bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the Polytropic Indices of Plasmas with Partial Temperature Tensor Measurements: Application to Solar Wind Protons at ~1 au
Authors: Nicolaou Georgios , Livadiotis George , Desai Mihir I.
Published: April 2021

We examine the relationships between temperature tensor elements and their connection to the polytropic equation, which describes the relationship between the plasma scalar temperature and density. We investigate the possibility to determine the plasma polytropic index by fitting the fluctuations of temperature either perpendicular or parallel to the magnetic field. Such an application is particularly useful when the full temperature tensor is not available from the observations. We use solar wind proton observations at ~1 au to calculate the correlations between the temperature tensor elements and the scalar temperature. Our analysis also derives the polytropic equation in selected streamlines of solar wind plasma proton observations that exhibit temperature anisotropies related to stream-interaction regions. We compare the polytropic indices derived by fitting fluctuations of the scalar, perpendicular, and parallel temperatures, respectively. We show that the use of the parallel or perpendicular temperature, instead of the scalar temperature, still accurately derives the true, average polytropic index value, but only for a certain level of temperature anisotropy variability within the analyzed streamlines. The use of the perpendicular temperature leads to more accurate calculations, because its correlation with the scalar temperature is less affected by the anisotropy fluctuations.
Antimicrobials from Medicinal Plants: An Emergent Strategy to Control Oral Biofilms
Authors: Milho Catarina , Silva Jani , Guimarães Rafaela , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Barros Lillian , Alves Maria José
Published: April 2021

Oral microbial biofilms, directly related to oral diseases, particularly caries and periodontitis, exhibit virulence factors that include acidification of the oral microenvironment and the formation of biofilm enriched with exopolysaccharides, characteristics and common mechanisms that, ultimately, justify the increase in antibiotics resistance. In this line, the search for natural products, mainly obtained through plants, and derived compounds with bioactive potential, endorse unique biological properties in the prevention of colonization, adhesion, and growth of oral bacteria. The present review aims to provide a critical and comprehensive view of the in vitro antibiofilm activity of various medicinal plants, revealing numerous species with antimicrobial properties, among which, twenty-four with biofilm inhibition/reduction percentages greater than 95%. In particular, the essential oils of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf and Lippia alba (Mill.) seem to be the most promising in fighting microbial biofilm in Streptococcus mutans, given their high capacity to reduce biofilm at low concentrations.
The Impact of Radiation to Epicardial Adipose Tissue on Prognosis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy and Esophagectomy
Authors: Tai Hung-Chi , Lee Jie , Huang Wen-Chien , Liu Hung-Chang , Chen Chao-Hung , Huang Yu-Chuen , Lee Chi-Jung , Yun Chun-Ho , Hsu Shih-Ming , Chen Yu-Jen
Published: April 2021

The epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), mainly composed of brown adipose tissue, is a metabolically active tissue releasing various bioactive factors with a critical role in metabolic diseases. The EAT is often irradiated during radiotherapy in patients with esophageal cancer due to its proximity to the target region. We aimed to evaluate the effect of radiation to the EAT on survival outcomes in patients with esophageal cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by esophagectomy. We analyzed data on 36 patients with esophageal cancer treated with trimodal therapy between 2012 and 2017. The median follow-up period was 22.0 months. The 3-year overall survival and progression-free survival rates were 39.7% and 32.5%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher EAT-REI was independently associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio: 1.002, p = 0.028) and progression-free survival (hazard ratio: 1.002, p = 0.03). The cutoff value with the highest accuracy for avoiding mortality was EAT-REI = 68.8 cGy/mL (area under the curve, 0.78, p = 0.006). The 3-year overall survival rate in patients with EAT-REI ≥68.8 and <68.8 was 21.7% and 71.9%, respectively (p = 0.003). The EAT should be considered an organ at risk during radiotherapy in patients with esophageal cancer. EAT-REI might serve as a biomarker of survival outcomes in these patients.
Characteristics of PM2.5 Pollution with Comparative Analysis of O3 in Autumn–Winter Seasons of Xingtai, China
Authors: Wang Han , Wang Shulan , Zhang Jingqiao , Li Hui
Published: April 2021

Pollutants emission, meteorological conditions, secondary formation, and pollutants transport are the main reasons for air pollution. A comprehensive air pollution analysis was conducted from the above four aspects in the autumn–winter seasons of 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 at Xingtai, China. In addition, the relationship between PM2.5 and O3 was also studied from the aspects of secondary formation and meteorological conditions to find the rules of cooperative management of PM2.5 and O3 combined pollution. Taking measures of concentrated and clean heating and controlling biomass burning could make the concentrations of EC, K+ and SO42− decrease. The variation trends of PM2.5 and O3 concentration in the autumn–winter season of Xingtai were different, and with the increase in secondary formation effects, the concentration of O3 decreased. Furthermore, the key meteorological conditions that affected O3 and PM2.5 formation were temperature and relative humidity, respectively. The relationships of NOR (nitrate oxidation rate) and SOR (sulfate oxidation rate) against temperature presented a “U” shape, suggesting that gas-phase oxidation and gas–solid-phase oxidation were all suppressed at a temperature of around 4 °C. The cities located in the east had more pollutant transporting effects during the pollution processes of Xingtai, and the main transport routes of O3 and PM2.5 were not all the same.
Gross Alpha and Gross Beta Activity Concentrations in the Dust Fractions of Urban Surface-Deposited Sediment in Russian Cities
Authors: Hanfi Mohamed Y. , Yarmoshenko Ilia , Seleznev Andrian A.
Published: April 2021

Studies of gross alpha and gross beta activity in road- and surface-deposited sediments were conducted in three Russian cities in different geographical zones. To perform radiation measurements, new methods were applied which allow dealing with low mass and low volume dust-sized (2–100 μm) samples obtained after the size fractionation procedure. The 2–10 μm fraction size had the highest gross beta activity concentration (GB)—1.32 Bq/g in Nizhny Novgorod and Rostov-On-Don, while the 50–100 μm fraction size was most prominent in Ekaterinburg. This can be attributed to the presence of radionuclides that are transferred through natural and anthropogenic processes. The highest gross alpha activity concentration (GA) in fraction sizes was found in Rostov-on-Don city within the 50–100 μm range—0.22 Bq/g. The fraction sizes 50–100 μm have a higher gross alpha activity concentration than 2–10 μm and 10–50 μm fraction sizes due to natural partitioning of the main minerals constituting the urban surface-deposited sediment (USDS). Observed dependencies reflect the geochemical processes which take place during the formation and transport of urban surface sediments. Developed experimental methods of radiation measurements formed the methodological base of urban geochemical studies.
Chemical Characteristics and Sources of Water-Soluble Organic Nitrogen Species in PM2.5 in Nanjing, China
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Haiwei , Cui Shijie , Nie Dongyang , Chen Yanfang , Ge Xinlei
Published: April 2021

Water-soluble organic nitrogen (WSON) is an important component of PM2.5 which may affect air quality, climate and human health. Herein, one-year field samples of atmospheric PM2.5 (June 2017–May 2018) were collected in northern Nanjing. Chemical characterization of PM2.5 major components as well as WSON were conducted, and WSON composition and sources were further investigated via measurements by a Aerodyne soot particle aerosol mass spectrometer (SP-AMS) as well as positive matrix factorization (PMF). Inorganic ions, mainly consisting of ammonium, sulfate, and nitrate, were found to dominate PM2.5 mass (58.7%), followed by organic matter (OM) (22.6%), and elemental carbon (EC) (2.1%). Water-soluble OM dominated OM (65.1%), and its temporal variation was closely correlated with that of secondary organic matter, while time series of water-insoluble OM concentrations correlated tightly with that of primary organic matter. Average WSON concentration was 2.15 μg/m3, which was highest in winter and lowest in summer. Correlation analysis of WSON with PM2.5 components also indicated that WSON was mainly from secondary sources. SP-AMS revealed that WSON mass spectrum was composed of CxHyNp+ (91.2%) and CxHyOzNp+ (8.8%), indicating dominance of amines and other oxygenated ON compounds. PMF analysis resolved two primary sources (traffic, biomass burning) and two secondary sources (less-oxidized and more-oxidized factors) of WSOM and WSON, and the secondary source dominated both WSOM and WSON. Contribution of the more-oxidized ON factor was very high in winter, and the less-oxidized factor was significant in summer, indicating a likely important role of aqueous-phase processing in winter as well as photochemical oxidation in summer to WSON.
COVID-19 Diagnostic Strategies Part II: Protein-Based Technologies
Authors: Shaffaf Tina , Ghafar-Zadeh Ebrahim
Published: April 2021

After the initiation of the current outbreak, humans’ lives have been profoundly impacted by COVID-19. During the first months, no rapid and reliable detecting tool was readily available to sufficiently respond to the requirement of massive testing. In this situation, when the development of an effective vaccine requires at least a few months, it is crucial to be prepared by developing and commercializing affordable, accurate, rapid and adaptable biosensors not only to fight Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) but also to be armed to avoid the pandemic in the earliest stages in the future. The COVID-19 diagnostic tools are categorized into two main groups of Nucleic Acid (NA)-based and protein-based tests. To date, nucleic acid-based detection has been announced as the gold-standard strategy for coronavirus detection; however, protein-based tests are promising alternatives for rapid and large-scale screening of susceptible groups. In this review, we discuss the current protein-based biosensing tools, the research advances and the potential protein-detecting strategies for COVID-19 detection. This narrative review aims to highlight the importance of the diagnostic tests, encourage the academic research groups and the companies to eliminate the shortcomings of the current techniques and step forward to mass-producing reliable point-of-care (POC) and point-of-need (PON) adaptable diagnostic tools for large-scale screening in the future outbreaks.
Computational Biology: A New Frontier in Applied Biology
Authors: Toma Milan , Concu Riccardo
Published: April 2021

All living things are related to one another [...]
Identification of an 11-Autophagy-Related-Gene Signature as Promising Prognostic Biomarker for Bladder Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhou Chaoting , Li Alex Heng , Liu Shan , Sun Hong
Published: April 2021

Background: Survival rates for highly invasive bladder cancer (BC) patients have been very low, with a 5-year survival rate of 6%. Accurate prediction of tumor progression and survival is important for diagnosis and therapeutic decisions for BC patients. Our study aims to develop an autophagy-related-gene (ARG) signature that helps to predict the survival of BC patients. Methods: RNA-seq data of 403 BC patients were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas Urothelial Bladder Carcinoma (TCGA-BLCA) database. Univariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify overall survival (OS)-related ARGs. The Lasso Cox regression model was applied to establish an ARG signature in the TCGA training cohort (N = 203). The performance of the 11-gene ARG signature was further evaluated in a training cohort and an independent validation cohort (N = 200) using Kaplan-Meier OS curve analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, as well as univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Results: Our study identified an 11-gene ARG signature that is significantly associated with OS, including APOL1, ATG4B, BAG1, CASP3, DRAM1, ITGA3, KLHL24, P4HB, PRKCD, ULK2, and WDR45. The ARGs-derived high-risk bladder cancer patients exhibited significantly poor OS in both training and validation cohorts. The prognostic model showed good predictive efficacy, with the area under the ROC curve (AUCs) for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year overall survival of 0.702 (0.695), 0.744 (0.640), and 0.794 (0.658) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. A prognostic nomogram, which included the ARGs-derived risk factor, age and stage for eventual clinical translation, was established. Conclusion: We identified a novel ARG signature for risk-stratification and robust prediction of overall survival for BC patients.
Deletion of Mitochondrial Translocator Protein (TSPO) Gene Decreases Oxidative Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Death via Modulation of TRPM2 Channel
Authors: Özkaya Dilek , Shu Xinhua , Nazıroğlu Mustafa
Published: April 2021

The current results indicated the possible protective actions of 18 kDa mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO) deletion on TRPM2 stimulation, mitochondrial free ROS (Mito-fROS) and apoptotic harmful actions in the cells of adult retinal pigment epithelial19 (ARPE19). There was a direct relationship between TSPO and the disease of age-related macular degeneration. The nature of TSPO implicates upregulation of Mito-fROS and apoptosis via the activation of Ca2+ channels in ARPE19, although deletion of TSPO gene downregulates the activation. The decrease of oxidative cytotoxicity and apoptosis might induce in TSPO gene deleted cells by the inhibition of Mito-fROS and PARP-1 activation-induced TRPM2 cation channel activation. The ARPE19 cells were divided into two main groups as TSPO expressing (ARPE19) and non-expressing cells (ARPE19-KO). The levels of caspase -3 (Casp -3), caspase -9 (Casp -9), apoptosis, Mito-fROS, TRPM2 current and intracellular free Ca2+ were upregulated in the ARPE19 by the stimulations of H2O2 and ADP-ribose, although their levels were downregulated in the cells by the modulators of PARP-1 (DPQ and PJ34), TRPM2 (ACA and 2APB) and glutathione. However, the H2O2 and ADP-ribose-mediated increases were not observed in the ARPE19-KO. The expression levels of Bax, Casp -3, Casp -9 and PARP-1 were higher in the ARPE19 group as compared to the ARPE19-KO group. In summary, current results confirmed that TRPM2-mediated cell death and oxidative cytotoxicity in the ARPE19 cells were occurred by the presence of TSPO. The deletion of TSPO may be considered as a therapeutic way to TRPM2 activation-mediated retinal oxidative injury.
Validation of Recombinant Chicken Liver Bile Acid Binding Protein as a Tool for Cholic Acid Hosting
Authors: Tassone Giusy , Orlandini Maurizio , Olivucci Massimo , Pozzi Cecilia
Published: April 2021

Bile acids (BAs) are hydroxylated steroids derived from cholesterol that act at the intestinal level to facilitate the absorption of several nutrients and also play a role as signaling molecules. In the liver of various vertebrates, the trafficking of BAs is mediated by bile acid-binding proteins (L-BABPs). The ability to host hydrophobic or amphipathic molecules makes BABPs suitable for the distribution of a variety of physiological and exogenous substances. Thus, BABPs have been proposed as drug carriers, and more recently, they have also been employed to develop innovative nanotechnology and biotechnology systems. Here, we report an efficient protocol for the production, purification, and crystallization of chicken liver BABP (cL-BABP). By means of target expression as His6-tag cL-BABP, we obtained a large amount of pure and homogeneous proteins through a simple purification procedure relying on affinity chromatography. The recombinant cL-BABP showed a raised propensity to crystallize, allowing us to obtain its structure at high resolution and, in turn, assess the structural conservation of the recombinant cL-BABP with respect to the liver-extracted protein. The results support the use of recombinant cL-BABP for the development of drug carriers, nanotechnologies, and innovative synthetic photoswitch systems.
Age-Dependent Dysregulation of Muscle Vasculature and Blood Flow Recovery after Hindlimb Ischemia in the mdx Model of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Podkalicka Paulina , Mucha Olga , Kaziród Katarzyna , Bronisz-Budzyńska Iwona , Ostrowska-Paton Sophie , Tomczyk Mateusz , Andrysiak Kalina , Stępniewski Jacek , Dulak Józef , Łoboda Agnieszka
Published: April 2021

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), caused by a lack of functional dystrophin, is characterized by progressive muscle degeneration. Interestingly, dystrophin is also expressed in endothelial cells (ECs), and insufficient angiogenesis has already been hypothesized to contribute to DMD pathology, however, its status in mdx mice, a model of DMD, is still not fully clear. Our study aimed to reveal angiogenesis-related alterations in skeletal muscles of mdx mice compared to wild-type (WT) counterparts. By investigating 6- and 12-week-old mice, we sought to verify if those changes are age-dependent. We utilized a broad spectrum of methods ranging from gene expression analysis, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence imaging to determine the level of angiogenic markers and to assess muscle blood vessel abundance. Finally, we implemented the hindlimb ischemia (HLI) model, more biologically relevant in the context of functional studies evaluating angiogenesis/arteriogenesis processes. We demonstrated that both 6- and 12-week-old dystrophic mice exhibited dysregulation of several angiogenic factors, including decreased vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) in different muscle types. Nonetheless, in younger, 6-week-old mdx animals, neither the abundance of CD31+α-SMA+ double-positive blood vessels nor basal blood flow and its restoration after HLI was affected. In 12-week-old mdx mice, although a higher number of CD31+α-SMA+ double-positive blood vessels and an increased percentage of skeletal muscle ECs were found, the abundance of pericytes was diminished, and blood flow was reduced. Moreover, impeded perfusion recovery after HLI associated with a blunted inflammatory and regenerative response was evident in 12-week-old dystrophic mice. Hence, our results reinforce the hypothesis of age-dependent angiogenic dysfunction in dystrophic mice. In conclusion, we suggest that older mdx mice constitute an appropriate model for preclinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of vascular-based therapies aimed at the restoration of functional angiogenesis to mitigate DMD severity.
The Impact of the FKBP5 Gene Polymorphisms on the Relationship between Traumatic Life Events and Psychotic-Like Experiences in Non-Clinical Adults
Authors: Stramecki Filip , Frydecka Dorota , Gawęda Łukasz , Prochwicz Katarzyna , Kłosowska Joanna , Samochowiec Jerzy , Szczygieł Krzysztof , Pawlak Edyta , Szmida Elżbieta , Skiba Paweł , Cechnicki Andrzej , Misiak Błażej
Published: April 2021

Common variations of the FKBP5 gene are implicated in psychotic disorders, by modulating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis reactivity to stress. It has been demonstrated that some of them might moderate the effects of childhood trauma on psychosis proneness. However, these associations have not been investigated with respect to traumatic life events (TLEs). Therefore, we aimed to explore whether the FKBP5 polymorphisms moderate the effects of TLEs on the level of psychotic-like experiences (PLEs). A total of 535 non-clinical adults were approached for participation, and genotyping of six FKBP5 polymorphisms (rs3800373, rs9470080, rs4713902, rs737054, rs1360780 and rs9296158) was performed. The Prodromal Questionnaire-16 (PQ-16) and the Traumatic Events Checklist (TEC) were administered to assess PLEs and TLEs, respectively. Among the rs1360780 CC homozygotes, a history of physical abuse was associated with significantly higher PQ-16 scores. This difference was not significant in the rs1360780 T allele carriers. Similarly, a history of physical abuse was associated with significantly higher PQ-16 scores in the rs9296158 GG homozygotes but not in the rs9296158 A allele carriers. Finally, emotional neglect was related to significantly higher PQ-16 scores in the rs737054 T allele carriers but not in the rs737054 CC homozygotes. The present study indicates that variation in the FKBP5 gene might moderate the effects of lifetime traumatic events on psychosis proneness.
Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) of Graphene Materials: Effect of Particle Size of Graphene, Graphene Oxide and Graphite on Thermal Parameters
Authors: Farivar Farzaneh , Lay Yap Pei , Karunagaran Ramesh Udayashankar , Losic Dusan
Published: April 2021

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) has been recognized as a simple and reliable analytical tool for characterization of industrially manufactured graphene powders. Thermal properties of graphene are dependent on many parameters such as particle size, number of layers, defects and presence of oxygen groups to improve the reliability of this method for quality control of graphene materials, therefore it is important to explore the influence of these parameters. This paper presents a comprehensive TGA study to determine the influence of different particle size of the three key materials including graphene, graphene oxide and graphite on their thermal parameters such as carbon decomposition range and its temperature of maximum mass change rate (Tmax). Results showed that Tmax values derived from the TGA-DTG carbon combustion peaks of these materials increasing from GO (558–616 °C), to graphene (659–713 °C) and followed by graphite (841–949 °C) The Tmax values derived from their respective DTG carbon combustion peaks increased as their particle size increased (28.6–120.2 µm for GO, 7.6–73.4 for graphene and 24.2–148.8 µm for graphite). The linear relationship between the Tmax values and the particle size of graphene and their key impurities (graphite and GO) confirmed in this study endows the use of TGA technique with more confidence to evaluate bulk graphene-related materials (GRMs) at low-cost, rapid, reliable and simple diagnostic tool for improved quality control of industrially manufactured GRMs including detection of “fake” graphene.
Comparison of Global DNA Methylation Patterns in Human Melanoma Tissues and Their Derivative Cell Lines
Authors: Rodger Euan J. , Almomani Suzan N. , Ludgate Jackie L. , Stockwell Peter A. , Baguley Bruce C. , Eccles Michael R. , Chatterjee Aniruddha
Published: April 2021

DNA methylation is a heritable epigenetic mark that is fundamental to mammalian development. Aberrant DNA methylation is an epigenetic hallmark of cancer cells. Cell lines are a critical in vitro model and very widely used to unravel mechanisms of cancer cell biology. However, limited data are available to assess whether DNA methylation patterns in tissues are retained when cell lines are established. Here, we provide the first genome-scale sequencing-based methylation map of metastatic melanoma tumour tissues and their derivative cell lines. We show that DNA methylation profiles are globally conserved in vitro compared to the tumour tissue of origin. However, we identify sites that are consistently hypermethylated in cell lines compared to their tumour tissue of origin. The genes associated with these common differentially methylated regions are involved in cell metabolism, cell cycle and apoptosis and are also strongly enriched for the H3K27me3 histone mark and PRC2 complex-related genes. Our data indicate that although global methylation patterns are similar between tissues and cell lines, there are site-specific epigenomic differences that could potentially impact gene expression. Our work provides a valuable resource for identifying false positives due to cell culture and for better interpretation of cancer epigenetics studies in the future.
IFN-γ Critically Enables the Intratumoural Infiltration of CXCR3+ CD8+ T Cells to Drive Squamous Cell Carcinoma Regression
Authors: Zeng Zhen , Veitch Margaret , Kelly Gabrielle A. , Tuong Zewen K. , Cruz Jazmina G. , Frazer Ian H. , Wells James W.
Published: April 2021

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation-induced tumours carry a high mutational load, are highly immunogenic, and often fail to grow when transplanted into normal, syngeneic mice. The aim of this study was to investigate factors critical for the immune-mediated rejection of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In our rejection model, transplanted SCC establish and grow in mice immunosuppressed with tacrolimus. When tacrolimus is withdrawn, established SCC tumours subsequently undergo immune-mediated tumour rejection. Through the depletion of individual immune subsets at the time of tacrolimus withdrawal, we established a critical role for CD8+ T cells, but not CD4+ T cells, γδ T cells, or NK cells, in driving the regression of SCC. Regression was critically dependent on IFN-γ, although IFN-γ was not directly cytotoxic to SCC cells. IFN-γ-neutralisation abrogated SCC regression, significantly reduced CD8+ T cell-infiltration into SCC, and significantly impaired the secretion of CXCL9, CXCL10 and CCL5 within the tumour microenvironment. A strong positive correlation was revealed between CXCL10 expression and CD8+ T cell abundance in tumours. Indeed, blockade of the CXCL10 receptor CXCR3 at the time of tacrolimus withdrawal prevented CD8+ T cell infiltration and the regression of SCC. Chimeric models revealed an important role for immune cells as producers of IFN-γ, but not as recipients of IFN-γ signals via the IFN-γ receptor. Together, these findings suggest a key role for IFN-γ in driving the expression of chemokines within the tumour environment essential for the destruction of established SCC by CD8+ T cells.
Heterogeneous Photo-Fenton Reaction for Olive Mill Wastewater Treatment—Case of Reusable Catalyst
Authors: Agabo-García Cristina , Calderón Naima , Hodaifa Gassan
Published: April 2021

Heterogeneous catalysts can be an efficient and economical option for olive mill wastewater (OMW) treatment by an advanced oxidation process if they could be reused. In this work, OMW was treated using a heterogeneous photo-Fenton reaction (artificial ultraviolet light/H2O2/HFeO2). For this purpose, different concentrations of HFeO2 were tested: 0.04; 0.3; 0.8; 5.0; 10.0; 20.0; 30.0, and 50.0 g/L. The following operational conditions were chosen: pH = 3.0, temperature = 20 °C, agitation rate = 700 rpm. The experimental results showed high removal percentages of the main OMW characterization parameters at 50 g/L of HFeO2: %CODremoval = 62.8%; %total phenolic compounds (TPCs) = 88.9%. These results were also compared with those of other control oxidation systems, i.e., UV, H2O2, and UV/H2O2, which provided 35.5 and 56.1%; 46.2 and 74.0%; 48.0 and 76.8% removal, respectively. In addition, the catalyst was reused three times, recovering more than 90.5% of it.
Ni-N-Doped Carbon-Modified Reduced Graphene Oxide Catalysts for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Wang Fangyuan , Liu Yu , Song Zhiling , Miao Zhichao , Zhao Jinping
Published: April 2021

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is eliciting considerable attention in relation to the carbon cycle and carbon neutrality. As for the practical application of CO2RR, the electrocatalyst is a crucial factor, but, even so, designing and synthesizing an excellent catalyst remains a significant challenge. In this paper, the coordination compound of Ni ions and dimethylglyoxime (DMG) was employed as a precursor to modify reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for CO2RR. The textural properties and chemical bonds of as-obtained rGO, N–C–rGO, Ni–rGO, Ni–N–C, and Ni–N–C–rGO materials were investigated in detail, and the role of Ni, N–C, and rGO in the CO2RR were researched and confirmed. Among all the catalysts, the Ni–N–C–rGO showed the optimal catalytic activity and selectivity with a high current density of 10 mA cm−2 and FE(CO)% of 85% at −0.87 V vs. RHE. In addition, there was no obvious decrease in activity for 10 h. Therefore, the Ni–N–C–rGO is a promising catalyst for CO2RR to CO.
Genetic and Transcriptomic Biomarkers in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Current Situation and the Road Ahead
Authors: Lake Julie , Storm Catherine S. , Makarious Mary B. , Bandres-Ciga Sara
Published: April 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases are etiologically and clinically heterogeneous conditions, often reflecting a spectrum of disease rather than well-defined disorders. The underlying molecular complexity of these diseases has made the discovery and validation of useful biomarkers challenging. The search of characteristic genetic and transcriptomic indicators for preclinical disease diagnosis, prognosis, or subtyping is an area of ongoing effort and interest. The next generation of biomarker studies holds promise by implementing meaningful longitudinal and multi-modal approaches in large scale biobank and healthcare system scale datasets. This work will only be possible in an open science framework. This review summarizes the current state of genetic and transcriptomic biomarkers in Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, providing a comprehensive landscape of recent literature and future directions.
Mental Health and Wellbeing at Schools: Health Promotion in Primary Schools with the Use of Digital Methods
Authors: Sakellari Evanthia , Notara Venetia , Lagiou Areti , Fatkulina Natalja , Ivanova Svetla , Korhonen Joonas , Kregar Velikonja Nevenka , Lalova Valentina , Laaksonen Camilla , Petrova Gergana , Lahti Mari
Published: April 2021

Mental health disorders among primary school children remain a crucial issue. Early health promotion interventions can positively affect and prevent the onset of mental disorders. Promising digital mental health methods have been implemented for adolescents and youths with scarce evidence among younger ages. Therefore, the aim of the current systematic review was to identify health promotion interventions on mental health and wellbeing, with the use of digital methods, delivered in primary school settings. Six digital interventions have been identified, three of which were targeting teachers and the others students. Regardless of the limited number of studies, the effectiveness of the web-based interventions upon teachers’ knowledge and attitudes and the positive impact on children’s behavioral improvements has been documented. The lack of adequate evidence highlights the need for further research in the field. The current review provides information for professionals working in primary schools useful for the design and implementation of effective mental health and wellbeing interventions.
Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly Composite Coatings for Improved Corrosion and Wear Resistance of Mg Alloy for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Liu Tongfang , Rui Song , Li Sheng
Published: April 2021

Mg alloys are promising biomedical metal due to their natural degradability, good processability, and favorable mechanical properties. However, the poor corrosion resistance limits their further clinical applications. In this study, the combined strategies of surface chemical treatment and layer-by-layer self-assembly were used to prepare composite coatings on Mg alloys to improve the biocorrosion resistance. Specially, alkalized AZ91 Mg alloy generated chemical linkage with silane via Si–O–Mg covalent bond at the interface. Subsequently, Si–OH group from silane formed a crosslinked silane layer by Si–O–Si network. Further chemical assembly with graphene oxide (GO), lengthened the diffusion pathway of corrosive medium. The chemically assembled composite coatings could firmly bond to Mg alloy substrate, which persistently and effectively acted as compact barriers against corrosion propagation. Improved biocorrosion resistance of AZ91 Mg alloy with self-assembly composite coatings of silane/GO was subsequently confirmed by immersion tests. Besides, the Mg alloy exhibited good wear resistance due to outside layer of GO with a lubricant effect. Cell viability of higher than 75% had also been found for the alloy with self-assembly composite coatings, which showed good cytocompatibility.
Application of a Deep Neural Network to Phase Retrieval in Inverse Medium Scattering Problems
Authors: Lim Soojong , Shin Jaemin
Published: April 2021

We address the inverse medium scattering problem with phaseless data motivated by nondestructive testing for optical fibers. As the phase information of the data is unknown, this problem may be regarded as a standard phase retrieval problem that consists of identifying the phase from the amplitude of data and the structure of the related operator. This problem has been studied intensively due to its wide applications in physics and engineering. However, the uniqueness of the inverse problem with phaseless data is still open and the problem itself is severely ill-posed. In this work, we construct a model to approximate the solution operator in finite-dimensional spaces by a deep neural network assuming that the refractive index is radially symmetric. We are then able to recover the refractive index from the phaseless data. Numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Morphological and Structural Characterization of Magnetron-Sputtered Aluminum and Aluminum-Boron Thin Films
Authors: Barajas-Valdes Ulises , Suárez Oscar Marcelo
Published: April 2021

In microelectronic mechanical systems applications, sputtered aluminum thin films may have large roughness, which promotes the optical degradation and electromigration. This challenge motivated the present research, where magnetron sputtering equipped by radio frequency allowed for preparing aluminum and aluminum-boron thin films. This study evaluated the effect of the sputtering power and the substrate type (silicon wafer and glass slides) on the deposited films. The film’s morphology and structure were characterized via an atomic force microscope and X-ray diffraction. Pure aluminum films’ topographic findings revealed a 25.23 nm average roughness with larger grain size and hillock formation. Conversely, the aluminum-boron films possessed a 3.41 nm average roughness, with smaller grains and hillocks suppression when higher sputtering power was used. The pure aluminum films’ structural analysis uncovered a material with low crystallinity, with (111) and (200) planes diffracting X-rays. On the other hand, aluminum-boron films displayed better crystallinity and a preferential (111) texture. Further characterization demonstrated how the sputtering power, the substrate material, and the studied targets affected the films’ morphological and structural. The improvements in morphological and structural aspects that were observed in the films that were obtained via the aluminum-boron target sputtering make this methodology an appealing alternative for metal films manufacturing.
Experimental Research on Interfacial Bonding Strength between Vertical Cast-In-Situ Joint and Precast Concrete Walls
Authors: Li Changyong , Yang Yabin , Su Jiuzhou , Meng Huidi , Pan Liyun , Zhao Shunbo
Published: April 2021

In the monolithic precast concrete shear-wall structure, the bonding property of cast-in-situ joints to precast concrete walls is important to ensure the entire structural performance. Aiming to the vertical joint of precast concrete walls, an experimental study was carried out considering the factors including the strength of precast and joint concretes, as well as the interface processing and casting age of precast concrete. The micro-expansion self-compacting concrete was used for the cast-in-situ joints. The interfacial bonding strength between joint and precast concrete was measured by splitting tensile test. Results show that the interfacial bonding strength was benefited from the increasing strength of joint concrete and the spraying binder paste on the interface of precast concrete, and unbenefited from the overtime storage of precast concrete. The washed rough surface with exposed aggregates improved the interfacial bonding strength, which increased with the increasing roughness. Based on the test results, the limits of the strength grade of joint concrete and the roughness of washed rough surface are proposed to get the interfacial bonding strength equivalent to the tensile strength of precast concrete. Meanwhile, the spraying of binder paste on precast concrete is a good choice, the storage time of precast components is a better limit within 28 days.
Trajectory of End-of-Life Pain and Other Physical Symptoms among Cancer Patients Receiving Home Care
Authors: Seow Hsien , Guthrie Dawn M. , Stevens Tara , Barbera Lisa C. , Burge Fred , McGrail Kimberlyn , Chan Kelvin K. W. , Peacock Stuart J. , Sutradhar Rinku
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To describe the trajectory of physical symptoms among cancer decedents who were receiving home care in the six months before death. Patients and Methods: An observational cohort study of cancer decedents in Ontario, Canada, who received home care services between 2007 and 2014. To be included, decedents had to use at least one home care service in the last six months of life. Outcomes were the presence of pain and several other physical symptoms at each week before death. Results: Our cohort included 27,295 cancer decedents (30,368 assessments). Forty-seven percent were female and 56% were age 75 years or older. The prevalence of all physical symptoms increased as one approached death, particularly in the last month of life. In the last weeks of life, 69% of patients reported having moderate–severe pain; however, only 20% reported that the pain was not controlled. Loss of appetite (63%), shortness of breath (59%), high health instability (50%), and self-reported poor health (44%) were also highly prevalent in the last week of life. Multivariate regression showed that caregiver distress, high health instability, social decline, uncontrolled pain, and signs of depression all worsened the odds of having a physical symptom in the last 3 months of life. Conclusion: In this large home care cancer cohort, trajectories of physical symptoms worsened close to death. While presence of moderate–severe pain was common, it was also reported as mostly controlled. Covariates, such as caregiver distress and social decline, were associated with having more physical symptoms at end of life.
Assessing the Genetic Diversity of Ilex guayusa Loes., a Medicinal Plant from the Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Erazo-Garcia Maria P. , Guadalupe Juan José , Rowntree Jennifer K. , Borja-Serrano Pamela , Espinosa de los Monteros-Silva Nina , Torres Maria de Lourdes
Published: April 2021

Ilex guayusa Loes. is a shrub native to the Neotropics, traditionally consumed as an infusion. Despite its cultural value and extensive use, genetic research remains scarce. This study examined the genetic and clonal diversity of guayusa in three different Ecuadorian Amazon regions using 17 species-specific SSR markers. The results obtained suggest a moderately low degree of genetic diversity (He = 0.396). Among the 88 samples studied, 71 unique multilocus genotypes (MLGs) were identified, demonstrating a high genotypic diversity. A Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) revealed the existence of two genetic clusters. We propose that a model of isolation-by-environment (IBE) could explain the genetic differentiation between these clusters, with the main variables shaping the population’s genetic structure being temperature seasonality (SD × 100) (Bio 4) and isothermality ×100 (Bio 3). Nonetheless, we cannot dismiss the possibility that human activities could also impact the genetic diversity and distribution of this species. This study gives a first glance at the genetic diversity of I. guayusa in the Ecuadorian Amazon. It could assist in developing successful conservation and breeding programs, which could promote the economic growth of local communities and reinforce the value of ancestral knowledge.
A Versatile Processing Workflow to Enable Pathogen Detection in Clinical Samples from Organs Using VIDISCA
Authors: Folgueiras-González Alba , van den Braak Robin , Deijs Martin , van der Hoek Lia , de Groof Ad
Published: April 2021

In recent years, refined molecular methods coupled with powerful high throughput sequencing technologies have increased the potential of virus discovery in clinical samples. However, host genetic material remains a complicating factor that interferes with discovery of novel viruses in solid tissue samples as the relative abundance of the virus material is low. Physical enrichment processing methods, although usually complicated, labor-intensive, and costly, have proven to be successful for improving sensitivity of virus detection in complex samples. In order to further increase detectability, we studied the application of fast and simple high-throughput virus enrichment methods on tissue homogenates. Probe sonication in high EDTA concentrations, organic extraction with Vertrel™ XF, or a combination of both, were applied prior to chromatography-like enrichment using Capto™ Core 700 resin, after which effects on virus detection sensitivity by the VIDISCA method were determined. Sonication in the presence of high concentrations of EDTA showed the best performance with an increased proportion of viral reads, up to 9.4 times, yet minimal effect on the host background signal. When this sonication procedure in high EDTA concentrations was followed by organic extraction with Vertrel™ XF and two rounds of core bead chromatography enrichment, an increase up to 10.5 times in the proportion of viral reads in the processed samples was achieved, with reduction of host background sequencing. We present a simple and semi-high-throughput method that can be used to enrich homogenized tissue samples for viral reads.
Pilomatrixcarcinoma of the Foot: A New Localization of an Extremely Rare Adnexal Tumour
Authors: Cazzato Gerardo , Colagrande Anna , Romita Paolo , Foti Caterina , Resta Leonardo , Ingravallo Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

Pilomatrixcarcinoma is a very rare follicular neoplasm that shows matrical differentiation. The majority of these lesions originate de novo, while only a few cases of transformation of pilomatricoma (calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe) have been described in the literature. The neoplasm affects mostly middle-aged males with a male-to-female ratio of 3–4:1. The most common localizations are the face, head, trunk and extremites, though there are a few reports of pilomatrixcarcinoma of the eyelid, eyebrow, axilla and clitorid. Here, we describe the first case of a pilomatrixcarcinoma on the anterolateral surface of the first toe of the left foot of an 83-year-old patient, which developed in less than six months and led to amputation of the distal phalanx. We report a brief review of the current literature with particular emphasis on histopathological features useful for diagnosis.
Mechanisms of Resistance in Gram-Negative Urinary Pathogens: From Country-Specific Molecular Insights to Global Clinical Relevance
Authors: Bedenić Branka , Meštrović Tomislav
Published: April 2021

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most frequent hospital infections and among the most commonly observed community acquired infections. Alongside their clinical importance, they are notorious because the pathogens that cause them are prone to acquiring various resistance determinants, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL); plasmid-encoded AmpC β-lactamases (p-AmpC); carbapenemases belonging to class A, B, and D; qnr genes encoding reduced susceptibility to fluoroquinolones; as well as genes encoding enzymes that hydrolyse aminoglycosides. In Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, the dominant resistance mechanisms are ESBLs belonging to the CTX-M, TEM, and SHV families; p-AmpC; and (more recently) carbapenemases belonging to classes A, B, and D. Urinary Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates harbour metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) and ESBLs belonging to PER and GES families, while carbapenemases of class D are found in urinary Acinetobacter baumannii isolates. The identification of resistance mechanisms in routine diagnostic practice is primarily based on phenotypic tests for the detection of beta-lactamases, such as the double-disk synergy test or Hodge test, while polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the detection of resistance genes is mostly pursued in reference laboratories for research purposes. As the emergence of drug-resistant bacterial strains poses serious challenges in the management of UTIs, this review aimed to appraise mechanisms of resistance in relevant Gram-negative urinary pathogens, to provide a detailed map of resistance determinants in Croatia and the world, and to discuss the implications of these resistance traits on diagnostic approaches. We summarized a sundry of different resistance mechanisms among urinary isolates and showed how their prevalence highly depends on the local epidemiological context, highlighting the need for tailored interventions in the field of antimicrobial stewardship.
Non-Linear Hopped Chaos Parameters-Based Image Encryption Algorithm Using Histogram Equalization
Authors: Moussa Karim H. , El Naggary Ahmed I. , Mohamed Heba G.
Published: April 2021

Multimedia wireless communications have rapidly developed over the years. Accordingly, an increasing demand for more secured media transmission is required to protect multimedia contents. Image encryption schemes have been proposed over the years, but the most secure and reliable schemes are those based on chaotic maps, due to the intrinsic features in such kinds of multimedia contents regarding the pixels’ high correlation and data handling capabilities. The novel proposed encryption algorithm introduced in this article is based on a 3D hopping chaotic map instead of fixed chaotic logistic maps. The non-linearity behavior of the proposed algorithm, in terms of both position permutation and value transformation, results in a more secured encryption algorithm due to its non-convergence, non-periodicity, and sensitivity to the applied initial conditions. Several statistical and analytical tests such as entropy, correlation, key sensitivity, key space, peak signal-to-noise ratio, noise attacks, number of pixels changing rate (NPCR), unified average change intensity randomness (UACI), and others tests were applied to measure the strength of the proposed encryption scheme. The obtained results prove that the proposed scheme is very robust against different cryptography attacks compared to similar encryption schemes.