, selection, and generation of predictive models, these methods can be used to efficiently study complex biological systems. Machine learning techniques are frequently integrated with bioinformatic methods, as well as curated databases and biological networks, to enhance training and validation, identify the best interpretable features, and enable feature and model investigation. Here, we review recently developed methods that incorporate machine learning within the same framework with techniques from molecular evolution, protein structure analysis, systems biology, and disease genomics. We outline the challenges posed for machine learning, and, in particular, deep learning in biomedicine, and suggest unique opportunities for machine learning techniques integrated with established bioinformatics approaches to overcome some of these challenges.
A Genealogical Analysis of Information and Technics
Authors: Sylvia IV J.J.
Published: March 2021

This paper explores how the concepts of information and technics have been leveraged differently by a variety of philosophical and epistemological frameworks over time. Using the Foucauldian methodology of genealogical historiography, it analyzes how the use of these concepts have impacted the way we understand the world and what we can know about that world. As these concepts are so ingrained in contemporary technologies of the information age, understanding how these concepts have changed over time can help make clearer how they continue to impact our processes of subjectivation. Analysis reveals that the predominant understanding of information and technics today is based on a cybernetic approach that conceptualizes information as a resource. However, this analysis also reveals that Michel Foucault’s conceptualization of technics resonates with that of the Sophists, offering an opportunity to rethink contemporary conceptualizations of information and technics in a way that connects to posthuman philosophic systems that afford new approaches to communication and media studies.
Ultrasound and Bioptic Investigation of Patients with Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Manfrè Valeria , Giovannini Ivan , Zandonella Callegher Sara , Lorenzon Michele , Pegolo Enrico , Tel Alessandro , Gandolfo Saviana , Quartuccio Luca , De Vita Salvatore , Zabotti Alen
Published: March 2021

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a chronic and heterogeneous disorder characterized by a wide spectrum of glandular and extra-glandular features. The hallmark of pSS is considered to be the immune-mediated involvement of the exocrine glands and B-cell hyperactivation. This leads pSS patients to an increased risk of developing lymphoproliferative diseases, and persistent (>2 months) major salivary gland enlargement is a well-known clinical sign of possible involvement by B cell lymphoma. Better stratification of the patients may improve understanding of the mechanism underlying the risk of lymphoproliferative disorder. Here, we summarize the role of different imaging techniques and a bioptic approach in pSS patients, focusing mainly on the role of salivary gland ultrasonography (SGUS) and a US-guided core needle biopsy (Us-guided CNB) as diagnostic and prognostic tools in pSS patients with persistent parotid swelling.
New Laboratory Protocol to Determine the Oxidative Stress Profile of Human Nasal Epithelial Cells Using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Reula Ana , Pellicer Daniel , Castillo Silvia , Magallón María , Armengot Miguel , Herrera Guadalupe , O’Connor José-Enrique , Bañuls Lucía , Navarro-García María Mercedes , Escribano Amparo , Dasí Francisco
Published: March 2021

Several studies have shown the importance of oxidative stress (OS) in respiratory disease pathogenesis. It has been reported that the nasal epithelium may act as a surrogate for the bronchial epithelium in several respiratory diseases involving OS. However, the sample yields obtained from nasal biopsies are modest, limiting the number of parameters that can be determined. Flow cytometry has been widely used to evaluate cellular OS profiles. It has the advantage that analyses can be performed using a small amount of sample. Therefore, we aimed to set up a new method based on flow cytometry to assess the oxidative profile of human nasal epithelial cells which could be used in research on respiratory diseases. Levels of total nitric oxide, superoxide anion, peroxynitrite, and intracellular peroxides were measured. Reduced thiol levels, such as antioxidant-reduced glutathione and oxidative damaged lipids and proteins, were also analysed. The intracellular calcium levels, plasma membrane potential, apoptosis, and percentage of live cells were also studied. Finally, a strategy to evaluate the mitochondrial function, including mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, mitochondrial mass, and membrane potential, was set up. Using small amounts of sample and a non-invasive sampling technique, the described method enables the measurement of a comprehensive set of OS parameters in nasal epithelial cells, which could be useful in research on respiratory diseases.
Comparison of Interview to Questionnaire for Assessment of Eating Disorders after Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Globus Inbal , Kissileff Harry R. , Hamm Jeon D. , Herzog Musya , Mitchell James E. , Latzer Yael
Published: March 2021

The Eating Disorder Examination Interview Bariatric Surgery Version (EDE-BSV) assesses eating pathology after bariatric surgery but requires significant training and time to administer. Consequently, we developed a questionnaire format called the Eating Disorders After Bariatric Surgery Questionnaire (EDABS-Q). This study evaluates the consistency of responsiveness between the two formats. After surgery, 30 patients completed the EDE-BSV and EDABS-Q in a restricted randomized design. Patient reported behavior for each item which was converted to a score following the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) scoring scheme. Responses fell into three distributions: (1) dichotomous, (2) ordinal, or (3) unimodal. Distributions of items were not different between the two formats and order did not influence response. Tests of agreement (normal approximation of the binomial test) and association (χ2 analyses on binary data and spearman rank order correlations on ordinal items) were performed. Percent concordance was high across items (63–100%). Agreement was significant in 31 of 41 items (Bonferroni-P < 0.001). Association was significant in 10 of 21 in χ2–appropriate items (Bonferroni-P < 0.002), and the ordinal items had highly significant correlations between formats (Bonferroni-P < 0.0125). The EDABS-Q is an adequate substitute for the EDE-BSV and may be useful for research and clinical evaluation of eating pathology after bariatric surgery.
Associations of Body Mass Index with Ventilation Management and Clinical Outcomes in Invasively Ventilated Patients with ARDS Related to COVID-19—Insights from the PRoVENT-COVID Study
Authors: Schavemaker Renée , Schultz Marcus , Lagrand Wim , van Slobbe-Bijlsma Eline , Serpa Neto Ary , Paulus Frederique ,   for the PRoVENT–COVID,   Collaborative Group
Published: March 2021

We describe the practice of ventilation and mortality rates in invasively ventilated normal-weight (18.5 ≤ BMI ≤ 24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25.0 ≤ BMI ≤ 29.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2) COVID-19 ARDS patients in a national, multicenter observational study, performed at 22 intensive care units in the Netherlands. The primary outcome was a combination of ventilation variables and parameters over the first four calendar days of ventilation, including tidal volume, positive end–expiratory pressure (PEEP), respiratory system compliance, and driving pressure in normal–weight, overweight, and obese patients. Secondary outcomes included the use of adjunctive treatments for refractory hypoxaemia and mortality rates. Between 1 March 2020 and 1 June 2020, 1122 patients were included in the study: 244 (21.3%) normal-weight patients, 531 (47.3%) overweight patients, and 324 (28.8%) obese patients. Most patients received a tidal volume < 8 mL/kg PBW; only on the first day was the tidal volume higher in obese patients. PEEP and driving pressure were higher, and compliance of the respiratory system was lower in obese patients on all four days. Adjunctive therapies for refractory hypoxemia were used equally in the three BMI groups. Adjusted mortality rates were not different between BMI categories. The findings of this study suggest that lung-protective ventilation with a lower tidal volume and prone positioning is similarly feasible in normal-weight, overweight, and obese patients with ARDS related to COVID-19. A patient’s BMI should not be used in decisions to forgo or proceed with invasive ventilation.
Evaluation of Resection Margin after Image-Guided Dural Tail Resection in Convexity Meningiomas
Authors: Kalasauskas Darius , Tanyildizi Yasemin , Renovanz Mirjam , Brockmann Marc A. , Sommer Clemens J. , Ringel Florian , Keric Naureen
Published: March 2021

Infiltration of adjacent dura with meningioma cells is a common phenomenon. Wide resection of the dural tail (DT) to achieve a gross total resection is a general recommendation. We aimed to investigate a tumor cell infiltration of the DT after image-guided resection of convexity meningiomas. The study’s inclusion criteria were the diagnosis of convexity meningioma, planned Simpson I° resection, and an identifiable DT. Intraoperative image-guidance was applied to identify the outer edge of the DT and to guide resection. After resection, en-bloc specimen or four samples of outermost pieces of DT in case of piecemeal resection were sent for histological analysis. In addition to resection margin infiltration, the radiological extent of DT, radiomic characteristics (109 in total), histology, and demographic data were assessed. Hierarchical clustering was used to generate patient clusters for radiomic analysis. Twenty-two patients were included in the study, while 20 (91%) were female. The mean age was 54.2 (Standard deviation (SD) 13.9, range 30–85) years. En-bloc resection could be achieved in 4 patients. The remaining patients received piecemeal resection. 2 DT samples were omitted due to tumor infiltration of the superior sagittal sinus. None of the en-bloc resection samples demonstrated dural infiltration on the resection margin. Tumor cells were detected in 4 of 70 (5.7%) dural tail samples and could not be excluded in another 5 of 70 (7.1%). No tumor recurrences were detected at follow-up MRI examinations after a mean follow-up of 27.5 (SD 13.2, range 0 to 50.0) months. There was no significant association between DT infiltration and histological subtype or patient characteristics and between DT extent and tumor infiltration. Clustering according to radiomic characteristics was not associated with tumor infiltration (p = 0.89). The radiological dural tail does not reliably outline the extent of tumor cell infiltration in convexity meningiomas. Hence, the extent of dural tail resection should not exclusively be guided by preoperative radiological appearance.
Topical Corticosteroids and Fungal Keratitis: A Review of the Literature and Case Series
Authors: Knutsson Karl Anders , Iovieno Alfonso , Matuska Stanislav , Fontana Luigi , Rama Paolo
Published: March 2021

The management of fungal keratitis is complex since signs and symptoms are subtle and ocular inflammation is minimal in the preliminary stages of infection. Initial misdiagnosis of the condition and consequent management of inflammation with corticosteroids is a frequent occurrence. Topical steroid use is considered to be a principal factor for development of fungal keratitis. In this review, we assess the studies that have reported outcomes of fungal keratitis in patients receiving steroids prior to diagnosis. We also assess the possible rebound effect present when steroids are abruptly discontinued and the clinical characteristics of three patients in this particular clinical scenario. Previous reports and the three clinical descriptions presented suggest that in fungal keratitis, discontinuing topical steroids can induce worsening of clinical signs. In these cases, we recommend to slowly taper steroids and continue or commence appropriate antifungal therapy.
Aqueous Humor Proteomic Alterations Associated with Visual Field Index Parameters in Glaucoma Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kodeboyina Sai Karthik , Lee Tae Jin , Bollinger Kathryn , Ulrich Lane , Bogorad David , Estes Amy , Zhi Wenbo , Sharma Shruti , Sharma Ashok
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to discover the aqueous humor proteomic changes associated with visual field indices in glaucoma patients. Methods: Aqueous humor samples were analyzed using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The visual fields were analyzed with the Humphrey Visual Field analyzer. Statistical analyses were performed to discover the relationship between the aqueous humor proteins and visual field parameters including Pattern Standard Deviation (PSD), Visual Field Index (VFI), Mean Deviation (MD) and Glaucoma Hemifield Test (GHT). Results: In total, 222 proteins were identified in 49 aqueous humor samples. A total of 11, 9, 7, and 6 proteins were significantly correlated with PSD, VFI, MD, and GHT respectively. These proteins include apolipoprotein D, members of complement pathway (C1S, C4A, C4B, C8B, and CD14), and immunoglobulin family (IKHV3-9, IGKV2-28). Conclusion: Several proteins involved in immune responses (immunoglobulins and complement factors) and neurodegeneration (apolipoprotein D) were identified to be associated with abnormal visual field parameters. These findings provide targets for future studies investigating precise molecular mechanisms and new therapies for glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
Pathogenesis and Current Treatment of Osteosarcoma: Perspectives for Future Therapies
Authors: Rathore Richa , Van Tine Brian A.
Published: March 2021

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in children and young adults. The standard-of-care curative treatment for osteosarcoma utilizes doxorubicin, cisplatin, and high-dose methotrexate, a standard that has not changed in more than 40 years. The development of patient-specific therapies requires an in-depth understanding of the unique genetics and biology of the tumor. Here, we discuss the role of normal bone biology in osteosarcomagenesis, highlighting the factors that drive normal osteoblast production, as well as abnormal osteosarcoma development. We then describe the pathology and current standard of care of osteosarcoma. Given the complex heterogeneity of osteosarcoma tumors, we explore the development of novel therapeutics for osteosarcoma that encompass a series of molecular targets. This analysis of pathogenic mechanisms will shed light on promising avenues for future therapeutic research in osteosarcoma.
Comprehensive Genetic Testing of CYP21A2: A Retrospective Analysis in Patients with Suspected Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Nan Madalina , Roig Rosa , Martínez Susana , Rives Jose , Urgell Eulàlia , Espinós Juan , Tirado Mireia , Carreras Gemma , Aulinas Anna , Webb Susan , Corcoy Rosa , Blanco-Vaca Francisco , Tondo Mireia
Published: March 2021

The most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) results from a deficiency of the 21-hydroxylase enzyme (21-OHD), presenting with a broad spectrum of clinical phenotypes according to the CYP21A2 gene mutations. Of the 59 patients with suspected CAH, 62.7% presented a positive genetic result. Of them, 78.4% and 18.9% presented with non-classical and classical forms, respectively. An overall phenotype-genotype correlation of 88.9% was observed. Biochemically, 17-hydroxiprogesterone concentrations were significantly higher in genetically confirmed patients. Genetically, 36 patients presented with previously reported pathogenic variants, and one presented a new variant in homozygosis. Among the 74 alleles tested, point mutations were found in 89.2% and large rearrangements were found in the rest. The most prevalent pathogenic variant was p.(Val282Leu). The inclusion of relatives revealed one further case. Interestingly, 87.5% of relatives were carriers of a pathogenic variant, including two siblings initially classified as genetically positive. In addition, the study of male partners with gestational desire identified several carriers of mild mutations. Studying the allelic distribution of the variants also allowed for reclassifying one patient. In conclusion, a genetic approach including Sanger sequencing, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis, and allelic distribution of the pathogenic variants represents a beneficial tool for better classifying patients with 21-OHD.
Podocyte Autophagy in Homeostasis and Disease
Authors: Lin Qisheng , Banu Khadija , Ni Zhaohui , Leventhal Jeremy S. , Menon Madhav C.
Published: March 2021

Autophagy is a protective mechanism that removes dysfunctional components and provides nutrition for cells. Podocytes are terminally differentiated specialized epithelial cells that wrap around the capillaries of the glomerular filtration barrier and show high autophagy level at the baseline. Here, we provide an overview of cellular autophagy and its regulation in homeostasis with specific reference to podocytes. We discuss recent data that have focused on the functional role and regulation of autophagy during podocyte injury in experimental and clinical glomerular diseases. A thorough understanding of podocyte autophagy could shed novel insights into podocyte survival mechanisms with injury and offer potential targets for novel therapeutics for glomerular disease.
Does Dynamic Anterior Plate Fixation Provide Adequate Stability for Traumatic Subaxial Cervical Spine Fractures at Mid-Term Follow-Up?
Authors: Lang Siegmund , Neumann Carsten , Fiedler Lasse , Alt Volker , Loibl Markus , Kerschbaum Maximilian
Published: March 2021

Background: It remains questionable if the treatment of cervical fractures with dynamic plates in trauma surgery provides adequate stability for unstable fractures with disco-ligamentous injuries. The primary goal of this study was to assess the radiological and mid-term patient-reported outcome of traumatic subaxial cervical fractures treated with different plate systems. Patients and Methods: Patients, treated with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) between 2001 and 2015, using either a dynamic plate (DP: Mambo™, Ulrich, Germany) or a rigid locking plate (RP: CSLP™, Depuy Synthes, USA), were identified. For radiological evaluation, the sagittal alignment, the sagittal anterior translation and the bony consolidation were evaluated. After at least two years, the patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) were evaluated using the German Short-Form 36 (SF-36), Neck Disability Index (NDI) and the EuroQol in 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) scores. Results: 33 patients met the inclusion criteria (DP: 13; RP:20). Twenty-six patients suffered from AO Type B or C fractures. Both the sagittal alignment and the sagittal translation could be sufficiently improved in both groups (p ≥ 0.05). No significant loss of reduction could be observed at the follow-up in both groups (p ≥ 0.05). Bony consolidation could be observed in 30 patients (DP: 12/13 (92%); RP: 18/20 (90%); (p ≥ 0.05)). In 20 patients, PROMs could be evaluated (follow-up: 71.2 ± 25.5 months). The whole cohort showed satisfactory PROM results (EQ-5D: 72.0 ± 4.9; SF-36 PCS: 41.9 ± 16.2, MCS: 45.4 ± 14.9; NDI: 11.0 ± 9.1). without significant differences between the DP and RP group (p ≥ 0.05) Conclusion: The dynamic plate concept provides enough stability without a difference in fusion rates in comparison to rigid locking plates in a population that mostly suffered fragile fractures.
Exacerbations and Changes in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour in Patients with Bronchiectasis after 1 Year
Authors: Alcaraz-Serrano Victoria , Arbillaga-Etxarri Ane , Oscanoa Patricia , Fernández-Barat Laia , Bueno Leticia , Amaro Rosanel , Gimeno-Santos Elena , Torres Antoni
Published: March 2021

Background: Low physical activity and high sedentary behaviour in patients with bronchiectasis are associated with hospitalisation over one year. However, the factors associated with longitudinal changes in physical activity and sedentary behaviour have not been explored. We aimed to identify clinical and sociodemographic characteristics related to a change in physical activity and sedentary behaviour in patients with bronchiectasis after one year. Methods: This was a prospective observational study during which physical activity measurements were recorded using a SenseWear Armband for one week at baseline and at one year. At each assessment point, patients were classified as active or inactive (measured as steps per day) and as sedentary or not sedentary (measured as sedentary time). Results: 53 patients with bronchiectasis were analysed, and after one year, 18 (34%) had worse activity and sedentary levels. Specifically, 10 patients became inactive and sedentary. Multivariable analysis showed that the number of exacerbations during the follow-up period was the only outcome independently associated with change to higher inactivity and sedentary behaviour (odds ratio (OR), 2.19; 95% CI, 1.12 to 4.28). Conclusions: The number of exacerbations in patients with bronchiectasis was associated with changes in physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Exacerbation prevention may appear as a key factor in relation to physical activity and sedentary behaviour in patients with bronchiectasis.
An Evaluation of Medication Prescribing Patterns for Acute Migraine in the Emergency Department: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lim Jun Hua , Karimi Leila , Wijeratne Tissa
Published: March 2021

Migraine is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and patients with acute migraine frequently present to emergency departments (ED). The current literature suggests that ED treatment of migraine headache varies across institutions. Considering this, we conducted a scoping review to summarize trends in medication prescribing patterns for acute migraine treatment in the ED setting. Trends were evaluated for factors influencing treatment choices, with particular attention placed on opioids and migraine specific therapy. This scoping review was based on the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework and included studies published between 1 January 2000 and 31 May 2020. 14 publications met the inclusion criteria. The most common classes of medication prescribed were anti-emetics or Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), but rates varied between studies. There was a concerning trend towards an underutilization of triptans and overutilization of opiates. The use of specific clinical treatment goals (e.g., two-hour pain free freedom response) was also not evident. Additionally, 88% (n = 8) of the nine studies commenting on adherence to hospital or evidence-based guidelines stated that practices were non-adherent. Overall, the reviewed literature reveals treatment practices for acute migraine in the ED are heterogeneous and deviate from established international recommendations.
Natural History of Ulcerative Colitis with Coexistent Colonic Diverticulosis
Authors: Marafini Irene , Salvatori Silvia , Rocchetti Irene , Alfieri Norma , Scarozza Patrizio , Calabrese Emma , Biancone Livia , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: March 2021

Ulcerative colitis (UC) and colonic diverticulosis can co-exist in some patients. However, the natural history of UC associated with colonic diverticulosis is not well known. We here compared the disease characteristics and outcome of UC patients with and without concomitant colonic diverticulosis. Medical records of 347 UC patients were included in an observational, retrospective, nested-matched case-control study. Cases were 92 patients with UC and concomitant colonic diverticulosis, while controls were 255 UC patients without concomitant colonic diverticulosis. A propensity score matching (PSM) was used to homogenate cases (n = 92) and controls (n = 153) for age. UC patients with concomitant colonic diverticulosis were less likely to have an extensive disease (25/92, 27.1%) and to experience steroid dependence (8/92, 8.6%) compared to patients without concomitant colonic diverticulosis (70/153, 45.7% and 48/153, 31.3%, respectively; p < 0.001). The use of immunosuppressants (9/92, 9.7% vs. 37/153, 24.1%; p = 0.007) or biologics (3/92, 3.2% vs. 26/153, 16.9%, p < 0.001) was significantly lower in UC patients with concomitant diverticulosis compared to the control group. On multivariate analysis, steroid dependence and extensive colitis were significantly less frequent in UC patients with concomitant colonic diverticulosis compared to UC patients without diverticula. UC patients with coexisting colonic diverticulosis are less likely to have an extensive disease and to be steroid-dependent.
Hypertension and Related Comorbidities as Potential Risk Factors for COVID-19 Hospitalization and Severity: A Prospective Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Fresán Ujué , Guevara Marcela , Trobajo-Sanmartín Camino , Burgui Cristina , Ezpeleta Carmen , Castilla Jesús
Published: March 2021

The independent role of hypertension for COVID-19 outcomes in the population remains unclear. We aimed to estimate the independent effect of hypertension and hypertension-related conditions, i.e., cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and chronic kidney diseases, as potential risk factors for COVID-19 hospitalization and severe COVID-19 (i.e., intensive care unit admission or death) in the population. The risk for severe COVID-19 among hospitalized patients was also evaluated. A Spanish population-based cohort of people aged 25–79 years was prospectively followed from March to May 2020 to identify hospitalizations for laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. Poisson regression was used to estimate the adjusted relative risk (aRR) for COVID-19 hospitalization and severe COVID-19 among the whole cohort, and for severe COVID-19 among hospitalized patients. Of 424,784 people followed, 1106 were hospitalized by COVID-19 and 176 were severe cases. Hypertension was not independently associated with a higher risk of hospitalization (aRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.83–1.12) nor severe COVID-19 (aRR 1.12, 95% CI 0.80–1.56) in the population. Persons with cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and chronic kidney diseases were at higher risk for COVID-19 hospitalization (aRR 1.33, 95% CI 1.13–1.58; aRR 1.41, 95% CI 1.04–1.92; and aRR 1.52, 95% CI 1.21–1.91; respectively) and severe COVID-19 (aRR 1.61, 95% CI 1.13–2.30; aRR 1.91, 95% CI 1.13–3.25; and aRR 1.78, 95% CI 1.14–2.76; respectively). COVID-19 hospitalized patients with cerebrovascular diseases were at higher risk of mortality (aRR 1.80, 95% CI 1.00–3.23). The current study shows that, in the general population, persons with cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and chronic kidney diseases, but not those with hypertension only, should be considered as high-risk groups for COVID-19 hospitalization and severe COVID-19.
Delivering Tourism Sustainability and Competitiveness in Seaside and Marine Resorts with GIS
Authors: Jurkus Egidijus , Taminskas Julius , Povilanskas Ramūnas , Kontautienė Vytė , Baltranaitė Eglė , Dailidė Remigijus , Urbis Arvydas
Published: March 2021

In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly identified 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by the year 2030. The study’s main objective is to identify the necessary conditions and potential for ensuring both the sustainability and competitiveness of tourism in seaside and marine resorts located in or at coastal and marine protected areas on the example of Karklė (Lithuania). Based on the results of a benchmarking study of five South Baltic resorts using the Delphi technique, the survey team identified the main deficiencies of Karklė as a seaside and marine resort of an international scale. We address the deficiencies by applying a geographical information system as a decision-support tool for the Littoral Regional Park where Karklė is located. We conclude that for ensuring both the sustainability and competitiveness of tourism in seaside and marine resorts, it is expedient to combine the Delphi-based tourism benchmarking with integrated coastal management and maritime spatial planning, for which GIS is an indispensable tool.
Installation of Large-Diameter Monopiles: Introducing Wave Dispersion and Non-Local Soil Reaction
Authors: Tsetas Athanasios , Tsouvalas Apostolos , Metrikine Andrei V.
Published: March 2021

During the last decade the offshore wind industry grew ceaselessly and engineering challenges continuously arose in that area. Installation of foundation piles, known as monopiles, is one of the most critical phases in the construction of offshore wind farms. Prior to installation a drivability study is performed, by means of pile driving models. Since the latter have been developed for small-diameter piles, their applicability for the analysis of large-diameter monopiles is questionable. In this paper, a three-dimensional axisymmetric pile driving model with non-local soil reaction is presented. This new model aims to capture properly the propagation of elastic waves excited by impact piling and address non-local soil reaction. These effects are not addressed in the available approaches to predict drivability and are deemed critical for large-diameter monopiles. Predictions of the new model are compared to those of a one-dimensional model typically used nowadays. A numerical study is performed to showcase the disparities between the two models, stemming from the effect of wave dispersion and non-local soil reaction. The findings of this numerical study affirmed the significance of both mechanisms and the need for further developments in drivability modeling, notably for large-diameter monopiles.
The Mechanical Mechanism and Influencing Factors of Ice Adhesion Strength on Ice-Phobic Coating
Authors: Xie Qiang , Hao Tianhui , Wang Chao , Kang Zhenhang , Shi Zhonghua , Zhang Jifeng
Published: March 2021

Ice accretion can cause problems on polar ships, ocean platforms, and in other marine industries. It is important to understand the interface debonding behavior between ice and the surface of equipment. In this work, we created a mechanical model to analyze the interface debonding behavior between a square-based ice cuboid and an elastic coating base, using contact mechanics and fracture mechanics. Three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) simulation was used to simulate the interface debonding for normal and shear separation. A bilinear cohesive zone model (CZM) was used to simulate the interface between the ice cuboid and the elastic coating. We investigated the effect of the elastic modulus E of an elastic film on the critical detachment force Fc for normal and shear separation. The results showed that Fc increases with an increase of the elastic modulus of the elastic film. When E exceeds a certain level, Fc achieves a constant value and then remains stable. Finally, a series of epoxy/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) interpenetrating polymer-network (IPN) gel coatings with different elastic moduli were prepared. The ice tensile and shear adhesion strengths (σice and τice) of the coatings were measured. The results were roughly consistent with the results of the numerical simulation when E < 1 MPa.
GBP5 Serves as a Potential Marker to Predict a Favorable Response in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients Receiving a Taxane-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Cheng Shun-Wen , Chen Po-Chih , Ger Tzong-Rong , Chiu Hui-Wen , Lin Yuan-Feng
Published: March 2021

Pre-operative (neoadjuvant) or post-operative (adjuvant) taxane-based chemotherapy is still commonly used to treat patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, there are still no effective biomarkers used to predict the responsiveness and efficacy of taxane-based chemotherapy in TNBC patients. Here we find that guanylate-binding protein 5 (GBP5), compared to other GBPs, exhibits the strongest prognostic significance in predicting TNBC recurrence and progression. Whereas GBP5 upregulation showed no prognostic significance in non-TNBC patients, a higher GBP5 level predicted a favorable recurrence and progression-free condition in the TNBC cohort. Moreover, we found that GBP5 expression negatively correlated with the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of paclitaxel in a panel of TNBC cell lines. The gene knockdown of GBP5 increased the IC50 of paclitaxel in the tested TNBC cells. In TNBC patients receiving neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy, a higher GBP5 level strongly predicted a good responsiveness. Computational simulation by the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis program and cell-based assays demonstrated that GBP5 probably enhances the cytotoxic effectiveness of paclitaxel via activating the Akt/mTOR signaling axis and suppressing autophagy formation in TNBC cells. These findings suggest that GBP5 could be a good biomarker to predict a favorable outcome in TNBC patients who decide to receive a taxane-based neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy.
GHG Balance of Agricultural Intensification & Bioenergy Production in the Orinoquia Region, Colombia
Authors: Ramírez-Contreras Nidia Elizabeth , Munar-Florez David , Hilst Floor van der , Espinosa Juan Carlos , Ocampo-Duran Álvaro , Ruíz-Delgado Jonathan , Molina-López Diego L. , Wicke Birka , Garcia-Nunez Jesús Alberto , Faaij André P.C.
Published: March 2021

Energy crop expansion can increase land demand and generate displacement of food crops, which impacts greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions mainly through land-use change (LUC). Increased agricultural productivity could compensate for this. Our study aims to evaluate the regional combined GHG emissions of increasing agricultural yields for food crop and beef production and using the generated surplus land for biomass production to replace fossil fuels in the Orinoquia region of Colombia until 2030. The results show that surplus land for biomass production is obtained only when strong measures are applied to increase agricultural productivity. In the medium and high scenario, a land surplus of 0.6 and 2.4 Mha, respectively, could be generated. Such intensification results in up to 83% emission reduction in Orinoquia’s agricultural sector, largely coming from increasing productivity of cattle production and improving degraded pastures. Biofuel potential from the surplus land is projected at 36 to 368 PJ per year, with a low risk of causing indirect LUC, and results in GHG emission reductions of more than 100% compared to its fossil fuel equivalent. An integrated perspective of the agricultural land use enables sustainable production of both food and bioenergy.
Interaction between Neurons and the Oligodendroglial Lineage in Multiple Sclerosis and Its Preclinical Models
Authors: Pantazou Vasiliki , Roux Thomas , Oliveira Moreira Vanessa , Lubetzki Catherine , Desmazières Anne
Published: March 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex central nervous system inflammatory disease leading to demyelination and associated functional deficits. Though endogenous remyelination exists, it is only partial and, with time, patients can enter a progressive phase of the disease, with neurodegeneration as a hallmark. Though major therapeutic advances have been made, with immunotherapies reducing relapse rate during the inflammatory phase of MS, there is presently no therapy available which significantly impacts disease progression. Remyelination has been shown to favor neuroprotection, and it is thus of major importance to better understand remyelination mechanisms in order to promote them and hence preserve neurons. A crucial point is how this process is regulated through the neuronal crosstalk with the oligodendroglial lineage. In this review, we present the current knowledge on neuron interaction with the oligodendroglial lineage, in physiological context as well as in MS and its experimental models. We further discuss the therapeutic possibilities resulting from this research field, which might allow to support remyelination and neuroprotection and thus limit MS progression.
Role of Mitochondria in Viral Infections
Authors: Elesela Srikanth , Lukacs Nicholas W.
Published: March 2021

Viral diseases account for an increasing proportion of deaths worldwide. Viruses maneuver host cell machinery in an attempt to subvert the intracellular environment favorable for their replication. The mitochondrial network is highly susceptible to physiological and environmental insults, including viral infections. Viruses affect mitochondrial functions and impact mitochondrial metabolism, and innate immune signaling. Resurgence of host-virus interactions in recent literature emphasizes the key role of mitochondria and host metabolism on viral life processes. Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to damage of mitochondria that generate toxic compounds, importantly mitochondrial DNA, inducing systemic toxicity, leading to damage of multiple organs in the body. Mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy are essential for the maintenance of mitochondrial quality control and homeostasis. Therefore, metabolic antagonists may be essential to gain a better understanding of viral diseases and develop effective antiviral therapeutics. This review briefly discusses how viruses exploit mitochondrial dynamics for virus proliferation and induce associated diseases.
Cooling System with PCM Storage for an Office Building: Experimental Investigation Aided by a Model of the Office Thermal Dynamics
Authors: Karwacki Jarosław
Published: March 2021

The application of energy storage filled with phase-change material (PCM) is recently increasingly considered in active cooling systems. Such a design offers a higher density of thermal energy accumulation when compared with water storage. However, the optimum use of PCM storage is possible when its dynamic characteristics during the loading and unloading process are well recognized. Due to the complexity of the interaction between all elements of the heating/cooling system, a theoretical estimation of the profits is hard to perform in a reliable way. This is a significant problem at the design stage of the installation. In order to solve this problem, a laboratory experiment supported by a simulation was performed. The main aim of the experiment was to understand how the storage filled with the PCM in real-like conditions works. A test stand was made to investigate the effect of this solution on a reduced scale of 1:10. The PCM tested was RT15, a commercially available material that melts in the temperature range of 10–17 °C. The main parts of the stand are a chiller, an electric heater and thermal energy storage. The first two elements allowed a simulation of the thermal properties of the heat receiver, and their operation depended on the results from the numerical calculations. A lumped parameter model was used in mathematical description of the office building and its cooling system. The heat capacity of the system components as well as heat losses to the ambient environment were taken into account. The obtained results allowed the optimization of the control procedure and proved the validity of the applied investigation methods. This study confirmed the possibility of testing thermal energy storage with phase change material in real-like conditions.
Experimental Study of High Performance Synchronous Grouting Materials Prepared with Clay
Authors: Cui Ying , Tan Zhongsheng
Published: March 2021

Shield construction discharges a large amount of soil and muck. The utilization of discharged soil of shield always has high energy consumption and a low utilization rate. Meanwhile, synchronous grouting is a key process for shield tunneling. The current studies show that the synchronous grouting materials applied now generally have the problem of mismatching among filling property, fluidity, and consolidation strength. In order to study the feasibility of using the excavated soil produced by shield construction in clay stratum as synchronous grouting material, high performance synchronous grouting material was studied by taking red clay as an example, modified by epoxy resin. The fluidity, stability, and strength were measured to evaluate performance of the grout. Material test results show that the addition of waterborne epoxy resin decreases density, improves the stability, the rate of stone, and the toughness of the grouting concretion. Finally, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were measured to analyze the cementitious mechanism of the grout, test results demonstrated that cement hydration and curing reaction of epoxy resin happened in the grout, the formed polymer film filled the voids in the mixture and effectively bound cement hydration gel and clay particles together.
N-Acetyl-d-Glucosamine-Binding Lectin in Acropora tenuis Attracts Specific Symbiodiniaceae Cell Culture Strains
Authors: Takeuchi Ryota , Jimbo Mitsuru , Tanimoto Fumika , Iijima Mariko , Yamashita Hiroshi , Suzuki Go , Harii Saki , Nakano Yoshikatsu , Yasumoto Ko , Watabe Shugo
Published: March 2021

Many corals establish symbiosis with Symbiodiniaceae cells from surrounding environments, but very few Symbiodiniaceae cells exist in the water column. Given that the N-acetyl-d-glucosamine-binding lectin ActL attracts Symbiodiniaceae cells, we hypothesized that corals must attract Symbiodiniaceae cells using ActL to acquire them. Anti-ActL antibody inhibited acquisition of Symbiodiniaceae cells, and rearing seawater for juvenile Acropora tenuis contained ActL, suggesting that juvenile A. tenuis discharge ActL to attract these cells. Among eight Symbiodiniaceae cultured strains, ActL attracted NBRC102920 (Symbiodinium tridacnidorum) most strongly followed by CS-161 (Symbiodinium tridacnidorum), CCMP2556 (Durusdinium trenchii), and CCMP1633 (Breviolum sp.); however, it did not attract GTP-A6-Sy (Symbiodinium natans), CCMP421 (Effrenium voratum), FKM0207 (Fugacium sp.), and CS-156 (Fugacium sp.). Juvenile polyps of A. tenuis acquired limited Symbiodiniaceae cell strains, and the number of acquired Symbiodiniaceae cells in a polyp also differed from each other. The number of Symbiodiniaceae cells acquired by juvenile polyps of A. tenuis was correlated with the ActL chemotactic activity. Thus, ActL could be used to attract select Symbiodiniaceae cells and help Symbiodiniaceae cell acquisition in juvenile polyps of A. tenuis, facilitating establishment of symbiosis between A. tenuis and Symbiodiniaceae cells.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Review
Authors: Anjum Humayun , Surani Salim
Published: March 2021

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a disease, which targets the pulmonary vasculature affecting the heart and the lungs, and is characterized by a vast array of signs and symptoms. These manifestations of PH in pregnancy are highly variable and non-specific hence, it is prudent to have a very keen and high index of suspicion while evaluating these patients. This rare disease can be extremely debilitating and can be associated with a poor overall prognosis. Pregnancy in women with PH puts them at an elevated risk because the physiological changes associated with pregnancy are not well endured leading to even higher morbidity and mortality in these patients. Although there are various modalities for evaluation and workup of PH, right heart catheterization (RHC) remains the gold standard. A mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) of more than 20 mm of Hg is considered diagnostic. It is indeed heartening to see that in the past decade many novel therapeutic modalities have emerged and along with a better understanding of the disease process have proved to be promising in terms of reducing the adverse outcomes and preventing death in this population of patients.
Synthesis of Silica Particles Using Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Stopic Srecko , Wenz Felix , Husovic Tatjana-Volkov , Friedrich Bernd
Published: March 2021

Silica has sparked strong interest in hydrometallurgy, catalysis, the cement industry, and paper coating. The synthesis of silica particles was performed at 900 °C using the ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) method. Ideally, spherical particles are obtained in one horizontal reactor from an aerosol. The controlled synthesis of submicron particles of silica was reached by changing the concentration of precursor solution. The experimentally obtained particles were compared with theoretically calculated values of silica particles. The characterization was performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). X-ray diffraction, frequently abbreviated as XRD, was used to analyze the structure of obtained materials. The obtained silica by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis had an amorphous structure. In comparison to other methods such as sol–gel, acidic treatment, thermal decomposition, stirred bead milling, and high-pressure carbonation, the advantage of the ultrasonic spray method for preparation of nanosized silica controlled morphology is the simplicity of setting up individual process segments and changing their configuration, one-step continuous synthesis, and the possibility of synthesizing nanoparticles from various precursors.
Process Signature for Laser Hardening
Authors: Frerichs Friedhelm , Lu Yang , Lübben Thomas , Radel Tim
Published: March 2021

During many manufacturing processes for surface treatment of steel components heat will be exchanged between the environment and the workpiece. The heat exchange commonly leads to temperature gradients within the surface near area of the workpiece, which involve mechanical strains inside the material. If the corresponding stresses exceed locally the yield strength of the material residual stresses can remain after the process. If the temperature increase is high enough additionally phase transformation to austenite occurs and may lead further on due to a fast cooling to the very hard phase martensite. This investigation focuses on the correlation between concrete thermal loads such as temperature and temperature gradients and resulting modifications such as changes of the residual stress, the microstructure, and the hardness respectively. Within this consideration the thermal loads are the causes of the modifications and will be called internal material loads. The correlations between the generated internal material loads and the material modifications will be called Process Signature. The idea is that Process Signatures provide the possibility to engineer the workpiece surface layer and its functional properties in a knowledge-based way. This contribution presents some Process Signature components for a thermally dominated process with phase transformation: laser hardening. The target quantities of the modifications are the change of the residual stress state at the surface and the position of the 1st zero-crossing of the residual stress curve. Based on Finite Element simulations the internal thermal loadings during laser hardening are considered. The investigations identify for the considered target quantities the maximal temperature, the maximal temperature gradient, and the heating time as important parameters of the thermal loads.