Showing papers by "Romanian Academy published in 2021"
••
TL;DR: This minireview provides an overview of the recent developments of bioinspired DN hydrogels defined as DN hydhydrogels that mimic the properties and/or structure of natural tissue, ranging from, e.g., anisotropically structured DNHydrogels, via ultratough energy dissipating DN Hydrogels to dynamic, reshapable DN hyd rogels.
Abstract: The design and synthesis of double network (DN) hydrogels that can mimic the properties and/or structure of natural tissue has flourished in recent years, overcoming the bottlenecks of mechanical performance of single network hydrogels and extending their potential applications in various fields. In recent years, such bioinspired DN hydrogels with extraordinary mechanical performance, excellent biocompatibility, and considerable strength have been demonstrated to be promising candidates for biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering and biomedicine. In this minireview, we provide an overview of the recent developments of bioinspired DN hydrogels defined as DN hydrogels that mimic the properties and/or structure of natural tissue, ranging from, e.g., anisotropically structured DN hydrogels, via ultratough energy dissipating DN hydrogels to dynamic, reshapable DN hydrogels. Furthermore, we discuss future perspectives of bioinspired DN hydrogels for biomedical applications.
152 citations
••
Kangwon National University1, University of Pavia2, University of Basel3, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology4, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul5, Wageningen University and Research Centre6, University of Ljubljana7, National Research Council8, University of Valencia9, University of New England (Australia)10, National Taipei University of Technology11, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics12, University Corporation for Atmospheric Research13, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague14, Augsburg College15, University of Turin16, University of Bari17, Leibniz Association18, Tottori University19, University of Orléans20, University of Adelaide21, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano22, Yazd University23, Spanish National Research Council24, Beijing Normal University25, University of Twente26, University of Leicester27, Julius Kühn-Institut28, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich29, Agricultural Research Service30, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research31, University of Nebraska–Lincoln32, University of Rouen33, Romanian Academy34, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais35, Université catholique de Louvain36, University of Pisa37, University of Tehran38, University of Milan39, University of Alaska Fairbanks40, Wuhan Institute of Technology41, University of Maryland, College Park42, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki43, University of Aveiro44, Northwest A&F University45
TL;DR: This database intends to support the upcoming country-based United Nations global soil-erosion assessment in addition to helping to inform soil erosion research priorities by building a foundation for future targeted, in-depth analyses.
145 citations
••
TL;DR: In this article, the authors analyzed the land degradation footprint on global arable lands, using complex geospatial data on certain major degradation processes, i.e. aridity, soil erosion, vegetation decline, soil salinization and soil organic carbon decline.
104 citations
••
01 Jan 2021
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors searched the databases for articles in which the authors reported the efficacy and safety of the use of several vaccines vaccines by sex, age group, and frequency of adverse reactions.
Abstract: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 is a novel strain of human beta-coronavirus that has produced over two million deaths and affected one hundred million individuals worldwide. As all the proposed drugs proved to be unstable, inducing side effects, the need to develop a vaccine crystallized in a short time. As a result, we searched the databases for articles in which the authors reported the efficacy and safety of the use of several vaccines vaccines by sex, age group, and frequency of adverse reactions. We identified a total of 19 relevant articles that were discussed throughout this manuscript. We concluded that from all eleven vaccines, three had an efficacy >90% (Pfizer-BioNTech (~95%), Moderna (~94%), and Sputnik V (~92%)) except for Oxford-AstraZeneca (~81%). However, Moderna, Sputnik V, and Oxford-AstraZeneca also alleviate severe adverse reactions, whereas in Pfizer-BioNTech this was not revealed. The remaining five (Convidicea (AD5-nCOV); Johnson & Johnson (Ad26.COV2.S); Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV); Covaxin (BBV152), and Sinovac (CoronaVac)) were discussed based on their immunogenicity, and safety reported by the recipients since only phases 1 and 2 were conducted without clear evidence published regarding their efficacy. CoviVac and EpiVacCorona have just been approved, which is why no published article could be found. All adverse events reported following the administration of one of the four vaccines ranged from mild to moderate; limited exceptions in which the patients either developed severe forms or died, because most effects were dose-dependent. It can be concluded that aforementioned vaccines are efficient and safe, regardless of age and sex, being well-tolerated by the recipients.
94 citations
••
RWTH Aachen University1, University of Bern2, University of Wrocław3, University of Paris4, Dresden University of Technology5, University of Milan6, Charles University in Prague7, University of Novi Sad8, University of Bremen9, University of Szeged10, Romanian Academy11, Leibniz Association12, University of Bayreuth13
TL;DR: In this paper, a map of the distribution of aeolian sediments (mainly loess) and major potential source areas for Europe is presented, combining geodata of different mapping approaches.
93 citations
•
18 Nov 2021TL;DR: In this paper, the authors highlight the latest achievements in the synthesis of red-light-responsive azobenzenes and the emerging application areas of photopharmacology, photoswitchable adhesives and biodegradable materials for drug delivery.
Abstract: Azobenzenes are archetypal molecules that have a central role in fundamental and applied research. Over the course of almost two centuries, the area of azobenzenes has witnessed great achievements; azobenzenes have evolved from simple dyes to ‘little engines’ and have become ubiquitous in many aspects of our lives, ranging from textiles, cosmetics, food and medicine to energy and photonics. Despite their long history, azobenzenes continue to arouse academic interest, while being intensively produced for industrial purposes, owing to their rich chemistry, versatile and straightforward design, robust photoswitching process and biodegradability. The development of azobenzenes has stimulated the production of new coloured and light-responsive materials with various applications, and their use continues to expand towards new high-tech applications. In this Review, we highlight the latest achievements in the synthesis of red-light-responsive azobenzenes and the emerging application areas of photopharmacology, photoswitchable adhesives and biodegradable materials for drug delivery. We show how the synthetic versatility and adaptive properties of azobenzenes continue to inspire new research directions, with limits imposed only by one’s imagination. Over the past decade, advances in azobenzenes have revolutionized their application potential, going beyond traditional uses as dyes and ultraviolet photoswitches. This Review describes breakthroughs in the development of red-light-photoswitchable azobenzenes and emerging applications in photopharmacology, photoswitchable adhesives and biodegradable systems for drug delivery.
83 citations
••
TL;DR: In this article, the authors identify the Western Eurasian steppes, especially the lower Volga-Don region, as the homeland of modern domestic horses and map the population changes accompanying domestication from 273 ancient horse genomes.
Abstract: Domestication of horses fundamentally transformed long-range mobility and warfare1. However, modern domesticated breeds do not descend from the earliest domestic horse lineage associated with archaeological evidence of bridling, milking and corralling2–4 at Botai, Central Asia around 3500 bc3. Other longstanding candidate regions for horse domestication, such as Iberia5 and Anatolia6, have also recently been challenged. Thus, the genetic, geographic and temporal origins of modern domestic horses have remained unknown. Here we pinpoint the Western Eurasian steppes, especially the lower Volga-Don region, as the homeland of modern domestic horses. Furthermore, we map the population changes accompanying domestication from 273 ancient horse genomes. This reveals that modern domestic horses ultimately replaced almost all other local populations as they expanded rapidly across Eurasia from about 2000 bc, synchronously with equestrian material culture, including Sintashta spoke-wheeled chariots. We find that equestrianism involved strong selection for critical locomotor and behavioural adaptations at the GSDMC and ZFPM1 genes. Our results reject the commonly held association7 between horseback riding and the massive expansion of Yamnaya steppe pastoralists into Europe around 3000 bc8,9 driving the spread of Indo-European languages10. This contrasts with the scenario in Asia where Indo-Iranian languages, chariots and horses spread together, following the early second millennium bc Sintashta culture11,12. Analysis of 273 ancient horse genomes reveals that modern domestic horses originated in the Western Eurasian steppes, especially the lower Volga-Don region.
83 citations
••
University of Ljubljana1, Kangwon National University2, University of Basel3, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology4, University of São Paulo5, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul6, Wageningen University and Research Centre7, National Research Council8, University of Valencia9, University of New England (Australia)10, National Taipei University of Technology11, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics12, University Corporation for Atmospheric Research13, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague14, Augsburg College15, University of Turin16, University of Bari17, Leibniz Association18, Tottori University19, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics20, University of Adelaide21, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano22, Yazd University23, Spanish National Research Council24, Beijing Normal University25, University of Twente26, University of Pavia27, University of Leicester28, Julius Kühn-Institut29, École Normale Supérieure30, Agricultural Research Service31, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research32, University of Nebraska–Lincoln33, University of Rouen34, Romanian Academy35, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais36, Université catholique de Louvain37, University of Pisa38, University of Tehran39, University of Milan40, University of Alaska Fairbanks41, Wuhan Institute of Technology42, University of Maryland, College Park43, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki44, University of Aveiro45, Northwest A&F University46
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the impact of the number of authors, the publication type and the selected journal on the citation count of soil erosion modeling research papers and found that the selection of the soil erosion model has the largest impact on the publication citations, followed by the modelling scale and the publication's CiteScore.
54 citations
••
University of Tokyo1, Spanish National Research Council2, University of La Laguna3, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency4, Chiba Institute of Technology5, Tohoku University6, Brown University7, Romanian Academy8, Kindai University9, University of Aizu10, Rikkyo University11, Kōchi University12, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology13, Meiji University14, Planetary Science Institute15, Kobe University16, Osaka University17, University of Paris18, Centre national de la recherche scientifique19, Nagoya University20, Graduate University for Advanced Studies21, Mitsubishi Electric22, University of Liverpool23, Seoul National University24, Hiroshima University25
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used Hayabusa2 observations to show that some of the bright boulders on the dark, carbonaceous (C-type) asteroid Ryugu4 are remnants of an impactor with a different composition as well as an anomalous portion of its parent body.
Abstract: The asteroid (162173) Ryugu and other rubble-pile asteroids are likely re-accumulated fragments of much larger parent bodies that were disrupted by impacts. However, the collisional and orbital pathways from the original parent bodies to subkilometre rubble-pile asteroids are not yet well understood1–3. Here we use Hayabusa2 observations to show that some of the bright boulders on the dark, carbonaceous (C-type) asteroid Ryugu4 are remnants of an impactor with a different composition as well as an anomalous portion of its parent body. The bright boulders on Ryugu can be classified into two spectral groups: most are featureless and similar to Ryugu’s average spectrum4,5, while others show distinct compositional signatures consistent with ordinary chondrites—a class of meteorites that originate from anhydrous silicate-rich asteroids6. The observed anhydrous silicate-like material is likely the result of collisional mixing between Ryugu’s parent body and one or multiple anhydrous silicate-rich asteroid(s) before and during Ryugu’s formation. In addition, the bright boulders with featureless spectra and less ultraviolet upturn are consistent with thermal metamorphism of carbonaceous meteorites7,8. They might sample different thermal-metamorphosed regions, which the returned sample will allow us to verify. Hence, the bright boulders on Ryugu provide new insights into the collisional evolution and accumulation of subkilometre rubble-pile asteroids. The Hayabusa2 team has discovered two types of bright boulder on the dark, carbonaceous asteroid Ryugu. One type has a spectrum consistent with material from an anhydrous silicate-rich asteroid, likely introduced by one or more collisions in Ryugu’s past.
50 citations
••
TL;DR: The FAIR-aligned Nanosafety Data Interface (FAIR-NIDS) as mentioned in this paper is a standard for the efficient reuse of nanosafety data, in line with the recently established FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) guiding principles.
Abstract: Nanotechnology is a key enabling technology with billions of euros in global investment from public funding, which include large collaborative projects that have investigated environmental and health safety aspects of nanomaterials, but the reuse of accumulated data is clearly lagging behind. Here we summarize challenges and provide recommendations for the efficient reuse of nanosafety data, in line with the recently established FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) guiding principles. We describe the FAIR-aligned Nanosafety Data Interface, with an aggregated findability, accessibility and interoperability across physicochemical, bio–nano interaction, human toxicity, omics, ecotoxicological and exposure data. Overall, we illustrate a much-needed path towards standards for the optimized use of existing data, which avoids duplication of efforts, and provides a multitude of options to promote safe and sustainable nanotechnology. The proposal of a FAIR-aligned Nanosafety Data Interface can advance findability, accessibility and interoperability across physicochemical, bio–nano interaction, human toxicity, omics, ecotoxicological and exposure data.
48 citations
••
TL;DR: In this paper, a review of the various methods for obtaining composite phase change materials using porous silica nanomaterials, their properties, and applications is presented, as well as the future perspectives on improving the heat storage materials.
Abstract: Phase change materials (PCMs) can store thermal energy as latent heat through phase transitions. PCMs using the solid-liquid phase transition offer high 100-300 J g-1 enthalpy at constant temperature. However, pure compounds suffer from leakage, incongruent melting and crystallization, phase separation, and supercooling, which limit their heat storage capacity and reliability during multiple heating-cooling cycles. An appropriate approach to mitigating these drawbacks is the construction of composites as shape-stabilized phase change materials which retain their macroscopic solid shape even at temperatures above the melting point of the active heat storage compound. Shape-stabilized materials can be obtained by PCMs impregnation into porous matrices. Porous silica nanomaterials are promising matrices due to their high porosity and adsorption capacity, chemical and thermal stability and possibility of changing their structure through chemical synthesis. This review offers a first in-depth look at the various methods for obtaining composite PCMs using porous silica nanomaterials, their properties, and applications. The synthesis and properties of porous silica composites are presented based on the main classes of compounds which can act as heat storage materials (paraffins, fatty acids, polymers, small organic molecules, hydrated salts, molten salts and metals). The physico-chemical phenomena arising from the nanoconfinement of phase change materials into the silica pores are discussed from both theoretical and practical standpoints. The lessons learned so far in designing efficient composite PCMs using porous silica matrices are presented, as well as the future perspectives on improving the heat storage materials.
••
TL;DR: A double view on the role of antioxidants in cancer pathology and how this could be relevant in the management and pathology of cancer is discussed in this article. But, contradictory epidemiological results show that supplementation above the recommended physiological doses recommended for antioxidants and taken over a long period can lead to harmful effects and even increase the risk of cancer.
Abstract: Oxygen-free radicals, reactive oxygen species (ROS) or reactive nitrogen species (RNS), are known by their “double-sided” nature in biological systems. The beneficial effects of ROS involve physiological roles as weapons in the arsenal of the immune system (destroying bacteria within phagocytic cells) and role in programmed cell death (apoptosis). On the other hand, the redox imbalance in favor of the prooxidants results in an overproduction of the ROS/RNS leading to oxidative stress. This imbalance can, therefore, be related to oncogenic stimulation. High levels of ROS disrupt cellular processes by nonspecifically attacking proteins, lipids, and DNA. It appears that DNA damage is the key player in cancer initiation and the formation of 8-OH-G, a potential biomarker for carcinogenesis. The harmful effect of ROS is neutralized by an antioxidant protection treatment as they convert ROS into less reactive species. However, contradictory epidemiological results show that supplementation above physiological doses recommended for antioxidants and taken over a long period can lead to harmful effects and even increase the risk of cancer. Thus, we are describing here some of the latest updates on the involvement of oxidative stress in cancer pathology and a double view on the role of the antioxidants in this context and how this could be relevant in the management and pathology of cancer.
••
TL;DR: In this article, several options for the modernization of existing HPPs, with the exclusion of measures expected to increase the hydro-morphological pressure on water bodies (e.g., increase of withdrawals or new parallel waterways), were evaluated, and the authors provided an indicative estimation of the additional power and annual generation that could be obtained compared to the current condition.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, a status report about the latest advances in electrocatalysts and electrodes for portable fuel cells is presented, which highlights the potential applicability to be used in portable devices.
Abstract: Fuel cells are devices that transform efficiently the chemical energy of hydrogen or another fuel into clean electricity. The fuel cell technology is attractive for its high-energy efficiency and expanded fuel flexibility and it became very relevant in the last decade. Moreover, the utilization of fuel cells for portable electronic devices has seen remarkable increase in the last few years. Performances of fuel cells, among others, strongly depend on the types of electrocatalysts and membrane, anion exchange or cation exchange, used in the system. Therefore, a status report about the latest advances in electrocatalysts and electrodes for portable fuel cells is the objective of this review paper. Herein, the recent progress in designing electrocatalysts for producing high performance fuel cells with truly potential applicability to be used in portable devices is highlighted.
••
Aix-Marseille University1, Charles University in Prague2, Centre national de la recherche scientifique3, Massachusetts Institute of Technology4, University of Paris5, Institut de mécanique céleste et de calcul des éphémérides6, Romanian Academy7, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań8, Institut national de la recherche agronomique9, University of Liège10, Institut Universitaire de France11, California Institute of Technology12, European Space Agency13, Open University14, Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University15, University of Alicante16, University of Barcelona17, European Southern Observatory18, Chungbuk National University19, Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute20, Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris21, Planetary Science Institute22
TL;DR: In this article, a high-angular-resolution imaging survey of 42 large main-belt asteroids with VLT/SPHERE/ZIMPOL was conducted to constrain the formation and evolution of a representative sample of large asteroids.
Abstract: Context. Until recently, the 3D shape, and therefore density (when combining the volume estimate with available mass estimates), and surface topography of the vast majority of the largest (D ≥ 100 km) main-belt asteroids have remained poorly constrained. The improved capabilities of the SPHERE/ZIMPOL instrument have opened new doors into ground-based asteroid exploration.Aims. To constrain the formation and evolution of a representative sample of large asteroids, we conducted a high-angular-resolution imaging survey of 42 large main-belt asteroids with VLT/SPHERE/ZIMPOL. Our asteroid sample comprises 39 bodies with D ≥ 100 km and in particular most D ≥ 200 km main-belt asteroids (20/23). Furthermore, it nicely reflects the compositional diversity present in the main belt as the sampled bodies belong to the following taxonomic classes: A, B, C, Ch/Cgh, E/M/X, K, P/T, S, and V.Methods. The SPHERE/ZIMPOL images were first used to reconstruct the 3D shape of all targets with both the ADAM and MPCD reconstruction methods. We subsequently performed a detailed shape analysis and constrained the density of each target using available mass estimates including our own mass estimates in the case of multiple systems.Results. The analysis of the reconstructed shapes allowed us to identify two families of objects as a function of their diameters, namely “spherical” and “elongated” bodies. A difference in rotation period appears to be the main origin of this bimodality. In addition, all but one object (216 Kleopatra) are located along the Maclaurin sequence with large volatile-rich bodies being the closest to the latter. Our results further reveal that the primaries of most multiple systems possess a rotation period of shorter than 6 h and an elongated shape (c∕a ≤ 0.65). Densities in our sample range from ~1.3 g cm−3 (87 Sylvia) to ~4.3 g cm−3 (22 Kalliope). Furthermore, the density distribution appears to be strongly bimodal with volatile-poor (ρ ≥ 2.7 g cm−3) and volatile-rich (ρ ≤ 2.2 g cm−3) bodies. Finally, our survey along with previous observations provides evidence in support of the possibility that some C-complex bodies could be intrinsically related to IDP-like P- and D-type asteroids, representing different layers of a same body (C: core; P/D: outer shell). We therefore propose that P/ D-types and some C-types may have the same origin in the primordial trans-Neptunian disk.
••
TL;DR: This review summarizes the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of SSRIs and SNRIs in the treatment of depression and outlines the particular mechanisms of these effects for each drug separately.
Abstract: Depression has the topmost prevalence of all psychiatric diseases. It is characterized by a high recurrence rate, disability, and numerous and mostly unclear pathogenic mechanisms. Besides the monoamine or the neurotrophic hypothesis of depression, the inflammatory mechanism has begun to be supported by more and more evidence. At the same time, the current knowledge about the standard treatment of choice, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), is expanding rapidly, adding more features to the initial ones. This review summarizes the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of SSRIs and SNRIs in the treatment of depression and outlines the particular mechanisms of these effects for each drug separately. In addition, we provide an overview of the inflammation-related theory of depression and the underlying mechanisms. SSRIs and SNRIs decrease the neuroinflammation through multiple mechanisms including the reduction of blood or tissue cytokines or regulating complex inflammatory pathways: nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), inflammasomes, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Also, SSRIs and SNRIs show these effects in association with an antidepressant action. SSRIs and SNRIs have an anti-neuroinflammatory role which might contribute the antidepressant effect.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, a novel zirconium organoborate using 1,4-benzenediboronic acid (BDB) as the precursor for MPV reduction was presented.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, the existence and uniqueness of a generalized mild solution for the Fokker-Planck equation (FPE) was proved for a class of McKean-Vlasov SDEs with singular dependence on the time marginal laws.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors assess future urban sprawl in Romania based on predicted land use/cover change (2007-2050) simulated using CLUE-S model (the Conversion of Land Use and its Effects at S...
Abstract: The current paper aims at assessing future urban sprawl in Romania based on predicted land use/cover change (2007–2050) simulated using CLUE-S model (the Conversion of Land Use and its Effects at S...
••
Hamburg University of Applied Sciences1, Manchester Metropolitan University2, Romanian Academy3, Hiroshima University4, University of New South Wales5, University of the Sunshine Coast6, Heritage College7, Universidade de Passo Fundo8, University of Malta9, Kwara State University10, University of Belgrade11, State University of Campinas12, Catholic University of the North13, Federal Fluminense University14, University of Education, Winneba15, University of Latvia16, Royal Institute of Technology17, University of Fort Hare18, Nottingham Trent University19, Management Development Institute20, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad21, University of Colombo22
TL;DR: In this article, a three-tiered approach was used, consisting of a bibliometric analysis, an online survey and a set of case studies, to identify the extent to which matters related to climate change are addressed within the teaching and research practices at universities, with a focus on the training needs of teaching staff.
Abstract: Background Climate change is a problem which is global in nature, and whose effects go across a wide range of disciplines. It is therefore important that this theme is taken into account as part of universities´ teaching and research programs. Methods A three-tiered approach was used, consisting of a bibliometric analysis, an online survey and a set of case studies, which allow a profile to be built, as to how a sample of universities from 45 countries handle climate change as part of their teaching programs. Results This paper reports on a study which aimed at identifying the extent to which matters related to climate change are addressed within the teaching and research practices at universities, with a focus on the training needs of teaching staff. It consists of a bibliometric analysis, combined with an online worldwide survey aimed at ascertaining the degree of involvement from universities in reducing their own carbon footprint, and the ways they offer training provisions on the topic. This is complemented by a set of 12 case studies from universities round the world, illustrating current trends on how universities handle climate change. Apart from reporting on the outcomes of the study, the paper highlights what some universities are doing to handle climate issues, and discusses the implications of the research. Conclusions The paper lists some items via which universities may better educate and train their students on how to handle the many challenges posed by climate change.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used a panel data approach (panel threshold and dynamic panel models) and a time series approach (vector error correction models) to explain the GHG emissions in few EU New Member States (Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania and Poland).
••
TL;DR: The use of hydroxyapatite in combination with natural/synthetic polymers can take advantage of each of their components properties and has a great potential in bone tissue engineering, in general.
Abstract: The increase in osteoporotic fracture worldwide is urging bone tissue engineering research to find new, improved solutions both for the biomaterials used in designing bone scaffolds and the anti-osteoporotic agents capable of promoting bone regeneration. This review aims to report on the latest advances in biomaterials by discussing the types of biomaterials and their properties, with a special emphasis on polymer-ceramic composites. The use of hydroxyapatite in combination with natural/synthetic polymers can take advantage of each of their components properties and has a great potential in bone tissue engineering, in general. A comparison between the benefits and potential limitations of different scaffold fabrication methods lead to a raised awareness of the challenges research face in dealing with osteoporotic fracture. Advances in 3D printing techniques are providing the ways to manufacture improved, complex, and specialized 3D scaffolds, capable of delivering therapeutic factors directly at the osteoporotic skeletal defect site with predefined rate which is essential in order to optimize the osteointegration/healing rate. Among these factors, strontium has the potential to increase osseointegration, osteogenesis, and healing rate. Strontium ranelate as well as other biological active agents are known to be effective in treating osteoporosis due to both anti-resorptive and anabolic properties but has adverse effects that can be reduced/avoided by local release from biomaterials. In this manner, incorporation of these agents in polymer-ceramic composites bone scaffolds can have significant clinical applications for the recovery of fractured osteoporotic bones limiting or removing the risks associated with systemic administration.
••
10 Jun 2021TL;DR: Rainer et al. as discussed by the authors propose a reflection on the way inter disciplinarity is framed in reference to the study of archaeological human remains, and show how the use of scientific methodologies influences and biases the kind of work that gets done and the questions that are asked.
Abstract: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research University of Cambridge & Homerton College Downing Street, Cambridge, UK, CB2 3ER Institute of Anthropology ‘Francisc I. Rainer’ ai300@cam.ac.uk With this paper I propose a reflection on the way inter disciplinarity is framed in reference to the study of archaeological human remains. It is often taken for granted that interdisciplinarity is valuable for archaeology – but why should it be? By taking the case study of the way ancient genomics research is rewriting the ‘Neolithic Revolution’ narratives I show how the use of scientific methodologies influences and biases the kind of work that gets done and the questions that are asked.
••
Polish Academy of Sciences1, University of Warsaw2, Museum and Institute of Zoology3, University of Wrocław4, Silesian University of Technology5, Chernivtsi University6, Ural Federal University7, Russian Academy of Sciences8, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń9, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus10, University of Tartu11, Yerevan State University12, Armenian National Academy of Sciences13, University of Ostrava14, Charles University in Prague15, Romanian Academy16, University of Plymouth17, University of Belgrade18, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine19, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine20
TL;DR: In this article, the authors focused on the palaeoecology of red deer over the past 54-ka across Europe and the Urals, to reveal patterns of change in their range and explore the role of environmental conditions in determining their distribution.
Abstract: AIM: The Expansion‐Contraction model has been used to explain the responses of species to climatic changes. During periods of unfavourable climatic conditions, species retreat to refugia from where they may later expand. This paper focuses on the palaeoecology of red deer over the past 54 ka across Europe and the Urals, to reveal patterns of change in their range and explore the role of environmental conditions in determining their distribution. LOCATION: Europe and western Asia to 63°E. TAXON: Red deer (Cervus elaphus). METHODS: We collected 984 records of radiocarbon‐dated red deer subfossils from the Late Pleistocene and the Holocene, including 93 original dates. For each deer sample we compiled climatic and biome type data for the corresponding time intervals. RESULTS: During the last 54 ka changes in red deer range in Europe and the Urals were asynchronous and differed between western and eastern Europe and western Asia due to different environmental conditions in those regions. The range of suitable areas for deer during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) was larger than previously thought and covered vast regions not only in southern but also in western and eastern Europe. Throughout the period investigated the majority of specimens inhabited forests in the temperate climatic zone. The contribution of forests in deer localities significantly decreased during the last 4 ka, due to deforestation of Europe caused by humans. Mean January temperature was the main limiting factor for species distribution. Over 90% of the samples were found in areas where mean January temperature was above −10°C. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Red deer response to climatic oscillations are in agreement with the Expansion‐Contraction model but in contradiction to the statement of only the southernmost LGM refugia of the species. During the last 54 ka red deer occurred mostly in forests of the temperate climatic zone.
••
TL;DR: In this article, the potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on fertility intentions were investigated. But the authors focused on the potential effect of the crisis on the fertility intentions of women.
Abstract: The recent COVID crisis has had many consequences on social life. This paper focuses on potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on fertility intentions. We employ a theoretical approach, analysi...
••
TL;DR: In this article, the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of mood disorders and suggest the ability of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR) as a marker for the differentiation of bipolar from unipolar depression.
Abstract: (1) Background: Recent research suggests inflammation as a factor involved in the pathophysiology of mood disorders. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte (MLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR), and systemic immune-inflammatory (SII) index ratios have been studied as peripheral markers of inflammation in bipolar and major depressive disorders. The purpose of this study is to comparatively analyze these inflammatory ratios among manic episodes of bipolar disorder, bipolar depression and unipolar depression. (2) Methods: 182 patients were retrospectively included in the study and divided into three groups: 65 manic patients, 34 patients with bipolar depression, and 83 unipolar depressive patients. White blood cells, neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, and platelets were retrieved from the patients' database. NLR, MLR, PLR, and SII index were calculated using these parameters. (3) Results: Patients with manic episodes had elevated NLR (p < 0.001), MLR (p < 0.01), PLR (p < 0.05), and SII index (p < 0.001) compared to unipolar depression and increased NLR (p < 0.05) and SII index (p < 0.05) when compared to bipolar depression. NLR (p < 0.01) and SII index (p < 0.05) were higher in the bipolar depression than unipolar depression. NLR is an independent predictor of the bipolar type of depression in depressive patients. (4) Conclusions: The results confirm the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of mood disorders and suggest the ability of NLR as a marker for the differentiation of bipolar from unipolar depression.
••
Natural History Museum1, University of La Réunion2, Adnan Menderes University3, Russian Academy of Sciences4, University of Palermo5, University of Pécs6, Polish Academy of Sciences7, Moscow State University8, Complutense University of Madrid9, University of the Azores10, Central European Institute of Technology11, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences12, University of Cape Town13, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue14, Sewanee: The University of the South15, University of Alberta16, Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso17, Szent István University18, National University of Malaysia19, Chonbuk National University20, National Autonomous University of Mexico21, University of Zagreb22, University of Valencia23, University of Belgrade24, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine25, National Botanical Research Institute26, University of Bucharest27, Romanian Academy28, Sofia University29, University of the Witwatersrand30, Jagiellonian University31
TL;DR: Gospodinov and Natcheva as mentioned in this paper used Aneura maxima (Schiffn) as the basis for the Aneuromaxima (Aneura Maxima) model.
Abstract: 1 Aneura maxima (Schiffn) StephContributors G Gospodinov and R NatchevaBulgaria Sofia Province, Ihtiman Sredna Gora Mts, NW of Gabra village, near Chukurovo coal mine, 23603208°E, 42548586
••
Masaryk University1, University of Oviedo2, University of Ferrara3, University of Parma4, University of Mostar5, Slovak Academy of Sciences6, University of Rostock7, University of Tuzla8, University of Eastern Finland9, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań10, University of Belgrade11, University of Sarajevo12, Aarhus University13, University of Vic14, University of Barcelona15, Polish Academy of Sciences16, Romanian Academy17
TL;DR: Hajek et al. as discussed by the authors developed an up-to-date European map of groundwater pH and Ca, based on 7577 measurements of near-surface groundwater pH, distributed across Europe, and included several times more sites, especially in the regions rich in spring and fen habitats.
Abstract: . Water resources and associated ecosystems are becoming highly endangered due to ongoing global environmental changes. Spatial ecological modelling
is a promising toolbox for understanding the past, present and future distribution and diversity patterns in groundwater-dependent ecosystems, such
as fens, springs, streams, reed beds or wet grasslands. Still, the lack of detailed water chemistry maps prevents the use of reasonable models to be
applied on continental and global scales. Being major determinants of biological composition and diversity of groundwater-dependent ecosystems,
groundwater pH and calcium are of utmost importance. Here we developed an up-to-date European map of groundwater pH and Ca, based on 7577
measurements of near-surface groundwater pH and calcium distributed across Europe. In comparison to the existing European groundwater maps, we included several times more sites, especially in the regions rich in spring and fen habitats, and filled the apparent gaps in eastern
and southeastern Europe. We used random forest models and regression kriging to create continuous maps of water pH and calcium at the continental
scale, which is freely available also as a raster map (Hajek et al., 2020b; https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4139912 ). Lithology had a higher importance than
climate for both pH and calcium. The previously recognised latitudinal and altitudinal gradients were rediscovered with much refined regional
patterns, as associated with bedrock variation. For ecological models of distribution and diversity of many terrestrial ecosystems, our new map
based on field groundwater measurements is more suitable than maps of soil pH, which mirror not only bedrock chemistry but also
vegetation-dependent soil processes.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, the mixedmode thiol-acrylate photopolymerization was used for alginate/poloxamer hydrogels formation and the optimum conditions for the photo-initiated reaction were studied in order to obtain high gel fractions.
••
TL;DR: In this article, the chemical composition of aqueous leaf extracts of three varieties of Romanian hemp (two monoecious, and one dioecious) have been determined by Fourier-Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-MS).
Abstract: Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) is a plant used in the textile industry and green building material industry, as well as for the phytoremediation of soil, medical treatments, and supplementary food products. The synergistic effect of terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids in hemp extracts may mediate the biogenic synthesis of metal nanoparticles. In this study, the chemical composition of aqueous leaf extracts of three varieties of Romanian hemp (two monoecious, and one dioecious) have been determined by Fourier-Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-MS). Then, their capability to mediate the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their pottential antibacterial applications were evaluated. The average antioxidant capacity of the extracts had 18.4 ± 3.9% inhibition determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 78.2 ± 4.1% determined by 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS™) assays. The total polyphenolic content of the extracts was 1642 ± 32 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) L−1. After this, these extracts were reacted with an aqueous solution of AgNO3 resulting in AgNPs, which were characterized by UV−VIS spectroscopy, FT-IR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDX), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results demonstrated obtaining spherical, stable AgNPs with a diameter of less than 69 nm and an absorbance peak at 435 nm. The mixture of extracts and AgNPs showed a superior antioxidant capacity of 2.3 ± 0.4% inhibition determined by the DPPH• assay, 88.5 ± 0.9% inhibition as determined by the ABTS•+ assay, and a good antibacterial activity against several human pathogens: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Staphylococcus aureus.