bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AKF-D52, a Synthetic Phenoxypyrimidine-Urea Derivative, Triggers Extrinsic/Intrinsic Apoptosis and Cytoprotective Autophagy in Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Gil Hyo-Sun , Lee Jeong-Hun , Farag Ahmed K. , Hassan Ahmed H. E. , Chung Kyung-Sook , Choi Jung-Hye , Roh Eun-Joo , Lee Kyung-Tae
Published: November 2021

Previously, we discovered that 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-(4-(3-methoxyphenoxy)-2-((4-morpholinophenyl)amino)pyrimidin-5-yl)urea (AKF-D52), a synthetic phenoxypyrimidine urea derivative, acts as a growth inhibitor of various cancer cell types. In this study, we elucidated the antiproliferative properties of AFK-D52 and underlying mechanisms in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and an A549 xenograft animal model. AKF-D52 was found to induce both caspase-dependent and -independent apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, the mitochondrial component of the AKF-D52-induced apoptosis mechanism involves a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and regulation in B cell lymphoma-2 family protein expression. Moreover, AKF-D52 activates the extrinsic pathway through up-regulated expression of death receptor 3 and Fas and then the formation of a death-inducing signaling complex. AKF-D52 also induced autophagy by increasing acidic vesicular organelle formation and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3-II levels and reducing p62 levels. Notably, pretreatment with autophagy inhibitors enhanced AKF-D52-induced cell death, indicating that the induced autophagy is cytoprotective. AKF-D52 treatment also triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in NSCLC cells, whereas the antioxidant α-tocopherol abolished AKF-D52-induced cell death. In a xenograft lung cancer mouse model, AKF-D52 administration attenuated tumor growth by inducing apoptosis and autophagy in tumor tissues. Collectively, our data indicate that AKF-D52-induced ROS production plays a role in mediating apoptosis and cytoprotective autophagy in NSCLC.
miR-1227 Targets SEC23A to Regulate the Shedding of Large Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Chin Andrew , Mariscal Javier , Kim Minhyung , Guerra Giorgia , Victor Blandine , Qian Chen , Broseghini Elisabetta , Posadas Edwin , Freeman Michael R. , Sharma Shivani , Gandellini Paolo , Zaffaroni Nadia , You Sungyong , Chan Keith Syson , Guarnerio Jlenia , Fabbri Muller , Di Vizio Dolores
Published: November 2021

Cancer cells shed a heterogenous mixture of extracellular vesicles (EVs), differing in both size and composition, which likely influence physiological processes in different manners. However, how cells differentially control the shedding of these EV populations is poorly understood. Here, we show that miR-1227, which is enriched in prostate cancer EVs, compared to the cell of origin, but not in EVs derived from prostate benign epithelial cells, induces the shedding of large EVs (such as large oncosomes), while inhibiting the shedding of small EVs (such as exosomes). RNA sequencing from cells stably expressing miR-1227, a modified RISCTRAP assay that stabilizes and purifies mRNA-miR-1227 complexes for RNA sequencing, and in silico target prediction tools were used to identify miR-1227 targets that may mediate this alteration in EV shedding. The COPII vesicle protein SEC23A emerged and was validated by qPCR, WBlot, and luciferase assays as a direct target of miR-1227. The inhibition of SEC23A was sufficient to induce the shedding of large EVs. These results identify a novel mechanism of EV shedding, by which the inhibition of SEC23A by miR-1227 induces a shift in EV shedding, favoring the shedding of large EV over small EV.
The Release of Inflammatory Mediators from Acid-Stimulated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Favours Tumour Invasiveness and Metastasis in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Avnet Sofia , Lemma Silvia , Cortini Margherita , Di Pompo Gemma , Perut Francesca , Lipreri Maria Veronica , Roncuzzi Laura , Columbaro Marta , Errani Costantino , Longhi Alessandra , Zini Nicoletta , Heymann Dominique , Dominici Massimo , Grisendi Giulia , Golinelli Giulia , Consolino Lorena , Longo Dario Livio , Nanni Cristina , Righi Alberto , Baldini Nicola
Published: November 2021

Osteosarcoma is the most frequent primary malignant bone tumour with an impressive tendency to metastasise. Highly proliferative tumour cells release a remarkable amount of protons into the extracellular space that activates the NF-kB inflammatory pathway in adjacent stromal cells. In this study, we further validated the correlation between tumour glycolysis/acidosis and its role in metastases. In patients, at diagnosis, we found high circulating levels of inflammatory mediators (IL6, IL8 and miR-136-5p-containing extracellular vesicles). IL6 serum levels significantly correlated with disease-free survival and 18F-FDG PET/CT uptake, an indirect measurement of tumour glycolysis and, hence, of acidosis. In vivo subcutaneous and orthotopic models, co-injected with mesenchymal stromal (MSC) and osteosarcoma cells, formed an acidic tumour microenvironment (mean pH 6.86, as assessed by in vivo MRI-CEST pH imaging). In these xenografts, we enlightened the expression of both IL6 and the NF-kB complex subunit in stromal cells infiltrating the tumour acidic area. The co-injection with MSC also significantly increased lung metastases. Finally, by using 3D microfluidic models, we directly showed the promotion of osteosarcoma invasiveness by acidosis via IL6 and MSC. In conclusion, osteosarcoma-associated MSC react to intratumoural acidosis by triggering an inflammatory response that, in turn, promotes tumour invasiveness at the primary site toward metastasis development.
Updates on Immunotherapy and Immune Landscape in Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Myung-Chul , Jin Zeng , Kolb Ryan , Borcherding Nicholas , Chatzkel Jonathan Alexander , Falzarano Sara Moscovita , Zhang Weizhou
Published: November 2021

Several clinicopathological features of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCC) contribute to make an “atypical” cancer, including resistance to chemotherapy, sensitivity to anti-angiogenesis therapy and ICIs despite a low mutational burden, and CD8+ T cell infiltration being the predictor for poor prognosis–normally CD8+ T cell infiltration is a good prognostic factor in cancer patients. These “atypical” features have brought researchers to investigate the molecular and immunological mechanisms that lead to the increased T cell infiltrates despite relatively low molecular burdens, as well as to decipher the immune landscape that leads to better response to ICIs. In the present study, we summarize the past and ongoing pivotal clinical trials of immunotherapies for ccRCC, emphasizing the potential molecular and cellular mechanisms that lead to the success or failure of ICI therapy. Single-cell analysis of ccRCC has provided a more thorough and detailed understanding of the tumor immune microenvironment and has facilitated the discovery of molecular biomarkers from the tumor-infiltrating immune cells. We herein will focus on the discussion of some major immune cells, including T cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) in ccRCC. We will further provide some perspectives of using molecular and cellular biomarkers derived from these immune cell types to potentially improve the response rate to ICIs in ccRCC patients.
Novel Treatment Strategies for Glioblastoma—A Summary
Authors: Stylli Stanley S.
Published: November 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary central nervous system tumor in adults, accounting for approximately 80% of all brain-related malignancies [...]
A Study on the Characteristic and Antibacterial Activity of Ti3Ox Thin Films
Authors: Widyastuti Endrika , Xu Fu-Yang , Chiu Chen-Tien , Jan Jhen-Hau , Hsu Jue-Liang , Lee Ying-Chieh
Published: November 2021

A pure Ti target in Ar/O2 gas mixture was used to synthesize Ti3Ox thin film on a glass substrate by Reactive High-Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HiPIMS) under different sputtering power (2 and 2.5 kW). The influence of HiPIMS parameters on thin films’ structural, morphological, chemical composition, optical and photocatalytic, and antibacterial properties was investigated. In this study, Ti3Ox thin films can be synthesized using the HiPIMS method without the post-annealing process. Two co-existence phases (hexagonal Ti3O and base-centered monoclinic Ti3O5 phases) existed on the Ti3Ox films. It is found that the peak intensity of (006) Ti3O hexagonal slightly increased as the sputtering power increased from 2 to 2.5 kW. The Ti3Ox thin-film bandgap values were 3.36 and 3.50 eV for 2 and 2.5 kW, respectively. The Ti3Ox films deposited at 2.5 kW showed good photocatalytic activity under UV light irradiation, with a higher methylene blue dye degradation rate than TiO2 thin films. The antibacterial study on Ti3Ox thin films exhibited a high inhibition percentage against E. coli and S. aureus. This study demonstrates that Ti3Ox thin films can promote high photocatalytic and antibacterial activity.
Understanding of the Key Factors Determining the Activity and Selectivity of CuZn Catalysts in Hydrogenolysis of Alkyl Esters to Alcohols
Authors: Kikhtyanin Oleg , Aubrecht Jaroslav , Pospelova Violetta , Kubička David
Published: November 2021

CuZn catalysts are perspective catalysts for esters hydrogenolysis, but more knowledge is needed to optimize their catalytic performance. In this work, we consider the impact of CuZn catalysts composition on their structure, activity, selectivity, and stability in esters hydrogenolysis. Four catalysts with various Cu/Zn ratio were synthesized by a co-precipitation and characterized in as-prepared, calcined, reduced, and spent state by XRF, XRD, N2 physisorption, CO2-TPD, NH3-TPD, and N2O chemisorption. XRD data revealed the effect of the composition on the size of Cu and ZnO particles. The catalytic performance was investigated using an autoclave. All catalysts exhibited high methyl hexanoate conversion about 48–60% after 3 h but their activity and selectivity were found to be dependent on Cu/Zn ratio. The conversion of methyl hexanoate and hexyl hexanoate was compared to explain the observed product selectivity. Moreover, the catalysts stability was investigated in three consecutive reaction cycles and correlated with changes in the size of constituent particles. Moreover, when different esters were tested, a slight decrease in conversion and increase in alcohol selectivity with a growth in molecule size was observed. Obtained results allow making a conclusion about the optimal composition that provides the good performance of CuZn catalysts in ester hydrogenolysis.
Ceramized Fabrics and Their Integration in a Semi-Pilot Plant for the Photodegradation of Water Pollutants
Authors: Faccani Lara , Ortelli Simona , Blosi Magda , Costa Anna Luisa
Published: November 2021

The use of nano-photocatalysts for the water/wastewater purifications, particularly in developing regions, offers promising advantages over conventional technologies. TiO2-based photocatalysts deposited on fabrics represent an efficient solution for obtaining heterogeneous photocatalysts, which are easily adaptable in the already installed water treatment plants or air purification systems. Despite the huge effort spent to develop and characterize novel nano-photocatalysts, which are especially active under solar light, knowledge gaps still persist for their full-scale application, starting from the reactor design and scale-up and the evaluation of the photocatalytic efficiency in pre-pilot scenarios. In this study, we offered easily scalable solutions for adapting TiO2-based photocatalysts, which are deposited on different kinds of fabrics and implemented in a 6 L semi-pilot plant, using the photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) as a model of water pollution. We took advantage of a multi-variable optimization approach to identify the best design options in terms of photodegradation efficiency and turnover frequency (TOF). Surprisingly, in the condition of use, the irradiation with a light-emitting diode (LED) visible lamp appeared as a valid alternative to the use of UV LED. The identification of the best design options in the semi-pilot plant allowed scaling up the technology in a 100 L pilot plant suitable for the treatment of industrial wastewater.
Supported Cu/W/Mo/Ni—Liquid Metal Catalyst with Core-Shell Structure for Photocatalytic Degradation
Authors: Liang Shuting , Wang Chaowei , Li Fengjiao , Song Gang
Published: November 2021

Room-temperature liquid metal is a very ideal material for the design of catalytic materials. At low temperatures, the liquid metal enters the liquid state. It provides an opportunity to utilize the liquid phase in the catalysis, which is far superior to the traditional solid-phase catalyst. Aiming at the low performance and narrow application scope of the existing single-phase liquid metal catalyst, this paper proposed a type of liquid metal/metal oxide core-shell composite multi-metal catalyst. The Ga2O3 core-shell heterostructure was formed by chemical modification of liquid metals with different nano metals Cu/W/Mo/Ni, and it was applied to photocatalytic degrading organic contaminated raw liquor. The effects of different metal species on the rate of catalytic degradation were explored. The selectivity and stability of the LM/MO core-shell composite catalytic material were clarified, and it was found that the Ni-LM catalyst could degrade methylene blue and Congo red by 92% and 79%, respectively. The catalytic mechanism and charge transfer mechanism were revealed by combining the optical band gap value. Finally, we provided a theoretical basis for the further development of liquid metal photocatalytic materials in the field of new energy environments.
Impact of Airway Inflammation on the Efficacy of CFTR Modulators
Authors: Ribeiro Carla M. P. , Gentzsch Martina
Published: November 2021

Defective CFTR biogenesis and activity in cystic fibrosis airways leads to airway dehydration and impaired mucociliary clearance, resulting in chronic airway infection and inflammation. Most cystic fibrosis patients have at least one copy of the F508del CFTR mutation, which results in a protein retained in the endoplasmic reticulum and degraded by the proteosomal pathway. CFTR modulators, e.g., correctors, promote the transfer of F508del to the apical membrane, while potentiators increase CFTR activity. Corrector and potentiator double therapies modestly improve lung function, whereas triple therapies with two correctors and one potentiator indicate improved outcomes. Enhanced F508del rescue by CFTR modulators is achieved by exposing F508del/F508del primary cultures of human bronchial epithelia to relevant inflammatory stimuli, i.e., supernatant from mucopurulent material or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from human cystic fibrosis airways. Inflammation enhances the biochemical and functional rescue of F508del by double or triple CFTR modulator therapy and overcomes abrogation of CFTR correction by chronic VX-770 treatment in vitro. Furthermore, the impact of inflammation on clinical outcomes linked to CFTR rescue has been recently suggested. This review discusses these data and possible mechanisms for airway inflammation-enhanced F508del rescue. Expanding the understanding of how airway inflammation improves CFTR rescue may benefit cystic fibrosis patients.
Differential Responses of Neural Retina Progenitor Populations to Chronic Hyperglycemia
Authors: Schmitner Nicole , Recheis Christina , Thönig Jakob , Kimmel Robin A.
Published: November 2021

Diabetic retinopathy is a frequent complication of longstanding diabetes, which comprises a complex interplay of microvascular abnormalities and neurodegeneration. Zebrafish harboring a homozygous mutation in the pancreatic transcription factor pdx1 display a diabetic phenotype with survival into adulthood, and are therefore uniquely suitable among zebrafish models for studying pathologies associated with persistent diabetic conditions. We have previously shown that, starting at three months of age, pdx1 mutants exhibit not only vascular but also neuro-retinal pathologies manifesting as photoreceptor dysfunction and loss, similar to human diabetic retinopathy. Here, we further characterize injury and regenerative responses and examine the effects on progenitor cell populations. Consistent with a negative impact of hyperglycemia on neurogenesis, stem cells of the ciliary marginal zone show an exacerbation of aging-related proliferative decline. In contrast to the robust Müller glial cell proliferation seen following acute retinal injury, the pdx1 mutant shows replenishment of both rod and cone photoreceptors from slow-cycling, neurod-expressing progenitors which first accumulate in the inner nuclear layer. Overall, we demonstrate a diabetic retinopathy model which shows pathological features of the human disease evolving alongside an ongoing restorative process that replaces lost photoreceptors, at the same time suggesting an unappreciated phenotypic continuum between multipotent and photoreceptor-committed progenitors.
Overview of Bioplastic Introduction and Its Applications in Product Packaging
Authors: Ibrahim Nor Izaida , Shahar Farah Syazwani , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Shah Ain Umaira Md , Safri Syafiqah Nur Azrie , Mat Yazik Muhamad Hasfanizam
Published: November 2021

Each year, more than 330 million tons of plastic are produced worldwide. The main consumers of plastics are the packaging (40%), building (20%) and automotive (8%) industries, as well as for the manufacture of household appliances. The vast majority of industrial plastics are not biodegradable and, therefore, create environmental problems due to the increase in the amount of solid waste. Studies have been conducted to produce biodegradable materials such as bioplastics to overcome this environmental problem. Bioplastics are defined as materials that are bio-based, biodegradable, or both; they can provide excellent biodegradability and can be used to help alleviate environmental problems. Therefore, this article presents an overview of the introduction of bioplastic materials and classifications, and a comprehensive review of their drawbacks and areas of importance, including basic and applied research, as well as biopolymer mixtures and biocomposites developed in the last decade. At the same time, this article provides insights into the development of bioplastics research to meet the needs of many industries, especially in the packaging industry in Malaysia. This review paper also focuses generally on bioplastic packaging applications such as food and beverage, healthcare, cosmetics, etc.
Effect of the Acid-Etching on Grit-Blasted Dental Implants to Improve Osseointegration: Histomorphometric Analysis of the Bone-Implant Contact in the Rabbit Tibia Model
Authors: Ríos-Carrasco Blanca , Lemos Bernardo Ferreira , Herrero-Climent Mariano , Gil Mur F. Javier , Ríos-Santos Jose Vicente
Published: November 2021

Previous studies have shown that the most reliable way to evaluate the success of an implant is by bone-to-implant contact (BIC). Recent techniques allow modifications to the implant surface that improve mechanical and biological characteristics, and also upgrade osseointegration. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the osseointegration in rabbit tibia of two different titanium dental implant surfaces: shot-blasted with Al2O3 (SB) and the same treatment with an acid-etching by immersion for 15 s in HCl/H2SO4 (SB + AE). Material and methods: Roughness parameters (Ra, Rt, and Rz) were determined by white light interferometer microscopy. Surface wettability was evaluated with a contact angle video-based system using water, di-iodomethane, and formamide. Surface free energy was determined by means of Owens and Wendt equations. Scanning electron microscopy equipped with X-ray microanalysis was used to study the morphology and determine the chemical composition of the surfaces. Twenty-four grade 4 titanium dental implants (Essential Klockner®) were implanted in the rabbit’s tibia, 12 for each surface treatment, using six rabbits. Six weeks later the rabbits were sacrificed and the implants were sent for histologic analysis. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) was recorded both at the time of surgery and the end of the research with each device (Osstell Mentor and Osstell ISQ). Results: The roughness measurements between the two treatments did not show statistically significant differences. However, the effect of the acid etching made the surface slightly more hydrophilic (decreasing contact angle from 74.7 for SB to 64.3 for SB + AE) and it presented a higher surface energy. The bone-to-implant contact ratio (BIC %) showed a similar tendency, with 55.18 ± 15.67 and 59.9 ± 13.15 for SB and SB + AE implants, respectively. After 6 weeks of healing, the SB + AE showed an implant stability quotient (ISQ) value of 76 ± 4.47 and the shot-blasted one an ISQ value of 75.83 ± 8.44 (no statistically significant difference). Implants with different surface properties had distinctive forms of behavior regarding osseointegration. Furthermore, the Osstell system was an invasive and reliable method to measure implant stability. Conclusion: Both surfaces of implants studied showed high osseointegration. The SB and SB + AE implants used in our study had similar behavior both in terms of BIC values and RFA. The RFA systems in Osstell Mentor and Osstell ISQ confirmed nearly perfect reproducibility and repeatability.
Statistical Theory of Helical Twisting in Nematic Liquid Crystals Doped with Chiral Nanoparticles
Authors: Osipov Mikhail A. , Merekalov Alexey S. , Ezhov Alexander A.
Published: November 2021

A molecular field theory of the cholesteric ordering in nematic nanocomposites doped with chiral nanoparticles was developed taking into consideration chiral dispersion interaction between rod-like nanoparticles. It was shown that the inverse pitch of the cholesteric helical structure is proportional to the anisotropy of the effective polarizability and the anisotropy of the effective gyration tensor of a nanoparticle in the nematic host. The theory enables one to predict the helical sense inversion induced by a change of the low-frequency dielectric susceptibility of the nematic host phase. The components of the high-frequency effective polarizability and the effective optical activity of a gold rod-like nanoparticle in a particular nematic solvent were calculated numerically.
Influence of Cr/Zr Ratio on Activity of Cr–Zr Oxide Catalysts in Non-Oxidative Propane Dehydrogenation
Authors: Zubkov Alexander , Bugrova Tatiana , Salaev Mikhail , Mamontov Grigory
Published: November 2021

Two series of chromium–zirconium mixed oxide catalysts with different Cr/Zr molar ratio are prepared by co-precipitation method. Porous structure of the catalysts is studied by low-temperature N2 adsorption–desorption. Phase composition and chromium states in the catalysts are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible spectroscopy, and temperature-programmed reduction with hydrogen (TPR-H2). The mixed catalysts are tested in non-oxidative dehydrogenation of propane at 550 °C. The catalysts synthesized without ageing of precipitate show higher activity in propane dehydrogenation due to the higher content of reducible Cr+5/+6 species due to its stabilization on the ZrO2 surface.
Influences of Powder Source Porosity on Mass Transport during AlN Crystal Growth Using Physical Vapor Transport Method
Authors: Fu Danyang , Wang Qikun , Zhang Gang , Li Zhe , Huang Jiali , Wang Jiang , Wu Liang
Published: November 2021

We developed a two-dimensional (2D) transport model to investigate mass transport during bulk AlN crystal growth via the physical vapor transport (PVT) process using the finite element method (FEM), taking the powder source porosity, buoyancy, and vapor diffusion into account. The porosity effects of the powder source on mass transport under various growth conditions were investigated in detail. The simulation results show that the porosity of the powder source significantly affects the mass transport process during AlN sublimation growth. When the porosity of the powder source decreases, the growth rate becomes more uniform along the seed deposition surface, although the sublimation rate and crystal growth rate decrease, which can be attributed to the reduced specific surface area of the powder source and the reduced flow rate of Al vapor in the powder source. A flat growth interface can be achieved at a porosity of 0.2 under our specific growth conditions, which in turn facilitate the growth of high-quality AlN crystals and better yield. The decomposition of the powder source and the transport of Al vapor in the growth chamber can be suppressed by increasing the pressure. In addition, the AlN growth rate variation along the deposition surface can be attributed to the Al vapor pressure gradient caused by the temperature difference in the growth chamber.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Vacuum Diffusion Bonded Zr-4 Alloy Joint
Authors: Wang Zeming , Yang Xu , Wang Jing , Xiao Zhonglin , Qi Fugong , Sun Kongbo , Wang Ying , Yang Zhenwen
Published: November 2021

The development of welding technology for zirconium alloy has great significance on the safety, stability, and reliability of the operation of the nuclear reactor. In this work, vacuum diffusion bonding of Zr-4 alloy was studied at the diffusion temperature ranging from 760 to 820 °C with holding times of 30–90 min. The effects of diffusion bonding temperature and holding time on the interfacial microstructure and mechanical properties of the diffusion bonded Zr-4 alloy joints were investigated in detail, and the relationship between the interfacial microstructure and shear strength of the diffusion bonded joints was discussed. The results show that the interface bonding ratio of the diffusion bonded Zr-4 joint gradually increased from 74% to 95% with the increasing of bonding temperature. In addition, the grain size of the base material became a larger and brittle second phase composed of Zr(Cr, Fe)2 and eutectic α-Zr + Zr(Fe, Cr)2 formed in the joint with the increase of the temperature as well as the extension of the bonding time. The highest shear strength of 349 MPa was obtained at 800 °C for 30 min under 7 MPa, and the crack of the joint was primarily propagated along with the base material rather than the bonded interface.
A Nomogram for Predicting Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Cooperative Surgery during the Endoscopic Resection of Subepithelial Tumors of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Hsiao Shun-Wen , Chen Mei-Wen , Yang Chia-Wei , Lin Kuo-Hua , Chen Yang-Yuan , Kor Chew-Teng , Huang Siou-Ping , Yen Hsu-Heng
Published: November 2021

Background: Considering the widespread use of esophagogastroduodenoscopy, the prevalence of upper gastrointestinal (GI) subepithelial tumors (SET) increases. For relatively safer removal of upper GI SETs, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been developed as an alternative to surgery. This study aimed to analyze the outcome of endoscopic resection for SETs and develop a prediction model for the need for laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) during the procedure. Method: We retrospectively analyzed 123 patients who underwent endoscopic resection for upper GI SETs between January 2012 and December 2020 at our institution. Intraoperatively, they underwent ESD or submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER). Results: ESD and STER were performed in 107 and 16 patients, respectively. The median age was 55 years, and the average tumor size was 1.5 cm. En bloc resection was achieved in 114 patients (92.7%). The median follow-up duration was 242 days without recurrence. Perforation occurred in 47 patients (38.2%), and 30 patients (24.4%) underwent LECS. Most perforations occurred in the fundus. Through multivariable analysis, we built a nomogram that can predict LECS requirement according to tumor location, size, patient age, and sex. The prediction model exhibited good discrimination ability, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.893. Conclusions: Endoscopic resection is a noninvasive procedure for small upper-GI SETs. Most perforations can be successfully managed endoscopically. The prediction model for LECS requirement is useful in treatment planning.
The Clinical Significance of the Hyperintense Acute Reperfusion Marker Sign in Subacute Infarction Patients
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Lee Kyung Mi , Kim Hyug-Gi , Woo Ho-Geol , Lee Jin San , Kim Eui Jong
Published: November 2021

Purpose: The hyperintense acute reperfusion marker (HARM) is characterized by the delayed enhancement of the subarachnoid or subpial space observed on postcontrast fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images, and is considered a cerebral reperfusion marker for various brain disorders, including infarction. In this study, we evaluated the cerebral distribution patterns of HARM for discriminating between an enhancing subacute infarction and an enhancing mass located in the cortex and subcortical white matter. Materials and methods: We analyzed consecutive patients who experienced a subacute ischemic stroke, were hospitalized, and underwent conventional brain magnetic resonance imaging including postcontrast FLAIR within 14 days from symptom onset, as well as those who had lesions corresponding to a clinical sign detected by diffusion-weighted imaging and postcontrast T1-weighted imaging between May 2019 and May 2021. A total of 199 patients were included in the study. Of them, 94 were finally included in the subacute infarction group. During the same period, 76 enhancing masses located in the cortex or subcortical white matter, which were subcategorized as metastasis, malignant glioma, and lymphoma, were analyzed. We analyzed the overall incidence of HARM in subacute ischemic stroke cases, and compared the enhancement patterns between cortical infarctions and cortical masses. Results: Among 94 patients with subacute stroke, 78 patients (83%) presented HARM, and among 76 patients with subcortical masses, 48 patients (63%) presented peripheral rim enhancement. Of 170 subcortical enhancing lesions, 88 (51.8%) showed HARM, and 78 (88.6%) were determined to be subacute infarction. Among 94 patients with subacute stroke, 48 patients (51%) had diffusion restrictions, and HARM was found in 39 patients (81.2%). Of the 46 patients (49%) without diffusion restriction, 39 patients (84.8%) showed HARM. Conclusions: The presence of HARM was significantly associated with subacute infarctions. For the masses, a peripheral rim enhancement pattern was observed around the mass rather than the cerebral sulci on postcontrast FLAIR.
Chronic Kidney Disease and Heart Failure–Everyday Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Adamska-Wełnicka Anna , Wełnicki Marcin , Mamcarz Artur , Gellert Ryszard
Published: November 2021

Is advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) a cardiac “no man’s land”? Chronic heart failure (HF) is widely believed to be one of the most serious medical challenges of the 21st century. Moreover, the number of patients with CKD is increasing. To date, patients with estimated glomerular filtration rates <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 have frequently been excluded from large, randomized clinical trials. Although this situation is slowly changing, in everyday practice we continue to struggle with problems that are not clearly addressed in the guidelines. This literature review was conducted by an interdisciplinary group, which comprised a nephrologist, internal medicine specialists, and cardiologist. In this review, we discuss the difficulties in ruling out HF for patients with advanced CKD and issues regarding the cardiotoxicity of dialysis fistulas and the occurrence of pulmonary hypertension in patients with CKD. Due to the recent publication of the new HF guidelines by the European Society of Cardiology, this is a good time to address these difficult issues. Contrary to appearances, these are not niche issues, but problems that affect many patients.
Serum Organ-Specific Anti-Heart and Anti-Intercalated Disk Autoantibodies as New Autoimmune Markers of Cardiac Involvement in Systemic Sclerosis: Frequency, Clinical and Prognostic Correlates
Authors: Caforio Alida Linda Patrizia , De Luca Giacomo , Baritussio Anna , Seguso Mara , Gallo Nicoletta , Bison Elisa , Cattini Maria Grazia , Pontara Elena , Gargani Luna , Pepe Alessia , Campochiaro Corrado , Plebani Mario , Iliceto Sabino , Peretto Giovanni , Esposito Antonio , Tofani Lorenzo , Moggi-Pignone Alberto , Dagna Lorenzo , Marcolongo Renzo , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Bruni Cosimo
Published: November 2021

Background: Heart involvement (HInv) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) may relate to myocarditis and is associated with poor prognosis. Serum anti-heart (AHA) and anti-intercalated disk autoantibodies (AIDA) are organ and disease-specific markers of isolated autoimmune myocarditis. We assessed frequencies, clinical correlates, and prognostic impacts of AHA and AIDA in SSc. Methods: The study included consecutive SSc patients (n = 116, aged 53 ± 13 years, 83.6% females, median disease duration 7 years) with clinically suspected heart involvement (symptoms, abnormal ECG, abnormal troponin I or natriuretic peptides, and abnormal echocardiography). All SSc patients underwent CMR. Serum AHA and AIDA were measured by indirect immunofluorescence in SSc and in control groups of non-inflammatory cardiac disease (NICD) (n = 160), ischemic heart failure (IHF) (n = 141), and normal blood donors (NBD) (n = 270). AHA and AIDA status in SSc was correlated with baseline clinical, diagnostic features, and outcome. Results: The frequency of AHA was higher in SSc (57/116, 49%, p < 0.00001) than in NICD (2/160, 1%), IHF (2/141, 1%), or NBD (7/270, 2.5%). The frequency of AIDA was higher (65/116, 56%, p < 0.00001) in SSc than in NICD (6/160, 3.75%), IHF (3/141, 2%), or NBD (1/270, 0.37%). AHAs were associated with interstitial lung disease (p = 0.04), history of chest pain (p = 0.026), abnormal troponin (p = 0.006), AIDA (p = 0.000), and current immunosuppression (p = 0.01). AHAs were associated with death (p = 0.02) and overall cardiac events during follow-up (p = 0.017). Conclusions: The high frequencies of AHA and AIDA suggest a high burden of underdiagnosed autoimmune HInv in SSc. In keeping with the negative prognostic impact of HInv in SSc, AHAs were associated with dismal prognosis.
Optimal Strategy for the Improvement of the Overall Performance of Dual-Axis Solar Tracking Systems
Authors: Flores-Hernández Diego A. , Luviano-Juárez Alberto , Lozada-Castillo Norma , Gutiérrez-Frías Octavio , Domínguez César , Antón Ignacio
Published: November 2021

Solar Tracking Systems are useful to increase the generation efficiency of photovoltaic technology, mainly for concentration technology, where dual-axis is required on account of the high accurate alignment to the Sun. Even when there exists a strong relation between tracking error and energy efficiency, multiple technological and research developments have sought to solve these problems independently. The present research proposes a novel concurrent design methodology for optimizing the overall performance of two-axis trackers, allowing to keep a balance between the tracking error and the energy consumption from the design stage, from an optimization approach. The concurrent approach was implemented to design a Solar Tracker as a solar monitoring system, was compared with four commercial systems, obtaining a similar pointing accuracy with a mixed tracking error of 0.0942°. The system has the best energy balance, consuming only 0.9641% of the energy generated for the tracking action, below commercial models. Finally, a CO2 impact analysis was carried out, where the proposed tracker obtained the lowest value, with 25.7018 g. The results support the developed concurrent strategy for the optimization of the overall performance of dual-axis systems, allowing us to find a harmonic balance between the energy consumption and the required tracking accuracy.
Losses in Efficiency Maps of Electric Vehicles: An Overview
Authors: Roshandel Emad , Mahmoudi Amin , Kahourzade Solmaz , Yazdani Amirmehdi , Shafiullah GM
Published: November 2021

In some applications such as electric vehicles, electric motors should operate in a wide torque and speed ranges. An efficiency map is the contour plot of the maximum efficiency of an electric machine in torque-speed plane. It is used to provide an overview on the performance of an electric machine when operates in different operating points. The electric machine losses in different torque and speed operating points play a prominent role in the efficiency of the machines. In this paper, an overview about the change of various loss components in torque-speed envelope of the electric machines is rendered to show the role and significance of each loss component in a wide range of torque and speeds. The research gaps and future research subjects based on the conducted review are reported. The role and possibility of the utilization of the computational intelligence-based modeling of the losses in improvement of the loss estimation is discussed.
An Electromagnetic Design of a Fully Superconducting Generator for Wind Application
Authors: Liu Yingzhen , Grilli Francesco , Cao Jiwei , Li Liyi , Zhang Chengming , Wang Mingyi , Xu Fengyu , Lin Jingbo , Noe Mathias
Published: November 2021

A fully superconducting wind generator employs superconductors in stator and rotor to enable high torque density and low weight, that is, enable an ultra-light electric machine for wind application. However, the level of the AC loss of the stator armature coils is a critical issue, which lacks investigations in the design of the fully superconducting generators. In this paper, an in-house model was developed to analyze the potential of a fully superconducting generator by integrating the electromagnetic design with the AC loss estimation. The electromagnetic model was made through analytical equations, which take into consideration the geometry, the magnetic properties of iron, and the nonlinear E–J constitutive law of superconductors. Since the permeability of iron materials and the critical current of the superconductors depend on the magnetic field, an iteration process was proposed to find their operating points for every electromagnetic design. The AC loss estimation was carried out through finite element software based on the T–A formulation of Maxwell’s equations instead of analytical equations, due to the complexity of magnetic fields, currents and rotation. The results demonstrate that the design approach is viable and efficient, and is therefore useful for the preliminary design of the generator. In addition, it is found that smaller tape width, larger distance between the superconducting coils in the same slot, smaller coil number in one slot and lower working temperature can reduce the AC loss of the stator coils, but the reduction of the AC loss needs careful design to achieve an optimum solution.
A Study on the Possibility of Measuring Sludge Sedimentation Using Contrast Detection Characteristics of CdS Photoresistors
Authors: Hong Seong-Min , Kim Hyun-Ook , Kim Choong-Gon
Published: November 2021

Although operators periodically measure the sludge volume index (SVI) to stabilize the bioreactor and solid–liquid separation during the wastewater treatment process, there is a problem of inconsistency attributed to the subjective judgment of the operator. This study aims to investigate the possibility of securing objective data by employing CdS (cadmium–sulfur) photoresistors for SVI measurements. The sedimentation velocity of settling sludge was measured using LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights at the same level as the installed CdS photoresistors. As a result of the experiment, the settling velocity of sludge in the CdS photoresistors’ installation position H1 to H8 (non-flocculent settling), H9 to H12 (discrete flocculent settling) and H13 to H18 (zone settling and compressive settling), was 0.594 mm/s, 0.180 mm/s and 0.056 mm/s, respectively. Through this study, it was confirmed that measuring sludge sedimentation using the CdS photoresistors is possible. If the measurement of solid matter in sludge using several sludge sedimentation measurements is enabled in the future, it will be possible to develop calculation algorithms to measure the SVI.
Management of Needle-Eating Caterpillars Associated with Pinus massoniana and P. merkusii in Vietnam
Authors: Quang Dao Ngoc , Thu Pham Quang , Chi Nguyen Minh , Binh Le Van , Thong Nguyen Quoc , Thu Nguyen Hoai , Nguyen Vo Dai , Dell Bernard
Published: November 2021

Pine tussock moth (Dasychira axutha Collenette (Lymantriidae)) and masson pine caterpillar (Dendrolimus punctatus Walker (Lasiocampidae)) cause serious damage to Pinus massoniana and P. merkusii plantations in Vietnam. An integrated pest management (IPM) program is required to control these pests. Therefore, this study was undertaken to identify damage thresholds and to evaluate control options for implementing IPM in the Northeast and North Central regions of Vietnam. Three damage thresholds were considered: <25%, 25%–50% and >50% loss of leaf area. Control options were manual collection of eggs and pupae and the use of light traps and biological agents. An initial IPM model was developed for each pest and these gave control efficacies of 82.4% (Da. axutha on P. massoniana) and 77.8% (De. punctatus on P. merkusii). Six extended IPM models were undertaken by forest companies giving pest control efficacies of 79.2%–85.9%. The collection of pine resin provides an important source of income to local communities and the resin yield in the IPM models increased by 20.9%–22.7% compared to untreated control plots. The IPM protocols would help in developing policies that promote a more sustainable management of forest pests in Vietnam, thus reducing dependence on the use of insecticides of environmental and public health concerns.
Detection of Induced Activity in Social Networks: Model and Methodology
Authors: Gavra Dmitrii , Namyatova Ksenia , Vitkova Lidia
Published: November 2021

This paper examines the problem of social media special operations and especially induced support in social media during political election campaigns. The theoretical background of the paper is based on the study fake activity in social networks during pre-election processes and the existing models and methods of detection of such activity. The article proposes a methodology for identifying and diagnosing induced support for a political project. The methodology includes a model of induced activity, an algorithm for segmenting the audience of a political project, and a technique for detecting and diagnosing induced support. The proposed methodology provides identification of network combatants, participants of social media special operations, influencing public opinion in the interests of a political project. The methodology can be used to raise awareness of the electorate, the public, and civil society in general about the presence of artificial activity on the page of a political project.
A Numerical Study of Spray Strips Analysis on Fridsma Hull Form
Authors: Samuel  , Trimulyono Andi , Manik Parlindungan , Chrismianto Deddy
Published: November 2021

Spray strips are deflectors added to the hull to reduce the Wetted Surface Area (WSA). The reduced WSA will decrease the total ship drag caused by the deflection of the spray strip installation. The research aimed to predict the function of the spray strip to improve ship performance using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The numerical approach in this study used the Finite Volume Method (FVM) with the RANS (Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes) equation to solve fluid dynamics problems. VOF (Volume of Fluid) was used to model the water and air phases. The results of this study indicated that the number of spray strips would have a significant effect compared to without using a spray strip. Spray strips with three strips could reduce the total resistance by 4.9% at Fr 1.78. Spray strips would increase the total resistance value by 2.1% at low speeds. Spray strips were effective for reducing total resistance at Fr > 1 or the planing mode conditions. The total resistance prediction used three suggestion profiles with the best performance to reduce total resistance by 6.0% at Fr 1.78.
Rapid Detection of Thermal Treatment of Honey by Chemometrics-Assisted FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Antonova Olga , Calvo Javier , Seifert Andreas
Published: November 2021

Honey, as a nutritious natural sweetener produced by honeybees, offers a unique biochemical composition with great benefit to human health. Transportation and storage conditions as well as violations of processing can lead to decomposition of vitamins, destruction of the integrity of the antioxidant components and enzymes, and further biochemical changes with impact on nutritional quality. We developed a fast detection method of adulterations or changes of honey caused by thermal exposure, which does not require any sample pretreatment. By Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, supported by chemometrics methods, we investigated three types of raw honey before and after heat treatment for varying exposure times at different temperatures. Applying principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis to the preprocessed spectroscopic data, allowed us to discriminate raw honey from thermally altered ones even at low temperatures of 40 °C with high accuracies ≥90%.
Gene Therapeutic Approaches for the Treatment of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Prasuhn Jannik , Brüggemann Norbert
Published: November 2021

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a pathophysiological hallmark of disease onset and progression in patients with Parkinsonian disorders. Besides the overall emergence of gene therapies in treating these patients, this highly relevant molecular concept has not yet been defined as a target for gene therapeutic approaches. Methods: This narrative review will discuss the experimental evidence suggesting mitochondrial dysfunction as a viable treatment target in patients with monogenic and idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. In addition, we will focus on general treatment strategies and crucial challenges which need to be overcome. Results: Our current understanding of mitochondrial biology in parkinsonian disorders opens up the avenue for viable treatment strategies in Parkinsonian disorders. Insights can be obtained from primary mitochondrial diseases. However, substantial knowledge gaps and unique challenges of mitochondria-targeted gene therapies need to be addressed to provide innovative treatments in the future. Conclusions: Mitochondria-targeted gene therapies are a potential strategy to improve an important primary disease mechanism in Parkinsonian disorders. However, further studies are needed to address the unique design challenges for mitochondria-targeted gene therapies.