bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Factors Influencing Productivity of Older Workers in Service Sector: A Case Study in Pilot Companies in Thailand
Authors: Asavanirandorn Chonticha , Pechdin Watchara , Trang Nguyen Thi Quynh
Published: August 2022

Productivity has posed issues for global countries in terms of promoting older employment due to an emergence of questions regarding production efficiency. Individual characteristics result in varying production efficiencies, which in turn provide different levels of productivity. Taking this concern into account, we are here to examine the characteristics of older workers who provide high productivity in order to seek recommendations for fostering decent work for them. We utilized the dataset collected from the pilot service companies in Thailand who participated in a national initiative program for employing older people. A total of 204 older workers and their characters were then observed. Those characters were analyzed by the Generalized Ordered Logit Regression (gologit) model. Empirical findings indicate that allocating work that is related to communication and coordination to older workers would enhance odd ratio of their productivity by as much as 4.79 times compared to general tasks. Furthermore, employing older individuals on a part-time basis tends to generate higher-level productivity than full-time employment. We also found that gender and age differences have no significant effect on productivity in the service sector as people age, and factors related to types of employment, education, health, and financial status are also a precise determinant for the productivity of older workers. This would suggest that the work design for the older workers must be in line with the aforementioned determinants. In addition, the government initiatives utilizing key findings from this study to boost older workers’ productivity should give priority on tax incentives, promoting and advocating for employment equality, and vocationalization programs.
Load versus Strain Relationships of Single and Continuous Span Full-Scale Pre-cast Prestressed Concrete Girders for Monorail Systems
Authors: Suparp Suniti , Sirisonthi Athasit , Ali Nazam , Saad Noha , Chaiyasarn Krisada , Azab Marc , Joyklad Panuwat , Hussain Qudeer
Published: August 2022

Full-scale testing of multiple span girders is scarce in the literature, often related to the complexity of loading setup and time constraints. The importance of full-scale tests is manifested in the fact that useful information regarding failure mechanisms can be obtained. In addition, important guidelines can be established for structural designers. Further, results from full-scale tests can help establish constitutive laws for various mechanisms involved in the response of actual structures. The structural performance of individual members can be assessed by monitoring their strains at service and ultimate loads. This study presents a comparison of experimentally monitored strains on longitudinal steel bars, stirrups, and prestressing tendons embedded in single and multi-span full-scale precast pre-tensioned girders. These girders were constructed and detailed to simulate the response of newly proposed straddle-type monorail girders. Single-span girders were tested under monotonic two-point service and ultimate loads, whereas multi-span girders were tested under both two- and four-point service and ultimate load. It was revealed that longitudinal steel and prestressing tendon strains monitored within single-span girders at service and ultimate loads were significantly higher than those recorded at corresponding locations in multi-span girders.
Street View Imagery (SVI) in the Built Environment: A Theoretical and Systematic Review
Authors: Li Yongchang , Peng Li , Wu Chengwei , Zhang Jiazhen
Published: August 2022

Street view imagery (SVI) provides efficient access to data that can be used to research spatial quality at the human scale. The previous reviews have mainly focused on specific health findings and neighbourhood environments. There has not been a comprehensive review of this topic. In this paper, we systematically review the literature on the application of SVI in the built environment, following a formal innovation–decision framework. The main findings are as follows: (I) SVI remains an effective tool for automated research assessments. This offers a new research avenue to expand the built environment-measurement methods to include perceptions in addition to physical features. (II) Currently, SVI is functional and valuable for quantifying the built environment, spatial sentiment perception, and spatial semantic speculation. (III) The significant dilemmas concerning the adoption of this technology are related to image acquisition, the image quality, spatial and temporal distribution, and accuracy. (IV) This research provides a rapid assessment and provides researchers with guidance for the adoption and implementation of SVI. Data integration and management, proper image service provider selection, and spatial metrics measurements are the critical success factors. A notable trend is the application of SVI towards a focus on the perceptions of the built environment, which provides a more refined and effective way to depict urban forms in terms of physical and social spaces.
Revealing Impacts of Trees on Modeling Microclimate Behavior in Spaces between Buildings through Simulation Monitoring
Authors: Deng Lirui , Jia Xibei , Wang Wei , Hussain Syed Asad
Published: August 2022

Urban trees have been recognized as having different impacts on the microclimate and thermal comfort. Therefore, this study conducted on-site measurement and simulation to explore and clarify how trees impact the microclimate, thermal comfort, and façade temperature. A campus site was selected as the test field and two models—one with and one without trees—were built with the ENVI-met. Meanwhile, one microclimate station and four sensors were installed to simulate and validate the microclimate. Twelve blocks with different tree conditions were also selected to further investigate the specific impacts of trees. The results showed that, firstly, the transpiration and sheltering effect of trees that dominates on sunny days can decrease air temperature and the predicted mean vote. Secondly, trees’ effects on airflow, including on the wind channel and blocking effect, are dominant on cloudy days. Trees inside the group often exhibit the wind-blocking effect, while trees with a downwind determinant at the windward group edge usually exhibit the wind channel effect. Thirdly, high canopy coverage enhances trees’ sheltering effect on solar radiation. The study also provides design recommendations for campus building and trees that account for how trees help improve the microclimate, enhance comfort, and reduce energy consumption.
Detection of ESR1 Mutations in Primary Tumors and Plasma Cell-Free DNA in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Stergiopoulou Dimitra , Markou Athina , Giannopoulou Lydia , Buderath Paul , Balgkouranidou Ioanna , Xenidis Nikolaos , Kakolyris Stylianos , Kasimir-Bauer Sabine , Lianidou Evi
Published: August 2022

ESR1 mutations have been recently associated with resistance to endocrine therapy in metastatic breast cancer and their detection has led to the development and current evaluation of novel, highly promising therapeutic strategies. In ovarian cancer there have been just a few reports on the presence of ESR1 mutations. The aim of our study was to evaluate the frequency and the clinical relevance of ESR1 mutations in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Drop-off droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) was first used to screen for ESR1 mutations in 60 primary tumors (FFPEs) from HGSOC patients and in 80 plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) samples from advanced and metastatic ovarian cancer patients. We further used our recently developed ESR1-NAPA assay to identify individual ESR1 mutations in drop-off ddPCR-positive samples. We report for the first time the presence of ESR1 mutations in 15% of FFPEs and in 13.8% of plasma cfDNA samples from advanced and metastatic ovarian cancer patients. To define the clinical significance of this finding, our results should be further validated in a large and well-defined cohort of ovarian cancer patients.
Immunogenicity and Safety of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine in Patients with Melanoma Treated with Immunotherapy
Authors: Diamantopoulos Panagiotis T. , Kontandreopoulou Christina-Nefeli , Gkoufa Aikaterini , Solomou Elena , Anastasopoulou Amalia , Palli Eleni , Kouzis Panagiotis , Bouros Spyros , Samarkos Mihalis , Magiorkinis Gkikas , Gogas Helen
Published: August 2022

The BNT162b2 vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 has a proven efficacy and a favorable safety profile. In cancer patients under immunotherapy in the form of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the efficacy of the vaccine has not been thoroughly studied, while a theoretical concern has also been raised about triggering immune-related adverse events (irAEs) by the vaccine. We conducted a prospective, non-interventional study on the immunogenicity and safety of the BNT162b2 vaccine in patients with advanced or metastatic melanoma treated with ICIs. Blood samples were obtained 0–4 days before the first dose and 12–21 days after the second dose of the vaccine for the quantification of the SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibody using an ELISA and immunophenotyping of the T and myeloid cell subpopulations. The active recording of AEs for a two-month period was conducted. Forty patients were included in the study. All but one (97.3%) achieved seroconversion after two doses of the vaccine and no correlations of the antibody titers with any of the studied parameters (age, gender, stage and duration of the disease, type of ICI, previous treatment, etc.) were found. Moreover, no differences in the subpopulations of the T cells (including the T-regulatory cells) or the myeloid cells were found pre- and post-vaccination. All AEs were low-grade, while one case of arthritis exacerbation was noted. The seroconversion rate in the studied population was high and was comparable to that of healthy subjects, while no major safety issues were raised during the safety follow-up. Finally, no derangements in the subpopulations of T cells or myeloid cells were noted. This is the first study focusing on the immunogenicity, safety, and effect of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines on the blood-cell immunophenotype status of patients with melanoma treated with ICIs.
DNA Repair Inhibitors Potentiate Fractionated Radiotherapy More Than Single-Dose Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Wong Wen-Kyle , Guerra Liberal Francisco D. C. , McMahon Stephen J.
Published: August 2022

Pharmacological inhibitors of DNA damage response (DDR) proteins, such as the ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinases and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), have been developed to overcome tumor radioresistance. Despite demonstrating radiosensitization preclinically, they have performed suboptimally in clinical trials, possibly due to an incomplete understanding of the influence of DDR inhibition on ionizing radiation (IR) dose fractionation and sublethal damage repair. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the radiosensitizing ability under fractionation of ATM inhibitor AZD0156, ATR inhibitor AZD6738 and PARP inhibitor AZD2281 (olaparib), utilizing MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Clonogenic assays were performed to assess cell survival and sublethal damage repair after treatment with DDR inhibitors and either single-dose or fractionated IR. Immunofluorescence microscopy was utilized to evaluate DNA double-strand break repair kinetics. Cell cycle distributions were investigated using flow cytometry. All inhibitors showed significant radiosensitization, which was significantly greater following fractionated IR than single-dose IR. They also led to more unrepaired DNA double-strand breaks at 24 h post-IR. This study provides preclinical evidence for the role of AZD0156, AZD6738 and olaparib as radiosensitizing agents. Still, it highlights the need to evaluate these drugs in fractionated settings mirroring clinical practice to optimize the trial design.
Association between Dietary Fiber Intake and Mortality among Colorectal Cancer Survivors: Results from the Newfoundland Familial Colorectal Cancer Cohort Study and a Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zhu Yun , Du Meizhi , Wang Yu , Vallis Jillian , Parfrey Patrick S. , Mclaughlin John R. , Qi Xiuying , Wang Peizhong Peter
Published: August 2022

We examined dietary fiber intake for its relevance to Colorectal cancer (CRC) survival in a cohort of CRC patients and a meta-analysis including results from four prospective cohort studies. We analyzed 504 CRC patients enrolled in the Newfoundland Familial Colorectal Cancer Study (NFCCS) who were newly diagnosed with CRC between 1999 and 2003. Follow-up for deaths was through April 2010. All participants completed a self-administered food frequency questionnaire to evaluate their dietary intakes one year before diagnosis. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to explore the associations of dietary fiber intake with all-cause mortality and CRC-specific mortality. In the meta-analysis, we identified prospective cohort studies published between January 1991 and December 2021 by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. Fixed-effects or random-effects models were used to combine the study-specific hazard ratio (HR) from our original analysis and three other cohorts. In the NFCCS, we found that CRC patients with the second quartile of dietary fiber intake had a 42% lower risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.35–0.98) and 58% lower risk of CRC-specific mortality (HR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.21–0.87) compared with those with the lowest quartile. In the meta-analysis, a similar inverse association between dietary fiber and total mortality was detected among CRC patients; each 10 g/day increase in dietary fiber intake was associated with a 16% decreased risk of total mortality. The dose–response meta-analysis showed a linear relationship between dietary fiber intake and all-cause mortality, with no sign of a plateau. For CRC-specific mortality, intriguingly, the benefit associated with increasing dietary fiber intake achieved its maximum at approximately 22 g/day, and no further reduction in CRC-specific mortality was observed beyond this intake level. Our results suggest that high dietary fiber intake may be associated with prolonged survival among CRC patients. Our findings add to the sparse literature on the role of dietary fiber in CRC survival.
London Disperse Interactions Assist Chiral Induction in the Soai Autoamplifying Reaction Provoked by 1- and 2-Aza[6]helicenes
Authors: Zonov Roman V. , Gridnev Ilya D.
Published: August 2022

In this paper, DFT computations revealed the mechanisms of the asymmetric catalytic reactions of diisopropylzinc with pyrimidylaldehyde catalyzed by 1- and 2-aza[6]helicenes, which make them effective inductors of the autocatalytic chiral amplification Soai reaction. The generation of chirality takes place through the formation of adducts of aldehyde and helicenes stabilized via non-covalent disperse interactions strictly defining the orientation of the aldehyde molecule in the corresponding transition state.
Recent Advances in Heterogeneous Electroreduction of CO2 on Copper-Based Catalysts
Authors: Wu Bowen , Chen Jian , Qian Linping
Published: August 2022

Facing greenhouse effects and the rapid exhaustion of fossil fuel, CO2 electrochemical reduction presents a promising method of environmental protection and energy transformation. Low onset potential, large current density, high faradaic efficiency (FE), and long-time stability are required for industrial production, due to economic costs and energy consumption. This minireview showcases the recent progress in catalyst design and engineering technology in CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) on copper based-catalysts. We focus on strategies optimizing the performance of copper-based catalysts, such as single-atom catalysts, doping, surface modification, crystal facet engineering, etc., and reactor design including gas diffusion layer, membrane electrode assembly, etc., in enhancing target electroreduction products including methane, methanol, ethylene, and C2+ oxygenates. The determination of the correlation and the developed technology might be helpful for future applications in the industry.
Facile Synthesis and Environmental Applications of Noble Metal-Based Catalytic Membrane Reactors
Authors: Yan Haochen , Liu Fuqiang , Zhang Jinna , Liu Yanbiao
Published: August 2022

Noble metal nanoparticle-loaded catalytic membrane reactors (CMRs) have emerged as a promising method for water decontamination. In this study, we proposed a convenient and green strategy to prepare gold nanoparticle (Au NPs)-loaded CMRs. First, the redox-active substrate membrane (CNT-MoS2) composed of carbon nanotube (CNT) and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) was prepared by an impregnation method. Water-diluted Au(III) precursor (HAuCl4) was then spontaneously adsorbed on the CNT-MoS2 membrane only through filtration and reduced into Au(0) nanoparticles in situ, which involved a “adsorption–reduction” process between Au(III) and MoS2. The constructed CNT-MoS2@Au membrane demonstrated excellent catalytic activity and stability, where a complete 4-nitrophenol transformation can be obtained within a hydraulic residence time of <3.0 s. In addition, thanks to the electroactivity of CNT networks, the as-designed CMR could also be applied to the electrocatalytic reduction of bromate (>90%) at an applied voltage of −1 V. More importantly, by changing the precursors, one could further obtain the other noble metal-based CMR (e.g., CNT-MoS2@Pd) with superior (electro)catalytic activity. This study provided new insights for the rational design of high-performance CMRs toward various environmental applications.
Preparation and Electrocatalytic Application of Copper- and Cobalt-Carbon Composites Based on Pyrolyzed Polymer
Authors: Muldakhmetov Zainulla M. , Ivanova Nina M. , Vissurkhanova Yakha A. , Soboleva Yelena A.
Published: August 2022

Copper- and cobalt-containing carbon composites were prepared by pyrolysis of an aniline-formaldehyde polymer (AFP) doped with the metal oxides, followed by the reduction of metal cations in an electrochemical cell. AFP + metal oxide nanocomposites were synthesized by introducing a metal salt during the polycondensation of aniline with formaldehyde and by alkaline precipitation of metal oxides into the polymer matrix. The heat treatment was carried out at 400, 500 and 700 °C. Microscopic studies revealed the formation of CuO crystallites in the shape of "stars" on the heat-treated carbon material. The resulting composites were saturated with hydrogen in an electrochemical system, which was accompanied by the reduction of copper and cobalt cations, and the appearance of the metals in zero-valence state. The so-prepared Cu + copper oxides/C and Co + Co(OH)2/C composites were used as electrocatalysts in the electrohydrogenation of acetophenone (APh). Compared to the electrochemical reduction of APh on a copper cathode (without catalysts), an increase in the rate of this process (by 2–4 times) in the presence of the composites and an increase in the APh conversion with the selective formation of 1-phenylethanol were established.
ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channels in Migraine: Translational Findings and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Clement Amalie , Guo Song , Jansen-Olesen Inger , Christensen Sarah Louise
Published: August 2022

Globally, migraine is a leading cause of disability with a huge impact on both the work and private life of affected persons. To overcome the societal migraine burden, better treatment options are needed. Increasing evidence suggests that ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels are involved in migraine pathophysiology. These channels are essential both in blood glucose regulation and cardiovascular homeostasis. Experimental infusion of the KATP channel opener levcromakalim to healthy volunteers and migraine patients induced headache and migraine attacks in 82-100% of participants. Thus, this is the most potent trigger of headache and migraine identified to date. Levcromakalim likely induces migraine via dilation of cranial arteries. However, other neuronal mechanisms are also proposed. Here, basic KATP channel distribution, physiology, and pharmacology are reviewed followed by thorough review of clinical and preclinical research on KATP channel involvement in migraine. KATP channel opening and blocking have been studied in a range of preclinical migraine models and, within recent years, strong evidence on the importance of their opening in migraine has been provided from human studies. Despite major advances, translational difficulties exist regarding the possible anti-migraine efficacy of KATP channel blockage. These are due to significant species differences in the potency and specificity of pharmacological tools targeting the various KATP channel subtypes.
The Role of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy for the Management of Functional Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Russo Eleonora , Russo Giulio , Cassese Mauro , Braccio Maurizio , Carella Massimo , Compagnucci Paolo , Dello Russo Antonio , Casella Michela
Published: August 2022

Valve leaflets and chordae structurally normal characterize functional mitral regurgitation (FMR), which in heart failure (HF) setting results from an imbalance between closing and tethering forces secondary to alterations in the left ventricle (LV) and left atrium geometry. In this context, FMR impacts the quality of life and increases mortality. Despite multiple medical and surgical attempts to treat FMR, to date, there is no univocal treatment for many patients. The pathophysiology of FMR is highly complex and involves several underlying mechanisms. Left ventricle dyssynchrony may contribute to FMR onset and worsening and represents an important target for FMR management. In this article, we discuss the mechanisms of FMR and review the potential therapeutic role of CRT, providing a comprehensive review of the available data coming from clinical studies and trials.
Cytosolic HMGB1 Mediates LPS-Induced Autophagy in Microglia by Interacting with NOD2 and Suppresses Its Proinflammatory Function
Authors: Kim Seung-Woo , Oh Sang-A , Seol Song-I , Davaanyam Dashdulam , Lee Ja-Kyeong
Published: August 2022

The high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a well-known danger-associated molecule pattern (DAMP) molecule, is a non-histone chromosomal protein localized in the nucleus under normal physiological conditions. HMGB1 exhibits diverse functions depending on its subcellular location. In the present study, we investigated the role of HMGB1-induced autophagy in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated BV2 microglial cell line in mediating the transition between the inflammatory and autophagic function of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing 2 (NOD2), a cytoplasmic pattern-recognition receptor. The induction of the microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3), an autophagy biomarker, was detected slowly in BV2 cells after the LPS treatment, and peak induction was detected at 12 h. Under these conditions, NOD2 level was significantly increased and the binding between HMGB1 and NOD2 and between HMGB1 and ATG16L1 was markedly enhanced and the temporal profiles of the LC3II induction and HMGB1-NOD2 and HMGB1-ATG16L1 complex formation coincided with the cytosolic accumulation of HMGB1. The LPS-mediated autophagy induction was significantly suppressed in BV2 cells after HMGB1 or NOD2 knock-down (KD), indicating that HMGB1 contributes to NOD2-mediated autophagy induction in microglia. Moreover, NOD2-RIP2 interaction-mediated pro-inflammatory cytokine induction and NF-κB activity were significantly enhanced in BV2 cells after HMGB1 KD, indicating that HMGB1 plays a critical role in the modulation of NOD2 function between pro-inflammation and pro-autophagy in microglia. The effects of the cell-autonomous pro-autophagic pathway operated by cytoplasmic HMGB1 may be beneficial, whereas those from the paracrine pro-inflammatory pathway executed by extracellularly secreted HMGB1 can be detrimental. Thus, the overall functional significance of HMGB1-induced autophagy is different, depending on its temporal activity.
Taste Receptor Activation in Tracheal Brush Cells by Denatonium Modulates ENaC Channels via Ca2+, cAMP and ACh
Authors: Hollenhorst Monika I. , Kumar Praveen , Zimmer Maxim , Salah Alaa , Maxeiner Stephan , Elhawy Mohamed Ibrahem , Evers Saskia B. , Flockerzi Veit , Gudermann Thomas , Chubanov Vladimir , Boehm Ulrich , Krasteva-Christ Gabriela
Published: August 2022

Mucociliary clearance is a primary defence mechanism of the airways consisting of two components, ciliary beating and transepithelial ion transport (ISC). Specialised chemosensory cholinergic epithelial cells, named brush cells (BC), are involved in regulating various physiological and immunological processes. However, it remains unclear if BC influence ISC. In murine tracheae, denatonium, a taste receptor agonist, reduced basal ISC in a concentration-dependent manner (EC50 397 µM). The inhibition of bitter taste signalling components with gallein (Gβγ subunits), U73122 (phospholipase C), 2-APB (IP3-receptors) or with TPPO (Trpm5, transient receptor potential-melastatin 5 channel) reduced the denatonium effect. Supportively, the ISC was also diminished in Trpm5−/− mice. Mecamylamine (nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, nAChR, inhibitor) and amiloride (epithelial sodium channel, ENaC, antagonist) decreased the denatonium effect. Additionally, the inhibition of Gα subunits (pertussis toxin) reduced the denatonium effect, while an inhibition of phosphodiesterase (IBMX) increased and of adenylate cyclase (forskolin) reversed the denatonium effect. The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) inhibitor CFTRinh172 and the KCNQ1 potassium channel antagonist chromanol 293B both reduced the denatonium effect. Thus, denatonium reduces ISC via the canonical bitter taste signalling cascade leading to the Trpm5-dependent nAChR-mediated inhibition of ENaC as well as Gα signalling leading to a reduction in cAMP-dependent ISC. Therefore, BC activation contributes to the regulation of fluid homeostasis.
A Wholistic View of How Bumetanide Attenuates Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Delpire Eric , Ben-Ari Yehezkel
Published: August 2022

The specific NKCC1 cotransporter antagonist, bumetanide, attenuates the severity of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and many neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative disorders in animal models and clinical trials. However, the pervasive expression of NKCC1 in many cell types throughout the body is thought to challenge the therapeutic efficacy of bumetanide. However, many peripheral functions, including intestinal, metabolic, or vascular, etc., are perturbed in brain disorders contributing to the neurological sequels. Alterations of these functions also increase the incidence of the disorder suggesting complex bidirectional links with the clinical manifestations. We suggest that a more holistic view of ASD and other disorders is warranted to account for the multiple sites impacted by the original intra-uterine insult. From this perspective, large-spectrum active repositioned drugs that act centrally and peripherally might constitute a useful approach to treating these disorders.
Growth Hormone Secretory Capacity Is Associated with Cardiac Morphology and Function in Overweight and Obese Patients: A Controlled, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gangitano Elena , Barbaro Giuseppe , Susi Martina , Rossetti Rebecca , Spoltore Maria Elena , Masi Davide , Tozzi Rossella , Mariani Stefania , Gnessi Lucio , Lubrano Carla
Published: August 2022

Obesity is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity. Adult patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) show morpho-functional cardiological alterations. A total of 353 overweight/obese patients are enrolled in the period between 2009 and 2019 to assess the relationships between GH secretory capacity and the metabolic phenotype, cardiovascular risk factors, body composition and cardiac echocardiographic parameters. All patients underwent GHRH + arginine test to evaluate GH secretory capacity, DEXA for body composition assessment and transthoracic echocardiography. Blood samples are also collected for the evaluation of metabolic parameters. In total, 144 patients had GH deficiency and 209 patients had normal GH secretion. In comparing the two groups, we found significant differences in body fat distribution with predominantly visceral adipose tissue accumulation in GHD patients. Metabolic syndrome is more prevalent in the GHD group. In particular, fasting glycemia, triglycerides and systolic and diastolic blood pressure are found to be linearly correlated with GH secretory capacity. Epicardial fat thickness, E/A ratio and indexed ventricular mass are worse in the GHD group. In the population studied, metabolic phenotype, body composition, cardiovascular risk factors and cardiac morphology are found to be related to the GH secretory capacity. GH secretion in the obese patient seems to be an important determinant of metabolic health.
Saudi Arabian Students’ Beliefs about and Barriers to Online Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Abed Mohaned G. , Abdulbaqi Reem F. , Shackelford Todd K.
Published: August 2022

At a time when pandemics such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) spread rapidly, the deployment of online education is essential. However, to successfully leverage online education in such times, it is important to investigate learners’ motivations and beliefs about online education and associated barriers as well as the role of religious and social values. To investigate these motivations and beliefs, this study included semi-structured interviews with 10 female undergraduate students. These interviews explored the perceptions of students with regard to their engagement with online learning and assessment amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia’s higher education system. The findings indicate that the challenges linked to the sudden shift in learning mode and changes in assessment techniques impacted students’ engagement with learning and assessment. The findings also indicate that personal challenges decreased the willingness of students to learn online, but that their beliefs about learning online were improved by the quality of online learning. The study identified that one of the most important elements of improving beliefs about online learning is open communication between students and instructors, as this contributes to shared understanding and acceptance. The results are presented and discussed in connection with current literature, research implications, and future directions.
A Preliminary Study about the Role of Reactive Oxygen Species and Inflammatory Process after COVID-19 Vaccination and COVID-19 Disease
Authors: Lymperaki Evgenia , Kazeli Konstantina , Tsamesidis Ioannis , Nikza Polykseni , Poimenidou Irini , Vagdatli Eleni
Published: August 2022

During the last couple of critical years, worldwide, there have been more than 550 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, including more than 6 million deaths (reported by the WHO); with respect to these cases, several vaccines, mainly mRNA vaccines, seem to prevent and protect from SARS-CoV-2 infection. We hypothesize that oxidative stress is one of the key factors playing an important role in both the generation and development of various kinds of disease, as well as antibody generation, as many biological paths can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cellular activities can be modulated when ROS/antioxidant balance is interrupted. A pilot study was conducted in two stages during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 involving 222 participants between the ages of 26 and 66 years. ROS levels were measured before an after vaccination in the blood samples of 20 individuals who were vaccinated with two doses of mRNA vaccine, and an increase in ROS levels was observed after the first dose, with no modifications observed until the day before the second vaccination dose. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) was observed between time points 3 and 4 (before and after second dose), when participants were vaccinated for the second time, and ROS levels decreased from 21,758 to 17,580 a.u. In the second stage, blood was collected from 28 participants 45 days after COVID-19 infection (Group A), from 131 participants 45 days after receiving two doses of mRNA vaccine against COVID-19 (Group B), and from 13 healthy individuals as a control group (Group C). Additionally, antibodies levels were measured in all groups to investigate a possible correlation with ROS levels. A strong negative correlation was found between free radicals and disease antibodies in Group A (r = −0.45, p = 0.001), especially in the male subgroup (r = −0.88, p = 0.001), as well as in the female subgroup (r = −0.24, p < 0.001). Furthermore, no significant correlation (only a negative trend) was found with antibodies derived from vaccination in Group B (r = −0.01), and a negative trend was observed in the female subgroup, whereas a positive trend was observed in the male subgroup.
Role of Materials Chemistry on Transparent Conductivity of Amorphous Nb-Doped SnO2 Thin Films Prepared by Remote Plasma Deposition
Authors: Song Angang , Wang Yiwen , Liu Suxiang , Wang Qinpu , Hu Junhua
Published: August 2022

In this study, remote plasma sputtering deposition of niobium-doped SnO2 transparent conductive oxides on glass substrates was carried out at ambient temperature with no post-deposition annealing. The microstructure, optical, electrical, and surface morphology of the thin films were characterized using a combination of advanced techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis spectrophotometer, Hall-effect measurements, as well as field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was determined that the oxygen defects of the films have a substantial impact on their transparent conductivity. The crystalline films, which were crystallized by annealing at 450 °C, had higher resistivities due to a decreased concentration of oxygen vacancies, which restricted conduction. In comparison, the amorphous films exhibited remarkable conductivity. The best amorphous films (Nb:SnO2) exhibited a resistivity of less than 4.6 × 10−3 Ω·cm, with a 3 × 1020 cm−3 carrier concentration and a 4.4 cm2/(V·S) of Hall mobility. X-ray amorphous Nb:SnO2 films can be used to make conductive and transparent protective layers that can be used to shield semiconducting photoelectrodes used in solar water splitting. These layers can also be used with more conductive TCO films (ITO or AZO) when needed.
Thin-Film Coating Methods: A Successful Marriage of High-Quality and Cost-Effectiveness—A Brief Exploration
Authors: Butt Muhammad A.
Published: August 2022

In this review, several cost-effective thin-film coating methods, which include dip-coating, spin-coating, spray-coating, blade-coating, and roll-coating, are presented. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages depending on the proposed application. Not all of them are appropriate for large-scale production due to their certain limitations. That is why the coating method should be selected based on the type and size of the substrate, including the thickness and surface roughness of the required thin films. The sol–gel method offers several benefits, such as simplicity in fabrication, excellent film uniformity, the capacity to cover surfaces of any size and over vast areas, and a low processing temperature. Nevertheless, these coating methods are somewhat economical and well managed in low-budget laboratories. Moreover, these methods offer thin films with good homogeneity and low-surface roughness. Furthermore, some other thin-film deposition methods, for instance, physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD), are also discussed. Since CVD is not restricted to line-of-sight deposition, a characteristic shared by sputtering, evaporation, and other PVD methods, many manufacturing methods favor it. However, these techniques require sophisticated equipment and cleanroom facilities. We aim to provide the pros and cons of thin-film coating methods and let the readers decide the suitable coating technique for their specific application.
Wood-Based Composites with High Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness and Ultra-Low Reflection
Authors: Pan Yanfei , Dai Mayin , Zhao Hongwei , Hu Nianguang , Guo Qiang , Huang Jintian
Published: August 2022

With the aggravation of electromagnetic radiation pollution, it is urgent to develop green, lightweight, ultra-thin and high-performance electromagnetic interference shielding materials to eliminate unnecessary electromagnetic interference; however, the construction of wood-based high-performance electromagnetic shielding materials by simple methods remains a challenge. Based on the layer-by-layer assembly strategy, a lightweight Ni/Wood/Ni composite (NWNC) with an interlayer structure was constructed by a simple electroless plating method using natural wood as a substrate for electromagnetic interference shielding. The synthesized NWNC has a smooth surface, and its minimum surface roughness is only 8.34 μm. After 15 min of electroless nickel plating, the contact angle (CA) of NWNC with an ultra-thin nickel layer (65 μm) was 118.3°. When the thickness of the nickel layer is only 0.102 mm, the conductivity can reach 1659.59 S/cm when the three electroless nickel plating time is 15 min. In the L-band, the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness can reach 94.1 dB after three times electroless nickel plating for 20 min. This is due to the conductive loss, magnetic loss and interface polarization loss generated by the electromagnetic network constructed by the nickel layer, which makes the composite material produce an electromagnetic shielding mechanism dominated by absorption. The L-band absorption efficiency can reach 39.01 dB, and due to the porous structure of the original wood, the multiple reflection and absorption inside the wood further lose the electromagnetic wave. This study provides a low-cost and simple method for the design of light, ultra-thin and efficient controllable wood-based electromagnetic shielding materials and has broad application prospects in the fields of construction and aerospace.
Synthesis and Properties of Bio-Based Composites from Vegetable Oils and Starch
Authors: Biswas Eletria , Silva Julio Antonio Conti , Khan Mujibur , Quirino Rafael Lopes
Published: August 2022

Natural polymers, such as starch, and polymers derived from renewable resources, such as vegetable oils, have been considered as alternatives to petroleum-based plastics during recent decades, due to environmental concerns. Indeed, these materials can offer a variety of advantages, such as low cost, wide availability, carbon neutrality, elevated thermal stability, and easily tunable mechanical properties. However, some of these polymers alone exhibit poor mechanical properties, making them not suitable for some applications. Hence, the reinforcement of these bio-based polymers with other materials is often considered to overcome this challenge. In this work, thermosetting composites based on tung and linseed oil resins were prepared using starch as reinforcement. Analyses from Soxhlet extractions showed that the higher the concentration of tung oil in comparison to linseed oil in the resins, the lower the mass of unreacted material, leading to an optimum resin entirely based on tung oil. Dielectric analysis (DEA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that the polymerization was completed in 3 h 20 min, at 140 °C, and that the composites were thermally stable until 270 °C. Finally, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) confirmed that the addition of starch to the resins increased the room temperature storage modulus (E′25) from 94 MPa to 893 MPa. Composites prepared with a resin formulation that did not contain a compatibilizer exhibited E′25 of 441 MPa. The composites investigated in this work are promising candidates for applications that require improved mechanical properties.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induced by Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Patrón-Romero Leslie , Luque-Morales Priscy Alfredo , Loera-Castañeda Verónica , Lares-Asseff Ismael , Leal-Ávila María Ángeles , Alvelais-Palacios Jorge Arturo , Plasencia-López Ismael , Almanza-Reyes Horacio
Published: August 2022

The constant evolution and applications of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) make living organisms more susceptible to being exposed to them. Among the most used are zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). Therefore, understanding the molecular effects of ZnO-NPs in biological systems is extremely important. This review compiles the main mechanisms that induce cell toxicity by exposure to ZnO-NPs and reported in vitro research models, with special attention to mitochondrial damage. Scientific evidence indicates that in vitro ZnO-NPs have a cytotoxic effect that depends on the size, shape and method of synthesis of ZnO-NPs, as well as the function of the cells to which they are exposed. ZnO-NPs come into contact with the extracellular region, leading to an increase in intracellular [Zn2+] levels. The mechanism by which intracellular ZnO-NPs come into contact with organelles such as mitochondria is still unclear. The mitochondrion is a unique organelle considered the “power station” in the cells, participates in numerous cellular processes, such as cell survival/death, multiple biochemical and metabolic processes, and holds genetic material. ZnO-NPs increase intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and, in particular, superoxide levels; they also decrease mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), which affects membrane permeability and leads to cell death. ZnO-NPs also induced cell death through caspases, which involve the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. The expression of pro-apoptotic genes after exposure to ZnO-NPs can be affected by multiple factors, including the size and morphology of the NPs, the type of cell exposed (healthy or tumor), stage of development (embryonic or differentiated), energy demand, exposure time and, no less relevant, the dose. To prevent the release of pro-apoptotic proteins, the damaged mitochondrion is eliminated by mitophagy. To replace those mitochondria that underwent mitophagy, the processes of mitochondrial biogenesis ensure the maintenance of adequate levels of ATP and cellular homeostasis.
Microstructure Evolution of Reactor Pressure Vessel A508-3 Steel under High-Dose Heavy Ion Irradiation
Authors: Ma Xianfeng , Zhang Qiang , Song Ligang , Zhang Wenqing , She Meng , Zhu Fei
Published: August 2022

The microstructure evolution of nuclear reactor pressure vessel A508-3 steel irradiated by heavy ions up to 1.5 dpa was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). According to the TEM analysis, black dots were widely distributed in the irradiated A508-3 steel, with a high density of 1.782 × 1022/m3. A large number of dislocations with Burgers vectors <100> were formed in the irradiated A508-3 steel and tangled together, leading to the formation of dislocation networks. The number density of black dots at 1.5 dpa was 3.5 times higher than that at 0.08 dpa, and the corresponding average size showed an 8% increase. The higher density of dislocation defects led to a significant increase in hardness from 3.0 GPa at 0.08 dpa to 4.2 GPa at 1.5 dpa. The elastic modulus showed a slight increase and less dependence on the irradiation dose.
Stability and Rupture of Liquid Crystal Bridges under Microgravity
Authors: Trittel Torsten , Klopp Christoph , Harth Kirsten , Stannarius Ralf
Published: August 2022

Liquid-crystal columns were prepared and observed under microgravity aboard suborbital TEXUS rocket flights. The microgravity phase of each flight lasted for approximately six minutes. We tested structures in different liquid-crystalline mesophases. In the isotropic and nematic phases, the Rayleigh-Plateau instability led to the collapse of the columns. However, in the smectic A and C mesophases, it was found that the columns survived the extension to slenderness ratios (length/diameter) of over 4.5 (and in one case, more than 6). The liquid-crystalline material in the millimeter-sized columns was macroscopically disordered. Thus, regular shell-like internal layer structures that stabilized the columns can be excluded. Instead, the reason for their persistence was the yield stress of the material, which is quite different for the different mesophases. In the columnar mesophase, the cylindrical bridge even survived the strong deceleration when the rocket re-entered the atmosphere. During the breakup of the filaments, the neck thinning dynamics were determined.
Atypical Pulmonary Tuberculosis as the First Manifestation of Advanced HIV Disease—Diagnostic Difficulties
Authors: Kacprzak Aneta , Oniszh Karina , Podlasin Regina , Marczak Maria , Cielniak Iwona , Augustynowicz-Kopeć Ewa , Tomkowski Witold , Szturmowicz Monika
Published: August 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of morbidity, hospitalisations, and mortality in people living with HIV (PLWH). The lower CD4+ T-lymphocyte count in the course of HIV infection, the higher risk of active TB, and the higher odds for atypical clinical and radiologic TB presentation. These HIV-related alterations in TB presentation may cause diagnostic problems in patients not knowing they are infected with HIV. We report on a patient without any background medical conditions, who was referred to a hospital with a 4-month history of chest and feet pains, mild dry cough, fatigue, reduced appetite, and decreasing body weight. Chest X-ray revealed mediastinal lymphadenopathy, bilateral reticulonodular parenchymal opacities, and pleural effusion. A preliminary diagnosis of lymphoma, possibly with a superimposed infection was established. Further differential diagnostic process revealed pulmonary TB in the course of advanced HIV-1 disease, with a CD4+ T-lymphocyte count of 107 cells/mm3. The patient completed anti-tuberculous therapy and successfully continues on antiretroviral treatment. This case underlines the importance of screening for HIV in patients with newly diagnosed TB.
MRI Evolution of a Patient with Viral Tick-Borne Encephalitis and Polymorphic Seizures
Authors: Sirbu Carmen Adella , Stefani Constantin , Mitrică Marian , Toma Gabriela Simona , Ranetti Aurelian Emil , Docu-Axelerad Any , Manole Aida Mihaela , Stefan Ion
Published: August 2022

Some neurotropic viruses induce specific lesions in the deep structures, such as basal ganglia and thalamus. These anatomical structures play an important role in initiating and maintaining different types of epileptic seizures. We present the case of a 25-year-old male, transferred to our clinic one week after the onset of the symptomatology, with a recent history of traveling to Turkey and Egypt. At the moment of his hospital admission, his symptoms included altered consciousness, agitation, and seizures. Shortly after, his state worsened, requiring intubation. Viral tick-borne encephalitis diagnoses were favored by the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) analysis, EEG (Electroencephalography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) images presenting symmetric hyper signal in the basal ganglia, and IgM antibodies for anti-tick-borne encephalitis. These lesions persisted for several weeks, and the patient’s seizures were polymorphic, originally generalized onset motor, generalized onset non-motor, and focal myoclonic. The patient achieved his independence, seizures decreasing both in intensity and frequency; the MRI images became almost normal. The reduction in antiepileptic doses was not followed by seizure recurrence.