bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Diabetes on Microcirculation and Leukostasis in Retinal and Non-Ocular Tissues: Implications for Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Herdade Ana Silva , Silva Iara Mota , Calado Ângelo , Saldanha Carlota , Nguyen Ngan-Ha , Hou Isabella , Castanho Miguel , Roy Sayon
Published: November 2020

Changes in retinal microcirculation are associated with the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, it is unclear whether such changes also develop in capillary beds of other non-retinal tissues. Here, we investigated microcirculatory changes involving velocity of rolling neutrophils, adherence of neutrophils, and leukostasis during development of retinal vascular lesions in diabetes in other non-retinal tissues. Intravital microscopy was performed on post-capillary venules of cremaster muscle and ear lobe of mice with severe or moderate diabetes and compared to those of non-diabetic mice. Additionally, number and velocity of rolling leukocytes, number of adherent leukocytes, and areas of leukostasis were quantified, and retinal capillary networks were examined for acellular capillaries (AC) and pericyte loss (PL), two prominent vascular lesions characteristic of DR. The number of adherent neutrophils and areas of leukostasis in the cremaster and ear lobe post-capillary venules of diabetic mice was increased compared to those of non-diabetic mice. Similarly, a significant increase in the number of rolling neutrophils and decrease in their rolling velocities compared to those of non-diabetic control mice were observed and severity of diabetes exacerbated these changes. Understanding diabetes-induced microcirculatory changes in cremaster and ear lobe may provide insight into retinal vascular lesion development in DR.
Digital Image Analysis of Picrosirius Red Staining: A Robust Method for Multi-Organ Fibrosis Quantification and Characterization
Authors: Courtoy Guillaume E. , Leclercq Isabelle , Froidure Antoine , Schiano Guglielmo , Morelle Johann , Devuyst Olivier , Huaux François , Bouzin Caroline
Published: November 2020

Current understanding of fibrosis remains incomplete despite the increasing burden of related diseases. Preclinical models are used to dissect the pathogenesis and dynamics of fibrosis, and to evaluate anti-fibrotic therapies. These studies require objective and accurate measurements of fibrosis. Existing histological quantification methods are operator-dependent, organ-specific, and/or need advanced equipment. Therefore, we developed a robust, minimally operator-dependent, and tissue-transposable digital method for fibrosis quantification. The proposed method involves a novel algorithm for more specific and more sensitive detection of collagen fibers stained by picrosirius red (PSR), a computer-assisted segmentation of histological structures, and a new automated morphological classification of fibers according to their compactness. The new algorithm proved more accurate than classical filtering using principal color component (red-green-blue; RGB) for PSR detection. We applied this new method on established mouse models of liver, lung, and kidney fibrosis and demonstrated its validity by evidencing topological collagen accumulation in relevant histological compartments. Our data also showed an overall accumulation of compact fibers concomitant with worsening fibrosis and evidenced topological changes in fiber compactness proper to each model. In conclusion, we describe here a robust digital method for fibrosis analysis allowing accurate quantification, pattern recognition, and multi-organ comparisons useful to understand fibrosis dynamics.
Cholesterol Efflux Capacity and Cardiovascular Disease: The Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) Study
Authors: Ritsch Andreas , Duerr Angela , Kahler Patrick , Hunjadi Monika , Stojakovic Tatjana , Silbernagel Guenther , Scharnagl Hubert , Kleber Marcus E. , März Winfried
Published: November 2020

(1) Background and Aims: Efforts to reduce coronary artery disease (CAD) by raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HDL-C) have not been uniformly successful. A more important factor than HDL-C may be cellular cholesterol efflux mediated by HDL, which has been shown to be associated with CAD. In this report, we analyzed the influence of cardiovascular biomarkers and risk factors on cholesterol efflux in a prospective observational study of patients referred to coronary angiography. (2) Methods: HDL-mediated efflux capacity was determined for 2468 participants of the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study who were referred to coronary angiography at baseline between 1997 and 2000. Median follow-up time was 9.9 years. Primary and secondary endpoints were cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, respectively. (3) Results: Cholesterol efflux strongly correlated with HDL-related markers including HDL cholesterol, HDL phospholipids, and apolipoproteins AI and AII, as well as HDL particle concentration, which was not seen for low density lipoprotein (LDL) markers including LDL cholesterol and apoB. Cholesterol efflux was associated negatively with C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and serum amyloid A. Cardiovascular mortality was higher in patients in the lowest cholesterol efflux quartile. This association was weakened, but not fully abolished, after adjustment for HDL cholesterol. (4) Conclusions: We demonstrate that cholesterol efflux was associated with HDL-composition as well as inflammatory burden in patients referred for coronary angiography, and that this inversely predicts cardiovascular mortality independently of HDL cholesterol.
Mitochondria at Work: New Insights into Regulation and Dysregulation of Cellular Energy Supply and Metabolism
Authors: Schirrmacher Volker
Published: November 2020

Mitochondria are of great relevance to health, and their dysregulation is associated with major chronic diseases. Research on mitochondria—156 brand new publications from 2019 and 2020—have contributed to this review. Mitochondria have been fundamental for the evolution of complex organisms. As important and semi-autonomous organelles in cells, they can adapt their function to the needs of the respective organ. They can program their function to energy supply (e.g., to keep heart muscle cells going, life-long) or to metabolism (e.g., to support hepatocytes and liver function). The capacity of mitochondria to re-program between different options is important for all cell types that are capable of changing between a resting state and cell proliferation, such as stem cells and immune cells. Major chronic diseases are characterized by mitochondrial dysregulation. This will be exemplified by cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases, immune system disorders, and cancer. New strategies for intervention in chronic diseases will be presented. The tumor microenvironment can be considered a battlefield between cancer and immune defense, competing for energy supply and metabolism. Cancer cachexia is considered as a final stage of cancer progression. Nevertheless, the review will present an example of complete remission of cachexia via immune cell transfer. These findings should encourage studies along the lines of mitochondria, energy supply, and metabolism.
The Potential Effect of Fucoidan on Inhibiting Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition, Proliferation, and Increase in Apoptosis for Endometriosis Treatment: In Vivo and In Vitro Study
Authors: Chang Li-Chun , Chiang Yi-Fen , Chen Hsin-Yuan , Huang Yun-Ju , Liu An-Chieh , Hsia Shih-Min
Published: November 2020

Endometriosis is common in reproductive-age women and its pathology is to increase proliferation and migration to enhance epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition progression (EMT). However, treatments are currently limited, so it is important to explore new therapeutic drugs. Hence, in this study, we investigate the therapeutic effect of fucoidan (FC) on the progression and mechanisms of endometriosis. The cell viability of endometrial cell lines End1/E6E7 and Vk2/E6E7 treated with different concentrations of FC were assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and cell counting. Cell migration was evaluated using wound-healing assay. In an in vivo experiment, female Balb/c mice received surgically induced endometriosis followed by different concentrations of fucoidan for 6 weeks. High-frequency ultrasound imaging was applied to detect subsequent lesion growth. The results demonstrated that fucoidan inhibited the viability and migration ability of End1/E6E7 and Vk2/E6E7 cells. Additionally, the administration of fucoidan reduced the volume and weight of endometriotic lesions, decreased inflammatory cytokines and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) of serum and lesions, and improved EMT proliferation and apoptosis-related protein expression. For the first time, fucoidan indicated anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects as well as inhibited EMT progression and induced apoptosis, improving endometriosis.
Field Testing of Biohybrid Robotic Jellyfish to Demonstrate Enhanced Swimming Speeds
Authors: Xu Nicole W. , Townsend James P. , Costello John H. , Colin Sean P. , Gemmell Brad J. , Dabiri John O.
Published: November 2020

Biohybrid robotic designs incorporating live animals and self-contained microelectronic systems can leverage the animals’ own metabolism to reduce power constraints and act as natural chassis and actuators with damage tolerance. Previous work established that biohybrid robotic jellyfish can exhibit enhanced speeds up to 2.8 times their baseline behavior in laboratory environments. However, it remains unknown if the results could be applied in natural, dynamic ocean environments and what factors can contribute to large animal variability. Deploying this system in the coastal waters of Massachusetts, we validate and extend prior laboratory work by demonstrating increases in jellyfish swimming speeds up to 2.3 times greater than their baseline, with absolute swimming speeds up to 6.6 ± 0.3 cm s−1. These experimental swimming speeds are predicted using a hydrodynamic model with morphological and time-dependent input parameters obtained from field experiment videos. The theoretical model can provide a basis to choose specific jellyfish with desirable traits to maximize enhancements from robotic manipulation. With future work to increase maneuverability and incorporate sensors, biohybrid robotic jellyfish can potentially be used to track environmental changes in applications for ocean monitoring.
Three-Dimensional Paper-Based Microfluidic Analysis Device for Simultaneous Detection of Multiple Biomarkers with a Smartphone
Authors: Baek Seung Ho , Park Chanyong , Jeon Jaehyung , Park Sungsu
Published: November 2020

Paper-based microfluidic analysis devices (μPADs) have attracted attention as a cost-effective platform for point-of-care testing (POCT), food safety, and environmental monitoring. Recently, three-dimensional (3D)-μPADs have been developed to improve the performance of μPADs. For accurate diagnosis of diseases, however, 3D-μPADs need to be developed to simultaneously detect multiple biomarkers. Here, we report a 3D-μPADs platform for the detection of multiple biomarkers that can be analyzed and diagnosed with a smartphone. The 3D-μPADs were fabricated using a 3D digital light processing printer and consisted of a sample reservoir (300 µL) connected to 24 detection zones (of 4 mm in diameter) through eight microchannels (of 2 mm in width). With the smartphone application, eight different biomarkers related to various diseases were detectable in concentrations ranging from normal to abnormal conditions: glucose (0–20 mmol/L), cholesterol (0–10 mmol/L), albumin (0–7 g/dL), alkaline phosphatase (0–800 U/L), creatinine (0–500 µmol/L), aspartate aminotransferase (0–800 U/L), alanine aminotransferase (0–1000 U/L), and urea nitrogen (0–7.2 mmol/L). These results suggest that 3D-µPADs can be used as a POCT platform for simultaneous detection of multiple biomarkers.
Low Intensity, Transcranial, Alternating Current Stimulation Reduces Migraine Attack Burden in a Home Application Set-Up: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Feasibility Study
Authors: Antal Andrea , Bischoff Rebecca , Stephani Caspar , Czesnik Dirk , Klinker Florian , Timäus Charles , Chaieb Leila , Paulus Walter
Published: November 2020

Background: Low intensity, high-frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) applied over the motor cortex decreases the amplitude of motor evoked potentials. This double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel group study aimed to test the efficacy of this method for acute management of migraines. Methods: The patients received either active (0.4 mA, 140 Hz) or sham stimulation for 15 min over the visual cortex with the number of terminated attacks two hours post-stimulation as the primary endpoint, as a home therapy option. They were advised to treat a maximum of five migraine attacks over the course of six weeks. Results: From forty patients, twenty-five completed the study, sixteen in the active and nine in the sham group with a total of 102 treated migraine attacks. The percentage of terminated migraine attacks not requiring acute rescue medication was significantly higher in the active (21.5%) than in the sham group (0%), and the perceived pain after active stimulation was significantly less for 2–4 h post-stimulation than after sham stimulation. Conclusion: tACS over the visual cortex has the potential to terminate migraine attacks. Nevertheless, the high drop-out rate due to compliance problems suggests that this method is impeded by its complexity and time-consuming setup.
Using Hybrid Telepractice for Supporting Parents of Children with ASD during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Feasibility Study in Iran
Authors: Samadi Sayyed Ali , Bakhshalizadeh-Moradi Shahnaz , Khandani Fatemeh , Foladgar Mehdi , Poursaid-Mohammad Maryam , McConkey Roy
Published: November 2020

During the three-month closure of clinics and day centers in Iran due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown, parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) became solely responsible for their care and education. Although centers maintained telephone contact, it quickly became evident that parents needed more detailed advice and guidance. Staff from 30 daycare centers volunteered to take part in a two-month online support and training course for 336 caregivers of children with ASD of different ages. In addition to the provision of visual and written information, synchronous video sessions were used to coach parents on the learning goals devised for the children. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected to understand the acceptability of using telepractice and the outcomes achieved. A low dropout rate and positive feedback from parents indicated that they perceived telepractice sessions to be useful. The factors contributing to parents’ satisfaction were identified. Although the use of telepractice would be a good alternative for caregivers in any future lockdowns, it could also be used in conjunction with daycare center services to encourage greater parental participation, or with families living in areas with no day centers. Further studies are needed to compare telepractice to usual daycare face-to-face interventions, and to document its impact and cost-effectiveness for parents and children.
No Change in Medial Olivocochlear Efferent Activity during an Auditory or Visual Task: Dual Evidence from Otoacoustic Emissions and Event-Related Potentials
Authors: Jedrzejczak W. , Milner Rafal , Ganc Malgorzata , Pilka Edyta , Skarzynski Henryk
Published: November 2020

The medial olivocochlear (MOC) system is thought to be responsible for modulation of peripheral hearing through descending (efferent) pathways. This study investigated the connection between peripheral hearing function and conscious attention during two different modality tasks, auditory and visual. Peripheral hearing function was evaluated by analyzing the amount of suppression of otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) by contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS), a well-known effect of the MOC. Simultaneously, attention was evaluated by event-related potentials (ERPs). Although the ERPs showed clear differences in processing of auditory and visual tasks, there were no differences in the levels of OAE suppression. We also analyzed OAEs for the highest magnitude resonant mode signal detected by the matching pursuit method, but again did not find a significant effect of task, and no difference in noise level or number of rejected trials. However, for auditory tasks, the amplitude of the P3 cognitive wave negatively correlated with the level of OAE suppression. We conclude that there seems to be no change in MOC function when performing different modality tasks, although the cortex still remains able to modulate some aspects of MOC activity.
Numeracy Skills, Cognitive Reserve, and Psychological Well-Being: What Relationship in Late Adult Lifespan?
Authors: Fastame Maria Chiara , Melis Silvia
Published: November 2020

Background: The capacity of understanding and manipulating numerical stimuli (i.e., numeracy) can impact decision making. This investigation was conducted to examine whether number comprehension and mental calculation predict hedonic (i.e., Scale of Positive and Negative Experience, SPANE) and eudaimonic (i.e., Flourishing Scale) well-being in late adulthood, and whether cognitive reserve (i.e., education, time spent for gardening, and time spent for leisure activities) and non-verbal reasoning predict numeracy skills of old adults. Additionally, the effect of age on numeracy was examined, controlling for the effect of education and cognitive efficiency. Methods: One hundred and fifty-eight (i.e., 65–94 years old) community-dwellers completed a battery of tools assessing numeracy, cognitive and metacognitive efficiency, and psychological well-being. Results: Number comprehension, metacognition, time spent for leisure, and perceived physical health accounted for 23% of the variance in the SPANE condition, whereas metacognition, perceived physical health, time for leisure, and education explained 15% of the variance in the Flourishing condition. Moreover, cognitive reserve assessed in terms of vocabulary and education predicted mental calculation. Finally, aging significantly impacted the mental calculation performance of older participants. Conclusions: These findings suggest that numeracy skills can selectively impact the mental health and daily life of older adults.
The Sense of Dignity at the End of Life: Reflections on Lifetime Values through the Family Photo Album
Authors: Testoni Ines , Baroni Vera , Iacona Erika , Zamperini Adriano , Keisari Shoshi , Ronconi Lucia , Grassi Luigi
Published: November 2020

This study focuses on the dimensions of dignity, linking Chochinov’s Dignity Therapy to Schwartz’s Theory of Values. The use of family photo albums has enriched the application of dignity therapy. Seven terminal patients in home-based palliative care participated in the therapeutic intervention. To measure the effects of the intervention, we administered the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale and the Patient Dignity Inventory, then, at the end of the meetings, collected the opinions of participants, available nurses, and relatives who attended the sessions. The resulting generativity documents were then analyzed through thematic analysis, which revealed three main themes linked to both fundamental values and the dimensions of dignity: The relationship between continuity of self and myriad values in the context of family relationships; personal dignity as characterized by the values of personal success, hope, and wisdom; and hope and generativity. The fourth theme reflected the participants’ final judgements on the intervention, which were highly positive and greatly encouraged further use of photographs in similar therapeutic interventions. The assessment protocol highlighted a significant decrease in tiredness amongst the participants and a trend towards a significant decrease in drowsiness after the intervention.
Nerve-Sparing Systematic Lymph Node Dissection in Gynaecological Oncology: An Innovative Neuro-Anatomical and Surgical Protocol for Enhanced Functional Outcomes
Authors: Muallem Mustafa Zelal , Diab Yasser , Jöns Thomas , Sehouli Jalid , Muallem Jumana
Published: November 2020

Whilst systematic lymph node dissection has been less prevalent in gynaecological cancer cases in the last few years, there is still a good number of cases that mandate a systematic lymph node dissection for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In all of these cases, it is crucial to perform the procedure as a nerve-sparing technique with utmost exactitude, which can be achieved optimally only by isolating and sparing all components of the aortic plexus and superior hypogastric plexus. To meet this purpose, it is essential to provide a comprehensive characterization of the specific anatomy of the human female aortic plexus and its variations. The anatomic dissections of two fresh and 17 formalin-fixed female cadavers were utilized to study, understand, and decipher the hitherto ambiguously annotated anatomy of the autonomic nervous system in the retroperitoneal para-aortic region. This study describes the precise anatomy of aortic and superior hypogastric plexus and provides the surgical maneuvers to dissect, highlight, and spare them during systematic lymph node dissection for gynaecological malignancies. The study also confirms the utility and feasibility of this surgery in gynaecological oncology.
Does Circular Stapler Size in Surgical Management of Esophageal Cancer Affect Anastomotic Leak Rate? 4-Year Experience of a European High-Volume Center
Authors: Müller Dolores T. , Babic Benjamin , Herbst Veronika , Gebauer Florian , Schlößer Hans , Schiffmann Lars , Chon Seung-Hun , Schröder Wolfgang , Bruns Christiane J. , Fuchs Hans F
Published: November 2020

Anastomotic leak is one of the most severe postoperative complications and is therefore considered a benchmark for the quality of surgery for esophageal cancer. There is substantial debate on which anastomotic technique is the best for patients undergoing Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. Our standardized technique is a circular stapled anastomosis with either a 25 or 28 mm anvil. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze whether the stapler diameter had an impact on postoperative anastomotic leak rates during a 4-year time frame from 2016 to 2020. A total of 632 patients (open, hybrid, and totally minimally invasive esophagectomy) met the inclusion criteria. A total of 214 patients underwent an anastomosis with a 25 mm stapler vs. 418 patients with a 28 mm stapler. Anastomotic leak rates were 15.4% vs. 10.8%, respectively (p = 0.0925). Stapler size should be chosen according to the individual anatomical situation of the patient. Stapler size may be of higher relevance in patients undergoing totally minimally invasive reconstruction.
Towards Understanding of Gastric Cancer Based upon Physiological Role of Gastrin and ECL Cells
Authors: Waldum Helge , Mjønes Patricia
Published: November 2020

The stomach is an ideal organ to study because the gastric juice kills most of the swallowed microbes and, thus, creates rather similar milieu among individuals. Combined with a rather easy access to gastric juice, gastric physiology was among the first areas to be studied. During the last century, a rather complete understanding of the regulation of gastric acidity was obtained, establishing the central role of gastrin and the histamine producing enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cell. Similarly, the close connection between regulation of function and proliferation became evident, and, furthermore, that chronic overstimulation of a cell with the ability to proliferate, results in tumour formation. The ECL cell has long been acknowledged to give rise to neuroendocrine tumours (NETs), but not to play any role in carcinogenesis of gastric adenocarcinomas. However, when examining human gastric adenocarcinomas with the best methods presently available (immunohistochemistry with increased sensitivity and in-situ hybridization), it became clear that many of these cancers expressed neuroendocrine markers, suggesting that some of these tumours were of neuroendocrine, and more specifically, ECL cell origin. Thus, the ECL cell and its main regulator, gastrin, are central in human gastric carcinogenesis, which make new possibilities in prevention, prophylaxis, and treatment of this cancer.
Breast Cancer Mortality among Women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutation in a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Plus Mammography Screening Program
Authors: Warner Ellen , Zhu Siqi , Plewes Donald B. , Hill Kimberley , Ramsay Elizabeth A. , Causer Petrina A. , Seely Jean , Jong Roberta A. , Lenkov Pamela , Elser Christine , Crystal Pavel , Yaffe Martin J. , Giannakeas Vasily , Sun Ping , Narod Steven A.
Published: November 2020

Annual breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plus mammography is the standard of care for screening women with inherited BRCA1/2 mutations. However, long-term breast cancer-related mortality with screening is unknown. Between 1997 and June 2011, 489 previously unaffected BRCA1/2 mutation carriers aged 25 to 65 years were screened with annual MRI plus mammography on our study. Thereafter, participants were eligible to continue MRI screening through the high-risk Ontario Breast Screening Program. In 2019, our data were linked to the Ontario Cancer Registry of Cancer Care Ontario to identify all incident cancers, vital status and causes of death. Observed breast cancer mortality was compared to expected mortality for age-matched women in the general population. There were 91 women diagnosed with breast cancer (72 invasive and 19 ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS)) with median follow-up 7.4 (range: 0.1 to 19.2) years. Four deaths from breast cancer were observed, compared to 2.0 deaths expected (standardized mortality ratio (SMR) 2.0, p = 0.14). For the 489 women in the study, the probability of not dying of breast cancer at 20 years from the date of the first MRI was 98.2%. Annual screening with MRI plus mammography is a reasonable option for women who decline or defer risk-reducing mastectomy.
Supported Bimetallic Catalysts for the Solvent-Free Hydrogenation of Levulinic Acid to γ-Valerolactone: Effect of Metal Combination (Ni-Cu, Ni-Co, Cu-Co)
Authors: Gebresillase Mahlet N. , Raguindin Reibelle Q. , Kim Hern , Seo Jeong Gil
Published: November 2020

γ-valerolactone (GVL) is an important value-added chemical with potential applications as a fuel additive, a precursor for valuable chemicals, and polymer synthesis. Herein, different monometallic and bimetallic catalysts supported on γ-Al2O3 nanofibers (Ni, Cu, Co, Ni-Cu, Ni-Co, Cu-Co) were prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation method and employed in the solvent-free hydrogenation of levulinic acid (LA) to GVL. The influence of metal loading, metal combination, and ratio on the activity and selectivity of the catalysts was investigated. XRD, SEM-EDS, TEM, H2-TPR, XPS, NH3-TPD, and N2 adsorption were used to examine the structure and properties of the catalysts. In this study, GVL synthesis involves the single-step dehydration of LA to an intermediate, followed by hydrogenation of the intermediate to GVL. Ni-based catalysts were found to be highly active for the reaction. [2:1] Ni-Cu/Al2O3 catalyst showed 100.0% conversion of LA with >99.0% selectivity to GVL, whereas [2:1] Ni-Co/Al2O3 yielded 100.0% conversion of LA with 83.0% selectivity to GVL. Moreover, reaction parameters such as temperature, H2 pressure, time, and catalyst loading were optimized to obtain the maximum GVL yield. The solvent-free hydrogenation process described in this study propels the future industrial production of GVL from LA.
Enhancement of Ni Catalyst Using CeO2–Al2O3 Support Prepared with Magnetic Inducement for ESR
Authors: Vacharapong Pumiwat , Arayawate Sirintra , Katanyutanon Sasimas , Toochinda Pisanu , Lawtrakul Luckhana , Charojrochkul Sumittra
Published: November 2020

The effect of magnetic inducement in support preparation was studied to reduce coke and improve the activity of Ni catalysts for ethanol steam reforming (ESR) at 550–650 °C. Magnetic inducement was introduced to prepare 5 mol % CeO2 in Al2O3 support in order to control the composition and the distribution of Ce in Al2O3. The results show that using CeO2–Al2O3 support with magnetic inducement affects both hydrogen production and coke reduction, where Ni/CeO2–Al2O3 support prepared under magnetic inducement with N–N pole arrangement (Ni/CeO2–Al2O3 (N–N)) exhibited the highest hydrogen production and the lowest coke formation among the catalysts used in this work. Compared with Ni/CeO2–Al2O3 (no magnet), Ni/CeO2–Al2O3 (N–N) catalysts yield 14.0% higher H2 production and 31.7% less coke production. The modified catalyst preparation process used in this study could create catalysts for hydrogen production from ESR which are high in performance and stability but low in preparation cost.
New Approach to Synthesis of Tetralin via Naphthalene Hydrogenation in Supercritical Conditions Using Polymer-Stabilized Pt Nanoparticles
Authors: Bykov Alexey V. , Alekseeva Daria V. , Demidenko Galina N. , Vasiliev Alexandre L. , Nikoshvili Linda , Kiwi-Minsker Lioubov
Published: November 2020

Supercritical (SC) fluid technologies are well-established methods in modern green chemical synthesis. Using SC fluids as solvents instead of traditional liquids gives benefits of higher diffusivity and lower viscosity, which allows mass transfer intensification and, thus, an increased production rate of chemical transformations. Therefore, a conjugation of heterogeneous catalysis with SC media is a large step toward a green chemistry. Tetralin (TL) is an important hydrogen donor solvent used for biomass liquefaction. In industry, TL is obtained via catalytic hydrogenation of naphthalene (NL). Herein, for the first time we have demonstrated the NL hydrogenation with close to 100% selectivity to TL at almost full conversion in the SC hexane. The observed transformation rates in SC hexane were much higher allowing process intensification. The downstream processes can be also facilitated since hexane after depressurisation can be easily separated from the reaction products via simple rectification. The TL synthesis was studied in a batch reactor at variation of reaction temperature and overall pressure. For the first time for this process, low Pt-loaded (1 wt.%) nanoparticles stabilized within hyper-cross-linked aromatic polymer (HAP) were applied. The Pt/HAP catalyst was stable under reaction conditions (250 °C, 6 MPa) allowing its recovery and reuse.
Peripheral Blood Eosinophilia Is Associated with Poor Outcome Post-Lung Transplantation
Authors: Kaes Janne , Van der Borght Elise , Vanstapel Arno , Van Herck Anke , Sacreas Annelore , Heigl Tobias , Vanaudenaerde Bart , Godinas Laurent , Van Raemdonck Dirk , Ceulemans Laurens , Neyrinck Arne , Vos Robin , Verleden Geert , Verleden Stijn ,   Group the Leuven Lung Transplant
Published: November 2020

Eosinophils play a role in many chronic lung diseases. In lung transplantation (LTx), increased eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was associated with worse outcomes. However, the effect of peripheral blood eosinophilia after LTx has not been investigated thoroughly. A retrospective study was performed including all LTx patients between 2011–2016. Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD)-free and graft survival were compared between patients with high and low blood eosinophils using an 8% threshold ever during follow-up. A total of 102 patients (27.1%) had high blood eosinophils (≥8%) (45 before CLAD and 17 after, 40 had no CLAD) and 274 (72.9%) had low eosinophils (<8%). Patients with high blood eosinophils demonstrated worse graft survival (p = 0.0001) and CLAD-free survival (p = 0.003) compared to low eosinophils. Patients with both high blood and high BAL (≥2%) eosinophils ever during follow-up had the worst outcomes. Within the high blood eosinophil group, 23.5% had RAS compared to 3% in the group with low eosinophils (p < 0.0001). After multivariate analysis, the association between high blood eosinophils and graft and CLAD-free survival remained significant (p = 0.036, p = 0.013) independent of high BAL eosinophils and infection at peak blood eosinophilia, among others. LTx recipients with ever ≥8% blood eosinophils demonstrate inferior graft and CLAD-free survival, specifically RAS, which requires further prospective research.
Human Pluripotent Stem Cells-Based Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases: Current Status and Challenges
Authors: Ford Elizabeth , Pearlman Jodie , Ruan Travis , Manion John , Waller Matthew , Neely Gregory G. , Caron Leslie
Published: November 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by irreversible cell damage, loss of neuronal cells and limited regeneration potential of the adult nervous system. Pluripotent stem cells are capable of differentiating into the multitude of cell types that compose the central and peripheral nervous systems and so have become the major focus of cell replacement therapies for the treatment of neurological disorders. Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) and human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived cells have both been extensively studied as cell therapies in a wide range of neurodegenerative disease models in rodents and non-human primates, including Parkinson’s disease, stroke, epilepsy, spinal cord injury, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and pain. In this review, we discuss the latest progress made with stem cell therapies targeting these pathologies. We also evaluate the challenges in clinical application of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-based therapies including risk of oncogenesis and tumor formation, immune rejection and difficulty in regeneration of the heterogeneous cell types composing the central nervous system.
“The Loss of Golden Touch”: Mitochondria-Organelle Interactions, Metabolism, and Cancer
Authors: Audano Matteo , Pedretti Silvia , Ligorio Simona , Crestani Maurizio , Caruso Donatella , De Fabiani Emma , Mitro Nico
Published: November 2020

Mitochondria represent the energy hub of cells and their function is under the constant influence of their tethering with other subcellular organelles. Mitochondria interact with the endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, cytoskeleton, peroxisomes, and nucleus in several ways, ranging from signal transduction, vesicle transport, and membrane contact sites, to regulate energy metabolism, biosynthetic processes, apoptosis, and cell turnover. Tumorigenesis is often associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, which could likely be the result of an altered interaction with different cell organelles or structures. The purpose of the present review is to provide an updated overview of the links between inter-organellar communications and interactions and metabolism in cancer cells, with a focus on mitochondria. The very recent publication of several reviews on these aspects testifies the great interest in the area. Here, we aim at (1) summarizing recent evidence supporting that the metabolic rewiring and adaptation observed in tumors deeply affect organelle dynamics and cellular functions and vice versa; (2) discussing insights on the underlying mechanisms, when available; and (3) critically presenting the gaps in the field that need to be filled, for a comprehensive understanding of tumor cells’ biology. Chemo-resistance and druggable vulnerabilities of cancer cells related to the aspects mentioned above is also outlined.
Cytokinin and Ethylene Cell Signaling Pathways from Prokaryotes to Eukaryotes
Authors: Bidon Baptiste , Kabbara Samar , Courdavault Vincent , Glévarec Gaëlle , Oudin Audrey , Héricourt François , Carpin Sabine , Spíchal Lukáš , Binder Brad M. , Cock J. Mark , Papon Nicolas
Published: November 2020

Cytokinins (CKs) and ethylene (ET) are among the most ancient organic chemicals on Earth. A wide range of organisms including plants, algae, fungi, amoebae, and bacteria use these substances as signaling molecules to regulate cellular processes. Because of their ancestral origin and ubiquitous occurrence, CKs and ET are also considered to be ideal molecules for inter-kingdom communication. Their signal transduction pathways were first historically deciphered in plants and are related to the two-component systems, using histidine kinases as primary sensors. Paradoxically, although CKs and ET serve as signaling molecules in different kingdoms, it has been supposed for a long time that the canonical CK and ET signaling pathways are restricted to terrestrial plants. These considerations have now been called into question following the identification over recent years of genes encoding CK and ET receptor homologs in many other lineages within the tree of life. These advances shed new light on the dissemination and evolution of these hormones as both intra- and inter-specific communication molecules in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
Fundamental Motor Skills Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A 10-Year Narrative Review
Authors: Busti Ceccarelli Silvia , Ferrante Camilla , Gazzola Erica , Marzocchi Gian Marco , Nobile Maria , Molteni Massimo , Crippa Alessandro
Published: November 2020

In the past decade, converging evidence has suggested that motor impairment is one of the most consistent markers, alongside sociocommunicative difficulties, for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Indeed, widespread anomalies of movement have been described in the ASD context. These motor abnormalities could have critical implications for subsequent cognitive and social development. Nevertheless, this area of development is particularly underexamined in the autism-related context, and early intervention programs commonly focus on the core symptoms of the condition. In the present work, we review and discuss the findings from recent studies that investigated the effect of interventions regarding fundamental motor skills in autistic children. Although the limited nature of the literature prevents researchers from drawing definitive conclusions, the results from the studies discussed here demonstrated potentially significant improvements in the motor abilities of autistic children after the interventions. Only a subset of the reviewed studies explored possible changes in the sociocommunicative domain after the motor skills improvements, and they had not concordant, although promising, conclusions. Overall, in consideration of the well-documented motor impairment people with the condition, the present findings highlight the importance of including motor skills training within the rehabilitation programs designed for autistic children. Furthermore, this narrative review encourages future interventional trials to consider motor skills as a possible target for reducing activity limitations and participation restrictions of autistic children.
Biomimetic Calcium Phosphate Coating as a Drug Delivery Vehicle for Bone Tissue Engineering: A Mini-Review
Authors: Lin Xingnan , Chen Jiping , Liao Ying , Pathak Janak Lal , Li Huang , Liu Yuelian
Published: November 2020

The high incidence of bone defect cases necessitates a rapid development of cost-effective bone tissue engineering approaches. Bone growth factors such as bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) play a vital role in bone tissue engineering. The osteoinductive efficacy of BMP-2 and other osteogenic growth factors is highly dependent on their dose and delivery mode. Slow and sustained delivery of a low dose of BMP-2 promotes bone defect healing. However, the burst release of a high dose of BMP-2 not only fails to promote bone healing but also causes adverse local and systemic effects. The biomimetic calcium phosphate (BioCaP) coating technique guarantees a slow, gradual, and local release of BMP-2 to mimic its natural release from the bone matrix under physiological conditions. Therefore, BioCaP coatings have long been regarded as a promising drug carrier for growth factors. In this mini-review, we give a brief introduction to BioCaP coatings regarding their preparation techniques, physicochemical properties, potential as a drug carrier, ability to suppress foreign body reactivity, and their preclinical application in ectopic and orthotopic models. Finally, the current challenges and future prospects of BioCaP coatings are discussed.
Antimicrobial Properties of Samarium Doped Hydroxyapatite Suspensions and Coatings
Authors: Iconaru Simona Liliana , Groza Andreea , Gaiaschi Sofia , Rokosz Krzysztof , Raaen Steinar , Ciobanu Steluta Carmen , Chapon Patrick , Predoi Daniela
Published: November 2020

Post-implant infections are a major health problem, and it is well-known that treating them with conventional drugs is accompanied by many disadvantages. The development of new biomaterials with enhanced antimicrobial properties are of major interest for the scientific world. The aim of this study was to synthesize and characterize hydroxyapatite doped with Samarium (Ca10−xSmx(PO4)6(OH)2, xSm = 0.05, 5Sm-HAp) suspensions, pellets and coatings. The 5Sm-HAp coatings on Si substrates were obtained by rf magnetron sputtering technique. The different techniques such as ultrasound measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GDOES), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to examine the obtained coatings. The results showed that the doped Sm ions entered the structure of hydroxyapatite successfully and Sm ions was uniformly doped onto the surface of the support. The depth profile curves of Ca, P, O, H, Ce and Si elements exhibit their presence from a surface to substrate interface as function of sputtering time. XPS analysis indicated as calcium-phosphate structures enriched in Sm3+ ions. Furthermore, the antimicrobial properties of the 5Sm-HAp suspensions, targets and coatings were assessed against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. The results of the antimicrobial assays highlighted that that the samples presented a strong antimicrobial activity against the tested microbial strains. The results showed that the coatings after 48 h of incubation inhibited the growth of all tested microbial strains under the value of 0.6 Log CFU/mL. This study shows that the 5Sm-HAp samples are good candidates for the development of new antimicrobial agents.
Special Issue on Surfaces Modification and Analysis for Innovative Biomaterials
Authors: De Giglio Elvira
Published: November 2020

The reactivity of a biomaterial is literally “written on its surface”, since it contacts host tissues and leads to the biological response [...]
Nanoparticles in Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Layer-by-Layer (LbL) Films and Capsules—Key Enabling Components of Hybrid Coatings
Authors: Lengert Ekaterina V. , Koltsov Semyon I. , Li Jie , Ermakov Alexey V. , Parakhonskiy Bogdan V. , Skorb Ekaterina V. , Skirtach Andre G.
Published: November 2020

Originally regarded as auxiliary additives, nanoparticles have become important constituents of polyelectrolyte multilayers. They represent the key components to enhance mechanical properties, enable activation by laser light or ultrasound, construct anisotropic and multicompartment structures, and facilitate the development of novel sensors and movable particles. Here, we discuss an increasingly important role of inorganic nanoparticles in the layer-by-layer assembly—effectively leading to the construction of the so-called hybrid coatings. The principles of assembly are discussed together with the properties of nanoparticles and layer-by-layer polymeric assembly essential in building hybrid coatings. Applications and emerging trends in development of such novel materials are also identified.
Production of Microbial Cellulose Films from Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Kombucha with Various Carbon Sources
Authors: Treviño-Garza Mayra , Guerrero-Medina Ana , González-Sánchez Ricardo , García-Gómez Celestino , Guzmán-Velasco Antonio , Báez-González Juan , Márquez-Reyes Julia
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the production of microbial cellulose films (MCFs) in culture media based on green tea and different carbon sources, using two microbial consortia (COr and CFr). During the fermentation process, there was a reduction in the total soluble solids (TSS) content and pH, as well as an increase in the acidity in all treatments. Furthermore, fluctuations in the total sugar content and proteins during the fermentation process were associated with the consumption of carbon and nitrogen sources, as well as the production of MCFs. In the color analysis, a decrease in the L* value was observed while the rest of the parameters remained stable. Production of films was observed between days 6 and 9 of fermentation; the preferred substrate for COr was glucose (wet base yields = 603.61% and dry base yields = 22.37%), whereas for CFr was dextrose (wet base yields = 601.49% and dry base yields = 28.14%). Finally, the MCFs produced by COr and CFr showed a homogeneous, thick appearance, slight flexibility, and the characteristic brown color of the fermentation medium.
Oxidation and Wear Mechanisms of FeCoCrNiMnAlx Cladding Layers at High-Temperature Condition
Authors: Cui Yan , Shen Junqi , Hu Shengsun , Geng Keping
Published: November 2020

FeCoCrNiMnAlx high-entropy alloy (HEA) cladding layers were successfully fabricated on H13 steel by laser cladding. The microstructure and properties of the FeCoCrNiMnAlx HEA cladding layers were systematically studied. The influence of Al content on high-temperature wear resistance of HEAs was investigated by depth-of-field microscopy, XRD, SEM and EDS. Addition of Al element affected the mechanism of oxidation and strengthening of the cladding layers, and effectively promoted its anti-oxidant and abrasion resistance. Compared with the FeCoCrNiMn cladding layer, the FeCoCrNiMnAl0.75 cladding layer enhanced the anti-plastic deformation capacity by 7.1% and reduced oxidation weight gain and total wear weight loss at high temperature by 36.79% and 79.0%, respectively. The wear mechanisms of the cladding layer at high temperature were mainly oxidation wear and abrasive wear, while adhesive wear took a backseat.
Effect of Rb+ Doping on Tunable Luminescence in Yb3+/Er3+–Y2O3 Film
Authors: Xu Boxu , Song Chao , Song Jun , Huang Rui , Liu Juncheng , Lin Zhenxu , Zhang Yi , Song Jie , Li Hongliang
Published: November 2020

In this paper, a series of Rb+-doped Er3+/Yb3+–Y2O3 films were synthesized via a sol-gel method and spin coating. The structure and morphology of the samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The Rb+-doped films with nanoparticles, in the size range of 20–40 nm, were obtained. The spectroscopic analysis of the samples was investigated by using the emission spectra and the intensity of luminescence. All the samples exhibited a green emission ascribed to 2H11/2/4S3/2 to 4I15/2 of Er3+ and a red one ascribed to 4F9/2 and its stark level to 4I15/2 of Er3+. As the Rb+ concentration increased, the intensities of the green light and red light were enhanced 16.97- and 5.81-fold relative to that of the undoped sample. Moreover, by controlling the Rb+ concentration, the samples were capable of generating color-tunable luminescence from red to green linearly. The tunable emission was caused by the change of ion distribution ratio in 4F7/2(Er) and 4F9/2(Er) levels. The results suggest that the as-prepared Rb+-doped Er3+/Yb3+–Y2O3 films have a great potential for applications of luminescence.
Special Issue: “Optical Thin Films and Structures: Design and Advanced Applications”
Authors: Babeva Tsvetanka
Published: November 2020

This Special Issue is devoted on design and application of thin films and structures with special emphasis on optical applications. It comprises ten papers, five featured and five regular papers, authored by respective scientists all over the world. Diverse materials are studied and their possible applications are demonstrated and discussed: transparent conductive coatings and structures from ZnO doped with Al and Ga and Ti-doped SnO2, polymer and nanosized zeolite thin films for optical sensing, TiO2 with linear and non-linear optical properties, organic diamagnetic materials, broadband optical coatings, CrWN glass molding coatings and silicon on insulator waveguides.