bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
European Database of Carotenoid Levels in Foods. Factors Affecting Carotenoid Content
Authors: Dias M. Graça , Borge Grethe Iren A. , Kljak Kristina , Mandić Anamarija I. , Mapelli-Brahm Paula , Olmedilla-Alonso Begoña , Pintea Adela M. , Ravasco Francisco , Tumbas Šaponjac Vesna , Sereikaitė Jolanta , Vargas-Murga Liliana , Vulić Jelena J. , Meléndez-Martínez Antonio J.
Published: April 2021

Many studies indicate that diets including carotenoid-rich foods have positive effects on human health. Some of these compounds are precursors of the essential nutrient vitamin A. The present work is aimed at implementing a database of carotenoid contents of foods available in the European market. Factors affecting carotenoid content were also discussed. Analytical data available in peer-reviewed scientific literature from 1990 to 2018 and obtained by HPLC/UHPLC were considered. The database includes foods classified according to the FoodEx2 system and will benefit compilers, nutritionists and other professionals in areas related to food and human health. The results show the importance of food characterization to ensure its intercomparability, as large variations in carotenoid levels are observed between species and among varieties/cultivars/landraces. This highlights the significance of integrating nutritional criteria into agricultural choices and of promoting biodiversity. The uncertainty quantification associated with the measurements of the carotenoid content was very rarely evaluated in the literature consulted. According to the EuroFIR data quality evaluation system for food composition tables, the total data quality index mean was 24 in 35, reflecting efforts by researchers in the analytical methods, and less resources in the sampling plan documentation.
Liquefied Synthetic Natural Gas Produced through Renewable Energy Surplus: Impact Analysis on Vehicular Transportation by 2040 in Italy
Authors: Barelli Linda , Bidini Gianni , Ottaviano Panfilo Andrea , Perla Michele
Published: April 2021

Time mismatch between renewable energy production and consumption, grid congestion issues, and consequent production curtailment lead to the need for energy storage systems to allow for a greater renewable energy sources share in future energy scenarios. A power-to-liquefied synthetic natural gas system can be used to convert renewable energy surplus into fuel for heavy duty vehicles, coupling the electric and transportation sectors. The investigated system originates from power-to-gas technology, based on water electrolysis and CO2 methanation to produce a methane rich mixture containing H2, coupled with a low temperature gas upgrading section to meet the liquefied natural gas requirements. The process uses direct air CO2 capture to feed the methanation section; mol sieve dehydration and cryogenic distillation are implemented to produce a liquefied natural gas quality mixture. The utilization of this fuel in heavy duty vehicles can reduce greenhouse gases emissions if compared with diesel and natural gas, supporting the growth of renewable fuel consumption in an existing market. Here, the application of power-to-liquefied synthetic natural gas systems is investigated at a national level for Italy by 2040, assessing the number of plants to be installed in order to convert the curtailed energy, synthetic fuel production, and consequent avoided greenhouse gases emissions through well-to-wheel analysis. Finally, plant investment cost is preliminarily investigated.
Genealogy of Experiential Frames: Methodological Notes on Arendt
Authors: Hyvönen Ari-Elmeri
Published: April 2021

This article seeks to add a new theoretical voice to the tradition of genealogical inquiry in political theory and beyond by offering a re-reading of the thought of Hannah Arendt. Going beyond the letter of her thought, in this article I propose that placing Arendt in the genealogical tradition of inquiry (particularly its Foucauldian strand) helps to make sense of what she was “up to” when she turned to history in her work, especially in the analysis of totalitarianism and the account of modernity presented in The Human Condition. I will specifically highlight the historical emergence of “process-thinking” that Arendt traces across her writings. The article seeks to sketch a unique approach to genealogical inquiry that can be taken up by anyone interested in critical analysis of our present age and its politics. Towards the end of the essay, I elaborate this approach methodologically by making a reference to frame analysis. Thus, I articulate a “genealogical frame analysis”, an inquiry into historical emergence of various metaphors and frames that organize our experience of the world. I also highlight the centrality of events for Arendt’s genealogy, as well as its role in a broader set of world-building practices.
What Is the Community Pharmacists’ Role in Supporting Older Australians with Palliative Care Needs?
Authors: Tait Paul , Chakraborty Amal , Jones Kelly , Tieman Jennifer
Published: April 2021

As the population ages, the number of older populations globally requiring palliative care is rapidly growing, requiring services of multidisciplinary teams—including community pharmacists. The aim of this study is to describe the community pharmacists’ perceived role in providing services to community dwelling older Australians receiving palliative care. Utilising an eight-domain End of Life Directions for Aged Care (ELDAC) care model, a national cross-sectional questionnaire was designed and undertaken online with Australian community pharmacists. Respondents were asked questions relating to socio-demographic characteristics, practice characteristics, and scope of services provided. Of the 62 pharmacists who responded to the questionnaire, 51 were included in the final data analysis and reporting. Pharmacists working in dispensing roles made up about half of the respondents, while the remainder worked in settings such as general practice, residential aged care, or providing medication review services. Pharmacists can identify patients with indicators of poor life expectancy and mostly work with older Australians daily. Dispensing and non-dispensing pharmacists offer a range of services that complement each other. Organisations caring for the aged should consider the role of the pharmacist, in caring for people with palliative care needs, along with their carers.
Cannabidiol in Neurological and Neoplastic Diseases: Latest Developments on the Molecular Mechanism of Action
Authors: Ożarowski Marcin , Karpiński Tomasz M. , Zielińska Aleksandra , Souto Eliana B. , Wielgus Karolina
Published: April 2021

As the major nonpsychotropic constituent of Cannabis sativa, cannabidiol (CBD) is regarded as one of the most promising therapeutic agents due to its proven effectiveness in clinical trials for many human diseases. Due to the urgent need for more efficient pharmacological treatments for several chronic diseases, in this review, we discuss the potential beneficial effects of CBD for Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and neurological cancers. Due to its wide range of pharmacological activities (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties), CBD is considered a multimodal drug for the treatment of a range of neurodegenerative disorders, and various cancer types, including neoplasms of the neural system. The different mechanisms of action of CBD are here disclosed, together with recent progress in the use of this cannabis-derived constituent as a new therapeutic approach.
Cyclooxygenase Inhibition Alters Proliferative, Migratory, and Invasive Properties of Human Glioblastoma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Ferreira Matthew Thomas , Miyake Juliano Andreoli , Gomes Renata Nascimento , Feitoza Fábio , Stevannato Pollyana Bulgarelli , da Cunha Andrew Silva , Serachi Fernanda de Oliveira , Panagopoulos Alexandros Theodoros , Colquhoun Alison
Published: April 2021

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is known to increase glioblastoma (GBM) cell proliferation and migration while cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition decreases proliferation and migration. The present study investigated the effects of COX inhibitors and PGE2 receptor antagonists on GBM cell biology. Cells were grown with inhibitors and dose response, viable cell counting, flow cytometry, cell migration, gene expression, Western blotting, and gelatin zymography studies were performed. The stimulatory effects of PGE2 and the inhibitory effects of ibuprofen (IBP) were confirmed in GBM cells. The EP2 and EP4 receptors were identified as important mediators of the actions of PGE2 in GBM cells. The concomitant inhibition of EP2 and EP4 caused a significant decrease in cell migration which was not reverted by exogenous PGE2. In T98G cells exogenous PGE2 increased latent MMP2 gelatinolytic activity. The inhibition of COX1 or COX2 caused significant alterations in MMP2 expression and gelatinolytic activity in GBM cells. These findings provide further evidence for the importance of PGE2 signalling through the EP2 and the EP4 receptor in the control of GBM cell biology. They also support the hypothesis that a relationship exists between COX1 and MMP2 in GBM cells which merits further investigation as a novel therapeutic target for drug development.
Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Arabinogalactan Proteins during Larix decidua Mill. Male Gametophyte and Ovule Interaction
Authors: Rafińska Katarzyna , Niedojadło Katarzyna , Świdziński Michał , Niedojadło Janusz , Bednarska-Kozakiewicz Elżbieta
Published: April 2021

The role of ArabinoGalactan Proteins (AGPs) in the sexual reproduction of gymnosperms is not as well documented as that of angiosperms. In earlier studies, we demonstrated that AGPs play important roles during ovule differentiation in Larix decidua Mill. The presented results encouraged us to carry out further studies focused on the functions of these unique glycoproteins during pollen/pollen tube and ovule interactions in Larix. We identified and analyzed the localization of AGPs epitopes by JIM4, JIM8, JIM13 and LM2 antibodies (Abs) in male gametophytes and ovule tissue during pollination, the progamic phase, and after fertilization and in vitro growing pollen tubes. Our results indicated that (1) AGPs recognized by JIM4 Abs play an essential role in the interaction of male gametophytes and ovules because their appearance in ovule cells is induced by physical contact between reproductive partners; (2) after pollination, AGPs are secreted from the pollen cytoplasm into the pollen wall and contact the extracellular matrix of stigmatic tip cells followed by micropylar canal cells; (3) AGPs synthesized in nucellus cells before pollen grain germination are secreted during pollen tube growth into the extracellular matrix, where they can directly interact with male gametophytes; (4) in vitro cultured pollen tube AGPs labeled with LM2 Abs participate in the germination of pollen grain, while AGPs recognized by JIM8 Abs are essential for pollen tube tip growth.
The Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Kinases II and IV as Therapeutic Targets in Neurodegenerative and Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Sałaciak Kinga , Koszałka Aleksandra , Żmudzka Elżbieta , Pytka Karolina
Published: April 2021

CaMKII and CaMKIV are calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinases playing a rudimentary role in many regulatory processes in the organism. These kinases attract increasing interest due to their involvement primarily in memory and plasticity and various cellular functions. Although CaMKII and CaMKIV are mostly recognized as the important cogs in a memory machine, little is known about their effect on mood and role in neuropsychiatric diseases etiology. Here, we aimed to review the structure and functions of CaMKII and CaMKIV, as well as how these kinases modulate the animals’ behavior to promote antidepressant-like, anxiolytic-like, and procognitive effects. The review will help in the understanding of the roles of the above kinases in the selected neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, and this knowledge can be used in future drug design.
Glycosyltransferase B4GALNT2 as a Predictor of Good Prognosis in Colon Cancer: Lessons from Databases
Authors: Pucci Michela , Malagolini Nadia , Dall’Olio Fabio
Published: April 2021

Background: glycosyltransferase B4GALNT2 and its cognate carbohydrate antigen Sda are highly expressed in normal colon but strongly downregulated in colorectal carcinoma (CRC). We previously showed that CRC patients expressing higher B4GALNT2 mRNA levels displayed longer survival. Forced B4GALNT2 expression reduced the malignancy and stemness of colon cancer cells. Methods: Kaplan–Meier survival curves were determined in “The Cancer Genome Atlas” (TCGA) COAD cohort for several glycosyltransferases, oncogenes, and tumor suppressor genes. Whole expression data of coding genes as well as miRNA and methylation data for B4GALNT2 were downloaded from TCGA. Results: the prognostic potential of B4GALNT2 was the best among the glycosyltransferases tested and better than that of many oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes; high B4GALNT2 expression was associated with a lower malignancy gene expression profile; differential methylation of an intronic B4GALNT2 gene position and miR-204-5p expression play major roles in B4GALNT2 regulation. Conclusions: high B4GALNT2 expression is a strong predictor of good prognosis in CRC as a part of a wider molecular signature that includes ZG16, ITLN1, BEST2, and GUCA2B. Differential DNA methylation and miRNA expression contribute to regulating B4GALNT2 expression during colorectal carcinogenesis.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Agonist VAF347 Impedes Retinal Pathogenesis in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Zapadka Thomas E. , Lindstrom Sarah I. , Batoki Julia C. , Lee Chieh A. , Taylor Brooklyn E. , Howell Scott J. , Taylor Patricia R.
Published: April 2021

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the working-age population worldwide. Although the cause of diabetic retinopathy is multifactorial, IL-17A is a prevalent inflammatory cytokine involved in the promotion of diabetes-mediated retinal inflammation and the progression of diabetic retinopathy. The primary source of IL-17A is Th17 cells, which are T helper cells that have been differentiated by dendritic cells in a proinflammatory cytokine environment. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that can manipulate dendritic cell maturation, halt the production of IL-6 (a proinflammatory cytokine), and suppress Th17 cell differentiation. In the current study, we examined the efficacy of an AhR agonist, VAF347, as a potential therapeutic for the onset of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice. We determined that diabetes-mediated leukostasis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the retina of STZ-diabetic mice were all significantly lower when treated with the AhR agonist VAF347. Furthermore, when VAF347 was subcutaneously injected into STZ-diabetic mice, retinal capillary degeneration was ameliorated, which is the hallmark of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy in this diabetes murine model. Collectively, these findings provide evidence that the AhR agonist VAF347 could be a potentially novel therapeutic for non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Beneficial Effects of Natural Mineral Waters on Intestinal Inflammation and the Mucosa-Associated Microbiota
Authors: Barnich Nicolas , Rodrigues Michael , Sauvanet Pierre , Chevarin Caroline , Denis Sylvain , Le Goff Olivier , Faure-Imbert Danielle , Hanh Thierry , Roques Christian F , Chassaing Benoit , Alric Monique
Published: April 2021

Natural mineral water (NMWs) intake has been traditionally used in the treatment of various gastrointestinal diseases. We investigated the effect of two French NMWs, one a calcium and magnesium sulphate, sodium chloride, carbonic, and ferruginous water (NMW1), the other a mainly bicarbonate water (NMW2) on the prevention of intestinal inflammation. Intestinal epithelial cells stimulated with heat inactivated Escherichia coli or H2O2 were treated with NMWs to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects. Moderate colitis was induced by 1% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in Balbc/J mice drinking NMW1, NWW2, or control water. General signs and histological features of colitis, fecal lipocalin-2 and pro-inflammatory KC cytokine levels, global mucosa-associated microbiota, were analyzed. We demonstrated that both NMW1 and NMW2 exhibited anti-inflammatory effects using intestinal cells. In induced-colitis mice, NMW1 was effective in dampening intestinal inflammation, with significant reductions in disease activity scores, fecal lipocalin-2 levels, pro-inflammatory KC cytokine release, and intestinal epithelial lesion sizes. Moreover, NMW1 was sufficient to prevent alterations in the mucosa-associated microbiota. These observations, through mechanisms involving modulation of the mucosa-associated microbiota, emphasize the need of investigation of the potential clinical efficiency of such NMWs to contribute, in human beings, to a state of low inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease.
Study of Anharmonicity in Zirconium Hydrides Using Inelastic Neutron Scattering and Ab-Initio Computer Modeling
Authors: Zhang Jiayong , Cheng Yongqiang , Kolesnikov Alexander I. , Bernholc Jerry , Lu Wenchang , Ramirez-Cuesta Anibal J.
Published: April 2021

The anharmonic phonon behavior in zirconium hydrides and deuterides, including ϵ-ZrH2, γ-ZrH, and γ-ZrD, has been investigated from aspects of inelastic neutron scattering (INS) and lattice dynamics calculations within the framework of density functional theory (DFT). The harmonic model failed to reproduce the spectral features observed in the experimental data, indicating the existence of anharmonicity in those materials and the necessity of further explanations. Here, we present a detailed study on the anharmonicity in zirconium hydrides/deuterides by exploring the 2D potential energy surface of hydrogen/deuterium atoms and solving the corresponding 2D single-particle Schrödinger equation to obtain the eigenfrequencies, which are then convoluted with the instrument resolution. The convoluted INS spectra qualitatively describe the anharmonic peaks in the experimental INS spectra and demonstrate that the anharmonicity originates from the deviations of hydrogen potentials from quadratic behavior in certain directions; the effects are apparent for the higher-order excited vibrational states, but small for the ground and first excited states.
Combined Transcriptomic and Proteomic Analysis of Myzus persicae, the Green Peach Aphid, Infected with Cucumber Mosaic Virus
Authors: Liang Yan , Ma Kang-Sheng , Liang Ping-Zhuo , Yang Li-Wen , Zhang Lei , Gao Xi-Wu
Published: April 2021

Aphids transmit CMV (cucumber mosaic virus) in a non-persistent manner. However, little is known about the mechanism of CMV transmission. In this study, an integrated analysis of the mRNA and protein was performed to identify important putative regulators involved in the transmission of CMV by aphids. At the level of transcription, a total of 20,550 genes (≥2-fold expression difference) were identified as being differentially expressed genes (DEGs) 24 h after healthy aphid transfer to infected tobacco plants using the RNA-seq approach. At the protein level, 744 proteins were classified as being differentially abundant between virus-treated and control M. persicae using iTRAQ (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation) analysis. The combined mRNA and protein analysis enabled the identification of some viral putative regulators, such as cuticle proteins, ribosomal proteins, and cytochrome P450 enzymes. The results show that most of the key putative regulators were highly accumulated at the protein level. Based on those findings, we can speculate that the process by which aphids spread CMV is mainly related to post-translational regulation rather than transcription.
Structural Equation Modeling of a Global Stress Index in Healthy Soldiers
Authors: Maier Tanja , Kugelmann Melanie , Rhee Dae-Sup , Brill Sebastian , Gündel Harald , Friemert Benedikt , Becker Horst-Peter , Waller Christiane , Rappel Manuela
Published: April 2021

Accumulation of stress is a prognostic trigger for cardiovascular disease. Classical scores for cardiovascular risk estimation typically do not consider psychosocial stress. The aim of this study was to develop a global stress index (GSI) from healthy participants by combining individual measures of acute and chronic stress from childhood to adult life. One-hundred and ninety-two female and male soldiers completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS4), Trier Inventory for Chronic Stress (TICS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale Checklist (PDS), and the Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory (DRRI-2). The underlying structure for the GSI was examined through structural equation modeling. The final hierarchical multilevel model revealed fair fit by taking modification indices into account. The highest order had a g-factor called the GSI. On a second level the latent variables stress, HADS and CTQ were directly loading on the GSI. A third level with the six CTQ subscales was implemented. On the lowest hierarchical level all manifest variables and the DRRI-2/PDS sum scores were located. The presented GSI serves as a valuable and individual stress profile for soldiers and could potentially complement classical cardiovascular risk factors.
Diagnostic Yield of Genetic Testing in Sudden Cardiac Death with Autopsy Findings of Uncertain Significance
Authors: Iglesias Mercedes , Ripoll-Vera Tomas , Perez-Luengo Consuelo , García Ana Belen , Moyano Susana , Canos Juan Carlos , Borondo Juan Carlos , Alvarez Jorge , Heine-Suñer Damian , Barcelo Bernardino
Published: April 2021

Background: Sudden death (SD) in the young usually has an underlying genetic cause. In many cases, autopsy reveals unspecific and inconclusive results, like idiopathic left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), nonsignificant coronary atherosclerosis (CA), and primary myocardial fibrosis (PMF). Their pathogenicity and their relation to SD cause is unknown. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic yield of genetic testing in these cases. Methods: SD cases, between 1 and 50 years old, with findings of uncertain significance (idiopathic LVH, nonsignificant CA and PMF) on autopsy were evaluated prospectively, including information about medical and family history and circumstances of death. Genetic testing was performed. Results: In a series of 195 SD cases, we selected 31 cases presenting idiopathic LVH (n = 16, 51.61%), nonsignificant CA (n = 17, 54.84%), and/or PMF (n = 24, 77.42%) in the autopsy. Mean age was 41 ± 7.2 years. Diagnostic yield of genetic test was 67.74%, considering variants of unknown significance (VUS), pathogenic variants (PV) and likely pathogenic variants (LPV); 6.45% including only PV and LPV. Structural genes represented 41,93% (n = 13) of cases, while 38,7% (n = 12) were related to channelopathies. Conclusion: Molecular autopsy in SD cases between 1 and 50 years old, with findings of uncertain significance, has a low diagnostic yield, being VUS the most frequent variant observed.
GABA Supplementation Negatively Affects Cognitive Flexibility Independent of Tyrosine
Authors: Lim Lee Wei , Aquili Luca
Published: April 2021

Increasing evidence, particularly from animal studies, suggests that dopamine and GABA are important modulators of cognitive flexibility. In humans, increasing dopamine synthesis through its precursor tyrosine has been shown to result in performance improvements, but few studies have reported the effects of GABA supplementation in healthy participants. We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized experiment to test the interactive effects of tyrosine and GABA administration on two measures of cognitive flexibility, response inhibition and task switching. A total of 48 healthy volunteers were split into four groups (placebo, tyrosine alone, GABA alone, and tyrosine and GABA combined). They completed cognitive flexibility tasks at baseline and after drug administration. We found that tyrosine alone had no impact on the measures of cognitive flexibility, whereas GABA alone and in combination with tyrosine worsened task switching. Our results provide preliminary evidence that putative increases in GABA and dopamine synthesis do not interact to affect cognitive flexibility performance.
Mechanical Complications in Adult Spine Deformity Surgery: Retrospective Evaluation of Incidence, Clinical Impact and Risk Factors in a Single-Center Large Series
Authors: Barone Giuseppe , Giudici Fabrizio , Martinelli Nicolò , Ravier Domenico , Muzzi Stefano , Minoia Leone , Zagra Antonino , Scaramuzzo Laura
Published: April 2021

The advancement of deformity-specific implants and surgical techniques has improved the surgical treatment of Adult Spine Deformity (ASD), allowing surgeons to treat more complex deformities. Simultaneously, high rates of medical and surgical complications have been reported. The aim of this study is to describe the risk factors, the rate and the clinical impact of mechanical complications in ASD surgery. A retrospective review of a large, single-center database of consecutive ASD patients was conducted. Inclusion criteria were as follows: Cobb coronal curve > 20° or alteration of at least one of sagittal vertical axis (SVA > 40 mm), thoracic kyphosis (TK > 60°), pelvic tilt (PT > 20°) and pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI-LL > 10°), at least four levels of posterior instrumented fusion and 2-year follow-up. At the baseline and at each follow-up end point, the authors collected clinical and radiographic outcomes and recorded any mechanical complications that occurred. One hundred and two patients were enrolled. Clinical outcomes significantly were improved at the last follow-up (mean 40.9 months). Postoperative mechanical complications occurred in 15 patients (14.7%); proximal junctional disease was the most common complication (60%) and the revision rate was 53.3%. Patients who experienced mechanical complications were older (61.2 vs. 54.8 years, p = 0.04); they had also a higher rate of pelvic fusion and posterior-only approach, a lower LL (−37.9 vs. −46.2, p = 0.02) and a higher PT (26.3 vs. 19.8, p = 0.009), TK (41.8 vs. 35.7, p = 0.05), PI–LL (12.9 vs. 5.4, p = 0.03) and Global Alignment and Proportion score (6.9 vs. 4.3, p = 0.01). This study showed a significant improvement in pain and disability after ASD surgery. Regarding the risk of developing a mechanical complication, not only postoperative radiographic parameters affected the risk but also patient age and surgical features.
Role of the Laparoscopic Approach for Complex Urologic Surgery in the Era of Robotics
Authors: Andras Iulia , Territo Angelo , Telecan Teodora , Medan Paul , Perciuleac Ion , Berindean Alexandru , Stanca Dan V. , Buzoianu Maximilian , Coman Ioan , Crisan Nicolae
Published: April 2021

(1) Introduction: The advent of robotic surgery led to the assumption that laparoscopic surgery would be replaced entirely. However, the high costs of robotic surgery limit its availability. The aim of the current study was to assess the feasibility of the 3D laparoscopic approach for the most complex urological procedures. (2) Materials and methods: We included in the current study all patients who had undergone complex 3D laparoscopic procedures in our department since January 2017, including radical nephrectomy (LRN) using a dual combined approach (19 patients), radical nephroureterectomy (LRNU) with bladder cuff excision (13 patients), and radical cystectomy (LRC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) (21 patients). (3) Results: The mean operative time was 345/230/478 min, the complications rate was 26%/30.76%/23.8% and positive surgical margins were encountered in 3/1/1 patients for the combined approach of LRN/LRNU/LRC with ICUD, respectively. A single patient was converted to open surgery during LRN due to extension of the vena cava thrombus above the hepatic veins. After LRC, sepsis was the most common complication and 8 patients were readmitted at a mean of 15.5 days after discharge. (4) Conclusions: In the era of robotic surgery, laparoscopy remains a plausible alternative for most complex oncological cases.
In Vivo Efficacy of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus L8020 in a Mouse Model of Oral Candidiasis
Authors: Ito Rei , Mine Yuichi , Yumisashi Yoshie , Yoshioka Reina , Hamaoka Misa , Taji Tsuyoshi , Murayama Takeshi , Nikawa Hiroki
Published: April 2021

Oral candidiasis presents with multiple clinical manifestations. Among known pathogenic Candida species, Candida albicans is the most virulent and acts as the main causative fungus of oral candidiasis. Novel treatment modalities are needed because of emergent drug resistance and frequent candidiasis recurrence. Here, we evaluated the ability of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus L8020, isolated from healthy and caries-free volunteers, to prevent against the onset of oral candidiasis in a mouse model. Mice were infected with C. albicans, in the presence or absence of L. rhamnosus L8020. The mice were treated with antibiotics and corticosteroid to disrupt the oral microbiota and induce immunosuppression. We demonstrated that oral consumption of L. rhamnosus L8020 by C. albicans-infected mice abolished the pseudomembranous region of the mouse tongue; it also suppressed changes in the expression levels of pattern recognition receptor and chemokine genes. Our results suggest that L. rhamnosus L8020 has protective or therapeutic potential against oral candidiasis, which supports the potential use of this probiotic strain for oral health management.
The Herbal Formula CWBSD Improves Sleep Quality Dependent on Oral Microbial Type and Tongue Diagnostic Features in Insomnia
Authors: Kim Min-Jee , Bose Shambhunath , Shin Na-Rae , Park Seohyun , Kwon Ojin , Song Eun-Ji , Nam Young-Do , Koo Byung-Soo , Nam Dong-Hyun , Lee Jun-Hwan , Kim Hojun
Published: April 2021

Cheonwangbosim-dan (CWBSD) is a traditional Korean herb formula that has been widely prescribed for insomnia patients with a heart-yin deficiency (HYD) pattern. Several studies have reported that heart function and insomnia are interrelated, and few have explored associations between insomnia, oral microbiota, and tongue diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of CWBSD on primary insomnia, tongue diagnosis, and oral microbiota. At baseline, 56 patients with primary insomnia were assigned to two groups, a HYD group and a non-HYD (NHYD) group and they took CWBSD for 6 weeks. During the study, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Indices (PSQIs) and Insomnia Severity Indices (ISIs) decreased significantly in both groups. However, the PSQI reduction observed in the HYD group was greater than in the NHYD group and sleep times increased only in the HYD group. As sleep quality improved, the amount of tongue coating increased at the posterior tongue, where heart function appears. At baseline, the HYD and NHYD group had a specific oral microbiota (Veillonella at genus level), but no significant change was observed after taking CWBSD. Additionally, subjects were divided into two oral microbiota types (“orotypes”). The genera Prevotella, Veillonella, or Neisseria were abundant in each orotype. The reduction in PSQI in orotype 1 during the 6-week treatment period was greater than in orotype 2. In conclusion, this study shows that CWBSD could be used to treat primary insomnia in patients with a HYD pattern as determined using tongue diagnosis and oral microbiota distributional patterns.
Activation of Blood Vessel Development in Endometrial Stromal Cells In Vitro Cocultured with Human Peri-Implantation Embryos Revealed by Single-Cell RNA-Seq
Authors: Lv Bo , Xu Xiaoyu , Zhang Xunyi , Qi Lingbin , He Wen , Wang Lu , Chen Xian , Peng Luying , Xue Jinfeng , Ji Yazhong , Xue Zhigang
Published: April 2021

In humans, the maternal endometrium participates in the physical and physiological interaction with the blastocyst to begin implantation. A bidirectional crosstalk is critical for normal implantation and then a successful pregnancy. While several studies have used animal models or cell lines to study this step, little knowledge was acquired to address the role of endometrial cells in humans. Here, we analyzed single-cell sequencing data from a previous study including 24 non-coculture endometrial stromal cells (EmSCs) and 57 EmSCs after coculture with embryos. We further explored the transcriptomic changes in EmSCs and their interactions with trophoblast cells after coculture. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis showed 1783 upregulated genes and 569 downregulated genes in the cocultured embryos. Weight gene coexpression network and gene ontology analysis of these DEGs showed a higher expression of RAMP1, LTBP1, and LRP1 in EmSCs after coculture, indicating the enrichment of biological processes in blood vessel development and female pregnancy. These data imply that EmSCs start blood vessel development at the implantation stage. Compared with endometrium data in vivo at the implantation window, key pathways including epithelial cell development and oxygen response were involved at this stage. Further analysis using CellphoneDB shed light on the interactions between EmSCs and embryonic trophoblasts, suggesting the important role of integrins and fibroblast growth factor pathways during implantation. Taken together, our work reveals the synchronization signaling and pathways happening at the implantation stage involving the acquisition of receptivity in EmSCs and the interaction between EmSCs and trophoblast cells.
Application of Basic Graph Theory in Autonomous Motion of Robots
Authors: Coufal Petr , Hubálovský Štěpán , Hubálovská Marie
Published: April 2021

Discrete mathematics covers the field of graph theory, which solves various problems in graphs using algorithms, such as coloring graphs. Part of graph theory is focused on algorithms that solve the passage through mazes and labyrinths. This paper presents a study conducted as part of a university course focused on graph theory. The course addressed the problem of high student failure in the mazes and labyrinths chapter. Students’ theoretical knowledge and practical skills in solving algorithms in the maze were low. Therefore, the use of educational robots and their involvement in the teaching of subjects in part focused on mazes and labyrinths. This study shows an easy passage through the individual areas of teaching the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concept. In this article, we describe the research survey and focus on the description and examples of teaching in a university course. Part of the work is the introduction of an easy transition from the theoretical solution of algorithms to their practical implementation on a real autonomous robot. The theoretical part of the course introduced the issues of graph theory and basic algorithms for solving the passage through the labyrinth. The contribution of this study is a change in the approach to teaching graph theory and a greater interconnection of individual areas of STEM to achieve better learning outcomes for science students.
Solving 3-D Gray–Scott Systems with Variable Diffusion Coefficients on Surfaces by Closest Point Method with RBF-FD
Authors: Raei Marzieh , Cuomo Salvatore , Colecchia Giovanni , Severino Gerardo
Published: April 2021

The Gray–Scott (GS) model is a non-linear system of equations generally adopted to describe reaction–diffusion dynamics. In this paper, we discuss a numerical scheme for solving the GS system. The diffusion coefficients of the model are on surfaces and they depend on space and time. In this regard, we first adopt an implicit difference stepping method to semi-discretize the model in the time direction. Then, we implement a hybrid advanced meshless method for model discretization. In this way, we solve the GS problem with a radial basis function–finite difference (RBF-FD) algorithm combined with the closest point method (CPM). Moreover, we design a predictor–corrector algorithm to deal with the non-linear terms of this dynamic. In a practical example, we show the spot and stripe patterns with a given initial condition. Finally, we experimentally prove that the presented method provides benefits in terms of accuracy and performance for the GS system’s numerical solution.
On New Means with Interesting Practical Applications: Generalized Power Means
Authors: Amat Sergio , Magreñan Alberto , Ruiz Juan , Trillo Juan Carlos , Yañez Dionisio F.
Published: April 2021

Means of positive numbers appear in many applications and have been a traditional matter of study. In this work, we focus on defining a new mean of two positive values with some properties which are essential in applications, ranging from subdivision and multiresolution schemes to the numerical solution of conservation laws. In particular, three main properties are crucial—in essence, the ideas of these properties are roughly the following: to stay close to the minimum of the two values when the two arguments are far away from each other, to be quite similar to the arithmetic mean of the two values when they are similar and to satisfy a Lipchitz condition. We present new means with these properties and improve upon the results obtained with other means, in the sense that they give sharper theoretical constants that are closer to the results obtained in practical examples. This has an immediate correspondence in several applications, as can be observed in the section devoted to a particular example.
A Sequential Approach for Aerodynamic Shape Optimization with Topology Optimization of Airfoils
Authors: Gibert Martínez Isaac , Afonso Frederico , Rodrigues Simão , Lau Fernando
Published: April 2021

The objective of this work is to study the coupling of two efficient optimization techniques, Aerodynamic Shape Optimization (ASO) and Topology Optimization (TO), in 2D airfoils. To achieve such goal two open-source codes, SU2 and Calculix, are employed for ASO and TO, respectively, using the Sequential Least SQuares Programming (SLSQP) and the Bi-directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization (BESO) algorithms; the latter is well-known for allowing the addition of material in the TO which constitutes, as far as our knowledge, a novelty for this kind of application. These codes are linked by means of a script capable of reading the geometry and pressure distribution obtained from the ASO and defining the boundary conditions to be applied in the TO. The Free-Form Deformation technique is chosen for the definition of the design variables to be used in the ASO, while the densities of the inner elements are defined as design variables of the TO. As a test case, a widely used benchmark transonic airfoil, the RAE2822, is chosen here with an internal geometric constraint to simulate the wing-box of a transonic wing. First, the two optimization procedures are tested separately to gain insight and then are run in a sequential way for two test cases with available experimental data: (i) Mach 0.729 at α=2.31°; and (ii) Mach 0.730 at α=2.79°. In the ASO problem, the lift is fixed and the drag is minimized; while in the TO problem, compliance minimization is set as the objective for a prescribed volume fraction. Improvements in both aerodynamic and structural performance are found, as expected: the ASO reduced the total pressure on the airfoil surface in order to minimize drag, which resulted in lower stress values experienced by the structure.
Nanofiltration Composite Membranes Based on KIT-6 and Functionalized KIT-6 Nanoparticles in a Polymeric Matrix with Enhanced Performances
Authors: Paun Gabriela , Parvulescu Viorica , Neagu Elena , Albu Camelia , Ionita Larisa , Maxim Monica Elisabeta , Munteanu Andrei , Ciobanu Madalina , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: April 2021

The nanofiltration composite membranes were obtained by incorporation of KIT-6 ordered mesoporous silica, before and after its functionalization with amine groups, into polyphenylene-ether-ether-sulfone (PPEES) matrix. The incorporation of silica nanoparticles into PPEES polymer matrix was evidenced by FTIR and UV–VIS spectroscopy. SEM images of the membranes cross-section and their surface topology, evidenced by AFM, showed a low effect of KIT-6 silica nanoparticles loading and functionalization. The performances of the obtained membranes were appraised in permeation of Chaenomeles japonica fruit extracts and the selective separation of phenolic acids and flavonoids. The obtained results proved that the PPEES with functionalized KIT-6 nanofiltration membrane, we have prepared, is suitable for the polyphenolic compound’s concentration from the natural extracts.
Experimental Investigation on Floating Solar-Driven Membrane Distillation Desalination Modules
Authors: Miao Qingxiu , Zhang Yaoling , Cong Shuo , Guo Fei
Published: April 2021

Membrane distillation (MD) processes need a relatively mild temperature gradient as the driving force for desalination. In the field, it is reasonable to utilize solar energy as the heat source for the feed, and seawater as the infinite cold source for condensation. Solar-driven MD provides a route for the practical application of seawater desalination at a small scale. In this work, we focus on floating MD modules with a solar heating bag as the power source, and perform proof-of-principle experiments on the MD performance under various conditioning parameters, including feed flow rate, feed temperature, salinity, air gap, and sea waves. The results indicate that floating solar-driven MD modules are feasible in terms of permeate flux and salt rejection ratio, and the upward evaporation MD configuration leads to a better performance in terms of permeate flux. The simulation and experiments also show that the natural sea waves disturb the heating bag and the MD module floating on the surface of seawater, and effectively enhance the feed circulation and transport in the system.
State-of-the-Art and Opportunities for Forward Osmosis in Sewage Concentration and Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Wu Xing , Lau Cher Hon , Pramanik Biplob Kumar , Zhang Jianhua , Xie Zongli
Published: April 2021

The application of membrane technologies for wastewater treatment to recover water and nutrients from different types of wastewater can be an effective strategy to mitigate the water shortage and provide resource recovery for sustainable development of industrialisation and urbanisation. Forward osmosis (FO), driven by the osmotic pressure difference between solutions divided by a semi-permeable membrane, has been recognised as a potential energy-efficient filtration process with a low tendency for fouling and a strong ability to filtrate highly polluted wastewater. The application of FO for wastewater treatment has received significant attention in research and attracted technological effort in recent years. In this review, we review the state-of-the-art application of FO technology for sewage concentration and wastewater treatment both as an independent treatment process and in combination with other treatment processes. We also provide an outlook of the future prospects and recommendations for the improvement of membrane performance, fouling control and system optimisation from the perspectives of membrane materials, operating condition optimisation, draw solution selection, and multiple technologies combination.
Numerical Study on the Plastic Forming of Doubly Curved Surfaces of Aluminum Foam Sandwich Panel Using 3D Voronoi Model
Authors: Zhang Xi , Chen Qingmin , Gao Jiaxin , Wang Mingwei , Zhang Ya , Cai Zhongyi
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a numerical investigation on the plastic forming of doubly curved surfaces of aluminum foam sandwich panel (AFSP). A mesoscopic 3D Voronoi model that can describe the structure of closed-cell aluminum foam relatively realistically was established, and a series of numerical simulations using the model of the sandwich panel with a Voronoi foam core were conducted on the plastic forming of two typical doubly curved surfaces including spherical and saddle-shaped surfaces of AFSPs to analyze the deformation behaviors and the forming defects in detail. Multi-point forming experiments of spherical and saddle-shaped AFSPs with different target radii were implemented and the doubly curved panels with good forming quality were obtained. The simulated results of the surface illumination maps, the face sheet profiles, and the maximum strain differences in selected areas of the face sheet and the experimental results indicated that the Voronoi AFSP model can reflect the actual defects occurred in the plastic forming of doubly curved sandwich panels, and the high forming accuracy of the sandwich panel model was also demonstrated in terms of the shape error and the thickness variation.
Modification of Type B Inclusions by Calcium Treatment in High-Carbon Hard-Wire Steel
Authors: Wang Linzhu , Xi Zuobing , Li Changrong
Published: April 2021

To investigate the modification of type B inclusions in high-carbon hard-wire steel with Ca treatment, Si-Ca alloy was added to high-carbon hard-steel, and the composition, morphology, size, quantity, and distribution of inclusions were observed. The samples were investigated by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The experimental thermal results showed that the modification effect of inclusion was better in high-carbon hard-wire steel with Al of 0.0053% and Ca of 0.0029% than that in steel with Al of 0.011% and Ca of 0.0052%, in which the inclusions were mainly spherical semi-liquid and liquid CA2, CA, and C12A7. The inclusion size decreased from 3.2 μm to 2.1 μm. The degree of inclusions segregation was reduced in high-carbon hard-wire steels after calcium treatment. The results indicate that the modification of inclusions is conducive to obtaining dispersed inclusions with fine size. The ratio of length to width decreased and tended to be 1 with the increase in CaO content in the inclusion. When the content of CaO was higher than 30%, the aspect ratio was in the range of 1 to 1.2. The relationship between the activity of aluminum and calcium and the inclusions type at equilibrium in high-carbon hard-wire steel was estimated using classical thermodynamics. The calculated results were consistent with the experimental results. The thermodynamic software Factsage was used to analyze the effect of aluminum and calcium additions on the type and quality of inclusions in high-carbon hard-wire steels. The modification law and mechanism of type B inclusions in high-carbon hard-wire steels are discussed.
Effect of Water Flow on Underwater Wet Welded A36 Steel
Authors: Surojo Eko , Gumilang Aziz Harya , Triyono Triyono , Prabowo Aditya Rio , Budiana Eko Prasetya , Muhayat Nurul
Published: April 2021

Underwater wet welding (UWW) combined with the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) method has proven to be an effective way of permanently joining metals that can be performed in water. This research was conducted to determine the effect of water flow rate on the physical and mechanical properties (tensile, hardness, toughness, and bending effect) of underwater welded bead on A36 steel plate. The control variables used were a welding speed of 4 mm/s, a current of 120 A, electrode E7018 with a diameter of 4 mm, and freshwater. The results show that variations in water flow affected defects, microstructure, and mechanical properties of underwater welds. These defects include spatter, porosity, and undercut, which occur in all underwater welding results. The presence of flow and an increased flow rate causes differences in the microstructure, increased porosity on the weld metal, and undercut on the UWW specimen. An increase in water flow rate causes the acicular ferrite microstructure to appear greater, and the heat-affected zone (HAZ) will form finer grains. The best mechanical properties are achieved by welding with the highest flow rate, with a tensile strength of 534.1 MPa, 3.6% elongation, a Vickers microhardness in the HAZ area of 424 HV, and an impact strength of 1.47 J/mm2.