bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethanol Biofuel Cells: Hybrid Catalytic Cascades as a Tool for Biosensor Devices
Authors: Franco Jefferson Honorio , Minteer Shelley D. , De Andrade Adalgisa R.
Published: February 2021

Biofuel cells use chemical reactions and biological catalysts (enzymes or microorganisms) to produce electrical energy, providing clean and renewable energy. Enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFCs) have promising characteristics and potential applications as an alternative energy source for low-power electronic devices. Over the last decade, researchers have focused on enhancing the electrocatalytic activity of biosystems and on increasing energy generation and electronic conductivity. Self-powered biosensors can use EBFCs while eliminating the need for an external power source. This review details improvements in EBFC and catalyst arrangements that will help to achieve complete substrate oxidation and to increase the number of collected electrons. It also describes how analytical techniques can be employed to follow the intermediates between the enzymes within the enzymatic cascade. We aim to demonstrate how a high-performance self-powered sensor design based on EBFCs developed for ethanol detection can be adapted and implemented in power devices for biosensing applications.
Effectiveness of Unihemispheric Concurrent Dual-Site Stimulation over M1 and Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Stimulation on Pain Processing: A Triple Blind Cross-Over Control Trial
Authors: Gurdiel-Álvarez Francisco , González-Zamorano Yeray , Lerma Lara Sergio , Gómez-Soriano Julio , Taylor Julian , Romero Juan Pablo , Gómez Jiménez María , Fernández-Carnero Josué
Published: February 2021

Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the motor cortex (M1) produces short-term inhibition of pain. Unihemispheric concurrent dual-site tDCS (UHCDS-tDCS) over the M1 and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) has greater effects on cortical excitability than when applied alone, although its effect on pain is unknown. The aim of this study was to test if anodal UHCDS-tDCS over the M1 and DLPFC in healthy participants could potentiate conditioned pain modulation (CPM) and diminish pain temporal summation (TS). Methods: Thirty participants were randomized to receive a sequence of UHCDS-tDCS, M1-tDCS and sham-tDCS. A 20 min 0.1 mA/cm2 anodal or sham-tDCS intervention was applied to each participant during three test sessions, according to a triple-blind cross-over trial design. For the assessment of pain processing before and after tDCS intervention, the following tests were performed: tourniquet conditioned pain modulation (CPM), pressure pain temporal summation (TS), pressure pain thresholds (PPTs), pressure pain tolerance, mechanosensitivity and cold hyperalgesia. Motor function before and after tDCS intervention was assessed with a dynamometer to measure maximal isometric grip strength. Results: No statistically significant differences were found between groups for CPM, pressure pain TS, PPT, pressure pain tolerance, neural mechanosensitivity, cold hyperalgesia or grip strength (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Neither UHCDS-tDCS nor M1-tDCS facilitated CPM or inhibited TS in healthy subjects following one intervention session.
Critical Analysis about Emerging Technologies for Building’s Façade Inspection
Authors: Dias Ilídio , Flores-Colen Inês , Silva Ana
Published: February 2021

The diagnosis of the building’s façades pathology is extremely important to support rational and technically informed decisions regarding maintenance and rehabilitation actions. With a reliable diagnosis, the probable causes of the anomalies can be correctly identified, and the correction measures adopted can be more compatible with the existing elements, promoting the durability of the façades. Visual inspection is the most common approach to identify anomalies in a building’s façade and, in many cases, this technique is sufficient to support the decision to intervene. However, the pathological phenomenon is complex, and the anomalies observed may indicate the presence of other defects, or some anomalies may not be visible in a simple visual observation. This study intends to discuss the application of emerging technologies on the diagnosis and anamneses of building’s façade, in order to automatise the collection of reliable on-site data and, thus, reduce the uncertainty of the diagnosis. The use of these techniques can help existing inspection methodologies, already tested, based mainly on the visual assessment of the buildings’ elements degradation condition.
Paediatric Gliomas: BRAF and Histone H3 as Biomarkers, Therapy and Perspective of Liquid Biopsies
Authors: Tan Jean Yin , Wijesinghe Ipalawattage Vindya Stephnie , Alfarizal Kamarudin Muhamad Noor , Parhar Ishwar
Published: February 2021

Paediatric gliomas categorised as low- or high-grade vary markedly from their adult counterparts, and denoted as the second most prevalent childhood cancers after leukaemia. As compared to adult gliomas, the studies of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as the development of therapy in paediatric gliomas, are still in their infancy. A body of evidence demonstrates that B-Raf Proto-Oncogene or V-Raf Murine Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog B (BRAF) and histone H3 mutations are valuable biomarkers for paediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGGs) and high-grade gliomas (pHGGs). Various diagnostic methods involving fluorescence in situ hybridisation, whole-genomic sequencing, PCR, next-generation sequencing and NanoString are currently used for detecting BRAF and histone H3 mutations. Additionally, liquid biopsies are gaining popularity as an alternative to tumour materials in detecting these biomarkers, but still, they cannot fully replace solid biopsies due to several limitations. Although histone H3 mutations are reliable prognosis biomarkers in pHGGs, children with these mutations have a dismal prognosis. Conversely, the role of BRAF alterations as prognostic biomarkers in pLGGs is still in doubt due to contradictory findings. The BRAF V600E mutation is seen in the majority of pLGGs (as seen in pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and gangliomas). By contrast, the H3K27M mutation is found in the majority of paediatric diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and other midline gliomas in pHGGs. pLGG patients with a BRAF V600E mutation often have a lower progression-free survival rate in comparison to wild-type pLGGs when treated with conventional therapies. BRAF inhibitors (Dabrafenib and Vemurafenib), however, show higher overall survival and tumour response in BRAF V600E mutated pLGGs than conventional therapies in some studies. To date, targeted therapy and precision medicine are promising avenues for paediatric gliomas with BRAF V600E and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma with the H3K27M mutations. Given these shortcomings in the current treatments of paediatric gliomas, there is a dire need for novel therapies that yield a better therapeutic response. The present review discusses the diagnostic tools and the perspective of liquid biopsies in the detection of BRAF V600E and H3K27M mutations. An in-depth understanding of these biomarkers and the therapeutics associated with the respective challenges will bridge the gap between paediatric glioma patients and the development of effective therapies.
The Prognostic Impact of Body Composition for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Patients Who Received Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Iwase Toshiaki , Parikh Aaroh , Dibaj Seyedeh S. , Shen Yu , Shrimanker Tushaar Vishal , Chainitikun Sudpreeda , Kida Kumiko , Sapon Maryanne E. , Sahin Onur , James Anjali , Medrano Andrea Yizel Delgado , Klopp Ann H. , Ueno Naoto T.
Published: February 2021

Our previous study indicated that a high amount of visceral adipose tissue was associated with poor survival outcomes in patients with early breast cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, inconsistency was observed in the prognostic role of body composition in breast cancer treatment outcomes. In the present study, we aimed to validate our previous research by performing a comprehensive body composition analysis in patients with a standardized clinical background. We included 198 patients with stage III breast cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy between January 2007 and June 2015. The impact of body composition on pathologic complete response and survival outcomes was determined. Body composition measurements had no significant effect on pathologic complete response. Survival analysis showed a low ratio of total visceral adipose tissue to subcutaneous adipose tissue (V/S ratio ≤ 34) was associated with shorter overall survival. A changepoint method determined that a V/S ratio cutoff of 34 maximized the difference in overall survival. Our study indicated the prognostic effect of body composition measurements in patients with locally advanced breast cancer compared to those with early breast cancer. Further investigation will be needed to clarify the biological mechanism underlying the association of V/S ratio with prognosis in locally advanced breast cancer.
Molecular Mechanisms of Senescence and Implications for the Treatment of Myeloid Malignancies
Authors: Ernst Philipp , Heidel Florian H.
Published: February 2021

Senescence is a cellular state that is involved in aging-associated diseases but may also prohibit the development of pre-cancerous lesions and tumor growth. Senescent cells are actively secreting chemo- and cytokines, and this senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) can contribute to both early anti-tumorigenic and long-term pro-tumorigenic effects. Recently, complex mechanisms of cellular senescence and their influence on cellular processes have been defined in more detail and, therefore, facilitate translational development of targeted therapies. In this review, we aim to discuss major molecular pathways involved in cellular senescence and potential therapeutic strategies, with a specific focus on myeloid malignancies.
Effect of Early Post-Transplantation Tacrolimus Concentration on the Risk of Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease in Allogenic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Zhao Qiuhong , Ni Bin , Elder Patrick , Puto Marcin , Benson Don M. , Rosko Ashley , Chaudhry Maria , Devarakonda Srinivas , Bumma Naresh , Khan Abdullah , Vasu Sumithira , Jaglowski Samantha , William Basem M. , Mims Alice , Choe Hannah , Larkin Karilyn , Brammer Jonathan , Wall Sarah , Grieselhuber Nicole , Saad Ayman , Penza Sam , Efebera Yvonne
Published: February 2021

Acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT). Tacrolimus (TAC), a calcineurin inhibitor that prevents T-cell activation, is commonly used as a GVHD prophylaxis. However, there is variability in the serum concentrations of TAC, and little is known on the impact of early TAC levels on aGVHD. We retrospectively analyzed 673 consecutive patients undergoing allo-HSCT at the Ohio State University between 2002 and 2016. Week 1 TAC was associated with a lower risk of aGVHD II–IV at TAC level ≥10.15 ng/mL (p = 0.03) compared to the lowest quartile. The cumulative incidence of relapse at 1, 3 and 5 years was 33%, 38% and 41%, respectively. TAC levels at week 2, ≥11.55 ng/mL, were associated with an increased risk of relapse (p = 0.01) compared to the lowest quartile. Subset analysis with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome patients showed significantly reduced aGVHD with TAC level ≥10.15 ng/mL at week 1 and a higher risk of relapse associated with week 2 TAC level ≥11.55 ng/mL (p = 0.02). Hence, achieving ≥10 ng/mL during the first week of HCT may mitigate the risk of aGVHD. However, levels (>11 ng/mL) beyond the first week may be associated with suppressed graft versus tumor effect and higher relapse.
The Potential of Raman Spectroscopy in the Diagnosis of Dysplastic and Malignant Oral Lesions
Authors: Ibrahim Ola , Toner Mary , Flint Stephen , Byrne Hugh J. , Lyng Fiona M.
Published: February 2021

Early diagnosis, treatment and/or surveillance of oral premalignant lesions are important in preventing progression to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The current gold standard is through histopathological diagnosis, which is limited by inter- and intra-observer errors and sampling errors. The objective of this work was to use Raman spectroscopy to discriminate between benign, mild, moderate and severe dysplasia and OSCC in formalin fixed paraffin preserved (FFPP) tissues. The study included 72 different pathologies from which 17 were benign lesions, 20 mildly dysplastic, 20 moderately dysplastic, 10 severely dysplastic and 5 invasive OSCC. The glass substrate and paraffin wax background were digitally removed and PLSDA with LOPO cross-validation was used to differentiate the pathologies. OSCC could be differentiated from the other pathologies with an accuracy of 70%, while the accuracy of the classifier for benign, moderate and severe dysplasia was ~60%. The accuracy of the classifier was lowest for mild dysplasia (~46%). The main discriminating features were increased nucleic acid contributions and decreased protein and lipid contributions in the epithelium and decreased collagen contributions in the connective tissue. Smoking and the presence of inflammation were found to significantly influence the Raman classification with respective accuracies of 76% and 94%.
Environmental Carcinogens and Cancer Risk
Authors: Gatto Nicole M.
Published: February 2021

The year 2022 will mark the 60th anniversary of the 1962 publication of Rachel Carson’s seminar work Silent Spring  [...]
Mesoporous Composite Networks of Linked MnFe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles as Efficient Photocatalysts for the Reduction of Cr(VI)
Authors: Skliri Euaggelia , Vamvasakis Ioannis , Papadas Ioannis T. , Choulis Stelios A. , Armatas Gerasimos S.
Published: February 2021

Semiconductor photocatalysis has recently emerged as an effective and eco-friendly approach that could meet the stringent requirements for sustainable environmental remediation. To this end, the fabrication of novel photocatalysts with unique electrochemical properties and high catalytic efficiency is of utmost importance and requires adequate attention. In this work, dual component mesoporous frameworks of spinel ferrite ZnFe2O4 (ZFO) and MnFe2O4 (MFO) nanoparticles are reported as efficient photocatalysts for detoxification of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and organic pollutants. The as-prepared materials, which are synthesized via a polymer-templated aggregating self-assembly method, consist of a continuous network of linked nanoparticles (ca. 6–7 nm) and exhibit large surface area (up to 91 m2 g−1) arising from interstitial voids between the nanoparticles, according to electron microscopy and N2 physisorption measurements. By tuning the composition, MFO-ZFO composite catalyst containing 6 wt.% MFO attains excellent photocatalytic Cr(VI) reduction activity in the presence of phenol. In-depth studies with UV-visible absorption, electrochemical and photoelectrochemical measurements show that the performance enhancement of this catalyst predominantly arises from the suitable band edge positions of constituent nanoparticles that efficiently separates and transports the charge carriers through the interface of the ZFO/MFO junctions. Besides, the open pore structure and large surface area of these ensembled networks also boost the reaction kinetics. The remarkable activity and durability of the MFO-ZFO heterostructures implies the great possibility of implementing these new nanocomposite catalysts into a realistic Cr(VI) detoxification of contaminated wastewater.
Atomistic-Scale Simulations on Graphene Bending Near a Copper Surface
Authors: Kowalik Malgorzata , Hossain Md Jamil , Lele Aditya , Zhu Wenbo , Banerjee Riju , Granzier-Nakajima Tomotaroh , Terrones Mauricio , Hudson Eric W. , van Duin Adri C. T.
Published: February 2021

Molecular insights into graphene-catalyst surface interactions can provide useful information for the efficient design of copper current collectors with graphitic anode interfaces. As graphene bending can affect the local electron density, it should reflect its local reactivity as well. Using ReaxFF reactive molecular simulations, we have investigated the possible bending of graphene in vacuum and near copper surfaces. We describe the energy cost for graphene bending and the binding energy with hydrogen and copper with two different ReaxFF parameter sets, demonstrating the relevance of using the more recently developed ReaxFF parameter sets for graphene properties. Moreover, the draping angle at copper step edges obtained from our atomistic simulations is in good agreement with the draping angle determined from experimental measurements, thus validating the ReaxFF results.
Nuclear Mechanotransduction in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Jabre Saline , Hleihel Walid , Coirault Catherine
Published: February 2021

Skeletal muscle is composed of multinucleated, mature muscle cells (myofibers) responsible for contraction, and a resident pool of mononucleated muscle cell precursors (MCPs), that are maintained in a quiescent state in homeostatic conditions. Skeletal muscle is remarkable in its ability to adapt to mechanical constraints, a property referred as muscle plasticity and mediated by both MCPs and myofibers. An emerging body of literature supports the notion that muscle plasticity is critically dependent upon nuclear mechanotransduction, which is transduction of exterior physical forces into the nucleus to generate a biological response. Mechanical loading induces nuclear deformation, changes in the nuclear lamina organization, chromatin condensation state, and cell signaling, which ultimately impacts myogenic cell fate decisions. This review summarizes contemporary insights into the mechanisms underlying nuclear force transmission in MCPs and myofibers. We discuss how the cytoskeleton and nuclear reorganizations during myogenic differentiation may affect force transmission and nuclear mechanotransduction. We also discuss how to apply these findings in the context of muscular disorders. Finally, we highlight current gaps in knowledge and opportunities for further research in the field.
Chronic Intermittent Mild Whole-Body Hypothermia Is Therapeutic in a Mouse Model of ALS
Authors: Martin Lee J. , Niedzwiecki Mark V. , Wong Margaret
Published: February 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that causes motor neuron degeneration. There are no cures or effective treatments for ALS. Therapeutic hypothermia is effectively used clinically to mitigate mortality in patients with acute acquired brain injury and in surgical settings to minimize secondary brain injury. The efficacy of therapeutic hypothermia in chronic neurodegenerative disorders has not been examined. We tested the hypothesis that mild hypothermia/cold acclimation is therapeutic in a transgenic mouse model of ALS caused by expression of mutated human superoxide dismutase-1 gene. At presymptomatic stages of disease, body temperatures (oral and axial) of mutant male mice were persistently hyperthermic (38–38.5 °C) compared to littermate controls, but at end-stage disease mice were generally hypothermic (36–36.5 °C). Presymptomatic mutant mice (awake-freely moving) were acclimated to systemic mild hypothermia using an environmentally controlled chamber (12 h-on/12-off or 24 h-on/24 h-off) to lower body temperature (1–3 °C). Cooled ALS mice showed a significant delay in disease onset (103–112 days) compared to normothermia mice (80–90 days) and exhibited significant attenuation of functional decline in motor performance. Cooled mice examined at 80 days had reduced motor neuron loss, mitochondrial swelling, and spinal cord inflammation compared to non-cooled mice. Cooling attenuated the loss of heat-shock protein 70, mitochondrial uncoupling protein-3, and sumoylated-1 (SUMO1)-conjugated proteins in skeletal muscle and disengaged the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Cooled ALS mice had a significant extension of lifespan (148 ± 7 days) compared to normothermic mice (135 ± 4 days). Thus, intermittent systemic mild hypothermia is therapeutic in mouse ALS with protective effects manifested within the CNS and skeletal muscle that target mitochondria.
Biologic Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Context of Biosimilars, Genetics, Epigenetics and COVID-19 Treatment
Authors: Bonek Krzysztof , Roszkowski Leszek , Massalska Magdalena , Maslinski Wlodzimierz , Ciechomska Marzena
Published: February 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects around 1.2% of the adult population. RA is one of the main reasons for work disability and premature retirement, thus substantially increasing social and economic burden. Biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) were shown to be an effective therapy especially in those rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, who did not adequately respond to conventional synthetic DMARD therapy. However, despite the proven efficacy, the high cost of the therapy resulted in limitation of the widespread use and unequal access to the care. The introduction of biosimilars, which are much cheaper relative to original drugs, may facilitate the achievement of the therapy by a much broader spectrum of patients. In this review we present the properties of original biologic agents based on cytokine-targeted (blockers of TNF, IL-6, IL-1, GM-CSF) and cell-targeted therapies (aimed to inhibit T cells and B cells properties) as well as biosimilars used in rheumatology. We also analyze the latest update of bDMARDs’ possible influence on DNA methylation, miRNA expression and histone modification in RA patients, what might be the important factors toward precise and personalized RA treatment. In addition, during the COVID-19 outbreak, we discuss the usage of biologicals in context of effective and safe COVID-19 treatment. Therefore, early diagnosing along with therapeutic intervention based on personalized drugs targeting disease-specific genes is still needed to relieve symptoms and to improve the quality of life of RA patients.
Silica Layer Used in Sensor Fabrication from a Low-Temperature Silane-Free Procedure
Authors: Jiang Pei-Cheng , Chow Yu-Ting , Chien Chi-Wei , Chang Cheng-Hsun-Tony , Lin Chii-Ruey
Published: February 2021

Silica (SiO2, silicon dioxide—a dielectric layer commonly used in electronic devices) is widely used in many types of sensors, such as gas, molecular, and biogenic polyamines. To form silica films, core shell or an encapsulated layer, silane has been used as a precursor in recent decades. However, there are many hazards caused by using silane, such as its being extremely flammable, the explosive air, and skin and eye pain. To avoid these hazards, it is necessary to spend many resources on industrial safety design. Thus, the silica synthesized without silane gas which can be determined as a silane-free procedure presents a clean and safe solution to manufactures. In this report, we used the radio frequency (rf = 13.56 MHz) plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition technique (PECVD) to form a silica layer at room temperature. The silica layer is formed in hydrogen-based plasma at room temperature and silane gas is not used in this process. The substrate temperature dominates the silica formation, but the distance between the substrate and electrode (DSTE) and the methane additive can enhance the formation of a silica layer on the Si wafer. This silane-free procedure, at room temperature, is not only safer and friendlier to the environment but is also useful in the fabrication of many types of sensors.
Transparent Glass Ceramics
Authors: Singh Shiv Prakash , Sontakke Atul D.
Published: February 2021

In the past few decades, glass ceramic (GC) has revolutionized the application of glass [...]
In Situ Investigations on Stress and Microstructure Evolution in Polycrystalline Ti(C,N)/α-Al2O3 CVD Coatings under Thermal Cycling Loads
Authors: García José , Moreno Maiara , Wan Wei , Apel Daniel , Pinto Haroldo , Meixner Matthias , Klaus Manuela , Genzel Christoph
Published: February 2021

The stress behavior and the associated microstructure evolution of industrial Ti(C,N)/α-Al2O3 coatings subjected to thermal cycling are investigated by in situ energy dispersive synchrotron X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Temperature-dependent stresses and changes in microstructural parameters (domain size and microstrain) are analyzed by in situ measurements at different temperatures between 25 and 800 °C, both in the heating up and cooling down step, including several thermal cycles. Transmission electron microscopy is used to evaluate defects before and after the thermal treatment. The introduction of high compressive stresses in α-Al2O3 by top-blasting is connected to a high defect density at the basal planes of the alumina layer. The stress relaxation of the alumina layer at high temperatures is associated with a successive annihilation of defects until a reversible temperature-dependent stress condition is set. Top-blasting does not change the initial microstructure and residual stress of the Ti(C,N) layer. Ti(C,N) shows a cyclic stress behavior associated with the heat treatment and an elastic deformation behavior in the temperature range investigated.
Texture Features of Proton Density Fat Fraction Maps from Chemical Shift Encoding-Based MRI Predict Paraspinal Muscle Strength
Authors: Dieckmeyer Michael , Inhuber Stephanie , Schlaeger Sarah , Weidlich Dominik , Mookiah Muthu Rama Krishnan , Subburaj Karupppasamy , Burian Egon , Sollmann Nico , Kirschke Jan S. , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Baum Thomas
Published: February 2021

Texture analysis (TA) has shown promise as a surrogate marker for tissue structure, based on conventional and quantitative MRI sequences. Chemical-shift-encoding-based MRI (CSE-MRI)-derived proton density fat fraction (PDFF) of paraspinal muscles has been associated with various medical conditions including lumbar back pain (LBP) and neuromuscular diseases (NMD). Its application has been shown to improve the prediction of paraspinal muscle strength beyond muscle volume. Since mean PDFF values do not fully reflect muscle tissue structure, the purpose of our study was to investigate PDFF-based TA of paraspinal muscles as a predictor of muscle strength, as compared to mean PDFF. We performed 3T-MRI of the lumbar spine in 26 healthy subjects (age = 30 ± 6 years; 15 females) using a six-echo 3D spoiled gradient echo sequence for chemical-shift-encoding-based water–fat separation. Erector spinae (ES) and psoas (PS) muscles were segmented bilaterally from level L2–L5 to extract mean PDFF and texture features. Muscle flexion and extension strength was measured with an isokinetic dynamometer. Out of the eleven texture features extracted for each muscle, Kurtosis(global) of ES showed the highest significant correlation (r = 0.59, p = 0.001) with extension strength and Variance(global) of PS showed the highest significant correlation (r = 0.63, p = 0.001) with flexion strength. Using multivariate linear regression models, Kurtosis(global) of ES and BMI were identified as significant predictors of extension strength (R2adj = 0.42; p < 0.001), and Variance(global) and Skewness(global) of PS were identified as significant predictors of flexion strength (R2adj = 0.59; p = 0.001), while mean PDFF was not identified as a significant predictor. TA of CSE-MRI-based PDFF maps improves the prediction of paraspinal muscle strength beyond mean PDFF, potentially reflecting the ability to quantify the pattern of muscular fat infiltration. In the future, this may help to improve the pathophysiological understanding, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment evaluation of diseases with paraspinal muscle involvement, e.g., NMD and LBP.
Local Bone Mineral Density, Subcutaneous and Visceral Adipose Tissue Measurements in Routine Multi Detector Computed Tomography—Which Parameter Predicts Incident Vertebral Fractures Best?
Authors: Burian Egon , Grundl Lioba , Greve Tobias , Junker Daniela , Sollmann Nico , Löffler Maximilian , Makowski Marcus R. , Zimmer Claus , Kirschke Jan S. , Baum Thomas
Published: February 2021

In this case-control study the value of bone mineral density (BMD) at different vertebral levels, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) to identify patients with incident osteoporotic vertebral fractures in routine multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) exams was assessed. Material and methods: Seventeen patients who underwent baseline and follow-up routine contrast-enhanced MDCT and had an incident osteoporotic vertebral fracture at follow-up were included. Seventeen age-, sex- and follow-up duration-matched controls were identified. Trabecular BMD (from Th5 to L5) as well as cross-sectional area of SAT and VAT were extracted. Results: BMD performed best to differentiate patients with an incident fracture from controls at the levels of Th5 (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.781, p = 0.014), Th7 (AUC = 0.877, p = 0.001), and Th9 (AUC = 0.818, p = 0.005). Applying multivariate logistic regression BMD at Th7 level remained the only significant predictor of incident vertebral fractures (Th5-L5) with an odds ratio of 1.07 per BMD SD decrease. VAT and SAT did not show significant differences between the fracture and control group (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The local BMD measurement appears to be more suitable than standard mean BMD from L1–L3 for fracture risk assessment.
Kingella kingae Intrauterine Infection: An Unusual Cause of Chorioamnionitis and Miscarriage in a Patient with Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease
Authors: Bonasoni Maria Paola , Palicelli Andrea , Dalla Dea Giulia , Comitini Giuseppina , Pazzola Giulia , Russello Giuseppe , Bertoldi Graziella , Bardaro Marcellino , Zuelli Claudia , Carretto Edoardo
Published: February 2021

Kingella kingae is a Gram-negative coccobacillus belonging to the Neisseriaceae family. In children less than 4 years old, K. kingae invasive infection can induce septic arthritis and osteomyelitis, and more rarely endocarditis, meningitis, ocular infections, and pneumonia. In adults, it may be a cause of endocarditis. To date, K. kingae acute chorioamnionitis (AC) leading to preterm rupture of membranes (PPROM) and miscarriage has never been reported. Herein, we describe a case of intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) at 22 weeks’ gestation due to K. kingae infection occurred in a patient affected by undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) in lupus erythematosus systemic (LES) evolution with severe neutropenia. K. kingae was isolated in placental subamnionic swab and tissue cultures as well as fetal ear, nose, and pharyngeal swabs. Placental histological examination showed necrotizing AC and funisitis. In the fetus, neutrophils were observed within the alveoli and in the gastrointestinal lumen. Maternal medical treatment for UCTD was modified according to the K. kingae invasive infection. In the event of IUFD due to AC, microbiological cultures on placenta and fetal tissues should always be carried out in order to isolate the etiologic agent and target the correct medical treatment.
Use of Orthodontic Methods in the Treatment of Dental Luxations: A Scoping Review
Authors: Spinas Enrico , Pipi Laura , Mezzena Silvia , Giannetti Luca
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: Treating dental luxation injuries is challenging for the clinician. Dental luxations account for 18–33% of injuries to permanent teeth and can be addressed using different therapeutic approaches. The present work was conducted with two aims: (i) to evaluate, through a scoping review, current knowledge of the orthodontic methods (repositioning and stabilization splinting) that can be used at the time of the trauma, and (ii) to investigate the frequency and type of pulp consequences arising after these traumatic injuries. (2) Methods: The literature search was conducted in the period June 2020–December 2020 using the PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases. The research questions were formulated according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes) method and considered the following aspects: type of luxation injury and stage of root development; use of orthodontic repositioning and splinting techniques; frequency and type of pulp consequences; and compliance of treatments with international guidelines. (3) Results: The initial screening of the databases, using the selected search keywords, yielded a total of 587 articles, just 8 fully met the inclusion criteria. Closer analysis of these 8 publications revealed that they would not produce clear meta-analytical data. This made it necessary to limit the data collected to the following six items: number and type of injuries, initial therapeutic intervention, duration of follow-up, number, and type of different pulp consequences. (4) Conclusions: While orthodontic techniques are commonly used to treat dental intrusions, in the case of extrusive and lateral luxation injuries, they are less frequently used and the orthodontic approach is generally confined to the stabilization phase. Among the various possible pulp consequences, many authors consider only pulp canal obliteration (PCO) and pulp necrosis (PN), often tending to overlook physiological healing (pulp survival) and the possible development of PN after PCO. There is therefore a clear need for new, high-quality clinical studies of this topic based on systematic and standardized data collection.
Applying Quantum Mechanics for Extreme Value Prediction of VaR and ES in the ASEAN Stock Exchange
Authors: Chaiboonsri Chukiat , Wannapan Satawat
Published: February 2021

The advantage of quantum mechanics to shift up the ability to econometrically understand extreme tail losses in financial data has become more desirable, especially in cases of Value at Risk (VaR) and Expected Shortfall (ES) predictions. Behind the non-novel quantum mechanism, it does interestingly connect with the distributional signals of humans’ brainstorms. The highlighted purpose of this article is to devise a quantum-wave distribution methodically to analyze better risks and returns for stock markets in The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, including Thailand (SET), Singapore (STI), Malaysia (FTSE), Philippines (PSEI), and Indonesia (PCI). Data samples were observed as quarterly trends between 1994 and 2019. Bayesian statistics and simulations were applied to present estimations’ outputs. Empirically, quantum distributions are remarkable for providing “real distributions”, which computationally conform to Bayesian inferences and crucially contribute to the higher level of extreme data analyses in financial economics.
Identity and Access Management Resilience against Intentional Risk for Blockchain-Based IOT Platforms
Authors: Partida Alberto , Criado Regino , Romance Miguel
Published: February 2021

Some Internet of Things (IoT) platforms use blockchain to transport data. The value proposition of IoT is the connection to the Internet of a myriad of devices that provide and exchange data to improve people’s lives and add value to industries. The blockchain technology transfers data and value in an immutable and decentralised fashion. Security, composed of both non-intentional and intentional risk management, is a fundamental design requirement for both IoT and blockchain. We study how blockchain answers some of the IoT security requirements with a focus on intentional risk. The review of a sample of security incidents impacting public blockchains confirm that identity and access management (IAM) is a key security requirement to build resilience against intentional risk. This fact is also applicable to IoT solutions built on a blockchain. We compare the two IoT platforms based on public permissionless distributed ledgers with the highest market capitalisation: IOTA, run on an alternative to a blockchain, which is a directed acyclic graph (DAG); and IoTeX, its contender, built on a blockchain. Our objective is to discover how we can create IAM resilience against intentional risk in these IoT platforms. For that, we turn to complex network theory: a tool to describe and compare systems with many participants. We conclude that IoTeX and possibly IOTA transaction networks are scale-free. As both platforms are vulnerable to attacks, they require resilience against intentional risk. In the case of IoTeX, DIoTA provides a resilient IAM solution. Furthermore, we suggest that resilience against intentional risk requires an IAM concept that transcends a single blockchain. Only with the interplay of edge and global ledgers can we obtain data integrity in a multi-vendor and multi-purpose IoT network.
The Influence of Public Transport Delays on Mobility on Demand Services
Authors: Martin Layla , Wittmann Michael , Li Xinyu
Published: February 2021

Demand for different modes of transportation clearly interacts. If public transit is delayed or out of service, customers might use mobility on demand (MoD), including taxi and carsharing for their trip, or discard the trip altogether, including a first and last mile that might otherwise be covered by MoD. For operators of taxi and carsharing services, as well as dispatching agencies, understanding increasing demand, and changing demand patterns due to outages and delays is important, as a more precise demand prediction allows for them to more profitably operate. For public authorities, it is paramount to understand this interaction when regulating transportation services. We investigate the interaction between public transit delays and demand for carsharing and taxi, as measured by the fraction of demand variance that can be explained by delays and the changing OD-patterns. A descriptive analysis of the public transit data set yields that delays and MoD demand both highly depend on the weekday and time of day, as well as the location within the city, and that delays in the city and in consecutive time intervals are correlated. Thus, demand variations must by corrected for these external influences. We find that demand for taxi and carsharing increases if the delay of public transit increases and this effect is stronger for taxi. Delays can explain at least 4.1% (carsharing) and 18.8% (taxi) of the demand variance, which is a good result when considering that other influencing factors, such as time of day or weather exert stronger influences. Further, planned public transit outages significantly change OD-patterns of taxi and carsharing.
Nonlocal Low-Rank Regularization Combined with Bilateral Total Variation for Compressive Sensing Image Reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Kunhao , Qin Yali , Zheng Huan , Ren Hongliang , Hu Yingtian
Published: February 2021

The use of non-local self-similarity prior between image blocks can improve image reconstruction performance significantly. We propose a compressive sensing image reconstruction algorithm that combines bilateral total variation and nonlocal low-rank regularization to overcome over-smoothing and degradation of edge information which result from the prior reconstructed image. The proposed algorithm makes use of the preservation of image edge information by bilateral total variation operator to enhance the edge details of the reconstructed image. In addition, we use weighted nuclear norm regularization as a low-rank constraint for similar blocks of the image. To solve this convex optimization problem, the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) is employed to optimize and iterate the algorithm model effectively. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can obtain better image reconstruction quality than conventional algorithms with using total variation regularization or considering the nonlocal structure of the image only. At 10% sampling rate, the peak signal-to-noise ratio gain is up to 2.39 dB in noiseless measurements compared with Nonlocal Low-rank Regularization (NLR-CS). Reconstructed image comparison shows that the proposed algorithm retains more high frequency components. In noisy measurements, the proposed algorithm is robust to noise and the reconstructed image retains more detail information.
Proposition of Design Capacity of Borehole Heat Exchangers for Use in the Schematic-Design Stage
Authors: Lee Seung-Min , Park Seung-Hoon , Jang Yong-Sung , Kim Eui-Jong
Published: February 2021

This study proposes a simple ground heat exchanger design capacity that is applicable in the schematic-design stage for several configurations used for borehole heat exchangers (BHEs). Three configurations—single, compact, and irregular types—were selected, and the heat transfer rate per unit BHE was calculated considering heat interference. In a case study with a typical configuration and general range of ground thermal conductivity, the BHE heat transfer rate of the compact configuration decreased owing to heat interference as the number of BHEs increased. However, with respect to the irregular configuration, the heat transfer rate increased as the same number increased. This was attributed to the relatively large increment rate of the distance between the boreholes in the irregular configurations, making the heat recovery factor more dominant than the heat interference. The results show that the average heat transfer rate values per BHE applicable to each configuration type in the schematic-design stage were 12.1 kW for the single configuration, 5.8 kW for the compact type, and 10.3 kW for the irregular configuration. However, owing to the large range of results for each case study, the error needs to be reduced by maximally utilizing the information available at the schematic-design stage.
Physico-Chemical Characteristics and In Vitro Gastro-Small Intestinal Digestion of New Zealand Ryegrass Proteins
Authors: Kaur Lovedeep , Lamsar Harmandeepsingh , López Ignacio F. , Filippi Manon , Ong Shu Min Dayna , Ah-Sing Kévin , Singh Jaspreet
Published: February 2021

Being widely abundant, grass proteins could be a novel source of plant proteins for human foods. In this study, ryegrass proteins extracted using two different approaches-chemical and enzymatic extraction, were characterised for their physico-chemical and in vitro digestion properties. A New Zealand perennial ryegrass cultivar Trojan was chosen based on its higher protein and lower dry matter contents. Grass protein concentrate (GPC) with protein contents of approximately 55 and 44% were prepared using the chemical and enzymatic approach, respectively. The thermal denaturation temperature of the GPC extracted via acid precipitation and enzymatic treatment was found to be 68.0 ± 0.05 °C and 66.15 ± 0.03 °C, respectively, showing significant differences in protein’s thermal profile according to the method of extraction. The solubility of the GPC was highly variable, depending on the temperature, pH and salt concentration of the dispersion. The solubility of the GPC extracted via enzymatic extraction was significantly lower than the proteins extracted via the chemical method. Digestion of raw GPC was also studied via a gastro-small intestinal in vitro digestion model and was found to be significantly lower, in terms of free amino N release, for the GPC prepared through acid precipitation. These results suggest that the physico-chemical and digestion characteristics of grass proteins are affected by the extraction method employed to extract the proteins. This implies that selection of an appropriate extraction method is of utmost importance for achieving optimum protein functionality during its use for food applications.
Tyrosol-Enriched Tomatoes by Diffusion across the Fruit Peel from a Chitosan Coating: A Proposal of Functional Food
Authors: Tampucci Silvia , Castagna Antonella , Monti Daniela , Manera Clementina , Saccomanni Giuseppe , Chetoni Patrizia , Zucchetti Erica , Barbagallo Mariacristina , Fazio Laura , Santin Marco , Ranieri Annamaria
Published: February 2021

Chitosan is receiving increasing attention from the food industry for being a biodegradable, non-toxic, antimicrobial biopolymer able to extend the shelf life of, and preserve the quality of, fresh food. However, few studies have investigated the ability of chitosan-based coatings to allow the diffusion of bioactive compounds into the food matrix to improve its nutraceutical quality. This research is aimed at testing whether a hydrophilic molecule (tyrosol) could diffuse from the chitosan-tyrosol coating and cross the tomato peel. To this end, in vitro permeation tests using excised tomato peel and an in vivo application of chitosan-tyrosol coating on tomato fruit, followed by tyrosol quantification in intact fruit, peel and flesh during a seven-day storage at room temperature, were performed. Both approaches demonstrated the ability of tyrosol to permeate across the fruit peel. Along with a decreased tyrosol content in the peel, its concentration within the flesh was increased, indicating an active transfer of tyrosol into this tissue. This finding, together with the maintenance of constant tyrosol levels during the seven-day storage period, is very promising for the use of chitosan formulations to produce functional tomato fruit.
Coordinating Carbon Emissions via Production Quantities: A Differential Game Approach
Authors: Fruchter Gila E. , Naseraldin Hussein
Published: February 2021

Production emissions in the industrial sector are a major source of environmental pollution. In this paper, we explore how emission considerations are integrated with production decisions. We develop a dynamic model consisting of two firms located in the same industrial park, which satisfies exogenously given demands in separate markets. The two firms can build up or rundown stocks (full backlogging), both of which are costly. The emission cost depends on the total output of the two firms. We develop Nash equilibrium feedback strategies, where each firm decides on its output based on its inventory or the inventories of both. We also develop a social planning solution where decisions are centralized. We present the analytic results for the total profits in these settings. The results show the benefits of a decentralized approach over a centralized one, provided there is a mechanism for coordination. Finally, emission costs are compared for the various solution concepts.
Role of Probiotics and Their Metabolites in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs)
Authors: Ryma Toumi , Samer Arezki , Soufli Imene , Rafa Hayet , Touil-Boukoffa Chafia
Published: February 2021

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used to describe a group of complex disorders of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. IBDs include two main forms: Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), which share similar clinical symptoms but differ in the anatomical distribution of the inflammatory lesions. The etiology of IBDs is undetermined. Several hypotheses suggest that Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis result from an abnormal immune response against endogenous flora and luminal antigens in genetically susceptible individuals. While there is no cure for IBDs, most common treatments (medication and surgery) aim to reduce inflammation and help patients to achieve remission. There is growing evidence and focus on the prophylactic and therapeutic potential of probiotics in IBDs. Probiotics are live microorganisms that regulate the mucosal immune system, the gut microbiota and the production of active metabolites such as Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs). This review will focus on the role of intestinal dysbiosis in the immunopathogenesis of IBDs and understanding the health-promoting effects of probiotics and their metabolites.