bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Across the COVID-19 Waves; Assessing Temporal Fluctuations in Perceived Stress, Post-Traumatic Symptoms, Worry, Anxiety and Civic Moral Disengagement over One Year of Pandemic
Authors: Gori Alessio , Topino Eleonora
Published: May 2021

This study aimed at investigating the psychological effect of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy by analysing the trends of perceived stress, post-traumatic symptoms, state anxiety, worry, and civic moral disengagement in four different moments from March 2020 to March 2021. The study involved a total of 1827 Italian participants (30% men and 70% women; Mage = 34.72; SD = 12.40) divided into four groups to which an online survey was administered. The first group completed the survey in March 2020, the second one in August 2020, the third one in November 2020, and the fourth one in March 2021. Results highlighted significant decreases in post-traumatic symptoms and a significant increase in civic moral disengagement over the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The levels of perceived stress, worry, and state anxiety remained constant. The correlations between the variables at different times were also explored, as well as gender differences over the year. The COVID-19 emergency has had significant effects on the mental state of the population, with important repercussions for individual and collective well-being during but probably also after the pandemic. This study offers a clear snapshot of the psychological outcomes over one COVID-19 pandemic year, providing important information that may contribute to tailor more effective interventions for mental health.
Study Protocol: Phase I Dose Escalation Study of Oxaliplatin, Cisplatin and Doxorubicin Applied as PIPAC in Patients with Peritoneal Metastases
Authors: Robella Manuela , Berchialla Paola , Borsano Alice , Cinquegrana Armando , Ilari Civit Alba , De Simone Michele , Vaira Marco
Published: May 2021

Pressurized Intra-Peritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) is a novel laparoscopic intraperitoneal chemotherapy approach offered in selected patients affected by non-resectable peritoneal carcinomatosis. Drugs doses currently established for nebulization are very low: oxaliplatin (OXA) 120 mg/sm, cisplatin (CDDP) 10.5 mg/sm and doxorubicin (DXR) 2.1 mg/sm. A model-based approach for dose-escalation design in a single PIPAC procedure and subsequent dose escalation steps is planned. The starting dose of oxaliplatin is 100 mg/sm with a maximum estimated dose of 300 mg/sm; an escalation with overdose and under-dose control (for probability of toxicity less than 16% in case of under-dosing and probability of toxicity greater than 33% in case of overdosing) will be further applied. Cisplatin is used in association with doxorubicin: A two-dimensional dose-finding design is applied on the basis of the estimated dose limiting toxicity (DLT) at all combinations. The starting doses are 15 mg/sm for cisplatin and 3 mg/sm for doxorubicin. Safety is assessed according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE version 4.03). Secondary endpoints include radiological response according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor (version 1.1) and pharmacokinetic analyses. This phase I study can provide the scientific basis to maximize the optimal dose of cisplatin, doxorubicin and oxaliplatin applied as PIPAC.
Roman Aqueduct Flow Estimation Using Geomatic Measurement
Authors: Alimonti Claudio , Baiocchi Valerio , Bonanotte Giorgia , Molnár Gábor
Published: May 2021

The aqueducts built by the ancient Romans are among the most impressive evidence of their engineering skills. The water inside the aqueducts was transported for kilometers, exploiting only the slight but constant differences in altitude throughout the route. To keep the differences in height constant, the aqueducts could proceed underground or aboveground on well-known arched structures that supported lead, ceramic or stone pipes. In order to reconstruct the characteristics of these structures, it is necessary to carry out an accurate survey of the orthometric heights, and therefore the most suitable technology is geometric levelling. In this case, however, it is not applicable, and therefore here we propose an alternative methodology. The final goal of this work was to estimate the flow of some sectors of these aqueducts preserved in the area south of the city of Rome. This has two main purposes: The first is to reconstruct the flow rate of these aqueducts for historical studies; the second is to check how much the orthometric heights have changed over the centuries, in order to reconstruct the movements from a geophysical and geodynamic point of view. The latter analysis will be developed in a following phase of this research. For this purpose, a high-precision geomatic survey was carried out in the area under study, partly retracing a survey already carried out in 1917 whose purpose and methodologies are not known. The area has been affected by a gradual subsidence over centuries, including since 1917. The observed sections of the aqueducts showed average inclinations, slightly lower than the 2 per thousand that is reported in the literature for similar aqueducts. The measurements carried out allowed the flow rate of the two specific aqueducts to be estimated more accurately, both as they were originally and in the presence of deposits that have accumulated during the years of use of the aqueducts. The reconstruction of the initial geometry will later be used as a reference to estimate how much the geodynamic deformations of the area have deformed the aqueducts themselves.
Assessment and Visualization of OSM Consistency for European Cities
Authors: Zacharopoulou Dimitra , Skopeliti Andriani , Nakos Byron
Published: May 2021

Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) is a widely used data source in various fields and services, such as environmental monitoring, disaster and crisis management, SDI, and mapping. Quality is a critical factor for the usability of VGI. This study focuses on evaluating logical consistency based on the topological relationships between geographic features while considering semantics. It addresses internal (i.e., between thematic layers) and external (i.e., between specific features from different thematic layers) logical consistency. Attribute completeness is computed to support the use of semantics. A tool for assessing the consistency and attribute completeness is designed and implemented in the ArcGIS environment. An open-source web mapping application informs users about VGI consistency with multiscale visualization and indices. Data from OpenStreetMap (OSM), one of the most popular collaborative projects, are evaluated for six European cities: Athens, Berlin, Paris, Utrecht, Vienna, and Zurich. The case study uses OSM-derived data, downloaded from Geofabrik and organized into thematic layers. OSM’s consistency is evaluated and visualized at the regional, city, and feature levels. The results are discussed and conclusions on attribute completeness and consistency are derived.
High Concordance of Genomic Profiles between Primary and Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Lee Seung Eun , Park Ha Young , Hwang Dae-Yong , Han Hye Seung
Published: May 2021

The comparison of the genetic profiles between primary and metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) is needed to enable the discovery of useful therapeutic targets against metastatic CRCs. We performed the targeted next generation sequencing assay of 170 cancer-associated genes for 142 metastatic CRCs, including 95 pairs of primary and metastatic CRCs, to reveal their genomic characteristics and to assess the genetic heterogeneity. The most frequently mutated gene in primary and metastatic CRCs was APC (71% vs. 65%), TP53 (54% vs. 57%), KRAS (45% vs. 44%), PIK3CA (16% vs. 19%), SMAD4 (15% vs. 14%) and FBXW7 (11% vs. 11%). The concordance in the top six frequently mutated genes was 85%, on average. The overall mutation frequencies were consistent with two sets of public data (TCGA and MSKCC). To the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to compare the genetic profiles of our cohort with that of the metastatic CRCs from MSKCC. Comparative sequencing analysis between primary and metastatic CRCs revealed a high degree of genetic concordance in the current clinically actionable genes. Therefore, the genetic investigation of archived primary tumor samples with the challenges of obtaining an adequate sample from metastatic sites appears to be sufficient for the application of cancer precision medicine in the metastatic setting.
Attachment of Cancer Urothelial Cells to the Bladder Epithelium Occurs on Uroplakin-Negative Cells and Is Mediated by Desmosomal and Not by Classical Cadherins
Authors: Jerman Urška Dragin , Višnjar Tanja , Bratkovič Iva Hafner , Resnik Nataša , Pavlin Mojca , Veranič Peter , Kreft Mateja Erdani
Published: May 2021

Urinary bladder cancer is often multifocal; however, the intraluminal dissemination of the urothelial cancer cells is poorly understood. The involvement of N-cadherin in the adhesion of the cancer urothelial cells to the urothelium had not previously been studied. Therefore, we herein explore the possibility of the intraluminal dissemination of the urothelial cancer cells by evaluating the role of classical cadherins in the adhesion of urothelial cancer cells to the urothelium. We used E-cadherin negative T24 cells and established a T24 Ncadlow cell line with an additionally decreased expression of N-cadherin in the plasma membrane and a decreased secretion of proform of metalloproteinase 2. The labelled T24 and T24 Ncadlow cells were seeded onto urothelial in vitro models. After 24 h in co-culture, unattached cancer cells were rinsed and urothelia with attached cancer urothelial cells were processed for fluorescence and electron microscopy. Both the T24 and T24 Ncadlow cells attached to the urothelium, yet only to the uroplakin-negative urothelial cells. The ultrastructural analysis showed that T24 and T24 Ncadlow cells adhere to poorly differentiated urothelial cells by desmosomes. To achieve this, they first disrupt tight junctions of superficial urothelial cells. This study indicates that the lack of E-cadherin expression and decreased expression of N-cadherin in the plasma membrane of T24 cells does not interfere with their adhesion to the urothelium; therefore, our results suggest that intraluminal dissemination of cancer urothelial cells along the urothelium occurs on uroplakin-negative cells and is desmosome-mediated.
Genome-Wide Analysis of RAV Transcription Factors and Functional Characterization of Anthocyanin-Biosynthesis-Related RAV Genes in Pear
Authors: Liu Jianlong , Deng Zhiwei , Liang Chenglin , Sun Hongwei , Li Dingli , Song Jiankun , Zhang Shaoling , Wang Ran
Published: May 2021

Related to ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE3/VIVIPAROUS1 (ABI3/VP1, RAV), transcription factors (TFs) belonging to the APETALA2/ETHYLENE RESPONSIVE FACTOR (AP2/ERF) TF family play critical roles in plant growth, development, and responses to abiotic and biotic stress. In this study, 11 novel RAV TFs were identified in pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd). A phylogenetic analysis revealed that the TFs clustered into three groups with 10 conserved motifs, some of which were group- or subgroup-specific, implying that they are important for the functions of the RAVs in these clades. RAVs in Pyrus and Malus were closely related, and the former showed a collinear relationship. Analysis of their expression patterns in different tissues and at various growth stages and their responses to abiotic and biotic stress suggested that PbRAV6 and PbRAV7 play important roles in drought stress and salt stress, respectively. We investigated the function of RAVs in pear peel coloration using two red pear varieties with different color patterns and applying data from transcriptome analyses. We found that PbRAV6 participates in the regulation of pericarp color. These findings provide insight into a new TF family in pear and a basis for further studies on the response to drought stress and fruit coloration in this commercially important crop.
Caspase-14—From Biomolecular Basics to Clinical Approach. A Review of Available Data
Authors: Markiewicz Agnieszka , Sigorski Dawid , Markiewicz Mateusz , Owczarczyk-Saczonek Agnieszka , Placek Waldemar
Published: May 2021

Caspase-14 is a unique member of the caspase family—a family of molecules participating in apoptosis. However, it does not affect this process but regulates another form of programmed cell death—cornification, which is characteristic of the epidermis. Therefore, it plays a crucial role in the formation of the skin barrier. The cell death cycle has been a subject of interest for researchers for decades, so a lot of research has been done to expand the understanding of caspase-14, its role in cell homeostasis and processes affecting its expression and activation. Conversely, it is also an interesting target for clinical researchers searching for its role in the physiology of healthy individuals and its pathophysiology in particular diseases. A summary was done in 2008 by Denecker et al., concentrating mostly on the biotechnological aspects of the molecule and its physiological role. However, a lot of new data have been reported, and some more practical and clinical research has been conducted since then. The majority of studies tackled the issue of clinical data presenting the role of caspase in the etiopathology of many diseases such as retinal dysfunctions, multiple malignancies, and skin conditions. This review summarizes the available knowledge on the molecular and, more interestingly, the clinical aspects of caspase-14. It also presents how theoretical science may pave the way for medical research. Methods: The authors analyzed publications available on PubMed until 21 March 2021, using the search term “caspase 14”.
Dynamics of Bacterial Community Structure in the Rhizosphere and Root Nodule of Soybean: Impacts of Growth Stages and Varieties
Authors: Sohn Soo-In , Ahn Jae-Hyung , Pandian Subramani , Oh Young-Ju , Shin Eun-Kyoung , Kang Hyeon-Jung , Cho Woo-Suk , Cho Youn-Sung , Shin Kong-Sik
Published: May 2021

Bacterial communities in rhizosphere and root nodules have significant contributions to the growth and productivity of the soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). In this report, we analyzed the physiological properties and dynamics of bacterial community structure in rhizosphere and root nodules at different growth stages using BioLog EcoPlate and high-throughput sequencing technology, respectively. The BioLog assay found that the metabolic capability of rhizosphere is in increasing trend in the growth of soybeans as compared to the bulk soil. As a result of the Illumina sequencing analysis, the microbial community structure of rhizosphere and root nodules was found to be influenced by the variety and growth stage of the soybean. At the phylum level, Actinobacteria were the most abundant in rhizosphere at all growth stages, followed by Alphaproteobacteria and Acidobacteria, and the phylum Bacteroidetes showed the greatest change. But, in the root nodules Alphaproteobacteria were dominant. The results of the OTU analysis exhibited the dominance of Bradyrhizobium during the entire stage of growth, but the ratio of non-rhizobial bacteria showed an increasing trend as the soybean growth progressed. These findings revealed that bacterial community in the rhizosphere and root nodules changed according to both the variety and growth stages of soybean in the field.
Preferent Diaphragmatic Involvement in TK2 Deficiency: An Autopsy Case Study
Authors: Laine-Menéndez Sara , Domínguez-González Cristina , Blázquez Alberto , Delmiro Aitor , García-Consuegra Inés , Fernández-de la Torre Miguel , Hernández-Laín Aurelio , Sayas Javier , Martín Miguel Ángel , Morán María
Published: May 2021

Our goal was to analyze postmortem tissues of an adult patient with late-onset thymidine kinase 2 (TK2) deficiency who died of respiratory failure. Compared with control tissues, we found a low mtDNA content in the patient’s skeletal muscle, liver, kidney, small intestine, and particularly in the diaphragm, whereas heart and brain tissue showed normal mtDNA levels. mtDNA deletions were present in skeletal muscle and diaphragm. All tissues showed a low content of OXPHOS subunits, and this was especially evident in diaphragm, which also exhibited an abnormal protein profile, expression of non-muscular β-actin and loss of GAPDH and α-actin. MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry analysis demonstrated the loss of the enzyme fructose-bisphosphate aldolase, and enrichment for serum albumin in the patient’s diaphragm tissue. The TK2-deficient patient’s diaphragm showed a more profound loss of OXPHOS proteins, with lower levels of catalase, peroxiredoxin 6, cytosolic superoxide dismutase, p62 and the catalytic subunits of proteasome than diaphragms of ventilated controls. Strong overexpression of TK1 was observed in all tissues of the patient with diaphragm showing the highest levels. TK2 deficiency induces a more profound dysfunction of the diaphragm than of other tissues, which manifests as loss of OXPHOS and glycolytic proteins, sarcomeric components, antioxidants and overactivation of the TK1 salvage pathway that is not attributed to mechanical ventilation.
Candidate Genes for Eyelid Myoclonia with Absences, Review of the Literature
Authors: Mayo Sonia , Gómez-Manjón Irene , Fernández-Martínez Fco. Javier , Camacho Ana , Martínez Francisco , Benito-León Julián
Published: May 2021

Eyelid myoclonia with absences (EMA), also known as Jeavons syndrome (JS) is a childhood onset epileptic syndrome with manifestations involving a clinical triad of absence seizures with eyelid myoclonia (EM), photosensitivity (PS), and seizures or electroencephalogram (EEG) paroxysms induced by eye closure. Although a genetic contribution to this syndrome is likely and some genetic alterations have been defined in several cases, the genes responsible for have not been identified. In this review, patients diagnosed with EMA (or EMA-like phenotype) with a genetic diagnosis are summarized. Based on this, four genes could be associated to this syndrome (SYNGAP1, KIA02022/NEXMIF, RORB, and CHD2). Moreover, although there is not enough evidence yet to consider them as candidate for EMA, three more genes present also different alterations in some patients with clinical diagnosis of the disease (SLC2A1, NAA10, and KCNB1). Therefore, a possible relationship of these genes with the disease is discussed in this review.
Comparison of Jaw Elevation Device vs. Conventional Airway Assist during Sedation in Chronic Kidney Diseases Undergoing Arteriovenous Fistula Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Sang Hyun , Jeong Ji Seon , Jang Jaeni , Shin Young Hee , Gil Nam-Su , Choi Ji-won , Hahm Tae Soo
Published: May 2021

Patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) are likely to have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) underdiagnosed, and maintaining airway patency is important during sedation. This study compared Jaw elevation device (JED) with conventional airway interventions (head lateral rotation, neck extension, oral or nasal airway insertion, and jaw thrust maneuver) during sedation and hypothesized that JED may be effective to open the airway. A total of 73 patients were allocated to a conventional group (n = 39) and a JED group (n = 34). The number of additional airway interventions was the primary outcome. Percentage of patients with no need of additional interventions and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) were secondary outcomes. The number of additional interventions was significantly less in the JED group compared to the conventional group (0 (0–0) vs. 1 (0–2); p = 0.002). The percentage of patients with no requirement for additional interventions was significantly higher in the JED group compared to the conventional group (76.5% vs. 43.6%; p = 0.004). AHI was significantly lower in the JED group compared to the conventional group (4.5 (1.5–11.9) vs. 9.3 (3.8–21.9), p = 0.015). In conclusion, JED seems to be effective in opening the airway patency during sedation in CRF patients.
Major Left Bundle Branch Block and Coronary Heart Disease—Are There Any Differences between the Sexes?
Authors: Gurzău Diana , Dădârlat-Pop Alexandra , Caloian Bogdan , Cismaru Gabriel , Comşa Horaţiu , Tomoaia Raluca , Zdrenghea Dumitru , Pop Dana
Published: May 2021

Left bundle branch block is not a benign pathology, and its presence requires the identification of a pathological substrate, such as ischemic heart disease. Left bundle branch block appears to be more commonly associated with normal coronary arteries, especially in women. The objectives of our study were to describe the particularities of left bundle branch block in women compared to men with ischemic heart disease. Result: We included seventy patients with left bundle branch block and ischemic heart disease, with a mean age of 67.01 ± 8.89 years. There were no differences in the profile of risk factors, except for smoking and uric acid. The ventricular depolarization (QRS) duration was longer in men than women (136.86 ± 8.32 vs. 132.57 ± 9.19 msec; p = 0.018) and also men were observed to have larger left ventricular diameters. Left bundle branch block duration was directly associated with ventricular diameters and indirectly associated with left ventricular ejection fraction value, especially in women (R = −0.52, p = 0.0012 vs. R = −0.50, p = 0.002). In angiography, 80% of women had normal epicardial arteries compared with 65.7% of men; all these patients presented with microvascular dysfunction. Conclusion: The differences between the sexes were not so obvious in terms of the presence of risk factors; instead, there were differences in electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and angiographic aspects. Left bundle branch block appears to be a marker of microvascular angina and systolic dysfunction, especially in women.
Characteristics of Moyamoya Disease in the Older Population: Is It Possible to Define a Typical Presentation and Optimal Therapeutical Management?
Authors: Vetrano Ignazio G. , Bersano Anna , Canavero Isabella , Restelli Francesco , Raccuia Gabriella , Ciceri Elisa F. , Faragò Giuseppe , Gioppo Andrea , Broggi Morgan , Schiariti Marco , Gatti Laura , Ferroli Paolo , Acerbi Francesco
Published: May 2021

Whereas several studies have been so far presented about the surgical outcomes in terms of mortality and perioperative complications for elderly patients submitted to neurosurgical treatments, the management of elderly moyamoya patients is unclear. This review aims to explore the available data about the clinical manifestation, characteristics, and outcome after surgery of older patients with moyamoya arteriopathy (MA). We found only two articles strictly concerning elderly patients with MA. We have also evaluated other reported adult series of moyamoya patients, including elderly cases in their analysis. Patients with MA above 50 years old may be considered a peculiar subset in which patients are often presenting with ischemic symptoms and a higher Suzuki grade. Conservative treatment may be proposed in asymptomatic or stable cases due to their fragility and possible increase of post-operative complications, while the best surgical options in symptomatic cases are still under investigation, although we believe that a minimal invasive superficial temporal artery—middle cerebral artery bypass could be considered the treatment of choice for the immediate effect on brain perfusion with a limited rate of post-operative complications.
Sex Differences, Genetic and Environmental Influences on Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jain Angita , Norton Nadine , Bruno Katelyn A. , Cooper Leslie T. , Atwal Paldeep S. , Fairweather DeLisa
Published: May 2021

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by dilatation of the left ventricle and impaired systolic function and is the second most common cause of heart failure after coronary heart disease. The etiology of DCM is diverse including genetic pathogenic variants, infection, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, exposure to chemicals/toxins as well as endocrine and neuromuscular causes. DCM is inherited in 20–50% of cases where more than 30 genes have been implicated in the development of DCM with pathogenic variants in TTN (Titin) most frequently associated with disease. Even though male sex is a risk factor for heart failure, few studies have examined sex differences in the pathogenesis of DCM. We searched the literature for studies examining idiopathic or familial/genetic DCM that reported data by sex in order to determine the sex ratio of disease. We found 31 studies that reported data by sex for non-genetic DCM with an average overall sex ratio of 2.5:1 male to female and 7 studies for familial/genetic DCM with an overall average sex ratio of 1.7:1 male to female. No manuscripts that we found had more females than males in their studies. We describe basic and clinical research findings that may explain the increase in DCM in males over females based on sex differences in basic physiology and the immune and fibrotic response to damage caused by mutations, infections, chemotherapy agents and autoimmune responses.
Therapeutic Targets and Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Gallo Gaetano , Vescio Giuseppina , De Paola Gilda , Sammarco Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a genetically, anatomically, and transcriptionally heterogeneous disease. The prognosis for a CRC patient depends on the stage of the tumor at diagnosis and widely differs accordingly. The tumor microenvironment (TME) in CRC is an important factor affecting targeted cancer therapy. The TME has a dynamic composition including various cell types, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor-associated macrophages, regulatory T cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, as well as extracellular factors that surround cancer cells and have functional and structural roles under physiological and pathological conditions. Moreover, the TME can limit the efficacy of therapeutic agents through high interstitial pressure, fibrosis, and the degradation of the therapeutic agents by enzymatic activity. For this reason, the TME is a fertile ground for the discovery of new drugs. The aim of this narrative review is to present current knowledge and future perspectives regarding the TME composition based on strategies for patients with CRC.
Impact of Cardiovascular Risk Factors on the Occurrence of Cardiovascular Events in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA)-Associated Vasculitides
Authors: Roubille Camille , Henriquez Soledad , Mercuzot Cédric , Duflos Claire , Dunogue Bertrand , Briot Karine , Guillevin Loic , Terrier Benjamin , Fesler Pierre
Published: May 2021

Despite improvement in the prognosis of ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAVs), increased mortality, mainly from a cardiovascular origin, persists. We aimed to determine the role of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) on the occurrence of major cardiovascular events (MACEs) in AAVs. Patients with AAVs were successively included in a prospective cohort study, which assessed CVRFs (defined by age >50 years in men and >60 years in women, personal history of cardiovascular disease, smoking status, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and sedentary lifestyle), the use of glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents at baseline and during follow-up, and the occurrence of MACEs. One hundred and three patients were included, with a median follow-up time of 3.5 years. In the glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide adjusted multivariate analysis, the occurrence of MACEs was associated with older age (p = 0.001, OR = 14.71, 95% CI (confidence interval) = 2.98–72.68), cardiovascular history (p = 0.007, OR (odds ratio) = 6.54, 95% CI = 1.66–25.71), sedentary lifestyle (p = 0.011, OR = 4.50, 95% CI = 1.42–14.29), hypertension (p = 0.017, OR = 5.04, 95% CI = 1.33–19.12), and dyslipidemia (p = 0.03, OR = 3.86, 95% CI = 1.14–13.09). The occurrence of MACEs was associated with the number of CVRFs (p < 0.001), but not with the use of glucocorticoids or cyclophosphamide (p = 0.733 and p = 0.339, respectively). The implementation of a screening and management program for modifiable CVRFs, particularly hypertension, sedentary lifestyle, and dyslipidemia, may be beneficial for AAV patients in order to reduce their cardiovascular risk.
Incidence of Herpes Zoster in HIV-Infected Patients Undergoing Antiretroviral Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ku Han-Chang , Tsai Yi-Tseng , Konara-Mudiyanselage Sriyani-Padmalatha , Wu Yi-Lin , Yu Tsung , Ko Nai-Ying
Published: May 2021

The incidence of herpes zoster (HZ) in patients infected with HIV is higher than that of the general population. However, the incidence of HZ in HIV patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled incidence rate and risk factors for HZ in the post-ART era. We identified studies assessing the incidence of HZ in the post-ART era between 1 January 2000 and 28 February 2021, from four databases. Pooled risk ratios were calculated from 11 articles using a random-effects model. The heterogeneity of the included trials was evaluated by visually inspecting funnel plots, performing random-effects meta-regression and using I2 statistics. Of the 2111 studies screened, we identified 11 studies that were eligible for final inclusion in the systematic review and 8 studies that were eligible for a meta-analysis. The pooled incidence of HZ in the post-ART era (after the introduction of ART in 1997) was 2.30 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.56–3.05) per 100 person years (PYs). The risks of incidence of HZ among people living with HIV included male sex (AOR: 4.35 (95% CI: 054–2.41)), men who have sex with men (AOR: 1.21 (95% CI: −0.76–1.13)), CD4 count < 200 cells/μL (AOR: 11.59 (95% CI: 0.53–4.38)) and not receiving ART (AOR: 2.89 (95% CI: −0.44–2.56)). The incidence of HZ is substantially lower among HIV infected patients receiving ART than those not receiving ART. Initiating ART immediately after diagnosis to treat all HIV-positive individuals is crucial to minimize the disease burden of HZ.
Higher EU-TIRADS-Score Correlated with BRAF V600E Positivity in the Early Stage of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Skubisz Karolina , Januszkiewicz-Caulier Joanna , Cybula Patrycja , Bakuła-Zalewska Elwira , Goryca Krzysztof , Paziewska Agnieszka , Ambrożkiewicz Filip , Woliński Kosma , Mikula Michał , Ostrowski Jerzy , Dedecjus Marek
Published: May 2021

The data demonstrating a correlation between sonographic markers of malignancy of thyroid cancer (TC) and its genetic status are scarce. This study aimed to assess whether the addition of genetic analysis at the preoperative step of TC patients’ stratification could aid their clinical management. The material consisted of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor fragments of 49 patients who underwent thyroidectomy during the early stages of papillary TC (PTC). Tumor DNA and RNA were subjected to next-generation sequencing (NGS) on Ion Proton using the Oncomine™ Comprehensive Assay panel. We observed a significant correlation between BRAF V600E and a higher EU-TIRADS score (p-value = 0.02) with a correlation between hypoechogenicity and taller-than-wide tumor shape in analysed patients. There were no other significant associations between the identified genetic variants and other clinicopathological features. For TC patient’s stratification, a strong suspicion of BRAF V600E negativity in preoperative management of TC patients could limit the over-treatment of asymptomatic, very low-risk, indolent disease and leave room for active surveillance.
Role of Iron Chelation and Protease Inhibition of Natural Products on COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Carota Giuseppe , Ronsisvalle Simone , Panarello Federica , Tibullo Daniele , Nicolosi Anna , Li Volti Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Although the epidemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 callings for international attention to develop new effective therapeutics, no specific protocol is yet available, leaving patients to rely on general and supportive therapies. A range of respiratory diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis, have been associated with higher iron levels that may promote the course of viral infection. Recent studies have demonstrated that some natural components could act as the first barrier against viral injury by affecting iron metabolism. Moreover, a few recent studies have proposed the combination of protease inhibitors for therapeutic use against SARS-CoV-2 infection, highlighting the role of viral protease in virus infectivity. In this regard, this review focuses on the analysis, through literature and docking studies, of a number of natural products able to counteract SARS-CoV-2 infection, acting both as iron chelators and protease inhibitors.
Ontology for Cross-Site-Scripting (XSS) Attack in Cybersecurity
Authors: Dora Jean Rosemond , Nemoga Karol
Published: May 2021

In this work, we tackle a frequent problem that frequently occurs in the cybersecurity field which is the exploitation of websites by XSS attacks, which are nowadays considered a complicated attack. These types of attacks aim to execute malicious scripts in a web browser of the client by including code in a legitimate web page. A serious matter is when a website accepts the “user-input” option. Attackers can exploit the web application (if vulnerable), and then steal sensitive data (session cookies, passwords, credit cards, etc.) from the server and/or from the client. However, the difficulty of the exploitation varies from website to website. Our focus is on the usage of ontology in cybersecurity against XSS attacks, on the importance of the ontology, and its core meaning for cybersecurity. We explain how a vulnerable website can be exploited, and how different JavaScript payloads can be used to detect vulnerabilities. We also enumerate some tools to use for an efficient analysis. We present detailed reasoning on what can be done to improve the security of a website in order to resist attacks, and we provide supportive examples. Then, we apply an ontology model against XSS attacks to strengthen the protection of a web application. However, we note that the existence of ontology does not improve the security itself, but it has to be properly used and should require a maximum of security layers to be taken into account.
Association of LINC00673 Genetic Variants with Progression of Oral Cancer
Authors: Su Shih-Chi , Lin Chiao-Wen , Ju Po-Chung , Chang Lun-Ching , Chuang Chun-Yi , Liu Yu-Fan , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: May 2021

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a multifactorial malignancy, and its high incidence and mortality rate remain a global public health burden. Polymorphisms in the long intergenic noncoding RNA 673 (LINC00673) have been currently connected to the predisposition to various cancer types. The present study attempted to explore the impact of LINC00673 gene polymorphisms on the risk and progression of OSCC. Three LINC00673 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including rs11655237, rs9914618, and rs6501551, were evaluated in 1231 OSCCC cases and 1194 cancer-free controls. We did not observe any significant association of three individual SNPs with the risk of OSCC between the case and control group. However, while assessing the clinicopathological parameters, patients carrying at least one minor allele of rs9914618 (GA and AA; OR, 1.286; 95% CI, 1.008–1.642; p = 0.043) were found to develop lymph node metastasis more often compared to those who are homozygous for the major allele. Further stratification analyses revealed that this genetic correlation with increased risk of lymphatic spread was further fortified in habitual betel quid chewers (OR, 1.534; 95% CI, 1.160–2.028; p = 0.003) or smokers (OR, 1.320; 95% CI, 1.013–1.721; p = 0.040). Moreover, through analyzing the dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we found that elevated LINC00673 levels were associated with the development of large tumors in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and the risk of lymphatic spread in smokers. These data demonstrate a joint effect of LINC00673 rs9914618 with betel nut chewing or smoking on the progression of oral cancer.
Deep Brain Stimulation and Hypoxemic Perinatal Encephalopathy: State of Art and Perspectives
Authors: Poulen Gaëtan , Chan-Seng Emilie , Sanrey Emily , Coubes Philippe
Published: May 2021

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a heterogeneous group of non-progressive syndromes with lots of clinical variations due to the extent of brain damages and etiologies. CP is majorly defined by dystonia and spasticity. The treatment of acquired dystonia in CP is very difficult. Many pharmacological treatments have been tried and surgical treatment consists of deep brain stimulation (continuous electrical neuromodulation) of internal globus pallidus (GPi). A peculiar cause of CP is neonatal encephalopathy due to an anoxic event in the perinatal period. Many studies showed an improvement of dystonia in CP patients with bilateral GPi DBS. However, it remains a variability in the range of 1% to 50%. Published case-series concerned mainly small population with a majority of adult patients. Selection of patients according to the clinical pattern, to the brain lesions observed on classical imaging and to DTI is the key of a high success rate of DBS in children with perinatal hypoxemic encephalopathy. Only a large retrospective study with a high number of patients in a homogeneous pediatric population with a long-term follow-up or a prospective multicenter trial investigation could answer with a high degree of certitude of the real interest of this therapeutic in children with hypoxemic perinatal encephalopathy.
Precipitation during Quenching in 2A97 Aluminum Alloy and the Influences from Grain Structure
Authors: Wang Xiaoya , Jiang Jiantang , Li Guoai , Shao Wenzhu , Zhen Liang
Published: May 2021

The quench-induced precipitation and subsequent aging response in 2A97 aluminum alloy was investigated based on the systematic microstructure characterization. Specifically, the influence on precipitation from grain structure was examined. The results indicated the evident influence from the cooling rate of the quenching process. Precipitation of T1 and δ′ phase can hardly occur in the specimen exposed to water quenching while become noticeable in the case of air cooling. The yield strength of 2A97-T6 alloy de-graded by 234 MPa along with a comparable elongation when water quenching was replaced by air cooling. Sub-grains exhibited a much higher sensitivity to the precipitation during quenching. The presence of dislocations in sub-grains promoted the quench-induced precipitation by acting as nucleation sites and enhancing the diffusion of the solute. A quenching rate of 3 °C/s is tolerable for recrystallized grains in 2A97 Al alloy but is inadequate for sub-grains to inhibit precipitation. The study fosters the feasibility of alleviating quench-induced precipitation through cultivating the recrystallization structure in highly alloyed Al–Cu–Li alloys.
Segmented-Block Poly(ether amide)s Containing Flexible Polydisperse Polyethyleneoxide Sequences and Rigid Aromatic Amide Moieties
Authors: Trigo-López Miriam , Reglero Ruiz José A. , Peredo Patricia D. , Mendía Aranzazu , Muñoz Asunción , García Félix C. , García José M.
Published: May 2021

We describe the synthesis and characterization of three novel aromatic diamines containing oxyethylene sequences of different lengths. These diamines were polymerized using the low-temperature solution polycondensation method with isophthaloyl chloride (IPC), terepthaloyl chloride (TPC), [1,1’-biphenyl]-4,4’-dicarbonyl dichloride (BDC), and 4,4′-oxybis(benzoyl chloride) (OBE), obtaining twelve poly(ether amide)s with short segments of polydisperse polyethyleneoxide (PEO) sequences in the polymer backbone. These polymers show reasonably high molecular mass materials (Mw > 12,000), and the relationship between their structure and properties has been carefully studied. Compared with conventional polyamides containing monodisperse PEO sequences, the polydispersity of the PEO segments within the structural units exerts a significant influence on the crystallinity, flexibility, solubility, and the thermal properties of the polymers. For instance, the all-para oriented polyamides (TPCP-A), with an average number of 8.2 ethylenoxide units per structural unit can be transformed conventionally (Tm = 259 °C) in comparison with thermally untransformable polymer with 2 ethylenoxide units (Tm = 425 °C).
Flexural Performance of RC Beams Strengthened with Externally-Side Bonded Reinforcement (E-SBR) Technique Using CFRP Composites
Authors: Hosen Md. Akter , Althoey Fadi , Jumaat Mohd Zamin , Alengaram U. Johnson , Sulong N. H. Ramli
Published: May 2021

Reinforced concrete (RC) structures necessitate strengthening for various reasons. These include ageing, deterioration of materials due to environmental effects, trivial initial design and construction, deficiency of maintenance, the advancement of design loads, and functional changes. RC structures strengthening with the carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) has been used extensively during the last few decades due to their advantages over steel reinforcement. This paper introduces an experimental approach for flexural strengthening of RC beams with Externally-Side Bonded Reinforcement (E-SBR) using CFRP fabrics. The experimental program comprises eight full-scale RC beams tested under a four-point flexural test up to failure. The parameters investigated include the main tensile steel reinforcing ratio and the width of CFRP fabrics. The experimental outcomes show that an increase in the tensile reinforcement ratio and width of the CFRP laminates enhanced the first cracking and ultimate load-bearing capacities of the strengthened beams up to 141 and 174%, respectively, compared to the control beam. The strengthened RC beams exhibited superior energy absorption capacity, stiffness, and ductile response. The comparison of the experimental and predicted values shows that these two are in good agreement.
Redesign of a Piston for a Diesel Combustion Engine to Use Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Noriega Lozano Jorge Israel , Paredes Rojas Juan Carlos , Romero Ángeles Beatriz , Urriolagoitia Sosa Guillermo , Contreras Mendoza Belén Alejandra , Torres San Miguel Christopher Rene , Polupan Georgiy , Urriolagoitia Calderón Guillermo Manuel
Published: May 2021

Biofuels represent an energy option to mitigate polluting gases. However, technical problems must be solved, one of them is to improve the combustion process. In this study, the geometry of a piston head for a diesel engine was redesigned. The objective was to improve the combustion process and reduce polluting emissions using biodiesel blends as the fuel. The methodology used was the mechanical engineering design process. A commercial piston (base piston) was selected as a reference model to assess the piston head’s redesign. Changes were applied to the profile of the piston head based on previous research and a new model was obtained. Both models were evaluated and analyzed using the finite element method, where the most relevant physical conditions were temperature and pressure. Numerical simulations in the base piston and the new piston redesign proposal presented similar behaviors and results. However, with the proposed piston, it was possible to reduce the effort and the material. The proposed piston profile presents adequate results and behaviors. In future, we suggest continuing conducting simulations and experimental tests to assess its performance.
Analysis of Performance Losses and Degradation Mechanism in Porous La2−X NiTiO6−δ:YSZ Electrodes
Authors: Pérez-Flores Juan Carlos , Castro-García Miguel , Crespo-Muñoz Vidal , Valera-Jiménez José Fernando , García-Alvarado Flaviano , Canales-Vázquez Jesús
Published: May 2021

The electrode performance and degradation of 1:1 La2−xNiTiO6−δ:YSZ composites (x = 0, 0.2) has been investigated to evaluate their potential use as SOFC cathode materials by combining electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in symmetrical cell configuration under ambient air at 1173 K, XRD, electron microscopy and image processing studies. The polarisation resistance values increase notably, i.e., 0.035 and 0.058 Ωcm2 h−1 for x = 0 and 0.2 samples, respectively, after 300 h under these demanding conditions. Comparing the XRD patterns of the initial samples and after long-term exposure to high temperature, the perovskite structure is retained, although La2Zr2O7 and NiO appear as secondary phases accompanied by peak broadening, suggesting amorphization or reduction of the crystalline domains. SEM and TEM studies confirm the ex-solution of NiO with time in both phases and also prove these phases are prone to disorder. From these results, degradation in La2−xNiTiO6−δ:YSZ electrodes is due to the formation of La2Zr2O7 at the electrode–electrolyte interface and the ex-solution of NiO, which in turn results in the progressive structural amorphization of La18NiTiO6−δ phases. Both secondary phases constitute a non-conductive physical barrier that would hinder the ionic diffusion at the La2−xNiTiO6−δ:YSZ interface and oxygen access to surface active area.
Activated Ductile CFRP NSMR Strengthening
Authors: Schmidt Jacob Wittrup , Christensen Christian Overgaard , Goltermann Per , Sena-Cruz José
Published: May 2021

Significant strengthening of concrete structures can be obtained when using adhesively-bonded carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) systems. Challenges related to such strengthening methods are; however, the brittle concrete delamination failure, reduced warning, and the consequent inefficient use of the CFRP. A novel ductile near-surface mounted reinforcement (NSMR) CFRP strengthening system with a high CFRP utilization is introduced in this paper. It is hypothesized that the tailored ductile enclosure wedge (EW) end anchors, in combination with low E-modulus and high elongation adhesive, can provide significant strengthening and ductility control. Five concrete T-beams were strengthened using the novel system with a CFRP rod activation stress of approximately 980 MPa. The beam responses were compared to identical epoxy-bonded NSMR strengthened and un-strengthened beams. The linear elastic response was identical to the epoxy-bonded NSMR strengthened beam. In addition, the average deflection and yielding regimes were improved by 220% and 300% (average values), respectively, with an ultimate capacity comparable to the epoxy-bonded NSMR strengthened beam. Reproducible and predictable strengthening effect seems obtainable, where a good correlation between the results and applied theory was reached. The brittle failure modes were prevented, where concrete compression failure and frontal overload anchor failure were experienced when failure was initiated.
Numerical Simulation of Vehicle–Lighting Pole Crash Tests: Parametric Study of Factors Influencing Predicted Occupant Safety Levels
Authors: Baranowski Paweł , Damaziak Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

In this paper, numerical simulations of the EN 12767 test procedure for a vehicle–lighting pole crash are presented. A representative soil–vehicle–lighting pole model is first developed. The Geo Metro vehicle model is used, and significant attention is given to representing the soil and its interaction with the traffic pole. Soil is represented using smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) coupled with finite elements (FEs). A parametric study is carried out to investigate the key factors influencing the outcomes and consequently the estimation of the occupant safety levels during crash scenario described in EN 12767. First, a sensitivity study of lighting pole mesh is conducted As a result, the optimal mesh size is used for further studies regarding physical parameters such as soil properties and friction coefficient in vehicle–pole interfaces. Friction and mesh size are found to have a considerable influence on the acceleration severity index (ASI), theoretical head impact velocity (THIV), post-impact velocity and vehicle behavior during the lighting pole crash scenario.