bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities and Challenges for Integrating New In Vitro Methodologies in Hazard Testing and Risk Assessment
Authors: Burden Natalie , Clift Martin J. D. , Jenkins Gareth J. S. , Labram Briony , Sewell Fiona
Published: January 2021

Nanomaterials are defined as materials with at least one dimension of 100 nm or less. Their small size confers unique properties that may alter the toxicity profile when compared to larger forms of the same material, requiring additional considerations for safety assessment. There has been a rise in the development of nanomaterials for many applications, and although traditional approaches for toxicity testing may address some of the new toxicity concerns, many may not be directly applicable to nanomaterials and new tools or approaches may need to be developed. Since nanomaterials can exist in many different forms, each of which may cause different adverse biological effects, reliance on traditional in vivo models for safety assessment will simply not be feasible or sustainable, given the volume of materials that may need to be tested. It is essential to consider and develop new in vitro methods that can be applied for hazard identification and risk assessment. Many challenges are associated with using alternative approaches to ensure they are as robust and reliable as traditional in vivo approaches, but by overcoming these issues and adopting new testing strategies there are opportunities to improve safety assessments and reduce the reliance on animal‐based toxicity testing strategies.
Artificial Intelligence Goes Physical
Authors: Jing Zhaokun , Yang Yuchao
Published: January 2021

Exploiting the intrinsic nonlinearity in physical reservoirs, e.g., dopant‐atom networks, provides a new approach toward highly efficient computing such as feature projection and classification. In a recent study by Chen et al., the computational capability of dopant‐atom network was investigated and found to diminish as the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) increased, indicating the existence of an optimal bias condition. Although high SNR is often pursued in signal processing, it shows that embracing noise in non‐conventional computing systems may lead to a leap in computing capacity. This work showcased that material or device physics in different domains offer valuable substrates for complex computing functions and high energy efficiency.
A Nonenzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide Electrochemical Sensing and Application in Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Yu Yan , Peng Jinrong , Pan Meng , Ming Yang , Li Yan , Yuan Liping , Liu Qingya , Han Ruxia , Hao Ying , Yang Yun , Hu Danrong , Li He , Qian Zhiyong
Published: January 2021

The diagnosis of malignant tumors is essential for informing clinical decisions regarding therapeutic options. Current imaging and pathological diagnostic methods do not provide quantitative molecular information that is important in tumor identification. Moreover, pathological tissue analysis is dependent on unevenly distributed pathological features. The tumor microenvironment has been documented to have hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This study presents a biologically sensitive and efficient H2O2 electrochemical sensor based on PtNi nanoparticle‐doped N‐reduced graphene oxide (PtNi‐N‐rGO) with a low detection limit (2.8 × 10–9 m), a fast response time (<6 s) and desirable anti‐interference characteristics. Herein, H2O2 is used as molecular biomarker. The sensor successfully captures H2O2 from cancer cells. In addition, it efficiently detects tumor tissues, adjacent tissues, and normal tissues. This study demonstrates the H2O2 sensor potential to rapidly detect tumor tissues. This technique provides a complementary method for pathological tumor diagnosis that is independent of the traditional pathology labs.
Photoactive Material for Highly Efficient and All Solution‐Processed Organic Photovoltaic Modules: Study on the Efficiency, Stability, and Synthetic Complexity
Authors: Liao Chuang-Yi , Hsiao Yu-Tang , Tsai Kuen-Wei , Teng Nai-Wei , Li Wei-Long , Wu Jhao-Lin , Kao Jui-Chih , Lee Chun-Chieh , Yang Chi-Ming , Tan Huei-Shuan , Chung Kuo-Hua , Chang Yi-Ming
Published: January 2021

A scalable and accessible photoactive formulation with a low synthetic complexity (SC) index is utilized in organic photovoltaic (OPV) fabrication. The formulation readily dissolves in nonchlorinated solvents, and the corresponding photoactive films can be processed by various coating methods to fabricate devices with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 16.1% and 15.2% when using vacuum‐based molybdenum oxide and solution‐processable conducting polymer as the hole transporting layer in the inverted structure, respectively. This prepared device shows superior stability under light exposure. The PCE is maintained 94% of the initial values after 1080 h of light soaking at 100 mW cm−2. Furthermore, the figure of merit based on the ratio of the SC index and PCE indicates the benefit of this formulation for OPV manufacturing, showing the feasibility of commercialization. Eventually, a PCE of 10.3% is demonstrated for a mini‐module fabricated under ambient conditions, with an active area of 32.6 cm2. To our knowledge, this PCE is one of the largest values reported to date for a green solvent and an all‐solution‐processed OPV module with an inverted architecture.
Hysteretic model of shear walls built with high‐strength reinforcement
Authors: Ni Xiangyong , Cao Shuangyin , Hou Yonghui
Published: January 2021

The seismic performance of shear walls reinforced with high‐strength bars has been experimentally studied in depth; however, limited analytical research exists on such walls. As part of this study, two shear walls reinforced with Grade HRB 600 bars and subjected to different axial load ratios (0.1 and 0.2) were tested under cyclic loading to study their hysteretic performance. As part of the analytical investigation, a method to model the hysteretic response of shear walls built with high‐strength bars is proposed, consisting of a skeleton curve and a set of empirical hysteretic rules. The skeleton curve consists of a simplified quadrilinear model, represented by points at cracking, yield, peak, and ultimate. The empirical hysteretic rules are based on the Park hysteretic model. The experimental test data in this paper were used to validate the accuracy of the proposed analytical method. The results show that the analytical lateral force‐displacement hysteretic curves are in reasonable agreement with the experimental curves, especially in terms of the loading and unloading stiffnesses and pinching behavior.
Typification and nomenclature of the names in the Santolina chamaecyparissus species complex (Asteraceae)
Authors: Giacò Antonio , Astuti Giovanni , Peruzzi Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

A nomenclatural revision of the Santolina chamaecyparissus species complex is presented. A detailed survey of original material for all names applied to members of the complex was performed, and 28 names are newly typified. The current usage of the names S. villosa and S. ericoides, relating to some Spanish and French populations, is discussed. The name S. villosa is applied to a taxon endemic to Spain, whereas S. ericoides is applied to those Spanish and French populations often traditionally referred to S. villosa.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Lithium Batteries Based on Extended Kalman Particle Filter
Authors: Zhang Ning , Xu Aidong , Wang Kai , Han Xiaojia , Hong Wenhuan , Hong Seung Ho
Published: January 2021

The prognosis of time‐to‐failure for a battery can avoid the failure caused by battery performance loss. In this paper, a novel and effective algorithm is proposed to predict the remaining useful life of lithium‐ion batteries. The extended Kalman particle filter is used to improve particle degradation problem existing in standard particle filter algorithm. In order to fit battery capacity degradation, a transformed model is proposed based on double exponential empirical degradation model. It can reduce the number of parameters and the training difficulty of parameters; it also matches the form of state transfer equation. In order to improve prediction accuracy, the auto regression model is introduced to correct observation values produced by observation equation. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively improve the accuracy of prediction compared with other algorithms. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Effect of high temperature toward microalgal organic matter and its impact toward membrane distillation application
Authors: Cheah Yi Tong , Lakbir Singh Harsimran Kaur Kler , Chan Derek Juinn Chieh
Published: January 2021

Membrane distillation (MD) frequently deals with membrane biofouling caused by deposition of algal organic matter (AOM) from algal blooms, hampering the treatment efficiency. In this study, AOMs, which are soluble extracellular polymeric substance (sEPS), bounded EPS (bEPS), and internal organic matter (IOM) from three benthic species (Amphora coffeaeformis, Cylindrotheca fusiformis, and Navicula incerta) were exposed to a temperature range to resemble the MD process. Results showed that EPS had higher polysaccharide fraction than protein with 85.71%, 68.26%, and 71.91% for A. coffeaeformis, N. incerta, and C. fusiformis, respectively. Both the EPS polysaccharide and protein concentration linearly increase with temperature, but the opposite was true for IOM and high‐molecular‐weight (HMW) polysaccharide. At 80°C, 5812.94 μg/g out of 6304.28 μg/g polysaccharide in A. coffeaeformis was of low molecular weight (LMW); hence, these findings suggested that they were the major foulants to clog the narrow pores within virgin hydrophobic membrane, forming a conditioning layer followed by deposition of HMW and hydrophilic polysaccharides onto the macropores to cause irreversible fouling. Cell lysis occurring at higher temperature increases the total protein content about 25% within the EPS matrix, inducing membrane plugging via hydrophobic–hydrophobic interactions. Overall, the AOM composition at different temperatures will likely dictate the fouling severity in MD.

Practitioner points

EPS production of three benthic diatoms was the highest at 80°C.

EPS from diatoms consists of at least 75.29% of polysaccharides.

Small molecular weight carbohydrates (<12 kDa) were potential foulants.

Proteins of internal organic matter (>56%) give irreversible attachment towards membranes.

A. coffeaeformis was considered as the most fouling diatoms with highest EPS amount of 6304.28 μg/g.
6d (2, 0) and M-theory at 1-loop
Authors: Alday Luis F. , Chester Shai M. , Raj Himanshu
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We study the stress tensor multiplet four-point function in the 6d maximally supersymmetric (2, 0) AN−1 and DN theories, which have no Lagrangian description, but in the large N limit are holographically dual to weakly coupled M-theory on AdS7× S4 and AdS7× S4/ℤ2, respectively. We use the analytic bootstrap to compute the 1-loop correction to this holographic correlator coming from Witten diagrams with supergravity R and the first higher derivative correction R4 vertices, which is the first 1-loop correction computed for a non-Lagrangian theory. We then take the flat space limit and find precise agreement with the corresponding terms in the 11d M-theory S-matrix, some of which we compute for the first time using two-particle unitarity cuts.
Einstein gravity from Conformal Gravity in 6D
Authors: Anastasiou Giorgos , Araya Ignacio J. , Olea Rodrigo
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We extend Maldacena’s argument, namely, obtaining Einstein gravity from Conformal Gravity, to six dimensional manifolds. The proof relies on a particular combination of conformal (and topological) invariants, which makes manifest the fact that 6D Conformal Gravity admits an Einstein sector. Then, by taking generalized Neumann boundary conditions, the Conformal Gravity action reduces to the renormalized Einstein-AdS action. These restrictions are implied by the vanishing of the traceless Ricci tensor, which is the defining property of any Einstein spacetime. The equivalence between Conformal and Einstein gravity renders trivial the Einstein solutions of 6D Critical Gravity at the bicritical point.
Light-front holographic ρ-meson distributions in the momentum space
Authors: Kaur Satvir , Mondal Chandan , Dahiya Harleen
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We present the leading-twist quark transverse momentum-dependent parton distribution functions (TMDs) for the spin-1 target, such as the ρ-meson, in the light-front framework. Specifically, we predict the TMDs in the light-front holographic model and compare with the light-front quark model predictions. We obtain the TMDs using the overlap of the light-front wave functions. We evaluate the k⊥ moments upto second order and compare with the available theoretical predictions. Further, we analyze the leading-twist parton distribution functions (PDFs) of the ρ-meson in the light-front holographic model which are found to be in accord with the Nambu-Jona-Lasinio (NJL) model and the light-front quark model predictions. We further study the QCD evolution of the PDFs. The positivity bounds on the TMDs and the PDFs are also discussed. We also present the quark spin densities in the transverse momentum plane for different polarization configurations of the quark and the ρ-meson target.
Antimicrobial d-amino acid oxidase-derived peptides specify gut microbiota
Authors: Murtas Giulia , Sacchi Silvia , Tedeschi Gabriella , Maffioli Elisa , Notomista Eugenio , Cafaro Valeria , Abbondi Monica , Mothet Jean-Pierre , Pollegioni Loredano
Published: January 2021

The flavoenzyme d-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) is deputed to the degradation of d-enantiomers of amino acids. DAAO plays various relevant physiological roles in different organisms and tissues. Thus, it has been recently suggested that the goblet cells of the mucosal epithelia secrete into the lumen of intestine, a processed and active form of DAAO that uses the intestinal d-amino acids to generate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), an immune messenger that helps fighting gut pathogens, and by doing so controls the homeostasis of gut microbiota. Here, we show that the DAAO form lacking the 1–16 amino acid residues (the putative secretion signal) is unstable and inactive, and that DAAO is present in the epithelial layer and the mucosa of mouse gut, where it is largely proteolyzed. In silico predicted DAAO-derived antimicrobial peptides show activity against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria but not on Lactobacilli species, which represent the commensal microbiota. Peptidomic analysis reveals the presence of such peptides in the mucosal fraction. Collectively, we identify a novel mechanism for gut microbiota selection implying DAAO-derived antimicrobial peptides which are generated by intestinal proteases and that are secreted in the gut lumen. In conclusion, we herein report an additional, ancillary role for mammalian DAAO, unrelated to its enzymatic activity.
Increased hospital treatment volume of splenic injury predicts higher rates of successful non-operative management and reduces hospital length of stay: a Swiss Trauma Registry analysis
Authors: Lavanchy Joël L. , Delafontaine Luciane , Haltmeier Tobias , Bednarski Piotr , Schnüriger Beat ,   the Swiss Trauma Registry
Published: January 2021

Purpose

First time analysis of the epidemiology, management and outcomes of patients with splenic injuries in Switzerland. This study aims to assess the effect of hospital treatment volume on successful non-operative management (NOM) in splenic injuries.

Methods

A multicentric registry-based study including all patients with splenic injuries entered into the Swiss Trauma Registry from 2015 to 2018 was conducted. Patients were stratified according to the hospitals treatment volume of splenic injuries. Primary outcome was the rate of successful NOM.

Results

During the 4-year study period, 652 patients with splenic injury were included in the study. Median age of the study population was 42 (IQR 27–59) years, and median ISS was 26 (20–34). The overall rate of successful NOM was 86.5%. Median HLOS was 13 (8–21) days. In-hospital mortality was 7.2% (n = 47). The mean number of patients with splenic injuries per center and year was 14. Five out of 12 Level I trauma centers treating more patients than the mean (≥ 15/year) were defined as high-volume centers.

Multivariable analysis adjusting for differences in baseline and injury characteristics revealed treatment in a high-volume center as an independent predictor for successful NOM (OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.28–3.60, p = 0.004) and shorter HLOS (RC − 2.39, 95% CI − 4.91/− 0.48, p = 0.017), however, not for reduced in-hospital mortality (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.39–2.18, p = 0.845).

Conclusion

Higher hospital treatment volume was associated with a higher rate of NOM and shorter HLOS, but not lower mortality. These results constitute the basis for further quality improvement in the care of splenic injury patients within the trauma system in Switzerland.
3D culture conditions support Kaposi’s sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) maintenance and viral spread in endothelial cells
Authors: Dubich Tatyana , Dittrich Anne , Bousset Kristine , Geffers Robert , Büsche Guntram , Köster Mario , Hauser Hansjörg , Schulz Thomas F. , Wirth Dagmar
Published: January 2021

Kaposi’s sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is a human tumorigenic virus and the etiological agent of an endothelial tumor (Kaposi’s sarcoma) and two B cell proliferative diseases (primary effusion lymphoma and multicentric Castleman’s disease). While in patients with late stage of Kaposi’s sarcoma the majority of spindle cells are KSHV-infected, viral copies are rapidly lost in vitro, both upon culture of tumor-derived cells or from newly infected endothelial cells. We addressed this discrepancy by investigating a KSHV-infected endothelial cell line in various culture conditions and in tumors of xenografted mice. We show that, in contrast to two-dimensional endothelial cell cultures, KSHV genomes are maintained under 3D cell culture conditions and in vivo. Additionally, an increased rate of newly infected cells was detected in 3D cell culture. Furthermore, we show that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and ATM/γH2AX pathways are modulated and support an improved KSHV persistence in 3D cell culture. These mechanisms may contribute to the persistence of KSHV in tumor tissue in vivo and provide a novel target for KS specific therapeutic interventions.

Key messages

In vivo maintenance of episomal KSHV can be mimicked in 3D spheroid cultures

3D maintenance of KSHV is associated with an increased de novo infection frequency

PI3K/Akt/mTOR and ATM/ γH2AX pathways contribute to viral maintenance
Animal models for pelvic organ prolapse: systematic review
Authors: Mori da Cunha Marina Gabriela M. C. , Mackova Katerina , Hympanova Lucie Hajkova , Bortolini Maria Augusta T. , Deprest Jan
Published: January 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

We aimed to summarize the knowledge on the pathogenesis of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) generated in animal models.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane and the Web of Science to establish what animal models are used in the study of suggested risk factors for the development of POP, including pregnancy, labor, delivery, parity, aging and menopause. Lack of methodologic uniformity precluded meta-analysis; hence, results are presented as a narrative review.

Results

A total of 7426 studies were identified, of which 51 were included in the analysis. Pregnancy has a measurable and consistent effect across species. In rats, simulated vaginal delivery induces structural changes in the pelvic floor, without complete recovery of the vaginal muscular layer and its microvasculature, though it does not induce POP. In sheep, first vaginal delivery has a measurable effect on vaginal compliance; measured effects of additional deliveries are inconsistent. Squirrel monkeys can develop POP. Denervation of their levator ani muscle facilitates this process in animals that delivered vaginally. The models used do not develop spontaneous menopause, so it is induced by ovariectomy. Effects of menopause depend on the age at ovariectomy and the interval to measurement. In several species menopause is associated with an increase in collagen content in the longer term. In rodents there were no measurable effects of age apart of elastin changes. We found no usable data for other species.

Conclusion

In several species there are measurable effects of pregnancy, delivery and iatrogenic menopause. Squirrel monkeys can develop spontaneous prolapse.
Urinary incontinence 6 weeks to 1 year post-partum: prevalence, experience of bother, beliefs, and help-seeking behavior
Authors: Moossdorff-Steinhauser Heidi F. A. , Berghmans Bary C. M. , Spaanderman Marc E. A. , Bols Esther M. J.
Published: January 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

Post-partum, women often experience urinary incontinence (UI). However, the association between experienced UI bother and UI beliefs and help-seeking behavior is less known. Therefore, we aim to investigate the prevalence of self-reported UI, the level of experienced bother and beliefs, to explain help-seeking behavior for UI in women in the Netherlands from 6 weeks to one year post-partum.

Methods

A digital survey among post-partum women, shared on social media, was used for recruitment. The survey consists of: 1. demographic variables, 2. International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), 3. ICIQ Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Quality of Life (ICIQ-LUTSqol), and 4. questions on beliefs and help-seeking behavior. For analysis, descriptive statistics and the independent samples t-test were used to determine differences between help- and non-help-seekers.

Results

415 women filled in the survey. The mean age was 30.6 years (SD 4.0, range 21–40) of which 48.2% was primiparous. The overall prevalence of UI was 57.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) (52.3–61.8)). Primiparous women reported a statistically significantly lower overall prevalence than multiparous women, 52.0% and 61.9% respectively (p = .043). UI was reported as bothersome in 38% of women, 25% of all women sought help. Help-seeking women showed significantly higher scores for bother, measured by the ICIQ-UI SF, than non-help seekers (p = .001).

Conclusions

More than half of all post-partum women in the Netherlands from 6 weeks to one year post childbirth experience UI (57.1%), 38% classified their UI as bothersome. In total 25% of UI women sought professional help.
The enzyme subunit SubA of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli strains demonstrates comparable intracellular transport and cytotoxic activity as the holotoxin SubAB in HeLa and HCT116 cells in vitro
Authors: Sessler Katharina , Papatheodorou Panagiotis , Wondany Fanny , Krause Maike , Noettger Sabrina , Bernhard Denise , Michaelis Jens , Schmidt Herbert , Barth Holger
Published: January 2021

The subtilase cytotoxin (SubAB) is secreted by certain Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains and is composed of the enzymatically active subunit SubA and the pentameric binding/transport subunit SubB. We previously demonstrated that SubA (10 µg/ml), in the absence of SubB, binds and intoxicates the human cervix cancer-derived epithelial cell line HeLa. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the cytotoxic activity of SubA in the absence of SubB remained unclear. In the present study, the cytotoxic effects mediated by SubA alone were investigated in more detail in HeLa cells and the human colon cancer cell line HCT116. We found that in the absence of SubB, SubA (10 µg/ml) is internalized into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), where it cleaves the chaperone GRP78, an already known substrate for SubA after its canonical uptake into cells via SubB. The autonomous cellular uptake of SubA and subsequent cleavage of GRP78 in cells is prevented by treatment of cells with 10 µM brefeldin A, which inhibits the transport of protein toxins into the ER. In addition, by analyzing the SubA mutant SubAΔC344, we identified the C-terminal SEEL motif as an ER-targeting signal. Conclusively, our results strongly suggest that SubA alone shares the same intracellular transport route and cytotoxic activity as the SubAB holotoxin.
Ileo-colic intra-corporeal anastomosis during robotic right colectomy: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of different techniques
Authors: Guadagni Simone , Palmeri Matteo , Bianchini Matteo , Gianardi Desirée , Furbetta Niccolò , Minichilli Fabrizio , Di Franco Gregorio , Comandatore Annalisa , Di Candio Giulio , Morelli Luca
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Robotic assistance could increase the rate of ileo-colic intra-corporeal anastomosis (ICA) during robotic right colectomy (RRC). However, although robotic ICA can be accomplished with several different technical variants, it is not clear whether some of these technical details should be preferred. An evaluation of the possible advantage of one respect to another would be useful.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of literature on technical details of robotic ileo-colic ICA, from which we performed a meta-analysis of clinical outcomes. The extracted data allowed a comparative analysis regarding the outcome of overall complication (OC), bleeding rate (BR) and leakage rate (LR), between (1) mechanical anastomosis with robotic stapler, versus laparoscopic stapler, versus totally hand-sewn anastomosis and (2) closure of enterocolotomy with manual double layer, versus single layer, versus stapled.

Results

A total of 30 studies including 2066 patients were selected. Globally, the side-to-side, isoperistaltic anastomosis, realized with laparoscopic staplers, and double-layer closure for enterocolotomy, is the most common technique used. According to the meta-analysis, the use of robotic stapler was significantly associated with a reduction of the BR with respect to mechanical anastomosis with laparoscopic stapler or totally hand-sewn anastomosis. None of the other technical aspects significantly influenced the outcomes.

Conclusions

ICA fashioning during RRC can be accomplished with several technical variants without evidence of a clear superiority of anyone of these techniques. Although the use of robotic staplers could be associated with some benefits, further studies are necessary to draw conclusions.
The calcium-activated chloride channel-associated protein rCLCA2 is expressed throughout rat epidermis, facilitates apoptosis and is downmodulated by UVB
Authors: Hämäläinen L. , Bart G. , Takabe P. , Rauhala L. , Deen A. , Pasonen-Seppänen S. , Kärkkäinen E. , Kärnä R. , Kumlin T. , Tammi M. I. , Tammi R. H.
Published: January 2021

The rodent chloride channel regulatory proteins mCLCA2 and its porcine and human homologues pCLCA2 and hCLCA2 are expressed in keratinocytes but their localization and significance in the epidermis have remained elusive. hCLCA2 regulates cancer cell migration, invasion and apoptosis, and its loss predicts poor prognosis in many tumors. Here, we studied the influences of epidermal maturation and UV-irradiation (UVR) on rCLCA2 (previous rCLCA5) expression in cultured rat epidermal keratinocytes (REK) and correlated the results with mCLCA2 expression in mouse skin in vivo. Furthermore, we explored the influence of rCLCA2 silencing on UVR-induced apoptosis. rClca2 mRNA was strongly expressed in REK cells, and its level in organotypic cultures remained unchanged during the epidermal maturation process from a single cell layer to fully differentiated, stratified cultures. Immunostaining confirmed its uniform localization throughout the epidermal layers in REK cultures and in rat skin. A single dose of UVR modestly downregulated rClca2 expression in organotypic REK cultures. The immunohistochemical staining showed that CLCA2 localized in basal and spinous layers also in mouse skin, and repeated UVR induced its partial loss. Interestingly, silencing of rCLCA2 reduced the number of apoptotic cells induced by UVR, suggesting that by facilitating apoptosis, CLCA2 may protect keratinocytes against the risk of malignancy posed by UVB-induced corrupt DNA.
Modulation of odour-guided behaviour in mosquitoes
Authors: Hill Sharon R. , Ignell Rickard
Published: January 2021

Mosquitoes are emerging as model systems with which to study innate behaviours through neuroethology and functional genomics. Decades of work on these disease vectors have provided a solid behavioural framework describing the distinct repertoire of predominantly odour-mediated behaviours of female mosquitoes, and their dependence on life stage (intrinsic factors) and environmental cues (extrinsic factors). The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of how intrinsic factors, including adult maturation, age, nutritional status, and infection, affect the attraction to plants and feeding on plant fluids, host seeking, blood feeding, supplemental feeding behaviours, pre-oviposition behaviour, and oviposition in female mosquitoes. With the technological advancements in the recent two decades, we have gained a better understanding of which volatile organic compounds are used by mosquitoes to recognise and discriminate among various fitness-enhancing resources, and characterised their neural and molecular correlates. In this review, we present the state of the art of the peripheral olfactory system as described by the neural physiology, functional genomics, and genetics underlying the demonstrated changes in the behavioural repertoire in female mosquitoes. The review is meant as a summary introduction to the current conceptual thinking in the field.
Odor processing in the cockroach antennal lobe—the network components
Authors: Fuscà Debora , Kloppenburg Peter
Published: January 2021

Highly interconnected neural networks perform olfactory signal processing in the central nervous system. In insects, the first synaptic processing of the olfactory input from the antennae occurs in the antennal lobe, the functional equivalent of the olfactory bulb in vertebrates. Key components of the olfactory network in the antennal lobe are two main types of neurons: the local interneurons and the projection (output) neurons. Both neuron types have different physiological tasks during olfactory processing, which accordingly require specialized functional phenotypes. This review gives an overview of important cell type-specific functional properties of the different types of projection neurons and local interneurons in the antennal lobe of the cockroachPeriplaneta americana, which is an experimental system that has elucidated many important biophysical and cellular bases of intrinsic physiological properties of these neurons.
Coeliac disease is associated with depression in children and young adults with type 1 diabetes: results from a multicentre diabetes registry
Authors:   For the DPV Initiative, Tittel Sascha René , Dunstheimer Désirée , Hilgard Dörte , Knauth Burkhild , Fröhlich-Reiterer Elke , Galler Angela , Wurm Michael , Holl Reinhard Walter
Published: January 2021

Aims

To analyse the association between coeliac disease (CD) and depression in children, adolescents, and young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods

We included 79,067 T1D patients aged 6–20 years, with at least six months of diabetes duration, and treatment data between 1995 and 2019 were documented in the diabetes patient follow-up registry. We categorized patients into four groups: T1D only (n = 73,699), T1 + CD (n = 3379), T1D + depression (n = 1877), or T1D + CD + depression (n = 112).

Results

CD and depression were significantly associated (adjusted OR: 1.25 [1.03–1.53]). Females were more frequent in both the depression and the CD group compared with the T1D only group. Insulin pumps were used more frequently in T1D + CD and T1D + depression compared with T1D only (both p < .001). HbA1c was higher in T1D + depression (9.0% [8.9–9.0]), T1D + CD + depression (8.9% [8.6–9.2]), both compared with T1D only (8.2% [8.2–8.2], all p < .001). We found comorbid autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and eating disorders more frequently in the T1D + CD + depression group compared with T1D only (all p < .001).

Conclusions

CD and depression are associated in young T1D patients. The double load of T1D and CD may lead to an increased risk for depression. Depression was associated with additional psychological and neurological comorbidities. Aside from imperative CD screening after T1D diagnosis and regular intervals, depression screening might be helpful in routine care, especially in patients with diagnosed CD.
Chronic Naltrexone Therapy Is Associated with Improved Cardiac Function in Volume Overloaded Rats
Authors: Dehe Lukas , Shaqura Mohammed , Nordine Michael , Habazettl Helmut , von Kwiatkowski Petra , Schluchter Helena , Shakibaei Mehdi , Mousa Shaaban A. , Schäfer Michael , Treskatsch Sascha
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Myocardial opioid receptors were demonstrated in animals and humans and seem to colocalize with membranous and sarcolemmal calcium channels of the excitation–contraction coupling in the left ventricle (LV). Therefore, this study investigated whether blockade of the cardiac opioid system by naltrexone would affect cardiac function and neurohumoral parameters in Wistar rats with volume overload-induced heart failure.

Methods

Volume overload in Wistar rats was induced by an aortocaval fistula (ACF). Left ventricular cardiac opioid receptors were identified by immunohistochemistry and their messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) as well as their endogenous ligand mRNA quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Following continuous delivery of either the opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone or vehicle via minipumps (n = 5 rats each), hemodynamic and humoral parameters were assessed 28 days after ACF induction. Sham-operated animals served as controls.

Results

In ACF rats mu-, delta-, and kappa-opioid receptors colocalized with voltage-gated L-type Ca2+ channels in left ventricular cardiomyocytes. Chronic naltrexone treatment of ACF rats reduced central venous pressure (CVP) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), and improved systolic and diastolic left ventricular functions. Concomitantly, rat brain natriuretic peptide (rBNP-45) and angiotensin-2 plasma concentrations which were elevated during ACF were significantly diminished following naltrexone treatment. In parallel, chronic naltrexone significantly reduced mu-, delta-, and kappa-opioid receptor mRNA, while it increased the endogenous opioid peptide mRNA compared to controls.

Conclusion

Opioid receptor blockade by naltrexone leads to improved LV function and decreases in rBNP-45 and angiotensin-2 plasma levels. In parallel, naltrexone resulted in opioid receptor mRNA downregulation and an elevated intrinsic tone of endogenous opioid peptides possibly reflecting a potentially cardiodepressant effect of the cardiac opioid system during volume overload.
Epistemic evaluation and the need for ‘impure’ epistemic standards
Authors: Kompa Nikola Anna
Published: January 2021

That knowledge ascriptions exhibit some form of sensitivity to context is uncontroversial. How best to account for the context-sensitivity at issue, however, is the topic of heated debates. A certain version of nonindexical contextualism seems to be a promising option. Even so, it is incumbent upon any contextualist account to explain in what way and to what extent the epistemic standard operative in a particular context of epistemic evaluation is affected by non-epistemic factors (such as practical interests). In this paper, I investigate how non-epistemic factors come into play when knowledge is ascribed. I argue that knowledge ascriptions often serve the purpose of providing actionable information. This, in turn, requires that epistemic interests be balanced against non-epistemic interests. Moreover, it raises the question of whose interests matter, those of the ascriber, the addressee (of the knowledge ascription), or the subject of ascription. Eventually, an answer to the question is suggested.
Simulating landslide-induced tsunamis in the Yangtze River at the Three Gorges in China
Authors: Wang Jinge , Wang Shun , Su Aijun , Xiang Wei , Xiong Chengren , Blum Philipp
Published: January 2021

Landslide-induced tsunamis may cause fatalities, damages and financial losses. In the Three Gorges Reservoir Area of China, several large landslides are still unstable and persistently creeping toward the Yangtze River. In this paper, we investigate the impacts of landslide-induced tsunamis in the Three Gorges Reservoir by using a hybrid numerical approach. One of the largest unstable mass in this area, the Huangtupo landslide, is chosen as the study object. First, the landslide deformation and initiating velocities are obtained by using the finite-discrete element method. The landslide-induced tsunamis and their impacts on shipping on the Yangtze River are then investigated through smooth particle hydrodynamics modelling. Our results reveal that an approximately 80% reduction in shear strength of the tip in the landslide will lead to catastrophic failure of the landslide, with sliding velocities of up to 8 m/s. Subsequently, such a collapse may initiate a river tsunami, propagating up to 9 m on the nearby reservoir banks within 3 km. The impacts on surrounding floating objects, such as surges and sways, heaves and rolls, are up to 110 m, 8 m and 6°, respectively. The simulations indicate that although the likelihood of a catastrophic failure of the whole landslide is low, the partial sliding still poses severe threat to the nearby reservoir banks and shipping on the Yangtze River. Thus, we recommend continuous monitoring as well as landslide early warning systems at this and also other hazardous sites in this area.
Malnutrition and Alcohol in Patients Presenting with Severe Complications of Cirrhosis After Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Mendoza Yuly P. , Becchetti Chiara , Wan Tao , Nett Philipp , Rodrigues Susana G. , Dufour Jean-François , Berzigotti Annalisa
Published: January 2021

Factors and outcomes associated with decompensation of liver disease and liver failure in obese patients who underwent modern bariatric surgery are unclear. We present here a cohort of seventeen consecutive patients referred because of decompensation of liver disease following laparoscopic bariatric surgery. All patients showed signs of malnutrition (sarcopenia in 76.5%). In ten (58.8%), decompensation was associated with alcohol ingestion, which started after bariatric surgery in six patients. One patient died and three patients required liver transplantation, in one case preceded by transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). However, thirteen patients achieved stabilization or full re-compensation with medical therapy and nutritional support. Our cases underline the risk of alcohol intake and malnutrition after laparoscopic bariatric surgery as causes of severe liver decompensation and underline the need for careful interdisciplinary care of these patients after surgery to early identify and treat alcohol misuse, malnutrition, and liver disease.
Markers of humoral and cell-mediated immune response in primary autoimmune hypophysitis: a pilot study
Authors: Chiloiro Sabrina , Giampietro Antonella , Angelini Flavia , Arena Vincenzo , Stigliano Egidio , Tartaglione Tommaso , Mattogno Pier Paolo , D’Alessandris Quintino Giorgio , Lauretti Liverana , Pontecorvi Alfredo , De Marinis Laura , Bianchi Antonio
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Primary autoimmune hypophysitis (PAHs) is a rare inflammatory disease of the pituitary gland. Although largely investigated, the pathogenesis of PAH is not completely clarified. We aimed to investigate the immune response in PAHs.

Material and methods

Serum anti-pituitary and anti-hypothalamus antibodies (respectively APAs and AHAs) were investigated though an indirect immunofluorescence on monkey hypophysis and hypothalamus slides, serum cytokines though an array membrane and cell-mediated immunity though the white blood cells count.

Results

Nineteen PAH cases entered the study. APA or AHA were identified in all cases. APA were detected in 13 patients (68.4%) and AHA in 13 patients (68.4%). Ten patients (52.6%) were simultaneously positive for both APA and AHA. The prevalence of APAs and AHAs was higher as compared to those observed in 50 health controls (respectively 14% p < 0.001 and 24% p = 0.004) and in 100 not-secreting pituitary adenoma (NFPAs) (respectively 22% p = 0.002 and 8% p < 0.001). Similarly, the prevalence of simultaneous positivity for APA and AHA (52.9%) was higher as compared to the those detected in patients affected by NFPAs (0%; p < 0.001) and in health controls (16% p = 0.002). No differences were identified between PAHs and controls at qualitative and quantitative analysis of serum cytokines and white blood cells count.

Conclusions

This study suggest that APA and AHA may be detected in an high percentage of PAH cases and that their simultaneous identification may be useful for the differential diagnosis between PAH and NFPAs, in an appropriate clinical context.
Investigation on the biodegradation levels of super heavy oils by parameter-striping method and refined Manco scale: a case study from the Chepaizi Uplift of Junggar Basin
Authors: Chang Xiang-Chun , Shi Bing-Bing , Liu Zhong-Quan , Wang Yue , Xu You-De
Published: January 2021

The Carboniferous volcanic reservoir in the Chepaizi Uplift became an exploration hot target in recent years for its substantial amount of oils discovered. However, most of the Carboniferous heavy oils were biodegraded to PM7 or higher with orders of magnitude variation in oil viscosities. Two oil groups (I and II) exactly corresponding to the western and eastern Chepaizi Uplift were distinguished according to their source diagnose. Furthermore, three oil families (II1, II2 and II3), with the biodegradation level of PM7, PM8–8+, PM9+, respectively, were classified based on molecular compositions and parameter-stripping method of strongly bioresistant parameters. Allowing for this extremely high biodegradation case, more biodegradation refractory compound class were added to establish a refined Manco scale to quantitatively evaluate the biodegradation extent. Refined Manco number (RMN2) positively correlated with the oil density, NSO contents, and absolute concentrations of diasteranes and gammacerane, negatively correlated with the absolute concentrations of diahopane, summed tricyclic terpanes and pentacyclic terpanes. This refined scale showed higher resolution than the PM one to differentiate the biodegradation extent of Carboniferous heavy oils from the Chepaizi Uplift, especially those with same PM values but different oil viscosities.
Sleep’s Role in Schema Learning and Creative Insights
Authors: Durrant Simon J. , Johnson Jennifer M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose of Review

A recent resurgence of interest in schema theory has influenced research on sleep-dependent memory consolidation and led to a new understanding of how schemata might be activated during sleep and play a role in the reorganisation of memories. This review is aimed at synthesising recent findings into a coherent narrative and draw overall conclusions.

Recent Findings

Rapid consolidation of schematic memories has been shown to benefit from an interval containing sleep. These memories have shown reduced reliance on the hippocampus following consolidation in both humans and rodents. Using a variety of methodologies, notably including the DRM paradigm, it has been shown that activation of a schema can increase the rate of false memory as a result of activation of semantic associates during slow wave sleep (SWS). Memories making use of a schema have shown increased activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, which may reflect both the schematic activation itself and a cognitive control component selecting an appropriate schema to use. SWS seems to be involved in assimilation of new memories within existing semantic frameworks and in making memories more explicit, while REM sleep may be more associated with creating entirely novel associations while keeping memories implicit.

Sleep plays an important role in schematic memory consolidation, with more rapid consolidation, reduced hippocampal involvement, and increased prefrontal involvement as the key characteristics. Both SWS and REM sleep may have a role to play.
Analysis of the Screw Flight Wear Model and Wear Regularity of the Bulk Transport in Screw Ship Unloader
Authors: Yang Weijie , Meng Wenjun , Gao Lingchong , Tan Yuan , Fottner Johannes , Dai Xiaobing , Yao Fenglin , Yuan Yuan , Sun Xiaoxia
Published: January 2021

The screw flight, spiral blade welded on the axial cylinder, is the core component of the screw ship unloader and can be seriously worn by the materials during long-term conveying. The damaged screw flight will make the screw ship unloader unable to unload materials or even lead to an accident. However, the existing wear model cannot be directly applied to predict the wear of the screw flight under different working conditions. Hence, we established a new screw flight wear model based on the Archard wear model and Continuous Medium Hypothesis to predict the service life of the screw flight. Three influencing factors, including speed, filling rate, and pitch, were selected to study the wear law of the screw flight, and the wear law was verified by EDEM simulation. Results indicate that the simulation results affected by the changes in various factors were consistent with the calculation model. With the increase of rotation speed and filling rate, the screw flight wear rate increased. Nevertheless, with the increase of pitch, the screw flight wear rate first increased and then decreased. The screw flight wear model can be used to calculate the wear rate under different working conditions for the screw flight life prediction.
Potential new reference materials for caloric measurements on PCM
Authors: Mehling Harald , Leys Jan , Glorieux Christ , Thoen Jan
Published: January 2021

Current applications of PCM focus on the temperature range from about − 40 °C to about + 80 °C, with the interest expanding up to about 400 °C for future applications in power plants and industry. Calorimetric measurements to determine the ability of PCM to store heat as a function of temperature are done with a variety of methods and instruments. Some of them have been developed only in the last decade, especially to allow characterization of larger samples, even encapsulated PCM with volume in the order of 100 ml and larger. Currently there are not enough reference materials for calibration and testing available to sufficiently cover the required temperature range, being suitable for the used variety of samples regarding size, as well as other requirements of the new methods and instruments. In this paper, we give an introduction, review, and recommendations for new reference materials for calibration and testing.