bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural Plasticity in the Brain during Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Bak Myeong Seong , Park Haney , Kim Sun Kwang
Published: May 2021

Neuropathic pain is an intractable chronic pain, caused by damage to the somatosensory nervous system. To date, treatment for neuropathic pain has limited effects. For the development of efficient therapeutic methods, it is essential to fully understand the pathological mechanisms of neuropathic pain. Besides abnormal sensitization in the periphery and spinal cord, accumulating evidence suggests that neural plasticity in the brain is also critical for the development and maintenance of this pain. Recent technological advances in the measurement and manipulation of neuronal activity allow us to understand maladaptive plastic changes in the brain during neuropathic pain more precisely and modulate brain activity to reverse pain states at the preclinical and clinical levels. In this review paper, we discuss the current understanding of pathological neural plasticity in the four pain-related brain areas: the primary somatosensory cortex, the anterior cingulate cortex, the periaqueductal gray, and the basal ganglia. We also discuss potential treatments for neuropathic pain based on the modulation of neural plasticity in these brain areas.
Multifunctional Enkephalin Analogs with a New Biological Profile: MOR/DOR Agonism and KOR Antagonism
Authors: Lee Yeon Sun , Remesic Michael , Ramos-Colon Cyf , Wu Zhijun , LaVigne Justin , Molnar Gabriella , Tymecka Dagmara , Misicka Aleksandra , Streicher John M. , Hruby Victor J. , Porreca Frank
Published: May 2021

In our previous studies, we developed a series of mixed MOR/DOR agonists that are enkephalin-like tetrapeptide analogs with an N-phenyl-N-piperidin-4-ylpropionamide (Ppp) moiety at the C-terminus. Further SAR study on the analogs, initiated by the findings from off-target screening, resulted in the discovery of LYS744 (6, Dmt-DNle-Gly-Phe(p-Cl)-Ppp), a multifunctional ligand with MOR/DOR agonist and KOR antagonist activity (GTPγS assay: IC50 = 52 nM, Imax = 122% cf. IC50 = 59 nM, Imax = 100% for naloxone) with nanomolar range of binding affinity (Ki = 1.3 nM cf. Ki = 2.4 nM for salvinorin A). Based on its unique biological profile, 6 is considered to possess high therapeutic potential for the treatment of chronic pain by modulating pathological KOR activation while retaining analgesic efficacy attributed to its MOR/DOR agonist activity.
The Plant-Like Structure of Lance Sea Urchin Spines as Biomimetic Concept Generator for Freeze-Casted Structural Graded Ceramics
Authors: Klang Katharina , Nickel Klaus G.
Published: May 2021

The spine of the lance sea urchin (Phyllacanthus imperialis) is an unusual plant-akin hierarchical lightweight construction with several gradation features: a basic core–shell structure is modified in terms of porosities, pore orientation and pore size, forming superstructures. Differing local strength and energy consumption features create a biomimetic potential for the construction of porous ceramics with predetermined breaking points and adaptable behavior in compression overload. We present a new detailed structural and failure analysis of those spines and demonstrate that it is possible to include at least a limited number of those features in an abstracted way in ceramics, manufactured by freeze-casting. This possibility is shown to come from a modified mold design and optimized suspensions.
Plastic Antibody of Polypyrrole/Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes on Screen-Printed Electrodes for Cystatin C Detection
Authors: Gomes Rui S. , Gomez-Rodríguez Blanca Azucena , Fernandes Ruben , Sales M. Goreti F. , Moreira Felismina T. C. , Dutra Rosa F.
Published: May 2021

This work reports the design of a novel plastic antibody for cystatin C (Cys-C), an acute kidney injury biomarker, and its application in point-of-care (PoC) testing. The synthetic antibody was obtained by tailoring a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) on a carbon screen-printed electrode (SPE). The MIP was obtained by electropolymerizing pyrrole (Py) with carboxylated Py (Py-COOH) in the presence of Cys-C and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Cys-C was removed from the molecularly imprinted poly(Py) matrix (MPPy) by urea treatment. As a control, a non-imprinted poly(Py) matrix (NPPy) was obtained by the same procedure, but without Cys-C. The assembly of the MIP material was evaluated in situ by Raman spectroscopy and the binding ability of Cys-C was evaluated by the cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) electrochemical techniques. The MIP sensor responses were measured by the DPV anodic peaks obtained in the presence of ferro/ferricyanide. The peak currents decreased linearly from 0.5 to 20.0 ng/mL of Cys-C at each 20 min successive incubation and a limit of detection below 0.5 ng/mL was obtained at pH 6.0. The MPPy/SPE was used to analyze Cys-C in spiked serum samples, showing recoveries <3%. This device showed promising features in terms of simplicity, cost and sensitivity for acute kidney injury diagnosis at the point of care.
Oxidative Dysregulation in Early Life Stress and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Karanikas Evangelos , Daskalakis Nikolaos P. , Agorastos Agorastos
Published: May 2021

Traumatic stress may chronically affect master homeostatic systems at the crossroads of peripheral and central susceptibility pathways and lead to the biological embedment of trauma-related allostatic trajectories through neurobiological alterations even decades later. Lately, there has been an exponential knowledge growth concerning the effect of traumatic stress on oxidative components and redox-state homeostasis. This extensive review encompasses a detailed description of the oxidative cascade components along with their physiological and pathophysiological functions and a systematic presentation of both preclinical and clinical, genetic and epigenetic human findings on trauma-related oxidative stress (OXS), followed by a substantial synthesis of the involved oxidative cascades into specific and functional, trauma-related pathways. The bulk of the evidence suggests an imbalance of pro-/anti-oxidative mechanisms under conditions of traumatic stress, respectively leading to a systemic oxidative dysregulation accompanied by toxic oxidation byproducts. Yet, there is substantial heterogeneity in findings probably relative to confounding, trauma-related parameters, as well as to the equivocal directionality of not only the involved oxidative mechanisms but other homeostatic ones. Accordingly, we also discuss the trauma-related OXS findings within the broader spectrum of systemic interactions with other major influencing systems, such as inflammation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and the circadian system. We intend to demonstrate the inherent complexity of all the systems involved, but also put forth associated caveats in the implementation and interpretation of OXS findings in trauma-related research and promote their comprehension within a broader context.
Capacity to Develop Recycled Aggregate Concrete in South East Asia
Authors: Makul Natt , Fediuk Roman , Amran Mugahed , Zeyad Abdullah , de Azevedo Afonso , Klyuev Sergey , Vatin Nikolai , Karelina Maria
Published: May 2021

The global sustainable construction aimed to minimize the ecological impacts of constructed facilities’ lifetime. In construction, concretes are the major materials utilized in South East Asia. Thus, it makes environmental and economic sense to utilize recycled materials in the production of new concretes for diverse uses. This review indicated that the practical implementations of the recycled aggregate concretes (RAC) in the area is greatly lacking, even though there are reasonable studies on RAC, particularly because of lack awareness and economic viability of such uses at the present period. This research aims to establish an interdisciplinary consortium with researchers, policy makers, practitioners, and social scientists in Southeast Asia to investigate the development of sustainable, durable, cost-effective, green concrete by utilizing recycled aggregates. Concentrating on waste resource recovery, this research presents an integrated modeling method. The approaches track and forecast a variety of values across technical, economic, social, and environmental areas linking these to the material flow and therefore integrating and building upon one-dimensional models like life cycle assessments (LCAs) and material flow analyses (MFAs). Additionally, the analysis of this study supported the recycling of cement for general use in construction, emphasizing the feasibility, reliability, and longevity of a project at the same time. However, the analysis also demonstrated that although there is fair progress on recycled concrete, there is still a severe lack of appropriate development in particular because of the lack of economic sustainability and knowledge of such applications at present. Raw material conservations were recorded; carbon dioxide costs and footprint were also reduced. Considering the RAC economic, technical, and environmental parameters, frameworks were applied for sustainable selections with target compressive strengths as the major goal.
Casa de la Asegurada: A Collective Housing Facility for Women Development in Mexico
Authors: Martín López Lucía , Durán López Rodrigo
Published: May 2021

While several women’s movements that aimed to modify their relationship with public space were taking place across the world, in 1956, the Mexican Social Security Institute founded the program Casa de la Asegurada, the subject of this study, as a tool for improving the social security of Mexican families through the input of cultural, social, artistic, and hygienic knowledge for women. The program’s facilities, Casas de la Asegurada, are located in the large Mexican housing complexes, articulating themselves to the existing city. Despite the impact on the lives of Mexican families, these have been ignored throughout the history of Mexican architecture. The main objective of this paper is to show the state of the art of Casa de la Asegurada and its facilities located in Mexico City. To achieve this, the greatest number available of primary sources on the topic was compiled through archive and document research. Sources were classified identifying information gaps to explain, in three different scales (program, facilities, and a case study), how they work through their objectives, performed activities, and evolved through time, so that the gathered information is analyzed with an urbanistic, architectural, and gender approach to contribute new ideas in the building of facilities that allow women empowerment.
An Incentive-Based Optimization Approach for Load Scheduling Problem in Smart Building Communities
Authors: Nazemi Seyyed Danial , Jafari Mohsen A. , Zaidan Esmat
Published: May 2021

The impact of load growth on electricity peak demand is becoming a vital concern for utilities. To prevent the need to build new power plants or upgrade transmission lines, power companies are trying to design new demand response programs. These programs can reduce the peak demand and be beneficial for both energy consumers and suppliers. One of the most popular demand response programs is the building load scheduling for energy-saving and peak-shaving. This paper presents an autonomous incentive-based multi-objective nonlinear optimization approach for load scheduling problems (LSP) in smart building communities. This model’s objectives are three-fold: minimizing total electricity costs, maximizing assigned incentives for each customer, and minimizing inconvenience level. In this model, two groups of assets are considered: time-shiftable assets, including electronic appliances and plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging facilities, and thermal assets such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and electric water heaters. For each group, specific energy consumption and inconvenience level models were developed. The designed model assigned the incentives to the participants based on their willingness to reschedule their assets. The LSP is a discrete–continuous problem and is formulated based on a mixed-integer nonlinear programming approach. Zoutendijk’s method is used to solve the nonlinear optimization model. This formulation helps capture the building collaboration to achieve the objectives. Illustrative case studies are demonstrated to assess the proposed model’s effect on building communities consisting of residential and commercial buildings. The results show the efficiency of the proposed model in reducing the total energy cost as well as increasing the participants’ satisfaction. The findings also reveal that we can shave the peak demand by 53% and have a smooth aggregate load profile in a large-scale building community containing 500 residential and commercial buildings.
Catalytic Membrane Reactors: The Industrial Applications Perspective
Authors: Algieri Catia , Coppola Gerardo , Mukherjee Debolina , Shammas Mahaad Issa , Calabro Vincenza , Curcio Stefano , Chakraborty Sudip
Published: May 2021

Catalytic membrane reactors have been widely used in different production industries around the world. Applying a catalytic membrane reactor (CMR) reduces waste generation from a cleaner process perspective and reduces energy consumption in line with the process intensification strategy. A CMR combines a chemical or biochemical reaction with a membrane separation process in a single unit by improving the performance of the process in terms of conversion and selectivity. The core of the CMR is the membrane which can be polymeric or inorganic depending on the operating conditions of the catalytic process. Besides, the membrane can be inert or catalytically active. The number of studies devoted to applying CMR with higher membrane area per unit volume in multi-phase reactions remains very limited for both catalytic polymeric and inorganic membranes. The various bio-based catalytic membrane system is also used in a different commercial application. The opportunities and advantages offered by applying catalytic membrane reactors to multi-phase systems need to be further explored. In this review, the preparation and the application of inorganic membrane reactors in the different catalytic processes as water gas shift (WGS), Fisher Tropsch synthesis (FTS), selective CO oxidation (CO SeLox), and so on, have been discussed.
Leukocyte Trafficking via Lymphatic Vessels in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Yeo Kim Pin , Lim Hwee Ying , Angeli Veronique
Published: May 2021

In recent years, lymphatic vessels have received increasing attention and our understanding of their development and functional roles in health and diseases has greatly improved. It has become clear that lymphatic vessels are critically involved in acute and chronic inflammation and its resolution by supporting the transport of immune cells, fluid, and macromolecules. As we will discuss in this review, the involvement of lymphatic vessels has been uncovered in atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of medium- and large-sized arteries causing deadly cardiovascular complications worldwide. The progression of atherosclerosis is associated with morphological and functional alterations in lymphatic vessels draining the diseased artery. These defects in the lymphatic vasculature impact the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis by affecting immune cell trafficking, lymphoid neogenesis, and clearance of macromolecules in the arterial wall. Based on these new findings, we propose that targeting lymphatic function could be considered in conjunction with existing drugs as a treatment option for atherosclerosis.
Regulation of Cytochrome c Oxidase by Natural Compounds Resveratrol, (–)-Epicatechin, and Betaine
Authors: Lee Icksoo
Published: May 2021

Numerous naturally occurring molecules have been studied for their beneficial health effects. Many compounds have received considerable attention for their potential medical uses. Among them, several substances have been found to improve mitochondrial function. This review focuses on resveratrol, (–)-epicatechin, and betaine and summarizes the published data pertaining to their effects on cytochrome c oxidase (COX) which is the terminal enzyme of the mitochondrial electron transport chain and is considered to play an important role in the regulation of mitochondrial respiration. In a variety of experimental model systems, these compounds have been shown to improve mitochondrial biogenesis in addition to increased COX amount and/or its enzymatic activity. Given that they are inexpensive, safe in a wide range of concentrations, and effectively improve mitochondrial and COX function, these compounds could be attractive enough for possible therapeutic or health improvement strategies.
Phagocytic Glial Cells in Brain Homeostasis
Authors: Kono Rena , Ikegaya Yuji , Koyama Ryuta
Published: May 2021

Phagocytosis by glial cells has been shown to play an important role in maintaining brain homeostasis. Microglia are currently considered to be the major phagocytes in the brain parenchyma, and these cells phagocytose a variety of materials, including dead cell debris, abnormally aggregated proteins, and, interestingly, the functional synapses of living neurons. The intracellular signaling mechanisms that regulate microglial phagocytosis have been studied extensively, and several important factors, including molecules known as “find me” signals and “eat me” signals and receptors on microglia that are involved in phagocytosis, have been identified. In addition, recent studies have revealed that astrocytes, which are another major glial cell in the brain parenchyma, also have phagocytic abilities. In this review, we will discuss the roles of microglia and astrocytes in phagocytosis-mediated brain homeostasis, focusing on the characteristics and differences of their phagocytic abilities.
New Tricks for an Old (Hedge)Hog: Sonic Hedgehog Regulation of Astrocyte Function
Authors: Garcia A. Denise R.
Published: May 2021

The Sonic hedgehog (Shh) molecular signaling pathway is well established as a key regulator of neurodevelopment. It regulates diverse cellular behaviors, and its functions vary with respect to cell type, region, and developmental stage, reflecting the incredible pleiotropy of this molecular signaling pathway. Although it is best understood for its roles in development, Shh signaling persists into adulthood and is emerging as an important regulator of astrocyte function. Astrocytes play central roles in a broad array of nervous system functions, including synapse formation and function as well as coordination and orchestration of CNS inflammatory responses in pathological states. Neurons are the source of Shh in the adult, suggesting that Shh signaling mediates neuron–astrocyte communication, a novel role for this multifaceted pathway. Multiple roles for Shh signaling in astrocytes are increasingly being identified, including regulation of astrocyte identity, modulation of synaptic organization, and limitation of inflammation. This review discusses these novel roles for Shh signaling in regulating diverse astrocyte functions in the healthy brain and in pathology.
Single-Step Synthesis Process for High-Entropy Transition Metal Boride Powders Using Microwave Plasma
Authors: Storr Bria , Kodali Deepa , Chakrabarty Kallol , Baker Paul A. , Rangari Vijaya , Catledge Shane A.
Published: May 2021

A novel approach is demonstrated for the synthesis of the high entropy transition metal boride (Ta, Mo, Hf, Zr, Ti)B2 using a single heating step enabled by microwave-induced plasma. The argon-rich plasma allows rapid boro-carbothermal reduction of a consolidated powder mixture containing the five metal oxides, blended with graphite and boron carbide (B4C) as reducing agents. For plasma exposure as low as 1800 °C for 1 h, a single-phase hexagonal AlB2-type structure forms, with an average particle size of 165 nm and with uniform distribution of the five metal cations in the microstructure. In contrast to primarily convection-based (e.g., vacuum furnace) methods that typically require a thermal reduction step followed by conversion to the single high-entropy phase at elevated temperature, the microwave approach enables rapid heating rates and reduced processing time in a single heating step. The high-entropy phase purity improves significantly with the increasing of the ball milling time of the oxide precursors from two to eight hours. However, further improvement in phase purity was not observed as a result of increasing the microwave processing temperature from 1800 to 2000 °C (for fixed ball milling time). The benefits of microwave plasma heating, in terms of allowing the combination of boro-carbothermal reduction and high entropy single-phase formation in a single heating step, are expected to accelerate progress in the field of high entropy ceramic materials.
Consumer Attitudes towards Microalgae Production and Microalgae-Based Agricultural Products: The Cases of Almería (Spain) and Livorno (Italy)
Authors: Lafarga Tomás , Pieroni Carlo , D’Imporzano Giuliana , Maggioni Lorenzo , Adani Fabrizio , Acién Gabriel
Published: May 2021

The production of microalgal biomass and products derived thereof for a wide variety of applications is a hot research topic, with the number of facilities being built and products and biologically active molecules launched into the market increasing every year. The aim of the current study was to identify the attitudes of citizens in Almería (Spain) and Livorno (Italy) towards the construction of a microalgae production plant and a biorefinery in their cities and also their opinions about the microalgae-based products that could be produced. Overall, in Almería (Spain), a NIMBY (not in my back yard) attitude towards the construction of a microalgal production facility and especially towards a microalgal biorefinery was observed, despite the strong microalgal industry in the region and the higher knowledge of citizens about microalgae. In both locations, but especially in Livorno (Italy), microalgae-based biostimulants, biofertilisers, and aquafeeds were well accepted. Proximity was the main factor affecting the acceptance of a microalgae producing facility. Consumer knowledge about microalgal biotechnology and the health and environmental benefits of this valuable raw material are scarce, and opinions are based on drivers other than knowledge. After gaining more knowledge about microalgal biorefineries, most of the responses in Almería (47%) and Livorno (61%) were more positive.
Can Anthropometry and Body Composition Explain Physical Fitness Levels in School-Aged Children?
Authors: Hsu Chih-Yu , Chen Liang-Sien , Chang I-Jen , Fang Wei-Ching , Huang Sun-Weng , Lin Rong-Ho , Ueng Steve Wen-Neng , Chuang Hai-Hua
Published: May 2021

Physical fitness (PF) is closely related to various health outcomes and quality of life among children. However, the associations between anthropometry, body composition (BC), and PF are not fully elucidated. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the associations between demographic metrics (age, sex), anthropometric measures (body mass index z-score (BMI z-score) waist/height ratio (WHtR)), BC parameters (body-fat percentage (BF%), muscle weight), and PF levels (800-m run, sit-and-reach, 1-min sit-ups, standing long jump) in school-aged children. Continuous variables were dichotomized by median splits. The results of 180 girls and 180 boys (mean age: 10.0 ± 0.7 years; mean BMI z-score: 0.366 ± 1.216) were analyzed. Multivariable linear regressions revealed that BF% (regression coefficient (B) = 3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.5–4.3) was independently correlated with the 800-m run. Sex (B = 4.6, 95% CI = 3.0–6.3), age (B = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.9–4.3), and BMI z-score (B = −0.7, 95% CI = −1.4–−0.1) were independently related to sit-and-reach. Age (B = 3.3, 95% CI = 2.0–4.7), BF% (B = −0.3, 95% CI = −0.4–−0.2), and muscle weight (B = 0.7, 95% CI = 0.2–1.2) were independently associated with 1-min sit-ups. In addition to demography, anthropometry and BC provided additional information concerning some PF levels in school-aged children. Weight management and PF promotion should be addressed simultaneously in terms of preventive medicine and health promotion for children.
Pancreatic Islets Exhibit Dysregulated Adaptation of Insulin Secretion after Chronic Epinephrine Exposure
Authors: Li Rui , Huang Huichai , Limesand Sean W. , Chen Xiaochuan
Published: May 2021

Chronic adrenergic stimulation is the dominant factor in impairment of the β-cell function. Sustained adrenergic exposure generates dysregulated insulin secretion in fetal sheep. Similar results have been shown in Min6 under the elevated epinephrine condition, but impairments after adrenergic removal are still unknown and a high rate of proliferation in Min6 has been ignored. Therefore, we incubated primary rats’ islets with half maximal inhibitory concentrations of epinephrine for three days, then determined their insulin secretion responsiveness and related signals two days after removal of adrenaline via radioimmunoassay and qPCR. Insulin secretion was not different between the exposure group (1.07 ± 0.04 ng/islet/h) and control (1.23 ± 0.17 ng/islet/h), but total islet insulin content after treatment (5.46 ± 0.87 ng/islet/h) was higher than control (3.17 ± 0.22 ng/islet/h, p < 0.05), and the fractional insulin release was 36% (p < 0.05) lower after the treatment. Meanwhile, the mRNA expression of Gαs, Gαz and Gβ1-2 decreased by 42.8% 19.4% and 24.8%, respectively (p < 0.05). Uncoupling protein 2 (Ucp2), sulphonylurea receptor 1 (Sur1) and superoxide dismutase 2 (Sod2) were significantly reduced (38.5%, 23.8% and 53.8%, p < 0.05). Chronic adrenergic exposure could impair insulin responsiveness in primary pancreatic islets. Decreased G proteins and Sur1 expression affect the regulation of insulin secretion. In conclusion, the sustained under-expression of Ucp2 and Sod2 may further change the function of β-cell, which helps to understand the long-term adrenergic adaptation of pancreatic β-cell.
Exploring the Influence of Social Media Usage for Academic Purposes Using a Partial Least Squares Approach
Authors: Yousif Jabar H. , Khan Firdouse R. , Al Jaradi Safiya N. , Alshibli Aysha S.
Published: May 2021

Social media applications have been increasingly gaining significant attention from online education and training platforms. Social networking tools provide multiple advantages for communicating, exchanging opinions, and discussing specific issues. Social media also helps to improve the processes of teaching and learning through sharing educational programs. In this study, we used a quantitative research technique based on the partial least-squares (PLS) linear regression method to determine the influence of using social media as an online discussion and communication platform for academic purposes by assessing the relationships among the skills obtained through social media, the usage of social media, and the purpose of social media. A total of 200 students participated in this study (88% female and 12% males), and a purposive sampling technique was used to select a suitable population for the study. The results show that 61.5% of the participants use the web daily for more than five hours, mainly for social communication (meaningful dialog and discussion skills) and entertainment. The students agreed that social media develops their creative thinking, but it has no positive impact on their academic performance.
Assessments of Bacterial Community Shifts in Sediments along the Headwaters of São Francisco River, Brazil
Authors: de Paula Marcos , Costa Silva Thiago Augusto Costa , Araújo Amanda Soriano , Lacorte Gustavo Augusto
Published: May 2021

Sustainable use of freshwater resources for human civilization needs requires the assessment and monitoring of freshwater health, and bacterial communities from riverbed sediments have been shown to be susceptible to chronic anthropogenic disturbances in freshwater ecosystems. Here, we took advantage of the occurrence of well-recognized adjacent sections from the Upper São Francisco River basin with well-recognized levels of anthropogenic activity intensity to test the applicability of sediment bacterial communities as bioindicators of impacts on freshwater ecosystems. We applied 16S amplicon sequencing to estimate the diversity and composition of bacterial communities from 12 sampling sites across the Upper São Francisco River basin, classified as being of no, low, or high intensity of anthropogenic activities, and used diversity metrics and LEfSe to compare the patterns of community structure. Our results revealed that accessed sediment environments associated with land areas with a high intensity of anthropogenic activities presented the lowest levels of community diversity, and the bacterial community compositions of these environments were significantly different from the other sampled areas. Our findings can be considered a source of evidence for the usefulness of bacterial community-based approaches as a tool for diagnosis and monitoring of ecosystem health in areas of vulnerable freshwater environments, and can even be incorporated into regular water quality programs.
Clinical and Instrumental Exploration of Sensitive Skin in a Pediatric Population
Authors: Boyer Gaëtan , Belilovsky Clarence De , Brédif Stéphanie , Baudouin Caroline , Misery Laurent , Bellemère Gaëlle
Published: May 2021

Studies on sensitive skin pathophysiology in infants are challenging because most assessment methods require self-reporting of signs. In this study, we aimed to identify and characterize sensitive skin in children for the first time. A newly developed parent-reported questionnaire was used to recruit children with sensitive skin. This questionnaire was also tested on an adult group. Hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and inflammatory markers (cytokines, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)) were quantified. A total of 77 children and 20 adults (33 and 10 with sensitive skin, respectively) were recruited. The groups with sensitive skin had more clinical signs of skin dryness. Skin hydration was lower in children in the sensitive compared with the nonsensitive skin group. TEWL levels were similar between sensitive and nonsensitive subjects in both infant and adult groups. Sensitive skin exhibited higher levels of cytokines and proinflammatory PUFAs as well as lower levels of anti-inflammatory PUFAs. Sensitive skin syndrome was associated with normal skin barrier function but lower hydration in infants and children. The higher levels of proinflammatory markers suggest that sensitive skin is associated with low-level inflammation. It is hypothesized, for the first time, that PUFAs are involved in sensitive skin syndrome in infants.
Structural and Magnetic Properties Study of Fe2O3/NiO/Ni2FeO4 Nanocomposites
Authors: Alhashem Zakia , Awada Chawki , Ahmed Faheem , Farha Ashraf H.
Published: May 2021

In the current work, the nanocomposites that consist chiefly of three components—α-Fe2O3, NiO and Ni2FeO4, in two different ratios 2:2:1 (FNN-221) and 2:1:1 (FNN-211), respectively—were produced. The synthesis was done in two steps by following the chemical co-precipitation and mechanical ball-milling route. The presence of individual phase was identified from the XRD data without the detection of any additional impurities. The phase fraction of each component estimated from the profile fitting of XRD patterns were found to be 41.2%, 39.7%, 19.1% in FNN-221 sample and 49.5%, 26.4%, 24.1% for FNN-211 sample, respectively, which were consistent with the experimental values. The total magnetization at 300 K was obtained to be 13.41 emu/g and 10.95 emu/g for FNN-221 and FNN-211 samples, respectively. In FNN-211 compound the zero field coercivity (HC) expanded towards the higher field values thereby signifying the exchange bias behavior. Furthermore, the exchange bias field (Hex) for FNN-211 was obtained as 35.1 Oe.
DFT Study of Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of Kaolinite, Muscovite, and Montmorillonite
Authors: Shafei Layla , Adhikari Puja , Ching Wai-Yim
Published: May 2021

Clay mineral materials have attracted attention due to their many properties and applications. The applications of clay minerals are closely linked to their structure and composition. In this paper, we studied the electronic structure properties of kaolinite, muscovite, and montmorillonite crystals, which are classified as clay minerals, by using DFT-based ab initio packages VASP and the OLCAO. The aim of this work is to have a deep understanding of clay mineral materials, including electronic structure, bond strength, mechanical properties, and optical properties. It is worth mentioning that understanding these properties may help continually result in new and innovative clay products in several applications, such as in pharmaceutical applications using kaolinite for their potential in cancer treatment, muscovite used as insulators in electrical appliances, and engineering applications that use montmorillonite as a sealant. In addition, our results show that the role played by hydrogen bonds in O-H bonds has an impact on the hydration in these crystals. Based on calculated total bond order density, it is concluded that kaolinite is slightly more cohesive than montmorillonite, which is consistent with the calculated mechanical properties.
Twenty-Three Years of Land-Use Changes Induced Considerable Threats to the Main Wetlands of Sardinia and Sicily (Italy) along the Mediterranean Bird Flyways
Authors: Ferrarini Alessandro , Gustin Marco , Celada Claudio
Published: May 2021

Biodiversity loss has multiple causes, but habitat degradation through land-use change is the predominant driver. We investigated the effectiveness of the Natura 2000 network in preserving the main wetlands of the two largest islands of the Mediterranean region, whose conservation is critical for many avian species at European and global level, in a 23-year period (1990–2012). In Sardinia, the surroundings of 22 wetlands were affected by an increase in artificial areas (+64 ha/year) and decrease in agricultural (−54 ha/year) and natural (−17 ha/year) ones. In Sicily, the surroundings of 16 wetlands were impacted by an increase in agricultural areas (+50 ha/year) and decrease in natural and semi-natural ones (−62 ha/year). Results show that the Natura 2000 policies were effective in preserving wetlands (no shrinkages detected in both regions), but their surroundings experienced intense processes of degradation and artificialization in all the sub-periods considered (1990–2000, 2000–2006, 2006–2012), whose effects are now threatening waterbirds and wetland integrity. The enlargement of the existing Natura 2000 sites, the creation of new ones and the speedup of the application of the rules of the Habitats and Birds Directives seem necessary to counteract the rapid land-use changes around these important stopover sites.
Adverse Impact of DNA Methylation Regulatory Gene Mutations on the Prognosis of AML Patients in the 2017 ELN Favorable Risk Group, Particularly Those Defined by NPM1 Mutation
Authors: Yu James , Sun Jingxin , Du Yuan , Patel Rushang , Varela Juan Carlos , Mori Shahram , Chang Chung-Che
Published: May 2021

The 2017 ELN risk stratification has been widely adopted, but some studies have suggested the outcomes are heterogenous within the ELN risk groups and may be affected by other co-existing genetic mutations. This study evaluated the impact of DNA methylation regulatory gene (TET2, IDH1/2, DNMT3A, SETBP1) mutations (DMRGM) evaluated by NGS in the outcome of AML patients in each ELN risk group. A total of 114 patients were analyzed with a median follow-up of 12 months. Overall, 30.7% (35/114) of patients had DMRGM. DMRGM status had no impact on CR rate in each ELN risk group. The OS, however, was significantly shorter in patients with DMRGM compared to those without DMRGM (median OS: 12 vs. 33 months, p = 0.0053). Multivariate analysis showed DMRGM status was an independent unfavorable factor for OS (HR: 2.704, 95% CI: 1.451–5.041, p = 0.0017). The adverse OS impact of DMRGM was only observed in the ELN favorable group (7 months vs. not reached, p = 0.0001), but not in the intermediate or adverse group. Among the favorable group with DMRGM (n = 16), DMRGM occurred predominantly in cases with mutated NPM1 (15/16, or 93.8%). Our results suggest that DMRGM adversely impact the outcomes of ELN favorable group patients, particularly those with mutated NPM1. Further studies are warranted to confirm our observations.
A Meta-Analysis of Computerized Tomography-Based Radiomics for the Diagnosis of COVID-19 and Viral Pneumonia
Authors: Kao Yung-Shuo , Lin Kun-Te
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) led to a global pandemic. Although reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of viral nucleic acid is the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis, its sensitivity was found to not be high enough in many reports. As radiomics-based diagnosis research has recently emerged, we aimed to use computerized tomography (CT)-based radiomics models to differentiate COVID-19 pneumonia from other viral pneumonia infections. Materials and methods: This study was performed according to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis diagnostic test accuracy studies (PRISMA-DTA) guidelines. The Pubmed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched. The pooled sensitivity and pooled specificity were calculated. A summary receiver operating characteristic (sROC) curve was constructed. The study quality was evaluated based on the radiomics quality score. Results: A total of 10,300 patients were involved in this meta-analysis. The radiomics quality score ranged from 13 to 16 (maximum score: 36). The pooled sensitivity was 0.885 (95% CI: 0.818–0.929), and the pooled specificity was 0.811 (95% CI: 0.667–0.902). The pooled AUC was 906. Conclusion: Our meta-analysis showed that CT-based radiomics feature models can successfully differentiate COVID-19 from other viral pneumonias.
Nuclear Imaging for the Diagnosis of Cardiac Amyloidosis in 2021
Authors: Li Weijia , Uppal Dipan , Wang Yu Chiang , Xu Xiaobo , Kokkinidis Damianos G. , Travin Mark I. , Tauras James M.
Published: May 2021

Cardiac amyloidosis is caused by the deposition of misfolded protein fibrils into the extracellular space of the heart. The diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis remains challenging because of the heterogeneous manifestations of the disease. There are many different types of amyloidosis with light-chain (AL) amyloidosis and transthyretin (ATTR) amyloidosis being the most common types of cardiac amyloidosis. Endomyocardial biopsy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing cardiac amyloidosis and differentiating amyloid subtypes, but its use is limited because of the invasive nature of the procedure, with risks for complications and the need for specialized training and centers to perform the procedure. Radionuclide cardiac imaging has recently become the most commonly performed test for the diagnosis of ATTR amyloidosis but is of limited value for the diagnosis of AL amyloidosis. Positron emission tomography has been increasingly used for the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis and its applications are expected to expand in the future. Imaging protocols are under refinement to achieve better quantification of the disease burden and prediction of prognosis.
Reply to Gambazza et al. Cystic Fibrosis, New Frontier: Exploring the Functional Connectivity of the Brain Default Mode Network. Comment on “Elce et al. Impact of Physical Activity on Cognitive Functions: A New Field for Research and Management of Cystic Fibrosis. Diagnostics 2020, 10, 489”
Authors: Elce Ausilia , Elce Valentina , Pizzo Alessandro Del
Published: May 2021

We appreciate the interest in our review and we are grateful for the comment by Gambazza S. [...]
Validation of Remote Dielectric Sensing (ReDS) in Monitoring Adult Patients Affected by COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Mei Federico , Di Marco Berardino Alessandro , Bonifazi Martina , Latini Lara Letizia , Zuccatosta Lina , Gasparini Stefano
Published: May 2021

Remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) is a non-invasive electromagnetic wave technology which provides an accurate reading of lung fluid content, and it has been reported as a valid tool in monitoring heart failure patients. Considering that morphological alterations in COVID-19 include pulmonary edema, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the reliability of ReDS technology in assessing the excess of lung fluid status in COVID-19 pneumonia, as compared to CT scans. In this pilot single center study, confirmed COVID-19 patients were enrolled on admission to an intermediate care unit. Measurements with the ReDS system and CT scans were performed on admission and at weeks 1 and 2. Eleven patients were recruited. The average change in ReDS was −3.1 ± 1.7 after one week (p = 0.001) and −4.6 ± 2.9 after two weeks (p = 0.006). A similar trend was seen in total CT score (−3.3 ± 2.1, p = 0.001). The level of agreement between ReDS and CT changes yielded a perfect result. Statistically significant changes were observed in lactate dehydrogenase, lymphocytes, and c-reactive protein over 2 weeks. This pilot study shows that ReDS can track changes in lung involvement according to the severity of COVID-19. Further studies to detect early clinical deterioration are needed.
Evaluation and Prediction of the Impacts of Land Cover Changes on Hydrological Processes in Data Constrained Southern Slopes of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Authors: Said Mateso , Hyandye Canute , Mjemah Ibrahimu Chikira , Komakech Hans Charles , Munishi Linus Kasian
Published: May 2021

This study provides a detailed assessment of land cover (LC) changes on the water balance components on data constrained Kikafu-Weruweru-Karanga (KWK) watershed, using the integrated approaches of hydrologic modeling and partial least squares regression (PLSR). The soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model was validated and used to simulate hydrologic responses of water balance components response to changes in LC in spatial and temporal scale. PLSR was further used to assess the influence of individual LC classes on hydrologic components. PLSR results revealed that expansion in cultivation land and built-up area are the main attributes in the changes in water yield, surface runoff, evapotranspiration (ET), and groundwater flow. The study findings suggest that improving the vegetation cover on the hillside and abandoned land area could help to reduce the direct surface runoff in the KWK watershed, thus, reducing flooding recurring in the area, and that with the ongoing expansion in agricultural land and built-up areas, there will be profound negative impacts in the water balance of the watershed in the near future (2030). This study provides a forecast of the future hydrological parameters in the study area based on changes in land cover if the current land cover changes go unattended. This study provides useful information for the advancement of our policies and practices essential for sustainable water management planning.
Mapping Online Geographical Indication: Agrifood Products on E-Commerce Shelves of Mercosur and the European Union
Authors: Fracarolli Guilherme Silva
Published: May 2021

The agrifood products market has never before contained as many niches than it does at this moment in history. The use of geographical indication (GIs) is one of the oldest ways of granting protection for and promoting these goods. Although they date back thousands of years, only since the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement has there been a common understanding in regard to their use. Although the GI system has the same structure globally, each region shows different performance. Therefore, the influence of institutions in this market is still an enigma to be explored. In this work, we sought to compare the performance of Mercosur and the European Union in relation to GI products and categories in this exchange arena by analyzing e-retail supermarkets. To do so, we collected data from 44 online supermarkets from both economic blocs and analyzed the relevant attributes of the products offered. Then, we compared both blocs through the use of graphics and economic sociology tools. We present novel results relating to differences in GI performance, discuss the reasons for such differences and examine the construction of the market. Our results show that the EU had significantly more products than Mercosur and had a wider variety of GI products on e-retail shelves. Moreover, in the EU, the advertised products originated mainly from within the economic bloc, whereas the majority of GI products advertised in Mercosur originated primarily from abroad. This difference indicates to dominance of the EU’ systems, demonstrating that its institutions are effective in terms of trade and commerce development mechanisms. However, in both blocs, a restricted number of categories and registers were found.
Toward an Innovative Educational Method to Train Students to Agile Approaches in Higher Education: The A.L.P.E.S.
Authors: Laval Jannik , Fleury Anthony , Karami Abir B. , Lebis Alexis , Lozenguez Guillaume , Pinot Rémy , Vermeulen Mathieu
Published: May 2021

Introduced in 2013, the A.L.P.E.S. approach (AgiLe aPproaches in higher Education Studies) aims to apply agile practices to teaching. Agile approaches are project management practices for IT development. More pragmatic than traditional methods, they allow to be closer to the applicant and to involve him/her as much as possible. They offer a great reactivity and a good adaptation to best meet the needs. They are used today in a large part of IT companies. Largely inspired by agile approaches, the A.L.P.E.S. approach allows the teaching of project management in a transverse way to a main course. It makes teaching more flexible and more adapted to the students. In this article, we describe the approach. We describe the tools, the process of creating a course, and the process of running a course.
Review of Racially Equitable Admissions Practices in STEM Doctoral Programs
Authors: Roberts Sonia F. , Pyfrom Elana , Hoffman Jacob A. , Pai Christopher , Reagan Erin K. , Light Alysson E.
Published: May 2021

This study reviews literature on racially equitable admissions practices relevant to graduate programs in STEM. Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores correlate more strongly with race, gender, and socioeconomic status than performance metrics for research during or after graduate school. Structural changes to admissions processes that can improve equity of admissions decisions and reduce correlations between admissions decisions and demographic data include using holistic review or composite scores that quantize more components of an application, removing hard limits on course requirements, admitting students as a cohort instead of to individual faculty sponsors, and diversifying admissions committees. Some alternative scoring methods attempt to measure personality traits, but performing these measurements during admissions may present difficulties. Bridge programs—whether they are implemented as collaborations with a minority-serving institution, a personalized educational program for each student admitted to a program, or a stand-alone program before the doctoral degree program—may be able to improve both recruitment and retention of students with underrepresented racial and ethnic identities in their field of study. Finally, financial barriers to applications can disproportionately affect underrepresented applicants due to systemic racism. We end with recommendations for graduate programs to improve equity in admissions processes.