bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acrylamide and Potential Risk of Diabetes Mellitus: Effects on Human Population, Glucose Metabolism and Beta-Cell Toxicity
Authors: Marković Filipović Jelena , Karan Jelena , Ivelja Ivana , Matavulj Milica , Stošić Milena
Published: May 2022

Diabetes mellitus is a frequent endocrine disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. Acrylamide (AA) is food contaminant formed during the high-temperature processing of food rich in carbohydrates and low in proteins. Recent human epidemiological studies have shown a potential association between AA exposure and the prevalence of diabetes in the general population. In male rats, AA treatment promoted pancreatic islet remodeling, which was determined by alpha-cell expansion and beta-cell reduction, while in female rats AA caused hyperglycemia and histopathological changes in pancreatic islets. In vitro and in vivo rodent model systems have revealed that AA induces oxidative stress in beta cells and that AA impairs glucose metabolism and the insulin signaling pathway. Animal studies have shown that diabetic rodents are more sensitive to acrylamide and that AA aggravates the diabetic state. In this review, we provide an overview of human epidemiological studies that examined the relation between AA exposure and glucose disorders. In addition, the effects of AA treatment on pancreatic islet structure, beta-cell function and glucose metabolism in animal models are comprehensively analyzed with an emphasis on sex-related responses. Furthermore, oxidative stress as a putative mechanism of AA-induced toxicity in beta cells is explored. Finally, we discuss the effects of AA on diabetics in a rodent model system.
Isolation of Decidual Macrophages and Hofbauer Cells from Term Placenta—Comparison of the Expression of CD163 and CD80
Authors: Lasch Manuel , Sudan Kritika , Paul Corinna , Schulz Christian , Kolben Thomas , Dorp Julia van , Eren Sibel , Beyer Susanne , Siniscalchi Lorenzo , Mahner Sven , Jeschke Udo , Meister Sarah
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Placental immune cells are playing a very important role in a successful placentation and the prevention of pregnancy complications. Macrophages dominate in number and relevance in the maternal and the fetal part of the placenta. The evidence on the polarization state of fetal and maternal macrophages involved in both, healthy and pregnancy-associated diseases, is limited. There is no representative isolation method for the direct comparison of maternal and fetal macrophages so far. (2) Material and Methods: For the isolation of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells from term placenta, fresh tissue was mechanically dissected and digested with trypsin and collagenase A. Afterwards cell enrichment was increased by a Percoll gradient. CD68 is represented as pan-macrophage marker, the surface markers CD80 and CD163 were further investigated. (3) Results: The established method revealed a high cell yield and purity of the isolated macrophages and enabled the comparison between decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells. No significant difference was observed in the percentage of single CD163+ cells in the distinct macrophage populations, by using FACS and immunofluorescence staining. A slight increase of CD80+ cells could be found in the decidual macrophages. Considering the percentage of CD80+CD163− and CD80−CD163+ cells we could not find differences. Interestingly we found an increased number of double positive cells (CD80+CD163+) in the decidual macrophage population in comparison to Hofbauer cells. (4) Conclusion: In this study we demonstrate that our established isolation method enables the investigation of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells in the placenta. It represents a promising method for direct cell comparison, enzyme independently, and unaffected by magnetic beads, to understand the functional subsets of placental macrophages and to identify therapeutic targets of pregnancy associated diseases.
Molecular Similarity Perception Based on Machine-Learning Models
Authors: Gandini Enrico , Marcou Gilles , Bonachera Fanny , Varnek Alexandre , Pieraccini Stefano , Sironi Maurizio
Published: May 2022

Molecular similarity is an impressively broad topic with many implications in several areas of chemistry. Its roots lie in the paradigm that ‘similar molecules have similar properties’. For this reason, methods for determining molecular similarity find wide application in pharmaceutical companies, e.g., in the context of structure-activity relationships. The similarity evaluation is also used in the field of chemical legislation, specifically in the procedure to judge if a new molecule can obtain the status of orphan drug with the consequent financial benefits. For this procedure, the European Medicines Agency uses experts’ judgments. It is clear that the perception of the similarity depends on the observer, so the development of models to reproduce the human perception is useful. In this paper, we built models using both 2D fingerprints and 3D descriptors, i.e., molecular shape and pharmacophore descriptors. The proposed models were also evaluated by constructing a dataset of pairs of molecules which was submitted to a group of experts for the similarity judgment. The proposed machine-learning models can be useful to reduce or assist human efforts in future evaluations. For this reason, the new molecules dataset and an online tool for molecular similarity estimation have been made freely available.
A Multivalent Vaccine Based on Ferritin Nanocage Elicits Potent Protective Immune Responses against SARS-CoV-2 Mutations
Authors: Kim Seong A. , Kim Seohyun , Kim Gi Beom , Goo Jiyoung , Kim Nayeon , Lee Yeram , Nam Gi-Hoon , Lim Seungho , Kim Taeerk , Chang Ki Hwan , Lee Tae Gyu , Kim In-San , Lee Eun Jung
Published: May 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has created a global public crisis and heavily affected personal lives, healthcare systems, and global economies. Virus variants are continuously emerging, and, thus, the pandemic has been ongoing for over two years. Vaccines were rapidly developed based on the original SARS-CoV-2 (Wuhan-Hu-1) to build immunity against the coronavirus disease. However, they had a very low effect on the virus’ variants due to their low cross-reactivity. In this study, a multivalent SARS-CoV-2 vaccine was developed using ferritin nanocages, which display the spike protein from the Wuhan-Hu-1, B.1.351, or B.1.429 SARS-CoV-2 on their surfaces. We show that the mixture of three SARS-CoV-2 spike-protein-displaying nanocages elicits CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and B-cell immunity successfully in vivo. Furthermore, they generate a more consistent antibody response against the B.1.351 and B.1.429 variants than a monovalent vaccine. This leads us to believe that the proposed ferritin-nanocage-based multivalent vaccine platform will provide strong protection against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs).
New Developments in Carbonic Anhydrase IX-Targeted Fluorescence and Nuclear Imaging Agents
Authors: Chen Kuo-Ting , Seimbille Yann
Published: May 2022

Carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) is a tumor-specific and hypoxia-induced biomarker for the molecular imaging of solid malignancies. The nuclear- and optical-imaging of CAIX-expressing tumors have received great attention due to their potential for clinical applications. Nuclear imaging is a powerful tool for the non-invasive diagnosis of primary and metastatic CAIX-positive tumors and for the assessment of responses to antineoplastic treatment. Intraoperative optical fluorescence imaging provides improved visualization for surgeons to increase the discrimination of tumor lesions, allowing for safer surgical treatment. Over the past decades, many CAIX-targeted molecular imaging probes, based on monoclonal antibodies, antibody fragments, peptides, and small molecules, have been reported. In this review, we outline the recent development of CAIX-targeted probes for single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), and near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIRF), and we discuss issues yet to be addressed.
Role of Etanercept and Infliximab on Nociceptive Changes Induced by the Experimental Model of Fibromyalgia
Authors: Cordaro Marika , Siracusa Rosalba , D’Amico Ramona , Genovese Tiziana , Franco Gianluca , Marino Ylenia , Di Paola Davide , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Impellizzeri Daniela , Di Paola Rosanna , Fusco Roberta
Published: May 2022

Background: Fibromyalgia is a clinical condition that affects 1% to 5% of the population. No proper therapy has been currently found. It has been described that inflammation plays a central role in the nerve sensitizations that characterize the pathology. Methods: This paper aimed to evaluate the efficacy of etanercept and infliximab in the management of pain sensitization. Fibromyalgia was induced by three injections once a day of reserpine at the dose of 1 mg/kg. Etanercept (3 mg/kg) and infliximab (10 mg/kg) were administered the day after the last reserpine injection and then 5 days after that. Behavioral analyses were conducted once a week, and molecular investigations were performed at the end of the experiment. Results: Our data confirmed the major effect of infliximab administration as compared to etanercept: infliximab administration strongly reduced pain sensitization in thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. From the molecular point of view, infliximab reduced the activation of microglia and astrocytes and the expression of the purinergic P2X7 receptor ubiquitously expressed on glia and neurons. Downstream of the P2X7 receptor, infliximab also reduced p38-MAPK overexpression induced by the reserpine administration. Conclusion: Etanercept and infliximab treatment caused a significant reduction in pain. In particular, rats that received infliximab showed less pain sensitization. Moreover, infliximab reduced the activation of microglia and astrocytes, reducing the expression of the purinergic receptor P2X7 and p38-MAPK pathway.
A New Subgenus and Species of Priochirus from Mid-Cretaceous Kachin Amber (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Osoriinae)
Authors: Peng Yuan , Jiang Rixin , Shi Chao , Long Xiaoxuan , Engel Michael S. , Wang Shuo
Published: May 2022

As one of the largest families of beetles (Coleoptera), the Staphylinidae (rove beetles and their relatives) are rich not only in extant species but also in a comparatively robust fossil record. Despite this preponderance of available fossil material, fossils of the diverse subfamily Osoriinae remain rare. Here, we describe a new ososriine species, Priochirus trisclerite sp. nov., from the mid-Cretaceous amber of Myanmar. The new specimen is similar to the only other definitive fossil of the genus, Priochirus thayerae Yamamoto 2019, and both are placed in the extinct subgenus Eopriochirus subgen. nov. The new species differs noticeably in a number of morphological details in relation to the submentum, gular sutures and protibial crenulae. The new fossil provides further evidence for understanding the radiation of staphylinoid beetles.
Impact of Silver Diamine Fluoride Therapy on the Oral Health-Related Quality of Life of Preschool Children with Behavioral Problems after Three Months: A Pilot Study
Authors: Altner Sarra , Stroj Daniel , Bekes Katrin
Published: May 2022

Background: In Austria, almost every second child has caries. The consequences of untreated carious lesions are infections, pain, and limitations in everyday life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) treatment on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of uncooperative children aged 0–5 years using the German version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS-G). Methods: This prospective study was conducted at the Department of Paediatric Dentistry at the Medical University of Vienna. Preschool children with behavioral problems and carious lesions that required SDF application were included. The ECOHIS-G questionnaire was given to the caregiver before (T0) and three months (T1) after treatment. Using descriptive analysis and the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test, changes in the ECOHIS scores were evaluated and tested for significance. Results: A total of 30 children aged 0–5 years were enrolled and received SDF treatment. At baseline, the total ECOHIS score was 21.4 (±8.5). Three months after therapy, a significant improvement was achieved (16.3 [±5.6], p < 0.05). Significantly better scores were observed in six subdomains, especially in “child function” (3.9 [±2.0]) and “child symptoms” (2.0 [±1.3]) (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Treatment of carious lesions with SDF in the primary dentition resulted in an improvement in the OHRqoL of children with behavioral problems.
SFRP4 and CDX1 Are Predictive Genes for Extragastric Recurrence of Early Gastric Cancer after Curative Resection
Authors: Kim Young Min , Kwon In Gyu , Choi Seung Ho , Noh Sung Hoon , Chun Jaeyoung , Youn Young Hoon , Park Hyojin , Nahm Ji Hae , Kim Jie-Hyun , Huh Yong-Min , Jang Eunji
Published: May 2022

Extragastric recurrence of early gastric cancer (EGC) after curative resection is rare, but prognosis has been poor in previous reports. Recently, single patient classifier (SPC) genes, such as secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (SFRP4) and caudal-type homeobox 1 (CDX1), were associated with prognosis and chemotherapy response in stage II–III gastric cancer. The aim of our study is, therefore, to elucidate predictive factors for extragastric recurrence of EGC after curative resection, including with the expression of SPC genes. We retrospectively reviewed electronic medical records of 1974 patients who underwent endoscopic or surgical curative resection for EGC. We analyzed clinicopathological characteristics to determine predictive factors for extragastric recurrence. Total RNA was extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissue and amplified by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction to evaluate expression of SPC genes. Overall incidences of extragastric recurrence were 0.9%. In multivariate analysis, submucosal invasion (odds ratio [OR] = 6.351, p = 0.032) and N3 staging (OR = 171.512, p = 0.012) were independent predictive factors for extragastric recurrence. Mean expression of SFRP4 in extragastric recurrence (−2.8 ± 1.3) was significantly higher than in the control group (−4.3 ± 1.6) (p = 0.047). Moreover, mean expression of CDX1 in extragastric recurrence (−4.6 ± 2.0) was significantly lower than in the control group (−2.4 ± 1.8) (p = 0.025). Submucosal invasion and metastasis of more than seven lymph nodes were independent predictive factors for extragastric recurrence. In addition, SFRP4 and CDX1 may be novel predictive markers for extragastric recurrence of EGC after curative resection.
Clinical Characteristics, Outcomes, and Risk Factors for Mortality in Patients with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Bacteremia
Authors: Kanchanasuwan Siripen , Rongmuang Jakkapan , Siripaitoon Pisud , Kositpantawong Narongdet , Charoenmak Boonsri , Hortiwakul Thanaporn , Nwabor Ozioma Forstinus , Chusri Sarunyou
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to establish the clinical features, outcomes, and factors associated with mortality in patients with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) septicemia. The characteristics and outcome data used in this retrospective study were collected from medical records at Songklanagarind Hospital. Risk factors for survival were analyzed using χ2-tests, Kaplan–Meier curves, and Cox regression. A total of 117 patients with S. maltophilia bacteremia were analyzed. The patients’ median age was 45 years, 77 (70%) were male, 105 (90%) had comorbidities, 112 (96%) had previously undergone carbapenem therapy, and over half of the patients were on invasive medical devices. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) and fluoroquinolone showed high susceptibility rates to S. maltophilia, with 93% and 88% susceptibility, respectively. Patients who received appropriate empirical antibiotic treatment had significantly reduced 14-day, 30-day, and in-hospital mortality rates than those who did not (p < 0.001). The days of hospital stay and costs for those who received appropriate and inappropriate empirical antimicrobial treatment were 21 and 34 days (p < 0.001) and 142,463 and 185,663 baht, respectively (p < 0.002). Our results suggest that an appropriate empirical antibiotic(s) is significantly associated with lower 30-day mortality in hospitalized patients with S. maltophilia septicemia.
Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients with Skeletal-Related Events and Abnormal MRI Pattern Have Poor Survival Outcomes: A Prospective Study on 370 Patients
Authors: Kanellias Nikolaos , Ntanasis-Stathopoulos Ioannis , Gavriatopoulou Maria , Koutoulidis Vassilis , Fotiou Despina , Migkou Magdalini , Eleutherakis-Papaiakovou Evangelos , Malandrakis Panagiotis , Bagratuni Tina , Mavropoulos-Papoudas Stylianos , Roussou Maria , Kastritis Efstathios , Moulopoulos Lia A. , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Terpos Evangelos
Published: May 2022

Contemporary information is sparse on the frequency of skeletal-related events (SREs) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients at a population-based level in the era of novel agents. In this context, we conducted this single-center, prospective, observational study to determine the incidence of SREs among newly diagnosed MMs (NDMM) and to explore the possible correlations with disease characteristics, imaging finding, and patient prognosis. A total of 370 patients with available baseline MRIs were included. Among them, 208 (56%) presented with at least one SRE at diagnosis. Fractures were the most common reported SREs (48%). The incidence of SREs at diagnosis was higher in patients with osteolytic lesions, abnormal MRI pattern, hypercalcemia, and at least 60% bone marrow infiltration by plasma cells. Importantly, the patients with normal MRI pattern, who did not present with SREs at diagnosis, had statistically significant improved median OS in comparison with the patients who had abnormal MRI patterns and/or the presence of SREs at diagnosis (9.3 vs. 6.6 years, p = 0.048). Our data, which represent one of a few systematic reports on the incidence and characteristics of SREs in the era of novel agents, was indicative of a high incidence of SREs at the time of MM diagnosis. Early detection of myeloma bone disease and tailored patient management are essential to optimize patient outcomes.
The Long-Term Effect of COVID-19 Disease Severity on Risk of Diabetes Incidence and the Near 1-Year Follow-Up Outcomes among Postdischarge Patients in Wuhan
Authors: Zhang Jun , Shu Tingting , Zhu Rui , Yang Fengwen , Zhang Boli , Lai Xuefeng
Published: May 2022

We assessed the nearly 1-year health consequences following discharge and related risk factors of COVID-19 infection and further explored the long-term effect of COVID-19 disease severity on the risk of diabetes incidence. This prospective study included 248 COVID-19 patients discharged from Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine who were followed up between 1 March and 10 June 2021. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate risk factors. The top ten symptoms were shortness of breath (30.3%), sore or dry throat (25.7%), cough (23.2%), expectoration (23.2%), body pain (22.3%), chest tightness (20.8%), palpitations (17.8%), sleep difficulties (17.0%), fatigue (16.6%), and anxiety (15.3%). Hypertension was associated with fatigue (OR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.08, 5.80), shortness of breath (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.16, 4.69), palpitations (OR = 2.82, 95% CI: 1.26, 6.31), expectoration (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.01, 4.30), and sore or dry throat (OR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.30, 5.65). Diabetes was associated with palpitations (OR = 3.22, 95% CI: 1.18, 8.81). Critical illness was associated with an increased risk of diabetes incidence after discharge (OR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.07, 7.88), which seemed more evident in males. Long COVID-19 symptoms were common at 1-year postdischarge; hypertension and diabetes could be projected as potential risk factors. We are among the first researchers to find that critical illness is associated with incident diabetes after discharge.
Excess Risk of Major Adverse Cardiovascular and Kidney Events after Acute Kidney Injury following Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Chan Yi-Chia , Yeh Cheng-Hsi , Li Lung-Chih , Chen Chao-Long , Wang Chih-Chi , Lin Chih-Chi , Ong Aldwin D. , Chiou Ting-Yu , Yong Chee-Chien
Published: May 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a well-known risk factor for major adverse kidney events (MAKE) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in nontransplant settings. However, the association between AKI after liver transplantation (LT) and MACE/MAKE is not established. A retrospective cohort analysis including 512 LT recipients was conducted. The incidence of post-LT AKI was 35.0% (n = 179). In total, 13 patients (2.5%) developed de novo coronary artery disease (CAD), 3 patients (0.6%) diagnosed with heart failure (HF), and 11 patients (2.1%) had stroke. The post-LT AKI group showed a higher incidence of CAD and HF than the no post-LT AKI group (4.5% versus 1.5%, p = 0.042; 1.7% versus 0%, p = 0.018; respectively), while there was no significant difference in the stroke events (2.8% versus 1.8%, p = 0.461). Through Cox regression analysis, history of cardiovascular disease (HR 6.51, 95% CI 2.43–17.46), post-LT AKI (HR 3.06, 95% CI 1.39–6.75), and pre-LT diabetes (HR 2.37, 95% CI 1.09–5.17) were identified as independent predictors of MACE; pre-LT chronic kidney disease (HR 9.54, 95% CI 3.49–26.10), pre-LT diabetes (HR 3.51, 95% CI 1.25–9.86), and post-LT AKI (HR 6.76, 95% CI 2.19–20.91) were risk factors for end-stage renal disease. Post-LT AKI is predictive for the development of MACE and MAKE.
Patient-Derived Training Simulator for Image-Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy of Locally Advanced Cervical Cancers: Development and Initial Use
Authors: Tomizawa Kento , Oike Takahiro , Ando Ken , Irie Daisuke , Sakai Makoto , Shimada Hirofumi , Ohno Tatsuya
Published: May 2022

Image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) using intracavitary and interstitial (IC/IS) techniques plays a pivotal role in definitive radiotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancers. However, the training opportunities for interstitial needle application are limited, preventing this technique from becoming widespread. This study aimed to develop a training simulator for IC/IS brachytherapy. The simulator consists of a soft silicone tumor phantom and acrylic tube mimicking the vagina; it has high visibility because of translucent materials and is compatible with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A patient harboring a typical bulky and irregular-shaped cervical tumor was selected from 495 in-house IGABT-treated candidates, and a tumor phantom (68 × 49 × 45 mm) modeled on this patient was produced from three-dimensional real-scale measurements of the MRI-based high-risk clinical target volume at first brachytherapy. In trial use by two physicians with different levels of IGABT skills, a Fletcher-Suit Asian Pacific applicator, and a Venezia applicator with interstitial needles were nicely applied to the simulator, facilitating successful creation of CT-based treatment plans consistent with clinical practice. Thus, the training simulator can be useful for the training of IC/IS brachytherapy, and warrants further research employing a greater number of phantoms and practitioners to verify its educational value.
Scientific Mapping of Coastal Governance: Global Benchmarks and Trends
Authors: Vega-Muñoz Alejandro , Salazar-Sepúlveda Guido , Contreras-Barraza Nicolás , Araya-Silva Lorena
Published: May 2022

This research panoramically and empirically reviews the scientific production on coastal governance studies, mapping global networks of countries, organizations, authors, themes, and journals as referents for this topic. The articles were examined through a bibliometric/scientometric approach based on 2043 articles corpus stored in the Web of Science (JCR), applying the bibliometric laws of Price, Lotka, and Zipf to add further validity to the use of VOSviewer for data and metadata processing. The results highlight an uninterrupted exponential increase in publications since 1991, with a high concentration in 29 countries (21%), 461 organizations (18%), 99 authors (1.45%), and 4 growing journals (1%). The emerging topics observed in the literature are related to coastal sustainability and coastal management. Complementing previous studies on coastal zone management and marine territorial planning, we add coastal systems governance as a topic.
Environmental Life-Cycle Assessment of Eco-Friendly Alternative Ship Fuels (MGO, LNG, and Hydrogen) for 170 GT Nearshore Ferry
Authors: Lee Gang Nam , Kim Jong Mu , Jung Kwang Hyo , Park Hyun , Jang Hag Soo , Lee Chung Seong , Lee Ji Won
Published: May 2022

With increasing concerns about environmental pollution, the shipping industry has been considering various fuels as alternative power sources. This paper presents a study of the holistic environmental impacts of eco-friendly alternative ship fuels of marine gas oil (MGO), liquefied natural gas (LNG), and hydrogen across each of their life cycles, from their production to the operation of the ship. The environmental impacts of the fuels were estimated by life-cycle assessment (LCA) analysis in the categories of well-to-tank, tank-to-wake, and well-to-wake phases. The LCA analysis was targeted for a 170 gross tonnage (GT) nearshore ferry operating in the ROK, which was conceptually designed in the study to be equipped with the hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. The environmental impact performance was presented with comparisons for the terms of global warming potential (GWP), acidification potential (AP), photochemical ozone creation potential (POCP), eutrophication potential (EP), and particulate matter (PM). The results showed that the hydrogen showed the highest GWP level during its life cycle due to the large amount of emissions in the hydrogen generation process through the steam methane reforming (SMR) method. The paper concludes with suggestions of an alternative fuel for the nearshore ferry and its production method based on the results of the study.
Laboratory Study of Turbulent Mass Exchange in a Stratified Fluid
Authors: Zatsepin Andrey G. , Gerasimov Valerii V. , Ostrovskii Alexander G.
Published: May 2022

In this study, a laboratory experiment was conducted to investigate quantitatively turbulent exchange between two quasi-homogeneous layers of equal thickness and different density (salinity), as well as the fine structure of the density transition zone (interface) between the layers. The fluid was continuously stirred by a system of horizontally oscillating vertical rods, piercing through both layers and producing vertically homogeneous turbulent impact in a two-layered fluid. In every experimental run, the stirring process was carried out continuously from certain initial state up to the complete mixing of the layers. The buoyancy flux between the layers was estimated using the data on time changes of the salinity in both upper and lower layers. The fine structure of density interface was measured by vertically profiling conductivity microprobe. The results were presented in a dimensionless form and analyzed depending on two dimensionless parameters as follows: the Richardson number, Ri, and Reynolds number, Re. It was found that if Ri>Ri∗Re where Ri∗ is the critical Richardson number, the interface exists in “sharpening” mode and in “eroding” (diffusive) mode if Ri<Ri∗Re. The maximum mixing efficiency was achieved at critical Richardson number, when the density interface was in a transition state between the sharpening and diffusive modes.
Bioinspired Central Pattern Generator and T-S Fuzzy Neural Network-Based Control of a Robotic Manta for Depth and Heading Tracking
Authors: Cao Yonghui , Xie Yu , He Yue , Pan Guang , Huang Qiaogao , Cao Yong
Published: May 2022

Aiming at the difficult problem of motion control of robotic manta with pectoral fin flexible deformation, this paper proposes a control scheme that combines the bioinspired Central Pattern Generator (CPG) and T-S Fuzzy neural network (NN)-based control. An improved CPG drive network is presented for the multi-stage fin structure of the robotic manta. Considering the unknown dynamics and the external environmental disturbances, a sensor-based classic T-S Fuzzy NN controller is designed for heading and depth control. Finally, a pool test demonstrates the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed controller: the robotic manta can track the depth and heading with an error of ±6 cm and ±6°, satisfying accuracy requirements.
Dynamic Energy-Efficient Path Planning of Unmanned Surface Vehicle under Time-Varying Current and Wind
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Shi Guoyou , Liu Jiao
Published: May 2022

The unmanned surface vehicle (USV) is significantly affected by the ocean environment and weather conditions when navigating. The energy consumption is large, which is not conducive to completing water tasks. This study investigates the global energy-efficient path planning problem for the USV, wherein the goal is to obtain an optimal path under the interference of the ocean environment and control the USV to avoid static obstacles and arrive at its destination. Firstly, this paper extracts the coastline coordinates and water depth data from the S-57 electronic chart, applying the Voronoi diagram to describe spatial object information preliminarily. Secondly, the dynamic, safe water depth model is obtained using the improved Voronoi diagram algorithm after superimposing the interpolated tide with the water depth data. In order to construct the total energy consumption model, the mathematical model of wind and current is introduced into the linear dynamics model of a USV. Additionally, the timing breakpoints are planned. According to the energy consumption model, this paper improves the A* algorithm to replan the path to consider the distance costs and variation of ocean data in each timing breakpoint. Finally, this paper proposes a new path optimization algorithm to reduce the waypoints and smooth the path. Simulations verified the effectiveness of the method. The energy consumption in a favorable situation is less than in a counter situation. The higher the USV velocity, the higher the energy consumption. The proposed dynamic energy-efficient path considers the distance, ensures a shorter range, and improves the endurance of the USV, which is in line with the actual navigation requirement.
The Therapeutic Potential of ADAMTS8 in Lung Adenocarcinoma without Targetable Therapy
Authors: Lee Hsiao-Chen , Chang Chao-Yuan , Wu Kuan-Li , Chiang Hung-Hsing , Chang Yung-Yun , Liu Lian-Xiu , Huang Yung-Chi , Hung Jen-Yu , Hsu Ya-Ling , Wu Yu-Yuan , Tsai Ying-Ming
Published: May 2022

Lung cancer is well known for its high mortality worldwide. The treatment for advanced lung cancer needs more attention to improve its survival time. A disintegrin and metallopeptidase with thrombospondin motifs 8 (ADAMTS8) has been linked to several cancer types. However, its role in lung cancer is worthy of deep investigation to promote novel drug development. This study took advantage of RNA-seq and bioinformatics to verify the role that ADAMTS8 plays in lung cancer. The functional assays suggested that ADAMTS8 mediates invasion and metastasis when expressed at a low level, contributing to poor overall survival (OS). The expression of ADAMTS8 was under the regulation of GATA Binding Protein 1 (GATA1) and executed its pathologic role through Thrombospondin Type 1 Domain Containing 1 (THSD1) and ADAMTS Like 2 (ADAMTSL2). To define the impact of ADAMTS8 in the lung cancer treatment strategy, this study further grouped lung cancer patients in the TCGA database into mutated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/wild-type EGFR and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) high/low groups. Importantly, the expression of ADAMTS8 was correlated positively with the recruitment of anticancer NKT cells and negatively with the infiltration of immunosuppressive Treg and exhausted T cells. The results indicated that lung cancer patients with higher ADAMTS8 levels among wild-type EGFR or low PD-L1 groups survive longer than those with lower levels do. This study indicates that ADAMTS8 might be a treatment option for patients with lung adenocarcinoma who lack efficient targeted or immunotherapies.
Consumer Perceptions of the Use of Nondegradable Plastic Packaging and Environmental Pollution: A Review of Theories and Empirical Literature
Authors: Mugobo Virimai Victor , Ntuli Herbert , Iwu Chux Gervase
Published: May 2022

Studying people’s perceptions of their attitudes and behaviour toward the use and inappropriate disposal of plastics is necessary because it helps explain the meaning of sustainable environmental behaviour in the context of African countries. Formulating appropriate behavioural change interventions may lead to a shift in people’s behaviour in terms of plastic consumption if they become aware of the environmental risk of plastics. Using a qualitative review of literature, relevant materials for this paper were identified using a search strategy that involved keywords and databases. Previous empirical studies employed several theoretical frameworks. However, inconsistences in the use and definition of variables, make comparing the results of these studies difficult. Although the literature is growing, more empirical evidence is still needed to understand the drivers of people’s perceptions toward unsustainable environmental behaviour in the context of African countries and to formulate appropriate behavioural change interventions. A review of the literature determined four broad drivers of people’s perceptions toward unsustainable environmental behaviour. These include policy or institutional variables, product and market attributes, community variables, and individual characteristics. Additionally, we offer a consolidated conceptual framework for analysing consumer perception in relation to the use of nondegradable plastics and environmental pollution and identify the drivers of people’s perceptions. Policy implications for developing countries as well as future research directions are flagged.
Potential Variation of Evapotranspiration Induced by Typical Vegetation Changes in Northwest China
Authors: Shuai Yanmin , Tian Yanjun , Shao Congying , Huang Jiapeng , Gu Lingxiao , Zhang Qingling , Zhao Ruishan
Published: May 2022

Evapotranspiration (ET), as a key eco-hydrological parameter, plays an important role in understanding sustainable ecosystem development. Each plant category has a unique functional trait on transpiration and photosynthesis, with ET implying that water cycle and energy transformation is linked with vegetation type. Changes in surface vegetation directly alter biophysical land surface properties, hence affecting energy and ET transfer. With the rapid increase in land surface changes, there is a need to further understand and quantify the effects of vegetation change on ET, especially over the vulnerable water-cycle region in the arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China. We adopted the GlobalLand30 land cover and MOD16A2 in 2010 and 2020 to investigate, discuss the spatio-temporal characteristics of annual and seasonal ET of cultivated land, grassland, and forests in Northwest China, and quantify the impact on vegetation changes with absolute and relative changes from different climatic subecoregions on ET. Our results show the following: (1) Forest ET was generally the highest at 688 mm, followed by cultivated land and grassland with 200–400 mm in arid climatic subecoregions. (2) Returning cultivated land to forests and cultivated land expansion potentially enhances ET by 90–110 mm/10a, with the relative rate of change increasing by 22.1% and 45.8%, respectively, away from unchanged vegetation within identical subecoregions. (3) The ET of most investigated areas gains the highest value in summer, followed by spring, autumn, and winter. This study provides reference for sustainable ecosystem development and the reasonable utilization of limited water resources in Northwest China.
Taboo Language in Non-Professional Subtitling on Bilibili.com: A Corpus-Based Study
Authors: Chen Xijinyan
Published: May 2022

This qualitative and quantitative study examines how taboo language is rendered in non-professional subtitling (NPS), how viewers react to the renderings, and how the interactions between danmu and general comments’ contributors affect the translation activities and language changes. The study draws on a parallel corpus consisting of taboo language and its translations from 18 of the most-viewed and commented upon subtitled videos on the popular video-sharing platform, Bilibili.com. Danmu comments and general comments related to the renderings of taboo language are also collected and studied. When analyzing translation activities in an NPS setting, the study adopts and modifies some mainstream subtitling strategies and techniques proposed by. The study finds that various creative approaches are adopted, such as lexical recreation and substitution by euphemism. While the strength of the taboo language is reduced in more than half of the instances, in an unexpected 17.2% of cases the effects are enlarged. The study concludes that a virtuous, collaborative mechanism for potential translation problems and language learning is formed by providing positive, neutral, and critical feedback in the comments. In addition to linguistic knowledge and cultural background, viewers also share knowledge beyond the scope of translation.
Oral Argumentation Skills between Process and Product
Authors: Luginbühl Martin , Müller-Feldmeth Daniel
Published: May 2022

Oral argumentation skills have become a ‘hot topic’ within pragmatic language acquisition research as well as didactical research. In this study, we first discuss characteristics specific to oral argumentation which, compared to written argumentation, has its own mediality and therefore specific requirements. To reconstruct different levels of oral argumentation skills of school children in grades 2, 4 and 6, we collected a corpus of 180 peer discussions without adult supervision and analyzed them based on conversation analysis. In our case study we compare two conversations in terms of different modalizations and epistemic stances in positionings and justifications and briefly show how the use of modalizations can shape both the character as well as the argumentative structure of a conversation. We argue that process-related and stylistic conversational aspects beyond structural aspects in a narrow sense shape oral argumentation to a high degree and therefore belong to the core aspects of oral argumentation skills.
Review of Multiple Myeloma Genetics including Effects on Prognosis, Response to Treatment, and Diagnostic Workup
Authors: Wiedmeier-Nutor Julia Erin , Bergsagel Peter Leif
Published: May 2022

Multiple myeloma is a disorder of the monoclonal plasma cells and is the second most common hematologic malignancy. Despite improvements in survival with newer treatment regimens, multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease and most patients experience multiple relapses. Multiple myeloma disease initiation and progression are highly dependent on complex genetic aberrations. This review will summarize the current knowledge of these genetic aberrations, how they affect prognosis and the response to treatment, and review sensitive molecular techniques for multiple myeloma workup, with the ultimate goal of detecting myeloma progression early, allowing for timely treatment initiation.
Supply of Antioxidants vs. Recruit Firefighters’ Cellular Immune Status: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Parallel-Group Trial
Authors: Santos José Augusto Rodrigues , Rama Tiago Azenha , da Silva Domingos José Lopes , Fernandes Ricardo J. , Zacca Rodrigo
Published: May 2022

Background: Physical exercise can affect the immune system. We studied the effect of antioxidants on hematological and immune biomarkers after heavy training. Methods: 24 well-trained and well-fed male firefighters were randomly divided into supplemented and placebo groups, and tested for immunology-related variables using venous blood samples in the fasting state, pre- (M1) and post- (M2) five weeks of daily micronutrient supplementation (15 mg of beta-carotene, 200 mg of vitamin C, 136 mg of vitamin E, 200 μg of selenium, 15 mg of zinc, 100 mg of magnesium). Total leukocytes and a differential count for five populations were determined using standard procedures (MAXM—Beckman Coulter Diagnostics; Brea, CA, USA). Lymphocyte subsets were determined through immunophenotyping. Results: Although all values were within the normal range for healthy adults and athletes in the supplemented group (SG), mean CD3+CD8+, CD8+ and CD16+CD56+ decreased (p < 0.05; small to moderate effects), while mean CD4+, CD19+ and CD4+/CD8+ increased (p < 0.05; small effects) after five-weeks. Regarding the placebo group (PG), higher total leukocyte count (p < 0.05; trivial effect) and natural killer cells percentage (CD16+CD56+; p < 0.05; moderate effect) were observed when comparing M1 and M2. Conclusions: Antioxidants supplementation did not alter well-fed male firefighters recruit firefighters’ immune cell response during the five-week physical training program.
Clinical Impact of Sarcopenia on Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Shin Suk-Pyo , Koh Dong-Hee
Published: May 2022

Sarcopenia is considered an important factor affecting the prognosis of cancer patients. Only complete surgical resection confers the chance of curing cholangiocarcinoma with sarcopenia. However, the prognosis is poor, even for patients who undergo surgical resection. Data from 13 trials of patients with sarcopenia and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) or perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) were collected and reviewed. During all trials, sarcopenia was assessed using the psoas muscle or total skeletal muscle at the L3 level on cross-sectional images. The data showed heterogeneity among the subjects and treatment options and discrepancies in methods of measuring muscle mass and setting the cut-off level. Despite conflicting results regarding morbidity, mortality, and recurrence, sarcopenia may be associated with poor overall survival and recurrence-free survival (RFS) for ICC patients. The impact of sarcopenia on the morbidity of ICC patients remains unclear. The impact of PHC on morbidity, mortality, and RFS is also unclear. Further well-designed studies are needed to elucidate the effects of sarcopenia on ICC and PHC.
5,5′-Thiobis(4-chloro-3H-1,2-dithiole-3-thione)
Authors: Ogurtsov Vladimir A. , Rakitin Oleg A.
Published: May 2022

3H-1,2-Dithiole-3-thiones are important compounds with many types of significant pharmacological activity. Although many derivatives of this class have been described in the literature, their thioethers have not previously been obtained. In this communication, it is shown that the reaction of 4,5-dichloro-3H-1,2-dithiole-3-thione with potassium isocyanate unexpectedly gave 5,5′-thiobis(4-chloro-3H-1,2-dithiole-3-thione). The structure of the synthesized compound was established by elemental analysis, high-resolution mass spectrometry, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
Nanotechnology in the Diagnostic and Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Graur Florin , Puia Aida , Mois Emil Ioan , Moldovan Septimiu , Pusta Alexandra , Cristea Cecilia , Cavalu Simona , Puia Cosmin , Al Hajjar Nadim
Published: May 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common liver malignancy and is among the top five most common cancers. Despite the progress of surgery and chemotherapy, the results are often disappointing, in part due to chemoresistance. This type of tumor has special characteristics that allow the improvement of diagnostic and treatment techniques used in clinical practice, by combining nanotechnology. This article presents a brief review of the literature focused on nano-conditioned diagnostic methods, targeted therapy, and therapeutic implications for the pathology of hepatocellular carcinoma. Within each subdomain, several modern technologies with significant impact were highlighted: serological, imaging, or histopathological diagnosis; intraoperative detection; carrier-type nano-conditioned therapy, thermal ablation, and gene therapy. The prospects offered by nanomedicine will strengthen the hope of more efficient diagnoses and therapies in the future.
Strongly Correlated Quantum Spin Liquids versus Heavy Fermion Metals: A Review
Authors: Shaginyan Vasily R. , Msezane Alfred Z. , Japaridze George S. , Artamonov Stanislav A. , Leevik Yulya S.
Published: May 2022

This review considers the topological fermion condensation quantum phase transition (FCQPT) that explains the complex behavior of strongly correlated Fermi systems, such as frustrated insulators with quantum spin liquid and heavy fermion metals. The review contrasts theoretical consideration with recent experimental data collected on both heavy fermion metals (HF) and frustrated insulators. Such a method allows to understand experimental data. We also consider experimental data collected on quantum spin liquid in Lu3Cu2Sb3O14 and quasi-one dimensional (1D) quantum spin liquid in both YbAlO3 and Cu(C4H4N2)(NO3)2 with the aim to establish a sound theoretical explanation for the observed scaling laws, Landau Fermi liquid (LFL) and non-Fermi-liquid (NFL) behavior exhibited by these frustrated insulators. The recent experimental data on the heavy-fermion metal α−YbAl1−xFexB4, with x=0.014, and on its sister compounds β−YbAlB4 and YbCo2Ge4, carried out under the application of magnetic field as a control parameter are analyzed. We show that the thermodynamic and transport properties as well as the empirical scaling laws follow from the fermion condensation theory. We explain how both the similarity and the difference in the thermodynamic and transport properties of α−YbAl1−xFexB4 and in its sister compounds β−YbAlB4 and YbCo2Ge4 emerge, as well as establish connection of these (HF) metals with insulators Lu3Cu2Sb3O14, Cu(C4H4N2)(NO3)2 and YbAlO3. We demonstrate that the universal LFL and NFL behavior emerge because the HF compounds and the frustrated insulators are located near the topological FCQPT or are driven by the application of magnetic fields.
Topology Optimization and Fatigue Life Estimation of Sustainable Medical Waste Shredder Blade
Authors: Azad Muhammad Muzammil , Kim Dohoon , Khalid Salman , Kim Heung Soo
Published: May 2022

There is an increased interest in designing cost-effective lightweight components to meet modern design requirements of improving cost and performance efficiency. This paper describes a significant effort to optimize the medical waste shredder blade through weight reduction by increasing material efficiency. The blade computer-aided design (CAD) model was produced through reverse engineering and converted to the finite element (FE) model to characterize von Mises stress and displacement. The obtained stress characteristics were introduced into the FE-SAFE for fatigue analysis. Furthermore, the FE model was analyzed through topological optimization using strain energy as the objective function while implementing the volume constraint. To obtain the optimal volume constraint for the blade model, several 3D numerical test cases were performed at various volume constraints. A significant weight reduction of 24.7% was observed for the 80% volume constraint (VC80). The FE analysis of optimal geometry indicated a 6 MPa decrease in the von Mises and a 14.5% increase in the fatigue life. Therefore, the proposed optimal design method demonstrated to be effective and easy to apply for the topology optimization of the shredder blade and has significantly decreased the structural weight without compromising the structural integrity and robustness.