bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Concerning the Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Pain Control After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Wang Weihua , Wang Lishan , Gao Yan
Published: August 2021

Background and Purpose: Transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block has been suggested to reduce post-operative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, the literature is divided on whether ultrasound (USG)-guided TAP block is effective for pain control after LC. The present meta-analysis therefore evaluated the efficacy of USG-guided TAP block vs. controls and port site infiltration for pain control after LC.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search of online academic databases was performed for published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for studies published to January 31, 2021. The primary outcome analyzed was post-operative pain score at 0, 6, 12, and 24 h post-surgery, both during rest and while coughing. Secondary outcomes included morphine consumption and post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) incidence.

Results: A total of 23 studies with data on 1,450 LC patients were included in our meta-analysis. A reduction in pain intensity at certain post-operative timepoints was observed for USG-guided TAP block patients compared to control group patients. No reduction in pain intensity was observed for patients receiving USG-guided TAP block patients vs. conventional Port site infiltration.

Conclusion: This meta-analysis concludes that TAP block is more effective than a conventional pain control, but not significatively different from another local incisional pain control that is port site infiltration. Additional prospective randomized controlled trials are required to further validate our findings.
Expression Profiling of microRNA From Peripheral Blood of Dairy Cows in Response to Staphylococcus aureus-Infected Mastitis
Authors: Luoreng Zhuo-Ma , Yang Jian , Wang Xing-Ping , Wei Da-Wei , Zan Lin-Sen
Published: August 2021

As the main pathogen causing dairy cow mastitis, Staphylococcus aureus can cause subclinical mastitis, which is difficult to be diagnosed. It seriously affects milk quality and the economic benefits of the dairy industry. Therefore, it is very necessary to find biomarkers for early diagnosis of S. aureus-infected mastitis in peripheral blood of dairy cows. In this study, S. aureus was used to infect the mammary gland tissues of dairy cows, and a mastitis model was successfully constructed. The RNAseq technology was used to determine the expression profiles of microRNA (miRNA) from peripheral blood of dairy cows infected with S. aureus at 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 days. A total of 288 differentially expressed miRNAs (DIE-miRNAs) were found, of which 108 were known miRNAs and 180 were novel predicted miRNAs. Bioinformatics analysis results showed that the above DIE-miRNAs might be involved in 10 immune system-related signaling pathways (i.e., chemokine signaling pathway, leukocyte transendothelial migration, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, toll-like receptor signaling pathway, Jak-STAT signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, cell adhesion molecules, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and ECM-receptor interaction), thus regulating the process of S. aureus mastitis. It was also found that the expression variation of up-regulated expression of miR-320a, miR-19a, and miR-19b as well as down-regulated expression of miR-143, miR-205, and miR-24 reached a significant level on the 5th and 7th day of infection, suggesting that they might play an important biological role in mastitis and provide a direction for the research and development of molecular therapy technology for mastitis. However, at different times after S. aureus infection, miR-1301 was significantly up-regulated in peripheral blood. miR-2284r was significantly down-regulated, suggesting that these two miRNAs might be the new blood biomarkers for S. aureus-infected dairy cow mastitis. The above results laid a new foundation for the research and development of molecular diagnosis and biological therapy technology for S. aureus-infected mastitis in dairy cow.
3-Bit Digital-to-Analog Converter with Mechanical Amplifier for Binary Encoded Large Displacements
Authors: Schmitt Lisa , Schmitt Philip , Hoffmann Martin
Published: August 2021

We present the design, fabrication, and characterization of a MEMS-based 3-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that allows the generation of large displacements. The DAC consists of electrostatic bending-plate actuators that are connected to a mechanical amplifier (mechAMP), enabling the amplification of the DAC output displacement. Based on a parallel binary-encoded voltage signal, the output displacement of the system can be controlled in an arbitrary order. Considering the system design, we present a simplified analytic model, which was confirmed by FE simulation results. The fabricated systems showed a total stroke of approx. 149.5 ± 0.3 µm and a linear stepwise displacement of 3 bit correlated to 23 ≙ eight defined positions at a control voltage of 60 V. The minimum switching time between two input binary states is 0.1 ms. We present the experimental characterization of the system and the DAC and derive the influence of the mechAMP on the functionality of the DAC. Furthermore, the resonant behavior and the switching speed of the system are analyzed. By changing the electrode activation sequence, 27 defined positions are achieved upgrading the 3-bit systems into a 3-tri-state (33) system.
Effects of Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Stress Responses of Bester and Bester ♀ × Beluga ♂ Juveniles in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems
Authors: Dediu Lorena , Docan Angelica , Crețu Mirela , Grecu Iulia , Mogodan Alina , Maereanu Marilena , Oprea Lucian
Published: August 2021

The study aimed to compare the growth performance and physiological responses of bester (B) and backcrossed bester ♀ × beluga ♂ (BB) in response to crowding stress under different stocking densities, as well as to establish a threshold stocking density for rearing BB in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) without welfare impairment. For this purpose, in the first trial (T1), B (181.15 ± 21.21 g) and BB fingerlings (181.98 ± 28.65 g) were reared in two stocking densities of 2 kg/m2 and 4 kg/m2 in fiberglass tanks (1 m3) for 6 weeks. In a parallel trial (T2), the BB hybrids (335.24 ± 39.30 g) were kept in four initial stocking densities, ranging from 5 kg/m2 to 12 kg/m2. The results of T1 revealed better growth indices (i.e., final mean weight, weight gain, specific growth rate) at lower stocking densities for both hybrids; however, in terms of growth performance, the BB hybrid showed better results when compared with the B hybrid. BB hybrids registered significantly (p < 0.05) lower serum cortisol and MDA and higher lysozyme than B hybrids, showing higher tolerance to crowding stress. Nevertheless, at higher densities, selected serum parameters (i.e., hematological indices, cortisol, glucose, protein, malondialdehyde, lysozyme) and growth performance indices used to evaluate the hybrids indicate that high stocking density could affect the growth and welfare of BB hybrids, and that the selected serum parameters could be used as good indicators for chronic stress caused by overcrowding conditions.
Using the Relationship between Concentrations of Selected Whey Proteins and BHBA to Characterize the Metabolism of Dairy Cows in Early Lactation
Authors: Puppel Kamila , Staniszewska Patrycja , Gołębiewski Marcin , Slósarz Jan , Grodkowski Grzegorz , Solarczyk Paweł , Kunowska-Slósarz Małgorzata , Kostusiak Piotr , Kuczyńska Beata , Przysucha Tomasz
Published: August 2021

A negative energy balance alters the concentration of various fractions of cows’ milk. Therefore, by analyzing the concentration of individual proteins in milk, it is possible to indirectly monitor the health of the animal. The aim of the present study was to identify the relationship between the concentrations of blood β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) and whey proteins in milk as a marker for the diagnosis of metabolic diseases. The analysis included milk and blood samples from 95 Holstein-Friesian cows, which were divided into three groups that were differentiated in terms of serum BHBA levels 5–7 days post-calving: LBHBA, low level of BHBA: 0.200–0.500 mmol/L; NBHBA, optimal level of BHBA- control group: 0.500–1.200 mmol/L; HBHBA, high level of BHBA: >1.200 mmol/L. Concentrations of α-lactoalbumin in the milk after 7 days of lactation proceeded in accordance with the concentration of β-hydroxybutyric acid, as follows: LBHBA > NBHBA > HBHBA. Concentrations of β-lactoglobulin in milk after 14 days of lactation proceeded in accordance with the concentration of β-hydroxybutyric acid, as follows: LBHBA < NBHBA < HBHBA. Therefore, it can be concluded that whey proteins can be used as non-invasive markers for diagnosing metabolic diseases. A high concentration of β-lactoglobulin can be a marker for diagnosing ketosis. Conversely, elevated levels of α-lactalbumin may indicate the occurrence of a metabolic disorder, such as acidosis.
Quercetin Dietary Supplementation Advances Growth Performance, Gut Microbiota, and Intestinal mRNA Expression Genes in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Abdel-Latif Mervat A. , Elbestawy Ahmed R. , El-Far Ali H. , Noreldin Ahmed E. , Emam Mohamed , Baty Roua S. , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M. , Abd El-Hamid Hatem S.
Published: August 2021

Quercetin was fed to groups of broiler chickens at concentrations of 200, 400, and 800 ppm, and a control group was supplemented with a basal diet. Results revealed that quercetin dietary supplementation numerically improved the growth performance traits and significantly increased (p < 0.05) the European production efficiency factor (EPEF) in the 200 ppm group. The total coliforms and Clostridium perfringens were decreased (p < 0.05) in quercetin-supplemented groups. Conversely, Lactobacillus counts were increased (p < 0.05), due to improvement of the gut microbiota environment in quercetin-supplemented groups. Moreover, the mRNA expression of intestinal Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and nutritional transporters, including glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), peptide transporter 1 (PEPT1), and fatty acid synthase (FAS) genes, were significantly upregulated in quercetin-supplemented groups. Quercetin enhanced intestinal morphometry. We can suggest quercetin supplementation in broiler chickens by levels between 200 and 400 ppm to enhance their development and gut environment.
Ecdysteroids from the Stem Bark of Vitex doniana Sweet (Lamiaceae; ex. Verbenaceae): A Geographically Variable African Medicinal Species
Authors: Bunu Musa I. , Ndinteh Derek T. , Macdonald Jacinta R. , Langat Moses K. , Isyaka Sani M. , Sadgrove Nicholas J. , Melnikovova Ingrid , Fernandez-Cusimamani Eloy
Published: August 2021

Vitex doniana Sweet is an African medicinal species that is prescribed as an aqueous bark extract to be applied topically or orally to achieve anti-infective outcomes. In select regions it is also taken orally as an antimalarial agent. The aim of the current study was to explore the biological properties of V. doniana and isolated compounds in the context of pathogenic bacteria and the protozoan parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Three compounds were isolated and assigned by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy as ecdysteroids: (1) 20-hydroxyecdysone, (2) turkesterone, and (3) ajugasterone C. Interestingly, two of these compounds had not previously been identified in V. doniana, providing evidence of chemical variability between regions. The bark extract and three ecdysteroids were screened for activity against a panel of pathogenic bacteria associated with skin, stomach and urinary tract infections, and the protozoan parasite P. falciparum. The crude extract of the bark inhibited all bacterial strains with MIC values of 125–250 μg.mL−1. The three isolated compounds demonstrated less activity with MIC values of 500–1000 μg.mL−1. Furthermore, no activity was observed against P. falciparum at the screening concentration of 4.8 μg.mL−1. Nevertheless, we present a hypothesis for the possible mechanism for symptomatic relief of malarial fever, which may involve reduction of prostaglandin E(1) & E(2) activity in the hypothalamus via modulation of the monoaminergic system. While further studies are required to identify all antimicrobial agents within this plant species and to determine the cytotoxicity of each of these compounds, these data suggest that the traditional application of this species as an antiseptic is valid.
Accurate Electron Drift Mobility Measurements in Moderately Dense Helium Gas at Several Temperatures
Authors: Borghesani Armando Francesco
Published: August 2021

We report new accurate measurements of the drift mobility μ of quasifree electrons in moderately dense helium gas in the temperature range 26K≤T≤300K for densities lower than those at which states of electrons localized in bubbles appear. By heuristically including multiple-scattering effects into classical kinetic formulas, as previously done for neon and argon, an excellent description of the field E, density N, and temperature T dependence of μ is obtained. Moreover, the experimental evidence suggests that the strong decrease of the zero-field density-normalized mobility μ0N with increasing N from the low up to intermediate density regime is mainly due to weak localization of electrons caused by the intrinsic disorder of the system, whereas the further decrease of μ0N for even larger N is due to electron self-trapping in cavities. We suggest that a distinction between weakly localized and electron bubble states can be done by inspecting the behavior of μ0N as a function of N at intermediate densities.
Event Detection in Wikipedia Edit History Improved by Documents Web Based Automatic Assessment
Authors: Fisichella Marco , Ceroni Andrea
Published: August 2021

A majority of current work in events extraction assumes the static nature of relationships in constant expertise knowledge bases. However, in collaborative environments, such as Wikipedia, information and systems are extraordinarily dynamic over time. In this work, we introduce a new approach for extracting complex structures of events from Wikipedia. We advocate a new model to represent events by engaging more than one entities that are generalizable to an arbitrary language. The evolution of an event is captured successfully primarily based on analyzing the user edits records in Wikipedia. Our work presents a basis for a singular class of evolution-aware entity-primarily based enrichment algorithms and will extensively increase the quality of entity accessibility and temporal retrieval for Wikipedia. We formalize this problem case and conduct comprehensive experiments on a real dataset of 1.8 million Wikipedia articles in order to show the effectiveness of our proposed answer. Furthermore, we suggest a new event validation automatic method relying on a supervised model to predict the presence of events in a non-annotated corpus. As the extra document source for event validation, we chose the Web due to its ease of accessibility and wide event coverage. Our outcomes display that we are capable of acquiring 70% precision evaluated on a manually annotated corpus. Ultimately, we conduct a comparison of our strategy versus the Current Event Portal of Wikipedia and discover that our proposed WikipEvent along with the usage of Co-References technique may be utilized to provide new and more data on events.
Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus from Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Approaches: Evidence and Prospects
Authors: Corazza Monica , Schettini Natale , Zedde Pierantonia , Borghi Alessandro
Published: August 2021

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic, distressing, inflammatory disease with an enormous impact on quality of life. Treatment goals are relieving symptoms, reversing signs and preventing anatomical changes. Despite the availability of numerous therapeutic options, treatment outcome may not be entirely satisfactory and a definitive cure does not exist. This may be due to the fact that the exact VLS etiopathogenesis remains unknown. The objectives of this paper were to review the most up-to-date knowledge on VLS etiopathogenesis and to consider the available therapies through the lens of a plausible pathogenetic model. An electronic search on both VLS etiopathogenesis and its treatment was performed using the National Library of Medicine PubMed database. Based on current knowledge, it is conceivable that various, heterogeneous environmental factors acting on a genetic background trigger an autoimmune, Th-1 response, which leads to a chronic inflammatory state. This, in turn, can determine both tissue and micro-vascular injury and activation of signaling pathways involved in fibroblast and collagen metabolism. This pathogenetic sequence may explain the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory treatments, mostly topical corticosteroids, in improving VLS clinical-pathological changes. Further deepening of the disease pathways will presumably allow key mediators to become new therapeutic targets and optimize the available treatments.
Mechanistic Illustration: How Newly-Formed Blood Vessels Stopped by the Mineral Blocks of Bone Substitutes Can Be Avoided by Using Innovative Combined Therapeutics
Authors: Bornert Fabien , Clauss François , Hua Guoqiang , Idoux-Gillet Ysia , Keller Laetitia , Fernandez De Grado Gabriel , Offner Damien , Smaida Rana , Wagner Quentin , Fioretti Florence , Kuchler-Bopp Sabine , Schulz Georg , Wenzel Wolfgang , Gentile Luca , Risser Laurent , Müller Bert , Huck Olivier , Benkirane-Jessel Nadia
Published: August 2021

One major limitation for the vascularization of bone substitutes used for filling is the presence of mineral blocks. The newly-formed blood vessels are stopped or have to circumvent the mineral blocks, resulting in inefficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the implant. This leads to necrosis within the implant and to poor engraftment of the bone substitute. The aim of the present study is to provide a bone substitute currently used in the clinic with suitably guided vascularization properties. This therapeutic hybrid bone filling, containing a mineral and a polymeric component, is fortified with pro-angiogenic smart nano-therapeutics that allow the release of angiogenic molecules. Our data showed that the improved vasculature within the implant promoted new bone formation and that the newly-formed bone swapped the mineral blocks of the bone substitutes much more efficiently than in non-functionalized bone substitutes. Therefore, we demonstrated that our therapeutic bone substitute is an advanced therapeutical medicinal product, with great potential to recuperate and guide vascularization that is stopped by mineral blocks, and can improve the regeneration of critical-sized bone defects. We have also elucidated the mechanism to understand how the newly-formed vessels can no longer encounter mineral blocks and pursue their course of vasculature, giving our advanced therapeutical bone filling great potential to be used in many applications, by combining filling and nano-regenerative medicine that currently fall short because of problems related to the lack of oxygen and nutrients.
Dendrobine Inhibits γ-Irradiation-Induced Cancer Cell Migration, Invasion and Metastasis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Ye-Ram , Han Ah-Reum , Kim Jin-Baek , Jung Chan-Hun
Published: August 2021

The use of ionizing radiation (IR) during radiotherapy can induce malignant effects, such as metastasis, which contribute to poor prognoses in lung cancer patients. Here, we explored the ability of dendrobine, a plant-derived alkaloid from Dendrobium nobile, to improve the efficacy of radiotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We employed Western blotting, quantitative real-time (qRT)-PCR, transwell migration assays, and wound-healing assays to determine the effects of dendrobine on the migration and invasion of A549 lung cancer cells in vitro. Dendrobine (5 mm) inhibited γ-irradiation-induced migration and invasion of A549 cells by suppressing sulfatase2 (SULF2) expression, thus inhibiting IR-induced signaling. To investigate the inhibitory effects of dendrobine in vivo, we established a mouse model of IR-induced metastasis by injecting BALB/c nude mice with γ-irradiated A549 cells via the tail vein. As expected, injection with γ-irradiated cells increased the number of pulmonary metastatic nodules in mice (0 Gy/DPBS, 9.8 ± 1.77; 2 Gy/DPBS, 20.87 ± 1.42), which was significantly reduced with dendrobine treatment (2 Gy/Dendrobine, 10.87 ± 0.71), by prevention of IR-induced signaling. Together, these findings demonstrate that dendrobine exerts inhibitory effects against γ-irradiation-induced invasion and metastasis in NSCLC cells in vitro and in vivo at non cytotoxic concentrations. Thus, dendrobine could serve as a therapeutic enhancer to overcome the malignant effects of radiation therapy in patients with NSCLC.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Hydroxylated Monocarbonyl Curcumin Derivatives as Potential Inducers of Neprilysin Activity
Authors: Matiadis Dimitris , Ng See-Ting , Chen Eric H.-L. , Nigianni Georgia , Vidali Veroniki P. , Canko Aleksander , Chen Rita P.-Y. , Sagnou Marina
Published: August 2021

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves impairment of Aβ clearance. Neprilysin (NEP) is the most efficient Aβ peptidase. Enhancement of the activity or expression of NEP may provide a prominent therapeutic strategy against AD. Aims: Ten hydroxylated monocarbonyl curcumin derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their NEP upregulating potential using sensitive fluorescence-based Aβ digestion and inhibition assays. Results: Compound 4 was the most active one, resulting in a 50% increase in Aβ cleavage activity. Cyclohexanone-bearing derivatives exhibited higher activity enhancement compared to their acetone counterparts. Inhibition experiments with the NEP-specific inhibitor thiorphan resulted in dramatic cleavage reduction. Conclusion: The increased Aβ cleavage activity and the ease of synthesis of 4 renders it an extremely attractive lead compound.
Refractory Pediatric Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis: The Importance of Therapeutical Adherence and Biological Management
Authors: Kelly Katherine A. , Ewulu Adaora , Emmerich Veronica K. , Heron Courtney E. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: August 2021

The rates of refractory pediatric psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) have steadily risen over the last few decades, demanding newer and more effective therapies. This review aims to explore the reasons for resistant disease, as well as its management; this includes the indications for, efficacy of, and safety of current therapies for refractory pediatric dermatologic disease. A PubMed search for key phrases was performed. Poor medication adherence is the most common cause of resistant disease and may be managed with techniques such as simplified treatment regimens, more follow-ups and educational workshops, as well as framing and tailoring. Once problems with adherence are ruled out, escalating treatment to stronger biologic therapy may be indicated. Development of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) can cause patients’ disease to be refractory in the presence of potent biologics, which may be addressed with regular medication use or concomitant methotrexate. If patients with AD fail to respond to biologic therapy, a biopsy to rule out mycosis fungoides, or patch testing to rule out allergic contact dermatitis, may be indicated. A limitation of this study is the absence of more techniques for the management of poor medication adherence. Managing medication adherence, escalating treatment when appropriate, and addressing possible anti-drug antibodies will help assure control and relief for patients with resistant disease.
Differential Hemispheric Lateralization of Emotions and Related Display Behaviors: Emotion-Type Hypothesis
Authors: Ross Elliott D.
Published: August 2021

There are two well-known hypotheses regarding hemispheric lateralization of emotions. The Right Hemisphere Hypothesis (RHH) postulates that emotions and associated display behaviors are a dominant and lateralized function of the right hemisphere. The Valence Hypothesis (VH) posits that negative emotions and related display behaviors are modulated by the right hemisphere and positive emotions and related display behaviors are modulated by the left hemisphere. Although both the RHH and VH are supported by extensive research data, they are mutually exclusive, suggesting that there may be a missing factor in play that may provide a more accurate description of how emotions are lateralization in the brain. Evidence will be presented that provides a much broader perspective of emotions by embracing the concept that emotions can be classified into primary and social types and that hemispheric lateralization is better explained by the Emotion-type Hypothesis (ETH). The ETH posits that primary emotions and related display behaviors are modulated by the right hemisphere and social emotions and related display behaviors are modulated by the left hemisphere.
Utility of a Short Neuropsychological Protocol for Detecting HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Patients with Asymptomatic HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Martinez-Banfi Martha , Vélez Jorge I. , Mebarak Chams Moisés R. , Arcos-Holzinger Mauricio , Acosta-López Johan E. , García Ricardo , Perea María Victoria , Arcos-Burgos Mauricio , Ladera Valentina
Published: August 2021

Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection is a chronic disease that affects ~40 million people worldwide. HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are common in individuals with HIV-1 Infection, and represent a recent public health problem. Here we evaluate the performance of a recently proposed short protocol for detecting HAND by studying 60 individuals with HIV-1-Infection and 60 seronegative controls from a Caribbean community in Barranquilla, Colombia. The short evaluation protocol used significant neuropsychological tests from a previous study of asymptomatic HIV-1 infected patients and a group of seronegative controls. Brief screening instruments, i.e., the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) and the International HIV Dementia Scale (IHDS), were also applied. Using machine-learning techniques, we derived predictive models of HAND status, and evaluated their performance with the ROC curves. The proposed short protocol performs exceptionally well yielding sensitivity, specificity, and overall prediction values >90%, and better predictive capacity than that of the MMSE and IHDS. Community-specific cut-off values for HAND diagnosis, based on the MMSE and IHDS, make this protocol suitable for HAND screening in individuals from this Caribbean community. This study shows the effectivity of a recently proposed short protocol to detect HAND in individuals with asymptomatic HIV-1-Infection. The application of community-specific cut-off values for HAND diagnosis in the clinical setting may improve HAND screening accuracy and facilitate patients’ treatment and follow-up. Further studies are needed to assess the performance of this protocol in other Latin American populations.
Monitoring of Curing and Cyclic Thermoresistive Response Using Monofilament Carbon Nanotube Yarn Silicone Composites
Authors: Tayyarian Tannaz , Rodríguez-Uicab Omar , Abot Jandro L.
Published: August 2021

The curing process and thermoresistive response of a single carbon nanotube yarn (CNTY) embedded in a room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone forming a CNTY monofilament composite were investigated toward potential applications in integrated curing monitoring and temperature sensing. Two RTV silicones of different crosslinking mechanisms, SR1 and SR2 (tin- and platinum-cured, respectively), were used to investigate their curing kinetics using the electrical response of the CNTY. It is shown that the relative electrical resistance change of CNTY/SR1 and CNTY/SR2 monofilament composites increased by 3.8% and 3.3%, respectively, after completion of the curing process. The thermoresistive characterization of the CNTY monofilament composites was conducted during heating–cooling ramps ranging from room temperature (RT~25 °C) to 100 °C. The thermoresistive response was nearly linear with a negative temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) at heating and cooling sections for both CNTY/SR1 and CNTY/SR2 monofilament composites. The average TCR value was −8.36 × 10−4 °C−1 for CNTY/SR1 and −7.26 × 10−4 °C−1 for CNTY/SR2. Both monofilament composites showed a negligible negative residual relative electrical resistance change with average values of ~−0.11% for CNTY/SR1 and ~−0.16% for CNTY/SR2 after each cycle. The hysteresis amounted to ~21.85% in CNTY/SR1 and ~29.80% in CNTY/SR2 after each cycle. In addition, the effect of heating rate on the thermoresistive sensitivity of CNTY monofilament composites was investigated and it was shown that it reduces as the heating rate increases.
Is Mammographic Breast Density an Endophenotype for Breast Cancer?
Authors: Darcey Ellie , McCarthy Nina , Moses Eric K. , Saunders Christobel , Cadby Gemma , Stone Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Mammographic breast density (MBD) is a strong and highly heritable predictor of breast cancer risk and a biomarker for the disease. This study systematically assesses MBD as an endophenotype for breast cancer—a quantitative trait that is heritable and genetically correlated with disease risk. Using data from the family-based kConFab Study and the 1994/1995 cross-sectional Busselton Health Study, participants were divided into three status groups—cases, relatives of cases and controls. Participant’s mammograms were used to measure absolute dense area (DA) and percentage dense area (PDA). To address each endophenotype criterion, linear mixed models and heritability analysis were conducted. Both measures of MBD were significantly associated with breast cancer risk in two independent samples. These measures were also highly heritable. Meta-analyses of both studies showed that MBD measures were higher in cases compared to relatives (β = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.10, 0.86 and β = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.06, 0.78 for DA and PDA, respectively) and in relatives compared to controls (β = 0.16, 95% CI = −0.24, 0.56 and β = 0.16, 95% CI = −0.21, 0.53 for DA and PDA, respectively). This study formally demonstrates, for the first time, that MBD is an endophenotype for breast cancer.
The Role of Chronic Inflammation in the Development of Breast Cancer
Authors: Danforth David N.
Published: August 2021

Chronic inflammation contributes to the malignant transformation of several malignancies and is an important component of breast cancer. The role of chronic inflammation in the initiation and development of breast cancer from normal breast tissue, however, is unclear and needs to be clarified. A review of the literature was conducted to define the chronic inflammatory processes in normal breast tissue at risk for breast cancer and in breast cancer, including the role of lymphocyte and macrophage infiltrates, chronic active adipocytes and fibroblasts, and processes that may promote chronic inflammation including the microbiome and factors related to genomic abnormalities and cellular injury. The findings indicate that in healthy normal breast tissue there is systemic evidence to suggest inflammatory changes are present and associated with breast cancer risk, and adipocytes and crown-like structures in normal breast tissue may be associated with chronic inflammatory changes. The microbiome, genomic abnormalities, and cellular changes are present in healthy normal breast tissue, with the potential to elicit inflammatory changes, while infiltrating lymphocytes are uncommon in these tissues. Chronic inflammatory changes occur prominently in breast cancer tissues, with important contributions from tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and tumor-associated macrophages, cancer-associated adipocytes and crown-like structures, and cancer-associated fibroblasts, while the microbiome and DNA damage may serve to promote inflammatory events. Together, these findings suggest that chronic inflammation may play a role in influencing the initiation, development and conduct of breast cancer, although several chronic inflammatory processes in breast tissue may occur later in breast carcinogenesis.
CENP-A Subnuclear Localization Pattern as Marker Predicting Curability by Chemoradiation Therapy for Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Verrelle Pierre , Meseure Didier , Berger Frédérique , Forest Audrey , Leclère Renaud , Nicolas André , Fortas Emilie , Sastre-Garau Xavier , Lae Marick , Boudjemaa Sabah , Mbagui Rodrigue , Calugaru Valentin , Labiod Dalila , De Koning Leanne , Almouzni Geneviève , Quivy Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2021

Effective biomarkers predictive of the response to treatments are key for precision medicine. This study identifies the staining pattern of the centromeric histone 3 variant, CENP-A, as a predictive biomarker of locoregional disease curability by chemoradiation therapy. We compared by imaging the subnuclear distribution of CENP-A in normal and tumoral tissues, and in a retrospective study in biopsies of 62 locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients treated by chemoradiation therapy. We looked for predictive factors of locoregional disease control and patient’s survival, including CENP-A patterns, Ki67, HPV status and anisokaryosis. In different normal tissues, we reproducibly found a CENP-A subnuclear pattern characterized by CENP-A clusters both localized at the nuclear periphery and regularly spaced. In corresponding tumors, both features are lost. In locally advanced HNSCC, a specific CENP-A pattern identified in pretreatment biopsies predicts definitive locoregional disease control after chemoradiation treatment in 96% (24/25) of patients (OR = 17.6 CI 95% [2.6; 362.8], p = 0.002), independently of anisokaryosis, Ki67 labeling or HPV status. The characteristics of the subnuclear pattern of CENP-A in cell nuclei revealed by immunohistochemistry could provide an easy to use a reliable marker of disease curability by chemoradiation therapy in locally advanced HNSCC patients.
Hitting the Bull’s-Eye: Mesothelin’s Role as a Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Yeo Dannel , Castelletti Laura , van Zandwijk Nico , Rasko John E. J.
Published: August 2021

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive cancer with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. MPM originates from the mesothelial lining of the pleura. Mesothelin (MSLN) is a glycoprotein expressed at low levels in normal tissues and at high levels in MPM. Many other solid cancers overexpress MSLN, and this is associated with worse survival rates. However, this association has not been found in MPM, and the exact biological role of MSLN in MPM requires further exploration. Here, we discuss the current research on the diagnostic and prognostic value of MSLN in MPM patients. Furthermore, MSLN has become an attractive immunotherapy target in MPM, where better treatment strategies are urgently needed. Several MSLN-targeted monoclonal antibodies, antibody–drug conjugates, immunotoxins, cancer vaccines, and cellular therapies have been tested in the clinical setting. The biological rationale underpinning MSLN-targeted immunotherapies and their potential to improve MPM patient outcomes are reviewed.
2D Model of Transfer Processes for Water Boiling Flow in Microchannel
Authors: Danilov Valery A. , Hofmann Christian , Kolb Gunther
Published: August 2021

The modeling of transfer processes is a step in the generalization and interpretation of experimental data on heat transfer. The developed two-dimensional model is based on a homogeneous mixture model for boiling water flow in a microchannel with a new evaporation submodel. The outcome of the simulation is the distribution of velocity, void fraction and temperature profiles in the microchannel. The predicted temperature profile is consistent with the experimental literature data.
A Review on Gas-Liquid Mass Transfer Coefficients in Packed-Bed Columns
Authors: Flagiello Domenico , Parisi Arianna , Lancia Amedeo , Di Natale Francesco
Published: August 2021

This review provides a thorough analysis of the most famous mass transfer models for random and structured packed-bed columns used in absorption/stripping and distillation processes, providing a detailed description of the equations to calculate the mass transfer parameters, i.e., gas-side coefficient per unit surface ky [kmol·m−2·s−1], liquid-side coefficient per unit surface kx [kmol·m−2·s−1], interfacial packing area ae [m2·m−3], which constitute the ingredients to assess the mass transfer rate of packed-bed columns. The models have been reported in the original form provided by the authors together with the geometric and model fitting parameters published in several papers to allow their adaptation to packings different from those covered in the original papers. Although the work is focused on a collection of carefully described and ready-to-use equations, we have tried to underline the criticalities behind these models, which mostly rely on the assessment of fluid-dynamics parameters such as liquid film thickness, liquid hold-up and interfacial area, or the real liquid paths or any mal-distributions flow. To this end, the paper reviewed novel experimental and simulation approaches aimed to better describe the gas-liquid multiphase flow dynamics in packed-bed column, e.g., by using optical technologies (tomography) or CFD simulations. While the results of these studies may not be easily extended to full-scale columns, the improved estimation of the main fluid-dynamic parameters will provide a more accurate modelling correlation of liquid-gas mass transfer phenomena in packed columns.
Characterization of Soluplus/ASC-DP Nanoparticles Encapsulated with Minoxidil for Skin Targeting
Authors: Takayama Rina , Ishizawa Moe , Yamada Miyuki , Inoue Yutaka , Kanamoto Ikuo
Published: August 2021

Soluplus (Sol) is an amphiphilic graft copolymer capable of forming self-assembled micelles and L-ascorbyl 2,6-dipalmitate (ASC-DP) aggregates spontaneously to form micelles. Micelles are used as drug carriers and can nanoparticulate drugs that are poorly soluble in water, such as minoxidil. The study aimed to prepare minoxidil-encapsulated nanoparticles using Sol/ASC-DP and evaluate their potential for targeted skin application. Sol/ASC-DP nanoparticles or Sol/ASC-DP with minoxidil were prepared using the hydration method, and physical evaluations were carried out, including assessments of particle size and zeta potential. Particle structure was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectra to assess particle stability and perform functional evaluations in skin penetration tests. TEM images showed spherical micelle-like particles of approximately 100 nm for Sol/ASC-DP at a 9:1 ratio and of approximately 80 nm for Sol/ASC-DP with incorporated minoxidil at a 9:1:0.5 ratio. Changes were also observed in the solid state, suggesting a hydrophobic interaction between Sol and ASC-DP. In addition, evaporated microparticles (Sol/ASC-DP/minoxidil = 9/1/0.5) improved the skin permeability of minoxidil. These results suggest that Sol/ASC-DP nanoparticles form a stable new nanoparticle due to hydrophobic interactions, which would improve the skin permeability of minoxidil.
Novel Prostate Cancer Biomarkers: Aetiology, Clinical Performance and Sensing Applications
Authors: Bertok Tomas , Bertokova Aniko , Hroncekova Stefania , Chocholova Erika , Svecova Natalia , Lorencova Lenka , Kasak Peter , Tkac Jan
Published: August 2021

The review initially provides a short introduction to prostate cancer (PCa) incidence, mortality, and diagnostics. Next, the need for novel biomarkers for PCa diagnostics is briefly discussed. The core of the review provides details about PCa aetiology, alternative biomarkers available for PCa diagnostics besides prostate specific antigen and their biosensing. In particular, low molecular mass biomolecules (ions and metabolites) and high molecular mass biomolecules (proteins, RNA, DNA, glycoproteins, enzymes) are discussed, along with clinical performance parameters.
One-Class Drift Compensation for an Electronic Nose
Authors: Zhu Xiuxiu , Liu Tao , Chen Jianjun , Cao Jianhua , Wang Hongjin
Published: August 2021

Drift compensation is an important issue in an electronic nose (E-nose) that hinders the development of E-nose’s model robustness and recognition stability. The model-based drift compensation is a typical and popular countermeasure solving the drift problem. However, traditional model-based drift compensation methods have faced “label dilemma” owing to high costs of obtaining kinds of prepared drift-calibration samples. In this study, we have proposed a calibration model for classification utilizing a single category of drift correction samples for more convenient and feasible operations. We constructed a multi-task learning model to achieve a calibrated classifier considering several demands. Accordingly, an associated solution process has been presented to gain a closed-form classifier representation. Moreover, two E-nose drift datasets have been introduced for method evaluation. From the experimental results, the proposed methodology reaches the highest recognition rate in most cases. On the other hand, the proposed methodology demonstrates excellent and steady performance in a wide range of adjustable parameters. Generally, the proposed method can conduct drift compensation with limited one-class calibration samples, accessing the top accuracy among all presented reference methods. It is a new choice for E-nose to counteract drift effect under cost-sensitive conditions.
Use of Actigraphy for a Rat Behavioural Sleep Study
Authors: Esaki Shinichi , Nakayama Meiho , Arima Sachie , Sato Shintaro
Published: August 2021

Previous studies of animal behavioural sleep is mainly divided into two study types, observation by video recording or counts by sensor, both of which require a complex environment and procedure. An actigraph unit is a commercially available product which can provide non-invasive monitoring human rest/activity cycles. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether actigraphy can be applied for analysing behavioural sleep in rats, since no reports have described utilization of the actigraphy unit for monitoring sleep of small animals. The actigraph unit was held on the chest of eight male rats by a loose elastic belt. The rats spent two days in a normal condition, followed by two days of sleep deprivation. Total counts measured by the actigraph could be clearly divided into two phases, sleep phase and awake phase, when the rats were kept in the normal cage. Next, the rats were moved into the sleep-deviation cage, and the total counts were significantly higher during daytime, indicating the successful induction of sleep deprivation. These results showed that the actigraphy unit monitored rest/activity cycles of rats, which will contribute to making sleep behaviour experiments easier.
Changes in Native Whey Protein Content, Gel Formation, and Endogenous Enzyme Activities Induced by Flow-Through Heat Treatments of Goat and Sheep Milk
Authors: Moatsou Golfo , Moschopoulou Ekaterini , Zoidou Evangelia , Kamvysi Aggeliki , Liaskou Dimitra , Tsigkou Vassiliki , Sakkas Lambros
Published: August 2021

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of different flow-through heat treatments—68, 73, 78, 85, 100 °C for 16 s—applied to in-line homogenized goat and sheep milk. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in raw goat milk was 324.5 ± 47.3 μg phenol/mL, and that of lactoperoxidase (LPO) was 199.3 ± 6.7 U/L. The respective activities in raw sheep milk were 7615 ± 141 μg phenol/mL and 319 ± 38.6 U/L. LPO activity was not detected in both milk kinds treated at 85 °C for 16 s. Residual enzyme activities at 73 °C for 16 s with respect to the initial levels in raw milk were higher in goat than in sheep milk. The whey protein fraction of sheep milk was more heat sensitive compared to goat counterpart. Sheep milk rennet clotting time (RCT) was not affected by the treatments, while curd firmness decreased significantly (p < 0.05) at 100 °C for 16 s. Treatments more intense than 73 °C for 16 s increased the RCT of goat milk significantly but inconsistently and decreased curd firmness significantly, while yoghurt-type gels made from 73 °C or 78 °C for 16 s treated goat milk exhibited the highest water-holding capacity.
Aberrant Expression of Immunohistochemical Markers in Malignant Melanoma: A Review
Authors: Saliba Elie , Bhawan Jag
Published: August 2021

Immunohistochemical stains are increasingly used to aid in the diagnosis of malignant melanoma, especially when the differentiation of the tumor is unclear based on examination with hematoxylin and eosin. However, aberrant expression of non-melanocytic markers has been reported in melanomas, which can sometimes be further complicated by the loss of conventional melanocytic markers. This review aims to summarize available data regarding unusual staining patterns in primary and metastatic malignant melanoma. It also raises awareness of the potential pitfalls and highlights the importance of appropriate use and interpretation of broad immunohistochemical markers in the context of clinical and histopathologic findings to facilitate the diagnosis of atypical cases of malignant melanoma.
Optimization of Controlled Mechanical Ventilation Systems for Indoor Acoustic Comfort
Authors: Granzotto Nicola
Published: August 2021

The indoor air quality inside living spaces is a fundamental factor in providing adequate comfort. In order to do this, a minimum air exchange must be ensured. This can be obtained by means of natural or mechanical ventilation or using the Controlled Mechanical Ventilation system (CMV). CMV ensures better energy performance, as in the winter period, the warm air that comes out of the building preheats the cold air that enters, and the opposite occurs in the summer period. A possible problem with CMV is the noise of the fans due to the movement of air and to the electric motor rotation. This work presents the results of acoustic measurements performed on an apartment equipped with CMV, operating in a single and simultaneous mode. Acoustic simulations are also presented using raytracing software on three typical apartments. The acoustic simulation carried out using an adequately calibrated 3D model has proved to be a valid support for the study of noise in rooms connected by doors and corridors. By differentiating the fan speed of the CMV, a considerable acoustic comfort improvement was obtained in the bedrooms and in the living room/kitchen. Class I for living rooms and class I or II for bedrooms according to the EN 16798-1 standard were achieved through speed optimization.