bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random Copolymers of Lysine and Isoleucine for Efficient mRNA Delivery
Authors: Pilipenko Iuliia , Korovkina Olga , Gubina Nina , Ekimova Viktoria , Ishutinova Anastasia , Korzhikova-Vlakh Evgenia , Tennikova Tatiana , Korzhikov-Vlakh Viktor
Published: May 2022

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is currently of great interest as a new category of therapeutic agent, which could be used for prevention or treatment of various diseases. For this mRNA requires effective delivery systems that will protect it from degradation, as well as allow cellular uptake and mRNA release. Random poly(lysine-co-isoleucine) polypeptides were synthesized and investigated as possible carriers for mRNA delivery. The polypeptides obtained under lysine:isoleucine monomer ratio equal to 80/20 were shown to give polyplexes with smaller size, positive ζ-potential and more than 90% encapsulation efficacy. The phase inversion method was proposed as best way for encapsulation of mRNA into polyplexes, which are based on obtained amphiphilic copolymers. These copolymers showed efficacy in protection of bound mRNA towards ribonuclease and lower toxicity as compared to lysine homopolymer. The poly(lysine-co-isoleucine) polypeptides showed greater than poly(ethyleneimine) efficacy as vectors for transfection of cells with green fluorescent protein and firefly luciferase encoding mRNAs. This allows us to consider obtained copolymers as promising candidates for mRNA delivery applications.
4′-Methylflavanone Glycosides Obtained Using Biotransformation in the Entomopathogenic Filamentous Fungi Cultures as Potential Anticarcinogenic, Antimicrobial, and Hepatoprotective Agents
Authors: Krawczyk-Łebek Agnieszka , Dymarska Monika , Janeczko Tomasz , Kostrzewa-Susłow Edyta
Published: May 2022

Flavonoid compounds exhibit numerous biological activities and significantly impact human health. The presence of methyl or glucosyl moieties attached to the flavonoid core remarkably modifies their physicochemical properties and improves intestinal absorption. Combined chemical and biotechnological methods can be applied to obtain such derivatives. In the presented study, 4′-methylflavanone was synthesized and biotransformed in the cultures of three strains of entomopathogenic filamentous fungi, i.e., Isaria fumosorosea KCH J2, Beauveria bassiana KCH J1.5, and Isaria farinosa KCH J2.1. The microbial transformation products in the culture of I. fumosorosea KCH J2, flavanone 4′-methylene-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside, 2-phenyl-(4′-hydroxymethyl)-4-hydroxychromane, and flavanone 4′-carboxylic acid were obtained. Biotransformation of 4′-methylflavanone in the culture of B. bassiana KCH J1.5 resulted in the formation of one main product, i.e., flavanone 4′-methylene-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. In the case of I. farinosa KCH J2.6 as a biocatalyst, three products, i.e., flavanone 4′-methylene-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside, flavanone 4′-carboxylic acid, and 4′-hydroxymethylflavanone 4-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside were obtained. The Swiss-ADME online simulations confirmed the increase in water solubility of 4′-methylflavanone glycosides and analyses performed using the Way2Drug Pass Online prediction tool indicated that flavanone 4′-methylene-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside and 4′-hydroxymethylflavanone 4-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside, which had not been previously reported in the literature, are promising anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective agents.
Class III Peroxidases PRX01, PRX44, and PRX73 Control Root Hair Growth in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Marzol Eliana , Borassi Cecilia , Carignani Sardoy Mariana , Ranocha Philippe , Aptekmann Ariel A. , Bringas Mauro , Pennington Janice , Paez-Valencia Julio , Martínez Pacheco Javier , Rodríguez-Garcia Diana R. , Rondón Guerrero Yossmayer del Carmen , Peralta Juan Manuel , Fleming Margaret , Mishler-Elmore John W. , Mangano Silvina , Blanco-Herrera Francisca , Bedinger Patricia A. , Dunand Christophe , Capece Luciana , Nadra Alejandro D. , Held Michael , Otegui Marisa S. , Estevez José M.
Published: May 2022

Root hair cells are important sensors of soil conditions. They grow towards and absorb water-soluble nutrients. This fast and oscillatory growth is mediated by continuous remodeling of the cell wall. Root hair cell walls contain polysaccharides and hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins, including extensins (EXTs). Class-III peroxidases (PRXs) are secreted into the apoplastic space and are thought to trigger either cell wall loosening or polymerization of cell wall components, such as Tyr-mediated assembly of EXT networks (EXT-PRXs). The precise role of these EXT-PRXs is unknown. Using genetic, biochemical, and modeling approaches, we identified and characterized three root-hair-specific putative EXT-PRXs, PRX01, PRX44, and PRX73. prx01,44,73 triple mutation and PRX44 and PRX73 overexpression had opposite effects on root hair growth, peroxidase activity, and ROS production, with a clear impact on cell wall thickness. We use an EXT fluorescent reporter with contrasting levels of cell wall insolubilization in prx01,44,73 and PRX44-overexpressing background plants. In this study, we propose that PRX01, PRX44, and PRX73 control EXT-mediated cell wall properties during polar expansion of root hair cells.
The Serum Hepatitis B Virus Large Surface Protein as High-Risk Recurrence Biomarker for Hepatoma after Curative Surgery
Authors: Tsai Hung-Wen , Lee Yun-Ping , Yen Chia-Jui , Cheng Kuang-Hsiung , Huang Chien-Jung , Huang Wenya
Published: May 2022

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) virus infection is the most important cause of HCC and is also associated with tumor progression. The development of viral biomarkers for HCC prognosis is critical in evaluating relative risks to recurrence in the CHB HCC patients. We report that the large HBV surface protein (LHBS) expression increased in the tumors, implicating that it played a significant role in tumor development. To detect the LHBS in serum and evaluate its association with HCC progression, we developed a sandwich ELISA method for LHBS. The mouse monoclonal antibodies for the pre-S1, pre-S2, and HBS regions were in-house generated and constructed into a chemiluminescent sandwich ELISA system, which allowed sensitive and quantitative measurement of the protein. Using this ELISA assay, we estimated the expression of LHBS in CHB and HCC patients. We found that the serum LHBS level was correlated with the HBS but not the viral titer in serum, indicating that HBV surface proteins’ expression does not mainly depend on viral replication. Moreover, both serum LHBS and HBS levels were lower in the HCC patients than in the CHB. The liver LHBS signals, detected by immunohistochemical staining, showed significant correlations with the serum LHBS and HBS levels. In addition, the more elevated serum LHBS but not HBS level was significantly associated with cirrhosis and worse disease-free and overall survival rates, based on the multivariate analysis. Conclusion: LHBS plays a specific role in tumor progression and is an independent parameter associated with HCC recurrence. Serum LHBS represents a novel noninvasive biomarker for HCC patients with a worse prognosis after surgery.
Role of the Ghrelin System in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kasprzak Aldona
Published: May 2022

The ghrelin system contains several components (e.g., ghrelin with growing number of alternative peptides, growth hormone secretagogue receptors (GHS-Rs), and ghrelin-O-acyl-transferase (GOAT) and participates in regulation of a number of key processes of gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancer progression, including cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, inflammation, and angiogenesis. However, its exact role in promoting or inhibiting cancer progression is still unclear. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common human malignancies worldwide. Molecular studies suggest an autocrine/paracrine mechanism for the secretion of ghrelin in colorectal carcinogenesis and its contribution to its initial stages. However, the signalling pathways of CRC development involving the ghrelin system are poorly understood. Potential mechanisms of colon carcinogenesis involving components of the ghrelin system were previously described in an animal model and in in vitro studies. However, the diagnostic–prognostic role of serum ghrelin concentrations, tissue expression, or genetic changes of this system in various stages of CRC progression remains an open case. Thus, the aim of this study is to discuss the role of the ghrelin system in colon carcinogenesis, diagnostics and CRC prognostics, as well as the results of studies on the use of ghrelin and its analogues in the therapy of CRC-related syndromes (e.g., cachexia and sarcopenia).
Biological Response to Bioinspired Microporous 3D-Printed Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ledda Mario , Merco Miriam , Sciortino Antonio , Scatena Elisa , Convertino Annalisa , Lisi Antonella , Del Gaudio Costantino
Published: May 2022

The scaffold is a key element in the field of tissue engineering, especially when large defects or substitutions of pathological tissues or organs need to be clinically addressed. The expected outcome is strongly dependent on the cell–scaffold interaction and the integration with the surrounding biological tissue. Indeed, mimicking the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) of the tissue to be healed represents a further optimization that can limit a possible morphological mismatch between the scaffold and the tissue itself. For this aim, and referring to bone tissue engineering, polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds were 3D printed with a microstructure inspired by the trabecular architecture and biologically evaluated by means of human osteosarcoma SAOS-2 cells. The cells were seeded on two types of scaffolds differing for the designed pore size (i.e., 400 and 600 µm), showing the same growth exponential trend found in the control and no significant alterations in the actin distribution. The microporous structure of the two tested samples enhanced the protein adsorption capability and mRNA expression of markers related to protein synthesis, proliferation, and osteoblast differentiation. Our findings demonstrate that 3D-printed scaffolds support the adhesion, growth, and differentiation of osteoblast-like cells and the microporous architecture, mimicking the natural bone hierarchical structure, and favoring greater bioactivity. These bioinspired scaffolds represent an interesting new tool for bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Meruliaceae with Descriptions of Two New Species from China
Authors: Liu Zhan-Bo , Zhang Jun-Li , Papp Viktor , Dai Yu-Cheng
Published: May 2022

Two new wood-inhabiting fungi Hermanssonia fimbriata sp. nov. and Phlebia austroasiana sp. nov. in the Meruliaceae family are described and illustrated from southwestern China based on molecular and morphological evidence. The characteristics of H. fimbriata include annual, resupinate basidiomata, the absence of cystidia and cystidioles, oblong ellipsoid basidiospores of 5–6 × 2.4–3 μm, and growth on rotten gymnosperm wood in the east Himalayas. Its basidiomata change drastically upon drying, from being a light-coloured, juicy, papillose-to-wrinkled hymenophore, to a dark-coloured, corky-to-gelatinous, and more or less smooth hymenophore. The characteristics of Ph. austroasiana include annual, resupinate basidiomata, a hydnoid hymenophore, 2–3 spines per mm, the presence of tubular cystidia of 20–25 × 3–3.5 µm, oblong ellipsoid basidiospores of 4.4–5.2 × 2.1–3 μm, and growth on angiosperm wood in tropical forests in the southern Yunnan Province. The phylogenetic analyses based on the combined 2-locus dataset (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS) + nuclear large subunit RNA (nLSU)) confirm the placement of two new species, respectively, in Hermanssonia and Phlebia s. lato. Phylogenetically, the closely-related species to these two new species are discussed.
Simulation-Based Process Design for Asymmetric Single-Point Incremental Forming of Individual Titanium Alloy Hip Cup Prosthesis
Authors: Frikha Sirine , Giraud-Moreau Laurence , Bouguecha Anas , Haddar Mohamed
Published: May 2022

Advanced manufacturing techniques aimed at implants with high dependability, flexibility, and low manufacturing costs are crucial in meeting the growing demand for high-quality products such as biomedical implants. Incremental sheet forming is a promising flexible manufacturing approach for rapidly prototyping sheet metal components using low-cost tools. Titanium and its alloys are used to shape most biomedical implants because of their superior mechanical qualities, biocompatibility, low weight, and great structural strength. The poor formability of titanium sheets at room temperature, however, limits their widespread use. The goal of this research is to show that the gradual sheet formation of a titanium biomedical implant is possible. The possibility of creative and cost-effective concepts for the manufacture of such complicated shapes with significant wall angles is explored. A numerical simulation based on finite element modeling and a design process tailored for metal forming are used to complete the development. The mean of uniaxial tensile tests with a constant strain rate was used to study the flow behavior of the studied material. To forecast cracks, the obtained flow behavior was modeled using the behavior and failure models.
Geochronological, Geochemical and Sr-Nd-Pb-Hf Isotopic Constraints on the Petrogenesis of Pyroxene Diorites in the Sanchahe Iron-Gold Deposit, Western Shandong
Authors: Ma Ming , Zhang Chao , Li Yadong , Gao Mingbo , Gao Jilei , Li Siyuan , Feng Qiwei , Li Jian , Tao Cui , Liu Yankui
Published: May 2022

The Sanchahe iron-gold deposit in western Shandong province is located in the southeast of the North China Craton. The skarn type of iron-gold deposit (without copper) is located in the contact belt between pyroxene diorites and Ordovician limestone xenoliths. The zircon U-Pb age of pyroxene diorites is 138.4 ± 1.2 Ma belonging to the Early Cretaceous. Pyroxene diorites (Rittmann index σ = 2.2~2.5) belong to the calc-alkaline series and the SiO2 content is 55~59%. Furthermore, pyroxene diorites are characterized by high Mg and Na contents and high contents of Sc, Cr, Co, and Ni, indicating that it has a geochemical affinity with mantle-derived magma. All of the samples are enriched in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and depleted in heavy rare earth elements (HREEs), with a weak Eu-negative anomaly. They are also enriched in Cs, Ba and Sr and depleted in high field strength elements (HFSEs) (Nb, Ta, Zr), indicating the involvement of some crustal materials. The whole-rock (87Sr/86Sr)I values are 0.70824~0.70891, and the εNd(t) values are from −8.1 to −12.5. Two-stage model ages of TDM2 are 1591~1928 Ma. The εHf(t) values range from −7.0 to −17.4, and the two-stage model ages of TDM2 range from 1629 to 2297 Ma, indicating that the magma was derived from Mesoproterozoic to Neoarchean crusts. Combined with Pb isotopic characteristics, pyroxene diorites may be generated by the partial melting of the enriched lithospheric mantle, which had been metasomatized by the ancient lower crust materials of the North China Craton and formed in the strong extensional tectonic setting linked with lithospheric thinning, which may be caused by the rollback of the Pacific plate after subduction.
Effect of Temperature on the Charge Transport Behavior of Epoxy/Nano−SiO2/Micro−BN Composite
Authors: Tian Fuqiang , Cao Jinmei , Zhang Shuting
Published: May 2022

Thermally conductive epoxy resin composites are widely used as electrical equipment insulation and package materials to enhance heat dissipation. It is important to explore the dielectric properties of the composites at high temperatures for the safe operation of the equipment. This paper investigated the charge transport behavior of an epoxy/nano−SiO2/micro−BN composite at varied temperatures by combined analysis of the TSDC (thermally stimulated current), conduction current, complex permittivity and space charge distribution between 40 and 200 °C. The results show that ionic space charge accumulation was significantly suppressed in the composite at high temperatures. The conduction current increased gradually with temperature and manifested a remarkable shift from electron charge transport to ion charge transport near the glass transition temperature (Tg). The real and imaginary permittivity showed an enormous increase above Tg for both the epoxy resin and the composite. The conduction current and permittivity of the composite were remarkably reduced in comparison to the epoxy resin. Therefore, the ionic process dominated the high temperature dielectric properties of the epoxy resin and the composite. The nano–micro fillers in the composite can significantly inhibit ion transport and accumulation, which can significantly enhance the dielectric properties of epoxy resin. Thus, the nano–micro composite has a strong potential application as a package material and insulation material for electronic devices and electrical equipment operated at high temperatures.
Experimental Testing of the Action of Vitamin D and Silicon Chelates in Bone Fracture Healing and Bone Turnover in Mice and Rats
Authors: Bychkov Aleksey , Koptev Vyacheslav , Zaharova Varvara , Reshetnikova Polina , Trofimova Elena , Bychkova Elena , Podgorbunskikh Ekaterina , Lomovsky Oleg
Published: May 2022

This study presents findings on the biological action of an integrated supplement containing the following components involved in osteogenesis and mineralization: vitamin D and silicon in the bioavailable and soluble form. A hypothesis that these components potentiate one another’s action and make calcium absorption by the body more efficient was tested. Biological tests of the effect of vitamin D and silicon chelates on bone fracture healing and bone turnover were conducted using ICR mice and albino Wistar rats. Radiographic and biochemical studies show that the supplement simultaneously containing silicon chelates and vitamin D stimulates bone tissue regeneration upon mechanical defects and accelerates differentiation of osteogenic cells, regeneration of spongy and compact bones, and restoration of bone structure due to activation of osteoblast performance. Bone structure restoration was accompanied by less damage to skeletal bones, apparently due to better absorption of calcium from food. The studied supplement has a similar effect when used to manage physiologically induced decalcification, thus holding potential for the treatment of osteomalacia during pregnancy or occupational diseases (e.g., for managing bone decalcification in astronauts).
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Vitamin B12 Deficiency among Pregnant Women in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Sobowale Odunayo Ifeoluwa , Khan Moududur Rahman , Roy Anjan Kumar , Raqib Rubhana , Ahmed Faruk
Published: May 2022

Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications and adverse birth outcomes. However, data on vitamin B12 deficiency in pregnant Bangladeshi women are limited. This study examines vitamin B12 deficiency and marginal deficiency in rural Bangladeshi women during early and late pregnancies. Some 522 women whose gestational age was <20 weeks were recruited. Serum vitamin B12 concentrations were measured at baseline and after 14 weeks of iron-folate supplementation. Logistic regression analysis examined the association of various socio-demographic, dietary, and pregnancy-related factors with vitamin B12 deficiency and marginal deficiency. Overall, 19% of the women during early pregnancy had vitamin B12 deficiency (serum vitamin B12 concentration < 203 pg/mL) and nearly 40% had marginal deficiency (serum vitamin B12 concentration 203 to <300 pg/mL). Vitamin B12 deficiency doubled to 38% during late pregnancy, while marginal deficiency slightly increased to 41.7%. The pregnant women with a gestational age of ≥27 weeks had a higher risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency (OR = 2.61; 95% CI = 1.096–6.214) than those of a gestational age of <27 weeks. Vitamin B12 deficiency was significantly higher in pregnant women in rented accommodation (OR = 13.32; 95% CI = 1.55–114.25) than in those living in their own house. Vitamin B12 deficiency was significantly higher among women who consumed red or organ meat <3 times a week than in those who consumed it more often (OR = 2.327, 95% CI = 1.194–4.536). None of these factors were significantly associated with marginal vitamin B12 deficiency. In conclusion, vitamin B12 deficiency and marginal deficiency among pregnant rural Bangladeshi women increased as their pregnancies progressed. Increasing gestational age, living in a rented house, and the consumption of red or organ meat <3 times a week were identified as the independent risk factors of vitamin B12 deficiency in this population. Further research with more in-depth assessments of dietary vitamin B12 intakes is needed to develop an intervention program preventing vitamin B12 deficiency in this population.
Children’s Community Nutrition Environment, Food and Drink Purchases and Consumption on Journeys between Home and School: A Wearable Camera Study
Authors: McKerchar Christina , Gage Ryan , Smith Moira , Lacey Cameron , Abel Gillian , Ni Mhurchu Cliona , Signal Louise
Published: May 2022

Children’s community nutrition environments are an important contributor to childhood obesity rates worldwide. This study aimed to measure the type of food outlets on children’s journeys to or from school, children’s food purchasing and consumption, and to determine differences by ethnicity and socioeconomic status. In this New Zealand study, we analysed photographic images of the journey to or from school from a sample of 147 children aged 11–13 years who wore an Autographer camera which recorded images every 7 s. A total of 444 journeys to or from school were included in the analysis. Camera images captured food outlets in 48% of journeys that had a component of active travel and 20% of journeys by vehicle. Children who used active travel modes had greater odds of exposure to unhealthy food outlets than children who used motorised modes; odds ratio 4.2 (95% CI 1.2–14.4). There were 82 instances of food purchases recorded, 84.1% of which were for discretionary foods. Of the 73 food and drink consumption occasions, 94.5% were for discretionary food or drink. Children on their journeys to or from school are frequently exposed to unhealthy food outlets. Policy interventions are recommended to limit the availability of unhealthy food outlets on school routes.
Obese Women Have a High Carbohydrate Intake without Changes in the Resting Metabolic Rate in the Luteal Phase
Authors: Maury-Sintjago Eduard , Rodríguez-Fernández Alejandra , Parra-Flores Julio , Ruíz-De la Fuente Marcela
Published: May 2022

Hormonal changes are caused by the menstrual cycle phases, which influence resting metabolic rate and eating behavior. The aim of the study was to determine resting metabolic rate (RMR) and its association with dietary intake according to the menstrual cycle phase in lean and obese Chilean women. This cross-sectional analytical study included 30 adult women (15 lean and 15 with obesity). Body composition was measured with a tetrapolar bioelectrical impedance meter. Nutritional status was determined by adiposity. A 24-h recall of three nonconsecutive days verifies dietary intake. The RMR was measured by indirect calorimetry. All measurements were performed in both the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Statistical analyses were performed with STATA software at a significance level, which was α = 0.05. The RMR (β = 121.6 kcal/d), temperature (β = 0.36 °C), calorie intake (β = 317.1 kcal/d), and intake of lipids (β = 13.8 g/d) were associated with the luteal phase in lean women. Only extracellular water (β = 1.11%) and carbohydrate consumption (β = 45.2 g/d) were associated in women with obesity. Lean women showed increased RMR, caloric intake, and lipid intake during the luteal phase. For women with obesity, carbohydrate intake increased but not RMR.
Principles for Evidence-Based and Sustainable Food System Innovations for Healthier Diets
Authors: Ferraboschi Chiara , Monroy-Gomez Jimena , Gavin-Smith Breda , Beesabathuni Kalpana , Tshering Puja , Lingala Srujith , Bainsla Neha , Amanquah Daniel , Kumari Priyanka , van Zutphen Kesso Gabrielle , Kraemer Klaus
Published: May 2022

Climate change, rapid urbanization, war, and economic recession are key drivers of the current food systems’ disruption, which has been exacerbated by the COVID pandemic. Local, regional, and global food systems are unable to provide consumers with nutritious and affordable diets. Suboptimal diets exacerbate the triple burden of malnutrition, with micronutrient deficiencies affecting more than two billion people, two billion people suffering from overweight, and more than 140 million children who are stunted. The unaffordability of nutritious diets represents an obstacle for many, especially in low- and middle-income countries where healthy diets are five times more expensive than starchy staple diets. Food system transformations are urgently required to provide consumers with more affordable and nutritious diets that are capable of meeting social and environmental challenges. In this review, we underline the critical role of innovation within the food system transformation discourse. We aim to define principles for implementing evidence-based and long-term food system innovations that are economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable and, above all, aimed at improving diets and public health. We begin by defining and describing the role of innovation in the transformation of food systems and uncover the major barriers to implementing these innovations. Lastly, we explore case studies that demonstrate successful innovations for healthier diets.
Postnatal Choline Supplementation Rescues Deficits in Synaptic Plasticity Following Prenatal Ethanol Exposure
Authors: Grafe Erin L. , Wade Mira M. M. , Hodson Claire E. , Thomas Jennifer D. , Christie Brian R.
Published: May 2022

Prenatal ethanol exposure (PNEE) is a leading cause of neurodevelopmental impairments, yet treatments for individuals with PNEE are limited. Importantly, postnatal supplementation with the essential nutrient choline can attenuate some adverse effects of PNEE on cognitive development; however, the mechanisms of action for choline supplementation remain unclear. This study used an animal model to determine if choline supplementation could restore hippocampal synaptic plasticity that is normally impaired by prenatal alcohol. Throughout gestation, pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were fed an ethanol liquid diet (35.5% ethanol-derived calories). Offspring were injected with choline chloride (100 mg/kg/day) from postnatal days (PD) 10–30, and then used for in vitro electrophysiology experiments as juveniles (PD 31–35). High-frequency conditioning stimuli were used to induce long-term potentiation (LTP) in the medial perforant path input to the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. PNEE altered synaptic transmission in female offspring by increasing excitability, an effect that was mitigated with choline supplementation. In contrast, PNEE juvenile males had decreased LTP compared to controls, and this was rescued by choline supplementation. These data demonstrate sex-specific changes in plasticity following PNEE, and provide evidence that choline-related improvements in cognitive functioning may be due to its positive impact on hippocampal synaptic physiology.
Facilitators and Barriers to Implementation of a Childhood Tuberculosis Control Program in Bangladesh: A Mixed-Methods Study from BRAC Urban DOTS Centres in Dhaka
Authors: Pantha Sandesh , Aguinaldo Ma. Jennylyn , Hasan-ul-Bari S. M. , Chowdhury Sayantan , Dendup Ugyen , Gupta Rajat Das , Sutradhar Ipsita , Bari Rahamatul , Sarker Malabika
Published: May 2022

The case detection rate of childhood tuberculosis in Bangladesh is 4%, far below the World Health Organization predicted rate of 10–15% for a country with a high burden of tuberculosis. A concurrent triangulation mixed-methods study was carried out in eight urban DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course) centres to investigate the factors contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of childhood tuberculosis. Front-line health care workers (Shasthya Shebika) (n = 111) were surveyed to understand knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of the diagnosis and treatment of childhood tuberculosis. In-depth interviews were conducted with field workers (n = 32) and mothers of TB cases (n = 4). Stakeholders involved in implementing the tuberculosis program (n = 9) participated in the key informant interviews. Knowledge of Shasthya Shebika was associated with the components addressed during refresher training (p = 0.02). Government stewardship, presence of specific guidelines, knowledge and capacity building of front-line health workers were identified as the key facilitators. Frequent turnover of key managerial positions in the government, stigma, delays in seeking care, lack of diagnostic facilities, and poor engagement of private practitioners were identified as major constraints. It was identified that the government should focus on improving diagnostic capacities, conduct research on childhood tuberculosis, and produce awareness materials.
RAPD-PCR-Based Fingerprinting Method as a Tool for Epidemiological Analysis of Trueperella pyogenes Infections
Authors: Stefańska Ilona , Kwiecień Ewelina , Górzyńska Małgorzata , Sałamaszyńska-Guz Agnieszka , Rzewuska Magdalena
Published: May 2022

In this study, a Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RAPD-PCR) method for genetic typing of Trueperella pyogenes, an opportunistic bacterial pathogen, was designed. The method optimization was performed for 37 clinical T. pyogenes strains isolated from various infections in different animal species. Optimal conditions for reliable and reproducible DNA fingerprinting were determined according to the modified Taguchi method. The developed method was assessed regarding its typeability, reproducibility, and discriminatory power using the Hunter’s and Gatsons’ index of discrimination. A high degree of genetic diversity was shown between the studied strains, which represented 31 genotypes. The generated RAPD profiles were relatively complex and simultaneously easy to interpret due to the wide size range of amplicons. The discriminatory index of the designed method was sufficiently high; thus, only strains epidemiologically related displayed identical RAPD genotypes. In conclusion, the DNA fingerprinting of T. pyogenes by the developed RAPD-PCR method is a reliable typing tool that may allow a better understanding of the epidemiology as well as pathogenesis of infections caused by this pathogen.
Heterogeneity and Risk of Bias in Studies Examining Risk Factors for Severe Illness and Death in COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Degarege Abraham , Naveed Zaeema , Kabayundo Josiane , Brett-Major David
Published: May 2022

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized the evidence on the impacts of demographics and comorbidities on the clinical outcomes of COVID-19, as well as the sources of the heterogeneity and publication bias of the relevant studies. Two authors independently searched the literature from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and CINAHL on 18 May 2021; removed duplicates; screened the titles, abstracts, and full texts by using criteria; and extracted data from the eligible articles. The variations among the studies were examined by using Cochrane, Q.; I2, and meta-regression. Out of 11,975 articles that were obtained from the databases and screened, 559 studies were abstracted, and then, where appropriate, were analyzed by meta-analysis (n = 542). COVID-19-related severe illness, admission to the ICU, and death were significantly correlated with comorbidities, male sex, and an age older than 60 or 65 years, although high heterogeneity was present in the pooled estimates. The study design, the study country, the sample size, and the year of publication contributed to this. There was publication bias among the studies that compared the odds of COVID-19-related deaths, severe illness, and admission to the ICU on the basis of the comorbidity status. While an older age and chronic diseases were shown to increase the risk of developing severe illness, admission to the ICU, and death among the COVID-19 patients in our analysis, a marked heterogeneity was present when linking the specific risks with the outcomes.
Detection of Tick-Borne Bacterial and Protozoan Pathogens in Ticks from the Zambia–Angola Border
Authors: Qiu Yongjin , Simuunza Martin , Kajihara Masahiro , Ndebe Joseph , Saasa Ngonda , Kapila Penjani , Furumoto Hayato , Lau Alice C. C. , Nakao Ryo , Takada Ayato , Sawa Hirofumi
Published: May 2022

Tick-borne diseases (TBDs), including emerging and re-emerging zoonoses, are of public health importance worldwide; however, TBDs tend to be overlooked, especially in countries with fewer resources, such as Zambia and Angola. Here, we investigated Rickettsia, Anaplasmataceae, and Apicomplexan pathogens in 59 and 96 adult ticks collected from dogs and cattle, respectively, in Shangombo, a town at the Zambia–Angola border. We detected Richkettsia africae and Rickettsia aeschilimannii in 15.6% of Amblyomma variegatum and 41.7% of Hyalomma truncatum ticks, respectively. Ehrlichia minasensis was detected in 18.8% of H. truncatum, and Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii was determined in Hyalomma marginatum. We also detected Babesia caballi and Theileria velifera in A. variegatum ticks with a 4.4% and 6.7% prevalence, respectively. In addition, Hepatozoon canis was detected in 6.5% of Rhipicephalus lunulatus and 4.3% of Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Coinfection of R. aeshilimannii and E. minasensis were observed in 4.2% of H. truncatum. This is the first report of Ca. M. mitochondrii and E. minasensis, and the second report of B. caballi, in the country. Rickettsia africae and R. aeschlimannii are pathogenic to humans, and E. minasensis, B. caballi, T. velifera, and H. canis are pathogenic to animals. Therefore, individuals, clinicians, veterinarians, and pet owners should be aware of the distribution of these pathogens in the area.
Assessment of the Ageing and Durability of Polymers
Authors: Frigione Mariaenrica
Published: May 2022

As any other natural or industrial material, polymers can experience some kind of degradation during their service life, resulting in minor to severe changes in their properties [...]
Analysis of Food Storage Stability of Biodegradable Containers Made of Pork Skin Gelatin Polymer with Walnut Shell Powder
Authors: Jeong Chang-Hwan , Lee Sol-Hee , Kim Hack-Youn
Published: May 2022

This study analyzes the food storage stability of biodegradable containers made of pork skin gelatin polymer. Packaging materials were prepared with different proportions of walnut shell powder, including 10% (W10), 20% (W20), and polyethylene packaging (PE) as a control. To analyze storage stability, parameters such as pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), volatile basic nitrogen (VBN), microbial population, and color were measured. The pH, yeast and mold, redness, and yellowness of W10 and W20 had no significant difference compared to those of PE in all storage periods (p > 0.05). The TBARS of W20 was shown to slowly increase compared to W10. The VBN concentration of W10 and W20 were significantly higher than that of PE in the first and second weeks, but there was no significant difference in the third week (p < 0.05). The total bacterial counts of W10 and W20 were significantly higher than that of PE during the first week (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference thereafter (p > 0.05). The lightness values of W10 and W20 were significantly lower than that of PE in the second and third weeks (p < 0.05). These results indicated that biodegradable containers containing up to 20% walnut shell powder can substitute plastic packaging materials.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Matrix Self-Heating on the Thermo-Visco-Plastic Response of Continuous Fiber-Reinforced Polymers under Transverse Tensile Loading
Authors: Sevenois Ruben D. B. , Hao Pei , Van Paepegem Wim , Gilabert Francisco A.
Published: May 2022

The recyclability and improved suitability for high-volume production make fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polymers (FRP) attractive alternatives for the current thermoset-based ones. However, while they are more ductile than their thermoset counterparts, their behavior is also more susceptible to environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature, and strain rate. The latter can trigger self-heating and thermal softening effects. The role of matrix self-heating in FRP subjected to transverse loading is investigated using micromechanical modeling. Particularly, the effect of self-heating, strain rate and conductivity of the fiber-matrix interface is illustrated. It is shown that local heating of the matrix is dominant for the homogenized behavior of the material. Although the global homogenized temperature increase is limited, local thermal softening can induce premature failure. It is shown that the effect of thermal softening can be more prominent with increasing volume fraction, increasing strain rate, and lower interface conductivity.
New Potentiometric Screen-Printed Platforms Modified with Reduced Graphene Oxide and Based on Man-Made Imprinted Receptors for Caffeine Assessment
Authors: Abd-Rabboh Hisham S. M. , E. Amr Abdel El-Galil , Almehizia Abdulrahman A. , Naglah Ahmed M. , H. Kamel Ayman
Published: May 2022

Caffeine is a psychoactive drug that is administered as a class II psychotropic substance. It is also considered a component of analgesics and cold medicines. Excessive intake of caffeine may lead to severe health damage or drug addiction problems. The assessment of normal caffeine consumption from abusive use is not conclusive, and the cut-off value for biological samples has not been established. Herein, new cost-effective and robust all-solid-state platforms based on potentiometric transduction were fabricated and successfully utilized for caffeine assessment. The platforms were modified with reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Tailored caffeine-imprinted polymeric beads (MIPs) based on methacrylic acid (MAA) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) were prepared, characterized, and used as recognition receptors in the presented potentiometric sensing devices. In 50 mM MES buffer, the sensors exhibited a slope response of 51.2 ± 0.9 mV/decade (n = 6, R2 = 0.997) over the linear range of 4.5 × 10−6–1.0 × 10−3 M with a detection limit of 3.0 × 10−6 M. They exhibited fast detection of caffeinium ions with less than 5 s response time (<5 s). The behavior of the presented sensors towards caffeinium ions over many common organic and inorganic cations was evaluated using the modified separate solution method (MSSM). Inter-day and intra-day precision for the presented analytical device was also evaluated. Successful applications of the presented caffeine sensors for caffeine determination in commercial tea and coffee and different pharmaceutical formulations were carried out. The data obtained were compared with those obtained by the standard liquid chromatographic approach. The presented analytical device can be considered an attractive tool for caffeine determination because of its affordability and vast availability, particularly when combined with potentiometric detection.
Dual-Polarization Radar-Based Quantitative Precipitation Estimation of Mountain Terrain Using Multi-Disdrometer Data
Authors: You Cheol-Hwan , Suh Sung-Ho , Jung Woonseon , Kim Hyeon-Joon , Lee Dong-In
Published: May 2022

The precipitation systems that pass over mountains develop rapidly due to the forcible ascent caused by the topography, and spatial rainfall distribution differences occur due to the local development of the system because of the topography. In order to reduce the damage caused by orographic rainfall, it is essential to provide rainfall field data with high spatial rainfall accuracy. In this study, the rainfall estimation relationship was calculated using drop size distribution data obtained from 10 Parsivel disdrometers that were installed along the long axis of Mt. Halla (oriented west–east; height: 1950 m; width: 78 km; length: 35 km) on Jeju Island, South Korea. An ensemble rainfall estimation relationship was obtained using the HSA (harmony search algorithm). Through the linear combination of the rainfall estimation relationships determined by the HSA, the weight values of each relationship for each rainfall intensity were optimized. The relationships considering KDP, such as R(KDP) and R(ZDR, KDP), had higher weight values at rain rates that were more than 10 mm h−1. Otherwise, the R(ZH) and R(ZH, ZDR) weights, not considering KDP, were predominant at rain rates weaker than 5 mm h−1. The ensemble rainfall estimation method was more accurate than the rainfall that was estimated through an independent relationship. To generate the rain field that reflected the differences in the rainfall distribution according to terrain altitude and location, the spatial correction value was calculated by comparing the rainfall obtained from the dual-polarization radar and AWS observations. The distribution of Mt. Halla’s rainfall correction values showed a sharp difference according to the changes in the topographical elevation. As a result, it was possible to calculate the optimal rain field for the orographic rainfall through the ensemble of rainfall relationships and the spatial rainfall correction process. Using the proposed methodology, it is possible to create a rain field that reflects the regional developmental characteristics of precipitation.
Electrochemical L-Tyrosine Sensor Based on a Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with Exfoliated Graphene
Authors: Varodi Codruţa , Pogăcean Florina , Coroş Maria , Ciorîță Alexandra , Pruneanu Stela
Published: May 2022

In this study, a graphene sample (EGr) was synthesized by electrochemical exfoliation of graphite rods in electrolyte solution containing 0.1 M ammonia and 0.1 M ammonium thiocyanate. The morphology of the powder deposited onto a solid substrate was investigated by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique. The SEM micrographs evidenced large and smooth areas corresponding to the basal plane of graphene as well as white lines (edges) where graphene layers fold-up. The high porosity of the material brings a major advantage, such as the increase of the active area of the modified electrode (EGr/GC) in comparison with that of bare glassy carbon (GC). The graphene modified electrode was successfully tested for L-tyrosine detection and the results were compared with those of bare GC. For EGr/GC, the oxidation peak of L-tyrosine had high intensity (1.69 × 10−5 A) and appeared at lower potential (+0.64 V) comparing with that of bare GC (+0.84 V). In addition, the graphene-modified electrode had a considerably larger sensitivity (0.0124 A/M) and lower detection limit (1.81 × 10−6 M), proving the advantages of employing graphene in electrochemical sensing.
A New Intrusion Detection System for the Internet of Things via Deep Convolutional Neural Network and Feature Engineering
Authors: Ullah Safi , Ahmad Jawad , Khan Muazzam A. , Alkhammash Eman H. , Hadjouni Myriam , Ghadi Yazeed Yasin , Saeed Faisal , Pitropakis Nikolaos
Published: May 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a widely used technology in automated network systems across the world. The impact of the IoT on different industries has occurred in recent years. Many IoT nodes collect, store, and process personal data, which is an ideal target for attackers. Several researchers have worked on this problem and have presented many intrusion detection systems (IDSs). The existing system has difficulties in improving performance and identifying subcategories of cyberattacks. This paper proposes a deep-convolutional-neural-network (DCNN)-based IDS. A DCNN consists of two convolutional layers and three fully connected dense layers. The proposed model aims to improve performance and reduce computational power. Experiments were conducted utilizing the IoTID20 dataset. The performance analysis of the proposed model was carried out with several metrics, such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. A number of optimization techniques were applied to the proposed model in which Adam, AdaMax, and Nadam performance was optimum. In addition, the proposed model was compared with various advanced deep learning (DL) and traditional machine learning (ML) techniques. All experimental analysis indicates that the accuracy of the proposed approach is high and more robust than existing DL-based algorithms.
Design and Characterization of an RF Applicator for In Vitro Tests of Electromagnetic Hyperthermia
Authors: Ferrero Riccardo , Androulakis Ioannis , Martino Luca , Nadar Robin , van Rhoon Gerard C. , Manzin Alessandra
Published: May 2022

The evaluation of the biological effects of therapeutic hyperthermia in oncology and the precise quantification of thermal dose, when heating is coupled with radiotherapy or chemotherapy, are active fields of research. The reliable measurement of hyperthermia effects on cells and tissues requires a strong control of the delivered power and of the induced temperature rise. To this aim, we have developed a radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic applicator operating at 434 MHz, specifically engineered for in vitro tests on 3D cell cultures. The applicator has been designed with the aid of an extensive modelling analysis, which combines electromagnetic and thermal simulations. The heating performance of the built prototype has been validated by means of temperature measurements carried out on tissue-mimicking phantoms and aimed at monitoring both spatial and temporal temperature variations. The experimental results demonstrate the capability of the RF applicator to produce a well-focused heating, with the possibility of modulating the duration of the heating transient and controlling the temperature rise in a specific target region, by simply tuning the effectively supplied power.
Image Sensing and Processing with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Coleman Sonya , Kerr Dermot , Zhang Yunzhou
Published: May 2022

Convolutional neural networks are a class of deep neural networks that leverage spatial information, and they are therefore well suited to classifying images for a range of applications [...]
What Actually Works for Activity Recognition in Scenarios with Significant Domain Shift: Lessons Learned from the 2019 and 2020 Sussex-Huawei Challenges
Authors: Kalabakov Stefan , Stankoski Simon , Kiprijanovska Ivana , Andova Andrejaana , Reščič Nina , Janko Vito , Gjoreski Martin , Gams Matjaž , Luštrek Mitja
Published: May 2022

From 2018 to 2021, the Sussex-Huawei Locomotion-Transportation Recognition Challenge presented different scenarios in which participants were tasked with recognizing eight different modes of locomotion and transportation using sensor data from smartphones. In 2019, the main challenge was using sensor data from one location to recognize activities with sensors in another location, while in the following year, the main challenge was using the sensor data of one person to recognize the activities of other persons. We use these two challenge scenarios as a framework in which to analyze the effectiveness of different components of a machine-learning pipeline for activity recognition. We show that: (i) selecting an appropriate (location-specific) portion of the available data for training can improve the F1 score by up to 10 percentage points (p. p.) compared to a more naive approach, (ii) separate models for human locomotion and for transportation in vehicles can yield an increase of roughly 1 p. p., (iii) using semi-supervised learning can, again, yield an increase of roughly 1 p. p., and (iv) temporal smoothing of predictions with Hidden Markov models, when applicable, can bring an improvement of almost 10 p. p. Our experiments also indicate that the usefulness of advanced feature selection techniques and clustering to create person-specific models is inconclusive and should be explored separately in each use-case.