bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Esophageal Cancer-Associated Respiratory–Digestive Tract Fistulas
Authors: Grass Julia K. , Küsters Natalie , von Döhren Fabien L. , Melling Nathaniel , Ghadban Tarik , Rösch Thomas , Simon Marcel , Izbicki Jakob R. , König Alexandra , Reeh Matthias
Published: February 2022

Respiratory–digestive tract fistulas are fatal complications that occur in esophageal cancer treatment. Interdisciplinary treatment strategies are still evolving, especially in anatomical treatment stratification. Thus, this study aims to evaluate general therapeutic strategies for this rare condition. Medical records were reviewed for esophageal cancer-associated respiratory–digestive tract fistula patients treated between January 2008 and September 2021. Fistulas were classified according to being surgery- and tumor-associated. Treatment strategies, clinical success, and survival were analyzed. A total of 51 patients were identified: 28 had tumor-associated fistulas and 23 surgery-associated fistulas. Risk factors for fistula development such as radiation (OR = 0.290, p = 0.64) or stent implantation (OR = 1.917, p = 0.84) did not correlate with lack of symptom control for RDF patients. In contrast, advanced lymph node metastasis as another risk factor was associated with persistent symptoms after treatment for RDF patients (OR = 0.611, p = 0.01). Clinical success significantly correlated with bilateral fistula repair in surgery-associated fistulas (p = 0.01), while tumor-associated fistulas benefited the most from non-surgical (p = 0.04) or combined surgical and non-surgical intervention (p = 0.04) and a bilateral fistula repair (p = 0.02) in terms of overall survival. The therapeutic strategy should aim for bilateral fistula closure. A multidisciplinary, stepwise approach might have the best chance for restoration or symptom control with optimized overall survival in selected patients.
Effect of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy on Complications, in-Hospital Mortality, Length of Stay and Total Hospital Costs in Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy
Authors: Hoeh Benedikt , Flammia Rocco Simone , Hohenhorst Lukas , Sorce Gabriele , Chierigo Francesco , Panunzio Andrea , Tian Zhe , Saad Fred , Gallucci Michele , Briganti Alberto , Terrone Carlo , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Graefen Markus , Tilki Derya , Antonelli Alessandro , Kluth Luis A. , Mandel Philipp , Chun Felix K. H. , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: February 2022

Background: To test for differences in complication rates, in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS) and total hospital costs (THCs) in patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) prior to radical cystectomy (RC). Methods: Within the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS) database (2016–2019), we identified RC-treated, non-metastatic, lymph-node negative bladder cancer patients, stratified by NAC status. Trend analyses, multivariable logistic, multivariable Poisson and multivariable linear regression models were used. Results: We identified 4347 RC-treated bladder cancer patients. Of those, 805 (19%) received NAC prior to RC. Overall, complications rates did not differ (65 vs. 66%; p = 0.7). However, NAC patients harbored lower rates of surgical site (6 vs. 9%), cardiac (13 vs. 19%) and genitourinary (5.5 vs. 9.7%) complications. In-hospital mortality (<1.7 vs. 1.8%) and LOS (6 vs. 7 days) was lower in NAC patients (all p < 0.05). Moreover, NAC was an independent predictor of shorter LOS in multivariable Poisson regression models (Risk ratio: 0.86; p < 0.001) and an independent predictor for higher THCs in multivariable linear regression models (Odds ratio: 1474$; p = 0.02). Conclusion: NAC was not associated with higher complication rates and in-hospital mortality. Contrary, NAC was associated with shorter LOS, yet moderately higher THCs. The current analysis suggests no detriment from NAC in the context of RC.
Superoxide Dismutase-3 Downregulates Laminin α5 Expression in Tumor Endothelial Cells via the Inhibition of Nuclear Factor Kappa B Signaling
Authors: Carmona-Rodríguez Lorena , Martínez-Rey Diego , Martín-González Paula , Franch Mónica , Sorokin Lydia , Mira Emilia , Mañes Santos
Published: February 2022

The balance between laminin isoforms containing the α5 or the α4 chain in the endothelial basement membrane determines the site of leukocyte diapedesis under inflammatory conditions. Extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3) induces laminin α4 expression in tumor blood vessels, which is associated with enhanced intratumor T cell infiltration in primary human cancers. We show now that SOD3 overexpression in neoplastic and endothelial cells (ECs) reduces laminin α5 in tumor blood vessels. SOD3 represses the laminin α5 gene (LAMA5), but LAMA5 expression is not changed in SOD1-overexpressing cells. Transcriptomic analyses revealed SOD3 overexpression to change the transcription of 1682 genes in ECs, with the canonical and non-canonical NF-κB pathways as the major SOD3 targets. Indeed, SOD3 reduced the transcription of well-known NF-κB target genes as well as NF-κB-driven promoter activity in ECs stimulated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, an NF-κB signaling inducer. SOD3 inhibited the phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα (nuclear factor of the kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor alpha), an NF-κB inhibitor. Finally, TNF-α was found to be a transcriptional activator of LAMA5 but not of LAMA4; LAMA5 induction was prevented by SOD3. In conclusion, SOD3 is a major regulator of laminin balance in the basement membrane of tumor ECs, with potential implications for immune cell infiltration into tumors.
Colorectal Surgery in the COVID-19 Era: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pararas Nikolaos , Pikouli Anastasia , Papaconstantinou Dimitrios , Bagias Georgios , Nastos Constantinos , Pikoulis Andreas , Dellaportas Dionysios , Lykoudis Panagis , Pikoulis Emmanouil
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: To determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the management of colorectal cancer patients requiring surgery and to examine whether the restructuring of healthcare systems led to cancer stage upshifting or adverse treatment outcomes; (2) Methods: A systematic literature search of the MedLine, Scopus, Web of Science, and CNKI databases was performed (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021288432). Data were summarized as odds ratios (OR) or weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs); (3) Results: Ten studies were examined, including 26,808 patients. The number of patients presenting with metastases during the pandemic was significantly increased (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.02–2.67, p = 0.04), with no differences regarding the extent of the primary tumor (T) and nodal (N) status. Patients were more likely to have undergone neoadjuvant therapy (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09–1.37, p < 0.001), while emergency presentations (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.07–2.84, p = 0.03) and palliative surgeries (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.13–3.36, p = 0.02) were more frequent during the pandemic. There was no significant difference recorded in terms of postoperative morbidity; (4) Conclusions: Patients during the pandemic were more likely to undergo palliative interventions or receive neoadjuvant treatment.
Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Mechanisms of Tumor Progression and Novel Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Czekay Ralf-Peter , Cheon Dong-Joo , Samarakoon Rohan , Kutz Stacie M. , Higgins Paul J.
Published: February 2022

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous population of stromal cells found in solid malignancies that coexist with the growing tumor mass and other immune/nonimmune cellular elements. In certain neoplasms (e.g., desmoplastic tumors), CAFs are the prominent mesenchymal cell type in the tumor microenvironment, where their presence and abundance signal a poor prognosis in multiple cancers. CAFs play a major role in the progression of various malignancies by remodeling the supporting stromal matrix into a dense, fibrotic structure while secreting factors that lead to the acquisition of cancer stem-like characteristics and promoting tumor cell survival, reduced sensitivity to chemotherapeutics, aggressive growth and metastasis. Tumors with high stromal fibrotic signatures are more likely to be associated with drug resistance and eventual relapse. Clarifying the molecular basis for such multidirectional crosstalk among the various normal and neoplastic cell types present in the tumor microenvironment may yield novel targets and new opportunities for therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the most recent concepts regarding the complexity of CAF biology including CAF heterogeneity, functionality in drug resistance, contribution to a progressively fibrotic tumor stroma, the involved signaling pathways and the participating genes.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) Upregulation through Promoter Hypomethylation Enhances Tamoxifen Resistance in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kim Hyeon Woo , Park Jae Eun , Baek Minjae , Kim Heejoo , Ji Hwee Won , Yun Sung Hwan , Jeong Dawoon , Ham Juyeon , Park Sungbin , Lu Xinpei , Kang Han-Sung , Kim Sun Jung
Published: February 2022

Background: Tamoxifen (tam) is widely used to treat estrogen-positive breast cancer. However, cancer recurrence after chemotherapy remains a major obstacle to achieve good patient prognoses. In this study, we aimed to identify genes responsible for epigenetic regulation of tam resistance in breast cancer. Methods: Methylation microarray data were analyzed to screen highly hypomethylated genes in tam resistant (tamR) breast cancer cells. Quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunohistochemical staining were used to quantify expression levels of genes in cultured cells and cancer tissues. Effects of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) expression on cancer cell growth and drug resistance were examined through colony formation assays and flow cytometry. Xenografted mice were generated to investigate the effects of MMP1 on drug resistance in vivo. Results: MMP1 was found to be hypomethylated and overexpressed in tamR MCF-7 (MCF-7/tamR) cells and in tamR breast cancer tissues. Methylation was found to be inversely associated with MMP1 expression level in breast cancer tissues, and patients with lower MMP1 expression exhibited a better prognosis for survival. Downregulating MMP1 using shRNA induced tam sensitivity in MCF-7/tamR cells along with increased apoptosis. The xenografted MCF-7/tamR cells that stably expressed short hairpin RNA (shRNA) against MMP1 exhibited retarded tumor growth compared to that in cells expressing the control shRNA, which was further suppressed by tam. Conclusions: MMP1 can be upregulated through promoter hypomethylation in tamR breast cancer, functioning as a resistance driver gene. MMP1 can be a potential target to suppress tamR to achieve better prognoses of breast cancer patients.
Role of the Skin Microenvironment in Melanomagenesis: Epidermal Keratinocytes and Dermal Fibroblasts Promote BRAF Oncogene-Induced Senescence Escape in Melanocytes
Authors: Sadangi Shreyans , Milosavljevic Katarina , Castro-Perez Edgardo , Lares Marcos , Singh Mithalesh , Altameemi Sarah , Beebe David J. , Ayuso Jose M. , Setaluri Vijayasaradhi
Published: February 2022

BRAFV600E is the most common mutation driver in melanoma. This mutation is known to cause a brief burst of proliferation followed by growth arrest and senescence, which prevent an uncontrolled cell proliferation. This phenomenon is known as oncogene-induced senescence (OIS) and OIS escape is thought to lead to melanomagenesis. Much attention has been focused on the melanocyte-intrinsic mechanisms that contribute to senescence escape. Additional genetic events such as the loss of tumor suppressor PTEN and/or epigenetic changes that contribute to senescence escape have been described. However, the role of the skin microenvironment—specifically, the role of epidermal keratinocytes—on melanomagenesis is not fully understood. In this study, we employ a microfluidic platform to study the interaction between melanocytes expressing the BRAFV600E mutation as well as keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts. We demonstrate that keratinocytes suppress senescence-related genes and promote the proliferation of transformed melanocytes. We also show that a keratinocyte-conditioned medium can alter the secretion of both pro- and anti-tumorigenic factors by transformed melanocytes. In addition, we show that melanocytes and keratinocytes from donors of white European and black African ancestry display different crosstalks; i.e., white keratinocytes appear to promote a more pro-tumorigenic phenotype compared with black keratinocytes. These data suggest that keratinocytes exert their influence on melanomagenesis both by suppressing senescence-related genes in melanocytes and by affecting the balance of the melanocyte-secreted factors that favor tumorigenesis.
Coordinated Regulation of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells by Cytokines and Chemokines
Authors: Li Ru , Mukherjee Mousumi Beto , Lin Jun
Published: February 2022

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature myeloid cells that impair immune cell functions and promote tumor progression. Mounting evidence indicates that cytokines and chemokines in the tumor microenvironment alter MDSCs. Various cytokines and chemokines are involved in MDSC production, their infiltration into tumors, and their exertion of suppressive functions. Here, we consider those cytokines, chemokines, and MDSCs as an intricately connected, complex system and we focus on how tumors manipulate the MDSCs through various cytokines and chemokines. We also discuss treatment capitalizing on cytokines/chemokine signaling aimed at combating the potent immunosuppressive activities of MDSCs to improve disease outcomes.
Timeline of Adverse Events during Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Advanced Melanoma and Their Impacts on Survival
Authors: Villa-Crespo Lorena , Podlipnik Sebastian , Anglada Natalia , Izquierdo Clara , Giavedoni Priscila , Iglesias Pablo , Dominguez Mireia , Aya Francisco , Arance Ana , Malvehy Josep , Puig Susana , Carrera Cristina
Published: February 2022

Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are frequent and could be associated with improved response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). A prospective cohort of advanced melanoma patients receiving ICI as first-line therapy was retrospectively reviewed (January 2011–February 2019). A total of 116 of 153 patients presented with at least one irAE (75.8%). The most frequent irAEs were dermatological (derm irAEs, 50%), asthenia (38%), and gastrointestinal (29%). Most irAEs appeared within the first 90 days, while 11.2% appeared after discontinuation of the therapy. Mild grade 1–2 derm irAEs tended to appear within the first 2 months of therapy with a median time of 65.5 days (IQR 26-139.25), while grade 3–4 derm irAEs appeared later (median 114 days; IQR 69-218) and could be detected at any time during therapy. Only derm irAE occurrence was related to improved survival (HR 6.46). Patients presenting derm irAEs showed better 5-year overall survival compared to those with no derm irAEs (53.1% versus 24.9%; p < 0.001). However, the difference was not significant when adjusting for the duration of therapy. In conclusion: the timeline of immune-related-AEs differs according to the organ involved. The (apparent) improved survival of patients who present derm AEs during immunotherapy could be partially explained by longer times under treatment.
Photo-Fenton Degradation of Methyl Orange with Dunino Halloysite as a Source of Iron
Authors: Filice Simona , Bongiorno Corrado , Libertino Sebania , Gradon Leon , Iannazzo Daniela , Scalese Silvia
Published: February 2022

The Fenton reaction is one of the most important processes for water and soil remediation, although this process has some drawbacks such as the use of H2O2 in large amounts, the formation of sludge due to the use of iron salts, and the need for acid pH values. Here we present the use of a natural clay, modified by acid treatment, as a heterogeneous catalyst to replace soluble iron salts and to avoid the use of water peroxide, resulting in a considerable increase in the attractiveness of the process. Halloysite (HT) clay from the Dunino mine consists of alumina and silica layers with the presence of iron species acting as a source of Fe ions. The etching of alumina layers using hydrochloric acid induces the release of iron species (mainly ions) in the solution, giving rise to the photodegradation activity of organic contaminants in water (i.e., Methyl Orange, MO) under UV irradiation without the need for hydrogen peroxide and avoiding the formation of sludges. MO adsorption properties and MO photodegradation ability were investigated for untreated and acid treated samples, respectively, to achieve the optimal process conditions. MO was not adsorbed on the clay’s surface due to electrostatic repulsion, but a complete degradation was observed after three hours under UV irradiation. The kinetics of photodegradation and the values of the half-life time are presented as a measure of the degradation rate. The proposed process shows a new route for effective remediation of water containing biologically active organic substances dissolved in it.
Hydrogen Production and Degradation of Ciprofloxacin by Ag@TiO2-MoS2 Photocatalysts
Authors: Machín Abniel , Fontánez Kenneth , García Diego , Sampayo Paola , Colón-Cruz Carla , Claudio-Serrano Gerardo J. , Soto-Vázquez Loraine , Resto Edgard , Petrescu Florian I. , Morant Carmen , Márquez Francisco
Published: February 2022

The photocatalytic activity of silver-based catalysts containing different amounts of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2; 5, 10 and 20 wt.%) was evaluated by the degradation of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin and the production of hydrogen via water splitting. All the silver (Ag)-based catalysts degraded more than 70% of the antibiotic in 60 min. The catalyst that exhibited the best result was 5%Ag@TiO2-P25-5%MoS2, with ca. 91% of degradation. The control experiments and stability tests showed that photocatalysis was the degradation pathway and the selected silver-based catalysts were stable after seven cycles, with less than 2% loss of efficiency per cycle and less than 7% after seven cycles. The catalyst with the highest hydrogen production was 5%Ag@TiO2 NWs-20%MoS2, 1792 μmol/hg, at a wavelength of 400 nm. This amount was ca. 32 times greater than that obtained by the pristine titanium oxide nanowires catalyst. The enhancement was attributed to the high surface area of the catalysts, along with the synergism created by the silver nanoparticles and MoS2. All the catalysts were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).
Illuminating Host-Parasite Interaction at the Cellular and Subcellular Levels with Infrared Microspectroscopy
Authors: Elsheikha Hany M. , Al-Sandaqchi Alaa T. , Harun Mohammad S. R. , Winterton Francesca , Altharawi Ali , Elsaied Nashwa A. , Stevenson Carl W. , MacNaughtan William , Mina John G. M. , Denny Paul W. , Cinque Gianfelice , Chan Ka Lung Andrew
Published: February 2022

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an opportunistic protozoan that can cause brain infection and other serious health consequences in immuno-compromised individuals. This parasite has a remarkable ability to cross biological barriers and exploit the host cell microenvironment to support its own survival and growth. Recent advances in label-free spectroscopic imaging techniques have made it possible to study biological systems at a high spatial resolution. In this study, we used conventional Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy and synchrotron-based FTIR microspectroscopy to analyze the chemical changes that are associated with infection of human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs) by T. gondii (RH) tachyzoites. Both FTIR microspectroscopic methods showed utility in revealing the chemical alterations in the infected hBMECs. Using a ZnS hemisphere device, to increase the numerical aperture, and the synchrotron source to increase the brightness, we obtained spatially resolved spectra from within a single cell. The spectra extracted from the nucleus and cytosol containing the tachyzoites were clearly distinguished. RNA sequencing analysis of T. gondii-infected and uninfected hBMECs revealed significant changes in the expression of host cell genes and pathways in response to T. gondii infection. These FTIR spectroscopic and transcriptomic findings provide significant insight into the molecular changes that occur in hBMECs during T. gondii infection.
Mechanomimetic 3D Scaffolds as a Humanized In Vitro Model for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Paradiso Francesca , Lenna Stefania , Gazze S. Andrea , Garcia Parra Jezabel , Murphy Kate , Margarit Lavinia , Gonzalez Deyarina , Francis Lewis , Taraballi Francesca
Published: February 2022

The mechanical homeostasis of tissues can be altered in response to trauma or disease, such as cancer, resulting in altered mechanotransduction pathways that have been shown to impact tumor development, progression, and the efficacy of therapeutic approaches. Specifically, ovarian cancer progression is parallel to an increase in tissue stiffness and fibrosis. With in vivo models proving difficult to study, tying tissue mechanics to altered cellular and molecular properties necessitate advanced, tunable, in vitro 3D models able to mimic normal and tumor mechanic features. First, we characterized normal human ovary and high-grade serous (HGSC) ovarian cancer tissue stiffness to precisely mimic their mechanical features on collagen I-based sponge scaffolds, soft (NS) and stiff (MS), respectively. We utilized three ovarian cancer cell lines (OVCAR-3, Caov-3, and SKOV3) to evaluate changes in viability, morphology, proliferation, and sensitivity to doxorubicin and liposomal doxorubicin treatment in response to a mechanically different microenvironment. High substrate stiffness promoted the proliferation of Caov-3 and SKOV3 cells without changing their morphology, and upregulated mechanosensors YAP/TAZ only in SKOV3 cells. After 7 days in culture, both OVCAR3 and SKOV3 decreased the MS scaffold storage modulus (stiffness), suggesting a link between cell proliferation and the softening of the matrix. Finally, high matrix stiffness resulted in higher OVCAR-3 and SKOV3 cell cytotoxicity in response to doxorubicin. This study demonstrates the promise of biomimetic porous scaffolds for effective inclusion of mechanical parameters in 3D cancer modeling. Furthermore, this work establishes the use of porous scaffolds for studying ovarian cancer cells response to mechanical changes in the microenvironment and as a meaningful platform from which to investigate chemoresistance and drug response.
Endocrine Regulation of Maturation and Sex Change in Groupers
Authors: Soyano Kiyoshi , Amagai Takafumi , Yamaguchi Tomofumi , Mushirobira Yuji , Xu Wen-Gang , Phạm Nhan Thành , Murata Ryosuke
Published: February 2022

Groupers are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide, are key species to coastal ecosystems, and valuable fishery targets. To facilitate artificial seed production technology for grouper aquaculture, the mechanisms of reproduction and gonad development are being elucidated for these important species. In addition, since groupers are sexually dimorphic fish with female-first maturity (protogynous hermaphrodite fish), research is being conducted to clarify the ecological mechanism of sex change and their reproductive physiology, focusing on the endocrine system. In recent years, research on groupers has also been conducted to understand changes in the coastal environment caused by ocean warming and man-made chemicals. However, due to difficulties associated with conducting research using wild populations for breeding experiments, knowledge of the physiology and ecology of these fish is lacking, especially their reproductive physiology. In this review, we present information on the reproductive physiology and endocrinology of groupers obtained to date, together with the characteristics of their life history.
Sensing Alzheimer’s Disease Utilizing Au Electrode by Controlling Nanorestructuring
Authors: Hsu Chih-Hsien , Gupta Akhilesh Kumar , Purwidyantri Agnes , Prabowo Briliant Adhi , Chen Ching-Hsiang , Chuang Chi-Cheng , Tian Ya-Chung , Lu Yu-Jen , Lai Chao-Sung
Published: February 2022

This paper reports the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) sensor through early detection of amyloid-beta (Aβ) (1–42) using simple nanorestructuring of Au sheet plate by oxidation-reduction cycle (ORC) via the electrochemical system. The topology of Au substrates was enhanced through the roughening and Au grains grown by a simple ORC technique in aqueous solutions containing 0.1 mol/L KCl electrolytes. The roughened substrate was then functionalized with the highly specific antibody β-amyloid Aβ (1–28) through HS-PEG-NHS modification, which enabled effective and direct detection of Aβ (1–42) peptide. The efficacy of the ORC method had been exhibited in the polished Au surface by approximately 15% larger electro-active sites compared to the polished Au without ORC. The ORC polished structure demonstrated a rapid, accurate, precise, reproducible, and highly sensitive detection of Aβ (1–42) peptide with a low detection limit of 10.4 fg/mL and a wide linear range of 10−2 to 106 pg/mL. The proposed structure had been proven to have potential as an early-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD) detection platform with low-cost fabrication and ease of operation.
Effect of the Anodizing Temperature on Microstructure and Tribological Properties of 6061 Aluminum Alloy Anodic Oxide Films
Authors: Guo Feng , Cao Yongzhi , Wang Kaijie , Zhang Peng , Cui Yaowen , Hu Zhenjiang , Xie Zhiwen
Published: February 2022

Anodizing a simple and effective method to improve the wear resistance of 6061 aluminum alloy. In this study, the microstructure of 6061 aluminum alloy oxide films (AAO) was adjusted by changing the electrolyte temperature (5, 15, and 25 °C) using 160 g/L sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. The phase composition, microstructure, and morphological characteristics of the specimens were detected using X-ray diffractometer and field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The hardness, elastic modulus, and tribological properties of the films were examined using hardness testers and a rotary friction tester. The results showed that as the temperature of the electrolyte increases, the surface of the oxide films changes from uniformly distributed small-sized pores to a coral-like loose porous structure, and the thickness of the films increases. The electrolyte temperature has a significant effect on the friction performance of the AAO films. When the solution temperature decreases from 25 to 5 °C, the steady-state friction coefficient decreases from 0.46 to 0.39. According to the morphology of the wear tracks, it can be determined that the main wear mechanism of AAO films gradually changes from delamination wear to abrasive and adhesive wear, and the wear rate drops by ~69%.
Fabrication of Nano TiO2-Polymer Encapsulated Fluorescent Pigments for Weatherability Improvement of Powder Coating
Authors: Yan Baowei , Lv Xiao , Shao Yuanyuan , Zhang Haiping , Zhang Hui , Zhu Jesse
Published: February 2022

Fluorescent coatings have attracted attention due to their bright colors. However, they have fewer outdoor applications due to low stability, especially the poor weather resistance of the fluorescent pigments. In order to improve their weather resistance and maintain the excellent appearance, this study used polymer binders to coat a light shielding agent nano TiO2 on the surface of the fluorescent pigment to extend the durability. Three organic binders, polyester varnish, polyurethane varnish, and polyvinyl alcohol, were selected. Each binder was dissolved and mixed with pigments and nano TiO2 particles to make a polymer-TiO2 layer on the pigment surface. The effects of binder types and loadings were investigated and evaluated by accelerating weather test of corresponding fluorescent powder coatings. According to SEM and ash test, nano TiO2 was successfully coated on the surface of fluorescent pigments. The modified fluorescent pigment shows a strong ability to absorb ultraviolet rays, and the weather resistance of prepared coatings has been significantly improved compared with the original fluorescent powder coating. When using clear coat PE as a binder and setting the ratio of the binder to the nano TiO2 of 1:2, the UV exposure time of fluorescent powder coatings can be extended by over twelve times compared to the coatings with original pigment for the same color change. This study provides an effective approach to enhance the weather resistance of fluorescent coatings and thus expand their applications.
Experimental Study on True Triaxial Mechanical Properties of Frozen Calcareous Clay under the Influence of Multiple Factors
Authors: Cao Yi , Rong Chuanxin , Wang Zhi , Shi Xin , Wang Bin , Long Wei
Published: February 2022

To investigate the mechanical properties of frozen saline soil, the deep calcareous clay in the Huanghuai mining area was chosen as the research object, and an orthogonal test was carried out to study the true triaxial mechanical properties of frozen saline calcareous clay under the influence of multiple factors. The stress–strain characteristics, strength, and influence trend of salted frozen calcareous clay with different salt content, stress paths, and water content, and the relationships among the above-mentioned factors, were investigated. The analysis of the test results by an orthogonal test revealed the order of importance of the factors that influenced strength. The primary and secondary order of influence σ1 is as follows: confining pressure σ3, water content ω, temperature T, medium principal stress coefficient b, and salt content φ. Under the influence of multiple factors, the strength of frozen soil in the real state is not the result of single factors with independent influences that are then simply superimposed. Instead, the complex interactions of various factors affect strength. The stress path significantly influences the stress–strain relationship of frozen calcareous clay. As the coefficient of the intermediate principal stress b increases, its influence on the strength of salted frozen calcareous clay diminishes, and the optimal principal stress coefficient b = 0.33 maximizes the strength of the specimen. The influence of the moisture content on the strength of the sample is negatively correlated. The effect of different moisture contents on the deformation and failure characteristics of unsaturated saline calcareous clay is not significantly different, and this difference does not exceed 5%.
Development of the Concurrent Multiscale Discrete-Continuum Model and Its Application in Plasticity Size Effect
Authors: Zhang Zhenting , Tong Zhen , Jiang Xiangqian
Published: February 2022

A concurrent multiscale model coupling discrete dislocation dynamics to the finite element method is developed to investigate the plastic mechanism of materials at micron/submicron length scales. In this model, the plastic strain is computed in discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) and transferred to the finite element method (FEM) to participate in the constitutive law calculation, while the FEM solves the complex boundary problem for DDD simulation. The implementation of the whole coupling scheme takes advantage of user subroutines in the software ABAQUS. The data structures used for information transferring are introduced in detail. Moreover, a FE mesh-based regularization method is proposed to localize the discrete plastic strain to continuum material points. Uniaxial compression tests of single crystal micropillars are performed to validate the developed model. The results indicate the apparent dependence of yield stress on sample size, and its underlying mechanisms are also analyzed.
Substrate Effects on the Random Lasing Performance of Solution-Processed Hybrid-Perovskite Multicrystal Film
Authors: Hu Jingyun , Zhang Xinping
Published: February 2022

We report dependence of random lasing performance of directly spin-coated multicrystalline thin films of an organic–inorganic hybrid, halide perovskite CH3NH3PbBr3 (MAPbBr3), on different substrates. It was discovered that random lasing performance is strongly dependent on the surface energy properties of the substrate, which determine the morphology and crystallization properties of the spin-coated film, and will consequently determine its optical scattering and emission properties. Using indium–tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass, fused silica, and tricyclo[5.2.1.02,6] decanedimethanol diacrylate (ADCP)-coated fused silica as the substrate materials, we compared the spectroscopic response of the random lasers and thus justified the photophysical mechanisms involved. The modification of the surface properties of the substrate enables controlling of the MAPbBr3 crystallization and leads to the changing of the random lasing properties. The discoveries herein are also important for the construction of other types of laser devices, where the substrate effects should be considered during the design and preparation of the micro-/nano structures.
Recent Progress on High-Entropy Films Deposited by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: El Garah Mohamed , Briois Pascal , Sanchette Frederic
Published: February 2022

High-entropy films (HEFs) are of considerable interest in surface engineering applications due to their superior properties, such as good corrosion resistance, good thermal stability and excellent high temperature oxidation. Recently, the scientific community has seen an increasing development of the multicomponent coatings, improving their properties compared to conventional films. Technically, different strategies have been exploited to fabricate HEFs. Magnetron-sputtered HEFs have made significant advancements in this field. HEFs have various applications given their interesting performances. This article overviews the development and the outcome of HEFs prepared using the magnetron sputtering technique. The classification of HEFs is reported. The effect of magnetron sputtering parameters on the microstructural, mechanical, electrochemical and thermal properties of HEFs is also discussed. Applications of HEFs are reported in the last section.
Primary Myelofibrosis Occurring during Targeted Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Angotzi Francesco , Visentin Andrea , Scarmozzino Federico , Cellini Alessandro , Bertorelle Roberta , Pizzi Marco , Binotto Gianni , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Trentin Livio
Published: February 2022

The disease course of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is frequently characterized by the occurrence of various complications, such as second primary cancer, which can impact patients’ prognoses. While therapies for CLL have evolved tremendously in the past decades, overlooking the possibility of rare neoplasms that arise along with CLL may hinder the benefit that these therapies grant to patients. Moreover, the ability of newer therapies to alter the landscape of these complications is still largely unknown. Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) is not commonly associated with CLL, with only a few cases reported in the literature, with little information regarding the clinico-biological features and the optimal management for these associated conditions. Here, we report two unusual cases of PMF that occurred a few months after the start of therapy for CLL with targeted agents (ibrutinib and venetoclax). Both cases represented a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, underscoring the need for clinicians to remain vigilant about the possible co-occurrence of these two hematological malignancies, especially in the era of targeted therapy for CLL.
Ontogenetic Migration of Juvenile Grunts (Haemulon) across a Coral Reef Seascape: Pathways and Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Appeldoorn Richard S. , Bouwmeester Björn L. K.
Published: February 2022

Many coral reef fishes undergo ontogenetic migrations from inshore nurseries to offshore reefs. Quantifying cross-habitat connectivity is important for understanding reef fish spatio-temporal dynamics, essential habitat and spatial planning. Past studies show connectivity is mediated by distance and habitat arrangement. Few studies have documented the pathways linking juveniles and adults, nor suggested underlying orientation/navigation processes important for a more generalized understanding of ontogenetic habitat use. Ontogenetic movements of juvenile grunts, primarily Haemulon flavolineatum, in Puerto Rico were studied using mark-recapture. Small juveniles were tagged at a back-reef site designed to determine their potential movement through a series of size-specific daytime resting schools and posing a choice of direction in migration. Larger juveniles were tagged at mid-shelf reefs to capture off-reef migration to adult locations, including a proposed marine reserve. Small juveniles moved toward more exposed areas, accomplished by progressively shifting locations through existing resting schools. Movement was size-related and alongshore, but direction was primarily parallel to the coast, leading fish away from adjacent areas more directly offshore. Direction may have resulted from the potential mechanism of fish transfer between resting schools rather than by orientation cues. Larger juveniles were tracked from back-reef to fore-reef sites, but no fish were recaptured off-reef. Slower growth than predicted may have contributed to the perceived lack of movement. Localized behavior and habitat distribution appear important in determining the initial pathways of ontogenetic migration, and these may fix later directional movements to unexpected areas.
Distribution and Ecology of Decapod Crustaceans in Mediterranean Marine Caves: A Review
Authors: Bianchi Carlo Nike , Gerovasileiou Vasilis , Morri Carla , Froglia Carlo
Published: February 2022

Decapod crustaceans are important components of the fauna of marine caves worldwide, yet information on their ecology is still scarce. Mediterranean marine caves are perhaps the best known of the world and may offer paradigms to the students of marine cave decapods from other geographic regions. This review summarizes and updates the existing knowledge about the decapod fauna of Mediterranean marine caves on the basis of a dataset of 76 species from 133 caves in 13 Mediterranean countries. Most species were found occasionally, while 15 species were comparatively frequent (found in at least seven caves). They comprise cryptobiotic and bathyphilic species that only secondarily colonize caves (secondary stygobiosis). Little is known about the population biology of cave decapods, and quantitative data are virtually lacking. The knowledge on Mediterranean marine cave decapods is far from being complete. Future research should focus on filling regional gaps and on the decapod ecological role: getting out at night to feed and resting in caves during daytime, decapods may import organic matter to the cave ecosystem. Some decapod species occurring in caves are protected by law. Ecological interest and the need for conservation initiatives combine to claim for intensifying research on the decapod fauna of the Mediterranean Sea caves.
Comparison of Rapid Nucleic Acid Extraction Methods for SARS-CoV-2 Detection by RT-qPCR
Authors: Silva Lívia Mara , Riani Lorena Rodrigues , Silvério Marcelo Silva , Pereira-Júnior Olavo dos Santos , Pittella Frederico
Published: February 2022

Since 2020, humanity has been facing the COVID-19 pandemic, a respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2. The world’s response to pandemic went through the development of diagnostics, vaccines and medicines. Regarding diagnostics, an enormous challenge was faced due to shortage of materials to collect and process the samples, and to perform reliable mass diagnosis by RT-qPCR. In particular, time-consuming and high cost of nucleic acid extraction procedures have hampered the diagnosis; moreover, several steps in the routine for the preparation of the material makes the extracted sample susceptible to contamination. Here two rapid nucleic acid extraction reagents were compared as extraction procedures for SARS-CoV-2 detection in clinical samples by singleplex and multiplex RT-qPCR analysis, using different transport media, samples with high and low viral load, and different PCR machines. As observed, rapid nucleic acid extraction procedures can be applied for reliable diagnosis using a TaqMan-based assay, over multiple platforms. Ultimately, prompt RNA extraction may reduce costs with reagents and plastics, the chances of contamination, and the overall time to diagnosis by RT-qPCR.
The AIFELL Score as a Predictor of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Severity and Progression in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Levenfus Ian , Ullmann Enrico , Petrowski Katja , Rose Jutta , Huber Lars C. , Stüssi-Helbling Melina , Schuurmans Macé M.
Published: February 2022

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 has caused a global burden for health care systems due to high morbidity and mortality rates, leading to caseloads that episodically surpass hospital resources. Due to different disease manifestations, the triage of patients at high risk for a poor outcome continues to be a major challenge for clinicians. The AIFELL score was developed as a simple decision instrument for emergency rooms to distinguish COVID-19 patients in severe disease stages from less severe COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 cases. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the AIFELL score as a prediction tool for clinical deterioration and disease severity in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. During the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland, we analyzed consecutively hospitalized patients at the Triemli Hospital Zurich from the end of November 2020 until mid-February 2021. Statistical analyses were performed for group comparisons and to evaluate significance. AIFELL scores of patients developing severe COVID-19 stages IIb and III during hospitalization were significantly higher upon admission compared to those patients not surpassing stages I and IIa. Group comparisons indicated significantly different AIFELL scores between each stage. In conclusion, the AIFELL score at admission was useful to predict the disease severity and progression in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
Web Technologies to Support Scientific Research and Education in Citizen Science—A Case Study in Germany
Authors: Batsaikhan Anudari , Kurtz Wolfgang , Hachinger Stephan
Published: February 2022

In citizen science, citizens are encouraged to participate in research, with web technologies promoting location-independent participation and broad knowledge sharing. In this study, web technologies were extracted from 112 citizen science projects listed on the “Bürger schaffen Wissen”. Four indicators on web technologies—Online platforms, Educational tools, Social media, and Data sharing between projects—were chosen to quantify the extent to which web technologies are used within citizen science projects. The results show that the use of web technologies is already very well established in both the natural and social science projects and only the possibilities for data sharing between projects are limited.
Analysis of Accelerometer and GPS Data for Cattle Behaviour Identification and Anomalous Events Detection
Authors: Cabezas Javier , Yubero Roberto , Visitación Beatriz , Navarro-García Jorge , Algar  María Jesús , Cano Emilio L. , Ortega Felipe
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a method to classify behavioural patterns of cattle on farms is presented. Animals were equipped with low-cost 3-D accelerometers and GPS sensors, embedded in a commercial device attached to the neck. Accelerometer signals were sampled at 10 Hz, and data from each axis was independently processed to extract 108 features in the time and frequency domains. A total of 238 activity patterns, corresponding to four different classes (grazing, ruminating, laying and steady standing), with duration ranging from few seconds to several minutes, were recorded on video and matched to accelerometer raw data to train a random forest machine learning classifier. GPS location was sampled every 5 min, to reduce battery consumption, and analysed via the k-medoids unsupervised machine learning algorithm to track location and spatial scatter of herds. Results indicate good accuracy for classification from accelerometer records, with best accuracy (0.93) for grazing. The complementary application of both methods to monitor activities of interest, such as sustainable pasture consumption in small and mid-size farms, and to detect anomalous events is also explored. Results encourage replicating the experiment in other farms, to consolidate the proposed strategy.
Para-Hamiltonian form for General Autonomous ODE Systems: Introductory Results
Authors: Kobus Artur , Cieśliński Jan L.
Published: February 2022

We propose a new tool to deal with autonomous ODE systems for which the solution to the Hamiltonian inverse problem is not available in the usual, classical sense. Our approach allows a class of formally conserved quantities to be constructed for dynamical systems showing dissipative behavior and other, more general, phenomena. The only ingredients of this new framework are Hamiltonian geometric mechanics (to sustain certain desirable properties) and the direct reformulation of the notion of the derivative along the phase curve. This seemingly odd and inconsistent marriage of apparently remote ideas leads to the existence of the generator of motion for every autonomous ODE system. Having constructed the generator, we obtained the Lie invariance of the symplectic form ω for free. Various examples are presented, ranging from mathematics, classical mechanics, and thermodynamics, to chemical kinetics and population dynamics in biology. Applications of these ideas to geometric integration techniques of numerical analysis are suggested.
No Existence and Smoothness of Solution of the Navier-Stokes Equation
Authors: Dou Hua-Shu
Published: February 2022

The Navier-Stokes equation can be written in a form of Poisson equation. For laminar flow in a channel (plane Poiseuille flow), the Navier-Stokes equation has a non-zero source term (∇2u(x, y, z) = Fx (x, y, z, t) and a non-zero solution within the domain. For transitional flow, the velocity profile is distorted, and an inflection point or kink appears on the velocity profile, at a sufficiently high Reynolds number and large disturbance. In the vicinity of the inflection point or kink on the distorted velocity profile, we can always find a point where ∇2u(x, y, z) = 0. At this point, the Poisson equation is singular, due to the zero source term, and has no solution at this point due to singularity. It is concluded that there exists no smooth orphysically reasonable solutions of the Navier-Stokes equation for transitional flow and turbulence in the global domain due to singularity.