bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Votucalis, a Novel Centrally Sparing Histamine-Binding Protein, Attenuates Histaminergic Itch and Neuropathic Pain in Mice
Authors: Alrashdi Ibrahim , Alsubaiyel Amal , Chan Michele , Battell Emma E. , Ennaceur Abdel , Nunn Miles A. , Weston-Davies Wayne , Chazot Paul L. , Obara Ilona
Published: March 2022

Votucalis is a biologically active protein in tick (R. appendiculatus) saliva, which specifically binds histamine with high affinity and, therefore, has the potential to inhibit the host’s immunological responses at the feeding site. We hypothesized that scavenging of peripherally released endogenous histamine by Votucalis results in both anti-itch and anti-nociceptive effects. To test this hypothesis, adult male mice were subjected to histaminergic itch, as well as peripheral nerve injury that resulted in neuropathic pain. Thus, we selected models where peripherally released histamine was shown to be a key regulator. In these models, the animals received systemic (intraperitoneal, i.p.) or peripheral transdermal (subcutaneous, s.c. or intraplantar, i.pl.) administrations of Votucalis and itch behavior, as well as mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, were evaluated. Selective histamine receptor antagonists were used to determine the involvement of histamine receptors in the effects produced by Votucalis. We also used the spontaneous object recognition test to confirm the centrally sparing properties of Votucalis. Our main finding shows that in histamine-dependent itch and neuropathic pain models peripheral (s.c. or i.pl.) administration of Votucalis displayed a longer duration of action for a lower dose range, when compared with Votucalis systemic (i.p.) effects. Stronger anti-itch effect was observed after co-administration of Votucalis (s.c.) and antagonists that inhibited peripheral histamine H1 and H2 receptors as well as central histamine H4 receptors indicating the importance of these histamine receptors in itch. In neuropathic mice, Votucalis produced a potent and complete anti-nociceptive effect on mechanical hypersensitivity, while thermal (heat) hypersensitivity was largely unaffected. Overall, our findings further emphasize the key role for histamine in the regulation of histaminergic itch and chronic neuropathic pain. Given the effectiveness of Votucalis after peripheral transdermal administration, with a lack of central effects, we provide here the first evidence that scavenging of peripherally released histamine by Votucalis may represent a novel therapeutically effective and safe long-term strategy for the management of these refractory health conditions.
Cell Surface Transporters and Novel Drug Developments
Authors: Carmichael Natasha , Day Philip J. R.
Published: March 2022

Despite the numerous scientific and technological advances made within the last decade the attrition rates for new drug discovery remain as high as 95% for anticancer drugs. Recent drug development has been in part guided by Lipinski’s Rule of 5 (Ro5) even though many approved drugs do not comply to these rules. With Covid-19 vaccine development strategy dramatically accelerating drug development perhaps it is timely to question the generic drug development process itself to find a more efficient, cost effective, and successful approach. It is widely believed that drugs permeate cells via two methods: phospholipid bilayer diffusion and carrier mediated transporters. However, emerging evidence suggests that carrier mediated transport may be the primary mechanism of drug uptake and not diffusion as long believed. Computational biology increasingly assists drug design to achieve desirable absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination and toxicity (ADMET) properties. Perfecting drug entry into target cells as a prerequisite to intracellular drug action is a logical and compelling route and is expected to reduce drug attrition rates, particularly gaining favour amongst chronic lifelong therapeutics. Novel drug development is rapidly expanding from the utilisation of beyond the rule of five (bRo5) to pulsatile drug delivery systems and fragment based drug design. Utilising transporters as drug targets and advocating bRo5 molecules may be the solution to increasing drug specificity, reducing dosage and toxicity and thus revolutionising drug development. This review explores the development of cell surface transporter exploitation in drug development and the relationship with improved therapeutic index.
Usefulness of Portable Device to Establish Differences in Muscle Oxygenation Between the Wingate Test and Graded Exercise Test: Effect of Gender on Anaerobic and Aerobic Capacity in Speed Skaters
Authors: Rębiś Kinga , Sadowska Dorota , Starczewski Michal , Klusiewicz Andrzej
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to compare the oxygenation response in the vastus lateralis muscle (SmO2) in two types of tests: supramaximal and maximal. Furthermore, gender differences in SmO2 response to test exercise were assessed and the usefulness of muscle oxygenation measurements in the assessment of anaerobic and aerobic capacity was determined. The Wingate test (WAnT) and the graded exercise test (GXT) to exhaustion were performed on a cycle ergometer to examine 13 female and 14 male speed skaters from the junior and U23 national teams. During both tests, SmO2 of the vastus lateralis muscle was recorded by near-infrared spectroscopy at baseline (at rest or post warm-up), at exercise, and during recovery. The most significant SmO2 indices (differences between baseline and post-exercise indices and half time for SmO2 to reach the maximal post-exercise value) were not significantly different between the tests. Gender was also not a differentiating factor in muscle oxygenation regardless of test type. In the GXT test, half time required for SmO2 to reach the maximal value correlated negatively with VO2max and test duration, thus confirming the usefulness of SmO2 measurements in the assessment of the aerobic capacity of speed skaters. In contrast, the WAnT test showed no significant correlations between exercise indices and muscle oxygenation indices. From the standpoint of the assessment of anaerobic capacity, SmO2 measurements showed little diagnostic value.
Human Multi-Compartment Airways-on-Chip Platform for Emulating Respiratory Airborne Transmission: From Nose to Pulmonary Acini
Authors: Nof Eliram , Zidan Hikaia , Artzy-Schnirman Arbel , Mouhadeb Odelia , Beckerman Margarita , Bhardwaj Saurabh , Elias-Kirma Shani , Gur Didi , Beth-Din Adi , Levenberg Shulamit , Korin Netanel , Ordentlich Arie , Sznitman Josué
Published: March 2022

The past decade has witnessed tremendous endeavors to deliver novel preclinical in vitro lung models for pulmonary research endpoints, including foremost with the advent of organ- and lung-on-chips. With growing interest in aerosol transmission and infection of respiratory viruses within a host, most notably the SARS-CoV-2 virus amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of crosstalk between the different lung regions (i.e., extra-thoracic, conductive and respiratory), with distinct cellular makeups and physiology, are acknowledged to play an important role in the progression of the disease from the initial onset of infection. In the present Methods article, we designed and fabricated to the best of our knowledge the first multi-compartment human airway-on-chip platform to serve as a preclinical in vitro benchmark underlining regional lung crosstalk for viral infection pathways. Combining microfabrication and 3D printing techniques, our platform mimics key elements of the respiratory system spanning (i) nasal passages that serve as the alleged origin of infections, (ii) the mid-bronchial airway region and (iii) the deep acinar region, distinct with alveolated airways. Crosstalk between the three components was exemplified in various assays. First, viral-load (including SARS-CoV-2) injected into the apical partition of the nasal compartment was detected in distal bronchial and acinar components upon applying physiological airflow across the connected compartment models. Secondly, nebulized viral-like dsRNA, poly I:C aerosols were administered to the nasal apical compartment, transmitted to downstream compartments via respiratory airflows and leading to an elevation in inflammatory cytokine levels secreted by distinct epithelial cells in each respective compartment. Overall, our assays establish an in vitro methodology that supports the hypothesis for viral-laden airflow mediated transmission through the respiratory system cellular landscape. With a keen eye for broader end user applications, we share detailed methodologies for fabricating, assembling, calibrating, and using our multi-compartment platform, including open-source fabrication files. Our platform serves as an early proof-of-concept that can be readily designed and adapted to specific preclinical pulmonary research endpoints.
The Effect of Topo-Climate Variation on the Secondary Metabolism of Berries in White Grapevine Varieties (Vitis vinifera)
Authors: Gashu Kelem , Song Chao , Dubey Arvind Kumar , Acuña Tania , Sagi Moshe , Agam Nurit , Bustan Amnon , Fait Aaron
Published: March 2022

Exploiting consistent differences in radiation and average air temperature between two experimental vineyards (Ramat Negev, RN and Mitzpe Ramon, MR), we examined the impact of climate variations on total carotenoids, redox status, and phenylpropanoid metabolism in the berries of 10 white wine grapevine (Vitis vinifera) cultivars across three consecutive seasons (2017–2019). The differences in carotenoid and phenylpropanoid contents between sites were seasonal and varietal dependent. However, the warmer RN site was generally associated with higher H2O2levels and carotenoid degradation, and lower flavonol contents than the cooler MR site. Enhanced carotenoid degradation was positively correlated with radiation and daily degree days, leading to a greater drop in content from véraison to harvest in Colombard, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon berries. Analyses of berry H2O2and phenylpropanoids suggested differences between cultivars in the links between H2O2and flavonol contents. Generally, however, grapes with higher H2O2content seem to have lower flavonol contents. Correlative network analyses revealed that phenylpropanoids at the warmer RN site are tightly linked to the radiation and temperature regimes during fruit ripening, indicating potentially harmful effect of warmer climates on berry quality. Specifically, flavan-3-ols were negatively correlated with radiation at RN. Principal component analysis showed that Muscat Blanc, Riesling, Semillon, and Sauvignon Blanc were the most site sensitive cultivars. Our results suggest that grapevine biodiversity is likely the key to withstand global warming hazards.
Loss of OsEAF6, a Subunit of the Histone Acetyltransferase Complex, Causes Hybrid Breakdown in Intersubspecific Rice Crosses
Authors: Kubo Takahiko , Yoshimura Atsushi , Kurata Nori
Published: March 2022

Gene duplication plays an important role in genetic diversification, adaptive evolution, and speciation. Understanding the mechanisms and effects of postzygotic isolation genes is important for further studies of speciation and crop breeding. The duplicate recessive genes hwe1 and hwe2 cause hybrid breakdown, characterized by poor vegetative growth and reproductive dysgenesis in intersubspecific crosses between Oryza sativa ssp. indica and japonica. Using a map-based cloning strategy, we found that HWE1 and HWE2 encode the Esa1-associated factor 6 (EAF6) protein, a component of histone acetyltransferase complexes. The indica hwe1 and japonica hwe2 alleles lacked functional EAF6, demonstrating that the double recessive homozygote causes hybrid breakdown. Morphological and physiological observations showed that weak plants with double recessive homozygotes had serious morphological defects with a wide range of effects on development and organs, leading to leaves with reduced chlorophyll content, flower and pistil malformation, and anomalies of gametogenesis. These findings suggest that EAF6 plays a pivotal role in the transcriptional regulation of essential genes during the vegetative and reproductive development of rice.
Exploring Factors and Associate Responses for Anxiety in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: A Web-Based Survey in Japan
Authors: Zhuang Jinman , Cai Guoxi , Lu Yixiao , Xu Xinying , Lin Yulan , Wong Li Ping , Hu Zhijian , Yamamoto Taro , Morita Kouichi , Aoyagi Kiyoshi , He Fei
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

Anxiety plays an important role in psychology. An exploration of anxiety and its associated reactions may provide insight into measures for addressing mental health problems caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Data from this study provide potential correlational responses to anxiety.

Methods

A cross-sectional study using data collected via an online self-reported questionnaire was conducted in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6), we assessed anxiety levels and explored the relationship between anxiety STAI-6 score, sources of COVID-19 information, the influences of COVID-19, social anxiety symptoms, discrimination, and evaluation of the government.

Results

A total of 4,127 participants were included in the analysis. The level of anxiety was not equally distributed across the general population with respect to age, gender, educational level, occupation, income, presence of underlying disease, and location (p < 0.05). The number of sources of information on COVID-19 had a positive correlation with the STAI-6 score (Spearman’s rho = 0.176, p < 0.001). The influence of the pandemic was correlated with moderate–severe anxiety. A high level of anxiety added to social anxiety (Spearman’s rho = 0.04, p < 0.05) and discriminatory behavior (Spearman’s rho = 0.11, p < 0.01). Being female (Estimate = 0.926) and from a non-emergency area (Estimate = −0.308) was related to higher STAI scores, and higher education (Estimate = −0.305), and income (Estimate = −0.168) decreased the STAI score. The respondents who had a lower evaluative score of the preventive activities undertaken by the national and local governments had higher STAI-6 scores.

Conclusion

Our findings provide statistical evidence for the associated reaction of anxiety and that anxiety reactions may vary in predictable ways. Further studies should focus on the strategic interventions that may decrease the associated responses to anxiety, to address mental health issues due to the pandemic.
Uncertainty Makes Me Emotional: Uncertainty as an Elicitor and Modulator of Emotional States
Authors: Morriss Jayne , Tupitsa Emma , Dodd Helen F. , Hirsch Colette R.
Published: March 2022

Uncertainty and emotion are an inevitable part of everyday life and play a vital role in mental health. Yet, our understanding of how uncertainty and emotion interact is limited. Here, an online survey was conducted (n = 231) to examine whether uncertainty evokes and modulates a range of negative and positive emotions. The data show that uncertainty is predominantly associated with negative emotional states such as fear/anxiety. However, uncertainty was also found to modulate a variety of other negative (i.e., sadness/upset, anger/frustration, and confusion) and positive (i.e., surprise/interest and excited/enthusiastic) emotional states, depending on the valence of an anticipated outcome (i.e., negative and positive) and the sub parameter of uncertainty (i.e., risk and ambiguity). Uncertainty increased the intensity of negative emotional states and decreased the intensity of positive emotional states. These findings support prior research suggesting that uncertainty is aversive and associated with negative emotional states such as fear and anxiety. However, the findings also revealed that uncertainty is involved in eliciting and modulating a wide array of emotional phenomena beyond fear and anxiety. This study highlights an opportunity for further study of how uncertainty and emotion interactions are conceptualised generally and in relation to mental health.
Psychosocial Experiences of Older Women in the Management of Urinary Incontinence: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Javanmardifard Sorur , Gheibizadeh Mahin , Shirazi Fatemeh , Zarea Kourosh , Ghodsbin Fariba
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent disorder amongst older women. Identifying the psychosocial experiences of older women in disease management can improve the patient care process. Hence, the present study aimed to determine the psychosocial experiences of older women in the management of urinary incontinence.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted using conventional content analysis. The study data were collected via unstructured in-depth face-to-face interviews with 22 older women suffering from urinary incontinence selected via purposive sampling. Sampling and data analysis were done simultaneously and were continued until data saturation. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the method proposed by Graneheim and Lundman.

Results

The results indicated that the older people with urinary incontinence had various psychosocial experiences while living with and managing this disease. Accordingly, four main themes were extracted from the data as follows: “problem incompatibility with the disease,” “mental impasse,” “facing social restrictions,” and “concealment and social escapism.”

Conclusion

The findings demonstrated that older people with urinary incontinence experienced significant psychosocial pressures while living with this disorder, which affected their psychosocial well-being. Thus, paying attention to these psychosocial experiences while supporting and taking care of these patients can positively impact their psychosocial health and quality of life.
Interactive Effects of Agitation and Cognitive Impairment on Odor Identification in Patients With Late-Life Depression
Authors: Zhang Si , Chen Ben , Zhong Xiaomei , Zhang Min , Wang Qiang , Wu Zhangying , Hou Le , Zhou Huarong , Chen Xinru , Liu Meiling , Yang Mingfeng , Lin Gaohong , Hummel Thomas , Ning Yuping
Published: March 2022

Background

Late-life depression (LLD) is a risk factor for cognitive decline in older adults, and odor identification (OI) deficits are an early indicator of cognitive decline with LLD. However, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) are common in LLD and are associated with OI deficits. In subjects with LLD, when OI deficits forecast cognitive decline, whether and how NPS affects the relationship between OI and cognition still must be further explored.

Objective

To comprehensively explore the potential effects of various NPSs on the relationship between OI and cognition in participants with LLD.

Methods

There were 167 patients with LLD and 105 normal elderly (NE) participants. The odor identification test (Sniffin' Sticks), cognitive function assessments (global cognition, memory, executive function, attention, language, visual space), and an NPS assessment (the neuropsychiatric inventory questionnaire) were performed on the subjects. In patients with LLD, the relationship among OI, cognition and NPSs was examined using correlation analysis and moderation analysis.

Results

In patients with LLD, OI was positively correlated with cognition (global cognition, memory, executive function, attention, language) and negatively associated with NPSs (agitation and aberrant motor behavior). In NE group, OI was correlated with executive function. Moderation analysis showed that there was an interactive effect of agitation and cognitive impairment (language deficit or attention deficit) on OI in patients with LLD.

Conclusion

The coexistence of agitation and language or attention deficit was associated with worse OI in subjects with LLD. Agitation should be considered since OI predicts cognitive decline in patients with LLD.
Impact of Parents' Oral Health Literacy on Their Own and Their Children's Oral Health in Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Yu , Inglehart Marita R. , Yuan Chao
Published: March 2022

Background

Oral health literacy (OHL) has been recognized as a component of oral health disparities; however, the precise relationship between literacy and oral health outcomes has not been established. To explore the role of parents' OHL for their own subjective oral health, related behavior, and for the proxy assessment of their child's oral health, oral health-related behavior.

Methods

Survey data were collected from 406 parents of 4- to 7-year-old children in Beijing, China. The background characteristics, oral health assessment, oral health-related behavior, knowledge and attitudes, and diet-related questions of parents and their children were surveyed by a questionnaire. OHL was assessed with the Hong Kong Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry (HKREAL-30) Scale and a revised version that asked the respondents to indicate if they understood the words (HKREALD-30-Understand).

Results

The HKREALD-30 responses correlated with the HKREALD-30-Understand responses. The higher the parents' HKREALD-30-Understand scores, the better they described the health of their own teeth and gums, the greater their child's diet was influenced by the protein, sugar and calories of the food, and the more positive their oral health-related attitudes were. The higher the parent's HKREALD-30 scores, the healthier they described their child's teeth and gums.

Conclusions

Both the HKREALD-30 and HKREALD-30-Understand Scores correlate with parents' self and proxy oral health-related responses. Chinese parents could understand that the word would add predictive value to the prediction of how parents' oral health literacy affects their own oral health care, children's oral health and other related aspects.
Characteristics Associated With Financial or Non-financial Barriers to Healthcare in a Universal Health Insurance System: A Longitudinal Analysis of Korea Health Panel Survey Data
Authors: Chung Woojin
Published: March 2022

While many studies have explored the financial barriers to healthcare, there is little evidence regarding the non-financial barriers to healthcare. This study identified characteristics associated with financial and non-financial barriers to healthcare and quantified the effects of these characteristics in South Korea, using a nationally representative longitudinal survey dataset. Overall, 68,930 observations of 16,535 individuals aged 19 years and above were sampled from Korea Health Panel survey data (2014–2018). From self-reported information about respondents' experiences of unmet healthcare needs, a trichotomous dependent variable—no barrier, non-financial barrier, and financial barrier—was derived. Sociodemographics, physical and health conditions were included as explanatory variables. The average adjusted probability (AAP) of experiencing each barrier was predicted using multivariable and panel multinomial logistic regression analyses. According to the results, the percentage of people experiencing non-financial barriers was much higher than that of people experiencing financial barriers in 2018 (9.6 vs. 2.5%). Women showed higher AAPs of experiencing both non-financial (9.9 vs. 8.3%) and financial barriers (3.6 vs. 2.5%) than men. Men living in the Seoul metropolitan area showed higher AAPs of experiencing non-financial (8.7 vs. 8.0%) and financial barriers (3.4 vs. 2.1%) than those living outside it. Household income showed no significant associations in the AAP of experiencing a non-financial barrier. People with a functional limitation exhibited a higher AAP of experiencing a non-financial barrier, for both men (17.8 vs. 7.8%) and women (17.4 vs. 9.0%), than those without it. In conclusion, people in South Korea, like those in most European countries, fail to meet their healthcare needs more often due to non-financial barriers than financial barriers. In addition, the characteristics associated with non-financial barriers to healthcare differed from those associated with financial barriers. This finding suggests that although financial barriers may be minimised through various policies, a considerable degree of unmet healthcare needs and disparity among individuals is very likely to persist due to non-financial barriers. Therefore, current universal health insurance systems need targeted policy instruments to minimise non-financial barriers to healthcare to ensure effective universal health coverage.
Incidence and Risk of Fatal Vehicle Crashes Among Professional Drivers: A Population-Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Jui-Hsiu , Yang Ya-Hui , Ho Pei-Shan , Wu Trong-Neng , Guo Yue Leon , Chen Pau-Chung , Chuang Hung-Yi
Published: March 2022

Fatal vehicle crashes (FVCs) are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Professional drivers often drive under dangerous conditions; however, knowledge of the risk factors for FVCs among professional drivers remain scant. We investigated whether professional drivers have a higher risk of FVCs than non-professional drivers and sought to clarify potential risk factors for FVCs among professional drivers. We analyzed nationwide incidence rates of FVCs as preliminary data. Furthermore, by using these data, we created a 1:4 professionals/non-professionals preliminary study to compare with the risk factors between professional and non-professional drivers. In Taiwan, the average crude incidence rate of FVCs for 2003–2016 among professional drivers was 1.09 per 1,000 person-years; professional drivers had a higher percentage of FVCs than non-professional drivers among all motor vehicle crashes. In the 14-year preliminary study with frequency-matched non-professional drivers, the risk of FVCs among professional drivers was significantly associated with a previous history of involvement in motor vehicle crashes (adjustment odds ratio [OR] = 2.157; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.896–2.453), previous history of benzodiazepine use (adjustment OR = 1.385; 95% CI, 1.215–1.579), and speeding (adjustment OR = 1.009; 95% CI, 1.006–1.013). The findings have value to policymakers seeking to curtail FVCs.
Measuring Attentional Distraction in Children With ADHD Using Virtual Reality Technology With Eye-Tracking
Authors: Stokes Jared D. , Rizzo Albert , Geng Joy J. , Schweitzer Julie B.
Published: March 2022

Objective: Distractions inordinately impair attention in children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) but examining this behavior under real-life conditions poses a challenge for researchers and clinicians. Virtual reality (VR) technologies may mitigate the limitations of traditional laboratory methods by providing a more ecologically relevant experience. The use of eye-tracking measures to assess attentional functioning in a VR context in ADHD is novel. In this proof of principle project, we evaluate the temporal dynamics of distraction via eye-tracking measures in a VR classroom setting with 20 children diagnosed with ADHD between 8 and 12 years of age.

Method: We recorded continuous eye movements while participants performed math, Stroop, and continuous performance test (CPT) tasks with a series of “real-world” classroom distractors presented. We analyzed the impact of the distractors on rates of on-task performance and on-task, eye-gaze (i.e., looking at a classroom whiteboard) versus off-task eye-gaze (i.e., looking away from the whiteboard).

Results: We found that while children did not always look at distractors themselves for long periods of time, the presence of a distractor disrupted on-task gaze at task-relevant whiteboard stimuli and lowered rates of task performance. This suggests that children with attention deficits may have a hard time returning to tasks once those tasks are interrupted, even if the distractor itself does not hold attention. Eye-tracking measures within the VR context can reveal rich information about attentional disruption.

Conclusions: Leveraging virtual reality technology in combination with eye-tracking measures is well-suited to advance the understanding of mechanisms underlying attentional impairment in naturalistic settings. Assessment within these immersive and well-controlled simulated environments provides new options for increasing our understanding of distractibility and its potential impact on the development of interventions for children with ADHD.
The Role of Internet Development in China’s Grain Production: Specific Path and Dialectical Perspective
Authors: Bi Xuehao , Wen Bo , Zou Wei
Published: March 2022

With the development of the internet in China, information asymmetry in traditional agriculture production has been alleviated, and the information on modern agricultural technologies and production factor mobility has been widely disseminated, significantly impacting the country’s grain productivity and output. The pertinence and effectiveness of food security system arrangement can be ensured by revealing the influence of the internet on grain production. Based on the panel data of 30 provincial administrative regions in China from 1997 to 2018, a mediation model and a moderation model were used to evaluate the effect of internet development on grain output and constraints. The results showed that grain output could be promoted as internet penetration directly increases, and can also be boosted by enhancing technology usage and promoting operation scale expansion through the internet. However, the positive effect of this cycle could be inhibited by rural population aging, as there are many barriers faced by the elderly using information and communication technology (ICT). Strengthening agricultural technology utilization and promoting large-scale operation can encourage the development of rural internet, consequently improving the national food security guarantee capacity. It is equally important to simplify internet usage to alleviate the adverse impact of population aging on grain output. This study contributes to three sections of literature on (i) the factors influencing grain output, (ii) the mediating effects of the information transmission function of the internet, (iii) and the potential impact of aging in the information era. Exploring agricultural growth from an innovative perspective of the internet can provide a reference for ensuring food security and agricultural informatization.
A Culture-Based Study of Micromycetes Isolated from the Urban Nests of Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) in SW Poland
Authors: Ogórek Rafał , Borzęcka Justyna , Kłosińska Katarzyna , Piecuch Agata , Przymencki Marcin , Litwiniak Klaudia , Suchodolski Jakub
Published: March 2022

There are many positive relationships between micromycetes and birds: They can spread fungal spores, and fungi facilitate cavity woodpecker excavation by preparing and modifying excavation sites. In turn, bird nests are mainly a source of potentially zoopathogenic fungi. The Wrocław city centre hosts the biggest grey heron breeding colony in Poland with at least 240 breeding birds pairs. To assess the possible public health risks associated with bird nests, the goal of the present study was to identify cultivable fungi present in the nests of grey herons (Ardea cinerea) in Wrocław. Additionally, attempts were made to determine whether the obtained species of fungi may pose a potential threat to animal health. Fungi were cultured at 23 and 37 ± 0.5 °C, and identified based on phenotypic and genotypic traits. Moreover, during routine inspection, visible fungal growth in some of the nests was found. Overall, 10 different fungal species were obtained in the study (Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Botryotrichum piluliferum, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Epicoccum layuense, Mucor circinelloides, M.hiemalis, Penicillium atramentosum, P.coprophilum, and P.griseofulvum). They are both cosmopolitan species and a source of potential threat to humans, homoiothermous animals and plants. The greatest number of fungal species was obtained from the nest fragments with visible fungal growth incubated at 23 °C, and the least from western conifer seed bugs (Leptoglossus occidentalis) inhabiting the nests. The species such as A. fumigatus, P. coprophilum, and P.griseofulvum can be directly related to the occurrence of visible fungal growth on plant fragments of grey heron’s nests.
Detection of Antibiotic Residues in Blossom Honeys from Different Regions in Turkey by LC-MS/MS Method
Authors: Er Demirhan Buket , Demirhan Burak
Published: March 2022

In the present study, a total of 80 commercial blossom honey samples were obtained from local markets in Ankara, Turkey. These honeys were analyzed for 35 important and risky antibiotics (sulfonamide, tetracycline, macrolide, cephalosporin, aminoglycoside, quinolone, nitrofuran, chloramphenicol, and anthelmintic groups) by the LC-MS/MS multi-antibiotic method. In addition to these analyses, pH measure, moisture, and electrical conductivity were determined in these honey samples. Finally, seven out of 35 antibiotic residues investigated in the honeys were positive. The most frequently detected antibiotics in the analyzed samples were dihydrostreptomycin, streptomycin, erythromycin, sulfadimidine (sulfamethazine), and enrofloxacin as 58.75%, 22.5%, 13.75%, 10%, and 2.5%, respectively. Tetracycline and doxycycline were detected in only one sample. The pH, moisture, and electrical conductivity values of the honey samples were determined as between pH 3.78 and 5.41, 17.48 and 18.03%, and 0.25 and 0.47 mS/cm, respectively. In terms of food safety and human health, it is very important to monitor the residues of these pharmacologically active substances with analytical methods.
Citrus bergamia: Kinetics of Antimicrobial Activity on Clinical Isolates
Authors: Quirino Angela , Giorgi Valeria , Palma Ernesto , Marascio Nadia , Morelli Paola , Maletta Angelo , Divenuto Francesca , De Angelis Giuseppe , Tancrè Valentina , Nucera Saverio , Gliozzi Micaela , Musolino Vincenzo , Carresi Cristina , Mollace Vincenzo , Liberto Maria Carla , Matera Giovanni
Published: March 2022

Background: The inappropriate use of antibiotics has increased selective pressure and the spread of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, which reduces the possibility of effective treatment. A potential alternative therapeutic approach may be represented by essential oils, such as the distilled extract of bergamot (Citrus bergamia Risso et Poiteau). Such natural products exercise numerous biological activities, including antimicrobial effects. Methods: This work aimed to evaluate the kinetics of the bactericidal and fungicidal activity of the distilled extract of bergamot on MDR bacteria and fungi from clinical specimens using the time-kill assay. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of the distilled extract of bergamot on the morphology and cellular organization of clinical pathogens was evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results: Our results demonstrated that the distilled extract of bergamot exhibited significant antimicrobial activity and a specific bactericidal effect against the bacterial and fungal strains tested. Furthermore, confocal microscope images clearly showed compromised membrane integrity, damage and cell death in bacterial samples treated with the distilled extract of bergamot. In addition, progressive alterations in cell-wall composition, cytoplasmic material and nucleus structure triggered by exposure to the distilled extract of bergamot were identified in the fungal samples considered. Conclusions: Our data suggest that the use of essential oils, such as distilled extract of bergamot (Citrus bergamia Risso et Poiteau), can represent a valid alternative therapeutic strategy to counteract antibiotic resistance of pathogens.
Combined Activity of the Redox-Modulating Compound Setanaxib (GKT137831) with Cytotoxic Agents in the Killing of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells
Authors: Demircan Muhammed Burak , Mgbecheta Peter C. , Kresinsky Anne , Schnoeder Tina M. , Schröder Katrin , Heidel Florian H. , Böhmer Frank D.
Published: March 2022

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells harbor elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which promote cell proliferation and cause oxidative stress. Therefore, the inhibition of ROS formation or elevation beyond a toxic level have been considered as therapeutic strategies. ROS elevation has recently been linked to enhanced NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) activity. Therefore, the compound Setanaxib (GKT137831), a clinically advanced ROS-modulating substance, which has initially been identified as a NOX1/4 inhibitor, was tested for its inhibitory activity on AML cells. Setanaxib showed antiproliferative activity as single compound, and strongly enhanced the cytotoxic action of anthracyclines such as daunorubicin in vitro. Setanaxib attenuated disease in a mouse model of FLT3-ITD driven myeloproliferation in vivo. Setanaxib did not significantly inhibit FLT3-ITD signaling, including FLT3 autophosphorylation, activation of STAT5, AKT, or extracellular signal regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2). Surprisingly, the effects of Setanaxib on cell proliferation appeared to be independent of the presence of NOX4 and were not associated with ROS quenching. Instead, Setanaxib caused elevation of ROS levels in the AML cells and importantly, enhanced anthracycline-induced ROS formation, which may contribute to the combined effects. Further assessment of Setanaxib as potential enhancer of cytotoxic AML therapy appears warranted.
Activation of the Nrf2 Pathway Prevents Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induced by Caspase-3 Cleaved Tau: Implications for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Villavicencio-Tejo Francisca , Olesen Margrethe A. , Aránguiz Alejandra , Quintanilla Rodrigo A.
Published: March 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by memory and cognitive impairment, accompanied by the accumulation of extracellular deposits of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) and the presence of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) composed of pathological forms of tau protein. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are also critical elements for AD development. We previously showed that the presence of caspase-3 cleaved tau, a relevant pathological form of tau in AD, induced mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage in different neuronal models. Recent studies demonstrated that the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) plays a significant role in the antioxidant response promoting neuroprotection. Here, we studied the effects of Nrf2 activation using sulforaphane (SFN) against mitochondrial injury induced by caspase-3 cleaved tau. We used immortalized cortical neurons to evaluate mitochondrial bioenergetics and ROS levels in control and SFN-treated cells. Expression of caspase-3 cleaved tau induced mitochondrial fragmentation, depolarization, ATP loss, and increased ROS levels. Treatment with SFN for 24 h significantly prevented these mitochondrial abnormalities, and reduced ROS levels. Analysis of Western blots and rt-PCR studies showed that SFN treatment increased the expression of several Nrf2-related antioxidants genes in caspase-3 cleaved tau cells. These results indicate a potential role of the Nrf2 pathway in preventing mitochondrial dysfunction induced by pathological forms of tau in AD.
Research on a PSO-H-SVM-Based Intrusion Detection Method for Industrial Robotic Arms
Authors: Zhou Yulin , Xie Lun , Pan Hang
Published: March 2022

The automation and intelligence of industrial manufacturing is the core of the fourth industrial revolution, and robotic arms and proprietary networked information systems are an integral part of this vision. However, with the benefits come risks that have been overlooked, and robotic arms have become a heavily attacked area. In order to improve the security of the robotic arm system, this paper proposes an intrusion detection method based on a state classification model. The closure operation process of the robotic arm is divided into five consecutive states, while a support vector machine based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO-H-SVM) classifies the operation state of the robotic arm. In the detection process, the classifier predicts the operation state of the robotic arm in real time, and the detection method determines whether the state transfer meets the logical requirements, and then determines whether the intrusion occurs. In addition, a response mechanism is proposed on the basis of the intrusion detection system to make protection measures for the robotic arm system. Finally, a physical experiment platform was built to test the intrusion detection method. The results showed that the classification accuracy of the PSO-H-SVM algorithm reached 96.02%, and the detection accuracy of the intrusion detection method reached 90%, which verified the effectiveness and reliability of the intrusion detection method.
Effects of Ground-Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag Used as Filler in Dense Graded Asphalt
Authors: Chegenizadeh Amin , Hanson Scott W. , Nikraz Hamid , Scott Kress Calvin
Published: March 2022

Industrial waste materials are increasingly being used in asphalt to improve pavement quality and reduce environmental impacts. The aim of this research was to test the pavement distress-related effects of using ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS) as a filler in hot mix asphalt. There is potential for GGBFS to be integrated into Western Australian (WA) asphalt pavements. GGBFS was used as a replacement for the conventional hydrated lime (HL) filler used in mix designs of the Main Roads WA specifications. A control mixture (1.5% HL) was compared with three prototype mixtures containing 1.5%, 3% or 5% GGBFS instead of HL. To investigate their characteristics, we conducted wheel tracking tests, four-point bending tests, and assessments with an asphalt mixture performance tester (AMPT). The findings support the use of GGBFS in asphalt pavements. The mixture with 3% GGBFS had the best fatigue life, rutting resistance and AMPT results.
Portable Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as a Screening Test of Corrosive Solutions Concealed in Plastic Containers
Authors: Varela Morillas Alvaro , Frascione Nunzianda
Published: March 2022

The use of corrosive substances for criminal intent has recently increased in many countries, with 619 violent assaults recorded from 2019 to 2020 only in the UK. Criminals often conceal corrosive solutions, such as common household cleaners, in inconspicuous plastic bottles and splashing the content in order to incapacitate a victim while committing a robbery or to cause physical harm. There is currently no method available to law enforcement for the safe identification of these corrosive substances without being exposed to them. In this work, the feasibility of a near infrared (NIR) handheld spectrometer for the screening of corrosive inorganic solutions through plastic bottles is investigated. First, a training set comprising samples of five different corrosives was used to build a spectral library for data analysis and chemometric model design. Four models were then tested on three hundred samples of corrosive substances, as well as harmless substances such as water and soft drinks, to evaluate their performance. The models designed identified the corrosive substances in scenarios of concentrated solutions, showcasing the potential capability of this technique for the pre-screening of corrosive substances.
On Thermodynamic Aspects of Oxide Crystal Growth
Authors: Klimm Detlef , Wolff Nora
Published: March 2022

Several metal oxide compounds, especially those containing metals possessing several valence states, are able to absorb or release oxygen under suitable thermodynamic conditions. Such behavior is found often in systems containing oxides of transition metals. It is important to note that the equilibrium oxidation level of those metal oxides can depend on the aggregation state, which may significantly impede crystal growth processes from the melt. If during the melt growth of such oxide crystals, the average valence state of the oxides is different in the molten and solid state, then crystallization is connected with the absorption of free oxygen from the ambient gas, or with the release of free oxygen into it. This phenomenon can be detected by simultaneous DTA/TG measurements and can deteriorate the stability of crystal growth. This holds especially if the average valence in the solid is smaller than in the melt, because oxygen release can lead to bubble formation at the crystallization front.
Seismic Stability of Dual Tunnels in Cohesive–Frictional Soil Subjected to Surcharge Loading
Authors: Zeng Yongge , Wu Gaoqiao
Published: March 2022

In this study, a self-developed adaptive finite element limit analysis (AFELA) code was adopted to explore the stability of dual tunnels in cohesive–frictional soil subjected to surcharge loading and seismic action. Parametric studies of different influential factors, including the depth of tunnels, horizontal distance between tunnels, seismic acceleration coefficient, unit weight, cohesion and internal friction angle of soils, were conducted using the AFELA code. An adaptive meshing technique was adopted for optimal accuracy and efficiency, and a pseudostatic method was used to simulate the seismic action. Strict upper bound (UB) and lower bound (LB) results with relative errors of less than 7% were acquired. Detailed design tables were presented to facilitate the engineering design, and three typical failure patterns, including single side-wall failure, half-cross-shaped failure and cross-shaped failure, corresponding to different stable levels, were summarized for a deeper insight into how the failure mechanism evolved under different conditions. The results indicated that the variations in soil unit weight and void depth affected the seismic bearing capacity almost linearly. Furthermore, the dual tunnel system is vulnerable to seismic actions, and the stability of tunnels was further undermined by the adverse effects of additional seismic-caused interactions between two adjacent tunnels.
A New Reform of Mining Production and Management Modes under Industry 4.0: Cloud Mining Mode
Authors: Bi Lin , Wang Zhuo , Wu Zhaohao , Zhang Yuhao
Published: March 2022

In the context of Industry 4.0, using a new generation of information technology to activate and transform traditional industries will maintain the long-term competitiveness of traditional industries. The mining industry is also going through the process of informatization transformation. Through a literature survey, we analyze the current situation and challenges faced by mine production and operation management. Many mining companies are expanding in scale, but their operation and management methods are inefficient, and their business processes and organizational management methods need to be reformed. We propose a new mode named CM mode (cloud mining mode). We define this as integrating the core business of the mine (such as production and operation management, mining technology, planning services, etc.) into the cloud through effective use of cloud technologies, cloud resources, and cloud services. A large number of human and intellectual resources move to the cloud. A new mode of operation and management of mining industry clusters is thus formed; it is open, cooperative, and coordinated. We present five elements of the CM mode: data resources, digital technologies, digital talents, cloud business form, and cloud cooperation mode. We establish a “cloud–edge–terminal” technical framework of the CM mode, and describe its technical characteristics. We also describe three main application scenarios of the CM mode, and highlight the development path and key points of construction. The CM mode highlights a new development direction for the production and management of intelligent mines, and is of great significance for giving full play to the value of intelligent construction.