bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hourly Firewood Consumption Patterns and CO2 Emission Patterns in Rural Households of Nepal
Authors: Tika Ram Pokharel , Hom Bahadur Rijal
Published: November 2020

Nepal has low per-capita energy use and a majority of its rural residents use firewood as their primary energy source. Excessive use of firewood in improperly ventilated buildings degrades the indoor environment and health condition of the inhabitants. This study aims to assess the influence of hourly firewood consumption patterns on CO2 emissions and resulting concentrations in rural households in Nepal. A field survey was conducted for 24 h in 16 households during winter. The results suggest that most of the households tend to use more firewood during the morning and evening hours. Family size and number of animals reared by the households were positively correlated with firewood consumption, whereas family size was negatively correlated with per-capita firewood consumption. Per-capita firewood consumption was found to be 1.8 kg/(capita·day). Household firewood consumption and CO2 emissions were 12 kg/(family·day) and 14.26 kg CO2 e/(household·day), respectively. The larger households spent more time for cooking, while their consumption rate was similar (1.3 kg/h) to that of smaller households. High indoor CO2 emissions in the morning and evening hours due to high firewood consumption may pose severe health risks to the inhabitants. Therefore, intensive awareness programs and pollution control programs are suggested for improving indoor air quality and health condition of the rural population.
Malignancy Analyses of Thyroid Nodules in Patients Subjected to Surgery with Cytological- and Ultrasound-Based Risk Stratification Systems
Authors: Giuliano Stefania , Mirabelli Maria , Chiefari Eusebio , Vergine Margherita , Gervasi Rita , Brunetti Francesco S. , Innaro Nadia , Donato Giuseppe , Aversa Antonio , Brunetti Antonio
Published: November 2020

The fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology is the gold standard for the preoperative diagnosis of thyroid cancer. However, up to 30% of FNA examinations yield nondiagnostic or indeterminate results and this complicates patient management. Clinical features and ultrasound (US) patterns, including US risk stratification systems, could be useful in the preoperative diagnostic workup and prediction of malignancy, but the evidences are not univocal. Methods: 400 consecutive patients subjected to thyroid surgery were retrospectively enrolled at our institution in Calabria, Southern Italy. Preoperative US and FNA cytological descriptions, formulated according to the “Italian consensus for reporting thyroid fine-needle aspiration cytology” (ICCRTC) classification and three US risk stratification systems (those developed by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American College of Endocrinology and Associazione Medici Endocrinologi (AACE/ACE/AME), American Thyroid Association (ATA), and American College of Radiology (ACR-TIRADS)), were collected, along with histological results. Results: 147 thyroid cancer cases, in large majority papillary carcinomas, were detected on final histological examination. Almost two-thirds of patients subjected to thyroid surgery for either benign or malignant lesions were female. Patient’s age ≤20 years and between 21–30 years were clinical features associated with increased risk of thyroid cancer in logistic regression analyses. US features associated with thyroid cancer included irregular margins, solid composition, microcalcifications, and marked hypoechogenicity. The AACE/ACE/AME, ATA, and ACR-TIRADS risk categories, corresponding to specific US patterns, were strong predictors of malignancy in both genders, but not in nodules with indeterminate cytology. A measured difference between the longitudinal (L) and the anteroposterior (AP) diameter >5 mm, a proxy for a parallel-oriented oval shape of a nodule, emerged as a robust protective factor against thyroid cancer (OR 0.288 (95%CI 0.817–0.443); p < 0.001), regardless of cytological risk. Conclusions: Some, but not all, well-established predictors of TC have been confirmed in this study. Controversy surrounds the diagnostic performance of US risk stratification systems for the detection of thyroid cancer in the subgroup of nodules with indeterminate cytology, suggesting their use only to set the thresholds for FNA. A measured difference between L and AP diameters >5 mm may represent an additional and practical tool for ruling out malignancy in thyroid nodules, with the potential to reduce unnecessary surgical procedures.
Urban Soils and Road Dust—Civilization Effects and Metal Pollution—A Review
Authors: Sager Manfred
Published: November 2020

Urban soils have been changed much by human impacts in terms of structure, composition and use. This review paper gives a general introduction into changes from compaction, mixing, water retention, nutrient inputs, sealing, gardening, and pollution. Because pollutions in particular have caused concerns in the past, metal pollutions and platinum group metal inputs have been treated in more detail. Though it is not possible to cover the entire literature done on this field, it has been tried to give examples from all continents, regarding geochemical background levels. Urban metal soil pollution depends on the age of the settlement, current emissions from traffic and industry, and washout. It seems that in regions of high precipitation, pollutants are swept away to the watershed, leaving the soils less polluted than in Europe. Health hazards, however, are caused by ingestion and inhalation, which are higher in 3rd world countries, and not by concentrations met in urban soils as such; these are not treated within this paper in detail. With respect to pollutants, this paper is focused on metals. Contrary to many reviews of the past, which mix all data into one column, like sampling depth, sieved grain sizes, digestion and determination methods, these have been considered, because this might lead to considerable interpretation changes. Because many datasets are not Gaussian distributed, medians and concentration ranges are given, wherever possible. Urban dust contains about two to three fold the hazardous metal concentrations met in urban soils. Some data about metal mobilities obtained from selective and sequential leaching procedures, are also added. Soil compaction, pollution, sealings and run-offs cause stress situations for green plants growing at roadside locations, which is discussed in the Section 5. Environmental protection measures have led to decrease metal pollutions within the last decade in many places.
Identification of an Emaravirus in a Common Oak (Quercus robur L.) Conservation Seed Orchard in Germany: Implications for Oak Health
Authors: Bandte Martina , Rehanek Marius , Leder Bertram , von Bargen Susanne , Büttner Carmen
Published: November 2020

We observed the health status of oak trees in a conservation seed orchard for over twenty years, focusing on characteristic virus-suspected symptoms. The orchard was established in 1992 in Kreuztal, North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany) with 1302 seedlings in 186 clusters. The number of seedlings showing chlorotic ringspots and mottle on leaves has fluctuated annually, but has increased from 3.3% to 12.1% in the last 20 years; the number of affected clusters has risen from 8% to 25.9%. A scientific breakthrough was the identification of a novel virus related to members of the genus Emaravirus in diseased oak by high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Screening of the oak seedlings in three consecutive years, using a newly established virus-specific diagnostic reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), confirmed the virus infection and revealed a close to 100% association between the observed leaf symptoms and the novel virus. As no other plant virus could be identified in the HTS-datasets, we assume the novel virus is primarily causing the symptoms. To reliably detect the novel virus in oaks, RT-PCR targeting the viral RNA3 or RNA4 should be applied in routine testing of symptomatic leaf tissue. It was obvious that most groups with virus-infected plants cluster, with only five out of the 42 affected groups being offside, not bordering on other affected groups of plants. There was no clear correlation between the detection of the virus and the overall vitality of the seedlings. There was no relation between seedling performance and presence or absence of viral infection. Forecasts on the future growth behavior of these virus-infected oak trees are therefore not possible.
Nutrient Composition of Different Hazelnut Cultivars Grown in Germany
Authors: Müller Anke , Helms Ute , Rohrer Carsten , Möhler Monika , Hellwig Frank , Glei Michael , Schwerdtle Tanja , Lorkowski Stefan , Dawczynski Christine
Published: November 2020

Hazelnuts are rarely cultivated in Germany, although they are a valuable source for macro- and micronutrients and can thus contribute to a healthy diet. Near the present, 15 varieties were cultivated in Thuringia, Germany, as a pilot study for further research. The aim of our study was to evaluate the micro- and macronutrient composition of representative, randomly mixed samples of the 15 different hazelnut cultivars. Protein, fat, and fiber contents were determined using established methods. Fatty acids, tocopherols, minerals, trace elements, and ultra-trace elements were analyzed using gas chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and inductively coupled plasma triple quadrupole mass-spectrometry, respectively. We found that the different hazelnut varieties contained valuable amounts of fat, protein, dietary fiber, minerals, trace elements, and α-tocopherol, however, in different quantities. The variations in nutrient composition were independent of growth conditions, which were identical for all hazelnut varieties. Therefore, each hazelnut cultivar has its specific nutrient profile.
Development and Characterization of the Edible Packaging Films Incorporated with Blueberry Pomace
Authors: Singh Anika , Gu Yixin , Castellarin Simone D. , Kitts David D. , Pratap-Singh Anubhav
Published: November 2020

This work focused on the development of starch-based (potato, corn, sweet potato, green bean and tapioca) edible packaging film incorporated with blueberry pomace powder (BPP). The optical, mechanical, thermal, and physicochemical properties were subsequently tested. The film color was not affected by the addition of BPP. BPP incorporated into corn and green bean starch films showed increased light barrier properties, indicating a beneficial effect to prevent UV radiation-induced food deterioration. Film thickness and transparency were not primarily affected by changing the starch type or the BPP concentration, although the corn starch films were the most transparent. Furthermore, all films maintained structural integrity and had a high tensile strength. The water vapor transmission rate of all the films was found to be greater than conventional polyethylene films. The average solubility of all the films made from different starch types was between 24 and 37%, which indicates the usability of these films for packaging, specifically for low to intermediate moisture foods. There were no statistical differences in Differential Scanning Calorimetry parameters with changes in the starch type and pomace levels. Migration assays showed a greater release of the active compounds from BPP into acetic acid medium (aqueous food simulant) than ethanol medium (fatty food simulant). The incorporation of BPP into starch-chitosan films resulted in the improvement of film performance, thereby suggesting the potential for applying BPP into starch-based films for active packaging.
COVID-19: Data-Driven Mean-Field-Type Game Perspective
Authors: Tembine Hamidou
Published: November 2020

In this article, a class of mean-field-type games with discrete-continuous state spaces is considered. We establish Bellman systems which provide sufficiency conditions for mean-field-type equilibria in state-and-mean-field-type feedback form. We then derive unnormalized master adjoint systems (MASS). The methodology is shown to be flexible enough to capture multi-class interaction in epidemic propagation in which multiple authorities are risk-aware atomic decision-makers and individuals are risk-aware non-atomic decision-makers. Based on MASS, we present a data-driven modelling and analytics for mitigating Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The model integrates untested cases, age-structure, decision-making, gender, pre-existing health conditions, location, testing capacity, hospital capacity, and a mobility map of local areas, including in-cities, inter-cities, and internationally. It is shown that the data-driven model can capture most of the reported data on COVID-19 on confirmed cases, deaths, recovered, number of testing and number of active cases in 66+ countries. The model also reports non-Gaussian and non-exponential properties in 15+ countries.
Sleep Characteristics in Diabetic Patients Depending on the Occurrence of Neuropathic Pain and Related Factors
Authors: Naranjo Cristina , Dueñas María , Barrera Carlos , Moratalla Guillermo , Failde Inmaculada
Published: November 2020

This study aims to compare the sleep characteristics (structure and quality) in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus with and without diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP), and to investigate the relationship of sensory phenotypes, anxiety, and depression with sleep quality in DNP patients. A cross-sectional study was performed in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus and neuropathy. Patients were classified into two groups—with or without neuropathic pain—according to the “Douleur Neuropathique-4 (DN4)” scale. Sleep characteristics and quality (Medical Outcomes Study—MOS-sleep), pain phenotype (Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory—NPSI), mood status (Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale—HADS), pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale—VAS), and quality of life (SF-12v2) were measured. The sample included 130 patients (65 with DNP). The mean scores in all the dimensions of the MOS-sleep scale were higher (more disturbances) in the DNP patients. Higher scores in anxiety or depression, greater intensity of pain or a higher score in the paroxysmal pain phenotype were associated with lower sleep quality in DNP patients. A shorter duration of the diabetes and lower levels of glycated hemoglobin were also associated with lower sleep quality. The results show the relationship between DNP and sleep quality, and the importance of assessing sensory phenotypes and mental comorbidities in these patients. Taking these factors into consideration, to adopt a multimodal approach is necessary to achieve better clinical results.
Vaccine Hesitancy in the Age of Coronavirus and Fake News: Analysis of Journalistic Sources in the Spanish Quality Press
Authors: Catalan-Matamoros Daniel , Elías Carlos
Published: November 2020

The study of the quality press and the use of sources is relevant to understand the role of journalists in scientific controversies. The objective was to examine media sourcing patterns, using the case of vaccines as a backdrop. Articles were retrieved from the national quality press in Spain. Content analysis was undertaken on the sources and on other variables such as tone, frames and journalistic genre. The software myNews and NVivo were used for data collection and coding, while SPSS and Excel were used for statistical analysis. Findings indicate that sources related to the government, professional associations and scientific companies are the most frequently used, confirming the central role of government institutions as journalistic sources. These were followed by university scientists, scientific journals and clinicians. On the other hand, NGOs and patients groups were included in fewer than 5% of the articles. More than 30% included none or just one source expressing unbalanced perspectives. Frequent use of certain source types, particularly governmental, may indicate state structures of power. The study provides a better understanding of journalistic routines in the coverage of vaccines, including fresh perspectives in the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Association between Organophosphate Pesticide Exposure and Insulin Resistance in Pesticide Sprayers and Nonfarmworkers
Authors: Seesen Mathuramat , Lucchini Roberto G. , Siriruttanapruk Somkiat , Sapbamrer Ratana , Hongsibsong Surat , Woskie Susan , Kongtip Pornpimol
Published: November 2020

Insulin resistance is a risk factor for various diseases. Chronic organophosphate exposure has been reported to be a cause of insulin resistance in animal models. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the association between organophosphate exposure and insulin resistance in pesticide sprayers and nonfarmworkers. Participants aged 40–60 years, consisting of 150 pesticide sprayers and 150 nonfarmworkers, were interviewed and assessed for their homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) level. Organophosphate (OP) exposure was measured in 37 sprayers and 46 nonfarmworkers by first morning urinary dialkyl phosphate (DAP) metabolites. The DAP metabolite levels were not different in either group except for diethylthiophosphate (DETP; p = 0.03), which was higher in sprayers. No significant association was observed between DAP metabolite levels and HOMA-IR. Wearing a mask while handling pesticides was associated with lower dimethyl metabolites (95% CI = −11.10, −0.17). Work practices of reading pesticide labels (95% CI = −81.47, −14.99) and washing hands after mixing pesticide (95% CI = −39.97, −3.35) correlated with lower diethyl alkylphosphate level. Overall, we did not observe any association between OP exposure and insulin resistance in pesticide sprayers and the general population. However, personal protective equipment (PPE) utilization and work practice were associated with OP exposure level in sprayers.
COVID-19 Emergency Management: From the Reorganization of the Endoscopy Service to the Verification of the Reprocessing Efficacy
Authors: Casini Beatrice , Tuvo Benedetta , Maggi Fabrizio , Del Magro Giuliana , Ribechini Alessandro , Costa Anna Laura , Totaro Michele , Baggiani Angelo , Gemignani Giulia , Privitera Gaetano
Published: November 2020

Microbiological surveillance carried out in order to verify the effectiveness of endoscope reprocessing does not include the research of viruses, although endoscopes may be associated with the transmission of viral infections. This paper reports the experience of the University Hospital of Pisa in managing the risk from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during an endoscopy. A review of the reprocessing procedure was conducted to assess whether improvement actions were needed. To verify the reprocessing efficacy, a virological analysis was conducted both before and after the procedure. Five bronchoscopes and 11 digestive endoscopes (6 gastroscopes and 5 colonoscopes) were sampled. The liquid samples were subjected to concentration through the use of the Macrosep Advance Centrifugal Devices (PALL Life Sciences, Port Washington, NY, USA) and subsequently analyzed using the cobas® SARS-CoV-2 Test (Roche Diagnostics, Basel, Switzerland), together with eSwab 490 CE COPAN swabs (COPAN, Brescia, Italy), which were used to sample surfaces. In accordance with the first ordinance regarding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emergency issued by the Tuscany Region in March 2020, a procedure dedicated to the management of the COVID-19 emergency in endoscopic practices was prepared, including the reprocessing of endoscopes. The virological analysis carried out on samples collected from endoscopes after reprocessing gave negative results, as well as on samples collected on the endoscopy column surfaces and the two washer-disinfectors that were dedicated to COVID-19 patients. The improvement in endoscope reprocessing implemented during the COVID-19 emergency was effective in ensuring the absence of SARS-CoV-2, thus reducing the risk of infections after an endoscopy on COVID-19 patients.
Exogenous Glutathione Alleviation of Cd Toxicity in Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) by Modulation of the Cd Absorption, Subcellular Distribution, and Chemical Form
Authors: Fang Zhigang , Hu Zhaoyang , Yin Xinqiang , Song Gang , Cai Qingsheng
Published: November 2020

Subcellular fractions and the chemical forms of cadmium (Cd) reflect its level of toxicity to plants; however, these effects of exogenous glutathione (GSH) are poorly understood. We exposed two Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) cultivars (IdyII and Harukaze) to 50 µM Cd or 200 µM GSH to investigate the effect of GSH on the Cd uptake, subcellular compartments, and chemical forms. Cd significantly inhibited the plant growth, while GSH supplementation decreased this inhibition. The application of GSH significantly improved the Cd concentration in the roots but reduced that in the shoots and decreased the Cd translocation from root to shoot. The Cd concentration of the root in the cell wall was increased while the concentration in the soluble fraction was decreased when supplied with GSH. The inorganic form (80% ethanol for Cd extraction) in the roots was significantly reduced when treated with GSH. The Cd form extracted by 2% acetic acid (HAC) with low toxicity and immobility were greatly increased. In leaves, the application GSH decreased in any form of Cd form extracted. In conclusion, exogenous GSH decreased the translocation of Cd and alleviated Italian ryegrass Cd toxicity by accumulating more Cd in the root cell wall and immobilizing more Cd in lower toxicity fractions.
The Determinants of Out-of-Pocket Expenditure in IBD Italian Patients. Results from the AMICI Survey
Authors: Ruggeri Matteo , Drago Carlo , Cadeddu Chiara , Armuzzi Alessandro , Leone Salvo , Marchetti Marco
Published: November 2020

Decision makers are used to consider Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) within a health technology assessment framework in order to account for an indicator relying on the level of fairness and on the quality of care of a health system. In this paper, we provide estimates on the determinants of OOPE in Italy by using data coming from an observational cross-sectional study that enrolled a sample of 2526 patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases. We explore the association between OOPE and: (1) geographical location; (2) income effects; (3) performances in delivering healthcare. A regression model was used. Individuals’ age were in the range of 18–88 (mean 44 ± 14.55). Forty-six percent were females, 54% were married and 19% held a bachelor degree. Ninety-six percent of respondents declared an OOPE >0 whose mean value was €960 ± €950. Individuals belonging to low-income and low-performance regions were more likely to declare an OOPE >0 (99%). Regression findings suggest that increases in OOPE could be considered as a response from patients aiming to compensate for lacks and inefficiencies in the public healthcare offers. Policymakers should consider increases in OOPE in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) as an indicator of poor quality of care and poor fairness.
Search for Reliable Circulating Biomarkers to Predict Carotid Plaque Vulnerability
Authors: Puig Núria , Jiménez-Xarrié Elena , Camps-Renom Pol , Benitez Sonia
Published: November 2020

Atherosclerosis is responsible for 20% of ischemic strokes, and the plaques from the internal carotid artery the most frequently involved. Lipoproteins play a key role in carotid atherosclerosis since lipid accumulation contributes to plaque progression and chronic inflammation, both factors leading to plaque vulnerability. Carotid revascularization to prevent future vascular events is reasonable in some patients with high-grade carotid stenosis. However, the degree of stenosis alone is not sufficient to decide upon the best clinical management in some situations. In this context, it is essential to further characterize plaque vulnerability, according to specific characteristics (lipid-rich core, fibrous cap thinning, intraplaque hemorrhage). Although these features can be partly detected by imaging techniques, identifying carotid plaque vulnerability is still challenging. Therefore, the study of circulating biomarkers could provide adjunctive criteria to predict the risk of atherothrombotic stroke. In this regard, several molecules have been found altered, but reliable biomarkers have not been clearly established yet. The current review discusses the concept of vulnerable carotid plaque, and collects existing information about putative circulating biomarkers, being particularly focused on lipid-related and inflammatory molecules.
Glycemic Status Assessment by the Latest Glucose Monitoring Technologies
Authors: Malandrucco Ilaria , Russo Benedetta , Picconi Fabiana , Menduni Marika , Frontoni Simona
Published: November 2020

The advanced and performing technologies of glucose monitoring systems provide a large amount of glucose data that needs to be properly read and interpreted by the diabetology team in order to make therapeutic decisions as close as possible to the patient’s metabolic needs. For this purpose, new parameters have been developed, to allow a more integrated reading and interpretation of data by clinical professionals. The new challenge for the diabetes community consists of promoting an integrated and homogeneous reading, as well as interpretation of glucose monitoring data also by the patient himself. The purpose of this review is to offer an overview of the glycemic status assessment, opened by the current data management provided by latest glucose monitoring technologies. Furthermore, the applicability and personalization of the different glycemic monitoring devices used in specific insulin-treated diabetes mellitus patient populations will be evaluated.
Selective Metal Ion Utilization Contributes to the Transformation of the Activity of Yeast Polymerase η from DNA Polymerization toward RNA Polymerization
Authors: Balint Eva , Unk Ildiko
Published: November 2020

Polymerase eta (Polη) is a translesion synthesis DNA polymerase directly linked to cancer development. It can bypass several DNA lesions thereby rescuing DNA damage-stalled replication complexes. We previously presented evidence implicating Saccharomyces cerevisiae Polη in transcription elongation, and identified its specific RNA extension and translesion RNA synthetic activities. However, RNA synthesis by Polη proved rather inefficient under conditions optimal for DNA synthesis. Searching for factors that could enhance its RNA synthetic activity, we have identified the divalent cation of manganese. Here, we show that manganese triggers drastic changes in the activity of Polη. Kinetics experiments indicate that manganese increases the efficiency of ribonucleoside incorporation into RNA by ~400–2000-fold opposite undamaged DNA, and ~3000 and ~6000-fold opposite TT dimer and 8oxoG, respectively. Importantly, preference for the correct base is maintained with manganese during RNA synthesis. In contrast, activity is strongly impaired, and base discrimination is almost lost during DNA synthesis by Polη with manganese. Moreover, Polη shows strong preference for manganese during RNA synthesis even at a 25-fold excess magnesium concentration. Based on this, we suggest that a new regulatory mechanism, selective metal cofactor utilization, modulates the specificity of Polη helping it to perform distinct activities needed for its separate functions during replication and transcription.
Aging Induces Profound Changes in sncRNA in Rat Sperm and These Changes Are Modified by Perinatal Exposure to Environmental Flame Retardant
Authors: Suvorov Alexander , Pilsner J. Richard , Naumov Vladimir , Shtratnikova Victoria , Zheludkevich Anna , Gerasimov Evgeny , Logacheva Maria , Sergeyev Oleg
Published: November 2020

Advanced paternal age at fertilization is a risk factor for multiple disorders in offspring and may be linked to age-related epigenetic changes in the father’s sperm. An understanding of aging-related epigenetic changes in sperm and environmental factors that modify such changes is needed. Here, we characterize changes in sperm small non-coding RNA (sncRNA) between young pubertal and mature rats. We also analyze the modification of these changes by exposure to environmental xenobiotic 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47). sncRNA libraries prepared from epididymal spermatozoa were sequenced and analyzed using DESeq 2. The distribution of small RNA fractions changed with age, with fractions mapping to rRNA and lncRNA decreasing and fractions mapping to tRNA and miRNA increasing. In total, 249 miRNA, 908 piRNA and 227 tRNA-derived RNA were differentially expressed (twofold change, false discovery rate (FDR) p ≤ 0.05) between age groups in control animals. Differentially expressed miRNA and piRNA were enriched for protein-coding targets involved in development and metabolism, while piRNA were enriched for long terminal repeat (LTR) targets. BDE-47 accelerated age-dependent changes in sncRNA in younger animals, decelerated these changes in older animals and increased the variance in expression of all sncRNA. Our results indicate that the natural aging process has profound effects on sperm sncRNA profiles and this effect may be modified by environmental exposure.
Role of Adiponectin in the Pathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Szumilas Kamila , Szumilas Paweł , Słuczanowska-Głąbowska Sylwia , Zgutka Katarzyna , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: November 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic chronic inflammatory autoimmune joint disease, characterized by progressive articular damage and joint dysfunction. One of the symptoms of this disease is persistent inflammatory infiltration of the synovial membrane, the principle site of inflammation in RA. In the affected conditions, the cells of the synovial membrane, fibroblast-like synoviocytes and macrophage-like synovial cells, produce enzymes degrading cartilage and underlining bone tissue, as well as cytokines increasing the infiltration of immune cells. In patients with RA, higher levels of adiponectin are measured in the serum and synovial fluid. Adiponectin, a secretory product that is mainly white adipose tissue, is a multifunctional protein with dual anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory properties. Several studies underline the fact that adiponectin can play an important pro-inflammatory role in the pathophysiology of RA via stimulating the secretion of inflammatory mediators. This narrative review is devoted to the presentation of recent knowledge on the role played by one of the adipokines produced by adipose tissue—adiponectin—in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.
Umbilical Cord-Derived CD362+ Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Attenuate Polymicrobial Sepsis Induced by Caecal Ligation and Puncture
Authors: Gonzalez Hector , Keane Colm , Masterson Claire H. , Horie Shahd , Elliman Stephen J. , Higgins Brendan D. , Scully Michael , Laffey John G. , O’Toole Daniel
Published: November 2020

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have a multimodal, immunomodulatory mechanism of action and are now in clinical trials for single organ and systemic sepsis. However, a number of practicalities around source, homogeneity and therapeutic window remain to be determined. Here, we utilised conditioned medium from CD362+-sorted umbilical cord-human MSCs (UC-hMSCs) for a series of in vitro anti-inflammatory assays and the cryopreserved MSCs themselves in a severe (Series 1) or moderate (Series 2+3) caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) rodent model. Surviving animals were assessed at 48 h post injury induction. MSCs improved human lung, colonic and kidney epithelial cell survival following cytokine activation. In severe systemic sepsis, MSCs administered at 30 min enhanced survival (Series 1), and reduced organ bacterial load. In moderate systemic sepsis (Series 2), MSCs were ineffective when delivered immediately or 24 h later. Of importance, MSCs delivered 4 h post induction of moderate sepsis (Series 3) were effective, improving serum lactate, enhancing bacterial clearance from tissues, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations and increasing antimicrobial peptides in serum. While demonstrating benefit and immunomodulation in systemic sepsis, therapeutic efficacy may be limited to a specific point of disease onset, and repeat dosing, MSC enhancement or other contingencies may be necessary.
Sociogenetic Organization of the Red Honey Ant (Melophorus bagoti)
Authors: Lecocq de Pletincx Nathan , Aron Serge
Published: November 2020

Kin selection and inclusive fitness are thought to be key factors explaining the reproductive altruism displayed by workers in eusocial insect species. However, when a colony’s queen has mated with <2 males, workers may increase their fitness by producing their own male offspring. Conversely, when the queen has mated with ≥2 males, workers are expected to increase their inclusive fitness by eschewing the production of their sons and preventing other workers from reproducing as well. Here, we investigated sociogenetic structure and worker reproduction in the red honey ant, Melophorus bagoti. Morphometric analyses revealed that workers belong to one of two distinct subcastes: they are either majors or minors. Using DNA microsatellite markers, we showed that all the colonies had a single, multiple-mated queen and that there was no relationship between worker patriline and worker subcaste. Furthermore, we found that workers were producing males in the presence of the queen, which contrasts with the predictions of inclusive fitness theory. Although our results are based on a small sample, they can serve as the foundation for future research examining worker reproduction in M. bagoti.
The Influence of Ramp Shape Parameters on Performance of Overtopping Breakwater for Energy Conversion
Authors: Musa M. A. , Roslan M. F. , Ahmad M. F. , Muzathik A. M. , Mustapa M. A. , Fitriadhy A. , Mohd M. H. , Rahman M. A. A.
Published: November 2020

Overtopping breakwater for energy conversion (OBREC) is integration between breakwater and wave energy converter (WEC) that allows incoming waves to be stored in the reservoir. The higher the overtopping amount collected in a reservoir, the greater the energy generated will be. Hence, most of the overtopping concept has attempted to maximize the inclusion of water in the reservoir by optimizing geometrical parameters, particularly the ramp angle. However, the studies corresponding to ramp shapes geometries have not been adequately reviewed. Most studies only focused on the usage of linear overtopping ramp shape. There is still limited knowledge on the influence of different ramp shape parameters towards the overtopping wave. Thus, this paper aimed to push the border of available knowledge by investigating the influence of the ramp shape parameters to the overtopping wave discharge through simulation and experimenting approaches. Seven different ramp shapes have been tested under Malaysia’s wave condition and a new ramp shape parameter allowing for maximized overtopping wave on OBREC is presented.
Potential Environmental Effects of Marine Renewable Energy Development—The State of the Science
Authors: Copping Andrea E. , Hemery Lenaïg G. , Overhus Dorian M. , Garavelli Lysel , Freeman Mikaela C. , Whiting Jonathan M. , Gorton Alicia M. , Farr Hayley K. , Rose Deborah J. , Tugade Levy G.
Published: November 2020

Marine renewable energy (MRE) harnesses energy from the ocean and provides a low-carbon sustainable energy source for national grids and remote uses. The international MRE industry is in the early stages of development, focused largely on tidal and riverine turbines, and wave energy converters (WECs), to harness energy from tides, rivers, and waves, respectively. Although MRE supports climate change mitigation, there are concerns that MRE devices and systems could affect portions of the marine and river environments. The greatest concern for tidal and river turbines is the potential for animals to be injured or killed by collision with rotating blades. Other risks associated with MRE device operation include the potential for turbines and WECs to cause disruption from underwater noise emissions, generation of electromagnetic fields, changes in benthic and pelagic habitats, changes in oceanographic processes, and entanglement of large marine animals. The accumulated knowledge of interactions of MRE devices with animals and habitats to date is summarized here, along with a discussion of preferred management methods for encouraging MRE development in an environmentally responsible manner. As there are few devices in the water, understanding is gained largely from examining one to three MRE devices. This information indicates that there will be no significant effects on marine animals and habitats due to underwater noise from MRE devices or emissions of electromagnetic fields from cables, nor changes in benthic and pelagic habitats, or oceanographic systems. Ongoing research to understand potential collision risk of animals with turbine blades still shows significant uncertainty. There has been no significant field research undertaken on entanglement of large animals with mooring lines and cables associated with MRE devices.
Copper-ATSM as a Treatment for ALS: Support from Mutant SOD1 Models and Beyond
Authors: Nikseresht Sara , Hilton James B.W. , Kysenius Kai , Liddell Jeffrey R. , Crouch Peter J.
Published: November 2020

The blood–brain barrier permeant, copper-containing compound, CuII(atsm), has successfully progressed from fundamental research outcomes in the laboratory through to phase 2/3 clinical assessment in patients with the highly aggressive and fatal neurodegenerative condition of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The most compelling outcomes to date to indicate potential for disease-modification have come from pre-clinical studies utilising mouse models that involve transgenic expression of mutated superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). Mutant SOD1 mice provide a very robust mammalian model of ALS with high validity, but mutations in SOD1 account for only a small percentage of ALS cases in the clinic, with the preponderant amount of cases being sporadic and of unknown aetiology. As per other putative drugs for ALS developed and tested primarily in mutant SOD1 mice, this raises important questions about the pertinence of CuII(atsm) to broader clinical translation. This review highlights some of the challenges associated with the clinical translation of new treatment options for ALS. It then provides a brief account of pre-clinical outcomes for CuII(atsm) in SOD1 mouse models of ALS, followed by an outline of additional studies which report positive outcomes for CuII(atsm) when assessed in cell and mouse models of neurodegeneration which do not involve mutant SOD1. Clinical evidence for CuII(atsm) selectively targeting affected regions of the CNS in patients is also presented. Overall, this review summarises the existing evidence which indicates why clinical relevance of CuII(atsm) likely extends beyond the context of cases of ALS caused by mutant SOD1.
Silk Particles as Carriers of Therapeutic Molecules for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Florczak Anna , Grzechowiak Inga , Deptuch Tomasz , Kucharczyk Kamil , Kaminska Alicja , Dams-Kozlowska Hanna
Published: November 2020

Although progress is observed in cancer treatment, this disease continues to be the second leading cause of death worldwide. The current understanding of cancer indicates that treating cancer should not be limited to killing cancer cells alone, but that the target is the complex tumor microenvironment (TME). The application of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems (DDS) can not only target cancer cells and TME, but also simultaneously resolve the severe side effects of various cancer treatment approaches, leading to more effective, precise, and less invasive therapy. Nanoparticles based on proteins derived from silkworms’ cocoons (like silk fibroin and sericins) and silk proteins from spiders (spidroins) are intensively explored not only in the oncology field. This natural-derived material offer biocompatibility, biodegradability, and simplicity of preparation methods. The protein-based material can be tailored for size, stability, drug loading/release kinetics, and functionalized with targeting ligands. This review summarizes the current status of drug delivery systems’ development based on proteins derived from silk fibroin, sericins, and spidroins, which application is focused on systemic cancer treatment. The nanoparticles that deliver chemotherapeutics, nucleic acid-based therapeutics, natural-derived agents, therapeutic proteins or peptides, inorganic compounds, as well as photosensitive molecules, are introduced.
Experimental Study of Abrasive, Mechanical and Corrosion Effects in Ring-on-Ring Sliding Contact
Authors: Selech Jaroslaw , Ulbrich Dariusz , Romek Dawid , Kowalczyk Jakub , Wlodarczyk Konrad , Nadolny Karol
Published: November 2020

This article presents the application of the ring-on-ring test to investigate some of the important factors affecting the abrasive and corrosion wear of a face seal used in the sugar industry. The test involves the sliding contact between two steel rings working in different conditions such as mechanic, abrasive, corrosive extortions and its combination. Rings were made of the C45 steel and the surface layers were modified by heat and thermochemical treatment such as normalizing, flame hardening, nitriding and chrome diffusion. Maximum wear of the sample after tests under mechanic, abrasive and corrosion extortion were obtained. For C45 steel without surface modification the biggest wear was obtained for mechanical, abrasive and corrosive extortion and equals 0.0138 g. This value was three times bigger than the result for the mechanical extortion and ten times than for the corrosive conditions. For individual research options the percentage increase or decrease in wear resistance in relation to the normalized surface layer was determined. In the corrosive extortion the highest increase (90%) of wear resistance was recorded for the chrome layer relative to normalizing sample. The main conclusion of the paper is that the wear effect caused by all factors—mechanical, abrasive and corrosive—is not a straight sum of values of wear.
Evolution of Corrosion Products Formed during the Corrosion of MgZr Alloy in Poral Solutions Extracted from Na-Geopolymers Used as Conditioning Matrix for Nuclear Waste
Authors: Boubon Rémi , Deschanels Xavier , Cabié Martiane , Rébiscoul Diane
Published: November 2020

Geopolymer, a nanoporous aluminosilicate filled with water and ions, has been selected as a potential matrix to encapsulate MgZr alloy fuel cladding. In this study, we investigate the evolution of the corrosion products formed during the corrosion of MgZr in poral solutions extracted from geopolymers with and without NaF as corrosion inhibitor. Using various characterization techniques such as Scanning Electron and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopies coupled to Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Grazing Incidence X-ray Diffraction, we show that the amounts of dissolved silica and fluoride species in solution are the key parameters driving the nature of corrosion products and probably their passivating properties regarding MgZr corrosion.
Laboratory and Numerical Analysis of Steel Cold-Formed Sigma Beams Retrofitted by Bonded CFRP Tapes—Extended Research
Authors: Szewczak Ilona , Rzeszut Katarzyna , Rozylo Patryk , Snela Malgorzata
Published: November 2020

The presented research is a part of a broader study of strengthening methods closely associated with cold-formed sigma steel beams with tapes made of Carbon Fiber Reinforcement Polymer/Plastic (CFRP). The presented results are a continuation and extension of the tests described in previous work by the authors and refer to high-slenderness thin-walled steel sigma beams subjected to a significant large rotation. The main idea of this expanded study was to identify the effectiveness of CFRP tapes with respect to different locations, namely at a bottom-tensioned or upper-compressed flange. Six beams with a cross-section of an Σ140 × 70 × 2.5 profile by “Blachy Pruszyński” and made of S350GD steel with a span of L = 270 cm were tested in the four-point bending scheme. Two beams, taken as reference, were tested without reinforcement. The remaining beams were reinforced with the use of a 50-mm wide and 1.2-mm thick Sika CarboDur S512 CFRP tape, with two beams reinforced by placing the tape on the upper flange and two with tape located on the bottom flange. The CFRP tape was bonded directly to the beams (by SikaDur®-30 adhesive). Laboratory tests were aimed at determining the impact of the use of composite tapes on the limitation of displacements and deformations of thin-walled structures. In order to perform a precise measurement of displacement, which is, in the case of beams subjected to large rotations, a very difficult issue in itself, the Tritop system and two coupled lenses of the Aramis system were used. Electrofusion strain gauges were used to measure the deformation. In the next step, numerical models of the analyzed beams were developed in the Abaqus program. Good compliance of the results of laboratory tests and numerical analyses was achieved. The obtained results confirm the beneficial effect of the use of tapes (CFRP) on the reduction in displacements and deformations of steel cold-formed elements.
Analysis of the Upper Limitation of the Most Convenient Cadence Range in Cycling Using an Equivalent Moment Based Cost Function
Authors: Palmieri Giacomo , Tiboni Monica , Legnani Giovanni
Published: November 2020

The article presents the study of the pedalling rates obtained by minimizing a cost function based on a kinetic approach and which can be estimated with more easily achievable experimental data as input than other cost functions. Simulations based on data available in the literature were used to compare the cadences obtained by minimizing well-known joint moment-based cost functions and the proposed cost function. The influence of the power output and of the body mass index on the pedalling rates that minimize the cost function was investigated. Experimental tests performed by four competitive cyclists in the field were used as comparison for the results based on simulations. From simulations emerged that results obtained with the cost function proposed in this work were similar to those based on the absolute average joint moments. We found that the upper limit of the more convenient pedalling rate range decreases linearly with the body mass index, while it increases non-linearly with power output. Furthermore, a polynomial regression of the correlation of the pedalling rate obtained through the method and body mass index and power was found. Experimental results confirmed that the proposed model, finding an approximation of the minimum of muscular effort (not including negative muscular work), is able to estimate the upper limit of an optimal range of cadence. All tested cyclists freely choose to pedal at a cadence under this limit.