bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Candidate Gene Discovery in Hereditary Colorectal Cancer and Polyposis Syndromes–Considerations for Future Studies
Authors: te Paske Iris B. A. W. , Ligtenberg Marjolijn J. L. , Hoogerbrugge Nicoline , de Voer Richarda M.
Published: November 2020

To discover novel high-penetrant risk loci for hereditary colorectal cancer (hCRC) and polyposis syndromes many whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing (WES/WGS) studies have been performed. Remarkably, these studies resulted in only a few novel high-penetrant risk genes. Given this observation, the possibility and strategy to identify high-penetrant risk genes for hCRC and polyposis needs reconsideration. Therefore, we reviewed the study design of WES/WGS-based hCRC and polyposis gene discovery studies (n = 37) and provide recommendations to optimize discovery and validation strategies. The group of genetically unresolved patients is phenotypically heterogeneous, and likely composed of distinct molecular subtypes. This knowledge advocates for the screening of a homogeneous, stringently preselected discovery cohort and obtaining multi-level evidence for variant pathogenicity. This evidence can be collected by characterizing the molecular landscape of tumors from individuals with the same affected gene or by functional validation in cell-based models. Together, the combined approach of a phenotype-driven, tumor-based candidate gene search might elucidate the potential contribution of novel genetic predispositions in genetically unresolved hCRC and polyposis.
Diversity and Abundance of Potential Vectors of Rift Valley Fever Virus in the North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Rodrigue Simonet Poueme Namegni , Alexandre Michel Njan-Nloga , Abel Wade , Albert Eisenbarth , Martin Hermann Groschup , Franziska Stoek
Published: November 2020

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a major viral zoonosis transmitted by mosquitoes. The virus is endemic in most parts of sub-Saharan Africa and can affect humans, livestock, and wild ungulates. Knowledge of the biology of vectors of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is essential for the establishment of effective control measures of the disease. The objective of this study was to determine the species diversity and relative abundance of potential RVFV vectors in the North Region of Cameroon. Adult mosquitoes were trapped during the wet and dry seasons from December 2017 to January 2019 with “EVS Light” traps with CO2 baits placed at selected sites. The captured mosquitoes were identified using dichotomous keys according to standard procedures. The abundance was calculated with regard to site, zone, and collection season. A total of 27,851 mosquitoes belonging to four genera (Aedes, Anopheles, Mansonia, and Culex) and comprising 31 species were caught (including 22 secondary vectors (98.05%) and nine primary vectors (1.94%). The total number of mosquitoes varied significantly depending on the locality (p-value < 0.001). The average number of mosquitoes collected per trap night was significantly higher in irrigated areas (p-value < 0.001), compared to urban and non-irrigated areas. The study revealed the presence of potential primary and secondary vectors of RVFV with varying abundance and diversity according to locality and ecological site in the North Region of Cameroon. The results showed that the genus Mansonia with the species Ma. uniformis and Ma. africana formed the dominant taxon (52.33%), followed by the genera Culex (45.04%) and Anopheles (2.61%). The need for molecular analysis (PCR) tests for RVFV RNA research and viral isolation methods on these vectors to determine their role in the epidemiology and control of RVF cannot be overemphasized.
Development of a Species Diagnostic Molecular Tool for an Invasive Pest, Mythimna loreyi, Using LAMP
Authors: Nam Hwa Yeun , Kwon Min , Kim Hyun Ju , Kim Juil
Published: November 2020

The Mythimna loreyi (Duponchel) is one of the well-known invasive noctuid pests in Africa, Australia, and many Asian countries. However, it is difficult to identify the invasive and morphologically similar species, Mythimna separate, which occur at the cornfield in the larvae stage. Currently, the molecular biology method for diagnosing M. loreyi species is only using the mtCO1 universal primer (LCO1490, HCO2198), which requires a lot of time and effort, such as DNA extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, and sequencing. In this study, the LAMP assay was developed for rapid, simple, effective species identification. By analyzing the mitochondrial genome, the species-specific sequence was found at the coding region of the NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5 gene. Based on this unique sequence, four LAMP primers and two loop primers were designed. The F3 and B3 primers were able to diagnose species-specific, in general, and multiplex PCR and specifically reacted within the inner primers in LAMP assay. The optimal incubation condition of the LAMP assay was 61 °C for 60 min with four LAMP primers, though additional loop primers, BF and LF, did not significantly shorten the amplification time. The broad range of DNA concentration was workable in LAMP assay, in which the minimum detectable DNA concentration was 100 pg. DNA releasing method was applied, which took five minutes of incubation at 95 °C without the DNA extraction process. Only some pieces of tissue of larvae and adult samples were needed to extract DNA. The incidence of invasive pests is gradually diversifying. Therefore, this simple and accurate LAMP assay is possibly applied in the intensive field monitoring for invasive pests and integrated management of Mythimna loreyi.
Association between Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and Mortality in the Patients with Cardiac Arrest: A Nation-Wide Population-Based Study with Propensity Score Matched Analysis
Authors: Kim Su Jin , Han Kap Su , Lee Eui Jung , Lee Si Jin , Lee Ji Sung , Lee Sung Woo
Published: November 2020

We attempted to determine the impact of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) on short-term and long-term outcomes and find potential resource utilization differences between the ECMO and non-ECMO groups, using the National Health Insurance Service database. We selected adult patients (≥20 years old) with non-traumatic cardiac arrest from 2007 to 2015. Data on age, sex, insurance status, hospital volume, residential area urbanization, and pre-existing diseases were extracted from the database. A total of 1.5% (n = 3859) of 253,806 patients were categorized into the ECMO group. The ECMO-supported patients were more likely to be younger, men, more covered by national health insurance, and showed, higher usage of tertiary level and large volume hospitals, and a lower rate of pre-existing comorbidities, compared to the non-ECMO group. After propensity score-matching demographic data, hospital factors, and pre-existing diseases, the odds ratio (ORs) of the ECMO group were 0.76 (confidence interval, (CI) 0.68–0.85) for 30-day mortality and 0.66 (CI 0.58–0.79) for 1-year mortality using logistic regression. The index hospitalization was longer, and the 30-day and 1-year hospital costs were greater in the matched ECMO group. Although ECMO support needed longer hospitalization days and higher hospital costs, the ECMO support reduced the risk of 30-day and 1-year mortality compared to the non-ECMO patients.
The Characteristics of the Favard E4 Glenoid Morphology in Cuff Tear Arthropathy: A CT Study
Authors: Walch Gilles , Collotte Philippe , Raiss Patric , Athwal George S. , Gauci Marc Olivier
Published: November 2020

Background: Cuff tear arthropathy (CTA) is characterized by superior migration of the humeral head with superior erosion of the glenoid. Rarely, humeral head migration can be anteroinferior with associated anterior erosion of the glenoid, a pattern described by Favard as the type E4 glenoid. The purpose of this retrospective imaging study was to analyze the 2D and 3D characteristics of the E4 glenoid. Methods: A shoulder arthroplasty database of 258 cuff tear arthropathies was examined to identify patients with an E4 type deformity. This resulted in a study cohort of 15 females and 2 males with an average age of 75 years. All patients had radiographs and CT scans available for analysis. CT-scan DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) data were uploaded to a validated three-dimensional (3D) imaging software. Muscle fatty infiltration, glenoid measurements (anteversion, inclination), and humeral head subluxation according to the scapular plane were determined. Results: The mean anteversion and inclination of the E4 cohort were 32° ± 14° and −5° ± 2, respectively. The mean anterior subluxation was 19% ± 16%. All cases had severe grade 3 or 4 fatty infiltration of the infraspinatus, whereas only 65% had grade 3 or 4 subscapularis fatty infiltration. A significant correlation existed between glenoid anteversion and humeral head subluxation (p < 0.001), but no correlation was found with muscle fatty infiltration. The CT analysis demonstrated an acquired erosive biconcave morphology in 11 patients (65%) and monoconcavity in 6 patients (35%). Conclusion: The E4 type glenoid deformity in cuff tear arthropathy is characterized by an anterior erosion and anteversion associated with anterior subluxation of the humeral head.
High-Glucose-Induced Rab20 Upregulation Disrupts Gap Junction Intercellular Communication and Promotes Apoptosis in Retinal Endothelial and Müller Cells: Implications for Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Kim Dongjoon , Lewis Casey Stottrup , Sarthy Vijay P. , Roy Sayon
Published: November 2020

To investigate whether high glucose (HG) alters Rab20 expression and compromises gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and cell survival, retinal cells were studied for altered intracellular trafficking of connexin 43 (Cx43). Retinal endothelial cells (RRECs) and retinal Müller cells (rMCs) were grown in normal (N; 5 mM glucose) or HG (30 mM glucose) medium for seven days. In parallel, cells grown in HG medium were transfected with either Rab20 siRNA or scrambled siRNA as a control. Rab20 and Cx43 expression and their localization and distribution were assessed using Western Blot and immunostaining, respectively. Changes in GJIC activity were assessed using scrape load dye transfer, and apoptosis was identified using differential dye staining assay. In RRECs or rMCs grown in HG medium, Rab20 expression was significantly increased concomitant with a decreased number of Cx43 plaques. Importantly, a significant increase in the number of Cx43 plaques and GJIC activity was observed in cells transfected with Rab20 siRNA. Additionally, Rab20 downregulation inhibited HG-induced apoptosis in RRECs and rMCs. Results indicate HG-mediated Rab20 upregulation decreases Cx43 localization at the cell surface, resulting in compromised GJIC activity. Reducing Rab20 expression could be a useful strategy in preventing HG-induced vascular and Müller cell death associated with diabetic retinopathy.
A Retrospective Analysis Evaluating the Outcome of Parenteral Nutrition in the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa in Korea
Authors: Ko Jeong-Kyung , Lee You-Kyung , Na Jong Chun , Kim Dong-Yeon , Kim Youl-Ri
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of parenteral nutrition (PN) as supplemental feeding for patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). This study was conducted by reviewing the medical records of patients with AN who were hospitalized at a non-specialized ward. A total of 129 patients with AN were recruited, consisting of 67 patients received PN with oral refeeding and 62 patients received oral refeeding alone. We compared the weight gain at discharge and after discharge between the groups. As a result, at admission, the patients given supplementary PN had lower body mass indices and lower caloric intake than the patients without PN. The mean duration of PN was 8.5 days, which amounted to about a third of the average hospital stay with no difference between the groups. Both groups had similar weight gains during hospitalization, but the patients with PN had higher weight gains than the patients without PN at one and three months after discharge. In conclusion, the results suggest that supplementary PN in the early stage of refeeding might initiate weight gain in AN when nasogastric tube feeding is not possible. Randomized controlled trials are needed to be further tested of PN in treatment of AN.
Bone Mineral Density, Osteoporosis, and Fracture Risk in Adult Patients with Psoriasis or Psoriatic Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Chen Tai-Li , Lu Jing-Wun , Huang Yu-Wen , Wang Jen-Hung , Su Kuei-Ying
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Awareness of psoriasis-related comorbidities has been established in the current guidelines; however, evidence regarding the association of bone density or bone fragility with psoriatic disease remains inconclusive. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess bone mineral density and the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in patients with psoriatic disease, including those with cutaneous psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. We searched electronic databases for published observational studies. A meta-analysis was performed using the random-effect model. Pooled estimates and their confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Small-study effects were examined using the Doi plot and Luis Furuya–Kanamori index. Results: The analysis of the standardized mean difference in the absolute value of bone mineral density at different measuring sites (lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip) revealed no significant difference between patients with psoriatic disease and non-psoriatic controls. The pooled results of the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) demonstrated no increased risk of osteoporosis in patients with psoriatic disease. Notably, patients with psoriatic disease had a higher OR of developing bone fractures (adjusted OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.12; I2: 0%). Conclusion: Patients with psoriatic disease may be more likely to develop fractures compared with non-psoriatic controls. This higher risk for fracture may not necessarily be associated with lower bone mineral density nor a higher risk for osteoporosis.
New Perspective in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Sagnard Audrey , Hammache Nefissa , Sellal Jean-Marc , Guenancia Charles
Published: November 2020

Despite a large number of publications on this subject, the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in atrial fibrillation (AF) onset and recurrence are uncertain [...]
A Review on the Triggers of Pediatric Migraine with the Aim of Improving Headache Education
Authors: Yamanaka Gaku , Morichi Shinichiro , Suzuki Shinji , Go Soken , Takeshita Mika , Kanou Kanako , Ishida Yu , Oana Shingo , Kawashima Hisashi
Published: November 2020

Although migraines are common in children and adolescents, they have a robustly negative impact on the quality of life of individuals and their families. The current treatment guidelines outline the behavioral and lifestyle interventions to correct common causative factors, such as negative emotional states, lack of exercise and sleep, and obesity; however, the evidence of their effectiveness is insufficient. To create a plan for disseminating optimal pediatric headache education, we reviewed the current evidence for factors correlated with migraine. We assessed three triggers or risk factors for migraines in children and adolescents: stress, sleep poverty, and alimentation (including diet and obesity). While there is a gradual uptick in research supporting the association between migraine, stress, and sleep, the evidence for diet-related migraines is very limited. Unless obvious dietary triggers are defined, clinicians should counsel patients to eat a balanced diet and avoid skipping meals rather than randomly limiting certain foods. We concluded that there is not enough evidence to establish a headache education plan regarding behavioral and lifestyle interventions. Clinicians should advise patients to avoid certain triggers, such as stress and sleep disorders, and make a few conservative dietary changes.
Procalcitonin to Reduce Antibiotic Exposure during Acute Chest Syndrome in Adult Patients with Sickle-Cell Disease
Authors: Razazi Keyvan , Gendreau Ségolène , Cuquemelle Elise , Khellaf Mehdi , Guillaud Constance , Godeau Bertrand , Melica Giovanna , Moutereau Stéphane , Gomart Camille , Fourati Slim , De Prost Nicolas , Carteaux Guillaume , Brun-Buisson Christian , Bartolucci Pablo , Habibi Anoosha , Mekontso Dessap Armand
Published: November 2020

Acute chest syndrome (ACS) is a major complication of sickle-cell disease. Bacterial infection is one cause of ACS, so current guidelines recommend the routine use of antibiotics. We performed a prospective before–after study in medical wards and an intensive-care unit (ICU). During the control phase, clinicians were blinded to procalcitonin concentration results. We built an algorithm using the obtained measurements to hasten antibiotic cessation after three days of treatment if bacterial infection was not documented, and procalcitonin concentrations were all <0.5 μg/L. During the intervention period, the procalcitonin algorithm was suggested to physicians as a guide for antibiotic therapy. The primary endpoint was the number of days alive without antibiotics at Day 21. One-hundred patients were analyzed (103 ACS episodes, 60 in intervention phase). Possible or proven lung infection was diagnosed during 13% of all ACS episodes. The number of days alive without antibiotics at Day 21 was higher during the intervention phase: 15 [14–18] vs. 13 [13,14] days (p = 0.001). More patients had a short (≤3 days) antibiotic course during intervention phase: 31% vs 9% (p = 0.01). There was neither infection relapse nor pulmonary superinfection in the entire cohort. A procalcitonin-guided strategy to prescribe antibiotics in patients with ACS may reduce antibiotic exposure with no apparent adverse outcomes.
Guideline Concordance of Statin Treatment Decisions: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Rachamin Yael , Markun Stefan , Grischott Thomas , Rosemann Thomas , Meier Rahel
Published: November 2020

Guidelines recommend initiation of statins depending on cardiovascular risk and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. In this retrospective cohort study, we aimed to assess guideline concordance of statin treatment decisions and to find determinants of undertreatment in Swiss primary care in the period 2016–2019. We drew on electronic medical records of 8060 statin-naive patients (50.0% female, median age 59 years) with available LDL-C levels and cardiovascular risk. Guideline concordance was assessed based on the recommendations of the European Society of Cardiology, and multilevel logistic regression was performed to find determinants of undertreatment. We found that statin treatment was initiated in 10.2% of patients during one year of follow up. Treatment decisions were classified as guideline-concordant in 63.0%, as undertreatment in 35.8% and as overtreatment in 1.2%. Among determinants of undertreatment were small deviation from LDL-C treatment thresholds (odds ratio per decrease by 1 mmol/L: 2.09 [95% confidence interval 1.87–2.35]), high compared with very high cardiovascular risk (1.64 [1.30–2.05]), female sex (1.31 [1.05–1.64]), and being treated by older general practitioners (per 10 year decrease: 0.74 [0.61–0.90]). In conclusion, undertreatment of patients at high or very high cardiovascular risk was common, but general practitioners considered cardiovascular risk and LDL-C in their treatment decisions.
Lung Segmentation on High-Resolution Computerized Tomography Images Using Deep Learning: A Preliminary Step for Radiomics Studies
Authors: Comelli Albert , Coronnello Claudia , Dahiya Navdeep , Benfante Viviana , Palmucci Stefano , Basile Antonio , Vancheri Carlo , Russo Giorgio , Yezzi Anthony , Stefano Alessandro
Published: November 2020

Background: The aim of this work is to identify an automatic, accurate, and fast deep learning segmentation approach, applied to the parenchyma, using a very small dataset of high-resolution computed tomography images of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In this way, we aim to enhance the methodology performed by healthcare operators in radiomics studies where operator-independent segmentation methods must be used to correctly identify the target and, consequently, the texture-based prediction model. Methods: Two deep learning models were investigated: (i) U-Net, already used in many biomedical image segmentation tasks, and (ii) E-Net, used for image segmentation tasks in self-driving cars, where hardware availability is limited and accurate segmentation is critical for user safety. Our small image dataset is composed of 42 studies of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, of which only 32 were used for the training phase. We compared the performance of the two models in terms of the similarity of their segmentation outcome with the gold standard and in terms of their resources’ requirements. Results: E-Net can be used to obtain accurate (dice similarity coefficient = 95.90%), fast (20.32 s), and clinically acceptable segmentation of the lung region. Conclusions: We demonstrated that deep learning models can be efficiently applied to rapidly segment and quantify the parenchyma of patients with pulmonary fibrosis, without any radiologist supervision, in order to produce user-independent results.
Changes in the Function of Allotment Gardens in an Attractive Location Based on the Example of Tri-City in Poland
Authors: Moskalonek Żaneta , Połom Marcin , Puzdrakiewicz Krystian
Published: November 2020

Allotment gardens are quite common in many European countries. In particular, they are an important part of the urban space in Central and Eastern Europe. They served to improve the inhabitants’ physical and mental well-being during the communist period and relieved the family budget thanks to their own crops. The article analyzes the functioning of allotment gardens in Poland based on the example of the Tri-City, with particular emphasis on allotment gardens in a prestigious, attractive location. Several research questions were asked regarding the change of the traditional function related to growing fruit and vegetables towards the modern function related to recreation and relaxation. A thesis was put forward that the attractive, seaside location of one of the allotment gardens on the border of Gdańsk and Sopot favors the dynamics of the changes in the function. New garden houses often resemble residential apartments in terms of comfort and function and are used for commercial rent during the summer, even though this is prohibited. In the study, the methods of a field query as well as a questionnaire survey and an in-depth interview were applied to check the state of the allotment holders’ knowledge on the applicable regulations regarding the functions of allotment gardens and their development, the size of garden houses and the rules of staying in the gardens, in particular living there. The questionnaire research and in-depth interviews were conducted at the beginning of 2020. The questionnaire research was conducted in February and March, and the in-depth interviews in May. The most pressing issues concerned the changing functions of allotment gardens and the perception of these changes by allotment owners who have gardens in a traditional form of cultivation. This study also allowed looking at possible neighborhood conflicts that may arise from a change in the function, in particular from the construction of houses with residential facilities, which encourages permanent residence in them, and sometimes subletting to tourists due to their attractive coastal location. The study helped to deepen the knowledge on the functioning of allotment gardens and transforming their functions into residential ones during the summer season. The obtained results show that nearly 60% of the surveyed respondents believe that seasonal occupation of allotment gardens should be allowed if their owners wish to do so. Most of the respondents encountered the problem of abnormal buildings and believe that the regulations in this respect should be followed. At the same time, they do not think that it is causing any problems for them. Conducting in-depth interviews, the information was obtained that the change of functions does not affect the existing, traditional users, and they mostly accept the changes taking place.
Methodologies of Primary HPV Testing Currently Applied for Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Chrysostomou Andreas C. , Kostrikis Leondios G.
Published: November 2020

The human papillomavirus is one of the most common sexually transmitted viruses, and an infection from this virus may become persistent, leading to diseases such as cervical cancer. In the past, cytology-based methods such as the Papanicolaou (Pap) test were imperative to identify the disease at a stage where it can be treated. However, since the 1980s where the etiological association of HPV and cervical cancer was identified, new tests began emerging directed towards identifying the virus. Furthermore, as the biology of HPV along with the relationships with its host are elucidated, these tests and treatments further advance. Recently in Europe, there is a movement towards the implementation of HPV testing methodologies in national screening programs to precede cytological testing. These screening strategies are recommended by the European guidelines and the World Health Organization. This review presents the current HPV testing methodologies, their application in organized population-based cervical cancer screening programs based on the most recent European guidelines, and their implementation status in countries in Europe.
Six ‘Must-Have’ Minerals for Life’s Emergence: Olivine, Pyrrhotite, Bridgmanite, Serpentine, Fougerite and Mackinawite
Authors: Russell Michael , Ponce Adrian
Published: November 2020

Life cannot emerge on a planet or moon without the appropriate electrochemical disequilibria and the minerals that mediate energy-dissipative processes. Here, it is argued that four minerals, olivine ([Mg>Fe]2SiO4), bridgmanite ([Mg,Fe]SiO3), serpentine ([Mg,Fe,]2-3Si2O5[OH)]4), and pyrrhotite (Fe(1−x)S), are an essential requirement in planetary bodies to produce such disequilibria and, thereby, life. Yet only two minerals, fougerite ([Fe2+6xFe3+6(x−1)O12H2(7−3x)]2+·[(CO2−)·3H2O]2−) and mackinawite (Fe[Ni]S), are vital—comprising precipitate membranes—as initial “free energy” conductors and converters of such disequilibria, i.e., as the initiators of a CO2-reducing metabolism. The fact that wet and rocky bodies in the solar system much smaller than Earth or Venus do not reach the internal pressure (≥23 GPa) requirements in their mantles sufficient for producing bridgmanite and, therefore, are too reduced to stabilize and emit CO2—the staple of life—may explain the apparent absence or negligible concentrations of that gas on these bodies, and thereby serves as a constraint in the search for extraterrestrial life. The astrobiological challenge then is to search for worlds that (i) are large enough to generate internal pressures such as to produce bridgmanite or (ii) boast electron acceptors, including imported CO2, from extraterrestrial sources in their hydrospheres.
The Mycobiota of the Deep Sea: What Omics Can Offer
Authors: Vargas-Gastélum Lluvia , Riquelme Meritxell
Published: November 2020

The deep sea (>1000 m below sea level) represents one of the most extreme environments of the ocean. Despite exhibiting harsh abiotic conditions such as low temperatures, high hydrostatic pressure, high salinity concentrations, a low input of organic matter, and absence of light, the deep sea encompasses a great fungal diversity. For decades, most knowledge on the fungal diversity of the deep sea was obtained through culture-dependent techniques. More recently, with the latest advances of high-throughput next generation sequencing platforms, there has been a rapid increment in the number of studies using culture-independent techniques. This review brings into the spotlight the progress of the techniques used to assess the diversity and ecological role of the deep-sea mycobiota and provides an overview on how the omics technologies have contributed to gaining knowledge about fungi and their activity in poorly explored marine environments. Finally, current challenges and suggested coordinated efforts to overcome them are discussed.
A Novel Probe-to-Probe Method for Measuring Thermal Conductivity of Individual Electrospun Nanofibers
Authors: Bonatt Nicholas , Carlin John , Chen Fangqi , Tian Yanpei , Zheng Yi
Published: November 2020

Polymer nanofibers have the ability to replace expensive materials, such as metals, ceramics and composites, in specific areas, such as heat exchangers, energy storage and biomedical applications. These properties have caused polymer nanofibers to be explored as solutions to a growing list of thermal management problems, driving an even greater need to better measure and understand the thermal properties of these nanofibers. This study intends to further the understanding of the thermal properties of polymer nanofibers through the use of a novel Probe-to-Probe measurement method. Polycaprolactone nanofibers fabricated using the electrospinning method can be easily collected and loaded into a traditional atomic force microscope through a mechanical design for thermal measurement. This Probe-to-Probe method demonstrates the ability to accurately measure the thermal boundary conditions about a polymer nanofiber with a heating prong temperature up to 400 ∘C and assists in characterizing its thermal properties.
Assessment of CVD- and PVD-Coated Carbides and PVD-Coated Cermet Inserts in the Optimization of Surface Roughness in Turning of AISI 1045 Steel
Authors: Paese Evandro , Geier Martin , Rodrigues Fabiano R. , Mikolajczyk Tadeusz , Mia Mozammel
Published: November 2020

In this study, an experimental and statistic investigation approach based on analysis of variance (ANOVA) and response surface methodology (RSM) techniques was performed to find the significant main effects and two-factor interaction effects and to determine how the controllable factors such as cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut (DOC), tool nose radius, substrate and coating method of cutting tools influence surface quality in turning of AISI 1045 steel. The first optimal or near-optimal conditions for the quality of the generated surface and the second ones, including maximum material removal rate, were established using the proposed regression equations. The group mean roughness of the turned workpieces was lower from using chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-coated carbide inserts than the group means of other types of inserts; however they could not achieve the specific lowest roughness. The physical vapor deposition (PVD)-coated carbide and cermet inserts achieved the best surface quality when the specific combinations within the range interval of controllable factors were used in the experiment, showing that they may be applied to finish turning processes or even to particular high material removal rate conditions associated with the lowest roughness.
Insight into Electrical and Dielectric Relaxation of Doped Tellurite Lithium-Silicate Glasses with Regard to Ionic Charge Carrier Number Density Estimation
Authors: Rim Young Hoon , Baek Chang Gyu , Yang Yong Suk
Published: November 2020

We investigate the role of tellurite on a lithium-silicate glass 0.1 TeO2 − 0.9 (Li2O-2SiO2) (LSTO) system proposed for the use in solid electrolyte for lithium ion batteries. The measurements of electrical impedance are performed in the frequency 100 Hz–30 MHz and temperature from 50 to 150 °C. The electrical conductivity of LSTO glass increases compared with that of Li2O-2SiO2 (LSO) glass due to an increase in the number of Li+ ions. The ionic hopping and relaxation processes in disordered solids are generally explained using Cole–Cole, power law and modulus representations. The power law conductivity analysis, which is driven by the modified Rayleigh equation, presents the estimation of the number of ionic charge carriers explicitly. The estimation counts for direct contribution of about a 14% increase in direct current conductivity in the case of TeO2 doping. The relaxation process by modulus analysis confirms that the cations are trapped strongly in the potential wells. Both the direct current and alternating current activation energies (0.62–0.67 eV) for conduction in the LSO glass are the same as those in the LSTO glass.
A Short Review on Biomedical Applications of Nanostructured Bismuth Oxide and Related Nanomaterials
Authors: Bartoli Mattia , Jagdale Pravin , Tagliaferro Alberto
Published: November 2020

In this review, we reported the main achievements reached by using bismuth oxides and related materials for biological applications. We overviewed the complex chemical behavior of bismuth during the transformation of its compounds to oxide and bismuth oxide phase transitions. Afterward, we summarized the more relevant studies regrouped into three categories based on the use of bismuth species: (i) active drugs, (ii) diagnostic and (iii) theragnostic. We hope to provide a complete overview of the great potential of bismuth oxides in biological environments.
Primal Lower Nice Functions in Reflexive Smooth Banach Spaces
Authors: Bounkhel Messaoud , Bachar Mostafa
Published: November 2020

In the present work, we extend, to the setting of reflexive smooth Banach spaces, the class of primal lower nice functions, which was proposed, for the first time, in finite dimensional spaces in [Nonlinear Anal. 1991, 17, 385–398] and enlarged to Hilbert spaces in [Trans. Am. Math. Soc. 1995, 347, 1269–1294]. Our principal target is to extend some existing characterisations of this class to our Banach space setting and to study the relationship between this concept and the generalised V-prox-regularity of the epigraphs in the sense proposed recently by the authors in [J. Math. Anal. Appl. 2019, 475, 699–29].
Interaction of Thalassia testudinum Metabolites with Cytochrome P450 Enzymes and Its Effects on Benzo(a)pyrene-Induced Mutagenicity
Authors: Delgado-Roche Livan , Santes-Palacios Rebeca , Herrera José A. , Hernández Sandra L. , Riera Mario , Fernández Miguel D. , Mesta Fernando , Garrido Gabino , Rodeiro Idania , Espinosa-Aguirre Jesús Javier
Published: November 2020

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the effects of Thalassia testudinum hydroethanolic extract, its polyphenolic fraction and thalassiolin B on the activity of phase I metabolizing enzymes as well as their antimutagenic effects. Spectrofluorometric techniques were used to evaluate the effect of tested products on rat and human CYP1A and CYP2B activity. The antimutagenic effect of tested products was evaluated in benzo[a]pyrene (BP)-induced mutagenicity assay by an Ames test. Finally, the antimutagenic effect of Thalassia testudinum (100 mg/kg) was assessed in BP-induced mutagenesis in mice. The tested products significantly (p < 0.05) inhibit rat CYP1A1 activity, acting as mixed-type inhibitors of rat CYP1A1 (Ki = 54.16 ± 9.09 μg/mL, 5.96 ± 1.55 μg/mL and 3.05 ± 0.89 μg/mL, respectively). Inhibition of human CYP1A1 was also observed (Ki = 197.1 ± 63.40 μg/mL and 203.10 ± 17.29 μg/mL for the polyphenolic fraction and for thalassiolin B, respectively). In addition, the evaluated products significantly inhibit (p < 0.05) BP-induced mutagenicity in vitro. Furthermore, oral doses of Thalassia testudinum (100 mg/kg) significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the BP-induced micronuclei and oxidative damage, together with an increase of reduced glutathione, in mice. In summary, Thalassia testudinum metabolites exhibit antigenotoxic activity mediated, at least, by the inhibition of CYP1A1-mediated BP biotransformation, arresting the oxidative and mutagenic damage. Thus, the metabolites of T. testudinum may represent a potential source of chemopreventive compounds for the adjuvant therapy of cancer.
Properties of Carotenoids in Fish Fitness: A Review
Authors: Nakano Toshiki , Wiegertjes Geert
Published: November 2020

Carotenoids, one of the most common types of natural pigments, can influence the colors of living organisms. More than 750 kinds of carotenoids have been identified. Generally, carotenoids occur in organisms at low levels. However, the total amount of carotenoids in nature has been estimated to be more than 100 million tons. There are two major types of carotenoids: carotene (solely hydrocarbons that contain no oxygen) and xanthophyll (contains oxygen). Carotenoids are lipid-soluble pigments with conjugated double bonds that exhibit robust antioxidant activity. Many carotenoids, particularly astaxanthin (ASX), are known to improve the antioxidative state and immune system, resulting in providing disease resistance, growth performance, survival, and improved egg quality in farmed fish without exhibiting any cytotoxicity or side effects. ASX cooperatively and synergistically interacts with other antioxidants such as α-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and glutathione located in the lipophilic hydrophobic compartments of fish tissue. Moreover, ASX can modulate gene expression accompanying alterations in signal transduction by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Hence, carotenoids could be used as chemotherapeutic supplements for farmed fish. Carotenoids are regarded as ecologically friendly functional feed additives in the aquaculture industry.
Correction: Oral Intake of Royal Jelly Has Protective Effects against Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Induced Toxicity in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Medicines, 2019, 6, 2
Authors: Araki Kyohei , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Ohba Kojiro , Nakamura Yuichiro , Matsuo Tomohiro , Mochizuki Yasushi , Sakai Hideki
Published: November 2020

We, the authors, wish to make the following correction to our published paper [...]
Silica Nanoparticles Reinforced Ionogel as Nonvolatile and Stretchable Conductors
Authors: Zhang Shanshan , Li Zhen , Huang Pei , Lu Yamei , Wang Pengfei
Published: November 2020

Ionogels combine the advantages of being conductive, stretchable, transparent and nonvolatile, which makes them suitable to be applied as conductors for flexible electronic devices. In this paper, a series of ionogels based on 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ethyl-sulfate ([C2mim][EtSO4]) and polyacrylic networks were prepared. Silica nanoparticles (SNPs) were dispersed into the ionogel matrix to enhance its mechanical properties. The thermal, mechanical and electrical properties of the ionogels with various contents of crosslinking agents and SNPs were studied. The results show that a small amount of SNP doping just increases the breaking strain/stress and the nonvolatility of ionogels, as well as maintaining adequate conductivity and a high degree of transparency. Furthermore, the experimental results demonstrate that SNP-reinforced ionogels can be applied as conductors for dielectric elastomer actuators and stretchable wires, as well as for signal transmission.
Renewable Hydrogen Production Processes for the Off-Gas Valorization in Integrated Steelworks through Hydrogen Intensified Methane and Methanol Syntheses
Authors: Zaccara Antonella , Petrucciani Alice , Matino Ismael , Branca Teresa Annunziata , Dettori Stefano , Iannino Vincenzo , Colla Valentina , Bampaou Michael , Panopoulos Kyriakos
Published: November 2020

Within integrated steelmaking industries significant research efforts are devoted to the efficient use of resources and the reduction of CO2 emissions. Integrated steelworks consume a considerable quantity of raw materials and produce a high amount of by-products, such as off-gases, currently used for the internal production of heat, steam or electricity. These off-gases can be further valorized as feedstock for methane and methanol syntheses, but their hydrogen content is often inadequate to reach high conversions in synthesis processes. The addition of hydrogen is fundamental and a suitable hydrogen production process must be selected to obtain advantages in process economy and sustainability. This paper presents a comparative analysis of different hydrogen production processes from renewable energy, namely polymer electrolyte membrane electrolysis, solid oxide electrolyze cell electrolysis, and biomass gasification. Aspen Plus® V11-based models were developed, and simulations were conducted for sensitivity analyses to acquire useful information related to the process behavior. Advantages and disadvantages for each considered process were highlighted. In addition, the integration of the analyzed hydrogen production methods with methane and methanol syntheses is analyzed through further Aspen Plus®-based simulations. The pros and cons of the different hydrogen production options coupled with methane and methanol syntheses included in steelmaking industries are analyzed.
Design Optimization of a Single-Strand Tundish Based on CFD-Taguchi-Grey Relational Analysis Combined Method
Authors: Sheng Dong-Yuan
Published: November 2020

A novel digital design methodology that combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling and Taguchi-Grey relational analysis method was presented for a single-strand tundish. The present study aimed at optimizing the flow control device in the tundish with an emphasis on maximizing the inclusion removal rate and minimizing the dead volume fraction. A CFD model was employed to calculate the fluid flow and the residence-time distribution of liquid steel in the tundish. The Lagrangian approach was applied to investigate the behavior of non-metallic inclusions in the system. The calculated residence-time distribution curves were used to analyze the dead volume fraction in the tundish. A Taguchi orthogonal array L9(3^4) was used to analyze the effects of design factors on both single and multiple responses. Moreover, for the purpose of meeting the multi-objective target functions, grey relational analysis and analysis of variance were used. The optimum positions of the weir and the dam were obtained based on the design targets. A special focus of this study was to demonstrate the capabilities of the Taguchi-Grey relational analysis method as a powerful means of increasing the effectiveness of CFD simulation.
Cathodic and Anodic Stress Corrosion Cracking of a New High-Strength CrNiMnMoN Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Truschner Mathias , Deutsch Jacqueline , Mori Gregor , Keplinger Andreas
Published: November 2020

A new high-nitrogen austenitic stainless steel with excellent mechanical properties was tested for its resistance to stress corrosion cracking. The new conventional produced hybrid CrNiMnMoN stainless steel combines the excellent mechanical properties of CrMnN stainless steels with the good corrosion properties of CrNiMo stainless steels. Possible applications of such a high-strength material are wires in maritime environments. In principle, the material can come into direct contact with high chloride solutions as well as low pH containing media. The resistance against chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking was determined by slow strain rate tests and constant load tests in different chloride-containing solutions at elevated temperatures. Resistance to hydrogen-induced stress corrosion cracking was investigated by precharging and ongoing in-situ hydrogen charging in both slow strain rate test and constant load test. The hydrogen charging was carried out by cathodic charging in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution with addition of 1 g/L thiourea as corrosion inhibitor and recombination inhibitor to ensure hydrogen absorption with negligible corrosive attack. Slow strain rate tests only lead to hydrogen induced stress corrosion cracking by in-situ charging, which leads to total hydrogen contents of more than 10 wt.-ppm and not by precharging alone. Excellent resistance to chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking in 43 wt.% CaCl2 at 120 °C and in 5 wt.% NaCl buffered pH 3.5 solution at 80 °C is obtained for the investigated austenitic stainless steel.
Mouse Age Matters: How Age Affects the Murine Plasma Metabolome
Authors: Pann Patrick , de Angelis Martin Hrabě , Prehn Cornelia , Adamski Jerzy
Published: November 2020

A large part of metabolomics research relies on experiments involving mouse models, which are usually 6 to 20 weeks of age. However, in this age range mice undergo dramatic developmental changes. Even small age differences may lead to different metabolomes, which in turn could increase inter-sample variability and impair the reproducibility and comparability of metabolomics results. In order to learn more about the variability of the murine plasma metabolome, we analyzed male and female C57BL/6J, C57BL/6NTac, 129S1/SvImJ, and C3HeB/FeJ mice at 6, 10, 14, and 20 weeks of age, using targeted metabolomics (BIOCRATES AbsoluteIDQ™ p150 Kit). Our analysis revealed high variability of the murine plasma metabolome during adolescence and early adulthood. A general age range with minimal variability, and thus a stable metabolome, could not be identified. Age-related metabolomic changes as well as the metabolite profiles at specific ages differed markedly between mouse strains. This observation illustrates the fact that the developmental timing in mice is strain specific. We therefore stress the importance of deliberate strain choice, as well as consistency and precise documentation of animal age, in metabolomics studies.
Sphingolipid Profiling Reveals Different Extent of Ceramide Accumulation in Bovine Retroperitoneal and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissues
Authors: Leung Yue Hei , Christiane Bäßler Sonja , Koch Christian , Scheu Theresa , Meyer Ulrich , Dänicke Sven , Huber Korinna , Kenéz Ákos
Published: November 2020

Sphingolipids are bioactive lipids that can modulate insulin sensitivity, cellular differentiation, and apoptosis in a tissue-specific manner. However, their comparative profiles in bovine retroperitoneal (RPAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SCAT) are currently unknown. We aimed to characterize the sphingolipid profiles using a targeted lipidomics approach and to assess whether potentially related sphingolipid pathways are different between SCAT and RPAT. Holstein bulls (n = 6) were slaughtered, and SCAT and RPAT samples were collected for sphingolipid profiling. A total of 70 sphingolipid species were detected and quantified by UPLC-MS/MS in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode, including ceramide (Cer), dihydroceramide (DHCer), sphingomyelin (SM), dihydrosphingomyelin (DHSM), ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P), sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), galactosylceramide (GalCer), glucosylceramide (GluCer), lactosylceramide (LacCer), sphinganine (DHSph), and sphingosine (Sph). Our results showed that sphingolipids of the de novo synthesis pathway, such as DHSph, DHCer, and Cer, were more concentrated in RPAT than in SCAT. Sphingolipids of the salvage pathway and the sphingomyelinase pathway, such as Sph, S1P, C1P, glycosphingolipid, and SM, were more concentrated in SCAT. Our results indicate that RPAT had a greater extent of ceramide accumulation, thereby increasing the concentration of further sphingolipid intermediates in the de novo synthesis pathway. This distinctive sphingolipid distribution pattern in RPAT and SCAT can potentially explain the tissue-specific activity in insulin sensitivity, proinflammation, and oxidative stress in RPAT and SCAT.