bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Olive- and Coconut-Oil-Enriched Diets Decreased Secondary Bile Acids and Regulated Metabolic and Transcriptomic Markers of Brain Injury in the Frontal Cortexes of NAFLD Pigs
Authors: Maj Magdalena A. , Gehani Tanvi R. , Immoos Chad , Medrano Mikaelah S. , Fanter Rob K. , Strand Christine R. , Glanz Hunter , Piccolo Brian D. , Abo-Ismail Mohammed K. , La Frano Michael R. , Manjarín Rodrigo
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary fatty acid (FA) saturation and carbon chain length on brain bile acid (BA) metabolism and neuronal number in a pig model of pediatric NAFLD. Thirty 20-day-old Iberian pigs, pair-housed in pens, were randomly assigned to receive one of three hypercaloric diets for 10 weeks: (1) lard-enriched (LAR; n = 5 pens), (2) olive-oil-enriched (OLI, n = 5), and (3) coconut-oil-enriched (COC; n = 5). Pig behavior and activity were analyzed throughout the study. All animals were euthanized on week 10 and frontal cortex (FC) samples were collected for immunohistochemistry, metabolomic, and transcriptomic analyses. Data were analyzed by multivariate and univariate statistics. No differences were observed in relative brain weight, neuronal number, or cognitive functioning between diets. Pig activity and FC levels of neuroprotective secondary BAs and betaine decreased in the COC and OLI groups compared with LAR, and paralleled the severity of NAFLD. In addition, OLI-fed pigs showed downregulation of genes involved in neurotransmission, synaptic transmission, and nervous tissue development. Similarly, COC-fed pigs showed upregulation of neurogenesis and myelin repair genes, which caused the accumulation of medium-chain acylcarnitines in brain tissue. In conclusion, our results indicate that secondary BA levels in the FCs of NAFLD pigs are affected by dietary FA composition and are associated with metabolic and transcriptomic markers of brain injury. Dietary interventions that aim to replace saturated FAs by medium-chain or monounsaturated FAs in high-fat hypercaloric diets may have a negative effect on brain health in NAFLD patients.
Automatic Recognition of High-Density Epileptic EEG Using Support Vector Machine and Gradient-Boosting Decision Tree
Authors: He Jiaxiu , Yang Li , Liu Ding , Song Zhi
Published: September 2022

Background: Epilepsy (Ep) is a chronic neural disease. The diagnosis of epilepsy depends on detailed seizure history and scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) examinations. The automatic recognition of epileptic EEG is an artificial intelligence application developed from machine learning (ML). Purpose: This study compares the classification effects of two kinds of classifiers by controlling the EEG data source and characteristic values. Method: All EEG data were collected by GSN HydroCel 256 leads and high-density EEG from Xiangya Third Hospital. This study used time-domain features (mean, kurtosis and skewness processed by empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and three IMFs), a frequency-domain feature (power spectrum density, PSD) and a non-linear feature (Shannon entropy). Support vector machine (SVM) and gradient-boosting decision tree (GBDT) classifiers were used to recognize epileptic EEG. Result: The result of the SVM classifier showed an accuracy of 72.00%, precision of 73.98%, and an F1_score of 82.28%. Meanwhile, the result of the GBDT classifier showed a sensitivity of 98.57%, precision of 89.13%, F1_score of 93.40%, and an AUC of 0.9119. Conclusion: The comparison of GBDT and SVM by controlling the variables of the feature values and parameters of a classifier is presented. GBDT obtained the better classification accuracy (90.00%) and F1_score (93.40%).
FEM-Based Analysis of the Loading Capacity of Defective Cable Tunnel Structures
Authors: Liu He , Liu Junbo , Zhang Peng , Zhao Yahong , Wang Zhigang , Jiao Lixin , Luan Jingyao , Zhu Zihao
Published: September 2022

With the popularized application of underground cable tunnels in China, various structural defects such as cracking, deforming and material deteriorating also emerge. In cable tunnels that have been poorly maintained for a long time, there is always a coexistence of several kinds of defects, and with the current methods of monitoring, it is difficult to identify the major defect affecting the load-carrying capacity and resolve it. However, the finite element method (FEM) can better solve this problem by analyzing the effect of a single defect parameter separately. In this paper, four different types of cable tunnels, namely the circular, rectangular, arched and trenched sectional tunnels, are modelled and analyzed with FEM. Defect parameters, including crack dimensions and concrete deterioration, are considered as variables, which are controlled and studied respectively. The results of the simulation indicate that the impact of crack propagation on the residual-bearing capacity of cable tunnels is much larger than that of concrete deterioration, especially the deepening of cracks. Works in this paper have the potential to be further referenced for cable-tunnel structure estimation and defect prevention.
Preparation of Recycled and Multi-Recycled Coarse Aggregates Concrete with the Vibration Mixing Process
Authors: Yang Fa , Yao Yunshi , Wang Xinxin , Wei Jin , Feng Zhongxu
Published: September 2022

The reuse of construction and demolition waste has become vitally important because of the requirements of environmental protection and sustainable development. The vibration mixing process is a new technology and novel method that improves the performance of concrete by optimizing the mixing process without changing constituents. This study discusses the 100% recycled and multi-recycled coarse aggregates concrete using the vibration mixing process and investigates the fresh and hardened properties. The results show that the recycled and multi-recycled concrete using the vibration mixing process experienced obviously higher compressive strength than that of non-vibration mixing process. At 120 days, the compressive strength of all mixtures surpassed the target strength (40 MPa), except for the multi-recycled concrete with the non-vibration mixing process. More importantly, the compressive strength of the recycled and multi-recycled concrete using vibration mixing was larger than the previous-generation concrete using non-vibration mixing. Another interesting finding was that the coefficient of variation of compressive strength using vibration mixing was smaller and the concrete quality was better and more stable. The splitting tensile strength of recycled and multi-recycled concrete was also investigated and discussed. In addition, the results of t-tests show that vibration mixing has a significant influence on the compressive and splitting tensile strength of recycled and multi-recycled concrete. It is expected that the vibration mixing process could be a more efficient way to help the wide application of recycled and multi-recycled concrete.
LES Analysis of the Effect of Snowdrift on Wind Pressure on a Low-Rise Building
Authors: Liu Zhixiang , Yu Zhixiang , Chen Yang , He Huan , Chen Xiaoxiao
Published: September 2022

This paper presents a comparative study of the distribution of wind pressure acting on a low-rise building roof with or without snowdrift through the Large-Eddy simulation (LES) method. Firstly, based on previous wind-blowing snow experiments, the stable snowdrift models were obtained by reverse technique. Secondly, the methodology of LES numerical simulation was introduced, where sensitivity analyses were conducted to determine a more reasonable grid configuration and data sampling time. Meanwhile, the numerical validation was also verified by comparing it with the previous PIV database. Finally, the wind pressure acting on the building’s roof with or without snowdrift were systematically compared and analyzed. It was found that the snow cover significantly restrains the size of the separation bubble and makes is lcoated earlier on the roof, which leads to the increasing passing velocity in the region near the roof. Meanwhile, the area-averaged pressure coefficient in the windward region (x/H < 0.5) for the snowdrift roof will be significantly amplified, especially for the fluctuating pressure, the maximum value of the Relative Difference even reaches 40%. Additionally, according to the POD analysis, the snowdrift causes the fluctuating wind energy to concentrate near the windward side of the roof. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the wind pressure in the windward region when the snowdrift is formed on the roof.
The Effect of Village Morphological Variation Caused by Economic Development on Residents’ Health and Rural Ventilation in Tianjin
Authors: Xu Fusuo , Gao Zhi , Xing Yuchen , Wu Zihao , Zhang Jianshun , Liao Yimin , Hu Yongyu
Published: September 2022

Many multi-story residential buildings have been built in villages to improve the living quality of rural residents in China. Therefore, village morphology has dramatically changed compared to the past. Since northern China continues to suffer from environmental problems, improving village ventilation by optimizing village morphology is essential for creating a good rural environment. In this study, 17 morphology models were categorized based on 383 actual villages in Tianjin. In addition, the ventilation capacity of courtyards and streets and residents’ health risks of different morphology cases were analyzed. For the northwest wind direction, the ventilation capacity of the courtyards in the northern part of the village can be improved when there are multi-story residences in the north or west of the village. Accordingly, in the southeast wind direction, multi-story buildings in the south or east of the village can improve the courtyard ventilation in the southern part of the village. In addition, multi-story buildings in the west or east of the village can form ventilation corridors in the northwest or southeast wind direction. The morphologies without multi-story buildings in the west or east of the village were recommended to be applied in the village planning in Tianjin due to good ventilation capacity and low exposure risks.
Small and Startup IT Firms, Information Chasms, and the Market for Acquisitions
Authors: Bandodkar Nikhil Ramkrishna , Singh Renu
Published: September 2022

Small and startup IT (SSIT) firms are responsible for a lot of important IT innovations in the IT industry. Several SSIT firms are then bought by larger, more established IT companies that want to drive their innovation, add new product and service lines, or limit competition. However, because SSIT firms are often small and difficult to find, it is hard for many of them to show acquiring firms how good they are. We discuss three “information chasms” to explain why it is difficult for SSIT firms to show how good they are, and we suggest that the SSIT firms that successfully cross these “information chasms” can become acquired for a higher price. Using a dataset of over two hundred acquisitions of SSIT firms in the IT industry from the mid-2000s to the mid-2010s, we find that our hypotheses are confirmed. When SSIT firms invest in activities that eliminate uncertainty about the firm’s knowledge resources and promote the firm, they are acquired at a higher price. In addition, purchasers pay a premium for SSIT firms that continue to utilize mature IT during acquisitions.
KRAS Pathway Alterations in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: An Underestimated Player
Authors: Trassl Lilith , Stathopoulos Georgios T.
Published: September 2022

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, incurable cancer of the mesothelial cells lining the lungs and the chest wall that is mainly caused by asbestos inhalation. The molecular mechanisms of mesothelial carcinogenesis are still unclear despite comprehensive studies of the mutational landscape of MPM, and the most frequently mutated genes BAP1, NF2, CDKN2A, TP53, and TSC1 cannot cause MPM in mice in a standalone fashion. Although KRAS pathway alterations were sporadically detected in older studies employing targeted sequencing, they have been largely undetected by next generation sequencing. We recently identified KRAS mutations and copy number alterations in a significant proportion of MPM patients. Here, we review and analyze multiple human datasets and the published literature to show that, in addition to KRAS, multiple other genes of the KRAS pathway are perturbed in a significant proportion of patients with MPM.
Efficacy and Optimal Pressure of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Lung Cancer
Authors: Park Jaehyeon , Yea Ji Woon , Oh Se An , Park Jongmoo , Park Jae Won , Lee Jeong Eun
Published: September 2022

We aimed to determine the optimal pressure of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for radiotherapy (RT) through changes in the dosimetric parameters and lung volume according to pressure. Patients with locally advanced lung cancer, who underwent CPAP during computed tomography (CT) simulation, were included. The air pressure was raised in five steps of 4, 7, 10, 14, and 17 cmH2O and a CT scan was performed at the baseline and at each pressure step, accompanied by contouring and RT planning. Paired t- and Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to compare the volumetric and dosimetric parameters according to pressure and interpressure. A total of 29 patients were selected, and 158 CT datasets were obtained. The lung volume increased significantly at all pressures (p < 0.01). The Dmean of the lung decreased significantly from 7 cmH2O (p < 0.01), the V5, V10, V15, and V20 of the lung decreased significantly from 7 cmH2O with increasing pressure, and the Dmean and V5 of the heart decreased significantly from 14 cmH2O with increasing pressure. The V50 showed no significant differences at any pressure. We recommend the use of at least 7 cmH2O with 14 cmH2O as the optimal pressure to achieve the effect of heart preservation.
Probe-Based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy versus White-Light Endoscopy with Narrow-Band Imaging for Predicting and Collecting Residual Cancer Tissue in Patients with Gastric Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy
Authors: Kim Yuna , Kim Hyunki , Jung Minkyu , Rha Sun Young , Chung Hyun Cheol , Lee Sang Kil
Published: September 2022

In cases of progression despite chemotherapy, collecting gastric cancer (GC) tissues might be helpful for molecular biology research or the development of new target drugs for treating cases that are refractory to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy, however, may reduce or alter the distribution of GC tissue on the surface, making the detection of GC tissue during upper endoscopy challenging. Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) is a new technology that enables histological diagnosis by magnifying the mucous membrane to a microscopic level. Here, we evaluated whether pCLE could increase the yield of endoscopic biopsy for GC compared to white-light endoscopy (WLE) with magnifying narrow-band imaging (M-NBI) in GC patients receiving chemotherapy with its powerful imaging technique. Patients underwent WLE/M-NBI and pCLE for the detection of residual GC for the purpose of response evaluation or clinical trial registration. After WLE/M-NBI and pCLE, each residual GC lesion was biopsied for histological analysis. A total of 23 patients were enrolled between January 2018 and June 2020. Overall, pCLE showed significantly higher sensitivity and negative predictive value than WLE/M-NBI. The accuracy of pCLE was superior to that of WLE/M-NBI. Moreover, pCLE showed better predictive ability for residual GC than WLE/M-NBI, while WLE/M-NBI and pCLE showed inconsistent results. pCLE diagnosed residual GC more accurately than WLE/M-NBI, which resulted in an increased number of GC tissues collected during the endoscopic biopsy.
The Third Joint Meeting on Lung Cancer of the FHU OncoAge (University Côte d’Azur, Nice, France) and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA). Understanding New Therapeutic Options and Promising Predictive Biomarkers for Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Hofman Paul , Calin George A. , Mani Sandurai A. , Bontoux Christophe , Ilié Marius , Wistuba Ignacio I.
Published: September 2022

We are proud and happy to present this Special Issue, a follow-up to the third joint meeting on lung cancer of the FHU OncoAge (University Côte d’Azur, Nice, France) and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA), which was held virtually on 4 October 2021 [...]
COVID-19 vs. Cancer Immunosurveillance: A Game of Thrones within an Inflamed Microenviroment
Authors: Liapis Ioannis , Baritaki Stavroula
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic accounts for more than 500 million confirmed infections and over 6 million deaths worldwide in the last 2 years. SARS-CoV-2 causes a highly complex form of inflammation that affects the human organism both acutely and chronically. In the same line, cancer as an inflammation-induced and immune-editing disease appears to cross-react with immune system at different levels including early interactions during carcinogenesis and later cross-talks within the tumor microenvironment. With all that in mind, a reasonable question one might address is whether the SARS-CoV-2 infection and the derived “long lasting inflammatory status” that is frequently observed in patients, might affect the cancer immunosurveillance mechanisms and consequently their risk of developing cancer, as well as the tumor and immune cell behaviors within the inflamed microenvironment. On this context, this review intends to outline and discuss the existing knowledge on SARS-CoV-2-mediated immunomodulation under the prism of changes that might be able to interfere with cancer cell immunoescape and the overall tumor progression and response to conventional therapeutics. Our goal is to highlight a potential interplay between the COVID-19 immunopathology and cancer immune-microenvironment that may pave the way for thorough investigation in the future.
Superhydrophobic Ru Catalyst for Highly Efficient Hydrogenation of Phenol under Mild Aqueous Conditions
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Wang Jingliang , Li Xiaoxian , Yang Mingde , Wu Yulong
Published: September 2022

Selective hydrogenations of lignin-derived phenolic compounds represent essential processes in the chemical industry, especially for production of a multitude of fine chemicals. However, selective hydrogenation of phenolic compounds in water phase suffers from low conversion. Here we report a catalyst of well-dispersed Ru clusters fixed in N-doped mesoporous hollow carbon spheres (Ru@N-CS) for enhanced cyclohexanol productivity in phenol hydrogenation at mild aqueous condition. This superhydrophobicity carbon spheres appear to selectively allow diffusion of phenol and hydrogen molecules to the electron-rich coordination unsaturated Ru active sites, while confining the reactants there to enhance its reaction probability. The Ru@N-CS catalyst can selectively hydrogenate phenol at 80 °C and 0.5 MPa of H2 in 30 min in aqueous medium with phenol conversions of 100% and ~100% cyclohexanol selectivity, corresponding to cyclohexanol productivity up to 471 per g of Ru per minute. The TOF value is up to 9980 h−1, which 14 times more than Ru nanoparticles supported on N-doped carbon hollow spheres (Ru/N-CS). This work provides an important catalytic system for upgrading of bio-oil into value-added chemicals under mild aqueous-phase.
Efficient and Eco-Friendly Perspectives for C-H Arylation of Benzothiazole Utilizing Pd Nanoparticle-Decorated Chitosan
Authors: Mostafa Mohamed Mokhtar M. , Saleh Tamer S. , Bawaked Salem M. , Alghamdi Khadijah S. , Narasimharao Katabathini
Published: September 2022

In this contribution, an eco-friendly, sustainable, and efficient palladium nanoparticle-decorated chitosan (Pd@Chitosan) catalyst was synthesized by a simple impregnation method. The synthesized material was utilized as a heterogeneous catalyst for the C-H arylation of benzothiazole under ultrasonic irradiation. The Pd@Chitosan catalyst efficiently catalyzed the conversion of aryl iodides and bromides to 1-(4-(benzothiazol-2-yl)phenyl)ethan-1-one selectively. A single product of 83–93% yield was obtained in N,N-dimethylformamide solvent at 80 °C for 2.5h. This study reveals that Pd@Chitosan is an efficient catalyst, which catalyzes the C-H arylation with good reaction yields. The activity of the Pd@Chitosan is due to the presence of highly dispersed Pd(0) nanoparticles on the surface of the chitosan and Pd2+; a tentative mechanism was proposed based on the XPS results of the fresh catalyst and spent catalyst.
Mechanisms of Regulation in Intraflagellar Transport
Authors: Mul Wouter , Mitra Aniruddha , Peterman Erwin J. G.
Published: September 2022

Cilia are eukaryotic organelles essential for movement, signaling or sensing. Primary cilia act as antennae to sense a cell’s environment and are involved in a wide range of signaling pathways essential for development. Motile cilia drive cell locomotion or liquid flow around the cell. Proper functioning of both types of cilia requires a highly orchestrated bi-directional transport system, intraflagellar transport (IFT), which is driven by motor proteins, kinesin-2 and IFT dynein. In this review, we explore how IFT is regulated in cilia, focusing from three different perspectives on the issue. First, we reflect on how the motor track, the microtubule-based axoneme, affects IFT. Second, we focus on the motor proteins, considering the role motor action, cooperation and motor-train interaction plays in the regulation of IFT. Third, we discuss the role of kinases in the regulation of the motor proteins. Our goal is to provide mechanistic insights in IFT regulation in cilia and to suggest directions of future research.
Impairment of Neuronal Mitochondrial Quality Control in Prion-Induced Neurodegeneration
Authors: Kim Mo-Jong , Kim Hee-Jun , Jang Byungki , Kim Hyun-Ji , Mostafa Mohd Najib , Park Seok-Joo , Kim Yong-Sun , Choi Eun-Kyoung
Published: September 2022

Mitochondrial dynamics continually maintain cell survival and bioenergetics through mitochondrial quality control processes (fission, fusion, and mitophagy). Aberrant mitochondrial quality control has been implicated in the pathogenic mechanism of various human diseases, including cancer, cardiac dysfunction, and neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and prion disease. However, the mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated neuropathological mechanisms in prion disease are still uncertain. Here, we used both in vitro and in vivo scrapie-infected models to investigate the involvement of mitochondrial quality control in prion pathogenesis. We found that scrapie infection led to the induction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), resulting in enhanced phosphorylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) at Ser616 and its subsequent translocation to the mitochondria, which was followed by excessive mitophagy. We also confirmed decreased expression levels of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complexes and reduced ATP production by scrapie infection. In addition, scrapie-infection-induced aberrant mitochondrial fission and mitophagy led to increased apoptotic signaling, as evidenced by caspase 3 activation and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. These results suggest that scrapie infection induced mitochondrial dysfunction via impaired mitochondrial quality control processes followed by neuronal cell death, which may have an important role in the neuropathogenesis of prion diseases.
Experiences with Glofitamab Administration following CAR T Therapy in Patients with Relapsed Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Heini Alexander D. , Bacher Ulrike , Porret Naomi , Wiedemann Gertrud , Legros Myriam , Stalder Zeerleder Denise , Seipel Katja , Novak Urban , Daskalakis Michael , Pabst Thomas
Published: September 2022

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare type of B-cell Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) affecting predominantly male patients. While complete remissions following first-line treatment are frequent, most patients ultimately relapse, with a usually aggressive further disease course. The use of cytarabine-comprising induction chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation, Rituximab maintenance, Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors and CAR T therapy has substantially improved survival. Still, options for patients relapsing after CAR T therapy are limited and recommendations for the treatment of these patients are lacking. We report two cases of patients with mantle cell lymphoma who relapsed after CAR T therapy and were treated with the bispecific CD20/CD3 T cell engaging antibody glofitamab. Both patients showed marked increases of circulating CAR T cells and objective responses after glofitamab administration. Therapy was tolerated without relevant side effects in both patients. One patient completed all 12 planned cycles of glofitamab therapy and was alive and without clinical progression at the last follow-up. The second patient declined further treatment after the first cycle and succumbed to disease progression. We review the literature and investigate possible mechanisms involved in the observed responses after administration of glofitamab, such as proliferation of CAR T cells, anti-tumor effects of the bispecific antibody and the role of other possibly contributing factors. Therapy with bispecific antibodies might offer an effective and well-tolerated option for patients with mantle cell lymphoma relapsing after CAR T therapy.
Altered Immune Response to the Epstein–Barr Virus as a Prerequisite for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Läderach Fabienne , Münz Christian
Published: September 2022

Strong epidemiologic evidence links Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection and its altered immune control to multiple sclerosis (MS) development. Clinical MS onset occurs years after primary EBV infection and the mechanisms linking them remain largely unclear. This review summarizes the epidemiological evidence for this association and how the EBV specific immune control is altered in MS patients. The two main possibilities of mechanisms for this association are further discussed. Firstly, immune responses that are induced during a symptomatic primary EBV infection, namely infectious mononucleosis, might be amplified during the following years to finally cause central nervous system (CNS) inflammation and demyelination. Secondly, genetic predisposition and environmental factors might not allow for an efficient immune control of the EBV-infected B cells that might drive autoimmune T cell stimulation or CNS inflammation. These two main hypotheses for explaining the association of the EBV with MS would implicate opposite therapeutic interventions, namely either dampening CNS inflammatory EBV-reactive immune responses or strengthening them to eliminate the autoimmunity stimulating EBV-infected B cell compartment. Nevertheless, recent findings suggest that EBV is an important puzzle piece in the pathogenesis of MS, and understanding its contribution could open new treatment possibilities for this autoimmune disease.
Inhibition of PGE2 in Subchondral Bone Attenuates Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sun Qi , Zhang Yuanzhen , Ding Yilan , Xie Wenqing , Li Hengzhen , Li Shaohua , Li Yusheng , Cai Ming
Published: September 2022

Aberrant subchondral bone architecture is a crucial driver of the pathological progression of osteoarthritis, coupled with increased sensory innervation. The sensory PGE2/EP4 pathway is involved in the regulation of bone mass accrual by the induction of differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells. This study aimed to clarify whether the sensory PGE2/EP4 pathway induces aberrant structural alteration of subchondral bone in osteoarthritis. Destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) using a mouse model was combined with three approaches: the treatment of celecoxib, capsaicin, and sensory nerve-specific prostaglandin E2 receptor 4 (EP4)-knockout mice. Cartilage degeneration, subchondral bone architecture, PGE2 levels, distribution of sensory nerves, the number of osteoprogenitors, and pain-related behavior in DMM mice were assessed. Serum and tissue PGE2 levels and subchondral bone architecture in a human sample were measured. Increased PGE2 is closely related to subchondral bone’s abnormal microstructure in humans and mice. Elevated PGE2 concentration in subchondral bone that is mainly derived from osteoblasts occurs in early-stage osteoarthritis, preceding articular cartilage degeneration in mice. The decreased PGE2 levels by the celecoxib or sensory denervation by capsaicin attenuate the aberrant alteration of subchondral bone architecture, joint degeneration, and pain. Selective EP4 receptor knockout of the sensory nerve attenuates the aberrant formation of subchondral bone and facilitates the prevention of cartilage degeneration in DMM mice. Excessive PGE2 in subchondral bone caused a pathological alteration to subchondral bone in osteoarthritis and maintaining the physiological level of PGE2 could potentially be used as an osteoarthritis treatment.
Roles of Auxin in the Growth, Development, and Stress Tolerance of Horticultural Plants
Authors: Zhang Qiongdan , Gong Min , Xu Xin , Li Honghai , Deng Wei
Published: September 2022

Auxin, a plant hormone, regulates virtually every aspect of plant growth and development. Many current studies on auxin focus on the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, or on field crops, such as rice and wheat. There are relatively few studies on what role auxin plays in various physiological processes of a range of horticultural plants. In this paper, recent studies on the role of auxin in horticultural plant growth, development, and stress response are reviewed to provide novel insights for horticultural researchers and cultivators to improve the quality and application of horticultural crops.
Influence of Porosity on R-Curve Behaviour of Tetragonal Stabilized Zirconia
Authors: Boccaccini Dino N. , Gil Vanesa , Gurauskis Jonas , Merino Rosa I. , Pellacani Andrea , Mortalò Cecilia , Soprani Stefano , Romagnoli Marcello , Cannio Maria
Published: September 2022

Y2O3 at 3% mol partially stabilized Zr2O3 (3YSZ) porous specimens with variable open porosity, from fully dense up to ~47%, and their potential use as anode supports for new solid oxide cell designs were fabricated by tape casting. The stiffness, strength and fracture properties were measured to investigate the influence of porosity on mechanical properties. The evolution of Young’s modulus and characteristic strength was evaluated by ball-on-ring tests. The variation of critical plane stress Mode I stress intensity factor with porosity has also been investigated and modelled from the results obtained from fracture mechanics testing. R-curve behaviour was observed in dense 3YSZ specimens and in porous 3YSZ compositions. The width of the transformation zone after fracture mechanics testing and the variation with porosity were investigated. The phases existing in the fracture zone were determined and quantified by Raman spectroscopy. It was found that the width of the transformation zone increased with increasing porosity. A new general R-curve model for 3YSZ based on the McMeeking–Evans equation is presented, which can be used to predict the behaviour of the R-curve as a function of porosity, simply by knowing the properties of the dense material and introducing in this equation porosity-dependent laws on the key properties that affect fracture toughness.
Economic Analysis of Biogas Production via Biogas Digester Made from Composite Material
Authors: Obileke KeChrist , Makaka Golden , Nwokolo Nwabunwanne , Meyer Edson L. , Mukumba Patrick
Published: September 2022

This study seeks to evaluate the economic implication of a biogas digester built from composite material to ascertain its cost effectiveness. The feasibility study conducted indicates that a brick made only of fixed dome digester costs between USD 3193.99 and USD 4471.59. This high cost is attributed to the construction material, thus prompting the need to use materials of lower cost for affordability and sustainability. Hence, the digester under study was made from composite material comprising high-density polyethylene (HDPE), bricks and cement. The inlet and outlet chambers were built using bricks and cement, while the digestion chamber was made from HDPE material. From the economic analysis conducted, the total initial investment cost of the biogas digester was reported to be USD 1623.41 with an internal rate of return (IRR) of 8.5%, discount payback period (DPP) of 2 years and net present value (NPV) of USD 1783.10. The findings equally revealed that the estimated quantity of biogas could replace 33.2% of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cooking gas. Moreover, the biogas daily yield of 1.57 m3 generates approximately 9.42 kWh of electricity, which costs about USD 1.54. Thus, the study recommends the use of composite material of plastics and bricks in constructing the biogas digester, as it is cost effective and sustainable.
Understanding Family Risk and Protective Factors That Shape Child Development
Authors: Yoon Susan
Published: September 2022

Understanding the various family characteristics and contextual factors that shape children’s health and developmental outcomes is important for promoting optimal child development [...]
Retrospective Mid-Term Follow-Up of Posttraumatic and Iatrogenic Neurovascular Complications in Surgically Treated Paediatric Patients with Distal Humerus Fracture
Authors: Gutwerk Alexander , Behrendt Peter , Vetter Svenja , Menzdorf Leif , Oates Edward , Jazra Sebastian , Lippross Sebastian , Klüter Tim , Seekamp Andreas , Weuster Matthias
Published: September 2022

Background: The purpose of the study was to investigate and describe neurovascular complications and mid-term clinical outcomes of operatively managed fractures of the distal humerus in a paediatric population. Neurovascular injuries are common in these fractures, but reports about their implications for mid-term clinical outcomes is sparse. Methods: A single-centre retrospective study was conducted at a university teaching hospital investigating paediatric patients who underwent operative management of a distal humerus fracture between 2014 and 2018. Patient demographics, fracture classification, pre-, peri- and postoperative neurovascular complications were investigated. Mid-term follow up clinical examination and functional scoring using QuickDASH, the Broberg and Morrey Score (BMS), the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Numeric Rating Scale were performed. Results: A total of 84 patients were identified, of which 34 met the inclusion criteria and were available for follow-up clinical examination. The average time to follow-up was 150 weeks (1049.44 days ± 448.54). Ten primary traumatic neurovascular complications were identified, the majority of which involved the median nerve. Primary traumatic dissection of the brachial artery was recorded in three patients. Secondary iatrogenic nerve injury was documented in five patients after previously normal clinical examination. At follow-up, the average QuickDASH score was 3.0 ± 4.3, BMS was 98.6 ± 3.4 and MEPS was 97.1 ± 3.3 points. Conclusions: The mid-term clinical outcome following surgical management of distal humerus fractures is excellent. There is, however, a considerable frequency of both primary and secondary neurovascular complications, which must be considered when opting to treat these injuries surgically.
Body Composition in Adolescent PKU Patients: Beyond Fat Mass
Authors: Tummolo Albina , Carella Rosa , Paterno Giulia , Bartolomeo Nicola , Giotta Massimo , Dicintio Annamaria , De Giovanni Donatella , Fischetto Rita
Published: September 2022

There is a lack of evidence on the impact on body composition of high protein intake and types of protein substitutes in PKU patients—particularly in adolescents, who are more inclined to dietary transgressions. In this observational, cross-sectional study, PKU patients were observed during prepubertal age (p) or after the pubertal spurt (P), assessing body composition and bone quality and correlating these parameters with dietary compliance and types of protein substitutes. Anthropometric and dietary data were evaluated together with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), quantitative ultrasound (QUS) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). A total of 36 patients (16 males, 17 prepubertal and 19 post-pubertal; mean ± SD age 11.4 ± 3.9 years) were included. A higher BMI was observed in adolescents (p-value: 0.018). The BIA revealed a significant increase in total body water (TBW) and muscle mass (MM) in P subjects either compliant (p-value: 0.001) or non-compliant with the diet (p-value: 0.001). MM content correlated with increased Phe intake (r = 0.63; p < 0.001). In the subgroup of five patients taking L-AAs and glycomacropeptides (GMPs), BCAA values tended to be lower than those taking only L-AA mixtures, with a significant trend for valine. Maintenance of body composition parameters within the normal range—for both fat and muscle mass—and levels of BCAAs can be helpful in reducing the risk of becoming overweight in adulthood. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Evaluation and Comparison of Oral Health Status between Spanish and Immigrant Children Residing in Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Veloso Duran Ana , Framis-de-Mena Blanca , Vázquez Salceda Maria , Guinot Jimeno Francisco
Published: September 2022

The present study aimed to evaluate and compare the level of oral health among Spanish and immigrant children residing in Barcelona, Spain. Oral health status was evaluated in 1400 children aged 3 to 14 years between September 2018 and June 2019. Multiple variables (dental caries lesions, exodontia, trauma, malocclusions, gingivitis, fillings, stainless steel crowns in primary dentition, and pit and fissure sealings in permanent dentition) were compared in both populations. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) were found in the prevalence of caries in the primary dentition, which was higher in the immigrant group (62.3%) than in the Spanish group (42.6%). For the permanent dentition, the prevalence of dental caries lesions was 12.2% in Spanish children and 16.4% in immigrant children, showing statistically significant differences (p = 0.026) between the two groups. The prevalence of fillings in the primary dentition was 14.6% in Spanish and 12.5% in immigrant children (p = 0.253). Regarding the permanent dentition, the number of fillings was also higher in the Spanish population (6.8%) compared to the immigrant population (3.5%), again evidencing statistically significant differences (p = 0.006). Our findings suggest a better oral health status in Spanish children than in immigrant children.
Management of Enamel Defects with Resin Infiltration Techniques: Two Years Follow Up Retrospective Study
Authors: Brescia Alessia Vincenza , Montesani Lorenzo , Fusaroli Dimitri , Docimo Raffaella , Di Gennaro Gianfranco
Published: September 2022

Background: Developmental Defects of Enamel (DDE) represent an aesthetic, functional, and often psychological problem, especially in young patients. Infiltrative treatment with resin (Icon-DMG, Hamburg, Germany) is a minimally invasive technique based on the infiltration of high viscosity resin inside the hypomineralized enamel, modifying its optical properties. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of superficial infiltration in the treatment of white enamel defects of the anterior sector with pre-eruptive etiology and its stability over time. Methods: Thirty-three patients affected by DDE associated with mild and moderate Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), mild and moderate fluorosis, and post-traumatic hypomineralization treated with resin infiltration were retrospectively retrieved. Results: In all cases an improvement in aesthetic appearance was achieved, and the 24-month follow-up confirmed the stability of the results. However, in the cases of traumatic hypomineralization the results were not completely satisfactory. Conclusions: The superficial infiltration technique can be considered a valid minimally invasive alternative to traditional treatment of mild or moderate fluorosis and mild MIH.
Determinant Factors of Achievement Motivation in School Physical Education
Authors: García-Ceberino Juan M. , Feu Sebastián , Gamero María G. , Ibáñez Sergio J.
Published: September 2022

Today, it is important for physical education teachers to know students’ motivation profiles for learning. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze achievement motivation according to four variables: students’ sex, the taught sport modality, students’ experience and teaching methodology. Likewise, the effects of students’ sex and experience on the methodologies applied were analyzed. A total of 108 primary education students (10.95 ± 0.48 years), 54 boys and 54 girls, from three state schools participated in the study. The students answered the Achievement Motivation in Physical Education test (Spanish version) after participating in soccer and basketball programs based on different methodologies. Each class-group received a different educational program (soccer or basketball). The differences between the categories of the variables analyzed were calculated for each dimension of the motivational test through the Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis H tests. The effects of students’ sex and experience on the teaching methodologies applied were analyzed using the univariate General Linear Model test. In soccer and basketball, boys perceived being more motor competent (U = 732.00; p < 0.05; r = 0.43) than girls. In addition, experienced students in both sports perceived being more motor competent (U = 695.50; p < 0.05; r = 0.27) than inexperienced students. In turn, they indicated feeling less failure anxiety and stress (U = 780.00; p < 0.05; r = 0.22). All of the students who played soccer reported more commitment (learning dedication) (U = 1051.50; p < 0.05; r = 0.20) and perceived motor competence (U = 972.00; p < 0.05; r = 0.24) than students who played basketball. Considering the effects of students’ sex and experience on the methodologies (perceived motor competence dimension), there were significant differences (F = 7.68; p < 0.05; ηp2 = 0.07) in favor of experienced boys who played soccer and basketball using the Tactical Games Approach methodology. Soccer was practiced more in school and out of school. This made students feel greater commitment (learning dedication) and perceived motor competence towards this invasion sport in physical education. In addition, it was shown that teachers should take into account students’ sex and experience because they are two factors that influence the teaching of sports and achievement motivation.
Diagnostic Utility of Synovial Fluid Cell Counts and CRP in Pediatric Knee Arthritis: A 10-Year Monocentric, Retrospective Study
Authors: Nyaaba Irene , Zambelli Pierre-Yves , Chaouch Aziz , Bregou Aline , Uçkay İlker , Samara Eleftheria
Published: September 2022

Background: Orthopedic surgeons often use the intra-articular white blood counts (WBCs) and the percentage of polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) in the diagnosis of an acute swollen and painful knee joint in children. Today, there is no established threshold for the synovial WBC, and their differentiation, as indicative of native joint knee bacterial arthritis. We determine the sensitivity and specificity of synovial WBCs and PMN percentages in the prediction of a community-acquired, acute bacterial native joint septic arthritis (SA) in the pediatric population. Methods: A retrospective study on healthy children 0–16 years of age who underwent knee joint aspiration for a community-acquired, acute irritable knee effusion in our tertiary-care children’s hospital between May 2009 and April 2019 was conducted. We divided the study population into two groups according to the detection of bacterial arthritis in the synovial fluid (bacterial arthritis versus its absence) and compared the intra-articular leukocyte and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Results: Overall, we found a statistically significant difference regarding the total CRP (p = 0.017), leukocyte or PMN counts (p ≤ 0.001 in favor of a bacterial arthritis). In contrast, the percentage of the neutrophils was not determinant for the later confirmation of bacterial pathogens, and we were unable to establish diagnostically determining minimal thresholds of the intra-articular CRP and leukocyte levels. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that either the leukocyte or PMN counts may be associated with a bacterial origin of knee arthritis in children. We plan a larger prospective interventional study in the future to confirm these findings including the investigation of other joint aspirate biomarkers.
Circulating Angiogenic Markers in Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sandra Irina , Cazacu Irina Mihaela , Croitoru Vlad Mihai , Mihaila Mariana , Herlea Vlad , Diculescu Mircea Mihai , Dima Simona Olimpia , Croitoru Adina Emilia
Published: September 2022

Background: Neuroendocrine neoplasms are a heterogeneous group of tumors that raise challenges in terms of diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. Despite continuous efforts, no biomarker has showed satisfying accuracy in predicting outcome or response to treatment. Methods: We conducted a systematic review to determine relevant circulating biomarkers for angiogenesis in neuroendocrine tumors. We searched three databases (Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science) using the keywords “neuroendocrine” and “biomarkers”, plus specific biomarkers were searched by full and abbreviated name. From a total of 2448 publications, 11 articles met the eligibility criteria. Results: VEGF is the most potent and the most studied angiogenic molecule, but results were highly controversial. Placental growth factor, Angiopoietin 2 and IL-8 were the most consistent markers in predicting poor outcome and aggressive disease behavior. Conclusions: There is no robust evidence so far to sustain the use of angiogenic biomarkers in routine practice, although the results show promising leads.
Application of Nanoparticles and Melatonin for Cryopreservation of Gametes and Embryos
Authors: Choi Hyun-Woo , Jang Hoon
Published: September 2022

Cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, a technique widely applied in human infertility clinics and to preserve desirable genetic traits of livestock, has been developed over 30 years as a component of the artificial insemination process. A number of researchers have conducted studies to reduce cell toxicity during cryopreservation using adjuvants leading to higher gamete and embryo survival rates. Melatonin and Nanoparticles are novel cryoprotectants and recent studies have investigated their properties such as regulating oxidative stresses, lipid peroxidation, and DNA fragmentation in order to protect gametes and embryos during vitrification. This review presented the current status of cryoprotectants and highlights the novel biomaterials such as melatonin and nanoparticles that may improve the survivability of gametes and embryos during this process.