bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature-Based Solutions or Debacles? The Politics of Reflexive Governance for Sustainable and Just Cities
Authors: van der Jagt Alexander P. N. , Kiss Bernadett , Hirose Shunsuke , Takahashi Wakana
Published: January 2021

With their potential to effectively address multiple urban sustainability challenges, the emerging policy discourse on nature-based solutions seeks to encourage the development of multifunctional nature for sustainable and just cities. Nature-based solutions, however, are vulnerable to co-option by powerful interests in ways that limit their contribution to a broad range of sustainability goals. Reflexive governance arrangements between different types of actors, engaging in continuous and iterative processes of learning and readjustment of institutions and practices, provide a way to address this issue. However, the potential of reflexive governance in increasing commitment to sustainable and just cities, and the role of power struggles in such processes, remains underexplored. To study this question, we undertake a comparative case study analysis of nature-based solutions in Utrecht (The Netherlands), Malmö (Sweden), and Utsunomiya (Japan). These are analyzed using a framework structured around the dimensions of system analysis, goal formulation, and strategy implementation, to which we apply a justice lens. The findings demonstrate reflexive processes in each of the studied cases, but the justice dimension is not always explicitly taken into account or clearly influenced in positive ways. We unveil tensions between the ideal of sustainable and just cities and the reality of urban nature-based solution initiatives being partially dependent on the power structures they seek to influence for their continued existence. We argue against dismissing the studied cases as neoliberal projects on these grounds. Reflexive governance for sustainable and just cities entails a continuous struggle for dominance between different ideas and interests. Moreover, the battlegrounds for these struggles may look very different across sociopolitical contexts. Provided that justice considerations are continually present, reflexive governance of urban nature-based solutions is likely to contribute to more sustainable and just cities.
The Prevalence of Cam Morphology: A Cross-Sectional Evaluation of 3,558 Cadaveric Femora
Authors: Hanzlik Shane , Riff Andrew J. , Wuerz Thomas H. , Abdulian Michael , Gurin Danielle , Nho Shane J. , Salata Michael J.
Published: January 2021

Purpose: We sought to determine (1) the prevalence of cam deformity in the population and that of bilateral cam deformity, (2) the typical location of a cam lesion, and (3) the typical size of a cam lesion by direct visualization in cadaveric femora.

Methods: Two observers inspected 3,558 human cadaveric femora from the Hamann–Todd Osteological Collection from the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Any asphericity >2 mm from the anterior femoral neck line was classified as a cam lesion. Once lesions had been inspected, the prevalence in the population, prevalence by gender, and prevalence of bilateral deformity were determined. Additionally, each lesion was measured and localized to a specific quadrant on the femoral neck based upon location of maximal deformity.

Results: Cam lesions were noted in 33% of males and 20% of females. Eighty percent of patients with a cam lesion had bilateral lesions. When stratified by location of maximal deformity, 90.9% of lesions were in the anterosuperior quadrant and 9.1% were in the anteroinferior quadrants. The average lesion measured 17 mm long × 24 mm wide × 6 mm thick in men and 14 mm × 22 mm × 4 mm in women (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: The population prevalence of cam deformity determined by direct visualization in cadavers may be higher than has been suggested in studies utilizing imaging modalities.

Level of Evidence : Level II, diagnostic study.
Effects of Intensive Fattening With Total Mixed Rations on Carcass Characteristics, Meat Quality, and Meat Chemical Composition of Yak and Mechanism Based on Serum and Transcriptomic Profiles
Authors: Liu Yi-Xuan , Ma Xiao-Ming , Xiong Lin , Wu Xiao-Yun , Liang Chun-Nian , Bao Peng-Jia , Yu Qun-Li , Yan Ping
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of intensive fattening with total mixed rations (TMR) on carcass characteristics, meat quality, and chemical composition of the yak meat. Theoretical data has been provided for evaluating the quality of yak meat during natural grazing and short-term fattening. Based on the analysis, we found that in fattening yak, the carcass weight (CWT) was increased by 106.43%, whereas the cooking loss, tenderness, and drop loss were significantly improved due to higher intramuscular fat content and lower moisture (P < 0.05). Protein, fat, calcium, and amino acids were also much higher (P < 0.01) in fattening yak compared with the grazing yak. The levels of albumin (ALB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), triglyceride (TRIG), and amylase (AMYL) in serum indicated better nutritional status for fattening yaks. The transcriptomics analysis showed that the high expression of ACSL1 and ACACB genes improved the synthesis and deposition of fat in fattening yak, whereas the regulation of SLC7A8, ATP1A4, ATP1A1, SLC3A2, and CPA3 gene expression weakened the proteolysis. These results indicated that fattening with TMR improves the yield and quality of the yak meat.
Waste of Fresh Fruits in Yaoundé, Cameroon: Challenges for Retailers and Impacts on Consumer Health
Authors: Kamda Silapeux A.G. , Ponka Roger , Frazzoli Chiara , Fokou Elie
Published: January 2021

Post-harvest losses contribute significantly to food insecurity and affect the nutritional status and health of populations. This study estimates the waste of fresh fruits in the post-harvest chain and identifies avoidable causes along the food supply chain to extrapolate good practices for the empowerment of retailers. A semi-structured questionnaire and a checklist were used in the administrative units of Yaoundé, Cameroon, from May to June 2017. Fifty fresh fruit retailers were randomly selected. Information, including socioeconomic profile, handling practices, transport, and food wastes, was analyzed. Dominant figure in the fruit market are 34-aged women. Despite significant professional experience, none of retailers received formal training. The perceived main causes of fruit waste were failure to sell, mechanical damage during transport, and storage conditions. Inappropriate packaging materials and poor hygiene were also observed, and about 40–50% of fruits did not reach the consumers’ table. Nutritional education of the general population is crucial in facing the challenge of fresh fruit waste. The analysis of critical points in the post-harvest fresh fruit chain highlights good cost-effective practices. Training and empowerment of retailers represent the main measures to decrease fruit waste, in addition to nutritional training programs for the general population recommending the daily consumption of fruits for healthy life.
Girdling Effects on Fruit Maturity, Kernel Quality, and Nutritional Value of Walnuts (Juglans regia L.) alongside the Effects on Leaf Physiological Characteristics
Authors: Christopoulos Miltiadis V. , Kafkaletou Mina , Karantzi Athanasia D. , Tsantili Eleni
Published: January 2021

Girdling, based on the accumulation of photosynthetic products above the girdling zone, is a common technique applied to tree species to increase the yield and fruit quality. The aim of this study was to investigate the girdling effects on photosynthesis and soluble sugars (Sols) of leaves in fruiting shoots and, for the first time, on quality variables of ‘Franquette’ walnuts harvested at two harvests, early and late, 43 and 84 d after treatment, respectively. Girdling was conducted on a part of four-year old branches at the onset of kernel growth. At late harvest, coinciding with commercial harvest, girdling advanced the mature fruit percentage, kernel weight, and oil content, whereas decreased kernel moisture and slightly affected the color brightness, although kernels remained with an extra light color. Advanced maturation increased linoleic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) fraction in oil, whereas it decreased palmitic acid and the saturated fatty acid (SFA) fraction in oil, kernel total antioxidants, and Sols (sucrose, glucose, fructose) in kernels and leaves and leaf photosynthesis (Pn), whereas girdling had no effect on these variables. Oil rancidity remained stable throughout the experiment. Development of callus was observed on tree wounds 84 d after treatment. Conclusively, girdling enhanced the fruit maturation, resulting in higher uniformity of maturity and increased oil yield with no quality deterioration or apparent tree damage.
High-Fat Diet-Induced Trefoil Factor Family Member 2 (TFF2) to Counteract the Immune-Mediated Damage in Mice
Authors: Ghanemi Abdelaziz , Yoshioka Mayumi , St-Amand Jonny
Published: January 2021

Physiological homeostasis requires a balance between the immunological functions and the resulting damage/side effects of the immunological reactions including those related to high-fat (HF) diet. Within this context, whereas HF diet, through diverse mechanisms (such as inflammation), leads to immune-mediated damage, trefoil factor family member 2 (Tff2) represents a HF diet-induced gene. On the other hand, TFF2 both promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation. These properties are towards counteracting the immune-mediated damage resulting from the HF diet. These observations suggest that the HF diet-induction of Tff2 could be a regulatory pathway aiming to counteract the immune-mediated damage resulting from the HF diet. Interestingly, since Tff2 expression increases with HF diet and with Tff2 also expressed in the brain, we also hypothesize that TFF2 could be a HF diet-induced food intake-control signal that reduces appetite. This hypothesis fits with counteracting the immune damage since reducing the food intake will reduce the HF intake and therefore, reduces the HF diet-induced tissue damage. Such food intake signaling would be an indirect mechanism by which TFF2 promotes tissue repair as well as a pathway worth exploring for potential obesity management pharmacotherapies.
Concentration-Dependent Type 1 Interferon-Induced Regulation of MX1 and FABP3 in Bovine Endometrial Explants
Authors: Schabmeyer Simone Tamara , Kneidl Anna Maria , Schneider Julia Katharina , Kirsch Sandra , Zablotski Yury , Petzl Wolfram , Weber Frank , Zerbe Holm , Meyerholz Marie Margarete
Published: January 2021

The inadequate maternal recognition of embryonic interferon τ (IFNτ) might explain subfertility in cattle. This study aimed at modeling the inducibility of type 1 interferon receptor subunits 1/2 (IFNAR1/2), mimicking competition between IFNτ and infection-associated interferon α (IFNα), and simulating type 1 interferon pathways in vitro. Endometrial explants (n = 728 from n = 26 healthy uteri) were collected at the abattoir, challenged with IFNτ and/or IFNα in different concentrations, and incubated for 24 h. Gene expression analysis confirmed the inducibility of IFNAR1/2 within this model, it being most prominent in IFNAR2 with 10 ng/mL IFNα (p = 0.001). The upregulation of interferon-induced GTP-binding protein (MX1, classical pathway) was higher in explants treated with 300 ng/mL compared to 10 ng/mL IFNτ (p < 0.0001), whereas the non‑classical candidate fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) exhibited significant downregulation comparing 300 ng/mL to 10 ng/mL IFNτ. The comparison of explants challenged with IFNτ + IFNα indicated the competition of IFNτ and IFNα downstream of the regulatory factors. In conclusion, using this well-defined explant model, interactions between infection-associated signals and IFNτ were indicated. This model can be applied to verify these findings and to mimic and explore the embryo–maternal contact zone in more detail.
Cannabinoid and Cannabinoid-Related Receptors in the Myenteric Plexus of the Porcine Ileum
Authors: Toschi Andrea , Galiazzo Giorgia , Piva Andrea , Tagliavia Claudio , Mazzuoli-Weber Gemma , Chiocchetti Roberto , Grilli Ester
Published: January 2021

An important piece of evidence has shown that molecules acting on cannabinoid receptors influence gastrointestinal motility and induce beneficial effects on gastrointestinal inflammation and visceral pain. The aim of this investigation was to immunohistochemically localize the distribution of canonical cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R) and the cannabinoid-related receptors transient potential vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1), transient potential ankyrin receptor 1 (TRPA1), and serotonin receptor 5-HT1a (5-HT1aR) in the myenteric plexus (MP) of pig ileum. CB1R, TRPV1, TRPA1, and 5-HT1aR were expressed, with different intensities in the cytoplasm of MP neurons. For each receptor, the proportions of the immunoreactive neurons were evaluated using the anti-HuC/HuD antibody. These receptors were also localized on nerve fibers (CB1R, TRPA1), smooth muscle cells of tunica muscularis (CB1R, 5-HT1aR), and endothelial cells of blood vessels (TRPV1, TRPA1, 5-HT1aR). The nerve varicosities were also found to be immunoreactive for both TRPV1 and 5-HT1aR. No immunoreactivity was documented for CB2R. Cannabinoid and cannabinoid-related receptors herein investigated showed a wide distribution in the enteric neurons and nerve fibers of the pig MP. These results could provide an anatomical basis for additional research, supporting the therapeutic use of cannabinoid receptor agonists in relieving motility disorders in porcine enteropathies.
Egg Production Systems, Open Space Allowance and Their Effects on Physical Parameters and Fatty Acid Profile in Commercial Eggs
Authors: Marelli Stefano Paolo , Madeddu Manuela , Mangiagalli Maria Grazia , Cerolini Silvia , Zaniboni Luisa
Published: January 2021

Food function is nowadays not merely limited to nourishment supplying; consumers’ interest is oriented to food healthiness and nutritional value, animal welfare, environmental impact of animal productions, and products’ traceability. The objective of the present work is to compare physical parameters and fatty acids profiles of market eggs produced from hens housed in four different systems. In addition, the effects of the presence of an outdoor space allowance (IND = no outdoor space allowance, OUT = outdoor space allowance) on the same parameters have been investigated. Sixty-nine market eggs from four different production systems labelled as Alternative (ALT), Enriched Cage (ECA), Litter Floor (LIF), and Organic (ORG) have been analysed. Physical parameters and fatty acid concentrations were measured. An ANOVA analysis was performed with production system and outdoor space allowance as sources of variation, two Principal Component Analyses (PCA) were carried out with physical parameters and fatty acid parameters as variables. The effects of the complex interactions occurring among production system, hen welfare, and eggs quality have been analysed in marketed eggs leading to the conclusion that eggs from different production systems available on the market are characterized by differences in fatty acid profile and physical parameters. In physical parameters the differences among systems were influenced by the whole egg weight, albumen weight and yolk weight. In fatty acids parameters the determining variables are the content in polyunsatured fatty acids (PUFA), linoleic acid concentration, and n6/n3 ratio.
The Experience of Teleworking with Dogs and Cats in the United States during COVID-19
Authors: Hoffman Christy L.
Published: January 2021

In Spring of 2020, the novel coronavirus (SAR-CoV-2) prompted an unprecedented number of individuals across the United States to begin working from home. Prior research has identified both positive and negative impacts of teleworking on employee well-being, and this study built on that research to explore perceptions regarding how companion animals factor into the teleworking experience. Individuals who had experience working from home and from their employer’s office completed an online survey about those experiences. Participants reported spending more quality time with their companion animals and family members when they worked from home. Furthermore, when working from home, individuals with dogs were more likely than those without dogs to report they socialized with other people, got a healthy amount of physical activity, and took at least one 15-min walk during the workday. Some participants, particularly those in households containing both dogs and cats, indicated that their pets created distractions during the workday. Future studies can build on this research by investigating whether the findings persist once the novel coronavirus is no longer a threat, and by paying close attention to the characteristics of pets, owners, and household dynamics that may influence the effects of pet ownership on the teleworking experience.
Discriminant Canonical Analysis of the Contribution of Spanish and Arabian Purebred Horses to the Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Hispano-Arabian Horses
Authors: Marín Navas Carmen , Delgado Bermejo Juan Vicente , McLean Amy Katherine , León Jurado José Manuel , Rodriguez de la Borbolla y Ruiberriz de Torres Antonio , Navas González Francisco Javier
Published: January 2021

Genetic diversity and population structure were analyzed using the historical and current pedigree information of the Arabian (PRá), Spanish Purebred (PRE), and Hispano-Arabian (Há) horse breeds. Genetic diversity parameters were computed and a canonical discriminant analysis was used to determine the contributions of ancestor breeds to the genetic diversity of the Há horse. Pedigree records were available for 207,100 animals born between 1884 and 2019. Nei’s distances and the equivalent subpopulations number indicated the existence of a highly structured, integrated population for the Há breed, which is more closely genetically related to PRá than PRE horses. An increase in the length of the generation interval might be an effective solution to reduce the increase in inbreeding found in the studied breeds (8.44%, 8.50%, and 2.89%, for PRá, PRE, and Há, respectively). Wright’s fixation statistics indicated slight interherd inbreeding. Pedigree completeness suggested genetic parameters were highly reliable. High GCI levels found for number of founders and non-founders and their relationship to the evolution of inbreeding permit controlling potential deleterious negative effects from excessively frequent mating between interrelated individuals. For instance, the use of individuals presenting high GCI may balance founders’ gene contributions and consequently preserve genetic diversity levels (current genetic diversity loss in PRá, PRE, and Há is 6%, 7%, and 4%, respectively).
Fundamentals of Building Deconstruction as a Circular Economy Strategy for the Reuse of Construction Materials
Authors: Bertino Gaetano , Kisser Johannes , Zeilinger Julia , Langergraber Guenter , Fischer Tatjana , Österreicher Doris
Published: January 2021

The construction industry is one of the most environmentally detrimental industries in the world, impacting directly the use of raw materials, their determination of use involving the whole lifecycle, as well as all their surrounding environment. However, within the building sector, the transition from a linear to a circular economy is still at an early stage. Business models need to be reconsidered to include new and improved methods and innovative services that could lead to a net reduction in the use of resources and minimizing the waste disposed on landfills. In this context, an important role in buildings’ circularity is “deconstruction”, which is understood as a well-considered selective dismantlement of building components, in prevision of a future reuse, repurposing, or recycling. It represents a sustainable alternative to common demolition, which tends to be an arbitrary and destructive process, and although faster and cheaper, it typically creates a substantial amount of waste. The purpose of this article is to analyze the deconstruction potential of buildings and the strategies to apply in order to keep the impacts on the urban environment low. The article aims to facilitate the implementation of circular economy strategies for buildings by proposing common principles for deconstruction as a sustainable alternative to demolition and defining the key points to be applied during the design and planning process regardless of the type of construction system or material used.
Comparison of Dengue Predictive Models Developed Using Artificial Neural Network and Discriminant Analysis with Small Dataset
Authors: Silitonga Permatasari , Bustamam Alhadi , Muradi Hengki , Mangunwardoyo Wibowo , Dewi Beti E.
Published: January 2021

In Indonesia, dengue has become one of the hyperendemic diseases. Dengue consists of three clinical phases—febrile phase, critical phase, and recovery phase. Many patients have died in the critical phase due to the lack of proper and timely treatment. Therefore, we developed models that can predict the severity level of dengue based on the laboratory test results of the corresponding patients using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Discriminant Analysis (DA). In developing the models, we used a very small dataset. It is shown that ANN models developed using logistic and hyperbolic tangent activation function with 70% training data yielded the highest accuracy (90.91%), sensitivity (91.11%), and specificity (95.51%). This is the proposed model in this research. The proposed model will be able to help physicians in predicting the severity level of dengue patients before entering the critical phase. Furthermore, it will ease physicians in treating dengue patients early, so fatal cases or deaths can be avoided.
Design and Accuracy Analysis of a Micromachine Tool with a Co-Planar Driving Mechanism
Authors: Wang Shih-Ming , Ye Zhe-Zhi , Gunawan Hariyanto
Published: January 2021

Due to the requirements of manufacturing miniaturized high-tech products, micromachining with micromachine tools has come to be regarded as an important technology. The main goal of this study is to build up the key technologies, including optimal structure and configuration design, synchronous driving control, analysis of optimal accuracy, in order to develop a low-cost and high-accuracy micromachine tool with a multi-degrees of freedom (DOF) platform with a co-plane synchronous driving mechanism. Due to the advantages of such a mechanism, the machine is able to possess a high feed resolution and high accuracy without the use of expensive drive components and high-end CNC controllers. Because of the no pile-up structure, the machine has less movement inertia effect, as well as the merits of light weight, high stiffness, and increased stability. Furthermore, the machine has more DOF, resulting in a better cutting performance than that of 3-DOF machine tools. To better understand the characteristics of major error sources of the machine in order to further enhance its accuracy, hybrid error analysis, kinematics analysis, and a volumetric error model were conducted. Finally, a prototype of the designed micromachine tool was built, and cutting experiments for accuracy calibration and verification were carried out using this machine. The results showed that the machine was able to effectively execute 4-DOF microcutting with positioning accuracy of 800 nm.
Mail Inspection Based on Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy
Authors: Molter Daniel , Hübsch Daniel , Sprenger Thorsten , Hens Korbinian , Nalpantidis Konstantinos , Platte Frank , Torosyan Garik , Beigang René , Jonuscheit Joachim , Freymann Georg von , Ellrich Frank
Published: January 2021

One of the most prominent applications of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy is the spectral investigation of materials covered by visibly opaque objects. Therefore, terahertz waves are well suited to inspect the content of mail. We report on our work on mail inspection in this spectral range including machine design, optical layouts, data analysis, and implementations.
Dispersion Mechanism and Mechanical Properties of SiC Reinforcement in Aluminum Matrix Composite through Stir- and Die-Casting Processes
Authors: Shin Sangmin , Park Hyeonjae , Park Byeongjin , Lee Sang-Bok , Lee Sang-Kwan , Kim Yangdo , Cho Seungchan , Jo Ilguk
Published: January 2021

In this study, different volume fractions of silicon-carbide-reinforced AA2024 matrix composites were successfully fabricated using stir-casting (SC) and die-casting (DC) processes. The microstructural difference and physical properties of the composites during the manufacturing process were investigated in detail. The microstructural analysis found that the composite produced by the SC process had some reinforcement clusters and pores; however, defects and clusters significantly decreased after the DC process. In particular, the degree of reinforcement dispersion was quantitatively analyzed and compared before and after the DC process using the dispersion-analysis method. As a result of quantitative evaluation, the degree of dispersion was improved 2.5, 4.6, and 4.0 times with 3 vol.%, 6 vol.%, and 9 vol.% SiC-reinforced composite after the DC process, respectively. The electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis showed that the grain size of the 9 vol.% SiC-reinforced DC composite (17.67 μm) was 75% smaller than that of the SC composite (68.06 μm). The average tensile strength and hardness of the 9 vol.% SiC-reinforced DC composite were 2 times higher than those of the AA2024 matrix. The superior mechanical properties of the DC-processed composite can be attributed to the increase in dispersivity of the SiC particles and to decreases in defects and grain size during the DC process.
Advanced Chirp Transform Spectrometer with Novel Digital Pulse Compression Method for Spectrum Detection
Authors: Zhao Quan , Tong Ling , Gao Bo
Published: January 2021

Based on chirp transform and pulse compression technology, chirp transform spectrometers (CTSs) can be used to perform high-resolution and real-time spectrum measurements. Nowadays, they are widely applied for weather and astronomical observations. The surface acoustic wave (SAW) filter is a key device for pulse compression. The system performance is significantly affected by the dispersion characteristics match and the large insertion loss of the SAW filters. In this paper, a linear phase sampling and accumulating (LPSA) algorithm was developed to replace the matched filter for fast pulse compression. By selecting and accumulating the sampling points satisfying a specific periodic phase distribution, the intermediate frequency (IF) chirp signal carrying the information of the input signal could be detected and compressed. Spectrum measurements across the entire operational bandwidth could be performed by shifting the fixed sampling points in the time domain. A two-stage frequency resolution subdivision method was also developed for the fast pulse compression of the sparse spectrum, which was shown to significantly improve the calculation speed. The simulation and experiment results demonstrate that the LPSA method can realize fast pulse compression with adequate high amplitude accuracy and frequency resolution. Compared to existing digital pulse compression technology, this method can significantly reduce the number of required calculations, especially for measurements of sparse signals.
Distribution and Deposition of Cylindrical Nanoparticles in a Turbulent Pipe Flow
Authors: Lin Wenqian , Shi Ruifang , Lin Jianzhong
Published: January 2021

Distribution and deposition of cylindrical nanoparticles in a turbulent pipe flow are investigated numerically. The equations of turbulent flow including the effect of particles are solved together with the mean equations of the particle number density and the probability density function for particle orientation including the combined effect of Brownian and turbulent diffusion. The results show that the distribution of the particle concentration on the cross-section becomes non-uniform along the flow direction, and the non-uniformity is reduced with the increases of the particle aspect ratio and Reynolds number. More and more particles will align with their major axis near to the flow direction, and this phenomenon becomes more obvious with increasing the particle aspect ratio and with decreasing the Reynolds number. The particles in the near-wall region are aligned with the flow direction obviously, and only a slight preferential orientation is observed in the vicinity of pipe’s center. The penetration efficiency of particle decreases with increasing the particle aspect ratio, Reynolds number and pipe length-to-diameter ratio. Finally, the relationship between the penetration efficiency of particle and related synthetic parameters is established based on the numerical data.
Thermal Hydrolysis of Sewage Sludge: A Case Study of a WWTP in Burgos, Spain
Authors: García-Cascallana José , Barrios Xiomar Gómez , Martinez E. Judith
Published: January 2021

An evaluation of the energy and economic performance of thermal hydrolysis technologies is carried out on a theoretical basis. The wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of Burgos (Spain) was the base scenario of this evaluation. Energy and mass balances were established considering the registered data of primary and secondary thickened sludge in the WWTP for 2011 to 2016. These balances were analysed considering five different scenarios, taking as Scenario 1, the plant operating with conventional mesophilic digestion. The scenarios considered commercially available technologies. The best results were obtained when hydrolysis was applied to digested sludge and sludge from the Solidstream® process. These two scenarios showed the best performance regarding volatile solid removal and lower demand for live steam, achieving a higher amount of biogas available for valorisation using combined heat and power (CHP) units. The main advantage of the hydrolysis process is the decrease in the volume of digesters and the amount of dewatered sludge needing final disposal. The Solidstream® process allowed a 35% increase in biogas available for engines and a 23% increase in electricity production.
The Effect of Different Socket Types on Implant Therapy While Using Flapless Ridge Preservation
Authors: Chang Li-Ching , Cheng Yu-Min
Published: January 2021

This retrospective study compared the effects of different extraction sockets when using flapless ridge preservation during dental implant therapy. The extraction sockets were divided into four groups: Class I, intact soft tissue wall and bone walls; Class II, intact soft tissue wall with the destruction of at least one bone wall; Class III, the recession of all soft tissue walls by ≤5 mm; and Class IV, the recession of at least one soft tissue wall by >5 mm. We compared clinical parameters of dental implant therapy using flapless ridge preservation among these groups. Seventy patients with 92 dental implants, including 53 maxillary and 39 mandibular implants, involving flapless ridge preservation were enrolled. The implant survival rate was not affected by socket morphology. Total treatment time from extraction to final prosthesis placement was significantly longer in Class II and III than in Class I, among the maxillary sockets. However, there was no significant difference in the total treatment time among the different groups in the mandible. Therefore, implant survival rates did not differ according to socket morphology; however, total treatment time was significantly affected by socket morphology in the maxilla and was longer in socket classes associated with periodontitis.
Solar Ultraviolet Radiation in Pretoria and Its Relations to Aerosols and Tropospheric Ozone during the Biomass Burning Season
Authors: du Preez D. Jean , Bencherif Hassan , Portafaix Thierry , Lamy Kévin , Wright Caradee Yael
Published: January 2021

Biomass burning has an impact on atmospheric composition as well as human health and wellbeing. In South Africa, the biomass burning season extends from July to October and affects the aerosol loading and tropospheric ozone concentrations which in turn impact solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) levels at the surface. Using ground-based observations of aerosols, tropospheric ozone and solar UVR (as well as modelled solar UVR) we investigated the impact of aerosols and tropospheric ozone on solar UVR in August, September, and October over Pretoria. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) and tropospheric ozone reached a peak between September and October each year. On clear-sky days, the average relative difference between the modelled and observed solar Ultraviolet Index (UVI) levels (a standard indicator of surface UVR) at solar noon was 7%. Using modelled UVR—which included and excluded the effects of aerosols and tropospheric ozone from biomass burning—aerosols had a larger radiative effect compared to tropospheric ozone on UVI levels during the biomass burning season. Excluding only aerosols resulted in a 10% difference between the modelled and observed UVI, while excluding only tropospheric ozone resulted in a difference of −2%. Further understanding of the radiative effect of aerosols and trace gases, particularly in regions that are affected by emissions from biomass burning, is considered important for future research.
Checkpoint Inhibitors and Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Malnick Stephen D. H. , Abdullah Ali , Neuman Manuela G.
Published: January 2021

Uncontrolled immune response to a pathogen or any protein can lead to tissue damage and autoimmune diseases, that represent aberrant immune responses of the individual to its own cells and/or proteins. The immune checkpoint system is the regulatory mechanism that controls immune responses. Tumor cells escape the immune surveillance mechanism, avoiding immune detection and elimination by activating these checkpoints and suppressing the anti-tumor response, thus allowing formation of tumors. Antigenic modulation facilitates masking and contributes to the escape of tumor cells. In addition, there are growing cell promoters, like transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), contributing to escape mechanisms. Targeting the immunological escape of malignant cells is the basis of immune oncology. Checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines and their antibodies may enhance the immune system’s response to tumors. Currently, immunomodulatory agents have been designed, evaluated in clinical trials and have been approved by both European and United States Drug Agencies. The present review is a reflection of the increasingly important role of the checkpoint inhibitors. Our aim is to review the side effects with the emphasis on hepatic adverse reactions of these novel biological drug interventions.
Reinforcement of Colonic Anastomosis with Improved Ultrafine Nanofibrous Patch: Experiment on Pig
Authors: Rosendorf Jachym , Klicova Marketa , Cervenkova Lenka , Horakova Jana , Klapstova Andrea , Hosek Petr , Palek Richard , Sevcik Jan , Polak Robert , Treska Vladislav , Chvojka Jiri , Liska Vaclav
Published: January 2021

Anastomotic leakage is a dreadful complication in colorectal surgery. It has a negative impact on postoperative mortality, long term life quality and oncological results. Nanofibrous polycaprolactone materials have shown pro-healing properties in various applications before. Our team developed several versions of these for healing support of colorectal anastomoses with promising results in previous years. In this study, we developed highly porous biocompatible polycaprolactone nanofibrous patches. We constructed a defective anastomosis on the large intestine of 16 pigs, covered the anastomoses with the patch in 8 animals (Experimental group) and left the rest uncovered (Control group). After 21 days of observation we evaluated postoperative changes, signs of leakage and other complications. The samples were assessed histologically according to standardized protocols. The material was easy to work with. All animals survived with no major complication. There were no differences in intestinal wall integrity between the groups and there were no signs of anastomotic leakage in any animal. The levels of collagen were significantly higher in the Experimental group, which we consider to be an indirect sign of higher mechanical strength. The material shall be further perfected in the future and possibly combined with active molecules to specifically influence the healing process.
Association of Anxiety Awareness with Risk Factors of Cognitive Decline in MCI
Authors: Gigi Ariela , Papirovitz Merav
Published: January 2021

Studies demonstrate that anxiety is a risk factor for cognitive decline. However, there are also study findings regarding anxiety incidence among people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which mostly examined general anxiety evaluated by subjective questionnaires. This study aimed to compare subjective and objective anxiety (using autonomic measures) and anxiety as a general tendency and anxiety as a reaction to memory examination. Participants were 50 adults aged 59–82 years who were divided into two groups: MCI group and control group, according to their objective cognitive performance in the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Objective changes in the anxiety response were measured by skin conductivity in all tests and questionnaires. To evaluate subjective anxiety as a reaction to memory loss, a questionnaire on “state-anxiety” was used immediately after completing memory tests. Our main finding was that although both healthy and memory-impaired participants exhibited elevations in physiological arousal during the memory test, only healthy participants reported an enhanced state anxiety (p = 0.025). Our results suggest that people with MCI have impaired awareness of their emotional state.
Factors Associated with Symptoms of Depression and Psychological Distress during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Guo Yuqi , Sims Omar T. , Qin Weidi , Yang Fan
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study was to examine factors associated with symptoms of depression and psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. Convenience sampling and snowball sampling were used to recruit a sample of adults in China (n = 2130) from 14 February 2020 to 3 March 2020 to complete an online survey. Linear regression was used to examine the predictors of symptoms of depression and psychological distress. Living in a non-urban area and the number of confirmed cases in their city of residence were positively associated with symptoms of depression. Female gender, not being married, practicing social distancing, the amount of time spent daily on social media searching for and reading information on COVID-19, the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their city of residence, and having confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19 in personal networks were positively associated with psychological distress. Social distancing is a widely used public health approach for population-wide virus-containment of COVID-19. However, reductions in population-wide psychological well-being are inadvertent consequences of social distancing. There is an emerging need to negate factors that increase adverse mental health vulnerabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Experiences in the Decision-Making Regarding the Place of Care of the Elderly: A Systematic Review
Authors: Serrano-Gemes Gema , Serrano-del-Rosal Rafael , Rich-Ruiz Manuel
Published: January 2021

The objective of this review was to understand how participants experience the decision-making process regarding the place of care for the elderly. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of qualitative studies. The articles were included if they were original studies with qualitative/mixed methodology, written in English/Spanish, and that approached the decision-making process regarding the place of care for the elderly, already experienced by the participants. Forty-four articles were included, identifying experiences, both negative and positive. Negative experiences have been the most frequently reported experiences by all population groups; fear was the most relevant experience for the elderly, whereas concern was the most relevant for family members and professionals. This review has not only found a great variability of experiences, but also, it has deepened the differences between groups and the situations motivating/generating these experiences. This review highlights a wide range of experiences of those directly involved in the entire decision-making process on the place of care for the elderly. In future research it would be interesting to carry out qualitative primary studies conducted with professionals and other relevant people involved in this decision-making process, in order to know first-hand how they experience this process.
A Regulatory Loop of FBXW7-MYC-PLK1 Controls Tumorigenesis of MYC-Driven Medulloblastoma
Authors: Wang Dong , Pierce Angela , Veo Bethany , Fosmire Susan , Danis Etienne , Donson Andrew , Venkataraman Sujatha , Vibhakar Rajeev
Published: January 2021

Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is highly expressed in group 3 medulloblastoma (MB), and it has been preclinically validated as a cancer therapeutic target in medulloblastoma. Here, we demonstrate that PLK1 inhibition with PCM-075 or BI6727 significantly reduces the growth of MB cells and causes a decrease of c-MYC mRNA and protein levels. We show that MYC activates PLK1 transcription, while the inhibition of PLK1 suppresses MB tumor development and causes a decrease in c-MYC protein level by suppressing FBXW7 auto poly-ubiquitination. FBXW7 physically interacts with PLK1 and c-MYC, facilitating their protein degradation by promoting ubiquitination. These results demonstrate a PLK1-FBXW7-MYC regulatory loop in MYC-driven medulloblastoma. Moreover, FBXW7 is significantly downregulated in group 3 patient samples. The overexpression of FBXW7 induced apoptosis and suppressed proliferation in vitro and in vivo, while constitutive phosphorylation mutation attenuated its tumor suppressor function. Altogether, these findings demonstrated that PLK1 inhibition stabilizes FBXW7 in MYC-driven MB, thus revealing an important function of FBXW7 in suppressing medulloblastoma progression.
Automated Early Detection of Myelodysplastic Syndrome within the General Population Using the Research Parameters of Beckman–Coulter DxH 800 Hematology Analyzer
Authors: Ravalet Noémie , Foucault Amélie , Picou Frédéric , Gombert Martin , Renoult Emmanuel , Lejeune Julien , Vallet Nicolas , Lachot Sébastien , Rault Emmanuelle , Gyan Emmanuel , Bene Marie C. , Herault Olivier
Published: January 2021

The incidence of myelodysplastic syndrome increases with aging and the early diagnosis enables optimal care of these diseases. The DxH 800 hematology analyzer measures and calculates 126 cytological parameters, but only 23 are used for routine CBC assessment. The goal of this study was to use the 103 unexploited “research parameters” to develop an algorithm allowing for an early detection of subclinical MDS patients by triggering morphological analysis. Blood sample parameters from 101 MDS patients and 88 healthy volunteers were analyzed to identify the critical “research parameters” with: (i) the most significant differences between MDS patients and healthy volunteers, (ii) the best contributions to principal component analysis (PCA), first axis, and (iii) the best correlations with PCA, first two axes (cos2 > 0.6). Ten critical “research parameters” of white blood cells were identified, allowing for the calculation of an MDS-likelihood score (MDS-LS), based on logistic regression. Automatic calculation of the MDS-LS is easily implementable on the middleware system of the DxH 800 to generate a flag for blood smear review, and possibly early detection of MDS patients in the general population.
Surgery in Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Martucci Nicola , Morabito Alessandro , La Rocca Antonello , De Luca Giuseppe , De Cecio Rossella , Botti Gerardo , Totaro Giuseppe , Muto Paolo , Picone Carmine , Esposito Giovanna , Normanno Nicola , La Manna Carmine
Published: January 2021

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is one of the most aggressive tumors, with a rapid growth and early metastases. Approximately 5% of SCLC patients present with early-stage disease (T1,2 N0M0): these patients have a better prognosis, with a 5-year survival up to 50%. Two randomized phase III studies conducted in the 1960s and the 1980s reported negative results with surgery in SCLC patients with early-stage disease and, thereafter, surgery has been largely discouraged. Instead, several subsequent prospective studies have demonstrated the feasibility of a multimodality approach including surgery before or after chemotherapy and followed in most studies by thoracic radiotherapy, with a 5-year survival probability of 36–63% for patients with completely resected stage I SCLC. These results were substantially confirmed by retrospective studies and by large, population-based studies, conducted in the last 40 years, showing the benefit of surgery, particularly lobectomy, in selected patients with early-stage SCLC. On these bases, the International Guidelines recommend a surgical approach in selected stage I SCLC patients, after adequate staging: in these cases, lobectomy with mediastinal lymphadenectomy is considered the standard approach. In all cases, surgery can be offered only as part of a multimodal treatment, which includes chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy and after a proper multidisciplinary evaluation.
Nanomaterials in Photo (Electro) Catalysis
Authors: Petronella Francesca , Comparelli Roberto
Published: January 2021

The increasing rate of water and air pollution dramatically impacts natural ecosystems and human health causing depletion of biodiversity, climate changes, spreading of respiratory diseases, and, as a consequence, negatively impacting the world economy [...]
COVID-19: Characteristics and Therapeutics
Authors: Chilamakuri Rameswari , Agarwal Saurabh
Published: January 2021

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19 or 2019-nCoV or SARS-CoV-2), which suddenly emerged in December 2019 is still haunting the entire human race and has affected not only the healthcare system but also the global socioeconomic balances. COVID-19 was quickly designated as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization as there have been about 98.0 million confirmed cases and about 2.0 million confirmed deaths, as of January 2021. Although, our understanding of COVID-19 has significantly increased since its outbreak, and multiple treatment approaches and pharmacological interventions have been tested or are currently under development to mitigate its risk-factors. Recently, some vaccine candidates showed around 95% clinical efficacy, and now receiving emergency use approvals in different countries. US FDA recently approved BNT162 and mRNA-1273 vaccines developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna Inc. for emergency use and vaccination in the USA. In this review, we present a succinct overview of the SARS-CoV-2 virus structure, molecular mechanisms of infection, COVID-19 epidemiology, diagnosis, and clinical manifestations. We also systematize different treatment strategies and clinical trials initiated after the pandemic outbreak, based on viral infection and replication mechanisms. Additionally, we reviewed the novel pharmacological intervention approaches and vaccine development strategies against COVID-19. We speculate that the current pandemic emergency will trigger detailed studies of coronaviruses, their mechanism of infection, development of systematic drug repurposing approaches, and novel drug discoveries for current and future pandemic outbreaks.