bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between immunologic markers and cirrhosis in individuals with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Argirion Ilona , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Lam Tram Kim , O’Brien Thomas R. , Yu Kelly , McGlynn Katherine A. , Petrick Jessica L. , Pinto Ligia , Chen Chien-Jen , Lee Mei-Hsuan , Hildesheim Allan , Yang Hwai-I , Koshiol Jill
Published: November 2021

Host immune response and chronic inflammation associated with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection play a key role in the pathogenesis of liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We sampled 175 HCC, 117 cirrhotic and 165 non-cirrhotic controls from a prospective cohort study of chronically HBV-infected individuals. Multivariable polytomous logistic regression and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) were used to compare baseline plasma levels for 102 markers in individuals who developed cirrhosis vs. controls and those who developed HCC vs. cirrhosis. Leave-one-out cross validation was used to generate receiver operating characteristic curves to compare the predictive ability of marker groups. After multivariable adjustment, HGF (Q4v1OR: 3.74; p-trend = 0.0001), SLAMF1 (Q4v1OR: 4.07; p-trend = 0.0001), CSF1 (Q4v1OR: 3.00; p-trend = 0.002), uPA (Q4v1OR: 3.36; p-trend = 0.002), IL-8 (Q4v1OR: 2.83; p-trend = 0.004), and OPG (Q4v1OR: 2.44; p-trend = 0.005) were all found to be associated with cirrhosis development compared to controls; these markers predicted cirrhosis with 69% accuracy. CDA analysis identified a nine marker model capable of predicting cirrhosis development with 79% accuracy. No markers were significantly different between HCC and cirrhotic participants. In this study, we assessed immunologic markers in relation to liver disease in chronically-HBV infected individuals. While validation in required, these findings highlight the importance of immunologic processes in HBV-related cirrhosis.
Refining the mandibular osteoradionecrosis rat model by in vivo longitudinal µCT analysis
Authors: Dos Santos Morgane , Demarquay Christelle , Ermeneux Louis , Aberkane Fazia , Bléry Pauline , Weiss Pierre , Milliat Fabien , Mathieu Noëlle
Published: November 2021

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is one of the most feared side effects of radiotherapy following cancers of the upper aero-digestive tract and leading to severe functional defects in patients. Today, our lack of knowledge about the physiopathology restricts the development of new treatments. In this study, we refined the ORN rat model and quantitatively studied the progression of the disease. We tested the impact of radiation doses from 20 to 40 Gy, delivered with incident 4MV X-ray beams on the left mandible of the inbred Lewis Rat. We used micro-computed tomography (µCT) to obtain in vivo images for longitudinal bone imaging and ex vivo images after animal perfusion with barium sulphate contrast agent for vessel imaging. We compared quantification methods by analyzing 3D images and 2D measurements to determine the most appropriate and precise method according to the degree of damage. We defined 25 Gy as the minimum irradiation dose combined with the median molar extraction necessary to develop non-regenerative bone necrosis. µCT image analyses were correlated with clinical and histological analyses. This refined model and accurate methods for bone and vessel quantification will improve our knowledge of the progression of ORN pathology and allow us to test the efficacy of new regenerative medicine procedures.
Sarcopenia risk and associated factors among Chinese community-dwelling older adults living alone
Authors: Cheng Li , Sit Janet W. H. , Chan Helen Y. L. , Choi Kai Chow , Cheung Regina K. Y. , Wong Martin M. H. , Li Francis Y. K. , Lee Tin Yan , Fung Elina S. M. , Tai Keen Man , So Winnie K. W.
Published: November 2021

Sarcopenia, defined as a progressive loss of muscle mass and reduced muscle strength and functional capacity, is common among older adults. This study aimed to assess the proportion of people at risk of sarcopenia and probable sarcopenia among Chinese community-dwelling older adults living alone and to identify the associated factors. A total of 390 older adults were included in this study. Sarcopenia and probable sarcopenia were defined according to the criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, health status, health behaviours and lifestyle characteristics, nutritional status, physical activity level, and depressive symptoms were collected. The association between these characteristics and sarcopenia risk was analysed using a multivariate ordinal logistic regression. The proportion of subjects at risk of sarcopenia and probable sarcopenia was found to be 57.7% and 30%, respectively. Older age, being malnourished and being at risk of malnutrition were significantly associated with sarcopenia risk. Being educated to secondary level or above, being overweight or obese and higher physical activity level were associated with decreased sarcopenia risk. Our results showed that older adults living alone were at high risk of developing sarcopenia and probable sarcopenia. These results emphasise the urgent need to initiate aggressive screening and holistic lifestyle therapeutic intervention strategies for this high-risk population.
Primary central nervous system lymphomas express immunohistochemical factors of autophagy
Authors: Karpathiou Georgia , Babiuc Silvia-Maria , Camy Florian , Ferrand Elise , Papoudou-Bai Alexandra , Dumollard Jean Marc , Cornillon Jerome , Peoc’h Michel
Published: November 2021

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is an aggressive and rare disease. Autophagy is a catabolic mechanism boosting various tumors, including lymphomas; its inhibition is thus a promising therapeutic target. Its presence has never been studied in PCNSLs. We conducted a retrospective immunohistochemical study of 25 PCNSLs for LC3B, p62, and M6PR, comparing it with clinicopathological characteristics. Fourteen (56%) and eleven (44%) PCNSLs were of low and high LC3B expression, respectively. p62 expression was present in most tumors (n = 21, 84%). M6PR was present in all tumors, with 14 (56%) and 11 (44%) cases being of low and high M6PR expression, respectively. LC3B expression was correlated with the performance status (PS) (p = 0.04). No association was found with other clinical parameters, such as deep structure invasion, multiple lesions, complete response, and recurrence after response. p62 showed a strong positive association with MUM1 expression (p = 0.0005). M6PR expression showed a positive correlation (p = 0.04) with PD-L1 expression. No association was found with p53, Ki67, CD8, BCL2, BCL6, or double MYC/BLC2 co-expressors. No association of LC3B, p62, and M6PR expression with survival was found. Our findings provide evidence for the possible presence of autophagic markers in PCNSLs and, thus, for possible treatment targets.
Interaction of Spike protein and lipid membrane of SARS-CoV-2 with Ursodeoxycholic acid, an in-silico analysis
Authors: Rodal Canales Francisco Javier , Pérez-Campos Mayoral Laura , Hernández-Huerta María Teresa , Sánchez Navarro Luis Manuel , Matias-Cervantes Carlos Alberto , Martínez Cruz Margarito , Cruz Parada Eli , Zenteno Edgar , Ramos-Martínez Edgar Gustavo , Pérez-Campos Mayoral Eduardo , Romero Díaz Carlos , Pérez-Campos Eduardo
Published: November 2021

Numerous repositioned drugs have been sought to decrease the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. It is known that among its physicochemical properties, Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) has a reduction in surface tension and cholesterol solubilization, it has also been used to treat cholesterol gallstones and viral hepatitis. In this study, molecular docking was performed with the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and UDCA. In order to confirm this interaction, we used Molecular Dynamics (MD) in “SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein-UDCA”. Using another system, we also simulated MD with six UDCA residues around the Spike protein at random, naming this “SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein-6UDCA”. Finally, we evaluated the possible interaction between UDCA and different types of membranes, considering the possible membrane conformation of SARS-CoV-2, this was named “SARS-CoV-2 membrane-UDCA”. In the “SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein-UDCA”, we found that UDCA exhibits affinity towards the central region of the Spike protein structure of − 386.35 kcal/mol, in a region with 3 alpha helices, which comprises residues from K986 to C1032 of each monomer. MD confirmed that UDCA remains attached and occasionally forms hydrogen bonds with residues R995 and T998. In the presence of UDCA, we observed that the distances between residues atoms OG1 and CG2 of T998 in the monomers A, B, and C in the prefusion state do not change and remain at 5.93 ± 0.62 and 7.78 ± 0.51 Å, respectively, compared to the post-fusion state. Next, in “SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein-6UDCA”, the three UDCA showed affinity towards different regions of the Spike protein, but only one of them remained bound to the region between the region's heptad repeat 1 and heptad repeat 2 (HR1 and HR2) for 375 ps of the trajectory. The RMSD of monomer C was the smallest of the three monomers with a value of 2.89 ± 0.32, likewise, the smallest RMSF was also of the monomer C (2.25 ± 056). In addition, in the simulation of “SARS-CoV-2 membrane-UDCA”, UDCA had a higher affinity toward the virion-like membrane; where three of the four residues remained attached once they were close (5 Å, to the centre of mass) to the membrane by 30 ns. However, only one of them remained attached to the plasma-like membrane and this was in a cluster of cholesterol molecules. We have shown that UDCA interacts in two distinct regions of Spike protein sequences. In addition, UDCA tends to stay bound to the membrane, which could potentially reduce the internalization of SARS-CoV-2 in the host cell.
The Framing of machine learning risk prediction models illustrated by evaluation of sepsis in general wards
Authors: Lauritsen Simon Meyer , Thiesson Bo , Jørgensen Marianne Johansson , Riis Anders Hammerich , Espelund Ulrick Skipper , Weile Jesper Bo , Lange Jeppe
Published: November 2021

Problem framing is critical to developing risk prediction models because all subsequent development work and evaluation takes place within the context of how a problem has been framed and explicit documentation of framing choices makes it easier to compare evaluation metrics between published studies. In this work, we introduce the basic concepts of framing, including prediction windows, observation windows, window shifts and event-triggers for a prediction that strongly affects the risk of clinician fatigue caused by false positives. Building on this, we apply four different framing structures to the same generic dataset, using a sepsis risk prediction model as an example, and evaluate how framing affects model performance and learning. Our results show that an apparently good model with strong evaluation results in both discrimination and calibration is not necessarily clinically usable. Therefore, it is important to assess the results of objective evaluations within the context of more subjective evaluations of how a model is framed.
Genetic loci for lung function in Japanese adults with adjustment for exhaled nitric oxide levels as airway inflammation indicator
Authors: Yamada Mitsuhiro , Motoike Ikuko N. , Kojima Kaname , Fuse Nobuo , Hozawa Atsushi , Kuriyama Shinichi , Katsuoka Fumiki , Tadaka Shu , Shirota Matsuyuki , Sakurai Miyuki , Nakamura Tomohiro , Hamanaka Yohei , Suzuki Kichiya , Sugawara Junichi , Ogishima Soichi , Uruno Akira , Kodama Eiichi N. , Fujino Naoya , Numakura Tadahisa , Ichikawa Tomohiro , Mitsune Ayumi , Ohe Takashi , Kinoshita Kengo , Ichinose Masakazu , Sugiura Hisatoshi , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: November 2021

Lung function reflects the ability of the respiratory system and is utilized for the assessment of respiratory diseases. Because type 2 airway inflammation influences lung function, genome wide association studies (GWAS) for lung function would be improved by adjustment with an indicator of the inflammation. Here, we performed a GWAS for lung function with adjustment for exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) levels in two independent Japanese populations. Our GWAS with genotype imputations revealed that the RNF5/AGER locus including AGER rs2070600 SNP, which introduces a G82S substitution of AGER, was the most significantly associated with FEV1/FVC. Three other rare missense variants of AGER were further identified. We also found genetic loci with three candidate genes (NOS2, SPSB2 and RIPOR2) associated with FeNO levels. Analyses with the BioBank-Japan GWAS resource revealed genetic links of FeNO and asthma-related traits, and existence of common genetic background for allergic diseases and their biomarkers. Our study identified the genetic locus most strongly associated with airway obstruction in the Japanese population and three genetic loci associated with FeNO, an indicator of type 2 airway inflammation in adults.
Zero-valent iron core–iron oxide shell nanoparticles coated with silica and gold with high saturation magnetization
Authors: Mehdipour Milad , Gloag Lucy , Lian Jiaxin , Tilley Richard D. , Gooding J. Justin
Published: November 2021

A new type of gold-coated magnetic nanoparticle with strongly magnetic zero-valent iron core–iron oxide shell were synthesized.
Planar-chiral 1,1′-diaminoferrocenes
Authors: Guthardt Robin , Blanckenberg Johannes , Bruhn Clemens , Siemeling Ulrich
Published: November 2021

Planar-chiral homologues of the important synthon 1,1′-diaminoferrocene, which bear a single additional substituent adjacent to an amino group, are efficiently synthesised on a gram scale.
Transborylation of alkenylboranes with diboranes
Authors: Dominguez-Molano Paula , Bru Gerard , Salvado Oriol , Maza Ricardo J. , Carbó Jorge J. , Fernández Elena
Published: November 2021

Exchange of boryl moieties is possible between alkenylboranes and diboron reagents as a stereospecific cross-metathesis with formation of mixed diboron reagents. DFT calculations propose a mechanism with both symmetric and non-symmetric diboron reagents.
Longitudinal strand ordering leads to shear thinning in Nafion
Authors: Michelarakis Nicholas , Franz Florian , Gkagkas Konstantinos , Gräter Frauke
Published: November 2021

New insights into the mechanism governing the shear thinning effects observed in Nafion solutions, through the use of non-equilibrium, coarse-grained, molecular dynamic simulations.
Excited-state structure of copper phenanthroline-based photosensitizers
Authors: Guda Alexander , Windisch Johannes , Probst Benjamin , van Bokhoven Jeroen A. , Alberto Roger , Nachtegaal Maarten , Chen Lin X. , Smolentsev Grigory
Published: November 2021

Pump–probe XAS is used to catch the excited-state of two Cu photosensitizers and 4-coordinated excited states are observed. The exciplex can be involved in the deactivation of [Cu(dmp)2]+ as a non-observable state that forms slower than it decays.
Flow effects on the surface properties of surfactant foam films
Authors: Ye Zhicheng , Yang Jie , Su Haiping , Lian Cheng , Shang Yazhuo , Liu Honglai
Published: November 2021

The pressure-induced liquid flow affects the surface electrostatic properties of liquid foam.
Time-dependent quantum dynamics study of the F + C2H6 → HF + C2H5 reaction
Authors: Gao Delu , Wang Dunyou
Published: November 2021

The cross sections of the F + C2H6 → HF + C2H5 reaction obtained using quantum dynamics calculations agree with the quasi-classical trajectory results and the full-dimensional quantum rates are in good agreement with the experimental and theoretical results.
Spectroelectrochemical study of the reduction of 2-methyl-9H-thioxanthene-9-one and its S,S-dioxide and electronic absorption spectra of their molecular ions
Authors: Odintsov Danila S. , Shundrina Inna K. , Gorbunov Dmitry E. , Gritsan Nina P. , Beckmann Jens , Shundrin Leonid A.
Published: November 2021

Time-dependent DFT calculations interpret well the UV-VIS-NIR spectra of molecular ions of 2-methyl-thioxanthenones. The proposed empirical kinetic model successfully describes the time dependencies of optical density during reduction.
Adsorption and desorption mechanism of aromatic VOCs onto porous carbon adsorbents for emission control and resource recovery: recent progress and challenges
Authors: Zhang Weiping , Li Guiying , Yin Huajie , Zhao Kun , Zhao Huijun , An Taicheng
Published: November 2021

This review highlights the characteristics of adsorption and desorption of aromatic VOCs on various PCAs as well as the integrated technologies for emission control and resource recovery of industrial VOC exhaust.
Formation of a nylon-6 micro/nano-fiber assembly through a low energy reactive melt spinning process
Authors: Zhao Renhai , Meng Xiao , He Hongwei , Ming Jinfa , Ning Xin
Published: November 2021

Caprolactam anionic polymerization was used to achieve suitable melt viscosity for drawing into ultra-fine fibers. The process temperature was well below that of the melting point of nylon 6.
Point-of-care diagnostics: recent developments in a pandemic age
Authors: Harpaldas Harshit , Arumugam Siddarth , Campillo Rodriguez Chelsey , Kumar Bhoomika Ajay , Shi Vivian , Sia Samuel K.
Published: November 2021

This article reviews the rapid and unprecedented development, scaleup and deployment of POC devices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for the future of diagnostics and digital health.
Gender-specific association of oxidative stress and immune response in septic shock mortality using NMR-based metabolomics
Authors: Pandey Swarnima , Siddiqui Mohd. Adnan , Trigun Surendra Kumar , Azim Afzal , Sinha Neeraj
Published: November 2021

Sepsis and septic shock are still associated with a high mortality rate.
A veratraldehyde-appended organosilicon probe and its hybrid silica nanoparticles as a dual chemosensor for colorimetric and fluorimetric detection of Cu2+ and Fe3+ ions
Authors: Singh Gurjaspreet , Kaur Jashan Deep , Pawan  , Sushma  , Priyanka  , Satija Pinky , Singh K. N. , Esteban María Angeles , Espinosa-Ruíz Cristóbal
Published: November 2021

Schiff bases of veratraldehyde based organosilatranes have been synthesized. The colorimetric and fluorimetric detection of 3a and its hybrid silica nanoparticles (V-NPs) revealed significant sensorial ability only towards Cu2+ and Fe3+ ions.
Atomic-scale investigation of the effect of surface carbon coatings on the oxidation and mechanical properties of iron nanowires
Authors: Aral Gurcan , Islam Md Mahbubul
Published: November 2021

The understanding of the complex atomistic-scale mechanisms of the oxidation process of carbon (C) coated iron nanowires (Fe NW) and also the resulting modulation of mechanical properties is a highly challenging task.
Precursor chemistry of metal nitride nanocrystals
Authors: Parvizian Mahsa , De Roo Jonathan
Published: November 2021

We review the chemistry that leads or could lead to colloidal metal nitride nanocrystals, via solution-based methods.
Magnetogenetics: remote activation of cellular functions triggered by magnetic switches
Authors: Del Sol-Fernández Susel , Martínez-Vicente Pablo , Gomollón-Zueco Pilar , Castro-Hinojosa Christian , Gutiérrez Lucía , Fratila Raluca M. , Moros María
Published: November 2021

Magnetogenetics: the use of magnetic fields along with magnetic actuators can be used to modulate biological functions in a non-invasive way, paving the way for the development of exciting tools useful in basic research and clinical applications.
Mixed-charge modification as a robust method to realize the antiviral ability of gold nanoparticles in a high protein environment
Authors: Li Xu , Huang Yue , Jin Qiao , Ji Jian
Published: November 2021

Mixed-charge modification protects nanoparticles from non-specific protein adsorption and helps sulfonic group modified gold nanoparticles maintain their antiviral ability in a high protein environment.
Supramolecular organization of melem for the synthesis of photoactive porous carbon nitride rods
Authors: Xia Jiawei , Mark Gabriel , Volokh Michael , Fang Yuanxing , Chen Haiqun , Wang Xinchen , Shalom Menny
Published: November 2021

Well-ordered porous carbon nitride rods are designed from a supramolecular assembly of large melem molecules as the monomer. It exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance in H2 evolution and CO2 reduction with good stability and selectivity.
Recent development in asymmetric organocatalytic domino reactions involving 1,6-addition as a key step
Authors: Hussain Yaseen , Tamanna  , Sharma Manisha , Kumar Akshay , Chauhan Pankaj
Published: November 2021

This article highlights the significant development in stereoselective domino reactions involving 1,6-addition as a crucial step.
Techno-economic assessment and carbon footprint of processes for the large-scale production of oxymethylene dimethyl ethers from carbon dioxide and hydrogen
Authors: Mantei Franz , Ali Ramy E. , Baensch Cornelie , Voelker Simon , Haltenort Philipp , Burger Jakob , Dietrich Ralph-Uwe , Assen Niklas von der , Schaadt Achim , Sauer Jörg , Salem Ouda
Published: November 2021

Standardized process simulation approach for techno-economic and carbon footprint evaluation of large scale oxymethylene ether production accounting for the complexity of the reactive formaldehyde containing system.
Activating atomically dispersed Co–N/C sites on g-C3N4 nanosheets via incorporating sulfur enables efficient visible light H2 evolution
Authors: Wang Fang , Xue Yuan , Xu Weibing , Min Shixiong
Published: November 2021

The inert Co–N/C sites on g-C3N4 nanosheets (CNs) can be effectively activated via incorporating S for efficiently catalyzing visible light H2 evolution in a dye-sensitized system.
An ERK5–KLF2 signalling module regulates early embryonic gene expression and telomere rejuvenation in stem cells
Authors: Brown Helen A. , Williams Charles A.C. , Zhou Houjiang , Rios-Szwed Diana , Fernandez-Alonso Rosalia , Mansoor Saria , McMulkin Liam , Toth Rachel , Gourlay Robert , Peltier Julien , Dieguez-Martinez Nora , Trost Matthias , Lizcano Jose M. , Stavridis Marios P. , Findlay Greg M.
Published: November 2021

The ERK5 MAP kinase signalling pathway drives transcription of naïve pluripotency genes in mouse Embryonic Stem Cells (mESCs). However, how ERK5 impacts on other aspects of mESC biology has not been investigated. Here, we employ quantitative proteomic profiling to identify proteins whose expression is regulated by the ERK5 pathway in mESCs. This reveals a function for ERK5 signalling in regulating dynamically expressed early embryonic 2-cell stage (2C) genes including the mESC rejuvenation factor ZSCAN4. ERK5 signalling and ZSCAN4 induction in mESCs increases telomere length, a key rejuvenative process required for prolonged culture. Mechanistically, ERK5 promotes ZSCAN4 and 2C gene expression via transcription of the KLF2 pluripotency transcription factor. Surprisingly, ERK5 also directly phosphorylates KLF2 to drive ubiquitin-dependent degradation, encoding negative feedback regulation of 2C gene expression. In summary, our data identify a regulatory module whereby ERK5 kinase and transcriptional activities bi-directionally control KLF2 levels to pattern 2C gene transcription and a key mESC rejuvenation process.
Stimulation of the Runx2 P1 promoter by collagen-derived dipeptide prolyl-hydroxyproline bound to Foxg1 and Foxo1 in osteoblasts
Authors: Nomura Kaho , Kimira Yoshifumi , Osawa Yoshihiro , Kataoka-Matsushita Aya , Takao Koichi , Sugita Yoshiaki , Shimizu Jun , Wada Masahiro , Mano Hiroshi
Published: November 2021

Collagen-derived dipeptide prolyl-hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp) directly binds to the forkhead box g1 (Foxg1) protein and causes it to undergo structural alteration. Pro-Hyp also promotes the production of a regulator of osteoblast differentiation, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), through Foxg1, inducing osteoblast differentiation. In addition, Pro-Hyp disrupts the interaction between Foxg1 and Runx2, and Foxg1 appears to interact with Runx2 in the absence of Pro-Hyp. To elucidate the mechanism of Pro-Hyp that promotes osteoblast differentiation, we investigated whether Pro-Hyp regulates the Runx2 P1 promoter together with Foxg1. The present study revealed that Pro-Hyp is taken up by osteoblastic cells via the solute carrier family 15 member (Slc15a) 4. In the presence of Pro-Hyp, Runx2 is translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and Foxg1 is translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. We also found that Pro-Hyp promoted the interaction between Forkhead box o1 (Foxo1) and Runx2 and the dissociation of Foxg1 from Runx2. Moreover, we identified the Pro-Hyp response element in the Runx2 distal P1 promoter at nt −375 to −316, including the Runx2 binding sites and Fox core sequence. In the presence of Pro-Hyp, Runx2 is dissociated from the Pro-Hyp response element in the Runx2 distal P1 promoter. Subsequently, Foxg1 and Foxo1 activated the Runx2 promoter by binding to the Pro-Hyp response element. In summary, we delineated the mechanism by which Pro-Hyp stimulates the bone-related Runx2 distal P1 promoter activity in osteoblastic cells through Foxg1, Foxo1, and Runx2.
Paternal long-term PM2.5 exposure causes hypertension via increased renal AT1R expression and function in male offspring
Authors: Hu Cuimei , Tao Yu , Deng Yi , Cai Qi , Ren Hongmei , Yu Cheng , Zheng Shuo , Yang Jian , Zeng Chunyu
Published: November 2021

Maternal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) causes hypertension in offspring. However, paternal contribution of PM2.5 exposure to hypertension in offspring remains unknown. In the present study, male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with PM2.5 suspension (10 mg/ml) for 12 weeks and/or fed with tap water containing an antioxidant tempol (1 mM/L) for 16 weeks. The blood pressure, 24 h-urine volume and sodium excretion were determined in male offspring. The offspring were also administrated with losartan (20 mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks. The expressions of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and G-protein–coupled receptor kinase type 4 (GRK4) were determined by qRT-PCR and immunoblotting. We found that long-term PM2.5 exposure to paternal rats caused hypertension and impaired urine volume and sodium excretion in male offspring. Both the mRNA and protein expression of GRK4 and its downstream target AT1R were increased in offspring of PM2.5-exposed paternal rats, which was reflected in its function because treatment with losartan, an AT1R antagonist, decreased the blood pressure and increased urine volume and sodium excretion. In addition, the oxidative stress level was increased in PM2.5-treated paternal rats. Administration with tempol in paternal rats restored the increased blood pressure and decreased urine volume and sodium excretion in the offspring of PM2.5-exposed paternal rats. Treatment with tempol in paternal rats also reversed the increased expressions of AT1R and GRK4 in the kidney of their offspring. We suggest that paternal PM2.5 exposure causes hypertension in offspring. The mechanism may be involved that paternal PM2.5 exposure-associated oxidative stress induces the elevated renal GRK4 level, leading to the enhanced AT1R expression and its-mediated sodium retention, consequently causes hypertension in male offspring.
Secrecy rate optimization for SWIPT in two‐way relay networks with multiple untrusted relays and channel estimation errors
Authors: Yang Dayong , Zhang Mo , Wan Biao , Zhou Nanrun
Published: November 2021

The secrecy rate of two‐way untrusted relay networks with imperfect channel state information based on SWIPT is investigated when multiple relays harvest energy from two sources. Despite assisting in information forwarding, the relays are considered untrusted in that they might attempt to eavesdrop on confidential information. To interfere with eavesdropping by untrusted relays, sources‐based friendly cooperative jamming is introduced. A joint power allocation and time switching strategy has been studied to maximize the sum secrecy rate of the system under total block transmission duration and power constraints. The genetic algorithm (GA) is introduced to optimize the proposed joint power allocation and time switching (JPTs) scheme. In addition, two suboptimal schemes are proposed: the power allocation and time switching scheme for individual power constraints and the power allocation scheme for equal time allocation. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed joint power allocation and time switching strategy performs better in contributing to the total secrecy rate of the system.
The crack quasi-static growth and analysis of interlaminar crack resistance of layered composite
Authors: Pavelko Igor , Pavelko Vitalijs
Published: November 2021

Using the model of quasi-static crack growth and test result of the double cantilever beam (DCB) sample of layred carbon/epoxy composite, the general regularities of the interlaminar crack resistance of mode 1 were studied. The main attention was focused on the variability of crack resistance associated, on the one hand, with the continuity of the fracture process, and, on the other hand, with the non-homogeneity of the material structure, which causes local random deviations from the average characteristics of the material.The dissipation energy rate (total crack resistance) and crack resistance function (R-curve) were extracted from test results and their properties analyzed.
Characterization in expected working environments of recyclable fire-resistant materials
Authors: De Aloysio Giulia , Morganti Mattia , Laghi Luca , Scafè Matteo , Leoni Enrico , Mingazzini Claudio , Bassi Stefano
Published: November 2021

This study focuses on the development of multi-material solutions for fire-resistant structural materials for transport and thermal insulation in the construction field. Special attention was paid to combining recyclable and bio-mass derived raw materials without interfering with an easy end-of-life separation, recycling and reuse. Fire-resistant biomass derived resins were associated with basalt derived Mineral Fibres (BDMF) in the form of prepregs, which were studied as semi-finished materials. Fire-resistance was obtained by associating these prepregs with thin gres tiles in the case of fire-resistant thermal insulating facades and with aluminum layers (giving origin to Fibre Metal Laminates-FML) in the case of structural components for transport applications. Thermophysical characterization of the solutions was carried out to assess both thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity. Fire resistance tests were performed on FML to determine the number of Al layers needed to ensure fire resistance. Results suggest that fire resistance depends primarily on the number of Al layers, rather than on their thickness. Accelerated ageing tests (salty mist and freeze-thaw) were executed to predict durability in the expected working conditions. Results suggest a durability issue in FML with preceramic interface in salty environments.
Development of recyclable Fibre Metal Laminates (FML), their mechanical characterization and FE modelling, aiming at structural application in aeronautics
Authors: Bassi Stefano , Scafe Matteo , Leoni Enrico , Mingazzini Claudio , Bhatia Narayan Jatinder , Rossi Andrea
Published: November 2021

This study concerns with the optimisation of a fibre-reinforced composite material ply book and application to an aeronautical component. The presented material solution is a recyclable FML (Fibre Metal Laminate). Recyclable and structural PMCs (Polymeric Matrix Composites) developed up-to now in ENEA had to be improved to satisfy the high-demanding fire characteristics requirements in aeronautics, particularly for the case considered in ongoing project FireMat (www.firemat.it), namely a turbine-bonnet production. FireMat project objective is the combination of weight reduction and fire resistance, maximizing the use C2C recyclable, secondary and biomass derived raw materials. Aluminium layers were introduced inside the lamination, to act as oxygen barriers and improve fire-retardancy. FML were obtained starting from a fire-retardant biobased resin, which was associated with aeronautical grade basalt-derived mineral fabric, processed in the form of a prepreg and then coupled with aluminium foils. FE modelling was based on performed mechanical characterization of the single layers and inter- layer adhesive strength of the ply stack: a composite sandwich structure (including aluminium honeycomb) was optimised.
Design of a bonnet of a sport vehicle realized with an innovative recyclable Polymeric Matrix Composite and virtual characterization of the related sandwich structure
Authors: Basso M. , Mingazzini C. , Scafè M. , Leoni E. , Benco E. , Garcia-Etxabe R. , Gondra K. , Pullini D.
Published: November 2021

This article presents the design activities of an automotive component to be produced using a recyclable cleavable-epoxy Matrix Composite and Basalt-Derived Mineral Fibres. The material innovations are being studied within project C2CC (www.c2cc-project.eu), aimed at satisfying latest EU directives regarding end-of-life reuse and C-footprint reduction. The main targets are the weight reduction, obtained employing materials with lower footprint, namely a biomass derived epoxy and a cradle-to-cradle recyclable mineral fiber, that is a fibre that (differently from carbon fibre) can be remelted to long fibre with no decrease in mechanical specifications [1]. For recycling both the resin and the fibre, a the cleavable hardener was adopted [2] developed by Connnora Inc (US), which avoids the need of pyrolysis to recover and recycle the fibers from prepreg scraps and end-of-life components. The main project demonstrator is the front bonnet of segment A vehicle FIAT 500 Abarth. One approach to reach the component expected performances is using the semifinished composite materials (prepregs) produced by the project to manufacture a final structural sandwich. From the modelling point of view, this work carries out a multiscale approach starting from the basic constituents of skin and core and ending with the model at the mesoscale of the specimens of the sandwich. The simulation activity was conducted considering the possible recyclable sandwich cores, and the comparison aims at selecting the optimal ones for this specific automotive component.
Alumina-Forming Austenitic (AFA) steels and aluminium-based coating on 15-15 Ti steel to limit mechanical damage in presence of liquid lead-bismuth eutectic and liquid lead
Authors: Proriol Serre Ingrid , Ponsot Ines , Vogt Jean-Bernard
Published: November 2021

To limit corrosion of the steels in contact with liquid metal (Pb or Pb-Bi), both different solutions based on the presence of alumina at the surface of the steels were selected: 2 Alumina-Forming Austenitic (AFA) steels and the 15-15 Ti steel coated by alumina layer. These technical options to mitigate corrosion by lead or Pb-Bi were investigated in terms of mechanical performances in liquid lead or liquid Pb-Bi. So the liquid metal embrittlement (LME) sensitivity of the different materials selected for their good corrosion resistance was evaluated by tensile tests or small punch tests carried out in presence of liquid metal, and by post-mortem analysis of the cracking and of the fracture surfaces. No LME sensitivity for the tested conditions has been observed for the Al2O3 coated 15-15Ti steel and for the two AFA steels (16Ni-14Cr-2.5Al-2.5Mn-1Nb), one without and one with 2% wt.% W and 0.02% wt.% Y in their as received state. But a 650 °C thermal aging promotes modifications of the microstructure specially precipitations and then LME sensitivity of the AFA steels, according the nature of the precipitation.
Numerical and experimental study for AM50 magnesium alloy under dynamic loads
Authors: Ailinei Iulian-Ionuț , Galațanu Sergiu-Valentin , Ioan Onea Cosmin , Marșavina Liviu
Published: November 2021

Magnesium alloys are widely used in automotive (steering wheel frames) and aerospace due to their lightweight, ductility, energy absorption and castability properties. Finite Element Analysis and design optimisation have driven the improvement of structural crashworthiness, stiffness, strength, durability, and NVH (noise vibration, harshness) performance, making it possible to meet both the safety requirements and weight reduction targets. The accuracy of the numerical methods is strongly dependent on the accuracy of the material models and parameters employed. This paper presents the numerical Simulation of the Charpy test for AM50 magnesium alloy. This standardised high-speed impact test method measures the energy absorbed by a standard specimen while breaking under an impact load. Numerical simulations were performed using Ansys LS-Dyna explicit solver combined with a Johnson-Cook material's law. Then a sensitivity study was performed using Ansys optiSLang to identify which of the input variables (JC parameters, test specimen's dimensions) has the most influence on the output variables (contact force and absorbed energy).
Fatigue behaviour of a spring: a case study
Authors: Graça Nuno , de Castro Paulo M. S. T.
Published: November 2021

A durability design case study concerning a U spring is presented. For a given geometry of the component, the question was to predict the maximum permissible displacement per cycle whilst ensuring a service life of at least 260 kcycles. The stiffness of the spring was evaluated using the finite elements software SolidWorks. As an approximation a linear model was used in the finite elements analysis, which was also compared with an analytical treatment based on Castigliano’s theorem. Using a given safety factor, a high cycle fatigue analysis was performed assuming the use of a steel with 650 MPa ultimate tensile strength. The spring is either loaded by an imposed displacement, or it is load free,i.e.load ratio (minimum load / maximum load per cycle), isR= -1. An algorithm based on finite fatigue life prediction techniques, the Basquin and Goodman diagrams, and the relationship between ultimate tensile strength and fatigue limit was used and will be briefly presented and discussed. Also, the stress analysis helped to highlight the need for some minor geometry changes. The outcome of the study was the evaluation of the maximum permissible displacement per cycle, as required in the real life case addressed.
Repair of local damages to precast prestressed slab elements at a parking garage
Authors: Lutomirska Marta , Lutomirski Tomasz , Sakowski Artur
Published: November 2021

The durability of precast structures often depends on quality of execution of the connections between the structural elements. Essential also is their design and proper exploitation. This paper focuses on the magnitude of damages as well as repair methods used for a precast slab, which consists of prestressed double T slab elements supported on prestressed inverted T girders. It was found that during execution, the girders were forced to fit dowel bars, which resulted in their initial deformation. Moreover, those connection zones were subjected to unpredicted loading coming from delivery trucks. It resulted in crushing of the elastomeric bearings, uncontrolled rotation of double T precast elements, and further deformation of dowel bars. Numerous cracks, splits, concrete spalling, surface rust stains, and efflorescence were observed. To prevent failure, a project for repair was developed. The slab was lifted with the use of a jacks to provide necessary space for work. Damaged dowel bars and elastomeric bearings were removed. The concrete surface of double T beams and the inverted T girder was cleaned, refilled, prepared, and strengthened with FRP wraps. Additionally, steel angles were used to protect the edges of the inverted T girder.
Development of a multipurpose test rig - TAILTEST
Authors: Oberthor Martin , Horák Václav , Růžek Roman
Published: November 2021

The paper discusses an innovative multipurpose test rig designed with the aim of full-scale rotorcraft fin verification. The developed test rig includes a load application mechanism able to distribute loads representative for rotorcraft tail structure. Both conventional metallic components and innovative thermoplastic composites are used in the rotorcraft tail structure. The test rig will be designed so that a variable stiffness of the fuselage to the fin joint is achieved. Verification of the new tail structure is supported by additional experiments and numerical analyses.
Lipid metabolism and accumulation in oilseed crops
Authors: Miklaszewska Magdalena , Zienkiewicz Krzysztof , Inchana Pattarapong , Zienkiewicz Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

Triacylglycerols (TAGs) serve as the most important storage form of energy and carbon in eukaryotic cells and thus are one of the fundamental macronutrients for animal and human diet. They are also used as a major feedstock for diverse industrial and energetic sectors due to their high energy density. Oilseed crops represent the most valuable source of TAGs and major world sources of edible oils. Originally, oilseeds of various species were used as a model to decipher plant lipid synthesis pathways. Given the continuous progress in research on plant lipid metabolism, here we provide an overview and update on the current state of knowledge related mainly to storage lipids in oilseeds. Moreover, we present the latest evidences on the molecular networks governing metabolism not only of TAGs but also of other seed lipids, like wax esters, sterols and sphingolipids. Finally, this review also provides a framework for understanding the complex lipid web existing in oilseeds.
Alternativen histologischer Materialgewinnung – Wann und wie ist die histologische Sicherung mittels Ultraschall (US), Computertomografie (CT) oder Endosonografie (EUS) sinnvoll?
Authors: Möller Kathleen , Dietrich Christoph F. , Faiss Siegbert , Mutze Sven , Goelz Leonie
Published: November 2021

Die histologische Sicherung von Tumoren ist zusammen mit einem adäquaten Staging die Voraussetzung für eine stadiengerechte und personalisierte Therapie. Beschrieben werden Indikationen, technische Möglichkeiten und Einschränkungen sowie potenzielle Komplikationen der bildgebend geführten Nadelbiopsie mittels Ultraschalls (US), Computertomografie (CT) und Endosonografie (EUS). Welches Verfahren für welches Organ und welche Läsion?
Disseminated cerebral fusariosis in a liver-transplant patient: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Stropnicky Pernilla , Heß Katharina , Becker Thomas , Braun Felix
Published: November 2021

Fusarium spp. can cause invasive infection with fatal outcomes in immunocompromised patients. Therefore, invasive fusariosis is rare after solid organ transplantation. For this reason, experience and management are limited to single published case reports.

We report a 65-year-old female patient with disseminated brain abscesses caused by Fusarium after liver transplantation (LT). The patient underwent LT for secondary sclerosing cholangitis after acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). After a complicated course with aneurysm and thrombosis of the hepatic artery, re-transplantation was performed after one month. Due to inadequate awakening response, cerebral imaging was performed, which showed multiple abscesses. The patient died shortly thereafter, and an autopsy showed fusariosis.
Psychometrische Überprüfung der deutschsprachigen
Version der Feedback on Physical Appearance Scale an weiblichen Jugendlichen mit
Essstörungen sowie Jugendlichen und Frauen ohne
Essstörungen
Authors: Quittkat Hannah L. , Bauer Anika , Waldorf Manuel , Braks Karsten , Huber Thomas J. , Düsing Rainer , Vocks Silja
Published: November 2021

Negatives körperbezogenes Feedback ist mit einer erhöhten
Körperunzufriedenheit assoziiert. Als Instrument zur Erfassung verbalen
und nonverbalen körperbezogenen Feedbacks eignet sich die
englischsprachige Feedback on Physical Appearance Scale (FOPAS), die jedoch
bisher für den deutschsprachigen Raum noch nicht validiert wurde. Ziel
dieser Studie ist daher die psychometrische Überprüfung der
deutschsprachigen Version der FOPAS an Jugendlichen mit Essstörungen
(n=88) sowie Jugendlichen (n=123) und Frauen (n=228)
ohne Essstörungen. Konfirmatorische Faktorenanalysen ergaben einen
mittelmäßigen Fit des Modells aus der englischsprachigen
Originalstudie. Die Reliabilität lag für alle Stichproben im
akzeptablen Bereich. Auch die Retest-Reliabilität war
größtenteils akzeptabel. Signifikante positive Korrelationen der
FOPAS mit Fragebögen zu Essstörungssymptomatik
(Kriteriumsvalidität), körperbezogenem Teasing (konvergente
Validität) sowie der erwartete negative Zusammenhang der FOPAS mit dem
Selbstwert deuteten auf eine gute Validität hin. Zudem wies die FOPAS
eine gute Differenzierungsfähigkeit zwischen Jugendlichen mit und ohne
Essstörungen auf. Insgesamt erscheint daher der Einsatz der
deutschsprachigen FOPAS zur Erfassung verbalen und nonverbalen
körperbezogenen Feedbacks in Forschung und Praxis sinnvoll.
Confining the Inner Space of Strained Carbon Nanorings
Authors: Dumele Oliver , Grabicki Niklas
Published: November 2021

Strained aromatic macrocycles based on cycloparaphenylenes (CPPs) are the shortest repeating units of armchair single-walled carbon nanotubes. Since the development of several new synthetic methodologies for accessing these structures, their properties have been extensively studied. Besides the fundamental interest in these novel molecular scaffolds, their application in the field of materials science is an ongoing topic of research. Most of the reported CPP-type macrocycles display strong binding toward fullerenes, due to the perfect match between the convex and concave π-surfaces of fullerenes and CPPs, respectively. Highly functionalized CPP derivatives capable of supramolecular binding with other molecules are rarely reported. The synthesis of highly functionalized [n]cyclo-2,7-pyrenylenes leads to CPP-type macrocycles with a defined cavity capable of binding non-fullerene guests with high association constants.
Engineering Cu2ZnSnS4 grain boundaries for enhanced photovoltage generation at the Cu2ZnSnS4/TiO2 heterojunction: A nanoscale investigation using Kelvin probe force microscopy
Authors: Nisika  , Ghosh Anupam , Kaur Kulwinder , Bobba Raja Sekhar , Qiao Quinn , Kumar Mukesh
Published: November 2021

Over the past several years, kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) absorber has been investigated comprehensively; however, the performance is still hampered by a large open-circuit voltage deficit associated with CZTS bulk defects and interface recombination. To overcome this trend, we report a facile approach to passivate both defect prone areas, i.e., bulk of CZTS and CZTS interface with a TiO2 buffer layer, simultaneously. The existence of oxygen ambient during TiO2 deposition has modulated the electrical properties of CZTS grain boundaries (GBs) not only inside the bulk but also at the surface of CZTS. The passivation of surface GBs is favorable for CZTS/TiO2 heterojunction electronic properties, whereas passivated bulk GBs improve the carrier transport inside the CZTS absorber. To directly probe the photovoltage generation at the CZTS/TiO2 heterojunction, Kelvin probe force microscopy is conducted in surface and junction modes. The acquired photovoltage map exhibits higher values at the GBs, which reveals an increment in downward band bending after oxygen diffusion inside the bulk of CZTS. In point of fact, the enhanced diffusion of oxygen accounts for the suppression of carrier recombination and reduction in dark current. Finally, current–voltage and capacitance–voltage measurements performed on the CZTS/TiO2 heterojunction further validate our outcomes. Our findings provide critical insight into the engineering of CZTS GBs to control electronic properties of CZTS and CZTS/TiO2 heterojunctions.