bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Zebrafish Xenograft Models for Investigating Cancer and Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Gamble John T. , Elson Daniel J. , Greenwood Juliet A. , Tanguay Robyn L. , Kolluri Siva K.
Published: March 2021

In order to develop new cancer therapeutics, rapid, reliable, and relevant biological models are required to screen and validate drug candidates for both efficacy and safety. In recent years, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as an excellent model organism suited for these goals. Larval fish or immunocompromised adult fish are used to engraft human cancer cells and serve as a platform for screening potential drug candidates. With zebrafish sharing ~80% of disease-related orthologous genes with humans, they provide a low cost, high-throughput alternative to mouse xenografts that is relevant to human biology. In this review, we provide background on the methods and utility of zebrafish xenograft models in cancer research.
Labelling Selective Sweeps Used in Durum Wheat Breeding from a Diverse and Structured Panel of Landraces and Cultivars
Authors: Soriano Jose Miguel , Sansaloni Carolina , Ammar Karim , Royo Conxita
Published: March 2021

A panel of 387 durum wheat genotypes including Mediterranean landraces and modern cultivars was characterized with 46,161 diversity arrays technology (DArTseq) markers. Analysis of population structure uncovered the existence of five subpopulations (SP) related to the pattern of migration of durum wheat from the domestication area to the west of the Mediterranean basin (SPs 1, 2, and 3) and further improved germplasm (SPs 4 and 5). The total genetic diversity (HT) was 0.40 with a genetic differentiation (GST) of 0.08 and a mean gene flow among SPs of 6.02. The lowest gene flow was detected between SP 1 (presumably the ancient genetic pool of the panel) and SPs 4 and 5. However, gene flow from SP 2 to modern cultivars was much higher. The highest gene flow was detected between SP 3 (western Mediterranean germplasm) and SP 5 (North American and European cultivars). A genome wide association study (GWAS) approach using the top ten eigenvectors as phenotypic data revealed the presence of 89 selective sweeps, represented as quantitative trait loci (QTL) hotspots, widely distributed across the durum wheat genome. A principal component analysis (PCoA) using 147 markers with −log10p > 5 identified three regions located on chromosomes 2A, 2B and 3A as the main drivers for differentiation of Mediterranean landraces. Gene flow between SPs offers clues regarding the putative use of Mediterranean old durum germplasm by the breeding programs represented in the structure analysis. EigenGWAS identified selective sweeps among landraces and modern cultivars. The analysis of the corresponding genomic regions in the ‘Zavitan’, ‘Svevo’ and ‘Chinese Spring’ genomes discovered the presence of important functional genes including Ppd, Vrn, Rht, and gene models involved in important biological processes including LRR-RLK, MADS-box, NAC, and F-box.
Aerobic Exercise and Stretching as Add-On to Inpatient Treatment for Depression Have No Differential Effects on Stress-Axis Activity, Serum-BDNF, TNF-Alpha and Objective Sleep Measures
Authors: Imboden Christian , Gerber Markus , Beck Johannes , Eckert Anne , Lejri Imane , Pühse Uwe , Holsboer-Trachsler Edith , Hatzinger Martin
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: While the antidepressant effects of aerobic exercise (AE) are well documented, fewer studies have examined impact of AE as an add-on treatment. Moreover, various effects on neurobiological variables have been suggested. This study examines effects of AE on Cortisol Awakening Reaction (CAR), serum Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (sBDNF), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and sleep. (2) Methods: Inpatients with moderate-to-severe depression (N = 43) were randomly assigned to the AE or stretching condition (active control) taking place 3x/week for 6 weeks. CAR, sBDNF and TNF-alpha were assessed at baseline, after 2 weeks and post-intervention. The 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS17), subjective sleep quality measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and polysomnography (PSG) were obtained at baseline and post-intervention. (3) Results: Stress axis activity decreased in both groups from baseline to post-intervention. sBDNF showed a significant increase over time, whereas the number of awakenings significantly decreased. No significant time by group interactions were detected for any of the study variables. Correlational analyses showed that higher improvements in maximum oxygen capacity (VO2max) from baseline to post-intervention were associated with reduced scores on the HDRS17, PSQI and REM-latency post-intervention. (4) Conclusions: While some neurobiological variables improved during inpatient treatment (CAR, sBDNF), no evidence was found for differential effects between AE and an active control condition (stretching). However, patients in which cardiorespiratory fitness increased showed higher improvements in depression severity and depression-related sleep-parameters.
The Actuation System of the Ankle Exoskeleton T-FLEX: First Use Experimental Validation in People with Stroke
Authors: Gomez-Vargas Daniel , Ballen-Moreno Felipe , Barria Patricio , Aguilar Rolando , Azorín José M. , Munera Marcela , Cifuentes Carlos A.
Published: March 2021

Robotic devices can provide physical assistance to people who have suffered neurological impairments such as stroke. Neurological disorders related to this condition induce abnormal gait patterns, which impede the independence to execute different Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). From the fundamental role of the ankle in walking, Powered Ankle-Foot Orthoses (PAFOs) have been developed to enhance the users’ gait patterns, and hence their quality of life. Ten patients who suffered a stroke used the actuation system of the T-FLEX exoskeleton triggered by an inertial sensor on the foot tip. The VICONmotion capture system recorded the users’ kinematics for unassisted and assisted gait modalities. Biomechanical analysis and usability assessment measured the performance of the system actuation for the participants in overground walking. The biomechanical assessment exhibited changes in the lower joints’ range of motion for 70% of the subjects. Moreover, the ankle kinematics showed a correlation with the variation of other movements analyzed. This variation had positive effects on 70% of the participants in at least one joint. The Gait Deviation Index (GDI) presented significant changes for 30% of the paretic limbs and 40% of the non-paretic, where the tendency was to decrease. The spatiotemporal parameters did not show significant variations between modalities, although users’ cadence had a decrease of 70% of the volunteers. Lastly, the satisfaction with the device was positive, the comfort being the most user-selected aspect. This article presents the assessment of the T-FLEX actuation system in people who suffered a stroke. Biomechanical results show improvement in the ankle kinematics and variations in the other joints. In general terms, GDI does not exhibit significant increases, and the Movement Analysis Profile (MAP) registers alterations for the assisted gait with the device. Future works should focus on assessing the full T-FLEX orthosis in a larger sample of patients, including a stage of training.
Concentrated Secretome of Adipose Stromal Cells Limits Influenza A Virus-Induced Lung Injury in Mice
Authors: Bogatcheva Natalia V. , Coleman Michael E.
Published: March 2021

Despite vaccination and antivirals, influenza remains a communicable disease of high burden, with limited therapeutic options available to patients that develop complications. Here, we report the development and preclinical characterization of Adipose Stromal Cell (ASC) concentrated secretome (CS), generated by process adaptable to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) standards. We demonstrate that ASC-CS limits pulmonary histopathological changes, infiltration of inflammatory cells, protein leak, water accumulation, and arterial oxygen saturation (spO2) reduction in murine model of lung infection with influenza A virus (IAV) when first administered six days post-infection. The ability to limit lung injury is sustained in ASC-CS preparations stored at −80 °C for three years. Priming of the ASC with inflammatory factors TNFα and IFNγ enhances ASC-CS ability to suppress lung injury. IAV infection is associated with dramatic increases in programmed cell death ligand (PDL1) and angiopoietin 2 (Angpt2) levels. ASC-CS application significantly reduces both PDL1 and Angpt2 levels. Neutralization of PDL1 with anti-mouse PDL1 antibody starting Day6 onward effectively ablates lung PDL1, but only non-significantly reduces Angpt2 release. Most importantly, late-phase PDL1 neutralization results in negligible suppression of protein leakage and inflammatory cell infiltration, suggesting that suppression of PDL1 does not play a critical role in ASC-CS therapeutic effects.
Estimating Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis Based on Feeding Practices
Authors: Baños-Peláez Miguel , Avila-Sosa Valeria , Fernández-Carrocera Luis Alberto , González-Pérez Gabriela , Carrera-Muiños Sandra , Rivera-Rueda Maria Antonieta , Cordero-González Guadalupe , Romero Silvia , Coronado-Zarco Alejandra , Laresgoiti-Servitje Estibalitz , Irles Claudine
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: The relationship between enteral nutrition and neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) among premature neonates is still unclear. The present work was designed to assess the relationship between NEC and feeding strategies compared to control infants. (2) Methods: A retrospective case-control study of premature infants (<35 weeks’ gestation) with or without NEC that examined feeding practices and clinical characteristics at birth and 3, 7, and 14-day hospitalization, with a longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis. (3) Results: A total of 100 newborns with NEC diagnosis and 92 neonates without the disease with similar demographic and clinical characteristics were included. The median day of NEC diagnosis was 15 days (Interquartile Range (IQR) 5–25 days). A significantly higher number of neonates that were fasting on days 7 and 14 developed NEC (p < 0.05). In the longitudinal analysis, generalized linear and mixed models were fit to evaluate NEC association with feeding strategies and showed that exclusive mother’s own milk (MM) and fortified human milk (FHM) across time were significantly less likely associated with NEC (p < 0.001) and that enteral fasting was positively related with NEC. In the cross-sectional analysis, a binary logistic regression model was fit and predicted 80.7% of NEC cases. MM was also found to correlate with a reduced risk for NEC (OR 0.148, 95% CI 0.044–0.05, p = 0.02), and in particular, on day 14, several factors were related to a decreased odd for NEC, including birth weight, antenatal steroids, and the use of FHM (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: MM and FHM were associated with less NEC compared to fasting on days 7 and 14. Feeding practices in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) should promote exclusive MM across the two-week critical period as a potential guideline to improve NEC outcome.
Influence of the Physical Properties on the Antibacterial and Photocatalytic Behavior of Ag-Doped Indium Sulfide Film Deposited by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Tiss Belgacem , Moualhi Youssef , Bouguila Noureddine , Kraini Mabrouk , Alaya Sahbi , Croitoru Catalin , Ghiuta Ioana , Cristea Daniel , Patroi Delia , Moura Cacilda , Cunha Luís
Published: March 2021

Spray pyrolysis was used to deposit indium sulfide (In2S3) films, with or without silver doping. The films are polycrystalline, and the inclusion of Ag in the In2S3 structure leads to the formation of a solid solution, with the crystallite size of the order of tens of nanometers. In2S3 films exhibit a semiconductive behavior, and the incorporation of Ag leads to an increase of the charge carrier concentration, enhancing the electrical conductivity of the films. The small polaron hopping mechanism, deduced by the fittings according to the double Jonscher variation, explains the evolution of the direct current (dc) conductivity at high temperature of the Ag-doped indium sulfide. From impedance spectroscopy, it was found that the doped film presents dielectric relaxation, and Nyquist diagrams indicate the importance of the grain and the grain boundaries’ contributions to the transport phenomena. The physical characteristics of the films have an influence on the photocatalytic performance, achieving photodegradation efficiency above 80% (85.5% in the case of Ag doping), and on the antibacterial activity. The obtained results indicate that indium sulfide films are good candidates for environmental and biological applications, confirming a multifunctional nature.
Microstructural, Phase Formation, and Superconducting Properties of Bulk YBa2Cu3Oy Superconductors Grown by Infiltration Growth Process Utilizing the YBa2Cu3Oy + ErBa2Cu3Oy + Ba3Cu5O8 as a Liquid Source
Authors: Kamarudin Aliah Nursyahirah , Awang Kechik Mohd Mustafa , Miryala Muralidhar , Pinmangkorn Sunsanee , Murakami Masato , Chen Soo Kien , Baqiah Hussein , Ramli Aima , Lim Kean Pah , Shaari Abdul Halim
Published: March 2021

The infiltration growth (IG) process is well-known as the most established technique consisting of Y2BaCuO5 (Y211) precursor powders and liquid phases toward the fabrication of bulk YBa2Cu3Oy (Y123) superconductor for high field industrial applications. We have reported the fabrication of Y123 bulks using this technique at various ratios of liquid phase source. In this study, the use of liquid phase source toward the infiltration growth of bulk Y123 superconductors at different ratios of Y123 and ErBa2Cu3Oy (Er123) mixed with Ba3Cu5O8 (Y035) was investigated to control the Y211 secondary phase content in bulk Y123 samples. The liquid phase content was optimized by varying the mass. The sample fabricated using Y123 liquid phase (Y1Er0) showed the onset of critical temperature Tc-onset = 91.85 K. Tc-onset slightly decreased with the addition of Er123. Microstructure analysis revealed a uniform distribution of Y211 secondary phase particles in the Y123 matrix. The Y1Er0 sample had the smallest of Y211 particle size among the samples with average size of 0.992 μm. The formation of this smaller-sized Y211 particles with uniform distributions that act as an effective pinning center, had improved the critical current density, Jc of the sample Y1Er0 at 77 K with H//c-axis having the highest Jc 54.15 kA/cm2 and 11.45 kA/cm2 in self-field and 2 T, respectively. The binary mixed of rare earth superconductors (Y123 + Er123) used in the liquid phase could be used to further improve the superconducting properties of Y123 single grains.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer: Review of the Evidence and Conditions That Facilitated Its Use during the Global Pandemic
Authors: Tse Tabitha , Sehdev Sandeep , Seely Jean , Gravel Denis H. , Clemons Mark , Cordeiro Erin , Arnaout Angel
Published: March 2021

Practice and behaviour change in healthcare is complex, and requires a set of critical steps that would be needed to implement and sustain the change. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer is traditionally used for locally advanced disease and is primarily advantageous for surgical downstaging purposes. However, it does also offer patients with certain biologic subtypes such as the triple negative or Her2 positive breast cancers the opportunity to improve survival, even in early stage disease. During the height of the pandemic, an opportunity and motivation for the increased use of neoadjuvant therapy in breast cancer was identified. This paper describes the conditions that have supported this practice change at the provider and institutional levels. We also include our own institutional algorithm based on tumor biology and extent of disease that have guided our decisions on breast cancer management during the pandemic. Our processes can be adapted by other institutions and breast oncology practices in accordance with local conditions and resources, during and beyond the pandemic.
4D Doppler Ultrasound in High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer Vascularity Evaluation—Preliminary Study
Authors: Kudla Marek Jerzy , Zikan Michal , Fischerova Daniela , Stolecki Mateusz , Alcazar Juan Luis
Published: March 2021

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of 4D Power Doppler tissue evaluation to discriminate between normal ovaries and ovarian cancer tumors. This was a prospective observational study. Twenty-three cases of surgically confirmed ovarian High Grade Serous Carcinoma (HGSC) were analyzed. The control group consisted of 23 healthy patients, each matching their study-group counterpart age wise (±3 years) and according to their menopausal status. Transvaginal Doppler 4D ultrasound scans were done on every patient and analyzed with 3D/4D software. Two 4D indices—volumetric Systolic/Diastolic Index (vS/D) and volumetric Pulsatility Index (vPI)—were calculated. To keep results standardized and due to technical limitations, virtual 1cc spherical tissue samples taken from the part with highest vascularization as detected by bi-directional Power Doppler were analyzed for both groups of ovaries. Values of volumetric S/D indices and volumetric PI indices were statistically lower in ovarian malignant tumors compared to normal ovaries: 1.096 vs. 1.794 and 0.092 vs. 0.558, respectively (p < 0.001). The 4D bi-directional Power Doppler vascular indices were statistically different between malignant tumors and normal ovaries. These findings could support the rationale for future studies for assessing this technology to discriminate between malignant and benign tumors.
New Generation of Fixture–Abutment Connection Combining Soft Tissue Design and Vertical Screw-Retained Restoration: 1-Year Clinical, Aesthetics and Radiographic Preliminary Evaluation
Authors: Ceruso Francesco Mattia , Ieria Irene , Martelli Mirko , Lumbau Aurea I. , Xhanari Erta , Gargari Marco
Published: March 2021

Implant design factors and the abutment connection are correlated with crestal bone stability. The aim of the present study was to evaluate a new type of screw-retained prostheses delivered on tissue-level implants with conical external vertical seal and internal hexagon connection. Implants 4.25 mm in diameter and 10 mm in length (Prama, Sweden and Martina) were placed in partially edentulous patients needing at least one implant in the healed site, having sufficient bone volume. The implant neck was positioned above the bone crest. A healing abutment was placed according to a one-stage approach. Outcome measures were implant and prosthesis survival rate, any complications, marginal bone loss (MBL), periodontal parameters, and pink esthetic score (PES). Overall, 13 patients (4 women and 9 men; mean age 50 ± 22 years) with the same number of implants were treated and followed for one year after loading. At the 12-month follow up, no implant and no prosthesis failed, and no complications were experienced. The mean MBL experienced at the one year follow-up was 0.65 ± 0.48 mm. One year after loading, 2 out of 13 implants present bleeding on probing (15.4%), 4 out of 13 patients presented with plaque at the one year of follow-up (30.8%) and the PES was 10.5 ± 2.3 mm. Within the limitations of the present study, the analyzed implants seem to be a viable treatment option for the rehabilitation of a single tooth gap.
Deadwood, Soil and Carabid Beetle-Based Interaction Networks—An Initial Case Study from Montane Coniferous Forests in Poland
Authors: Kacprzyk Magdalena , Błońska Ewa , Wojas Tadeusz
Published: March 2021

In four study plots located in silver fir and Scots pine stands in Magura National Park (southeastern Poland), the relationships between the occurrence and biomass of epigeic carabids, the volume of deadwood and soil biochemical properties were investigated. Thirteen carabid beetle species from the genera Abax, Carabus, Molops and Pterostichus were captured. Rare epigeic carabid species in the fauna of Poland and Europe, such as Carabus glabratus (Paykull), Carabus sylvestris (Panzer) and Abax schueppeli (Germar), were recorded. The number of carabid individuals and species captured as well as the mean individual biomass index at different elevations and in forests of different tree compositions differed significantly. There were no correlations between deadwood volume, carabid abundance and the mean individual biomass of the carabid beetles. The mean individual Carabidae biomass increased with elevated pH, soil carbon content, soil dehydrogenase activity and the number of stumps.
Cloning, Characterization, and RNA Interference Effect of the UDP-N-Acetylglucosamine Pyrophosphorylase Gene in Cnaphalocrocis medinalis
Authors: Zhou Yuan-Jin , Du Juan , Li Shang-Wei , Shakeel Muhammad , Li Jia-Jing , Meng Xiao-Gui
Published: March 2021

The rice leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis is a major pest of rice and is difficult to control. UDP-N-acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase (UAP) is a key enzyme in the chitin synthesis pathway in insects. In this study, the UAP gene from C. medinalis (CmUAP) was cloned and characterized. The cDNA of CmUAP is 1788 bp in length, containing an open reading frame of 1464 nucleotides that encodes 487 amino acids. Homology and phylogenetic analyses of the predicted protein indicated that CmUAP shared 91.79%, 87.89%, and 82.75% identities with UAPs of Glyphodes pyloalis, Ostrinia furnacalis, and Heortia vitessoides, respectively. Expression pattern analyses by droplet digital PCR demonstrated that CmUAP was expressed at all developmental stages and in 12 tissues of C. medinalis adults. Silencing of CmUAP by injection of double-stranded RNA specific to CmUAP caused death, slow growth, reduced feeding and excretion, and weight loss in C. medinalis larvae; meanwhile, severe developmental disorders were observed. The findings suggest that CmUAP is essential for the growth and development of C. medinalis, and that targeting the CmUAP gene through RNAi technology can be used for biological control of this insect.
Nutraceutical, Dietary, and Lifestyle Options for Prevention and Treatment of Ventricular Hypertrophy and Heart Failure
Authors: McCarty Mark F.
Published: March 2021

Although well documented drug therapies are available for the management of ventricular hypertrophy (VH) and heart failure (HF), most patients nonetheless experience a downhill course, and further therapeutic measures are needed. Nutraceutical, dietary, and lifestyle measures may have particular merit in this regard, as they are currently available, relatively safe and inexpensive, and can lend themselves to primary prevention as well. A consideration of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the VH/HF syndrome suggests that measures which control oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, that support effective nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide bioactivity, that prevent a reduction in cardiomyocyte pH, and that boost the production of protective hormones, such as fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), while suppressing fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and marinobufagenin, may have utility for preventing and controlling this syndrome. Agents considered in this essay include phycocyanobilin, N-acetylcysteine, lipoic acid, ferulic acid, zinc, selenium, ubiquinol, astaxanthin, melatonin, tauroursodeoxycholic acid, berberine, citrulline, high-dose folate, cocoa flavanols, hawthorn extract, dietary nitrate, high-dose biotin, soy isoflavones, taurine, carnitine, magnesium orotate, EPA-rich fish oil, glycine, and copper. The potential advantages of whole-food plant-based diets, moderation in salt intake, avoidance of phosphate additives, and regular exercise training and sauna sessions are also discussed. There should be considerable scope for the development of functional foods and supplements which make it more convenient and affordable for patients to consume complementary combinations of the agents discussed here. Research Strategy: Key word searching of PubMed was employed to locate the research papers whose findings are cited in this essay.
Clusterin and Its Potential Regulatory microRNAs as a Part of Secretome for the Diagnosis of Abnormally Invasive Placenta: Accreta, Increta, and Percreta Cases
Authors: Timofeeva Angelika V. , Fedorov Ivan S. , Pirogova Mariya M. , Vasilchenko Oksana N. , Chagovets Vitaliy V. , Ezhova Larisa S. , Zabelina Tatiana M. , Shmakov Roman G. , Sukhikh Gennadiy T.
Published: March 2021

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound methods used for the diagnosis of an abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) have a wide range of sensitivity (Se, 33–93%) and specificity (Sp, 71–100%) levels, which results in a high risk of unfavorable maternal and perinatal outcomes. The relevance of optimizing the diagnosis of AIP is beyond doubt. Given the epigenetic nature of trophoblast invasion, we aimed to quantitate microRNAs and proteins of their target genes that are potentially associated with AIP in blood plasma samples from 64 pregnant women at gestation weeks 30–34 by reverse transcription coupled with polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Statistically significant increases in the expression levels of hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-25-3p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, and hsa-miR-320a-3p were revealed in the groups of women with AIP (accreta, increta, percreta) relative to the group of women with scars on the uterus or to the group with placenta previa. Opposite changes in the expression level of “gene–target protein/miRNA” pairs were found for the α-subunit of the clusterin secretory form and any of the hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-25-3p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-320a-3p, and hsa-miR-17-5p in all cases of AIP. The developed logistic regression models to diagnose AIP cases of various severity gave Se values of 88.8–100% and Sp values of 91.6–100% using a combination of hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-320a-3p, or clusterin levels.
Determination of the Critical Value of Material Damage in a Cross Wedge Rolling Test
Authors: Pater Zbigniew , Gontarz Andrzej , Tomczak Janusz , Bulzak Tomasz , Wójcik Łukasz
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the problem of material fracture in cross wedge rolling (CWR). It was found that this problem could be analysed by means of well-known phenomenological criteria of fracture that are implemented in commercial FEM (Finite Element Method) simulation programs for forming processes. The accuracy of predicting material fracture depends on the critical damage value that is determined by calibration tests in which the modelled and real stresses must be in good agreement. To improve this accuracy, a new calibration test is proposed. The test is based on the CWR process. Owing to the shape of the tools and test piece used in CWR, the forming conditions in this process deteriorate with the distance from the centre of the test piece, which at a certain moment leads to fracture initiation. Knowing the location of axial crack initiation in the specimen, it is possible to determine the critical value of material damage via numerical simulation. The new calibration test is used to determine the critical damage of 42CrMo4 steel subjected to forming in the temperature range of 900–1100 °C. In addition, 12 criteria of ductile fracture are employed in the study. The results show that the critical damage significantly increases with the temperature.
High-Performance Complementary Electrochromic Device Based on Iridium Oxide as a Counter Electrode
Authors: Ko Tien-Fu , Chen Po-Wen , Li Kuan-Ming , Young Hong-Tsu , Chang Chen-Te , Hsu Sheng-Chuan
Published: March 2021

In complementary electrochromic devices (ECDs), nickel oxide (NiO) is generally used as a counter electrode material for enhancing the coloration efficiency. However, an NiO film as a counter electrode in ECDs is susceptible to degradation upon prolonged electrochemical cycling, which leads to an insufficient device lifetime. In this study, a type of counter electrode iridium oxide (IrO2) layer was fabricated using vacuum cathodic arc plasma (CAP). We focused on the comparison of IrO2 and NiO deposited on a 5 × 5 cm2 indium tin oxide (ITO) glass substrate with various Ar/O2 gas-flow ratios (1/2, 1/2.5, and 1/3) in series. The optical performance of IrO2-ECD (glass/ITO/WO3/liquid electrolyte/IrO2/ITO/glass) was determined by optical transmittance modulation; ∆T = 50% (from Tbleaching (75%) to Tcoloring (25%)) at 633 nm was higher than that of NiO-ECD (ITO/NiO/liquid electrolyte/WO3/ITO) (∆T = 32%). Apart from this, the ECD device demonstrated a fast coloring time of 4.8 s, a bleaching time of 1.5 s, and good cycling durability, which remained at 50% transmittance modulation even after 1000 cycles. The fast time was associated with the IrO2 electrode and provided higher diffusion coefficients and a filamentary shape as an interface that facilitated the transfer of the Li ions into/out of the interface electrodes and the electrolyte. In our result of IrO2-ECD analyses, the higher optical transmittance modulation was useful for promoting electrochromic application to a cycle durability test as an alternative to NiO-ECD.
Near-Fault Seismic Response Analysis of Bridges Considering Girder Impact and Pier Size
Authors: An Wenjun , Song Guquan , Chen Shutong
Published: March 2021

Given the influence of near-fault vertical seismic action, we established a girder-spring-damping-rod model of a double-span continuous girder bridge and used the transient wave function expansion method and indirect modal function method to calculate the seismic response of the bridge. We deduced the theoretical solution for the vertical and longitudinal contact force and displacement response of the bridge structure under the action of the near-fault vertical seismic excitation, and we analyzed the influence of the vertical separation of the bridge on the bending failure of the pier. Our results show that under the action of a near-fault vertical earthquake, pier-girder separation will significantly alter the bridge’s longitudinal displacement response, and that neglecting this separation may lead to the underestimation of the pier’s bending damage. Calculations of the bending moment at the bottom of the pier under different pier heights and cross-sectional diameters showed that the separation of the pier and the girder increases the bending moment at the pier’s base. Therefore, the reasonable design of the pier size and tensile support bearing in near-fault areas may help to reduce longitudinal damage to bridges.
Enhancement of External Rotation after Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Transfer (LDTT): A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Silberberg José M. , Nilo Alessandro , Roces-García Jorge
Published: March 2021

Background and objectives: Massive rotator cuff tears compromise shoulder mobility function and cannot be directly repaired. Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer (LDTT) is a therapeutic alternative suitable for the treatment of rotator cuff tears that helps to restore external shoulder rotation. Cadaver models have been used for studying the effects of LDTT and procedural variations, but, to the best of our knowledge, none of them have been validated. The aim of our study was to validate a novel cadaver model while verifying the effects of LDTT on external rotation. Materials and Methods: Two groups were included in the study: a cadaver group and a control group made up of healthy volunteers, which were used for the validation of the cadaver model. Baseline external rotation measurements were performed with both groups, after which a massive rotator cuff tear was inflicted and repaired with LDTT in the cadaver group. Their postoperative external rotation was evaluated using three different tests. Results: No statistically significant differences were found between the baseline measurements of the two groups, and postoperative external rotation was significantly higher after LDTT in all cases but one. Conclusions: Cadaver models were validated, since they had a similar preoperative external rotation to healthy volunteers. Moreover, they allowed us to demonstrate the effect of LDTT on external shoulder rotation.
Half-Cell State of Charge Monitoring for Determination of Crossover in VRFB—Considerations and Results Concerning Crossover Direction and Amount
Authors: Haisch Theresa , Ji Hyunjoon , Holtz Lucas , Struckmann Thorsten , Weidlich Claudia
Published: March 2021

Membranes play a crucial role in efficiency and longevity of flow batteries. Vanadium flow batteries suffer self-discharge and capacity fading due to crossover of electrolyte components through the membrane from one battery half-cell to the other. We consider the impact of vanadium species crossing ion exchange membranes on state of charge of the battery and we present a simple method to determine crossoverll open circuit potential measurements. State of s. State of charge for the negative and positive half-cell is simulated based on assumptions and simplifications for cation and anion exchange membranes and different crossover parameters. We introduce a crossover index “IndXovr” which enables the determination of crossover direction from state of charge data for the negative and positive half-cell and therewith identification of the half-cell in which predominant self-discharge occurs. Furthermore IndXovr allows statements on crossover amount in dependence on state of operation. Simulated case studies are compared to experimental state of charge values estimated from half-cell potential measurements. Our results reveal that half-cell potential monitoring respectively half-cell SOC estimation, is a simple and suitable tool for the identification of crossover direction and relative amount of crossover in VFB.
Effect of Cd2+ on Electrodeposition of Copper in Cyclone Electrodeposition
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Bo , Xu Hongao , Guo Jihao
Published: March 2021

A strategy to determine the effect of Cd2+ on the electrodeposition of copper from a copper electrolyte by cyclone electrowinning is presented. The concentration of Cu2+ in the copper electrolyte with different Cd2+ concentrations was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). It indicated that the current efficiency, the rate of electrodeposition, and the rate copper electrodeposition decreased with the addition of Cd2+ in the three stages of electrodeposition. The current efficiency declined from 99.6 to 79.2% and the copper electrodeposition rate declined from 52 to 40% in the first electrodeposition. The current efficiency had no significant change, and the copper electrodeposition rate declined from 88 to 77% in the second electrodeposition. The current efficiency declined from 72.6 to 40.3%, and the copper electrodeposition rate was all at 99% in the third electrodeposition. The influences of the Cd2+ concentration on the purity and morphology of cathode copper were investigated. The effect of Cd2+ concentration on the purity and morphology of cathode copper was also studied. In the three-stage electrodeposition, the addition of the Cd2+ concentration mainly affected the microstructure of the cathode copper, but it had little effect on the purity of the cathode copper. The higher the amount of Cd2+, the rougher the morphology of the cathode copper and the larger the gap between the grains; the higher the amount of Cd2+, the lower the electrodeposition rate and current efficiency, though the reduction was small.
Laser Cavitation Peening and Its Application for Improving the Fatigue Strength of Welded Parts
Authors: Soyama Hitoshi
Published: March 2021

During conventional submerged laser peening, the impact force induced by laser ablation is used to produce local plastic deformation pits to enhance metallic material properties, such as fatigue performance. However, a bubble, which behaves like a cavitation, is generated after laser ablation, known as “laser cavitation.” On the contrary, in conventional cavitation peening, cavitation is generated by injecting a high-speed water jet into the water, and the impacts of cavitation collapses are utilized for mechanical surface treatment. In the present paper, a mechanical surface treatment mechanism using laser cavitation impact, i.e., “laser cavitation peening”, was investigated, and an improvement in fatigue strength from laser cavitation peening was demonstrated. The impact forces induced by laser ablation and laser cavitation collapse were evaluated with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) sensor and a submerged shockwave sensor, and the diameter of the laser cavitation was measured by observing a high-speed video taken with a camera. It was revealed that the impact of laser cavitation collapse was larger than that of laser ablation, and the peening effect was closely related to the volume of laser cavitation. Laser cavitation peening improved the fatigue strength of stainless-steel welds.
Plasma Metabolomic Profiling in 1391 Subjects with Overweight and Obesity from the SPHERE Study
Authors: Frigerio Gianfranco , Favero Chiara , Savino Diego , Mercadante Rosa , Albetti Benedetta , Dioni Laura , Vigna Luisella , Bollati Valentina , Pesatori Angela Cecilia , Fustinoni Silvia
Published: March 2021

Overweight and obesity have high prevalence worldwide and assessing the metabolomic profile is a useful approach to study their related metabolic processes. In this study, we assessed the metabolomic profile of 1391 subjects affected by overweight and obesity, enrolled in the frame of the SPHERE study, using a validated LC–MS/MS targeted metabolomic approach determining a total of 188 endogenous metabolites. Multivariable censored linear regression Tobit models, correcting for age, sex, and smoking habits, showed that 83 metabolites were significantly influenced by body mass index (BMI). Among compounds with the highest association, aromatic and branched chain amino acids (in particular tyrosine, valine, isoleucine, and phenylalanine) increased with the increment of BMI, while some glycerophospholipids decreased, in particular some lysophosphatidylcholines (as lysoPC a C18:2) and several acylalkylphosphatidylcholines (as PC ae C36:2, PC ae C34:3, PC ae C34:2, and PC ae C40:6). The results of this investigation show that several endogenous metabolites are influenced by BMI, confirming the evidence with the strength of a large number of subjects, highlighting differences among subjects with different classes of obesity and showing unreported associations between BMI and different phosphatidylcholines.
Hypotensive and Hepatoprotective Properties of the Polysaccharide-Stabilized Foaming Composition Containing Hydrolysate of Whey Proteins
Authors: Kruchinin Alexandr G. , Savinova Olga S. , Glazunova Olga A. , Moiseenko Konstantin V. , Agarkova Evgeniya Yu. , Fedorova Tatyana V.
Published: March 2021

Whey protein hydrolysates (WPHs) are one of the most promising sources of biofunctional peptides with such beneficial properties as antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory and others. WPHs also could be used as foaming agents for aerated products (e.g., milk shake type drinks). However, WPH alone has a bitter taste and foamed WPH should be stabilized by additional ingredients. Here, we present a composition including WPH and three polysaccharides—pumpkin pectin, sodium alginate and ι-carrageenan—used as foam stabilizers. Polysaccharide content was selected according to foaming, organoleptic antioxidant and angiotensin-I-converting enzyme inhibitory characteristics of the resulted composition. Further, the hypotensive, antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of the composition were proved by in vivo tests performed in spontaneously hypertensive rats and Wistar rats with CCl4-induced hepatic injury.
Adherence to Food-Based Dietary Guidelines: A Systemic Review of High-Income and Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Leme Ana Carolina B. , Hou Sophia , Fisberg Regina Mara , Fisberg Mauro , Haines Jess
Published: March 2021

Research comparing the adherence to food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) across countries with different socio-economic status is lacking, which may be a concern for developing nutrition policies. The aim was to report on the adherence to FBDGs in high-income (HIC) and low-and-middle-income countries (LMIC). A systematic review with searches in six databases was performed up to June 2020. English language articles were included if they investigated a population of healthy children and adults (7–65 years), using an observational or experimental design evaluating adherence to national FBDGs. Findings indicate that almost 40% of populations in both HIC and LMIC do not adhere to their national FBDGs. Fruit and vegetables (FV) were most adhered to and the prevalence of adhering FV guidelines was between 7% to 67.3%. HIC have higher consumption of discretionary foods, while results were mixed for LMIC. Grains and dairy were consumed below recommendations in both HIC and LMIC. Consumption of animal proteins (>30%), particularly red meat, exceeded the recommendations. Individuals from HIC and LMIC may be falling short of at least one dietary recommendation from their country’s guidelines. Future health policies, behavioral-change strategies, and dietary guidelines may consider these results in their development.
Education, Consciousness and Negative Feedback: Towards the Renewal of Modern Philosophy of Education
Authors: Pikkarainen Eetu
Published: March 2021

Among the biggest challenges facing the contemporary human condition, and therefore also education, is responding to the climate crisis. One of the sources of the crisis is assumed to be absent-mindedness, presented by Leslie Dewart as a distortion of the development of human consciousness. Dewart’s poorly-known philosophical consciousness study is presented in this paper in broad outline. The problems in the study of consciousness, the most important of which are the qualitative representations—qualia—and the question of free will, are also briefly discussed. These problems are then examined transcendental analytically, with the question of what one must assume in order to allow the emergence of these phenomena. From the resulting conception of causal relationship, we proceed to the circular causality as a prerequisite for life, namely the homeostatic systems and negative feedback. An organization of action that is essential to animals and humans is presented, using William Powers’ perceptual control theory (PCT), and the role of consciousness in this organization is drafted according to the studies of Martin Taylor. Action is seen as continuous problem solving, in which negative feedback is used to bring perceptions into line with the goals. The fundamental function of consciousness is revealed as the direction and enhancement of learning. Based on PCT, it can be shown that the main practical problems in animal and, especially, human action, are related to adverse side effects of action and the resulting various conflicts. The climate crisis is a typical example of the problematic side effects of collective action. Dewart’s concept of absent-mindedness can therefore be defined as an inability to responsibly account for the side effects of action. Thus, the main task of education is to forestall, through negative feedback and in cooperation with learner consciousness, absent-mindedness and the problems it causes.
The Essential Oil Composition of Trachymene incisa Rudge subsp. incisa Rudge from Australia
Authors: Palá-Paúl Jesús , Copeland Lachlan M. , Brophy Joseph J.
Published: March 2021

Trachymene incisa subsp. incisa is an Australian endemic taxon that varies greatly in the abundance and length of the leaf trichomes. The essential oil composition of five populations of this subspecies, three corresponding to the typical glabrous form and two of the particularly hairy variant, has been analyzed in an attempt to determinate if that variability is also reflected in their composition. The oils have been extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed by Gas Chromatography (GC) and Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). The essential oils of T. incisa subsp. incisa were characterized by the high amount of sesquiterpenes that were the major fraction. The sesquiterepene hydrocarbons were significantly higher in the hairy variant in comparison to the glabrous one. According to the main compound, three different chemotypes were found: I.—β-selinene + bicyclogermacrene and II.—γ-bisabolene + α-pinene for the typical glabrous variant and III.—bicyclogermacrene + β-caryophyllene for the hairy variant.
3D Thermal Network Supported by CF Felt for Improving the Thermal Performance of CF/C/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Wu Xinfeng , Gao Yuan , Jiang Tao , Zheng Lingyu , Wang Ying , Tang Bo , Sun Kai , Zhao Yuantao , Li Wenge , Yang Ke , Yu Jinhong
Published: March 2021

The heat generated by a high-power device will seriously affect the operating efficiency and service life of electronic devices, which greatly limits the development of the microelectronic industry. Carbon fiber (CF) materials with excellent thermal conductivity have been favored by scientific researchers. In this paper, CF/carbon felt (CF/C felt) was fabricated by CF and phenolic resin using the “airflow network method”, “needle-punching method” and “graphitization process method”. Then, the CF/C/Epoxy composites (CF/C/EP) were prepared by the CF/C felt and epoxy resin using the “liquid phase impregnation method” and “compression molding method”. The results show that the CF/C felt has a 3D network structure, which is very conducive to improving the thermal conductivity of the CF/C/EP composite. The thermal conductivity of the CF/C/EP composite reaches 3.39 W/mK with 31.2 wt% CF/C, which is about 17 times of that of pure epoxy.
Radical Succession: Hagiography, Reform, and Franciscan Identity in the Convent of the Abbess Juana de la Cruz (1481–1534)
Authors: Acosta-García Pablo
Published: March 2021

In this article, I study in depth the first vita of the Franciscan Tertiary abbess Juana de la Cruz (Vida y fin de la bienaventurada virgen sancta Juana de la Cruz, written c. 1534), examining it as a chronicle that narrativizes the origins and reform of a specific religious community in the Castile of the Catholic Monarchs. I argue that Vida y fin constitutes an account that was collectively written inside the walls of the enclosure that can help us understand themes, motifs, and symbolic Franciscan elements that were essential for the self-definition of its original textual community. I first discuss the narrative of the convent’s foundation and then examine the penitential identity of the community, highlighting the inspiration that Juana’s hagiography takes from the infancy of Caterina da Siena, as described in the Legenda maior by Raimondo da Capua, and analyzing to what extent the represented penitential practices related to the imitatio Christi reflect a Franciscan Tertiary identity in opposition to a Dominican one. Finally, I address the passages in which the hagiographer(s) discuss(es) the sense of belonging to the Franciscan order rather than the Dominicans, and the mystical figure of Francesco d’Assisi as a founder, guide, and exemplar.