bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The “Magic Bullet” Is Here? Cell-Based Immunotherapies for Hematological Malignancies in the Twilight of the Chemotherapy Era
Authors: Miazek-Zapala Nina , Slusarczyk Aleksander , Kusowska Aleksandra , Zapala Piotr , Kubacz Matylda , Winiarska Magdalena , Bobrowicz Malgorzata
Published: June 2021

Despite the introduction of a plethora of different anti-neoplastic approaches including standard chemotherapy, molecularly targeted small-molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and finally hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), there is still a need for novel therapeutic options with the potential to cure hematological malignancies. Although nowadays HSCT already offers a curative effect, its implementation is largely limited by the age and frailty of the patient. Moreover, its efficacy in combating the malignancy with graft-versus-tumor effect frequently coexists with undesirable graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Therefore, it seems that cell-based adoptive immunotherapies may constitute optimal strategies to be successfully incorporated into the standard therapeutic protocols. Thus, modern cell-based immunotherapy may finally represent the long-awaited “magic bullet” against cancer. However, enhancing the safety and efficacy of this treatment regimen still presents many challenges. In this review, we summarize the up-to-date state of the art concerning the use of CAR-T cells and NK-cell-based immunotherapies in hemato-oncology, identify possible obstacles, and delineate further perspectives.
How to Modify LAMMPS: From the Prospective of a Particle Method Researcher
Authors: Albano Andrea , le Guillou Eve , Danzé Antoine , Moulitsas Irene , Sahputra Iwan H. , Rahmat Amin , Duque-Daza Carlos Alberto , Shang Xiaocheng , Ching Ng Khai , Ariane Mostapha , Alexiadis Alessio
Published: June 2021

LAMMPS is a powerful simulator originally developed for molecular dynamics that, today, also accounts for other particle-based algorithms such as DEM, SPH, or Peridynamics. The versatility of this software is further enhanced by the fact that it is open-source and modifiable by users. This property suits particularly well Discrete Multiphysics and hybrid models that combine multiple particle methods in the same simulation. Modifying LAMMPS can be challenging for researchers with little coding experience. The available material explaining how to modify LAMMPS is either too basic or too advanced for the average researcher. In this work, we provide several examples, with increasing level of complexity, suitable for researchers and practitioners in physics and engineering, who are familiar with coding without been experts. For each feature, step by step instructions for implementing them in LAMMPS are shown to allow researchers to easily follow the procedure and compile a new version of the code. The aim is to fill a gap in the literature with particular reference to the scientific community that uses particle methods for (discrete) multiphysics.
Preparation and Antimicrobial Properties of Alginate and Serum Albumin/Glutaraldehyde Hydrogels Impregnated with Silver(I) Ions
Authors: Gallagher Louise , Smith Alanna , Kavanagh Kevin , Devereux Michael , Colleran John , Breslin Carmel , Richards Karl , McCann Malachy , Rooney A.
Published: June 2021

Calcium alginate (CaALG) hydrogel beads and two sets of composite beads, formed from a combination of calcium alginate/propylene glycol alginate/human serum albumin (CaALG/PGA/HSA) and from calcium alginate with the quaternary ammonium salt, (3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl)-octadecyldimethylammonium chloride (QA), (CaALG/QA), were prepared. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was condensed with glutaraldehyde (GLA) to form a BSA/GLA hydrogel. The corresponding Ag+-containing gels of all of the above hydrogels were also formed, and slow leaching of the biocidal transition metal ion from the gels bestowed broad spectrum antimicrobial activity. In the absence of added Ag+, CaALG/QA was the only material to deliver marginal to moderate antibacterial and antifungal effects. The Ag+ impregnated hydrogel systems have the potential to maintain the antimicrobial properties of silver, minimising the risk of toxicity, and act as reservoirs to afford ongoing sterility.
Microbial Screening Reveals Oral Site-Specific Locations of the Periodontal Pathogen Selenomonas noxia
Authors: McDaniel Jaydene , McDaniel Steven , Samiano Beanca Jhanine , Marrujo Matthew , Kingsley Karl , Howard Katherine M.
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Selenomonas noxia (SN) is an important periodontal pathogen, associated with gingivitis and periodontitis. Many studies have found associations between SN and indicators of poor health outcomes, such as smoking, low socioeconomic status and obesity. However, less is known about the prevalence of this organism and more specifically about other oral site-specific locations that may harbor this organism. Methods: Using an existing patient repository (n = 47) of DNA isolated from saliva and other oral sites (n = 235), including the dorsum of the tongue, lower lingual incisor, upper buccal molar and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), molecular screening for SN was performed. Screening results were analyzed for associations between demographic variables (age, sex, race/ethnicity) and clinical information (body mass index or BMI, presence of orthodontic brackets, primary/mixed/permanent dentition). Results: qPCR screening revealed a total of n = 62/235 sites or 26.3% harboring SN with saliva and GCF (either alone or in combination with one or more sites) most often observed (Saliva, n = 23/27 or 85.18%, GCF, n = 14/27 or 51%). Analysis of site-specific data revealed most positive results were found among saliva and GCF alone or in combination, with fewer positive results observed among the tongue (33.3%), lower lingual incisor (29.6%), and upper buccal molar (25.9%). No significant associations were found between demographic or clinical variables and presence of SN at any site. Conclusions: These results may be among the first to describe site-specific locations of S. noxia among various additional oral biofilm sites. These data may represent a significant advancement in our understanding of the sites and locations that harbor this organism, which may be important for our understanding of the prevalence and distribution of these organisms among patients of different ages undergoing different types of oral treatments, such as orthodontic treatment or therapy.
Association of a Self-Paid Medically Supervised Weight Management Program with Reversal of Obesity-Associated Impaired Fasting Glucose
Authors: Surampudi Vijaya , Zhou Xinkai , Tseng Chi-Hong , Heber David , Li Zhaoping
Published: June 2021

Aims: The progression of prediabetes to T2DM can be delayed through diet modification and weight management. However, the intensive lifestyle program is often not covered by medical insurance. This retrospective analysis evaluates the association of a patient self-paid weight management program on an improvement of blood sugar in overweight and obese patients with impaired fasting glucose (IFG). Methods: The medical records of 4634 patients who participated in the self-pay UCLA Weight Management Program were reviewed and 2572 patients met the criteria for this retrospective analysis to examine whether this program was associated with the reversal of IFG over 3 months among 1396 patients with normal fasting glucose (NFG) and 1176 with IFG. Results: The patients with IFG lost comparable amounts of weight (10.5 ± 1.3 kg) at three months, as did the subjects with NFG (10.1 ± 1.3 kg). Fasting blood glucose in the IFG group decreased from 108.49 ± 6.4 to 101.8 ± 9.41 mg/dL (p < 0.0001) after three months. There were also significant reductions in triglycerides, and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in both groups in association with weight loss. Conclusion: Our medically supervised self-pay multidisciplinary weight management program was associated with reduced fasting blood glucose levels in patients with IFG over three months with comparable weight loss to patients with NFG.
Medicinal Plants and Biogenic Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: A Paradigm Shift to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Gul Roby , Jan Hasnain , Lalay Gul , Andleeb Anisa , Usman Hazrat , Zainab Rimsha , Qamar Zeeshan , Hano Christophe , Abbasi Bilal Haider
Published: June 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia. Improving the amount of acetylcholine in the brain is an efficient way to treat the illness. The global incidence of dementia is estimated to be as high as 50 million, and it is expected to increase every 20 years until 2040, resulting in a costly burden of disease. Early-life risk factors for pathology include genes, chromosomal abnormalities, head injury, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Potentially modifiable risk factors including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and smoking are associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and represent promising targets for intervention. The drugs currently being used to manage AD have various drawbacks. The chemical inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes is an effective technique for treating signal related neuropathology, and possible sources of compounds with these properties are natural products and biogenic metal oxide nanoparticles. There is a potential source of AChE and BChE inhibitors in the abundance of plants in nature, and natural goods appear to offer useful medications and templates for the development of other compounds. This dissertation represents a review of the literature on species of medicinal plants and nanomaterial related plants tested for their inhibitory action of AChE and BChE. Plant species and the plant-mediated metal oxide nanoparticles referred to are possible cholinesterase inhibitors and can assist researchers in their study of natural products that may be beneficial in the treatment of AD.
Characterization and Stability of a Formulation Containing Antioxidants-Enriched Castanea sativa Shells Extract
Authors: Pinto Diana , Lameirão Fátima , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Rodrigues Francisca , Costa Paulo
Published: June 2021

The cosmetic industry is a field on rise where the search for novel antioxidant ingredients, preferably from natural matrixes, became a new challenge. The reuse of Castanea sativa shells as a source of phytochemicals with pro-healthy effects in skin care products may be a valuable alternative to valorize this underexploited agro-industrial by-product. A previous study of our research group demonstrated the antioxidant properties of chestnut shells extract obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), as well as its safeness on skin cell lines, namely keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Based on the extract richness in antioxidants, a formulation containing C. sativa shells extract obtained by this environmentally friendly technology was successfully developed in the present study. The oil-in-water (O/W) cream incorporating the chestnut shells extract was further characterized regarding organoleptic and technological properties, namely color, pH, droplets size, and viscosity. A stability study over time was also accomplished. The results demonstrate that the formulation not only displayed pleasant organoleptic characteristics attractive to consumers but also a pH compatible with skin and a suitable viscosity for topical application. The stability study revealed minor changes to droplet size and color, without affecting the general stability of the formulation. In conclusion, this study emphasized the prominent benefits of chestnut shells extract as a novel ingredient for skin care formulations.
EWSR1—The Most Common Rearranged Gene in Soft Tissue Lesions, Which Also Occurs in Different Bone Lesions: An Updated Review
Authors: Flucke Uta , van Noesel Max M. , Siozopoulou Vasiliki , Creytens David , Tops Bastiaan B. J. , van Gorp Joost M. , Hiemcke-Jiwa Laura S.
Published: June 2021

EWSR1 belongs to the FET family of RNA-binding proteins including also Fused in Sarcoma (FUS), and TATA-box binding protein Associated Factor 15 (TAF15). As consequence of the multifunctional role of EWSR1 leading to a high frequency of transcription of the chromosomal region where the gene is located, EWSR1 is exposed to aberrations such as rearrangements. Consecutive binding to other genes leads to chimeric proteins inducing oncogenesis. The other TET family members are homologous. With the advent of widely used modern molecular techniques during the last decades, it has become obvious that EWSR1 is involved in the development of diverse benign and malignant tumors with mesenchymal, neuroectodermal, and epithelial/myoepithelial features. As oncogenic transformation mediated by EWSR1-fusion proteins leads to such diverse tumor types, there must be a selection on the multipotent stem cell level. In this review, we will focus on the wide variety of soft tissue and bone entities, including benign and malignant lesions, harboring EWSR1 rearrangement. Fusion gene analysis is the diagnostic gold standard in most of these tumors. We present clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular features and discuss differential diagnoses.
Risk of Pre-Malignancy or Malignancy in Postmenopausal Endometrial Polyps: A CHAID Decision Tree Analysis
Authors: Wong Michael , Thanatsis Nikolaos , Nardelli Federica , Amin Tejal , Jurkovic Davor
Published: June 2021

Background and aims: Postmenopausal endometrial polyps are commonly managed by surgical resection; however, expectant management may be considered for some women due to the presence of medical co-morbidities, failed hysteroscopies or patient’s preference. This study aimed to identify patient characteristics and ultrasound morphological features of polyps that could aid in the prediction of underlying pre-malignancy or malignancy in postmenopausal polyps. Methods: Women with consecutive postmenopausal polyps diagnosed on ultrasound and removed surgically were recruited between October 2015 to October 2018 prospectively. Polyps were defined on ultrasound as focal lesions with a regular outline, surrounded by normal endometrium. On Doppler examination, there was either a single feeder vessel or no detectable vascularity. Polyps were classified histologically as benign (including hyperplasia without atypia), pre-malignant (atypical hyperplasia), or malignant. A Chi-squared automatic interaction detection (CHAID) decision tree analysis was performed with a range of demographic, clinical, and ultrasound variables as independent, and the presence of pre-malignancy or malignancy in polyps as dependent variables. A 10-fold cross-validation method was used to estimate the model’s misclassification risk. Results: There were 240 women included, 181 of whom presented with postmenopausal bleeding. Their median age was 60 (range of 45–94); 18/240 (7.5%) women were diagnosed with pre-malignant or malignant polyps. In our decision tree model, the polyp mean diameter (≤13 mm or >13 mm) on ultrasound was the most important predictor of pre-malignancy or malignancy. If the tree was allowed to grow, the patient’s body mass index (BMI) and cystic/solid appearance of the polyp classified women further into low-risk (≤5%), intermediate-risk (>5%–≤20%), or high-risk (>20%) groups. Conclusions: Our decision tree model may serve as a guide to counsel women on the benefits and risks of surgery for postmenopausal endometrial polyps. It may also assist clinicians in prioritizing women for surgery according to their risk of malignancy.
Big Data Analytics for Smart Cities
Authors: Cerquitelli Tania , Migliorini Sara , Chiusano Silvia
Published: June 2021

In the last few years, cities have become engines of wealth creation thanks to the advent of the new information and communication [...]
Association between Physical Activity and Seasonal Variations in Metabolic and Vascular Function in Adults
Authors: Honda Hiroto , Igaki Makoto , Komatsu Motoaki , Tanaka Shin-ichiro
Published: June 2021

This article highlights the association between physical activity (PA) and seasonal variations in metabolic and vascular function in adults. Increasing PA is an important method for preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality by improving blood glucose, blood pressure, blood lipid profiles, body fat, insulin resistance, and vascular function, such as endothelial function. Conversely, various factors, such as seasonal climate conditions, may affect the amount of PA that individuals undertake. Changes in PA often induce seasonal variations in metabolic and vascular function; the deterioration of such functions in winter is the most prominent, and there is clear evidence of an increased risk of CVD in this season. Understanding the influence of PA on seasonal variations observed in metabolic and vascular function is necessary for the management of these physiological functions. In this article summary, few studies have proven that maintaining PA can suppress the variations, and it remains unclear what types, intensities, and durations of regular PA are effective for circumventing seasonal impact. In addition to further studies, there is a need to educate individuals about the strategies to manage PA and other aspects of their lifestyles throughout the year, particularly in winter.
Seedling Growth Performance of Four Forest Species with Different Techniques of Soil Tillage Used in Romanian Nurseries
Authors: Boja Nicuşor , Borz Stelian Alexandru
Published: June 2021

Providing high quality seedlings for use in forestry applications is one of the main challenges faced by the forest nurseries, and it depends on the practices used in such facilities. For instance, controlled experiments have shown that seedling growth is affected by the soils’ physical condition, which in turn is rather difficult to manipulate by the equipment used; this raises the question on whether changing the operational procedures could enable better physical properties of the seedbeds’ soils, in such a way that they will contribute to a better seedling growth. This study compares two seedbed tillage systems, termed as traditional (T, plowing, disk harrowing and cultivation) and minimal (M, scarifying and rototilling) in terms of physical properties of the soils and seedling growth, accounting for the variation induced by the local soil and climate conditions (three forest nurseries) as a separate factor. The results indicate highly significant gains in growth of the root collar diameter and shoot height for four tested species (pedunculate oak, common ash, wild cherry and Norway spruce), which accounted for 16 to 109% and for 10 to 134%, respectively, when using the M system. Root volume growth, which was tested for pedunculate oak, has also shown significant gains, accounting for 49 to 59% as of using M instead of T. In general, the seedlings resulted from the M treatment were found to be more homogeneous in terms of morphological characteristics, though the association and dependence between their features and physical properties of the soils were poorer. These gains in growth seem to be more related to the tillage systems rather than to local soil and climate conditions, as no or marginally significant differences were found to support their relation to the forest nurseries taken into study. The main conclusion of the study is that changing the regular seedbed tillage system by the minimal one could contribute not only at improving the growth of the seedlings, but also to the responsivity of forest nurseries.
Financial Analysis of Acorns Chain for Food Production
Authors: Sacchelli Sandro , Cavuta Tommaso , Borghi Costanza , Cipollaro Maria , Fratini Roberto , Bernetti Iacopo
Published: June 2021

This study presents a decision support system for the financial analysis of an acorn chain used in food production. The application of these fruits, in fact, shows potential in human nutrition and valorization of rural and marginal areas. A multi-step production process is hypothesised with a different potential organizational structure of each phase and products to be sold. The net present value, pay-back period, safety margins, and internal rate of return are computed for the implemented scenario. The research was grounded on Italian-based data but can be easily transferred to other case studies. The results highlight potential economic suitability of the chain, although subject to a minimal value of prices and productivity. Future improvements and further integration of this study, such as the analysis of fluctuation’s risk of annual production or the need to investigate sensorial properties of acorns, are suggested and discussed.
Improving Geographically Weighted Regression Considering Directional Nonstationary for Ground-Level PM2.5 Estimation
Authors: Xuan Weihao , Zhang Feng , Zhou Hongye , Du Zhenhong , Liu Renyi
Published: June 2021

The increase in atmospheric pollution dominated by particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) has become one of the most serious environmental hazards worldwide. The geographically weighted regression (GWR) model is a vital method to estimate the spatial distribution of the ground-level PM2.5 concentration. Wind information reflects the directional dependence of the spatial distribution, which can be abstracted as a combination of spatial and directional non-stationarity components. In this paper, a GWR model considering directional non-stationarity (GDWR) is proposed. To assess the efficacy of our method, monthly PM2.5 concentration estimation was carried out as a case study from March 2015 to February 2016 in the Yangtze River Delta region. The results indicate that the GDWR model attained the best fitting effect (0.79) and the smallest error fluctuation, the ordinary least squares (OLS) (0.589) fitting effect was the worst, and the GWR (0.72) and directionally weighted regression (DWR) (0.74) fitting effects were moderate. A non-stationarity hypothesis test was performed to confirm directional non-stationarity. The distribution of the PM2.5 concentration in the Yangtze River Delta is also discussed here.
Experimental Aerodynamic and Aeroelastic Investigation of a Transonic Compressor Rotor with Reduced Blade Count
Authors: Franke Daniel , Möller Daniel , Jüngst Maximilian , Schiffer Heinz-Peter , Giersch Thomas , Becker Bernd
Published: June 2021

This study investigates the aerodynamic and aeroelastic characteristics of a transonic axial compressor, focusing on blade count reduced rotor behavior. The analysis is based on experiments, conducted at the Transonic Compressor Darmstadt test rig at Technical University of Darmstadt and compulsory simulations. In order to obtain measurement data for the detailed aerodynamic and aeroelastic investigation, extensive steady and unsteady instrumentation was applied. Besides transient measurements at the stability limit to determine the operating range and limiting phenomena, performance measurements were performed, presenting promising results with respect to the capabilities of blade count reduced rotors. Close to the stability limit, aerodynamic disturbances like radial vortices were detected for both rotors, varying in size, count, speed and trajectory. Comparing the rotor configurations results in different stability limits along the compressor map as well as varying aeromechanical behavior. Those effects can partially be traced to the variation in blade pitch and associated aerodynamics.
New Projections for Dark Matter Searches with Paleo-Detectors
Authors: Baum Sebastian ,  Edwards Thomas D. P. , Freese Katherine , Stengel Patrick
Published: June 2021

Paleo-detectors are a proposed experimental technique to search for dark matter (DM). In lieu of the conventional approach of operating a tonne-scale real-time detector to search for DM-induced nuclear recoils, paleo-detectors take advantage of small samples of naturally occurring rocks on Earth that have been deep underground (≳5 km), accumulating nuclear damage tracks from recoiling nuclei for O(1)Gyr. Modern microscopy techniques promise the capability to read out nuclear damage tracks with nanometer resolution in macroscopic samples. Thanks to their O(1)Gyr integration times, paleo-detectors could constitute nuclear recoil detectors with keV recoil energy thresholds and 100 kilotonne-yr exposures. This combination would allow paleo-detectors to probe DM-nucleon cross sections orders of magnitude below existing upper limits from conventional direct detection experiments. In this article, we use improved background modeling and a new spectral analysis technique to update the sensitivity forecast for paleo-detectors. We demonstrate the robustness of the sensitivity forecast to the (lack of) ancillary measurements of the age of the samples and the parameters controlling the backgrounds, systematic mismodeling of the spectral shape of the backgrounds, and the radiopurity of the mineral samples. Specifically, we demonstrate that even if the uranium concentration in paleo-detector samples is 10−8 (per weight), many orders of magnitude larger than what we expect in the most radiopure samples obtained from ultra basic rock or marine evaporite deposits, paleo-detectors could still probe DM-nucleon cross sections below current limits. For DM masses ≲ 10 GeV/c2, the sensitivity of paleo-detectors could still reach down all the way to the conventional neutrino floor in a Xe-based direct detection experiment.
Commissioning of a High Pressure Time Projection Chamber with Optical Readout
Authors: Deisting Alexander , Waldron Abigail , Atkin Edward , Barker Gary , Basharina-Freshville Anastasia , Betancourt Christopher , Boyd Steven , Brailsford Dominic , Chen-Wishart Zachary , Cremonesi Linda , Dias Adriana , Dunne Patrick , Haigh Jennifer , Hamacher-Baumann Philip , Jones Sebastian , Kaboth Asher , Korzenev Alexander , Ma William , Mermod Philippe , Mironova Maria , Monroe Jocelyn , Nichol Ryan , Nonnenmacher Toby , Nowak Jaroslaw , Parker William , Ritchie-Yates Harrison , Roth Stefan , Saakyan Ruben , Serra Nicola , Shitov Yuri , Steinmann Jochen , Tarrant Adam , Uchida Melissa , Valder Sammy , Ward Mark , Wascko Morgan
Published: June 2021

The measurements of proton–nucleus scattering and high resolution neutrino–nucleus interaction imaging are key in reducing neutrino oscillation systematic uncertainties in future experiments. A High Pressure Time Projection Chamber (HPTPC) prototype has been constructed and operated at the Royal Holloway University of London and CERN as a first step in the development of a HPTPC that is capable of performing these measurements as part of a future long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiment, such as the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment. In this paper, we describe the design and operation of the prototype HPTPC with an argon based gas mixture. We report on the successful hybrid charge and optical readout using four CCD cameras of signals from 241Am sources.
The Association between Vitamin D and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Assessed by Controlled Attenuation Parameter
Authors: Heo Nam Ju , Park Hyo Eun , Yoon Ji Won , Kwak Min-Sun , Yang Jong In , Chung Su Jin , Yim Jeong Yoon , Chung Goh Eun
Published: June 2021

Background: An association between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and low vitamin D levels has been suggested. We investigated the relationship between vitamin D and NAFLD assessed by controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of apparently healthy subjects who underwent Fibroscan during health screening tests. NAFLD was diagnosed using CAP values. Results: Among the 1202 subjects (mean age 57.2 years, 60.6% male), 630 (52.4%) subjects had NAFLD with CAP ≥ 248 dB/m. Multivariable analysis was conducted after adjusting for metabolic risk factors including diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, body mass index, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride and smoking. Higher vitamin D levels showed a lower risk of NAFLD compared to the lowest quartile of vitamin D in a dose-dependent manner (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.47–1.00 in Q2 vs. Q1; OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44–0.94 in Q3 vs. Q1; and OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.44–0.94 in Q4 vs. Q1). The highest quartile of vitamin D showed a decreased risk of a severe grade of steatosis (CAP ≥ 302 dB/m) compared to the lowest quartile (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.31–0.87 in Q4 vs. Q1). Conclusions: Higher levels of serum vitamin D were associated with a decreased risk of CAP-defined NAFLD, compared to low levels of serum vitamin D. The association between NAFLD and vitamin D suggests that vitamin D may exert a protective role against NAFLD.
Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss More Often Have an Older Brother and a Previous Birth of a Boy: Is Male Microchimerism a Risk Factor?
Authors: Nørgaard-Pedersen Caroline , Kesmodel Ulrik Schiøler , Christiansen Ole B.
Published: June 2021

Known etiologic factors can only be found in about 50% of patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). We hypothesized that male microchimerism is a risk factor for RPL and aimed to explore whether information on family tree and reproductive history, obtained from 383 patients with unexplained RPL, was supportive of this hypothesis. The male:female sex ratio of older siblings was 1.49 (97:65) in all RPL patients and 1.79 (52:29) in secondary RPL (sRPL) patients, which differed significantly from the expected 1.04 ratio (p = 0.027 and p = 0.019, respectively). In contrast, the sex ratio of younger siblings was close to the expected ratio. Sex ratio of the firstborn child before sRPL was 1.51 (p = 0.026). When combined, 79.1% of sRPL patients had at least one older brother, a firstborn boy, or both. This differed significantly from what we expected based on the distribution of younger siblings and a general 1.04 sex ratio of newborns (p = 0.040). We speculate whether (s)RPL patients possibly acquired male microchimerism from older brother(s) and/or previous birth of boy(s) by transplacental cell trafficking. This could potentially have a detrimental impact on their immune system, causing a harmful response against the fetus or trophoblast, resulting in RPL.
Dietary Sodium Nitrate Activates Antioxidant and Mitochondrial Dynamics Genes after Moderate Intensity Acute Exercise in Metabolic Syndrome Patients
Authors: Ferrer Miguel D. , Capó Xavier , Reynés Clara , Quetglas Magdalena , Salaberry Eduardo , Tonolo Federica , Suau Rafael , Marí Bartolomé , Tur Josep A. , Sureda Antoni , Pons Antoni
Published: June 2021

Exercise can induce a pro-inflammatory response in aged subjects with metabolic disorders and nitrate supplementation has shown anti-inflammatory effects. We evaluated the influence of dietary nitrate on the response of the antioxidant and mitochondrial dynamics genes to acute exercise in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), as well as the antioxidant and the inflammatory response of PBMCs against immune stimulation. Metabolic syndrome patients participated in a crossover study in which they consumed a beverage containing 16 mM sodium nitrate or a placebo with the same composition without nitrate before performing a submaximal test at 60%–70% of their maximal heart rate for 30 min. The intake of nitrate increased the nitrate plus nitrite plasma levels about 8-fold and induced the upregulation of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, mitofusin 2 and PGC1α in PBMCs after exercise. The gene expression of catalase and TNFα was enhanced by phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) only in the placebo group, while the glutathione peroxidase expression was enhanced by PMA only after nitrate intake. The intake of nitrate by metabolic syndrome patients induces an antioxidant and mitochondrial response to exercise at the same time that it attenuates the pro-inflammatory response to immune stimulation.
Characterization of the 1H-MRS Metabolite Spectra in Transgender Men with Gender Dysphoria and Cisgender People
Authors: Collet Sarah , Bhaduri Sourav , Kiyar Meltem , T’Sjoen Guy , Mueller Sven , Guillamon Antonio
Published: June 2021

Much research has been conducted on sexual differences of the human brain to determine whether and to what extent a brain gender exists. Consequently, a variety of studies using different neuroimaging techniques attempted to identify the existence of a brain phenotype in people with gender dysphoria (GD). However, to date, brain sexual differences at the metabolite level using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) have not been explored in transgender people. In this study, 28 cisgender men (CM) and 34 cisgender women (CW) and 29 transgender men with GD (TMGD) underwent 1H-MRS at 3 Tesla MRI to characterize common brain metabolites. Specifically, levels of N–acetyl aspartate (NAA), choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), glutamate and glutamine (Glx), and myo-inositol + glycine (mI + Gly) were assessed in two brain regions, the amygdala-anterior hippocampus and the lateral parietal cortex. The results indicated a sex-assigned at birth pattern for Cho/Cr in the amygdala of TMGD. In the parietal cortex, a sex-assigned at birth and an intermediate pattern were found. Though assessed post-hoc, exploration of the age of onset of GD in TMGD demonstrated within-group differences in absolute NAA and relative Cho/Cr levels, suggestive for a possible developmental trend. While brain metabolite levels in TMGD resembled those of CW, some interesting findings, such as modulation of metabolite concentrations by age of onset of GD, warrant future inquiry.
Clinical Phenotypes and Predictors of Remission in Primary Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Jurubiță Roxana , Obrișcă Bogdan , Sorohan Bogdan , Achim Camelia , Micu Georgia Elena , Mircescu Gabriel , Ismail Gener
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: We sought to investigate the clinical outcome and to identify the independent predictors of clinical remission in a prospectively followed cohort of patients with primary membranous nephropathy (pMN). (2) Methods: We conducted a prospective, observational, non-interventional study that included 65 consecutive patients diagnosed with pMN between January 2015 and December 2019 at our department and followed for at least 24 months. The primary outcomes evaluated during the follow-up period were the occurrence of immunological and clinical remission (either complete or partial remission). Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of clinical remission. (3) Results: In the study cohort, 13 patients had a PLA2R-negative pMN, while, of those with PLA2R-associated pMN, 27 patients had a low anti-PLA2R antibody titer (<200 RU/mL), and 25 patients had a high anti-PLA2R antibody titer at baseline (≥200 RU/mL). The clinical outcome was better in patients with PLA2R-negative pMN compared to patients with PLA2R-positive pMN. These patients had a higher percentage of complete remissions (46.2%, compared to 33.3% in those with low anti-PLA2R antibody titer or 24% in those with high anti-PLA2R antibody titer), a faster decline of 24 h proteinuria and lower time to complete remission. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, patients with PLA2R-negative pMN had a 3.1-fold and a 2.87-fold higher chance for achieving a complete or partial remission compared to patients with high anti-PLA2R antibody titer or to all PLA2R-positive patients, respectively. Additionally, patients with a baseline 24 h proteinuria of less than 8 g/day and with an immunological remission at 24 months had a 2.4-fold (HR, 2.4; 95%CI, 1.19–4.8) and a 2.2-fold (HR, 2.26; 95%CI, 1.05–4.87), respectively, higher chance of achieving a clinical response. By contrary, renal function at diagnosis, type of therapeutic intervention or anti-PLA2R antibody titer did not predict the occurrence of clinical remission. (4) Conclusions: We identified a different clinical phenotype between PLA2R-positive and PLA2R-negative pMN. Additionally, we have shown that baseline proteinuria seems to be a more important predictor of clinical outcome than anti-PLA2R-ab titer.
The Clinical Significance of DJ1 and L1CAM Serum Level Monitoring in Patients with Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Bednarikova Marketa , Vinklerova Petra , Gottwaldova Jana , Ovesna Petra , Hausnerova Jitka , Minar Lubos , Felsinger Michal , Valik Dalibor , Cermakova Zdenka , Weinberger Vit
Published: June 2021

Circulating tumor markers are not routinely used in patients with endometrial cancer (EC). This pilot study evaluated the role of monitoring new biomarkers DJ1 and L1CAM, in correlation with CA125 and HE4, for the effects of anticancer treatment and preoperative management in EC patients. Serial serum levels of DJ1, L1CAM, CA125 and HE4 were collected in 65 enrolled patients. Serum DJ1, L1CAM, CA125 and HE4 levels were significantly higher at the time of diagnosis compared to those measured during follow-up (FU). In patients with recurrent disease, serum DJ1, CA125 and HE4 levels were significantly higher at the time of recurrence compared to levels in disease-free patients. Serum L1CAM levels were also higher in patients with recurrence but without reaching statistical significance. While DJ1 levels were not affected by any of the observed patient-related characteristics, L1CAM levels were significantly higher in patients with age ≥60 years who were overweight. At the time of EC diagnosis, DJ1 and L1CAM serum levels did not correlate with stage, histological type or risk of recurrence. This is a preliminary description of the potential of serial DJ1 and L1CAM serum level measurement for monitoring the effects of treatment in EC patients.
Overmoulding of Additively Manufactured Titanium Inserts Using Polyoxymethylene (POM)—Evaluation of Bond Quality as a Function of Process Parameters
Authors: Liese Teresa , Richter Julia , Niendorf Thomas , Ries Angela
Published: June 2021

Due to their process-induced porous surfaces, additively manufactured structures are not optimized for applications in which friction is a key factor. To improve the frictional properties of additively manufactured titanium inserts of various thicknesses, two tribologically optimized POM materials, which differ in terms of filler composition and contents, were used to overmould the inserts. The titanium inserts were manufactured in two different building directions, resulting in a variation in surface roughness. The main challenge with respect to overmoulding is to maintain an even, thin plastic layer on the titanium insert. In order to evaluate the adhesion between plastic and metal, the interface is examined by optical microscopy and assessment of the peeling resistance. The peeling test shows that the overmoulded titanium inserts with a higher surface roughness are characterized by a higher peeling resistance. It is further revealed that the POM material with a special filler concept shows superior peeling resistance.
Sonotrodes for Ultrasonic Welding of Titanium/CFRP-Joints—Materials Selection and Design
Authors: Liesegang Moritz , Yu Yuan , Beck Tilmann , Balle Frank
Published: June 2021

Ultrasonic welding of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V to carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) at 20 kHz frequency requires suitable welding tools, so called sonotrodes. The basic function of ultrasonic welding sonotrodes is to oscillate with displacement amplitudes typically up to 50 µm at frequencies close to the eigenfrequency of the oscillation unit. Material properties, the geometry of the sonotrode, and the sonotrode tip topography together determine the longevity of the sonotrode. Durable sonotrodes for ultrasonic welding of high-strength joining partners, e.g., titanium alloys, have not been investigated so far. In this paper, finite element simulations were used to establish a suitable design assuring the oscillation of a longitudinal eigenmode at the operation frequency of the welding machine and to calculate local mechanical stresses. The primary aim of this work is to design a sonotrode that can be used to join high-strength materials such as Ti6Al4V by ultrasonic welding considering the longevity of the welding tools and high-strength joints. Material, sonotrode geometry, and sonotrode tip topography were designed and investigated experimentally to identify the most promising sonotrode design for continuous ultrasonic welding of Ti6AlV4 and CFRP. Eigenfrequency and modal shape were measured in order to examine the reliability of the calculations and to compare the performance of all investigated sonotrodes.
Experimental Study of O2-Enriched CO2 Production by BaCo0.8B0.2O3−δ (B=Ce, Al, Fe, Cu) Perovskites Sorbent for Marine Exhaust CO2 Capture Application
Authors: Shen Qiuwan , Shao Zicheng , Li Shian , Yang Guogang , Yuan Jinliang , Pan Xinxiang
Published: June 2021

An effective approach for reducing CO2 emissions from marine exhaust is adopting oxyfuel combustion technology. A series of B-site doped BaCo0.8B0.2O3−δ (B=Ce, Al, Fe, Cu) perovskites as novel oxygen carrier applications were prepared by the sol-gel method. The oxygen desorption characteristics of the B-site doped BaCo0.8B0.2O3−δ perovskites and the effects of adsorption/desorption temperature, CO2 volume flow rate, CO2 partial pressures, and adsorption time were researched in the fixed bed reactor. The surface morphology and size of the oxygen carrier was observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results showed that BaCo0.8Al0.2O3−δ and BaCo0.8Ce0.2O3−δ have comparable performance, considering the cost of the raw materials. BaCo0.8Al0.2O3−δ was selected as candidate for further study. The optimal adsorption/desorption temperature, CO2 volume flow rate, CO2 partial pressure and adsorption time for BaCo0.8Al0.2O3−δ were studied in detail. Results showed that the best operating parameters were determined to be 850 °C/850 °C for adsorption/desorption temperature, 200 mL/min for CO2 volume flow rate, 100% CO2 partial pressure, and 30 min for absorption time, respectively. Furthermore, multiple cycle results indicate that BaCo0.8Al0.2O3−δ sorbent has high reactivity and cyclic stability.
Marine Dual-Fuel Engines Power Smart Management by Hybrid Turbocharging Systems
Authors: Altosole Marco , Balsamo Flavio , Campora Ugo , Mocerino Luigia
Published: June 2021

The performance of a marine dual-fuel engine, equipped with an innovative hybrid turbocharger producing electric power to satisfy part of the ship’s electric load, is presented by a simulation comparison with the traditional turbocharging technology. The two distinct fuel types, combined with the hybrid turbocharger, involve a substantial change in the engine control modes, resulting in more flexible and efficient power management. Therefore, the investigation requires a numerical analysis depending on the engine load variation, in both fuelling modes, to highlight different behaviours. In detail, a dual-fuel engine simulation model is validated for a particular application in order to perform a complete comparison, reported in tabular and graphical form, between the two examined turbocharging solutions. The simulation analysis is presented in terms of the engine working data and overall energy conversion efficiency.
Towards a Natural Classification of Hyphodontia Sensu Lato and the Trait Evolution of Basidiocarps within Hymenochaetales (Basidiomycota)
Authors: Wang Xue-Wei , May Tom W. , Liu Shi-Liang , Zhou Li-Wei
Published: June 2021

Hyphodontia sensu lato, belonging to Hymenochaetales, accommodates corticioid wood-inhabiting basidiomycetous fungi with resupinate basidiocarps and diverse hymenophoral characters. Species diversity of Hyphodontia sensu lato has been extensively explored worldwide, but in previous studies the six accepted genera in Hyphodontia sensu lato, viz. Fasciodontia, Hastodontia, Hyphodontia, Kneiffiella, Lyomyces and Xylodon were not all strongly supported from a phylogenetic perspective. Moreover, the relationships among these six genera in Hyphodontia sensu lato and other lineages within Hymenochaetales are not clear. In this study, we performed comprehensive phylogenetic analyses on the basis of multiple loci. For the first time, the independence of each of the six genera receives strong phylogenetic support. The six genera are separated in four clades within Hymenochaetales: Fasciodontia, Lyomyces and Xylodon are accepted as members of a previously known family Schizoporaceae, Kneiffiella and Hyphodontia are, respectively, placed in two monotypic families, viz. a previous name Chaetoporellaceae and a newly introduced name Hyphodontiaceae, and Hastodontia is considered to be a genus with an uncertain taxonomic position at the family rank within Hymenochaetales. The three families emerged between 61.51 and 195.87 million years ago. Compared to other families in the Hymenochaetales, these ages are more or less similar to those of Coltriciaceae, Hymenochaetaceae and Oxyporaceae, but much older than those of the two families Neoantrodiellaceae and Nigrofomitaceae. In regard to species, two, one, three and 10 species are newly described from Hyphodontia, Kneiffiella, Lyomyces and Xylodon, respectively. The taxonomic status of additional 30 species names from these four genera is briefly discussed; an epitype is designated for X. australis. The resupinate habit and poroid hymenophoral configuration were evaluated as the ancestral state of basidiocarps within Hymenochaetales. The resupinate habit mainly remains, while the hymenophoral configuration mainly evolves to the grandinioid-odontioid state and also back to the poroid state at the family level. Generally, a taxonomic framework for Hymenochaetales with an emphasis on members belonging to Hyphodontia sensu lato is constructed, and trait evolution of basidiocarps within Hymenochaetales is revealed accordingly.
Establishing Aspergillus-Specific IgG Cut-Off Level for Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis Diagnosis: Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Meng-Rui , Huang Hung-Ling , Keng Li-Ta , Chang Hsu-Liang , Sheu Chau-Chyun , Fu Pin-Kuei , Wang Jann-Yuan , Chong Inn-Wen , Shih Jin-Yuan , Yu Chong-Jen
Published: June 2021

Objectives: Aspergillus-specific IgG (Asp-IgG) cut-off level in diagnosing chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) remains unknown. Methods: We prospectively recruited participants with clinical suspicion of CPA in three centers in Taiwan during 2019 June to 2020 August. Serum Aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG (Asp-IgG) (Phadia, Uppsala, UPPS, Sweden) was examined. Optimal cut-off level was determined by Youden’s index and validated. Results: A total of 373 participants were recruited. In the derivation cohort (n = 262), Asp-IgG had an area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.832. The optimal cut-off level was 40.5 mgA/L. While applying this cut-off level to the validation cohort (n = 111), the sensitivity and specificity were 86.7% and 80.2%. Lowering the cut-off level from 40.5 to 27 mgA/L, the sensitivity was steady (30/36, 83.3% to 31/36, 86.1%) while specificity dropped from 81.9% (276/337) to 63.5% (214/337). Restricting CPA diagnosis to only chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA) and chronic fibrosing pulmonary aspergillosis (CFPA) yielded a cut-off level of 42.3 mgA/L in the derivation cohort with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 84.4% in the validation cohort. Conclusions: Serum Asp-IgG performs well for CPA diagnosis and provides a low false-positive rate when using a higher cut-off level (preferably around 40 mgA/L).