bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Mapping of ms1s, a Recessive Gene for Male Sterility in Common Wheat
Authors: Yang Wenlong , Li Yafei , Sun Linhe , Shoaib Muhammad , Sun Jiazhu , Wang Dongzhi , Li Xin , Liu Dongcheng , Zhan Kehui , Zhang Aimin
Published: August 2021

The utilization of heterosis is an important way to improve wheat yield, and the production of wheat hybrid seeds mainly relies on male-sterile lines. Male sterility in line 15 Fan 03 derived from a cross of 72,180 and Xiaoyan 6 is controlled by a single recessive gene. The gene was mapped to the distal region of chromosome 4BS in a genetic interval of 1.4 cM and physical distance of 6.57 Mb between SSR markers Ms4BS42 and Ms4BS199 using an F2 population with 1205 individuals. Sterile individuals had a deletion of 4.57 Mb in the region presumed to carry the Ms1 locus. The allele for sterility was therefore named ms1s. Three CAPS markers were developed and verified from the region upstream of the deleted fragment and can be used for ms1s marker-assisted selection in wheat hybrid breeding. This work will enrich the utilization of male sterility genetic resources.
A Novel Oxygen Carrier (M101) Attenuates Ischemia-Reperfusion Injuries during Static Cold Storage in Steatotic Livers
Authors: Asong-Fontem Njikem , Panisello-Rosello Arnau , Lopez Alexandre , Imai Katsunori , Zal Franck , Delpy Eric , Rosello-Catafau Joan , Adam René
Published: August 2021

The combined impact of an increasing demand for liver transplantation and a growing incidence of nonalcoholic liver disease has provided the impetus for the development of innovative strategies to preserve steatotic livers. A natural oxygen carrier, HEMO2life®, which contains M101 that is extracted from a marine invertebrate, has been used for static cold storage (SCS) and has shown superior results in organ preservation. A total of 36 livers were procured from obese Zucker rats and randomly divided into three groups, i.e., control, SCS-24H and SCS-24H + M101 (M101 at 1 g/L), mimicking the gold standard of organ preservation. Ex situ machine perfusion for 2 h was used to evaluate the quality of the livers. Perfusates were sampled for functional assessment, biochemical analysis and subsequent biopsies were performed for assessment of ischemia-reperfusion markers. Transaminases, GDH and lactate levels at the end of reperfusion were significantly lower in the group preserved with M101 (p < 0.05). Protection from reactive oxygen species (low MDA and higher production of NO2-NO3) and less inflammation (HMGB1) were also observed in this group (p < 0.05). Bcl-1 and caspase-3 were higher in the SCS-24H group (p < 0.05) and presented more histological damage than those preserved with HEMO2life®. These data demonstrate, for the first time, that the addition of HEMO2life® to the preservation solution significantly protects steatotic livers during SCS by decreasing reperfusion injury and improving graft function.
The SCF Complex Is Essential to Maintain Genome and Chromosome Stability
Authors: Thompson Laura L. , Rutherford Kailee A. , Lepage Chloe C. , McManus Kirk J.
Published: August 2021

The SKP1, CUL1, F-box protein (SCF) complex encompasses a group of 69 SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase complexes that primarily modify protein substrates with poly-ubiquitin chains to target them for proteasomal degradation. These SCF complexes are distinguishable by variable F-box proteins, which determine substrate specificity. Although the function(s) of each individual SCF complex remain largely unknown, those that have been characterized regulate a wide array of cellular processes, including gene transcription and the cell cycle. In this regard, the SCF complex regulates transcription factors that modulate cell signaling and ensures timely degradation of primary cell cycle regulators for accurate replication and segregation of genetic material. SCF complex members are aberrantly expressed in a myriad of cancer types, with altered expression or function of the invariable core SCF components expected to have a greater impact on cancer pathogenesis than that of the F-box proteins. Accordingly, this review describes the normal roles that various SCF complexes have in maintaining genome stability before discussing the impact that aberrant SCF complex expression and/or function have on cancer pathogenesis. Further characterization of the SCF complex functions is essential to identify and develop therapeutic approaches to exploit aberrant SCF complex expression and function.
Intrinsically Conductive Polymers for Striated Cardiac Muscle Repair
Authors: Ul Haq Arsalan , Carotenuto Felicia , De Matteis Fabio , Prosposito Paolo , Francini Roberto , Teodori Laura , Pasquo Alessandra , Di Nardo Paolo
Published: August 2021

One of the most important features of striated cardiac muscle is the excitability that turns on the excitation-contraction coupling cycle, resulting in the heart blood pumping function. The function of the heart pump may be impaired by events such as myocardial infarction, the consequence of coronary artery thrombosis due to blood clots or plaques. This results in the death of billions of cardiomyocytes, the formation of scar tissue, and consequently impaired contractility. A whole heart transplant remains the gold standard so far and the current pharmacological approaches tend to stop further myocardium deterioration, but this is not a long-term solution. Electrically conductive, scaffold-based cardiac tissue engineering provides a promising solution to repair the injured myocardium. The non-conductive component of the scaffold provides a biocompatible microenvironment to the cultured cells while the conductive component improves intercellular coupling as well as electrical signal propagation through the scar tissue when implanted at the infarcted site. The in vivo electrical coupling of the cells leads to a better regeneration of the infarcted myocardium, reducing arrhythmias, QRS/QT intervals, and scar size and promoting cardiac cell maturation. This review presents the emerging applications of intrinsically conductive polymers in cardiac tissue engineering to repair post-ischemic myocardial insult.
Oxytocin and Bone: Review and Perspectives
Authors: Breuil Véronique , Trojani Marie-Charlotte , Ez-Zoubir Amri
Published: August 2021

Recent data demonstrate the anabolic effect of oxytocin on bone. Bone cells express oxytocin receptors. Oxytocin promotes osteoblasts differentiation and function, leading to an increased bone formation with no effect on bone resorption and an improvement of bone microarchitecture. Oxytocin is synthetized by osteoblasts, and this synthesis is stimulated by estrogen. Animal studies demonstrate a direct action of oxytocin on bone, as the systemic administration of oxytocin prevents and reverses the bone loss induced by estrogen deficiency. Although oxytocin is involved in bone formation in both sexes during development, oxytocin treatment has no effect on male osteoporosis, underlining the importance of estrogen that amplifies its local autocrine and paracrine secretion. There are few human data showing a decrease in the oxytocin serum level in anorexia nervosa independently of estrogen and in amenorrheic women associated with impaired bone microarchitecture; in post-menopausal women a higher oxytocin serum level is associated with higher bone density, but not in osteoporotic men. Oxytocin displays many effects that may be beneficial in the management of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive disorders, breast cancer, diabetes and body fat gain, all age-related diseases affecting elderly women, opening exciting therapeutic perspectives, although the issue is to find a single route, dosage and schedule able to reach all these targets.
Co-Aggregation of S100A9 with DOPA and Cyclen-Based Compounds Manifested in Amyloid Fibril Thickening without Altering Rates of Self-Assembly
Authors: Arabuli Lili , Iashchishyn Igor A. , Romanova Nina V. , Musteikyte Greta , Smirnovas Vytautas , Chaudhary Himanshu , Svedružić Željko M. , Morozova-Roche Ludmilla A.
Published: August 2021

The amyloid cascade is central for the neurodegeneration disease pathology, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and remains the focus of much current research. S100A9 protein drives the amyloid-neuroinflammatory cascade in these diseases. DOPA and cyclen-based compounds were used as amyloid modifiers and inhibitors previously, and DOPA is also used as a precursor of dopamine in Parkinson’s treatment. Here, by using fluorescence titration experiments we showed that five selected ligands: DOPA-D-H-DOPA, DOPA-H-H-DOPA, DOPA-D-H, DOPA-cyclen, and H-E-cyclen, bind to S100A9 with apparent Kd in the sub-micromolar range. Ligand docking and molecular dynamic simulation showed that all compounds bind to S100A9 in more than one binding site and with different ligand mobility and H-bonds involved in each site, which all together is consistent with the apparent binding determined in fluorescence experiments. By using amyloid kinetic analysis, monitored by thioflavin-T fluorescence, and AFM imaging, we found that S100A9 co-aggregation with these compounds does not hinder amyloid formation but leads to morphological changes in the amyloid fibrils, manifested in fibril thickening. Thicker fibrils were not observed upon fibrillation of S100A9 alone and may influence the amyloid tissue propagation and modulate S100A9 amyloid assembly as part of the amyloid-neuroinflammatory cascade in neurodegenerative diseases.
Suitability of the In Vitro Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus Test for Genotoxicity Assessment of TiO2 Nanoparticles on SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Fernández-Bertólez Natalia , Brandão Fátima , Costa Carla , Pásaro Eduardo , Teixeira João Paulo , Laffon Blanca , Valdiglesias Vanessa
Published: August 2021

Standard toxicity tests might not be fully adequate for evaluating nanomaterials since their unique features are also responsible for unexpected interactions. The in vitro cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) test is recommended for genotoxicity testing, but cytochalasin-B (Cyt-B) may interfere with nanoparticles (NP), leading to inaccurate results. Our objective was to determine whether Cyt-B could interfere with MN induction by TiO2 NP in human SH-SY5Y cells, as assessed by CBMN test. Cells were treated for 6 or 24 h, according to three treatment options: co-treatment with Cyt-B, post-treatment, and delayed co-treatment. Influence of Cyt-B on TiO2 NP cellular uptake and MN induction as evaluated by flow cytometry (FCMN) were also assessed. TiO2 NP were significantly internalized by cells, both in the absence and presence of Cyt-B, indicating that this chemical does not interfere with NP uptake. Dose-dependent increases in MN rates were observed in CBMN test after co-treatment. However, FCMN assay only showed a positive response when Cyt-B was added simultaneously with TiO2 NP, suggesting that Cyt-B might alter CBMN assay results. No differences were observed in the comparisons between the treatment options assessed, suggesting they are not adequate alternatives to avoid Cyt-B interference in the specific conditions tested.
Interactions of Spike-RBD of SARS-CoV-2 and Platelet Factor 4: New Insights in the Etiopathogenesis of Thrombosis
Authors: Passariello Margherita , Vetrei Cinzia , Amato Felice , De Lorenzo Claudia
Published: August 2021

The rare but dangerous adverse events evidenced after massive vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 are represented by thrombosis and thrombocytopenia. The patients diagnosed with severe COVID-19 may develop a pro-thrombotic state with a much higher frequency, thus we decided to investigate the role of Spike protein (the only common product of the two conditions) or the anti-Spike antibodies in the etiopathogenesis of thrombosis. A pathogenic Platelet Factor 4 (PF4)-dependent syndrome, unrelated to the use of heparin therapy, has been reported after the administration of vaccines in the patients manifesting acute thrombocytopenia and thrombosis. Thus, we aimed at shedding light on the structural similarities of Spike of SARS-CoV-2 and PF4 on their eventual biochemical interactions and on the role of their specific antibodies. The similarities between PF4 and Spike-RBD proteins were evaluated by a comparison of the structures and by testing the cross-reactivity of their specific antibodies by ELISA assays. We found that the anti-Spike antibodies do not recognize PF4, on the contrary, the anti-PF4 antibodies show some cross-reactivity for Spike-RBD. More interestingly, we report for the first time that the PF4 and Spike-RBD proteins can bind each other. These data suggest that the interaction of the two proteins could be involved in the generation of anti-PF4 antibodies, their binding to Spike-RBD, which could lead to platelets aggregation due also to their high expression of ACE2.
Sirolimus Suppresses Phosphorylation of Cofilin and Reduces Interstitial Septal Thickness in Sporadic Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Authors: Huang Yen-Lin , Chen Po-Ru , Lai Ying-Ju , Hsu Hsao-Hsun
Published: August 2021

Sporadic lymphangioleiomyomatosis (S-LAM) is a rare lung disease characterized by the proliferation of smooth muscle-like LAM cells and progressive cystic destruction. Sirolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, has a proven efficacy in patients with LAM. However, the therapeutic mechanisms of sirolimus in LAM remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate sirolimus-related lung parenchymal changes and the potential effect in LAM cells and modulating pathological cystic destruction. Lung specimens were examined for histopathological changes by HMB45 staining and compared the LAM patients treated with and without sirolimus. We detected the overexpression of mTOR, HMB45, and phosphorylation of cofilin (p-cofilin) in LAM patients. Sirolimus showed efficacy in patients with LAM, who exhibited a reduced expression of mTOR and p-cofilin as well as reduced interstitial septal thickness. In addition, sirolimus suppresses mTOR and p-cofilin, thus suppressing the migration and proliferation of LAM cells isolated from the patient’s lung tissue. This study demonstrates that interstitial septal thickness, as determined by histological structural analysis. Sirolimus effectively reduced the expression of p-cofilin and interstitial septal thickness, which may be a novel mechanism by sirolimus. Moreover, we develop a new method to isolate and culture the LAM cell, which can test the possibility of medication in vitro and impact this current study has on the LAM field. The development of approaches to interfere with mTOR-cofilin1-actin signaling may result in an option for S-LAM therapy.
Lymphoid Organ Proteomes Identify Therapeutic Efficacy Biomarkers Following the Intracavitary Administration of Curcumin in a Highly Invasive Rat Model of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Authors: Pouliquen Daniel L. , Boissard Alice , Henry Cécile , Blandin Stéphanie , Coqueret Olivier , Guette Catherine
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to identify the proteomic changes produced by curcumin treatment following stimulation of the host immune system in a rat model of malignant mesothelioma. We analyzed the proteomes of secondary lymphoid organs from four normal rats, four untreated tumor-bearing rats, and four tumor-bearing rats receiving repeated intraperitoneal administrations of curcumin. Cross-comparing proteome analyses of histological sections of the spleen from the three groups first identified a list of eighty-three biomarkers of interest, thirteen of which corresponded to proteins already reported in the literature and involved in the anticancer therapeutic effects of curcumin. In a second step, comparing these data with proteomic analyses of histological sections of mesenteric lymph nodes revealed eight common biomarkers showing a similar pattern of changes in both lymphoid organs. Additional findings included a partial reduction of the increase in spleen-circulating biomarkers, a decrease in C-reactive protein and complement C3 in the spleen and lymph nodes, and an increase in lymph node purine nucleoside phosphorylase previously associated with liver immunodeficiency. Our results suggest some protein abundance changes could be related to the systemic, distant non-target antitumor effects produced by this phytochemical.
The Role of miRNA in the Pathophysiology of Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Geisler Lukas , Mohr Raphael , Lambrecht Joeri , Knorr Jana , Jann Henning , Loosen Sven H. , Özdirik Burcin , Luedde Tom , Hammerich Linda , Tacke Frank , Wree Alexander , Hellberg Teresa , Roderburg Christoph
Published: August 2021

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) represent a tumor group that is both rare and heterogeneous. Prognosis is largely determined by the tumor grading and the site of the primary tumor and metastases. Despite intensive research efforts, only modest advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have been achieved in recent years. For patients with non-respectable tumor stages, prognosis is poor. In this context, the development of novel diagnostic tools for early detection of NETs and prediction of tumor response to therapy as well as estimation of the overall prognosis would greatly improve the clinical management of NETs. However, identification of novel diagnostic molecules is hampered by an inadequate understanding of the pathophysiology of neuroendocrine malignancies. It has recently been demonstrated that microRNA (miRNA), a family of small RNA molecules with an established role in the pathophysiology of quite different cancer entities, may also play a role as a biomarker. Here, we summarize the available knowledge on the role of miRNAs in the development of NET and highlight their potential use as serum-based biomarkers in the context of this disease. We discuss important challenges currently preventing their use in clinical routine and give an outlook on future directions of miRNA research in NET.
Beneficial Effects of Soybean-Derived Bioactive Peptides
Authors: Kim Il-Sup , Yang Woong-Suk , Kim Cheorl-Ho
Published: August 2021

Peptides present in foods are involved in nutritional functions by supplying amino acids; sensory functions related to taste or solubility, emulsification, etc.; and bioregulatory functions in various physiological activities. In particular, peptides have a wide range of physiological functions, including as anticancer agents and in lowering blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels, enhancing immunity, and promoting calcium absorption. Soy protein can be partially hydrolyzed enzymatically to physiologically active soy (or soybean) peptides (SPs), which not only exert physiological functions but also help amino acid absorption in the body and reduce bitterness by hydrolyzing hydrophobic amino acids from the C- or N-terminus of soy proteins. They also possess significant gel-forming, emulsifying, and foaming abilities. SPs are expected to be able to prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the reabsorption of bile acids in the digestive system, thereby reducing blood cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and fat levels. In addition, soy contains blood pressure-lowering peptides that inhibit angiotensin-I converting enzyme activity and antithrombotic peptides that inhibit platelet aggregation, as well as anticancer, antioxidative, antimicrobial, immunoregulatory, opiate-like, hypocholesterolemic, and antihypertensive activities. In animal models, neuroprotective and cognitive capacity as well as cardiovascular activity have been reported. SPs also inhibit chronic kidney disease and tumor cell growth by regulating the expression of genes associated with apoptosis, inflammation, cell cycle arrest, invasion, and metastasis. Recently, various functions of soybeans, including their physiologically active functions, have been applied to health-oriented foods, functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This review introduces some current results on the role of bioactive peptides found in soybeans related to health functions.
Approaches to Enhance Precise CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Genome Editing
Authors: Denes Christopher E. , Cole Alexander J. , Aksoy Yagiz Alp , Li Geng , Neely Graham Gregory , Hesselson Daniel
Published: August 2021

Modification of the human genome has immense potential for preventing or treating disease. Modern genome editing techniques based on CRISPR/Cas9 show great promise for altering disease-relevant genes. The efficacy of precision editing at CRISPR/Cas9-induced double-strand breaks is dependent on the relative activities of nuclear DNA repair pathways, including the homology-directed repair and error-prone non-homologous end-joining pathways. The competition between multiple DNA repair pathways generates mosaic and/or therapeutically undesirable editing outcomes. Importantly, genetic models have validated key DNA repair pathways as druggable targets for increasing editing efficacy. In this review, we highlight approaches that can be used to achieve the desired genome modification, including the latest progress using small molecule modulators and engineered CRISPR/Cas proteins to enhance precision editing.
A Functional GM-CSF Receptor on Dendritic Cells Is Required for Efficient Protective Anti-Tumor Immunity
Authors: Charrier Emily , Vernet Rémi , Schwenter Frank , Luy Patricia , Donda Alena , Mach Nicolas
Published: August 2021

Dendritic cells (DC) play a major role during the priming phase of anti-tumor immunization, as they are required for an efficient tumor-associated antigens presentation. At least one dendritic cell-based therapy has already been successfully approved by regulators for clinical application in prostate cancer patients. Moreover, DC development is dependent on the granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), a cytokine that has been successfully used as a potent inducer of anti-tumoral immunity. To better understand the relation between DC and GM-CSF in anti-tumor immunity, we studied the DC function in mice lacking the cytokine receptor common subunit beta (βc-/-) for GM-CSF, IL-3 and IL-5 and immunized with irradiated tumor cells. Such immunization induces a protective, specific tumor immunization in wild-type mice, while βc-/- mice failed to mount an immune response. Upon in vitro stimulation, DC from βc-/- mice (DCβc-/-) are unable to undergo a full maturation level. In vivo experiments show that they lack the ability to prevent tumor growth, in contrast to DCWT. Moreover, matured DCWT rescued immunization in βc-/- mice. DC maturation is dependent on a functional pathway involving GM-CSF signaling through a biologically functional receptor. These findings may contribute to new strategies for efficient anti-tumor immunotherapies.
The Italian Guidelines on Risk Classification and Management of Bridges: Applications and Remarks on Large Scale Risk Assessments
Authors: Santarsiero Giuseppe , Masi Angelo , Picciano Valentina , Digrisolo Andrea
Published: August 2021

Bridges are essential for guaranteeing the functioning of transportation systems since their failure can cause serious threats to the safety, well-being and economy of modern communities, especially in emergency conditions. Following recent bridge failures, among which include the Morandi bridge in 2018, specific guidelines on risk classification and management, safety assessment and monitoring of existing bridges have been issued in Italy by the Minister of Infrastructure as a mandatory code. They pay particular attention to the evaluation of the residual life span of critical transportation infrastructure dating back to the 1950s and 1960s of the last century. Being a newly issued tool, the Guidelines need to be applied and tested in order to find possible drawbacks and to point out the main factors influencing their results. Therefore, in this study, after a short description of the Italian Guidelines, pointing out some differences with other approaches adopted worldwide, some advantages and disadvantages are discussed by an application to a bridge stock located in the Basilicata region (Italy). Data needed to apply the Guidelines are gathered by a purposely set up procedure that exploits existing databases on road infrastructure (OpenStreetMap) complemented by additional data retrieved by means of public image repositories (Google Street View). By accounting for the qualitative nature of the risk classification results obtained by applying the lower analysis levels of the Guidelines, a prioritization method is proposed for ranking bridges for higher assessment levels and possible interventions, as well as consequent funds allocation. The application shows that the Guidelines’ approach tends to provide conservative results. In fact, even in case of bridges with low degradation levels, the final risk classification induces actions undertaken for preliminary or detailed assessment; thus, normal operation (with periodic inspections) would not be possible anymore.
Colonization and Authentication of the Pyrethroid-Resistant Anopheles gambiae s.s. Muleba-Kis Strain; an Important Test System for Laboratory Screening of New Insecticides
Authors: Azizi Salum , Snetselaar Janneke , Wright Alexandra , Matowo Johnson , Shirima Boniface , Kaaya Robert , Athumani Rashid , Tenu Filemoni , Protopopoff Natacha , Kirby Matthew
Published: August 2021

Background: The emergence and spread of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors to major classes of insecticides call for urgent innovation and application of insecticides with novel modes of action. When evaluating new insecticides for public health, potential candidates need to be screened against both susceptible and resistant mosquitoes to determine efficacy and to identify potential cross-resistance to insecticides currently used for mosquito control. The challenges and lessons learned from establishing, maintaining, and authenticating the pyrethroid-resistant An. gambiae s.s. Muleba-Kis strain at the KCMUCo-PAMVERC Test Facility are described in this paper. Methods: Male mosquitoes from the F1 generation of wild-pyrethroid resistant mosquitoes were cross-bred with susceptible female An. gambiae s.s. Kisumu laboratory strain followed by larval selection using a pyrethroid insecticide solution. Periodic screening for phenotypic and genotypic resistance was done. WHO susceptibility tests and bottle bioassays were used to assess the phenotypic resistance, while Taqman™ assays were used to screen for known target-site resistance alleles (kdr and ace-1). Additionally, the strains were periodically assessed for quality control by monitoring adult weight and wing length. Results: By out-crossing the wild mosquitoes with an established lab strain, a successful resistant insectary colony was established. Intermittent selection pressure using alphacypermethrin has maintained high kdr mutation (leucine-serine) frequencies in the selected colony. There was consistency in the wing length and weight measurements from the year 2016 to 2020, with the exception that one out of four years was significantly different. Mean annual wing length varied between 0.0142–0.0028 mm compared to values obtained in 2016, except in 2019 where it varied by 0.0901 mm. Weight only varied by approximately 0.001 g across four years, except in 2017 where it differed by 0.005 g. Routine phenotypic characterization on Muleba-Kis against pyrethroids using the WHO susceptibility test indicated high susceptibility when type I pyrethroids were used compared to type II pyrethroids. Dynamics on susceptibility status also depended on the lapse time when the selection was last done. Conclusions: This study described the procedure for introducing, colonizing, and maintaining a resistant An. gambiae s.s. strain in the laboratory with leucine to serine substitution kdr allele which reflects the features of the wild-resistant population in East Africa. Challenges in colonizing a wild-resistant mosquito strain were overcome by out-crossing between mosquito strains of desired traits followed by intermittent insecticide selection at the larval stage to select for the resistant phenotype.
Effects, Side Effects and Contraindications of Relaxation Massage during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Mueller Stephanie M. , Grunwald Martin
Published: August 2021

Healthcare professionals and expecting mothers frequently voice concerns that massages during pregnancy might cause complications or premature labor. This PRISMA review outlines current results on effects, side effects and contraindications of relaxation massage during pregnancy. Inclusion criteria: all randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing relaxation massage during pregnancy with standard care or standard care plus another intervention (i.e., progressive muscle relaxation). Restrictions were full text availability and English language. Results: 12 RCT were included. Trials had good methodological quality but unknown risk of bias. All women were at least 12 weeks gestation at the start of the study. The main benefits of massage during pregnancy were: reduced stress, back and leg pain, depression and anxiety; increased immune response; increased serotonin and dopamine levels; higher fetal birth weight and reduced risk of preterm delivery. Only 2 RCT reported potential side effects of massage, which were minor and transient. Seven RCT excluded women with difficult pregnancies or preexisting complications, five studies did not report preexisting conditions. Those obstetric or postnatal complications that occurred were most likely unrelated to massage treatments. In healthy pregnant women without complications, relaxation massage has positive effects throughout pregnancy. Precautions for massage during pregnancy (i.e., to prevent pulmonary embolism) are discussed.
The Perceived Effectiveness of Blockchain for Digital Operational Risk Resilience in the European Union Insurance Market Sector
Authors: Grima Simon , Kizilkaya Murat , Sood Kiran , ErdemDelice Mehmet
Published: August 2021

Due to the rise in the demand for information communication technologies (ICT), the need for operational risk resilience within the European insurance market sector has grown exponentially. This study aims to use the case of blockchain to evaluate whether the five characteristics determined from the literature to be required for effective digital risk resilience (specifically, integration, flexibility, reliability, relevance, and timeliness) have an impact on effectiveness in addressing the requirements of the European Union’s proposed Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). To achieve this, we developed a survey with 29 statements, which participants were required to answer using a five-point Likert scale. In total, 513 valid responses were received from participants. These were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). Results show that in the case of blockchain, reliability, flexibility, and relevance were found to significantly relate to its effectiveness in addressing DORA’s requirements, but relationships of effectiveness with integration and timeliness were found to be insignificant. However, when the experience variable was added to the model as the moderator variable, we found that timeliness and relevance have a significant relationship with blockchain effectiveness, while integration, reliability, and flexibility do not.
Paving the Path towards Efficient Construction Logistics by Revealing the Current Practice and Issues
Authors: Sezer Ahmet Anil , Fredriksson Anna
Published: August 2021

Multiple deliveries and long turnaround times on construction sites harm the environment and disturb on-site productivity and safety. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the transport patterns of construction material deliveries, including turnaround times. In order to investigate the number of transports and turnaround times, transport data for 13 Swedish construction sites, which were collected with the help of booking systems, were used. By comparing data from the cases, several patterns were observed: (i) very few projects receive deliveries at weekends, (ii) almost all projects receive 50% of their daily deliveries before 09:00, (iii) long goods, standard euro pallets and lightweight goods (less than 500 kg) are the most common deliveries, (iv) trucks and delivery vans are the most common vehicles used and (v) goods to be handled by crane and lightweight goods generate the longest turnaround time/delivery. This is one of the rare studies revealing current practice and issues associated with material deliveries, which is a necessary first step to increase efficiency of construction logistics. This study shows that it is possible to influence these issues, as some projects performed better than others regarding turnaround times and transport.
Experimental Study of Chloride Resistance of Polypropylene Fiber Reinforced Concrete with Fly Ash and Modeling
Authors: Chen Xue-Fei , Quan Chang-Qing , Jiao Chu-Jie
Published: August 2021

Herein, the paper reports an experimental investigation lasting one year on the chloride resistance of polypropylene fiber (PF) reinforced concrete with fly ash (FA). Four influential factors at four levels were studied, viz. water to binder ratio (w/b) (0.53, 0.34, 0.29, and 0.25), PF dosage (0%, 0.06%, 0.08%, and 0.1% in volume basis of the total volume of concrete), FA content (0%, 15%, 25%, and 35% in mass substitution ratio of cement) and concentration of NaCl solution (0%, 3%, 5%, and 7%). Dry–wet cyclic immersion and long-term soaking were taken into consideration in addition to the aforementioned factors. A L16(44) orthogonal table was used to sequence influencing factors and to determine the optimal combination. Results showed that 7% NaCl solution caused the highest chloride content in 0–5 mm depth, whilst the w/b ratio of 0.25 curbed the chloride penetration within 10 mm even for concrete subjected to dry–wet cyclic immersion for 360 d. Subsequently, a respond surface model (RSM) basing on polynomials was constructed to visually evaluate the effect of PF dosage and FA content. Results clarified that a cubic model was more precise and PF dosage and FA content turned out to have the positive facilitation to chloride resistance. The positive effect of PF however is not consistent and commensurate for concrete with varied fly ash content. Finally, a fuzzy logic based nonlinear model accommodating all seven influencing factors was verified to be proper and adaptive in predicting chloride content.
Durability Properties of Concrete Supplemented with Recycled CRT Glass as Cementitious Material
Authors: Grdić Dušan Zoran , Topličić-Ćurčić Gordana Aleksandar , Grdić Zoran Jure , Ristić Nenad Srboljub
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the testing of the durability of concrete where a part of cement was replaced with ground panel cathode ray tube glass (CRT) finer than 63 µm. The percentage of cement replaced with glass is 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 35%, by mass. The highest percent share of mineral admixtures in CEM II (Portland-composiste cement) cement was chosen as the top limit of replacement of cement with glass. In terms of the concrete durability, the following tests are performed: freeze-thaw resistance, freeze-thaw resistance with de-icing salts-scaling, resistance to wear according to the Böhme test, sulfate attack resistance, and resistance to penetration of water under pressure. A compressive strength test is performed, and shrinkage of concrete is monitored. In order to determine the microstructure of concrete, SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) analyses were performed. The obtained research results indicate that the replacement of a part of cement with finely ground CRT glass up to 15% by mass has a positive effect on the compressive strength of concrete in terms of its increase without compromising the durability of concrete. The results obtained by experimental testing unequivocally show that concrete mixtures made with partial replacement (up to 15%) of cement with finely ground CRT glass have the same freeze-thaw resistance, resistance to freeze/thaw with de-icing salt, resistance to wear by abrasion, and resistance to sulfate attack as the reference concrete. In terms of environmental protection, the use of CRT glass as a component for making concrete is also very significant.
An Investigation into the Effect of Electro-Contact Heating in the Machining of Low-Rigidity Thin-Walled Micro-Machine Parts
Authors: Świć Antoni , Gola Arkadiusz , Orynycz Olga , Tucki Karol
Published: August 2021

Low-rigidity thin-walled parts are components of many machines and devices, including high precision electric micro-machines used in control and tracking systems. Unfortunately, traditional machining methods used for machining such types of parts cause a significant reduction in efficiency and in many cases do not allow obtaining the required accuracy parameters. Moreover, they also fail to meet modern automation requirements and are uneconomical and inefficient. Therefore, the aim of provided studies was to investigate the dependency of cutting forces on cutting parameters and flank wear, as well as changes in cutting forces induced by changes in heating current density and machining parameters during the turning of thin-walled parts. The tests were carried out on a specially designed and constructed turning test stand for measuring cutting forces and temperature at specific cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut values. As part of the experiments, the effect of cutting parameters and flank wear on cutting forces, and the effect of heating current density and turning parameters on changes in cutting forces were analyzed. Moreover, the effect of cutting parameters (depth of cut, feed rate, and cutting speed) on temperature has been determined. Additionally, a system for controlling electro-contact heating and investigated the relationship between changes in cutting forces and machining time in the operations of turning micro-machine casings with and without the use of the control system was developed. The obtained results show that the application of an electro-contact heating control system allows to machine conical parts and semi-finished products at lower cutting forces and it leads to an increase in the deformation of the thin-walled casings caused by runout of the workpiece.
Influences of Air-Voids on the Performance of 3D Printing Cementitious Materials
Authors: Che Yujun , Tang Shengwen , Yang Huashan , Li Weiwei , Shi Mengyuan
Published: August 2021

This paper focuses on inspecting the influences of anti-foaming agent (AFA) on the performance of 3D printing cementitious materials (3DPC). The mini-slump, spreading diameter, yield stress, and strength of 3DPC were evaluated. Additionally, the air-void content, air-void morphology, and air-void size distribution of mortar with and without 0.05% AFA were assessed through image analysis. The mechanical performance and air-void structure of 3D printed samples were also investigated and compared to that of conventionally mould cast samples. Test results show that an optimal AFA content enables 3DPC to achieve favorable workability and mechanical performance. The addition of AFA exhibits lower air-void content in 3DPC than that of the sample without the AFA addition. This reduction in air-void content is further strengthened by the results of strength analysis. Electron microscope analysis shows that the use of AFA results in the suppressed formation of large air-voids during the process of fresh 3DPC. Moreover, the air-void morphology substantially influenced the mechanical performance of hardened 3DPC.
Enhancement in Cathodic Redox Reactions of Single-Chambered Microbial Fuel Cells with Castor Oil-Emitted Powder as Cathode Material
Authors: Kumbar Shobha Suresh , Jadhav Dipak Ashok , Jarali Chetan S. , Talange Dhananjay B. , Afzal Asif , Khan Sher Afghan , Asif Mohammad , Abdullah Mohd. Zulkifly
Published: August 2021

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) would be a standalone solution for clean, sustainable energy and rural electrification. It can be used in addition to wastewater treatment for bioelectricity generation. Materials chosen for the membrane and electrodes are of low cost with suitable conducting ions and electrical properties. The prime objective of the present work is to enhance redox reactions by using novel and low-cost cathode catalysts synthesized from waste castor oil. Synthesized graphene has been used as an anode, castor oil-emitted carbon powder serves as a cathode, and clay material acts as a membrane. Three single-chambered MFC modules developed were used in the current study, and continuous readings were recorded. The maximum voltage achieved was 0.36 V for a 100 mL mixture of domestic wastewater and cow dung for an anodic chamber of 200 mL. The maximum power density obtained was 7280 mW/m2. In addition, a performance test was evaluated for another MFC with inoculums slurry, and a maximum voltage of 0.78 V and power density of 34.4093 mW/m2 with an anodic chamber of 50 mL was reported. The present study’s findings show that such cathode catalysts can be a suitable option for practical applications of microbial fuel cells.
Antimicrobial Activity and Action Mechanisms of Arg-Rich Short Analog Peptides Designed from the C-Terminal Loop Region of American Oyster Defensin (AOD)
Authors: Seo Jung-Kil , Kim Dong-Gyun , Lee Ji-Eun , Park Kwon-Sam , Lee In-Ah , Lee Ki-Young , Kim Young-Ok , Nam Bo-Hye
Published: August 2021

American oyster defensin (AOD) was previously purified from acidified gill extract of the American oyster, Crassostrea virginica. AOD is composed of 38 amino acids with three disulfide bonds and exhibits strong antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria as well as significant activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Here, to develop promising peptides into antibiotic candidates, we designed five arginine-rich analogs (A0, A1, A2, A3, and A4), predicted their loop and extended strand/random structures—including nine amino acids and a disulfide bond derived from the C-terminus of AOD—and described their antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects, as well as their modes of action. In our experimental results, the A3 and A4 analogs exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against all test organisms—including four Gram-positive bacteria, six Gram-negative bacteria, and Candida albicans—without cell toxicity. A sequence of experiments, including a membrane permeabilization assay, DNA binding study, and DNA polymerization inhibition test, indicated that the two analogs (A3 and A4) possibly did not act directly on the bacterial membrane but instead interacted with intracellular components such as DNA or DNA amplification reactions. AOD analogs also showed strong bacterial inhibition activity in the plasma environment. In addition, analog-treated microbial cells clearly exhibited membrane disruption, damage, and leakage of cytoplasmic contents. Collectively, our results suggest that two analogs, A3 and A4, have potent antimicrobial activity via DNA interaction and have the potential for development into novel antimicrobial agents.
Botryllus schlosseri as a Unique Colonial Chordate Model for the Study and Modulation of Innate Immune Activity
Authors: Goldstein Oron , Mandujano-Tinoco Edna Ayerim , Levy Tom , Talice Shani , Raveh Tal , Gershoni-Yahalom Orly , Voskoboynik Ayelet , Rosental Benyamin
Published: August 2021

Understanding the mechanisms that sustain immunological nonreactivity is essential for maintaining tissue in syngeneic and allogeneic settings, such as transplantation and pregnancy tolerance. While most transplantation rejections occur due to the adaptive immune response, the proinflammatory response of innate immunity is necessary for the activation of adaptive immunity. Botryllus schlosseri, a colonial tunicate, which is the nearest invertebrate group to the vertebrates, is devoid of T- and B-cell-based adaptive immunity. It has unique characteristics that make it a valuable model system for studying innate immunity mechanisms: (i) a natural allogeneic transplantation phenomenon that results in either fusion or rejection; (ii) whole animal regeneration and noninflammatory resorption on a weekly basis; (iii) allogeneic resorption which is comparable to human chronic rejection. Recent studies in B. schlosseri have led to the recognition of a molecular and cellular framework underlying the innate immunity loss of tolerance to allogeneic tissues. Additionally, B. schlosseri was developed as a model for studying hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation, and it provides further insights into the similarities between the HSC niches of human and B. schlosseri. In this review, we discuss why studying the molecular and cellular pathways that direct successful innate immune tolerance in B. schlosseri can provide novel insights into and potential modulations of these immune processes in humans.
Successful Treatment of a Patient with Cardiac Arrest Due to Hyperkalemia by Prolonged Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation along with Hemodialysis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kose Nuri , Bilgin Ferruh
Published: August 2021

Severe hyperkalemia is a potentially life threatening cardiac emergency, especially in patients with renal failure, and can lead to fatal arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or asystole, leading to cardiac arrest. We report a case of a 39-year-old woman who developed sudden cardiac arrest secondary to hyperkalemia (9.95 mEq/L) with renal insufficiency. Despite 20 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and conventional treatment for hyperkalemia, the cardiac arrest persisted. Hemodialysis was then initiated via the right femoral vein during CPR, and the patient restored spontaneous heartbeat 40 min later. Hemodialysis should be considered in the course of CPR in severe hyperkalemia induced cardiac arrest if conventional therapies fail.
Mathematical Programming Application in Sublevel Caving Production Scheduling
Authors: Khazaei Soroush , Pourrahimian Yashar
Published: August 2021

Production scheduling determines the most beneficial mining sequence over the life of a mine. Developing a schedule that meets all mining aspects can substantially reduce mining costs and increase profitability. Among all underground mining methods, the sublevel caving method is a common method with moderate development requirements, a high production rate, and a high degree of mechanization and flexibility. None of the manual planning methods and heuristic algorithms used in commercial software will lead to a truly optimal schedule. Mathematical programming models, particularly mixed-integer programming (MIP), have been applied to provide an operationally feasible multi-time-period schedule in sublevel caving. However, confined blasting conditions, chaotic material flow, and frequent mixing of ore and waste while loading broken ore at the drawpoint make the sublevel caving method unique when producing a holistic plan. This paper reviews all mathematical programming models presented in sublevel caving production scheduling, highlights the inherent characteristics of the sublevel caving that affect production, and puts forward some promising ideas for future works.