bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Mechanisms and Treatment of Cancer-Induced Cardiac Cachexia
Authors: Vudatha Vignesh , Devarakonda Teja , Liu Christopher , Freudenberger Devon C. , Riner Andrea N. , Herremans Kelly M. , Trevino Jose G.
Published: March 2022

Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial, paraneoplastic syndrome that impacts roughly half of all cancer patients. It can negatively impact patient quality of life and prognosis by causing physical impairment, reducing chemotherapy tolerance, and precluding them as surgical candidates. While there is substantial research on cancer-induced skeletal muscle cachexia, there are comparatively fewer studies and therapies regarding cardiac cachexia in the setting of malignancy. A literature review was performed using the PubMed database to identify original articles pertaining to cancer-induced cardiac cachexia, including its mechanisms and potential therapeutic modalities. Seventy studies were identified by two independent reviewers based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. While there are multiple studies addressing the pathophysiology of cardiac-induced cancer cachexia, there are no studies evaluating therapeutic options in the clinical setting. Many treatment modalities including nutrition, heart failure medication, cancer drugs, exercise, and gene therapy have been explored in in vitro and mice models with varying degrees of success. While these may be beneficial in cancer patients, further prospective studies specifically focusing on the assessment and treatment of the cardiac component of cachexia are needed.
Preservation of Smooth Muscle Cell Integrity and Function: A Target for Limiting Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Expansion?
Authors: Clark Emily R. , Helliwell Rebecca J. , Bailey Marc A. , Hemmings Karen E. , Bridge Katherine I. , Griffin Kathryn J. , Scott D. Julian A. , Jennings Louise M. , Riches-Suman Kirsten , Porter Karen E.
Published: March 2022

(1) Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a silent, progressive disease with significant mortality from rupture. Whilst screening programmes are now able to detect this pathology early in its development, no therapeutic intervention has yet been identified to halt or retard aortic expansion. The inability to obtain aortic tissue from humans at early stages has created a necessity for laboratory models, yet it is essential to create a timeline of events from EARLY to END stage AAA progression. (2) We used a previously validated ex vivo porcine bioreactor model pre-treated with protease enzyme to create “aneurysm” tissue. Mechanical properties, histological changes in the intact vessel wall, and phenotype/function of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) cultured from the same vessels were investigated. (3) The principal finding was significant hyperproliferation of SMC from EARLY stage vessels, but without obvious histological or SMC aberrancies. END stage tissue exhibited histological loss of α-smooth muscle actin and elastin; mechanical impairment; and, in SMC, multiple indications of senescence. (4) Aortic SMC may offer a therapeutic target for intervention, although detailed studies incorporating intervening time points between EARLY and END stage are required. Such investigations may reveal mechanisms of SMC dysfunction in AAA development and hence a therapeutic window during which SMC differentiation could be preserved or reinstated.
The Use of “Retardation” in FRAXA, FMRP, FMR1 and Other Designations
Authors: Herring Jonathan , Johnson Kirsten , Richstein Jörg
Published: March 2022

The European Fragile X Network met in Wroclaw, Poland, November 2021, and agreed to work towards the eradication of the word “retardation” in regard to the naming of the fragile X gene (FRAXA) and protein (FMRP). There are further genes which have “retardation” or abbreviations for “retardation” in their names or full designations, including FMR1, FMR2, FXR1, FXR2, NUFIP1, AFF1, CYFIP1, etc. “Retardation” was commonly used as a term in years past, but now any reference, even in an abbreviation, is offensive. This article discusses the stigmatisation associated with “retardation”, which leads to discrimination; the inaccuracy of using “retardation” in these designations; and the breadth of fragile X syndrome being beyond that of neurodiversity. A more inclusive terminology is called for, one which ceases to use any reference to “retardation”. Precedents for offensive gene names being altered is set out. The proposal is to approach the HGNC (HUGO [Human Genome Organisation] Gene Nomenclature Committee) for new terminology to be enacted. Ideas from other researchers in the field are welcomed.
The Heat Shock Protein 90 Inhibitor, AT13387, Protects the Alveolo-Capillary Barrier and Prevents HCl-Induced Chronic Lung Injury and Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Colunga Biancatelli Ruben M. L. , Solopov Pavel , Dimitropoulou Christiana , Gregory Betsy , Day Tierney , Catravas John D.
Published: March 2022

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) exposure causes asthma-like conditions, reactive airways dysfunction syndrome, and pulmonary fibrosis. Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90) is a molecular chaperone that regulates multiple cellular processes. HSP90 inhibitors are undergoing clinical trials for cancer and are also being studied in various pre-clinical settings for their anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. Here we investigated the ability of the heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) inhibitor AT13387 to prevent chronic lung injury induced by exposure to HCl in vivo and its protective role in the endothelial barrier in vitro. We instilled C57Bl/6J mice with 0.1N HCl (2 µL/g body weight, intratracheally) and after 24 h began treatment with vehicle or AT13387 (10 or 15 mg/kg, SC), administered 3×/week; we analyzed histological, functional, and molecular markers 30 days after HCl. In addition, we monitored transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) and protein expression in a monolayer of human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HLMVEC) exposed to HCl (0.02 N) and treated with vehicle or AT13387 (2 µM). HCl provoked persistent alveolar inflammation; activation of profibrotic pathways (MAPK/ERK, HSP90); increased deposition of collagen, fibronectin and elastin; histological evidence of fibrosis; and a decline in lung function reflected in a downward shift in pressure–volume curves, increased respiratory system resistance (Rrs), elastance (Ers), tissue damping (G), and hyperresponsiveness to methacholine. Treatment with 15 mg/kg AT13387reduced alveolar inflammation, fibrosis, and NLRP3 staining; blocked activation of ERK and HSP90; and attenuated the deposition of collagen and the development of chronic lung injury and airway hyperreactivity. In vitro, AT13387 prevented HCl-induced loss of barrier function and AKT, ERK, and ROCK1 activation, and restored HSP70 and cofilin expression. The HSP90 inhibitor, AT13387, represents a promising drug candidate for chronic lung injury that can be administered subcutaneously in the field, and at low, non-toxic doses.
Emerging Roles of Airway Epithelial Cells in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Chakraborty Ashesh , Mastalerz Michal , Ansari Meshal , Schiller Herbert B. , Staab-Weijnitz Claudia A.
Published: March 2022

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal disease with incompletely understood aetiology and limited treatment options. Traditionally, IPF was believed to be mainly caused by repetitive injuries to the alveolar epithelium. Several recent lines of evidence, however, suggest that IPF equally involves an aberrant airway epithelial response, which contributes significantly to disease development and progression. In this review, based on recent clinical, high-resolution imaging, genetic, and single-cell RNA sequencing data, we summarize alterations in airway structure, function, and cell type composition in IPF. We furthermore give a comprehensive overview on the genetic and mechanistic evidence pointing towards an essential role of airway epithelial cells in IPF pathogenesis and describe potentially implicated aberrant epithelial signalling pathways and regulation mechanisms in this context. The collected evidence argues for the investigation of possible therapeutic avenues targeting these processes, which thus represent important future directions of research.
Role of Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs/Alarmins) in Severe Ocular Allergic Diseases
Authors: Fukuda Ken , Ishida Waka , Kishimoto Tatsuma , Nakajima Isana , Miura Yusaku , Sumi Tamaki , Yamashiro Kenji
Published: March 2022

Severe ocular allergic diseases, such as atopic keratoconjunctivitis and vernal keratoconjunctivitis, cause severe allergic inflammation in the conjunctiva and corneal epithelial damage, resulting in visual disturbances. The involvement of damage (danger)-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs/alarmins) in the pathogenesis of these diseases has been recognized. Alarmins released from damaged corneal epithelial cells or eosinophils play a critical role in the induction of corneal lesions, vicious loop of corneal injury, and exacerbation of conjunctival allergic inflammation. Alarmins in the conjunctiva also play an essential role in the development of both allergic inflammation, based on the acquired immune system, and type 2 inflammation by innate immune responses in the ocular surface. Therefore, alarmins may be a potentially important therapeutic target in severe refractory ocular allergic diseases.
Cumulative Metabolic and Epigenetic Effects of Paternal and/or Maternal Supplementation with Arachidonic Acid across Three Consecutive Generations in Mice
Authors: de la Rocha Carmen , Rodríguez-Ríos Dalia , Ramírez-Chávez Enrique , Molina-Torres Jorge , de Jesús Flores-Sierra José , Orozco-Castellanos Luis M. , Galván-Chía Juan P. , Sánchez Atenea Vázquez , Zaina Silvio , Lund Gertrud
Published: March 2022

Apart from the known associations between arachidonic acid (AA), weight gain, and neurological and immune function, AA exposure leads to alterations in global and gene-specific DNA methylation (DNAm) and fatty acid (FA) content in human cultured cells. However, it is unknown as to whether the latter effects occur in vivo and are maintained over extended periods of time and across generations. To address this issue, we asked whether AA supplementation for three consecutive generations (prior to coitus in sires or in utero in dams) affected offspring growth phenotypes, in addition to liver DNAm and FA profiles in mice. Twelve-week-old BALB/c mice were exposed daily to AA dissolved in soybean oil (vehicle, VH), or VH only, for 10 days prior to mating or during the entire pregnancy (20 days). On average, 15 mice were supplemented per generation, followed by analysis of offspring body weight and liver traits (x average = 36 and 10 per generation, respectively). Body weight cumulatively increased in F2 and F3 offspring generations and positively correlated with milligrams of paternal or maternal offspring AA exposure. A concomitant increase in liver weight was observed. Notably, akin to AA-challenged cultured cells, global DNAm and cis-7-hexadecenoic acid (16:1n-9), an anti-inflammatory FA that is dependent on stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) activity, increased with milligrams of AA exposure. In accordance, liver Scd1 promoter methylation decreased with milligrams of germline AA exposure and was negatively correlated with liver weight. Our results show that mice retain cellular memories of AA exposure across generations that could potentially be beneficial to the innate immune system.
Ubiquitin-Proteasome System–Regulated Protein Degradation in Spermatogenesis
Authors: Xiong Yi , Yu Chao , Zhang Qianting
Published: March 2022

Spermatogenesis is a prolonged and highly ordered physiological process that produces haploid male germ cells through more than 40 steps and experiences dramatic morphological and cellular transformations. The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) plays central roles in the precise control of protein homeostasis to ensure the effectiveness of certain protein groups at a given stage and the inactivation of them after this stage. Many UPS components have been demonstrated to regulate the progression of spermatogenesis at different levels. Especially in recent years, novel testis-specific proteasome isoforms have been identified to be essential and unique for spermatogenesis. In this review, we set out to discuss our current knowledge in functions of diverse USP components in mammalian spermatogenesis through: (1) the composition of proteasome isoforms at each stage of spermatogenesis; (2) the specificity of each proteasome isoform and the associated degradation events; (3) the E3 ubiquitin ligases mediating protein ubiquitination in male germ cells; and (4) the deubiquitinases involved in spermatogenesis and male fertility. Exploring the functions of UPS machineries in spermatogenesis provides a global picture of the proteome dynamics during male germ cell production and shed light on the etiology and pathogenesis of human male infertility.
Human Flourishing in the Era of COVID-19: How Spirituality and the Faith Sector Help and Hinder Our Collective Response
Authors: Levin Jeff
Published: March 2022

Throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, religious people and institutions have played a significant role in responding to the challenges that we all have faced. In some instances, religion has been a source of great harm, hindering the global response. Many religious leaders have promoted misinformation and disinformation; others have promulgated messages of hatred and blame, especially hindering efforts to prevent infection and community transmission and to promote immunization. This has occurred throughout the world, across cultures, religions, and nations. In many other instances, however, the faith sector has been a source of great help, ministering to the lives of suffering and fearful people both emotionally and tangibly. People of faith, including clergy and faith-based organizations, have contributed positively to the global response effort by fulfilling the pastoral, ethical, and prophetic roles of religion. Expressions of spirituality, both personal and institutional, have thus contributed to great flourishing in the midst of a terrible public health emergency.
Perchlorate Solid-Contact Ion-Selective Electrode Based on Dodecabenzylbambus[6]uril
Authors: Itterheimová Petra , Bobacka Johan , Šindelář Vladimír , Lubal Přemysl
Published: March 2022

Dodecabenzylbambus[6]uril (Bn12BU[6]) is an anion receptor that binds the perchlorate ion the most tightly (stability constant ~1010 M−1) of all anions due to the excellent match between the ion size in relation to the receptor cavity. This new bambusuril compound was used as an ionophore in the ion-selective membrane (ISM) to develop ion selective electrodes (ISEs) for determination of perchlorate concentration utilizing the poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) polymer film as a solid-contact material. Variation of the content of Bn12BU[6] and tridodecylmethylammonium chloride (TDMACl) in the plasticized poly(vinyl chloride)-based ISM was also tested. All the prepared solid-contact ISEs and their analytical performance were characterized by potentiometry, cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and chronopotentiometry. The ISEs showed rapid response and a sub-Nernstian slope (~57 mV/decade) during potentiometric measurements in perchlorate solutions in the concentration range from 10−1 to 10−6 M simultaneously with their high stability and sufficient selectivity to other common inorganic anions like bromide, chloride, nitrate and sulphate. The function of the ISE was further verified by analysis of real water samples (lake, sea, and mineral water), which gave accurate and precise results.
Monitoring the Role of Physical Activity in Children with Flat Feet by Assessing Subtalar Flexibility and Plantar Arch Index
Authors: Rusu Ligia , Marin Mihnea Ion , Geambesa Michi Mihail , Rusu Mihai Robert
Published: March 2022

Flat foot is a common pediatric foot deformity which involves subtalar flexibility; it can affect the plantar arch. This study analyzes the evolution of two parameters, i.e., plantar index arch and subtalar flexibility, before and after physiotherapy and orthoses interventions, and examines the correlation between these two parameters. Methods: The study included 30 participants (17 boys, 12 girls, average age 9.37 ± 1.42 years) with bilateral flat foot. We made two groups, each with 15 subjects. Assessments of the subtalar flexibility and plantar arch index used RSScan the platform, and were undertaken at two time points. Therapeutic interventions: Group 1—short foot exercises (SFE); Group 2—SFE and insoles. Statistical analyses included Student’s t-test, Cohen’s D coefficient, Pearson and Sperman correlation. Results: Group 1—subtalar flexibility decreased for the left and right feet by 28.6% and 15.9% respectively, indicating good evolution for the left foot. For both feet, a decrease of the plantar index arch was observed. Group 2—subtalar flexibility decreased for the right and left feet by 43.4% and 37.7% respectively, indicating a good evolution for the right foot. For both feet, a decrease of plantar index arch was observed. Between groups, subtalar flexibility evolved well for Group 2; this was attributed to mixt intervention, physical therapy and orthosis. For plantar arch index, differences were not significant between the two groups. We observed an inverse correlation between subtalar flexibility and plantar arch index. Conclusions: Improvement of plantar index arch in static and dynamic situations creates the premise of a good therapeutic intervention and increases foot balance and postural control. The parameter which showed the most beneficial influence was the evolution is subtalar flexibility.
Identification of a Novel FAM83H Mutation and Management of Hypocalcified Amelogenesis Imperfecta in Early Childhood
Authors: Song Ji-Soo , Lee Yejin , Shin Teo Jeon , Hyun Hong-Keun , Kim Young-Jae , Kim Jung-Wook
Published: March 2022

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a heterogeneous group of rare genetic disorders affecting amelogenesis during dental development. Therefore, the molecular genetic etiology of AI can provide information about the nature and progress of the disease. To confirm the genetic etiology of AI in a Korean family with an autosomal dominant inheritance, pedigree and mutational analyses were performed. DNA was isolated from the participating family members and whole-exome sequencing was performed with the DNA sample of the father of the proband. The identified mutation was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The mutational analysis revealed a novel nonsense mutation in the FAM83H gene (NM_198488.5: c.1363C > T, p.(Gln455*)), confirming autosomal dominant hypocalcified AI. Full-mouth restorative treatments of the affected children were performed after the completion of the deciduous dentition. Early diagnosis of AI can be useful for understanding the nature of the disease and for managing the condition and treatment planning.
A Retrospective Database Analysis to Estimate the Burden of Acute Otitis Media in Children Aged <15 Years in the Veneto Region (Italy)
Authors: Barbieri Elisa , Porcu Gloria , Hu Tianyan , Petigara Tanaz , Senese Francesca , Prandi Gian Marco , Scamarcia Antonio , Cantarutti Luigi , Cantarutti Anna , Giaquinto Carlo
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to assess trends in the incidence of acute otitis media (AOM), a common childhood condition, following the introduction of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in the Veneto region of Italy in 2010. AOM episodes (overall, simple, and recurrent (≥3 or ≥4 episodes in 6 or 12 months, respectively, with ≥1 episode in the preceding 6 months)) in children <15 years of age were identified in Pedianet from 2010–2017. Interrupted time series analyses were conducted to assess changes in the annual incidence rates (IRs) in early (2010–2013) and late (2014–2017) PCV13 periods. In total, 72,570 children (402,868 person-years) were identified; 21,048 had 41,683 AOM episodes. Mean annual AOM IR was 103/1000 person-years (95% confidence interval: 102–104), decreasing from 126 to 79/1000 person-years. AOM IRs were highest in children 2–4 years of age, followed by <2 and 5–14 years of age. Overall and simple AOM IRs decreased among children 0–14 years of age, including 2–4 and 5–14 years of age, while recurrent AOM IRs decreased in children <2 years of age. Following PCV13 introduction, AOM IRs decreased substantially in children <15 years of age, with the greatest benefit observed in older children, driven by a reduction in simple AOM IRs. AOM disease burden remains substantial.
Subphenotypes in Non-Syndromic Orofacial Cleft Patients Based on the Tooth Agenesis Code (TAC)
Authors: Konstantonis Dimitrios , Nassika Maria , Athanasiou Maria , Vastardis Heleni
Published: March 2022

Background: It was the aim of this study to investigate tooth agenesis patterns, which are expressed to different subphenotypes according to the TAC method in a spectrum of non-syndromic orofacial cleft patients. Methods: A total of 183 orofacial cleft patient records were assessed for tooth agenesis and TAC patterns. The association between TAC and sex, and cleft type was examined, and logistic regression models were additionally applied. Additionally, the distribution of missing teeth by cleft type and the tooth agenesis inter-quadrant association were examined. Results: The most frequent cleft type was CLPL (n = 72; 39.3%), while the maxillary left lateral incisor was the most frequently missing tooth that was strongly dependent on the cleft type (29.5%, p < 0.001). Of the 31 TAC patterns identified, four were the most prevalent and occurred in 80.8% of the sample, while 20 TAC patterns were unique. Cleft type contrary to sex (p = 0.405) was found to play a significant role in TAC distribution (p = 0.001). The logistic regression’s results suggested that overall, neither sex nor cleft type were associated with tooth agenesis. Prevalence of tooth agenesis in each quadrant clearly depended on cleft type; and there was a strong association found between tooth agenesis in different quadrants. Conclusions: Thirty-one different subphenotypes were identified in TAC patterns. The first four TAC patterns accounted for the 80.8% of the sample’s variability while twenty of the patterns were unique. A strong association was present between TAC pattern and cleft type. No association was found between the sex of the patient, tooth agenesis and TAC patterns. Tooth agenesis depended strongly on the cleft type, and the most frequently missing tooth was the maxillary left lateral incisor. The interquadrant association for tooth agenesis found suggests a genetic link in the etiology of clefts.
Steroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension in a Pediatric Patient with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Case Report
Authors: Lai Hung-Yin , Lai Ing-Chou , Fang Po-Chiung , Hsiao Chih-Cheng , Hsiao Yu-Ting
Published: March 2022

Glucocorticoids play a pivotal role in therapeutic protocols in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment. Systemic steroids are known to be less likely to elevate the intraocular pressure when compared to topical administration, and reports addressing hypertensive ocular response in the Asian pediatric ALL population are currently limited. We report a case of a nine-year-old girl with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who was found to have highly elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) during maintenance treatment when taking oral dexamethasone (6 mg/m2/day). Her IOP increased on day 5 after taking dexamethasone, reached a peak on day 7 or 8, and returned back to baseline on day 13 before anti-glaucoma medications were used. Thus, we prescribed IOP-lowering agents for 10 consecutive days starting on the day oral dexamethasone was administered, and observed that not only did the peak levels lower remarkably, but the IOP levels returned to baseline more rapidly as well.
Trends and Pattern of Antibiotic Use in Children in Northern Spain, Interpreting Data about Antibiotic Consumption in Pediatric Outpatients
Authors: Calle-Miguel Laura , Pérez-Méndez Carlos , García-García Elisa , Moreno-Pavón Belén , Solís-Sánchez Gonzalo
Published: March 2022

Monitoring of antibiotic prescription and consumption behavior is crucial. The Access, Watch, and Reserve (AWaRe) classification of antibiotics has been recently introduced in order to measure and improve patterns of antibiotic use. In this study, retrospective data about systemic antibiotic consumption (expressed in defined daily dose per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID)) in pediatric outpatients in a region in northern Spain (around 100,000 children up to 14 years old) from 2005 to 2018 were analyzed and compared with antibiotic consumption in general population in Spain. The pattern of use was analyzed by the percentage of the current AWaRe categories, the Access-to-Watch index, and the amoxicillin index. Data were calculated annually and compared into two periods. Mean antibiotic consumption in pediatric outpatients was 14.0 DID (CI 95% 13.38–14.62). It remained stable throughout the study and was lower than consumption in general population in Spain, particularly from 2016. Changes in the consumption of the main active principles have led to an improvement in the three metrics of the pattern of use. It is important to have a thorough knowledge of the methodology applied in studies about antibiotic consumption. There is a lack of an optimal standardized metric for the pediatric population.
Family-Centered Advance Care Planning: What Matters Most for Parents of Children with Rare Diseases
Authors: Fratantoni Karen , Livingston Jessica , Schellinger Sandra E. , Aoun Samar M. , Lyon Maureen E.
Published: March 2022

Few studies have described the goals and wishes of parents caring for their children with rare diseases, specifically when children are unable to communicate their preferences directly. The purpose of this study was to describe the parent’s understanding of their child’s illness, goals of care, and what mattered most to their child from the parent’s perspective. Six families completed a feasibility study of the FAmily CEntered (FACE)-Rare pACP intervention. Qualitative content analysis was performed on transcripts of videotaped responses to the Respecting Choices Next Steps pACP Conversation facilitated conversation guide about the goals of care. Codes were grouped into themes, with direct participant quotations representing the themes. Five themes emerged: getting out and moving freely; feeling included and engaged; managing symptoms and disease burden; coordinating care among many care team members; and managing today and planning for the future. In the context of pACP, families reported that what mattered most to their children included the freedom of movement and human connection and engagement, while parents strived to be effective caregivers and advocates for their child with a rare and severely disabling disease.
Rotating Magnetic Field-Assisted Reactor Enhances Mechanisms of Phage Adsorption on Bacterial Cell Surface
Authors: Grygorcewicz Bartłomiej , Rakoczy Rafał , Roszak Marta , Konopacki Maciej , Kordas Marian , Piegat Agnieszka , Serwin Natalia , Cecerska-Heryć Elżbieta , El Fray Miroslawa , Dołęgowska Barbara
Published: March 2022

Growing interest in bacteriophage research and use, especially as an alternative treatment option for multidrug-resistant bacterial infection, requires rapid development of production methods and strengthening of bacteriophage activities. Bacteriophage adsorption to host cells initiates the process of infection. The rotating magnetic field (RMF) is a promising biotechnological method for process intensification, especially for the intensification of micromixing and mass transfer. This study evaluates the use of RMF to enhance the infection process by influencing bacteriophage adsorption rate. The RMF exposition decreased the t50 and t75 of bacteriophages T4 on Escherichia coli cells and vb_SauM_A phages on Staphylococcus aureus cells. The T4 phage adsorption rate increased from 3.13 × 10−9 mL × min−1 to 1.64 × 10−8 mL × min−1. The adsorption rate of vb_SauM_A phages exposed to RMF increased from 4.94 × 10−9 mL × min−1 to 7.34 × 10−9 mL × min−1. Additionally, the phage T4 zeta potential changed under RMF from −11.1 ± 0.49 mV to −7.66 ± 0.29 for unexposed and RMF-exposed bacteriophages, respectively.
Impact of Dietary Meat and Animal Products on GHG Footprints: The UK and the US
Authors: Barthelmie Rebecca J.
Published: March 2022

Direct and indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the ~30+ billion animals consumed as food each year contribute ~14–16% of the global total. The aim of this research is to determine the contribution of meat and animal products to individual GHG footprints. Top-down estimates of GHG emissions from each livestock species are determined using livestock numbers, types, and region-specific emission factors. Comparing livestock emissions with those from individual countries, cattle rank as the third largest emitter after China and the United States (US). The largest uncertainty in these emissions calculations is in the range of emissions factors. Global top-down calculations indicate that the per capita GHG footprint from livestock emissions alone are approximately 1 tCO2eyr−1. For the United Kingdom (UK) and the US, the calculated GHG livestock-related footprints are 1.1 tCO2eyr−1 and 1.6 tCO2eyr−1 per person, respectively. Bottom-up calculations focused on the UK and the US from consumption figures indicated emissions related to meat consumption are approximately 1.3–1.5 tCO2eyr−1 per person. Comparing dietary changes with other ways of reducing GHG footprints indicates removing dietary meat is similar to avoiding one long-haul flight each year and a larger reduction than driving 100 miles less each week.
Duplex Surface Modification of 304-L SS Substrates by an Electron-Beam Treatment and Subsequent Deposition of Diamond-like Carbon Coatings
Authors: Rabadzhiyska Stanislava , Kotlarski Georgi , Shipochka Maria , Rafailov Peter , Ormanova Maria , Strijkova Velichka , Dimcheva Nina , Valkov Stefan
Published: March 2022

In this study, we present the results of the effect of duplex surface modification of 304-L stainless steel substrates by an electron-beam treatment (EBT) and subsequent deposition of diamond-like carbon coatings on the surface roughness and corrosion behavior. During the EBT process, the beam power was varied from 1000 to 1500 W. The successful deposition of the DLC coatings was confirmed by FTIR and Raman spectroscopy experiments. The results showed a presence of C–O, C=N, graphite-like sp2, and mixed sp2-sp3 C–C bond vibrations. The surface topography was studied by atomic force microscopy. The rise in the beam power leads to a decrease in the surface roughness of the deposited DLC coatings. The studies on the corrosion resistance of the samples have been performed using three electrochemical techniques: open circuit potential (OCP), cyclic voltammetry (polarization measurements), and non-destructive electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The measured corrosion potentials suggest that these samples are corrosion-resistant even in a medium, containing corrosive agents such as chloride ions. It can be concluded that the most corrosion-resistant specimen is DLC coating deposited on electron-beam-treated 304-L SS substrate by a beam power of 1500 W.
Acoustic Emission Monitoring of High-Entropy Oxyfluoride Rock-Salt Cathodes during Battery Operation
Authors: Schweidler Simon , Dreyer Sören L. , Breitung Ben , Brezesinski Torsten
Published: March 2022

High-entropy materials with tailorable properties are receiving increasing interest for energy applications. Among them, (disordered) rock-salt oxyfluorides hold promise as next-generation cathodes for use in secondary batteries. Here, we study the degradation behavior of a high-entropy oxyfluoride cathode material in lithium cells in situ via acoustic emission (AE) monitoring. The AE signals allow acoustic events to be correlated with different processes occurring during battery operation. The initial cycle proved to be the most acoustically active due to significant chemo-mechanical degradation and gas evolution, depending on the voltage window. Irrespective of the cutoff voltage on charge, the formation and propagation of cracks in the electrode was found to be the primary source of acoustic activity. Taken together, the findings help advance our understanding of the conditions that affect the cycling performance and provide a foundation for future investigations on the topic.
Influence to Hardness of Alternating Sequence of Atomic Layer Deposited Harder Alumina and Softer Tantala Nanolaminates
Authors: Piirsoo Helle-Mai , Jõgiaas Taivo , Ritslaid Peeter , Kukli Kaupo , Tamm Aile
Published: March 2022

Atomic layer deposited amorphous 70 nm thick Al2O3-Ta2O5 double- and triple-layered films were investigated with the nanoindentation method. The sequence of the oxides from surface to substrate along with the layer thickness had an influence on the hardness causing rises and declines in hardness along the depth yet did not affect the elastic modulus. Hardness varied from 8 to 11 GPa for the laminates having higher dependence on the structure near the surface than at higher depths. Triple-layered Al2O3/Ta2O5/Al2O3 laminate possessed the most even rise of hardness along the depth and possessed the highest hardness out of the laminates (11 GPa at 40 nm). Elastic modulus had steady values along the depth of the films between 145 and 155 GPa.
Optimization of Parameters for Protection of Materials by Primer Application
Authors: Šolić Tomislav , Marić Dejan , Novoselović Daniel , Samardžić Ivan
Published: March 2022

The protective properties of coating systems usually depend on their base layer, since its characteristics and chemical composition are greatly responsible for prevention of corrosion development. Moreover, a good primer as a base coating has to provide good adhesion between the coating system and the substrate material, as well as good cohesion, i.e., coating strength. The described experiment aimed to determine the influence of input parameters (anticorrosive pigment content, conditioning time, dry film thickness) on the adhesion properties of the coating. The optimization of input parameters was achieved by the pull-off test in order to determine their maximum values. For the purpose of imitating aggressive atmosphere of service conditions, the experiment was run in a salt spray chamber, in which samples were cyclically sprayed with 5% sodium chloride (NaCl) solution for 120 h. The obtained mathematical model makes it possible to define the optimal values of the input variables for the defined values of the required property, i.e., the adhesion properties of the applied primer for certain exploitative conditions.
Surface Modification of Titanium by Femtosecond Laser in Reducing Bacterial Colonization
Authors: Wu Xinhui , Ao Haiyong , He Zhaoru , Wang Qun , Peng Zhaoxiang
Published: March 2022

In the past few decades, titanium and its alloys have been widely used in the orthopaedic field. However, because titanium is bioinert and lacks antibacterial properties, infection may happen when bacteria attach to implant surfaces and form biofilms. It has been studied that some naturally existing micron-scale topographies can reduce bacterial attachment such as cicada wings and gecko skins. The aim of this in vitro study was to find an implant with good biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties by the modification of micron-scale topographies. In this paper, a femtosecond laser was used to provide microtopography coatings on Ti substrates. The surface morphology of Ti substrates was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XPS was used to fulfil the chemical compositional analysis. The surface wettability was measured by contact angle measurement system. The effect of microtopography coatings with different surface microstructures on bacterial activities and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC) functions was investigated. The results of in vitro study revealed that microtopography coatings restrain the adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis), which are common pathogens of orthopaedic implant infections. In addition, microtopography coatings stimulated BMSC adhesion and proliferation. Our studies suggest that a microtopography-coated sample modified by femtosecond laser showed promising antibacterial properties and favourable biocompatibility. The femtosecond laser technique provides an accurate and valid way to produce microtopography coatings with outstanding biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties, and could be widely used to modify the surface of orthopaedic metal implants with great potential.
Fabrication and Performance Analysis of 3D Inkjet Flexible Printed Touch Sensor Based on AgNP Electrode for Infotainment Display
Authors: Palanisamy Srinivasan , Thangaraj Muthuramalingam , Moiduddin Khaja , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman M.
Published: March 2022

It is possible to employ printed capacitive sensors in car bezel applications because of its lower cost and higher detecting capabilities. In this paper, a flexible sensor for automotive entertainment applications has been developed using an electrode flexible sensor with an interdigitated pattern printed on it using screen printing and 3D printing fabrication processes. Design concerns such as electrode overlap, electrode gap and width on capacitance changes, and production costs were studied. In addition, a new generation of flexible printed sensors has been developed that can outperform conventional human–machine interface (HMI) sensors. The capacitance of the design pattern may be optimized by using a 15mm overlap and 0.5mm electrode line width. Due to the precision of interpolation, overlap has a larger effect on sensor performance than it would have without it.
Natural Dyes Used as Organic Coatings UV Protecting for Food Packages
Authors: Virgili Tersilla , Pasini Mariacecilia , Guizzardi Michele , Tizro Negar , Bollani Monica
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, the use of biodegradable and bio-derived plastics such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and cellulose in food packaging applications are replacing the use of different and more conventional oil-derived polymers that are much more expensive and unsuitable for the environment. However, their high transparency to ultraviolet (UV) radiation limits their current commercialization. Therefore, this study focuses on the deposition of organic thin films on commercial PLA and cellulose in order to enhance their performance, in particular for UV shielding. Coatings with different natural and biocompatible (edible) molecules, quinine and p-Coumaric acid, dispersed in different matrices are deposited by comparing different deposition techniques such as spray coating and spin coating. Morphological characterizations are carried out with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), with spectroscopic characterizations performed by light transmission measurements. Our results show that it is possible to enhance the UV protection of packaging using a suitable deposition with these biocompatible materials.
Experimental Study on the Scouring Rate of Cohesive Soil in the Lower Yellow River
Authors: He Na , Yang Liuqing , Xu Linjuan , Zhao Wanjie
Published: March 2022

The different soil anti scourability in the lower reaches of the Yellow River leads to different scouring and retreating speeds, which has a great influence on river regime evolution. Through the incipient motion scouring test of cemented cohesive soil in the lower reaches of the Yellow River, the physical phenomena of the incipient motion of cohesive soil were expounded, the scouring rate of cohesive soil was calculated, and the relationship between the scouring rate and its influencing factors was established. The results show that when the moisture content of cohesive soil is 43%~61%, the scouring rate is about 0.001~0.03 kg/(m2·s). The scouring rate of cohesive soil with the same particle size varies with the flow shear stress under different deposition duration conditions. Under the same flow rate, the scouring rate of cohesive soil increases with the increase of water content, showing an exponential relationship of increment. Under the same shear stress condition, the scouring rate decreases with the increase of dry density, while the exponential relationship between dry density and scouring rate is not clear when the shear stress is small. With the increase of shear stress, there is an obvious exponential relationship between dry density and scouring rate. Finally, the relationship between the scouring rate and relative residual shear stress was established, and the scouring rate formula suitable for cohesive extremely fine sediment was fitted. The formula can better estimate the scouring rate of the riverbank composed of very fine cohesive sediment and provide support for predicting the scouring and retreating rate of riverbanks in natural rivers.
Research on Fault Feature Extraction Method Based on Parameter Optimized Variational Mode Decomposition and Robust Independent Component Analysis
Authors: Yang Jingzong , Zhou Chengjiang , Li Xuefeng
Published: March 2022

The variational mode decomposition mode (VMD) has a reliable mathematical derivation and can decompose signals adaptively. At present, it has been widely used in mechanical fault diagnosis, financial analysis and prediction, geological signal analysis, and other fields. However, VMD has the problems of insufficient decomposition and modal aliasing due to the unclear selection method of modal component k and penalty factor α. Therefore, it is difficult to ensure the accuracy of fault feature extraction and fault diagnosis. To effectively extract fault feature information from bearing vibration signals, a fault feature extraction method based on VMD optimized with information entropy, and robust independent component analysis (RobustICA) was proposed. Firstly, the modal component k and penalty factor α in VMD were optimized by the principle of minimum information entropy to improve the effect of signal decomposition. Secondly, the optimal parameters weresubstituted into VMD, and several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) wereobtained by signal decomposition. Secondly, the kurtosis and cross-correlation coefficient criteria were comprehensively used to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each IMF.And then, the optimal IMFs were selected to construct the observation signal channel to realize the signal-to-noise separation based on RobustICA. Finally, the envelope demodulation analysis of the denoised signal was carried out to extract the fault characteristic frequency. Through the analysis of bearing simulation signal and actual data, it shows that this method can extract the weak characteristics of rolling bearing fault signal and realize the accurate identification of fault. Meanwhile, in the bearing simulation signal experiment, the results of kurtosis value, cross-correlation coefficient, root mean square error, and mean absolute error are 6.162, 0.681, 0.740, and 0.583, respectively. Compared with other traditional methods, better index evaluation value is obtained.
Land Cover Map for Multifunctional Landscapes of Taita Taveta County, Kenya, Based on Sentinel-1 Radar, Sentinel-2 Optical, and Topoclimatic Data
Authors: Abera Temesgen Alemayehu , Vuorinne Ilja , Munyao Martha , Pellikka Petri K. E. , Heiskanen Janne
Published: March 2022

Taita Taveta County (TTC) is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots in the highlands with some of the world’s megafaunas in the lowlands. Detailed mapping of the terrestrial ecosystem of the whole county is of global significance for biodiversity conservation. Here, we present a land cover map for 2020 based on satellite observations, a machine learning algorithm, and a reference database for accuracy assessment. For the land cover map production processing chain, temporal metrics from Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 (such as median, quantiles, and interquartile range), vegetation indices from Sentinel-2 (normalized difference vegetation index, tasseled cap greenness, and tasseled cap wetness), topographic metrics (elevation, slope, and aspect), and mean annual rainfall were used as predictors in the gradient tree boost classification model. Reference sample points which were collected in the field were used to guide the collection of additional reference sample points based on high spatial resolution imagery for training and validation of the model. The accuracy of the land cover map and uncertainty of area estimates at 95% confidence interval were assessed using sample-based statistical inference. The land cover map has an overall accuracy of 81 ± 2.3% and it is freely accessible for land use planners, conservation managers, and researchers.
Hyperpigmented Scleroderma-like Lesions under Combined Pembrolizumab and Pemetrexed Treatment of Non-Small Lung Cancer
Authors: Gambichler Thilo , Lee Yi-Pei , Barras Milan , Scheel Christina H. , Susok Laura
Published: March 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and other antineoplastic treatment regimens can trigger cutaneous immune-related adverse events (irAEs). There is a tendency for underreporting of such cases, as cutaneous irAEs are typically perceived as mild and transient. However, more serious cutaneous irAEs can occur which, despite their lower frequency, deserve attention and require specific care. Here, we report a case of extensive hyperpigmented scleroderma-like lesions (SLL) on the lower extremities under combination treatment with pembrolizumab and pemetrexed in a patient with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. The present case in conjunction with a review of the current literature underscores the potential risk of developing SLL under treatment with anti-PD-1 antibody and/or pemetrexed. Moreover, it is possible that this particular combination treatment synergistically increases the risk of SLL. As a result, more such cases may arise in the future, as ICI/pemetrexed combination treatment might be employed more often. As drug-induced SLL usually require systemic treatment with high dose-corticosteroids, physicians should be aware of SLL as an irAE when cancer patients present with sclerotic and/or fibrotic skin lesions.
Is Nerve Electrophysiology a Robust Primary Endpoint in Clinical Trials of Treatments for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?
Authors: Al-Bazz Dalal Y. , Nelson Andrew J. , Burgess Jamie , Petropoulos Ioannis N. , Nizza Jael , Marshall Anne , Brown Emily , Cuthbertson Daniel J. , Marshall Andrew G. , Malik Rayaz A. , Alam Uazman
Published: March 2022

There is currently no FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) is an established primary endpoint of disease-modifying therapies in DPN and clinical trials have been powered with an assumed decline of 0.5 m/s/year. This paper sought to establish the time-dependent change in NCV associated with a placebo, compared to that observed in the active intervention group. A literature search identified twenty-one double-blind, randomised controlled trials in DPN of ≥1 year duration conducted between 1971 and 2021. We evaluated changes in neurophysiology, with a focus on peroneal motor and sural sensory NCV and amplitude in the placebo and treatment groups. There was significant variability in the change and direction of change (reduction/increase) in NCV in the placebo arm, as well as variability influenced by the anatomical site of neurophysiological measurement within a given clinical trial. A critical re-evaluation of efficacy trials should consider placebo-adjusted effects and present the placebo-subtracted change in NCV rather than assume a universal annual decline of 0.5 m/s/year. Importantly, endpoints such as corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) have demonstrated early nerve repair, whilst symptoms and NCV have not changed, and should thus be considered as a viable alternative.