bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agronomic Efficiency of Animal-Derived Organic Fertilizers and Their Effects on Biology and Fertility of Soil: A Review
Authors: Bhunia Shantanu , Bhowmik Ankita , Mallick Rambilash , Mukherjee Joydeep
Published: April 2021

Healthy soils are essential for progressive agronomic activities. Organic fertilization positively affects agro-ecosystems by stimulating plant growth, enhancing crop productivity and fruit quality and improving soil fertility. Soil health and food security are the key elements of Organic Agriculture 3.0. Landfilling and/or open-dumping of animal wastes produced from slaughtering cause environmental pollution by releasing toxic substances, leachate and greenhouse gases. Direct application of animal carcasses to agricultural fields can adversely affect soil microbiota. Effective waste management technologies such as thermal drying, composting, vermicomposting and anaerobic digestion transform animal wastes, making them suitable for soil application by supplying soil high in organic carbon and total nitrogen. Recent agronomic practices applied recycled animal wastes as organic fertilizer in crop production. However, plants may not survive at a high fertilization rate due to the presence of labile carbon fraction in animal wastes. Therefore, dose calculation and determination of fertilizer application frequency are crucial for agronomists. Long-term animal waste-derived organic supplementation promotes copiotrophic microbial abundance due to enhanced substrate affinity, provides micronutrients to soils and protects crops from soil-borne pathogens owing to formation of plant-beneficial microbial consortia. Animal waste-derived organically fertilized soils possess higher urease and acid phosphatase activities. Furthermore, waste to fertilizer conversion is a low-energy requiring process that promotes circular bio-economy. Thus, considering the promotion of soil fertility, microbial abundance, disease protection and economic considerations application of animal-waste-derived organic fertilizer should be the mainstay for sustainable agriculture.
Evidence for Unknown Sarcocystis-Like Infection in Stranded Striped Dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) from the Ligurian Sea, Italy
Authors: Giorda Federica , Romani-Cremaschi Umberto , Marsh Antoinette E. , Grattarola Carla , Iulini Barbara , Pautasso Alessandra , Varello Katia , Berio Enrica , Gazzuola Paola , Marsili Letizia , Di Francesco Cristina E. , Goria Maria , Verna Federica , Audino Tania , Peletto Simone , Caramelli Maria , Fernández-Escobar Mercedes , Sierra Eva , Fernández Antonio , Calero-Bernal Rafael , Casalone Cristina
Published: April 2021

Two striped dolphins (SD1, SD2), stranded along the Ligurian coast of Italy, were diagnosed with a nonsuppurative meningoencephalitis associated with previously undescribed protozoan tissue cysts. As tissue cysts were morphologically different from those of Toxoplasma gondii, additional histopathological, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and biomolecular investigations were performed, aiming to fully characterize the organism. Histopathology revealed the presence of large Sarcocystis-like tissue cysts, associated with limited inflammatory lesions in all CNS areas studied. IHC was inconclusive, as positive staining with polyclonal antisera did not preclude cross-reaction with other Sarcocystidae coccidia. Applied to each animal, 11 different PCR protocols precluded a neural infection by Sarcocystis neurona, Sarcocystis falcatula, Hammondia hammondi, and Neospora caninum. T. gondii coinfection was confirmed only in dolphin SD2. Sarcocystis sp. sequences, showing the highest homology to species infecting the Bovidae family, were amplified from SD1 myocardium and SD2 skeletal muscle. The present study represents the first report of Sarcocystis-like tissue cysts in the brain of stranded cetaceans along with the first description of Sarcocystis sp. infection in muscle tissue of dolphins from the Mediterranean basin.
Replacement of Albumin by Preovulatory Oviductal Fluid in Swim-Up Sperm Preparation Method Modifies Boar Sperm Parameters and Improves In Vitro Penetration of Oocytes
Authors: Navarro-Serna Sergio , París-Oller Evelyne , Simonik Ondrej , Romar Raquel , Gadea Joaquín
Published: April 2021

More suitable and efficient methods to protect gametes from external harmful effects during in vitro handling can be achieved by adding preovulatory porcine oviductal fluid (pOF) to in vitro culture media. The objective of this study was to assess the swim-up procedure’s suitability as a sperm selection method using a medium supplemented with 1mg/mL BSA, 1% preovulatory pOF (v/v), 1% v/v pOF plus 1mg/mL BSA, and 5mg/mL BSA. After selection, various sperm parameters were studied, such as sperm recovery rate, sperm morphology, motility (by CASA), vitality, acrosome status and intracellular calcium (by flow cytometry) and ability to penetrate oocytes in vitro. Around 2% of sperm were recovered after swim-up, and the replacement of BSA by pOF showed a beneficial reduction of motility parameters calcium concentration, resulting in an increased penetration rate. The combination of albumin and oviductal fluid in the medium did not improve the sperm parameters results, whereas a high concentration of BSA increased sperm morphological abnormalities, motility, and acrosome damage, with a reduction of calcium concentration and penetration rate. In conclusion, the replacement of albumin by preovulatory oviductal fluid in the swim-up sperm preparation method modifies boar sperm parameters and improves the in vitro penetration of oocytes.
Effects of Cooking and Processing Methods on Phenolic Contents and Antioxidant and Anti-Proliferative Activities of Broccoli Florets
Authors: Kim Hee Young , Ediriweera Meran Keshawa , Boo Kyung-Hwan , Kim Chang Sook , Cho Somi Kim
Published: April 2021

We investigated the effects of cooking (steaming and microwaving) and processing (freeze-drying and hot-air-drying) methods on the antioxidant activity of broccoli florets. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•), and alkyl• free radical scavenging assays were employed to assess anti-oxidant potentials. The cytoprotective effect against oxidative damage induced by H2O2 was studied using hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells. Anti-proliferative effects were assessed in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. L-sulforaphane in broccoli extracts was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Steam and microwave treatments caused increases in total polyphenol content (TPC), whereas the total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased following steam treatment. A slight increase in TFC was observed in the microwaved samples. Extracts of all broccoli samples showed almost identical radical scavenging and cytoprotective effects. HPLC demonstrated that steamed (3 min)-freeze-dried (F-S3) and microwaved (2 min)-freeze-dried (F-M2) samples exhibited elevated levels of L-sulforaphane. In addition, the F-S3 and F-M2 extracts displayed strong anti-proliferative effects in MCF-7 cells, which correlated with L-sulforaphane content. As we observed no significant decrease in the antioxidant activity of broccoli florets, the cooking and processing methods and conditions studied here are recommended for broccoli.
Looking for Minor Phenolic Compounds in Extra Virgin Olive Oils Using Neutron and Raman Spectroscopies
Authors: Senesi Roberto , Andreani Carla , Baglioni Piero , Batista de Carvalho Luis A. E. , Licoccia Silvia , Marques Maria P. M. , Moretti Giulia , Noce Annalisa , Paolesse Roberto , Parker Stewart F. , Preziosi Enrico , Romanelli Giovanni , Romani Annalisa , Di Daniele Nicola
Published: April 2021

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is defined as a functional food as it contains numerous phenolic components with well-recognized health-beneficial properties, such as high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity. These characteristics depend on their structural/conformational behavior, which is largely determined by intra- and intermolecular H-bond interactions. While the vibrational dynamics of isolated compounds have been studied in a number of recent investigations, their signal in a real-life sample of EVOO is overwhelmed by the major constituent acids. Here, we provide a full characterization of the vibrational spectroscopic signal from commercially available EVOO samples using Inelastic Neutron Scattering (INS) and Raman spectroscopies. The spectra are dominated by CH2 vibrations, especially at about 750 cm−1 and 1300 cm−1. By comparison with the spectra from hydroxytyrosol and other minor phenolic compounds, we show that the best regions in which to look for the structure–activity information related to the minor polar compounds is at 675 and 1200 cm−1 for hydroxytyrosol, and around 450 cm−1 for all minor polar compounds used as reference, especially if a selectively deuterated sample is available. The regional origin of the EVOO samples investigated appears to be related to the different amount of phenolic esters versus acids as reflected by the relative intensities of the peaks at 1655 and 1747 cm−1.
The Mechanisms of Thiosulfate Toxicity against Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chen Zhigang , Xia Yongzhen , Liu Huaiwei , Liu Honglei , Xun Luying
Published: April 2021

Elemental sulfur and sulfite have been used to inhibit the growth of yeasts, but thiosulfate has not been reported to be toxic to yeasts. We observed that thiosulfate was more inhibitory than sulfite to Saccharomyces cerevisiae growing in a common yeast medium. At pH < 4, thiosulfate was a source of elemental sulfur and sulfurous acid, and both were highly toxic to the yeast. At pH 6, thiosulfate directly inhibited the electron transport chain in yeast mitochondria, leading to reductions in oxygen consumption, mitochondrial membrane potential and cellular ATP. Although thiosulfate was converted to sulfite and H2S by the mitochondrial rhodanese Rdl1, its toxicity was not due to H2S as the rdl1-deletion mutant that produced significantly less H2S was more sensitive to thiosulfate than the wild type. Evidence suggests that thiosulfate inhibits cytochrome c oxidase of the electron transport chain in yeast mitochondria. Thus, thiosulfate is a potential agent against yeasts.
Low-Calorie Beverages Made from Medicinal Plants, Flowers and Fruits: Characteristics and Liking of a Population with Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Contreras-López Elizabeth , Ramírez-Godínez Juan , García-Martínez Miguel Maximiliano , Gutiérrez-Salomón Ana Luisa , González-Olivares Luis Guillermo , Jaimez-Ordaz Judith
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, there are few options of low or no added sugar drinks offering health benefits and oriented to consumers with a special health condition, such as overweight and obesity. The objective of this work was to develop and characterize a low-calorie antioxidant beverage made from aqueous extracts of medicinal plants (Melissa and lemon verbena), flowers (chamomile and bougainvillea), and fruits (guava, pineapple, strawberry, orange, and tangerine) as an alternative for people with overweight and obesity. Four formulations were developed from medicinal plants, flowers, and fruits. For this, a solid-liquid conventional extraction was carried out (at 90 °C during 5 min) followed by a cold shock in ice. The developed beverages were characterized in a microbiological and physicochemical way according to official analysis methods. The sensory evaluation was carried out through liking and buying intention tests. The population under study was integrated by 400 adults divided into two groups (with and without overweight or obesity). The beverages developed were low-calorie (≤40 kcal per portion), very low in sodium (<34 mg per portion), rich in antioxidants (>1.6 g GAE portion), and with an attractive color. The results indicate that these beverages could be an alternative to the consumption of common industrialized drinks conferring additional benefits for the prevention of chronic diseases.
Quantum Key Distribution Networks: Challenges and Future Research Issues in Security
Authors: Tsai Chia-Wei , Yang Chun-Wei , Lin Jason , Chang Yao-Chung , Chang Ruay-Shiung
Published: April 2021

A quantum key distribution (QKD) network is proposed to allow QKD protocols to be the infrastructure of the Internet for distributing unconditional security keys instead of existing public-key cryptography based on computationally complex mathematical problems. Numerous countries and research institutes have invested enormous resources to execute correlation studies on QKD networks. Thus, in this study, we surveyed existing QKD network studies and practical field experiments to summarize the research results (e.g., type and architecture of QKD networks, key generating rate, maximum communication distance, and routing protocol). Furthermore, we highlight the three challenges and future research issues in the security of QKD networks and then provide some feasible resolution strategies for these challenges.
Influence of Heterointerfaces on the Kinetics of Oxygen Surface Exchange on Epitaxial La1.85Sr0.15CuO4 Thin Films
Authors: Yang Gene , Kim So-Yeun , Sohn Changhee , Keum Jong K. , Lee Dongkyu
Published: April 2021

Considerable attention has been directed to understanding the influence of heterointerfaces between Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) phases and ABO3 perovskites on the kinetics of oxygen electrocatalysis at elevated temperatures. Here, we report the effect of heterointerfaces on the oxygen surface exchange kinetics by employing heteroepitaxial oxide thin films formed by decorating LaNiO3 (LNO) on La1.85Sr0.15CuO4 (LSCO) thin films. Regardless of LNO decoration, tensile in-plane strain on LSCO films does not change. The oxygen surface exchange coefficients (kchem) of LSCO films extracted from electrical conductivity relaxation curves significantly increase with partial decorations of LNO, whereas full LNO coverage leads to the reduction in the kchem of LSCO films. The activation energy for oxygen exchange in LSCO films significantly decreases with partial LNO decorations in contrast with the full coverage of LNO. Optical spectroscopy reveals the increased oxygen vacancies in the partially covered LSCO films relative to the undecorated LSCO film. We attribute the enhanced oxygen surface exchange kinetics of LSCO to the increased oxygen vacancies by creating the heterointerface between LSCO and LNO.
Role of Exposure on the Microbial Consortiums on Historical Rural Granite Buildings
Authors: Fuentes Elsa , Carballeira Rafael , Prieto Beatriz
Published: April 2021

Local granite has been used throughout history in Galicia (NW Spain), forming the basis of much of the region’s architecture. Like any other rock, granite provides an ecological niche for a multitude of organisms that form biofilms that can affect the physical integrity of the stone. In this study, for the first time, characterization of the microbial consortium forming biofilms that developed on historical rural granite buildings is carried out using a combination of culture-dependent and next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. Results pointed to differences in biofilm composition on the studied rural granite buildings and that of previously analyzed urban granite buildings, especially in terms of abundance of cyanobacteria and lichenized fungi. Exposure was corroborated as an important factor, controlling both the diversity and abundance of microorganisms on walls, with environmental factors associated with a northern orientation favoring a higher diversity of fungi and green algae, and environmental factors associated with the west orientation determining the abundance of lichenized fungi. The orientation also affected the distribution of green algae, with one of the two most abundant species, Trentepohlia cf. umbrina, colonizing north-facing walls, while the other, Desmococcus olivaceus, predominated on west-facing walls.
CFD Analysis and Shape Optimization of Airfoils Using Class Shape Transformation and Genetic Algorithm—Part I
Authors: Akram Md Tausif , Kim Man-Hoe
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the parameterization and optimization of two well-known airfoils. The aerodynamic shape optimization investigation includes the subsonic (NREL S-821) and transonic airfoils (RAE-2822). The class shape transformation is employed for parametrization while the genetic algorithm is used for optimization purposes. The absolute scheme of the optimization process is carried out for the minimization of the drag coefficient and maximization of lift to drag ratio. In-house MATLAB code is incorporated with a genetic algorithm to calculate the drag coefficient and lift to drag ratio of the resulting optimized airfoil. The panel method is utilized in genetic algorithm optimization code to calculate pressure distribution, lift coefficient, and lift to drag ratio for optimized airfoil shapes and validates with XFOIL and NREL experimental data. Furthermore, CFD analysis is conducted for both the original (NREL S-821) and optimized airfoil obtained. The present method shows that the optimized airfoil achieved an improvement in lift to drag ratio by 7.4% and 15.9% of S-821 and RAE-2822 airfoil, respectively, by the panel technique method and provides high design desirable stability parameters. These features significantly improve the overall aerodynamic performance of the newly optimized airfoils. Finally, the improved aerodynamics results are reported for the design of turbulence modeling and NREL phase II, Phase III, and Phase VI HAWT blades.
On the Use of PEDOT as a Catalytic Counter Electrode Material in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Marchini Edoardo , Caramori Stefano , Bignozzi Carlo Alberto , Carli Stefano
Published: April 2021

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) emerged in the early 1990s as a promising alternative to the classic silicon-based solar cell due to their unique combination of low cost, ease of fabrication, color palette for building integration, and high efficiency in indoor applications. This review article describes the fabrication and the properties of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-based catalytic counter electrodes (CEs) for DSSCs. In particular, the electrochemical reactivity PEDOT CEs used in conjunction with alternative redox mediators for DSSCs is outlined. Among alternative redox shuttles, cobalt and copper complexes, as well as totally organic thiolate/disulfide, have been considered. Finally, PEDOT can also be used as a hole conductor material in electrolyte-free solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells. This review clearly shows that the progress in DSSCs development is strongly linked to the introduction of PEDOT as a new counter electrode material.
Urban Resilience of Shenzhen City under Climate Change
Authors: Shao Weiwei , Su Xin , Lu Jie , Liu Jiahong , Yang Zhiyong , Mei Chao , Liu Chuang , Lu Jiahui
Published: April 2021

The Chinese government attaches great importance to climate change adaptation and has issued relevant strategies and policies. Overall, China’s action to adapt to climate change remains in its infancy, and relevant research needs to be further deepened. In this paper, we study the future adaptive countermeasures of Shenzhen city in the Pearl River Delta in terms of climate change, especially urban flood risk resilience. Based on the background investigation of urban flood risk in Shenzhen, this paper calculates the annual precipitation frequency of Shenzhen from 1953 to 2020, and uses the extreme precipitation index as a quantitative indicator to analyze the changes in historical precipitation and the impact of major flood disasters in Shenzhen city in previous decades. Based on the six kinds of model data of the scenario Model Inter-comparison Project (MIP) in the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project (CMIP6), uses the Taylor diagram and MR comprehensive evaluation method to evaluate the ability of different climate models to simulate extreme precipitation in Shenzhen, and the selected models are aggregated and averaged to predict the climate change trend of Shenzhen from 2020 to 2100. The prediction results show that Shenzhen will face more severe threats from rainstorms and floods in the future. Therefore, this paper proposes a resilience strategy for the city to cope with the threat of flood in the future, including constructing a smart water management system and promoting the development of a sponge city. Moreover, to a certain extent, it is necessary to realize risk transfer by promoting a flood insurance system.
Supplementation with >Your< Iron Syrup Corrects Iron Status in a Mouse Model of Diet-Induced Iron Deficiency
Authors: Pirman Tatjana , Lenardič Ajda , Nemec Svete Alenka , Horvat Simon
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to compare the effects of >Your< Iron Syrup, a novel oral liquid iron-containing food supplement, with the commonly prescribed iron sulphate (Fe-sulphate) in a mouse model of diet-induced iron deficiency. Standard inbred BALB/cOlaHsd mice were fed low-iron diet for 11 weeks to induce significant decrease in blood haemoglobin and haematocrit and were then supplemented by gavage with either >Your< Iron Syrup or Fe-sulphate for two weeks. In >Your< Iron Syrup group, several markers of iron deficiency, such as serum iron concentration, transferrin saturation and ferritin level were significantly improved in both female and male mice. Fe-sulphate induced similar responses, except that it did not significantly increase iron serum in females and serum ferritin in both sexes. Fe-sulphate significantly increased liver-iron content which >Your< Iron Syrup did not. Transcription of Hamp and selected inflammatory genes in the liver was comparable between the two supplementation groups and with the Control diet group. Some sex-specific effects were noted, which were more pronounced and less variable in males. In conclusion, >Your< Iron Syrup was efficient, comparable and in some parameters superior to Fe-sulphate in improving iron-related parameters without inducing a response of selected liver inflammation markers in a mouse model of diet-induced iron deficiency.
Identification and Computational Analysis of Novel Pathogenic Variants in Pakistani Families with Diverse Epidermolysis Bullosa Phenotypes
Authors: Khan Fehmida F. , Khan Naima , Rehman Sakina , Ejaz Amir , Ali Uzma , Erfan Muhammad , Ahmed Zubair M. , Naeem Muhammad
Published: April 2021

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) includes a group of rare gesnodermatoses that result in blistering and erosions of the skin and mucous membranes. Genetically, pathogenic variants in around 20 genes are known to alter the structural and functional integrity of intraepidermal adhesion and dermo-epidermal anchorage, leading to four different types of EB. Here we report the underlying genetic causes of EB phenotypes segregating in seven large consanguineous families, recruited from different regions of Pakistan. Whole exome sequencing, followed by segregation analysis of candidate variants through Sanger sequencing, identified eight pathogenic variants, including three novel (ITGB4: c.1285G>T, and c.3373G>A; PLEC: c.1828A>G) and five previously reported variants (COL7A1: c.6209G>A, and c.1573C>T; FERMT1: c.676insC; LAMA3: c.151insG; LAMB3: c.1705C>T). All identified variants were either absent or had very low frequencies in the control databases. Our in-silico analyses and 3-dimensional (3D) molecular modeling support the deleterious impact of these variants on the encoded proteins. Intriguingly, we report the first case of a recessively inherited form of rare EBS-Ogna associated with a homozygous variant in the PLEC gene. Our study highlights the clinical and genetic diversity of EB in the Pakistani population and expands the mutation spectrum of EB; it could also be useful for prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling of the affected families.
Paper and Other Fibrous Materials—A Complete Platform for Biosensing Applications
Authors: Flores-Hernandez Domingo R. , Santamaria-Garcia Vivian J. , Melchor-Martínez Elda M. , Sosa-Hernández Juan Eduardo , Parra-Saldívar Roberto , Bonilla-Rios Jaime
Published: April 2021

Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) and Electrospun Fiber-Based Biosensors (EFBs) have aroused the interest of the academy and industry due to their affordability, sensitivity, ease of use, robustness, being equipment-free, and deliverability to end-users. These features make them suitable to face the need for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, monitoring, environmental, and quality food control applications. Our work introduces new and experienced researchers in the field to a practical guide for fibrous-based biosensors fabrication with insight into the chemical and physical interaction of fibrous materials with a wide variety of materials for functionalization and biofunctionalization purposes. This research also allows readers to compare classical and novel materials, fabrication techniques, immobilization methods, signal transduction, and readout. Moreover, the examined classical and alternative mathematical models provide a powerful tool for bioanalytical device designing for the multiple steps required in biosensing platforms. Finally, we aimed this research to comprise the current state of PADs and EFBs research and their future direction to offer the reader a full insight on this topic.
Evaluation of the Diagnostic Accuracy of a New Biosensors-Based Rapid Diagnostic Test for the Point-Of-Care Diagnosis of Previous and Recent Dengue Infections in Malaysia
Authors: Chong Zhuo Lin , Soe Hui Jen , Ismail Amni Adilah , Mahboob Tooba , Chandramathi Samudi , Sekaran Shamala Devi
Published: April 2021

Dengue is a major threat to public health globally. While point-of-care diagnosis of acute/recent dengue is available to reduce its mortality, a lack of rapid and accurate testing for the detection of previous dengue remains a hurdle in expanding dengue seroepidemiological surveys to inform its prevention, especially vaccination, to reduce dengue morbidity. This study evaluated ViroTrack Dengue Serostate, a biosensors-based semi-quantitative anti-dengue IgG (immunoglobulin G) immuno-magnetic agglutination assay for the diagnosis of previous and recent dengue in a single test. Blood samples were obtained from 484 healthy participants recruited randomly from two communities in Petaling district, Selangor, Malaysia. The reference tests were Panbio Dengue IgG indirect and capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, in-house hemagglutination inhibition assay, and focus reduction neutralization test. Dengue Serostate had a sensitivity and specificity of 91.1% (95%CI 87.8–93.8) and 91.1% (95%CI 83.8–95.8) for the diagnosis of previous dengue, and 90.2% (95%CI 76.9–97.3) and 93.2% (95%CI 90.5–95.4) for the diagnosis of recent dengue, respectively. Its positive predictive value of 97.5% (95%CI 95.3–98.8) would prevent most dengue-naïve individuals from being vaccinated. ViroTrack Dengue Serostate’s good point-of-care diagnostic accuracy can ease the conduct of dengue serosurveys to inform dengue vaccination strategy and facilitate pre-vaccination screening to ensure safety.
Raman Spectroscopy of Liquid-Based Cervical Smear Samples as a Triage to Stratify Women Who Are HPV-Positive on Screening
Authors: Traynor Damien , Martin Cara M. , White Christine , Reynolds Stephen , D’Arcy Tom , O’Leary John J. , Lyng Fiona M.
Published: April 2021

The role of persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the development of cervical precancer and cancer is now well accepted, and HPV testing has recently been introduced for primary cervical screening. However, the low specificity of HPV DNA testing can result in large numbers of women with an HPV-positive result, and additional triage approaches are needed to avoid over-referral to colposcopy and overtreatment. The aim of this study was to assess Raman spectroscopy as a potential triage test to discriminate between transient and persistent HPV infection. HPV DNA status and mRNA status were confirmed in ThinPrep® cervical samples (n = 60) using the Cobas 4800 and APTIMA HPV test, respectively. Raman spectra were recorded from single-cell nuclei and subjected to partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA). In addition, the PLSDA classification model was validated using a blinded independent test set (n = 14). Sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 92% were achieved for the classification of transient and persistent HPV infection, and this increased to 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity when mean sample spectra were used instead of individual cellular spectra. This study showed that Raman spectroscopy has potential as a triage test for HPV-positive women to identify persistent HPV infection.
A Reversible Shift of Driver Dependence from EGFR to Notch1 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer as a Cause of Resistance to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Iommelli Francesca , De Rosa Viviana , Terlizzi Cristina , Fonti Rosa , Camerlingo Rosa , Stoppelli Maria Patrizia , Stewart C. Allison , Byers Lauren Averett , Piwnica-Worms David , Del Vecchio Silvana
Published: April 2021

Notch1 plays a key role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and in the maintenance of cancer stem cells. In the present study we tested whether high levels of activated Notch1 in oncogene-driven NSCLC can induce a reversible shift of driver dependence from EGFR to Notch1, and thus causing resistance to EGFR inhibitors. Adherent cells (parental) and tumor spheres (TS) from NSCLC H1975 cells and patient-derived CD133-positive cells were tested for EGFR and Notch1 signaling cascade. The Notch1-dependent modulation of EGFR, NCID, Hes1, p53, and Sp1 were then analyzed in parental cells by binding assays with a Notch1 agonist, DLL4. TS were more resistant than parental cells to EGFR inhibitors. A strong upregulation of Notch1 and a concomitant downregulation of EGFR were observed in TS compared to parental cells. Parental cell exposure to DLL4 showed a dose-dependent decrease of EGFR and a simultaneous increase of NCID, Hes1, p53, and Sp1, along with the dislocation of Sp1 from the EGFR promoter. Furthermore, an enhanced interaction between p53 and Sp1 was observed in TS. In NSCLC cells, high levels of active Notch1 can promote a reversible shift of driver dependence from EGFR to Notch1, leading to resistance to EGFR inhibitors.
Ductal Dilatation of ≥5 mm in Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm Should Trigger the Consideration for Pancreatectomy: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Resected Cases
Authors: Wu Y.H. Andrew , Oba Atsushi , Beaty Laurel , Colborn Kathryn L. , Rodriguez Franco Salvador , Harnke Ben , Meguid Cheryl , Negrini Daniel , Valente Roberto , Ahrendt Steven , Schulick Richard D. , Del Chiaro Marco
Published: April 2021

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are common but difficult to manage since accurate tools for diagnosing malignancy are unavailable. This study tests the diagnostic value of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) diameter for detecting IPMN malignancy using a meta-analysis of published data of resected IPMNs. Collected from a comprehensive literature search, the articles included in this analysis must report malignancy cases (high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and invasive carcinoma (IC)) and MPD diameter so that two MPD cut-offs could be created. The sensitivity, specificity, and odds ratios of the two cutoffs for predicting malignancy were calculated. A review of 1493 articles yielded 20 retrospective studies with 3982 resected cases. A cutoff of ≥5 mm is more sensitive than the ≥10 mm cutoff and has pooled sensitivity of 72.20% and 75.60% for classification of HGD and IC, respectively. Both MPD cutoffs of ≥5 mm and ≥10 mm were associated with malignancy (OR = 4.36 (95% CI: 2.82, 6.75) vs. OR = 3.18 (95% CI: 2.25, 4.49), respectively). The odds of HGD and IC for patients with MPD ≥5 mm were 5.66 (95% CI: 3.02, 10.62) and 7.40 (95% CI: 4.95, 11.06), respectively. OR of HGD and IC for MPD ≥10 mm cutoff were 4.36 (95% CI: 3.20, 5.93) and 4.75 (95% CI: 2.39, 9.45), respectively. IPMN with MPD of >5 mm could very likely be malignant. In selected IPMN patients, pancreatectomy should be considered when MPD is >5 mm.
In Situ Conditioning of CO2-Rich Syngas during the Synthesis of Methanol
Authors: Peinado Cristina , Liuzzi Dalia , Sanchís Alberto , Pascual Laura , Peña Miguel A. , Boon Jurriaan , Rojas Sergio
Published: April 2021

The synthesis of methanol from biomass-derived syngas can be challenging because of the high CO2 content in the bio-syngas, resulting in lower kinetics and higher catalyst deactivation. This work explores the in situ pre-treatment of a CO2-rich syngas with a CO2/CO ratio equal to 1.9 through the reverse-water gas shift reaction with the aim of adjusting this ratio to a more favorable one for the synthesis of methanol with Cu-based catalysts. Both reactions take place in two catalytic beds placed in the same reactor, thus intensifying the methanol process. The water produced during syngas conditioning is removed by means of a sorbent zeolite to prevent the methanol catalyst deactivation and to shift the equilibrium towards the methanol formation. The combination of the CO2 shifting and the water sorption strategies lead to higher productivities of the catalytic bed and, under certain reaction conditions, to higher methanol productions.
Metabolic Signatures in Coronary Artery Disease: Results from the BioHEART-CT Study
Authors: Vernon Stephen T. , Tang Owen , Kim Taiyun , Chan Adam S. , Kott Katharine A. , Park John , Hansen Thomas , Koay Yen C. , Grieve Stuart M. , O’Sullivan John F. , Yang Jean Y. , Figtree Gemma A.
Published: April 2021

Despite effective prevention programs targeting cardiovascular risk factors, coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of death. Novel biomarkers are needed for improved risk stratification and primary prevention. To assess for independent associations between plasma metabolites and specific CAD plaque phenotypes we performed liquid chromatography mass-spectrometry on plasma from 1002 patients in the BioHEART-CT study. Four metabolites were examined as candidate biomarkers. Dimethylguanidino valerate (DMGV) was associated with presence and amount of CAD (OR) 1.41 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.12–1.79, p = 0.004), calcified plaque, and obstructive CAD (p < 0.05 for both). The association with amount of plaque remained after adjustment for traditional risk factors, ß-coefficient 0.17 (95% CI 0.02–0.32, p = 0.026). Glutamate was associated with the presence of non-calcified plaque, OR 1.48 (95% CI 1.09–2.01, p = 0.011). Phenylalanine was associated with amount of CAD, ß-coefficient 0.33 (95% CI 0.04–0.62, p = 0.025), amount of calcified plaque, (ß-coefficient 0.88, 95% CI 0.23–1.53, p = 0.008), and obstructive CAD, OR 1.84 (95% CI 1.01–3.31, p = 0.046). Trimethylamine N-oxide was negatively associated non-calcified plaque OR 0.72 (95% CI 0.53–0.97, p = 0.029) and the association remained when adjusted for traditional risk factors. In targeted metabolomic analyses including 53 known metabolites and controlling for a 5% false discovery rate, DMGV was strongly associated with the presence of calcified plaque, OR 1.59 (95% CI 1.26–2.01, p = 0.006), obstructive CAD, OR 2.33 (95% CI 1.59–3.43, p = 0.0009), and amount of CAD, ß-coefficient 0.3 (95% CI 0.14–0.45, p = 0.014). In multivariate analyses the lipid and nucleotide metabolic pathways were both associated with the presence of CAD, after adjustment for traditional risk factors. We report novel associations between CAD plaque phenotypes and four metabolites previously associated with CAD. We also identified two metabolic pathways strongly associated with CAD, independent of traditional risk factors. These pathways warrant further investigation at both a biomarker and mechanistic level.
Electronic Textiles Fabricated with Graphene Oxide-Coated Commercial Textiles
Authors: Jang Hyun-Seok , Moon Min Soo , Kim Byung Hoon
Published: April 2021

Demand for wearable and portable electronic devices has increased, raising interest in electronic textiles (e-textiles). E-textiles have been produced using various materials including carbon nanotubes, graphene, and graphene oxide. Among the materials in this minireview, we introduce e-textiles fabricated with graphene oxide (GO) coating, using commercial textiles. GO-coated cotton, nylon, polyester, and silk are reported. The GO-coated commercial textiles were reduced chemically and thermally. The maximum e-textile conductivity of about 10 S/cm was achieved in GO-coated silk. We also introduce an e-textile made of uncoated silk. The silk-based e-textiles were obtained using a simple heat treatment with axial tension. The conductivity of the e-textiles was over 100 S/cm.
Broadband Anti-Reflection Coatings Fabricated by Precise Time-Controlled and Oblique-Angle Deposition Methods
Authors: Guo Xin , Quan Xiangqian , Li Zizheng , Li Qiang , Zhang Binzhi , Zhang Xin , Song Chi
Published: April 2021

Broadband anti-reflection (AR) coatings are essential elements for improving the photocurrent generation of photovoltaic modules and enhancing visibility in optical devices. In this paper, we report a hybrid-structured, anti-reflection coating that combines multi-layer thin films with a single top-oblique deposited layer. By simply introducing this low-refractive index layer, the broadband anti-reflection properties of optical thin films can be improved while simplifying the preparation. Precise time-controlled and oblique-angle deposition (OAD) methods were used to fabricate the broadband AR coating. By accurately measuring and adjusting the design errors for the thin and thick film layers, 22-layer and 36-layer AR coatings on a sapphire substrate with a 400–2000 nm wideband were obtained. This bottom-up preparation process and AR coating design have the potential to significantly enhance the broadband antireflective properties for many optical systems and reduce the manufacturing cost of broadband AR coatings.
Crystallization Process and Site-Selective Excitation of Nd3+ in LaF3/NaLaF4 Sol–Gel-Synthesized Transparent Glass-Ceramics
Authors: Cruz María E. , Li Jing , Gorni Giulio , Durán Alicia , Mather Glenn C. , Balda Rolindes , Fernández Joaquín , Castro Yolanda
Published: April 2021

In this study, transparent oxyfluoride glass-ceramics (GCs) with NaLaF4 nanocrystals (NCs) were prepared by the sol–gel method for the first time. Three different molar ratios of La(CH3COO)3/Na(CH3COO) were used to obtain the GCs, which were sintered at 450, 550 and 650 °C for 1 min. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to follow the evolution of the xerogel during the heat treatments and to study crystal growth for the three temperatures. In all cases, the LaF3 crystalline phase was present, but crystallization of NaLaF4 was only promoted at 650 °C. Thermogravimetric and thermodifferential analysis (TGA-DTA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to analyze the crystallization process. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) was employed to confirm NaLaF4 crystallization and determine the size distribution. The incorporation of Nd3+ ion into NaLaF4 and LaF3 nanocrystals was confirmed by site-selective emission and excitation spectra. The Nd3+ emission intensities in both phases depend not only on the NaLaF4/LaF3 ratio but also on their emission efficiencies.
Canadian Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines: Do They Need an Update Given Changing Incidence and Global Practice Patterns?
Authors: Kalyta Anastasia , De Vera Mary A. , Peacock Stuart , Telford Jennifer J. , Brown Carl J. , Donnellan Fergal , Gill Sharlene , Loree Jonathan M.
Published: April 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death in Canada. Organized screening programs targeting Canadians aged 50 to 74 at average risk of developing the disease have contributed to decreased rates of CRC, improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. However, data shows that recent incidence reductions are unique to the screening-age population, while rates in people under-50 are on the rise. Similar incidence patterns in the United States prompted the American Cancer Society and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to recommend screening begin at age 45 rather than 50. We conducted a review of screening practices in Canada, framing them in the context of similar global health systems as well as the evidence supporting the recent U.S. recommendations. Epidemiologic changes in Canada suggest earlier screening initiation in average-risk individuals may be reasonable, but the balance of costs to benefits remains unclear.
Real World Clinical Experience of Biosimilar G-CSF (Grastofil) for Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Mobilization: Single Center Experience in Canada Following Early Adoption
Authors: Aggarwal Vibhuti , Sabry Waleed , Elemary Mohamed , Bosch Mark , Danyluk Pat , Mondal Prosanta , Stakiw Julie
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is the first line treatment for mobilization, most commonly using a regimen of daily filgrastim. The use of biosimilars can provide substantial cost savings to the health care system while delivering comparable efficacy outcomes. In 2016, the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency was a leader in Canada, instituting formulary changed from a G-CSF originator product to a cost savings alternative biosimilar for stem cell mobilization prior to autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) and for engraftment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical comparability of biosimilar G-CSF to its reference product in a real-world clinical setting and to validate use of the biosimilar in mobilization and engraftment—an indication which had been granted by extrapolation. Methods: A retrospective chart review was completed including all patients diagnosed with a hematological malignancy between 2012 and 2018 who underwent ASCT. To assess real-world outcomes across a diverse population, successful CD34+ stem cell collection was compared between patients mobilized with originator filgrastim, Neupogen, and biosimilar filgrastim, Grastofil. Additional comparisons included the number of apheresis required, time to absolute neutrophil count (ANC) engraftment, platelet engraftment, length of hospital stay, and Plerixafor use. Results: 217 patients were mobilized and transplanted during the study period. There was no statistically significant difference in success rate between patients mobilized with biosimilar filgrastim and those who had received originator G-CSF (100% vs. 92.4%, p = 0.075). Neither disease type, nor concurrent chemomobilization regimen resulted in a detectable difference between the two G-CSF products in successful stem cell harvest. Engraftment was highly similar between groups, as demonstrated by ANC recovery (11.6 days Neupogen vs. 11.6 days Grastofil), platelet recovery (14.0 days Neupogen vs. 14.2 days Grastofil), and total length of hospital stay (22.4 days Neupogen vs. 22.3 days Grastofil). No statistically significant difference in adjunctive use of Plerixafor® was observed between Neupogen and Grastofil patients (25.9% vs. 23.4%, p = 0.72). Conclusion: Extrapolation of indications for biosimilars is justified. This real-world evidence builds upon registrational studies to confirm that no clinically meaningful differences were detected between originator Neupogen and biosimilar Grastofil in the setting of PBSC mobilization and engraftment post ASCT. Biosimilars are as safe and effective as originator products. Implementation across all approved indications without hesitation maximizes cost savings to the provincial system, allowing for more optimal allocation of health care resources.
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Management of Ureteral Iatrogenic Leakage after Gynecologic Surgery
Authors: Fontana Federico , Piacentino Filippo , Ossola Christian , Casarin Jvan , Coppola Andrea , Cromi Antonella , Ierardi Anna Maria , Carrafiello Gianpaolo , Basile Antonio , Deho Federico , Ghezzi Fabio , Carcano Giulio , Venturini Massimo
Published: April 2021

Objective: To report safety and efficacy of interventional radiology procedures in the treatment of gynecologic iatrogenic urinary leaks. Methods: A retrospective analysis of iatrogenic ureteral lesions treated between November 2009 to April 2019 was performed. Under ultrasound (US) and fluoroscopy guidance, an attempt to place a ureteral stent and nephrostomy was carried out in the same session using an anterograde percutaneous approach. At the end of any procedure, a fluoroscopic control and a cone-beam CT scan (CBCT) were performed to check the correct placement and functioning of the nephrostomy and DJ stent. In cases of difficult ureteral stent placement via the single anterograde approach, the collaboration of urologists was requested to perform a rendezvous technique, combined with the retrograde approach. Results: DJ stent placement was achieved using the anterograde approach in 12/15 (80.0%) patients and using the retrograde approach in 3/15 cases (20.0%). Moreover, in 3/15 (20.0%) patients, surgical treatment was needed: in one case because of the persistence of ureteral stenosis at 6 months, and in the other two cases due to ureter-vaginal fistula. No major complications were recorded; overall, minor complications occurred in 4/8 patients. Conclusion: Percutaneous minimally invasive treatment of iatrogenic ureteral lesions after gynecological surgery is a safe and effective option.
Evaluate the Feasibility of the Implementation of E-Assessment in Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in Pharmacy Education from the Examiner’s Perspectives
Authors: Chuo Wen-Ho , Lee Chun-Yann , Wang Tzong-Song , Huang Po-Sen , Lin Hsin-Hsin , Wen Meng-Chuan , Kuo Daih-Huang , Agoramoorthy Govindasamy
Published: April 2021

With the wide application of the OSCE in the field of pharmacy, the development of e-assessment in OSCE is a predictable trend. However, the feasibility of its practical application and the acceptance of examiners who are accustomed to using traditional paper-based methods are worthy of being discussed. The e-assessment system (EAS) was constructed in this study and used in the examination process. Examiner satisfaction and changes in acceptance of EAS were evaluated. Examiners showed high recognition for the advantages of EAS in data processing, but EAS obviously made the examiner more nervous than the paper-based method. After repeated use of the e-OSCE system, the examiner’s satisfaction and acceptance significantly improved, which showed that there was a certain correlation between examiner’s familiarity with the assessment method and their acceptance. Besides, EAS has great advantages over traditional paper-based methods, and it is feasible in clinical practice examination of pharmacy education.
A Hierarchical Multicast Key Distribution Protocol
Authors: Li Jie , Yao Shaowen , Liu Jing , Wu Yunyun
Published: April 2021

In secure group communication, group keys (GK) are used to ensure the confidentiality of communication. The group key distribution (GKD) is responsible for updating and distributing new group keys when the group membership changes. Most well-known GKD protocols are based on a logical key hierarchy (LKH), where only one group controller (GC) is used. These protocols have various issues, including a single point of failure, meaning that the GC often has a huge workload and can be easily overwhelmed. In this paper, we propose a hierarchical multicast key distribution protocol that supports multi-level controllers to manage a group. Each controller just needs to manage the next-level nodes, and if one fails, the superior controller can replace it with minimal work. The proposed protocol effectively balances the work of controllers, greatly improves the reliability of the group key distribution, and also allows group members to build dynamic conferences without controllers. We provide a security proof of the proposed protocol in a symbolic security model and compare it to other protocols in terms of efficiency, functionality, and security.