bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preeclampsia and Cardiovascular Risk for Offspring
Authors: Wojczakowski Wiktor , Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Dziwisz Filip , Słodzińska Magdalena , Słodziński Hubert , Leszczyńska-Gorzelak Bożena
Published: July 2021

There is growing evidence of long-term cardiovascular sequelae in children after in utero exposure to preeclampsia. Maternal hypertension and/or placental ischaemia during pregnancy increase the risk of hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the offspring later in life. The mechanisms associated with CVD seem to be a combination of genetic, molecular, and environmental factors which can be defined as fetal and postnatal programming. The aim of this paper is to discuss the relationship between pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia and possibility of CVD in the offspring. Unfortunately, due to its multifactorial nature, a clear dependency mechanism between preeclampsia and CVD is difficult to establish.
An Examination of the Relationship between Urinary Neurotrophin Concentrations and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Used in Pediatric Overactive Bladder Therapy
Authors: Bagińska Joanna , Sadowska Edyta , Korzeniecka-Kozerska Agata
Published: July 2021

This article aims to explore changes in urinary concentrations of selected neurotrophins in the course of TENS therapy in children with overactive bladder (OAB). A two-group open-label prospective study was conducted. The intervention group comprised 30 children aged between 5 and 12 years old with OAB refractory to conservative therapy. They received 12 weeks of TENS therapy in a home setting. The urinary neurotrophins, NGF, BDNF, NT3, NT4, were measured by ELISA at baseline and at the end of the TENS therapy. Total urinary neurotrophins levels were standardized to mg of creatinine (Cr). We compared the results with the reference group of 30 participants with no symptoms of bladder overactivity. The results revealed that children with OAB both before and after TENS therapy had higher NGF, BDNF, and NT4 concentrations in total and after normalization to Cr than the reference group in contrast to NT3. The response to the therapy expressed as a decrease of urinary neurotrophins after TENS depended on the age and the presenting symptoms. In conclusion, children older than 8 years of age with complaints of daytime incontinence responded better to TENS.
Complement Factor C5a Inhibits Apoptosis of Neutrophils—A Mechanism in Polytrauma?
Authors: Ehrnthaller Christian , Braumüller Sonja , Kellermann Stephanie , Gebhard Florian , Perl Mario , Huber-Lang Markus
Published: July 2021

Life-threatening polytrauma results in early activation of the complement and apoptotic system, as well as leukocytes, ultimately leading to the clearance of damaged cells. However, little is known about interactions between the complement and apoptotic systems in PMN (polymorphonuclear neutrophils) after multiple injuries. PMN from polytrauma patients and healthy volunteers were obtained and assessed for apoptotic events along the post-traumatic time course. In vitro studies simulated complement activation by the exposure of PMN to C3a or C5a and addressed both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Specific blockade of the C5a-receptor 1 (C5aR1) on PMN was evaluated for efficacy to reverse complement-driven alterations. PMN from polytrauma patients exhibited significantly reduced apoptotic rates up to 10 days post trauma compared to healthy controls. Polytrauma-induced resistance was associated with significantly reduced Fas-ligand (FasL) and Fas-receptor (FasR) on PMN and in contrast, significantly enhanced FasL and FasR in serum. Simulation of systemic complement activation revealed for C5a, but not for C3a, a dose-dependent abrogation of PMN apoptosis in both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Furthermore, specific blockade of the C5aR1 reversed C5a-induced PMN resistance to apoptosis. The data suggest an important regulatory and putative mechanistic and therapeutic role of the C5a/C5aR1 interaction on PMN apoptosis after polytrauma.
Involvement of Hemopexin in the Pathogenesis of Proteinuria in Children with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Pukajło-Marczyk Agnieszka , Zwolińska Danuta
Published: July 2021

Hemopexin (Hpx) is considered a factor in the pathogenesis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). The aim of the study was to evaluate the serum and urine values of Hpx (sHpx and uHpx) in children with INS, analyze the role of Hpx, and assess its usefulness as a marker of the disease course. 51 children with INS and 18 age-matched controls were examined. Patients were divided into subgroups depending on the number of relapses (group IA—the first episode of INS, group IB—with relapses) and according to method of treatment (group IIA treated with gluco-corticosteroids (GCS), group IIB treated with GCS and other immunosuppressants). Hpx concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). sHpx and uHpx values in relapse were elevated in the whole INS group versus controls (p < 0.000). In remission their levels decreased, but still remained higher than in the control group (p < 0.000). In group IB uHpx levels were increased during remission as compared to group IA (p < 0.006). No significant impact of immuno-suppressants on sHpx was observed, but uHpx excretion in group IIA was higher in relapse (p < 0.026) and lower in remission (p < 0.0017) as compared to group IIB. The results suggest the role of Hpx in the pathogenesis of INS. Hpx may be a useful indicator for continuation of treatment, but it requires confirmation by further controlled studies.
Prostate Artery Embolization Using N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate Glue for Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Valid Alternative to Microparticles?
Authors: Loffroy Romaric , Guillen Kévin , Salet Etienne , Marcelin Clément , Comby Pierre-Olivier , Midulla Marco , Grenier Nicolas , Chevallier Olivier , Petitpierre François
Published: July 2021

Our goal was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and short-term outcomes of prostate artery embolization (PAE) with N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue as the only embolic agent in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)-related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs). A two-center retrospective study of 50 patients (mean age, 67.6 ± 7.4 years; range, 54–85 years) treated with NBCA between 2017 and 2020 was conducted. PAE was performed using a mixture of Glubran 2 glue and Lipiodol in a 1:8 ratio, under local anesthesia, on an outpatient basis, after cone-beam computed tomography vascular mapping. Mean total injected NBCA/Lipiodol volume was 0.9 ± 0.3 mL, total injection time was 21.9 ± 7.8 s, and total radiation dose was 18,458 ± 16,397 mGy·cm. Statistically significant improvements over time occurred for the International Prostate Symptoms Score (9.9 ± 6.8 versus 20.5 ± 6.7, p = 0.0001), quality-of-life score (2.2 ± 1.5 versus 4.9 ± 1.0, p = 0.0001), prostate-specific antigen level (4.6 ± 3.0 versus 6.4 ± 3.7, p = 0.0001), and prostate volume (77.3 ± 30.5 versus 98.3 ± 40.2, p = 0.0001) at a median of 3 months versus baseline. Minor adverse events developed in 11/50 (22%) patients, but no major complications occurred. The International Index of Erectile Function did not change significantly. PAE with NBCA is feasible, safe, fast, and effective for patients with BPH-related LUTSs. Prospective comparative studies with longer follow-ups are warranted.
Efficacy of Modified Treat-and-Extend Regimen of Aflibercept for Macular Edema from Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: 2-Year Prospective Study Outcomes
Authors: Arai Yusuke , Takahashi Hidenori , Inoda Satoru , Sakamoto Shinichi , Tan Xue , Inoue Yuji , Tominaga Satoko , Kawashima Hidetoshi , Yanagi Yasuo
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term (24-month) efficacy and safety of a modified treat-and-extend (mTAE) regimen of aflibercept for macular edema (ME) due to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). This was a prospective multicenter intervention study. We evaluated 50 eyes in 50 patients with ME due to BRVO enrolled between October 2016 and September 2017. The patients received intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) injections according to a mTAE regimen for 24 months. This study reports the secondary endpoints of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central subfield thickness (CST) at 24 months and compares them with previously reported primary endpoints. Compared with baseline BCVA and CST of 0.33 (0.27) and 488 (165) µm (mean (standard deviation)), respectively, BCVA and CST were significantly improved at 12 and 24 months (12 months: 0.059 (0.19) LogMAR and 299 (112) µm; 24 months: 0.034 (0.18) LogMAR and 272 (81) µm, respectively; both p < 0.0001). Over the 24-month period, the mean number of IVA injections and clinic visits was 7.4 (3.3) and 11.1 (2.0), respectively. The mTAE regimen of IVA injections for ME due to BRVO was effective for improving BCVA and reducing CST over 24 months. This regimen shows promise for reducing the number of injections and clinic visits.
The 1-Year Safety and Efficacy Outcomes of Magmaris, Novel Magnesium Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffolds in Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Włodarczak Adrian , Łanocha Magdalena , Szudrowicz Marek , Barycki Mateusz , Gosiewska Alicja , Kulczycki Jan Jakub , Lesiak Maciej , Doroszko Adrian , Rola Piotr
Published: July 2021

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the major risk factors contributing to Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS) and is associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), even when the second generation of drug-eluting stents (DES) is used. In order to overcome the disadvantages of permanent caging of a vessel with metallic DES, bioresorbable scaffold (BRS) technology has been recently developed. However, the prognosis of patients with DM and ACS treated with PCI via subsequent implantation of Magmaris (Biotronik, Berlin, Germany)—a novel magnesium-bioresorbable scaffold—is poorly investigated. Methods: A total of 193 consecutive subjects with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) who, from October 2016 to March 2020, received one or more Magmaris scaffolds were enrolled in this study. The diabetic group was compared with non-diabetic subjects. Results: There were no significant differences in the occurrence of primary endpoints (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and in-stent thrombosis) and principal secondary endpoints (target-lesion failure, scaffold restenosis, death from any reason, and other cardiovascular events) between the two compared groups in a 1-year follow-up period. Conclusions: The early 1-year-outcome of magnesium bioresorbable scaffold (Magmaris) seems to be favorable and suggests that this novel BRS is safe and effective in subjects with NSTE-ACS and co-existing DM.
Gender and Sex Are Key Determinants in Osteoarthritis Not Only Confounding Variables. A Systematic Review of Clinical Data
Authors: Tschon Matilde , Contartese Deyanira , Pagani Stefania , Borsari Veronica , Fini Milena
Published: July 2021

Many risk factors for osteoarthritis (OA) have been noted, while gender/sex differences have been understated. The work aimed to systematically review literature investigating as primary aim the relationship between gender/sex related discriminants and OA. The search was performed in PubMed, Science Direct and Web of Knowledge in the last 10 years. Inclusion criteria were limited to clinical studies of patients affected by OA in any joints, analyzing as primary aim gender/sex differences. Exclusion criteria were review articles, in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo studies, case series studies and papers in which gender/sex differences were adjusted as confounding variable. Of the 120 records screened, 42 studies were included. Different clinical outcomes were analyzed: morphometric differences, followed by kinematics, pain, functional outcomes after arthroplasty and health care needs of patients. Women appear to use more health care, have higher OA prevalence, clinical pain and inflammation, decreased cartilage volume, physical difficulty, and smaller joint parameters and dimensions, as compared to men. No in-depth studies or mechanistic studies analyzing biomarker differential expressions, molecular pathways and omic profiles were found that might drive preclinical and clinical research towards sex-/gender-oriented protocols.
Retrospective Study of Nosocomial Infections in the Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Clinic of the Medical University of Lublin in the Years 2018–2020
Authors: Tomczyk-Warunek Agnieszka , Blicharski Tomasz , Blicharski Rudolf , Pluta Ryszard , Dobrowolski Piotr , Muszyński Siemowit , Tomaszewska Ewa , Jabłoński Mirosław
Published: July 2021

Nosocomial infections appear in patients treated in hospital, which are not the initial cause of admission. A retrospective study concerning nosocomial infections was conducted to provide data about the amount, frequency and types of nosocomial infections in the rehabilitation ward in the Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Clinic of Lublin. The study was conducted on a group of 49 patients that were admitted or transferred to the ward over a period of 20 months in the years 2018–2020. The patients and therefore the infections were divided by age, sex, time of hospitalization and the underlying disease. The study also provided data about the most frequent infection types in these patients, as well as the most commonly used drugs to treat those infections. The results showed that in fact all of the examined factors have an impact on the frequency of nosocomial infections appearance rates. Furthermore, results in the study showed that factors examined by the study also have an impact on what type of infection was present in these groups of patients.
Micromechanical Modeling Tensile and Fatigue Behavior of Fiber-Reinforced Ceramic-Matrix Composites Considering Matrix Fragmentation and Closure
Authors: Li Longbiao
Published: July 2021

In this paper, micromechanical constitutive models are developed to predict the tensile and fatigue behavior of fiber-reinforced ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) considering matrix fragmentation and closure. Damage models of matrix fragmentation, interface debonding, and fiber’s failure are considered in the micromechanical analysis of tensile response, and the matrix fragmentation closure, interface debonding and repeated sliding are considered in the hysteresis response. Relationships between the matrix fragmentation and closure, tensile and fatigue response, and interface debonding and fiber’s failure are established. Experimental matrix fragmentation density, tensile curves, and fatigue hysteresis loops of mini, unidirectional, cross-ply, and 2D plain-woven SiC/SiC composites are predicted using the developed constitutive models. Matrix fragmentation density changes with increasing or decreasing applied stress, which affects the nonlinear strain of SiC/SiC composite under tensile loading, and the interface debonding and sliding range of SiC/SiC composite under fatigue loading.
Organic Solvent Free Process to Fabricate High Performance Silicon/Graphite Composite Anode
Authors: Fang Chen , Xiao Haiqing , Zheng Tianyue , Bai Hua , Liu Gao
Published: July 2021

Cycling stability is a key challenge for application of silicon (Si)-based composite anodes as the severe volume fluctuation of Si readily leads to fast capacity fading. The binder is a crucial component of the composite electrodes. Although only occupying a small amount of the total composite mass, the binder has major impact on the long-term electrochemical performance of Si-based anodes. In recent years, water-based binders including styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) have attracted wide research interest as eco-friendly and low-cost alternatives for the conventional poly(vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF) binder in Si anodes. In this study, Si-based composite anodes are fabricated by simple solid mixing of the active materials with subsequent addition of SBR and CMC binders. This approach bypasses the use of toxic and expansive organic solvents. The factors of binder, silicon, and graphite materials have been systematically investigated. It is found that the retained capacities of the anodes are more than 440 mAh/g after 400 cycles. These results indicate that organic solvent free process is a facile strategy for producing high performance silicon/graphite composite anodes.
Computer Vision Meets Image Processing and UAS PhotoGrammetric Data Integration: From HBIM to the eXtended Reality Project of Arco della Pace in Milan and Its Decorative Complexity
Authors: Banfi Fabrizio , Mandelli Alessandro
Published: July 2021

This study aims to enrich the knowledge of the monument Arco della Pace in Milan, surveying and modelling the sculpture that crowns the upper part of the building. The statues and the decorative apparatus are recorded with the photogrammetric technique using both a terrestrial camera and an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Research results and performance are oriented to improve computer vision and image processing integration with Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) photogrammetric data to enhance interactivity and information sharing between user and digital heritage models. The vast number of images captured from terrestrial and aerial photogrammetry will also permit to use of the Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) model in an eXtended Reality (XR) project developed ad-hoc, allowing different types of users (professionals, non-expert users, virtual tourists, and students) and devices (mobile phones, tablets, PCs, VR headsets) to access details and information that are not visible from the ground.
ChainLineNet: Deep-Learning-Based Segmentation and Parameterization of Chain Lines in Historical Prints
Authors: Sindel Aline , Klinke Thomas , Maier Andreas , Christlein Vincent
Published: July 2021

The paper structure of historical prints is sort of a unique fingerprint. Paper with the same origin shows similar chain line distances. As the manual measurement of chain line distances is time consuming, the automatic detection of chain lines is beneficial. We propose an end-to-end trainable deep learning method for segmentation and parameterization of chain lines in transmitted light images of German prints from the 16th Century. We trained a conditional generative adversarial network with a multitask loss for line segmentation and line parameterization. We formulated a fully differentiable pipeline for line coordinates’ estimation that consists of line segmentation, horizontal line alignment, and 2D Fourier filtering of line segments, line region proposals, and differentiable line fitting. We created a dataset of high-resolution transmitted light images of historical prints with manual line coordinate annotations. Our method shows superior qualitative and quantitative chain line detection results with high accuracy and reliability on our historical dataset in comparison to competing methods. Further, we demonstrated that our method achieves a low error of less than 0.7 mm in comparison to manually measured chain line distances.
Cooperation between Sea Ports and Carriers in the Logistics Chain
Authors: Lezhnina Elena A. , Balykina Yulia E.
Published: July 2021

In a modern economy, international trade is an important factor in the development of various regions. Shipping is one of the most important elements of the global supply chain. However, after the economic crisis of 2008, global shipping revenues plummeted. One way to restore profitability is the consolidation of shipping routes and the globalization of shipping lines. As container transport lines move to larger ships, the structure of the delivery route becomes a structure with intermediate points. This trend put forward higher demands on the port infrastructure, which aggravated the competition between regional ports, as well as ports that could degrade into a large cargo consolidation port. The economic advantage is enhanced by cooperation between shipping lines and ports. Thus, ports and shipping lines in the same supply chain can be mutually beneficial partners. The study analyses the effectiveness of horizontal and vertical cooperation between ports and carriers. As a source of information, a review of the literature on this issue, expert opinions, and statistical data is taken. Next, a mathematical model is built on the basis of cooperative game theory, and numerical analysis is carried out. The results show that the strategy of cooperation of shipping lines strongly depends on the situation with the supply and demand of vessels. A port that interacts with shipping lines will significantly reduce port charges, which creates the advantage of receiving more port requests. However, cooperation may lead to losses for the port, so a redistribution of profits is necessary to maintain the coalition.
Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) from Submarine Power Cables Can Trigger Strength-Dependent Behavioural and Physiological Responses in Edible Crab, Cancer pagurus (L.)
Authors: Scott Kevin , Harsanyi Petra , Easton Blair A. A. , Piper Althea J. R. , Rochas Corentine M. V. , Lyndon Alastair R.
Published: July 2021

The current study investigated the effects of different strength Electromagnetic Field (EMF) exposure (250 µT, 500 µT, 1000 µT) on the commercially important decapod, edible crab (Cancer pagurus, Linnaeus, 1758). Stress related parameters were measured (l-Lactate, d-Glucose, Total Haemocyte Count (THC)) in addition to behavioural and response parameters (shelter preference and time spent resting/roaming) over 24 h periods. EMF strengths of 250 µT were found to have limited physiological and behavioural impacts. Exposure to 500 µT and 1000 µT were found to disrupt the l-Lactate and d-Glucose circadian rhythm and alter THC. Crabs showed a clear attraction to EMF exposed (500 µT and 1000 µT) shelters with a significant reduction in time spent roaming. Consequently, EMF emitted from MREDs will likely affect crabs in a strength-dependent manner thus highlighting the need for reliable in-situ measurements. This information is essential for policy making, environmental assessments, and in understanding the impacts of increased anthropogenic EMF on marine organisms.
Climate Change and Marine Geological Dynamics
Authors: Kontakiotis George , Antonarakou Assimina
Published: July 2021

The tendency for climate to change has been one of the most surprising outcomes of the study of Earth history [...]
Comparative Study of Secreted Proteins, Enzymatic Activities of Wood Degradation and Stilbene Metabolization in Grapevine Botryosphaeria Dieback Fungi
Authors: Labois Clément , Stempien Elodie , Schneider Justine , Schaeffer-Reiss Christine , Bertsch Christophe , Goddard Mary-Lorène , Chong Julie
Published: July 2021

Botryosphaeriaceae fungi are plant pathogens associated with Botryosphaeria dieback. To better understand the virulence factors of these fungi, we investigated the diversity of secreted proteins and extracellular enzyme activities involved in wood degradation and stilbene metabolization in Neofusicoccum parvum and Diplodia seriata, which are two major fungi associated with grapevine B. dieback. Regarding the analysis of proteins secreted by the two fungi, our study revealed that N. parvum, known to be more aggressive than D. seriata, was characterized by a higher quantity and diversity of secreted proteins, especially hydrolases and oxidoreductases that are likely involved in cell wall and lignin degradation. In addition, when fungi were grown with wood powder, the extracellular laccase and Mn peroxidase enzyme activities were significantly higher in D. seriata compared to N.parvum. Importantly, our work also showed that secreted Botryosphaeriaceae proteins produced after grapevine wood addition are able to rapidly metabolize the grapevine stilbenes. Overall, a higher diversity of resveratrol and piceatannol metabolization products was found with enzymes of N. parvum compared to D. seriata. This study emphasizes the diversity of secreted virulence factors found in B. dieback fungi and suggests that some resveratrol oligomers produced in grapevine wood after pathogen attack could be formed via pathogenic fungal oxidases.
Cytological Spectrum of Pulmonary Histoplasmosis Diagnosed by Bronchoalveolar Lavage: 12 Years of Experience in French Guiana
Authors: Drak Alsibai Kinan , Aissaoui Houari , Adenis Antoine , Bourne-Watrin Morgane , Djossou Felix , Epelboin Loïc , Blanchet Denis , Demar Magalie , Couppié Pierre , Nacher Mathieu
Published: July 2021

Disseminated histoplasmosis is a major cause of mortality in HIV-infected patients. Rapid and efficient diagnosis of Histoplasma capsulatum is crucial. Cytopathology is available in most hospitals and represents a rapid diagnostic alternative. In this study, we reviewed 12 years of experience to describe the cytology of histoplasmosis diagnosed by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in relation to patient characteristics. BAL-diagnosed pulmonary histoplasmosis concerned 17 patients (14 HIV+). BAL cellularity ranged from 76,000 to 125,000 cells/mL in HIV patients, and 117,000 to 160,000 cells/mL in non-HIV patients. Macrophages predominated in all HIV patients (from 60% to 88%), lymphocytic infiltrates ranged from 5% to 15%, and neutrophils were very heterogeneous (from 2% to 32%). The number of H. capsulatum at hot spots seemed greater in HIV-infected than in immunocompetent patients (9 to 375 vs. 4 to 10) and were inversely proportional to the CD4 counts. Yeasts were both intracellular and extracellular in 85.7% of the HIV patients. This is the most comprehensive series detailing the cytological aspects of BAL in the diagnosis of H. capsulatum, focusing on the number of yeasts and their clustering pattern. The cytological examination of the Gomori-Grocott-stained BAL allows a reliable diagnosis of histoplasmosis.
Adherence to Therapy, Physical and Mental Quality of Life in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Buja Alessandra , Graffigna Guendalina , Mafrici Simona F. , Baldovin Tatjana , Pinato Carlo , Bolzonella Umberto , Barello Serena , Tognetto Alessia , Damiani Gianfranco
Published: July 2021

Ensuring multiple sclerosis (MS) patients’ adherence to therapy is often challenging, but it is crucial to their survival and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The aim of the present study was to outline connections between adherence, physical and mental HRQoL, levels of psychological readiness to engage in a treatment, levels of social support, anthropometric, socio-demographic and clinical factors in patients suffering from MS. This cross-sectional study involved a sample of 237 Italian MS patients. A survey was conducted with a structured self-administered online questionnaire using validated measures of quality of life, adherence to therapy and anthropometric, socio-demographic, psychological and clinical variables. A path analysis was used to test the overall structure of the associations between the variables. The pathway indicates a positive association between mental health index and a stronger degree of engagement and being or having been in a long-term relationship. Physical health index was positively associated with age, having an occupation, and having a specific form of MS. Having had relapses in the previous year raised the odds of better adherence to therapy, while an increase in Body Mass Index (BMI) reduced them. Our findings could help in the management of MS patients, promoting behavioral interventions that take the psychological and socio-demographic peculiarities of each patient into account with a view to improving their adherence to therapy.
Association of Ventilatory Disorders with Respiratory Symptoms, Physical Activity, and Quality of Life in Subjects with Prior Tuberculosis: A National Database Study in Korea
Authors: Yang Bumhee , Choi Hayoung , Shin Sun Hye , Kim Youlim , Moon Ji-Yong , Park Hye Yun , Lee Hyun
Published: July 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) survivors experience post-TB lung damage and ventilatory function disorders. However, the proportions of obstructive and restrictive ventilatory disorders as well as normal ventilation among subjects with prior TB are unknown. In addition, the impacts of ventilatory disorder and its severity on respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, and the quality of life in subjects with prior TB remain unclear. Subjects who participated in the Korean National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2007–2016 were enrolled in this study. We evaluated the impact of each ventilatory disorder and its severity on respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, and quality of life (measured by the EuroQoL five dimensions questionnaire [EQ-5D] index values) in subjects with prior TB. Among 1466 subjects with prior TB, 29% and 16% had obstructive ventilatory disorders and restrictive ventilatory disorders, respectively. Mild and moderate obstructive ventilatory disorders were not associated with respiratory symptoms, physical activity limitations, or EQ-5D index value compared with normal ventilation; however, severe obstructive ventilatory disorders were associated with more respiratory symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 13.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.64–39.99), more physical activity limitation (aOR = 218.58, 95% CI = 26.82–1781.12), and decreased EQ-5D index (adjusted coefficient = −0.06, 95% CI = (−0.12–−0.10) compared with normal ventilation. Mild restrictive ventilatory disorders were associated with more respiratory symptoms (aOR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.07–4.14) compared with normal ventilation, while moderate (aOR = 5.71, 95% CI = 1.14–28.62) and severe restrictive ventilatory disorders (aOR = 9.17, 95% CI = 1.02–82.22) were associated with physical activity limitation compared with normal ventilation. In conclusion, among subjects with prior TB, 29% and 16% developed obstructive and restrictive ventilatory disorders, respectively. Severe obstructive ventilatory disorder was associated with more respiratory symptoms, more physical activity limitation, and poorer quality of life, while severe restrictive ventilatory disorder was associated with more physical activity limitations.
Distributed Algorithms for Multiple Path Backbone Discovery in Thick Linear Sensor Networks
Authors: Jawhar Imad , Zhang Sheng , Wu Jie , Mohamed Nader , Masud Mohammad M.
Published: July 2021

Continued advancements in microprocessors, electronics, and communication technology have led to the design and development of sensing devices with increased functionalities, smaller sizes, larger processing, storage, and communication capabilities, and decreased cost. A large number of these sensor nodes are used in many environmental, infrastructure, commercial, and military monitoring applications. Due to the linearity of a good number of the monitored structures such as oil, gas, and water pipelines, borders, rivers, and roads, the wireless sensor networks (WSNs) that are used to monitor them have a linear topology. This type of WSN is called a linear sensor network (LSN). In this paper, two distributed algorithms for topology discovery in thick LSNs are presented: the linear backbone discovery algorithm (LBD) and the linear backbone discovery algorithm with x backbone paths (LBDx). Both of them try to construct a linear backbone for efficient routing in LSNs. However, the LBD algorithm has the objective of minimizing the number of messages used during the backbone discovery process. On the other hand, the LBDx algorithm focuses on reducing the number of hops of the data messages transmitted from the nodes to the sink. LBD and LBDx exhibit good properties and efficient performance, which are confirmed by extensive simulations.
Light Transmissivity of Tree Shelters Interacts with Site Environment and Species Ecophysiology to Determine Outplanting Performance in Mediterranean Climates
Authors: Oliet Juan A. , Puértolas Jaime , Valenzuela Patricio , Vázquez de Castro Alberto
Published: July 2021

Plastic tree shelters are commonly used in plantations under Mediterranean climates to protect against herbivory and enhance outplanting performance. However, effects on outplanting performance cannot be generalized due to the complexity of plant responses to microenvironmental conditions within the tube wall. The interactions between the light transmissivity of the tubes and species-specific responses to light and site environment on two-year outplanting performance were studied in two species with contrasting shade tolerance planted inside tree shelters with four different light transmissivities and a non-tree shelter control at two Mediterranean sites with contrasting rainfall and temperature. In general, increasing light transmissivity enhanced biomass accumulation, suggesting that the use of clear tubes might be advisable. However, the shade-tolerant Q. ilex did not benefit from the greater light transmissivity in the most arid site, indicating that the positive effect of clear tubes depends on water stress experienced by seedlings, which ultimately is determined by drought resistance strategies and site conditions. The growth of both species and survival of P. halepensis were higher within clear tubes in the continental site than in unsheltered plants, which suggests that factors other than light, such as warmer daytime temperatures or the prevention of dust deposition, can explain this beneficial site-dependent effect of tree shelters. In conclusion, our results confirm the hypothesis that the effect of tree shelter and its light transmission on outplanting performance is site and species-specific, but further research is needed to identify the effect of other effects not related to light transmission.
High Spatial-Temporal Resolution Data across Large Scales Are Needed to Transform Our Understanding of Ecosystem Services
Authors: Willcock Simon , Martinez-Lopez Javier , Dandy Norman , Bullock James M.
Published: July 2021

Many assessments of ecosystem services (ESs; nature’s contribution to people [...]
Structure, Activity and Function of the Suv39h1 and Suv39h2 Protein Lysine Methyltransferases
Authors: Weirich Sara , Khella Mina S. , Jeltsch Albert
Published: July 2021

SUV39H1 and SUV39H2 were the first protein lysine methyltransferases that were identified more than 20 years ago. Both enzymes introduce di- and trimethylation at histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) and have important roles in the maintenance of heterochromatin and gene repression. They consist of a catalytically active SET domain and a chromodomain, which binds H3K9me2/3 and has roles in enzyme targeting and regulation. The heterochromatic targeting of SUV39H enzymes is further enhanced by the interaction with HP1 proteins and repeat-associated RNA. SUV39H1 and SUV39H2 recognize an RKST motif with additional residues on both sides, mainly K4 in the case of SUV39H1 and G12 in the case of SUV39H2. Both SUV39H enzymes methylate different non-histone proteins including RAG2, DOT1L, SET8 and HupB in the case of SUV39H1 and LSD1 in the case of SUV39H2. Both enzymes are expressed in embryonic cells and have broad expression profiles in the adult body. SUV39H1 shows little tissue preference except thymus, while SUV39H2 is more highly expressed in the brain, testis and thymus. Both enzymes are connected to cancer, having oncogenic or tumor-suppressive roles depending on the tumor type. In addition, SUV39H2 has roles in the brain during early neurodevelopment.
Sorghum’s Whole-Plant Transcriptome and Proteome Responses to Drought Stress: A Review
Authors: Ngara Rudo , Goche Tatenda , Swanevelder Dirk Z. H. , Chivasa Stephen
Published: July 2021

Sorghum is a cereal crop with key agronomic traits of drought and heat stress tolerance, making it an ideal food and industrial commodity for hotter and more arid climates. These stress tolerances also present a useful scientific resource for studying the molecular basis for environmental resilience. Here we provide an extensive review of current transcriptome and proteome works conducted with laboratory, greenhouse, or field-grown sorghum plants exposed to drought, osmotic stress, or treated with the drought stress-regulatory phytohormone, abscisic acid. Large datasets from these studies reveal changes in gene/protein expression across diverse signaling and metabolic pathways. Together, the emerging patterns from these datasets reveal that the overall functional classes of stress-responsive genes/proteins within sorghum are similar to those observed in equivalent studies of other drought-sensitive model species. This highlights a monumental challenge of distinguishing key regulatory genes/proteins, with a primary role in sorghum adaptation to drought, from genes/proteins that change in expression because of stress. Finally, we discuss possible options for taking the research forward. Successful exploitation of sorghum research for implementation in other crops may be critical in establishing climate-resilient agriculture for future food security.
Metabolic Actions of a Supplement of Ilex Paraguariensis (An Extract of the Leaf Standardized to 2% I-Deoxinojirimcina), White Mulberry and Chromium Picolinate in Nondiabetic Subjects with Dysglycemia: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Derosa Giuseppe , D’Angelo Angela , Maffioli Pamela
Published: July 2021

Aim: To prove if a nutraceutical containing Ilex paraguariensis (Ilex L. spp. Aquifoliales) (an extract of the leaf standardized to 2% I-deoxinojirimcina), white mulberry (Morus spp., Moraceae), and chromium picolinate can be effective in improving glycemic status in subject with dysglycemia. Methods: We randomized patients to consume placebo or the nutraceutical, self-administered once a day, one tablet at breakfast, for 3 months. Results: A reduction in fasting plasma glucose, postprandial glucose, and glycated hemoglobin was observed with the nutraceutical combination, both compared to baseline and placebo. Data suggested a decrease in the Homeostasis Model Assessment index with the nutraceutical, both compared to baseline and placebo. The M value, an index of insulin sensitivity, obtained after nutraceutical treatment was higher compared to baseline. We recorded a decrease in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and triglycerides with the nutraceutical combination compared to baseline and placebo. A decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein was observed with the nutraceutical combination compared to baseline and placebo. Conclusions: A nutraceutical containing Ilex paraguariensis, white mulberry, and chromium picolinate can be helpful in improving glycemic status and lipid profile in dysglycemic subjects.
Extrathyroidal Manifestations of Persistent Sporadic Non-Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism in a 6-Year-Old Boy: A Case Report
Authors: Ahn Moon Bae
Published: July 2021

Thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) belongs in a subfamily of the G protein-coupled receptors. Thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor gene (TSHR), a gene encoding TSHR, is a major controller of thyroid cell metabolism, and its gain of function mutation leads to non-autoimmune hyperthyroidism (NAH), a condition of a prolonged state of hyperthyroidism. Diverse human diseases, and genetic, constitutional, or environmental factors contribute to the phenotypic variations of TSHR mutations; however, the underlying mechanisms leading to various extrathyroidal manifestations across ages are poorly understood. In 2018, the first Korean case of persistent sporadic NAH due to missense mutation of TSHR was reported, and this report highlights the extrathyroidal manifestations of NAH. Further investigation is warranted to clarify the roles of functional mutations of TSHR by investigating the correlation between G protein-dependent signaling properties and clinical phenotypes associated with persistent hyperthyroidism in order to develop novel therapies that could be provided for numerous conditions caused by NAH.
Die Casting Die Design and Process Optimization of Aluminum Alloy Gearbox Shell
Authors: Huang Mingyu , Zhou Qian , Wang Junyou , Li Shihua
Published: July 2021

Taking an aluminum alloy gearbox of an automobile as an example, according to its structural characteristics, the parting surface was determined, and the initial gating system was designed by using 3D modeling software UG. Based on Magmasoft software, the numerical simulation of the filling and solidification process was carried out to determine the best gating system scheme. The cooling system and core pulling structure were designed, and the parameter design process of the aluminum alloy gearbox shell in the die-casting process was introduced. Aiming at the leakage problem of the gearbox shell in the bench and road test after assembly, the cause was found through numerical simulation and industrial CT analysis, and the problem was solved by adding high-pressure point cooling at the corresponding position of the leakage, and the correctness of the optimization was verified. It provides an effective method for the die-casting production of the transmission housing and the analysis and solution of product defects, which improves the product quality and shortens the production cycle.
Sewage Sludge as a Tool in Limiting the Content of Trace Elements in Avena sativa L. on the Soil Polluted with Diesel Oil
Authors: Wyszkowski Mirosław , Wyszkowska Jadwiga , Borowik Agata , Kordala Natalia
Published: July 2021

The aim of the research was to determine the effect of soil contamination with diesel oil (0; 5; 10 and 15 cm3 kg−1 of soil) on the content of trace elements in the aboveground parts of oat (Avena sativa L.). Stabilised sewage sludge was used to mitigate the likely negative impact of diesel oil on the plant. Growing soil contamination with diesel oil had a significant impact on the content of trace elements in the aboveground biomass of oat. In the series without sewage sludge, the contents of the analysed elements, except for chromium, zinc, copper and cobalt, were positively correlated with the increasing doses of diesel oil. The largest increase in the content was recorded in the case of manganese. The sewage sludge used to reduce the influence of diesel oil on the chemical composition of oat had a positive effect on the content of the analysed trace elements. Compared to the series without the addition of a stabilised sewage sludge, it contributed to a reduction in the average content of chromium, nickel, copper, manganese and cobalt in the aboveground parts of oat plants. No significant effect of the applied remediation treatment was noted for cadmium, and the results were equivocal for iron.
Complete Obturation—Cold Lateral Condensation vs. Thermoplastic Techniques: A Systematic Review of Micro-CT Studies
Authors: Bhandi Shilpa , Mashyakhy Mohammed , Abumelha Abdulaziz S. , Alkahtany Mazen F. , Jamal Mohamed , Chohan Hitesh , Raj A. Thirumal , Testarelli Luca , Reda Rodolfo , Patil Shankargouda
Published: July 2021

To prevent re-infection and provide a hermetic seal of the root canal system, an endodontist must aim to produce a void-free obturation. This review aimed to compare the completeness of root canal obturation between the two most prevalent methods—cold lateral condensation and warm gutta-percha techniques—using micro-CT (PROSPERO reg no. 249815). Materials and Methods: A search of Scopus, Embase, PubMed (Medline via PubMed), and Web of Science databases was done without any time restriction according to the PRISMA protocol. Articles that compared both techniques and were published in English were included. Data was extracted and the risk of bias was assessed using an adapted tool based on previous studies. Results: A total of 141 studies were identified by the search. Following the screening and selection of articles, 9 studies were included for review. Data was extracted manually and tabulated. Most studies had a moderate risk of bias. None determined operator skill in both methods before comparison. The data extracted from the included studies suggests that both techniques produce voids in the obturation. The thermoplasticized gutta-percha techniques may result in fewer voids compared to cold lateral condensation. Conclusion: Considering the limitations of the included studies, it was concluded that neither technique could completely obturate the root canal. Thermoplasticized gutta-percha techniques showed better outcomes despite a possible learning bias in favor of cold lateral condensation. Establishing operator skills before comparison may help reduce this bias.
Evaluation of the Possibility of Using 1.4462 and 1.4501 Steel as a Construction Material for Apparatus Operating at an Increased Temperature and with Corrosive Factors
Authors: Prałat Karol , Krupińska Andżelika , Ochowiak Marek , Włodarczak Sylwia , Matuszak Magdalena , Ciemnicka Justyna , Koper Artur , Wójcicka Karolina
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study was to determine the requirements for steels used as construction materials for chemical apparatus operating at an elevated temperature and to correlate them with the properties of the tested steels. The experimental part examined the influence of the annealing process on the structure and properties of X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 (1.4462) and X2CrNiMoCuWN25-7-4 (1.4501) steel. Heat treatment was carried out on the tested samples at a temperature of 600 °C and 800 °C. Changes were observed after the indicated time intervals of 250 and 500 h. In order to determine the differences between the initial state and after individual annealing stages, metallographic specimens were performed, the structure was analyzed using an optical microscope and the micro-hardness was measured using the Vickers method. Potentiostatic tests of the samples were carried out to assess the influence of thermal process parameters on the electrochemical properties of the passive layer. An increase in the hardness of the samples was observed with increasing temperature and annealing time, the disappearance of magnetic properties for both samples after annealing at the temperature of 800 °C, as well as a significant deterioration in corrosion resistance in the case of treatment at a higher temperature.
The Influence of CFRP Sheets on the Load-Bearing Capacity of the Glued Laminated Timber Beams under Bending Test
Authors: Śliwa-Wieczorek Klaudia , Ostrowski Krzysztof Adam , Jaskowska-Lemańska Justyna , Karolak Anna
Published: July 2021

Composite materials are increasingly used to strengthen existing structures or new load-bearing elements, also made of timber. In this paper, the effect of the number of layers of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) on the load-bearing capacity and stiffness of Glued Laminated Timber beams was determined. Experimental research was performed on 32 elements—a series of eight unreinforced beams, and three series of eight reinforced beams: with one, three and five layers of laminate each. The beams with a cross-section of 38 mm × 80 mm and a length of 750 mm were subjected to the four-point bending test according to standard procedure. For each series, destructive force, deflection, mode of failure, and equivalent stiffness were determined. In addition, for the selected samples, X-ray computed tomography was performed before and after their destruction to define the quality of the interface between wood and composite. The results of the conducted tests and analyses showed that there was no clear relationship between the number of reinforcement layers and the load-bearing capacity of the beams and their stiffness. Unreinforced beams failed due to tension, while reinforced CFRP beams failed due to shear. Despite this, a higher energy of failure of composite-reinforced elements was demonstrated in relation to the reference beams.