bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Motivates Smokers to Switch to ENDS? A Qualitative Study of Perceptions and Use
Authors: Evans Abigail T. , Henderson Katherine C. , Geier Anna , Weaver Scott R. , Spears Claire Adams , Ashley David L. , Fritz Meredith , John Lisa , Pechacek Terry F.
Published: November 2020

Switching completely from cigarettes to electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) may reduce health risks for addicted smokers. This paper provides information about perceptions and other factors that may influence smokers’ ENDS use and substitution for cigarettes. We conducted 12 online focus groups (N = 61) among smokers who had never tried using ENDS (Never Users, N = 11), currently used both cigarettes and ENDS (Dual Users, N = 21), used but discontinued ENDS (Rejectors, N = 14), and switched completely to ENDS use (Switchers, N = 15). Thematic analysis was used to interpret the transcripts. Participants described initial interest in trying ENDS in hopes of quitting smoking and because of convenience (i.e., due to rules, regulations, or social norms). Risk perceptions and higher prices relative to cigarettes were reported as disadvantages of ENDS that discouraged initiation. Dual Users and Rejectors reported product problems (e.g., products breaking) and dissatisfaction (i.e., inability to satisfy cravings for cigarettes) as factors that lowered their substitutability for cigarettes or led to discontinuing ENDS use. Switchers indicated that satisfaction, lack of product problems, and perceived safety facilitated successfully switching from cigarette smoking to exclusive ENDS use. However, Switchers reported trying many products before they found ones that satisfied their needs. We recommend that policymakers consider the potential impact of tobacco control policies on smokers’ motivation and ability to switch completely from cigarettes to ENDS.
A New Social Network Scale for Detecting Depressive Symptoms in Older Japanese Adults
Authors: Bae Seongryu , Harada Kenji , Chiba Ippei , Makino Keitaro , Katayama Osamu , Lee Sangyoon , Shinkai Yohei , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: November 2020

Social engagement and networking deter depression among older adults. During the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults are especially at risk of isolation from face-to-face and non-face-to-face interactions. We developed the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology Social Network Scale (NCGG-SNS) to assess frequency of, and satisfaction with, social interactions. The NCGG-SNS consists of four domains: face-to-face/non-face-to-face interactions with family/friends. Each domain score is obtained by multiplying frequency ratings by satisfaction ratings for each item; all scores were summed to obtain a total NCGG-SNS score (range: 0–64). Additionally, face-to-face and non-face-to-face subscores were calculated. Higher scores indicated satisfactory social networking. A cohort of 2445 older Japanese adults completed the NCGG-SNS and the Geriatrics Depression Scale-Short form. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis and logistic regression determined predictive validity for depressive symptoms. Depressive symptoms were reported by 284 participants (11.6%). The optimal NCGG-SNS cut-off value to identify depressive symptoms was 26.5 points. In logistic regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders, lower NCGG-SNS values were significantly associated with greater prevalence of depressive symptoms. Face-to-face and non-face-to-face subscores were associated with depressive symptoms. The NCGG-SNS is a valid and useful indicator of multidimensional social networking enabling identification of depressive symptoms in older adults.
Relationship between Socioeconomic Inequalities and Oral Hygiene Indicators in Private and Public Schools in Karachi: An Observational Study
Authors: Khalid Tamsal , Mahdi Syed Sarosh , Khawaja Mariam , Allana Raheel , Amenta Francesco
Published: November 2020

Background: The study investigated the relationship between socioeconomic status and oral hygiene indicators in two schools located in Karachi, Pakistan. Oral hygiene indicators of public and private school children were compared. Private schools cater to children of relatively wealthier families compared to public school, whose attendees are generally children from less affluent backgrounds. The aim of this study was to determine whether socio-economic differences and inequalities have an impact on key oral hygiene indicators. Methodology: Primary data for this research was collected from community school visits conducted by the community dentistry department of Jinnah Medical and Dental and Medical College from January to September 2019. A convenience sample of the two schools, comprising 300 school students was selected. Data was collected using modified World Health Organization (WHO) oral health care forms. A pre-tested/customized dental hygiene form based on WHO forms was created by the research team. This form was used to measure DMFT/dmft scores and key oral hygiene indicators in the sample. Results: A total sample size of 300 school-children affiliated with public and private schools was selected. The children’s age ranged from 2 to 18 years. The mean DMFT scores of private and public-school children were not significantly different (private (1.82) vs. public (1.48)). (p = 0.257). The mean of carious teeth was 1.69 in private school children compared to 1.34 in government school children, whereas the mean values of other key indicators of oral hygiene including plaque deposition (p = 0.001), dental stains (p < 0.001) and bleeding gums/gingivitis (p < 0.001), were statistically significant between public and private school children. Conclusion: Oral health inequalities can be reduced with increased awareness and public funding to cater for the oral health needs of children of less affluent families. A dynamic and practical community-oriented program is fundamental for enhancing pediatric oral hygiene status, particularly for children attending government schools.
Barriers and Facilitators of Adherence to Nicotine Replacement Therapy: A Systematic Review and Analysis Using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behaviour (COM-B) Model
Authors: Mersha Amanual Getnet , Gould Gillian Sandra , Bovill Michelle , Eftekhari Parivash
Published: November 2020

Background: Poor adherence to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is associated with low rates of smoking cessation. Hence, this study aims to identify and map patient-related factors associated with adherence to NRT using the capability, opportunity, motivation, and behaviour (COM-B) model. Methods: A systematic review was conducted by searching five databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) and grey literature on 30 August 2020. Data were extracted, thematically analysed, and mapped to the COM-B model. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool was utilised to assess the quality of studies. Results: A total of 2929 citations were screened, and 26 articles with a total of 13,429 participants included. Thirty-one factors were identified and mapped to COM-B model: psychological capability (forgetfulness, education), physical capability (level of nicotine dependence, withdrawal symptoms), reflective motivation (perception about NRT and quitting), automatic motivation (alcohol use, stress, depression), physical opportunity (cost), and social opportunity (social support). The most prominent element associated with adherence was reflective motivation followed by physical capability and automatic motivation. Conclusions: Multiple personal, social, and environmental factors affect NRT adherence. Hence, it is recommended to implement a multifaceted behavioural intervention incorporating factors categorised under the COM-B model, which is the hub of the behaviour change wheel (BCW) to improve adherence and quitting.
A Study on the Influence of Social Leisure Activities on the Progression to the Stage of Frailty in Korean Seniors
Authors: Kim AlChan , Yi Eunsurk , Kim Jiyoun , Kim MunHee
Published: November 2020

In this study, we performed a logistic regression analysis according to the frequency of participation in social leisure activities (education, clubs, social groups, volunteer activities, religious activities, and senior citizens’ welfare center use) by men and women aged ≥ 65 years. We investigated the frequency of participation in social leisure activities and their association with the level of frailty (health vs. pre-frailty, health vs. frailty, pre-frailty vs. frailty). This study included 10,297 older adults (men: 4128, women: 6169) who participated in the 2017 National Survey of Older Koreans, and were divided into three groups (healthy, pre-frailty, and frailty). Five frailty index components were used to measure the frailty level. There was a positive relationship between the elderly’s religious activities, four times a week, from the healthy stage to the frailty stage, from the healthy stage to the pre-frailty stage, and from the pre-frailty stage to the frailty. In addition, positive associations emerged in leisure activities and club activities, respectively, from the healthy stage to the frailty stage (once a week, respectively). Positive association also emerged from the healthy stage to the pre-frailty and from the pre-frailty stage to the frailty stage (once a month to once in a two-week period).
Optimizing PSMA Radioligand Therapy for Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: von Eyben Finn Edler , Bauman Glenn , von Eyben Rie , Rahbar Kambiz , Soydal Cigdem , Haug Alexander R. , Virgolini Irene , Kulkarni Harshad , Baum Richard , Paganelli Giovanni
Published: November 2020

The aim of the review was to evaluate patient and treatment characteristics for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) treated with PSMA radioligand therapy (PRLT) associated with above-average outcome. The systematic review and meta-analysis followed recommendations by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). We searched for publications in PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to 31 September 2020. Thirty-six publications and four duplicates reported 2346 patients. Nearly two-thirds of the patients had bone metastases. Median overall survival (OS) was 16 months. Asymptomatic patients and patients with only lymph node metastases lived longer than symptomatic patients and patients with more extensive metastases. Patients treated with an intensified schedule of 177Lu PRLT lived longer than those treated with a conventional schedule. Half of the patients obtained a PSA decline ≥ 50% and these patients lived longer than those with less PSA decline. Approximately 10% of the patients developed hematologic toxicity with anemia grade 3 as the most severe adverse effect. Characteristics for patients, cancer, restaging, and PRLT predict above average overall survival following treatment with PRLT.
The Role of the LINC Complex in Sperm Development and Function
Authors: Kmonickova Vera , Frolikova Michaela , Steger Klaus , Komrskova Katerina
Published: November 2020

The LINC (LInker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton) complex is localized within the nuclear envelope and consists of SUN (Sad1/UNc84 homology domain-containing) proteins located in the inner nuclear membrane and KASH (Klarsicht/Anc1/Syne1 homology domain-containing) proteins located in the outer nuclear membrane, hence linking nuclear with cytoplasmic structures. While the nucleoplasm-facing side acts as a key player for correct pairing of homolog chromosomes and rapid chromosome movements during meiosis, the cytoplasm-facing side plays a pivotal role for sperm head development and proper acrosome formation during spermiogenesis. A further complex present in spermatozoa is involved in head-to-tail coupling. An intact LINC complex is crucial for the production of fertile sperm, as mutations in genes encoding for complex proteins are known to be associated with male subfertility in both mice and men. The present review provides a comprehensive overview on our current knowledge of LINC complex subtypes present in germ cells and its central role for male reproduction. Future studies on distinct LINC complex components are an absolute requirement to improve the diagnosis of idiopathic male factor infertility and the outcome of assisted reproduction.
Insights into Transcriptional Repression of the Homologous Toxin-Antitoxin Cassettes yefM-yoeB and axe-txe
Authors: Kędzierska Barbara , Potrykus Katarzyna , Szalewska-Pałasz Agnieszka , Wodzikowska Beata
Published: November 2020

Transcriptional repression is a mechanism which enables effective gene expression switch off. The activity of most of type II toxin-antitoxin (TA) cassettes is controlled in this way. These cassettes undergo negative autoregulation by the TA protein complex which binds to the promoter/operator sequence and blocks transcription initiation of the TA operon. Precise and tight control of this process is vital to avoid uncontrolled expression of the toxin component. Here, we employed a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments to establish the molecular basis for previously observed differences in transcriptional activity and repression levels of the pyy and pat promoters which control expression of two homologous TA systems, YefM-YoeB and Axe-Txe, respectively. Transcriptional fusions of promoters with a lux reporter, together with in vitro transcription, EMSA and footprinting assays revealed that: (1) the different sequence composition of the −35 promoter element is responsible for substantial divergence in strengths of the promoters; (2) variations in repression result from the TA repressor complex acting at different steps in the transcription initiation process; (3) transcription from an additional promoter upstream of pat also contributes to the observed inefficient repression of axe-txe module. This study provides evidence that even closely related TA cassettes with high sequence similarity in the promoter/operator region may employ diverse mechanisms for transcriptional regulation of their genes.
A Computational Framework Based on Ensemble Deep Neural Networks for Essential Genes Identification
Authors: Le Nguyen Quoc Khanh , Do Duyen Thi , Hung Truong Nguyen Khanh , Lam Luu Ho Thanh , Huynh Tuan-Tu , Nguyen Ngan Thi Kim
Published: November 2020

Essential genes contain key information of genomes that could be the key to a comprehensive understanding of life and evolution. Because of their importance, studies of essential genes have been considered a crucial problem in computational biology. Computational methods for identifying essential genes have become increasingly popular to reduce the cost and time-consumption of traditional experiments. A few models have addressed this problem, but performance is still not satisfactory because of high dimensional features and the use of traditional machine learning algorithms. Thus, there is a need to create a novel model to improve the predictive performance of this problem from DNA sequence features. This study took advantage of a natural language processing (NLP) model in learning biological sequences by treating them as natural language words. To learn the NLP features, a supervised learning model was consequentially employed by an ensemble deep neural network. Our proposed method could identify essential genes with sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of 60.2%, 84.6%, 76.3%, 0.449, and 0.814, respectively. The overall performance outperformed the single models without ensemble, as well as the state-of-the-art predictors on the same benchmark dataset. This indicated the effectiveness of the proposed method in determining essential genes, in particular, and other sequencing problems, in general.
Chronic BACE-1 Inhibitor Administration in TASTPM Mice (APP KM670/671NL and PSEN1 M146V Mutation): An EEG Study
Authors: Lopez Susanna , Del Percio Claudio , Forloni Gianluigi , Frasca Angelisa , Drinkenburg Wilhelmus , Lizio Roberta , Noce Giuseppe , Ferri Raffaele , Soricelli Andrea , Stocchi Fabrizio , Vacca Laura , Bordet Règis , Richardson Jill , Babiloni Claudio ,   on behalf of PharmaCog Consortium
Published: November 2020

Objective. In this exploratory study, we tested whether electroencephalographic (EEG) rhythms may reflect the effects of a chronic administration (4 weeks) of an anti-amyloid β-site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme 1 inhibitor (BACE-1; ER-901356; Eisai Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) in TASTPM (double mutation in APP KM670/671NL and PSEN1 M146V) producing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) amyloid neuropathology as compared to wild type (WT) mice. Methods. Ongoing EEG rhythms were recorded from a bipolar frontoparietal and two monopolar frontomedial (prelimbic) and hippocampal channels in 11 WT Vehicle, 10 WT BACE-1, 10 TASTPM Vehicle, and 11 TASTPM BACE-1 mice (males; aged 8/9 months old at the beginning of treatment). Normalized EEG power (density) was compared between the first day (Day 0) and after 4 weeks (Week 4) of the BACE-1 inhibitor (10 mg/Kg) or vehicle administration in the 4 mouse groups. Frequency and magnitude of individual EEG delta and theta frequency peaks (IDF and ITF) were considered during animal conditions of behaviorally passive and active wakefulness. Cognitive status was not tested. Results. Compared with the WT group, the TASTPM group generally showed a significantly lower reactivity in frontoparietal ITF power during the active over the passive condition (p < 0.05). Notably, there was no other statistically significant effect (e.g., additional electrodes, recording time, and BACE-1 inhibitor). Conclusions. The above EEG biomarkers reflected differences between the WT and TASTPM groups, but no BACE-1 inhibitor effect. The results suggest an enhanced experimental design with the use of younger mice, longer drug administrations, an effective control drug, and neuropathological amyloid markers.
In Vitro Induction of Trained Innate Immunity by bIgG and Whey Protein Extracts
Authors: Hellinga Anneke H. , Tsallis Theodoros , Eshuis Talitha , Triantis Vassilis , Ulfman Laurien H. , van Neerven R. J. Joost
Published: November 2020

Bovine immunoglobulin G (bIgG) was previously shown to enhance innate immune responses to toll-like receptor (TLR) stimulation, via induction of trained immunity. In this study, we investigated whether minimally processed dairy streams with high levels of whey proteins as potential infant nutrition ingredients could also induce trained immunity, and to what extent this can be explained by the presence of bIgG. The minimally processed whey ingredients serum protein concentrate (SPC) and whey protein concentrate (WPC) were tested for their ability to induce trained immunity in human peripheral blood monocytes. Both ingredients induced trained immunity as evidenced by an increased production of TNF-α and, to a lesser extent, of IL-6 upon stimulation with TLR ligands. This was comparable to isolated bovine immunoglobulin G (bIgG) that served as positive control. Depletion of bIgG from both whey protein-containing ingredients did not significantly inhibit the induction of trained immunity, suggesting that the streams contain other components in addition to bIgG that are able to induce trained immunity. These results indicate that minimally processed whey ingredients may contribute to protection against infections through enhancing innate immune responsiveness to pathogens.
The Relationship between Sport-Related Concussion and Sensation-Seeking
Authors: Liebel Spencer , Van Pelt Kathryn , Garcia Gian-Gabriel , Czerniak Lauren , McCrea Michael , McAllister Thomas , Broglio Steven ,   on behalf of the CARE Consortium Investigators
Published: November 2020

Sensation-seeking, or the need for novel and exciting experiences, is thought to play a role in sport-related concussion (SRC), yet much remains unknown regarding these relationships and, more importantly, how sensation-seeking influences SRC risk. The current study assessed sensation-seeking, sport contact level, and SRC history and incidence in a large sample of NCAA collegiate athletes. Data included a full study sample of 22,374 baseline evaluations and a sub-sample of 2037 incident SRC. Independent samples t-test, analysis of covariance, and hierarchical logistic regression were constructed to address study hypotheses. Results showed that (1) among participants without SRC, sensation-seeking scores were higher in athletes playing contact sports compared to those playing limited- or non-contact sports (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.007, η2p = 0.003); (2) in the full study sample, a one-point increase in sensation-seeking scores resulted in a 21% greater risk of prior SRC (OR = 1.212; 95% CI: 1.154–1.272), and in the incident SRC sub-sample, a 28% greater risk of prior SRC (OR = 1.278; 95% CI: 1.104–1.480); (3) a one-point increase in sensation-seeking scores resulted in a 12% greater risk of incident SRC among the full study sample; and (4) sensation-seeking did not vary as a function of incident SRC (p = 0.281, η2p = 0.000). Our findings demonstrate the potential usefulness of considering sensation-seeking in SRC management.
Dendritic Nanotheranostic for the Delivery of Infliximab: A Potential Carrier in Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy
Authors: Rodríguez-Prieto Tamara , Hernández-Breijo Borja , Ortega Miguel A. , Gómez Rafael , Sánchez-Nieves Javier , Guijarro Luis G.
Published: November 2020

Antibodies are macromolecules that specifically recognize their target, making them good candidates to be employed in various therapies. The possibility of attaching a drug to an immunoglobulin makes it possible to release it specifically into the affected tissue as long as it overexpresses the target. However, chemical coupling could affect the functionality (specificity and affinity) of the antibody. It has been observed that the use of intermediaries, such as dendrimers, could resolve this issue. Because carbosilane dendrimers have aroused great interest in the field of biomedicine, this report describes the synthesis of an anionic carbosilane dendrimer with a fluorochrome on its surface that then forms a conjugate with an antibody. It has been used as immunoglobulin and infliximab, whose target is TNF-α, which is a cytokine that is overexpressed in the inflamed area or even in the blood of patients with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, the integrity and functionality of the antibody has been studied to see if they have been affected after the chemical coupling process.
Metal Imbalance in Neurodegenerative Diseases with a Specific Concern to the Brain of Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Dales Jean-Philippe , Desplat-Jégo Sophie
Published: November 2020

There is increasing evidence that deregulation of metals contributes to a vast range of neurodegenerative diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) manifesting disability and neurological symptoms. The precise origin of MS is unknown, but the disease is characterized by focal inflammatory lesions in the CNS associated with an autoimmune reaction against myelin. The treatment of this disease has mainly been based on the prescription of immunosuppressive and immune-modulating agents. However, the rate of progressive disability and early mortality is still worrisome. Metals may represent new diagnostic and predictive markers of severity and disability as well as innovative candidate drug targets for future therapies. In this review, we describe the recent advances in our understanding on the role of metals in brain disorders of neurodegenerative diseases and MS patients.
The Crosstalk between FAK and Wnt Signaling Pathways in Cancer and Its Therapeutic Implication
Authors: Wörthmüller Janine , Rüegg Curzio
Published: November 2020

Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Wnt signaling pathways are important contributors to tumorigenesis in several cancers. While most results come from studies investigating these pathways individually, there is increasing evidence of a functional crosstalk between both signaling pathways during development and tumor progression. A number of FAK–Wnt interactions are described, suggesting an intricate, context-specific, and cell type-dependent relationship. During development for instance, FAK acts mainly upstream of Wnt signaling; and although in intestinal homeostasis and mucosal regeneration Wnt seems to function upstream of FAK signaling, FAK activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during APC-driven intestinal tumorigenesis. In breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers, FAK is reported to modulate the Wnt signaling pathway, while in prostate cancer, FAK is downstream of Wnt. In malignant mesothelioma, FAK and Wnt show an antagonistic relationship: Inhibiting FAK signaling activates the Wnt pathway and vice versa. As the identification of effective Wnt inhibitors to translate in the clinical setting remains an outstanding challenge, further understanding of the functional interaction between Wnt and FAK could reveal new therapeutic opportunities and approaches greatly needed in clinical oncology. In this review, we summarize some of the most relevant interactions between FAK and Wnt in different cancers, address the current landscape of Wnt- and FAK-targeted therapies in different clinical trials, and discuss the rationale for targeting the FAK–Wnt crosstalk, along with the possible translational implications.
Mutational Analysis of the Nsa2 N-Terminus Reveals Its Essential Role in Ribosomal 60S Subunit Assembly
Authors: Paternoga Helge , Früh Alexander , Kunze Ruth , Bradatsch Bettina , Baßler Jochen , Hurt Ed
Published: November 2020

The ribosome assembly factor Nsa2 is part of the Rea1-Rsa4-Nsa2 interconnected relay on nuclear pre-60S particles that is essential for 60S ribosome biogenesis. Cryo-EM structures depict Nsa2 docked via its C-terminal β-barrel domain to nuclear pre-60S particles, whereas the extended N-terminus, consisting of three α-helical segments, meanders between various 25S rRNA helices with the extreme N-terminus in close vicinity to the Nog1 GTPase center. Here, we tested whether this unappreciated proximity between Nsa2 and Nog1 is of functional importance. Our findings demonstrate that a conservative mutation, Nsa2 Q3N, abolished cell growth and impaired 60S biogenesis. Subsequent genetic and biochemical analyses verified that the Nsa2 N-terminus is required to target Nsa2 to early pre-60S particles. However, overexpression of the Nsa2 N-terminus abolished cytoplasmic recycling of the Nog1 GTPase, and both Nog1 and the Nsa2-N (1-58) construct, but not the respective Nsa2-N (1-58) Q3N mutant, were found arrested on late cytoplasmic pre-60S particles. These findings point to specific roles of the different Nsa2 domains for 60S ribosome biogenesis.
Connexins—Therapeutic Targets in Cancers
Authors: Nalewajska Magdalena , Marchelek-Myśliwiec Małgorzata , Opara-Bajerowicz Martyna , Dziedziejko Violetta , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: November 2020

Connexins (Cx) are members of a protein family that forms intercellular channels localised in gap junction (GJ) plaques and single transmembrane channels called hemichannels. They participate in intercellular communication or communication between the intracellular and extracellular environments. Connexins affect cell homeostasis, growth and differentiation by enabling the exchange of metabolites or by interfering with various signalling pathways. Alterations in the functionality and the expression of connexins have been linked to the occurrence of many diseases. Connexins have been already linked to cancers, cardiac and brain disorders, chronic lung and kidney conditions and wound healing processes. Connexins have been shown either to suppress cancer tumour growth or to increase tumorigenicity by promoting cancer cell growth, migration and invasiveness. A better understanding of the complexity of cancer biology related to connexins and intercellular communication could result in the design of novel therapeutic strategies. The modulation of connexin expression may be an effective therapeutic approach in some types of cancers. Therefore, one important challenge is the search for mechanisms and new drugs, selectively modulating the expression of various connexin isoforms. We performed a systematic literature search up to February 2020 in the electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE. Our search terms were as follows: connexins, hemichannels, cancer and cancer treatment. This review aims to provide information about the role of connexins and gap junctions in cancer, as well as to discuss possible therapeutic options that are currently being studied.
Biocomposites Produced from Hardwood Particles by Equal Channel Angular Pressing: Effects of Pre-Treatment
Authors: Bai Yu , Zhang Xiaoqing , Xia Kenong
Published: November 2020

The benefit of using a combination of alkali pre-treatment and ball milling in processing hardwood particles into biocomposites via equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) was demonstrated. The penetration of bonding additives (polyethyleneimine and tannic acid) into hardwood structures was enhanced by the pre-treatment, resulting in plasticization and cross-linking derived from the additives during the particle processing. A significant improvement in the biocomposites’ mechanical properties was obtained, reaching flexural strength of 28–29 MPa and flexural modulus of 3650 MPa, comparable to those displayed by commercial wood fiberboard using thermosetting resins as the binding agent. This adds to the promise of developing biocomposites from industrial or agricultural waste through the simple and efficient ECAP technology in conjunction with common pre-treatment methodologies for wood particles.
FACS-Based Graph Features for Real-Time Micro-Expression Recognition
Authors: Buhari Adamu Muhammad , Ooi Chee-Pun , Baskaran Vishnu Monn , Phan Raphaël C. W. , Wong KokSheik , Tan Wooi-Haw
Published: November 2020

Several studies on micro-expression recognition have contributed mainly to accuracy improvement. However, the computational complexity receives lesser attention comparatively and therefore increases the cost of micro-expression recognition for real-time application. In addition, majority of the existing approaches required at least two frames (i.e., onset and apex frames) to compute features of every sample. This paper puts forward new facial graph features based on 68-point landmarks using Facial Action Coding System (FACS). The proposed feature extraction technique (FACS-based graph features) utilizes facial landmark points to compute graph for different Action Units (AUs), where the measured distance and gradient of every segment within an AU graph is presented as feature. Moreover, the proposed technique processes ME recognition based on single input frame sample. Results indicate that the proposed FACS-baed graph features achieve up to 87.33% of recognition accuracy with F1-score of 0.87 using leave one subject out cross-validation on SAMM datasets. Besides, the proposed technique computes features at the speed of 2 ms per sample on Xeon Processor E5-2650 machine.
Research on the Bearing Capacity of a Damaged Jacket Repaired by a Grouting Clamp Based on a Type of Wedge Gripping
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhang Qing Rui , Wang Tao , Wang Zhuo
Published: November 2020

In the process of repairing a damaged jacket with a grouting clamp, it is necessary to analyze the bearing capacity of the damaged structure to determine whether it meets requirements for maintenance and reinforcement. On the basis of previous research results, this paper proposes a design scheme of a grouting clamp based on wedge gripping, which can effectively improve the local bearing capacity of the jacket by more than 35%. The elastic–plastic theory was used to analyze the bearing capacities of steel pipe piles under three different conditions (ideal steel pipe, bending steel pipe and steel pipe with a defective section) and with reinforcement by a grouting hoop. The bearing capacity of the mechanical grouting clamp was analyzed, and the resulting theoretical design was verified by a bearing performance experiment. The results support the conclusion that the wedge mechanical grouting clamp can effectively strengthen local jacket members.
Risk Factors for Mortality among HIV-Infected Patients with Disseminated Histoplasmosis
Authors: Nacher Mathieu , Drak Alsibai Kinan , Valdes Audrey , Blaizot Romain , Abboud Philippe , Demar Magalie , Djossou Félix , Epelboin Loïc , Misslin Caroline , Ntab Balthazar , Adenis Antoine , Couppié Pierre
Published: November 2020

Identifying prognostic factors is important in order to guide the choice of first-line therapy for disseminated histoplasmosis. Our objective was to identify factors associated with death among a cohort of 330 patients compiled over 34 years of clinical practice in French Guiana. Survival analysis was performed with death as the failure event and date of symptom onset as the origin event. Incidence rates were and Cox proportional hazards models were computed. Overall, 330 HIV-infected patients with disseminated histoplasmosis were included in the analysis, with 126 deaths occurring. One-quarter of all patients died within 6 months of the first symptoms. Patients with dyspnea, renal failure, arterial blood pressure < 90 mmHG, and a WHO performance score > 2 had a greater incidence of death. Bivariate analyses showed that patients with increased LDH, low hemoglobin, low serum protein, low CD4 counts, and low platelets tended to have a greater incidence of death. After adjusting for potential confounders, patients with dyspnea, a WHO performance score > 2, serum protein < 60 g/L, and hemoglobin < 8.9 g/dL had an increased risk of dying. The interaction terms showed that patients treated with liposomal amphotericin B had a marked reduction in death among patients with renal failure; among renal failure patients, the elevation of LDH was associated with a significant risk of death.
Tau Protein in Lung Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Shults Nataliia V. , Seeherman Sarah , Sariipek Nurefsan E. , Rybka Vladyslava , Marcocci Lucia , Gychka Sergiy G. , Ibrahim Yasmine F. , Suzuki Yuichiro J.
Published: November 2020

Tau, a microtubule-associated protein, plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of neurons. However, whether tau protein is expressed in smooth muscle cells is unknown. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that tau protein is expressed in the primary cultures of smooth muscle cells. Here, we report that tau protein is expressed and constitutively phosphorylated at threonine 181 in various smooth muscle cell types, including human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, bronchial airway smooth muscle cells, and cerebral artery smooth muscle cells. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that phosphorylated tau at threonine 181 is more organized in the cell than is total tau protein. A protein phosphatase inhibitor, calyculin A, induced the formation of higher molecular weight species of phosphorylated tau, as visualized by Western blotting, indicating the occurrence of tau aggregation. Immunofluorescence analysis also showed that calyculin A caused the aggregation of phosphorylated tau and disrupted the cytoskeletal organization. These results demonstrate the existence of tau protein in smooth muscle cells, and that smooth muscle tau is susceptible to protein phosphorylation and aggregation. Lung smooth muscle tau may therefore play an important role in pulmonary pathophysiology.
Nonparametric Estimation of the Ruin Probability in the Classical Compound Poisson Risk Model
Authors: Gao Yuan , Chen Lingju , Jiang Jiancheng , You Honglong
Published: November 2020

In this paper we study estimating ruin probability which is an important problem in insurance. Our work is developed upon the existing nonparametric estimation method for the ruin probability in the classical risk model, which employs the Fourier transform but requires smoothing on the density of the sizes of claims. We propose a nonparametric estimation approach which does not involve smoothing and thus is free of the bandwidth choice. Compared with the Fourier-transformation-based estimators, our estimators have simpler forms and thus are easier to calculate. We establish asymptotic distributions of our estimators, which allows us to consistently estimate the asymptotic variances of our estimators with the plug-in principle and enables interval estimates of the ruin probability.
Development of an Innovative Non-Destructive and Field-Oriented Method to Quantify the Bond Quality of Composite Strengthening Systems on Concrete Structures
Authors: Billon-Filiot Astrid , Taillade Frédéric , Quiertant Marc , Hénault Jean-Marie , Renaud Jean-Claude , Maurin Romain , Benzarti Karim
Published: November 2020

Over the last 30 years, structural reinforcement and retrofitting with externally bonded composite materials have proven to be efficient and cost-effective solutions to increase both the safety and the lifespan of civil engineering structures, including nuclear power plants. The effectiveness of the strengthening system highly depends on the level of adhesion between the fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite material and the concrete surface. Therefore, on-site evaluation of the bond quality is critical to assess the performance and predict the durability of the system in place. The direct tension pull-off test is most commonly used to quantify the adhesion level, but this standardized method has many drawbacks. In the present study, it is proposed to evaluate the bond properties by using a nondestructive test (NDT) derived from the standard pull-off test. This innovative test enables the measurement of an interfacial “stiffness” which may be used as a bond quality criterion. This paper gives an insight into the performance of the proposed NDT method, when applied in laboratory conditions to concrete slabs reinforced with bonded pultruded carbon FRP plates (CFRP). Three different epoxy adhesive systems with a broad range of Young’s moduli were used for the specimens’ preparation, in order to vary the stiffness of the concrete/CFRP interface. The purpose was to simulate different levels of interfacial adhesion that could be observed for a single adhesive system. It was shown that the test method was able to detect differences in the interface stiffness beyond experimental uncertainties, and it should therefore enable the detection of differences in the bond quality for a given adhesive system as well. The sensitivity of the NDT was then discussed, and its detection capabilities were predicted for standard field conditions. In the last part, strain measurements were collected during the NDT, thanks to distributed optical fiber sensors (DOFS) embedded in the adhesive joints of the strengthened specimens. An analysis of the strain profiles was found to provide complementary information on the quality of the adhesive bond.
One-Pot Self-Assembly of Dinuclear, Tetranuclear, and H-Bonding-Directed Polynuclear Cobalt(II), Cobalt(III), and Mixed-Valence Co(II)/Co(III) Complexes of Schiff Base Ligands with Incomplete Double Cubane Core
Authors: Tandon Santokh S. , Patel Neil , Bunge Scott D. , Wang Esther C. , Thompson Rachel , Thompson Laurence K.
Published: November 2020

The reaction of 2,6-diformyl-4-methylphenol (DFMF) with 1-amino-2-propanol (AP) and tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (THMAM) was investigated in the presence of Cobalt(II) salts, (X = ClO4−, CH3CO2−, Cl−, NO3−), sodium azide (NaN3), and triethylamine (TEA). In one pot, the variation in Cobalt(II) salt results in the self-assembly of dinuclear, tetranuclear, and H-bonding-directed polynuclear coordination complexes of Cobalt(III), Cobalt(II), and mixed-valence CoIICoIII: [Co2III(H2L−1)2(AP−1)(N3)](ClO4)2 (1), [Co4(H2L−1)2(µ3-1,1,1-N3)2(µ-1,1-N3)2Cl2(CH3OH)2]·4CH3OH (2), [Co2IICo2III(HL−2)2(µ-CH3CO2)2(µ3-OH)2](NO3)2·2CH3CH2OH (3), and [Co2IICo2III (H2L12−)2(THMAM−1)2](NO3)4 (4). In 1, two cobalt(III) ions are connected via three single atom bridges; two from deprotonated ethanolic oxygen atoms in the side arms of the ligands and one from the1-amino-2-propanol moiety forming a dinuclear unit with a very short (2.5430(11) Å) Co-Co intermetallic separation with a coordination number of 7, a rare feature for cobalt(III). In 2, two cobalt(II) ions in a dinuclear unit are bridged through phenoxide O and μ3-1,1,1-N3 azido bridges, and the two dinuclear units are interconnected by two μ-1,1-N3 and two μ3-1,1,1-N3 azido bridges generating tetranuclear cationic [Co4(H2L−1)2(µ3-1,1,1-N3)2(µ-1,1-N3)2Cl2(CH3OH)2]2+ units with an incomplete double cubane core, which grow into polynuclear 1D-single chains along the a-axis through H-bonding. In 3, HL2− holds mixed-valent Co(II)/Co(III) ions in a dinuclear unit bridged via phenoxide O, μ-1,3-CH3CO2−, and μ3-OH− bridges, and the dinuclear units are interconnected through two deprotonated ethanolic O in the side arms of the ligands and two μ3-OH− bridges generating cationic tetranuclear [Co2IICo2III(HL−2)2(µ-CH3CO2)2(µ3-OH)2]2+ units with an incomplete double cubane core. In 4, H2L1−2 holds mixed-valent Co(II)/Co(III) ions in dinuclear units which dimerize through two ethanolic O (μ-RO−) in the side arms of the ligands and two ethanolic O (μ3-RO−) of THMAM bridges producing centrosymmetric cationic tetranuclear [Co2IICo2III (H2L1−2)2(THMAM−1)2]4+ units which grow into 2D-sheets along the bc-axis through a network of H-bonding. Bulk magnetization measurements on 2 demonstrate that the magnetic interactions are completely dominated by an overall ferromagnetic coupling occurring between Co(II) ions.
Cyclic Oxidation of Titanium Grade 2
Authors: Aniołek Krzysztof , Barylski Adrian , Kupka Marian , Dercz Grzegorz
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the results of research into the cyclic oxidation of titanium Grade 2. The value of titanium Grade 2 oxidation activation energy was determined based on an analysis of the Arrhenius diagram. The result was 205.3 kJ/mol. After cyclic oxidation at a temperature of 600 °C, the presence of oxides in an acicular system was observed on the surface. The specimen surface after oxidation at 650 °C was characterised by the presence of fine oxide particles, while after oxidation at 700 °C, the obtained oxide layer was composed of large oxide particles. The layers obtained after oxidation at 600 °C had the lowest thickness (1.26 and 2.12 µm), while those obtained at 700 °C had the highest thickness (5.17 and 9.45 µm). Examination of the phase composition after cyclic oxidation showed that the oxide layers obtained at temperatures of 600, 650 and 700 °C were composed of TiO2 (rutile) only. No presence of other phases was found. The oxide layers formed in the cyclic oxidation process were characterised by different thicknesses, depending on the oxidation parameters. It was found that cyclic oxidation contributed to a considerable increase in the surface hardness of titanium Grade 2.
Nanoarchitectonics of Lotus Seed Derived Nanoporous Carbon Materials for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Shrestha Ram Lal , Chaudhary Rashma , Shrestha Timila , Tamrakar Birendra Man , Shrestha Rekha Goswami , Maji Subrata , Hill Jonathan P. , Ariga Katsuhiko , Shrestha Lok Kumar
Published: November 2020

Of the available environmentally friendly energy storage devices, supercapacitors are the most promising because of their high energy density, ultra-fast charging-discharging rate, outstanding cycle life, cost-effectiveness, and safety. In this work, nanoporous carbon materials were prepared by applying zinc chloride activation of lotus seed powder from 600 °C to 1000 °C and the electrochemical energy storage (supercapacitance) of the resulting materials in aqueous electrolyte (1M H2SO4) are reported. Lotus seed-derived activated carbon materials display hierarchically porous structures comprised of micropore and mesopore architectures, and exhibited excellent supercapacitance performances. The specific surface areas and pore volumes were found in the ranges 1103.0–1316.7 m2 g−1 and 0.741–0.887 cm3 g−1, respectively. The specific capacitance of the optimum sample was ca. 317.5 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 and 272.9 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 accompanied by high capacitance retention of 70.49% at a high potential sweep rate of 500 mV s−1. The electrode also showed good rate capability of 52.1% upon increasing current density from 1 to 50 A g−1 with exceptional cyclic stability of 99.2% after 10,000 cycles demonstrating the excellent prospects for agricultural waste stuffs, such as lotus seed, in the production of the high performance porous carbon materials required for supercapacitor applications.
Comparison of Properties of Hardfaced Layers Made by a Metal-Core-Covered Tubular Electrode with a Special Chemical Composition
Authors: Czupryński Artur
Published: November 2020

In this article, the results of research on the metal-mineral-type abrasive wear of a wear-resistant plate made by a tubular electrode with a metallic core and an innovative chemical composition using the manual metal arc hardfacing process were presented. The properties of the new layer were compared to the results of eleven wear plates manufactured by global suppliers, including flux-cored arc welding gas-shielded (FCAW-GS, Deposition Process Reference Number: 138), flux-cored arc welding self-shielded (FCAW-SS, Deposition Process Reference Number: 114), automated hardfacing, and manual metal arc welding (MMAW, Deposition Process Reference Number: 111) hardfacing T Fe15 and T Fe16 alloys, according to EN 14700:2014. Characterization of the hardfaced layers was achieved by using hardness tests, optical microscopy, confocal microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy) and X-ray diffraction analyses. Based on wear resistance tests in laboratory conditions, in accordance with ASTM G65-00: Procedure A, and surface layer hardness tests, in accordance with PN-EN ISO 6508-1, the wear plates most suitable for use in metal-mineral conditions were chosen. The results demonstrated the high metal-mineral abrasive wear resistance of the deposit weld metal produced by the new covered tubular electrode. The tubular electrode demonstrated a high linear correlation between the surface wear resistance and the hardness of the metal matrix of the tested abrasive wear plates. In addition to hardness, size, shape, the dispersion of strengthening phases, and the base metal content, depending on hardfacing technology and technological parameters, impact wear resistance is represented by volumetric loss caused by effect-free or constrained dry abrasive medium contact. The presented results can be used in machine part material selection and wear planning for applications in inspection, conservation, and regeneration interval determination. The obtained results will be applied in a real-time wear rate prediction system based on the measurement of the working parameters.
Regional Waste Streams as Potential Raw Materials for Immediate Implementation in Cement Production
Authors: Flegar Matea , Serdar Marijana , Londono-Zuluaga Diana , Scrivener Karen
Published: November 2020

There is an urgent need to apply available technologies to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry. One of the possible solutions that can be implemented immediately is the industrial symbiosis between the waste-producing industries on the one hand and the cement industry, which consumes enormous amounts of raw materials for its production, on the other. In order for the industry to accelerate the use of these available materials and technologies, the potential of these materials must be disclosed. The present study shows a systematic approach to assess the potential of waste materials, by-products, and other raw materials available in the South East Europe that can be used in cement production. Their evaluation included the analysis of their availability, their chemical and physical properties, their chemical reactivity, and their contribution to the mortar’s strength. Based on the results and the analyses carried out, a recommendation for immediate use in the construction sector is given for each of the materials collected.