bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting Hemispheric Asymmetry in Mood Regulation: Implications for rTMS for Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Gibson Benjamin C. , Vakhtin Andrei , Clark Vincent P. , Abbott Christopher C. , Quinn Davin K.
Published: January 2022

Hemispheric differences in emotional processing have been observed for over half a century, leading to multiple theories classifying differing roles for the right and left hemisphere in emotional processing. Conventional acceptance of these theories has had lasting clinical implications for the treatment of mood disorders. The theory that the left hemisphere is broadly associated with positively valenced emotions, while the right hemisphere is broadly associated with negatively valenced emotions, drove the initial application of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Subsequent rTMS research has led to improved response rates while adhering to the same initial paradigm of administering excitatory rTMS to the left prefrontal cortex (PFC) and inhibitory rTMS to the right PFC. However, accumulating evidence points to greater similarities in emotional regulation between the hemispheres than previously theorized, with potential implications for how rTMS for MDD may be delivered and optimized in the near future. This review will catalog the range of measurement modalities that have been used to explore and describe hemispheric differences, and highlight evidence that updates and advances knowledge of TMS targeting and parameter selection. Future directions for research are proposed that may advance precision medicine and improve efficacy of TMS for MDD.
Plasma hPG80 (Circulating Progastrin) as a Novel Prognostic Biomarker for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Dupuy Marie , Iltache Sarah , Rivière Benjamin , Prieur Alexandre , Pageaux George Philippe , Bedoya José Ursic , Faure Stéphanie , Guillaumée Heloïse , Assenat Eric
Published: January 2022

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is the most widely used biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis. However, AFP is not useful in establishing a prognosis for patients with a tumor in the early stages. hPG80 (circulating progastrin) is a tumor promoting peptide present in the blood of patients with various cancers, including HCC. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic value of plasma hPG80 in patients with HCC, alone or in combination with AFP. A total of 168 HCC patients were tested prospectively for hPG80 and analyzed retrospectively. The prognostic impact of hPG80 and AFP levels on patient survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests. hPG80 was detected in 84% of HCC patients. There was no correlation between hPG80 and AFP levels in the training and validation cohorts. Both cohorts showed higher sensitivity of hPG80 compared to AFP, especially at early stages. Patients with high hPG80 (hPG80+) levels (optimal cutoff value 4.5 pM) had significantly lower median overall survival (OS) compared to patients with low hPG80 (hPG80−) levels (12.4 months versus not reached respectively, p < 0.0001). Further stratification by combining hPG80 and AFP levels (cutoff 100 ng/mL) improved prognosis in particular for those patients with low AFP level (hPG80−/AFP+ and hPG80−/AFP−, 13.4 months versus not reached respectively, p < 0.0001 and hPG80+/AFP+ and hPG80+/AFP−, 5.7 versus 26 months respectively, p < 0.0001). This was corroborated when analyses were performed using the BCLC staging especially at early stages. Our findings show that hPG80 could serve as a new prognostic biomarker in HCC. Used in combination with AFP, it improves the stratification of the patients in good and poor prognosis, especially for those patients with negative AFP and early-stage HCC.
Heat Modulation of Intrinsic MR Contrasts for Tumor Characterization
Authors: Tarasek Matthew , Akin Oguz , Roberts Jeannette , Foo Thomas , Yeo Desmond
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: The longitudinal relaxation time (T1), transverse relaxation time (T2), water proton chemical shift (CS), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) are MR quantities that change with temperature. In this work, we investigate heat-induced intrinsic MR contrast types to add salient information to conventional MR imaging to improve tumor characterization. (2) Methods: Imaging tests were performed in vivo using different rat tumor models. The rats were cooled/heated to steady-state temperatures from 26–36 °C and quantitative measurements of T1, T2, and ADC were obtained. Temperature maps were measured using the proton resonance frequency shift (PRFS) method during the heating and cooling cycles. (3) Results: All tissue samples show repeatable relaxation parameter measurement over a range of 26–36 °C. Most notably, we observed a more than 3.3% change in T1/°C in breast adenocarcinoma tumors compared to a 1% change in benign breast fibroadenoma lesions. In addition, we note distinct values of T2/°C change for rat prostate carcinoma cells compared to benign tissue. (4) Conclusion: These findings suggest the possibility of improving MR imaging visualization and characterization of tissue with heat-induced contrast types. Specifically, these results suggest that the temporal thermal responses of heat-sensitive MR imaging contrast mechanisms in different tissue types contain information for improved (i) characterization of tumor/tissue boundaries for diagnostic and therapy purposes, and (ii) characterization of salient behavior of tissues, e.g., malignant versus benign tumors.
Synthesis and Validation of a Bioinspired Catechol-Functionalized Pt(IV) Prodrug for Preclinical Intranasal Glioblastoma Treatment
Authors: Mao Xiaoman , Wu Shuang , Calero-Pérez Pilar , Candiota Ana P. , Alfonso Paula , Bruna Jordi , Yuste Victor J. , Lorenzo Julia , Novio Fernando , Ruiz-Molina Daniel
Published: January 2022

Glioblastoma is the most malignant and frequently occurring type of brain tumors in adults. Its treatment has been greatly hampered by the difficulty to achieve effective therapeutic concentration in the tumor sites due to its location and the blood–brain barrier. Intranasal administration has emerged as an alternative for drug delivery into the brain though mucopenetration, and rapid mucociliary clearance still remains an issue to be solved before its implementation. To address these issues, based on the intriguing properties of proteins secreted by mussels, polyphenol and catechol functionalization has already been used to promote mucopenetration, intranasal delivery and transport across the blood–brain barrier. Thus, herein we report the synthesis and study of complex 1, a Pt(IV) prodrug functionalized with catecholic moieties. This complex considerably augmented solubility in contrast to cisplatin and showed a comparable cytotoxic effect on cisplatin in HeLa, 1Br3G and GL261 cells. Furthermore, preclinical in vivo therapy using the intranasal administration route suggested that it can reach the brain and inhibit the growth of orthotopic GL261 glioblastoma. These results open new opportunities for catechol-bearing anticancer prodrugs in the treatment for brain tumors via intranasal administration.
The Alliance AMBUSH Trial: Rationale and Design
Authors: Mahajan Anita , Shih Helen , Penas-Prado Marta , Ligon Keith , Aldape Kenneth , Hu Leland S. , Loughan Ashlee R. , Basso Michael R. , Leeper Heather E. , Nahed Brian V. , Stott Shannon L. , Geyer Susan , Giannini Caterina , Galanis Evanthia
Published: January 2022

Unlike medulloblastoma (MB) in children, robust prospective trials have not taken place for older patients due to the low incidence of MB in adults and adolescent and young adults (AYA). Current MB treatment paradigms for older patients have been extrapolated from the pediatric experience even though questions exist about the applicability of these approaches. Clinical and molecular classification of MB now provides better prognostication and is being incorporated in pediatric therapeutic trials. It has been established that genomic alterations leading to activation of the sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway occur in approximately 60% of MB in patients over the age of 16 years. Within this cohort, protein patched homolog (PTCH) and smoothened (SMO) mutations are commonly found. Among patients whose tumors harbor the SHH molecular signature, it is estimated that over 80% of patients could respond to SHH pathway inhibitors. Given the advances in the understanding of molecular subgroups and the lack of robust clinical data for adult/AYA MB, the Alliance for Clinical Trial in Oncology group developed the AMBUSH trial: Comprehensive Management of AYA and Adult Patients with Medulloblastoma or Pineal Embryonal Tumors with a Randomized Placebo Controlled Phase II Focusing on Sonic Hedgehog Pathway Inhibition in SHH Subgroup Patients (Adult & Adolescent MedulloBlastoma Using Sonic Hedgehog Trial). This trial will enroll patients 18 years of age or older with MB (any molecular subgroup and risk stratification) or pineal embryonal tumor. Patients will be assigned to one of three cohorts: (1) average risk non-SHH-MB, (2) average risk SHH-MB, and (3) high risk MB or pineal embryonal tumors. All patients will receive protocol-directed comprehensive treatment with radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Patients with SHH-MB in cohort 1 will be randomized to a smoothened inhibitor or placebo as maintenance therapy for one year.
The Evolution of Ovarian Carcinoma Subclassification
Authors: Köbel Martin , Kang Eun Young
Published: January 2022

The phenotypically informed histotype classification remains the mainstay of ovarian carcinoma subclassification. Histotypes of ovarian epithelial neoplasms have evolved with each edition of the WHO Classification of Female Genital Tumours. The current fifth edition (2020) lists five principal histotypes: high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), low-grade serous carcinoma (LGSC), mucinous carcinoma (MC), endometrioid carcinoma (EC) and clear cell carcinoma (CCC). Since histotypes arise from different cells of origin, cell lineage-specific diagnostic immunohistochemical markers and histotype-specific oncogenic alterations can confirm the morphological diagnosis. A four-marker immunohistochemical panel (WT1/p53/napsin A/PR) can distinguish the five principal histotypes with high accuracy, and additional immunohistochemical markers can be used depending on the diagnostic considerations. Histotypes are further stratified into molecular subtypes and assessed with predictive biomarker tests. HGSCs have recently been subclassified based on mechanisms of chromosomal instability, mRNA expression profiles or individual candidate biomarkers. ECs are composed of the same molecular subtypes (POLE-mutated/mismatch repair-deficient/no specific molecular profile/p53-abnormal) with the same prognostic stratification as their endometrial counterparts. Although methylation analyses and gene expression and sequencing showed at least two clusters, the molecular subtypes of CCCs remain largely elusive to date. Mutational and immunohistochemical data on LGSC have suggested five molecular subtypes with prognostic differences. While our understanding of the molecular composition of ovarian carcinomas has significantly advanced and continues to evolve, the need for treatment options suitable for these alterations is becoming more obvious. Further preclinical studies using histotype-defined and molecular subtype-characterized model systems are needed to expand the therapeutic spectrum for women diagnosed with ovarian carcinomas.
Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: How Should We Improve the Thresholds?
Authors: Shimamura Tsuyoshi , Goto Ryoichi , Watanabe Masaaki , Kawamura Norio , Takada Yasutsugu
Published: January 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third highest cause of cancer-related mortality, and liver transplantation is the ideal treatment for this disease. The Milan criteria provided the opportunity for HCC patients to undergo LT with favorable outcomes and have been the international gold standard and benchmark. With the accumulation of data, however, the Milan criteria are not regarded as too restrictive. After the implementation of the Milan criteria, many extended criteria have been proposed, which increases the limitations regarding the morphological tumor burden, and incorporates the tumor’s biological behavior using surrogate markers. The paradigm for the patient selection for LT appears to be shifting from morphologic criteria to a combination of biologic, histologic, and morphologic criteria, and to the establishment of a model for predicting post-transplant recurrence and outcomes. This review article aims to characterize the various patient selection criteria for LT, with reference to several surrogate markers for the biological behavior of HCC (e.g., AFP, PIVKA-II, NLR, 18F-FDG PET/CT, liquid biopsy), and the response to locoregional therapy. Furthermore, the allocation rules in each country and the present evidence on the role of down-staging large tumors are addressed.
Clinical-Pathological and Molecular Evaluation of 451 NIFTP Patients from a Single Referral Center
Authors: Vignali Paola , Proietti Agnese , Macerola Elisabetta , Poma Anello Marcello , Torregrossa Liborio , Ugolini Clara , Basolo Alessio , Matrone Antonio , Rago Teresa , Santini Ferruccio , Elisei Rossella , Materazzi Gabriele , Basolo Fulvio
Published: January 2022

Background: Non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasms with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTPs) were introduced in thyroid pathology in 2016. NIFTPs are a group of follicular neoplasm with an indolent behaviour. In this study, we gathered a large retrospective cohort of NIFTPs and compared those presenting as solitary lesions and NIFTPs found in multifocal setting. Methods: A retrospective search of NIFTPs was performed, and the clinico-pathological features were recorded. For a subgroup of patients, pre-surgical ultrasound (US) evaluation, cytological diagnosis, and molecular analysis were available. Results: We collected 451 NIFTPs; 254 (56.3%) were truly solitary tumours, while 197 coexisted with one or more NIFTP/cancer. Contrasting unifocal and multifocal settings, NIFTPs size was the only significantly different parameter. Preoperatively, NIFTP nodules mostly showed low-risk US characteristics, indeterminate cytology and a RAS-like molecular profile. Conclusion: NIFTPs often coexist with collateral thyroid tumours. However, no clinical-pathological differences can be observed between solitary and “multifocal” NIFTPs. Despite the well-established clinical indolence of NIFTP, a careful monitoring of the contralateral lobe should not be excluded.
Treatment of Locally Advanced Merkel Cell Carcinoma—A Multi-Center Study
Authors: Dudzisz-Sledz Monika , Sobczuk Paweł , Kozak Katarzyna , Switaj Tomasz , Kosela-Paterczyk Hanna , Czarnecka Anna Malgorzata , Falkowski Slawomir , Rogala Paweł , Morysinski Tadeusz , Spalek Mateusz Jacek , Zdzienicki Marcin , Goryn Tomasz , Zietek Marcin , Cybulska-Stopa Bozena , Klek Stanisław , Kaminska-Winciorek Grazyna , Ziolkowska Barbara , Szumera-Cieckiewicz Anna , Rutkowski Piotr
Published: January 2022

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive skin cancer with a high risk of recurrence and poor prognosis. The treatment of locally advanced disease involves surgery and radiotherapy. To analyze real-life treatment patterns and clinical outcomes, we conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 161 MCC patients treated with curative intent in four oncological centers in Poland. The median age at diagnosis was 72 years (30–94); 49.7% were male. Lymph node (LN) involvement at diagnosis was found in 26.9% of patients. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) was performed in 36.5% of patients (positive in 10.5%), and 51.9% of patients received perioperative treatment. The relapse rate was 38.3%. With the median follow-up of 2.3 years, the median disease-free survival (DFS) was not reached, and the 1-year rate was 65%. The negative independent risk factors for DFS were male gender, metastases in LN at diagnosis, no SLNB in patients without clinical nodal metastases, and no perioperative radiotherapy. The estimated median overall survival (OS) was 6.9 years (95% CI 4.64–9.15). The negative independent risk factors for OS were male gender, age above 70, metastases in LN at diagnosis, and no SLNB in patients without clinical nodal metastases. Our results confirm that the MCC treatment should be conducted in an experienced multidisciplinary team; however, the outcomes are still unsatisfactory.
Solid Acid Catalysts for the Hock Cleavage of Hydroperoxides
Authors: Drönner Jan , Hausoul Peter , Palkovits Regina , Eisenacher Matthias
Published: January 2022

The oxidation of cumene and following cleavage of cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) with sulfuric acid (Hock rearrangement) is still, by far, the dominant synthetic route to produce phenol. In 2020, the global phenol market reached a value of 23.3 billion US$ with a projected compound annual growth rate of 3.4% for 2020–2025. From ecological and economical viewpoints, the key step of this process is the cleavage of CHP. One sought-after way to likewise reduce energy consumption and waste production of the process is to substitute sulfuric acid with heterogeneous catalysts. Different types of zeolites, silicon-based clays, heteropoly acids, and ion exchange resins have been investigated and tested in various studies. For every type of these solid acid catalysts, several materials were found that show high yield and selectivity to phenol. In this mini-review, first a brief introduction and overview on the Hock process is given. Next, the mechanism, kinetics, and safety aspects are summarized and discussed. Following, the different types of heterogeneous catalysts and their performance as catalyst in the Hock process are illustrated. Finally, the different approaches to substitute sulfuric acid in the synthetic route to produce phenol are briefly concluded and a short outlook is given.
Electrocatalysts Based on Novel Carbon Forms for the Oxidation of Sulphite
Authors: Pchelarov George , Uzun Dzhamal , Vassilev Sasho , Razkazova-Velkova Elena , Dimitrov Ognian , Tsanev Aleksandar , Gigova Adriana , Shukova Nadezhda , Petrov Konstantin
Published: January 2022

Described herewith is an electrochemical method to decontaminate sulphur compounds. Studies were carried out of sulphites (SO32−) oxidation on a range of anode catalysts. The electrocatalysts were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, XRD, XPS and BET. Polarization curves were recorded of electrodes incorporating lyophilized higher fullerenes and manganese oxides. The experiments showed that lyophilized higher fullerenes and C60/C70 fullerene catalysts in conjunction with manganese oxides electrochemically convert sulphites (SO32−) to sulphates (SO42−). The oxidation products do not poison the electrodes. The XPS analysis shows that the catalysts incorporating DWCNTs, MWCNTs and higher fullerenes have a higher concentration of sp3C carbon bonding leading to higher catalytic activity. It is ascertained that higher fullerenes play a major role in the synthesis of more effective catalysts. The electrodes built by incorporating lyophilized catalysts containing higher fullerenes and manganese oxides are shown as most promising in the effective electrochemical decontamination of industrial and natural wastewaters.
Recent Advances of Photocatalytic Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol
Authors: Shinde Gajanan Y. , Mote Abhishek S. , Gawande Manoj B.
Published: January 2022

Constantly increasing hydrocarbon fuel combustion along with high levels of carbon dioxide emissions has given rise to a global energy crisis and environmental alterations. Photocatalysis is an effective technique for addressing this energy and environmental crisis. Clean and renewable solar energy is a very favourable path for photocatalytic CO2 reduction to value-added products to tackle problems of energy and the environment. The synthesis of various products such as CH4, CH3OH, CO, EtOH, etc., has been expanded through the photocatalytic reduction of CO2. Among these products, methanol is one of the most important and highly versatile chemicals widely used in industry and in day-to-day life. This review emphasizes the recent progress of photocatalytic CO2 hydrogenation to CH3OH. In particular, Metal organic frameworks (MOFs), mixed-metal oxide, carbon, TiO2 and plasmonic-based nanomaterials are discussed for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to methanol. Finally, a summary and perspectives on this emerging field are provided.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinases and CTD Phosphatases in Cell Cycle Transcriptional Control: Conservation across Eukaryotic Kingdoms and Uniqueness to Plants
Authors: Zheng Zhi-Liang
Published: January 2022

Cell cycle control is vital for cell proliferation in all eukaryotic organisms. The entire cell cycle can be conceptually separated into four distinct phases, Gap 1 (G1), DNA synthesis (S), G2, and mitosis (M), which progress sequentially. The precise control of transcription, in particular, at the G1 to S and G2 to M transitions, is crucial for the synthesis of many phase-specific proteins, to ensure orderly progression throughout the cell cycle. This mini-review highlights highly conserved transcriptional regulators that are shared in budding yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), Arabidopsis thaliana model plant, and humans, which have been separated for more than a billion years of evolution. These include structurally and/or functionally conserved regulators cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), RNA polymerase II C-terminal domain (CTD) phosphatases, and the classical versus shortcut models of Pol II transcriptional control. A few of CDKs and CTD phosphatases counteract to control the Pol II CTD Ser phosphorylation codes and are considered critical regulators of Pol II transcriptional process from initiation to elongation and termination. The functions of plant-unique CDKs and CTD phosphatases in relation to cell division are also briefly summarized. Future studies towards testing a cooperative transcriptional mechanism, which is proposed here and involves sequence-specific transcription factors and the shortcut model of Pol II CTD code modulation, across the three eukaryotic kingdoms will reveal how individual organisms achieve the most productive, large-scale transcription of phase-specific genes required for orderly progression throughout the entire cell cycle.
Wnt Signaling Rescues Amyloid Beta-Induced Gut Stem Cell Loss
Authors: Kaur Prameet , Chua Ellora Hui Zhen , Lim Wen Kin , Liu Jiarui , Harmston Nathan , Tolwinski Nicholas S.
Published: January 2022

Patients with Alzheimer’s disease suffer from a decrease in brain mass and a prevalence of amyloid-β plaques. These plaques are thought to play a role in disease progression, but their exact role is not entirely established. We developed an optogenetic model to induce amyloid-β intracellular oligomerization to model distinct disease etiologies. Here, we examine the effect of Wnt signaling on amyloid in an optogenetic, Drosophila gut stem cell model. We observe that Wnt activation rescues the detrimental effects of amyloid expression and oligomerization. We analyze the gene expression changes downstream of Wnt that contribute to this rescue and find changes in aging related genes, protein misfolding, metabolism, and inflammation. We propose that Wnt expression reduces inflammation through repression of Toll activating factors. We confirm that chronic Toll activation reduces lifespan, but a decrease in the upstream activator Persephone extends it. We propose that the protective effect observed for lithium treatment functions, at least in part, through Wnt activation and the inhibition of inflammation.
Experimental Study on the Mechanical Behavior of Orthodontic Arches Exposed to the Environment in the Oral Cavity
Authors: Zalana Alexandru Stefan , Dămășaru Maria , Moraru Edgar , Rizescu Ciprian Ion , Neagoe (Chelărescu) Simina , Păcurar Mariana
Published: January 2022

Background. The arches used in orthodontic therapy are subject to increasing physical and chemical stresses. Purpose of the study: This in vitro experimental study aims to highlight and compare the main mechanical properties of orthodontic arches. Materials and Methods: We used 40 springs, 2 materials, 20 of Ni-Cr and 20 of Co-Cr, of different diameters, 0.7 mm 0.8 mm and 1.2 mm, subjected to the environment of artificial saliva and artificial saliva with cola for one month and two months, respectively. Five springs of each material were tested at different times: T0, before application in the oral cavity, then at time T1, T2, T3, T4. Three lengths of the lever arm were considered for bending forces acting on the springs (dental wires). These lengths were 15, 10 and 5 mm. The wires were tested under the action of bending forces on a Hans Schmidt HV 500N stand, obtaining the characteristics of the wires: deformation-force-time. Results: Graphical determinations show that the degree of deformation of the wires is influenced by the applied force, diameter and obviously by the immersion time, respectively by the type of solution in which the springs were immersed. Conclusions: The final degree of bending is higher for Co-Cr arcs than for Ni-Cr at all three dimensions.
Spanish Physical Education Teachers’ Perceptions about Their Preparation for Inclusive Education
Authors: Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Manzano-Redondo Fernando , Adsuar José Carmelo , Acevedo-Duque Ángel , Gomez-Paniagua Santiago , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina
Published: January 2022

The prevailing rights and quality of life approaches call for the inclusion of people with diversity and/or disabilities in society, including their participation in the educational system. Therefore, different institutions are urging countries to take action to ensure that students with disabilities receive the accommodations and supports they need within the framework of inclusive education. The idiosyncrasies of physical education (PE) classes can be an opportunity to encourage the participation and inclusion of these students. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the PE teachers’ perception about their preparation to address inclusive education. The study involved 260 Spanish primary and secondary PE teachers who answered a sociodemographic questionnaire, three dichotomic questions about their initial and ongoing preparation and the Evaluation of Teacher Training for Inclusion Questionnaire (CEFI-R). PE teachers believe that they have not received the necessary initial preparation and they consider it important to assist in ongoing courses to address their students’ diverse needs. PE teachers are aware of the importance of inclusive education and perceive greater difficulties in secondary education. PE teachers also showed a good predisposition to teach students with special educational support needs, especially found in primary school teachers through the CEFI-R Dimension 1, with statistically significant differences.
Positive Associations between Body Mass Index and Hematological Parameters, Including RBCs, WBCs, and Platelet Counts, in Korean Children and Adolescents
Authors: Jeong Hwal Rim , Lee Hae Sang , Shim Young Suk , Hwang Jin Soon
Published: January 2022

We conducted this study to investigate the associations between hematological parameters and obesity in children and adolescents. The levels of hematological parameters (including white blood cells [WBCs], red blood cells [RBCs], hemoglobin [Hb], hematocrit [Hct], and platelets) of 7997 participants (4259 boys and 3738 girls) aged 10–18 years were recorded. The parameters were compared among participants with normal weight, overweight, and obesity. Significantly higher mean levels of WBCs (7.16 vs. 6.16 × 103/mm3, p < 0.001), RBCs (4.90 vs. 4.82 × 106/mm3, p < 0.001), Hb (14.07 vs. 13.99 g/dL, p < 0.05), Hct (42.31 vs. 41.91%, p < 0.001), and platelets (311.87 vs. 282.66 × 103/mm3, p < 0.001) were found in the obese than normal weight group, respectively, after adjusting for body mass index (BMI) and sex. BMI SDS had significant positive associations with the levels of WBCs (β = 0.275, p < 0.001), RBCs (β = 0.028, p < 0.001), Hb (β = 0.034, p < 0.001), Hct (β = 0.152, p < 0.001), and platelets (β = 8.372, p < 0.001) after adjusting for age, sex, and socioeconomic factors in a multiple linear regression analysis. A higher BMI was associated with elevated WBC, RBC, Hb, Hct, and platelet counts in children and adolescents. Because higher levels of hematological parameters are potential risk factors for obesity-related diseases, hematological parameters should be evaluated in obese children and adolescents.
Perception of Climate Change Effects over Time and the Contribution of Different Areas of Knowledge to Its Understanding and Mitigation
Authors: Nunes Leonel J. R. , Ferreira Dias Marta
Published: January 2022

Climate change is a current subject that is attracting more and more attention, whether from academics or the public. This public attention is mainly due to the frequently published news in the media, reporting consequences caused by extreme weather events. On the other hand, scientists are looking into the origins of the phenomenon, seeking answers that will somehow help to mitigate the effects of climate change. This article presents a review of some of the different possible approaches taken on climate change, to demonstrate the need to build a multidisciplinary perspective of the problem. It is understood that only the integration of different perspectives, presented by different areas of knowledge, such as natural sciences, social and economic sciences and human sciences, will make it possible to build modeling and predictive scenarios, which realistically may represent the development of the earth system under the influence of climate change. In this way, with the support of all areas of knowledge, the creation of forecast models where all possible changes to the different variables of the earth system may be simulated will allow for the mitigation measures presented to be analyzed in advance and, thus, prioritized. This review shows that a multi and interdisciplinary approach, based on the knowledge acquired from different knowledge and science fields, presents itself as the way to solve this global and complex problem caused by climate change.
A Physically Consistent Model for Forced Torsional Vibrations of Automotive Driveshafts
Authors: Bugaru Mihai , Vasile Andrei
Published: January 2022

The aim of this research was to design a physically consistent model for the forced torsional vibrations of automotive driveshafts that considered aspects of the following phenomena: excitation due to the transmission of the combustion engine through the gearbox, excitation due to the road geometry, the quasi-isometry of the automotive driveshaft, the effect of nonuniformity of the inertial moment with respect to the longitudinal axis of the tulip–tripod joint and of the bowl–balls–inner race joint, the torsional rigidity, and the torsional damping of each joint. To resolve the equations of motion describing the forced torsional nonlinear parametric vibrations of automotive driveshafts, a variational approach that involves Hamilton’s principle was used, which considers the isometric nonuniformity, where it is known that the joints of automotive driveshafts are quasi-isometric in terms of the twist angle, even if, in general, they are considered CVJs (constant velocity joints). This effect realizes the link between the terms for the torsional vibrations between the elements of the driveshaft: tripode–tulip, midshaft, and bowl–balls–inner race joint elements. The induced torsional loads (as gearbox torsional moments that enter the driveshaft through the tulip axis) can be of harmonic type, while the reactive torsional loads (as reactive torsional moments that enter the driveshaft through the bowl axis) are impulsive. These effects induce the resulting nonlinear dynamic behavior. Also considered was the effect of nonuniformity on the axial moment of inertia of the tripod–tulip element as well as on the axial moment of inertia of the bowl–balls–inner race joint element, that vary with the twist angle of each element. This effect induces parametric dynamic behavior. Moreover, the torsional rigidity was taken into consideration, as was the torsional damping for each joint of the driveshaft: tripod–joint and bowl–balls–inner race joint. This approach was used to obtain a system of equations of nonlinear partial derivatives that describes the torsional vibrations of the driveshaft as nonlinear parametric dynamic behavior. This model was used to compute variation in the natural frequencies of torsion in the global tulip (a given imposed geometry) using the angle between the tulip–midshaft for an automotive driveshaft designed for heavy-duty SUVs as well as the characteristic amplitude frequency in the region of principal parametric resonance together the method of harmonic balance for the steady-state forced torsional nonlinear vibration of the driveshaft. This model of dynamic behavior for the driveshaft can be used during the early stages of design as well in predicting the durability of automotive driveshafts. In addition, it is important that this model be added in the design algorithm for predicting the comfort elements of the automotive environment to adequately account for this kind of dynamic behavior that induces excitations in the car structure.
New Design and Optimization of a Jet Pump to Boost Heavy Oil Production
Authors: Toteff Jens , Asuaje Miguel , Noguera Ricardo
Published: January 2022

In the Oil and Gas industry, installing pipe loops is a well-known hydraulic practice to increase oil pipeline capacities. Nevertheless, pipe loops could promote an unfavorable phenomenon known as fouling. That means that in a heavy oil-water mixture gathering system with low flow velocities, an oil-water stratified flow pattern will appear. In consequence, due to high viscosity, the oil stick on the pipe, causing a reduction of the effective diameter, reducing handled fluids production, and increasing energy consumption. As jet pumps increase total handled flow, increase the fluid velocities, and promote the homogenous mixture of oil and water, this type of pump could result attractive compared to other multiphase pump systems in reactivating heavy crude oil transport lines. Jet pumps are highly reliable, robust equipment with modest maintenance, ideal for many applications, mainly in the oil and gas industry. Nevertheless, their design method and performance analysis are rarely known in the literature and keep a high experimental component similar to most pumping equipment. This paper proposes a numerical study and the optimization of a booster multiphase jet pump system installed in a heavy oil conventional loop of a gathering system. First, the optimization of a traditionally designed jet pump, combining CFD simulation and optimization algorithms using commercials software (ANSYS CFX® and PIPEIT® tool), has been carried out. This method allowed evaluating the effect of multiple geometrical and operational variables that influence the global performance of the pump to run more than 400 geometries automatically in a reduced time frame. The optimized pump offers a substantial improvement over the original concerning total flow capacity (+17%), energy, and flow distribution. Then, the effect of the three jet pump plugin configurations in a heavy oil conventional trunkline loop was analyzed. Simulations were carried out for different driving fluid pressures and compared against a traditional pipeline loop’s performance. Optimum plugin connection increases fluid production by 30%. Finally, a new eccentric jet pump geometry has been proposed to improve exit velocities and pressure fields. This eccentric jet pump with the best connection was analyzed over the same conditions as the concentric optimized one. An improvement of 2% on handled fluid was achieved consistently with the observed uniform velocity field at the exit of the pump. A better total fluid distribution between the main and the loop line is obtained, handling around half of the complete fluid each.
Multi-Locus Phylogenetic Analyses of the Almadablennius Clade Reveals Inconsistencies with the Present Taxonomy of Blenniid Fishes
Authors: Vecchioni Luca , Ching Andrew C. , Marrone Federico , Arculeo Marco , Hundt Peter J. , Simons Andrew M.
Published: January 2022

We used a multi-locus phylogenetic approach (i.e., combining both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA fragments) to address some long-standing taxonomic inconsistencies within the diverse fish clade of Combtooth Blennies (Blenniidae—unranked clade Almadablennius). The obtained phylogenetic trees revealed some major inconsistencies in the current taxonomy of Parablennini, such as the paraphyletic status of the Salaria and Parablennius genera, casting some doubt regarding their actual phylogenetic relationship. Furthermore, a scarce-to-absent genetic differentiation was observed among the three species belonging to the genus Chasmodes. This study provides an updated taxonomy and phylogeny of the former genus Salaria, ascribing some species to the new genus Salariopsis gen. nov., and emphasizes the need for a revision of the genus Parablennius.
Fatty Acid Changes in Nearshore Phytoplankton under Anthropogenic Impact as a Biodiversity Risk Factor for the World’s Deepest Lake Baikal
Authors: Nikonova Alyona Alexandrovna , Shishlyannikov Sergey Mikhailovich , Volokitina Nadezhda Antonovna , Galachyants Yuri Pavlovich , Bukin Yuri Sergeevich , Blinov Vadim Vasil’evich , Gnatovsky Ruslan Yur’evich , Vorobyeva Svetlana Semyonovna
Published: January 2022

In this study, we present results on fatty acid analysis of phytoplankton of Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake, which differs from other lakes by its oceanic features. Since we used a large-mesh net, the net sample phytoplankton were primarily represented by the large elongated diatom Synedra acus. subsp. radians (Kützing) Skabichevskij. The similar algae composition of net samples of spring season phytoplankton collected at different sites of the lake allows us to compare results of the fatty acid analysis of these samples. The phytoplankton diversity of the sedimentation samples was contrary represented by 32 algae species. There are clear changes in the fatty acid composition of net phytoplankton exposed to anthropogenic impacts of varying intensity. The content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in phytoplankton collected from central stations (pelagic stations at a distance of ~10–30 km from the shoreline) without anthropogenic impact was higher by up to 15% than phytoplankton collected from nearshore stations (littoral stations at a distance of ~0.01–0.05 km from the shoreline) and offshore stations (pelagic stations at a distance of ~3 km from the shoreline). The interlaboratory precision of fatty acid determination of phytoplankton is estimated as ≤10%. We found high content of the lipid peroxidation marker (80–340 μg g−1 of dry weight) in phytoplankton from nearshore and offshore stations with intensive anthropogenic impact. In phytoplankton from central stations, we did not find any lipid peroxidation. Determination of unsaturated fatty acids, coupled with analysis of fatty acid peroxidation products, can be used to evaluate the level of anthropogenic impact in terms of ecological health and biodiversity conservation.
Comparison of Three Expanded-Spectrum Cephalosporin Hydrolysis Assays and the NG-Test CTX-M Multi Assay That Detects All CTX-M-Like Enzymes
Authors: Gonzalez Camille , Moguet Christian , Chalin Arnaud , Oueslati Saoussen , Dortet Laurent , Simon Stéphanie , Volland Hervé , Naas Thierry
Published: January 2022

Rapid detection of expanded-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC) hydrolysing enzymes is crucial to implement infection control measures and antibiotic stewardship. Here, we have evaluated three biochemical ESC hydrolysis assays (ESBL NDP test, β-LACTA™ test, LFIA-CTX assay) and the NG-Test® CTX-M MULTI that detects CTX-M enzymes, on 93 well-characterized Gram-negative isolates, including 60 Enterobacterales, 21 Pseudomonas spp. and 12 Acinetobacter spp. The performances were good for all three hydrolysis assays, with the LFIA-CTX being slightly more sensitive and specific on the tested panel of isolates especially with Enterobacterales, without ambiguous results. This study showed that LFIA-CTX may be used for the detection of ESC hydrolysis as a competitive alternative to already available assays (β-LACTA™ test and ESBL NDP test) without any specific equipment and reduced hands-on-time. The lateral flow immunoassay NG-Test® CTX-M MULTI has proven to be a useful, easy, rapid, and reliable confirmatory test in Enterobacterales for detection of CTX-M-type ESBLs, which account for most of the resistance mechanisms leading to ESC resistance in Enterobacterales, but it misses rare ESC hydrolysing β-lactamases (AmpC, minor ESBLs, and carbapenemases). Combining it with the LFIA-CTX assay would yield an assay detecting the most frequently-encountered ESBLs (CTX-M-like β-lactamases) together with ESC hydrolysis.
Prebiotic Aggregates (Tissues) Emerging from Reaction–Diffusion: Formation Time, Configuration Entropy and Optimal Spatial Dimension
Authors: Flores Juan Cesar
Published: January 2022

For the formation of a proto-tissue, rather than a protocell, the use of reactant dynamics in a finite spatial region is considered. The framework is established on the basic concepts of replication, diversity, and heredity. Heredity, in the sense of the continuity of information and alike traits, is characterized by the number of equivalent patterns conferring viability against selection processes. In the case of structural parameters and the diffusion coefficient of ribonucleic acid, the formation time ranges between a few years to some decades, depending on the spatial dimension (fractional or not). As long as equivalent patterns exist, the configuration entropy of proto-tissues can be defined and used as a practical tool. Consequently, the maximal diversity and weak fluctuations, for which proto-tissues can develop, occur at the spatial dimension 2.5.
Mathematical and Experimental Science Education from the School Garden: A Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Practice
Authors: Monferrer Lidón , Lorenzo-Valentín Gil , Santágueda-Villanueva María
Published: January 2022

The much-needed interest in promoting a healthy lifestyle among school-age students has found a context for development: school gardens. There are numerous studies where using gardens as a teaching–learning context also improves students’ performance in the experimental sciences. In this study, we proposed another interest that sets it apart and adds motivation: combining curricular mathematics with experimental science content in this context. The search for possible studies in the scientific literature has gave rise to the review presented herein. From this review, we obtained 21 studies, from which we extracted a series of categories: whether research was undertaken and with which tools; which curricular contents were covered and the impact produced; the ages of the participants and duration of the project; and, finally, whether the garden was cultivated. The main conclusion of this search was the lack of a clear line of research linking school gardens, the experimental sciences, and mathematics, in addition to the scant presence of studies framed in this context. For that reason, we send a call to action to the scientific community encouraging the interdisciplinarity of the two aforementioned subjects within the context of school gardens.
Examining Technology Acceptance in Learning and Teaching at a Historically Disadvantaged University in South Africa through the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Ndebele Clever , Mbodila Munienge
Published: January 2022

The exponential growth in the use of technology for learning and teaching in the higher education sector has imposed pressure on academics to embrace technology in their teaching. The present study sought to examine factors underlying technology acceptance in learning and teaching at a historically disadvantaged university in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Premised on the mixed methods approach and undergirded by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), both a pre-coded and an open-ended questionnaire were used to collect data. Data from the pre-coded questionnaire were analysed through the descriptive statistical approach. The qualitative data from the open-ended questionnaire were analysed through content analysis. The study found that most academic staff believe and see the value that ICTs bring in their teaching and learning practices. In addition, they are aware that technology use in education improves learning and teaching, and they are willing to embrace the use of technology to improve their practices. Based on the findings, we recommend intensification of lecturer training in the use of technology for teaching and learning to enable them to embrace it in their teaching practice. Furthermore, the institution needs to put in place support systems for academic staff to empower them to have continuous access to devices and internet connection for technology integration in teaching and learning. We recommend establishment of e-learning communities of practise in the university that will allow lecturers to assist each other as well as share best practices in the use of technology for teaching and learning.
Short Circuit and Broken Rotor Faults Severity Discrimination in Induction Machines Using Non-invasive Optical Fiber Technology
Authors: Alalibo Belema P. , Ji Bing , Cao Wenping
Published: January 2022

Multiple techniques continue to be simultaneously utilized in the condition monitoring and fault detection of electric machines, as there is still no single technique that provides an all-round solution to fault finding in these machines. Having various machine fault-detection techniques is useful in allowing the ability to combine two or more in a manner that will provide a more comprehensive application-dependent condition-monitoring solution; especially, given the increasing role these machines are expected to play in man’s transition to a more sustainable environment, where many more electric machines will be required. This paper presents a novel non-invasive optical fiber using a stray flux technique for the condition monitoring and fault detection of induction machines. A giant magnetostrictive transducer, made of terfenol-D, was bonded onto a fiber Bragg grating, to form a composite FBG-T sensor, which utilizes the machines’ stray flux to determine the internal condition of the machine. Three machine conditions were investigated: healthy, broken rotor, and short circuit inter-turn fault. A tri-axial auto-data-logging flux meter was used to obtain stray magnetic flux measurements, and the numerical results obtained with LabView were analyzed in MATLAB. The optimal positioning and sensitivity of the FBG-T sensor were found to be transverse and 19.3810 pm/μT, respectively. The experimental results showed that the FBG-T sensor accurately distinguished each of the three machine conditions using a different order of magnitude of Bragg wavelength shifts, with the most severe fault reaching wavelength shifts of hundreds of picometres (pm) compared to the healthy and broken rotor conditions, which were in the low-to-mid-hundred and high-hundred picometre (pm) range, respectively. A fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis, performed on the measured stray flux, revealed that the spectral content of the stray flux affected the magnetostrictive behavior of the magnetic dipoles of the terfenol-D transducer, which translated into strain on the fiber gratings.