bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Authentic and Ectopically Expressed MRGPRX2 Elicit Similar Mechanisms to Stimulate Degranulation of Mast Cells
Authors: Lazki-Hagenbach Pia , Ali Hydar , Sagi-Eisenberg Ronit
Published: February 2021

The identification of the Mas-related G-protein-coupled receptors (Mrgpr) as targets of diverse stimuli of mast cells (MCs), including neuropeptides and pseudo-allergy causing drugs, has placed these receptors at a prime position in MC research. However, the species-dependent diversity of these receptors raises the need for an adequate model for investigating the human MRGPRX2 receptor. RBL-2H3 cells, stably transfected with MRGPRX2 (RBL-MRGPRX2), are increasingly used for this purpose. Therefore, we investigated whether ectopically expressed MRGPRX2, in rat MCs, recapitulates its authentic signaling. To this purpose, we performed a broad comparative study of the responses of human LAD-2 MCs that express MRGPRX2 endogenously, and RBL-MRGPRX2 cells to compound 48/80, substance P and vancomycin, three proto-type ligands of MRGPRX2. We demonstrate that both models share similar dose–response relationships, kinetics and sensitivities to a wide range of signaling targeting drugs. Therefore, our results indicate that ectopically expressed MRGPRX2 preserves the signaling pathways employed to evoke human MC degranulation, which we show to rely on ERK1/2 MAP kinases, phospholipase C (PLC) and autophagy-related signaling. Importantly, we also show that the underlying mechanisms of MRGPRX2-triggered MC degranulation in either LAD-2 or RBL-MRGPRX2 cells are different from those elicited by its rodent orthologs.
Angiotensin II and Angiotensin Receptors 1 and 2—Multifunctional System in Cells Biology, What Do We Know?
Authors: Ziaja Maksymilian , Urbanek Kinga Anna , Kowalska Karolina , Piastowska-Ciesielska Agnieszka Wanda
Published: February 2021

For years, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been perceived as a system whose role is to primarily modulate the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Years of research into the role of RAS have provided the necessary data to confirm that the role of RAS is very complex and not limited to the cardiovascular system. The presence of individual elements of the renin-angiotensin (RA) system allows to control many processes, ranging from the memorization to pro-cancer processes. Maintaining the proportions between the individual axes of the RA system allows for achieving a balance, often called homeostasis. Thus, any disturbance in the expression or activity of individual RAS elements leads to pathophysiological processes.
Effect of Alpha-Glucosyl-Hesperidin Consumption on Lens Sclerosis and Presbyopia
Authors: Nakazawa Yosuke , Doki Yuri , Sugiyama Yuki , Kobayashi Ryota , Nagai Noriaki , Morisita Naoki , Endo Shin , Funakoshi-Tago Megumi , Tamura Hiroomi
Published: February 2021

Presbyopia is characterized by a decline in the ability to accommodate the lens. The most commonly accepted theory for the onset of presbyopia is an age-related increase in the stiffness of the lens. However, the cause of lens sclerosis remains unclear. With age, water microcirculation in the lens could change because of an increase in intracellular pressure. In the lens, the intracellular pressure is controlled by the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid (TRPV) 1 and TRPV4 feedback pathways. In this study, we tried to elucidate that administration of α-glucosyl-hesperidin (G-Hsd), previously reported to prevent nuclear cataract formation, affects lens elasticity and the distribution of TRPV channels and Aquaporin (AQP) channels to meet the requirement of intracellular pressure. As a result, the mouse control lens was significantly toughened compared to both the 1% and 2% G-Hsd mouse lens treatments. The anti-oxidant levels in the lens and plasma decreased with age; however, this decrease could be nullified with either 1% or 2% G-Hsd treatment in a concentration- and exposure time-dependent manner. Moreover, G-Hsd treatment affected the TRPV4 distribution, but not TRPV1, AQP0, and AQP5, in the peripheral area and could maintain intracellular pressure. These findings suggest that G-Hsd has great potential as a compound to prevent presbyopia and/or cataract formation.
Kinetic Studies of Cs+ and Sr2+ Ion Exchange Using Clinoptilolite in Static Columns and an Agitated Tubular Reactor (ATR)
Authors: Prajitno Muhammad Yusuf , Taufiqurrakhman Mohamad , Harbottle David , Hunter Timothy N.
Published: February 2021

Natural clinoptilolite was studied to assess its performance in removing caesium and strontium ions, using both static columns and an agitated tube reactor (ATR) for process intensification. Kinetic breakthrough curves were fitted using the Thomas and Modified Dose Response (MDR) models. In the static columns, the clinoptilolite adsorption capacity (qe) for 200 ppm ion concentrations was found to be ~171 and 16 mg/g for caesium and strontium, respectively, highlighting the poor material ability to exchange strontium. Reducing the concentration of strontium to 100 ppm, however, led to a higher strontium qe of ~48 mg/g (close to the maximum adsorption capacity). Conversely, halving the column residence time to 15 min decreased the qe for 100 ppm strontium solutions to 13–14 mg/g. All the kinetic breakthrough data correlated well with the maximum adsorption capacities found in previous batch studies, where, in particular, the influence of concentration on the slow uptake kinetics of strontium was evidenced. For the ATR studies, two column lengths were investigated (of 25 and 34 cm) with the clinoptilolite embedded directly into the agitator bar. The 34 cm-length system significantly outperformed the static vertical columns, where the adsorption capacity and breakthrough time were enhanced by ~30%, which was assumed to be due to the heightened kinetics from shear mixing. Critically, the increase in performance was achieved with a relative process flow rate over twice that of the static columns.
Trends in Costs of Birth Hospitalization and Readmissions for Late Preterm Infants
Authors: Speer Rebecca R. , Schaefer Eric W. , Aholoukpe Mahoussi , Leslie Douglas L. , Gandhi Chintan K.
Published: February 2021

Background: The objective is to study previously unexplored trends of birth hospitalization and readmission costs for late preterm infants (LPIs) in the United States between 2005 and 2016. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of claims data to study healthcare costs of birth hospitalization and readmissions for LPIs compared to term infants (TIs) using a large private insurance database. We used a generalized linear regression model to study birth hospitalization and readmission costs. Results: A total of 2,123,143 infants were examined (93.2% TIs; 6.8% LPIs). The proportion of LPIs requiring readmission was 4.2% compared to 2.1% of TIs, (p < 0.001). The readmission rate for TIs decreased during the study period. LPIs had a higher mean cost of birth hospitalization (25,700 vs. 3300 USD; p < 0.001) and readmissions (25,800 vs. 14,300 USD; p < 0.001). For LPIs, birth hospitalization costs increased from 2007 to 2013, and decreased since 2014. Conversely, birth hospitalization costs of TIs steadily increased since 2005. The West region showed higher birth hospitalization costs for LPIs. Conclusions: LPIs continue to have a higher cost of birth hospitalization and readmission compared to TIs, but these costs have decreased since 2014. Standardization of birth hospitalization care for LPIs may reduce costs and improve quality of care and outcomes.
Factors Associated with Failure of Pneumatic Reduction in Children with Ileocolic Intussusception
Authors: Younes Alaa , Lee Sanghoon , Lee Jong-In , Seo Jeong-Meen , Jung Soo-Min
Published: February 2021

Intussusception is one of the most common causes of intestinal obstruction in children. Pneumatic reduction is the treatment of choice and has a high success rate. The most common cause of pneumatic reduction failure is the presence of a pathological leading point. We aimed to identify other factors that can lead to pneumatic reduction failure in children with ileocolic intussusception. This was a retrospective study conducted in two centers. Data were collected from January 2013 to December 2014. A total of 156 patients were diagnosed with intussusception and underwent pneumatic reduction, with the exception of one patient with peritonitis. We included patients with ileocolic-type intussusception without apparent pathological leading points. Logistic regression analysis of clinical parameters was performed to identify factors associated with pneumatic reduction failure. Of 156 patients diagnosed with intussusception in both hospitals, 145 were enrolled in the study. The overall efficacy of pneumatic reduction was 85.7%, and surgical reduction was performed in 21 patients. Univariate analysis showed that a high segmented neutrophil count, low hemoglobin level, high body temperature, and higher weight percentile were associated with pneumatic reduction failure. Multivariate analysis showed that a high segmented neutrophil count, low hemoglobin level, and higher weight percentile were significantly associated with pneumatic reduction failure. Pneumatic reduction is safe and effective as a first-line treatment for pediatric intussusception. However, a high segmented neutrophil count, low hemoglobin level, and higher weight percentile are associated with the failure of this treatment.
Maternal Risk Factors Associated with Limb Reduction Defects: Data from the Polish Registry of Congenital Malformations (PRCM)
Authors: Materna-Kiryluk Anna , Wisniewska Katarzyna , Wieckowska Barbara , Wierzba Jolanta , Jazdzewska Anna , Jaroszewska-Swiatek Beata , Skotnicka Kinga , Latos-Bielenska Anna
Published: February 2021

Data from the Polish Registry of Congenital Malformations (PRCM) suggest that the prevalence of limb reduction defects (LRDs) in some Polish regions is significantly higher in comparison to that reported in the European Surveillance of Congenital Anomalies (EUROCAT) registry, but specific risk factors are still unknown. The objectives of this study were two-fold: to detect risk factors linked to isolated LRDs among Polish natives and to search for geospatial clusters of isolated LRDs to identify high-risk areas across the country. Among the 2,939,001 births accounted for in the PRCM, we determined that there were 852 children with distinct LRDs. Our data demonstrate that lower birth weight, prematurity, and maternal smoking history are strongly associated with isolated LRDs. Furthermore, our investigation pointed to various additional risk factors for isolated LRDs, including paternal education, gestational hypertension, upper respiratory tract infections, and exposure to anti-inflammatory drugs in the first trimester of pregnancy. We did not recognize statistically significant spatial or spatiotemporal clusters over the area of Poland using Kulldorff’s scan. Our study strengthens the hypothesis that maternal factors have an integral role in the etiology of isolated LRDs.
Compositional, Structural, Morphological, and Optical Properties of ZnO Thin Films Prepared by PECVD Technique
Authors: Hacini Noureddine , Ghamnia Mostefa , Dahamni Mohamed Amine , Boukhachem Abdelwaheb , Pireaux Jean-Jacques , Houssiau Laurent
Published: February 2021

ZnO thin films were synthesized on silicon and glass substrates using the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technique. Three samples were prepared at substrates temperatures of 200, 300, and 400 °C. The surface chemical composition was analyzed by the use of X-Ray Photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Structural and morphological properties were studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Optical properties were carried out by UV-visible spectroscopy. XPS spectra showed typical peaks of Zn(2p3/2), Zn(2p1/2), and O(1s) of ZnO with a slight shift attributed to the substrate temperature. XRD analysis revealed hexagonal wurtzite phases with a preferred (002) growth orientation that improved with temperature. Calculation of grain size and dislocation density revealed the crystallization improvement of ZnO when the substrate temperature varied from 200 to 400 °C. SEM images of ZnO films showed textured surfaces composed of grains of spherical shape uniformly distributed. The transmittance yields are reaching 80%, and the values of the band-gap energy indicate that the ZnO films prepared by PECVD present transparent and semiconducting properties.
Thermal Stress Cycle Simulation in Laser Cladding Process of Ni-Based Coating on H13 Steel
Authors: Yao Fangping , Fang Lijin
Published: February 2021

In order to improve the work efficiency and save resources in the process of laser cladding on the H13 steel surface, based on COMSOL, by combining computer simulation and experiment, a plane continuous heat source model was used to simulate and analyze the temperature and stress field. The optimal power and scanning speed were obtained. It is found in the simulation process that the thermal sampling points stress increases with the increase of laser power and scanning speed. Because of the existence of solid–liquid phase variation in the laser cladding process, there are two peaks in the maximum thermal stress cycle curve of the sample points located in the molten pool, and the starting and ending time of each sample point’s peak value is basically the same. When the sample point is outside the molten pool, because the metal at the corresponding location is not melted, so there is no obvious peak value in the thermal stress cycle curve. With the increase of cladding layer depth corresponding to each sample point, the variation range of the two alternating thermal stress peaks increases first and then decreases, while the duration increases. According to the peak value of alternating thermal stress at the sampling point, the molten pool depth can be predicted. The residual stress analysis of the cladding layer is carried out according to the analysis results of temperature field and stress field. Through the actual cladding experiment, it is found that the depth of molten pool in the simulation results is basically consistent with the experimental results. All simulation results are verified through actual cladding experiments.
Implantable Thin Film Devices as Brain-Computer Interfaces: Recent Advances in Design and Fabrication Approaches
Authors: Zhou Yuhao , Ji Bowen , Wang Minghao , Zhang Kai , Huangfu Shuaiqi , Feng Huicheng , Chang Honglong , Yuan Xichen
Published: February 2021

Remarkable progress has been made in the high resolution, biocompatibility, durability and stretchability for the implantable brain-computer interface (BCI) in the last decades. Due to the inevitable damage of brain tissue caused by traditional rigid devices, the thin film devices are developing rapidly and attracting considerable attention, with continuous progress in flexible materials and non-silicon micro/nano fabrication methods. Therefore, it is necessary to systematically summarize the recent development of implantable thin film devices for acquiring brain information. This brief review subdivides the flexible thin film devices into the following four categories: planar, open-mesh, probe, and micro-wire layouts. In addition, an overview of the fabrication approaches is also presented. Traditional lithography and state-of-the-art processing methods are discussed for the key issue of high-resolution. Special substrates and interconnects are also highlighted with varied materials and fabrication routines. In conclusion, a discussion of the remaining obstacles and directions for future research is provided.
Case Study on Fire Resistance of Sandwiches for Means of Transport
Authors: Koštial Pavel , Jančíková Zora Koštialová , Frischer Robert
Published: February 2021

These days there are undeniably unique materials that, however, must also meet demanding safety requirements. In the case of vehicles, these are undoubtedly excellent fire protection characteristics. The aim of the work is to experimentally verify the proposed material compositions for long-term heat loads and the effect of thickness, the number of laminating layers (prepregs) as well as structures with different types of cores (primarily honeycomb made of Nomex paper type T722 of different densities, aluminum honeycomb and PET foam) and composite coating based on a glass-reinforced phenolic matrix. The selected materials are suitable candidates for intelligent sandwich structures, usable especially for interior cladding applications in the industry for the production of means of public transport (e.g., train units, trams, buses, hybrid vehicles).
Beta-Titanium Alloy Covered by Ferroelectric Coating–Physicochemical Properties and Human Osteoblast-Like Cell Response
Authors: Vandrovcova Marta , Tolde Zdenek , Vanek Premysl , Nehasil Vaclav , Doubková Martina , Trávníčková Martina , Drahokoupil Jan , Buixaderas Elena , Borodavka Fedir , Novakova Jaroslava , Bacakova Lucie
Published: February 2021

Beta-titanium alloys are promising materials for bone implants due to their advantageous mechanical properties. For enhancing the interaction of bone cells with this perspective material, we developed a ferroelectric barium titanate (BaTiO3) coating on a Ti39Nb alloy by hydrothermal synthesis. This coating was analyzed by scanning electron and Raman microscopy, X-ray diffraction, piezoresponse force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, nanoindentation, and roughness measurement. Leaching experiments in a saline solution revealed that Ba is released from the coating. A progressive decrease of Ba concentration in the material was also found after 1, 3, and 7 days of cultivation of human osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells. On day 1, the Saos-2 cells adhered on the BaTiO3 film in higher initial numbers than on the bare alloy, but they were less spread, and their initial proliferation rate was slower. These cells also contained a lower amount of beta1-integrins and vinculin, i.e., molecules involved in cell adhesion, and produced a lower amount of collagen I. This cell behavior was attributed to a higher surface roughness of BaTiO3 film rather than to its potential cytotoxicity, because the cell viability on this film was very high, reaching almost 99%. The amount of alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme involved in bone matrix mineralization, was similar in cells on the BaTiO3-coated and uncoated alloy, and on day 7, the cells on BaTiO3 film attained a higher final cell population density. These results indicate that after some improvements, particularly in its roughness and stability, the hydrothermal ferroelectric BaTiO3 film could be promising coating for improved osseointegration of bone implants.
Nanoindentation Hardness and Practical Scratch Resistance in Mechanically Tunable Anti-Reflection Coatings
Authors: Price James J. , Xu Tingge , Zhang Binwei , Lin Lin , Koch Karl W. , Null Eric L. , Reiman Kevin B. , Paulson Charles A. , Kim Chang-Gyu , Oh Sang-Yoon , Oh Jung-Keun , Moon Dong-Gun , Oh Jeong-Hong , Mayolet Alexandre , Williams Carlo Kosik , Hart Shandon D.
Published: February 2021

This work presents fundamental understanding of the correlation between nanoindentation hardness and practical scratch resistance for mechanically tunable anti-reflective (AR) hardcoatings. These coatings exhibit a unique design freedom, allowing quasi-continuous variation in the thickness of a central hardcoat layer in the multilayer design, with minimal impact on anti-reflective optical performance. This allows detailed study of anti-reflection coating durability based on variations in hardness vs. depth profiles, without the durability results being confounded by variations in optics. Finite element modeling is shown to be a useful tool for the design and analysis of hardness vs. depth profiles in these multilayer films. Using samples fabricated by reactive sputtering, nanoindentation hardness depth profiles were correlated with practical scratch resistance using three different scratch and abrasion test methods, simulating real world scratch events. Scratch depths from these experiments are shown to correlate to scratches observed in the field from consumer electronics devices with chemically strengthened glass covers. For high practical scratch resistance, coating designs with hardness >15 GPa maintained over depths of 200–800 nm were found to be particularly excellent, which is a substantially greater depth of high hardness than can be achieved using previously common AR coating designs.
Characterization of Thin Chromium Coatings Produced by PVD Sputtering for Optical Applications
Authors: Ferreira Andreia A. , Silva Francisco J. G. , Pinto Arnaldo G. , Sousa Vitor F. C.
Published: February 2021

PVD (physical vapor deposition) and CVD (chemical vapor deposition) have gained greater significance in the last two decades with the mandatory shift from electrodeposition processes to clean deposition processes due to environmental, public safety, and health concerns. Due to the frequent use of coatings in several industrial sectors, the importance of studying the chromium coating processes through PVD–sputtering can be realized, investing in a real alternative to electroplated hexavalent chromium, usually denominated by chromium 6, regularly applied in electrodeposition processes of optical products in the automotive industry. At an early stage, experimental tests were carried out to understand which parameters are most suitable for obtaining chromium coatings with optical properties. To study the coating in a broad way, thickness and roughness analysis of the coatings obtained using SEM and AFM, adhesion analyzes with the scratch-test and transmittance by spectrophotometry were carried out. It was possible to determine that the roughness and transmittance decreased with the increase in the number of layers, the thickness of the coating increased linearly, and the adhesion and resistance to climatic tests remained positive throughout the study. Thus, this study allows for the understanding that thin multilayered Cr coatings can be applied successfully to polymeric substrates regarding optical applications in the automotive industry.
The Impact Resistance of Highly Densified Metal Alloys Manufactured from Gas-Atomized Pre-Alloyed Powders
Authors: Rahmani Ramin , Antonov Maksim , Prashanth Konda Gokuldoss
Published: February 2021

With the increasing acceleration of three-dimensional (3D) printing (for example, powder bed fusion (PBF)) of metal alloys as an additive manufacturing process, a comprehensive characterization of 3D-printed materials and structures is inevitable. The purpose of this work was to test highly densified materials produced from gas-atomized pre-alloyed metallic powders, namely 316L, Ti6Al4V, AlSi10Mg, CuNi2SiCr, CoCr28Mo6, and Inconel718, under impact conditions. This was done to demonstrate the best possible performance of such materials. Optimized spark plasma sintering (SPS) parameters (pressure, temperature, heating rate, and holding time) are applied as a novel technique of powder metallurgy. The densification level, impact site (imprint) diameter and volume, and Vickers hardness were studied. The comparison of 316L stainless steel (1) sintered by the SPS process, (2) manufactured by PBF process, and (3) coated by the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process (thin layer of TiAlN) was successfully achieved.
Ontogenetic Habitat Use and Density of the Green Lizard (Lacerta bilineata) in Contrasted Landscapes in France and Italy
Authors: Rugiero Lorenzo , Capula Massimo , Di Vittorio Massimiliano , Dendi Daniele , Meek Roger , Luiselli Luca
Published: February 2021

Habitat modification is a major factor in the decline of reptile populations. The degree of the decline has been shown to be directly related to the intensity of habitat modification. Farming practices and urbanization are just two of the factors involved indicating that the development of practices that minimize or cancel anthropogenic impacts is urgently needed to prevent further declines. This requires knowledge of population ecology of reptiles in both disturbed and pristine habitats. In this paper, we describe aspects of green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) population ecology in a forest–pasture relatively pristine mosaic habitat in central Italy and a fragmented habitat in western France. In Italy, habitat niche overlap was very high between males and females but very low between males and juveniles. For male and female abundances, general linear models showed that the adult abundances increased with the increase of Rubus bushes, whereas juvenile abundance increased with the increase of Spartium bushes. Contingency table analysis showed that juveniles were also much more frequently observed in grasslands than adults of either sexes. The observed ontogenetic structural niche pattern was likely due to intraspecific competition avoidance, competition interference, and cannibalism. The persistence of the same patterns across years demonstrates a temporal stability of the ontogenetic structural niche pattern. Over the length of the study period, population densities were stable in the Italian population, but densities were much higher by around five times in the hedgerow in the fragmented habitat in France. In the hedgerow, monthly lizard presence was uneven, with the greatest number of sightings in June and July. Overall, our study provided no support for the notion that lizard abundance/density should be lower in modified compared to unmodified habitats, and clearly revealed that a careful management of the hedgerows is crucial for the conservation of this lizard species in agro-forest ecosystems.
In-Situ XRD Study of Phase Transformation Kinetics in a Co-Cr-W-Alloy Manufactured by Laser Powder-Bed Fusion
Authors: Hegele Patrick , von Kobylinski Jonas , Hitzler Leonhard , Krempaszky Christian , Werner Ewald
Published: February 2021

The additive manufacturing process of laser powder-bed fusion (L-PBF) is an increasingly popular approach for patient-specific production of dental frameworks made from Co-Cr alloys. Macroscopically, frameworks produced in this way exhibit high anisotropy especially in Young’s modulus, and are missing standardized requirements. Microscopically, pronounced texture and high residual stresses are characteristic. To reduce resulting detrimental effects, the as-built (AB) parts are heat treated. Dependent on the treatment temperature, effects like the transformation of the γ-phase matrix in the AB condition to ϵ-phase, precipitation, stress relief, and grain growth were observed. While the existence of these processes was established in the past, little is known about their kinetics. To fill this gap, these effects were studied with in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods in isothermal heat treatments (HTs) at four different sample surface temperatures TS reaching from 650∘C to 900∘C. Furthermore, room temperature ex situ XRD and SEM/EDS measurements completed the analysis. An evaluation of the datasets, with single peak fitting and QXRD methods, yielded the following results. In the HTs below a certain threshold, a γ-to-ϵ transformation was observed in the sample bulk and close to the sample surface. In the latter case, evidence for a partially strain-induced transformation related to oxide formation was present. Above this threshold and possibly slightly below, σ- and Laves-phase precipitated. Additionally, peak profile evolutions hinted at a drop of inter- and intragranular stresses within the first 30 to 60 min. Therefore, an HT of about 30 to 60 min slightly above the threshold is proposed as optimal for reducing residual stresses while retaining a predominantly single-phased microstructure, possibly superior in corrosion properties and likewise in bio-compatibility.
Coordination Polymers in Dicyanamido-Cadmium(II) with Diverse Network Dimensionalities
Authors: Mautner Franz A. , Jantscher Patricia V. , Fischer Roland C. , Torvisco Ana , Reichmann Klaus , Salem Nahed M. H. , Gordon Kenneth J. , Louka Febee R. , Massoud Salah S.
Published: February 2021

The synthesis and structural characterization of six dicyanamido-cadmium(II) complexes are reported: catena-[Cd(μ1,3-dca)(μ1,5-dca)(3-ampy)] (1), catena-[Cd3(μ1,3,5-dca)2(μ1,5-dca)4(pyNO)2(H2O)2] (2), catena-{Cd(H2O)2(μ1,5-dca)2](2,6-lut-NO)} (3), catena-[Cd(Me2en)(μ1,5-dca)2] (4), catena-[Cd(Me4en)(μ1,5-dca)2] (5), and [Cd(1,8-damnp)2(dca)2] (6), where dca = dicyanamide anion, 3-ampy = 3-aminopyridine, pyNO = pyridine-N-oxide, 2,6-lut-NO = 2,6-lutidine-N-oxide, Me2en = N,N-dimethyl-ethylenediamine, Me4en = N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyl-ethylenediamine, and 1,8-damnp = 1,8-diaminonaphthaline. The coordination polymers have different dimensionalities: 1 and 5 form 3D networks structures; 3 and 4 form polymeric 1D chains and 1DD double chains, respectively. Ribbons of three fused polymeric chains are observed in 2. In 6, the mononuclear complex units form a hydrogen-bonded supramolecular 3D network. In the coordination polymer compounds, the dca linkers display three bonding modes: the most common μ1,5-dca and the least popular μ1,3- and μ1,3,5-dca bonding. The luminescence emission and thermal properties of the complexes were investigated.
Medical physics in Current Oncology
Authors: Seuntjens J.
Published: February 2021

Medical physics can be generally defined as a field in which applied physics techniques are used in medicine. [...]
Ethical Guideposts to Clinical Trials in Oncology
Authors: Bernstein M.
Published: February 2021

Clinical research with human subjects is an ethically challenging task requiring ultimate trust on the part of patients and ultimate respect for persons on the part of clinical researchers. The author provides a simple framework to help researchers ensure the ethical integrity of a clinical trial in oncology.
Influenza Pandemic Planning for Cancer Patients
Authors: Battershill Peter
Published: February 2021

Given that an influenza pandemic is likely within the next few years, the World Health Organization has recommended that policymakers take action to mitigate the consequences of such a pandemic. Because of the increased risk of patients with cancer developing complications of influenza, policymakers in cancer care should immediately begin planning for changes to resource allocation, clinical care, and the consent process during a pandemic.
Comparing the Results of Bisphosphonate Use in Clinical Trials with Actual Practice: A Case of Apples and Oranges?
Authors: Gainford M. C. , Dranitsaris G. , Ooi W. , Vanhuyse M. , Clemons M.
Published: February 2021

Bone metastases can be a devastating complication for any woman with breast cancer. [...]
Receptor Tyrosine Kinases: Role in Cancer Progression
Authors: Sangwan V. , Park M.
Published: February 2021

Tight control of cell proliferation and morphogenesis in conjunction with programmed cell death (apoptosis) is required to ensure normal tissue patterning. [...]
In this Issue of Current Oncology
Authors: McLean M.
Published: February 2021

This second issue of 2007 finally sees the publication of the first in a series of manuscripts dedicated to the History of Oncology, with a special emphasis, initially at least, on radio-therapeutics. [...]
Homeopathy for Cancer?
Authors: Ernst E.
Published: February 2021

Homeopathy is “a therapeutic method of using preparations of substances [...]
Homeopathy, Fundamentalism, and the Memory of Water
Authors: Sagar Stephen
Published: February 2021

Sir, Pointing out the obvious (i.e., that seeking homeo-pathic treatment for cancer prior to early conventionaldiagnosis could be dangerous, and claiming efficacyfor homeopathy’s ultra-highly diluted remedies runscounter to Avogadro’s hypothesis) does not exoner-ate Dr. Sagar’s editorial of grossly misrepresentingthe Memory of Water (MoW) hypothesis.[...]
Erratum
Authors:   Current Oncology Editorial Office
Published: February 2021

Please be advised that there is an error in Table I of “The Role of HER2-targeted Therapies in Women with HER2-Overexpressing Metastatic Breast Cancer” by Dent et al. which appeared in Current Oncology Volume 16, Number 4 on page 236 in print, and page 26 online [...]
Avian Haemosporidian Diversity on Sardinia: A First General Assessment for the Insular Mediterranean
Authors: Pellegrino Irene , Ilahiane Luca , Boano Giovanni , Cucco Marco , Pavia Marco , Prestridge Heather L. , Voelker Gary
Published: February 2021

The Western Palearctic is one of the most investigated regions for avian haemosporidian parasites (Haemoproteus, Plasmodium and Leucocytozoon), yet geographic gaps in our regional knowledge remain. Here, we report the first haemosporidian screening of the breeding birds from Sardinia (the second-largest Mediterranean Island and a biodiversity hotspot), and the first for the insular Mediterranean in general. We examined the occurrence of haemosporidians by amplifying their mtDNA cytb gene in 217 breeding birds, belonging to 32 species. The total prevalence of infected birds was 55.3%, and of the 116 haplotypes recovered, 84 were novel. Despite the high number of novel lineages, phylogenetic analysis did not highlight Sardinia-specific clades; instead, some Sardinian lineages were more closely related to lineages previously recovered from continental Europe. Host-parasite network analysis indicated a specialized host-parasite community. Binomial generalized linear models (GLMs), performed at the community level, suggested an elevational effect on haemosporidian occurrence probability (negative for Haemoproteus; positive for Leucocytozoon) likely due to differences in the abundance of insect vectors at different elevations. Furthermore, a GLM revealed that sedentary birds showed a higher probability of being infected by novel haplotypes and long-distance migrants showed a lower probability of novel haplotype infection. We hypothesize that the high diversity of haemosporidians is linked to the isolation of breeding bird populations on Sardinia. This study adds to the growing knowledge on haemosporidians lineage diversity and distribution in insular environments and presents new insights on potential host-parasite associations.
Potential for Radiation Dose Reduction in Dual-Source Computed Tomography of the Lung in the Pediatric and Adolescent Population Compared to Digital Radiography
Authors: Wetzl Matthias , May Matthias Stefan , Weinmann Daniel , Hammon Matthias , Kopp Markus , Ruppel Renate , Trollmann Regina , Woelfle Joachim , Uder Michael , Rompel Oliver
Published: February 2021

Low-dose dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) protocols for the evaluation of lung diseases in children and adolescents are of importance since this age group is particularly prone to radiation damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate image quality of low-dose DSCT of the lung and to assess the potential of radiation dose reduction compared to digital radiographs (DR). Three groups, each consisting of 19 patients, were examined with different DSCT protocols using tin prefiltration (Sn96/64/32 ref. mAs at 100 kV). Different strengths of iterative reconstruction were applied (ADMIRE 2/3/4). DSCT groups were compared to 19 matched patients examined with posterior–anterior DR. Diagnostic confidence, detectability of anatomical structures and small lung lesions were evaluated on a 4-point Likert scale (LS 1 = unacceptable, 4 = fully acceptable; a value ≥ 3 was considered acceptable). Effective dose (ED) was 31-/21-/9-fold higher in Sn96/Sn64/Sn32 compared to DR. Diagnostic confidence was sufficient in Sn96/Sn64 (LS 3.4/3.2), reduced in Sn32 (LS 2.7) and the worst in DR (LS 2.4). In DSCT, detectability of small anatomical structures was always superior to DR (p < 0.05). Mean lesion size ranged from 5.1–7 mm; detectability was acceptable in all DSCT groups (LS 3.0–3.4) and superior to DR (LS 1.9; p < 0.05). Substantial dose lowering in DSCT of the pediatric lung enables acceptable detectability of small lung lesions with a radiation dose being about 10-fold higher compared to DR.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Diagnostic Challenges: Understanding the Clinical Phenotype of the Puerto Rican RSPH4A Founder Mutation
Authors: De Jesús-Rojas Wilfredo , Reyes-De Jesús Dalilah , Mosquera Ricardo A.
Published: February 2021

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare, heterogeneous ciliopathy resulting in chronic oto-sino-pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, newborn respiratory distress, and laterality defects. PCD diagnosis can be achieved by following diagnostic algorithms that include electron microscopy, genetics, and ancillary testing. Genetic mutations in more than 45 genes, including RSPH4A, can lead to PCD. RSPH4A mutations located on chromosome six, affect radial spokes and results in central complex apparatus abnormalities. The RSPH4A [c.921 + 3_6delAAGT] founder mutation was described as one cause of PCD without laterality defects in Puerto Rico. Additionally, there are further diagnostic challenges present in the Puerto Rican population to diagnose PCD. We describe the demographics, clinical features, and RSPH4A genetic variants in 13 patients with clinical PCD affecting 11 Puerto Ricans from unrelated families.
Associations among Heavy Metals and Proteinuria and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Tsai Hui-Ju , Hung Chih-Hsing , Wang Chih-Wen , Tu Hung-Pin , Li Chiu-Hui , Tsai Chun-Chi , Lin Wen-Yi , Chen Szu-Chia , Kuo Chao-Hung
Published: February 2021

Background: The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing annually in Taiwan. In addition to traditional risk factors, heavy metals contribute to the development of CKD. The aim of this study was to investigate associations among heavy metals and proteinuria and CKD in the general population in Southern Taiwan. We also explored the interaction and synergetic effects among heavy metals on proteinuria. Methods: We conducted a health survey in the general population living in Southern Taiwan between June 2016 and September 2018. Seven heavy metals were measured: blood lead (Pb) and urine nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), and cadmium (Cd). Proteinuria was measured using reagent strips. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Results: The mean age of the 2447 participants was 55.1 ± 13.2 years and included 977 males and 1470 females. Participants with high blood Pb and high urine Ni, Mn, Cu, and Cd were significantly associated with proteinuria. Interactions between blood Pb and urine Cr, and between urine Cd and Cu, had significant effects on proteinuria. The participants with high blood Pb and high urine Cu were significantly associated with an eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Conclusion: High blood Pb and high urine Cu may be associated with proteinuria and an eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. High urine Ni, Mn, and Cd were significantly associated with proteinuria. Co-exposure to Cd and Cu, and Pb and Cr, may have synergistic effects on proteinuria.
Serum microRNA Levels in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Mastropasqua Rodolfo , D’Aloisio Rossella , Costantini Erica , Porreca Annamaria , Ferro Giada , Libertini Daniele , Reale Marcella , Di Nicola Marta , Viggiano Pasquale , Falconio Gennaro , Toto Lisa
Published: February 2021

The aim of our study is to evaluate the serum circulating levels of some miRNA, such as hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-let-7a-5p, hsa-miR-320b, hsa-miR-23a-3p, hsa-miR-27a-3p, hsa-miR-15a-5p, and hsa-miR-495-3, in diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic patients with DR, and, healthy subjects in order to find reliable and reproducible biomarkers for DR. A total of 45 subjects underwent serum sampling for miRNAs evaluation and a complete ophthalmologic examination, including microperimetry and widefield swept source optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Total circulating RNA was isolated from patients using the miRNeasy Serum/Plasma Kit. Serum miRNA expression levels were significantly different in the three groups. In detail, circulating hsa-miR-15a-5p levels were significantly reduced in both diabetic patients without DR and diabetic patients with DR (p = 0.027). Serum hsa-miR-495-3p was lower in diabetic patients with DR and diabetic patients without DR (p = 0.049). Hsa-miR-23a-3p serum expression levels were significantly lower in diabetic patients with DR and diabetic patients without DR (p = 0.013). Significant associations of miRNAs with anatomical/perfusion parameters and functional parameters were observed in the diabetic groups. We find evidence of damage in progression biomarkers in DR that are evidently early in patients with diabetes without DR. Serum miRNAs levels are considered to have strong potential as a novel biomarker for the early detection of DR in subjects suffering from diabetes and could represent noninvasive target therapies to block the progression of the disease at the early stages.
Morphofunctional Characterization of Different Tissue Factors in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Affected Tissue
Authors: Kaulins Ricards , Rozite Laura Ramona , Pilmane Mara , Petersons Aigars
Published: February 2021

Congenital diaphragm hernia (CDH) is a congenital disease that occurs during prenatal development. Although the morbidity and mortality rate is rather significant, the pathogenesis of CDH has been studied insignificantly due to the decreased accessibility of human pathological material. Therefore the aim of our work was to evaluate growth factors (transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)) and their receptors (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1R)), muscle (dystrophin, myosin, alpha actin) and nerve quality (nerve growth factor (NGF), nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR), neurofilaments (NF)) factors, local defense factors (ß-defensin 2, ß-defensin 4), programmed cell death (TUNEL), and separate gene (Wnt-1) expression in human pathological material to find immunohistochemical marker differences between the control and the CDH patient groups. A semi-quantitative counting method was used for the evaluation of the tissues and structures in the Biotin-Streptavidin-stained slides. Various statistically significant differences were found in immunoreactive expression between the patient and the control group tissue and the morphological structures as well as very strong, strong, and moderate correlations between immunoreactives in different diaphragm cells and structures. These significant changes and various correlations indicate that multiple morphopathogenetic pathways are affected in CDH pathogenesis. This work contains the evaluation of the causes for these changes and their potential involvement in CDH pathogenesis.
The Principle of Covariance and the Hamiltonian Formulation of General Relativity
Authors: Tessarotto Massimo , Cremaschini Claudio
Published: February 2021

The implications of the general covariance principle for the establishment of a Hamiltonian variational formulation of classical General Relativity are addressed. The analysis is performed in the framework of the Einstein-Hilbert variational theory. Preliminarily, customary Lagrangian variational principles are reviewed, pointing out the existence of a novel variational formulation in which the class of variations remains unconstrained. As a second step, the conditions of validity of the non-manifestly covariant ADM variational theory are questioned. The main result concerns the proof of its intrinsic non-Hamiltonian character and the failure of this approach in providing a symplectic structure of space-time. In contrast, it is demonstrated that a solution reconciling the physical requirements of covariance and manifest covariance of variational theory with the existence of a classical Hamiltonian structure for the gravitational field can be reached in the framework of synchronous variational principles. Both path-integral and volume-integral realizations of the Hamilton variational principle are explicitly determined and the corresponding physical interpretations are pointed out.
Direct Electrochemical Reduction of Bicarbonate to Formate Using Tin Catalyst
Authors: Bonet Navarro Andreu , Nogalska Adrianna , Garcia-Valls Ricard
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, the self-accelerating increase in global temperatures strengthens the idea that the cutting of CO2 emissions will not be enough to avoid climate change, thus CO2 from the atmosphere must be removed. This gas can be easily trapped by converting it to bicarbonate using hydroxide solutions. However, bicarbonate must be converted into a more valuable product to make this technology profitable. Several studies show great efficiency when reducing bicarbonate solutions saturated with pure CO2 gas to formate. However, those approaches don’t have a real application and our objective was to obtain similar results without pure CO2 saturation. The method consists of electroreduction of the bicarbonate solution using bulk tin (Sn) as catalysts. Tin is a relatively cheap material that, according to previous studies performed in saturated bicarbonate solutions, shows a great selectivity towards formate. The 1H NMR analysis of bicarbonate solutions after electroreduction show that, without pure CO2 gas, the faradic efficiency is around 18% but almost 50% for saturated ones. The formate obtained could be used to power formate/formic acid fuel cells obtaining a battery-like system, with greater energy density than common lithium batteries, but electroreduction efficiency needs to be improved to make them competitive.
A Hierarchical Approach for Android Malware Detection Using Authorization-Sensitive Features
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Zhengqiang , Jiang Qingshan , Rasool Abdur , Chen Lifei
Published: February 2021

Android’s openness has made it a favorite for consumers and developers alike, driving strong app consumption growth. Meanwhile, its popularity also attracts attackers’ attention. Android malware is continually raising issues for the user’s privacy and security. Hence, it is of great practical value to develop a scientific and versatile system for Android malware detection. This paper presents a hierarchical approach to design a malware detection system for Android. It extracts four authorization-sensitive features: basic blocks, permissions, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), and key functions, and layer-by-layer detects malware based on the similar module and the proposed deep learning model Convolutional Neural Network and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (CNNXGB). This detection approach focuses not only on classification but also on the details of the similarities between malware software. We serialize the key function in light of the sequence of API calls and pick up a similar module that captures the global semantics of malware. We propose a new method to convert the basic block into a multichannel picture and use Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to learn features. We extract permissions and API calls based on their called frequency and train the classification model by XGBoost. A dynamic similar module feature library is created based on the extracted features to assess the sample’s behavior. The model is trained by utilizing 11,327 Android samples collected from Github, Google Play, Fdroid, and VirusShare. Promising experimental results demonstrate a higher accuracy of the proposed approach and its potential to detect Android malware attacks and reduce Android users’ security risks.