bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Cardiovascular Effects of E-Cigarettes in Adults Making a Stop-Smoking Attempt: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Klonizakis Markos , Gumber Anil , McIntosh Emma , Brose Leonie S.
Published: November 2021

Smoking increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk by leading to endothelial injury. E-cigarettes remain a popular way to stop smoking. Evidence on their effect on cardiovascular health is growing but remains limited, particularly in the short-term. The main objective of this study was to compare short-term cardiovascular effects in smokers who quit smoking using e-cigarettes with or without nicotine or prescription nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). This was a single-centre (Sheffield, UK) pragmatic three-arm randomised controlled trial which recruited adult smokers (≥10 cigarettes per day), who were willing to attempt to stop smoking with support (n = 248). Participants were randomised to receive either: (a) behavioral support and e-cigarettes with 18 mg/mL nicotine (n = 84); (b) behavioral support and e-cigarettes without nicotine (n = 82); (c) behavioral support and NRT (n = 82). Flow Mediated Dilation (%FMD), peak cutaneous vascular conductance responses to acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded at baseline and three days after stopping smoking. General Linear Models were used to compare changes between groups and changes from follow-up. Adjusting for baseline, at follow-up, all outcomes (for the 208 participants that completed the 3-day assessments) with the exception of SNP had improved significantly over baseline and there were no differences between groups (%FMD F = 1.03, p = 0.360, df = 2,207; ACh F = 0.172, p = 0.84, df = 2,207; SNP F = 0.382, p = 0.68, df = 2,207; MAP F = 0.176, p = 0.84, df = 2,207). For smokers ≥20 cigarettes per day, benefits were also pronounced. Smoking cessation showed positive cardiovascular impact even after a 3-day period and the effects did not differ between nicotine-containing e-cigarettes, nicotine-free e-cigarettes and NRT.
The Effect of Mycotoxins and Silymarin on Liver Lipidome of Mice with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Bechynska Kamila , Kosek Vit , Fenclova Marie , Muchova Lucie , Smid Vaclav , Suk Jakub , Chalupsky Karel , Sticova Eva , Hurkova Kamila , Hajslova Jana , Vitek Libor , Stranska Milena
Published: November 2021

Milk thistle-based dietary supplements have become increasingly popular. The extract from milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is often used for the treatment of liver diseases because of the presence of its active component, silymarin. However, the co-occurrence of toxic mycotoxins in these preparations is quite frequent as well. The objective of this study was to investigate the changes in composition of liver lipidome and other clinical characteristics of experimental mice fed by a high-fat methionine-choline deficient diet inducing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The mice were exposed to (i) silymarin, (ii) mycotoxins (trichothecenes, enniatins, beauvericin, and altertoxins) and (iii) both silymarin and mycotoxins, and results were compared to the controls. The liver tissue extracts were analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Using tools of univariate and multivariate statistical analysis, we were able to identify 48 lipid species from the classes of diacylglycerols, triacylglycerols, free fatty acids, fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids and phospholipids clearly reflecting the dysregulation of lipid metabolism upon exposure to mycotoxin and/or silymarin.
Obesity-Associated Metabolic Disturbances Reverse the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of High-Density Lipoproteins in Microglial Cells
Authors: Grao-Cruces Elena , Millan-Linares Maria C. , Martin-Rubio Maria E. , Toscano Rocio , Barrientos-Trigo Sergio , Bermudez Beatriz , Montserrat-de la Paz Sergio
Published: November 2021

High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) play an important role in reverse cholesterol transport and present antioxidant properties, among others. In the central nervous system (CNS), there are HDLs, where these lipoproteins could influence brain health. Owing to the new evidence of HDL functionality remodeling in obese patients, and the fact that obesity-associated metabolic disturbances is pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant, the aim of this study was to investigate if HDL functions are depleted in obese patients and obesity-associated microenvironment. HDLs were isolated from normal-weight healthy (nwHDL) and obese men (obHDL). The oxHDL level was measured by malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxynoneal peroxided products. BV2 microglial cells were exposed to different concentrations of nwHDL and obHDL in different obesity-associated pro-inflammatory microenvironments. Our results showed that hyperleptinemia increased oxHDL levels. In addition, nwHDLs reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines’ release and M1 marker gene expression in BV2 microglial cells. Nevertheless, both nwHDL co-administered with LPS+leptin and obHDL promoted BV2 microglial activation and a higher pro-inflammatory cytokine production, thus confirming that obesity-associated metabolic disturbances reverse the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of HDLs in microglial cells.
Enpp2 Expression by Dendritic Cells Is a Key Regulator in Migration
Authors: Lee Jun-Ho , Choi So-Yeon , Park Soo-Yeoun , Jung Nam-Chul , Noh Kyung-Eun , Nam Ji-Hee , Oh Ji-Soo , Choi Hyun-Ji , Jang Ji-Su , Yoo Ji-Young , Song Jie-Young , Seo Han Geuk , Lim Dae-Seog
Published: November 2021

Enpp2 is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), which exhibits a wide variety of biological functions. Here, we examined the biological effects of Enpp2 on dendritic cells (DCs), which are specialized antigen-presenting cells (APCs) characterized by their ability to migrate into secondary lymphoid organs and activate naïve T-cells. DCs were generated from bone marrow progenitors obtained from C57BL/6 mice. Enpp2 levels in DCs were regulated using small interfering (si)RNA or recombinant Enpp2. Expression of Enpp2 in LPS-stimulated mature (m)DCs was high, however, knocking down Enpp2 inhibited mDC function. In addition, the migratory capacity of mDCs increased after treatment with rmEnpp2; this phenomenon was mediated via the RhoA-mediated signaling pathway. Enpp2-treated mDCs showed a markedly increased capacity to migrate to lymph nodes in vivo. These findings strongly suggest that Enpp2 is necessary for mDC migration capacity, thereby increasing our understanding of DC biology. We postulate that regulating Enpp2 improves DC migration to lymph nodes, thus improving the effectiveness of cancer vaccines based on DC.
Aberrant Amplitude of Low-Frequency Fluctuation and Degree Centrality within the Default Mode Network in Patients with Vascular Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Li Haoyuan , Jia Xiuqin , Li Yingying , Jia Xuejia , Yang Qi
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to investigate whole-brain spontaneous activities changes in patients with vascular mild cognitive impairment (VaMCI), and to evaluate the relationships between these brain alterations and their neuropsychological assessments. Thirty-one patients with VaMCI and thirty-one healthy controls (HCs) underwent structural MRI and resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) and neuropsychological assessments. The functional alterations were determined by the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and degree centrality (DC). The gray matter volume (GMV) changes were analyzed using voxel-based morphometry (VBM). Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationships between the structural and functional changes of brain regions and neuropsychological assessments. The VaMCI group had significantly lower scores in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and higher scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD). Compared to the HCs, the VaMCI group exhibited GM atrophy in the right precentral gyrus (PreCG) and right inferior temporal gyrus (ITG). VaMCI patients further exhibited significantly decreased brain activity within the default mode network (DMN), including the bilateral precuneus (PCu), angular gyrus (AG), and medial frontal gyrus (medFG). Linear regression analysis revealed that the decreased ALFF was independently associated with lower MoCA scores, and the GM atrophy was independently associated with higher HAMD scores. The current finding suggested that aberrant spontaneous brain activity in the DMN might subserve as a potential biomarker of VaMCI, which may highlight the underlying mechanism of cognitive decline in cerebral small vessel disease.
The Nature of Anti-Asian American Xenophobia during the Coronavirus Pandemic: A Preliminary Exploration into Envy as a Key Motivator of Hate
Authors: Akiba Daisuke , Velazquez Lopez Ana Sofia , Hirano Mari
Published: November 2021

Background. The current Coronavirus pandemic has been linked to a dramatic increase in anti-Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) hate incidents in the United States. At the time of writing, there does not appear to be any published empirical research examining the mechanisms underlying Asiaphobia during the current pandemic. Based on the stereotype content model, we investigated the idea that ambivalent attitudes toward AAPIs, marked primarily with envy, may be contributing to anti-AAPI xenophobia. Methods. Study 1 (N = 140) explored, through a survey, the link between envious stereotypes toward AAPIs and Asiaphobia. Study 2 (N = 167), utilizing autobiographical recall tasks, experimentally induced the affect of envy in order to establish causality between feelings of envy toward AAPIs and Asiaphobia. Results. In Study 1, envious stereotypes toward AAPIs were found to be predictive of Asiaphobia and, in Study 2, the inducement of envy led to heightened levels of Asiaphobia. Conclusions. The current research provides support for the proposition that, consistent with the stereotype content model, stereotypes and attitudes toward AAPIs marked with ambivalent and envious views, consisting of a mix of perceived competence and lack of “human warmth,” may be fueling Asiaphobia. Implications for potential applications and future research are discussed.
Fundamental Issues in the Qualification of Smart and Intelligence in Building Materials Discourse: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ogwu Ikechukwu , Long Zhilin , Lee Deuckhang , Zhang Xuhui , Zhang Wei , Okonkwo Moses
Published: November 2021

The fundamental notion of ‘smart’ in building materials discourse is responsiveness—the ability of materials to react to environmental stimuli by manifesting a noticeable physical change when there is a difference in the conditions of their immediate surroundings. This notion, however, is also interchanged with ‘intelligence’, which involves an array of control protocols. Notwithstanding, both notions are used synonymously and as occupant comfort and energy efficiency strategies in buildings. The current study aimed to underscore the fundamental issues in the conceptualization of both notions in building materials colloquy by systematic review of published literature following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist. The review revealed that while smart responses are direct, predictable and reversible, requiring no external control system, computer systems and networks which require a constant supply of energy are essential for intelligence. In fact, the relationship between intelligent systems, energy efficiency and occupant comfort depends on external computer control and machine components of learning, resulting in complex systems with longer payback times, whereas smart materials and systems respond directly and immediately without additional energy or occupant control. The discussions present an attempt towards promoting zero additional energy demand for buildings using smart materials.
A Personalized Neoantigen Vaccine in Combination with Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Induces a T-Cell Response Coinciding with a Complete Response in Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Harari Alexandre , Sarivalasis Apostolos , de Jonge Kaat , Thierry Anne-Christine , Huber Florian , Boudousquie Caroline , Rossier Laetitia , Orcurto Angela , Imbimbo Martina , Baumgaertner Petra , Bassani-Sternberg Michal , Kandalaft Lana E.
Published: November 2021

Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common gynecological malignancy and the fourth most common malignancy in European and North American women. Amongst EC, the advanced serous, p53-mutated, and pMMR subtypes have the highest risk of relapse despite optimal standard of care therapy. At present, there is no standard of care maintenance treatment to prevent relapse among these high-risk patients. Vaccines are a form of immunotherapy that can potentially increase the immunogenicity of pMMR, serous, and p53-mutated tumors to render them responsive to check point inhibitor-based immunotherapy. We demonstrate, for the first time, the feasibility of generating a personalized dendritic cell vaccine pulsed with peptide neoantigens in a patient with pMMR, p53-mutated, and serous endometrial adenocarcinoma (SEC). The personalized vaccine was administered in combination with systemic chemotherapy to treat an inoperable metastatic recurrence. This treatment association demonstrated the safety and immunogenicity of the personalized dendritic cell vaccine. Interestingly, a complete oncological response was obtained with respect to both radiological assessment and the tumor marker CA-125.
Does Pancreatic Fistula Affect Long-Term Survival after Resection for Pancreatic Cancer? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Grego Andrea , Friziero Alberto , Serafini Simone , Belluzzi Amanda , Moletta Lucia , Saadeh Luca Maria , Sperti Cosimo
Published: November 2021

Background: The impact of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) on survival after resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains unclear. Methods: The MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies reporting on survival in patients with and without POPF. A meta-analysis was performed to investigate the impact of POPF on disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: Sixteen retrospective cohort studies concerning a total of 5019 patients with an overall clinically relevant POPF (CR-POPF) rate of 12.63% (n = 634 patients) were considered. Five of eleven studies including DFS data reported higher recurrence rates in patients with POPF, and one study showed a higher recurrence rate in the peritoneal cavity. Six of sixteen studies reported worse OS rates in patients with POPF. Sufficient data for a meta-analysis were available in 11 studies for DFS, and in 16 studies for OS. The meta-analysis identified a shorter DFS in patients with CR-POPF (HR 1.59, p = 0.0025), and a worse OS in patients with POPF, CR-POPF (HR 1.15, p = 0.0043), grade-C POPF (HR 2.21, p = 0.0007), or CR-POPF after neoadjuvant therapy. Conclusions: CR-POPF after resection for PDAC is significantly associated with worse overall and disease-free survival.
Metabolic Plasticity in Melanoma Progression and Response to Oncogene Targeted Therapies
Authors: Alkaraki Arwa , McArthur Grant A. , Sheppard Karen E. , Smith Lorey K.
Published: November 2021

Resistance to therapy continues to be a barrier to curative treatments in melanoma. Recent insights from the clinic and experimental settings have highlighted a range of non-genetic adaptive mechanisms that contribute to therapy resistance and disease relapse, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional and metabolic reprogramming. A growing body of evidence highlights the inherent plasticity of melanoma metabolism, evidenced by reversible metabolome alterations and flexibility in fuel usage that occur during metastasis and response to anti-cancer therapies. Here, we discuss how the inherent metabolic plasticity of melanoma cells facilitates both disease progression and acquisition of anti-cancer therapy resistance. In particular, we discuss in detail the different metabolic changes that occur during the three major phases of the targeted therapy response—the early response, drug tolerance and acquired resistance. We also discuss how non-genetic programs, including transcription and translation, control this process. The prevalence and diverse array of these non-genetic resistance mechanisms poses a new challenge to the field that requires innovative strategies to monitor and counteract these adaptive processes in the quest to prevent therapy resistance.
Manganese Molybdenum Oxide Micro Rods Adorned Porous Carbon Hybrid Electrocatalyst for Electrochemical Determination of Furazolidone in Environmental Fluids
Authors: Babulal Sivakumar Musuvadhi , Chen Tse-Wei , Chen Shen-Ming , Al-Onazi Wedad A. , Al-Mohaimeed Amal M.
Published: November 2021

The frequent occurrence of furazolidone (FZD) in environmental fluids reveals the ongoing increase in use and raises concerns about the need of monitoring it. To investigate the electrochemical behavior of FZD, a novel sensor of manganese molybdenum oxide (MMO) micro rods adorned three-dimensional porous carbon (PC) electrocatalyst was constructed. The crystalline structure and surface morphology of the MMO/PC composite was characterized by XRD, Raman, FESEM, and HR-TEM. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and amperometric(i-t) methods were used to assess the electrocatalytic activity of modified electrodes. In the presence of FZD, the as-fabricated MMO/PC modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) performed better at lower potentials with a greater peak current than other modified GCE. These results emanate from the synergistic effect of the MMO/PC suspension on the GCE. The electrochemical behavior of the amperometric(i-t) technique was used to determine FZD. Amperometric(i-t) detection yielded linear dynamic ranges of 150 nM to 41.05 µM and 41.05 to 471.05 µM with detection limits of 30 nM. The MMO/PC hybrid sensor was also effectively used to detect FZD in environmental fluids, yielding ultra-trace level detection.
Effect of Adding Chelating Ligands on the Catalytic Performance of Rh-Promoted MoS2 in the Hydrodesulfurization of Dibenzothiophene
Authors: Majodina Siphumelele , Tshentu Zenixole R. , Ogunlaja Adeniyi S.
Published: November 2021

Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) is a widely used process currently employed in petroleum refineries to eliminate organosulfur compounds in fuels. The current hydrotreating process struggles to remove organosulfur compounds with a steric hindrance due to the electronic nature of the current catalysts employed. In this work, the effects of adding chelating ligands such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid (CA) and acetic acid (AA) to rhodium (Rh) and active molybdenum (Mo) species for dibenzothiophene (DBT) HDS catalytic activity was evaluated. HDS activities followed the order of RhMo/ɣ-Al2O3 (88%) > RhMo-AA/ɣ-Al2O3 (73%) > RhMo-CA/ɣ-Al2O3 (72%) > RhMo-EDTA/ɣ-Al2O3 (68%). The observed trend was attributed to the different chelating ligands with varying electronic properties, thus influencing the metal–support interaction and the favorable reduction of the Mo species. RhMo/ɣ-Al2O3 offered the highest HDS activity due to its (i) lower metal–support interaction energy, as observed from the RhMo/ɣ-Al2O3 band gap of 3.779 eV and the slight shift toward the lower BE of Mo 3d, (ii) increased Mo-O-Mo species (NMo-O-Mo ~1.975) and (iii) better sulfidation of Rh and MoO in RhMo/ɣ-Al2O3 compared to the chelated catalysts. The obtained data provides that HDS catalytic activity was mainly driven by the structural nature of the RhMo-based catalyst, which influences the formation of more active sites that can enhance the HDS activity.
Oxy-Steam Reforming of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) on Mono- and Bimetallic (Ag, Pt, Pd or Ru)/Ni Catalysts
Authors: Mierczynski Pawel , Mosinska Magdalena , Maniukiewicz Waldemar , Vasilev Krasimir , Szynkowska-Jozwik Malgorzata Iwona
Published: November 2021

This work presents, for the first time, the comparative physicochemical and reactivity studies of a range of bimetallic Pt-Ni, Pd-Ni, Ru-Ni, and Ag-Ni catalysts in the oxy-steam reforming (OSR) of liquefied natural gas (LNG) reaction towards hydrogen generation. In order to achieve the intended purpose of this work, a binary oxide CeO2·ZrO2 (1:2) support was prepared via a co-precipitation method. The catalysts’ physicochemical properties were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), BET, TPR-H2, TPD-NH3, SEM-EDS and XPS methods. The highest activity in the studied process was exhibited by the 1%Pt-5%Ni catalyst supported on CeO2·ZrO2 (1:2) system. The highest activity of this system is explained by the specific interactions occurring between the components of the active phase and between the components of the active phase and the carrier itself. The activity results showed that this catalytic system exhibited above 71% of the methane conversion at 600 °C and 60% yield of hydrogen formation. The results of this work demonstrate that the Pt-Ni and Ru-Ni catalytic systems hold promise to be applied in the production of hydrogen to power solid oxide fuel cells.
Scavenging Tumor Necrosis Factor α Does Not Affect Inhibition of Dentate Granule Cells Following In Vitro Entorhinal Cortex Lesion
Authors: Kleidonas Dimitrios , Vlachos Andreas
Published: November 2021

Neurons that lose part of their afferent input remodel their synaptic connections. While cellular and molecular mechanisms of denervation-induced changes in excitatory neurotransmission have been identified, little is known about the signaling pathways that control inhibition in denervated networks. In this study, we used mouse entorhino-hippocampal tissue cultures of both sexes to study the role of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) in denervation-induced plasticity of inhibitory neurotransmission. In line with our previous findings in vitro, an entorhinal cortex lesion triggered a compensatory increase in the excitatory synaptic strength of partially denervated dentate granule cells. Inhibitory synaptic strength was not changed 3 days after the lesion. These functional changes were accompanied by a recruitment of microglia in the denervated hippocampus, and experiments in tissue cultures prepared from TNF-reporter mice [C57BL/6-Tg(TNFa-eGFP)] showed increased TNFα expression in the denervated zone. However, inhibitory neurotransmission was not affected by scavenging TNFα with a soluble TNF receptor. In turn, a decrease in inhibition, i.e., decreased frequencies of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents, was observed in denervated dentate granule cells of microglia-depleted tissue cultures. We conclude from these results that activated microglia maintain the inhibition of denervated dentate granule cells and that TNFα is not required for the maintenance of inhibition after denervation.
A Multi-Factorial Observational Study on Sequential Fecal Microbiota Transplant in Patients with Medically Refractory Clostridioides difficile Infection
Authors: Monaghan Tanya M. , Duggal Niharika A. , Rosati Elisa , Griffin Ruth , Hughes Jamie , Roach Brandi , Yang David Y. , Wang Christopher , Wong Karen , Saxinger Lynora , Pučić-Baković Maja , Vučković Frano , Klicek Filip , Lauc Gordan , Tighe Paddy , Mullish Benjamin H. , Blanco Jesus Miguens , McDonald Julie A. K. , Marchesi Julian R. , Xue Ning , Dottorini Tania , Acharjee Animesh , Franke Andre , Li Yingrui , Wong Gane Ka-Shu , Polytarchou Christos , Yau Tung On , Christodoulou Niki , Hatziapostolou Maria , Wang Minkun , Russell Lindsey A. , Kao Dina H.
Published: November 2021

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is highly effective in recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI); increasing evidence supports FMT in severe or fulminant Clostridioides difficile infection (SFCDI). However, the multifactorial mechanisms that underpin the efficacy of FMT are not fully understood. Systems biology approaches using high-throughput technologies may help with mechanistic dissection of host-microbial interactions. Here, we have undertaken a deep phenomics study on four adults receiving sequential FMT for SFCDI, in which we performed a longitudinal, integrative analysis of multiple host factors and intestinal microbiome changes. Stool samples were profiled for changes in gut microbiota and metabolites and blood samples for alterations in targeted epigenomic, metabonomic, glycomic, immune proteomic, immunophenotyping, immune functional assays, and T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoires, respectively. We characterised temporal trajectories in gut microbial and host immunometabolic data sets in three responders and one non-responder to sequential FMT. A total of 562 features were used for analysis, of which 78 features were identified, which differed between the responders and the non-responder. The observed dynamic phenotypic changes may potentially suggest immunosenescent signals in the non-responder and may help to underpin the mechanisms accompanying successful FMT, although our study is limited by a small sample size and significant heterogeneity in patient baseline characteristics. Our multi-omics integrative longitudinal analytical approach extends the knowledge regarding mechanisms of efficacy of FMT and highlights preliminary novel signatures, which should be validated in larger studies.
Transcriptional Profiles of Cell Fate Transitions Reveal Early Drivers of Neuronal Apoptosis and Survival
Authors: Morello Giovanna , Villari Ambra , Spampinato Antonio Gianmaria , La Cognata Valentina , Guarnaccia Maria , Gentile Giulia , Ciotti Maria Teresa , Calissano Pietro , D’Agata Velia , Severini Cinzia , Cavallaro Sebastiano
Published: November 2021

Neuronal apoptosis and survival are regulated at the transcriptional level. To identify key genes and upstream regulators primarily responsible for these processes, we overlayed the temporal transcriptome of cerebellar granule neurons following induction of apoptosis and their rescue by three different neurotrophic factors. We identified a core set of 175 genes showing opposite expression trends at the intersection of apoptosis and survival. Their functional annotations and expression signatures significantly correlated to neurological, psychiatric and oncological disorders. Transcription regulatory network analysis revealed the action of nine upstream transcription factors, converging pro-apoptosis and pro-survival-inducing signals in a highly interconnected functionally and temporally ordered manner. Five of these transcription factors are potential drug targets. Transcriptome-based computational drug repurposing produced a list of drug candidates that may revert the apoptotic core set signature. Besides elucidating early drivers of neuronal apoptosis and survival, our systems biology-based perspective paves the way to innovative pharmacology focused on upstream targets and regulatory networks.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Eating Disorders and Obesity in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Baile José I.
Published: November 2021

In this Special Issue of Children, we can find several articles that present the results of various current investigations in the field of eating disorders and obesity in children and adolescents [...]
Current Insights into Atopic March
Authors: Tsuge Mitsuru , Ikeda Masanori , Matsumoto Naomi , Yorifuji Takashi , Tsukahara Hirokazu
Published: November 2021

The incidence of allergic diseases is increasing, and research on their epidemiology, pathophysiology, and the prevention of onset is urgently needed. The onset of allergic disease begins in infancy with atopic dermatitis and food allergy and develops into allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis in childhood; the process is defined as “atopic march”. Atopic march is caused by multiple immunological pathways, including allergen exposure, environmental pollutants, skin barrier dysfunction, type 2 inflammation, and oxidative stress, which promote the progression of atopic march. Using recent evidence, herein, we explain the involvement of allergic inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress in the process of atopic march, its epidemiology, and methods for prevention of onset.
Experimental Study on Axial Compressive Behavior of Gangue Aggregate Concrete Filled FRP and Thin-Walled Steel Double Tubular Columns
Authors: Wang Jian , Xia Junwu , Chang Hongfei , Han Youmin , Yu Linli , Jiang Li
Published: November 2021

In the present paper, the monotonic axial compression test of gangue aggregate concrete filled Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) and thin-walled steel double tubular columns (DTCC) was carried out, and the gangue aggregate concrete filled FRP tubular columns (CFFT) were designed as a comparison. The main experimental factors were the confinement level of the FRP jacket, the relative diameter ratio (the ratio of the outer diameter of the steel tube to the inner diameter of the FRP jacket), and the different strengths of gangue aggregate concrete. The test results show that the bearing capacity and ductility of gangue aggregate concrete in CFFT were significantly improved. As the local buckling of thin-walled steel tube was effectively inhibited, the load bearing capacity of DTCC was further improved compared with CFFT, but the change of dilation behavior and ductility was insignificant. By analyzing the bi-directional stress state of the steel tube, the confinement level of the external FRP jacket was the most sensitive factor affecting the hoop stress of the steel tube, and the axial stress was obviously weakened under the bi-directional stress state. In addition, with the increase of steel tube diameter, the confinement effect of steel tube in DTCC became more obvious.
The Effect of Gaseous Ozone and Moringa Leaf–Carboxymethyl Cellulose Edible Coating on Antioxidant Activity and Biochemical Properties of ‘Keitt’ Mango Fruit
Authors: Bambalele Nonjabulo L. , Mditshwa Asanda , Magwaza Lembe Samukelo , Tesfay Samson Zeray
Published: November 2021

This study evaluated the effect of edible coating and gaseous ozone on the antioxidant activities and biochemical properties of mango fruit. Mango fruit (cv. Keitt) were coated with moringa leaf extract and carboxymethyl cellulose (EC) before exposure to ozone (0.25 ppm). Gaseous ozone (O3) was administered intermittently for 24 or 36 h, and the control fruit were untreated. The fruit were stored at 10 °C for twenty-one days, then ripened at ambient temperature for seven days. The parameters measured were ascorbic acid, lipid peroxidation, phenolic content, total sugars, and antioxidant capacity (FRAP and DPPH). At the end of storage, the EC + O3 (36 h) had high phenolic content: 175.02 µg GEA/g DM compared to 151.87 µg GEA/g DM and 138.98 µg GEA/g DM for the O3 (24 h) and untreated fruit, respectively. Moreover, the combination of the EC and O3 (36 h) had a higher effect (p < 0.05) on preserving the antioxidant capacity of the mangoes. The EC + O3 (24 h) and EC significantly delayed fruit softening and maintained membrane integrity. Furthermore, the fruit treated with the EC reduced the accumulation of reducing (7.61 mg/mL) and total sugars (8.81 mg/mL) compared to the control treatment, which had a concentration of 12.74 mg/mL and 13.78 mg/mL, respectively. These findings demonstrate that EC combined with gaseous O3 enhanced the antioxidants of mango fruit during storage.
Arsenic Removal from Contaminated Water Using Natural Adsorbents: A Review
Authors: YEO Kanfolo Franck Herve , Li Chaokun , Zhang Hui , Chen Jin , Wang Wendong , Dong Yingying
Published: November 2021

More than 170 million individuals have been influenced by arsenic (As) because of the ingestion of As-polluted groundwater. The presence of As in water bodies, particularly groundwater, has been found to become a widespread issue in the past few decades. Because arsenic causes extreme wellbeing impacts, even at a low concentration in drinking water, the innovations of As removal from contaminated water are of significant importance. Traditional strategies, for example, reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and electro-dialysis are generally utilized for the remediation of As-polluted water; however, the high cost and/or sludge production restricts their application in less-developed areas. The utilization of adsorbents acquired from natural materials has been explored as an alternative for the costly techniques for As removal. This paper aims to review the past and current developments in using naturals adsorbents or modified natural materials for arsenic removal and show the different parameters, which may influence the As removal effectiveness of the natural adsorbent, such as contact time, adsorbent dosage, flow rate, pH, reusability, temperature, and influence of others ions.
Spheroidization Behavior of Nano-Primary Silicon Induced by Neodymium under High-Current Pulsed Electron Beam Irradiation
Authors: Hu Liang , Li Kui , Gao Bo , Xu Ning , Liu Zhuang , Sun Yue , Zhang Ying , Xing Pengfei
Published: November 2021

The spheroidization behavior of the nano-primary silicon phase induced by Nd under high-current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) irradiation was investigated in this study. The study results revealed that, compared to the Al–17.5Si alloy, spheroidized nano-primary silicon phase emerged in the alloy’s HCPEB-irradiated surface layer due to the presence of Nd. Because Nd was abundantly enriched on the fast-growing silicon crystal plane, its surface tension was reduced under the extreme undercooling caused by HCPEB irradiation, causing the growth velocity of each crystal plane to be the same and spherical nanometers of silicon to appear. The spheroidization of nano-primary silicon phases occurred in the remelted layer. The microhardness test revealed that Nd could depress the microhardness of the Al matrix at the same number of pulses, but conversely increase the microhardness of the primary silicon phase, compared to the Al–17.5Si alloy. The tribological test showed that the presence of spherical nano-primary silicon could significantly improve the alloy’s tribological property.
Physicochemical Investigation of Biosynthesis of a Protein Coating on Glass That Promotes Mammalian Cell Growth Using Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Bacteria
Authors: Kaminski Kamil , Syrek Karolina , Grudzień Joanna , Obloza Magdalena , Adamczyk Monika , Sulka Grzegorz D.
Published: November 2021

Glass surfaces, although the first to be used for culturing ex vivo adherent cells, are not the perfect substrates for this purpose. Today, plastics dominate these applications, but in light of the global trend to reduce the use of synthetic polymers, it is reasonable to consider a return to glass vessels with coatings for these purposes. The ideal surface for cell growth is one that simulates the composition and structure of the mainly protein-based intercellular matrix. The work presented here shows a new idea of preparing porous protein coatings on glass using biosynthesis. The process utilizes the colonization of the gold nanoparticle-coated glass surface with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG bacteria, followed by permeabilization (using ethanol) of their membrane and partial thermal degradation (at 160 °C in vacuum) of the surface-bound protein components of these microorganisms. It results in a development of coating on the glass that promotes mammalian cell growth, which has been preliminary confirmed using Vero cells. Subsequent steps in the formation of coating components were documented by reflectance ultraviolet and visible spectra and infrared spectroscopy. The presence of microorganisms and mammalian cells was confirmed using scanning electron and optical microscopy and crystalline violet staining.
Bio-Fabrication and Experimental Validation of an Mg - 25Ca - 5Zn Alloy Proposed for a Porous Metallic Scaffold
Authors: Becerra Luis , Castro Alejandro
Published: November 2021

This paper proposes the bio-fabrication of a porous scaffold from a selection procedure of elements taking into account biological behavior, using magnesium (Mg) alloyed with calcium (Ca) and zinc (Zn). The proposed scaffold could work as a treatment for specific pathologies in trauma and oncology, on the one hand, in addition to possible applications in osteosynthesis, through contrib-uting to osseointegration and infection control through the release of drugs. Finally, another pos-sible attribute of this alloy could be its use as a complementary treatment for osteosarcoma; this is due to the basification produced by oxidative degradation (attack on cancer cells). The evaluation of cell viability of an alloy of Mg - 25 wt% Ca - 5 wt% Zn will strengthen current perspectives on the use of Mg in the clinical evaluation of various treatments in trauma and oncology. Considera-tions on the preparation of an alloy of Mg - 25 wt% Ca - 5 wt% Zn and its morphological charac-terization will help researchers understand its applicability for the development of new surgical techniques and lead to a deeper investigation of alternative treatments. However, it is very im-portant to bear in mind the mechanical effect of elements such as Ca and Zn on the degradation of the alloy matrix; the best alternative to predict the biological-mechanical potential starts with the selection of the essential-nutritional elements and their mechanical evaluation by mi-cro-indentation due to the fragility of the matrix. Therefore, the morphological evaluation of the specimens of Mg - 25 wt% Ca - 5 wt% Zn will show the crystallinity of the alloy; these results to-gether contribute to the design of biomedical alloys for use in treatments for various medical spe-cialties. The results indicated that cell viability is not affected, and there are no morphological changes in the cells.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Wild Beets (Beta spp.) from the Western Iberian Peninsula and the Azores and Madeira Islands
Authors: Veloso Maria Manuela , Simões-Costa Maria Cristina , Guimarães Joana Bagoin , Ribeiro Carla Marques , Evaristo Isabel , Espírito-Santo Dalila , Pinto-Ricardo Cândido , Paulo Octávio S. , Duarte Maria Cristina
Published: November 2021

In this work, using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, we present new insights into the genetic diversity, differentiation, and structure of Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima of western Iberia and the Azores and Madeira islands and of B. macrocarpa from southern Portugal. B. macrocarpa occurs only in southern Portugal and frequently in sympatry with B. vulgaris subsp. maritima, showing genetic introgression. B. macrocarpa has a better-defined structure than B. vulgaris subsp. maritima, which has a high degree of admixture. A great differentiation (FST ranging from 0.277 to 0.184) was observed among the northern populations of B. vulgaris subsp. maritima. In contrast, only a small differentiation (FST ranging from 0.000 to 0.026) was detected among the southern B. vulgaris subsp. maritima populations. The inland B. vulgaris subsp. maritima populations (“RIO” and “VMT”) are distinct from each other, which also occurs with the two islands’ populations (“MAD” and “AZO”). The existence of two distinct Atlantic Sea currents can explain the fact that Madeira is related to the southern populations, while the Azores is related to the northern populations. We consider that understanding the relationships existing within Beta spp. is key to future genetic studies and for the establishment of conservation measures. Our results show that the southern coastal areas of Portugal should be considered as a potential site for in situ conservation of the beet wild relatives. Special attention is needed in what concerns B. macrocarpa because this is a rare species that also occurs in a sympatric relationship with B. vulgaris subsp. maritima.
Bicycle Mobility Data: Current Use and Future Potential. An International Survey of Domain Professionals
Authors: Werner Christian , Loidl Martin
Published: November 2021

Active mobility, especially cycling, is an essential building block for sustainable urban mobility. Public and private stakeholders are striving to improve conditions for cycling and subsequently increase its modal share. Data are regarded as key for different measures to become efficient and targeted. There is extensive evidence for an increasing amount of mobility data, availability of new data sources and potential usage scenarios for such data. However, little is known about the current use of these data in policy making, planning and related fields. To the best of our knowledge, it has not been investigated yet to which degree professionals in the broader field of cycling promotion benefit from an increasing amount of cycling-related data. Thus, we conducted a multi-lingual online survey among domain professionals and acquired data on their perspectives on current data availability, use and suitability as well as the potential they see for the use of cycling data in the future. In total, we received 325 complete responses from 32 countries, with the vast majority of 241 valid responses originating from Germany, Austria and Italy. Key findings are: 84% of domain professionals attribute high importance to data, and 89% state that they currently cannot or only partly solve their tasks with the data available to them. Results emphasize the need for making more and better suited data available to professionals in cycling-related positions, in both the private and public sector.
Primary Psychosis: Risk and Protective Factors and Early Detection of the Onset
Authors: Brasso Claudio , Giordano Benedetta , Badino Cristina , Bellino Silvio , Bozzatello Paola , Montemagni Cristiana , Rocca Paola
Published: November 2021

Primary psychosis, which includes schizophrenia and other psychoses not caused by other psychic or physical conditions, has a strong impact worldwide in terms of disability, suffering and costs. Consequently, improvement of strategies to reduce the incidence and to improve the prognosis of this disorder is a current need. The purpose of this work is to review the current scientific literature on the main risk and protective factors of primary psychosis and to examine the main models of prevention, especially those related to the early detection of the onset. The conditions more strongly associated with primary psychosis are socio-demographic and economic factors such as male gender, birth in winter, ethnic minority, immigrant status, and difficult socio-economic conditions while the best-established preventive factors are elevated socio-economic status and an economic well-being. Risk and protective factors may be the targets for primordial, primary, and secondary preventive strategies. Acting on modifiable factors may reduce the incidence of the disorder or postpone its onset, while an early detection of the new cases enables a prompt treatment and a consequential better prognosis. According to this evidence, the study of the determinants of primary psychosis has a pivotal role in designing and promoting preventive policies aimed at reducing the burden of disability and suffering of the disorder.
An Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) for French Dental Students: Feedback after 2 Years
Authors: Egloff-Juras Claire , Hirtz Pierre , Luc Amandine , Vaillant-Corroy Anne-Sophie
Published: November 2021

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a practical examination that provides a standardized assessment of clinical competence. The aim of this study is to evaluate the objectivity and the reliability of an OSCE in dentistry. To this end, a retrospective monocentric observational study was conducted at the Faculty of Dentistry of Nancy by analyzing the exam results of 81 students. The study population consisted of the fifth-year students. The examination was broken down into six stations which were doubled, and different juries of examiners were constituted (installed in different rooms) according to the same composition. The p-value was set at 0.05. We found an equivalence of the results between the different rooms on the global mean score obtained at the six stations (p = 0.021). In terms of gender, women have statistically significantly higher overall scores than men (p = 0.001). The evaluation of a difference in the scores between full-time and part-time teachers does not find any statistically significant difference or equivalence in the station where it was possible to realize the comparison. However, the students’ waiting time before the exam seems to negatively influence the results. Compared with other international OSCE studies, the results presented seemed sufficiently objective and reliable, although some adjustments are still necessary.
University Lecturers’ Task-Based Language Teaching Beliefs and Practices
Authors: Lam Huong Thi Lan , Nguyen Son Van , Nguyen Hong Anh Thi
Published: November 2021

The present study aimed to investigate the beliefs and practices of task-based language teaching (TBLT) among lecturers in English as a foreign language (EFL) at technical universities in Vietnam. A total of 136 lecturers completed the questionnaire and seven of whom participated in semi-structured interviews. Findings indicated that the lecturers had positive views toward the TBLT approach and showed a willingness to use it in their classrooms, although they also shared notable challenges related to the technique. The results also showed significant differences in understanding of TBLT among lecturers with different years of experience; however, years of experience and qualifications did not affect the lecturers’ views on or implementation of TBLT. The study offers several implications for better understanding and more effectively implementing TBLT approaches in the classroom.
The 21st Century Reforms (Re)Shaping the Education Policy of Inclusive and Special Education in Finland
Authors: Ahtiainen Raisa , Pulkkinen Jonna , Jahnukainen Markku
Published: November 2021

In recent decades, an essential global aim of the reforms of special education has been the promotion of inclusive education. This article discusses the implementation of reforms with a focus on tiered support systems in the context of Finnish comprehensive school education. Based on earlier literature, legislation, and administrative documents, we provide a background for Finnish education policy and special education reforms. The focus of this article is on the description of parallel reforms targeting the re-structuring of the systems around support for students and funding of education in the 2010s. We discuss the processes leading to these reforms and the reforms themselves. In addition, we discuss their implications for the organization of the tiered support system. Finally, we highlight some challenges of reform implementation and the current education policy’s movements towards inclusive education.