bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Asbestos Victim Relief Available Outside of Conventional Occupational Compensation Schemes
Authors: Lee Kwang , Godderis Lode , Furuya Sugio , Kim Yoon , Kang Dongmug
Published: May 2021

The asbestos victim relief schemes were introduced to resolve the issue of victims of asbestos-related diseases not receiving compensation through conventional legal orders. This article seeks to derive the differences and commonalities of various asbestos victim relief schemes available outside of the conventional occupational compensation system along with a systematic understanding and to propose plans for improvement through a comparative study. After the degree of asbestos exposure, the population, and the period of implementation were corrected, the recognized claims of the total of conventional occupational compensation schemes and the asbestos victim relief schemes could be ranked in the order of South Korea (KOR) (1867, total), France (FRA) (1571), Japan (JPN) (966), KOR (847, asbestosis grade 2,3 excluded), the United Kingdom (GBR) (670), and the Netherlands (NLD) (95). The average amount of compensation per person, in the case of mesothelioma, was higher in the order of FRA (4.60 times), KOR (1.46 times), GBR (1.03 times), and NLD (0.73 times) of the median income per year. The differences between countries were largely caused by the purpose of institutional design and influenced by the level of qualification, the existence of an expiration date, type of disease, type of benefit, level of judgment criteria, the existence of a procedure for appeals, and recognition rate (GBR: 102%, FRA: 84%, NLD: 81%, JPN: 76%, KOR: 73%, and BEL: 54%). Based on this analysis, suggestions could be made regarding the expansion of disease types, benefit types, and the overall review of judgment criteria.
Changes in Sitting Time, Screen Exposure and Physical Activity during COVID-19 Lockdown in South American Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sadarangani Kabir P. , De Roia Gabriela F. , Lobo Pablo , Chavez Robinson , Meyer Jacob , Cristi-Montero Carlos , Martinez-Gomez David , Ferrari Gerson , Schuch Felipe B. , Gil-Salmerón Alejandro , Solmi Marco , Veronese Nicola , Alzahrani Hosam , Grabovac Igor , Caperchione Cristina M. , Tully Mark A. , Smith Lee
Published: May 2021

The worldwide prevalence of insufficient physical activity (PA) and prolonged sedentary behavior (SB) were high before the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Measures that were taken by governments (such as home confinement) to control the spread of COVID-19 may have affected levels of PA and SB. This cross-sectional study among South American adults during the first months of COVID-19 aims to (i) compare sitting time (ST), screen exposure, moderate PA (MPA), vigorous PA (VPA), and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) before and during lockdown to sociodemographic correlates and (ii) to assess the impact of lockdown on combinations of groups reporting meeting/not-meeting PA recommendations and engaging/not-engaging excessive ST (≥7 h/day). Bivariate associations, effect sizes, and multivariable linear regressions were used. Adults from Argentina (n = 575) and Chile (n = 730) completed an online survey with questions regarding demographics, lifestyle factors, and chronic diseases. Mean reductions of 42.7 and 22.0 min./day were shown in MPA and VPA, respectively; while increases of 212.4 and 164.3 min./day were observed in screen and ST, respectively. Those who met PA recommendations and spent <7 h/day of ST experienced greatest changes, reporting greater than 3 h/day higher ST and more than 1.5 h/day lower MVPA. Findings from the present study suggest that efforts to promote PA to South American adults during and after COVID-19 restrictions are needed.
Epidemiological Aspects of the Initial Evolution of COVID-19 in Microregion of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais (MG), Brazil
Authors: Policarpo Deborah Araujo , Lourenzatto Eduarda Cristina Alves , Brito Talita Costa e Silva , Rossi Daise Aparecida , de Melo Roberta Torres
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 is considered by the World Health Organization to be a global public health emergency, which presents regional divergences that affect the epidemiological profile of the disease and are associated with political, economic, social and behavioral aspects. We aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of the disease in the microregion of Uberlândia, Brazil, in order to determine risk factors that contributed to progression of SARS-CoV-2 virus. A cross-sectional study was conducted about micro- and macro-determinants combined with the significance analysis of suspected and confirmed cases in 18 municipalities during the epidemiological weeks (EW) 9 to 26. There were 34,046 notifications, of which 4935 (14.49%) people were diagnosed with COVID-19. Of these, 282 (5.71%) required hospital care and 40 (0.81%) died. Age and presence of associated comorbidities were decisive in the variations of incidence and lethality rates. In general, young people were the most affected and the elderly people, the most exposed to the serious and lethal form (p < 0.0001). Comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiopathies increased 33.5 times the death risk. The dispersion of the virus was centrifugal, in the inter as well as in the intra-municipal level. The disorderly implementation of municipal decrees applied in a decentralized manner in the municipalities seems to have contributed for the incidence rates increasing in the EW 25 and 26.
The Use of Artificial Neural Networks to Predict the Physicochemical Characteristics of Water Quality in Three District Municipalities, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Setshedi Koketso J. , Mutingwende Nhamo , Ngqwala Nosiphiwe P.
Published: May 2021

Reliable prediction of water quality changes is a prerequisite for early water pollution control and is vital in environmental monitoring, ecosystem sustainability, and human health. This study uses Artificial Neural Network (ANN) technique to develop the best model fits to predict water quality parameters by employing multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network and the radial basis function (RBF) neural network, using data collected from three district municipalities. Two input combination models, MLP-4-5-4 and MLP-4-9-4, were trained, verified, and tested for their predictive performance ability, and their physicochemical prediction accuracy was compared by using each model’s observed data with the predicted data. The MLP-4-5-4 model showed a better understanding of the data sets and water quality predictive ability giving an MSE of 39.06589 and a correlation coefficient (R2) of the observed and the predicted water quality of 0.989383 compared to the MLP-4-9-4 model (R2 = 0.993532, MSE = 39.03087). These results apply to natural water resources management in South Africa and similar catchment systems. The MLP-4-5-4 system can be scaled up for future water quality prediction of the Waste Water Treatment Plants (WWTPs), groundwater, and surface water while raising awareness among the public and industry on future water quality.
Human Platelet Lysate for Good Manufacturing Practice-Compliant Cell Production
Authors: Oeller Michaela , Laner-Plamberger Sandra , Krisch Linda , Rohde Eva , Strunk Dirk , Schallmoser Katharina
Published: May 2021

Numerous cell-based therapeutics are currently being tested in clinical trials. Human platelet lysate (HPL) is a valuable alternative to fetal bovine serum as a cell culture medium supplement for a variety of different cell types. HPL as a raw material permits animal serum-free cell propagation with highly efficient stimulation of cell proliferation, enabling humanized manufacturing of cell therapeutics within a reasonable timeframe. Providers of HPL have to consider dedicated quality issues regarding identity, purity, potency, traceability and safety. Release criteria have to be defined, characterizing the suitability of HPL batches for the support of a specific cell culture. Fresh or expired platelet concentrates from healthy blood donors are the starting material for HPL preparation, according to regulatory requirements. Pooling of individual platelet lysate units into one HPL batch can balance donor variation with regard to essential platelet-derived growth factors and cytokines. The increasingly applied pathogen reduction technologies will further increase HPL safety. In this review article, aspects and regulatory requirements of whole blood donation and details of human platelet lysate manufacturing are presented. International guidelines for raw materials are discussed, and defined quality controls, as well as release criteria for safe and GMP-compliant HPL production, are summarized.
The Root Extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Induces Apoptosis in EGFR TKI-Resistant Human Lung Cancer Cells by Inactivation of STAT3
Authors: Park Hyun-Ji , Park Shin-Hyung , Choi Yung-Hyun , Chi Gyoo-Yong
Published: May 2021

Resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs) is a major obstacle in managing lung cancer. The root of Scutellaria baicalensis (SB) traditionally used for fever clearance and detoxification possesses various bioactivities including anticancer effects. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether SB exhibited anticancer activity in EGFR TKI-resistant lung cancer cells and to explore the underlying mechanism. We used four types of human lung cancer cell lines, including H1299 (EGFR wildtype; EGFR TKI-resistant), H1975 (acquired TKI-resistant), PC9/ER (acquired erlotinib-resistant), and PC9/GR (acquired gefitinib-resistant) cells. The ethanol extract of SB (ESB) decreased cell viability and suppressed colony formation in the four cell lines. ESB stimulated nuclear fragmentation and the cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and caspase-3. Consistently, the proportion of sub-G1 phase cells and annexin V+ cells were significantly elevated by ESB, indicating that ESB induced apoptotic cell death in EGFR TKI-resistant cells. ESB dephosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and downregulated the target gene expression. The overexpression of constitutively active STAT3 reversed ESB-induced apoptosis, suggesting that ESB triggered apoptosis in EGFR TKI-resistant cells by inactivating STAT3. Taken together, we propose the potential use of SB as a novel therapeutic for lung cancer patients with EGFR TKI resistance.
Role of Glycated High Mobility Group Box-1 in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kishi Shingo , Nishiguchi Yukiko , Honoki Kanya , Mori Shiori , Fujiwara-Tani Rina , Sasaki Takamitsu , Fujii Kiyomu , Kawahara Isao , Goto Kei , Nakashima Chie , Kido Akira , Tanaka Yasuhito , Luo Yi , Kuniyasu Hiroki
Published: May 2021

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are produced in response to a high-glucose environment and oxidative stress and exacerbate various diseases. Nε-(Carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) is an AGE that is produced by the glycation of lysine residues of proteins. There are a few reports on alterations in protein function due to CML modification; however, its association with cancer is not clear. We investigated the significance of CML modification in high mobility group box protein-1 (HMGB1), a cytokine that is significantly associated with cancer progression. Treatment of the gastric cancer cell lines TMK1 and MKN74 with glyoxal or glucose resulted in increased CML modification compared to untreated cells. CML-HMGB1 was modified via oxidation and more pronouncedly activated the receptor for AGE and downstream AKT and NF-κB compared to naïve HMGB1 and oxidized HMGB1. CML-HMGB1 bound with reduced affinity to DNA and histone H3, resulting in enhanced extranuclear translocation and extracellular secretion. Treatment of gastric cancer cells with CML-HMGB1 enhanced cell proliferation and invasion, sphere formation, and protection from thapsigargin-induced apoptosis, and decreased 5-FU sensitivity in comparison to HMGB1. Further, CML-HMGB1 was detected at various levels in all the 10 gastric cancer tumor specimens. HMGB1 levels correlated with primary tumor progression and distant metastasis, whereas CML-HMGB1 levels were associated with primary tumor progression, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and stage. In addition, CML-HMGB1 levels correlated with oxidative stress in cancer tissues and resistance to neoadjuvant therapy. Therefore, CML modification of HMGB1 enhanced the cancer-promoting effect of HMGB1. In this study, CML-HMGB1 has been highlighted as a new therapeutic target, and analysis of the molecular structure of CML-HMGB1 is desired in the future.
Pannexin-1 Channels as Mediators of Neuroinflammation
Authors: Seo Joon Ho , Dalal Miloni S. , Contreras Jorge E.
Published: May 2021

Neuroinflammation is a major component of central nervous system (CNS) injuries and neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, and brain trauma. The activation of innate immune cells at the damage site causes the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, which alter the functionality of nearby tissues and might mediate the recruitment of leukocytes to the injury site. If this process persists or is exacerbated, it prevents the adequate resolution of the inflammation, and ultimately enhances secondary damage. Adenosine 5′ triphosphate (ATP) is among the molecules released that trigger an inflammatory response, and it serves as a chemotactic and endogenous danger signal. Extracellular ATP activates multiple purinergic receptors (P2X and P2Y) that have been shown to promote neuroinflammation in a variety of CNS diseases. Recent studies have shown that Pannexin-1 (Panx1) channels are the principal conduits of ATP release from dying cells and innate immune cells in the brain. Herein, we review the emerging evidence that directly implicates Panx-1 channels in the neuroinflammatory response in the CNS.
Molecule-Resolved Visualization of Particulate Matter on Human Skin Using Multimodal Nonlinear Optical Imaging
Authors: Lee Eun-Soo , Kim Suho , Lee Sang-Won , Jung Jinsang , Lee Sung Hoon , Na Hye-Won , Kim Hyoung-June , Hong Yong Deog , Park Won Seok , Lee Tae Geol , Jo Dong-Gyu , Kim Se-Hwa
Published: May 2021

Precise measurement of particulate matter (PM) on skin is important for managing and preventing PM-related skin diseases. This study aims to directly visualize the deposition and penetration of PM into human skin using a multimodal nonlinear optical (MNLO) imaging system. We successfully obtained PM particle signals by merging two different sources, C–C vibrational frequency and autofluorescence, while simultaneously visualizing the anatomical features of the skin via keratin, collagen, and elastin. As a result, we found morphologically dependent PM deposition, as well as increased deposition following disruption of the skin barrier via tape-stripping. Furthermore, PM penetrated more and deeper into the skin with an increase in the number of tape-strippings, causing a significant increase in the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our results suggest that MNLO imaging could be a useful technique for visualizing and quantifying the spatial distribution of PM in ex vivo human skin tissues.
Inhibition of the PI3K/mTOR Pathway in Breast Cancer to Enhance Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Breast Cancer
Authors: Yan Chi , Yang Jinming , Saleh Nabil , Chen Sheau-Chiann , Ayers Gregory D. , Abramson Vandana G. , Mayer Ingrid A. , Richmond Ann
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Inhibition of the PI3K/mTOR pathway suppresses breast cancer (BC) growth, enhances anti-tumor immune responses, and works synergistically with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). The objective here was to identify a subclass of PI3K inhibitors that, when combined with paclitaxel, is effective in enhancing response to ICI. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were orthotopically implanted with syngeneic luminal/triple-negative-like PyMT cells exhibiting high endogenous PI3K activity. Tumor growth in response to treatment with anti-PD-1 + anti-CTLA-4 (ICI), paclitaxel (PTX), and either the PI3Kα-specific inhibitor alpelisib, the pan-PI3K inhibitor copanlisib, or the broad spectrum PI3K/mTOR inhibitor gedatolisib was evaluated in reference to monotherapy or combinations of these therapies. Effects of these therapeutics on intratumoral immune populations were determined by multicolor FACS. Results: Treatment with alpelisib + PTX inhibited PyMT tumor growth and increased tumor-infiltrating granulocytes but did not significantly affect the number of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells and did not synergize with ICI. Copanlisib + PTX + ICI significantly inhibited PyMT growth and increased activation of intratumoral CD8+ T cells as compared to ICI alone, yet did not inhibit tumor growth more than ICI alone. In contrast, gedatolisib + ICI resulted in significantly greater inhibition of tumor growth compared to ICI alone and induced durable dendritic-cell, CD8+ T-cell, and NK-cell responses. Adding PTX to this regimen yielded complete regression in 60% of tumors. Conclusion: PI3K/mTOR inhibition plus PTX heightens response to ICI and may provide a viable therapeutic approach for treatment of metastatic BC.
MicroRNAs and Extracellular Vesicles as Distinctive Biomarkers of Precocious and Advanced Stages of Breast Cancer Brain Metastases Development
Authors: Figueira Inês , Godinho-Pereira Joana , Galego Sofia , Maia Joana , Haskó János , Molnár Kinga , Malhó Rui , Costa-Silva Bruno , Wilhelm Imola , Krizbai István A. , Brito Maria Alexandra
Published: May 2021

Triple negative breast cancer presents higher mortality and poorer survival rates than other breast cancer (BC) types, due to the proneness to brain metastases formation, which are usually diagnosed at advanced stages. Therefore, the discovery of BC brain metastases (BCBM) biomarkers appears pivotal for a timely intervention. With this work, we aimed to disclose microRNAs (miRNAs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the circulation as biomarkers of BCBM formation. Using a BCBM animal model, we analyzed EVs in plasma by nanoparticle tracking analysis and ascertained their blood-brain barrier (BBB) origin by flow cytometry. We further evaluated circulating miRNAs by RT-qPCR and their brain expression by in situ hybridization. In parallel, a cellular model of BCBM formation, combining triple negative BC cells and BBB endothelial cells, was used to differentiate the origin of biomarkers. Established metastases were associated with an increased content of circulating EVs, particularly of BBB origin. Interestingly, deregulated miRNAs in the circulation were observed prior to BCBM detection, and their brain origin was suggested by matching alterations in brain parenchyma. In vitro studies indicated that miR-194-5p and miR-205-5p are expressed and released by BC cells, endothelial cells and during their interaction. These results highlight miRNAs and EVs as biomarkers of BCBM in early and advanced stages, respectively.
AT1 and AT2 Receptor Knockout Changed Osteonectin and Bone Density in Mice in Periodontal Inflammation Experimental Model
Authors: Lima Maria Laura de Souza , Medeiros Caroline Addison Carvalho Xavier de , Guerra Gerlane Coelho Bernardo , Santos Robson , Bader Michael , Pirih Flavia Q. , Araújo Júnior Raimundo Fernandes de , Chan Alan B. , Cruz Luis J. , Brito Gerly Anne de Castro , Leitão Renata Ferreira de Carvalho , Silveira Ericka Janine Dantas da , Garcia Vinicius Barreto , Martins Agnes Andrade , Araújo Aurigena Antunes de
Published: May 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of AT1 and AT2 receptors in a periodontal inflammation experimental model. Methods: Periodontal inflammation was induced by LPS/Porphyromonas gingivalis. Maxillae, femur, and vertebra were scanned using Micro-CT. Maxillae were analyzed histopathologically, immunohistochemically, and by RT-PCR. Results: The vertebra showed decreased BMD in AT1 H compared with WT H (p < 0.05). The femur showed increased Tb.Sp for AT1 H and AT2 H, p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively. The Tb.N was decreased in the vertebra (WT H-AT1 H: p < 0.05; WT H-AT2 H: p < 0.05) and in the femur (WT H-AT1 H: p < 0.01; WT H-AT2 H: p < 0.05). AT1 PD increased linear bone loss (p < 0.05) and decreased osteoblast cells (p < 0.05). RANKL immunostaining was intense for AT1 PD and WT PD (p < 0.001). OPG was intense in the WT H, WT PD, and AT2 PD when compared to AT1 PD (p < 0.001). AT1 PD showed weak immunostaining for osteocalcin compared with WT H, WT PD, and AT2 PD (p < 0.001). AT1 H showed significantly stronger immunostaining for osteonectin in fibroblasts compared to AT2 H (p < 0.01). Conclusion: AT1 receptor knockout changed bone density, the quality and number of bone trabeculae, decreased the number of osteoblast cells, and increased osteonectin in fibroblasts.
Lactate Like Fluconazole Reduces Ergosterol Content in the Plasma Membrane and Synergistically Kills Candida albicans
Authors: Suchodolski Jakub , Muraszko Jakub , Bernat Przemysław , Krasowska Anna
Published: May 2021

Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen that induces vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), among other diseases. In the vaginal environment, the source of carbon for C. albicans can be either lactic acid or its dissociated form, lactate. It has been shown that lactate, similar to the popular antifungal drug fluconazole (FLC), reduces the expression of the ERG11 gene and hence the amount of ergosterol in the plasma membrane. The Cdr1 transporter that effluxes xenobiotics from C. albicans cells, including FLC, is delocalized from the plasma membrane to a vacuole under the influence of lactate. Despite the overexpression of the CDR1 gene and the increased activity of Cdr1p, C. albicans is fourfold more sensitive to FLC in the presence of lactate than when glucose is the source of carbon. We propose synergistic effects of lactate and FLC in that they block Cdr1 activity by delocalization due to changes in the ergosterol content of the plasma membrane.
Repat33 Acts as a Downstream Component of Eicosanoid Signaling Pathway Mediating Immune Responses of Spodoptera exigua, a Lepidopteran Insect
Authors: Hrithik Md Tafim Hossain , Vatanparast Mohammad , Ahmed Shabbir , Kim Yonggyun
Published: May 2021

Repat (=response to pathogen) is proposed for an immune-associated gene family from Spodoptera exigua, a lepidopteran insect. In this gene family, 46 members (Repat1–Repat46) have been identified. They show marked variations in their inducible expression patterns in response to infections by different microbial pathogens. However, their physiological functions in specific immune responses and their interactions with other immune signaling pathways remain unclear. Repat33 is a gene highly inducible by bacterial infections. The objective of this study was to analyze the physiological functions of Repat33 in mediating cellular and humoral immune responses. Results showed that Repat33 was expressed in all developmental stages and induced in immune-associated tissues such as hemocytes and the fat body. RNA interference (RNAi) of Repat33 expression inhibited the hemocyte-spreading behavior which impaired nodule formation of hemocytes against bacterial infections. Such RNAi treatment also down-regulated expression levels of some antimicrobial genes. Interestingly, Repat33 expression was controlled by eicosanoids. Inhibition of eicosanoid biosynthesis by RNAi against a phospholipase A2 (PLA2) gene suppressed Repat33 expression while an addition of arachidonic acid (a catalytic product of PLA2) to RNAi treatment recovered such suppression of Repat33 expression. These results suggest that Repat33 is a downstream component of eicosanoids in mediating immune responses of S. exigua.
Does the African Citrus psyllid, Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio) (Hemiptera: Triozidae), Represent a Phytosanitary Threat to the Citrus Industry in Mexico?
Authors: Espinosa-Zaragoza Saúl , Pérez-De la O Nidia Bélgica , Aguirre-Medina Juan Francisco , López-Martínez Víctor
Published: May 2021

The African citrus psyllid, Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio) (Hemiptera: Triozidae), is a vector of Candidatus Liberibacter africanus (CLaf), a pathogen that causes huanglongbing (HLB) in Africa. Trioza erytreae has invaded areas of Asia and Europe and has threatened citrus production due to its biological habits and the transmission of CLaf. Mexico is a country where citrus production has a vital role from the economic and social point of view. Therefore, ecological niche modeling (ENM) was used to determine if Mexico has the environmental availability that will allow T. erytreae invasion. We analyzed whether or not the distribution of Casimiroa edulis La Llave (Rutaceae) in the country could be a factor that enables the dispersal of T. eytreae. The environmental connectivity between five points of entry into the country (two ports and three airports) was explored to determine possible routes of dispersal of T. erytrae. The results showed that Mexico has wide availability for the invasion of the African citrus psyllid, which coincides with essential citrus areas of the country and with the distribution of C. edulis. Of the entry points studied, the Port of Veracruz showed nearby areas with environmental connectivity. Preventive monitoring measures for T. erytreae in Mexico should focus on Veracruz state because it has an entry point, ideal environmental availability, citrus areas, and specimens of C. edulis.
Mitogenome Analysis of Four Lamiinae Species (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) and Gene Expression Responses by Monochamus alternatus When Infected with the Parasitic Nematode, Bursaphelenchus mucronatus
Authors: Zhang Zi-Yi , Guan Jia-Yin , Cao Yu-Rou , Dai Xin-Yi , Storey Kenneth B. , Yu Dan-Na , Zhang Jia-Yong
Published: May 2021

We determined the mitochondrial gene sequence of Monochamus alternatus and three other mitogenomes of Lamiinae (Insect: Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) belonging to three genera (Aulaconotus, Apriona and Paraglenea) to enrich the mitochondrial genome database of Lamiinae and further explore the phylogenetic relationships within the subfamily. Phylogenetic trees of the Lamiinae were built using the Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) methods and the monophyly of Monochamus, Anoplophora, and Batocera genera was supported. Anoplophora chinensis, An. glabripennis and Aristobia reticulator were closely related, suggesting they may also be potential vectors for the transmission of the pine wood pathogenic nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) in addition to M. alternatus, a well-known vector of pine wilt disease. There is a special symbiotic relationship between M. alternatus and Bursaphelenchus xylophilus. As the native sympatric sibling species of B. xylophilus, B. mucronatus also has a specific relationship that is often overlooked. The analysis of mitochondrial gene expression aimed to explore the effect of B. mucronatus on the energy metabolism of the respiratory chain of M. alternatus adults. Using RT-qPCR, we determined and analyzed the expression of eight mitochondrial protein-coding genes (COI, COII, COIII, ND1, ND4, ND5, ATP6, and Cty b) between M. alternatus infected by B. mucronatus and M. alternatus without the nematode. Expression of all the eight mitochondrial genes were up-regulated, particularly the ND4 and ND5 gene, which were up-regulated by 4–5-fold (p < 0.01). Since longicorn beetles have immune responses to nematodes, we believe that their relationship should not be viewed as symbiotic, but classed as parasitic.
Inpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Is Associated with Improved Clinical Performance and Quality of Life
Authors: Kleczynski Pawel , Trebacz Jaroslaw , Stapor Maciej , Sobczynski Robert , Konstanty-Kalandyk Janusz , Kapelak Boguslaw , Zmudka Krzysztof , Legutko Jacek
Published: May 2021

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) provides multifactorial support and intervention for cardiac patients and improves quality of life (QoL). We aimed to assess clinical performance and QoL changes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) scheduled directly to inpatient CR (CR group) and those who were discharged home (DH group). The following patient-related outcomes were recorded: 5 m walk time (5MWT), 6 min walk test (6MWT), handgrip strength (HGS) with dynamometer, Katz index of Independence of Activities in Daily Living (KI of ADL), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scores (HADS) Score. Quality of life was evaluated with Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). Baseline data, 30-day and 6- and 12-month data were assessed. The CR group consisted of 52 patients and 53 were in the discharged home (DH group). When we compared outcomes between the groups, the 5MWT, 6MWT, HGS KI of ADL, and KCCQ were significantly better in the CR group at 30 days (p = 0.03, p = 0.01, p = 0.02, p = 0.048, respectively), and no difference was found in HADS scores. At 6 months, the effect of CR was sustained for 6MWT, HGS, KI of ADL, and KCCQ (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.03, p = 0.003, respectively) but not for 5MWT. Interestingly, at 12 months, the CR group had better performance only in 6MWT and HGS compared with the DH group (p = 0.04, p = 0.03, respectively). We showed that inpatient CR is strongly associated with better clinical performance and QoL in patients undergoing TAVR. All patients may benefit from CR after TAVR. The most important aspect of inpatient CR after TAVR from the patient’s perspective may be better performance in daily activities; however, performance was attenuated after 1 year.
Utility of Different Surrogate Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (sELISAs) for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Kohmer Niko , Rühl Cornelia , Ciesek Sandra , Rabenau Holger F.
Published: May 2021

The plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) is a preferred method for the detection of functional, SARS-CoV-2 specific neutralizing antibodies from serum samples. Alternatively, surrogate enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) using ACE2 as the target structure for the detection of neutralization-competent antibodies have been developed. They are capable of high throughput, have a short turnaround time, and can be performed under standard laboratory safety conditions. However, there are very limited data on their clinical performance and how they compare to the PRNT. We evaluated three surrogate immunoassays (GenScript SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Virus Neutralization Test Kit (GenScript Biotech, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA), the TECO® SARS-CoV-2 Neutralization Antibody Assay (TECOmedical AG, Sissach, Switzerland), and the Leinco COVID-19 ImmunoRank™ Neutralization MICRO-ELISA (Leinco Technologies, Fenton, MO, USA)) and one automated quantitative SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein-based IgG antibody assay (Abbott GmbH, Wiesbaden, Germany) by testing 78 clinical samples, including several follow-up samples of six BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer, Mainz, Germany/New York, NY, USA) vaccinated individuals. Using the PRNT as a reference method, the overall sensitivity of the examined assays ranged from 93.8 to 100% and specificity ranged from 73.9 to 91.3%. Weighted kappa demonstrated a substantial to almost perfect agreement. The findings of our study allow these assays to be considered when a PRNT is not available. However, the latter still should be the preferred choice. For optimal clinical performance, the cut-off value of the TECO assay should be individually adapted.
Limited Liver or Lung Colorectal Cancer Metastases. Systemic Treatment, Surgery, Ablation or SBRT
Authors: Molla Meritxell , Fernandez-Plana Julen , Albiol Santiago , Fondevila Constantino , Vollmer Ivan , Cases Carla , Garcia-Criado Angeles , Capdevila Jaume , Conill Carles , Fundora Yliam , Fernandez-Martos Carlos , Pineda Estela
Published: May 2021

The prognosis for oligometastatic colorectal cancer has improved in recent years, mostly because of recent advances in new techniques and approaches to the treatment of oligometastases, including new surgical procedures, better systemic treatments, percutaneous ablation, and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). There are several factors to consider when deciding on the better approach for each patient: tumor factors (metachronous or synchronous metastases, RAS mutation, BRAF mutation, disease-free interval, size and number of metastases), patient factors (age, frailty, comorbidities, patient preferences), and physicians’ factors (local expertise). These advances have presented major challenges and opportunities for oncologic multidisciplinary teams to treat patients with limited liver and lung metastases from colorectal cancer with a curative intention. In this review, we describe the different treatment options in patients with limited liver and lung metastases from colorectal cancer, and the possible combination of three approaches: systemic treatment, surgery, and local ablative treatments.
Risk Spillover during the COVID-19 Global Pandemic and Portfolio Management
Authors: Yousfi Mohamed , Dhaoui Abderrazak , Bouzgarrou Houssam
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to examine the volatility spillover, diversification benefits, and hedge ratios between U.S. stock markets and different financial variables and commodities during the pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 crisis, using daily data and multivariate GARCH models. Our results indicate that the risk spillover has reached the highest level during the COVID-19 period, compared to the pre-COVID period, which means that the COVID-19 pandemic enforced the risk spillover between U.S. stock markets and the remains assets. We confirm the economic benefit of diversification in both tranquil and crisis periods (e.g., a negative dynamic conditional correlation between the VIX and SP500). Moreover, the hedging analysis exhibits that the Dow Jones Islamic has the highest hedging effectiveness either before or during the recent COVID19 crisis, offering better resistance to uncertainty caused by unpredictable turmoil such as the COVID19 outbreak. Our finding may have some implications for portfolio managers and investors to reduce their exposure to the risk in their portfolio construction.
Can Famine Be Averted? A Spatiotemporal Assessment of The Impact of Climate Change on Food Security in The Luvuvhu River Catchment of South Africa
Authors: Mukwada Geoffrey , Mazibuko Sabelo M. , Moeletsi Mokhele , Robinson Guy M.
Published: May 2021

Climate change has proved to be a threat to food security the world over. Using temperature and precipitation data, this paper examines the differential effects climate change has on different land uses in the Luvuvhu river catchment in South Africa. The paper uses the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), which were calculated from Landsat images, and the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) for a sample of years between 1980 and 2016 to assess how drought and flood frequency have affected the agricultural environment. The results indicate that the lowest SPI values were recorded in 1996/1997, 2001/2002 and 2014/2015, suggesting the occurrence of drought during these years, while the highest SPI values were recorded in 1997/1998, 2002/2003 and 2004/2005. The relationship between three-month SPI (SPI_3) and VCI was strongest in grassland, and subsistence farming areas with the correlation coefficients of 0.8166 (p = 0.0022) and −0.6172 (p = 0.0431), respectively, indicating that rainfall variability had a high negative impact on vegetation health in those land uses with shallow-rooted plants. The findings of this study are relevant to disaster management planning in South Africa, as well as development of farming response strategies for coping with climate hazards in the country.
An Innovative Method of Converting Ferrous Mill Scale Wastes into Superparamagnetic Nanoadsorbents for Water Decontamination
Authors: Predescu Andra Mihaela , Matei Ecaterina , Berbecaru Andrei Constantin , Râpă Maria , Sohaciu Mirela Gabriela , Predescu Cristian , Vidu Ruxandra
Published: May 2021

The need to recycle and develop nanomaterials from waste, and use them in environmental applications has become increasingly imperative in recent decades. A new method to convert the mill scale, a waste of the steel industry that contains large quantity of iron and low impurities into a nanoadsorbent that has the necessary properties to be used for water purification is presented. The mill scale waste was used as raw material for iron oxide nanopowder. A thorough characterization was performed in each stage of the conversion process from the mill scale powder to magnetic nanopowder including XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), TEM (transmission electron microscopy), BET (Brunauer, Emmett and Teller) and magnetization properties. Iron oxide nanoparticles were approximately 5–6 nm with high specific surface area and good magnetic properties. These are the necessary properties that a magnetic nanopowder must have in order to be used as nanoadsorbents in the heavy metal removal from waters. The iron oxide nanoparticles were evaluated as adsorbents for the removal of Cu, Cd and Ni ions.
Energy Absorption Capacity of SBR Latex-Modified Ordinary Portland Cement by Charpy Impact Test
Authors: Nguyen Tri N. M. , Kim Jung J.
Published: May 2021

The present study deals with tests on the energy absorption capacity and compressive strength of styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) latex-modified cementitious materials. Different polymer–cement ratios (P/C) of 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% were carried out with the Charpy impact test at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing. The observations showed an increase in the energy absorption capacity of the SBR latex-modified cement paste in correspondence with the increase in curing times, as well as the increase in the P/C ratios. The P/C ratio of 10% was the optimal ratio for observing the highest energy absorption capacity of the SBR latex-modified cement paste, with a 43% increase observed. In addition, a linear relationship between compressive strength and the energy absorption capacity at 28 days was proposed. Based on that, the energy absorption capacity of SBR latex-modified cement paste can be analyzed or predicted by the compressive strength results, regardless of the P/C ratios. Finally, the two-parameter Weibull distribution was proved to fit by the observation data from the Charpy impact test.
Physical Properties of Electropolished CoCrMo Alloy Coated with Biodegradable Polymeric Coatings Releasing Heparin after Prolonged Exposure to Artificial Urine
Authors: Kajzer Wojciech , Szewczenko Janusz , Kajzer Anita , Basiaga Marcin , Jaworska Joanna , Jelonek Katarzyna , Nowińska Katarzyna , Kaczmarek Marcin , Orłowska Ada
Published: May 2021

In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of long-term exposure to artificial urine on the physical properties of CoCrMo alloy with biodegradable heparin-releasing polymeric coatings. Variants of polymer coatings of poly(L,L-lactide-ɛ-caprolactone) (P(L,L-L/CL)) and poly(D,L-lactide-ɛ-caprolactone) (P(D,L-L/CL)) constituting the base for heparin-releasing (HEP) polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coatings were analyzed. The coatings were applied by the dip-coating method. Heparin was used to counteract the incrustation process in the artificial urine. The study included tests of wettability, resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, determination of the mass density of metal ions penetrating into the artificial urine, and the kinetics of heparin release. In addition, microscopic observations of surface roughness and adhesion to the metal substrate were performed. Electrolytically polished CoCrMo samples (as a reference level) and samples with polymer coatings were used for the tests. The tests were conducted on samples in the initial state and after 30, 60, and 90 days of exposure to artificial urine. The analysis of the test results shows that the polymer coatings contribute by improving the resistance of the metal substrate to pitting and crevice corrosion in the initial state and reducing (as compared with the metal substrate) the mass density of metal ion release into the artificial urine. Moreover, the PVA + HEP coating, regardless of the base polymer coatings used, contributes to a reduction in the incrustation process in the first 30 days of exposure to the artificial urine.
A Nonlinear Magnetic Stabilization Control Design for an Externally Manipulated DC Motor: An Academic Low-Cost Experimental Platform
Authors: Acho Leonardo
Published: May 2021

The main objective of this paper is to present a position control design to a DC-motor, where the set-point is externally supplied. The controller is conceived by using vibrational control theory and implemented by just processing the time derivative of a Hall-effect sensor signal. Vibrational control is robust against model uncertainties. Hence, for control design, a simple mathematical model of a DC-Motor is invoked. Then, this controller is realized by utilizing analog electronics via operational amplifiers. In the experimental set-up, one extreme of a flexible beam attached to the motor shaft, and with a permanent magnet fixed on the other end, is constructed. Therefore, the control action consists of externally manipulating the flexible beam rotational position by driving a moveable Hall-effect sensor that is located facing the magnet. The experimental platform results in a low-priced device and is useful for teaching control and electronic topics. Experimental results are evidenced to support the main paper contribution.
Carotenoid Nostoxanthin Production by Sphingomonas sp. SG73 Isolated from Deep Sea Sediment
Authors: Kikukawa Hiroshi , Okaya Takuma , Maoka Takashi , Miyazaki Masayuki , Murofushi Keita , Kato Takanari , Hirono-Hara Yoko , Katsumata Masahiro , Miyahara Shoichi , Hara Kiyotaka Y.
Published: May 2021

Carotenoids are used commercially for dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals because of their antioxidant activity. In this study, colored microorganisms were isolated from deep sea sediment that had been collected from Suruga Bay, Shizuoka, Japan. One strain was found to be a pure yellow carotenoid producer, and the strain was identified as Sphingomonas sp. (Proteobacteria) by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis; members of this genus are commonly isolated from air, the human body, and marine environments. The carotenoid was identified as nostoxanthin ((2,3,2′,3′)-β,β-carotene-2,3,2′,3′-tetrol) by mass spectrometry (MS), MS/MS, and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Nostoxanthin is a poly-hydroxy yellow carotenoid isolated from some photosynthetic bacteria, including some species of Cyanobacteria. The strain Sphingomonas sp. SG73 produced highly pure nostoxanthin of approximately 97% (area%) of the total carotenoid production, and the strain was halophilic and tolerant to 1.5-fold higher salt concentration as compared with seawater. When grown in 1.8% artificial sea salt, nostoxanthin production increased by 2.5-fold as compared with production without artificial sea salt. These results indicate that Sphingomonas sp. SG73 is an efficient producer of nostoxanthin, and the strain is ideal for carotenoid production using marine water because of its compatibility with sea salt.
Ergonomics in Interventional Radiology: Awareness Is Mandatory
Authors: Cornelis Francois H. , Razakamanantsoa Leo , Ben Ammar Mohamed , Lehrer Raphael , Haffaf Idriss , El-Mouhadi Sanaa , Gardavaud Francois , Najdawi Milan , Barral Matthias
Published: May 2021

Ergonomics in interventional radiology has not been thoroughly evaluated. Like any operators, interventional radiologists are exposed to the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The use of lead shielding to radiation exposure and the lack of ergonomic principles developed so far contribute to these disorders, which may potentially affect their livelihoods, quality of life, and productivity. The objectives of this review were to describe the different situations encountered in interventional radiology and to compile the strategies both available to date and in development to improve ergonomics.
Comparison of Fluid Flow and Temperature Distribution in a Single-Strand Tundish with Different Flow Control Devices
Authors: Sheng Dong-Yuan , Chen Dengfu
Published: May 2021

The effects of flow control devices (FCD) in a single-strand tundish, including weir, dam, turbulence inhibitor and gas curtain, have been investigated using water model experiments and CFD simulations. A scaled-down water model was built up to visualize flow pattern and measure the residence-time distribution (RTD) of different tundish configurations. A CFD model was applied to calculate the fluid flow, heat transfer and RTD curves in the prototype tundish under the nonisothermal conditions. The Eulerian–Lagrangian approach was applied to investigate the bubble flow in the system. The results show that each FCD has its own unique function to control the flow. It is important to evaluate the combined effects of FCD based on their installations. The molten steel flow in the tundish could be improved if these flow control devices were arranged properly.
Mechanical Alloying: Processing and Materials
Authors: Suñol Joan-Josep
Published: May 2021

Mechanical alloying is a technique involving the production of alloys and compounds, which permits the development of metastable materials (with amorphous or nanocrystalline microstructure) or the obtention of solid solutions with extended solubility [...]
Bacteriophage-Mediated Control of Phytopathogenic Xanthomonads: A Promising Green Solution for the Future
Authors: Stefani Emilio , Obradović Aleksa , Gašić Katarina , Altin Irem , Nagy Ildikó K. , Kovács Tamás
Published: May 2021

Xanthomonads, members of the family Xanthomonadaceae, are economically important plant pathogenic bacteria responsible for infections of over 400 plant species. Bacteriophage-based biopesticides can provide an environmentally friendly, effective solution to control these bacteria. Bacteriophage-based biocontrol has important advantages over chemical pesticides, and treatment with these biopesticides is a minor intervention into the microflora. However, bacteriophages’ agricultural application has limitations rooted in these viruses’ biological properties as active substances. These disadvantageous features, together with the complicated registration process of bacteriophage-based biopesticides, means that there are few products available on the market. This review summarizes our knowledge of the Xanthomonas-host plant and bacteriophage-host bacterium interaction’s possible influence on bacteriophage-based biocontrol strategies and provides examples of greenhouse and field trials and products readily available in the EU and the USA. It also details the most important advantages and limitations of the agricultural application of bacteriophages. This paper also investigates the legal background and industrial property right issues of bacteriophage-based biopesticides. When appropriately applied, bacteriophages can provide a promising tool against xanthomonads, a possibility that is untapped. Information presented in this review aims to explore the potential of bacteriophage-based biopesticides in the control of xanthomonads in the future.