bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migration of Avocado Virgin Oil Functional Compounds during Domestic Cooking of Eggplant
Authors: Samaniego-Sánchez Cristina , Martín-del-Campo Sandra Teresita , Castañeda-Saucedo Ma. Claudia , Blanca-Herrera Rosa María , Quesada-Granados José Javier , Ramírez-Anaya Jessica del Pilar
Published: August 2021

Avocado virgin oil (AVO) was used during eggplant deep-frying, boil, and boil in a water-oil mixture (W/O). There were measured the contents of moisture, dry matter, fat, total (TPC) and ten individual phenols, antioxidant activity (ABTS and DPPH), and total sterols; as well as the profiles of eight fatty acids and fourteen sterols/stanols. The values of raw and processed foods were compared and studied with multivariate analysis. The antioxidant capacity of AVO lowered after deep frying but augmented in eggplant and water after all treatments. The TPC was steady in AVO and raised in fried eggplant. Thermal treatments added to the initial profiles of the AVO, eggplant and water, nine, eight, and four phenols, respectively. Percentages of the main fatty acids (oleic, palmitic and linoleic), and sterols (β-sitosterol, campesterol, and Δ5-avenasterol), remained unchanged between the raw and treated AVO; and the lipidic fractions from processed eggplant. Cooking leads to the movement of hydrophilic and lipophilic functional compounds between AVO, eggplant and water. Migration of sterols and unsaturated fatty acids from AVO to eggplant during deep frying and W/O boiling improved the functional properties of eggplant by adding the high biological value lipophilic fraction to the naturally occurring polyphenols.
Hair Analysis to Evaluate Polydrug Use
Authors: Tassoni Giovanna , Cippitelli Marta , Mietti Gianmario , Cerioni Alice , Buratti Erika , Bury Emanuele , Cingolani Mariano
Published: August 2021

Polydrug use is a frequent pattern of consumption in Europe. This behavior has mainly been analyzed within restricted groups; more rarely in large populations. Current polydrug use is less studied than simultaneous use. This study focused on the concurrent assumption of polydrug among drivers using hair matrix. Hair matrix, for its biological characteristics, allows to identify illicit drug use more often than other matrices, i.e., urine, and it provides information on the long-term use of them. Hair samples of subjects positive for opiates, cocaine and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) collected by the forensic toxicology laboratory of the University of Macerata in the period 2010–2020, were analyzed using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method. Our results evidenced that a significant part of the examined population (12.15%) used polydrug. A strong predominance of males over females was evident. Polydrug users were more frequently young people. The abuse of two substances was predominant. Cocaine and Δ9-THC was the most common combination, followed by cocaine and morphine, and morphine and Δ9-THC. The timeframe of polydrug use was also analyzed. Our study shows that polydrug use is a very frequent behavior, and that hair analysis may be a powerful tool to obtain objective biological information of this complex phenomenon.
Extended Venous Resections for Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Head Adenocarcinoma—A Retrospective Studies of Nine Cases
Authors: Bacalbasa Nicolae , Balescu Irina , Dimitriu Mihai , Balalau Cristian , Furtunescu Florentina , Gherghiceanu Florentina , Radavoi Daniel , Diaconu Camelia , Stiru Ovidiu , Savu Cornel , Brasoveanu Vladislav , Stoica Claudia , Cordos Ioan
Published: August 2021

Background: pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The only chance to improve the long-term outcomes of patients with pancreatic cancer is surgery with radical intent. Methods: in the present paper, we aim to describe a case series of 9 patients submitted to radical surgery for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. Results: in all cases, negative resection margins were achieved. The types of venous resection consisted of tangential portal vein resection in four cases, circumferential portal vein resection with direct reanastomosis in one case and circumferential resection with graft placement in another four cases; postoperatively, one patient developed a vascular surgery-related complication consisting of graft thrombosis and thus necessitated prolonged anticoagulant therapy. Conclusions: extended venous resections can be a safe and efficient way to maximize the benefits of radical surgery in locally advanced, borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.
Spatiotemporal Evolution Patterns of the COVID-19 Pandemic Using Space-Time Aggregation and Spatial Statistics: A Global Perspective
Authors: Huang Zechun
Published: August 2021

Unlike previous regionalized studies on a worldwide crisis, this study aims to analyze spatial distribution patterns and evolution characteristics of the COVID-19 pandemic, using space-time aggregation and spatial statistics from a global perspective. Hence, various spatial statistical methods, such as the heat map, global Moran’s I, geographic mean center, and emerging hot spot analysis were utilized comprehensively to mine and analyze spatiotemporal evolution patterns. The main findings were as follows: Overall, the spatial autocorrelation of confirmed cases gradually increased from the initial outbreak until September 2020 and then decreased slightly. The geographic centroid migration ranges of the pandemic in Asia, Europe, and Africa are wider than those in South America, Oceania, and North America. The spatiotemporal evolution pattern of the global pandemic mainly consisted of oscillating hot spots, intensifying cold spots, persistent cold spots, and diminishing cold spots. This study provides auxiliary decision-making information for pandemic prevention and control.
Domain Adaptation for Semantic Segmentation of Historical Panchromatic Orthomosaics in Central Africa
Authors: Mboga Nicholus , D’Aronco Stefano , Grippa Tais , Pelletier Charlotte , Georganos Stefanos , Vanhuysse Sabine , Wolff Eléonore , Smets Benoît , Dewitte Olivier , Lennert Moritz , Wegner Jan Dirk
Published: August 2021

Multitemporal environmental and urban studies are essential to guide policy making to ultimately improve human wellbeing in the Global South. Land-cover products derived from historical aerial orthomosaics acquired decades ago can provide important evidence to inform long-term studies. To reduce the manual labelling effort by human experts and to scale to large, meaningful regions, we investigate in this study how domain adaptation techniques and deep learning can help to efficiently map land cover in Central Africa. We propose and evaluate a methodology that is based on unsupervised adaptation to reduce the cost of generating reference data for several cities and across different dates. We present the first application of domain adaptation based on fully convolutional networks for semantic segmentation of a dataset of historical panchromatic orthomosaics for land-cover generation for two focus cities Goma-Gisenyi and Bukavu. Our experimental evaluation shows that the domain adaptation methods can reach an overall accuracy between 60% and 70% for different regions. If we add a small amount of labelled data from the target domain, too, further performance gains can be achieved.
Isolated Dissection of the Ductus Arteriosus Associated with Sudden Unexpected Intrauterine Death
Authors: Fedrigo Marny , Visentin Silvia , Veronese Paola , Barison Ilaria , Giarraputo Alessia , Cosmi Erich , Thiene Gaetano , Gervasi Maria Teresa , Basso Cristina , Angelini Annalisa
Published: August 2021

We report five cases of sudden intrauterine death due to premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. In four cases, this was caused by dissecting the hematoma of the ductus arteriosus with intimal flap and obliteration of the lumen. In one case, the ductus arteriosus was aneurysmatic, with lumen occlusion caused by thrombus stratification. No drug therapy or free medication consumption were reported during pregnancy. The time of stillbirth ranged between 26 and 33 gestational weeks. We performed TUNEL analysis for apoptosis quantification. The dissecting features were intimal tears with flap formation in four of the cases, just above the origin of the ductus arteriosus from the pulmonary artery. The dissecting hematoma of the ductus arteriosus extended downward to the descending aorta and backward to the aortic arch with involvement of the left carotid and left subclavian arteries. TUNEL analysis showed a high number of apoptotic smooth muscle cells in the media in two cases. Abnormal ductal remodeling with absence of subintimal cushions, lacunar spaces rich in glycosaminoglycans (cystic medial necrosis), and smooth muscle cell apoptosis were the pathological substrates accounting for failure of remodeling process and dissection.
Ocular Complications of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Liu Pei-Kang , Chiu Tzu-Yu , Wang Nan-Kai , Levi Sarah R. , Tsai Ming-Ju
Published: August 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form of sleep-disordered breathing, is characterized by repetitive episodes of paused breathing during sleep, which in turn induces transient nocturnal hypoxia and hypercapnia. The high prevalence of OSA and its associated health consequences place a heavy burden on the healthcare system. In particular, the consequent episodic oxygenic desaturation/reoxygenation series and arousals from sleep in patients with OSA have the potential to trigger oxidative stress, elevated systemic inflammatory responses, and autonomic dysfunction with sympathetic activation. Given these adverse side-effects, OSA is highly correlated to many eye diseases that are common in everyday ophthalmic practices. Some of these ocular consequences are reversible, but they may permanently threaten a patient’s vision if not treated appropriately. Here, this article seeks to review the ocular consequences and potential pathophysiologic associations in patients with OSA. Understanding these OSA-related eye diseases may help clinicians provide comprehensive care to their patients.
Periprosthetic Stress Shielding of the Humerus after Reconstruction with Modular Shoulder Megaprostheses in Patients with Sarcoma
Authors: Klingebiel Sebastian , Schneider Kristian Nikolaus , Gosheger Georg , Ackmann Thomas , Timme Maximilian , Rickert Carolin , Deventer Niklas , Theil Christoph
Published: August 2021

(1) Background: Modular megaprosthetic reconstruction using a proximal humerus replacement has emerged as a commonly chosen approach after bone tumor resection. However, the long-term risk for revision surgery is relatively high. One factor that might be associated with mechanical failures is periprosthetic osteolysis around the stem, also known as stress shielding. The frequency, potential risk factors, and the effect on implant survival are unknown. (2) Methods: A retrospective single-center study of 65 patients with sarcoma who underwent resection of the proximal humerus and subsequent reconstruction with a modular endoprosthesis. Stress shielding was defined as the development of bone resorption around the prosthesis stem beginning at the bone/prosthesis interface. The extent of stress shielding was measured with a new method quantifying bone resorption in relation to the intramedullary stem length. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 12 months with conventional radiographs available and the median follow-up amounted to 36 months. (3) Results: Stress shielding was observed in 92% of patients (60/65). The median longitudinal extent of stress shielding amounted to 14% at last follow-up. Fifteen percent (10/65) showed bone resorption of greater than 50%. The median time to the first radiographic signs of stress shielding was 6 months (IQR 3–9). Patients who underwent chemotherapy (43/65) showed a greater extent of stress shielding compared to those without chemotherapy. Three percent (2/65) of patients were revised for aseptic loosening, and one patient had a periprosthetic fracture (1/65, 1.5%). All these cases had >20% extent of stress shielding (23–57%). (4) Conclusions: Stress shielding of the proximal humerus after shoulder reconstruction with modular megaprosthesis is common. It occurs within the first year of follow-up and might be self-limiting in many patients; however, about one third of patients shows progression beyond the first year. Still, mechanical complications were rare, but stress shielding might be clinically relevant in individual cases. The extent of stress shielding was increased in patients who underwent perioperative chemotherapy. Stress shielding can be quantified with an easy method using the stem length as a reference.
Upwelling Irradiance below Sea Ice—PAR Intensities and Spectral Distributions
Authors: Lund-Hansen Lars Chresten , Bjerg-Nielsen Michael , Stratmann Tanja , Hawes Ian , Sorrell Brian K.
Published: August 2021

Upwelling and downwelling spectral (320–920 nm) distributions and photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) intensities were measured below a first-year land-fast sea ice in a western Greenland fjord with and without a snow cover. Time-series of surface upwelling PAR, downwelling PAR, and under-ice PAR were also obtained. Spectral distributions of upwelling and downwelling irradiances were similar except for reduced intensities in the UV, the red, and NIR parts of the spectrum when the ice was snow-covered. Upwelling PAR amounted to about 10% of downwelling intensities, giving 5.1 µmol photons m−2 s−1 at the bottom of the ice with a snow cover and 8.2 µmol photons m−2 s−1 without. PAR partitioning analyses showed that the upwelling was related to scattering by suspended particles in the water column. A snow melt increased under-ice daily maximum downwelling PAR from 50 to 180 µmol photons m−2 s−1 and overall under-ice PAR of 55 and 198 µmol photons m−2 s−1 with 10% upwelling. It is concluded that upwelling PAR below sea ice might be an important factor regarding sea ice algae photophysiology and performance with a 10% higher PAR; specifically when PAR > Ek the light saturation point of the sea ice algae.
Diffraction and Radiation of Water Waves by a Heaving Absorber in Front of a Bottom-Mounted, V-shaped Breakwater of Infinite Length
Authors: Konispoliatis Dimitrios N. , Mavrakos Spyridon A.
Published: August 2021

In the present study, the problems of diffraction and radiation of water waves by a cylindrical heaving wave energy converter (WEC) placed in front of a reflecting V-shaped vertical breakwater are formulated. The idea conceived is based on the possible exploitation of amplified scattered and reflected wave potentials originating from the presence of V-shaped breakwater, towards increasing the WEC’s wave power absorption due to the wave reflections. An analytical solution based on the method of images is developed in the context of linear water wave theory, taking into account the hydrodynamic interaction phenomena between the converter and the vertical wall. Numerical results are presented and discussed concerning the hydrodynamic forces on the absorber and its wave power efficiency for various examined parameters, namely, the breakwaters’ forming angle, the distance between the converter and the vertical walls and the wave heading angle. The results show that the amount of the harvested wave power by the WEC in front of the walls is amplified compared to the wave power absorbed by the same WEC in the open sea.
COLREGs: Compliant Dynamic Obstacle Avoidance of USVs Based on the Dynamic Navigation Ship Domain
Authors: Deng Fang , Jin Leilei , Hou Xiuhui , Wang Longjin , Li Boyang , Yang Hualin
Published: August 2021

Dynamic obstacle avoidance is essential for unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) to achieve autonomous sailing. This paper presents a dynamic navigation ship domain (DNSD)-based dynamic obstacle avoidance approach for USVs in compliance with COLREGs. Based on the detected obstacle information, the approach can not only infer the collision risk, but also plan the local avoidance path trajectory to make appropriate avoidance maneuvers. Firstly, the analytical DNSD model is established taking into account the ship parameters, maneuverability, sailing speed, and encounter situations regarding COLREGs. Thus, the DNSDs of the own and target ships are utilized to trigger the obstacle avoidance mode and determine whether and when the USV should make avoidance maneuvers. Then, the local avoidance path planner generates the new avoidance waypoints and plans the avoidance trajectory. Simulations were implemented for a single obstacle under different encounter situations and multiple dynamic obstacles. The results demonstrated the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed DNSD-based obstacle avoidance algorithm.
The PPIP5K Family Member Asp1 Controls Inorganic Polyphosphate Metabolism in S. pombe
Authors: Pascual-Ortiz Marina , Walla Eva , Fleig Ursula , Saiardi Adolfo
Published: August 2021

Inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) which is ubiquitously present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, consists of up to hundreds of orthophosphate residues linked by phosphoanhydride bonds. The biological role of this polymer is manifold and diverse and in fungi ranges from cell cycle control, phosphate homeostasis and virulence to post-translational protein modification. Control of polyP metabolism has been studied extensively in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this yeast, a specific class of inositol pyrophosphates (IPPs), named IP7, made by the IP6K family member Kcs1 regulate polyP synthesis by associating with the SPX domains of the vacuolar transporter chaperone (VTC) complex. To assess if this type of regulation was evolutionarily conserved, we determined the elements regulating polyP generation in the distantly related fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Here, the VTC machinery is also essential for polyP generation. However, and in contrast to S. cerevisiae, a different IPP class generated by the bifunctional PPIP5K family member Asp1 control polyP metabolism. The analysis of Asp1 variant S. pombe strains revealed that cellular polyP levels directly correlate with Asp1-made IP8 levels, demonstrating a dose-dependent regulation. Thus, while the mechanism of polyP synthesis in yeasts is conserved, the IPP player regulating polyP metabolism is diverse.
Clinical Mass Spectrometry Discovered Human IgG Sialylation as a Potential Biosignature for Kidney Function
Authors: Kao Chih-Chin , Wang San-Yuan , Chuang Yung-Kun , Lee Wei-Yuan , Chang Wei-Chiao , Wu Mai-Szu , Kuo Tai-Chih , Tsai I-Lin
Published: August 2021

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycosylation was discovered to have an association with inflammation status, which has the potential to be a novel biomarker for kidney diseases. In this study, we applied an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method to plasma and urine samples from 57 individuals with different levels of kidney function. Natural abundances of total IgG, IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3 subclasses in plasma showed positive correlations to the estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs). Eighteen IgG glycopeptides also showed positive correlations. In contrast, higher IgG amounts were found in urine samples from participants with lower eGFR values. After normalizing IgG glycopeptides from plasma to their respective protein amounts, H4N4F1S1-IgG1 (r = 0.37, p = 0.0047, significant) and H5N4F1S1-IgG1 (r = 0.25, p = 0.063, marginally significant) were the two glycopeptides that still had positive correlations with eGFRs. The results showed that the UHPLC-MS/MS method is capable of investigating IgG profiles, and monitoring IgG and glycosylation patterns is worthy of further clinical application for kidney disease.
Effects of Grazer Exclusion on Carbon Cycling in Created Freshwater Wetlands
Authors: Spangler Delanie , Tyler Anna , McCalley Carmody
Published: August 2021

Wetland ecosystems play a significant role in the global carbon cycle, and yet are increasingly threatened by human development and climate change. The continued loss of intact freshwater wetlands heightens the need for effective wetland creation and restoration. However, wetland structure and function are controlled by interacting abiotic and biotic factors, complicating efforts to replace ecosystem services associated with natural wetlands and making ecologically-driven management imperative. Increasing waterfowl populations pose a threat to the development and persistence of created wetlands, largely through intensive grazing that can shift vegetation community structure or limit desired plant establishment. This study capitalized on a long-term herbivore exclusion experiment to evaluate how herbivore management impacts carbon cycling and storage in a created wetland in Western New York, USA. Vegetation, above- and belowground biomass, soil carbon, carbon gas fluxes and decomposition rates were evaluated in control plots with free access by large grazers and in plots where grazers had been excluded for four years. Waterfowl were the dominant herbivore at the site. Grazing reduced peak growing season aboveground biomass by over 55%, and during the summer, gross primary productivity doubled in grazer exclusion plots. The shift in plant productivity led to a 34% increase in soil carbon after exclusion of grazers for five growing seasons, but no change in belowground biomass. Our results suggest that grazers may inhibit the development of soil carbon pools during the first decade following wetland creation, reducing the carbon sequestration potential and precluding functional equivalence with natural wetlands.
Investigation of Reaction Forces in the Thoracolumbar Fascia during Different Activities: A Mechanistic Numerical Study
Authors: El-Monajjed Khaled , Driscoll Mark
Published: August 2021

Spinal instability remains a complex phenomenon to study while the cause of low back pain continues to challenge researchers. The role of fascia in biomechanics adds to the complexity of spine biomechanics but offers a new window from which to investigate our spines. Specifically, the thoracolumbar fascia may have an important role in spine biomechanics, and thus the purpose of this study was to access the mechanical influence of the thoracolumbar fascia on spine biomechanics during different simulated activities. A numerical finite element model of the lumbar spine inclusive of the intra-abdominal and intra-muscular regions as well as the thoracolumbar fascia was constructed and validated. Four different loading scenarios were simulated while deformation, stress, pressure, and reaction forces between the thoracolumbar fascia and spine were measured. Model validation was accomplished through comparison to in vivo and ex vivo published studies. Force transmission between the thoracolumbar fascia and the spine increased 40% comparing kyphotic and squatting lifting patterns. Further, the importance of reciprocating paraspinal and intra-abdominal pressures was demonstrated. It was also found that tension in the thoracolumbar fascia remains even in a simulated prone position. This numerical analysis allowed for an objective interpretation of the loads conveyed through the thoracolumbar fascia in different positional or lifting scenarios. Based on validation studies, it would appear to be a viable experimental platform from which insight can be derived. The loads in the thoracolumbar fascia vary considerably based on simulated tasks and are linked to the pressures in the paraspinal and intra-abdominal regions.
The Role of Autophagy Modulated by Exercise in Cancer Cachexia
Authors: Gunadi Julia Windi , Welliangan Ariyani Sudhamma , Soetadji Ray Sebastian , Jasaputra Diana Krisanti , Lesmana Ronny
Published: August 2021

Cancer cachexia is a syndrome experienced by many patients with cancer. Exercise can act as an autophagy modulator, and thus holds the potential to be used to treat cancer cachexia. Autophagy imbalance plays an important role in cancer cachexia, and is correlated to skeletal and cardiac muscle atrophy and energy-wasting in the liver. The molecular mechanism of autophagy modulation in different types of exercise has not yet been clearly defined. This review aims to elaborate on the role of exercise in modulating autophagy in cancer cachexia. We evaluated nine studies in the literature and found a potential correlation between the type of exercise and autophagy modulation. Combined exercise or aerobic exercise alone seems more beneficial than resistance exercise alone in cancer cachexia. Looking ahead, determining the physiological role of autophagy modulated by exercise will support the development of a new medical approach for treating cancer cachexia. In addition, the harmonization of the exercise type, intensity, and duration might play a key role in optimizing the autophagy levels to preserve muscle function and regulate energy utilization in the liver.
Moisture Distribution during Water Absorption of Ordinary Portland Cement Mortars Obtained with Low-Field Unilateral Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Cano-Barrita Prisciliano Felipe de Jesús , Díaz-Díaz Floriberto
Published: August 2021

Moisture distribution in cement-based materials is important from the durability point of view. In the present study, a portable three-magnet array with an elliptical surface radio frequency coil was used to undertake magnetic resonance measurements of moisture content in ordinary Portland cement mortar and concrete samples. Measurements along the length of the samples during capillary water absorption produced moisture content profiles that were compared with reference profiles acquired using a magnetic resonance imaging instrument. Profiles obtained with the three-magnet array were similar in shape and in penetration depth to those acquired with magnetic resonance imaging. The correlation coefficient between the moisture content measured with both techniques was r2 = 0.97. Similar values of saturated permeability of the mortars with identical w/c ratio were computed with the Hydrus 1D software based on the moisture content profiles. Additionally, inverse Laplace transformation of the signal decays provided the water-filled pore size distribution in saturated and unsaturated regions of the samples. The three-magnet array was successfully used to acquire nuclear magnetic resonance signal from a concrete sample, which was not possible with the magnetic resonance imaging instrument using the single-point imaging technique.
Evaluating Gyratory Compaction Characteristics of Unbound Permeable Aggregate Base Materials from Meso-Scale Particle Movement Measured by Smart Sensing Technology
Authors: Xiao Yuanjie , Wang Meng , Wang Xiaoming , Ren Juanjuan , Wang Weidong , Chen Xiaobin
Published: August 2021

The quality of compaction of unbound aggregate materials with permeable gradation plays a vital role in their field performance; however, there are currently few unanimously accepted techniques or quality control criteria available for ensuring adequate compaction of such materials in either laboratory or field applications. This paper presented testing results of a laboratory gyratory compaction study where the combinations of gyratory parameters were properly designed using the orthogonal array theory. Innovative real-time particle motion sensors were employed to record particle movement characteristics during the compaction process and provide a meso-scale explanation about compaction mechanisms. Particle abrasion and breakage were also quantified from particle shape digitized from the three-dimensional (3D) laser scanner before and after compaction. The optimal combination of gyratory parameters that yields the best compaction performance was determined from the orthogonal testing results with the relative importance of major influencing parameters ranked accordingly. Meso-scale particle movement at the upper center and center side positions of the specimen are promising indicators of compaction quality. The gyratory compaction process can be consistently divided into three distinct stages according to both macro-scale performance indicators and meso-scale particle movement characteristics. A statistically significant bi-linear relationship was found to exist between relative breakage index and maximum abrasion depth, whereas the quality of compaction and the extent of particle breakage appear to be positively correlated, thus necessitating the cost-effective balance between them. The results of this study could provide technical insights and guidance to field compaction of unbound permeable aggregates.
Recent Advances in the Excipients Used for Modified Ocular Drug Delivery
Authors: Koutsoviti Melitini , Siamidi Angeliki , Pavlou Panagoula , Vlachou Marilena
Published: August 2021

In ocular drug delivery, maintaining an efficient concentration of the drug in the target area for a sufficient period of time is a challenging task. There is a pressing need for the development of effective strategies for drug delivery to the eye using recent advances in material sciences and novel approaches to drug delivery. This review summarizes the important aspects of ocular drug delivery and the factors affecting drug absorption in the eye including encapsulating excipients (chitosan, hyaluronic acid, poloxamer, PLGA, PVCL-PVA-PEG, cetalkonium chloride, and gelatin) for modified drug delivery.
Modulation of Crystallinity through Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields in PLLA/Magnetic Nanoparticles Composites: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Multigner Marta , Morales Irene , Muñoz Marta , Bonache Victoria , Giacomone Fernando , de la Presa Patricia , Benavente Rosario , Torres Belén , Mantovani Diego , Rams Joaquín
Published: August 2021

To modulate the properties of degradable implants from outside of the human body represents a major challenge in the field of biomaterials. Polylactic acid is one of the most used polymers in biomedical applications, but it tends to lose its mechanical properties too quickly during degradation. In the present study, a way to reinforce poly-L lactic acid (PLLA) with magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) that have the capacity to heat under radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (EMF) is proposed. As mechanical and degradation properties are related to the crystallinity of PLLA, the aim of the work was to explore the possibility of modifying the structure of the polymer through the heating of the reinforcing MNPs by EMF within the biological limit range f·H < 5·× 109 Am−1·s−1. Composites were prepared by dispersing MNPs under sonication in a solution of PLLA. The heat released by the MNPs was monitored by an infrared camera and changes in the polymer were analyzed with differential scanning calorimetry and nanoindentation techniques. The crystallinity, hardness, and elastic modulus of nanocomposites increase with EMF treatment.
Fracture Behaviour of Real Coarse Aggregate Distributed Concrete under Uniaxial Compressive Load Based on Cohesive Zone Model
Authors: Ying Jingwei , Guo Jin
Published: August 2021

Two-dimensional meso-scale finite element models with real aggregates are developed using images obtained by digital image processing to simulate crack propagation processes in concrete under uniaxial compression loading. The finite element model is regarded as a three-phase composite material composed of aggregate, mortar matrix and interface transition zone (ITZ). Cohesive elements with traction–separation laws are used to simulate complex nonlinear fracture. During the experiment, digital image correlation (DIC) was used to obtain the deformation and cracks of the specimens at different loading stages. The concept of strain ratio is proposed to describe the effectiveness of simulation. Results show that the numerical strain ratio curve and stress–strain curves are both in good agreement with experimental data. The consistency between the cracks obtained by simulation and those obtained by DIC shows the good performance of cohesive elements as well as the effectiveness of simulation. In summary, the model is able to provide accurate predictions of the whole fracture process in concrete under uniaxial compression loading.
Insights into Biodegradable Polymer-Supported Titanium Dioxide Photocatalysts for Environmental Remediation
Authors: Ainali Nina Maria , Kalaronis Dimitrios , Evgenidou Eleni , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Lambropoulou Dimitra A.
Published: August 2021

During the past two decades, immobilization of titanium dioxide (TiO2), a well-known photocatalyst, on several polymeric substrates has extensively gained ground since it limits the need of post-treatment separation stages. Taking into account the numerous substrates tested for supporting TiO2 photocatalysts, the use of biodegradable polymer seems a hopeful option owing to its considerable merits, including the flexible nature, low price, chemical inertness, mechanical stability and wide feasibility. The present review places its emphasis on recently published research articles (2011–2021) and exhibits the most innovative studies facilitating the eco-friendly biodegradable polymers to fabricate polymer-based photocatalysts, while the preparation details, photocatalytic performance and reuse of the TiO2/polymer photocatalysts is also debated. The biodegradable polymers examined herein comprise of chitosan (CS), cellulose, alginate, starch, poly(lactid acid) (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), while an emphasis on the synthetical pathway (dip-coating, electrospinning, etc.) of the photocatalysts is provided.
The Impact of Vibrational Entropy on the Segregation of Cu to Antiphase Boundaries in Fe3Al
Authors: Friák Martin , Černý Miroslav , Šob Mojmír
Published: August 2021

We performed a quantum mechanical study of segregation of Cu atoms toward antiphase boundaries (APBs) in Fe3Al. The computed concentration of Cu atoms was 3.125 at %. The APBs have been characterized by a shift of the lattice along the ⟨001⟩ crystallographic direction. The APB energy turns out to be lower for Cu atoms located directly at the APB interfaces and we found that it is equal to 84 mJ/m2. Both Cu atoms (as point defects) and APBs (as extended defects) have their specific impact on local magnetic moments of Fe atoms (mostly reduction of the magnitude). Their combined impact was found to be not just a simple sum of the effects of each of the defect types. The Cu atoms are predicted to segregate toward the studied APBs, but the related energy gain is very small and amounts to only 4 meV per Cu atom. We have also performed phonon calculations and found all studied states with different atomic configurations mechanically stable without any soft phonon modes. The band gap in phonon frequencies of Fe3Al is barely affected by Cu substituents but reduced by APBs. The phonon contributions to segregation-related energy changes are significant, ranging from a decrease by 16% at T = 0 K to an increase by 17% at T = 400 K (changes with respect to the segregation-related energy difference between static lattices). Importantly, we have also examined the differences in the phonon entropy and phonon energy induced by the Cu segregation and showed their strongly nonlinear trends.
On Progressive Censored Competing Risks Data: Real Data Application and Simulation Study
Authors: Abd El-Raheem Abd El-Raheem M. , Hosny Mona , Abu-Moussa Mahmoud H.
Published: August 2021

Competing risks are frequently overlooked, and the event of interest is analyzed with conventional statistical techniques. In this article, we consider the analysis of bi-causes of failure in the context of competing risk models using the extension of the exponential distribution under progressive Type-II censoring. Maximum likelihood estimates for the unknown parameters via the expectation-maximization algorithm are obtained. Moreover, the Bayes estimates of the unknown parameters are approximated using Tierney-Kadane and MCMC techniques. Interval estimates using Bayesian and classical techniques are also considered. Two real data sets are investigated to illustrate the different estimation methods, and to compare the suggested model with Weibull distribution. Furthermore, the estimation methods are compared through a comprehensive simulation study.
Is Longevity Acceleration Sustainable? An Entropy-Based Trial of the Population of Spain vs. Japan
Authors: Betzuen Zalbidegoitia Amancio , Betzuen Álvarez Amaia Jone
Published: August 2021

Longevity risk is a major concern for governments around the world as they have to address social benefits, whether in the form of pensions, healthcare, or caring for dependents and providing long-term care, and so forth, which directly impact countries’ budgets. This paper uses a single entropy index to measure this type of risk. This methodology is clearly different from the one traditionally used in the literature, which is nearly entirely based on measuring the evolution of mathematical life expectancy. The authors used the longest-living populations in the world, Japan and Spain, to create a database in order to analyse the virtue of the indicator. The aim was to establish whether the longevity of those populations is accelerating or decelerating, compared by sex, and whether that occurs at the same intensity at different stages of a person’s life in each case. If the indicator showed differences in intensity, it would be a benchmark for the insurance and financial industry, providing it with information to market different products.
Role of the Inflammatory Response of RAW 264.7 Cells in the Metastasis of Novel Cancer Stem-Like Cells
Authors: Kuo Chan-Yen , Yang Tzu-Hsien , Tsai Pei-Fang , Yu Chun-Hsien
Published: August 2021

Background and objectives: Tumor progression and the immune response are intricately linked. Additionally, the presence of macrophages in the microenvironment is essential for carcinogenesis, but regulation of the polarization of M1- and M2-like macrophages and their role in metastasis remain unclear. Based on previous studies, both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are emerging as key players in macrophage polarization. While it is known that cancers alter macrophage inflammatory responses to promote tumor progression, there is limited knowledge regarding how they affect the macrophage-dependent innate host defense. Materials and methods: We detected the levels of ROS, the ability of chemotaxis, the expressions of markers of M1-/M2-like macrophages in RAW264.7 in presence of T2- and T2C-conditioned medium. Results: The results of this study indicated that ROS levels were decreased in RAW 264.7 cells when cultured with T2C-conditioned medium, while there was an improvement in chemotaxis abilities. We also found that the M2-like macrophages were characterized by an elongated shape in RAW 264.7 cells cultured in T2C-conditioned medium, which had increased CD206 expression but decreased expression of CD86 and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Suppression of ER stress shifted polarized M1-like macrophages toward an M2-like phenotype in RAW 264.7 cells cultured in T2C-conditioned medium. Conclusions: Taken together, we conclude that the polarization of macrophages is associated with the alteration of cell shape, ROS accumulation, and ER stress.
Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy Followed by Lipiodol Infusion for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Chen Kuan-Ting , Tsai Kun-Feng , Leung Henry W. C. , Chan Agnes L. F. , Wang Shyh-Yau , Liang Huei-Lung , Tang Sheng-Yeh , Chou Chu-Kuang , Chen Hsin-Yu , Chan Shan-Ho , Li Ming-Feng
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) followed by lipiodol infusion in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). Materials and Methods: Thirty-two patients with advanced HCC and PVTT who received HAIC with regimens of cisplatin, mitomycin-C, and 5-fluorouracil followed by lipiodol infusion were enrolled. The primary efficacy endpoint was tumor response rate. The modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST) was used for assessment of treatment response. The secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). Prognostic factors for survival also were evaluated. Results: The median OS and PFS were 11.9 and 9.5 months, respectively. Seventeen patients (53.1%) achieved objective response, and 23 patients (71.9%) achieved disease control. The length of survival in the responder and disease control groups was longer than in the non-responder and progressive disease groups after two cycles of HAIC (responder vs. non-responder: 16.5 vs. 7.9 months, p = 0.001; disease control vs. progressive disease: 12.3 vs. 5.6 months, p < 0.001) and after completing HAIC (responder vs. non-responder: 15.7 vs. 6.9 months, p = 0.001; disease control vs. progressive disease: 13.6 vs. 6.9 months, p < 0.001). Better survival was associated with Child-Pugh A liver function (p = 0.013), with early response to two HAIC cycles (p = 0.009), and with response (p = 0.02) and disease control (p = 0.001) after completing HAIC treatment. Conclusion: HAIC followed by lipiodol infusion is a safe and feasible treatment for advanced HCC with PVTT. Patients with early response could continue HAIC treatment with expected prolonged survival.
Iris-Claw Intraocular Lens: Anterior Chamber or Retropupillary Implantation? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liang I-Chia , Chang Yun-Hsiang , Hernández Martínez Adrián Hernández , Hung Chi-Feng
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Iris-claw intraocular lens (ICIOL) could be implanted in the anterior chamber (AC) or retropupillary (RP) in eyes lacking capsular and/or zonular support. Several studies have focused on comparing the efficacy and complications of these two techniques and we designed this research to review the published literatures. Materials and Methods: Peer-reviewed studies were collected through network databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov) and analyzed. The primary outcome was the standardized mean differences (SMDs) of pre- and post-operative corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA). The secondary outcome was the SMDs of pre- and post-operative intraocular pressure (IOP), endothelial cell counts (ECC), and the odds ratios (ORs) of post-operative IOP elevation and cystoid macular edema (CME). Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software was utilized to conduct statistical analysis. Results: Six studies (one randomized controlled trial and five retrospective case series) were relevant and included a total of 516 eyes (255 and 261 eyes in the AC ICIOL and RP ICIOL groups, respectively). The quantitative analysis showed no significant differences in CDVA (SMD: 0.164, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.171 to 0.500), ECC (SMD: −0.011, 95% CI: −0.195 to 0.173), and IOP elevation events (OR: 0.797, 95% CI: 0.459 to 1.383). Lesser IOP reduction (SMD: 0.257, 95%CI: 0.023 to 0.490) and a relative increase in the incidence of CME (OR:2.315, 95% CI: 0.950 to 5.637) were observed in the AC ICIOL group compared with RP ICIOL group. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis indicated that AC and RP ICIOL seem to have equivalent visual outcomes. RP ICIOL may perform slightly better with more IOP reduction and lesser CME. More randomized controlled trials, which have higher patient participation and more outcomes are needed to confirm our conclusions.
WNT-5a and SOST Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid Depend on the Inflammatory and Osteoclastogenic Activities of Periodontal Tissues
Authors: Chatzopoulos Georgios S. , Costalonga Massimo , Mansky Kim C. , Wolff Larry F.
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Wnt signaling leads to stimulation of osteoblasts and it reduces osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption via the regulation of the osteprotegrin and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligan (RANKL). Wnt signaling pathways are regulated by their physiological antagonists such as sclerostin (SOST) as well as WNT-5a. The aim of this study was to determine the total amount of Sclerostin and WNT-5a in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in sites with a continuum from a healthy to diseased periodontium. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 20 patients with generalized periodontitis, 10 subjects with gingivitis as well as 14 individuals with a healthy periodontium were recruited upon clinical and radiographic periodontal examination. In patients diagnosed with periodontitis, GCF samples were collected from periodontitis, gingivitis and healthy sites, while gingivitis patients provided samples from gingivitis and healthy sites. In healthy patients, only healthy sites were sampled. Protein total amount of SOST and WNT-5a were quantified by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: A total of 108 GCF samples were collected from a total of 44 individuals. When all periodontitis (n = 51), gingivitis (n = 12) and healthy (n = 45) sites were analyzed regardless of the patient diagnosis, periodontitis sites demonstrated significantly elevated WNT-5a total amounts (p = 0.03) when compared to gingivitis sites. Gingivitis sites demonstrated a trend of more total SOST (p = 0.09) when compared to periodontitis and healthy sites. Within each patient diagnostic category, sites showed similar SOST and WNT-5a total amounts (p > 0.05). Conclusions: WNT-5a levels in GCF depend on the stage of periodontitis sites. SOST trended higher in the GCF of gingivitis sites but similar in chronic periodontitis and healthy sites. WNT-5a and SOST play a crucial role in periodontal tissue remodeling and depend on the inflammatory and osteoclastogenic activities.
The Role of Free Tissue Transfers for Defect Coverage over the Body in Geriatric Populations
Authors: Kulakli-Inceleme Elif , Knobe Matthias , Fritsche Elmar , Scaglioni Mario F.
Published: August 2021

The treatment of soft tissue defects in multimorbid frail patients requires optimized preoperative and perioperative management with a differentiated interdisciplinary approach. Preoperative assessment with established scores, such as the ASA score, is important in order to stratify the operative complication risk. Following the reconstructive ladder is important to avoid unnecessary long operations and consecutively higher operative risks. In cases where a free flap procedure is needed, infections should be treated properly, and vascular status and coagulation should be optimized before performing a free flap procedure. Attention should be paid to maintain independency, functionality and quality of life while choosing the best treatment option.