bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of the Relationships Among Narcissism, Life Satisfaction, and Loneliness of Instagram Users and the High- and Low-Level Features of Their Photographs
Authors: Kim Yunhwan , Nan Dongyan , Kim Jang Hyun
Published: August 2021

We examined the associations between the characteristics of Instagram users and the features of their photographs. Narcissism, life satisfaction, and loneliness were employed for user variables and the features at high- (content) and low-levels (pixel) were employed to analyze the Instagram photographs. An online survey was conducted with 179 university students, and their Instagram photographs, 25,394 in total, were collected and analyzed. High-level features were extracted using Computer Vision and Emotion Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) in Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services, and low-level features were extracted utilizing the program written by the authors. The results of correlation analysis indicate that narcissism, life satisfaction, and loneliness were significantly associated with a part of photograph features at high- and low-levels. The results of the predictive analysis suggest that narcissism, loneliness in total, and social loneliness could be predicted with acceptable accuracy from Instagram photograph features, while characteristics such as life satisfaction, family loneliness, and romantic loneliness could not be predicted. Implications of this research and suggestions for further research were presented.
Effects and Moderators of Triple P on the Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Problems of Children: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Na , Peng Jin , Li Yi
Published: August 2021

Background: Social, emotional, and behavioral problems in childhood are key predictors of persistent problem behaviors throughout the life courses of individuals. Early parental intervention training, as an important preventive measure, plays a critical role in improving the social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) development of children.

Method: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze the intervention effects of the latest literature on Triple P (Positive Parenting Program), which is a multilevel system that provides treatment and prevention for children at risk of social, emotional, and behavioral problems via parenting approaches to enhance the parenting knowledge, skills, and confidence of parents. Since the literature on Triple P from 1970 to 2012 has already been systematically reviewed, this study searched the literature from 2013 to 2020 from the Web of Science, EBSCO, ERIC, MEDLINE, CNKI, and Triple P Evidence-Base website using multiple search strategies. This study differs from the existing research by its inclusion criteria of studies that use experimental designs or quasi-experimental designs. A total of 37 studies were included in the final analysis, and STATA 16.0 was used for evaluation while RevMan 5.3 for risk of bias assessment.

Results: The results show that Triple P can promote the social competence of children (SMD = 0.274) and prevent their emotional (SMD = −0.254) and behavioral problems (SMD = −1.38) to a certain extent. Simultaneously, the proximal effects on parents mainly included changing negative parenting styles (SMD = −0.46), reducing parenting conflicts (SMD = −0.311), and improving parenting efficacy and self-confidence (SMD = 0.419). The distal effects on parents included reducing the psychological adjustment problems of parents (SMD = −0.265), improving parent–child relationships, and reducing parent–child conflict (SMD = −0.714). However, the meta-analysis results did not show a significant effect of Triple P on improving the marital relationship quality and satisfaction of parents (SMD = 0.063). Components of the program intervention, including intervention level, service delivery format, service method, and program implementation setting, and the age of the children were crucial moderating factors on the outcomes of Triple P.

Conclusion: This study systematically reviewed the latest Triple P intervention literature and found the significant effectiveness of Triple P on the SEB problems of children and parenting outcomes and the moderators of the effect size.
Impact of Selected PSII Parameters on Barley DH Lines Biomass and Yield Elements
Authors: Warzecha Tomasz , Skrzypek Edyta , Bocianowski Jan , Sutkowska Agnieszka
Published: August 2021

In our study, we focused on the link among various parameters of chlorophyll a fluorescence and yield elements in the barley doubled haploid (DH) lines. There were significant differences in all studied DH lines, both in yield components and parameters of chlorophyll a fluorescence. The most variable parameter was overall performance index of PSII (PI) while the least was the amount of energy trapped in PSII reaction centers (TRo/CS). Considering yield components, high variation was also observed in the subsequent order from highest to lowest variation: biomass, thousand-grain weight (TGW) and grain number per plant (GNP). Significant negative correlation was found among the following fluorescence parameters: PI and light energy absorption (ABS/CS), as well as between maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) and TGW, and between biomass and electron acceptors pool size from PSII (Area). Conversely, significant positive correlation was found between: Area and PI, Area and energy used for electron transport (ETo/CS), Area and GNP, PI and ETo/CS, PI and GNP, ABS/CS and TRo/CS, as well as between ETo/CS and GNP. Yield components combined with fluorescence parameters of chlorophyll a expressed with canonical variate analysis did not clearly distinguish the barley DH lines into hulled and hull-less groups. The mean value for these groups significantly differs only for ETo/CS and TGW values. The other parameters are distributed almost uniformly in hulled and hull-less lines. However, certain hull-less DH lines possess higher yield parameters compared to parental forms, which suggests a possibility of occurrence of transgression effects. The results suggest the chance to find valuable hull-less forms that are desired by breeders and plant producers, since these forms possess favorable functional features.
Feather Corticosterone Measurements and Behavioral Observations in the Great White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) Living under Different Flight Restraint Conditions in German Zoos
Authors: Haase Gudrun , Baumgartner Katrin , von Fersen Lorenzo , Merle Roswitha , Wiegard Mechthild , Will Hermann , Reese Lukas , Tallo-Parra Oriol , Carbajal Annais , Lopez-Bejar Manel , Thöne-Reineke Christa
Published: August 2021

The pinioning of birds was previously one of the most-accepted forms of mutilation in zoos. Despite a lack of knowledge on the effects of deflighting procedures with regard to the well-being of deflighted birds, pelicans are often reversibly deflighted by feather-clipping to keep them in open enclosures, including those with ponds without netting. In the present study, we focused on the welfare implications of flight restraint on one of the most commonly kept types of birds in German zoos, the great white pelican. A combination of behavioral observations and feather corticosterone concentrations (CORTf) of pelicans with different deflighting statuses (i.e., irreversibly deflighted, reversibly deflighted, and airworthy) was used to evaluate the effects of deflighting status on pelican welfare. We observed 215 individuals in 21 different German zoos. The pelicans lived in differently designed exhibits. An ethogram for these species was developed and their behavior was evaluated by scan sampling. Feather samples from 182 individuals were collected to determine if different deflighting conditions influenced the CORTf and therefore stress levels. The hypothesis was that the CORTf values of airworthy pelicans differ from those of deflighted pelicans. Tendencies with regard to the flight status groups were found. Conversely, reversibly deflighted pelicans had higher CORTf levels than irreversible deflighted and airworthy pelicans. Tendencies with regard to CORTf values and the group size of the kept pelicans were observed. The CORTf values were lower in groups consisting of more than 10 animals. In addition, the frequency of fluttering behavior was positively associated with CORTf values. Pelicans that frequently showed fluttering had higher CORTf values. Therefore, fluttering behavior might be considered a sign of stress levels in pelicans. This study is one of the first important steps in assessing the impact of deflighting procedures on the welfare of great white pelicans kept in zoos.
Insect Larvae Meal (Hermetia illucens) as a Sustainable Protein Source of Canine Food and Its Impacts on Nutrient Digestibility and Fecal Quality
Authors: Abd El-Wahab Amr , Meyer Laura , Kölln Mareike , Chuppava Bussarakam , Wilke Volker , Visscher Christian , Kamphues Josef
Published: August 2021

Insect larvae meal has been proposed as a sustainable protein source for animal diets. This study aimed to provide information on including black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFL; Hermetia illucens) in comparison to poultry meal (PM) in the canine diet with regard to digestibility and fecal characteristics. In light of this trend, the levels of PM or BSFL meal were added to replace about 30% of dry matter of the basic extruded diet. Six Beagle dogs (BW 9.64 kg) were included in a cross-over experiment. Dogs fed a BSFL meal-based diet showed higher (p < 0.05) apparent protein digestibility (82.3%) compared to those offered a PM-based diet (80.5%). Apparent digestibility for fat was higher (p < 0.05) in groups fed the BSFL meal-based diet (94.5%) compared to those offered the PM-based diet (91.6%). The fecal consistency scores for dogs fed both diets were within an acceptable range (well-formed and firm). Fecal dry matter content was higher (p < 0.05) for dogs fed the PM-based diet (33.0%) compared to those offered the BSFL meal-based diet (28.0%). Including BSFL meal in dog food can be an appropriate source of protein without any negative effects on nutrient digestibility and fecal quality.
p47phox-Dependent Oxidant Signalling through ASK1, MKK3/6 and MAPKs in Angiotensin II-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy and Apoptosis
Authors: Liu Fangfei , Fan Lampson M. , Geng Li , Li Jian-Mei
Published: August 2021

The p47phox is a key regulatory subunit of Nox2-containing NADPH oxidase (Nox2) that by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in Angiotensin II (AngII)-induced cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. However, the signalling pathways of p47phox in the heart remains unclear. In this study, we used wild-type (WT) and p47phox knockout (KO) mice (C57BL/6, male, 7-month-old, n = 9) to investigate p47phox-dependent oxidant-signalling in AngII infusion (0.8 mg/kg/day, 14 days)-induced cardiac hypertrophy and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. AngII infusion resulted in remarkable high blood pressure and cardiac hypertrophy in WT mice. However, these AngII-induced pathological changes were significantly reduced in p47phox KO mice. In WT hearts, AngII infusion increased significantly the levels of superoxide production, the expressions of Nox subunits, the expression of PKCα and C-Src and the activation of ASK1 (apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1), MKK3/6, ERK1/2, p38 MAPK and JNK signalling pathways together with an elevated expression of apoptotic markers, i.e., γH2AX and p53 in the cardiomyocytes. However, in the absence of p47phox, although PKCα expression was increased in the hearts after AngII infusion, there was no significant activation of ASK1, MKK3/6 and MAPKs signalling pathways and no increase in apoptosis biomarker expression in cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, p47phox-dependent redox-signalling through ASK1, MKK3/6 and MAPKs plays a crucial role in AngII-induced cardiac hypertrophy and cardiomyocyte apoptosis.
Insight into the Antioxidant Effect of Fermented and Non-Fermented Spirulina Water and Ethanol Extracts at the Proteome Level Using a Yeast Cell Model
Authors: Masten Rutar Jasmina , Cillero-Pastor Berta , Mohren Ronny , Poklar Ulrih Nataša , Ogrinc Nives , Jamnik Polona
Published: August 2021

Spirulina is rich in various antioxidants and nutraceuticals and it has proven to be effective in the treatment of various pathological conditions. This study explores the antioxidant effect of fermented and non-fermented Spirulina extracts on the proteome level using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism. Yeast cells were treated with fermented Spirulina water extract (SV), non-fermented Spirulina water extract (NFV), fermented Spirulina ethanol extract (SE), and non-fermented Spirulina ethanol extract (NFE). Cell lysates were prepared, and label-free quantitative proteome analysis was performed. In SV, when compared to NFV samples, the levels of most differentially expressed proteins were upregulated. Alternatively, SE compared to NFE samples showed a significant downregulation for the majority of the analyzed proteins involved in different cellular processes. Additionally, a higher downregulation of stress response related proteins was observed in SE compared to NFE samples, while their abundance in SV samples increased compared to NFV. This study provided a global view, on a proteome level, of how cells cope with exogenous antioxidants and remodel their cellular processes to maintain metabolic and redox balance. Furthermore, it combined for the first time the analysis of different extract effect, including the contribution of lactic acid fermentation to the cell activity.
Fuel-Operated Auxiliary Heaters Are a Major Additional Source of Vehicular Particulate Emissions in Cold Regions
Authors: Karjalainen Panu , Nikka Markus , Olin Miska , Martikainen Sampsa , Rostedt Antti , Arffman Anssi , Mikkonen Santtu
Published: August 2021

Fuel-operated auxiliary heaters (AHs) can be notable sources of particle emissions from vehicles. The emissions of AHs are unregulated, and the number of devices is high; therefore, they make considerable contributions to local air quality, and even the global emissions budget. Experiments for studying the emissions were performed in Finland for a total of eight selected vehicles with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) AHs installed, including both diesel- and gasoline-operated heaters. We present the numerical results of particle emissions and compare the particle concentrations in the AH exhaust to values found in the tailpipe exhaust of the same vehicle. Our results show that the emissions from auxiliary heaters are typically several orders of magnitude higher than of a car exhaust when idling. This raises the question of whether the use of heaters is justified based on the goal to reduce total emissions from vehicle use; furthermore, whether fuel-operated heaters should also be applied in electric vehicles for cabin heating. More research will be needed to characterize the emissions more thoroughly to understand the air quality and climate effects from AHs, and to provide further recommendations on the use of these heaters.
Observations of Quasi-Periodic Electric Field Disturbances in the E Region before and during the Equatorial Plasma Bubble
Authors: Kherani Esfhan A. , de Paula Eurico R.
Published: August 2021

Wave-like electric field disturbances in the ionosphere before the Equatorial Plasma Bubble (EPB) are the subject of numerous recent studies that address the issue of possible short-term forecasting of EPB. We report the observations of the Equatorial Quasi-Periodic-Electric field Disturbances (QP-EDs) of the Field-aligned Irregularities (FAI) in the E region before the EPB occurrence in the F region. They are observed from 30 MHz coherent scatter radar during the SpreadFEx campaign 2005 carried out in Brasil. The presently reported QP-EDs at the equatorial E region below an altitude of 110 km are undescribed so far. Though QP-EDs characteristics vary on a day-to-day basis, consistent features are their intensification before the EPB, and their simultaneous occurrence with EPBs. This study highlights the monitoring of QP-EDs in the short-term forecasting of EPBs and further reveals the robust energetics of vertical coupling between E and F regions.
Cerebellar Cortex and Cerebellar White Matter Volume in Normal Cognition, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia
Authors: Zdanovskis Nauris , Platkājis Ardis , Kostiks Andrejs , Grigorjeva Oļesja , Karelis Guntis
Published: August 2021

The cerebellum is commonly viewed as a structure that is primarily responsible for the coordination of voluntary movement, gait, posture, and speech. Recent research has shown evidence that the cerebellum is also responsible for cognition. We analyzed 28 participants divided into three groups (9 with normal cognition, 9 with mild cognitive impairment, and 10 with moderate/severe cognitive impairment) based on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. We analyzed the cerebellar cortex and white matter volume and assessed differences between groups. Participants with normal cognition had higher average values in total cerebellar volume, cerebellar white matter volume, and cerebellar cortex volume in both hemispheres, but by performing the Kruskal–Wallis test, we did not find these values to be statistically significant.
A Three-Domain Scoring System to Customize the Risk of Relapse of Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Piccardo Arnoldo , Siri Giacomo , Ugolini Martina , Fiz Francesco , Puntoni Matteo , Bottoni Gianluca , Catrambone Ugo , Pitoia Fabián , Trimboli Pierpaolo
Published: August 2021

Purpose: the validation of a new scoring model considering the principal risk factors of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) relapse. Methods: we evaluated all DTC patients treated with thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy. Three domains were considered: the demographic domain (age and gender), the surgical domain (histology and the American Thyroid Association risk categories), and the RAI-related domain (pre-RAI thyroglobulin and post-therapeutic 131I whole-body scan). The progression-free survival was assessed. The patients’ sample was randomly split into a training and validation set. The three-domain score was calculated as the weighted sum of the levels of each significant factor, then scaled to an integer range (0–100) and, finally, stratified into terciles: mild risk 0–33, moderate risk 34–66, and severe risk 67–100. Results: 907 DTC patients were included. The RAI-related domain was the most relevant factor in the score calculation. The tercile stratification identified significantly different survival curves: patients within the two upper terciles showed approximately 6 to 30 times more progressive risk than patients at mild risk. Conclusion: we have validated a three-domain scoring system and the principal impact on this score is provided by the peri-RAI findings, whose prognostic role seems to be essential in risk identification.
Centralised RECIST Assessment and Clinical Outcomes with Lenvatinib Monotherapy in Recurrent and Metastatic Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Authors: Feeney Laura , Jain Yatin , Beasley Matthew , Donnelly Oliver , Kong Anthony , Moleron Rafael , Nallathambi Chandran , Rolles Martin , Sanghera Paul , Tin Aung , Ulahannan Danny , Walter Harriet S. , Webster Richard , Metcalf Robert
Published: August 2021

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare cancer of secretory glands. Recurrent or metastatic (R/M) ACC is generally considered resistant to cytotoxic chemotherapy. Recent phase II studies have reported improved objective response rates (ORR) with the use of the multi-kinase inhibitor lenvatinib. We sought to evaluate real-world experience of R/M ACC patients treated with lenvatinib monotherapy within the UK National Health Service (NHS) to determine the response rates by Response Evaluation Criteria of Solid Tumour (RECIST) and clinical outcomes. Twenty-three R/M ACC patients from eleven cancer centres were included. All treatment assessments for clinical decision making related to drug therapy were undertaken at the local oncology centre. Central radiology review was performed by an independent clinical trial radiologist and blinded to the clinical decision making. In contrast to previously reported ORR of 12–15%, complete or partial response was not observed in any patients. Eleven patients (52.4%) had stable disease and 5 patients (23.8%) had progression of disease as the best overall response. The median time on treatment was 4 months and the median survival from discontinuation was 1 month. The median PFS and OS from treatment initiation were 4.5 months and 12 months respectively. Multicentre collaborative studies such as this are required to evaluate rare cancers with no recommended standard of care therapy and variable disease courses.
Short-Term and Long-Term Carcinogenic Effects of Food Contaminants (4-Hydroxynonenal and Pesticides) on Colorectal Human Cells: Involvement of Genotoxic and Non-Genomic Mechanisms
Authors: Arnaud Liana C. , Gauthier Thierry , Le Naour Augustin , Hashim Saleha , Naud Nathalie , Shay Jerry W. , Pierre Fabrice H. , Boutet-Robinet Elisa , Huc Laurence
Published: August 2021

To investigate environmental impacts upon colorectal carcinogenesis (CRC) by diet, we assessed two western diet food contaminants: 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), a major lipid peroxidation product neoformed during digestion, and a mixture of pesticides. We used human colonic cell lines ectopically eliciting varied genetic susceptibilities to CRC: the non-transformed human epithelial colonic cells (HCECs) and their five isogenic cell lines with the loss of APC (Adenomatous polyposis coli) and TP53 (Tumor protein 53) and/or ectopic expression of mutated KRAS (Kristen-ras). These cell lines have been exposed for either for a short time (2–24 h) or for a long period (3 weeks) to 1 µM HNE and/or 10 µM pesticides. After acute exposure, we did not observe any cytotoxicity or major DNA damage. However, long-term exposure to pesticides alone and in mixture with HNE induced clonogenic transformation in normal HCECs, as well as in cells representing later stages of carcinogenesis. It was associated with genotoxic and non-genomic mechanisms (cell growth, metabolic reprogramming, cell mobility and epithelial-mesenchymal transition) depending on genetic susceptibility. This study demonstrated a potential initiating and promoting effect of food contaminants on CRC after long-term exposure. It supports that these contaminants can accelerate carcinogenesis when mutations in oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes occur.
Genetic Heterogeneity, Therapeutic Hurdle Confronting Sorafenib and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Atwa Sara , Odenthal Margarete , El Tayebi Hend
Published: August 2021

Despite the latest advances in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening and treatment modalities, HCC is still representing a global burden. Most HCC patients present at later stages to an extent that conventional curative options are ineffective. Hence, systemic therapy represented by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, sorafenib, in the first-line setting is the main treatment modality for advanced-stage HCC. However, in the two groundbreaking phase III clinical trials, the SHARP and Asia-Pacific trials, sorafenib has demonstrated a modest prolongation of overall survival in almost 30% of HCC patients. As HCC develops in an immune-rich milieu, particular attention has been placed on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a novel therapeutic modality for HCC. Yet, HCC therapy is hampered by the resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs and the subsequent tumor recurrence. HCC is characterized by substantial genomic heterogeneity that has an impact on cellular response to the applied therapy. And hence, this review aims at giving an insight into the therapeutic impact and the different mechanisms of resistance to sorafenib and ICIs as well as, discussing the genomic heterogeneity associated with such mechanisms.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B and Methylene Orange Using TiO2-ZrO2 as Nanocomposite
Authors: Ruíz-Santoyo Víctor , Marañon-Ruiz Virginia F. , Romero-Toledo Rafael , González Vargas Oscar Arturo , Pérez-Larios Alejandro
Published: August 2021

The present research reports the synthesis of ZrO2-doped TiO2 photocatalysts at different ZrO2 contents (1, 3 and 5% wt.) synthesized by the sol–gel method. The samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet–visible, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and N2 adsorption–desorption analysis. The photocatalytic activity of the ZrO2-doped TiO2 was investigated against the dyes methyl orange and rhodamine B through mineralization studies. The ZrO2-doped TiO2 samples presented a semiglobular-ovoid agglomerate shape around 500–800 nm. The samples presented high crystallinity of the TiO2 anatase phase, XPS suggested the formation of Zr–O–Ti bonds and the samples were classified as mesoporous materials with slight changes in the optical features in comparison with pure TiO2. Our study shows that the ZrO2-doped TiO2 composites exhibited a higher photocatalytic activity than just utilizing the synthetized TiO2 and a commercial P25. The different degradation behaviors are attributed to differences in the textural properties, and to the different optical absorptions of the samples due to structural defects created by the level of doping of Zr4+ ions into the TiO2 lattice. Reaction kinetics parameters were calculated by the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model, and a third run cycle of the ZrO2-doped TiO2 at 1% wt. achieved a photocatalytic degradation of 78.1 and 75.5% for RhB and MO, respectively.
Momentum Transfer in Short-Channel Structures of Hexagonal Channel Cross-Section Shape: Experiments vs. CFD
Authors: Sindera Katarzyna , Iwaniszyn Marzena , Jodłowski Przemysław
Published: August 2021

Short-channel structures are promising catalyst carriers because it is easy to control the heat/mass transfer and fluid flow characteristics by changing their lengths. In this work, the flow resistance of hexagonal structures was investigated experimentally and numerically. The structure tested (6 mm long) was manufactured from AISI 316 steel using the selective laser melting technique. Due to some differences between theoretical approaches and practical results, two types of computational models were applied to analyze the pressure distribution in a short hexagonal duct. It was shown that although experimental results agree with some theoretical solutions, the channel wall thickness should not be omitted from the overall flow resistance. A comparison of short structures differing in channel length with widely used long monoliths was performed as well.
Autophagy-Associated IL-15 Production Is Involved in the Pathogenesis of Leprosy Type 1 Reaction
Authors: Silva Bruno Jorge de Andrade , Bittencourt Tamiris Lameira , Leal-Calvo Thyago , Mendes Mayara Abud , Prata Rhana Berto da Silva , Barbosa Mayara Garcia de Mattos , Andrade Priscila Ribeiro , Côrte-Real Suzana , Sperandio da Silva Gilberto Marcelo , Moraes Milton Ozório , Sarno Euzenir Nunes , Pinheiro Roberta Olmo
Published: August 2021

Leprosy reactional episodes are acute inflammatory events that may occur during the clinical course of the disease. Type 1 reaction (T1R) is associated with an increase in neural damage, and the understanding of the molecular pathways related to T1R onset is pivotal for the development of strategies that may effectively control the reaction. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is a key cytokine associated with T1R onset and is also associated with autophagy induction. Here, we evaluated the modulation of the autophagy pathway in Mycobacterium leprae-stimulated cells in the presence or absence of IFN-γ. We observed that IFN-γ treatment promoted autophagy activation and increased the expression of genes related to the formation of phagosomes, autophagy regulation and function, or lysosomal pathways in M. leprae-stimulated cells. IFN-γ increased interleukin (IL)-15 secretion in M. leprae-stimulated THP-1 cells in a process associated with autophagy activation. We also observed higher IL15 gene expression in multibacillary (MB) patients who later developed T1R during clinical follow-up when compared to MB patients who did not develop the episode. By overlapping gene expression patterns, we observed 13 common elements shared between T1R skin lesion cells and THP-1 cells stimulated with both M. leprae and IFN-γ. Among these genes, the autophagy regulator Translocated Promoter Region, Nuclear Basket Protein (TPR) was significantly increased in T1R cells when compared with non-reactional MB cells. Overall, our results indicate that IFN-γ may induce a TPR-mediated autophagy transcriptional program in M. leprae-stimulated cells similar to that observed in skin cells during T1R by a pathway that involves IL-15 production, suggesting the involvement of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of T1R.
Endogenous Regulation and Pharmacological Modulation of Sepsis-Induced HMGB1 Release and Action: An Updated Review
Authors: Zhu Cassie Shu , Wang Wei , Qiang Xiaoling , Chen Weiqiang , Lan Xiqian , Li Jianhua , Wang Haichao
Published: August 2021

Sepsis remains a common cause of death in intensive care units, accounting for approximately 20% of total deaths worldwide. Its pathogenesis is partly attributable to dysregulated inflammatory responses to bacterial endotoxins (such as lipopolysaccharide, LPS), which stimulate innate immune cells to sequentially release early cytokines (such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferons (IFNs)) and late mediators (such as high-mobility group box 1, HMGB1). Despite difficulties in translating mechanistic insights into effective therapies, an improved understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of sepsis is still urgently needed. Here, we review recent progress in elucidating the intricate mechanisms underlying the regulation of HMGB1 release and action, and propose a few potential therapeutic candidates for future clinical investigations.
Classification and Treatment of Pediatric Gliomas in the Molecular Era
Authors: Hauser Peter
Published: August 2021

The overall survival of pediatric gliomas varies over a wide spectrum depending on the tumor grade. Low-grade gliomas have an excellent long-term survival, with a possible burden of surgery, irradiation, and chemotherapy; in contrast, high-grade gliomas generally have a short-term, devastating lethal outcome. Recent advances in understanding their molecular background will transform the classification and therapeutic approaches of pediatric gliomas. Molecularly targeted treatments may acquire a leading role in the primary treatment of low-grade gliomas and may provide alternative therapeutic strategies for high-grade glioma cases in the attempt to avoid the highly unsuccessful conventional therapeutic approaches. This review aims to overview this progress.
High-Temperature Dielectric and Microwave Absorption Property of Atmospheric Plasma Sprayed Al2O3-MoSi2-Cu Composite Coating
Authors: Gao Cheng , Jiang Yangsheng , Cai Dayong , Xu Jinyong , Ding Jia
Published: August 2021

Al2O3-MoSi2 coating has excellent high-temperature stability. On this basis, Al2O3-MoSi2-Cu composite high-temperature absorbing coating was prepared by atmospheric plasma spraying method. The phase transition characteristics of Al2O3-MoSi2-Cu spraying feedstock under high temperatures were analyzed by thermogravimetric test, the phase analysis of coating was performed by an in situ XRD test at different temperatures, and the microstructure of the coating was characterized by SEM. The test results of high-temperature microwave absorption performance show that, in high-temperature air atmosphere, the Cu in the coating is gradually transformed into Cu2O by oxygen atom diffusion, and the microwave absorption performance of the coating gradually increases with the increase in temperature. The 1.7 mm-thick coating at 500 °C has the best absorbing performance with a reflection loss (RL) value of −17.96 dB and an effective absorbing bandwidth (RL < −10 dB) in X-band of 2.42 GHz. The prepared Al2O3-MoSi2-Cu composite high-temperature absorbing coating takes into account the dual advantages of high-temperature stability and high-temperature absorbing properties.
Special Issue “Natural Fiber Based Composites”
Authors: Evon Philippe
Published: August 2021

In the last twenty years, the use of cellulosic and lignocellulosic agricultural by-products for composite applications has been of great interest, especially for reinforcing matrices [...]
Microstructure, Microhardness, Fracture Toughness, and Abrasive Wear of In-Situ Synthesized TiC/Ti-Al Composite Coatings by Cold Spraying Combined with Heat Treatment
Authors: Chen Xiao , Li Chengdi , Bai Xiaobo , Liu Hao , Xu Shunjian , Hu Yao
Published: August 2021

TiAl intermetallic compounds, as a new kind of high-performance light-weight structural material, are widely applied in many fields. Titanium carbide (TiC) as the reinforcing phase could improve the mechanical properties, wear resistance, and heat-resistance stability of TiAl intermetallic compounds. Ti(Al, C) mixture powders were deposited by cold spraying at gas temperature of 250 °C, 450 °C, and 550 °C. Then, Ti(Al, C) coatings were annealed at temperatures of 650 °C for different times and following holding at 1100 °C for 3 h. The microstructure, microhardness, fracture toughness, and abrasive wear of Ti-Al composite coatings were investigated. The research results were that the particle size of mixture powders decreased as the ball milling time prolonging. Ti(Al) solid solution appeared in the mixture powders as the milling time increased to 30 h. The average porosity of the coating sprayed at 550 °C was the lowest (0.85%). The as-sprayed coatings exhibited the same phase compositions with the mixture powders. The coating sprayed at gas temperature of 550 °C has the highest microhardness and the lowest weight loss. Ti-Al intermetallic was in-situ synthesized after annealing at 650 °C. The average porosity of the annealed coating (sprayed at 450 °C) was the lowest. The content of Ti-Al intermetallic compounds of the annealed coating sprayed at 450 °C is the highest. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis results are consistent with the EDS analysis of the annealed coatings after annealing at 650 °C. Ti-Al intermetallic compounds were almost completely formed in the three kinds of the coatings after annealing at 650 °C for 20 h and following holding at 1100 °C for 3 h. TiAl and TiAl3 intermetallic phases were in-situ synthesized in the coatings based on the energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and XRD analysis. TiC was also in situ synthesized in the coatings as the annealing temperature increased to 1100 °C. The annealed coating (sprayed at 450 °C) has the highest microhardness, fracture toughness, and wear resistance properties after annealing at 1100 °C for 3 h.
Role of Stem Cells in Augmenting Dental Implant Osseointegration: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sayed Mohammed E. , Mugri Maryam H. , Almasri Mazen A. , Al-Ahmari Manea Musa , Bhandi Shilpa , Madapusi Thodur Balaji , Varadarajan Saranya , Raj A. Thirumal , Reda Rodolfo , Testarelli Luca , Patil Shankargouda
Published: August 2021

Dental implants are a widely used treatment modality for oral rehabilitation. Implant failures can be a result of many factors, with poor osseointegration being the main culprit. The present systematic review aimed to assess the effect of stem cells on the osseointegration of dental implants. An electronic search of the MEDLINE, LILACS, and EMBASE databases was conducted. We examined quantitative preclinical studies that reported on the effect of mesenchymal stem cells on bone healing after implant insertion. Eighteen studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included. Various surface modification strategies, sites of placement, and cell origins were analyzed. The majority of the selected studies showed a high risk of bias, indicating that caution must be exercised in their interpretation. All the included studies reported that the stem cells used with graft material and scaffolds promoted osseointegration with higher levels of new bone formation. The mesenchymal cells attached to the implant surface facilitated the expression of bio-functionalized biomaterial surfaces, to boost bone formation and osseointegration at the bone–implant interfaces. There was a promotion of osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal cells and osseointegration of biomaterial implants, both in vitro and in vivo. These results highlight the significance of biomodified implant surfaces that can enhance osseointegration. These innovations can improve the stability and success rate of the implants used for oral rehabilitation.
Mismatch Repair Protein Expression and Microsatellite Instability in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gambichler Thilo , Ganjuur Nomun , Tannapfel Andrea , Vogt Markus , Scholl Lisa , Abu Rached Nessr , Bruckmüller Stefanie , Skrygan Marina , Becker Jürgen C. , Käfferlein Heiko U. , Brüning Thomas , Lang Kerstin
Published: August 2021

There exist relatively sparse and conflicting data on high-level microsatellite instability (MSI-H) and deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) in cutaneous malignancies. We aimed to determine the expression profiles of MMR proteins (MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, and PMS2) in different progression stages of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC, 102 patients in total) by immunohistochemistry, and search for MSI-H in patients with low-level MMR or dMMR using multiplex-PCR. Low-level MMR protein expression was observed in five patients: One patient with primary cSCC < 2 mm thickness and low-level MLH1, three patients with primary cSCC > 6 mm (including one with low-level MSH2, as well as MSH6 expression, and two with low-level PMS2), and one patient with a cSCC metastasis showing low-level MSH2 as well as MSH6. Intergroup protein expression analysis revealed that MLH1 and MSH2 expression in actinic keratosis was significantly decreased when compared to Bowen’s disease, cSCC < 2 mm, cSCC > 6 mm, and cSCC metastasis. In cases with low-level MMR, we performed MSI-H tests revealing three cases with MSI-H and one with low-level MSI-L. We found low-level MMR expression in a small subset of patients with invasive or metastatic cSCC. Hence, loss of MMR expression may be associated with tumour progression in a small subgroup of patients with non-melanoma skin cancer.
Soil Microbial Community Based on PLFA Profiles in an Age Sequence of Pomegranate Plantation in the Middle Yellow River Floodplain
Authors: Wang Shilin , Yan Xinyu , Wang Dong , Siddique Imran Ahammad , Chen Ji , Xu Qi , Zhao Cancan , Yang Leyun , Miao Yuan , Han Shijie
Published: August 2021

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the most important fruit trees in semi-arid land. Previous studies were primarily focused on soil microbial community composition under different pomegranate plantation managements. However, soil microbial community composition under long-term pomegranate plantation has rarely been studied. We investigated pomegranate plantation along with an age sequence (i.e., 1, 3, 5, and 10 years after pomegranate plantation; abbreviated by P1, P3, P5, P10, respectively) in the Middle Yellow River floodplain. Our objectives were to address (1) variations of soil physicochemical properties and (2) changes in soil microbial community composition and the influential factors. The results demonstrated that the soil water content of pomegranate plantation decreased with the increase of pomegranate plantation stand age. Specifically, dissolved organic carbon, ammonium, and available phosphorus increased significantly with stand age both at 0–10- and 10–20-cm soil depths. The P10 had the highest microbial phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profiles, including fungi, bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. The ratio of fungal PLFAs to bacterial PLFAs increased and the ratio of Gram-positive to Gram-negative bacterial PLFAs decreased along the pomegranate plantation stand age. Dissolved organic carbon was the most important influential factor among the studied variables, which explained 42.2% variation of soil microbial community. In summary, the long-term plantation of pomegranate elevated soil microbial biomass and altered microbial community composition.
Diagnostics and Management of Male Infertility in Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
Authors: Jayasena Channa N. , Sironen Anu
Published: August 2021

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a disease caused by the malfunction of motile cilia, manifests mainly with chronic recurrent respiratory infections. In men, PCD is also often associated with infertility due to immotile sperm. Since causative mutations for PCD were identified in over 50 genes, the role of these genes in sperm development should be investigated in order to understand the effect of PCD mutations on male fertility. Previous studies showed that different dynein arm heavy chains are present in respiratory cilia and sperm flagellum, which may partially explain the variable effects of mutations on airways and fertility. Furthermore, recent studies showed that male reproductive tract motile cilia may play an important part in sperm maturation and transport. In some PCD patients, extremely low sperm counts were reported, which may be due to motile cilia dysfunction in the reproductive tract rather than problems with sperm development. However, the exact roles of PCD genes in male fertility require additional studies, as do the treatment options. In this review, we discuss the diagnostic and treatment options for men with PCD based on the current knowledge.
Atopic Dermatitis—Beyond the Skin
Authors: Mocanu Mădălina , Vâță Dan , Alexa Anisia-Iuliana , Trandafir Laura , Patrașcu Adriana-Ionela , Hâncu Mădălina Florina , Gheucă-Solovăstru Laura
Published: August 2021

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can arise during the first months of life or at maturity and have a significant negative impact on the quality of life. The main pathogenic mechanism is the breakdown of cutaneous barrier integrity, which is associated with systemic inflammatory immunologic disorders. Atopic dermatitis involves numerous immunologic, allergic, respiratory, and ophthalmologic comorbidities that develop through similar intricate pathogenic phenomena. The atopic march represents the evolution in time of various allergic diseases, of which food allergies often cause the first manifestations of atopy, even from a very young age. Chronic inflammation translated through specific markers, next to increased immunoglobulin E (IgE) serum levels and heterogenous clinical manifestations, argue for the inclusion of atopic dermatitis in the systemic disease category.
Coal and Rock Hardness Identification Based on EEMD and Multi-Scale Permutation Entropy
Authors: Liu Tao , Lu Chao , Liu Qingyun , Zha Yiwen
Published: August 2021

This study offers an efficient hardness identification approach to address the problem of poor real-time performance and accuracy in coal and rock hardness detection. To begin, Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) was performed on the current signal of the cutting motor to obtain a number of Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs). Further, the target signal was selected among the IMFs to reconstruct the current signal according to the energy density and correlation coefficient criteria. After that, the Multi-scale Permutation Entropy (MPE) of the reconstructed signal was trained by the Adaboost improved Back Propagation (BP) neural network, in order to establish the hardness recognition model. Finally, the cutting arm’s swing speed and the cutting head’s rotation speed were adjusted based on the coal and rock hardness. The simulation results indicated that using the energy density and correlation criterion to reconstruct the signal can successfully filter out noise interference. Compared to the BP model, the relative root-mean-square error of the Adaboost-BP model decreased by 0.0633, and the prediction results were more accurate. Additionally, the speed control strategy based on coal and rock hardness can ensure the efficient cutting of the roadheader.
Towards an Efficient and Exact Algorithm for Dynamic Dedicated Path Protection
Authors: Szcześniak Ireneusz , Olszewski Ireneusz , Woźna-Szcześniak Bożena
Published: August 2021

We present a novel algorithm for dynamic routing with dedicated path protection which, as the presented simulation results suggest, can be efficient and exact. We present the algorithm in the setting of optical networks, but it should be applicable to other networks, where services have to be protected, and where the network resources are finite and discrete, e.g., wireless radio or networks capable of advance resource reservation. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to propose an algorithm for this long-standing fundamental problem, which can be efficient and exact, as suggested by simulation results. The algorithm can be efficient because it can solve large problems, and it can be exact because its results are optimal, as demonstrated and corroborated by simulations. We offer a worst-case analysis to argue that the search space is polynomially upper bounded. Network operations, management, and control require efficient and exact algorithms, especially now, when greater emphasis is placed on network performance, reliability, softwarization, agility, and return on investment. The proposed algorithm uses our generic Dijkstra algorithm on a search graph generated “on-the-fly” based on the input graph. We corroborated the optimality of the results of the proposed algorithm with brute-force enumeration for networks up to 15 nodes large. We present the extensive simulation results of dedicated-path protection with signal modulation constraints for elastic optical networks of 25, 50, and 100 nodes, and with 160, 320, and 640 spectrum units. We also compare the bandwidth blocking probability with the commonly-used edge-exclusion algorithm. We had 48,600 simulation runs with about 41 million searches.
The Practice of Religious Tourism among Generation Z’s Higher Education Students
Authors: García-del Junco Julio , Sánchez-Teba Eva M. , Rodríguez-Fernández Mercedes , Gallardo-Sánchez Irene
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the possibilities offered by religious tourism according to Generation Z’s education in values. Both the theoretical and empirical frameworks of the research have focused on Hofstede’s Cultural Model, aiming to predict with a certain level of success the influence of cultural and social values on the consumption of religious tourism by the young age segment of Generation Z. A cross-cultural analysis was performed using exponential sampling (Snowball Sampling). All respondents were higher education students. The surveys were carried out using “Google Forms”. The results obtained allow the design of a communication plan for the management of Religious Tourism according to the dimensions of Masculinity-Femininity, Individualism-Collectivism, Distance to Power, Risk Aversion, and Long-term Orientation.