bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Standardized Job Competencies for Managing Students at Risk for Anaphylaxis in Elementary School Nurses
Authors: Kim Yeon-Ha , Kim Aee Lee
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to evaluate standardized job competencies of elementary school nurses in managing the health of students at risk for anaphylaxis (SRAs). A total of 166 elementary school nurses from across Korea participated in this study. The tool utilized was a list of standardized job tasks of elementary school nurses in managing SRAs’ health. Seven factors were obtained from the factor analysis, with a cumulative variance explained of 68.6%. The importance–performance analysis method was employed to suggest priority areas for training. The factors placed in quadrant II included: (1) “offering psychological support”, among elementary school nurses who have been provided with clinical information on anaphylaxis, (2) “providing emergency care”, among those who have not been provided with clinical information on anaphylaxis, (3) the factors “utilizing individualized healthcare plans”, “conducting health education and staff training”, and “evaluating the student”, among those who agreed that schools need legal protection to purchase epinephrine auto-injectors, and (4) the factor “preparing a school emergency system”, among those with less than five years of experience as a school nurse. When planning continuing education strategies to improve elementary school nurses’ management of SRAs, factors such as career experience, access to clinical information, and beliefs regarding legal protection for schools to purchase epinephrine auto-injectors should be considered.
Tuning and Effectiveness in Heritage Models
Authors: Richards Jenny , Brimblecombe Peter
Published: July 2023

Modelling can explore heritage responses to environmental pressures over wide spatial and temporal scales, testing both theory and process. However, compared to other fields, modelling approaches are not yet as common in heritage management. Some heritage models have become well known, though they struggle to have an impact beyond academia, with limited practical applications. Successful models appear to be adaptable to multiple sites or objects, intuitive to use, run using widely available software and produce output translatable into practical actions. Model tuning is also vital for the model to be effective. A specific purpose should be determined from the outset to enable tuning in the earliest design stages. Heritage models can be developed to explore theories or processes that affect or interact with heritage. Input should also be tuned to relevant temporal and spatial scales and consider duration and location. Additionally, it is important to account for materials and elements specific to heritage. Models need to be useful and usable if they are to be effective. User-friendly programs and interfaces help practical use. However, success can create problems, as input and output could become socially or commercially sensitive. The wider use of models may require broader discussion among heritage professionals and the provision of training.
The Ability of the EPR MOUSE to Study Underpaintings
Authors: Liang Stanley E. , Kuzio Olivia R. , Pupko Matthew , Robbins Max , Hornak Joseph P.
Published: July 2023

The possibility of using the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) mobile universal surface explorer (MOUSE) to study underpaintings is validated. The depth sensitivity of the EPR MOUSE is measured using an EPR standard, and is verified using three paramagnetic pigments in an acrylic binder under opaque acrylic layers of titanium white and lead white. The ability to distinguish and identify two layers of EPR signal-bearing pigments is shown using pairwise sets of ultramarine, Egyptian, and Han blue pigments in an acrylic binder. And finally, the spatial imaging capability is demonstrated using a printed design of magnetite black covered with a solid second layer of the pigment. These studies demonstrate that EPR spectroscopy with the EPR MOUSE is a viable method for studying paramagnetic and ferrimagnetic underlayers of pigments.
Methyl Jasmonate Elicitation for In Vitro Lycorine Accumulation in Three Zephyranthes Species and Comparative Analysis of Tissue-Cultured and Field Grown Plants
Authors: Syeed Rukaya , Mujib Abdul , Dewir Yaser Hassan , Malik Moien Qadir , Bansal Yashika , Ejaz Bushra , Mamgain Jyoti , Hakiman Mansor , Alsughayyir Ali
Published: July 2023

Lycorine is an important Amaryllidaceae alkaloid showing anti-cancerous activity on numerous cell lines; and it also demonstrates antiviral activity against several viruses including SARS-CoV-2 responsible for COVID-19. The in vitro cultivation of plant parts is a good alternative for elicitor mediated secondary metabolite synthesis, mass propagation, and cloning of elite genotypes. In this study, the quantification of lycorine from Zephyranthes candida, Zephyranthes grandiflora, and Zephyranthes citrina was evaluated, and the influence of methyl jasmonate (MJ) treatments on accumulation of lycorine yield was observed in the in vitro cultivated tissues. The influence of methyl jasmonate (MJ) on accumulation of lycorine was investigated for the first time in in vitro regenerated bulb, leaf, and root tissues of Zephyranthues. The efficient in vitro shoot regeneration was achieved in Z. candida (73.9%), Z. grandiflora (85.5%), and Z. citrina (76.5%) on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium amended with 2.0 mg·L−1 Naphthalene acetic acid + 0.5 mg·L−1 Benzylaminopurine. The regenerants had the highest i.e., 7.46 mean numbers of bulblets per shoot. The best root induction (80.66%) was achieved on 2.0 mg/L Indole butyric acid (IBA). The lycorine content was quantified through High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) in three field grown Zephyranthes species, was highest in Z. candida (1.93 µg g−1 dry wt.), followed by Z. grandiflora (1.87 µg g−1 dry wt.) and Z. citrina (1.62 µg g−1 dry wt.). The yield of lycorine was observed in this order i.e., bulb > leaf > root. The regenerated plants were supplemented with MJ and maximum lycorine yield was noted at 100 µM in bulb tissues of Z. candida (2.74 µg g−1 dry wt.) with an increase in percentage of 39.08. The enhancement could be due to MJ-induced stress as the biochemical attributes and anti-oxidant enzyme activity were high with elevated level of MJ. This enrichment may auger commercial manufacturing and utilization of lycorine in future.
Expression Analysis and Interaction Protein Screening of CoZTL in Camellia oleifera Abel
Authors: Ren Shuangshuang , Juan Lemei , He Jiacheng , Liu Qian , Yan Jindong , Li Jian’an
Published: July 2023

Camellia oleifera Abel., which produces fruits of high comprehensive utilization value, is an important woody oil tree in China. ZEITLUPE (ZTL) is a blue light receptor and clock component protein that is involved in various physiological and biochemical processes. However, the expression pattern and function of C. oleifera ZTL (CoZTL) remain unclear. In this study, the coding sequence of the CoZTL gene was isolated and the protein function was explored using bioinformatics and expression analyses and heterologous expression techniques. The results showed that the CoZTL protein was highly conserved during evolution and was on the same branch of the evolutionary tree as the ZTL proteins from Ipomoea nil and Nicotiana attenuata. CoZTL was mainly expressed in the fruit shells and stems of C. oleifera, and its expression level fluctuated greatly during flower bud development. Transgenic CoZTL-overexpressing Arabidopsis plants showed delayed flowering under long-day conditions as well as light-dependent promotion of hypocotyl elongation. Furthermore, yeast two-hybrid library screening revealed that seven C. oleifera proteins (CoAAT, Coβ-GAL, CoLAT52-like, CoCAR4-like, CoAO, CoUQCC1, and CoADF 2) interacted with CoZTL. Our results indicate that CoZTL plays an important role in C. oleifera flowering and hypocotyl growth.
Pre-/Post-Harvest Pathogen-Control Strategies for Improving the Quality and Safety of Horticultural Plants
Authors: Cho Tae Jin
Published: July 2023

The microbiological safety of horticultural plants (vegetables, fruits, spices, flowers, other edible crops, ornamental plants, etc [...]
The Effects of Calcium and Sulfur Fertilizers Accompanied by Different Side Elements on the Growth and Cd Uptake of Spinacia oleracea Grown in Cd-Contaminated Alkaline Soil
Authors: Li Yanmei , Xu Xiangnan , Suo Linna , Sun Yanxin , Sun Na , Liu Jing , Li Shunjiang , Zou Guoyuan , Liao Shangqiang
Published: July 2023

The detoxification of crops grown in Cadmium (Cd)-contaminated acid soil has been widely studied, but for contaminated alkaline soil, there is still inadequate research or information. In order to investigate the effects of calcium and sulfur fertilizers, accompanied by different side elements, on the growth and Cd uptake of Spinacia oleracea grown in Cd-contaminated alkaline soil, the plants were subjected to five treatments, including calcium silicate (Ca-Si), calcium biphosphate (Ca-P), magnesium sulfate (S-Mg), ferric sulfate (S-Fe), and zinc sulfate (S-Zn), and a control group. The results showed that the S-Fe achieved the highest shoot fresh mass and dry mass and the highest shoot Cd concentration and accumulation, which were 30%, 68%, 4.6%, and 73% higher than the control group, respectively. The Ca-Si, Ca-P, S-Mg, and S-Zn reduced the root Cd concentration by 18%, 42%, 7%, and 49%, respectively, and reduced the shoot Cd concentration by 25%, 36%, 15%, and 27%, respectively, as compared to the control. S-Fe increases plant N uptake and photosynthesis, which is beneficial to biomass accumulation. Ca-P improves soil and plant P nutrition status, as well as plant K and Ca status, and helps alleviate plant Cd stress. Overall, calcium fertilizers accompanied by phosphorus have the potential to reduce plant Cd contamination risk, while sulfur fertilizers accompanied by iron show potential for enhancing Cd extraction.
Construction of a High-Density Genetic Linkage Map Based on Bin Markers and Mapping of QTLs Associated with Fruit Size in Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.)
Authors: Guo Tianfa , Qiu Qianqian , Yan Fenfen , Wang Zhongtang , Bao Jingkai , Yang Zhi , Xia Yilei , Wang Jiurui , Wu Cuiyun , Liu Mengjun
Published: July 2023

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is a fruit tree that is gaining increasing importance in drought-affected regions worldwide. The fruit size is an important quantitative agronomic trait that affects not only the fruit yield and attractiveness but also consumer preference. Genetic enhancement of fruit appearance is a fundamental goal of jujube breeding programs. The genetic control of jujube fruit size traits is highly quantitative, and development of high-density genetic maps can facilitate fine mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and gene identification. However, studies regarding the construction of high-density molecular linkage maps and identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) targeting fruit size in jujube are limited. In this study, we performed whole-genome resequencing of the jujube cultivars “JMS2” and “Xing16” and their 165 F1 progenies to identify genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and constructed a high-density bin map of jujube that can be used to assist in the selection of multiple traits in jujube breeding. This analysis yielded a total of 116,312 SNPs and a genetic bin map of 2398 bin markers spanning 1074.33 cM with an average adjacent interval of 0.45 cM. A quantitative genetic analysis identified 15 QTLs related to fruit size and the observed phenotypic variation associated with a single QTL ranged from 9.5 to 13.3%. Through the screening of overlapping and stable QTL regions, we identified 113 candidate genes related to fruit size. These genes were ascertained to be involved in cell division, cell wall metabolism, synthesis of phytohormones (ABA, IAA, and auxin), and encoding of enzymes and transcription factors. These candidate genomic regions will facilitate marker-assisted breeding of fruits with different sizes and shapes and lay a foundation for future breeding and manipulation of fruit size and shape in jujube.
Precise Management of Hydroponic Nutrient Solution pH: The Effects of Minor pH Changes and MES Buffer Molarity on Lettuce Physiological Properties
Authors: Kudirka Gediminas , Viršilė Akvilė , Sutulienė Rūta , Laužikė Kristina , Samuolienė Giedrė
Published: July 2023

The precise management of the nutrient solution pH is substantial for optimizing the growth and yield of hydroponically cultivated crops. Nutrient solution pH affects the solubility and availability of essential nutrients; however, during hydroponic cultivation, the pH of nutrient solution fluctuates due to unbalanced ion absorption by plants. Nutrient solution pH fluctuations might be passively controlled using a supplementary buffering agent. Nutrient solution characteristics such as pH and buffering agent molarity must be addressed simultaneously. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate hydroponically cultivated lettuce’s physiological response to minor nutrient solution pH differences and the impact of supplementary buffering agent molarity on its growth, antioxidant activity, and mineral nutrient uptake. Green lettuce (Lactuca sativa (L.)) ‘Hugin’ was cultivated in deep water culture (DWC) hydroponics in a controlled environment replicating common vertical farming conditions, and nutrient solution pH impact within the range of 5.0–6.5 was evaluated every 0.5 pH unit. Initial nutrient solution buffer capacity was enhanced by adding MES (2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid) at 0, 1, 3, and 5 mM concentrations. Results show that even small nutrient pH differences are reflected in plant physiological responses, indicating the significance of precise pH management. Even though dry weight accumulation is not affected by the pH 5.0–5.5 treatment, it increases root antioxidant response according to ABTS (2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical scavenging activity. An initial nutrient solution buffer capacity increment with 3 mM of MES (2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid) supplementary buffering agent resulted in a 17% yield increase compared to a nutrient solution without an additional buffering agent. MES buffer can provide adequate, passive, and precise nutrient solution pH control within the pH range of 6.0–6.5.
Late Holocene Technology Words in Proto-Athabaskan: Implications for Dene-Yeniseian Culture History
Authors: Wilson Joseph A. P.
Published: July 2023

This study will review previously published Proto-Athabaskan (P-A) linguistic reconstructions related to weapons and ceramics technologies present on both sides of the Bering Strait. Na-Dene (N-D) is a large family of indigenous languages of North America, consisting mostly of the Athabaskan languages of the western interior, plus the Eyak and Tlingit languages of the southern Alaska coast. Athabaskan-Eyak (A-E) constitutes a distinct branch of Na-Dene. Dene-Yeniseian (D-Y) is a proposed transpacific family comprised of Na-Dene in addition to the Yeniseian languages of Siberia. Reconstructions pertaining to several specific technologies will be discussed in relation to likely cognates within broader A-E, N-D and D-Y historical contexts. Although D-Y is sometimes assumed to have originated near the conclusion of the Pleistocene Epoch (prior to ~11,500 years BP), this study will refocus fundamental questions on the current Holocene Epoch (after ~11,500 BP), and particularly the Late Holocene (after ~3000 BP).
Application of a Novel Amendment for the Remediation of Mercury Mine Sites with Hydrologic Controls
Authors: McCord Stephen , Reller Gregory , Miller Jon , Pingree Kim
Published: July 2023

MercLokTM P-640 (MercLok) is a proprietary product developed by Albemarle as a mercury (Hg) treatment technology. MercLok captures mercury and sequesters it for a long period under ambient environmental conditions. For this project, MercLok was applied to Hg-contaminated calcines at two abandoned Hg mine sites in northern California to evaluate its efficacy in rendering such contaminated materials less hazardous and thereby reducing remediation project costs. The first application (Site 1) consisted of two calcines amended with MercLok in isolated reactor buckets under two hydrologic remediation approaches (“repository cap” and “reactive barrier”) while exposed to ambient environmental conditions. Non-amended and amended calcines and their leachates were analyzed for Hg content and related conditions during a five-month study period, demonstrating >95% reduction in leachable Hg. The second application (Site 2) involved full-scale site remediation with the application of both approaches and additional hydrologic controls to minimize run-on, erosion, and runoff. Confirmation sampling and subsequent observations indicate that the amendments and hydrologic controls effectively stabilized the site and minimized Hg releases. These application projects demonstrate the efficacy of MercLok as a component of hydrologic controls for treating Hg-contaminated material to achieve long-term mine site remediation objectives.
Assessment and Mitigation of Fecal Bacteria Exports from a Coastal North Carolina Watershed
Authors: Humphrey Charles P. , Lyons Nicole , Bond Ryan , Bean Eban , O’Driscoll Michael , White Avian
Published: July 2023

Urban runoff from the Boat House Creek watershed was suspected as a main delivery mechanism for fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) to the lower White Oak River Estuary in coastal North Carolina, but the dominant source of waste (animal or human) was unknown. Water samples from eight locations within the watershed were collected approximately monthly for two years for enumeration of Escherichia coli (E. coli), enterococci, physicochemical characterization, and microbial source tracking analyses. Concentrations and loadings of E. coli and enterococci were typically elevated during stormflow relative to baseflow conditions, and most samples (66% of enterococci and 75% of E. coli) exceeded the US EPA statistical threshold values. Concentrations of FIB were significantly higher during warm relative to colder months. Human sources of FIB were not observed in the samples, and FIB concentrations increased in locations with wider buffers, thus wildlife was the suspected main FIB source. Stormwater control measures including a rain garden, water control structures, swale modifications, and check dams were implemented to reduce runoff and FIB loadings to the estuary. Stormflow reductions of >5700 m3 year−1 are estimated from the installation of the practices. More work will be needed to improve/maintain water quality as watershed development continues.
Time-to-Treatment Initiation in a Decentralised Community-Care Model of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis Management in the OR Tambo District Municipality of South Africa
Authors: Iruedo Joshua Oise , Pather Michael K.
Published: July 2023

Background: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) continues to challenge global efforts toward eradicating and having a tuberculosis-free world. Considering the high early mortality, especially among HIV-infected individuals, early diagnosis and prompt initiation of effective treatment are needed to significantly reduce mortality and halt transmission of DR-TB in the community. Aim: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a community DR-TB care model with the specific objective of determining the Time-to-treatment initiation of DR-TB among patients in the OR Tambo district municipality. Methods: A prospective cohort study of patients with DR-TB was conducted in the OR Tambo district municipality of Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Patients were enrolled as they presented for treatment initiation at the decentralised facilities following a diagnosis of DR-TB and compared with a centralised site. Results: A total of 454 DR-TB patients from six facilities between 2018 and 2020 were included in the analysis. The mean age was 37.54 (SD = 14.94) years. There were slightly more males (56.2%) than females (43.8%). Most of the patients were aged 18–44 years (67.5%), without income (82.3%). Results showed that slightly over thirteen percent (13.4%) of patients initiated treatment the same day they were diagnosed with DR-TB, while 36.3% were on the time-to-treatment target of being initiated within 5 days. However, about a quarter (25.8%) of patients failed to initiate treatment two weeks after diagnosis. Time-to-treatment initiation (TTTI) varied according to the decentralised sites, with progressive improvement with each successive year between 2018 and 2021. No demographic factor was significantly associated with TTTI. Conclusion: Despite rapid diagnosis, only 36% of patients were initiated on treatment promptly. Operational challenges remained, and services needed to be reorganised to maximise the exceptional potentials that a decentralised community DR-TB care model brings.
Barriers to Learning Healthcare-Associated Infections Prevention and Control during Clinical Practicum among Nursing Students in Korea: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Park Eunyoung , Park Hyung-Ran , Lee Ji-Hye
Published: July 2023

Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) refer to infections that patients may acquire from healthcare facilities through nursing activities. Nursing students involved in patient care are regularly exposed to an array of pathogens and clinical practicum is essential for them to appropriately practice HAI prevention and control. This study aimed to explore the barriers to learning HAI prevention and control experienced by nursing students during their clinical practicum. A qualitative study was performed using focus group interviews. A total of 12 nursing students from South Korea, consisting of six third-year students and six fourth-year students, were enrolled. Both groups had taken clinical practicum courses. Data were collected using semi-structured questions and analyzed with conventional content analysis. Barriers experienced by the participants when learning HAI prevention and control were limited learning opportunities, inadequate infection control-related knowledge, inadequate practicum experience, and passive learning attitudes. Addressing the identified barriers would allow nursing students to effectively acquire infection control competencies during their clinical practicum.
Environmental Planning and Non-Communicable Diseases: A Systematic Review on the Role of the Metabolomic Profile
Authors: Oliveira Natália , Balikian Júnior Pedro , Júnior Arnaldo , Bento Edson , Tonholo Josealdo , Aquino Thiago , Sousa Filipe , Araujo Gustavo , Ferreira Maurício
Published: July 2023

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the major cause of death worldwide and have economic, psychological, and social impacts. Air pollution is the second, contributing to NCDs-related deaths. Metabolomics are a useful diagnostic and prognostic tool for NCDs, as they allow the identification of biomarkers linked to emerging pathologic processes. The aim of the present study was to review the scientific literature on the application of metabolomics profiling in NCDs and to discuss environmental planning actions to assist healthcare systems and public managers based on early metabolic diagnosis. The search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines using Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases with the following MeSH terms: “metabolomics” AND “noncommunicable diseases” AND “air pollution”. Twenty-nine studies were eligible. Eleven involved NCDs prevention, eight addressed diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, systemic arterial hypertension, or metabolic syndrome. Six studies focused on obesity, two evaluated nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, two studied cancer, and none addressed chronic respiratory diseases. The studies provided insights into the biological pathways associated with NCDs. Understanding the cost of delivering care where there will be a critical increase in NCDs prevalence is crucial to achieving universal health coverage and improving population health by allocating environmental planning and treatment resources.
Lossless Watermarking Algorithm for Geographic Point Cloud Data Based on Vertical Stability
Authors: Zhang Mingyang , Dong Jian , Ren Na , Guo Shuitao
Published: July 2023

With the increasing demand for high-precision and difficult-to-obtain geospatial point cloud data copyright protection in military, scientific research, and other fields, research on lossless watermarking is receiving more and more attention. However, most of the current geospatial point cloud data watermarking algorithms embed copyright information by modifying vertex coordinate values, which not only damages the data accuracy and quality but may also cause incalculable losses to data users. To maintain data fidelity and protect its copyright, in this paper, we propose a lossless embedded watermarking algorithm based on vertical stability. First, the watermark information is generated based on the binary encoding of the copyright information and the code of the traceability information. Second, the watermark index is calculated based on the length of the watermark information after compression and the vertical distribution characteristics of the data. Finally, watermark embedding is completed by modifying the relative storage order of the corresponding data according to the index and watermark value. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has good invisibility without damaging the data accuracy. In addition, compared with existing algorithms, this method has a higher robustness under operations such as projection transformation, precision perturbation, and vertex deletion of geospatial point cloud data.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor, Sodium Butyrate-Induced Metabolic Modulation in Platycodon grandiflorus Roots Enhances Anti-Melanogenic Properties
Authors: Ahn Min-A , Lee Jinsu , Hyun Tae Kyung
Published: July 2023

While the status of histone acetylation is a critical regulator of chromatin’s structure with a significant impact on plant physiology, our understanding of epigenetic regulation in the biosynthesis of active compounds in plants is limited. In this study, Platycodon grandiflorus was treated with sodium butyrate (NaB), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, to investigate the influence of histone acetylation on secondary metabolism. Its treatment with NaB increased the acetylation of histone H3 at lysine 9, 14, and 27 and enhanced the anti-melanogenic properties of P. grandiflorus roots. Through transcriptome and differentially expressed gene analyses, we found that NaB influenced the expression of genes that were involved in both primary and secondary metabolic pathways. In addition, NaB treatment caused the accumulation of polyphenolic compounds, including dihydroquercetin, gallic acid, and 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid. The NaB-induced transcriptional activation of genes in the phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway influenced the anti-melanogenic properties of P. grandiflorus roots. Overall, these findings suggest the potential of an epigenomic approach to enhance the medicinal qualities of medicinal plants.
Characterization of the Cardiac Structure and Function of Conscious D2.B10-Dmdmdx/J (D2-mdx) mice from 16–17 to 24–25 Weeks of Age
Authors: De Giorgio Daria , Novelli Deborah , Motta Francesca , Cerrato Marianna , Olivari Davide , Salama Annasimon , Fumagalli Francesca , Latini Roberto , Staszewsky Lidia , Crippa Luca , Steinkühler Christian , Licandro Simonetta Andrea
Published: July 2023

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common form of muscle degenerative hereditary disease. Muscular replacement by fibrosis and calcification are the principal causes of progressive and severe musculoskeletal, respiratory, and cardiac dysfunction. To date, the D2.B10-Dmdmdx/J (D2-mdx) model is proposed as the closest to DMD, but the results are controversial. In this study, the cardiac structure and function was characterized in D2-mdx mice from 16–17 up to 24–25 weeks of age. Echocardiographic assessment in conscious mice, gross pathology, and histological and cardiac biomarker analyses were performed. At 16–17 weeks of age, D2-mdx mice presented mild left ventricular function impairment and increased pulmonary vascular resistance. Cardiac fibrosis was more extended in the right ventricle, principally on the epicardium. In 24–25-week-old D2-mdx mice, functional and structural alterations increased but with large individual variation. High-sensitivity cardiac Troponin T, but not N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide, plasma levels were increased. In conclusion, left ventricle remodeling was mild to moderate in both young and adult mice. We confirmed that right ventricle epicardial fibrosis is the most outstanding finding in D2-mdx mice. Further long-term studies are needed to evaluate whether this mouse model can also be considered a model of DMD cardiomyopathy.
Formylation as a Chemical Tool to Modulate the Performance of Photosensitizers Based on Boron Dipyrromethene Dimers
Authors: Díaz-Norambuena Carolina , Avellanal-Zaballa Edurne , Prieto-Castañeda Alejandro , Bañuelos Jorge , de la Moya Santiago , Agarrabeitia Antonia R. , Ortiz María J.
Published: July 2023

Heavy-atom-free photosensitizers are envisioned as the next generation of photoactive molecules for photo-theragnosis. In this approach, and after suitable irradiation, a single molecular scaffold is able to visualize and kill tumour cells by fluorescence signalling and photodynamic therapy (PDT), respectively, with minimal side effects. In this regard, BODIPY-based orthogonal dimers have irrupted as suitable candidates for this aim. Herein, we analyse the photophysical properties of a set of formyl-functionalized BODIPY dimers to ascertain their suitability as fluorescent photosensitizers. The conducted computationally aided spectroscopic study determined that the fluorescence/singlet oxygen generation dual performance of these valuable BODIPY dimers not only depends on the BODIPY-BODIPY linkage and the steric hindrance around it, but also can be modulated by proper formyl functionalization at specific chromophoric positions. Thus, we propose regioselective formylation as an effective tool to modulate such a delicate photonic balance in BODIPY-based dimeric photosensitizers. The taming of the excited-state dynamics, in particular intramolecular charge transfer as the key underlying process mediating fluorescence deactivation vs. intersystem crossing increasing, could serve to increase fluorescence for brighter bioimaging, enhance the generation of singlet oxygen for killing activity, or balance both for photo-theragnosis.
Redox Targets for Phosphine–Boranes
Authors: Morocz Yonatan , Greben Rachel E. , Levin Leonard A.
Published: July 2023

Understanding the complex mechanisms underlying redox-mediated biological processes is a fundamental pillar of cellular biology. We describe the identification and quantification of disulfide formation and reduction in response to phosphine–borane complexes. We illustrate the specific cysteine reduction effects of the novel phosphine–borane complex bis(3-propionic acid methyl ester) phenylphosphine–borane complex (PB1) on cultured 661W cells. A total of 1073 unique protein fragments from 628 unique proteins were identified and quantified, of which 13 were found to be statistically significant in comparison to control cells. Among the 13 identified proteins were Notch1, HDAC1, UBA1, USP7, and subunits L4 and L7 of the 60S ribosomal subunit, all of which are involved in redox or cell death-associated pathways. Leveraging the ability of tandem mass tagging mass spectrometry to provide quantitative data in an exploratory manner provides insight into the effect PB1 and other phosphine–borane compounds may have on the cysteine redoxome.
Combining Irradiation and Biological Control against Brown Marmorated Stink Bug: Are Sterile Eggs a Suitable Substrate for the Egg Parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus?
Authors: Roselli Gerardo , Anfora Gianfranco , Sasso Raffaele , Zapponi Livia , Musmeci Sergio , Cemmi Alessia , Suckling David Maxwell , Hoelmer Kim Alan , Ioriatti Claudio , Cristofaro Massimo
Published: July 2023

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys, is a phytophagous invasive pest native to south-eastern Asia, and it is now distributed worldwide. This species is considered to be one of the most damaging insect pests in North America and in Europe. In agriculture, the predominant approach to managing BMSB is based on the use of insecticides, specifically pyrethroids and neonicotinoids. Unfortunately, the biology of the species and its facility to develop mechanisms of resistance to available pesticides has induced farmers and scientists to develop different, least-toxic, and more effective strategies of control. In a territorial area-wide approach, the use of a classical biological control program in combination with other least-toxic strategies has been given prominent consideration. Following exploratory surveys in the native range, attention has focused on Trissolcus japonicus, a small scelionid egg parasitoid wasp that is able to oviposit and complete its larval development in a single egg of H. halys. A common method for detecting egg parasitoids in the native range involves the placement of so-called ‘sentinel’ egg masses of the pest in the environment for a short period, which are then returned to the laboratory to determine if any of them are parasitized. Outside of the area of origin, the use of fertile sentinel eggs of the alien species may lead to the further release of the pest species; an alternative is to use sterile sentinel eggs to record the presence of new indigenous egg parasitoids or to detect the dispersal of alien species (in this case, T. japonicus) released in a new environment to control the target insect pest species. This study evaluated the performance of three types of sterile sentinel eggs as a suitable substrate for the oviposition and larval development of the egg parasitoid T. japonicus in a context of combining classical biological control with a Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) approach.
Biology and Ecology of Delia planipalpis (Stein) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae), an Emerging Pest of Broccoli in Mexico
Authors: Córdova-García Guadalupe , Navarro-de-la-Fuente Laura , Pérez-Staples Diana , Williams Trevor , Lasa Rodrigo
Published: July 2023

Delia planipalpis (Stein) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) is a pest of crucifers, such as broccoli, radish, cauliflower, turnip and cabbage. It has been recently described in Mexico as a significant emerging pest of broccoli. Due the lack of knowledge of this pest, the present study aimed to determine its life cycle, female sexual maturation, copulation, oviposition behavior and adult longevity. The identity of the fly in Mexico was confirmed genetically by sequencing the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene (COI). The mean development time of D. planipalpis was 32–33 days on radish at 24 °C under laboratory conditions. Females became sexually mature 1–2 days after emergence, and the highest incidence of matings was recorded on the second day (60%). Under choice conditions, D. planipalpis females preferred to oviposit on radish plants, rather than broccoli plants, possibly due to the use of radish for rearing the laboratory colony. Oviposition and the mean number of eggs laid varied among the broccoli varieties, with the highest oviposition observed on the Tlaloc variety. Repeated attempts to rear the laboratory colony on broccoli plants failed. Radish-reared insects of both sexes lived longer when individualized in the adult stage (14.5–22.5 days) than when adult flies were maintained in groups (10–11 days). This study contributes to the understanding of D. planipalpis biology and provides information that can be used to establish future control strategies against this pest.
Mathematical Model of the Working Processes of the Gas Cap of a Piston Pump Installed in the Discharge Line
Authors: Shcherba Victor , Bulgakova Irina
Published: July 2023

A mathematical model of the working processes occurring in the gas cap has been developed on the basic fundamental laws of conservation of energy, mass and motion, and the equation of state, both taking into account the change in the mass of the gas due to phase transitions and the solubility of the gas in the liquid, and without taking them into account with a dividing element. In addition, there was developed a mathematical model of the liquid flow from the gas cap through a pipeline of constant cross section. It was found from the results of a numerical experiment that to reduce the feed irregularity, it is necessary to increase the length of the pipeline and the crankshaft revolutions, in addition to the known ratio of the volume of gas in the cap to the working volume of the pump; an increase in discharge pressure and an increase in the diameter of the connecting pipeline increases the feed irregularity.
Bioactive Compounds and Cardiac Fibrosis: Current Insight and Future Prospect
Authors: Majid Abdul , Hassan Fasilat Oluwakemi , Hoque Md Monirul , Gbadegoye Joy Olaoluwa , Lebeche Djamel
Published: July 2023

Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological condition characterized by excessive deposition of collagen and other extracellular matrix components in the heart. It is recognized as a major contributor to the development and progression of heart failure. Despite significant research efforts in characterizing and identifying key molecular mechanisms associated with myocardial fibrosis, effective treatment for this condition is still out of sight. In this regard, bioactive compounds have emerged as potential therapeutic antifibrotic agents due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds exhibit the ability to modulate fibrogenic processes by inhibiting the production of extracellular matrix proteins involved in fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation, or by promoting their breakdown. Extensive investigation of these bioactive compounds offers new possibilities for preventing or reducing cardiac fibrosis and its detrimental consequences. This comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough overview of the mechanisms underlying cardiac fibrosis, address the limitations of current treatment strategies, and specifically explore the potential of bioactive compounds as therapeutic interventions for the treatment and/or prevention of cardiac fibrosis.
Peri-Procedural Management of Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) in Transcatheter Miniaturized Leadless Pacemaker Implantation
Authors: Regoli François Diederik , Saguner Ardan M. , Auricchio Angelo , Demarchi Andrea , Pasotti Elena , Conte Giulio , Caputo Maria Luce , Özkartal Tardu , Breitenstein Alexander
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Data on peri-operative management of direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) during transcatheter pacing leadless system (TPS) implantations remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate a standardized DOAC management regime consisting of interruption of a single dose prior to implantation and reinitiation within 6–24 h; also, patient clinical characteristics associated with this approach were identified. Method: Consecutive patients undergoing standard TPS implantation procedures from two Swiss tertiary centers were included. DOAC peri-operative management included the standardized approach (Group 1A) or other approaches (Group 1B). Results: Three hundred and ninety-two pts (mean age 81.4 ± 7.3 years, 66.3% male, left ventricular ejection fraction 55.5 ± 9.6%) underwent TPS implantation. Two hundred and eighty-two pts (71.9%) were under anticoagulation therapy; 192 pts were treated with DOAC; 90 pts were under vitamin-K antagonist. Patients treated with DOAC less often had structural heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and advanced renal failure. The rate of major peri-procedural complications did not differ between groups 1A (n = 115) and 1B (n = 77) (2.6% and 3.8%, p = 0.685). Compared to 1B, 1A patients were implanted with TPS for slow ventricular rate atrial fibrillation (AF) (p = 0.002), in a better overall clinical status, and implanted electively (<0.001). Conclusions: Standardized peri-procedural DOAC management was more often implemented for elective TPS procedures and did not seem to increase bleeding or thromboembolic adverse events.
Midday Dipping and Circadian Blood Pressure Patterns in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Kakaletsis Nikolaos , Ntaios George , Milionis Haralampos , Karagiannaki Anastasia , Chouvarda Ioanna , Dourliou Vasiliki , Ladakis Ioannis , Kaiafa Georgia , Vemmos Konstantinos , Savopoulos Christos
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the alterations in blood pressure (BP) during midday and the changes in circadian BP patterns in the acute phase of ischemic stroke (AIS) with the severity of stroke and their predictive role outcomes within 3 months. A total of 228 AIS patients (a prospective multicenter follow-up study) underwent 24 h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Mean BP parameters during the day (7:00–22:59), the midday (13:00–16:59), and the night (23:00–6:59), and midday and nocturnal dipping were calculated. Midday SBP dippers had less severe stroke, lower incidence of hypertension and SBP/DBP on admission, lower levels of serum glucose and WBCs, and delayed initiation of ABPM compared to risers. There was a reverse relation between midday SBP dipping and both nocturnal dipping and stroke severity. The “double dippers” (midday and nocturnal dipping) had the least severe stroke, the lowest SBP/DBP on admission, the lowest heart rate from ABPM, and a lower risk of an unfavorable outcome, while the “double risers” had the opposite results, by an approximately five-fold risk of death/disability at 3 months. These findings indicate different circadian BP patterns during the acute phase of AIS, which could be considered a marker of stroke severity and prognosis.
Effects of Robot-Assisted Activity Using a Communication Robot on Neurological Activity in Older Adults with and without Cognitive Decline
Authors: Goda Akio , Shimura Takaki , Murata Shin , Kodama Takayuki , Nakano Hideki , Ohsugi Hironori
Published: July 2023

Robot-assisted activity (RAA) using a communication robot (RAA-CR) has been proposed as a tool for alleviating behavioral and psychological symptoms accompanying dementia (BPSD) in patients with cognitive decline. This study aimed to clarify the effects of differences in cognitive function among older adults on changes in active brain areas induced by RAA-CR. Twenty-nine older adults were divided into a cognitive decline group (n = 11) and a control group (n = 18). The participants individually received a 5-minute RAA session, and their resting EEG activity was measured before and after the session. Brain spatial analysis was performed on recorded EEG data using standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography. In addition, statistical comparisons of neural activity in the brain were made before and after RAA-CR and between the cognitively impaired and control groups. These results suggest that RAA-CR stimulates neural activity in the region centered on the posterior cingulate gyrus and precuneus in cognitively healthy older adults but does not significantly alter brain neural activity in cognitively impaired older adults. Therefore, modifications to the implementation methods may be necessary to effectively implement RAA-CR in cognitively impaired individuals.
Fractalkine Signalling (CX3CL1/CX3CR1 Axis) as an Emerging Target in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Loh Shu Xian , Ekinci Yasemin , Spray Luke , Jeyalan Visvesh , Olin Thomas , Richardson Gavin , Austin David , Alkhalil Mohammad , Spyridopoulos Ioakim
Published: July 2023

Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is the most common and dramatic complication of atherosclerosis, which, despite successful reperfusion therapy, can lead to incident heart failure (HF). HF occurs when the healing process is impaired due to adverse left ventricular remodelling, and can be the result of so-called ischaemia/reperfusion injury (IRI), visualised by the development of intramyocardial haemorrhage (IMH) or microvascular obstruction (MVO) in cardiac MRI. Thus far, translation of novel pharmacological strategies from preclinical studies to target either IRI or HF post MI have been largely unsuccessful. Anti-inflammatory therapies also carry the risk of affecting the immune system. Fractalkine (FKN, CX3CL1) is a unique chemokine, present as a transmembrane protein on the endothelium, or following cleavage as a soluble ligand, attracting leukocyte subsets expressing the corresponding receptor CX3CR1. We have shown previously that the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 is associated with MVO in patients undergoing primary PCI. Moreover, inhibition of CX3CR1 with an allosteric small molecule antagonist (KAND567) in the rat MI model reduces acute infarct size, inflammation, and IMH. Here we review the cellular biology of fractalkine and its receptor, along with ongoing studies that introduce CX3CR1 as a future target in coronary artery disease, specifically in patients with myocardial infarction.
Drug Retention Rates of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients with Therapy-Induced Lymphopenia
Authors: Temmoku Jumpei , Miyata Masayuki , Suzuki Eiji , Sumichika Yuya , Saito Kenji , Yoshida Shuhei , Matsumoto Haruki , Fujita Yuya , Matsuoka Naoki , Asano Tomoyuki , Sato Shuzo , Watanabe Hiroshi , Migita Kiyoshi
Published: July 2023

Objectives: To determine whether drug-induced lymphocytopenia is associated with drug retention rates of JAKi (tofacitinib or baricitinib) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Methods: Patients with RA who were initiated with tofacitinib (n = 38) or baricitinib (n = 74) between July 2015 and July 2022 and continued for at least 4 months were enrolled in this study. Absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) value was obtained pre-treatment and monthly after initiation of JAKi (up to 4 months). Associations between ALC nadir at an early phase (up to 4 months) from JAKi initiation and drug retention rates were analysed. Results: 112 patients (87 females; age, 71.2 ± 14.0 years; disease duration, 9.2 ± 10.5 months; DAS28-CRP, 3.60 ± 1.12; DAS28-ESR, 4.43 ± 1.29; CDAI, 17.9 ± 12.9; C-reactive protein, 3.07 ± 3.43 mg/dL; and lymphocyte count, 1361.9 ± 538.7 per μL) treated with tofacitinib or baricitinib were retrospectively analysed. Lymphocytopenia (>10% decline in lymphocyte count to pre-treatment basal levels) was observed in a quarter of RA patients treated with JAKi (tofacitinib; 16 baricitinib; 14). RA patients with lymphopenia were associated with the lower drug retention rates of tofacitinib compared to those without lymphocytopenia. The reduced drug retention rates in patients with lymphocytopenia were attributed to the discontinuation of tofacitinib due to AEs. Whereas lymphocytopenia was not associated with lower drug retention rates of baricitinib. Pre-treatment absolute lymphocyte counts did not affect the drug retention rates of JAKi in patients with RA. Conclusions: These findings suggest that lymphopenia during the first 4 months from the initiation of JAKi is associated with reduced drug retention rates in patients with RA due to AEs, which is exclusively associated with the use of tofacitinib.